I hesitated, wanting to tell her but not sure if I could do a good job of explaining. Especially when it had only ever been an idea in my head.
‘The hotel is impressive, on its own. Luxurious and very, very popular as a destination. But that’s all it is. A destination. I mean, it does offer the usual. Spa, restaurants, bar and pools. But I feel it could offer more. Like it’s missing a part of the market that people who come here would pay good money for, although it’s not just about the money.’
‘Sounds intriguing.’
‘I think so.’
‘Are you going to tell me?’
I nodded, realizing in that moment that even though I was still getting to know her, I trusted her. I trusted her judgment. If she thought it was a terrible idea, well then, at least I’d know. ‘Excursions.’
She processed it, smiling encouragingly. ‘You mean, like this? Hikes to this waterfall?’
‘Yeah, exactly like this. Obviously, there are tour companies in Pine Harbor that offer the usual. Whale watching. National park tours. There’s the history museum, and brewery tours.There are even some guided hikes, although mostly close to town, along the shore. The lighthouse, seal colonies, et cetera. All very nice, and definitely worth seeing, but Pine Harbor has so much more to offer.’
She nodded. ‘I’m sure it does.’
‘Growing up, I spent a lot of time outdoors, exploring the island. It was better than being at home. There are so many off-the-beaten-path mini adventures. I’m not talking about taking big groups in fancy buses or anything. I’m thinking small, exclusive tours. Offering therealexperience of Pine Harbor. The things that typically tourists don’t get to see.’ I looked at my sleeve, suddenly fixated on a piece of cotton that had come loose from a seam. ‘You can tell me if you think I’m wrong. If it’s a stupid idea.’
‘Are you kidding? I think it’s brilliant.’
‘Really?’ I exhaled heavily, realizing how much her approval meant to me. How crushed I would have been if she’d told me my ideas were stupid.
‘Of course. Your guests would love it, and you’d be an excellent tour guide. You’re clearly knowledgeable about the area, and patient, not to mention easy on the eye.’
I snorted with laughter. ‘Thanks.’
‘Seriously,’ she continued. ‘I think you’ve found a niche hole in the market. Your parents will be thrilled to hear your idea. I’m sure of it.’
My good mood evaporated as quickly as my breath in the cold air. A puff of steam, swiftly dissipated. ‘Dad, maybe. But as far as my mother is concerned, my future is already decided.’
‘I don’t understand; she can’tmakeyou run the hotel.’
‘No, of course not. But she can layer on the guilt thick enough until I’m left with no other choice. It’s what she’s good at. Manipulating people to get them to do what she wants. Nowthat Dad has had a stroke, she won’t even need to try so hard. Ialreadyfeel guilty.’
‘What about your sister? Is she not interested in taking over from your dad?’
I shook my head. ‘She and her husband, Myles, are starting a family. She’s just had her first baby, Isabelle.’
‘I bet you’re a fun uncle.’
I pulled a face. ‘Maybe in a few years. All she does right now is cry, eat, sleep and poop.’
‘What about other siblings?’
‘I have a younger brother too, David. He’s a bit of a genius. In fact, he’s just been made an associate professor, so no. He’s not interested in taking over the hotel either.’
She gave me a sympathetic look. ‘So, it’s all on you then.’
‘Yeah.’
‘That doesn’t seem fair.’
‘No, it doesn’t.’
‘Why can’t they just hire someone to take over?’
‘Because it was built by a Sawyer and a Sawyer has always been at the helm.’
