The Rose of the First Night

It's been nine years since I first posted this story in 2004. In the upcoming collection, Nine-Year Anniversary Edition, the editor has included some of your comments and well-wishes. O(∩_∩)O! Thank you all for your support over the years. Love you all Xiaoxi, July 24, 2012 Like nobles who had lived in seclusion in a castle for generations. In the rose garden at night, vast swaths of crimson roses bloomed fiercely. There was no moon or stars; only pale skin shone, the sole source of light. He was so strikingly austere it was almost too much. And yet, somehow, it gave him a certain allure. Perhaps it was the flush that had not yet faded from his cheeks, or the faint rise and fall of his chest as he continued to breathe unevenly, or his pale, steadfast hands gripping the wheelchair. A word of caution This story has some dark elements, and some characters are extreme. Many of their actions are open to question, so please remember that this is just a story. Also... I can't promise regular updates. If you understand all that and still want to keep me company in this story, I'm deeply grateful *_* Xiaoxi, July 23, 2010 P.S. The whole story is a game of schemes. The clues and foreshadowing will gradually come to light. By the time you finally understand everything and see the truth, the story should be nearing its end. Feel free to share your theories, but I absolutely won't spoil anything @_@ One more P.S.: This is a glamorous, dark revenge romance set in the fashion world. Theme: