What an intriguing and well-wrought introduction to this character, and story. I instantly like Valentino even though the attention he pays to the things and people in his surroundings does not seem to stem from curiosity or ease. He's calculated, he's polite, he's confident, and that tells me so much about who he is and what drives him. The thing I love about it is how irresistible he is despite the fact that we can kind of sense that this is a schooled mode of being. Maybe his carriage arises out of his inherent (and more natural) love and need of order, but it is schooled nonetheless.

[the goal was to ensure that the DaCorte name was emblazoned into every individual's mind in association with a trustworthy business, and nothing more] :D :D :D for the "and nothing more."

[Approaching the bulletproof, textured glass door to his office] Hahah, YES. I love how you are introducing him and his "real job."

[If it was his father's intention to make this the "subject" of their "meeting," he would probably be able to wrap it up in an hour, and return to work.] Ooh, I already dislike the father, and also this convinces me all the more that Valentino's thing for order is the real "him," which he has jacketed in keeping the family business "in order" so that he can function as desired. But it also seems that this gives rise to the potential for conflict between the interests of the family and Valentino himself . . . his loyalty would probably be far less in question if he were fiery and demonstrative with it, even if that meant he caused trouble on occasion, by demonstrating it too far.

I adore the armored BMW and the brief conversation with the driver. Clearly "as quickly as possible" could refer to TWO possible speeds, and the readiness of the driver to employ either one was just the perfect touch.

I am definitely going to read more of this story. Yay!

I saw Mount Vernon and got excited. Then I noticed it was Washington. :(
I really have been enjoying this story thus far, and I hope that this certainly works out for you.
Good luck!
- La Imperatrice

This story is just crazuy. At first I thought I should stop reading but I'm glad I didn't. Valentino is just gorgeous. Jason on the other hand can just die.

Most interesting...
This is a very nice chapter - it's well written and I'm eagerly awaiting the next chapter.

Unfortunately, I was put off by the het. sex. :P

Hard to imagine how this ends up being slash, but I will keep reading to find out, though I will skip the het. sex like I did this chapter.

Has potential but is slow going/starting... If there is another main character they haven't been hinted at and there doesn't seem to be much of a plot. Maybe if ou update the summary to let people know what to look forward to... Anyway, merry christmas :)

Just wondering what your background is... It's a little unusual to see 'Miss Maria'... It would either just be Maria, and most employees would be on a first name basis, or it would be Ms. Smith... You wouldn't have the men called Mr. While the women are called by their first name. It's seen as chauvinistic. I don't care, just an fyi for your writing.
Also it's Los Angelos not Las. Las Vegas, yes.