Page 25 of Night and Day

My mouth flattened and I forced any thoughts of her away.

“It’s old,” Piper said. “We need to do a full analysis on a knockdown and rebuild.”

It took time and a lot of capital to do a full rebuild. We’d lose experienced staff and guests. But on the other hand, we’d get a brand-new resort.

“It’s got good bones,” Caden murmured. “Suits the mountains.”

He was right. “I agree.”

Piper made a sound. “If we do renovations, that means compromises, retrofitting new technology, and we’re still left with small rooms. It’s messy.”

“Let’s do a full assessment,” I said. “We’ll decide once we have all the numbers.” I didn’t care either way. I’d do whatever gave the best outcome for the business.

“Some of the mail and messages protesting Langston Hotels buying the place are concerning,” Caden said.

I shifted on the leather seat. “Anything specific?”

“Not exactly, but one person is rather dedicated. Sends several letters every week.”

It was nothing out of the ordinary. “Let me know if it escalates.”

The helipad on top of the hotel swept into view and I spotted a lone figure waiting for us.

Tessa Ashford.

We came in to land. As I thanked our pilot, Caden pushed the side door open, and helped Piper out. It was a sunny day, but not hot. The perfect temperature.

I stepped out of the helicopter and buttoned my jacket. I strode across the helipad, flanked by Caden and Piper.

Ahead, Tessa Ashford straightened. She wore a crisp, white shirt tucked into a navy-blue skirt that hugged gentle curves. Her dark hair was in a braid. Professional.

I hadn’t paid much attention to her before. When I’d come for the site visit, I’d been occupied by a construction accident at our resort in Cape Town and my father’s messy divorce. She was neat and trim, and when she lifted her chin, I saw those dark eyes that I had noticed previously.

I also saw the spark in them that told me she’d love to tell me to fuck off.

I got it. She’d been top dog here for three years and had another three years left on her employment contract. She didn’t want anyone to upset her apple cart.

People in general disliked change.

“Ms. Ashford.”

“Mr. Langston, a pleasure.” She gave me a polite smile and waved ahead. She fell into step beside me.

“Tessa Ashford, this is Piper Ellis, my COO, and Caden Castro, Head of Security.”

She nodded at them. “Welcome to Windward.”

Caden nodded, while Piper glanced at the mountain and controlled her grimace.

“I have the owner’s office ready for you. Our chef is putting together a lunch that he’ll serve at one o’clock. He does a wonderful prime beef carpaccio and black sturgeon caviar. And I highly recommend the local rainbow trout. Anything you need, please just tell me.”

“I need the penthouse.”

Her steps faltered. “Okay. May I ask for how long?”

“I’ll be staying a while. Weeks, maybe a month or two.”

“Weeks? Months?” There was a flare of panic on her face before she hid it. “Wonderful.”