Page 19 of Rival Hearts

“Why not?”

“Well…” I picked up my bag and took out an article. “This.” I handed it to her. She picked up her glasses and put them on her nose before she started reading.

She didn’t need to read the article out loud for me to know what it said—I’d been over it a hundred times since it came out two days ago. It had been printed a day after I’d started my campaign.

Activist Charlotte Reynolds’s Campaign Challenged for Lack of Industry Experience.

NEWPORT, RI—Environmental activist Charlotte Reynolds, who has been at the forefront of a campaign against the luxury yacht industry’s environmental impact, is facing mounting criticism from industry experts and stakeholders for her perceived lack of experience and one-sided perspective.

As Ms. Reynolds continues to draw attention to the yacht industry’s carbon footprint and alleged harm to marine ecosystems, skepticsargue that her limited knowledge of the industry and absence of direct involvement may undermine her credibility.

Industry insiders have raised questions about Ms. Reynolds’s qualifications to speak on complex matters related to yacht manufacturing and operation. Some critics contend that her background in marine biology and social sciences may not adequately prepare her to fully understand the intricacies of the yacht industry, including the engineering and technological advancements being made to reduce environmental impact.

In an interview with Newport Maritime Gazette, yacht manufacturer OceanCraft Yachts questioned Ms. Reynolds’s motives, stating, “While we share Ms. Reynolds’s concerns for the environment, we believe it’s essential to have a well-rounded perspective. It’s not just about pointing fingers; it’s about working together to find sustainable solutions. Ms. Reynolds doesn’t have the experience or industry insights to appreciate the progress we’ve made.”

Another point of contention revolves around Ms. Reynolds’s perceived one-sided interest. Critics argue that her campaign focuses solely on the negative aspects of the yacht industry,ignoring its contributions to the local economy, job creation, and tourism. They suggest that a more balanced approach that acknowledges both the industry’s challenges and benefits would be more productive.

Despite these challenges to her campaign, Ms. Reynolds remains resolute in her mission. She maintains that her background in marine biology equips her with a deep understanding of the marine ecosystems that are impacted by yacht emissions and waste. She also emphasizes that her campaign aims to raise awareness and promote responsible practices within the industry.

As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen whether Ms. Reynolds can overcome the skepticism and continue to make an impact in her campaign against the luxury yacht industry.

Victoria lowered the article and studied me for a moment in silence.

“If they don’t believe I know what I’m talking about, how can anyone take me seriously?”

“Charlotte,” she said, using my full name. “This is good news.”

“How?”

“If they’re trying to discredit you, it’s because they feel threatened. They have a reason to try to do this, and that’s whatyou want. What you’re trying to do is not an easy task. The world is a lot more conscious of being green and trying to find more environmentally friendly ways to do things, but this is still going to be a long journey, and you’ll get a lot of resistance. You just have to keep pushing through. You can’t give up.”

I nodded. Maybe she was right. If they didn’t think what I was doing would work, they wouldn’t want to fight me on it, right?

“I’m not used to seeing my name in the papers,” I admitted.

“It takes some getting used to. If you fight for a good cause, there will always be those who rally against you, and it’s not always pleasant. But it’s the only way we can make a difference. Too many people are scared to be the trailblazers because of this. Because it’s hard.”

“You think I can do it?”

“Iknowyou can. You’re strong, Lottie.”

I nodded and let out a shuddering breath. “Thank you.” I’d needed to hear that from her. Victoria was like a mother to me. I not only appreciated her support, but I also wanted her approval in a way, too.

And this was a cause very dear to me.

“So, just keep going?”

“Yes. More public awareness will help. More articles, more ways to draw them in and let them understand. You can’t put pressure on the big companies yourself but if enough people stand together, they’ll have no choice but to change their ways if they want to stay in business.”

I hoped she was right. What she said made sense.

“Thank you,” I said. “I knew this would be hard, but I didn’t realize exactly what it would be like.”

Victoria reached over and squeezed my hand.

“How have you been otherwise? Settled yet?”

I nodded. “I found a nice apartment close to the recreation center we’re working from, and Maya is close by, too. That changes everything.”