Page 82 of Claimed By my Frenemy

“Really? How do you know that?”

“Because I know you. You’re kind and welcoming, and you’re going to start becoming friends with the guests, especially guests that stay a long time.”

“Well, thanks, Theo. How are things for you? You’re opening this weekend too, right?”

I nod as I think about the information Lisa just shared with me. "The bookings are looking good, and we’re ready to open. I thought it would be nice to take a walk before things get crazy. But a walk with you is even better."

Mia nods, taking my hand as we start walking down the beach. The sand is cool under our feet, and the sound of the waves is soothing. It’s our last chance to enjoy some quiet time together before the guests start arriving, and I want to make the most of it.

As we walk, we talk about the upcoming openings, our hopes and fears, and the excitement of seeing our dreams come tolife. Mia’s enthusiasm is contagious, and I find myself more optimistic about the future than I’ve been in a long time.

"I still can’t believe we’re both opening our places at almost the same time," she says, looking out at the ocean. "It’s like everything just fell into place."

"It did, but it took a lot of work and a lot of luck, especially considering I had to get our plans reapproved after Steve decided to go behind my back. But I’m glad our entertainment areas will be ready for your guests. Did you add the pictures I sent you of the bowling alley and movie theater?”

“Yes, I added them. I wonder if that’s a major draw.”

“I guess you can always ask your guests when they arrive.”

We walk in comfortable silence for a while, the sun sinking lower and the sky turning shades of pink and orange. The beauty of the moment isn’t lost on me, and I feel a surge of gratitude for having Mia by my side. We’ve both been super busy over the last few weeks, but we’ve still found time to spend with each other.

As we reach a rocky outcrop, we stop and sit down, the rocks warm from the day’s sun. I turn to Mia, wanting to share something I’ve been thinking about.

"You know, I was really worried about how things would turn out. Not just with the resort, but with us. I was afraid my business decisions would come between us."

Mia looks at me, her eyes filled with understanding. "I was worried too. But I think we’ve come out stronger because of it. We’ve learned to trust each other and work together."

"Yeah," I say, feeling a swell of affection for her. "And I think that’s what makes us a great team. We support each other, no matter what."

She leans her head on my shoulder, and we sit there watching the sun dip below the horizon. The sky darkens, and night begins to make our spot on the rocks feel even more private. It’s a peaceful moment, and I wish it could last forever.

“You know,” I say to Mia as we start walking back. “I’ve been thinking it’s just not right that the first people to use the guest suites will be strangers.”

Mia looks confused. “Isn’t that the way it works?”

“It doesn’t have to. Maybe you and I could try out some of the beds.” I smile wickedly, and Mia starts laughing when she understands what I mean.

“Why not? We can set the tone for your resort’s success.”

I lead Mia to my resort, using the key to unlock the empty building. I spin Mia around in the lobby. “The place is ours, only ours until tomorrow.”

"Looks amazing. You’ve done an incredible job, Theo. But I’ve seen the lobby before. I want to see the guest room."

I lead Mia up the stairs to my favorite guest room. Number 12. The bed is beautifully made, and I’ll have to have housekeeping come tomorrow to ready it for my guests again. But right now, I don’t want to think about those details.

“This room isadorable!” Mia exclaims, running her fingers over the gold and blue bedspread. “Adorable! I can tell why you like these rooms so much.”

Then, she comes toward me and wraps her arms around my waist. “Now, let’s make use of the beautiful, king-sized bed you have in here.”

41

MIA

Openingday at the bed and breakfast feels like a dream come true. The soft morning light filters through the windows as I bustle around, making sure everything is perfect. Fresh flowers adorn the tables, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the scent of warm pastries in the air.

My guests will start arriving around noon. I have given all my first few guests early check-in as a bonus. And despite what I told Theo, I’m thrilled that all my rooms are booked up, except for the back bedroom I reserved for myself.

My cousin is staying in one of the rooms with her husband, but other than that, everyone staying is a friend of a friend. I don’t know them personally, and I can’t help the spur I feel to make everything perfect.

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