Alex came home late that night. He barely had time to greet Camilla before exhaustion dragged him to bed. Their misunderstanding from earlier lingered in the air unspoken, but by morning, everything felt lighter.
At breakfast, they sat across each other—silence first, then soft smiles. Just like that, they made up, as though nothing had happened at all.
"Camilla," Alex began, cutting into the quiet moment, "if I pass these exams, I'll be leaving for the States by the weekend."
She paused midway through her coffee, surprise widening her eyes.
"Really? I thought you would wait a few weeks before school resumes."
Alex shook his head, excitement dancing in his tone.
"No, sis. I actually got the accounting job already. I'll start next week once I arrive."
Camilla nodded slowly, her mind already making lists.
"Alright, then I'll need to get you some things before you leave."
Later that day, Camilla sat with Charlie in the living room, teaching her the rules and etiquette of being a proper assistant. Charlie listened with sharp attention—quick, smart, eager. Camilla appreciated that.
After an hour, Charlie stretched, smiling.
"Miss Pierce, why don't I take you out for lunch? You've worked so much today—let me treat you."
Camilla laughed softly, surprised by the offer.
"Fine, let's go then."
Charlie booked a ride faster than lightning. Soon, they arrived at Blue Seat Restaurant, its glass doors reflecting wealth and class.
"Charlie," Camilla whispered as they stepped inside, "this place looks expensive. You don't have to impress me."
"Oh, come on, Miss Pierce. The place only looks posh. Their food has ranks—like a hierarchy." She pointed upward. "Ordinary people like us can only afford the ground floor. First and second floors are for the high-status folk."
Camilla nodded, amused. They had barely settled when the murmur in the room shifted.
A tall, refined man in his early forties entered with an entourage. His presence alone demanded attention—smooth suit, confident stride, authority in his eyes.
"Charlie," Camilla leaned closer, "who is he?"
"That's the principal of Heamsville University of Fashion. His school just won Best Fashion Institution of the Year. Everyone's been talking about it. His status shot up sky-high."
Camilla stared at the man for a lingering second before looking away. Her thoughts fluttered.
She had studied Architectural Design in university, but marriage had changed her path. She explored fashion and interior design, torn between both worlds—yet deep inside, she knew where her heart leaned.
---
Camilla's POV
On the ride back home, I asked Charlie to check admission opportunities for me at Heamsville. She searched immediately—only to sigh.
"Admissions are closed," she said. "The only way in is through a competition they host every three months. Only five winners are selected."
A competition. Of course. Nothing ever came easy.
"Should I register you for it?" she asked.
"Yes—and book a visitation at Aventus as well."
"At what time?"
"First thing tomorrow morning."
Just when we stepped into the apartment, Alex burst forward with joy.
"Camilla! I made it! I passed!"
His excitement filled the room like fireworks.
I hugged him, heart swelling.
"That's wonderful news! We must celebrate!"
---
Meanwhile…
In Manuel's office, tension simmered.
"Did Camilla report to work today?" Manuel asked, voice cold but curious.
"No, sir. I sent her the details and the money as instructed… but she didn't respond."
Manuel's jaw tightened.
"trace her by all means ," he muttered, grabbing his coat and walking out of the office with a face unreadable.
Something had begu