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“You don’t have to do everything yourself.”
“I know. I’ve got you.” I hugged Kylie, and we made our way to the kitchen, where Alice had a sandwich waiting for me. I ate, the food tasting like dust in my mouth, and drank the cold iced tea I’d made, thinking B&Bs always needed to have lemonade and tea on hand. Did guests expect afternoon pastries and dinner too? What kind of breakfast should I make?
Then I reminded myself I’d handle the ribbon-cutting ceremony first. There was no need to think beyond that. As long as I kept the to-do list out of my mind, I was able to slightly relax.
We went outside to make sure everything was set up as people started arriving. I talked with a couple of reporters and posed for pictures before the official ceremony. A small crowd gathered to watch. When it was time for me to cut the ribbon, Delaney stood next to me, but I felt very alone in front of my dream house.
Right before I closed the blades of the large scissors, I caught Mac in the crowd. I wished he was the one comforting me this morning, but he had work to do, and this was my thing. I wondered if he would have come earlier if I’d asked him, but it was too late. I cut the ribbon, the crowd cheering afterward, and led everyone inside to view the finished B&B.
My heart thumped in my chest as I acted as a guide, showing them each guest room and connected bathroom. It was scary letting everyone in. This project was personal to me. I did it because I wanted something that was mine after the divorce, but it became so much more—a way to prove to everyone I was strong and independent. That I could handle being on my own. But as I smiled and shook hands, answering questions about capacity and amenities, I felt like I was going to crack.
What was I thinking that I could do everything myself? When everyone had toured the inside, they wandered outside to enjoy the backyard space. Sam had done an amazing job but wasn’t here today to hear everyone’s comments.
I’d need to tell him that it was everyone’s favorite spot in the house with the outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, two firepits, and private areas in the yard.
Eventually, people trickled out, promising to return for the celebration tonight. I still needed to hang the twinkly lights in the backyard, pick up more fresh flowers to brighten the space, and ensure the caterer was here on time.
“I think hosting a party was too ambitious,” I said to Kylie and Alice once the ribbon-cutting guests left.
Kylie grasped her hands together. “Trust me, you’re creating the perfect buzz. You’re satisfying the locals’ curiosity, and when someone asks them for a recommendation, they’ll be able to say your B&B without hesitation.”
“I hope you’re right.” My fingers trembled as I accepted the glass of iced tea Alice handed me before setting another plate of sandwiches and cookies in front of me.
“I have to say, Sam went above and beyond what he’d initially promised with the backyard. I love how he created multiple secluded areas for guests to congregate or even private alcoves for couples.”
There was the main social area, where we were seated, but he’d worked with the landscapers to create several other smaller social areas for those who wanted a private space. “I’m so grateful.”
Sam had done it for free, but I’d already given him credit on the website and intended to recommend him to anyone who asked. Not only was the quality top-notch, but he was also a dream to work with. He was passionate about his work and eager to create inviting spaces.
Alice poured each of us a glass of champagne. “To the success of your B&B, my store, and more importantly, our friendship.”
We clinked glasses and said cheers, and I limited myself to one sip. The last thing I needed was to feel tipsy on top of everything else.
The doorbell rang, and Alice jumped up. “That’s Elle and Piper. They wanted to see the place.”
Piper was the one who’d created my logo and website. I’d never met her in person, but we’d done several video calls in an effort to narrow down my style and the feel I wanted for my branding.
Alice greeted them at the door and led them outside to the patio.
I hugged Piper. “It’s so nice to finally meet you in person.”
“This place is gorgeous,” Piper said when I let her go.
I held my hands out. “This is Sam’s doing.”
“He’s amazing. I’ll need to hire him to work on the new house we’re building,” Piper said.
Alice told me she was married to a professional baseball player and traveled with him when he went to games.
Kylie came out with a charcuterie board of fruit, meat slices, cheese, and crackers. “I let the caterers in. I’d asked them to prepare a few of these for us. It’s important for us to eat today.”
I stood. “Do they need my help?”
Kylie held up a hand to stop me. “They’re setting up in the kitchen. Relax.”
I sat on the couch and popped a grape into my mouth. I’d already learned my lesson from this morning. I knew I needed to eat to make it through this day.
“The pictures didn’t do this place justice,” Elle said.
