Thirty

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The next two days become very hectic

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The next two days become very hectic. I've been practicing at the shooting range like my life depends on it, and I realize it actually helps me overcome my nerves and anxieties. Each time I hold the gun, steady my uneven breaths, pull the trigger, and hit the target, something inside me unfurls and my whole body loosens like a flying feather. It's almost therapeutic, although I can't tell that to a normal, mentally healthy human being.

On the other hand, Camilla and Adrian are back in business, planning and plotting about their next move on that Italian trip. As for me, I'm still working from home until Monday, which makes today the last day of my impromptu break. Frankly, I miss the outside world and my usual routine. I miss being in charge too, and maybe I should consider starting a new business to fill the coffee shop void.

I won't lie, working in a huge corporation like the game company I'm in has its perks—the exposure of going places, meeting important people with power to alter your fate in a heartbeat, and lots of other on job benefits. But being my own anchor, the key player of planning and executing new strategies just to hit certain operative and financial targets is what makes my heart beat faster.

Although there's a reward for what I'm doing right now, however, like the fact that I get to play a role in nurturing my brother's career by making sure he's getting his rightful share from all the profits that keep skyrocketing day by day, I still want to build something of my own. I don't know what it is yet, but I'm sure it's right here in New York. In time I will take my chance—no rush.

“The car's ready. Your bags are down the lobby, Miss Alves,” Mario announces just as Camilla stands up from the couch while collecting her black designer bag and gold iphone. 

“Thanks, Mario.” She smiles sweetly at him and then regards me for an official goodbye.

“How long will you stay there?” I ask her pensively.

Her smile falters. “I'm not sure. It all depends on how quickly Adrian will sort his family and business management issues, among other things.”

I bob my head slightly. 

“Well, I guess this is it.” I stride over and wrap my arms around her. “Please take care, huh?” I whisper in a worked-up voice.

“Thanks, Ara.” Her exquisite dark hair with brown highlights tumbles rightward down her shoulder as she leans into my embrace, using her one arm to hug me back. “You, too, stay safe. We'll chat all the time, I promise. You're my only BFF after all.”

“We better.” I chuckle lightly, brushing the stubborn strands of my sloppy bun off my face using the tips of my fingers. 

As we pull apart, Camilla says, “Please make me an excuse to my little bestie. I'm glad she's taking her beauty nap or else I wouldn't be able to leave that adorable face of hers behind.”

I smile and nod. “I'll tell her it was an emergency. She'll understand once she gets to videochat with you.”

“Thanks,” Camilla croaks with another faint smile.

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