Page 51 of Falling for Mr. Grump, the Big City Billionaire

“Hi sisters.” He grins and pulls them into a three-way bear hug. They at least smile. “Please hear him out, I think he’s onto something.”

Mona folds her arms across her chest. “Well? What are you onto, Troy?”

I brace myself. "I told you; I'm working on a plan to revitalize the town without resorting to a full-scale buyout."

Mona scoffs. "A pipe dream, if you ask me."

I glance at Skye, who's standing tall, her chin tilted defiantly. She's a fighter, a survivor. And I'm starting to realize that I need her by my side.

"We're not just going to give you a free pass, Troy," Lillian warns. "You'll have to prove to us that this plan is worth pursuing financially."

I nod, determined. "We will."

I take a deep breath and begin my presentation. I talk about the potential of the town, the opportunities for growth and development. I highlight the unique character of Seaside Cove, the kind of place that people dream of.

Skye takes over, her voice filled with passion. She speaks about the community, the people who make Seaside Cove special. She talks about the local businesses, the artists, the fishermen. She paints a picture of a thriving town, a place where people can live, work, and play.

As we finish our presentation, there's a moment of silence. My sisters exchange glances, their expressions indecipherable.

Finally, Lillian speaks. "Your plan is ambitious, Troy. And it's also risky."

"We're willing to take that risk," I say. "Because I believe in the future of Seaside Cove."

Mona nods. "You've certainly piqued our interest.” Then, with the affirmations of the other board members present, she adds: “we’ll give you a chance to present your full proposal next week."

A wave of relief washes over me. We've taken the first step. Now, all we need to do is deliver.

After Drew and my sisters leave, I turn to Skye. "We need to impress them. We need to show them that we're serious."

Skye nods, her eyes flashing with determination. "I hope I’m not a fool for trusting you one more time but, I’ll do it."

As we leave the cafe, I turn to Skye, a smile playing on my lips. "Hungry?”

She sighs. “Could eat a cow.”

“Well, then come with me.”

***

The tension in the pub is thick. The low hum of conversation is punctuated by the clinking of glasses and the soft pop of beer bottles.

Skye and I find a secluded booth, the dim lighting casting long shadows across our faces.

We've just finished our presentation to Lillian and Mona, and while the outcome is uncertain, there's a sense of relief. For now, at least, we've bought ourselves some time.

"I can't believe you’re actually on our side, that you’re trying to convince your company to help. I can’t believe we did it," Skye says, her voice barely a whisper.

I nod, my gaze fixed on her. She's flushed with excitement, her eyes sparkling. It's a side of her I’ve rarely seen, a side that's vulnerable and hopeful.

"We make a good team," I say, trying to keep my tone casual. But the truth is, I've never felt so connected to anyone. There's a spark between us, a chemistry that's undeniable.

We fall silent, the only sound the soft jazz playing in the background. I reach out and take her hand, my fingers intertwining with hers. She doesn't pull away. In fact, shesqueezes my hand gently, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken bond between us.

The night wears on, and as the wine loosens our inhibitions, the conversation turns to deeper topics.

We talk about our dreams, our fears, our hopes for the future. I find myself opening up to her, sharing parts of myself that I've never revealed to anyone else.

It's a strange and exhilarating feeling, this vulnerability. I've always been a man who guards his heart, who keeps his emotions in check. But with Skye, it's different. She has a way of breaking down my defenses, of making me feel seen and understood.

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