Page 22 of One Weekend in Quebec City

“I think we should go with Model A,”I finally decide. “She fits the theme perfectly and has a strong presence that will capture the readers’ attention.”

Everyone nods in agreement, and we move on to the next topic. The photographerspeaks up, “We need to complete the list of location shots. We’ve scouted a few places that would be perfect for the winter theme. We need to decide on the best ones and where local businesses are involved, speak with them to get their agreement as soon as possible.”

“Let’s go with the historic district. The old buildings and cobblestone streets will provide a beautiful backdrop for the shoot. Make sure we have all the necessary permits.”

The team continues to discuss the details while I guide them through each decision.I’mlucky to have complete confidence in the people who work for me. But I still feel the weight of the responsibility and pressure to make the right choices, choices the board will agree with. But like always, it’s the thrill of creating something stunning that will captivate the readers and honor the legacy of my family’s business that drives me.

As the meeting wraps up, my gaze sweeps around the table, landing momentarily on each team member. “Great work, everyone. We’re on track to create something amazing. Let’s make this issue the best one yet.”

After a few final comments, we end the meeting, and I can focus on the woman sitting a few feet away, distracting me the entire time.

Over the last hour, I watched Shelby scribbling notes in her leather-bound journal. Every so often, her gaze lifts to meet mine, andtherest of the room becomes static noise.

She doesn’t say a word as the others filter out of the room. She simply tucks her notebook under her arm andcomes to standbeside me as I collect my things. Looking at her, I notice something quiet and knowing in her expression.

“You okay?”she asks.

She must have sensed something, and I hesitated a second before admitting it. “I’m realizing I don’t want this weekend to end.”

She doesn’t tease me or smile like I expect her to. Instead, she reaches for my hand and gives it a gentle squeeze. “Then let’s not let it end just yet. Let’s go for a walk.”

I take my things up to my room before we head out into the late morning; the sun is already high, andthe sky is a crisp shade of blue that makes the old stone of the city walls almost glow. There’s a slight chill in the air this morning, starkly different than the nearly oppressive heat of the last few days. Shelby walks beside me wearing a light cardigan, her fingers tucked into mine like they’ve always belonged there.

We wind through the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, past the boutiques and bakeries of Rue Saint-Jean. She pauses to admire a display of handmade soaps and postcards in a shop window.

“Mmm… it smells like butter and sugar and history.”she says, her voice dreamy.

I laugh. “We can stop for anything you want.”

She glances at me sidelong. “You’re just trying to delay the interview questions.”

“Guilty,”I admit. “I like seeing you like this.”I want to give her anything and everything her heart desires.

“Like what?”

“Happy. Enjoying yourself.”

While we wait in line at Café La Maison Smith, tucked in one of the little corners of Place Royale, she pulls out her notebook. I order us each a coffee and a scone, and we find a spot on a bench outside in the sun.

“All right,”she says, pen poised. “I think I need a bit more info about your business. As I understand it, your family actually owns multiple businesses, correct?”

“Absolutely. The Hollis Group is all about content creation and cultural influence. We tell visual and editorial stories across various platforms. Think of it as a stylish empire shaping what’s next in fashion, media, and pop culture. We have two flagship magazines that drive brand recognition and cultural influence. The modeling agency was originally developed to support the fashion magazine and ensure control over the talent, exclusivity, and branding consistency. The production company produces everything from magazine cover shoots to fashion shows, influencer campaigns, behind-the-scenes series, documentaries on fashion or art, even scripted drama series. The whole idea my grandfather created was to allow him and his siblings control over all media content from concept to delivery. There’s even a publishing company on my grandmother’s side of the family called Kismet Publishing.”

“I’ve heard of them. That’s very cool. You’re quite connected, it seems.”

“I really don’t know much about Kismet. Only that I have a bunch of cousins involved in that world.”

“So, the models you used this weekend?—”

“Are part of our agency, yes. They work for the magazines and Hollis Studios.”

“So, they are constantly employed.”

“They are.”

“Impressive.”

“Didn’t I read that you went to law school?”

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