"Seriously, stop teasing and move your asses now!" Medina was still mad and reminded the couple, making them flinch. "We've got two hours left before 11."
"Wifey, now I understand what you meant before about Medina's temper," Vincencio whispered as they walked upstairs.
"Now you're bearing it with me, so be ready," Skylar whispered back, and they hurried since Medina's foul mood wasn't done yet.
The ride was soundless, yet the couple's ears felt jarred by the firm and temperamental lectures from Medina. Skylar's cold and unreadable expression and the apologetic smile from Vincencio seemed to crack, putting them in a daze until they arrived at the venue.
"We have arrived," Joey informed them, trying to hide his amusement as he slowed driving and parked their car.
JohnSling Beach Resort was once known as Aquatica Sterling Resort. Before, the resort was vibrant, filled with different atmosphere created by visitors enjoying their vacation. The well-maintained exterior and landscaping once radiated the joy of the resort's guests; however, the scenery seemed dead, which upset Skylar upon their arrival.
"It changed a lot," Skylar commented sadly, making Vincencio squeeze her hand with assurance.
"And we're here to help him—them," Vincencio assured his wife confidently, and Skylar agreed before he opened the door for his wife.
Stepping out of the car, Skylar remained emotionless, but deep inside she felt sad because the resort she knew and loved looked like a desert yet was still standing. Although the signage looked great and new, the faded paint, some plastered cracks on the wall, and forgotten landscaping were the first downsides that the couple took note of rehabilitating.
"Wifey, tell me what this resort was like before it turned out like this because, from what I could see, it won't reach even a one-star rating. " Vincencio leaned closer and whispered directly to his wife as they checked the front vibe of the resort. It felt empty, although customers still came and went in the resort.
"The exterior screamed the warmness of a home; it's welcoming. The sound of the waves and the freshness from the sea in the air speak of how relaxing this place was. Even a live ballad band performed in the lobby, playing upbeat country songs, making the resort lively and serene." Skylar responded through the experience before sighing. "Aside from nature, there's nothing here anymore."
"Then let's take note of everything we see around here." He responded with a determination that Skylar admired, making her kiss his cheek.
"That's why we're here," she agreed.
They were about to leave the parking lot when Skylar had an idea when she saw a family who walked out from the resort with their luggage, heading to the car next to theirs. She lowered her intimidating facade and approached the family for a reason.
"Ahm, excuse me, Miss, can I ask something regarding this resort's accommodation?" Skylar politely asked the stranger, who agreed, making her proceed. "I'm wondering if their service was the same since my husband and I were skeptical about how the resort looked from here. Would you like to share your experience here?"
"I understand what you mean. It may not be pleasing from here, but the resort still had its spark. Their services and accommodations were still on top, but some parts needed improvements, although you can still enjoy your stay here." The lady stranger answered honestly, not even guessing that Skylar was rich due to her comfy cream blouse, black straight slacks, and half-inch heels.
"That's great, but can I know about the portions you mentioned?" With a friendly manner, she asked one more time, making the stranger nod.
"In my opinion, since I have kids, the kiddie pool loses its fun touch. Some private cottages near the beach weren't secure if we stayed overnight, and it's not ideal for a family like ours." The lady stranger stepped closer and lowered her tone as she shared her insight about the resort.
"I see, but are you still willing to come back here?" she nodded and wondered politely.
"I will if they manage to update those parts. And the food is still five stars for me and my family; they need a few new menus to add." The lady stranger answered, grinning, while her five-year-old and ten-year-old kids started shaking her arms.
"I see, thank you for sharing your input." Skylar politely ended their conversation and let them leave before sighing.
"That's something," Vincencio commented in consideration.
"I know. I hope Gregory heard that before I mention it through this meeting." Skylar agreed with her husband as they walked closer to the resort. On cue, the owner of the JohnSling Beach Resort appeared and personally welcomed them.
"I'm glad you two made it. Welcome to JohnSling Beach Resort, right this way, please." Gregory greeted them politely and led the way before adding, "There are so many things I wanted to show and discuss with you."
"We have time for that while touring," Skylar responded coldly, looking around.
"And your wife? I thought she'd be with you today," Vincencio interjected curiously.
"I'm sorry, she'll be running late since she's with her friends." Gregory's glow dimmed a little, but his smile didn't falter.
"Liar." Softly and annoyed, Skylar whispered, but Vincencio heard it.
"Wifey, be tame," Vincencio whispered back as he kissed her knuckle before turning to Gregory, smiling. "Okay, let's start here, Gregory."
They stopped by the entrance and roamed a little, making Gregory nervous. The couple carefully checked everything, including everyone's safety, but what made Gregory agitated was the couple's silence.
"Mr. Sterling, your exterior needed a fresh look that goes along with your resort's theme and signage. And remember, the entrance and parking space are the first things your customers will see. You need to please them, starting there," Skylar stated firmly, making Gregory nod before asking. "Have you checked everything around here before we came here?"
"Yes, and I'm asking for your help," Gregory answered hopefully, making Skylar nod.
"Then what do you want your customers to see out here?" Skylar asked directly, making Gregory look at the entrance of his resort.
Gregory was honestly upset seeing the faded color palette around, plants weren't being treated well, and the entrance door felt old and looked like it was falling apart and not vintage. It was different from the fresh signage that everyone could see.
"I want something fresh. New, inviting, warm, and soothing. I want to restore its former glory, but alone, I can't do it." Gregory sighed dejectedly, making Skylar roll her eyes, annoyed, but Vincencio was different. He wanted to drill him for his sake.
"Gregory, be specific about what you want. You're the boss of your resort. Tell us, what help do you want from us?" Vincencio wondered in concern as he patted his shoulder in a friendly manner.
"Like I said, something fresh, new, inviting, warm, and soothing," Gregory repeated his answer but more firmly and determinedly, which the couple loved to hear.
"Good. I like that tone." Vincencio chuckled, leaving Gregory confused until Vincencio commanded Skylar's secretary. "Medina, take note of these: new fresh paint, new high windows for natural light, repairing vintage doors, and updating the roof, ceiling, parking, and landscaping."
"Let's go inside," Skylar said coldly as she entwined her hands with Vincencio and entered the resort with Gregory's lead.
***
Inside the resort, everything was the same. The serene beauty of the Greek islands combined with the tropical charm of the Caribbean created a welcoming atmosphere. The fresh whitewash and blue colors matched the relaxing traditional Greek terrace, which showcased local Caribbean arts and crafts. The surroundings pleased the couple. Gregory continued the tour, highlighting the resort's amenities, package deals for guests, and beach activities they could enjoy while exploring the Mediterranean-style gardens.
"So, what do you think about the resort?" Gregory asked the couple after they completed the tour, which took them the whole morning, making their lunch run late.
"So far, I'm impressed. You kept the resort's interior vibe and amenities well-maintained. The only concerns I could see were your exterior, landscaping, parking space, upgrading the kids' side, beach cottages, new menu to offer, and lastly, employees and security." Vincencio gave the honest feedback that Gregory needed for his resort.
"That's a lot more than I expected." Gregory reacted with a defeated sigh, making Skylar narrow her eyes and stop eating.
"Have you ever talked to your employees about anything around here or surveyed the resort's performance?" Skylar asked curiously. Gregory looked disappointed.
"I just got the full inheritance a couple of months ago," Gregory responded softly, making Skylar sigh, which made Vincencio and Medina ready for the cold winter storm coming to Gregory.
"I know, but you shouldn't neglect those people who help this resort keep standing. You need to talk to them, and as a boss, you need to know how things work around the resort or how your customers are," Skylar said sternly cold, making Gregory flinch but listen attentively before she continued. "It's not bad to ask for their thoughts or ideas for the sake of the resort's improvements and career. Do you want this resort to run long?"
"Of course, I do," Gregory responded with conviction.
"Then, be a considerate boss. Observe, listen, and communicate before you change things or seek help if unsure. There's nothing wrong with being slow and patient; everything has its right time to shine. Just take your time polishing and exploring your resort's identity. Are we clear on that?" Skylar said firmly and coldly, making him flinch again.
"Yes, I understand," Gregory agreed while nodding.
"Good, my husband will help you throughout your resort's improvements. But before we can proceed with doing anything, we need to come to a settlement today and, in a week, prepare an overall resort budget; then after, we'll be having a meeting. Are you okay with that?" Skylar decided firmly while reading Gregory's nervous expression.
"Yes, I'll be around here," Gregory answered, making Skylar nod when her eyes found someone familiar.
"Okay, as a piece of advice, if you truly love this resort and desire to restore its glory, be hands-on as much as you can. Take one step at a time and let your resort shine at the right time. Do you understand?" Skylar gave him cold sincere advice, which encouraged Gregory.
"Yes, I will do it," Gregory replied with conviction and determination to make it work. He loved his family resort as he grew up around it.
"Good, then excuse me, I'll walk some more, but feel free to settle this without me." Skylar excused herself since she had a desire to check something.
"Want me to come with you?" Vincencio asked carefully, making Skylar smile while shaking her head.
"No, you can discuss more since you'll be working on this project, Hubby." Skylar leaned and said sweetly before kissing his lips. "See you around, and don't worry, Medina will stay with you."
"I thought we were going on a date." He whined teasingly when he sensed a familiar presence across the resort restaurant's cashier.
"Maybe later." She winked as she chuckled while walking away from their table, not realizing there was a woman who watched her amusingly.
***
Skylar roamed around the resort, checking and tracking carefully a prey; however, he wasn't alone. She blended and glided smoothly like a customer enjoying the resort's accommodations. But she was eavesdropping.
"Are you sure it's alright to meet here? How about your husband?"
"It's fine. He's in the meeting. Also, this is important too."
"So, want to bed me later?"
"Maybe."
"This bitch," Skylar thought as she narrowed her eyes beneath her dark eyeglasses, watching the waves from the shore.
"I'm unsure about this, Monica."
"Don't be a pussy. It's the SR Federation, and they were willing to help, like how they help me."
"Okay, we'll call later when we're going."
"Great. See you later, babe."
Skylar looked at the retreating back of the married woman, feeling familiar, and a betrayal suddenly flashed in her mind. Anger and disappointment overlapped inside, making her desire to slap the woman, but she didn't; instead, she listened to the boys' conversation again.
"I'm unsure about this SR Federation. They weren't the stupid gang that we made a deal with."
"I know, but they were powerful enough to protect us, and besides, Monica has been using their help for her oblivious husband lately."
"SR Federation? Sounds familiar," Skylar thought until she heard something intriguing about the woman.
"Honestly, I am surprised that he's not doubting her despite the cheating she's doing behind his back."
"She's a good fuck."
"Tone it down, we're still here."
"Who cares? Their marriage is already in jeopardy."
"But Dude, I pity her. She's empty. No light. No feelings and her eyes were like mirrors of ours—our dark deeds."
"I know what you meant there. It's creepy."
"And being empty is more dangerous than rage."
"Hm, that's an interesting change," Skylar thought amusingly.