Chapter 7 Volkova's Plan – Part 2

“I have nothing to say,” he replied, turning to Lirio to help her up. “I will not allow these two women to meddle with Lirio and behave shamelessly in this mansion. We have already talked about this, Father; I accept all your demands, but with one condition—fulfill your part." With that said, he walked away with Lirio, who was trembling from the cold. With a hand on her shoulders, Valentino helped her walk into the mansion, while Layla glared at him, and Atenea focused her attention on her father-in-law. “Mr. Clodan, what is your son talking about? What is the condition he speaks of?” asked Atenea, puzzled. “That’s precisely what I wanted to talk to you about,” the man sighed, loosening his tie and letting out a tired sigh. “Valentino agreed to marry you and carry out the contract on the condition that this woman be by his side, as I have always shown my discontent with that relationship.” “Well, he must love that woman a lot,” scoffed Layla. “So that’s it?” Atenea said thoughtfully. “Do you have any problem with that?” her father-in-law asked. “Oh, no, don’t worry about me, Father-in-law. You know I don’t interfere in Valentino’s relationship, even though this situation is a bit out of place. What worries me is that all of this will become a scandal in the media and reach my parents’ ears; they are a bit strict.” “I’ve already talked to him about that. That relationship he has with Lirio must be kept out of the public eye to maintain our image above all. Even though it's a political marriage, reputation must be upheld,” he explained. “The wedding will be soon; I hope everything is going well with the preparations.” “Everything is going excellently,” Atenea replied, while Layla had a look of disgust. “By the way, have you already settled everything with my parents? Well, that’s already a matter for both companies regarding the commercial investment.” “We’ve already communicated, and we have prepared a board meeting; everything is going according to plan. We just need to finalize the wedding.” After the conversation, Clodan entered the mansion with the intention of talking to his son. Despite being aware that his son’s attitude towards Atenea would not change suddenly, Clodan tried to empathize and understand him. His son had maintained a relationship with Lirio since his mother passed away from an illness, becoming a strong support in difficult times and maintaining a lifelong friendship. However, the factory was on the verge of collapse, forcing them to find a quick and beneficial solution for both the Rizzos and the Volkovs, who also benefited greatly. Although they were aware that it was only a temporary marriage contract, and Valentino had the option to be with the woman he “loved,” why did he still harbor hatred towards his fiancée? It was a question that he alone held deep within his being. “Atenea, I don’t understand how you can stay calm after all this commotion. I’m about to lose my mind,” expressed her friend, taking a seat back on the sun lounger. "I wish that pool had piranhas to eat that trashy Lirio. I hate her." “You were quite reckless about it,” Atenea took a seat beside her. “Your action only made that monster angrier with me.” “And what did you expect? I couldn’t stand it. She came here to yell at you as if she had the right, being just a nobody who doesn’t know her place. Besides, she pushed you. Didn’t you see it?” she said with frustration and anger. “Just thinking about it makes my blood boil. I want to give that bitch what she deserves. She acted like a helpless and foolish idiot. I can’t stand her.” “Are you done?” “Yes.” “I’ve told you before, Layla, don’t let them get to you. That’s what they want,” she said, reclining back on the sun lounger. “Keep a cool head and stand your ground so no one messes with you. I’ve always told you that.” “What do you plan to do? Your calmness is a bit scary, you know?” “I’m trying to find the weak points of my enemy,” she smiled, putting her sunglasses back on. “I think I’ve found one.” “Besides being that bitch’s lover?” “No, I couldn’t care less about her,” she scoffed. “I don’t know the full story between them, but I will find out, and through that, I will know where to strike. What I plan to do now is make an agreement that we will both sign." “What kind of agreement?” her friend inquired, raising an eyebrow. “You’ll see. I’ll tell you soon. Just let me put the pieces of my puzzle together,” she smirked. “When I, Atenea Volkova, attack an opponent, it’s to bring them down. I will have him under my heels, so wait patiently. Valentino Rizzo will be mine.”