Page 55 of Falling for Mr. Grump, the Big City Billionaire

The crowd seems to be calming down, but there's still a lot of skepticism.

"What about the big corporations?" someone asks. "Won't they just find a way to circumvent our plans?"

"That's a valid concern," Troy admits. "But we've already started discussions with some of the major players. We're working on a compromise that will benefit both the town and the corporations."

He pauses, his eyes scanning the room. "We're not just fighting against these corporations. We're engaging with them, finding common ground, and working towards a solution that's mutually beneficial."

The crowd is silent, taking in Troy's words. I can see the wheels turning in their minds.

"This might actually work," someone murmurs.

I smile. We're getting there.

The tension in the room begins to dissipate as people start to see the potential of our plan. I can feel a sense of hope spreading through the crowd.

"We're not just dreaming," I say, seizing the moment. "We're taking action. And with your support, we can make Seaside Cove the best it can be."

A wave of applause ripples through the room. People are starting to believe. We've turned the tide.

As the meeting draws to a close, I can feel a sense of relief washing over me. We presented our plan, we faced the questions, and we didn't crumble. We did it.

I glance at Troy, who's giving me a small, proud smile. I return it, feeling a surge of gratitude and something else… something more.

"Well done, Skye," he says, his voice barely audible. "You did great."

I just smile, too overwhelmed to speak. We've taken the first step towards saving Seaside Cove.

My heart's still racing, adrenaline pumping from standing up there and basically baring my soul to the entire town.

Troy squeezes my hand - a quick, subtle gesture that sends yet another tiny spark through me.

We did it. We actually did it.

Mayor Roberts clears his throat. "The council will review the proposal in detail, but..." He pauses, and I'm holding my breath. "We're cautiously optimistic."

Cautiously optimistic?I'll take that.

The crowd starts breaking up, people chatting, some coming up to ask follow-up questions. I'm scanning the room, riding this wave of victory, when I spot them.

Lillian and Mona Bellamy are walking towards me with that predatory smile that usually makes people want to run.

But not me. Not today.

"Impressive presentation, Skye," Lillian says, her voice smooth as silk but with an edge. "We didn't expect... such comprehensive planning."

Mona nods, tapping something on her tablet. "The data points were surprisingly robust."

I cock an eyebrow. Coming from them, that's practically a standing ovation.

"We've decided to take a step back," Lillian continues. "Your community preservation strategy... it has merit."

Wait. What?

Troy appears beside me, close enough that I can feel the heat radiating from him. His sisters exchange a look - part challenge, part respect.

"We're not completely out," Mona adds quickly. "But we're willing to discuss a collaborative approach."

I can't help it. I grin. A full, sass-filled, completely triumphant smile.

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