“He’s not going to blindside you after the fact. My guess is he sees that role as an important one. It’s like you are an ambassador for the business. It’s a very visible role. And it’s social. It could also be a lot of fun for you. No more pressure.”

Andrea thought about that. There were some advantages to the role. Hallie was right about that. But to Andrea, what was most visible about it was the fact that she was no longer the general manager. Would the staff think less of her?

“Paula’s behind this. She’s always whispering in Grandfather’s ear. She’s his favorite,” Andrea said bitterly.

“It really doesn’t seem very fair,” her mother agreed.

But Hallie would have none of it. “Paula had nothing to do with this. She doesn’t even know if she’s going to take the job. She was shocked. She was never after your job, Andrea.”

“Well, she has it now. That actually makes me feel worse if it’s true.”

“I’m just saying, don’t be mad at her. None of this is her fault. Grandfather just did what he felt was best for everyone.”

“I don’t know about that.”

“Have you decided what you’ll do?” her mother asked.

Andrea sighed. “I don’t really have much of a choice, do I? I thought I’d ask Grandfather for a few weeks off before I start. Harry gave a month notice a week ago, so that would give me three weeks to take a break and start sending resumes out. I know the job so there’s no training required.”

Her mother looked concerned. “So, you’ll try for another management job. Will you just focus on Nantucket or look off-island, too?”

“I don’t think there’s much available here on Nantucket, and everyone knows me as a Whitley. That might not be an easy transition, even if there is anything available. I think I might have to focus on the Boston area, maybe even New York.”

“I think you should give the concierge role a real chance first. What if you love it?” her sister asked.

“I’m not ruling anything out. But I need to keep all my options open.”

Chapter 3

“Lucky you, heading off to Nantucket. You get all the best assignments. Maybe you need an assistant? I just went on the bench, so I’m available.”