AllFreeNovel
Share Us
"Gentlemen, may I present my daughter Natalia, who will be joining us this evening," he pronounced without preamble.
I inclined my head graciously as curious eyes swept over me. "A pleasure to meet you all. My father speaks highly of your many invaluable contributions to the organization." My poise and smooth voicehints gave away none of the anticipation swirling inside at being included here as more than just a decorative prop.
Father proceeded to formally introduce each advisor in turn. I focused intently, determined to remember their names and roles. Most regarded me cordially, perhaps reserving full judgment. These were notoriously shrewd men who had earned their positions through cunning and ruthlessness. Their respect would not come lightly. But I would rise to meet any challenge tonight. I was my father's daughter, after all.
The negotiations resumed, focusing mainly on solidifying supply chains and quelling internal power disputes that had arisen in leadership's absence. I listened raptly, only interjecting occasionally to pose strategic questions that made the advisors peer at me with new consideration. Father too seemed subtly impressed by my grasp of nuance within these complex dynamics.
After vigorous discussions, Father leaned back appearing satisfied with the roadmap established going forward. "Excellent work, gentlemen. Let us continue this over dinner." He stood, signaling finality.
To my astonishment, Father gestured for me to accompany them as they moved to the lavish formal dining room. I glided along mindfully, sensing critical eyes still gauging my poise and intellect even outside the boardroom. But rather than shrinking under the tacit scrutiny, I felt galvanized. Here was my arena to finally claim my rightful authority.
The opulent meal passed smoothly, with more polite inquisition about my education and pedigree. I charmed and evaded deftly, giving little away just as Father had trained me. Inside, however, excitement continued building. Tonight, I had glimpsed my future, one where my place would be earned through cunning as much as name. The lonely apex I had envisioned was now within reach.
The last brandy had just been cleared away when Father and the head of the other family decide to go talk in private. He stoodabruptly, turning to me. "If you will excuse me briefly. I trust our guests are in capable hands with my daughter as hostess."
I blinked, fighting to keep surprise from showing. Father was entrusting me to continue cementing these vital new alliances solo? It was the ultimate show of faith in my diplomatic abilities, more responsibility than he had ever granted.
"Of course, Father. I will handle things until you return," I responded smoothly despite my racing pulse.
He departed swiftly with one last inscrutable glance at the assembled men who shifted now to face me. Gathering myself, I flashed a poised smile. "Shall we adjourn to more comfortable settings, gentlemen?"
Rising gracefully, I led the way to a lounge decorated richly but tastefully. I directed the serving of aged brandy and cigars as the influential older consiglieres made themselves comfortable. Their guard gradually lowered as I engaged them in light anecdotes and laughter. But I did not fully relax yet. Tonight had been progress, but I could not forget how tenuous my position remained.
When Father returned some time later, a hint of rare pride showed in his gaze finding me still commanding rapt attention from these powerful figures. I had passed an unspoken but monumental test tonight. Though much remained uncertain, my destiny would no longer be dictated solely by these influential men from the shadows.
I tipped my glass to Father subtly in a small salute. We had begun this evening uneasy allies seeking to mend fractures. But tonight, I hoped we had expanded mutual understanding just enough to continue nurturing trust between us.
I was determined to blaze my own trail going forward with or without Father's blessing. But having his grudging respect at my back would smooth much. And proven now was my mettle to stand shoulder to shoulder with the titans of this world.
I was no longer the gangly teen who shrunk back under their domineering gazes, but a true tigress who meant to claim her throne. There could be no doubt - I had arrived.
CHAPTER 19
DESTINY CALLING
The heavy curtains were drawn shut, making the study feel kinda gloomy. But I was still riding high after the big dinner with Dad and his business partners. I sank into the leather chair across from Dad at his huge desk, barely able to sit still. Tonight felt huge - like I'd finally crossed a line in getting Dad to see me as more than just a pretty face and treat me as an equal.
Dad watched me for a long minute, fingers pressed together under his chin. I forced myself not to fidget or run my mouth, even though I was pumped. I'd let him break the silence when he was good and ready.
Finally, he put down the papers he was holding and met my eager stare. "You handled yourself real good tonight, Nat. Even I couldn't find nothing to criticize."
I had to work to keep a smug grin off my face at the grudging praise. I just nodded graciously though, keeping it cool. "Thanks, Dad. I'm glad I didn't embarrass you in front of the big players."
One eyebrow went up slightly. "Mm-hmm. Truth is, our guests seemed pretty impressed with how you kept your cool and made smart plays. Don't think they expected that from someone...so young."
I gave a modest smile, getting his hidden meaning. These tough old mobsters probably underestimated me at first for being young and a chick. But I'd proven myself as a legit strategist who deserved respect. And clearly Dad didn't mind them leaving with that impression of his daughter and heir.
"I'm glad I could help out," I said, playing it humble. "Looking forward to pitching in on more big talks going forward."
"Is that so?" Dad leaned back, eyeing me thoughtfully over that huge desk between us. "You believe you're ready to fully join these high-stakes meetings?"
I lifted my chin, standing my ground. "I know I can handle it. Tonight was just a taste." I kept my voice cool and respectful, but my eyes blazed confidence. It was time for Dad to stop shieldingme and give me a real seat at the table. I knew what I could do, no question.
Something like pride flashed across Dad's steely gaze. "You always were gutsy and driven, even as a little kid. Just like your mother."
I sat real still, hardly breathing. After losing Mom so suddenly, Dad rarely spoke of her; it was too painful. Bringing up her fierce spirit now in relation to me felt like the highest seal of approval.
When I trusted my voice, I simply said "Thanks for trusting me with more work, Dad. I won't let you or the family down."
