“It does have a nice ring to it,” Diego admitted.
“Fine,” said Jenn. “Gary it is. But a cute name isn’t going to solve the problem of putting together an entire festival last minute.”
“I can coordinate with the other vendors from the festival circuit,” said Brie. “Most of them would love a chance to earn a little extra business on a weekend off.”
“But it’s too late to get permits for downtown,” Maya cautioned.
“We’ll use the Adventure Center,” said Noah. “Set up tents in the parking lot. Use the main building for displays.”
Maya nodded. “We could probably get away with an ‘educational event’ here with minimal paperwork. Since this is private property.”
“LuxeLife property,” Diego pointed out.
“LuxeLife property leased to us,” countered Jenn. All eyes settled on the big calendar hanging on the wall — the last day of the month circled in red Sharpie. “At least for the next few days, it is.”
“I mean, if they’re not renewing the lease, what are they going to do?” asked Brie.
Everyone looked at Maya. “Not much they can do, as far as I can tell.”
“You really think we can pull all this together in a few days?”
“A few days is forever for a social media campaign,” said Parker.
“He’s organized viral flash mobs on shorter notice,” I added.
“I’ll set up a multimedia presentation,” Parker continued, fingers tapping at his laptop. “Project the grouse footage between music sets, maybe create some interactive displays where people can learn about the habitat.”
Jenn drummed her fingers on the back of a chair. “I know some wildlife photographers who’d donate images. We could create a photo exhibit showing all the species affected if LuxeLife expands.”
The energy in the room had shifted, trepidation transformed into triumph. Noah watched it happen, his eyes seeking mine across the room with a look that made my heart skip a beat or two.
“Music,” I said, forcing my attention back to the plan. “We need live music to draw people in.”
Diego’s smile went from rebellious to mischievous. “Maya should be able to help with that.”
Maya immediately shook her head. “No. No way.”
“Come on, Maya. It’s for the grouse.”
“For Gary,” Noah reminded them.
“No grouse is worth that.” Maya held her hand up. “Even one named Gary.”
“I’ll call him for you then,” offered Jenn.
“Don’t you dare.”
“Call who?” I asked.
Maya, Diego, and Jenn all exchanged suspicious looks. Even Noah seemed to be in on whatever the big secret was.
“Maya’s ex is a singer in a rock band,” said Diego. “A pretty good one, too.”
“Pretty good?” Noah crossed his arms. “I’d say average at best.”
“Are the rumors about the piercings true?” asked Brie.
“Not going there,” said Maya.
