Page 8 of Hibiscus Heights

Deb watched the exchange with satisfaction. Seeing her friend happy again after her devastating divorce reminded Deb why love was worth the risk. For most people, anyway.

“Knox, where are we on construction?” Ryan asked.

“The final punch list is ninety percent complete.” Knox consulted his tablet. He had overseen a prior construction project for Ryan before arriving at the Majestic last year.

Deb figured Knox had already been on site for his early morning inspection. He was usually the first one there, followed by Whitley.

“Guest room renovations were nearly finished yesterday,” Knox said, scanning the list.

“How about 418?” Ryan asked.

At the mention of that room, Deb coughed, and everyone shifted uncomfortably.

Knox stroked his chin. “About that room, we still need to troubleshoot the electrical outlets and air conditioning.”

“Let me guess,” Ryan said. “The air becomes curiously cold in spots, the lights malfunction, and the outlets work sporadically.”

“That sums it up,” Knox said. “We’ve tested several times.”

Laughter swept around the room, and Deb said, “I told you that’s our resident ghost.”

“Don’t waste your time on troubleshooting,” Ryan said. “If someone specifically asks for that room, we’ll let them have it. Otherwise, it’s one of the last we fill, and we let guests know about the potential for paranormal activity.”

Knox raised his brow. “I’d heard some talk about that, but I didn’t know that was real.”

Whitley spoke up. “Over the years, we’ve ascertained that Princess Noelle doesn’t like to be disturbed unless someone appreciates her occasional presence and pranks.”

“I wasn’t kidding about that,” Deb said to Knox. She’d been working closely with him for the last few months, and she was impressed with his skill and management style.

Ryan grinned and gestured to her. “Carry on, Deb.”

She rose to speak. “While we staged around incomplete areas for the magazine shoot, now everything must be camera-ready for the event. I’m coordinating furnishings and artwork right behind Knox.”

Ryan pinched the bridge of his nose. “I heard some items haven’t arrived. How can we be sure all rooms are ready for the event?”

“About that,” Deb said, her stomach tightening. “Most pieces arrived on schedule, but we’re still waiting to receive final overseas shipments, which have been delayed in customs. I have an agent handling that and am confident she can deliver. However, I have contingency plans to use local artisan pieces that will work beautifully in their place if needed. I’ve got it all under control. The Majestic will look exquisite, so you can count on that.”

Ryan nodded his approval. “So far, you all sound prepared.” Admiration was evident in his voice. “I don’t need to remind you that we’re on the critical path. If issues arise or a subcontractor doesn’t deliver even the smallest detail, you’ll need alternate plans in place. Keep that in mind.”

Deb appreciated his confidence in them, but the real test was still ahead. This was her largest and most high-profile project to date. The grand reopening event would attract potential clients. Success here would cement her reputation beyond Crown Island.

“How is the current guest response?” Ryan asked.

“Very good,” Whitley replied. “Several existing guests extended their reservations for the event. Others are booking additional nights specifically to attend.” Whitley flipped through his notes. “Including the Hunt party in the oceanfront suite, the Kim family in the penthouse, and Jack and Jennifer Ambroz in another suite.”

Jennifer. Deb’s attention sharpened. Could that be the boys’ aunt? She wondered if their father would attend. However, she kept her expression neutral, filing away the information.

Whitley smiled as he held up a magazine. “Has everyone seen our recent media coverage in Coastal Design & Living magazine? Deb and Knox are our latest stars.”

Maileah’s eyes brightened. “Besides that feature, our publicity partners confirmed coverage from three national travel magazines, and a lot of lifestyle publications and newspapers. Social media engagement is through the roof.”

Ryan nodded his approval. “Outstanding work, everyone. Remember, one misstep can overshadow our collective excellence, so remain diligent. While this event showcases the Majestic’s renovation, it’s important to our entire island community and economy. Let’s make it memorable.”

As the meeting wrapped up, a surge of excitement filled Deb. So much rode on the next few weeks. Her reputation, future projects, and standing in the design world. She wanted everything to be as close to perfect as possible.

Ryan looked around the gathering. “Any final concerns?”

“Just one,” Deb said, meeting his gaze. “If those final furnishing shipments don’t clear customs in time, the contingency pieces will be lovely, but they will differ from our original vision. I’ll email photos for your approval.”

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