Page 118 of Hoax and Kisses
“First item on the agenda: Emile’s land,” Rob says. “In accordance with his will, we’ll need a majority vote to determine the use of this plot.” He motions for me to come over. “As of tonight, only one proposal has been submitted. Miss Delacroix, whom I’m sure you all know by now, presented her lodge project three weeks ago. Zoey, you’re welcome to say a few words before we move on to the vote.”
I square my shoulders, releasing a sharp breath, then walk to the podium. These folks aren’t strangers now. They’re my neighbors, my friends, people I’ve come to know and care about. And yet, as I step onto the stage, their scrutiny is palpable, and the pressure reaches a fever pitch.
Not because of the uncertainty of the votes. No, the anxiety stems from the fear of disappointing them.
“Thanks, Robert.” I adjust the mic. “Hi, everyone. Thank you so much for coming in such large numbers this evening.”
A man cheers loudly. I recognize the voice immediately. As I home in on him, Matt straightens in his seat, beaming from ear to ear.
“Thank you for the enthusiasm, Matt.” I bite back a smile.
As a chuckle rolls over the room, I unfold a piece of paper with trembling fingers and work to decipher the notes I scribbled messily on it.
“The uniqueness of Pine Falls must be maintained and highlighted, not altered or torn down. How can a hotel blend into your way of doing things while also serving you? How can we leverage your town’s appeal in a way that not only works for you but also benefits you, while providing a new experience for tourists?”
Cooper sneaks into the room and winks at me as he slips into one of the few remaining seats beside Carl and his wife.
I scan the notes I jotted down a few weeks ago in preparation for the night, my throat tightening. It doesn’t feel right anymore. Those people deserve better than an empty speech I put together before I knew any of them.
I fold the paper and slide it into my skirt pocket, then lean on the stand, inhaling deeply.
“Forget my big talk. By now, you’ve all probably made your decision. The reality is, I’ve spent the last three weeks getting to know most of you. With Matt, I’ve kinda had a crash course in all things Pine Falls. I’ve seen what makes this town so special, and I recognize the preciousness of its way of life. When I first came here, I had every intention of doing things differently from my father, but I don’t think I understood how far off the mark he was.”
I glance at Rosie and Mia in the front row, nerves stirring in my belly.
“You’re doing great,” Rosie mouths.
“I’ve grown attached to this town, its people.” I can’t help but look at Matt, a flutter rising in my chest. “I like everything about it. Your generosity, your kindness, your patience. Your steadfast support. It’s changed me for the better. You’ve swept me awaywith your intensity and passion, and you’ve made me feelso good.”
Matt’s eyebrows shoot up, his lips curving into that signature half smile that never fails to send a rush of heat to my cheeks.
My pulse skips.
Wait, what?
I replay the last part of that statement, and the blood drains from my face.
A low murmur erupts, spreading through the rows like ripples on water. People shift, glancing at each other, then at Matt.
“No, I—I didn’t mean… that’s not—”Stop stuttering, you idiot, and focus.
I clear my throat, locking in on the doors at the far end of the room, my whole body burning in an inferno of embarrassment. “Peoplehave been so welcoming to me, and I’m in good hands. That’s what I meant.”
A man in the back says, “Yeah, you are,” while another shouts, “Score, Matt!” Then, like cascading dominoes, the entire room bursts into laughter.
My cheeks burn. What I’d give to crawl beneath the floorboards and disappear forever.
Not on my to-do list today? Telling the whole town how well Matt gets me off.
“All right,” Rob says, coming up beside me. “Decorum, please.” He offers me a sympathetic smile. “Thanks, Zoey. That was very… informative.”
I rush down the stairs and take a seat next to the stage.
“As usual,” he continues, “raise your hand if you’re in favor of the hotel project. Keep your hand down if you’re against it.”
My heart hammers in my chest, drowning out all the noise.
“All in favor?”
