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Closely.
Every day.
The universe has a sick sense of humor.
Never in a million years did I think my Spider-Man was him. Him, of all people. My cold, unfriendly next-door neighbor. He’s about as far from a neighborhood guardian as you can get! In fact, he’s the type to terrify trick-or-treaters rather than hand out candy!
“We’ve run into each other once or twice,” Sean says. “It’s nice to officially meet you, Ms. Summers.” There’s a hardness in his expression that is more rigid than what he’s presented so far. The way he glares at me, it’s anything but nice to officially meet.
Also, what did he say? “Run into each other?” Is that what he’s calling it? And what’s with the roughness of his voice? What the hell did I ever do to him?
He clearly doesn’t get laid enough. (Which is not my fault.)
“You as well,” I say, trying—and failing—to sound equally cold. At least I remember my manners. “I apologize for my initial astonishment. Your presence caught me off guard.”
Norman offers me a seat at the table across from Sean, and I slip into it.
“Right, I’m sure I did.” He shifts his attention away from me and back to Norman. “As I was saying, you made the right decision, Mr. Whitman. Westerlyn will be well looked after. Congratulations, again.”
Now I’m annoyed for a different reason.
He ditches me last night, then acts indifferent this morning as he casts me aside. What a monster! He’s being so stiff and formal. Granted, the grouchiness from yesterday wasn’t exactly icing on the cake, but I’d prefer that to whatever this version of him is.
Swallowing my rage and reminding myself to remain positive, I take a deep breath and cross one leg over the other. In no way am I showing him how much he affects me.
Does he still have my panties?
Norman sits next to me, his body somewhat tense now that he’s realized Sean Blackwood and I have some kind of history.
“I don’t doubt that you have Westerlyn’s best interest at heart,” Norman says to him, trying to forge ahead through the awkwardness. “I want to thank you again for your help throughout this process.” Turning to me he adds, “Mr. Blackwood and his team have a remarkable history of success. I’m confident that their goals align with ours, and I’m leaving you in good hands.”
Good hands.
I know just how good those hands really are.
Sean addresses me, saying, “Rest assured, Ms. Summers, your efforts are recognized. I know we can take Westerlyn Hotels to the next level.”
Despite the predicament we find ourselves in, his words are reassuring, and I take a deep breath. I have to think of the hotel chain and my staff and let go of my anger. It’s easy enough to do as I’ve never been one to hold a grudge. I also don’t want to make this transition more difficult than it’s going to be. Norman deserves to retire without worry. Not to mention, the sale is final, and there’s no magical “undo” button in sight.
“That sounds nice,” I say, keeping my tone light. “I appreciate the sentiment. But I do have a lot of questions about what this transition is going to entail and what our partnership is going to look like.”
“I’m sure you do. As do I.” Sean directs his attention to Norman. “I think we have it all covered here,” he says. “Thank you for facilitating the introduction. Is there anything else we can do for you?”
Norman blinks.
Wait. Did he just dismiss Norman?
He totally did. He sure wastes no time taking charge. The ink isn’t even dry on the contract yet!
“Oh, right,” Norman says, flabbergasted, and stands. “Right. I think that’s all. Sarah will get you the folders you requested.” He glances from him to me, and his smile makes a return. “Jess, I know this is going to be a big change…”
“Norman, I’ll be fine,” I assure him, rising to my feet. “I’m so happy for you, and I’m going to miss you.”
“I’m going to miss you too, kid.” He pats my shoulder. “I’ll go wrap a couple of things up, and then I’m out of here.”
“Enjoy your retirement, Mr. Whitman,” Sean says. There isn’t a smile on his face.
I watch Norman walk out of the room, and when the door falls closed behind him, I find myself unable to keep from getting emotional.
