Page 109 of Love so Cold

"I'm entrusting the creative direction and oversight of the Greystone Development to Avery Bennett."

I lock eyes with Avery across the room. Her jaw drops, eyes widening in shock. For a split second, I see a flicker of something else - anger? Excitement? - before her expression becomes unreadable.

"This is quite a departure from the original plan, Mr. Stone. What prompted such a drastic change?"

Reluctantly, I tear my gaze from Avery. "Of course.Ms. Bennett has been a fixture in Worcester's art scene for over a decade. Her unique perspective and connection to the neighborhood make her the ideal candidate to ensure our development maintains the area's character and charm."

As I continue extolling Avery's virtues to the board, my mind races. Sure, I got investor approval for this whole scheme. Told them it'd be great PR, boost their image. Oh, and the increased profit projections didn't hurt either. But that's all beside the point.

The one person I didn't run this by? Avery herself.

I sneak another glance her way. She's watching me intently, brow furrowed. I can practically see the gears turning in her head. Is she pissed? Flattered? Both?

"And you're certain Ms. Bennett is on board with this plan?" another board member asks.

I swallow hard. "Absolutely. In fact, her daughter Olivia assured me Avery would be thrilled at the opportunity."

It's not exactly a lie. Olivia did say her mom would love it. Whether that's actually true remains to be seen. I take a deep breath as I conclude my presentation, still resisting the urge to look at Avery. Who knew I'd end up staking so much on the advice of a ten-year-old? But Olivia's infectious enthusiasm had been impossible to ignore.

As the meeting wraps up, I brace myself for the confrontation I know is coming. I just hope I haven'troyally screwed things up before they even had a chance to begin.

Now, as silence falls over the room, I feel my stomach twist into knots.

"Thank you, Mr. Stone," the chairman says, leaning forward in his seat. "This is... quite unexpected." He continues, "Not unwelcome, mind you, but certainly a surprise."

Relief washes over me, but I keep my expression neutral. "I'm glad you think so, sir."

The chairman taps his pen against the table. "I do have a few questions about these new plans. First, how do you intend to manage the transition for current residents?"

I launch into my prepared response, detailing the phased approach and support systems we'll put in place to ensure current residents are able to obtain “grandfathered status” and don’t experience property tax increases that would force them out of their homes. As I speak, I can feel Avery's presence behind me, a magnetic pull I'm fighting hard to resist.

If the board doesn't approve this... I'm not sure I'll be able to face her. The thought makes my voice waver slightly, but I push through.

"And the timeline for completion?" another board member asks.

I answer each question methodically, my heart pounding in my chest. With each passing moment, theweight of what I've done – what I've risked – settles more heavily on my shoulders.

Just as I think I've fielded the last question, another board member leans forward, her eyes sharp. "Mr. Stone, why was Avery Bennett specifically chosen for this role?"

My breath catches. This is it. I take a deep breath, steadying myself.

"Avery Bennett," I begin, surprised by the warmth in my own voice, "is the heart and soul of this community. She's not just a resident; she's its fierce protector and greatest advocate."

I think of Avery's determined face as she stood up to me that first day and of her unwavering love for her daughter and her home.

"Ms. Bennett has shown an unparalleled dedication to this neighborhood. She understands its needs, its challenges, and most importantly, its potential. There's simply no one better equipped to ensure this development truly serves the community."

I pause, realizing how much I mean every word. "Her insight and passion will be invaluable in integrating this project seamlessly into the fabric of the area. Frankly, we'd be fools not to have her on board."

The board member nods, seemingly satisfied. But then she asks, "Is Ms. Bennett present? I'd like to hear from her directly."

My heart races. This is the moment I've beendreading and anticipating in equal measure. Slowly, I force myself to turn around.

There she is. Avery stands, her posture a mix of nervousness and shock. Our eyes meet, and for a terrifying second, I think I've made a colossal mistake. What if she hates this? What if I've overstepped?

But then I see it – a spark in her eyes, a hint of that fierce determination I've come to admire. Maybe Olivia was right after all. Maybe this crazy gamble might just pay off.

The board member's voice cuts through the tension. "Ms. Bennett, would you be willing to accept this new position?"

---