Page 16 of Mine to Love

Friday night goes better than I expected. The paperwork with the lawyers and Frank Bates went smoothly. There were no glaring red flags or last minute snafus, something I’m quite accustomed to in my job. Anytime money is involved, there are issues.

Bates has done a reputable job running the credit unions, keeping up with all the federal and state paperwork, and taking care of his customers. He runs his business in an old school manner and hasn’t made as much profit as he could have, but that’s the norm for small businesses still being run by someone who got all their financial training during the baby boom era.

He kept up with technology and new practices just enough to keep business afloat and everyone happy. I’m not sure how much the employees will appreciate the changes I have in mind, but the customers will benefit greatly. And the employees will as well with bigger pay increases, nicer benefits packages, and portfolio options. Not overnight, but in due time.

I turn into my parents’ driveway and park in front of the four-bay garage. The house is quiet and dark, which is welcomed and disappointing at the same time.

“How did it go?” my father asks from the shadows of the kitchen.

“Did I wake you?” I eye his sleep pants and robe.

“I saw the lights and am using you as an excuse for a highball. Care to join me?”

“Sure.”

I hang my suit coat on the back of a barstool while my father pours two drinks. “To new beginnings.”

We clink glasses and sip our drinks in silence. After a few minutes, I finally speak. “I bought out Coastal Credit Unions.”

“I heard.”

It shouldn’t surprise me that he heard. He may have retired five years ago, but he still has friends and his ear to the ground in all things business related, especially when they involve family.

“I also heard you did this merger somewhat silently. Pierce Financial backed it but it’s under your name. You bought a bank. Four branches. That’s impressive.”

“Thanks. I saw the opportunity and took it.” I wait for the next question I expect my father to ask.

What made you decide to branch out solo?

Will you be moving to Maine?

What’s happening with Pierce Financial Services?

Instead, he finishes his drink then pats my shoulder. “I’m proud of you, son.”

“Thanks, Dad.”

The complement shouldn’t surprise me. I’m used to them. My parents are generous with praise and affection. They only questioned some of my decision making when I was a teenager.

School, taking AP courses, and with my sights on Ivy League colleges, I was never a wild child. Save that for Nick and even Holden. I never strayed from my end goal, owning my own company, and helping others come out of their financial ruin. I don’t do hostile takeovers and seek out reputable businesses that are dying more so because of antiquated systems or leadership that can’t grasp the ever-changing economic climate.

“Your mother wants to have everyone over tomorrow for dinner. Will you be around?”

“Yeah. We took care of everything tonight. I’m free this weekend and will be back in a few weeks to check on the branches and make changes as needed.”

“It’ll be nice to see you more often. You always have a place here.” My father squeezes my shoulder and gets up, taking his glass to the sink.

Guilt shouldn’t set in. I never miss a birthday or holiday. Our parents taught us at a young age the importance of quality family time and that work should never interfere. I run my company and make those changes in the companies I take over with the same mindset.

“Mom isn’t going all out tomorrow, is she?” It would be like my mother to make a fancy dinner to celebrate my recent take over. One that will bring me to Maine more often.

“I’m smoking ribs, which will take all day. Pretty sure she’s making the usual sides to go with them.”

I’m already salivating at the thought of my father’s ribs. Sure, I can get good Texas barbecue any time I want not far from my building, but there’s nothing like having them at your house, smelling the sweet smoky meat all day. The buildup and time it takes to smoke them is worth it.

“Sounds perfect. I can get up early to help you prepare them.”

“You’ve been out of the house early all week and staying up late working. Sleep in. I know you won’t but try.” He kisses the top of my head like I’m still a child. It’s something my brothers and I cherish, even though we don’t ever speak of it. “Night, son.”

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