Tatum had given Jonathan Ryan’s DateMeApp profile information, as well as his cellphone number. Jonathan was making full use of the resources at his disposal with the given information. Ryan was unaware of what was about to happen.
The next day...
DateMeApp private message notification: Masarati_Man would like to connect. At the same time, an email pinged onto his phone.
New York Agricultural Society 1:35 PM (1 minute ago)
Mr. Taylor, we would like to congratulate you on winning Best Upcoming Architectural Designer. The prize is a week-long, all-expenses-paid vacation to Italy. The prize time frame is April 21st to 28th only. You have two days to confirm if you will be claiming your prize. Unfortunately, the prize is non-transferable nor redeemable for cash. Only you can redeem it and only at the specified time.
We sincerely hope that you will make use of this amazing opportunity. The total value of your prize is $25,000. Your reservation at the best hotel Italy has to offer, as well as all meals and expenses, are paid for. Your flight ticket will be provided upon collection from our offices. I will note that it is a premier class ticket on a private jet.
There are also outings and tours ready to be confirmed, with the holiday all paid for, of course. You have been assigned an Exclusive Guide who speaks Italian, English, and Sign Language fluently. No need to fret about transportation, as your Exclusive Guide will be providing such with a private A+ Class vehicle set aside for your exclusive use.
Your evening meals are reserved at the finest restaurants all over Italy, while breakfast will be served in your room every morning. Lunches can be provided at the hotel or at no cost to you at any restaurant in Italy; just charge it to your hotel suite.
Upon arrival at the airport, your Exclusive Guide will collect you at the parking bay B231. The vehicle is a Black Maserati Quattro Porte Plates FF9792I. A full-service fuel card has been issued for your trip, and there are no mileage restrictions.
We hope you are able to accept your reward.
Kind Regards, The New York Architectural Society.
“What?” Ryan thought in shock
“I didn’t enter a competition, and this prize is insane, way too good to be true.” He thought
“I can go to their offices to confirm. Of course I’ll accept if it’s real, if not I will be a bit disappointed.”
“I have always wanted to go to Italy, and this sounds amazing.” All of this was running through Ryan’s mind at breakneck speed.
Ryan searched the web for the NYAS’s address and then ordered a Taxi to collect him.
When he got to the address, the building looked brand new, and the signs were also shining like they hadn’t been exposed to rain or sun yet. As he walked into the reception area a sweet older woman greeted him with a wave.
She held up a sign that read, Please speak normally but clearly, I am hearing impaired.
Ryan smiled and signed. “Hello”
The Lady beamed at him, and signed back. “Hi there. How are you today?”
“I’m great thanks, what a coincidence that you are also deaf, it makes this so much easier.” Ryan signed to her
“Poor thing is something wrong?” She asked
“I am not sure, I received an email about some award, I won.” Ryan said
“Oh! Are you Ryan Taylor” She queried
“Yes, Mam” He replied
“Well then congratulations young man, you won the award and get to go on an amazing holiday, I hope you do go.” She replied
“Did I really win an award and prize?” He asked
“Yes dear, and the email stated all the details, I’m sure.” She said
“I will issue the tickets and cards and all the documents as well as your Visa was pre-approved.” She added, “All you have to do is say yes.”
“But I didn’t enter a competition.” He said
“It’s an industry award not a competition dear. You got awarded for hard work within the architectural industry over the last year.” She smiled politely
“Oh my word, really that’s amazing, and YES! I would love to go!” He signed excitedly
“Perfect let me get all your documents.” She said
“You can pack light, as a clothing voucher has already been allocated to you. From the hotel boutique.” She beamed at Ryan
“Your flight leaves 14:00 on the 21st April Just 2 days away, and you will be flying back at 15:00 on the 28th April.” She smiled
“Here is the brochure of all the attractions and tourist locations your guide can take you.” She added
“He will meet you when you land in Italy. He is not difficult to get along with and will do anything in his power to make this experience the best you can hope for.” She was beaming brightly. “His name is JJ, and if you don’t like something just tell him, he will fix it or die trying.”
“That’s oddly specific Mam.” He grinned
“Oh, is it? Just enjoy the trip and try to stay open to new things.” She added
Ryan looked at her confused.
“Never mind sweet boy.” She waved him off
She thought to herself. I see what JJ sees in him, he is sweet and has a kind aura about him, I will support it fully if he falls for my JJ. I hope he does, my boy deserves to be just as happy as that sweet Tatum and his stubborn husband, little Andrew Pearce, well not little anymore and their baby is the cutest. This Ryan boy is a Beta, so no grandchildren for little ole me, I’ll just settle for little Anastasia Pearce and spoil her rotten.
Ryan was beaming as he read the documents, the woman had given him, it was all real he was actually going to Italy.
As Ryan was leaving the building, he sent Tatum a message.
"Hey, you! You won't believe what happened to me... I won an Award and a prize, an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy. I leave Friday, and I'll be back the next Saturday. Isn't it amazing?"
Reading the text, Tatum smiled. "What have you done, Jonathan Down?" he said out loud to the air. "I wish you luck and love."
"WOW! Amazing, Ryan. Remember to take tons of photos. I've got to run; Andrew is calling."
"Bye, Tat." Ryan smiled at himself.
Ryan took a taxi back to his flat and started packing; every so often, he would look at the airplane ticket and do a little dance.
Meanwhile, back at the architectural society offices.
The receptionist picked up her phone typing out s text: "Ryan Taylor was there; he accepted the prize and was very happy. JJ, I hope you know what you are doing. He seems very sweet and innocent. Don't hurt him; you're not too old or big for a hiding from your mother."
"Thanks, Mom; you're the best. I won't hurt him. By this time next week, you will have a son-in-law."
"I hope so; it's time you married, and he seems perfect. Love you lots."
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