Vengeance Of The Mafia Heiress

Chapter Two

Present Day, 2019. New York, USA.

Garrett and Edgar were in disbelief over the new CEO appointment, of a young woman with no work experience. The office buzzed with gossip.

"How could the board do this?" Garrett asked.

"She's unqualified and it could be disastrous for the company," Edgar agreed.

Tabitha defended the decision, "The board must have seen something in her." But Garrett scoffed,

"She's only got the job because her father owns most of the company shares. It's nepotism, pure and simple." The trio's conversation reflected the office's sentiment, questioning the board's wisdom and worrying about the company's future.

Tabitha shrugged, "Some people are born lucky."

"Why wasn't Mr. Devon's son made CEO? He's more suitable." Edgar asked.

Brooke joined in, "Because he's a man?"

Garrett crossed his arms, and Brooke rolled her eyes. "No, because he's older and has experience," Garrett clarified.

Tabitha intervened, "Judge her capabilities during her introduction today" and she returned to her work, leaving the others to murmur among themselves, their concerns and biases evident.

The conversation continued, with the team skeptical about the new CEO's qualifications as they awaited young Miss Devon's arrival.

...

"Attention all staff!" The overhead speakers boomed, the voice echoing through every office floor, instantly capturing the attention of every worker and intern. The sudden interruption silenced the bustling workspaces, leaving only an anticipatory hush in its wake. "Please report to the meeting room now. I repeat, please report to the meeting room now". The announcement went on.

As personnel from various departments made their way to the meeting room, a mix of emotions filled the air. Some were curious, others annoyed, while a few couldn't hide their excitement. Worried glances were also exchanged, fueling the collective unease. The sound of high heels clicking against the marble floors signaled the approaching arrival of the meeting's leader, and everyone waited on baited breaths. The theatre-like setting was set, with all eyes fixed on the entrance, awaiting the revelation to come.

Varya Wren Devon, the Devon princess, exuded confidence as she entered the room, her effortless stride preceded by the soft swing of the doors. Her understated attire belied her luxurious aura, her hair cascading elegantly down her shoulders, and her Hermès Birkin dangling nonchalantly from her arm. Allen Palmer, the acting CEO since Derek Devon's retirement, walked alongside her. Varya's piercing gaze swept the room, her sharp eyes missing nothing. As they reached their seats, the handover ceremony began, marking the official transfer of power to the young heiress, whose presence commanded attention.

Allen Palmer, the outgoing CEO, stood at the helm of the meeting, his voice filled with conviction as he announced his decision to step down from the CEO position. The room erupted into applause when he introduced Varya Wren Devon, to the team. As she gracefully made her way to the podium, the audience fell silent once again, their eyes fixed on the new leader. Varya's voice was clear and determined as she addressed the room,

"I know some of you may have your reservations about me, as this wasn't the change you were expecting. You may doubt my knowledge and capabilities in company affairs, but I assure you, I have been more inclined with this company for far longer than you believe. So, I ask for your earnest cooperation in raising Devon Group to unprecedented heights. Thank you." The room was pin-drop silent as Varya's words resonated through the hall.

Varya stepped down from the podium, the audience erupted into applause once again. With the handover complete, the staff dispersed to their respective offices, each carrying their thoughts and opinions about the new CEO. While some were convinced of Varya's capabilities, others harbored doubts, unsure if her youth and inexperience would hinder her ability to lead. Allen, with a warm smile, offered Varya a tour of the company, familiarizing her with the inner workings of the organization. "Thank you, Allen, but I think I can take it from here," Varya said, her voice firm and confident. Allen gave a brief nod as he left. She sighed, a mix of relief and determination, before taking her seat at her new desk, proud that she had accomplished the first step to her lifelong plan.

...

As the Devon family settled at the table for dinner, Agata, with a hint of curiosity turned to Varya and asked, "So how was your first day as the new boss lady?".

Varya shrugged eliciting a chuckle from Derek. "A little overhyped" she replied.

Derek, slicing into his meat chimed in, "I did warn you, it isn't fun". Varya playfully rolled her eyes "It's work, Dad. It's never fun. I still like it though".

"And I still don't know why you choose to be cooped up in an office like your father, Wren. Devon women never need to work" Agata interjected sipping her wine and Varya's expression turned resolute,

"I don't need to, but I want to, Mom".

The older woman shook her head and smiled "Of course, because the princess gets whatever she wants".

Varya's eyes narrowed slightly, a brief memory flashing through her mind, but chose not to respond. Derek, sensing the tension, redirected the conversation.

"And what about you, Lucas? How do you find your new placement?".

Lucas, who had been quiet all the while, shot his father a glare, his tone serious, "Shitty"

The room fell silent with only the sound of utensils scraping against plates and Agata, oblivious to the undercurrent asked Lucas,

"What does your job entail, honey?".

"I think Dad can best explain it. Why don't you ask him?" The emphasis on 'Dad' is not lost on anyone. "Excuse me" he added, pushing away from the table, his chair scraping against the floor. He got up and walked away leaving the room in uncomfortable silence.

Derek's jaw ticked, eyes narrowing, still, he maintained his composure. Varya turned to him, her voice laced with concern,

"What was that about?" Agata's questioning gaze also fell on her husband who forced a reassuring smile,

"I guess he hates his job. He'll come around".

The two women shared a skeptical look as Derek excused himself from the table as well, following Lucas out of the room.

Once they were out of earshot, Derek stopped Lucas in his tracks. Their voices were hushed but intense.

"Are you trying to piss me off?" Derek demanded, his anger simmering just below the surface.

Lucas stood his ground, eyes flashing with defiance, "Does mom know?"

The man's laughter was cold, mirthless, "I don't bluff, boy. You would do as told unless you want to have a very hard life. Lots of people would kill for every privilege I hand to you, yet you choose to behave like a f*****g rebellious teen. Get your act together because there is no backing out once you’re in!"

Lucas’s face twisted in resentment, "Damn you" he spat before storming off, leaving Derek's anger hanging in the air like a challenge.

If one looked at the Devons from the outside, they were the picture-perfect family. Only the inhabitants knew the secrets they each held onto.

Agata retired to her room for the night as the servants tidied up after dinner. Derek downed a glass of scotch. Varya paced around her room, her mind racing as sleep eluded her as always and Lucas sped through the streets in his car to the apartment of the one person who hated Derek's guts as much as he did.