As they work together to tackle each room of the mansion, Nina shares with Maxine the finer points of housekeeping, from dusting delicate ornaments to polishing silverware. Maxine learns how to identify different types of stains and the best methods for removing them, whether it be with a specialized cleaner or a simple homemade solution.
Throughout the lessons, Nina is impressed by Maxine's quick grasp of the techniques and her willingness to ask questions when she is unsure. Despite her initial apprehension, Maxine approaches each task with determination and a willingness to learn, and she has no doubt that she will excel in her new role as a housekeeper at Sunset Haven.
As the day's training session came to an end, Nina offered Maxine a warm smile and a word of encouragement. "You're doing great, Maxine," she says, patting her on the shoulder. "With a little practice, you'll be a master housekeeper in no time. And remember, if you ever need help or have any questions, I'm always here for you."
Maxine was pleased. With each passing moment, her excitement grew. She was ready to immerse herself fully in her new role, to learn from those around her and to do so everyday, until it was time to go. As she headed back to her room for a quick shower, she couldn't help but feel a pang of doubt. "You can't stop me," she said aloud to herself. "Because courage is not the absence of fear, but the choice to continue in spite of what I feel."
This was Maxine's moment to shine, and she was determined to seize it with both hands.
Meet Conrad Bennett, the COO of Sunset Haven Resorts. Conrad is a distinguished gentleman in his late 40s, with salt-and-pepper hair and a charismatic smile that exudes confidence and warmth. His sharp mind and strategic acumen have earned him respect in the hospitality industry, while his genuine concern for his team and the business's success make him a beloved leader among his colleagues.
During his explanation and presentation to Greg, Olivia, Margot, and Maxine, Conrad maintains his composed demeanor, carefully outlining the challenges facing Sunset Haven while offering solutions with a reassuring tone. However, there's a subtle air of secrecy about him, a hint of something hidden beneath his polished exterior that mostly goes unnoticed by those around him.
Unbeknownst to the others, Conrad harbors ulterior motives, driven by personal ambition and a desire for power. He sees Sunset Haven as a stepping stone to greater success and is willing to do whatever it takes to advance his own agenda, even if it means bending the truth or manipulating those around him.
Meanwhile, Conrad's son, James, embodies his father's hidden arrogance and ambition. A brash and cocky young man in his late-20s, James flaunts his father's wealth and status, believing himself to be above the rules that govern others. He sees Maxine Thornton, the daughter of the Thornton family, as nothing more than a spoilt brat, viewing her with a mix of envy and desire.
During the meeting, James subtly flirts with Maxine, his gaze lingering a little too long. Earlier, his compliments had bordered on inappropriate but Maxine remained unfazed by his advances, unimpressed by his arrogance and unwilling to be swayed by his charm.
Conrad's voice brings everyone back to the present as he continued,
"I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss the latest challenges facing us at Sunset Haven Resorts and its connections to the sporadic movement of today's market."
Greg, Olivia, Margot and Maxine listen attentively as he unravels the complexities of the hospitality industry and the external factors that have influenced the business.
"Firstly, we're seeing a shift in consumer preferences towards more personalized and experiential travel. Guests are looking for unique experiences that cater to their individual interests and lifestyles. This means that our traditional approach to hospitality may no longer be sufficient to meet the evolving needs of our guests."
"But that has always been our unique selling point," Greg points out. "In the words of my grandfather Robert Thornton, personalization is the future of luxury hospitality. There is no single definition of luxury; it is highly individual. Therefore, knowing our guests well is essential. New digital technologies should help us achieve more of that, not pull our businesses apart."
Conrad: "I agree with you Sir, but things have so far not gone in our favor."
Olivia furrows her brow, her expression thoughtful. "So, you're saying that we need to adapt our offerings to better align with the preferences of modern travelers?"
"Exactly," Conrad confirms. "We need to invest in innovative experiences and amenities that set us apart from our competitors and appeal to today's discerning travelers. This could include everything from curated culinary experiences to wellness programs and eco-friendly initiatives. In short, we need more money. The business has not turned a profit in a long time."
Greg shakes his head in disbelief, his expression serious. "And what about the impact of technology on our business? I've heard that online travel agencies and sharing economy platforms are changing the way people book accommodations."
Conrad nods, acknowledging Greg's valid concern. "Yes, technology has certainly disrupted the hospitality industry, making it easier for guests to compare prices and book accommodations online. We need to ensure that we have a strong online presence and user-friendly booking platform to remain competitive in today's digital landscape."
Margot chimes in, her voice filled with concern. "But what about the economic challenges facing our business? With rising costs and fluctuating demand, how can we pump in more money when we are yet to ensure the long-term sustainability of Sunset Haven?"
Conrad takes a moment to address Margot's valid concerns, outlining the strategies for managing costs and maximizing revenue. "We need to focus on operational efficiency and cost-saving measures while also diversifying our revenue streams. This could involve exploring new markets, offering seasonal promotions, and partnering with local businesses to enhance the guest experience."
"Something is not right," Maxine muses. "There is clearly a case of lack of implementation, because if indeed everything discussed here is being carried out faithfully, the businesses won't be tottering like a circus juggler who has lost his balance."
Although she doesn't say what she thinks out loud, her distrust for Conrad Bennet shows in her eyes. As his gaze sweeps across the room, he meets hers and holds it, a secret pact of animosity sealed in seconds. As for James, he seemed bored, swiveling impatiently from side to side as if counting the minutes to when the boring meeting would end.
Finally the meeting ends but not without Margot making a little request:
"Maxine, dear, why don't you take James for a stroll while we adults discuss a few more things?"
Maxine hesitates, "Um, I'm not sure if..."
But Margot insists, "Oh, come on, it'll be lovely! Go enjoy the fresh air together."
Maxine is reluctant but she agrees. "Okay, fine."
As Maxine and James stroll through the manicured gardens of the Thornton family residence, all James talks about is their future together as man and wife.
Mistaking her lack of response for shyness, James smirks, "So, Maxine, what do you say we start by making this stroll a bit more interesting?"
Maxine tenses up and speaks up at last, "I'm not interested, James. Let's just keep walking."
James makes a sudden move to grab Maxine for a kiss, but she deftly sidesteps him, causing him to stumble.
It took all Maxine's effort not to laugh, "Don't ever do that again, James. Where do you think we are, in highschool?"
James rubs his left arm. He had landed hard on it when he fell. "What's your problem, Maxine? Can't you take a joke?"
"I don't find harassment funny." She replied calmly. "And just so you know, I can handle myself just fine."
"Oh, I see." James responds, drawing himself to his full height which isn't very tall. "Little Maxine thinks she's tough now, huh? Just because you know some karate moves?"
But Maxine is steadfast, "It's called judo, James. And yes, I do know how to defend myself. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have better things to do than entertain your childish behavior."
James looks left and sees the gardener's son, Marco, watching them.
He fumes because of the embarrassment, "Whatever, Maxine. You're not worth my time anyway." And with that he stalks off.
After the long visit, as James and his father, Conrad, prepared to leave the Thornton Mansion, the atmosphere was tense, with an undercurrent of silent judgment from the house servants who had all heard about James's failed attempt to kiss Maxine.
Conrad had noticed the subtle shift in the air, even while they were having lunch. His son's discomfort as well as the giggles from the maids told him that something had happened.
Finally, his curiosity getting the better of him, he confronted James.
Conrad: "Out with it James," he said, furrowing his brow "What did you do? Why does it feel like everyone is looking at you strangely?"