When good meets really, really, really bad.
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Daniel Harper is down on his luck as he struggles to pay for his sophomore year at NYU. After a failed attempt at selling drugs, he gets offered a deal too good to be true: Date the heir to the Vitt...
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LUCIEN VITTORI-HARPER
I didn’t want to come to Stamford, mainly because I swore I would never step foot on Connecticut soil. But here I was, because my mom wanted to throw a garden party. Ever since she and my dad retired, it seems that all they do is throw small parties or visit historical places.
Never really pegged my parents as philanthropists, but that’s what happens when you get too rich.
Danny came back from getting snacks and put his plate between us. I reached forward for a cookie and ate it. At least the food is free. But my husband looks even more delicious.
My mom began to talk to me, trying to get me involved in her and her friend’s conversations. “Lucien, tell them how long it took you to realize you wanted to marry Danny.”
“One month.” I replied.
“Wow,” One of the women said. “And yet my son can’t even muster the courage to ask his girlfriend of 8 years for her hand. You Vittori men are quick to decide who is your perfect match.”
“What can I say?” My mom said. “Lucien and Danny are just perfect.” All the women and my mom turned to Danny. He stopped eating his food and just looked at them, then gave them a small wave.
“He’s adorable! Like a puppy.” Another woman said. I placed my hand on his thigh under the table.
Danny gave me a side glance. He nibbled his snacks while I winked at him.
At some point during the event, something began to look off about Danny. I began to pick up on his behavior. And when I saw him wipe a few tears and run into the house, I knew exactly what was going on.
I found him in our guest room, huddled on the corner floor and crying into his arms. He rocking himself back and forth while snuffling.
“Danny. It’s okay. I’m here.” I kneeled down next to him. When I touched his arm, he jumped back.
“Lucien?” He asked. I nodded.
“I’m here, baby. Don’t worry, you’re going to be safe.” I reminded him. He moved to my arms and let me hold him.
He was crying into my shirt and holding me tightly, as if I was going to let go. I just sat there, letting him calm down in my arms.
“You’re going to be okay. No one will hurt you if I’m here.” I said.
He muttered something but it was incoherent. I reached for a random shirt and helped wipe his tears from his face.
“Don’t let them touch me.” He mumbled.
“They won’t. Those evil men will never hurt you again.” I told him. “Want to try to stand up?” I asked. He nodded. I helped him stand up and then sat him on the bed.
