The Eve of Eros' Last Dance

Chapter 9: The Unseen Facade

Rita, her expression thoughtful, began, "This may sound peculiar, but there's something about our interaction that feels oddly familiar, like we've met before, perhaps in another context."

Ms. Therese, intrigued by Rita's observation, responded, "It's an interesting sentiment, President Rita. However, this is our first encounter."

Rita nodded, acknowledging the rational explanation. "You're right, Ms. Therese. It's uncanny how it feels like we've known each other for ages."

Therese marched purposefully towards the director's office after saying goodbye to Rita and Anna. She entered with a confident knock and was greeted by the director, who motioned for her to take a seat.

Therese proceeded into the director's office, which was decked with academic achievements and a subtle aura of power. The director, a well-known person in the academy, praised Therese for her quick response to the unexpected invitation.

"Therese, please have a seat. Your prompt response to my request is appreciated," the director gestured toward the chair in front of their desk, a silent invitation for Therese to partake in this intriguing conversation.

Therese, keeping her cool, took a seat, her gaze fixed on the director. There was a tangible sense of intrigue in the room, as if this unexpected gathering was more important than the regular scholarly debates.

"Of course, Director. May I ask about the purpose of this unscheduled meeting?" Therese inquired, her tone a blend of respect and curiosity.

The director leaned forward, a subtle yet intentional gesture to convey the seriousness of the forthcoming discussion. "It's about Rita Vergara. We believe it's prudent to delve into her background, ensuring that the interests of the academy align seamlessly with those of her daughter, Anna."

Therese nodded in understanding, recognizing the delicacy of the situation. "I understand. Safeguarding the integrity of the academy is of utmost importance."

"Exactly, Therese. In this endeavor, your role is pivotal," the director continued, their gaze fixed on Therese. "We believe your influence could be instrumental in securing additional support for the academy, especially considering Anna's potential."

A moment of contemplation passed before Therese responded. "I appreciate the trust you place in me. How would you like me to proceed?"

The director's response was direct, outlining the mission laid out for Therese. "Befriend Rita. Gain her trust, and ensure that her interests align with ours. Rita's involvement could significantly benefit the academy, and your influence will be crucial in fostering a positive connection."

Therese, ever the tactician, absorbed the directive. "I accept the responsibility. I'll do my best to be an advocate for the academy's well-being."

"Thank you, Therese. Your commitment to this cause is commendable," the director praised. "Now, let me provide you with some context on Rita's background."

Therese leaned forward, her posture attentive, as the director delved into the intimate aspects of Rita's past. The facts unraveled like a finely woven tapestry, exposing not only Rita's public character but also the delicate layers that molded her.

"Rita comes from a family with a history of complex business dealings. Her ascent to wealth and power has been marked by strategic alliances and, at times, controversial decisions. She has been involved in various philanthropic activities, which adds a layer of complexity to her public image," the director elaborated, providing a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of Rita's life.

"I appreciate the insights, Director. I'll proceed with discretion and diligence," Therese affirmed, acknowledging the weight of the mission entrusted to her.

The director concluded the briefing with a sense of gravity. "Your role is to understand her motivations, uncover potential vulnerabilities, and ensure that her involvement with the academy aligns positively with our goals. Go forth, Therese, and may your actions serve the greater good of the academy."

Therese rose up, eager to begin this subtle dance of influence and strategy. She came to a standstill at the door as she excused herself from the director's office. With a strange expression, the director commented on her apparent familiarity.

"You know, Therese, there's something strangely familiar about you," the director stated, their eyes narrowing with contemplation.

Therese turned back with a mysterious smile, "Perhaps, Director, some connections transcend the boundaries of the professional world."

With that enigmatic statement, Therese continued her exit, leaving the director with a lingering sense of curiosity.

Therese found consolation in her teacher's room. While making chamomile tea and watching television, she unintentionally discovered breaking news - Rita's candidacy for the next elections.

"In a surprising turn of events, Rita Vergara, prominent figure and philanthropist, has officially declared her candidacy for the upcoming elections," the reporter announced, their tone laden with significance.

Therese was in a rage after hearing the news. In an outburst of rage, she slipped the teacup off the table, shattering it on the floor. The chamomile tea stain spread across the floor like a stain. Therese began the laborious work of cleaning up the broken pieces after a few minutes of relaxing herself. She sliced her hand on the shards as she did so, a minor but palpable ache in the middle of the turmoil.

Unbeknownst to her, Mario arrived at her office and witnessed the aftermath.

"Therese, what happened here?" Mario's concerned voice filled the room as he entered, taking in the shattered teacup and the muted television.

Therese, still caught in the whirlwind of her emotions, gestured toward the television. "Breaking news about Rita—her candidacy. It's infuriating."

Mario nodded in understanding, his expression reflecting a mix of sympathy and concern. "I saw the news, and I can imagine how shocking it must be for you. But, why the teacup?"

Therese sighed, her shoulders slumping with the weight of her emotions. "It just... triggered something in me."

Mario, ever the calming presence, approached her. "Therese, let me help you clean this up."

He gently lifted her, guiding her to a chair, and began collecting the broken pieces. As he worked, he continued, "I get that this news hits close to home, but breaking the teacup won't change anything. Let's focus on what we can control."

Therese, despite her initial resistance, found solace in Mario's comforting words. "You're right. It's just... I didn't expect it to affect me like this."

Mario nodded, his eyes meeting hers with understanding. "Sometimes, unexpected things hit the hardest."

"Therese, I've got something for you," Mario said, handing her a black folder with a knowing look.Curiosity piqued, Therese opened the folder, scanning through the detailed contents. "What's all this, Mario? Why do you have information on Rita?"

Mario leaned in, his expression serious. "I got these details from a trusted source. It seems Rita might be involved in a drug dealing business in the Philippines."

"Rita involved in drug dealing?" Therese exclaimed, a glint of intrigue in her eyes as she delved deeper into the contents of the black folder. "This is unexpected, Mario. How fascinating! Are you certain about the credibility of this information?"

Mario, leaning against the desk, responded with a cautious yet excited tone, "I made sure to verify the source, Therese. It seems like Rita might have some connections in the drug business. This could be a game-changer for us."

Therese continued to scrutinize the gathered evidence, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Tell me more, Mario. How deep is she into this business? What are the specifics?"

Mario hesitated for a moment, then shared, "The details are a bit elusive. It appears she's connected, but the extent of her involvement is not crystal clear. We need to dig deeper to get a more comprehensive picture."

Therese, now wearing an intrigued expression, traced her fingers over the documents. "This could be the leverage we've been waiting for. If we play this right, we might expose her hidden side and gain a significant advantage. But, Mario, we must be strategic. We don't want to play a card that could turn against us."

Mario nodded in agreement. "Timing and precision are crucial. We should tread carefully and gather more intel before making any moves."

Therese sighed, setting the folder aside. "This revelation adds a thrilling layer to our plan. Rita won't see this coming, and that's our advantage. Let's reassess our approach and use this information to our advantage."

Mario stood up, a thoughtful expression on his face. "We have an opportunity here, Therese. Let's strategically gather more information, and when the time is right, we'll expose Rita's involvement, leaving her stunned and vulnerable."

As Therese delved into the unsettling revelation about Rita's potential involvement in drug dealing, Mario cautiously raised the director's suggestion, "Therese, considering this new information, what do you think about befriending Rita? It could be a strategic move for us."

Therese, her eyes focused on the damning evidence, looked up with a steely determination. "Befriending Rita? That might just be the key to unlocking her secrets and exposing her vulnerabilities. But, Mario, let's not forget – this is a dangerous game. We have to play our cards with precision."

Mario nodded, acknowledging the gravity of their situation. "I understand the risks. Rita won't be an easy target, but if we navigate carefully, we could gain significant insights into her world."

Therese leaned back, her fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. "Befriending the enemy might be easier than befriending a dog. But if we choose this path, let's make it a dance she won't forget."