" Where's the young master, Madam Clara?" Luca asked, his voice tinged with concern as he hurried down the grand staircase after checking Vincent's room.
" He should be in his room. Have you checked there?" Madam Clara replied, standing resolutely in the sitting room, preparing to start her morning chores. "Do you think I'd be asking if I hadn't checked? I knocked on his door several times, but there was no response. When I went in, his room was empty," Luca explained frantically. "He's nowhere to be found. The young master hasn’t still fully recovered. I hope he's okay." "The last time I saw him was last night. He might have gone out for a walk. Did you check the outside area as well?" Madam Clara asked, meeting Luca's anxious gaze. "I did, but he didn't notify me if he went out," Luca replied with a sigh. "Damn it! If he went out, that means he's out there alone. If anyone knows about his true identity, they could hurt him. His safety is my priority. I can't afford to fail in handling that," Luca declared, pacing back and forth in the sitting room, running a hand through his hair nervously. Just then, a bodyguard rushed in, interrupting Luca's pacing. "Sir, we've found the young master," the sturdy man reported before leaving. Luca followed suit. ***************** Vincent parked the sedan he had driven himself that morning. From the vehicles available in the garage, he chose this unassuming sedan—he wasn’t yet accustomed to the lifestyle he was thrust into, and he preferred to go unnoticed. He parked in the lot of an upscale boutique. He had left the house without notifying anyone, needing some space, and a chance to take in the city view on his own. He also needed new clothes; those in his wardrobe were few and beginning to show signs of wear. He exited the car and approached the entrance of the boutique, which oozed luxury and beauty. The security guard greeted him warmly as he entered the luxurious surroundings. Inside, a friendly salesperson approached him. "Good morning sir, how may I assist you?" she asked with a welcoming smile. "Good morning. Can you show me the men's clothing section? I'm in need of some new clothes," Vincent replied, returning the smile. "Of course, sir. Please follow me," the petite woman led Vincent to a section dedicated to men's clothing, where suits from renowned brands were elegantly displayed. "Take a look at this exclusive Armani suit, specially designed by their top designer," she presented, carefully pulling out the suit from the rack. "How...," Vincent paused as his attention was drawn to the entrance as a figure walked in, causing a stir among those present in the boutique. Vincent turned to see who had caused such a stir and was shocked to see Sophia, his ex-wife, who he hadn't seen since their tumultuous divorce. An assistant accompanied her, and her presence immediately commanded attention. Spoting Vincent, Sophia's lips curled into a smirk as she approached him. She walked confidently beside her assistant, not seeming surprised to see Vincent there. "Well, well, well… look who we have here. Mr. Pauper," she sneered, staring at him with irritation. "You finally got out of jail. How did that happen? Did my fiancé arrange your release? I doubt it," she scoffed incredulously, trying to mask her confusion over his sudden release. Vincent still had time left in his sentence, yet he was already out of prison. And Alessandro hadn't even mentioned it to her. Maybe she was missing something out. Pushing aside her thoughts, Sophia continued harshly, "Do you allow ex-convicts in your boutique?" She shifted her gaze to the saleswoman with a look of disgust. "Ma-Ma'am," the sales personnel stammered. " Ex convict? You mean?” the saleswoman continued as she turned to look at Vincent, who remained silent. " I mean, this man standing here is an ex-convict. Do you really allow unreputable people here? Did you even take a look at him before allowing him in here?" Sophia shouted, pointing her hands towards Vincent. Her loud outburst gathered the attention of the other wealthy persons in the boutique. Vincent remained silent, unable to defend himself against the murmurs and judgmental looks from those around him. He didn't blame them - he didn't exactly look like a rich man himself. "I-I'm sorry ma'am. I had no idea. He is an ex-convict, " the saleswoman apologized respectfully as she scanned Vincent from head to toe. "You should be sorry for yourself. You should be more careful about who you let into this boutique. How can you allow a poor man like him inside?" Sophia spat with venom, giving the saleswoman a scathing look before turning away from her. At that moment, the boutique manager rushed over, having been alerted by the commotion. "Welcome, ma'am. I didn't realize you were here. Had I known, i would have prepared for your arrival," the manager said with utmost respect, bowing slightly. It was clear that she knew who Sophia was. "What seems to be the issue?" The manager asked, after noticing Sophia irritated gaze. " Are impecunious people allowed in here now? How can you allow such a Balderdash into this place, a poor wretch who can’t afford the cheapest item in this store. Why is he even here? Looking for a job, perhaps? Even if he's here to get a job, you can't give a job to such a poor brat like this," Sophia set in anger, prompting the manager to take a closer look at Vincent. Vincent wore a faded pair of trousers and a simple T-shirt, clothes that were left over in the wardrobe. They were not in line with his taste, but he had chosen them to blend in and avoid drawing attention. Now, he found himself at the centre of a humiliating spectacle. His lips pressed into a thin line, his fists clenching at his sides as he struggled to maintain his composure. "I'm deeply sorry for the inconvenience, ma'am," the manager said, bowing again. “I will take care of this right away,” the manager assured. "You’ve made a grave mistake coming here. You’ve upset one of our most important clients." Vincent forced a smile, ignoring the venom in her words. If they only knew who he truly was… but now was not the time to reveal his hand. He turned to the saleswoman, who had been assisting him earlier. "Could you please show me the other brands you have available?" he asked, keeping his voice steady despite the anger simmering. "He's clearly here to waste your time," Sophia interrupted, her voice dripping with scorn. "He can't afford anything here. Just look at him. Have him sent out," Sophia shouted. “Please,” Vincent began, only to be cut off by the manager. "Not another word from you," the manager snapped. "Security, please escort this man out, "the manager called out, signalling the security guard who stood at the front of the Boutique. The security guard at the front of the boutique moved to comply, but before he could lay a hand on Vincent, the large entrance doors swung open with a forceful crash. The clatter sound of the door drew everyone's attention away from Vincent to the imposing figure who had just entered."Young Master," Luca called out after spotting Vincent, who was completely engrossed by the whole scenario. Luca's face bore a worried expression as he swiftly made his way towards Vincent, drawing the attention of everyone in the boutique who wondered who he was addressing. As he neared Vincent, the manager hurried over to him."Welcome, Mr. Marchetti," she greeted with a warm smile, momentarily diverting attention from Vincent. She recognized Luca immediately; when Vincent's late father, the former head of the Moretti Group, stayed in New York during his holidays, it was Luca who had assisted him with all his clothing needs at this very boutique. Luca managed a small smile in response to the manager's greeting before proceeding towards Vincent, who stood calmly. The eyes of every person in the room followed Luca, their gazes filled with curiosity as he approached Vincent. "Young Master," Luca said with a sigh of relief, "I've been so worried about you. We've been searching tirele
As the sleek black car pulled up to the grand mansion, Vincent stepped out first, followed closely by Luca. With a troubled expression on his face, Vincent strode down the hallway towards the mansion entrance. The scene that had ensued at the boutique earlier still lingered in his mind, especially since it involved his ex-wife. Luca let out a sigh as he followed behind his boss, knowing all too well the thoughts swirling in his boss mind. Vincent opened the giant door that led into the sitting room area, where a stunningly beautiful woman with piercing eyes caught his attention. Her curves were accentuated by her perfectly tailored clothes. She stood up from where she sat when she noticed Vincent arrive. Vincent paused mid-step, surprised by this unexpected guest. He turned to look at Luca with a questioning gaze. "This is the urgent matter you needed me to attend to?" Vincent asked, gesturing to the beautiful woman. “Yes, young master. She's Bianca Lombardi, the daughter o
"Do you know him?" Vincent's voice held a note of surprise, his piercing gaze locking onto Bianca."Of course I do. It was all over the news when he won the Bianchi Finance case after being sued for fraud," Bianca replied, her voice feigned a hint of curiosity. "I was the lawyer who handled that case," he said, standing up and walking to the window with his hands in his pockets. The memory is clearly still raw. "Even though I lost, I’m certain Alessandro used his influence to manipulate the court."Bianca watched him intently, her eyes following every of his step. "So, that’s why you hold this grudge against him," she observed quietly.Vincent let out a bitter laugh, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon. "It wasn’t just the case. After what he did with my wife, I was relentless in my pursuit of revenge. But he was a step ahead. He knew my plans, and he cut me off—by sending me to jail.""I'm sorry for all you've been through, Young Master," Bianca said, her eyes filled with sympathy
"It's the family's attorney, Mr. Pietro Lombardi—Bianca’s father, the man I told you about," Luca said, stretching the tablet toward Vincent. "He’s requesting a video call."Vincent's face showed his disapproval at the mention of speaking to this older man. He wasn't ready to speak to this man just yet, despite all the good things Luca had shared about him. Luca had explained how Mr. Pietro Lombardi had been a loyal and trusted ally of the Moretti family for decades, overseeing their legal affairs, properties, and businesses. Mr. Pietro had been like a brother to Vincent's father, Alberto Moretti.Before his death, Alberto had entrusted Pietro with the responsibility of delivering his will to Vincent. It was as if Alberto had foreseen his own demise and made this move to protect the Moretti empire from the vultures within the family. He knew he had many enemies, and Pietro was the safeguard of his life's work.With a resigned nod, Vincent took the tablet and swiped to accept the call
“Hmm... Alessandro is from Italy,” Bianca began, glaring at Vincent, who was engrossed in the paperwork before him. “He attended school and earned his degree in America.” “America? Why not Italy?” Vincent raised his head, shifting his gaze from the files to meet hers. “His father was an influential man who valued education highly. He believed that studying in America would provide his sons with a broader perspective and better opportunities. That’s why he made Alessandro and his elder brother study in a different country. His father was the one who initially owned Bianchi fiance, but Alessandro became the owner of his elder brother’s untimely death. The tragedy struck on the very day the elder brother was to take over the company. Their father couldn’t bear the loss and died of a heart attack shortly after.” “Alessandro had an elder brother?” Vincent’s brow furrowed, a puzzled expression crossing his face. He wondered why he didn't know of this. From all the documents he had gone
Anthony swallowed hard as he shifted his gaze to Vincent, who had just settled back into his seat with a serious expression.“I—I,” he stammered and pressed his lips together. Vincent’s eyes bore into him. "Relax, Anthony," he said, patting the man's shoulder. "I don’t have anything on you. I just want to know about your relationship with him.”Anthony exhaled as tension left his body like air from a punctured balloon. The relief in his eyes was palpable—he had thought he was in serious trouble. He didn't want to get on the bad side of his boss. But after hearing Vincent’s words, he realized that his boss wasn’t considering him as the problem.“Yes, I know him,” Anthony replied, his voice regaining some confidence. “Alessandro Bianchi, He's a business associate. We’ve worked together for years.”Vincent’s eyes narrowed as he turned to exchange a meaningful look with Luca, silently confirming that Bianca’s intel was right. "What do you know about him?""Is there a problem, Mr. Moretti
In the stifling atmosphere of the courtroom, every person held their breath as the judge prepared to deliver the verdict in case number 2024-3560, the highly publicized financial damage case. "Before we proceed with the ruling, I must inform you that the judge who was originally presiding over this matter has been removed from the case. As of this morning, I have been assigned to take over the proceedings and deliver the final judgment," the new Judge announced, his voice tinged with authority. "Why was he removed? " A man in his late twenties spoke out with an urgency that rippled through the room like a shockwave. It was Vincent representing the plaintiffs in this high-stakes legal battle against Bianchi finance, the finance company accused of causing financial harm to its users. "The reasons for the removal are confidential and will not be disclosed,"the judge stated, fixing his gaze at Vincent, who stood at the plaintiffs counsel table. "But Your Honour, please tell us
Vincent felt a chill run down his spine as he caught sight of the mysterious man and his wife on their matrimonial bed. Instantly, they scrambled to put on their clothes, clearly disturbed by Vincent's interruption. Vincent's heart ached as he approached the man with anger. Getting a clearer view of the man, Vincent seethed with rage."Alessandro Bianchi!!" Alessandro Bianchi, the CEO of Bianchi Finance, the very company that he had lost to in court earlier today. While Alessandro himself wasn't present during the trial, he had sent someone in his place, confident in his connections and wealth, to come out victorious. Bianchi Finance was one of the wealthiest companies in all of New York, and despite Vincent's efforts to bring them down for their fraudulent practices, he was no match for their power and influence. "How could you be so heartless? Don't you have any shame, How can you sleep with someone else's wife, " Vincent fumed, his hand gripping Alessandro's collar tightly bef
Anthony swallowed hard as he shifted his gaze to Vincent, who had just settled back into his seat with a serious expression.“I—I,” he stammered and pressed his lips together. Vincent’s eyes bore into him. "Relax, Anthony," he said, patting the man's shoulder. "I don’t have anything on you. I just want to know about your relationship with him.”Anthony exhaled as tension left his body like air from a punctured balloon. The relief in his eyes was palpable—he had thought he was in serious trouble. He didn't want to get on the bad side of his boss. But after hearing Vincent’s words, he realized that his boss wasn’t considering him as the problem.“Yes, I know him,” Anthony replied, his voice regaining some confidence. “Alessandro Bianchi, He's a business associate. We’ve worked together for years.”Vincent’s eyes narrowed as he turned to exchange a meaningful look with Luca, silently confirming that Bianca’s intel was right. "What do you know about him?""Is there a problem, Mr. Moretti
“Hmm... Alessandro is from Italy,” Bianca began, glaring at Vincent, who was engrossed in the paperwork before him. “He attended school and earned his degree in America.” “America? Why not Italy?” Vincent raised his head, shifting his gaze from the files to meet hers. “His father was an influential man who valued education highly. He believed that studying in America would provide his sons with a broader perspective and better opportunities. That’s why he made Alessandro and his elder brother study in a different country. His father was the one who initially owned Bianchi fiance, but Alessandro became the owner of his elder brother’s untimely death. The tragedy struck on the very day the elder brother was to take over the company. Their father couldn’t bear the loss and died of a heart attack shortly after.” “Alessandro had an elder brother?” Vincent’s brow furrowed, a puzzled expression crossing his face. He wondered why he didn't know of this. From all the documents he had gone
"It's the family's attorney, Mr. Pietro Lombardi—Bianca’s father, the man I told you about," Luca said, stretching the tablet toward Vincent. "He’s requesting a video call."Vincent's face showed his disapproval at the mention of speaking to this older man. He wasn't ready to speak to this man just yet, despite all the good things Luca had shared about him. Luca had explained how Mr. Pietro Lombardi had been a loyal and trusted ally of the Moretti family for decades, overseeing their legal affairs, properties, and businesses. Mr. Pietro had been like a brother to Vincent's father, Alberto Moretti.Before his death, Alberto had entrusted Pietro with the responsibility of delivering his will to Vincent. It was as if Alberto had foreseen his own demise and made this move to protect the Moretti empire from the vultures within the family. He knew he had many enemies, and Pietro was the safeguard of his life's work.With a resigned nod, Vincent took the tablet and swiped to accept the call
"Do you know him?" Vincent's voice held a note of surprise, his piercing gaze locking onto Bianca."Of course I do. It was all over the news when he won the Bianchi Finance case after being sued for fraud," Bianca replied, her voice feigned a hint of curiosity. "I was the lawyer who handled that case," he said, standing up and walking to the window with his hands in his pockets. The memory is clearly still raw. "Even though I lost, I’m certain Alessandro used his influence to manipulate the court."Bianca watched him intently, her eyes following every of his step. "So, that’s why you hold this grudge against him," she observed quietly.Vincent let out a bitter laugh, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon. "It wasn’t just the case. After what he did with my wife, I was relentless in my pursuit of revenge. But he was a step ahead. He knew my plans, and he cut me off—by sending me to jail.""I'm sorry for all you've been through, Young Master," Bianca said, her eyes filled with sympathy
As the sleek black car pulled up to the grand mansion, Vincent stepped out first, followed closely by Luca. With a troubled expression on his face, Vincent strode down the hallway towards the mansion entrance. The scene that had ensued at the boutique earlier still lingered in his mind, especially since it involved his ex-wife. Luca let out a sigh as he followed behind his boss, knowing all too well the thoughts swirling in his boss mind. Vincent opened the giant door that led into the sitting room area, where a stunningly beautiful woman with piercing eyes caught his attention. Her curves were accentuated by her perfectly tailored clothes. She stood up from where she sat when she noticed Vincent arrive. Vincent paused mid-step, surprised by this unexpected guest. He turned to look at Luca with a questioning gaze. "This is the urgent matter you needed me to attend to?" Vincent asked, gesturing to the beautiful woman. “Yes, young master. She's Bianca Lombardi, the daughter o
"Young Master," Luca called out after spotting Vincent, who was completely engrossed by the whole scenario. Luca's face bore a worried expression as he swiftly made his way towards Vincent, drawing the attention of everyone in the boutique who wondered who he was addressing. As he neared Vincent, the manager hurried over to him."Welcome, Mr. Marchetti," she greeted with a warm smile, momentarily diverting attention from Vincent. She recognized Luca immediately; when Vincent's late father, the former head of the Moretti Group, stayed in New York during his holidays, it was Luca who had assisted him with all his clothing needs at this very boutique. Luca managed a small smile in response to the manager's greeting before proceeding towards Vincent, who stood calmly. The eyes of every person in the room followed Luca, their gazes filled with curiosity as he approached Vincent. "Young Master," Luca said with a sigh of relief, "I've been so worried about you. We've been searching tirele
" Where's the young master, Madam Clara?" Luca asked, his voice tinged with concern as he hurried down the grand staircase after checking Vincent's room. " He should be in his room. Have you checked there?" Madam Clara replied, standing resolutely in the sitting room, preparing to start her morning chores. "Do you think I'd be asking if I hadn't checked? I knocked on his door several times, but there was no response. When I went in, his room was empty," Luca explained frantically. "He's nowhere to be found. The young master hasn’t still fully recovered. I hope he's okay." "The last time I saw him was last night. He might have gone out for a walk. Did you check the outside area as well?" Madam Clara asked, meeting Luca's anxious gaze. "I did, but he didn't notify me if he went out," Luca replied with a sigh. "Damn it! If he went out, that means he's out there alone. If anyone knows about his true identity, they could hurt him. His safety is my priority. I can't afford to fail in h
"Wh-what?" Vincent stammered. " Yes, sir," Luca affirmed with a respectful nod. Oh my God," Vincent breathed. "No wonder you were able to secure my release so easily. I was wondering how you managed to get me out of that jail - the most brutal one at that." He turned to Luca with wide eyes. "So you're saying I'm an heir to a $1 trillion worth of inheritance?" Luca nodded solemnly. "Yes, sir. We just need you to fully recover so we can travel back to Italy and begin the legal proceedings for your inheritance. And also for you to exercise your new title as the head of the Moretti group and introduce you to the rest of the group," Luca explained, watching as Vincent's expression turned cold. "No, not yet. Not until I deal with those who made me suffer," Vincent seethed, his eyes locking onto Luca’s. Vincent had an undying desire to make his enemies pay, especially Alessandro Bianchi. He wouldn't spare him - he must make him and all others who contributed to his downfall pay for the
Vincent's eyes fluttered open slowly. He grimaced as he tried to comprehend his surroundings, struggling to sit up on the bed he was lying on. “Sir, you are badly injured. Don’t stress yourself up,” said a man who wore an expression of concern. He was seated in a chair close to Vincent’s bed. Why was this man calling him? And why was this man calling him, sir? Vincent mused. " Who are you? Where am I?" Vincent's brow furrowed in confusion, finally managing to sit upright as he turned towards the man who addressed him. A crisp black suit adorned the man. " I remember being in prison, how did I get here? Is this Alessandro's doing again,” Vincent questioned, as if trying to point out something. "I apologize for not introducing myself sooner. I'm Luca Marchetti, your late father's butler," the man disclosed with a stern gaze on Vincent, whose face turned into a confused expression. " Father? You mean?..., I have been an orphan all through my life. I don't even have a vivid descrip