Before dawn | Dark romance

Chapter 59 - Opulent bonds

[3/3]

The private box is a testament to luxury and elegance. As we step inside, I'm immediately struck by the opulent design and the attention to detail that makes the space both inviting and awe-inspiring. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unobstructed view of the stadium, with the perfectly manicured field stretching out below us.

The interior is spacious, with a blend of modern sophistication and classic touches that speak to their family. The walls are adorned with framed photographs and memorabilia of legendary Yankees players, giving the room a sense of history and reverence for the sport. Plush leather couches and armchairs are arranged in cozy clusters, providing ample seating for everyone to relax and enjoy the game in comfort.

A large, polished wooden bar runs along one side of the box, stocked with an array of spirits and fine wines. Crystal glasses are neatly lined up, ready to be filled. Beside the bar, a buffet table is laid out with an assortment of dishes, from fresh seafood and charcuterie to a selection of artisanal cheeses and fruits. The aroma of grilled steak and roasted vegetables wafts through the air, making my mouth water.

The lighting is soft and ambient, casting a warm glow over the room. Recessed lights in the ceiling highlight the artwork and photographs on the walls, while delicate sconces provide a gentle illumination that creates an intimate atmosphere. The carpet underfoot is thick and luxurious, muffling the sound of our footsteps as we move through the space.

In one corner of the room, a large flat-screen television is mounted on the wall, showing close-ups of the action on the field below, and the stats of the players.

Luca's family and a few other people I do not recognize are already gathered in the private box, their voices blending into a cheerful hum of conversation and laughter. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, showing how close this family is despite their polished exterior.

As we step inside, Luca's mother greets me with a welcoming smile. "Maddie, I'm so glad you could join us," she says, gently guiding me toward a seating area where Luca's father and brothers are having a lively discussion about the upcoming game.

Luca follows closely, his hand resting lightly on my back, offering silent reassurance amid the lively family chaos. I can feel his presence, solid and comforting, as I take in the scene around me.

Luca's father looks up as we approach, and, to my surprise, he offers a me a nod, and I swear I can see a glimpse of a smile. Much like his son, he often has a guarded expression, his face a mask of calm. Yet, beneath the surface, there's a hint of warmth and genuine affection that I've come to recognize in Luca. I hope that, with time, I'll get to know Luca's father better and see the kindness beneath his stern exterior.

"Maddie!" Vinny shouts as he bounds toward me with a grin that lights up his whole face. Before I know it, I'm swept off my feet, literally, as he lifts me into a bear hug and spins me around like a whirlwind.

I laugh, feeling a bit dizzy at the sudden movement. "I missed you too, Vinny," I say, my heart warming at his enthusiasm.

"Thank God you're here," Vinny continues, setting me back on the ground as Dante steps forward, greeting me with a friendly kiss on the cheek. "Luca's been a real bitch without you close," Vinny adds with a mischievous glint in his eyes, just as Luca groans in protest.

"You idiot," Luca growls, narrowing his eyes and giving Vinny a smack on the back of his head.

Vinny rubs his head, pretending to be hurt, but his eyes twinkle with mischief. "What the hell was that for?" he groans, still grinning.

"I told you he was snappy about her," a new voice chimes in. I turn to see a man approaching with a confident smirk. He's the same man who was grinning at me back in the penthouse lobby when Luca flustered me with his antics.