Florence, Italy ~ 1450 Library ~ Palazzo Medici “I have the latest figures for your review sir,” Craig Taylorento stated as he crossed the broad expanse of the Medici library. The library had been founded almost a century ago and still overwhelmed Craig every time he set foot in it. Craig had been a loyal advisor to Lorenzo de’ Medici for fifteen years. He hoped that his loyal and honest service would reap benefits for his family in the future. Lorenzo was the head of the Medici family and has made Florence the leading city in Italy. He was a generous man and a great patron of the arts. He was actually a poet himself; however he could be a shrewd as they came when it regarded the running of his bank. “How do they look?” Lorenzo questioned, glancing at Craig from behind the statuesque desk at which he sat. “The Giovanni family is still delinquent in their payment, however the Rossini guild has increased their contribution this quarter,” Craig replied. “Was there an explanation as to the delinquency of the Giovanni payment?” “None that I found acceptable; what action should I…” Interrupting Craig, “Any harsh recourse will just put them further behind. Increase the interest on the total amount, and advise the family that they will just be making payment over a longer period of time.” Focusing back on the documents in front of him Lorenzo asked, “Is there any new business to consider today?” “No sir, however I do have a personal matter to which I would like to address,” Craig stated somewhat hesitantly. “Is this matter in regards to your son?” Lorenzo looked up staring directly into his advisors eyes. “Yes it is,” Craig paused, trying to get a feel for his employer’s mood. “Justin is very anxious to learn of your decision to allow him to pursue his art here within the court.” Craig would have preferred that Justin have a passion for banking as he did, but his only son seemed driven to become an artist. He knew that his son had talent, he just wasn’t confident that Lorenzo would think so. Lorenzo’s patronage was very difficult to attain, and Justin was very young. Being only 17, Craig doubted that Justin would be able to handle the rigors that went with being an artist for the Medici family. “You may convey my congratulations to Justin,” Lorenzo responded with a slight grin on his face. He was actually quite fond of Craig’s son and felt that he had an amazing talent; a raw talent that hadn’t had any formal instruction. Justin was still young and could benefit greatly from the revitalization of his academy for instructing artists. Ever since his command of the family had begun, Lorenzo strived to gather all the greatest artist and great minds to his court. He was determined to outshine every city in Italy. His success in business and banking afforded him the luxury to be able to do this. The idea of having someone as talented as Justin could potentially be, coming from his very own court thrilled Lorenzo. Yes, there were many great artist currently being supported by his patronage, however he hoped that someday this particular artist would be remembered as being from his family. Lorenzo was brought out of his brief musings by Craig asking, “Should I have Justin come to see you sir? He will be so grateful to hear of your decision.” However Craig found it slightly difficult to be excited. “Yes I will need to speak with Justin, but I would like to mention another proposition.” Craig was startled by this; he was at a complete loss as to what else his employer could want from him. Shakily Craig responded, “By all means sir, what is it that I can do for you?” “Relax Craig it is something that I think you will be very pleased about.” Lorenzo sensed the uncertainty in his employee, it actually amused him. “You have undoubtedly heard of my daughter Francesca’s resent betrothal to the Prince of Sicily.” “Yes, and may I offer my congratulations, that alliance will greatly benefit the avenues of commerce here in Florence.” Craig was still uncertain what this had to do with him. Was Lorenzo going to ask him to go to Sicily to monitor his holdings that he would certainly attain there? “Well, my concern now lies with my youngest daughter, Daphne; I believe she is quite taken with Justin. They have known each other since your service to me began fifteen years ago. I was in hopes that her feelings for him might be returned.” Lorenzo paused to allow time for Craig to grasp what he was suggesting and to gauge what he thought Justin’s reaction might be. Craig stood dumbfounded, was Lorenzo de’ Medici actually proposing that his son, Justin, marry his youngest daughter Daphne. It was well known that Daphne was secretly Lorenzo’s favorite child, and took great pains to make sure she was happy. Craig’s mind was reeling… “Craig,” Lorenzo broke into his thoughts, “what do you think of my proposition?” Clearing his throat, “Well I must admit it comes as a bit of a surprise sir. Justin is very fond of Daphne, of that I am certain. However, I do question his readiness for marriage.” “Do you doubt your own son Craig? I know that this would be of great benefit for your family.” Lorenzo was quite stunned by Craig’s evident lack of confidence in his only son. Could he not see the potential that Justin had? Then again Justin’s father was always more interested in pleasing him than paying attention to what was right under his nose, an advantage that he would use to his benefit. “Craig, you know it is my greatest wish to see Daphne happy, and I believe that Justin can make it so, therefore, I do hope that you will consent to my proposal.” Lorenzo stated with a certain inflection of tone that let Craig know he was not taking ‘no’ for an answer. “Absolutely, I give my consent whole-heartedly,” Craig had no other options, and the more he thought about it, the better it felt. Justin’s marriage to Daphne would solidify his place in the Medici family. Now the only obstacle that was left was…Justin. “Splendid.” “Would you like to convey the wonderful news to Justin sir? Or would you prefer me to communicate your congratulations and wishes?” “No, I will speak with Justin myself. Have him come this evening. That will be all Craig,” Lorenzo turned leaving the library heading for the courtyard. ~~**~~~***~~~***~~~**~~ “Justin stop pacing, you’ll wear a hole in the marble floor,” Daphne said grinning at her best friend. Smiling, “I can’t help it Daphne, I didn’t think it would take your father this long to make a decision. Gaining his patronage would mean everything! Hopefully it would finally convince my father that I am serious about my art!” Justin recited all in one breath. Daphne knew at that point just how on edge her friend was. He only spoke that fast when he was either really upset or nervous. “Calm down, there is no way that my father will refuse you. He is always carrying on about how talented you are.” “Daph, he was just being kind in pleasant company.” “Justin I know my father! He would never do that, he doesn’t give false praise.” Daphne stated with authority, shocked by her friend’s sudden lack of confidence. One of Justin’s qualities that Daphne admired was his belief in himself. She hoped that her father would tell Justin his decision today, she wasn’t sure that he could handle the suspense much longer. “I’m sure that he will tell you today.” Daphne was trying so hard to reassure him. “Thanks Daph, I know I’m being ridiculous, but this is my life that is hanging in your father’s hands. All I want is to be an artist.” Justin said, finally coming to sit next to her on the bench in the garden. “Justin, you already are an artist, a very good one I might add; despite your tendencies to act like a French Queen who has just been insulted!!” Daphne looked up at the indignant face looking at her, and couldn’t help but burst out laughing. Despite his best efforts to be annoyed by his friend’s remark, Justin couldn’t help it, he started laughing. Daphne had a way of making him feel good about himself, and she never let him wallow in self pity. “I don’t know what I’d do with out you Daphne, you are a true friend, why on earth do you put up with me?” “I love you silly,” punching him in the arm. She knew that Justin loved her too, just not to the extent that she would like. Justin would always be there for her, but he tended to favor the boys at the court rather than the girls. She had observed this on many occasions during the festivals that her father would host. Looking at her friend, she knew he had never acted on any of his urges, he seemed to be waiting for someone, she just didn’t know who. “I love you too Daphne. I better get back; maybe my father has some news. He was to meet with your father this afternoon.” Justin rose giving his childhood friend a peck on the cheek. “I’ll see you later.” Calling after him, “I better see you later; I want to hear what my father tells you!” Justin turned, waved, and smiled letting her know that she would be the first person he would inform after meeting with Lorenzo de’ Medici. ~~**~~~***~~~***~~~**~~ Coming out of the garden Justin almost ran right into his father. “Father, I was just heading back, how was your meeting?” Justin asked with a sense of urgency in his voice, he hoped his father had good news for him. “It went well. Mr. de’ Medici wishes to speak with you.” Craig answered in a level tone that only caused Justin’s heart to sink. “Oh.” Justin tried to hide his feelings, but his father could tell that he was barely holding them back. “Yes. He has summoned you to meet with him in the courtyard. I believe he is there now. Go, you can inform me of your conversation over out evening meal. Don’t keep him waiting.” Craig stated with a slight smirk on his face which Justin did not see. Justin headed to the courtyard, filled with anxiety. ~~**~~~***~~~***~~~**~~ Courtyard, Palazzo Medici Justin approached the courtyard with a nervous mind and a hopeful heart. He knew that the man standing just inside the arched entranceway held the key to his future as an artist, and therefore his life. Justin admired and respected Lorenzo de’ Medici for his success. He had given many artists their chance at attaining greatness, which Justin was certain, would not have happened without the wealth he had acquired. Lorenzo’s passion for the arts may be somewhat stifled and limited his desire to have everything orderly and intellectually focused. Justin was confident though that he might convince the wealthy man to broaden his scope of vision, if he was given the chance. So Justin squared his shoulders and proudly stepped into the courtyard. “Ah, Justin, it is so good to see you,” Lorenzo greeted as he saw Justin enter. “As it is you sir.” Justin said returning Lorenzo’s warm greeting. He cut his comment short; unsure of how formal this meeting was to be. Seeing Justin’s hesitancy Lorenzo reassured, “It is okay Justin, you may speak freely. This is my quiet time, so we will not be interrupted.” Justin let out a breath and relaxed. There was a pause as Justin wondered if he should just come out and ask if Lorenzo had made a decision or wait until the older man addressed it. Fortunately he didn’t have to decide. “Justin I know you are wondering about my decision, whether or not you will be able to pursue your art here at the Medici Academy, under my patronage.” Lorenzo said looking knowingly at Justin. “Yes sir, I do not mean to be so impatient, but I…” “My decision is yes, congratulations.” Justin’s face was a pure definition of shock. After all the waiting and dreaming he couldn’t believe it. As his now patron’s words began to register in his mind, a small smile began to curve at his lips, progressing into his full blindingly radiant smile. Lorenzo watched with an amused smirk on his face as he saw the recognition take over Justin’s expression, and he was pleased. Justin realizing that he had yet to thank his new patron, rushed to do so. “Mr. de’ Medici, THANK YOU so very much! I will do all that is in my power to live up to the honor you have bestowed upon me. I will make you proud.” “I know you will Justin,” Lorenzo said with a genuine smile, which rarely graced his face. He couldn’t help but become caught in Justin’s web of enthusiasm. “I do not doubt your honesty, and integrity in doing so. It is those qualities, among others, that factored into my decision.” “You give me a great compliment in saying so sir, thank you again.” Justin stated, totally undone, by the praise he was receiving. “We will begin by setting up your studio space first thing in the morning, and ascertain what other supplies you will need.” Lorenzo grinned noting the still shocked state that Justin was in, so much so, he didn’t even acknowledge what had just been said. “Justin”… “Justin,” Lorenzo placed his hand upon Justin’s shoulder to gain his attention. “Yes.” Justin suddenly aware of the other mans presence. Laughingly, “Will you be able to set up your studio space tomorrow morning?” “Oh, certainly, I’m sorry, I am just so excited.” Justin smiled again. “I can’t believe it.” “If it was something that you wanted so badly, I find it hard to believe that you wouldn’t attain it. I’ve known you since you were a small child, and if my recollection serves me correctly, you’ve never given up on something that you truly wanted. It’s a quality that we share.” “You are right, I know I would not have stopped pursuing your acceptance into the Academy, it means everything to me.” Justin stated with a sense of pride that he had gained such favor from his patron. Justin just hoped that Lorenzo’s apparent favoritism did not cause any complications. He wanted to be accepted by those at the Academy not be shunned by them. He knew that their knowledge and support would be crucial to him, how else could he improve his art? Breaking through Justin’s musings, Lorenzo asked, “Justin are you currently working on a piece?” “Nothing of any significance, shall I submit anything to the senior Academy instructors for their review sir? I’m so anxious to learn their opinions. I am certain there are techniques and styles which I still need to learn and master.” Justin asked enthusiastically. “By all means Justin you may submit whatever you like, and I encourage you to glean all the knowledge you can, however I do have a painting in mind that I would like for you to do.” “A…a commission,” Justin paused again being completely taken by surprise. Never had any other artist been offered a commission just after entering the Academy. You had to demonstrate improvement in skill and style before receiving your first commission. “But sir, shouldn’t I study with the instructors first and…” Lorenzo cut off Justin’s protest. “Justin, this is a particular commission and in all honesty I have been saving it for you. I can think of no one else who could do it justice.” “Wh…what is the subject sir?” having absolutely no idea what he would be so well suited for painting, especially with no formal training. “Daphne,” Lorenzo said nonchalantly, quickly looking to watch Justin’s expression. “I want a full portrait that can be hung in the family salon.” “Sir, are you certain that one of the master artists would not be better suited for this?” Slightly offended by his judgment being questioned and Justin’s sudden loss of confidence in his work, Lorenzo responded tersely. “Justin I am determined in my choice! Are you declining my commission?” Realizing his mistake Justin was quick to answer, “NO SIR,” taking a breath and unable to look his patron in the eye, “I am just so overwhelmed, pardon me, I did not mean to offend you.” Justin silently chided himself for questioning his patron. Was he crazy, the man was offering him everything he wanted and he just may have ruined it before it even started? “Justin,” Lorenzo said softening his demeanor as he saw a flash of fear pass through the young artist’s eyes. “Yes,” Justin said hesitantly. “How long have you known Daphne?” “My entire life sir, she is my best friend.” “Yes she is, and this is why I have chosen you.” Grinning inwardly, Lorenzo had chosen Justin he just didn’t know it yet. “You know my daughter; I feel that you can capture the true beauty and essence of her like no one else. And you might be able to get her to sit still for five minutes.” Lorenzo said in jest, needing to lighten the mood. Justin smiled knowingly, envisioning Daphne bouncing around everywhere. “Thank you for your commission Mr. de’ Medici, I accept it with great pleasure, and I only hope that you will be pleased with the final result.” There was a comfortable silence that fell over the conversation, as Justin’s mind began to visualize the composition for his very first commissioned work, and Lorenzo thought over how to proceed. ~~**~~ Lorenzo watched Justin silently wondering how the young man would react to his next revelation. He knew that the two young friends were close, and he was certain of his daughter’s deeper affections for Justin. He could see them on her face whenever the artist entered the room. Yes, they were young, but he had never seen a better matched pair. Daphne’s constant exuberance and love of life, balanced Justin’s sometimes sullen and contemplative moods. And he had never seen anyone have the calming effect that Justin seemed to have over Daphne. They could finish each other’s thoughts, it was preordained. Collecting himself, Lorenzo decided to broach the subject. “Justin, I have another very important matter to discuss with you. This will undoubtedly be of great benefit to many people, and I think it will make you very happy as well.” “Sir, you have given me so much already, I cannot accept anything else.” Justin said emphatically. “What I wish to give you now is something that is very close to my heart, and I believe she is close to yours as well,” Lorenzo said with a leer, wondering if Justin had caught the use of the word ‘she’. Having missed it completely, Justin replied, “I can’t imagine what that would be,” Justin was totally confused by this riddle his patron seemed to be placing before him. “Can you not think of anything that would be that precious to me that I would wish for you?” Lorenzo was beginning to think Justin was intentionally playing coy. With a serious and questioning look on his face Justin once again responded, “No sir, I can’t. What other possible honor could you grant me this day?” Realizing that he was just going to have to come to the point Lorenzo bluntly stated, “The honor of marrying Daphne.” “Pardon me Mr. de’ Medici but I think by hearing is playing tricks on me, did you just tell me that you want me to marry Daphne?” “Yes, my dear boy, it is my greatest wish!” Justin’s head was swimming, how could this day go from one of absolute joy to an absolute nightmare in a matter of mere minutes? There was no way he could marry Daphne! Yes he loved and cared for her, but he was not in love with her! She was his best friend and always would be, but…his family, his father had to know, that was why Lorenzo said it would benefit a great many people. His marriage to Daphne would secure his father’s position within the Medici band for as long as he could serve, and his sister would most definitely benefit from exposure to the grandeur that was the Medici court, which would please his mother to no end. And how would this impact his attendance at the Academy? Did Daphne know any of this and had not spoken of it to him? What was he going to do? Justin’s silence was not what Lorenzo had expected, but he disregarded it as shock. He wondered if he should not have sent for Daphne before making the announcement. No, he was right to approach Justin alone. “Justin, I know that this is sudden, but your father and I discussed it earlier and we agreed that this would be the right thing. I know that Daphne cares for you a great deal, and I would even venture to say that she loves you. You have said that she is your best friend and I think that you may even feel more than that,” Lorenzo was trying to put words into Justin’s mouth. “Sir,” Justin had to pause, he must say this right. “Sir, you do me an unfathomable honor in offering for me to marry Daphne, and I do care for her a great deal…” “I know you do Justin, and you and she will be the most amazing pair!” Lorenzo interrupted before Justin could continue. “I will leave you to speak with Daphne, normally I would do this, but I feel that yours and Daphne’s relationship is so strong that I will allow you the pleasure of telling her yourself.” “But…” Justin tried to speak quickly but Lorenzo had already turned, leaving Justin at a complete loss, staring at his hands, not knowing once again where his life was heading. ~~**~~~***~~~***~~~**~~ Daphne’s Apartment, Palazzo Medici Daphne sat at her writing desk waiting for Justin’s return. She was beginning to wonder if her friend had forgotten his promise to come back and inform her of her father’s announcement. It had been over two hours and she could not imagine it to take that long to tell Justin that he had been accepted into the Academy. Of course she didn’t know that for certain, but she felt in her heart that her father would grant Justin his deepest wish. He doted on him entirely too much for him not to. Sometimes it irritated her that her father seemed so partial to Justin, but so was she, so she rationalized that she couldn’t be that angry. She and Justin had been friends forever, inseparable at times. She smiled thinking of all the mischief they had gotten into as small children. They were absolute terrors to their parents. However those happy musings turned bittersweet, when she remembered a time not too long ago, when she had seen Justin kissing one of the servant boys out behind the stables. She had accidentally come across them so nothing else transpired, but it was at that moment that all her romantic hopes had been dashed. She did not see Justin for about a week after that incident, but became unbearable lonely for her friend and realized that she would not be able to live without Justin in her life. So she was satisfied with what he could give her. And to be Justin’s friend was pretty special. Daphne’s reflections were interrupted as she noticed Justin crossing the garden to her apartment. She was suddenly alert. Justin appeared to be in a trance, walking aimlessly toward something but with no focus. It was like he was a shadow of himself. Immediately concerned she left her room to go greet him. Could her father have denied Justin and his tardiness in coming was him delaying telling her? No. It had to be something else. She reached the bottom of the staircase that led from her apartment to the garden and called to Justin. “Justin, what happened?” Justin looked up at her then looked away. He had no idea how to tell his friend what had transpired between himself and her father. ~~**~~ Justin realized he had to quickly change his façade. He had been mulling over the conundrum of how to tell Daphne and still had no clue. He should have known she would be waiting for him. He had wandered aimlessly into the garden, ignorant of his location and Daphne’s observation of him. Reaching deep he develops a smile on his face trying desperately to hide the conflict he was tackling in his mind. “Hey Daph, calm down everything regarding the Academy went great! I get to set up my studio tomorrow morning.” Justin told her hoping he had enough enthusiasm in his voice to convince her. “Justin I’m so happy and proud of you. I told you not to worry!” Daphne replied, realizing Justin wasn’t telling her everything. His tone was all wrong, and there was something behind his eyes. “I guess I was expecting you to be busting at the seams, and why are you so late in coming to tell me?” She questioned hoping to learn more. “I didn’t realize how much time had passed. Your father and I talked for a bit, what types of supplies I would need, which senior instructors I could learn the most from. It was great!” Justin was finding it hard to continue this conversation; he needed more time to think. “Sounds exciting just imagine what it will be like to get your first commission!” Daphne said still trying to draw Justin out more. “I already have one.” Justin mumbled. “WHAT?!” “Your father already gave me my first commission.” Justin said finally feeling a genuine smile tugging at his lips. He was truly excited about the commission and the fact that Lorenzo had so much confidence in his abilities. Maybe discussing the commission would distract him from his other dilemma and convince Daphne that everything was fine. Daphne was now even more confused by her best friend’s demeanor. Knowing that Justin had not only been accepted to the Academy, but had also received his first commission; he should have been floating higher than Mt. Olympus. He still seemed subdued. Daphne knew Justin well enough to know that she wouldn’t get anything out of him until he was ready to tell her. Perhaps he was nervous, or was harboring uncertainties about his talent again in light of such an honor being presented to him. “What is the subject of the piece supposed to be?” she questioned. Justin looked at her and drank in her presence and obvious love for him. He was aware of his friend’s feelings. He just couldn’t return them the same way. That was what was making this so difficult. She had always been there for him, never turned her back, and confronted him when he needed to be. If his feelings could be different, he felt undoubtedly that he would be in love with her. And now it appeared as if he had no choice. His greatest fears were living a life without his best friend, and being forced to deny who he is. “The composition is to be one of great importance to your father; he even said that he was saving it for me.” Justin finally answered. “Well?” she said becoming exasperated by her friends hedging. “It’s you.” “Me?” “Yes, he wants me to do a portrait of you for the family salon.” Justin replied. “That shouldn’t be too difficult. How many small paintings have you done of me since we were five?” Daphne asked laughingly. “This isn’t the same Daph!” Justin said somewhat disheartened by his friend’s flippant remark. “This will be seen by everyone that your father entertains his business associates, and other possible patrons. It has to be beyond perfect. Besides the fact that I have to live up to your father’s expectations. I just wasn’t prepared for that.” Daphne crossed over to her friend, and placed her hand on his shoulder, believing she had found the source of his mood. “Justin, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make light of the grandeur of the commission. I just know that you could paint me in your sleep.” “Yes,” Justin sighed, “but I’ve never done a painting of this scale. The composition and space have to be planned, the light and color must interact and blend, I need to determine the brushwork, and texture…” Justin faded out, as the enormity of his task began to take over his senses. “Justin did you just hear yourself? You know what needs to be done and you have NEVER backed down from something, no matter how challenging. This will be no different, and it will be masterful when it is done, I know that as a certainty in my heart.” “Thank you Daph,” Justin said, while thinking I love you, but fearful to say the words out loud knowing what was going to be expected of him. He so did not want to break his friend’s heart, a heart that knew him so well, and cared so deeply for him. But could he sacrifice his own heart to save hers? Justin didn’t know. “So what do you need me to do?” Daphne asked bringing Justin out of his thoughts. “First I have to get the plan mapped out, and you will need to decide which of your gowns you want to wear, that will help me with the colors and blending the background. Do you think you will be able to stand still while I paint you?” Justin poked fun at his friend. “Yes, I’ll be able to stand still, you big oaf!” “Well I guess your father was right. He told me that he was saving it for me because he thought I was the only one who could get you to stand still for five minutes at a time.” “Well it is a good thing I don’t have to stand still now.” Daphne launched herself at her friend, tickling him mercilessly. The wrestled around laughing and hollering trying to get the other to give in. Finally, both at a loss of breath, they lay next to each other in the garden giggling. Having calmed down Daphne asked, “What else did my father say?” Justin tensed, thinking Daphne had realized that he wasn’t telling her everything, and that she may have known the other matter that he and her father had discussed. Needing to determine how much Daphne knew he asked, “About what?” “About why he saved this portrait of me for you. It couldn’t have been just because he knew I would sit still for you.” “He felt that since we have known each other for so long that I would be able to capture more than just your external beauty, and could paint your inner self as well.” “He’s right you know?” “I hope so.” ~~**~~~***~~~***~~~**~~ Justin spent another half hour with Daphne deciding what gown she would wear for the painting. This way he could plan out the setting and color palette. She had chosen a deep garnet gown, trimmed with gold embroidery which seemed to highlight the gold flecks you could see in her curling tendrils from all the time she spent in the sun. He was envisioning a setting with her in the garden. Daphne’s whole spirit came to life when she was there. The greens and vibrant hues of the foliage would provide a perfect backdrop, and the radiance of the sunlight would create an incandescent glow around her. He realized that he had the painting pretty much planned, and now was at a loss as what he could ponder to distract his mind. He had eschewed a long route home. He was taking his time. Aware that the conversation awaiting him was not going to be pleasant. Not bringing up the entire subject was not an option because his father already knew. Lorenzo had said as much. Once he arrived home any discussion about his acceptance to the Academy would be overshadowed by talk of his impending marriage to Daphne. He knew that he was to have told Daphne the news, and the fact that he hadn’t was bound to be a major contention to which his father would argue with him. He would demand to know why, and Justin could not tell him. He felt he owed Daphne that explanation first. Justin only hoped that perhaps his parents would think that Lorenzo was informing Daphne, as was traditionally the case. That would give him a slight reprieve. If so, his greatest concern would be convincing them that he was truly excited about the match. He didn’t want to lie to his family, honesty was very important to him. No, he hadn’t volunteered his preferences, but it was never a topic of conversation, assumptions were made and Justin never corrected them. When he first became aware of his true feelings, he was somewhat concerned and scared. He didn’t know how to explain them to anyone, and felt alone. Those misgivings were soon forgotten when he had first kissed Antonio, the servant from the kitchens. Daphne had interrupted any further curiosities and Justin had never seen him again, but he no longer felt that he was wrong. Now it may seem a bit queer that he would now have gained confidence in himself from just one kiss, but he had. It may have been the fact that he no longer felt isolated and alone, or it could have been the incredible sensations that washed over him from that kiss, a kiss that told him that it was right. This was how he was meant to be. He felt he hadn’t lied to Daph, he just hadn’t told her everything. He knew he would, he just had to have more time to determine the best way to do so. He feared hurting her, and losing her friendship. He wondered if he could marry her. Yes, he would be denying who he was, but it would make Daphne and many others happy. He knew of arranged marriages where the people involved had never even seen the other, and were done simply because others wished it. At least he knew, and greatly cared for Daphne, perhaps he could learn to love her, the way that she deserved. He was just so conflicted as to if it was a lesion he was willing to undertake. Would he only grow to resent and detest her and others around him, because he sought to make everyone but himself happy? Justin knew two people who would be exceptionally happy. His mother and father would bombard him with questions the second he arrived home, and dote on all the advantages that the family would gain. It made Justin feel cheap. Like his family was selling him for their own happiness. His happiness was the least of their concern. Approaching the entrance to his family’s home, Justin took a deep breath and steeled himself for the impending discussion. ~~**~~~***~~~***~~~**~~ Craig and Jennifer Taylorento sat in the parlor of their fashionable home anxiously awaiting Justin’s return. Craig had told Jennifer of Lorenzo’s proposal and they had done nothing but conjure up all the elaborate advantages they would acquire from the pairing of Justin with Daphne. Craig foresaw his importance in the bank climbing to new heights. He had been a key advisor to Lorenzo for many years, but only for specific accounts. He earnestly yearned to be made lead advisor. To acquire the opportunity to put what he considered major advancements into action was at the top of his list of priorities. Many of the other advisors thought Craig’s ideas to be folly. Craig felt differently. He believed that he could use Lorenzo’s passion for knowledge and advancement to his benefit. Justin’s entrance into the Medici family would open all kinds of doors for Craig and he was going to take full advantage. While Craig deliberated over all the advantages he was going to reap, Jennifer was imagining benefits for herself and her young daughter. She would finally be able to mingle amongst the highest class of female society in Florence. Be invited to the social events that she had only heard about. Those events would prove useful to Molly as well. She would be introduced into many exalted families, providing her with an abundance of acquaintances. She veritably hoped that those acquaintances would ultimately produce a match for Molly; one that would secure her well-being. Jennifer also envisioned an improvement of their current living conditions. If she was to be expected to entertain the new society that she would be joining, they must have a new home to do so. Their home was fashionable, but modest in her opinion. She would need a grander salon and dinning room to host her company properly. Once Justin was officially a member of the Medici family, or Daphne was officially part of theirs, she would have to discuss this with her husband. ~~**~~ Justin quietly entered his home and sought the strength to get through this conversation with his parents; best to just get it over with. He proceeded into the parlor where his parents usually took to prior to their evening meal. “Good evening Mother…Father,” Justin said to announce his presence. “Justin was your conversation with Mr. de’ Medici?” Jennifer asked. Damn, his mother wasn’t giving him any chance to settle himself at all. “It went well. He told me of my acceptance into the Academy, and that I will be setting up my studio tomorrow. He has even bestowed upon me my first commission.” “That’s wonderful dear. Did he speak of anything else?” “Yes, come Justin, your mother and I know what was spoken of between the two of you. What did you say to Lorenzo’s offer?” Justin felt like he was careening down a bottomless path, his parents were allowing no time at all before bombarding him with their questions. He paused a moment still unsure as to how to proceed. “I am still trying to absorb it all,” Justin replied. “I can’t believe that he wants me to marry Daphne.” “Why should it shock you? You and Daphne are simply exquisite together. It is obvious that you love each other.” Jennifer gushed. “Mother…” Justin attempted to say before his father cut him off. “Justin, it is a prudent match. Not only will you benefit from this marriage. It will secure my position, raise our social status, and will help your sister as well. And you cannot deny that you love Daphne. I’ve seen you together.” “Yes, I do love Daphne, as a friend, but I am not in love with her. I don’t know if I can do this.” Justin decided he had to be blunt. He put all his misgivings aside, he had to. “You will do this!” His father stated with no room left for doubt or question. Craig could not believe what he was hearing. Trying to settle the argument before it became too heated, Jennifer intervened. “Justin, sweetheart, I’m sure your uncertainty is just nerves. Everyone has doubts. You say you are not in love with Daphne, but that you love her. That love will grow, you are young yet, and I’m sure this just all seems so overwhelming right now. I’m certain that once Daphne knows and you can begin to share things more intimately you will find those doubts fading away.” “Mother, being young has nothing to do with it. I am certain of my feelings. I cannot envision them changing, ever. I want to remain friends with Daphne, but I know in my heart that I can not marry her. We would only end up resenting each other.” Justin replied in earnest. “Justin you will marry her. It is Lorenzo de’ Medici’s greatest wish to see his daughter happy, and if he feels that you will make her so, than by God you will do it!” “But what of my happiness father, does it not matter at all to you? You day this marriage is a benefit, well the only benefit I see if for everyone else!” Justin’s voice began to rise as his reproach for his parents started to engulf him. “Can you honestly say that you will not benefit? You just told me that Lorenzo bestowed a commission upon you. Do you think that he would have done that if he had not wanted you to marry Daphne? If he did not think you would make her happy?” Craig sneered, trying to use Justin’s art as a way to sway him. “I know you have no interest or faith in my art. I know you wanted me to go into banking like you. I guess since you couldn’t have that you thought you would rape as many benefits from me while you could.” Justin shouted. Craig stood silent for a moment, while Justin continued to fume. This was going as bad as he had expected. He had just hoped that he could have handled it better. “Justin was this how you responded to Mr. de’ Medici when he told you of his intentions for you and Daphne?” “No.” Justin said glancing as the floor. “He left before I had the opportunity.” “Well that is a blessing. The next time you see him, you will tell him of your acceptance. I will not be made a fool Justin!” “He expects me to ask Daphne. He is breaking tradition, because he felt that mine and Daphne’s relationship is strong enough for that. I haven’t spoken of it yet to her.” “Were you just with her?” “Yes.” “Well you go back now! If Lorenzo calls upon her, and she does not know…” Craig paused, he was trying desperately to control his anger toward his son, but it was failing quickly. “I won’t father!” Justin shouted, unsure of where his brash courage was coming from. “You can’t make me do something, which is against what I feel!” Craig had finally had enough; he squarely struck Justin across the face, sending his son toppling to the floor. Justin grasped his face, holding the tears at bay. His father had never struck him. Justin climbed to his feet, never loosing the locked stare with his father. He could see the seething anger just below the surface behind his father’s gaze. He glanced at his mother who sat as still as a statue, no movement to protect him. He slowly backed out of the parlor, turned and left the house as silently as he had entered.