Total pages in book: 113
Estimated words: 106298 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 531(@200wpm)___ 425(@250wpm)___ 354(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 106298 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 531(@200wpm)___ 425(@250wpm)___ 354(@300wpm)
As for settling in as a solid plan, I’m not seeing a place for me in the Pass. I own 10 percent of the ranch, but now I’m a guest on the land.
I got the impression from Lauralee that she was making the apartment her own, so finding it listed and ready for reservations is a temporary solution for my next visit. But it’s not a viable long-term plan. Or maybe it is. Fuck. I don’t know what I want anymore. “Not ready to leave New York,” I reply just to end this uncomfortable conversation.
Mark walks ahead with the other attorney as they discuss the final details and filings. I follow, stuck in my own mind. As the official owner of that strip, I can get with Lauralee and the other tenant to see what we think the town needs and what would be a good fit in the other three vacant spots. This isn’t about me. It’s about bringing money into the Pass’s economy.
The county was named after my family, but this doesn’t feel like an obligation or a burden on my shoulders to save the town. It feels like an opportunity. I can’t wait to share the news with Lauralee and my family. Even though I’m not sure where we stand on things, I know Lauralee will be thrilled that the ownership will be local. Well, I’m in Manhattan, but yeah, no need to complicate this.
Outside the building, the other attorney leaves, but Mark says, “Congratulations. You own a sizable portion of Peachtree Pass.” He grins. “It’s not every day someone can say they bought a town. And he’s not wrong about it being noble. A lot of towns are left to wither as the population ages. I’m sure your family is proud.”
A driver slams on the car horn, drawing our attention. When I turn back, I confess, “No one knows. This isn’t about getting any glory. I’m handing it off to be managed by a leasing company out of Austin. I’ll have some say when they get offers, but I’m not looking to run it day-to-day. I just want to be a part of reviving it.” Cocking my eyebrow, I laugh. “Any interest in running a pizzeria in the Texas Hill Country?”
He chuckles. “My born-and-raised Manhattan wife isn’t looking to move to the country. But I’ll keep it in mind.”
“You do that,” I continue teasing as we shake hands. When we part ways, my phone vibrates in my pocket. I pull it out to read while heading to the corner to catch a cab. My feet stop as soon as I see it. “Holy shit. Mickey was right.” I grin so fucking big seeing the Westcott Enterprises stock take off.
I throw my arm up and hop in the first cab that stops, give them the address, and sit back. What a fucking day. I spent a million on a real estate deal after a tense negotiation, but just made back double on the market.
Back at the office, I call Mickey in. “You’re not gloating, are you?” I ask when he comes in and closes the door with a grin so big, he might crack his cheeks wide open.
“Might be.”
I stand and hold out my hand. When he shakes, I say, “You made me a lot of money today.”
“You bought the stock?”
“Of course, on good advice. I hope you scored a win.”
He nods, sitting on the other side of the desk. “I made more money today than my dad made in a year when I was growing up on Staten Island.”
“I love a success story. Congratulations.” I start typing a reply to an email, but stop to add, “I submitted it in the stocks to watch to Taylor and Goodman. I listed you as the adviser.”
He leans forward like we might be overheard even though my door is shut. “I’m not an adviser, though.”
“Not yet, but you have talent and deserve the recognition.” I angle to face him. “This is how you move up. It only takes one surefire hit, and you’ll have your own office soon.”
“Thanks. I appreciate you putting it in the ledger.”
“You’re welcome. Now go find your next rec.” I turn back to the email I’ve started.
“For you or for the company?”
I chuckle. “Both. I’m always up for making money.”
“It does have a good taste to it.” He stands to leave. “You still leaving tomorrow for Texas?”
“I am. I’ll be back on Monday before noon.” Just as Bob requested.
“Well, you’re booked for the flight, and a short-term rental will be ready. Let me know if you need anything else.”
“Thanks, especially for making me money.”
He laughs as he leaves. “Anytime.”
I finish the day, wrapping up work here so I can get home and start packing. Tucking my phone in my pocket, I tap the last key to shut down my computer before walking around and turning off the TV screens. Although I can’t escape checking in regularly while I’m traveling, I’m more than happy to leave the markets behind for today.