C5

MRS VINCENTO♡～

Rosella Vincento.

"Oh my God! I never knew I would ever see you facially!" Rosella said in excitement, her eyes wide with surprise as she spotted Camila. Camila, on the other hand, smiled lightly but felt a little nervous.

"I'm Rosella. What about you?!" Rosella asked, her smile widening.

"Camila," Camila muttered, her voice tinged with shyness.

"You have such a nice name. Why don't we link up and become…" Rosella's enthusiasm was cut short by a familiar voice.

"Rosella!" A voice called out from behind. It was Rosella's course mate, Beldin, waiting for her in front of their car.

"I'll be right there!" Rosella responded before turning back to Camila.

"We'll talk better some other time. You live at the white mansion, right? Expect my visit anytime soon," Rosella said before she hurriedly left to join her course mate in the car. They drove away instantly.

Camila felt a bit of relief as she watched them go. She was intrigued by Rosella's vivacious personality but also a bit overwhelmed.

Walter, had quietly observed the interaction. When he joined Camila inside the car, he couldn't help but comment.

"Did Rosella catch you by surprise? And did you decide on a building for the shop yet"

Camila gave him a sly look, suspecting that he might have overheard for heard their conversation. "How do you know I was searching for a vacant shop?"

Walter chuckled, his eyes twinkling with warmth. "Though you didn't mention it yourself, one can easily figure it out because of the kind of moderate spaces you've been scouting so far."

Camila nodded gently, acknowledging Walter's attentiveness. "You want me to drop you off at the mansion, right?"

"Yes, please. I'm really tired," Camila replied, her thoughts still lingering on her encounter with Rosella.

During the car ride, Camila's thoughts meandered between anxiety and curiosity. She felt anxious about owning her own coffee shop soon, knowing nothing about its management yet. But she was also curious about Rosella, who had just entered her life.

THREE MONTHS LATER

Camila found herself settled into the rhythm of her life as a student at the Mexico Business University. Her educational journey had begun just three months ago, and to her surprise, she discovered that her sister-in-law, Rosella, was her coursemate. To her delight, Rosella had become her closest friend.

Camila was still amazed at how Rosella managed to combine a vibrant social life with her academic responsibilities. Yet, when it came to schoolwork, Rosella admitted she was as "lost as heck." Camila, who was more reserved and academically inclined, gladly helped her navigate her way through their courses.

Their friendship blossomed against the backdrop of an academic environment where Rosella's popularity was unmatched. Many students approached her because of her family's status, particularly her brother, who seemed to have attracted more than his fair share of female admirers.

Despite Rosella's charm and social success, she had never experienced a true friendship until she met Camila. Leonardo's absence during these months had allowed Camila to focus on her studies and her burgeoning coffee shop. At first, it had been difficult to cope with his absence, especially because he had been so cold and distant on their wedding day.

Yet, as time passed, Camila found solace in her work and her friendship with Rosella. She threw herself into her studies, immersing herself in textbooks and lectures, determined to excel in her business management courses. The coffee shop had become her sanctuary, a place where she could channel her energy and creativity.

Her friendship with Rosella had blossomed, providing a welcome distraction. Rosella's vibrant personality and penchant for adventure had drawn Camila out of her shell. They spent countless hours together, talking about their dreams, sharing secrets, and finding solace in each other's company.

Rosella's presence had brought joy into Camila's life, creating an oasis of laughter and shared experiences. They often had late-night conversations, confiding in each other about their pasts, their desires, and their deepest fears.

Camila had confided in Rosella about her distant relationship with Leonardo and his abrupt departure after their wedding. She didn't know the reasons behind his cold behavior, and she wondered whether their marriage could ever be salvaged.

Through it all, Rosella had been a pillar of support, encouraging Camila to stand up for herself and seek happiness on her own terms. She had instilled a newfound sense of confidence in Camila, empowering her to pursue her dreams with unwavering determination.

Professor Felix informed the class about an upcoming group project that carried significant weight for their semester grades. Camila and Rosella listened, the weight of their professor's words sinking in.

Their class representative, Vince, distributed the students into groups, and it was no surprise when he placed Camila, Rosella, and two other students together.

Vince, known as the best student in the business management department, had an unexpectedly huge crush on Camila. His charm and charisma seemed to evaporate when he was around most girls, but Camila's presence was different.

Camila suspected he would choose her for his group, and Rosella, ever the romantic, had her own predictions. When Vince eventually called them to be in a group together, Rosella couldn't contain her excitement.

"Could you please stop dancing in front of everyone? You’re drawing attention to yourself and you’re embarrassing me" Camila chuckled as she watched her friend's unrestrained joy.

With their project group formed, Vince walked over to Camila and Rosella. His smile was enchanting, revealing his deep dimples.

"Hi," Vince greeted Camila.

"Hey," Camila responded, her voice soft yet friendly.

"We're really looking forward to working with you, Vince. Like, seriously, I can't wait!" Rosella gushed. Camila couldn't help but roll her eyes playfully.

"I can't wait, too," Vince replied with his usual smile. Then he turned his attention to Camila. "When will you be free so we can work on our project?"

Before Camila could answer, Rosella spoke up, excited and ever the planner. "Anytime you're free, we're good with it."

Vince inquired, "Really?"

Camila shot Rosella a knowing look and whispered. "Are you forgetting I run a coffee shop? How do you expect me to meet up with just any time and location?"

Vince, who had overheard their conversation, chimed in. "It's no worries. We can meet up in your coffee shop later in the evening when you're less busy."

Camila's eyes widened, pondering how Vince had known about her coffee shop. Then she turned her accusing gaze toward Rosella, who simply smiled in response.

Camila decided to let it slide but couldn't help questioning Rosella's decision. "Isn't that too much?"

Rosella ignored her and responded Vince with too much enthusiasm, "So, Vince, we agree with your suggestion!"

Vince agreed, and they made arrangements to meet that evening. But before he left, Camila inquired about Gloria, their missing group member.

"She's not currently in school, so I'll text her about the new development with our project, I’m hoping she’d be able to join us for the meeting at the shop tonight." Vince replied. Camila nodded in acknowledgment.

"See you later," Vince said as he walked away, and Camila and Rosella bid him goodbye. Then Camila received a reminder on her phone—it was time to head to work.

Camila stood up, preparing to leave the classroom. Rosella followed closely behind, and they walked to the parking lot together.

"Don't tell me it's time for work now," Rosella commented, concerned about her friend's busy schedule.

Camila nodded, and they reached Rosella's car. It was parked in the lot, with the driver waiting.

"Why are you leading me here?" Camila asked as they approached the car.

Rosella signaled to her driver to open the car door. "At least let me drop you off."

Without objections, Camila got in, and Rosella joined her. The driver swiftly departed from the school's compound, taking them on the journey to Camila's tea shop.

While in the car, Rosella couldn't help but ask about Camila's husband, whom she hadn't heard from in months.

"Have you heard anything from my brother yet? It’s been three months, he should have at least contacted you at this point" Rosella inquired, her curiosity getting the best of her.

Camila twitched her eyebrows, her expression revealing that she had almost forgotten she was married. "No, I haven't really heard anything from him yet, and it's best that way. We're two different people with different thoughts, anyways."

Rosella began to say something but decided that it wasn't her place to pry into Camila's personal life. She settled into her seat, and Camila sighed, relieved that Rosella had stopped asking questions.

After the car arrived at Camila's coffee shop, she prepared to dive into her work.

"Let's get to work ," Camila muttered to herself. She parked her loose hair into a messy bun and braced herself for the day's tasks.

DIAMOND GROUP OF COMPANIES

CEO'S OFFICE…

Leonardo Vincento, the enigmatic and powerful CEO of the Diamond Group of Companies, sat behind his imposing desk. He was a man of few words, and his intense focus and business acumen were legendary in the industry, his focus is one of the reasons for his immense success.

"Get all the goods delivered to the JK Group of Companies before evening, and make sure nothings goes wrong, I dint want stories" Leonardo ordered his secretary, his voice sharp and unwavering.

His secretary, Maria, nodded dutifully and jotted down the instructions. Then, as if something occurred to her, she raised her head.

"Dave mentioned the chairman plans on having a family dinner tonight, and he's expecting you and your wife to be present," Maria informed her boss.

Leonardo frowned. "How come I'm just hearing of this?"

Maria, always efficient but occasionally forgetful, apologized. "I'm so sorry, sir. It slipped my mind, it would never happen again."

Leonardo pondered for a moment, considering whether it was worthwhile to attend the dinner. Then he made up his mind. “alright, what time is the dinner?” he has decided to show up at the dinner to save himself from his father’s wrath. “it’s at 8pm, I’ll get someone to pick madam up”

"No, don't worry. I'll pick her up myself."

Back at Cam's Coffee Shop, evening had descended, and Camila had already finished her sales for the day. She put up the "Closed" sign, expecting Vince, Gloria, and Rosella to arrive for their project discussion.

However, time passed, and no one seemed to be turning up. Rosella stood in front of the shop, waiting patiently, and Vince finally arrived after keeping her waiting for what seemed like ages.

Camila noticed Vince's arrival and stepped forward, her warm smile greeting him. Vince was wearing a black hoodie and black joggers, a stark contrast to his usual sharp suits. He looked completely cute, and his presence brightened the evening.

"Did we keep you waiting for long?" Vince asked, his voice filled with concern.

Camila reassured him with a smile. "Not really."

Vince had news about Gloria; she wouldn't be able to make it due to illness. Camila hoped she would recover soon. Then he inquired about Rosella's whereabouts.

"Where's Rosella?" Vince asked.

"She isn't here yet. Please come in." Camila gestured for him to enter.

Vince noticed the unsteady moment Camila had when she tried to lead him inside. Her composure almost faltered, and she nearly stumbled, but he was quick to react. In a flash, he caught her by her slender waist, steadying her with a firm but gentle grip.

Camila and Vince found themselves locked in a moment, their eyes locked in an unspoken connection.

Then, the sharp voice of a man shattered the moment.

"Is this the service your coffee shop offers, Mrs. Vincento?" Leonardo's cold voice boomed, carrying a blend of surprise and skepticism.

Leonardo's sudden appearance was unexpected Camila's heart skipped a beat as she turned to face her husband, whom she had not seen in three months.

Camila's heart raced as she faced the man who was both her husband and an enigma.