#Chapter 55: Web of Lies

Celeste The cool weight of the mask settled in my hands, and the mirror inside the bathroom reflected a young woman struggling with her identity. Fiona’s words still rang in my ears. Was I really becoming too attached to my ‘Rose’ persona? Was I using it as a crutch instead of facing the real world with its judgments and challenges? The mask, beautifully crafted and mysterious, represented a freedom I hadn’t known before. But now, it also felt like chains, binding me to a lie that was growing harder and harder to maintain. I glanced at Fiona through the mirror, noticing the look of disappointment in her eyes. It stung, like salt in an open wound. “You’re right,” I admitted, my voice faltering. “I’ve been using ‘Rose’ as a way to escape. But now, it’s becoming too tangled.” She sighed deeply, her posture relaxing slightly. “I just want what's best for you, Celeste,” she said quietly. “I’m not judging you, you know.” “I know,” I replied, blinking back a tear