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Matthew, the CFO, nods, adding weight to Amy’s words. “Financially, we’ve been running in the red for the past two quarters. The Army Base Riviera is a major concern—it’s bleeding money due to its lack of modernization.”
The rest of the team chime in. The situation is bleak, but none of this is news to Andrew. He’s already familiar with the financial, legal, and operational reports that were sent to Bennett Developers before they acquired a 50% stake in the company.
Andrew listens intently, absorbing every detail without interrupting.
When everyone is done with their briefing, he says, “So, we’re dealing with two major issues here—outdated facilities and a lack of competitive marketing. Both of which need immediate attention if we’re going to turn this around.”
This is music to my ears and I nod, as does everyone else.
The meeting continues for another hour, with discussions around logistics, timelines, and strategies. Andrew takes control, laying out the steps we need to take, and the team responds with a renewed sense of purpose.
The energy in the room shifts as everyone sees a renewed future for the Riviera.
As the meeting wraps up, everyone gathers their things and heads for the door, leaving Andrew and me alone in the room.
“I would love a tour of this hotel,” he says.
“Sure.” I was expecting that and I’m excited to show him what makes the Riviera hotels so special.
We step out through the private entrance used by management, which offers a discreet way for me and my team to enter and exit without crossing through the main hotel.
It’s a quiet corner of the building, separate from the hotel’s hustle and bustle, and as we walk through, the atmosphere between us starts to thaw.
“I’ve always liked this location,” Andrew says, glancing out of the windows that line the hallway, offering a glimpse of the busy Back Bay streets. “Your father had an eye for great spots.”
I smile, feeling a small sense of pride. “He did. He always said location is everything.”
As we continue, I give him a rundown of the rooms. “The standard rooms are cozy, perfect for guests who want something intimate but still luxurious. Each has a reading nook with views of either the tree-lined streets or the skyline.”
Andrew nods, his gaze moving around, absorbing every detail. “It’s smart. It gives the guests something personal without overdoing it.”
We take the elevator up to the fourth floor, where I show him the deluxe rooms. “These are a bit larger, with premium views of the Charles River or the skyline. We’ve incorporated a lot of rich fabrics and mahogany touches to give the rooms a more elegant, timeless feel.”
He steps into one of the rooms and glances around. “This has potential. The size and design cater to an upscale crowd, but you can see where things are in need of refreshing. The fabrics are a bit dated, and some of the amenities could use an upgrade.”
“Café Riviera is on the first floor,” I say, as we descend in the elevator.
“It’s well thought out,” Andrew says, taking in the atmosphere of the cafe. “Your father definitely knew how to strike a balance between elegance and modern appeal. But there’s still a lot we can work with.”
His approval makes my chest tighten with unexpected warmth.
We head back out toward the private entrance, the tour winding down. The more we talk, the easier it becomes.
As we step out into the cool afternoon air, I glance at him. “You know, my father didn’t start off in hotels.”
Andrew’s brow furrows with interest. “Oh?”
“He actually started with one small bar in Back Bay. It was a tiny place, practically a hole in the wall, but he turned it into a popular spot. From there, he bought a small bed-and-breakfast and grew it, expanding his reach bit by bit.”
“Sounds like my father,” Andrew says.
I nod and continue. “He worked hard for everything he had. The Riviera Group wasn’t built overnight. It’s one of the reasons I’m so committed to keeping it afloat.”
I need Andrew to understand that this is not just business for me. It’s about ensuring that my father’s hard work was not in vain.
Chapter 15: Andrew
“So, what did you think of Lakeside and Army Base?” Emily asks, her voice cutting through the silence. “I’m thinking that we should start the renovations with Army Base as it has the largest capacity.”