Page 16 of Valentines In The Presidential Suite

Isabel spread the books on the kitchen bar. “First of all, considering your budget, the most important changes will be painting the walls of the house. The wooden trim is in excellent condition, which gives us a little more money to play with in other ways.”

She laid out paint samples for them to look at, then placed a printed floor plan of the house beside them.

“Morgan suggested that I stick to warmer colors,” said Isabel, “so I’ve suggested this cream color for the walls of the open areas downstairs, so it ties the rooms together and gives an open feeling to the space.”

Brad looked at Morgan, then turned to Isabel. “I like that idea.”

“For the master suite, I’ve suggested a warm, light gray for the walls. A good neutral color that isn’t too cold. That paint can also be used in the den, and even the laundry room.”

“Unless you want a sunny yellow for the laundry room for something different,” said Morgan, and then clamped a hand to her mouth. “Sorry.”

“No, no,” said Isabel. “That would make the room cheerier.”

Brad nodded but said nothing.

“Upstairs, the guest rooms can have a little more color compatible with the stained-glass windows,” said Isabel. “I’ve suggested a Purple Basil and Quietude for the two guest rooms. The Purple Basil is a dusty violet with mauve undertones. The Quietude is a gray-green that’s suitable for the house.”

“What do you think?” Brad asked Morgan.

“I love them both,” she said.

“Next, I suggest the Jack-and-Jill bathroom be a dark gray that will work with both of the bedrooms,” said Isabel.

“I’m happy with everything so far. How about the furnishings downstairs?” asked Brad. “I think the den is fine the way it is, but the living room needs help, along with the rest of the main floor downstairs.”

“And the master suite,” Isabel suggested. “Those are the spaces you’ll be using most of the time.”

Brad quietly agreed.

Isabel began by showing them carpet choices for the master suite and den. “You have gorgeous rugs for the living room and dining areas, so we don’t need to be concerned with those floor spaces.”

In a short amount of time, Brad chose the carpeting.

“And now to the furniture for the living room,” said Isabel.

Here, too, Isabel showed them attractive options that complemented the house’s style.

Morgan remained quiet unless Brad asked her opinion, but she silently agreed on most selections.

“How long is it going to take to get the furniture?” asked Brad.

Isabel smiled at him. “I have a few contacts at stores in the area. All of the furniture, except the coffee table, is available now. The coffee table is worth waiting for, in my opinion. With its distinctive handmade tile top surface, it suits the rest of the furniture and could be considered a work of art.”

Brad turned to Morgan.

“I agree,” she said, gazing at the photo Isobel showed them.

“Okay, thank you, Isabel and Morgan. How about a glass of wine to celebrate?” Brad asked.

“That sounds like the way to sign the contract,” said Isabel, and they all laughed. Isabel was a clever businesswoman.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Sitting on the deck with Isabel and Brad, Morgan relaxed in a chair holding onto Caesar. He’d decided to jump into her lap.

Brad gazed at her with a look of amusement. “Caesar is usually a bit standoffish, but he’s really taken to you.”

“We’ve snuggled before, waiting for Isabel,” Morgan said. “I think he’s cute.”