A Change of Pace by JM Cartwright Page B

him. “Drew, I’ve done most of this myself over the years. I’ve added some help here in the office -- my finance guy to help me run numbers on new deals, an office admin. But I’ll tell you the truth. I know that I need more than that if I’m going to grow this company. I’ve been trying, but... I’m an entrepreneur. I know that. That’s what has made me successful -- but it’s also what holds me back. I’ve talked with management consultants from time to time, and they tell me the same thing, over and over. When your dad called me, it all came together for me. It’s time I listened to the experts -- and you’re just the man I need to move forward.”
    They talked for quite a while about the economy in general, the market in North Carolina, and, most specifically, what Drew could bring to Tony’s company.
    Drew looked at Tony for a long moment. “Tony, I have to say I’m impressed by what you’ve done here.”
    Tony chuckled. “What -- you thought you’d be seeing tarpaper shacks and old pickup trucks on concrete blocks?”
    Coloring, Drew nodded sheepishly. “I guess I did come with some preconceptions.”
    “Eh, don’t worry about it. I was the same way when I got here. I’m from Philly, and this was quite a change for me, too.”
    Hearing that, Drew relaxed completely, and the two men talked about the big city versus the smaller towns, comparing their stories and misconceptions.
    “You wouldn’t believe what I discovered my first week here. Have you ever heard of livermush?”
    Drew stared at him, sure that Tony was pulling his leg. “What?”
    “Livermush.” Tony nodded. “It’s pig liver and parts, pan fried.”
    “Uh. Eww?”
    Shaking his head, Tony grinned. “Uh-uh. It’s actually really good. It’s great at breakfast.”
    Drew was going to reserve judgment on that one. “I’ll take your word for it.” He couldn’t help but grin back.
    They agreed that Drew would come on board immediately as head of operations -- to work on managing the company in the tough economy and targeting its growth, while Tony continued to look for deals, find financing options, and bring work into the company. Right then, Tony was targeting some of the government programs that were part of the economic recovery efforts.
    At the end of the meeting, Drew was satisfied that he could contribute his strengths of organization and business acumen and still learn from Tony what he didn’t know -- how to bring real estate deals to fruition.
    “One more thing, Tony. I’ve been looking for a house and have a few possibilities. I’m going to decide very soon, but I might need a day here or there once I get it all figured out -- to close and move.”
    “Not a problem,” Tony assured him. “Just keep me informed. Do you have any questions about the area or need any help with locations?”
    Drew showed him some listing pages. “Well, I was looking at these three locations. I’ve been by the houses, and to be honest, nothing has excited me so far.” Drew asked some questions about transportation, area amenities, and the like, and got Tony’s opinions on the best areas, the places to avoid, and the best ways around the city.
    They walked out to his truck together. Tony spotted Elsa in the back when her head popped up. “Whoa. Big dog.” He smiled and put his hand out for Elsa to sniff.
    “Yeah, she is, but she’s a sweetie.” Drew smiled slightly as he watched the big shepherd make friends with his new boss. “I just need to make sure I find a place with a fenced yard for her. Now that I’ve got a couple of extra days, I think we’ll spend that time driving around and finding the right place.”
    “How are things at Huntington’s? Are you comfortable there?” Tony rubbed Elsa’s head one last time before turning back to Drew.
    Stiffening at the thought of Ridge and the inn, Drew tried to keep his face noncommittal. “Yeah, it’s fine. Thanks for recommending it.”
    Tony smiled. “I like those two