“My apologies, ma’am, but Mr. Rizzo is currently in a meeting with the committee,” the secretary reported, looking embarrassed.
Atenea paused briefly, assessing the woman before her. She detected no signs of deceit, but rather noticed a flushed expression on the secretary’s face.
“I understand,” Atenea finally replied. “I’m his wife. Would it be possible for you to guide me to the conference room? I’m sure he’ll be pleased to see me.”
The secretary hesitated at first but quickly closed her mouth, aware of the rumors circulating about Valentino and his current wife. She didn’t want to fuel unfounded gossip, but she also couldn’t grant Atenea access.
“I’m sorry, ma’am, but I can’t do that. However, if you prefer, you could wait for him in his office…”
“No,” the denial was firm, leaving
