Granted

By Nicky Testaforte

Step into the world of Paul Grant, a self-made billionaire and the formidable CEO of LJT Industries, a global military technology powerhouse. Meet a man known for his anger, condescension, and ruthless business acumen. But one fateful incident will change everything.

 

You will witness a remarkable transformation as Paul Grant's life takes an unexpected turn. When a life-threatening gunshot leaves him disabled, he becomes a different man altogether. Gone is the ruthless CEO, replaced by a man seeking redemption and purpose.

 

As Paul Grant embarks on a journey of self-discovery, he hatches a unique plan. He outfits a New York City taxi with cutting-edge technology and entrusts it to the very person who saved his life. Now, their mission is to roam the bustling streets of NYC, searching for individuals who deserve a life-changing gift.

 

Join Paul Grant back at his brownstone studio while his driver Sandro Bellantoni takes you on an extraordinary ride through the heart of New York City. 'Granted' is a heartwarming tale of second chances, the power of kindness, and the incredible impact one person can have on the lives of many.

 

Discover how one man's quest to make amends transforms not only his own life but the lives of those he touches.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Testaforte Books
• Release date: Jan 23, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224146819

Book preview

All Content ©2024 Nicky Testaforte

All Rights Reserved

First E-Book Edition November 2019

Second E-Book Edition January 2024

Published by Testaforte Books

Testaforte, Nicky

Granted

Chapter one

Paul Grant paces behind his desk as his executive assistant, Carol Watson ushers in a number of employees. Grant is verbally abusing someone via speakerphone.

Hate you?! I despise you! If you were engulfed in flames, I'd be fanning the fire with one hand and pouring lighter fluid with the other.

Grant kills the call and addresses the employees in front of him.

Let's cut to the chase, people. I've summoned you here today because all of you hold the grand distinction of languishing at the bottom ten percent of my company. Slackers, non-performers, leaches if you will. To that end, I've decided to rescind each of your year-end bonuses. You're lucky you still have jobs.

Jane Gibbons raises her hand to protest, but Grant points to the exit. Another employee, Joe Forrest, stops by the door.

You know, you're a real prick doing this before the holidays.

First off, I didn't ask for your input. Secondly, I was never a fan of the holidays, they're highly overrated. Now leave before I change my mind and terminate the lot of you!

As they leave, Carol Watson re-enters.

Mr. Grant, Valerie Purcell from Morgan Stanley is here to see you.

Excellent, Carol. Send her in.

Grant's demeanor instantly changes as Valerie Purcell enters and crosses to his desk. They shake hands.

***

Sandro Bellantoni listens to a Radio Newscast as he sits behind the wheel of his taxi under elevated subway tracks.

WCBS News Time, 3:20. Today marks the 4th Anniversary of the senseless shootings in Newtown, Ct. Locally; we've seen an uptick in gang initiation violence as well as an increased number of guns on the street.

Sandro turns off the radio as his wife, Carla, and their three children, Gina, Camille, and Dante enter the taxi. Sandro looks in the rearview mirror as he pulls away from the curb.

Hey Dad, What kind of tree are we getting? Gina asks.

Dante says: I want a ten-footer.

The kids begin debating as Sandro and Carla share a smile.

***

Veteran messenger dispatcher Alan Cohen is on a call as he jots down a message.

No problem Miss Jones, I'll have someone there shortly.

Cohen hangs up the phone and bellows.

Foster?! Foster?! Where the hell are you?

I'll find him, Alan. Says messenger James Francis.

The distinct aroma of marijuana emanates from the bathroom. Suddenly, there's a knock on the locked door.

Marty?! Francis says. You got one. Hurry up before Alan has a stroke.

Marty Foster takes a hit on the joint, followed by an air freshener spray and a toilet flush.

Takin' care of business, Jimmy. I'll be right out.

Foster takes another hit of the joint, exits the stall then checks himself out in the mirror before heading out.

***

Low-life punk Eddie Flanagan, wearing clothes he's worn for the past week, enters his apartment. He checks the bathroom medicine cabinet for insulin but discovers his supply has run out. Exiting his apartment, he heads downstairs.

Eddie checks his mailbox and sifts through the mail. Amongst the junk mail is a letter from the unemployment office. He closes his box and exits the building.

***

Sandro and