Page 54 of Claimed By my Frenemy

I see a few people shift in their seats. One woman leans over to whisper in her partner’s ear. I try to ignore the distractions and focus on what I want to say.

It doesn’t have to be flowery, but I want it to be clear.

“This is the plan for the second floor of this building.” I flip to a new slide and allow people to admire the floor plan for a moment. “But floor plans are so 2D. Here is the 3D version of what it will look like.” I flip to a second slide.

This time, the response is audible. Somebody squeals. More than a few people murmur “wow” or something similar. I look at the plan for a moment, taking in all the details.

Then, even though they can see the details for themselves, I list out the amenities. “There will be a bowling alley, casino, and movie theater. Fun for adults of all ages. We’ll also have a theater where there will be comedians and other artists performing.”

I flip to the photo of the empty theater, and people start to whisper more excitedly to each other.

“Now, here is the most important part. Everyone who stays here as a guest–rooms starting at $229 per night in the off season–will, of course, have access to all amenities, but there are a few things that Ihaven’tmentioned yet.”

I meet Mia’s eyes, but her lips are pressed in a firm line. She isn’t convinced yet. “Everyone who is a resident of Oak Island will have unlimited access to the bowling alleys, movie theater,and shows forfreefor the first year. You’ll just need an ID with your Oak Island address.”

Now, people aren’t even trying to whisper. They are just straight up talking over me. I wait a moment for the excitement to die down. “For the casino, of course, you’ll have to pay for your own chips. But we want this resort to be a place to hang out first of all for our residents.”

I pause and collect my thoughts, trying to form the words as best I can. “There is one more thing I’d like to add. Mia, my neighbor right now,” I signal to her in the audience, “is opening a bed and breakfast right next door. Her guests will have the same free, unlimited access to the resort as my guests will have.”

Mia’s mouth drops open. I see her friends turn around and start saying something to her.

After the buzz dies down, there’s a moment of silence, the room filled with anticipation. Then, Stella speaks up, her green hair bobbing like some sort of seaweed flag. “This looks promising, but how do we know you’re not just saying this to get us on your side? I mean, you let us enjoy the amenities for a year because you don’t have many guests, and then we have to pay for them?”

I take a deep breath, ready for this question. “I want to offer residents a way to enjoy themselves without having to go so far away. Yes, you will have to pay after a year, but no more than you would at a typical movie theater. I believe it’s twelve, fifteen dollars for a ticket right now? It would be similar to that. Very similar pricing, but just a lot closer.”

“And you won’t try to eat away at the properties beside or behind you? I used to live in Myrtle Beach, and a huge hotel chain came in right next door. They eventually forced me out.”

Mia steps forward, and I watch as everyone’s eyes turn to her. “I’m the owner of the bed and breakfast next door. It will be open and taking reservations in August. Theo has made an offerto buy my property, several offers in fact.” She makes brief eye contact with me before continuing. “But I have his word that he’s accepted I’m not selling. My business is different than his, but I believe it’s just as important.”

Someone in the audience cheers.

Benjamin, my new friend and owner of Groovy Grounds, stands up. “He’s willing to work with local businesses. I’ll be supplying his coffee and pastries. If you have a business that you think could work with him, see what he’s willing to offer. This doesn’t just have to be Theo making money. We could, too.”

Stella stands and wraps her arms around Mia’s shoulders. “Alright, Theo. We’ll give you a chance. But remember, we’re watching closely. If you go back on your word, we won’t hesitate to fight back.”

“I understand,” I say, nodding. “And I appreciate your willingness to give this a chance. I promise to keep you all involved in the process and to stay true to my word. I’m open. I want you to ask questions. I’m here most of the time. Don’t hesitate to come through that door and ask me any questions you have.”

The meeting wraps up on a positive note, and I offer to show them one of the guest rooms that has been furnished as a sample. People troop with me up the stairs, and I stand in the doorway as they go inside and ooh and ah at the touches.

Then, I lead everyone back downstairs. Some people leave right away, but others stay to talk. I push my way through the crowd to find Mia.

There’s a hint of a smile on her lips, something I thought I wouldn’t see again. “That was impressive. I think you might have won them over.”

“I hope so. I meant what I said, Mia. I want this to work for everyone, especially you. I’m hoping that if the community backs the project it will really help jumpstart its success.”

She looks at me, her eyes searching mine. “My license still has a Raleigh address. Does that mean I don’t get the free amenities for a year?”

“You can get anything you want if you ask me nicely enough.”

Mia smiles shyly and looks away, but I can tell that she’s more open to me now. Maybe she doesn’t trust me completely. Maybe she can’t yet. But I’m willing to wait however long I have to until she is willing to give me her heart again.

I reach out and squeeze Mia’s arm before someone comes over and starts asking more questions. Then, I transform back into a businessman and do what I can to make this resort a success.

27

MIA

I waitaround the lobby area of Theo’s resort, hoping to have another chance to talk to him. Stella wraps her arms around my neck and hugs me, and I hug her back. A goofy grin keeps popping up on my face, even though I’m trying my best to keep it quiet.

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