Sandra's days had drifted by with the tranquility of a still lake, despite the ripples caused by her engagement. Roland had kept his promise; her identity remained impeccably shielded from prying eyes. Yet, over the past few days, he'd begun to appear at her doorstep each evening, bearing bouquets, gifts, and an array of gourmet treats. She couldn't fathom his intentions, but aside from this mild inconvenience, he didn't overstep, so she endured his presence with a grain of patience.
Time passed, and soon it was the day to meet Rosa Fleming. Sandra found herself in the plush, secluded room of a high-end sushi restaurant in Global City, her eyes skimming through some paperwork when her phone buzzed, displaying a message from Roland:
Devil's Incarnate: Fancy visiting our wedding house after work?
Porcupine Cutie: Sure
Sandra agreed, knowing full well he wouldn't accept a refusal. Was he some sort of romantic rogue, or was this just bizarre role-playing?
The door to the private room swung open, and in walked a vision of elegance—a middle-aged woman with striking silver hair, dressed in a custom beige suit that screamed sophistication.
Sandra stood, offering a smile that was both warm and slightly amused. "Mrs. Fleming, it's a pleasure to meet you."
"Likewise, Ms. Romualdez," Rosa replied, her handshake as graceful as a dance.
Rosa then presented an enticing proposal for a collaboration to distribute their designs across Asia, with her company overseeing production and distribution. They would start with exclusive editions to ease into the market, focusing on sportswear and street fashion. Sandra would work with Rosa's chief designer on the luxury pieces, while they would craft the more accessible lines themselves.
It seemed like a fabulous offer, but Sandra harbored doubts about her ability to juggle it all, especially considering Rosa would be her mother-in-law in name for a year. Rosa had yet to touch upon the engagement, which was both a relief and a source of worry. Was she in the know or blissfully unaware?
"Ms. Romualdez, I am eager to collaborate with you. My legal team will bring the contract to your office, and we can sign then," Rosa said, her smile brightening the room.
"It's an honor, Mrs. Fleming," Sandra replied with genuine humility.
Rosa clapped her hands once, the sound snapping Sandra from her thoughts. "Now, setting aside business, shall we discuss family matters?" Rosa asked, her voice tinged with excitement.
Sandra's eyes widened in shock as Rosa, with surprising agility, moved to sit beside her, taking her hands in her own. "Dear, you are absolutely beautiful. That charming scoundrel of mine has hit the jackpot. I'm so thankful you've accepted him, despite his... shall we say, colorful personality."
Sandra was left speechless by Rosa's sudden shift from businesswoman to matriarch. How much did she truly understand? Was she aware of their contractual arrangement?
"Dear, if that rascal ever gives you any trouble, just tell me, I'll set him straight," Rosa continued, barely pausing for breath. Sandra found herself unable to be anything but warm to this kind-hearted woman.
"Oh!" Rosa exclaimed, breaking Sandra's reverie. "Your wedding is just a month away! How are we going to prepare everything in time? That thoughtless child doesn't plan! There's so much to do, what an inconsiderate groom!"
"Mrs. Fleming," Sandra interjected, "we've decided on a civil ceremony, so there's not much preparation needed."
"How can that be?" Rosa protested, her genteel facade slipping ever so slightly. "Isn't that an insult to you and your family? You're so precious; we must have a grand wedding for you!" Her teeth gritted, and she cracked her knuckles, the image of grace momentarily shattered. "I'll give that boy a piece of my mind!"
"I'll only bring my mother, Madam," Sandra said, her voice tinged with melancholy but resolute.
Rosa squeezed her hands, her eyes softening. "Child, we will definitely cherish you in our family."
Sandra could only smile in response, wondering how she would ever explain to this lovely woman that her marriage to Roland was but a year-long charade.
After hours of engaging conversation with Rosa, Sandra finally set off to meet Roland. He had provided the address, and though unfamiliar with the area, Sandra surmised it was one of those affluent villages known for their sprawling, luxurious homes. The taxi came to a halt at an ornate gate, where, parked on the curb, she spotted Roland's car.
She paid the fare, stepped out into the crisp air, and just then, Roland appeared. Dressed in a casual white collared shirt and khaki pants, he looked both handsome and approachable, like a refreshing breath of air on a warm day.
Though her expression remained impassive, Sandra's heart raced with a wild fervor. She had an undeniable weakness for beauty, which was proving to be quite troublesome.
Roland, with a charming smile, opened the car door for her. The guard, in turn, swung open the gate, allowing them passage. After a brief five-minute drive, they stopped once more before another gate. They stepped inside to explore.
Nestled within the lush, manicured landscape of the high-end village of Everwood, stood the elegant two-story mansion known as Whisper wind. This modern marvel was a study in contemporary architecture, where sleek lines met nature, creating a home that was both a sanctuary and a statement of style.
The exterior of Whisper wind was a harmonious blend of glass, wood, and stone, designed to complement the surrounding environment rather than contrast it. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows captured the light and the beauty of the village, while the wood cladding provided warmth and texture, and the stone elements grounded the structure with a sense of permanence. The roof was flat, with a green garden that served as both insulation and an additional living space.
Entering through a minimalist front door with a hidden handle, one was greeted by an open, airy foyer with a floating staircase that seemed to defy gravity, its steps made of frosted glass with integrated lighting. The ground floor flowed seamlessly from one living space to another, the boundaries blurred by the absence of walls, allowing for an expansive, fluid living area.
The living room was a masterpiece of modern comfort, with a large sectional sofa in luxurious, grey velvet facing a linear fireplace whose flames danced behind a glass panel, creating a focal point without dominating the space. Above, a sleek, geometric chandelier cast a soft glow, and behind, a wall of windows offered views to a private garden where a koi pond reflected the sky.
Adjacent, the kitchen was a chef's delight, boasting high-end appliances hidden behind seamless cabinetry. The island served as both a prep area and a casual dining space, topped with a white quartz that glowed under the pendant lights. Here, the design was all about functionality wrapped in elegance, with smart storage solutions and a wine cooler discreetly integrated into the design.
Sliding glass doors from the dining area opened onto a covered patio, where outdoor living was elevated with a fire pit, a built-in BBQ, and comfortable seating, all overlooking the meticulously landscaped garden where paths meandered through native plants and art installations.
Surveying the opulence around her, Sandra pondered, 'He must have an abundance of money to spend.' Yet, she quickly reminded herself, it was none of her business. She would only be residing here for a year.