CHAPTER 46 - THE PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS
Ben woke up with a terrible headache so he went to the medicine cabinet and popped two Advil. He saw a bruise already formed on his face so he made it a point to find a way to cancel their engagement. Ben is sure there's something he can find out about Nicolo he just need the right people on that. On that moment, an idea came out on his mind and dialed the saved contact he has on his phone.
(PHONE CONVERSATION)
Ben: Hi Andrew its Ben, Zac’s friend from Italy. (He introduced himself instantly after hearing the call was answered)
Andrew: Oh… right, hi Ben I remember you. (He answered in friendly tone)
Ben: If you’re wondering how I got your number I asked Zac about it back when I was still in New York in case I needed help. (He explained)
Andrew: That’s alright, so how are you doing man? (His tone can recognized that he really do know Ben)
Ben: I'm fine man. How about you? (He turned to ask as well since it’s been a while since they interact after Zac’s family issues)
Andrew: Everything is well man, thanks -- so what can I do for you? I'm sure you call me for a reason not just to ask how I am. (He boldly asked like he always does)
Ben: You’re correct I need a private investigator living here in Italy. Do you by any chance know anyone that you can recommend? (He prayed his friend can name one)
Andrew: Yes, I know someone and she is a very good friend of mine. We worked as team before at NYPIT (New York Private Investigators Team) for three years. (He informed Ben briefly)
Ben: Great! Do you know her contact details here or her work place? (He grabbed some pen and paper in case it was over the phone information)
Andrew: Of course! Give me a minute; I’ll just get it on my address book. (He put the phone down and let Ben hang on the line for a bit)
Meanwhile Ben sat on this chair and listened to the details that Andrew dictated to him.
Ben: Okay I got it! What's her name anyway? (He wrote the details on his memo pad)
Andrew: Marielle de Rossi, the number and address I gave you is her personal contact. (He efficiently replied)
Ben: Is she Italian or does she spoke other language? I just need to know so I will not be stupid when I call her. (He is now excited about his investigation idea)
Andrew: She's half American and half Italian but don't worry she's multi-lingual. I'll give her heads up before you call if you want. (He offered)
Ben: Sure that's a big help man! Thanks so much for the information. Have a good day (He ended the call after Andrew big goodbye as well)
(END OF PHONE CONVESATION)
Ben is sitting impatiently waiting for Andrew’s message again to notify him that he has already called the Investigator. He counted every minute until his buzzed again giving him the signal to dial the number. Without wasting any more second, he punched in the numbers and make it was right before calling. After two rings, the line was answered from the other end.
(PHONE CONVERSATION)
Marielle: De Rossi parlando (speaking). (The woman voice prompted with an introduction)
Ben: Hi! I'm Mr. Venoso, I'm a good friend of Mr. Philips your friend from NYPIT. (He informed the woman immediately)
Marielle: Andrew called me about you so I was expecting your call. (She acknowledged him)
Ben: Yeah he actually recommended you since I need help. (He started his business tone like)
Marielle: Tell me what help you need specifically Mr. Venoso? (She went straight forward)
Ben: I want your service to investigate someone. Can we meet up for the details? (He offered)
Marielle: Where and what time? (She took the planner)
Ben: At Café Vergnano, can you make it let’s say about an hour from now? (He estimated the time)
Marielle: Sure I will be there in an hour Mr. Venoso. (She agreed while checking the route to the location.
Ben: See you then Ms. De Rossi. (He heard a click on the other end as the sign the line was already ended)
(END OF PHONE CONVERSATION)
Ben felt like he won the biggest lotto in town because he will be able to find a solution on his idea. While waiting for the Investigator, Ben opened his laptop and searched the name Nicolo in the internet. He doesn’t know anything about the guy so he is clueless what the last name is. It seems that luck was on his side because as soon as he typed in Nicolo, Courtney’s name was tagged on it so he immediately clicked the link and saw the article.
*** Rumours spread that Nicolo proposed to his childhood/high school sweetheart a month after he returned from London. Her identity is still unknown but as resources said she is heiress. ***
He grunted after reading the word proposed and as he continued reading the article, Ben found out he is famous photographer in the modelling world. In terms of relationship, there are only rumors about his dates but name was mentioned. Ben closed the laptop after the scoop and write down everything he wants to know about him. An hour top, his staff came in to notify that someone wishes to meet him that he allowed immediately.
"Mr. Venoso, I'm Agent De Rossi it's nice to finally meet you.” The Investigator entered his office.
Ben can tell that the woman looks great but not as gorgeous as Courtney. She has dark almond-shaped eyes; the forehead and jawline are similar in width and the face is widest at the cheekbones, a perfect oval face shape. The most noticeable feature is her mole on her left cheek while her long hair is color light brown.
“Hi, Agent De Rossi, my pleasure to meet you too. Let’s cut the formalities and call me Ben.” He reached for her hand to shake.
“That would be much better, please call me Marielle." She took Ben’s hand with hers.
"Please have your seat." Ben gestured the hair in front of him.
"I guess we could start?" She sat down and opened her planner.
“Do you want coffee or tea before we start?” Ben offered.
“Its okay I had one on the way but I will next time.” She declined nicely with a smile.
“I’ll take that note.” Ben smiled in returned.
“So… who’s the subject?” Agent De Rossi asked.
"Here is the name of the person I want you to work in." Ben hand over the written note he has earlier.
"Why you want to investigate Nicolo Moretti?" She creased an eyebrow.
“Do you know him personally otherwise I will have to find another person to avoid conflict of interest?” Ben firmly negotiated.
“No it’s not a problem; he is just well-known photographer that’s why.” Marielle informed him.
“I want to know every single detail about him I think there's something odd about him. Whatever you can find no matter how small or big it is report it to me." Ben gave his demands.
“Got it, how about his rumored fiancé?” Agent De Rossi suggested.
“There is no need, I know the woman personally and necessary I don't want her to get involve with this.” Ben said truthfully.
“Forgive me for prying but since you mentioned you do know the woman, my best guess is she is something to you otherwise you will asked for this investigation.” Agent De Rossi observation was almost on point.
“She was my former fiancée and I want her name excluded from this investigation.” Ben gave his personal detail.
"Got it, sorry for asking about it; just that in this line of work you tend to analyze everything and make sure to ask question that can help the case.” She answered with a fact.
“I understand it Marielle, no harm done.” Ben nodded in agreement.
“Do you have any specific date when you want to result to be?" Agent De Rossi gathered her things.
"Can you make it in less than a month?" Ben talked in business manner.
"Consider it done Ben." The woman stood up.
"Just contact me any time if you have update for me." Ben guides her to the door.
“I will.” Marielle nods.
