Maya tramped through the door, her feet heavy with exhaustion.
She had tried to shake off the feeling of melancholy that had settled over her since lunch with Sophie, but it only seemed to cling to her like a shroud.
She didn't want to think about Sophie's exciting news, about the opportunities that lay ahead for her best friend.
It was too painful, a blunt reminder of the life Maya had been forced to give up.
As she entered the house, V's voice cut through her reverie. "Maya, Don Carlo wants to see you."
"What the heck does he want this time?" She whispered.
She made her way to the office, her feet feeling like lead. As she entered, Don Carlo looked up from his desk, his eyes piercing.
"Ah, Maya, thank you for coming."
Maya forced a smile. "What do you want, Don?" She said softly.
Don Carlo leaned back in his chair, a scheming glint in his eyes.
"I have a business proposition for you, I want you to negotiate with a potential partner in…Thailand."
Maya's eyes widened, that is halfway around the world, but this would allow her to escape the smothering ambiance of San Diego and the Russo family's clasp, at least temporarily.
"You will stand for the Russo family's interest of course, and I expect you to secure us an advantageous deal."
"You'll live in Thailand for at least a month, depending on the negotiations. You are to leave tomorrow, transportation has been taken care of."
Maya's heart pounded at the prospect of leaving San Diego, she tried to keep her excitement in check, knowing that Don Carlo might sense her zeal.
"I understand, Don. I will make sure it's possible."
"I knew i could count on you Maya." He said with a smile.
Maya's footsteps lightened as she entered her room, a spring in her step that she couldn't stamp down.
She felt like she was walking on air, Don Carlo trusted her enough to send her to Thailand!
She dropped onto her bed, her eyes gazing up at the ceiling as she let out a happy sigh.
Maya could already imagine herself exploring the streets of Thailand.
And then, there were shopping opportunities.
She thought of the boutiques and local markets she could explore.
She could try the delicious street food and get her family some gifts - A perfume for Aunt Lily, an expensive watch for Uncle Jack, and some lovely silk dresses for Kathy and Sophie.
The thought of experiencing a new culture was stimulating.
For the first time in what felt like eternity, Maya felt a sense of freedom. She could not wait for this adventure.
She asked her maids to pack her bags with the most gorgeous outfits, purses and elegant shoes in her closets.
Maya was going to make the most of this opportunity.