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“I mean, your speech about families and the restored glory of the Legendary should have been backed by an orchestra.” His laugh relaxes me.
“They were scheduled to march behind us on the golf course.” I return the laugh and a relaxed smile races across his face. “I can get them back if that’ll close the deal.”
He raises a hand to the screen. “Listen, I’ve dealt with a lot of investors and businesspeople in my time. A lot of them knowing what you’ve found out about the operations of the hall wouldn’t have been as generous with the offer.”
“Regardless of the operations sir, the respect and effort you put in here is worth a ton. The Legendary brand may be tarnished but it’s still golden in Arizona.” I realize that as much as I dislike his son, Mr. Franklin is a nice man. He isn’t the first businessman to turn over a business to a clueless offspring.
“And you aren’t the only one who’s done their homework. I’ve looked into you and your family Hunter.”
I nod and remain relaxed. Another move fully expected.
“I’ve researched and have spoken to former owners that have sold to your family. They all speak glowingly of the process. Of the respect your family has shown and continue to show long after a deal is done. How your family retains staff in good standing. It’s an impressive reputation you are building and one that did ease my mind.”
I pick up on the cadence of his speech, the pitch of his voice. There is a but coming.
“Your offer is fair. Beyond fair given the circumstances. One I probably would have taken up until an hour ago.”
“An hour ago?” I repeat, attempting to connect unseen dots.
“As a businessman you’d have to understand that I must explore all options.”
“Of course.” But I also know there aren’t any other viable options. I’ve monitored the social media posts of all our competitors that might have an interest in a property like the Legendary and they are all silent. Melody’s assistant has made inquiries at the bank and have confirmed that the Legendary isn’t seeking an increase in any lines of credit. Mr. Franklin is no longer providing a safety net for Frankie Junior to fail. And I doubt he’s going to step out of retirement and return to what will be years of hard work to restore the family name himself.
The corners of his eyes tighten as he attempts to read my face. I force it back to steel. “I’m not the type to bluff Hunter, it's a real opportunity. I wouldn’t play that game. Much like your offer it came out of nowhere.”
With each statement I try to read the clues.
“I won’t string you along. This opportunity should resolve itself rather quickly.” His shoulders relax and the smile returns to his face. Whatever this is, it is not only real, but it brings Mr. Franklin joy just thinking about the possibilities.
I lean back in my chair, my dad’s voice in my ear yet again. Silence and observation two underappreciated tools in business. Once they start talking, he always said, let them. They will reveal secrets that may take you months to uncover.
“If I’m being completely honest, it’s something I’ve always wanted. Do you know what I mean? Do you ever look back at a pivotal decision you once made and play a game of what if? What if you didn’t make the logical choice but the right one? The one your gut told you to take but weren’t brave enough to do? It’s always been there, lingering in the back of my mind – what if.” His gaze rises above the monitor toward what I assume is his ceiling. “Let me stop, I’m starting to sound like Captain Ahab talking about the one that got away. Besides, this could turn out to be nothing.”
My head begins to spin. His clues not making sense to me. What is clear is that there is another player in the game. One I didn’t see coming. One that has the potential to take away everything I’ve worked hard for. What did I miss?
