♥ Chapter 17 ♥

Caterina Vossini. 

09:20 '' Casino. '' Valdoria.

We arrive at the casino, and, as soon as I get out of the car, I feel the vibrant atmosphere of the place envelop me. Even though it's daytime, this place is always busy. The brightness of the lights, the sound of the machines, and the constant movement of people give me a feeling of power. The casino is busy, and the sight of the profit it generates makes me smile. Having my power and influence spread throughout the world is extremely rewarding.

I enter the casino, passing customers eagerly playing the tables and slot machines. Money flows like a river, and every lost bet is more profit for me. I feel energized by the environment, knowing that every penny that comes in here strengthens my empire.

I walk toward the private meeting room, a place where I know important meetings often take place, even if I don't need to attend in person. Everything is passed on to me later, and I decide whether or not to approve the ideas discussed. However, today I want to be present.

Upon entering the room, everyone stands up as a sign of respect.

'' Welcome, my lady. ''Everyone responds in unison. I feel the deference and fear in their voices, and it pleases me deeply.

'' Sit down. '' I say, as I settle into the main chair, at the head of the table. ''Let's get straight to the point. I want to hear the updates and ideas you have for our business.

One of my main advisors, Antonio, begins to speak.

'' Casino profits are up 15% this quarter, ma'am. The new machines and VIP tables have attracted many high-profile players.

'' Excellent. '' I respond, with a satisfied smile. ''What about gun and drug operations?

'' We are expanding our transportation routes to avoid police surveillance. We have new contacts in Europe and South America, which will guarantee a constant flow of products. '' Antonio continues. ''However, there are rumors that the police have intensified their efforts to find out who is behind these operations.

'' That doesn't worry me. '' I respond coldly. ''Keep our informants well paid and make sure the police remain blind to our movements. Now, tell me about investments.

Another team member, Ricardo, takes the floor.

'' We received significant investments from some deputies and influential people in the government. They want to ensure that our illegal casinos and underground fights continue to operate without interruption. They are willing to provide coverage and financial support in exchange for a share of the profits.

'' Good.'' I am satisfied. ''With these allies in government, we can expand our operations without fear of reprisals. I want you to ensure that these investments are well managed and that our partners remain loyal.

We continue discussing details about money laundering, expanding our business into new cities and states, and how to keep the police and competitors in check. With each topic covered, I feel the satisfaction of seeing my empire grow and strengthen.

'' We also need to think about new security methods to protect our operations. '' I say, looking directly at Antonio. ''I want you to hire the best technology and security experts to ensure that our communications and transactions are protected against any type of infiltration.

Antonio nods, taking notes. 

'' Yes, ma'am. We will take care of it immediately.

Then one of my henchmen, Matteo, raises his hand, asking for permission to speak.

'' Madam, we have been having problems with competitors trying to invade our territory and steal our customers. They are offering products at lower prices and trying to attract our distributors.

'' We cannot allow this. ''My voice is firm and authoritative. ''I want you to intensify surveillance in our territories and send a clear message to competitors. Anyone who dares to challenge us will be dealt with the utmost severity.

Matteo nods, understanding the gravity of the situation.

'' What about our distributors? '' I ask, looking around the room. ''Are they remaining loyal?

'' Most are, ma'am, but some are being tempted by competitors' offers. '' Responds Ricardo. ''We are working to ensure they know the risks of betraying our trust.

'' Excellent. '' I say, with a cold smile. ''I want you to make surprise visits to our distributors. Show them that our protection is irreplaceable and that any disloyalty will be punished mercilessly.

'' Yes, ma'am. '' They respond in unison.

'' Another point we need to address is expansion into new cities and states. ''Continued. ''I want detailed reports on the most promising areas and the challenges we may face.

'' We've already started the search, ma'am. '' Antonio informs. ''There are several cities with potential, but we will need to overcome local resistance and establish new distribution routes.

'' Do whatever is necessary. ''I order. ''Use force, bribes, or any other means to ensure that our expansion occurs without interruption. Our empire must continue to grow.

'' Understood, ma'am. '' Antonio responds.

'' Before we close, I want to know more about the investments we received from the government. '' I say, turning to Ricardo. ''Are these deputies and government officials really committed to us?

'' Absolutely, ma'am. '' Ricardo assures. ''They see our business as a vital source of funding for their campaigns and personal projects. They are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure our success.

'' Excellent. '' I respond, satisfied. ''Keep us paid well and ensure our relationship remains strong. Their support is crucial to our operations.

The meeting continues with discussions about new businesses, security methods, and strategies to further strengthen our empire. Every decision is made with precision and care, ensuring our dominance remains unshakable.

'' And how are the clandestine fights? '' I ask, my voice sharp. ''Are we profiting from them?

Antonio responds promptly. 

'' Yes, ma'am. The fights have attracted a significant audience, and the profits have been exceptional. The basement of this casino has proven to be an ideal location for these events. However, there are rumors that some competitors are trying to infiltrate our events to steal our fighters and bettors.

'' This is unacceptable. '' I respond, with an expression of disdain. ''I want them to intensify security during fights. Anyone attempting to infiltrate must be dealt with with the utmost severity. And make sure our fighters and bettors know that we are aware of their needs and ready to protect them.

'' Yes, ma'am. '' Antonio responds.

'' Please continue to monitor the situation and keep me informed of any threats. '' I say, as I stand up. ''Our priority is to ensure that our business continues to prosper and that our position remains unshakable.

I walk towards the door, then turn around, looking at them with a big smile.

 ''I think if we want to attract more audiences, we should show something even more interesting.

'' What do you mean, ma'am? ''Question, Antonio, confused.

I laugh lightly, a sound full of anticipation. 

'' I will fight a little now. Let's go to the basement.

Without waiting for a response, I head towards the back of the casino, where there is a restricted area, the basement entrance. Antonio and the others follow me, still processing my decision.

As soon as I enter the basement, I am greeted by a wave of noise. People shouting excitedly about the fights, the atmosphere charged with excitement and adrenaline. There are all kinds of people present, corrupt police officers, delegates, judges, even the president and governors. Every face in the audience reflects the power and influence I have over them.

I walk through the crowd, which opens to let me pass. The feeling of control and dominance is intoxicating. I arrive at the central area, where the fights are taking place, and I feel everyone's eyes turn to me.

'' Get ready for something special. '' I announce, my voice loud and clear over the noise of the crowd. ''Today, I will enter the arena myself.

The cheers and cheers increase as my guards begin to prepare the ring for my entrance. The anticipation in the air is palpable, and my every move is followed closely.

Antonio, next to me, still looks incredulous, but there is a gleam of respect and admiration in his eyes. 

'' Are you ready, ma'am?

'' Always. '' I respond, with a confident smile. ''We will give them a spectacle they will never forget.

I enter the arena, feeling the adrenaline rush through my body. The crowd is in a frenzy, eager to see what I'm capable of. This is my empire, my kingdom. And I'm about to show everyone why I'm the undisputed queen of this underworld.