Celeste regretted her decision the moment she stepped onto the site of Adrian's latest project.
The old Fairmont Theater stood before her, its grand façade weathered but still regal beneath decades of grime.
Ornate carvings lined its archways, and the remnants of its once-golden marquee flickered weakly in the late afternoon light.
It was a relic, a piece of Port Bellingham's soul—and Adrian wanted to strip it down to its bones.
"Surprised?" His voice came from behind her, smooth and maddeningly smug.
She turned, her coat whipping around her in the cold wind. "I'm shocked you haven't bulldozed it already."
Adrian sighed, stuffing his hands into his pockets as he surveyed the building. "I know you think I'm some heartless corporate villain, but I actually like this place."
Celeste scoffed. "Oh, please."
"I'm serious," he said, his tone shifting. "That's why I don't want to tear it down. I want to reimagine it. A luxury hotel that keeps its historic elements intact—modernized where necessary, but respectful of its past."
She folded her arms, suspicious. "And you expect me to believe that?"
"I expect you to help me."
Celeste stared at him, certain she'd misheard. "Excuse me?"
Adrian smirked, stepping closer. "I need a preservationist on the project. Someone with credibility, who can make sure the town doesn't riot over every change I make. Someone who actually cares."
She should have said no. Should have turned on her heel and walked away.
But the Fairmont was special to her. She had spent childhood afternoons watching old films there with her grandmother, falling in love with the velvet seats and flickering chandeliers.
If she walked away, someone less careful might take her place—someone who wouldn't fight to keep its character alive.
Celeste inhaled sharply. "I don't trust you."
Adrian grinned. "Good. Keeps things interesting."
She rolled her eyes, already regretting what she was about to say. "Fine. But if I catch you cutting corners or ruining this place's history, I will make your life hell."
Adrian held out his hand, amused. "Looking forward to it."
Celeste hesitated before taking it, ignoring the way her pulse jumped at the warmth of his grip.
A deal with the devil.
God help her.