Page 22 of Heart of Stone
I was here to do one job, and one job only.
But she wasn’t making it easy for me. Natalia remained steadfast in her quest to be pleasant no matter how often I sneered at her. And she always seemed to be wearing something that made me want to forget I had any issues with her, if only to have the chance to touch those legs and hold those gorgeous curves in my hands.
Fortunately, there was still some shred of sanity inside that would remind me it was entirely possible Natalia was working with my father to help him get a different outcome here than the one I had planned for when he finally signed this place over to me.
“And now, without further ado, I’d like to take a moment to introduce the newest member of our team.” Danielle’s voice cut into my thoughts as she glanced in my direction. “He’s only been here for just shy of two weeks, but we’re honored to have Barrett Erickson’s son, Reid, stepping in for him temporarily. Reid, would you mind coming up to say a few words to our departing guests?”
I blinked in surprise, my mouth suddenly feeling dry.
A speech?
I hadn’t prepared anything. I didn’t even know I was supposed to speak at this. What could I possibly say? I couldn’t even piggyback off what Danielle had said, because I hadn’t been paying much attention to her.
Applause filled the room as everyone waited for me to get up and grace them with a speech.
Damn it.
I remained in my seat, unsure what to do.
If ever there was a justifiable reason for firing someone, this felt like it. Why hadn’t any of them told me I’d need to make a speech? Considering I didn’t feel anything good toward the retreat, I suspected everyone would know if I attempted to boast about the place. Nothing would be genuine.
I was livid, still unable to bring myself to stand and move to the front of the room.
Just then, Natalia strode up to Danielle, whispered something in her ear, and took the microphone from her friend.
She didn’t miss a beat as she teased, “Clearly, I’m not Reid Erickson.” The crowd laughed. With a bright smile on her face, she spoke with such confidence. “Thank you all for being here this evening. I thought I’d come up and speak on behalf of Reid and his family.”
For a fleeting moment, her eyes locked on mine, and they were shining with kindness and compassion, the very things I couldn’t seem to show her at all. Something unwelcome slithered into my gut and twisted, and I hated it.
Because maybe I should’ve been relieved by what Natalia was doing for me. I guess, in a way, I was. But I didn’t think I needed any additional proof that she was secretly working with my dad. Why else would she want to save me the embarrassment of going up to speak to this group?
“With so many familiar faces around, it’s no surprise that my colleagues and I have received no small number of requests for Barrett and Sylvia over the last week and a half. I want you to know that the family appreciates all the love and support right now as Sylvia recovers. I spoke with her this past weekend, and she personally asked that we extend her deepest gratitude for thewell wishes. The outpouring of love has been tremendous, and the family is beyond grateful to all of you. Beyond that, Barrett, Sylvia, and Reid are all honored that you’ve chosen Sandstone Heart for your retreat and would be utterly humbled to see you again in the future. Whether you’re simply looking to connect with yourself again through some rest and relaxation or needing some deeper level of healing, all of us here are prepared to provide you with the support you need and will be here when you’re ready to visit once more. Thank you, again. It’s truly been our honor.”
Once again, applause filled the room.
Turning away from where Natalia had been standing at the front of the room, I lifted my hand to my throat and massaged the front column of it. Nobody else around the table seemed to take notice of me, but on the off chance someone decided to speak, I’d be in trouble.
So, I offered a quick nod to the gentleman sitting across from me—I had no clue what his name was—and excused myself.
Maybe I should have sought Natalia out to thank her for stepping up like she had. Perhaps I could’ve given her the smallest hint of appreciation with a warm smile sent in her direction.
But I couldn’t.
I needed some air, so I quickly wound my way through the mess of tables and toward the exit.
What I didn’t know was that Natalia had spotted me the moment I stood, and her eyes followed me until I stepped out into the cool evening air.
And as I stood outside, two things remained a mystery.
Natalia had spared me the embarrassment of looking like a fool. Why couldn’t I be bothered to acknowledge it?
Worse, what would happen to that kind spirit when I officially took over and left this place as nothing more than a pile of rubble?
EIGHT
Natalia
Though I’d filled myself up with a hearty breakfast this morning, it did little to ease the empty feeling in the pit of my stomach as I approached Reid’s office on heavy feet.
