Page 54 of The Wexley Inn
Daphne tactfully excused herself, leaving Thomas to explain the problem and the proposed solution to Isabella. He outlined the technical details, the necessary modifications for the renovation, and the budget implications.
“Bottom line,” he said, “we’re looking at approximately eight thousand dollars in additional costs and maybe a week’s delay in the kitchen completion.”
Isabella absorbed the information calmly. Where many clients would have expressed frustration, she simply asked insightful questions about the technical aspects.
“So if we address it properly now, then we’ll prevent future problems that could be a lot more costly and disruptive once the inn is operational, correct?”
“Exactly.”
“Well, then the additional expense is unfortunate, but necessary,” she said. “Cutting corners on plumbing is never wise.”
“Especially in a commercial kitchen where health code compliance is essential,” Thomas responded.
“Well, then, let’s proceed with your recommended solution,” Isabella said decisively. “I’d rather spend the money now than deal with a catastrophic failure later.”
Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of the building inspector, who was scheduled to review the electrical work completed the previous week. Thomas excused himself to accompany the official through the property, leaving Isabella to return to her design discussion with Daphne.
The inspection went smoothly, with the inspector noting the high quality of the electrical upgrades. As they completed the final portion of the review, Thomas looked out the window and saw dark clouds gathering on the horizon. The previously clear sky was giving way to the ominous gray that signaled an approaching summer storm.
After the inspector departed with clean approval, Thomas sought out Wade to let the crew know to secure the site before the weather deteriorated.
“Make sure all the materials are covered and the equipment is stored inside,” he said. “The storm looks like it could be significant.”
Wade nodded and organized the team to batten down the work site.
“Weather alert just came through on my phone. Severe thunderstorm warning for the next six hours. They’re predicting high winds and heavy rain.”
Thomas grimaced, knowing it was going to slow progress. “Get everyone home safely before it hits. We can assess any impacts tomorrow.”
The crew hurried to secure the site and then departed as Thomas found Isabella in the library, looking at the inspection report.
“Clean approval on all electrical work,” she said, smiling. “Excellent news.”
“It is,” Thomas agreed, “though this approaching storm is going to dampen the celebration, I’m afraid. There’s a severe weather warning in effect for the next several hours.”
Isabella glanced toward the windows where the darkening sky confirmed his warning. “I guess I should head home before it hits. I have paperwork to finish that doesn’t require me to be on-site.”
“That’s probably wise,” Thomas said. “You don’t want to get stranded here if you can be at home.”
They walked together to the front entrance, where the wind was already intensifying, bending the branches of oak trees and sending early fallen leaves skittering across the driveway.
“Drive carefully,” Thomas said. “These summer storms can develop quickly.”
“It’s not that far,” she said, chuckling. “But what about you? Are you heading home?”
“Soon,” he nodded. “I want to double-check that everything’s properly secured first. That dining room floor installation is at a vulnerable stage. I’d sure hate for water damage to compromise the work we’ve done.”
Isabella hesitated for a moment, glancing again at the sky. “Would you like help before you go? It might be faster with two people.”
The offer touched Thomas. “I appreciate that, but I’ve got it covered. No sense in both of us getting caught in a downpour.”
With a final farewell, Isabella left, her car disappearing down the oak-lined driveway just as the first large raindrops started to fall.
Thomas went back inside to complete his inspection of the property, checking all the windows, covering sensitive materials, and ensuring the temporary roof patches were secure.
The storm intensified rapidly, rain falling in sheets driven by gusting wind. Thunder crashed overhead, and lightning illuminated the sky. He was completing his final checks when he heard an unexpected sound in front of the building - a car engine and a door slamming.
Moments later, Isabella appeared in the doorway, drenched despite the brief distance from her car to the entrance.
