The CEO's Contractual Wife (Olivia and Ryan) novel Chapter 151

Chapter 151

Chapter 151

Olivia

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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.”

I flipped to the next board. “Your restaurant is exceptional, but hidden away. Creating a more visible connection to the lobby and updating the entrance could increase food and beverage revenue without changing your menu or service style.”

For the next hour, Dylan and 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 genuine interest rather than skepticism.

“Well,” he said finally, setting aside the portfolio, “you’ve certainly done your homework. More than the others did.”

“We’ve only just begun,” I assured him. “Today’s visit is about seeing the property firsthand and understanding how guests move through the space.”

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Chapter 151

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Thompson nodded, standing up. “Then let’s give you the full tour. I want you to see every aspect of what. makes a Thompson hotel special.”

For the next two hours, we explored the property from the grand ballroom to the rooftop pool, with Thompson providing commentary on the history and significance of each space. His pride in the family legacy was evident in every anecdote and explanation.

As we walked through the spa, which maintained the hotel’s traditional luxury while incorporating modern wellness trends, I saw an opportunity.

“This is exactly the balance we’re aiming for throughout the property,” I said, gesturing to the space around us. “Traditional elegance with contemporary relevance. You’ve already achieved it here.”

Thompson looked pleased. “The spa was my project three years ago. The family board thought I was crazy to invest so much in updating it.”

“And now?”

“It’s our most profitable square footage,” he admitted with a small smile. “Booked solid six months in advance.”

“That’s the approach we want to take with the entire rebrand,” I explained. “Not dismantling what works, but identifying opportunities to enhance and highlight it for today’s market.”

By the time we returned to the lobby, Thompson’s demeanor had transformed from skeptical to cautiously optimistic.

“You’ve given me a lot to think about, Mrs. Carter,” he said, extending his hand. “More than I expected, honestly.”

“That’s what we do at Carter Enterprises,” I replied, shaking his hand firmly. “Exceed expectations.”

“I look forward to seeing your formal presentation next week,” he said. “And I appreciate that you took the time to understand what makes us different. That hasn’t been my experience with other agencies.”

As Dylan and I walked back to our waiting car, I felt a surge of satisfaction. The visit had gone better than I’d dared hope.

“That was incredible,” Dylan said once we were settled in the back seat. “The way you handled him? Pure genius.”

I laughed, relaxing against the leather seat. “I wouldn’t go that far. But I think we made progress.”

“Progress? He practically ate out of your hand by the end! And did you see his face when you pointed out how the spa model could work for other areas? I thought he might propose on the spot.”

“Dylan!” I shook my head, amused by his enthusiasm. “He’s just a client who finally felt heard.”

“A client who rejected three marketing firms before us,” Dylan reminded me. “This is a big win, Mrs. Carter. You should be proud.”

I allowed myself a small smile. “Let’s not celebrate yet. We still have to deliver a concept that his entire board

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Chapter 151

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