A love worth fighting for

Hannah’s pov: It was one of the most important nights of my life, the annual masquerade noir, the night that could make or break you in the fashion industry. Hosted at one of the most luxurious hotels in Rosewood. Everyone was dressed to impress. The decor was top-notch, with impeccable lighting which best suited the event. I glanced around at the various CEOs and models trying to win their favor. But I didn’t want to be sponsored by any of them, so I didn’t even bother. As the most talented and successful model in Rosewood, I had already set my eyes on Lucas Brown, the owner of multiple fashion industries across the globe. I had been working towards this for years and the perfect opportunity had finally arrived. Word got out that he would attend the ball this year. And if I secure him as my sponsor or even got an important position in one of his companies, it would be my big break. And I would become an even bigger deal. My name would open doors, I would become everything I’ve ever dreamed of, and it all depends on my first impression. “Cocktail madam?” I glanced at the waiter who had interrupted my thoughts, grabbed the cocktail and sipped it slowly, while scanning the room for my target. A few minutes passed, no sign of Lucas, so I decided to go scout for backups. It would be better to have a few mid sponsors rather than none, I thought to myself. As I got up to go interact with my second option, Mr. Smith, I bumped into Zara Wilson, the second most successful model in rose wood. We have been competing with each other for a long time. People often compare us. This made Zara develop some sort of disliking towards me. I stared at her, her deep plum dress shimmered softly under the light, her gold necklace and a pendant resting perfectly on her chest with matching earrings, giving her an elegant and mysterious appearance. They all complemented her deep brown eyes and dark wavy hair. We were both the most suitable for Mr Brown to pick. So technically, she was my rival. But I must admit she Looked breathtaking. She scoffed loudly, staring at my long, elegant sapphire-blue gown that shimmered softly under the lights. The delicate silver details around the neckline added a touch of sparkle, complemented with a delicate crystal necklace and silver drop earrings combined with a matching bracelet. You look stunning. I complimented her. Thank you, although I can’t say the same about you. She said and chuckled, glancing up at the ceiling. I sighed. I had already gotten used to her snarky remarks, but before I could reply, I suddenly started feeling dizzy and decided to head up to my room temporarily. I stood in front of my room, but the door was already unlocked. I had already begun to develop a fever, so I just brushed it off. The cleaners might have unintentionally forgotten to lock it. I would probably go lay a complaint to the manager tomorrow. As I stepped in the room and locked the door behind me, still grumbling under my breath about the cleaners. I carefully placed my bag on the rack beside the door. I froze in shock, shaking with fear. There was someone on my bed. I stared at the tall figure laying peacefully on the bed, his dark thick hair resting perfectly on his face. He was sound asleep, or so I thought. I carefully walked towards him, I couldn’t see clearly, I leaned closer, but I couldn’t see his face. He had on a beautiful black mask with smooth, curved edges that gently framed his eyes. Curiosity got the best of me, just as I was about to take off his mask to get a glimpse of his face, a hand grabbed my wrist so tight my fingers went numb. I paused. I felt like my heart was about to leave my body, I was trembling with fear. Suddenly a cold, sharp voice spoke “ what the heck are you doing in my room” I froze, his tone sent shivers down my spine, I began to panic, struggling to break free from his tight grasp, but he wasn’t budging. Oh no this can’t be happening, not here, not now. Maybe he was a pervert or a trafficker, or even worse a kidnapper, I thought to myself. I tried using my other hand to take off his mask so I could at least have a face to describe to the police if I eventually got out of this, but then he grabbed my other hand. I began raining curses in my head. Why did I think this would work. But then he muttered something under his breath and began to reach for my mask. I panicked, given my status, I would probably be worth a lot of money if he kidnapped me. I began struggling with everything in me shaking my face vigorously so he couldn’t touch my mask. Why was he so strong, if only I had taken my gym days more seriously I thought to myself. Then suddenly I heard a snap, and I came crashing down towards him. Gosh, why would this stupid heel break now of all times. My thoughts were interrupted by the feeling of his chest. He had a really nice body, I began day dreaming until I remembered my situation. I groaned “ pull yourself together Hannah” For a second I swore I saw a slight smile on his face. I glanced at his face. His jawline was perfect, but then my eyes fell on his lips and I frowned. It had various cuts and specks of blood. It looked like he had been biting them, but why? Then I noticed his face, the color had drained out of his face, it was pale like that of a corpse. But then I noticed his eyes and that was when it clicked. Was he… in pain?