Everything went smoothly, just as it usually did. Elena almost let out a laugh when Rashid left the room. Despite his impressive resume, their hierarchy remained unchanged, with Elena firmly in charge.
It was becoming clearer to Elena why her father had insisted on placing her in this position. Leading the board was certainly a job for someone who knew how to command authority, just like her.
Her phone chimed, reminding her of today's schedule. "I almost forgot."
She had a cosplay event to attend.
Last year, she missed Lucca Comics & Games, and it looked like she might miss it again this year. Once the season started, her schedule would be packed, leaving little time for any leisure activities.
When the new mayor of Ravenna proposed a pop-culture event at city hall, Elena was the first to support the idea. She even sought her father's help, arguing that such an innovative event could attract young tourists, ultimately boosting profits.
The event was scheduled for 3 PM. Right after lunch, Elena went home to get ready and put on her costume—a Wonder Woman outfit, her childhood hero.
Wonder Woman embodied the qualities of a strong woman who was easy to admire: beauty, strength, and the kind of physical prowess that could surpass most men. Elena tried to emulate these traits, but those around her often found her intimidating and distant. Growing up in a conservative family with strict rules, she had to hide even her love for comic books.
"Sis, can I take a picture?"
"That Wonder Woman costume is fantastic! The details are incredible. Can I get a photo?"
"It's because the wearer fits so perfectly. Are you a model, by any chance?"
Elena responded to the compliments with a small chuckle. Sure, this was a way to relieve stress, but she couldn't deny that the admiration was part of why she came.
In her business suit, people might avoid her. Here, she transformed into someone adored by everyone.
"Um, could we take a picture together too?""
Elena turned around with a smile. "Oh, sure—" The smile vanished instantly.
There was one reason she had agreed to hold the event at city hall: it was far enough from her office, a 20-minute drive away.
She never expected to run into one of her colleagues here.
'Of all people, why him?' Elena took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. 'Maybe he won't recognize me.' After all, the thick makeup complemented her cosplay.
But that hope quickly faded.
"So, can we take a picture together, Mrs. Marino?" Rashid asked with his usual infuriating face.
Elena knew she was in trouble.
*#*
Elena's father always said that absolute power could only be achieved by instilling fear. Only tyrants could maintain their authority indefinitely, while those who showed mercy were destined to fall.
Elena had grown up thinking it was a ridiculous notion, though she lacked solid evidence to counter it. After all, her father's success had proven it to be true.
So, whenever she was in a leadership role, she built a reputation as a tough, uncompromising figure. A dictator who ruled with an iron fist.
But how could she maintain that image if one of her subordinates had seen her in costume?
"Are you sure you're paying for all of this? I got carried away and ordered a lot. I'm really sorry." Rashid's tone showed no hint of remorse.
Elena's cheek twitched as she forced a smile. "Of course, it's all on me, Mr. Alfaro." She had suggested they visit this fast-food restaurant. Money wasn't a concern, but she felt as though she'd been duped. "By the way, you didn't see anything today, especially here. You understand, right, Mr. Alfaro?"
"So, this is like a bribe, huh?"
"A bribe?" Elena almost lost her composure. If Rashid thought she was involved in anything illegal, and word got to her father, things could go badly. "Ahem. Look, Mr. Alfaro, everyone has secrets. I just don't want this one getting out."
"Why? Your cosplay is great. Everyone loves it. Gigi likes comics too, if I recall—"
"No," Elena cleared her throat. "Everyone in the club won't know about thi$. Absolutely not."
"Hmm..." Rashid stroked his chin thoughtfully.
'This sly man…' Elena had anticipated this. Someone like him wouldn't be bought off with just some fast food.
In any case, this was a top-priority secret. Before he could make demands that Elena might not be able to fulfill, she needed to offer something reasonable. "How about we—"
"Okay."
Elena blinked in surprise. "You said... okay?"
Rashid shrugged. "You're right; adults have secrets. I'm not one for gossip."
Elena felt an odd sense of relief. Even though Rashid said the matter was resolved, it ended more easily than she had expected. However, offering further assistance might put Elena in more trouble.
For now, she had to play along. After all, Rashid had said something valid. Judging by his demeanor, he wasn't the type to gossip and spread secrets.
"So, what brings you here, Mr. Alfaro? Weren't you supposed to be leading a training session?" Elena attempted small talk, hoping to steer the conversation elsewhere.
"Since tomorrow is matchday, we just did light training and reviewed the game plan I designed. On my way home, I found out that city hall was hosting this fun festival, so I decided to stop by."
"On your way home?"
"Yes. My apartment is just a few blocks away."
'Damn Operations Division!' Tomorrow, she'd find out who was responsible for relocating Rashid's residence and demand an explanation.
"Oh, by the way. If you don't mind, I could use a little more help."
Elena put on her business smile. "Don't hesitate, Mr. Alfaro. What do you need?"
"The car the club provided has a technical issue. It's not serious, but it need to be repaired by one day. So today, I have to rely on an online taxi, but my phone battery is dead, and I don't have any cash on me. Could you give me a ride home?"
*#*
If there were an award for the most disrespectful employee of the year, Rashid would win hands down.
'No, he could probably take the title for the most cunning person as well.'
Elena knew that when Rashid agreed to keep her secret without making any grand demands, there was an unspoken condition.
It was a shrewd psychological play: she couldn't refuse Rashid's request because it would mean turning down a favor in return. He wasn't exploiting her wealth but her conscience. 'He really is a terrifying man.'
She started to wonder if all great coaches were a bit psychopathic.
Lost in thought, she suddenly noticed a car aggressively pulling up alongside hers, forcing them to the side of the road.
Just as she was about to protest, she recognized the license plate.
It was her father's car.
As expected, three more black cars boxed them in from behind. All were black Rolls-Royces. Her father stepped out.
"Good afternoon, Papa." Elena greeted him respectfully.
"Elena. Come here, dear, and give this old man a warmer greeting." The man, Vittorio Marino, was the head of the Marino family. His mustached face was well-known throughout Ravenna and Northern Italy, evoking a storm of emotions in anyone who heard his name.
"What brings you here today, Papa?"
"Straight to the point, just like usual, eh. You're becoming a quite remarkable woman." Vittorio patted her shoulder before whispering, "I want your club to lose tomorrow's match against Spezia."