Page 28 of Love Me Forever

"Here it is. This is your new number.” She’d written it on a Post-it.

"Thank you, Marjorie. I appreciate your efficiency."

“I know.” She winked as she left. It was great to have her back.

I scrolled through my contacts, intending to call Tim to finalize some last-minute details. To my intense displeasure, the number wasn't there.

I groaned, realizing the last backup had been before I went to Oceanwell Bay. Marjorie was an organizational genius but not tech-savvy. I hadn't specifically instructed her to do a backup; I should’ve, and that was totally my bad. Marjorie had Tim’s number in her files, though, so it wasn’t that big of a deal.

Then I realized that meant I wouldn't have Bonnie's number either.Damn it. I hadn’t exchanged any other information with her—no email, and I didn’t have any profiles on social media.

I went to Marjorie's office again. This time she cowered when she saw me. "What's wrong?"

I never went to her office for no reason.

"I don't have Tim's number. You didn't do a backup."

She looked surprised and concerned. "I forgot. I’m so sorry, Travis. I just assumed it would be up-to-date."

"It should've been, but that’s on me since I didn't specifically instruct you, so it's not your mistake. Just find me the number."

She looked somewhat relieved even though I was still feeling a bit pissed, at myself mostly.

"Here, let me check.”

She clicked on her mouse, eyes glued to her computer. Then she jotted the number on another Post-it. I thanked Marjorie and quickly saved it in my phone, calling Tim on the way to my office.

He answered after the third ring, just as I sat down in my chair.

“Travis. I was waiting for your call. I’ve gone through the contract. It’s the most thorough I’ve ever seen.”

“I never do things in half measures.”

“I appreciate that you handled this yourself and didn't brush me off to HR. It tells a lot about the way you conduct business. You’re hands-on and picky about the team, and it proves this project is personal to you.”

I was surprised he’d gotten such a good read on me. He was right, more than he knew.

“I’m glad we see eye to eye. Do you have any questions or concerns?”

“Only about the apartment your team found for me. I need it a week earlier.”

“That can be arranged. Anything else?” I asked.

“No.”

“When will I get the signed contract?”

“This afternoon.”

“Perfect. I’ll be on the lookout for it.” I didn’t want to give him a chance to change his mind.

“I’ll be in touch.”

After hanging up, I felt victorious. This was all going according to plan. The hotel would open on time, and my family’s legacy would endure.

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