The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 151

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A server approached with a tray of coffee and pastries, momentarily pausing our conversation. I used the interruption to gather my thoughts, acutely aware that this initial meeting could set the tone for the entire project.

“Tell me, Mrs. Carter,” Thompson said after taking a sip of his coffee, “what do you see when you look at this hotel?”

It was a test question, carefully designed to reveal whether I understood the value of his family’s legacy or was just another marketer looking to modernize for modernization’s sake.

“I see a hotel that understands what true luxury means,” I answered honestly. “Attention to detail, exceptional service, and an atmosphere that makes guests feel like they’re part of something special. These aren’t qualities that need to change.”

His expression remained impassive. “And what would you change?”

“I’d update how you communicate those qualities,” I said, accepting a cup of coffee from the server. “Your digital presence doesn’t reflect the experience of actually being here. Your social media strategy is reactive rather than proactive. And your public spaces, while beautiful, aren’t optimized for how today’s guests want to use them.”

Dylan quietly slid a folder toward me, and I opened it to reveal Ava’s preliminary concept boards.

“For instance,” I continued, showing Thompson the first board, “your lobby is gorgeous but designed primarily as a transition space. Modern luxury travelers view hotel public spaces as extensions of their stay; places to work, socialize, and create memories.”

Thompson studied the concept board, and his expression was thoughtful. “You want to redesign our lobby?”

“Not redesign, reimagine how it’s used,” I clarified. “Small adjustments will create Instagram–worthy moments while maintaining the classic Thompson aesthetic. These are areas where guests naturally want to linger and share their experience.”

more visible connection to the lobby and updating the entrance could increase food and beverage revenue without

I walked Thompson through our preliminary concepts, emphasizing how each suggestion enhanced rather than replaced the Thompson experience. Gradually, his rigid posture relaxed, and he began asking questions that suggested

portfolio, “you’ve

just begun,” I assured him. “Today’s visit is about seeing

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standing up. “Then let’s give you the full tour. I want you to see every aspect of

rooftop pool, with Thompson providing commentary on the history and significance

traditional luxury while incorporating modern wellness trends, I saw an

throughout the property,” I said, gesturing to the space around us. “Traditional elegance with

spa was my project three years ago. The family board thought I was crazy to invest so much in updating

“And now?”

our most profitable square footage,” he admitted with a small smile. “Booked solid six

explained. “Not dismantling what

Thompson’s demeanor had

Mrs. Carter,” he said, extending his hand.

we do at Carter Enterprises,” I

week,” he said. “And I appreciate that you took the

waiting car, I felt a surge

in the back seat. “The

the leather seat. “I wouldn’t

his face when you pointed out how the

his enthusiasm.