"Rosalie, can you stay behind? I need to discuss something with you."
She nodded, watching as the last student filed out. The door opened again, and Federico, Massimo's best friend, entered, locking the door behind him. Her pulse quickened.
"Hello...
The next morning, I wake up with a renewed sense of resolve. Today, I need to talk to Massimo and Federico. I can't let the tension and anticipation consume me any longer. After checking the weather, I decide on another cute outfit: a light blue blouse tucked into a high-waisted skirt, paired with comfortable flats. After a shower, my skincare routine, and brushing my teeth, I pull my hair into a neat ponytail. I grab my black tote bag, spritz on some Miss Dior, and head out the door.
Arriving on campus, I feel a mixture of excitement and determination. My first class is with Professor Ferrari again, and Dahlia meets me outside the lecture hall.
"You seem more focused today," she says, giving me a once-over. "Did you get some rest?"
I nod. "Yeah, I did. I've made a decision, and I feel ready for whatever comes next."
"Still that 'complicated' thing?" she asks, raising an eyebrow.
"Yeah, but I'm going to sort it out today," I say, my voice steady.
We find our seats, and I can't help but notice Massimo at the front of the room. His eyes meet mine briefly, and I see a hint of curiosity mixed with his usual intensity. I take a deep breath, feeling confident as I focus on the lecture.
Throughout the class, I stay attentive, but my mind keeps drifting back to the conversation I need to have. Dahlia nudges me occasionally, reminding me to take notes, and I appreciate her presence more than ever.
As the lecture ends, I gather my things and make my way to the front of the room. Dahlia gives me a questioning look, but I just smile and tell her I'll catch up with her later.
Massimo looks up as I approach, a subtle smile playing on his lips. "Rosalie, do you have a moment?"
I nod, feeling my heart race. "Yes, I wanted to talk to you and Federico. Is he around?"
Massimo nods, gesturing for me to follow him. We walk to his office in silence, the tension between us palpable. When we arrive, Federico is already there, leaning against Massimo's desk. He straightens up when he sees us, his expression unreadable.
"Rosalie," Federico says, his voice steady. "You wanted to talk?"
I nod again, taking a deep breath. "I've been thinking a lot about what you both said. About the proposition."
Massimo and Federico exchange a glance, and I can see the anticipation in their eyes.
"I'm ready to explore this dynamic with you both," I say, my voice clear and confident. "I understand the risks, and I know what I want. I'm willing to face whatever comes with it."
