Page 1 of Meant for Two

CHAPTERONE

Four monthsago

Blair Gibson stood in one of the carefully curated model homes in Phase II of Wildwood's new development, Woodland Estates. The interior exuded an air of sophistication, from the plush furnishings to the subtle play of light that cascaded through the oversized windows. As she surveyed the living room, her eyes narrowed in both satisfaction and concern.

As the owner of her own real estate firm that specialized in staging and then selling homes, she had a deep passion for aesthetics. But Blair's involvement went far beyond simply selling properties. For this second phase, she had been hired to handle not only the interior design but also help market the entire thirty-home development. Her administrative assistant, Avery Martin, was a genius stager.

Without a doubt, Avery had outdone herself this time. Blair’s contract with Granger Development was her first big job as an entrepreneur, which meant she couldn’t afford to mess it up—not if she wanted a future in this business.

It was why every choice, from the color palette to the placement of decor, had been made with the intention of capturing the essence of luxury living. This model home was her masterpiece, a testament to her dedication to perfection.

However, her sense of accomplishment was tinged with a layer of unease when she spotted something that didn't quite belong. Subtle yet unmistakable, she spotted the discreetly placed security cameras that dotted the corners of the room. Her trained eye didn't miss a detail. The firm hired to do the work? Granger-Haygood Security Systems.

Blair knew about Jeff Granger and Zane Haygood, the owners of the firm specializing in intrusion alert systems. The problem? Jeff’s dad, Drew Granger—her boss—was the developer.

Thankfully, the security alert firm’s reputation was one of excellence, a reputation that shouldn't be taken lightly. But as she studied the cameras, she couldn't help but worry how their presence might disrupt the delicate balance she had worked so hard to achieve. No homeowner wanted to be reminded that they were being watched and possibly recorded!

The cameras, while undoubtedly effective, threatened to disrupt the cohesion that was essential for potential buyers to envision themselves in these luxurious surroundings. She couldn't afford any missteps that might undermine the marketing strategy she had meticulously crafted. This job was her life.

Resolute in her decision, Blair knew what she needed to do. She reached for her phone and dialed a familiar number. The call connected, and a voice she knew well filled her ear.

"Drew Granger," the voice greeted her.

"Mr. Granger, it's Blair," she began, her tone firm. "I need to talk to you about something important."

"Blair, please call me Drew. Mr. Granger was my dad’s name. Now what's on your mind?" His voice held a note of curiosity rather than annoyance.

Blair took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully. "I've been reviewing the security measures for one of the model homes, and I've noticed the many cameras."

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and Blair could almost sense the wheels turning in her boss’ head. "Yes, we've partnered with Jeff and Zane's firm to ensure the safety of the properties. Is there a problem?”

Blair hesitated, her gaze flickering to the cameras once more. "I understand their importance, Mr. Granger, I mean Drew, but these systems, while discreet, are still noticeable. They disrupt the flow that I've worked so hard to create in this model home."

There was another moment of silence before he responded. "Blair, you know as well as I do that security is a top priority, especially in a high-end development like this."

Blair sighed, her fingers tightening around her phone. "I'm not disputing their need, but these cameras are a potential distraction. Buyers need to see the beauty and elegance of these homes, not be reminded of potential threats."

"I value your input. It’s why I hired you, but this is non-negotiable. We can't compromise on safety."

Blair closed her eyes briefly, grappling with her frustration. She understood its importance, but she also understood the value of presentation. The delicate balance between the two was proving to be a challenge she hadn't anticipated.

“I totally understand. It's just that I don't want anything to disrupt the vision thatyou’vecreated.”

“I appreciate you worrying about me, but trust me it will be fine. I'll talk to Jeff and Zane about making everything even more discreet. We'll work together to find a solution that ensures security without compromising our vision."

Blair's heart lifted at Drew's willingness to find common ground. She was grateful for his understanding and support. "Thank you, Drew. I appreciate that."

"We're a team, Blair. We'll make this work." Drew said with assurance.

As she hung up the phone, Blair's apprehension began to ease. She knew that finding a balanced solution wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to protect the essence of the development she had poured her heart into.

Filled with renewed resolve, she redirected her focus toward the model home, her thoughts already abuzz with concepts for striking a compromise.

* * *

Jeff Granger stood in the living room of the model home, tension zinging through him as he studied the position of the security devices. His dad had called and said Blair was not happy. Since his father was a reasonable man, Jeff agreed to see what he could do.

The sunlight cast a warm glow into the living room, highlighting its grandeur. But Jeff's attention wasn't focused on the architectural beauty; it was fixed on Blair Gibson, the real estate agent who seemed to be scrutinizing their alert system with a critical eye. He debated asking for her credentials regarding the electronic devices but decided against it. Antagonizing the woman his father thought was amazing wouldn’t solve any problem.

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