“Good. So that’s the first step. We’ll also look at what you’re doing for marketing and see if we can make some tweaks there. And over the next few months, I’ll be assessing everything to see how we can be more efficient and more profitable.”

“Excellent, we welcome your input,” her grandfather said.

David turned his attention to Paula. “Have you told the staff yet that you’ve taken over the general manager role?”

“No, not yet.” She smiled. “I only just accepted the role yesterday.”

“Well, we should do that as soon as possible. We’ll walk around the property today. You can introduce me, and yourself as the new general manager, at the same time.”

“How do you suggest we present this?” her grandfather asked.

“Matter of fact. Andrea has accepted the concierge role?”

“Yes, she starts in three weeks,” her grandfather confirmed.

“Okay, so we just say that. There’s been a management shift. Andrea is going to be heading up concierge services and Paula is moving out of the back office and into the GM role. That’s all we have to say.”

“Good. I agree, let’s do that today.” Her grandfather stood. “Okay, great meeting everyone. Paula, do you want to show David around the property?”

“Of course.”

Paula had opted to stay in her current office. It was the same size as the one Andrea was using which was right across the hall. It made sense to have David use Andrea’s old office while he was going to be with them. Paula showed him his office first and he dropped off his briefcase before they headed out for their tour.

“It’s a beautiful property,” David said as they walked into the main lobby first which had soaring ceilings and white Carrera marble everywhere. Square-cut crystal vases filled with fresh flowers gave the room a lovely scent and welcoming feel.

Paula introduced David to the reception team and explained that she was taking over the general manager role. She was a little nervous about telling them, but as soon as she did, they were all smiles, and she breathed a sigh of relief.

“That’s fabulous news, Paula. I know you’ll do a great job.” Maeve was close to her mother’s age and had worked the front desk for as long as Paula could remember.

As they walked away, David gave her a curious look. “You seemed surprised that they were enthusiastic about the promotion. They seemed happy for you.”

“They did. I just wasn’t sure what people would think.”

“You mean if you’re ready for it? You were in a very different role for a long time.”

“Yes. And I enjoyed it too. As you know, my cousin Andrea was the GM. It’s a little awkward.”