Page 13 of Her Ruin

I assured the concierge I knew my way to the conservatory, and as I walked, I took in every detail this old hotel had to offer.

Gerard stood as I walked up, his hand already extended in greeting. I shook it, disliking his clammy palm, and discreetly wiped my hand on the back of my skirt as I sat down. Gerard was in his late sixties, and I loved the fact he was wearing a cream linen suit, a peach-colored shirt, and a silk neck scarf.

“It’s wonderful to hear from you, Isla. It’s been a few months.” His smile was warm, though I noticed a hint of curiosity in his eyes. “To what do I owe this honor?”

“Thanks for agreeing to meet me, Gerard,” I said, summoning my brightest smile. “I hope I’m not interrupting?”

“Not at all.” He waved away my concern. “Tea?” He gestured to the teapot, and when I shook my head, he seemed disappointed. “What brings you by? Do you want to plan another gala here?”

I winced internally. On my way to the conservatory, I noticed the posters I had hung for the last gala still plastered on the lobby walls. Although they were two years old, they might be the most current items in this venue.

I maintained my smile as he watched me. I had used The Grand three times in the past five years, and each time, my clients were less than impressed. It wasn’t really Gerard’s fault; the venue was stuck in the 1920s, and so were some of its staff.

“Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something...new.” I settled back into the slightly uncomfortable wrought metal back of the chair. “I’ve been thinking a lot about The Grand and what itcouldbe. This building is incredible, architecturally sound, has historic charm, and is in a perfect location?—”

“But?”

My smile softened. “But…I think it could be so much more, and it’s overdue an upgrade.”

His eyebrows shot up in surprise. “An upgrade?”

Leaning forward, I nodded. “Yes. A refresh. Areinvention.Something bold that would attract a new kind of client—ones seeking luxury events, high-profile lunches, and exclusive parties. I believe The Grand could begrandagain.” I hated myself for the cliché as soon as I said it. Nevertheless, I continued. “Gerard, you know there are newer, fresher venues in town; this beauty can’t compete. Itneedsto stand out. And...I want to help make that happen.”

Gerard looked skeptical. “While that sounds wonderful, Isla, it also soundsexpensive.” He picked up his teacup and took a sip. I recognized a delaying tactic; I was a master of them. “The Grand doesn’t have that kind of resources like the newer places do. We’re a more specific clientele, not a flashy new nightclub.”

So he knew about Elixir. Well…that was a positive thing. Wasn’t it?

“Look, I understand,” I assured him, holding myself back from leaning forward and appearing too eager. “I’m not saying we turn The Grand into something that it’s not, but with some targeted changes, like lighting, decor, add some versatility to the layout, we could transform some of the space without losing the character at all.” He was listening intently, which gave me hope. “Imagine hosting events that could place The Grand on the map of venues. Attract high-profile clients, bigger budgets, more exposure…it’s possible.”

Gerard’s lips pressed into a thin line. “That still sounds like a lot of work.Expensivework.”

I folded my hands in my lap, knowing that maintaining my outward calm was essential. “It’s an investment, I understand,” I told him, softening my tone. “But you won’t be alone. I’ll help you every step of the way. I have the contacts; I know an architect and a designer. This doesn’t need to be high-end; I can find affordable options,andI would promote the new look to my clients and the agency’s clients…free of charge.” I’d have to beg, borrow, and steal to get my boss to accept that, but it could work.

Gerard looked out over the meticulously landscaped grounds, his gaze distant. “It soundsoutlandish.”

The walls were purple, green, and blue, but I was the eccentric one?

“The Grand has been in my family for generations. It’s looked like this for as long as I can remember. I don’t know if I want to be the one to change that…”

I took a deep breath. “I completely understand, I do. But think about what’s going to happen if you don’t. The new club downtown is not just a nightclub. It’s versatile, a nightclub, a conference space, luncheons, galas, you name it, they’ll adapt. You aren’t competing with that. This venue has been in your family for generations, like you said. Shouldn’t you be ensuring that you keep italive? Help make it thrive?” I looked around the conservatory. “We’re the only people in here, Gerard. You need to change. I can help you.”

He watched me, his eyes assessing me, his gaze thoughtful. “I assume you have a budget in mind?” I nodded, and he licked his lips. “And you think this could work?”

I nodded again.

“Do you have the proposals with you?”

I relaxed and gave him an exaggerated eye roll. “You think I tell you all this and don’t have my business plan in my purse?” I scoffed, glad to see him smiling. Pulling out my folder of notes along with my iPad, I felt a surge of excitement. “With the right changes, The Grand could be right up there as the most sought-after in town.”

Gerard huffed but then he realized I was serious. “You think so?”

“I really do,” I said firmly. I opened my folder, taking out the papers.

“All right, Isla, let’s take a look, but this better not bankrupt me, young lady.”

I couldn’t stop the grin that spread across my face. “You won’t regret this, I promise.”

And just like that, the first part of my plan fell into place.

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