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“I’m sure they keep in touch over the phone,” I say, trying to keep my tone casual, but even I can hear the hesitation in my voice.
Truth is, I don’t know. I’ve never seen Emily so much as mention her father in passing, let alone bring up anything close to a conversation with him.
He arches a brow, unimpressed. “Would’ve thought he’d make the effort to be there for his own project’s re-launch. It doesn’t sit right with me.”
Neither with me, I admit internally. Emily’s family is a closed book, and she guards it tightly.
She’s open about so many things—her goals, her passions, even her dreams for the Riviera Group. But when it comes to her family, there’s a wall.
And as much as I want to respect that, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t wish she’d share more. Maybe one day she will.
Dad gives a slight shake of his head, letting out a breath as if to brush off the thought. “Oh well. What matters now is where the company is going. So, what are the plans?”
I sit up, grateful to turn the focus back to business, something I can control, something I can deliver on.
I lay out the vision for the Lakeside Riviera—a modern yet timeless transformation that captures the essence of its original design while embracing the high-end, contemporary appeal that clients today expect.
I dive into specifics—rejuvenating the waterfront views, upgrading the guest suites with state-of-the-art amenities, creating a world-class dining experience that would draw locals and travelers alike.
I leave my father’s office and as I walk past an office that was empty, I catch sight of someone at the desk. I back track and stare in disbelief. It’s Daniel.
He’s leaning back in a chair, flipping through a file. I blink, momentarily thrown. Daniel rarely shows up at the office, let alone with anything resembling work in his hands.
Curiosity gets the better of me, so I knock and step inside.
“Hey,” I say, leaning against the doorframe. “What are you doing here?”
He looks up, flashing a grin. “Taking a shot at trying to be more serious in life. Sort of like you.” His tone is light, but there’s something sincere behind his eyes.
I raise an eyebrow, nodding. “Never too late.”
“Exactly my thinking,” he says, shrugging with that familiar carefree air. “Figured I could start contributing around here. See if I actually have a knack for anything.”
I smile, giving him a small nod of encouragement. “That’s good to hear, Daniel. Really.”
He just nods back.
“Good luck,” I say and withdraw.
As I make my way down the hall, I can’t help but hope that he means it. If Daniel could find some direction and purpose, it’d be huge—for him, for our family.
I think about the projects we’re taking on, the endless potential. Maybe, just maybe, there’s hope for my brother after all.
***
On my way to meet Emily at the Lakeside Riviera, I stop by a florist and pick up a bouquet of lilies, knowing she’ll appreciate the gesture.
When I arrive at the Lakeside, I’m greeted by the receptionist in the lobby with a friendly, “Welcome to the Lakeside Riviera.”
The place has an old-school charm that’s impossible to miss—the kind of charm that makes you feel like you’re visiting a beloved countryside retreat.
Warm wood paneling, soft rugs underfoot, and scattered vintage furniture. Emily was right; we need to keep that vibe intact while adding in fresh, modern elements.
My mind races with ideas for the interior designer, and I can hardly wait to dive in.
My phone rings and thinking it’s Emily, I quickly fish it out of my pocket.
It’s my mother. “Hello Mom,” I say.