17. TROY

Chapter seventeen

TROY

I’ve been back in Seaside Cove for a few days now, and for the first time since I stepped foot in this small town, I feel a flicker of something I haven’t allowed myself to feel before—contentment.

It’s been a week since the board meeting where I managed to convince everyone to support my plan.

I still can’t believe they came around, but the thrill of that victory is quickly fading, replaced by the nagging question of how to execute this plan perfectly.

Despite my grumpiness towards small towns—where everything feels too slow, and everyone knows your business—there’s something about Seaside Cove that has drawn me in.

Maybe it’s the ocean breeze that carries a hint of salt and freedom, or maybe it’s the way the sun casts a golden glow over the quaint buildings.

I should be irritated by the endless chatter of the townsfolk, but there’s a charm I can’t quite deny.

It makes my skin itch, but at the same time, it makes me feel… alive.

As I walk through the main street, I spot the food truck - the very one that turned our first meeting into a disaster. It’s parked prominently near the beach, and I grin.

The sound of laughter from a nearby group catches my attention, and I glance over to see families enjoying their time, kids running around, their carefree joy flowing through my veins.

This feels so good.

There’s a warmth in the air today, a reminder that I’m not just here for a corporate takeover. I’m here to make a difference, to protect this town that’s somehow started to mean something to me.

It’s odd, really.

A place that once felt like a trap is now starting to feel like a home—if only a little.

I make my way toward the beach, the waves crashing gently against the shore. I should feel annoyed, irritated that I’m here when I could be back in New York, ruling my empire. But there’s something about the sound of the ocean that calms my restless spirit.

Am I slowly becoming like Drew?

Then I see her. Skye is standing outside her food truck, laughing with a group of customers, her curls dancing in the breeze.

My heart stutters at the sight.

Why does she have to be so damn captivating?

I watch as she wipes her hands on her apron, her movements confident and assured.

There’s a fire in her that I admire.

I approach, my steps purposeful.

“Troy!” she calls, her eyes lighting up. “What are you doing on my side of town? I thought you’d be cooped up in your room lamenting about how you’re back in small town USA.”

I chuckle. “I’m not finding it in me to complain this time, I do want to be here.”

“Well then come here!” She beckons and I walk over to her.

As we sit down at a nearby picnic table, the salty breeze ruffles our hair. It feels oddly intimate, which sends a bell ringing in the back of my mind.

“Alright, Mr. Handsome CEO,” she says, folding her arms, the sun casting a warm glow over her face. “What exactly are we going to do next?”

I take a deep breath, “We need to rally the community. Show them that we’re in this together. Local support is crucial.”

She tilts her head, considering my words. “And how do you propose we do that? Most people around here don’t trust big business.”

“Exactly,” I reply, the challenge sparking something in me. “We need to demonstrate that I’m not just another suit looking to exploit their town. A town-wide rally could galvanize residents and local businesses, create a sense of unity. We can showcase the culture, the history—what makes Seaside Cove special.”

She raises an eyebrow, intrigued. “You actually think people will come together for that?”

“Why not?” I lean in, the excitement bubbling up as I outline my vision. “We can have food stalls, local artists, music. I’ll fund it all—no strings attached. It’s about showing them we want to preserve their way of life, not take it away.”

Her eyes narrow slightly, and I can tell she’s weighing my words. “What’s in it for you? You do know that throwing money at problems won’t make everything better, right?”

I can feel the defensiveness rising within me, but I push it aside. “No. I just want to create something lasting. Something that shows I’m committed to this town and its people. Besides,” I add, my voice softer, “I want to prove that I can be more than just a corporate suit.”

For a moment, there’s silence between us, the weight of my words hanging in the air. Then, unexpectedly, she smiles—a genuine, radiant smile that makes my heart race. “Okay. I’m in. I hope we don’t screw this up.”

“Trust me, I don’t plan to.”

As we dive into the details, discussing logistics and ideas, I find myself enjoying this strange collaboration.

Skye’s energy is infectious, and I can’t help but admire her fierce dedication to her community.

It’s captivating.

And amidst our brainstorming, I can’t shake the feeling that this isn’t just about saving Seaside Cove anymore. It’s about something deeper, something I can’t quite articulate but know is there, simmering just beneath the surface.

The more we work together, the more I realize that perhaps I’m not just here to help them—I’m here to help myself, to find a piece of me I didn’t know was missing.

And as the sun dips lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over our plans, I know one thing for sure: Skye Martinez is going to be an integral part of whatever comes next.

***

Just a day before the rally, the excitement of our initial brainstorming session is quickly tempered by the reality that not everyone is on board with my plan.

I stride through the crowd, glancing at the flurry of activity around me—posters being hung, tables being set up, and volunteers buzzing with energy.

Yet I can feel the undercurrents of skepticism lurking just beneath the surface.

“Let’s make sure to address the concerns the residents have,” Skye says, her brow furrowed as she flips through a stack of papers.

She looks beautiful, even in her casual outfit—faded jeans and a loose tank top. I can’t help but admire her determination.

“Right,” I reply, trying to keep my tone neutral. “I’ll speak at the rally. I want them to hear my vision directly from me.”

She nods, but her eyes betray a flicker of doubt. “Just remember, Troy, there are some who still see you as the enemy. You must prove that you’re not just here to exploit them.”

I grit my teeth, annoyance creeping in. “I’m not here to exploit anyone. I want to create something beneficial for both the town and my company.”

But deep down, I can’t shake the feeling of being an outsider, an intruder in their tight-knit community.

I know that my wealth and status paint me in a less-than-flattering light, and the thought gnaws at me. “I’ll reassure them,” I add, forcing confidence into my voice. “I’ll share how this partnership can help them thrive. They need to understand that my company can be an ally, not a foe.”

Skye watches me closely, her expression softening slightly. “Just be honest. That’s all they want.”

I appreciate her unwavering belief in me, but the thought of baring my intentions in front of a room full of skeptical townsfolk makes my stomach twist.

I’m usually great in crowds, always on my game. But I’m not necessarily so good with people in vulnerable moments. The corporate world is a battlefield of numbers and strategy; emotions aren’t part of the game. Here, all those numbers are cocooned in the townspeople, people important to Skye … and now to me.

As we finalize our plans, I glance up to see a few unfamiliar faces entering the community center—suits that are far too polished for Seaside Cove.

My instincts kick in, and I can feel the irritation bubbling to the surface.

Who the heck are these? I ask even though I know who they are.

“Hey, Troy,” Skye says, her voice low as she leans in closer. “Those guys don’t look like they’re here to support us.”

I grunt.

It’s people from one of our rival companies, a name I’ve loathed for years.

I can’t let them derail everything we’ve worked to build here. “They must have caught wind of our plans. They’re probably here to sabotage us.”

“Great. Just what we need,” she mutters, her expression tense. “What’s our move?”

I narrow my eyes. “We confront them. We can’t show weakness.”

As I stride over, I can feel Skye’s presence beside me, her energy crackling with resolve. She’s more than just a partner now; she’s my ally in this fight. I stop a few feet away from the rival representatives, their smirks immediately raising my hackles.

“Looks like we’ve got a little party going on,” one of them—their lead negotiator—sneers, crossing his arms over his chest. “What’s this? A rally for a town that’s about to be taken over?”

I narrow my eyes, refusing to back down. “We’re here to ensure Seaside Cove’s future, not to exploit it. You know that’s not what we’re about.”

Eric chuckles, his arrogance infuriating. “Really? Because it looks to me like you’re trying to win over the townsfolk before you pull the rug out from under them.”

I step forward, my voice steady but laced with irritation. “If you think that undermining our efforts is going to make your company look good, you’re sorely mistaken. We’re committed to this town, and I’ll prove it.”

“Good luck with that,” he shoots back, a smug smile on his face. “You’ll need it.”

As I turn away, frustration simmers within me. I’m ready to lash out, but Skye’s presence beside me keeps me grounded. “We can’t let them get to us,” she whispers, her voice low but firm. “We need to show the community that we’re united, no matter what they throw at us.”

She’s right, of course. We have to focus on what we’re building, not on the obstacles in our way. I glance at her, surprised by her unwavering resolve. “You’re not intimidated by them?”

“Intimidated? No,” she replies, a spark in her eyes. “I’m furious. They don’t know what and who they’re up against.”

I can’t help but grin.

As the rally preparations continue, I can see how much this means to Skye. Her passion ignites something within me – a strong desire to protect not just my interests but hers as well. I’m determined to show this town that I’m not just a city-boy billionaire playing at being a hero; I’m someone who genuinely cares.

“Let’s show them what Seaside Cove is really made of,” I say, stepping forward with renewed vigor.

Skye’s smile is radiant, and for the first time, I see a flicker of what can be between us. And I’m a total believer. “Together,” she replies, her eyes shining with determination.

Together. It’s a word I never thought I’d associate with anything, let alone a small town and its fierce, infuriating food truck owner. But here we are, ready to take on the world—and for the first time in a long time, I feel like I might just belong.

***

The energy in Seaside Cove crackles with excitement.

I stand at the edge of the makeshift stage, surveying the crowd gathering in the town square. Bright banners flap in the salty breeze, and the chatter of townsfolk blends into an almost harmonious backdrop.

But beneath that excitement lies uncertainty, and I can feel it tightening in my chest like a noose.

Skye steps into the spotlight, her presence commanding. She radiates passion, and I can’t help but admire how she carries herself—strong, determined, and fierce. She addresses the crowd with an intensity that makes my heart race.

“Today, we stand together against the forces that seek to exploit our community! We are not just a collection of businesses; we are a family!”

The cheers and applause erupt around us, igniting something deep within me. This isn’t just a rally; it’s a declaration of our unity against corporate greed, and I find myself swept up in her fervor.

As she speaks, I glance at the crowd—faces lit with hope, fear, and determination. I feel the weight of responsibility on my shoulders, and I know I must prove my loyalty to them, to Skye, to this town.

But just as momentum builds, the atmosphere shifts. I catch sight of those familiar suits creeping forward from the back of the crowd – yes, the representatives from the rival company.

My blood runs cold as they move like wolves among sheep, their smug expressions turning the excitement into a tension that sets my teeth on edge.

As Skye’s speech crescendos, they begin shouting from the sidelines, trying to drown her out. “This is a joke! You really think you can stand up to real business?” One of them sneers, his voice dripping with condescension.

The crowd murmurs, their enthusiasm waning as confusion spreads. I feel an instinctive anger rising within me.

I step forward, positioning myself beside Skye, my grumpiness turning into a feral protectiveness.

“Enough!” I shout, my voice booming over the chaos. “This isn’t just some playground for you to trample on. Seaside Cove is more than a target for your profit. It’s a community with heart and spirit.”

Their laughter is mocking.

I roll my eyes at their antics.

“Who do you think you are?” I challenge, stepping closer to the rival representatives. “You think you can waltz in here and intimidate us? We’re stronger together than you can ever understand.”

The crowd begins to rally behind us, their voices rising in support, a wall of sound against antagonism. I can see Skye’s confidence grow as she joins me in the confrontation.

“Troy’s right!” she calls out. “This isn’t just about business; it’s about our home! We will not be bullied!”

The rival representatives exchange nervous glances, and I can sense their momentum crumbling.

But just when I think we’ve turned the tide, one of them steps forward, spouting lies and slander, trying to twist our words. “You think he’s here for you? He’s just using you to line his pockets!”

I feel my temper flare, but Skye’s hand on my arm steadies me. “Let them talk,” she murmurs. “We’ll show them our strength through unity.”

Taking a deep breath, I channel my frustration into resolve. “You want to know what I’m really about? I’m here because I see potential in this town. I see a community worth fighting for, not just for profit but for its very soul. I’m committed to preserving everything that makes Seaside Cove special.”

The crowd erupts in applause, and I feel the tide shifting in our favor. Skye beams at me, her expression filled with admiration and pride.

The rival representatives falter and are clearly rattled. They retreat, leaving behind a stunned silence that quickly morphs into cheers.

In the aftermath of the confrontation, I’m left with a sense of accomplishment I hadn’t anticipated. “You did it,” Skye says, her voice soft but charged with energy. “You really stood up for us.”

I shrug, trying to mask the swell of emotion rising in my chest. “I didn’t want them ruining everything we’ve worked for.”

She nods, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. “You’ve shown them who you are, Troy. You’ve proven that you’re not just some corporate big shot.”

As the rally progresses, the atmosphere shifts from uncertainty to overwhelming support. I can feel the community rallying around us, their enthusiasm revitalized. Together, we’re a force to be reckoned with, and I finally start to see my place in all of this.

Later, as the crowd begins to disperse, I linger near the stage, taking a moment to reflect. Skye approaches, her expression warm. “You were incredible out there,” she says, her admiration palpable.

“Thanks,” I reply, my heart racing. “But it’s not just me. We did this together.”

Then, the question comes back to me.

What is it that I want?

I want Seaside Cove. I want its unpretentious energy.

I want... Skye.

The realization hits me like one of those turbulent plane landings that brought me to her.

I'm staying here. Permanently.

I can hear Drew’s voice in my head. " Well, big brother, it looks like you've finally found something worth fighting for."

Worth fighting for. Not just a business strategy. Not just another acquisition.

A home.

A future.

With her.

The city lights blur outside my window, but all I can see is a sun-drenched beach, a vibrant food truck, and a woman who sees right through my carefully constructed facade.

Seaside Cove is calling. And for the first time in my life, I'm ready to answer.