Chapter 20
Oliver Ferraz
My back is to the door when Alice walks in.
Right then, my phone starts ringing. I pull it from my pocket and see Andréa’s name flashing on the screen.
What does she want? If she thinks I’m going to answer, she’s dead wrong.
I reject the call and pocket the phone, but it rings again.
I ignore it and ask Alice to have a seat.
I need to focus on going over my plans with her. If my father trusts her, then so can I.
“Alice, when I left to study abroad, I had one goal in mind, and I want to show you what it is.” She sits across from me, eyes fixed on me, looking attentive, but I can tell her mind is somewhere else.
I get her attention with a smile and continue: “The family hotels have always been in high demand. In every city where we have locations, our guests love them and keep coming back. They’re loyal customers who bring in new ones.
That’s why I decided to study abroad. I wanted to understand the market, to see how it worked.
My conclusion is that if we expand the hotels beyond Brazil, we’ll gain worldwide recognition and grow even more. ”
“When you came here to take over as president, I expected something new, but nothing on this scale.” She folds her hands in her lap, thoughtful. “The Ferri hotels really are well-loved in Brazil. If you keep that same standard abroad, they’ll do great. But tell me, what are you thinking?”
With my laptop open, I point to a photo on the screen and start explaining.
“This is a mansion I’m using as a model.
It has twenty rooms, all suites. In the back, as you can see, there’s a pool, a lawn, and a beautiful lake.
Inside, there’s a spacious kitchen and dining room, plus a separate entertainment room.
This type of mansion is common overseas—I’ve found plenty of them in different locations.
So I thought we could buy one and, with a partner, bring the Ferri name there to kick off the expansion. ”
Her eyes lit up.
“That’s an amazing idea. Actually, I’d already discussed this with Mr. Edgar, but he told me he was thinking about retiring and would leave everything in your hands. I even have someone I can introduce you to who could help.”
“You already talked to my father about this? Tell me more about this person,” I say, incredulous. He never told me anything.
“Yes. When I started working here in the executive office, I made it a point to really understand how the hotels operated. That’s when I realized just how in-demand they are, even among people from other countries who come here on business and end up staying with us.
Henrique Tavares is an investor—I met him at one of the dinners I attended with Mr. Edgar.
His secretary, Isabela, and I exchanged numbers. ”
“My father told me you were good at what you do. I just didn’t expect you to be this impressive. Think we could set up a meeting with Henrique? We should get to know him better.” I give a slight smile.
“Here, I have his résumé. And yes, we can set it up whenever you’d like.” Alice hands me her tablet with a page open. This girl is amazing.
“Tell me more about your ideas.”
That’s how we spent the morning. We had lunch together, and by mid-afternoon, we were wrapping up some details when we heard a knock at the door. It opens, and my parents walk in. Alice stands to greet them, and I can tell from the way they look at her how much they like her.
“Is Oliver keeping you busy, Alice?” my father asks, amused.
“No, sir. You know I love staying busy and taking on new challenges.”
He smiles, satisfied.
“This girl has always thought big while keeping her feet on the ground. She’ll make an excellent administrator. Watch out, Oliver, or she’ll steal your job.”
“I just want to help, sir. That’s what I’m here for. And I still have a lot to learn. I’m eager to start college and broaden my horizons.”
“Oliver mentioned you’re starting college. Do you have a start date yet?” my mother asks.
“Yes. I’ll be starting next semester.”
“That’s great.” My father smiles again. “Then we’ll keep you plenty busy before that.”
I exchange an amused look with Alice, who gives a small smile.
“Well, I’m going to head to my desk and get my things in order. It’s almost time to wrap up for the day. If you’ll excuse me.”
Alice steps out, leaving us alone. My parents came to say goodbye—they’re heading out on a trip. As soon as they leave, I glance at the clock: it’s time for me to go too.
Tonight is our dinner. But first, I need to stop by the store to pick up ingredients for something special for Alice.