Another man agreed. “I always thought he was destined for more than playing at the high school gym.”
“This will raise his profile, too,” Maileah said, her mind whirring. On a whim, she brought out her phone, tapped Adrian’s message, and played what he had shared with her. “This is what he’s working on.”
As everyone listened, smiles bloomed around the room.
“Brilliant idea,” Ryan said, nodding his approval.
Maileah smiled as people sat up with increased attention. She held up a photo of Sailor’s broken boards that she’d printed out.
“I suggest we pair Adrian’s original song with a campaign to collect and auction broken surfboards from famous surfers.These are some of Sailor’s boards damaged at some of the world’s most dangerous, iconic surfing spots. He has agreed to donate a few.”
A murmur swept across the room.
“These surfboards are collectibles with stories and history behind them,” she added. “Think of the buzz and funds such an auction could generate.”
Maileah paused to take a breath and judge reactions. She hoped they would understand what she saw in this idea.
Looking around the room, she noticed several people gesturing in agreement.
Ryan sat with his arms crossed as if mulling over her proposal. A slow smile touched his face. “With a high-concept idea like that, I can put you in touch with the Majestic’s public relations firm for added media traction. A story like this can bring in serious collectors. You’re creating a new market.”
“That’s right. Thank you.” Maileah was relieved Ryan understood her concept.
She continued, talking about how local artists might contribute their time to decorate other boards, too. “Crown Island is known for its thriving art community. This is another way to involve artists.”
A retired physician on the board leaned forward, his eyes bright. “You’ve certainly put a lot of thought into your proposal. I believe it has merit.”
Maileah indicated her appreciation. “There’s more in this overview,” she added, passing out the document she’d created.
Margaret spoke softly to another board member. “Maileah, we need to discuss and vote on your proposal, but we also understand that time is of the essence. Would you mind waiting outside while we talk? I hope we can come to a quick decision.”
“Of course.” Feeling a surge of excitement, Maileah excused herself. “Thank you for this opportunity to present my ideas.”
Maileah stepped into the hallway and closed the door. Shelaced her hands and leaned against a railing overlooking an interior courtyard landscaped with palms and tropical plants. So much had happened in the last few days with Sailor her head was nearly spinning. But now, more than ever, she needed to focus on her work.
She hoped he would understand.
After a few minutes, the door opened, and Margaret gestured to her. “We’re ready for you.”
Maileah returned to her seat in the front row, eager to learn if she would get the position.
“It’s unanimous,” Margaret said. “We’d like to hire you to manage the marketing plan you’ve outlined. We’re sure this will be a win-win for everyone.”
Maileah’s heart soared. After accepting their offer, she thanked Margaret and the other board members. Relief coursed through her, but this was only the beginning. This was her first significant engagement on Crown Island, so it had to be a smashing success.
As the meeting wrapped up and Maileah shook hands with attendees, a sense of accomplishment filled her. Today might be a small win, but it was big for her. This work was pocket change for her former colleagues in Seattle, but she didn’t care. She’d made it happen on her own.
And she could hardly wait to tell Sailor the good news.
Once they left the meeting room, Ella pulled Maileah into a hug. “I’m so proud of you, sweetheart. Your last employer was a fool to let you go.”
Maileah grinned, her mind racing with ideas for her to-do list. “Thanks, Nana.” The island that had once felt like a step backward was now her way forward.
April joined them and hugged her, too. “I’m happy for you, darling. This is the seed of a fresh start.” She lowered her voice. “Now, tell us all about Sailor. Rumors are flying around town. Are you dating now?”
Maileah hardly knew where to begin. She didn’t want to jinx the relationship with Sailor.
“We’ve been friends for a long time,” she began tentatively. “Maybe we’re feeling a little more for each other.”
