Page 71 of Lochlan

“I understand your reluctance to give interviews, but we have to market well before the opening. San Pacitas is in a major news market. Because we want to attract visitors from all over the world, their network is picking this up to air on their national morning show as well. I've already spoken to the BBC. They will do a mention on the news as an announcement, and they've agreed to an interview after the first phase is completed and we're open.”

I remember my meeting with Geordie and drain my warm cup of liquid. “Let me think about it.”

“This is your chance to create a positive profile for the media. I'll be there in the studio helping you with the interview.”

I could allow Fiona to take over these duties; it's something she's comfortable doing. Then Geordie's warning appeals to me from the back of my mind not to concede any more to Fiona. “Will you be there with me on camera?” I ask.

“If that's what you want,” she says, winning an easy victory. “I'll be by your side.”

I rise to my feet.

“I'll do the interview.”

She gives a deep sigh, relieved that convincing me wasn't the struggle she expected.

“The interview is tomorrow—”

“Tomorrow?” I cut her off. “Why didn't you lead with that information? I can't be ready that soon.”

“I had to get your agreement first. If I told you the interview was tomorrow, you would have said no.”

“You're right, I would have. I'm saying no now.”

Desperation widens her eyes.

“Don't you think I'd have this in hand? I've hired a media consultant to help you navigate the interview. By the time you walk into that studio, you'll be prepared. I know you have a meeting with Geordie, but after, I'm asking you to clear your calendar for the day so we can do interview prep.”

“Where do you want to do this?”

She glances around the apartment, taking in the space. “I think here would be best. We won't be disturbed, and we can discuss what you're wearing to the interview. And I'll need the painting for the marketing department. I've already sent them photographs, but they'll need the painting to finish the process to mock-up branding and merchandising ideas.”

“I have to leave now. I'll ask Layla to let you into my office to retrieve the painting.”

No hint of berating me at my meeting with Geordie, we only discuss winery business. I bring up the interview withGood Morning San Pacitasat the end. Geordie has no caution or dire prediction; he only says to have a good interview and that he'll be watching me over a bowl of oats.

After my meeting, I find Fiona in her office, talking to the media consultant. She introduces him as Jonathan, and he seems like a confident, sober laddie. I know she was careful about who she chose, because she casually mentions that he came through the network.

For hours, we mimic the interview with Jonathan playing the role of Jillian Barry, asking Fiona and I questions. It isn't as difficult as I imagined, and I have to admit that Fiona and I played off each other well. Jonathan made it lighthearted and easy for me to respond.

“I just have a few pieces of advice for you. You can bring notes with you on the day of the interview, but don't bring them inside the studio. You'll be offered makeup—”

“I'm not about to wear lipstick or mascara, if it comes to that,” I say.

Johnathan attempts to hide a laugh, when he realizes I'm not joking.

“You have nothing to worry about; the makeup person is a professional. It's his or her job to make you look natural in front of the camera, so please accept the makeup. Only drink water during the interview and, lastly, relax and have fun; think of it as talking to a new friend. You're eager to make a good impression so you'll be on your best behavior. Do you have questions for me?”

“I think you've been very thorough,” Fiona says.

“You have my information, if you need to contact me,” he says, scooping up his coat. “You both did very well. I see no problem if you stick to your script.”

When we're left alone, Fiona doesn't reach for her coat.

“I'll walk you to your car; give me a minute to grab my jacket.”

She touches my arm before I'm able to turn away. “Why are you always in a hurry to walk away from me? We haven't had two words of a proper conversation since the mansion. I've asked you to go to dinner with me several times and you've always turned me down. Tonight, I won't accept no for an answer. I want you to come to my comfortable wee house and share a meal with me. I've made your favorites and, after all this time, we should be able to dine as friends.”

“I don't think it's a good idea.”

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