Page 16 of Fallen Hearts

“This place is incredible.” Pia was looking up at the ceiling, where beads hung from every corner. Light jazz played in the main dining room.

“On weekends there’s live jazz,” I said. “That’s usually when I like to come.”

“And during crawfish boils,” Maggie added.

I couldn’t argue that. “True. Maggie, this is Pia Russo, the new manager of Heritage Hill.”

Maggie’s eyes widened. “And who’s the innkeeper?”

“Me for now,” I said. “So do you have a table for two?”

“Sure do, come with me.”

We sat, ordered food and drinks and dove right in. Nothing personal. All business.

“So tell me everything you and Dad discussed. What you planned to do for him and the inn. What his thoughts were. Bring me up to speed.”

Pia talked about some of the same things I’d considered. Renovation to improve aesthetic appeal and functionality. A fresh color palette to appeal to modern travelers. Identifying target markets. Utilizing local partnerships to hit that market.

But her ideas went a hell of a lot further along. “I also think elevating the inn’s dining experience by hiring a chef would open up a whole new world of possibilities.”

“You’re talking about adding a dining room. That’s next-level renovation.”

“Not a dining room, necessarily. Somewhere for special events that can be incorporated into the inn’s existing structure. Wine pairings, themed tasting nights, and of course the biggie, weddings. But that could be phase two. Partnering with local restaurants, like this one, would be a good start.”

“My father hated the idea of weddings. Said it would ruin the experience for other guests.”

“He mentioned that, and to be honest…” Pia became more and more animated as she talked. “I know he wasn’t sold on the idea. But I’m positive there’s a way to include them as a part of our offerings while maintaining the serene environment your father insisted on for other guests. It would bring the income we need to make the other necessary changes and could be done tastefully.”

“We’ll have to talk more. What else do you have?” I could tell Pia was still bursting at the seams.

“Well, I’d love to lean into the idea of community involvement and partnerships. Offering joint packages for guests to explore the region. Maggie mentioned a crawfish boil. That’s the exact kind of thing I’m thinking—hosting community festivals and events to increase visibility and build relationships. Think seasonal celebrations and holiday packages. And obviously beefing up a customer loyalty program.”

“Obviously,” I said as our meals were brought out.

Pia’s enthusiasm was difficult to ignore. I could easily see why Dad hired her, even if I was still surprised he’d reached out in the first place.

“I’ll be honest, this sounds like a lot.”

“That’s why you have me.”

Of course she meant professionally, but for the briefest of seconds I imagined Pia was talking personally. I should have let her go. Leave the bar, leave Cedar Falls, and not look back.

What I should do, and would do?

Two very different things.

7

PIA

“Morning, Pia.”

“Good morning, Beck,” I said as he opened the door.

“Dude, Mason is a lucky guy. You look amazing.”

“Beck,” I said, stepping inside, “you are aware I’m Mason’s employee, right?”

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