Struggling to master sewing techniques, Sabrina remained undeterred. Her diligent work alongside her mother was a gradual learning process as she strived to perfect her craft. Concurrently, Sabrina took on additional household responsibilities, assisting Ieda with administrative tasks and even with cleaning and cooking.
As they settled into Ieda's home, they became acquainted with the villagers. Among them was Camila, a stunningly beautiful young woman who lived next door and was a close friend of Ieda. With her ebony hair and mesmerizing eyes, Camila was a magnetic presence in the village, renowned for her kindness and affability, always ready to lend a hand and share her zest for life.
Camila Valadez, at 27, worked for Sicily's most powerful man, a respected and influential businessman and mafia leader. Although her professional life was promising, she harbored a dream to live in the United States. Camila was dedicatedly saving money, eager to start anew in her dream country. Initially, Sabrina, her mother Soraia, and Mavie went unnoticed by Camila, but as time went by and Camila frequently dined at Ieda's, she grew closer to Sabrina and Mavie. Watching Camila's manner and determination, Sabrina found inspiration for her own aspirations and began to forge a bond with Camila, who quickly became a dear friend.
On a sunny Sicilian Sunday, while Soraia and Ieda took Mavie to the beach, Sabrina took the chance to earn some extra money by helping Camila tidy her house. After the cleaning, Camila paid in euros, to Sabrina's deep gratitude.
Camila invited Sabrina to sunbathe in bikinis in the backyard and have some wine, an invitation that Sabrina gladly accepted. They sat enjoying the view, the sea visible even from a distance.
"Do you smoke, Sabrina?" Camila asked as she lit a joint.
"Well, I lived in Amsterdam for quite a while, so I've been smoking since I was eighteen—just to relax. But I didn't picture you as someone who smokes," Sabrina said, surprised, watching Camila.
"I enjoy it for relaxing too. I've visited some coffee shops in Amsterdam; undoubtedly, they're the best in Europe. But this bud's also excellent if you want to take a drag," Camila said, exhaling smoke and passing the joint to Sabrina.
Sabrina accepted, taking a deep inhale, holding it in, and slowly releasing it. As they smoked and sipped wine, their conversation meandered through random topics before delving deeper into Sabrina's life.
"Sabrina, I'm sorry to ask, but what about Mavie's father? I see you striving and concerned about her wellbeing, but he should be by your side," Camila remarked.
"I know, but it's complicated, Camila," Sabrina replied, taking another puff.
"If you don't want to talk about it, I'll understand," Camila said.
"Actually, it might do me good to open up to you. My daughter's conception wasn't from a normal relationship, Camila. A lot has happened," Sabrina shared after a pause, taking another hit and passing the joint back to Camila.
"What do you mean?" Camila asked, taking a puff.
Feeling a special connection with Camila, Sabrina decided to share more of her story. She spoke of her journey of overcoming past abuse, her unexpected pregnancy, and the struggles she faced raising Mavie.
With tears in her eyes, Sabrina expressed her desire to provide a better life for her daughter. Camila, moved by Sabrina's story and inspired by her resilience, resolved to help her friend find an even more promising opportunity.
"Sabrina, I had no idea you had been through all this. I'm so sorry," Camila said, finishing the joint.
"I try to forget, but it's so hard, Camila. If only I could erase it from my memory," Sabrina replied, wiping away tears.
"I imagine. But this monster who did this to you will pay someday. I'm certain the law of return exists," Camila said, moving closer and holding Sabrina's hands.
"I just wish I could forget it all," Sabrina confessed.
"Let's change the subject. I think I can help you find a job and a health plan for Mavie," Camila suggested.
"How?" Sabrina inquired, curious.
Camila looked into Sabrina's eyes, holding her hand affectionately. A warm smile graced her face as she prepared to share her proposition.
"I have an opportunity that might be good for you right now. As you know, I work as a personal assistant for the owner of Villa Sereno Resort, the most powerful man on the island," she began.
Sabrina listened intently, anticipation building.
"Yes, I remember. You've talked about how prestigious the resort is and how involved you are with every detail, and how all Sicilian businesses belong to that family," Sabrina recalled.
"I've got a job for you. It's not a high-ranking position, but it's a good start—I believe. You'd work as a housekeeper at the Resort. The pay is excellent, and there are incredible benefits, including health insurance and access to a private school for Mavie. It's a chance to give her a quality education and a safe environment to grow up in."
Tears of gratitude swelled in Sabrina's eyes. She embraced Camila tightly, lost for words in the wave of her emotions.
"Camila, I... I don't know what to say. This is amazing! I can hardly believe you're doing this for me," she managed.
Camila smiled, holding Sabrina's hands tenderly.
"It's a good start, Sabrina. You deserve so much more; your strength and resolve are inspiring. I believe in you and in what you can achieve. This is an opportunity to change your life's direction and build a better future for you and Mavie," she encouraged.
A surge of gratitude and hope filled Sabrina's heart.
"Thank you, Camila. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in me and for being such a wonderful person. I accept this opportunity with all the enthusiasm and commitment I possess."
The two embraced and enjoyed the late afternoon together. When Sabrina returned to Ieda's house, she found them back from the beach and shared the news about her new job. Yet, Ieda's reaction surprised Sabrina; she believed Sabrina should look for other options and stay away from the Menecucci family, without revealing the reason for her suspicion, leaving both Soraia and Sabrina puzzled.
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