I look at Conti and I start the negotiations, anxious to have the contract executed.
“I’m interested in forging the alliance with marriage. It’s to our benefit to be united since the Irish are making moves on the Kravtsov Bratva turf. I’m also aware that they’re doing the same to you, Don Conti,” I say, resting my hand on the armchair.
Ciro brings us a glass of Vodka. I take the glass from the Soldier, bring it to my lips, and take a drink. Then I look at Conti, waiting for him to reply.
“That’s correct, and I’m glad that you’re interested in forging an alliance. I want to ensure that the alliance is beneficial to both and by marrying my niece Valentina, it will fortify the association,” Conti says, looking at me.
“I don’t have any doubts about the alliance since the Bratva and Mafia are both formidable and will be a power to fear. I want the marriage to take place immediately,” I say, looking at him.
“Splendid, that’s what I want,” Conti says, nodding.
“I’ve reviewed the contract that you sent, made some adjustments, and returned it.”
“Yes, I did review the adjustments, and I’m agreeable to the terms,” Conti says, nodding.
“Excellent, let’s sign the contracts,” I say, looking at Conti.
“I have the copy at my desk,” Conti says, pushing off the chair.
I follow him and watch him sign the contract. Then he hands the contract to me. I review it to ensure that it’s the same contract with the adjustments, and then I sign it.
My heart skips a beat and then pounds faster. I’m so thrilled and anxious to see her. But I have to take it slow for now. Conti can’t be aware of my interest in Valentina because I don’t want to give him that power.
“The wedding will take place in three weeks, and I want the engagement party this weekend.”
“That’s reasonable,” Conti says, nodding.
“Splendid. One more thing, I would like you to allow Valentina to attend the opening of our new club, Hellion, tomorrow.”
“That won’t be a problem, but she will attend with her cousin Mia and her guards,” Conti says, turning up his lips.
“That’s good; she has to be protected since she’s now a target,” I say, nodding.
Four
Valentina
The door to Don Elio's office is open, and I walk inside since I was summoned.
“Close the door, Valentina, and have a seat,” Don Elio says, waving his hand.
He doesn’t even look up at me and continues to read the paper in his hand.
I take a seat in the chair in front of his desk and look around the room. I stare at the family photo. It’s the photo that we took on Christmas, it’s nice. It looks like a happy family.
“Valentina, I have several issues to review with you. I have signed the contract with a very strong Bratva man. That means that you will be marrying in three weeks.”
“What? Who is he?”
“He’s the Kravtsov Bratva Pakhan and a very powerful, wealthy man. Obviously, you will be busy for the next few weeks. I need you to select your wedding dress tomorrow morning. You have an appointment at Bianchi Bridal House.
I’ve arranged for the best wedding planner in New York. She will review everything, so select what you want.
The engagement party will be this Friday, you will then meet your fiancé. But you might meet him tomorrow since he requested that you attend the grand opening of the new club, Hellion. Do you have any questions? Capisci?”
I stare at Don Elio, speechless. That’s a lot to do in a few weeks. I’m getting married, and it doesn’t bother me. It doesn’t matter what I feel or think; it’s happening.
“Is Mia going with me to select my wedding dress? Can she be my maid of honor? Is Mia going with me to the club? Please let me know when the wedding planner will be here. The engagement party is this Friday. I think that I got it all, right?”
