The Invitation Read: “Mountain Crest Resort — Daniel, Don’t Attend.” I Replied: “Understood.” The Day Of The Event, The Resort Director Walked Up To My Dad And Said, “Sir, The Owner Would Like A Word.” Then He Looked Past Him… And Pointed At Me. Dad’s Face Drained Of Color. Security Waited For My Instructions.

“And they have no idea I own the property,” I said. “None whatsoever. They negotiated rates with our events manager like any other client.”

“Perfect,” I said.

“Approve everything they want. Give them the presidential treatment.”

I let the silence sit for a beat, then added, “I want this to be the best event Mountain Crest has ever hosted.”

“Daniel,” Patricia said carefully, “can I ask what you’re planning?”

“I’m planning to attend my father’s birthday party.”

“But he uninvited you.”

“He uninvited me from his event,” I said, “but he can’t uninvite the property owner from his own resort.”

I could hear the smile in her voice. “Understood.

What do you need from me?”

“Nothing unusual. Just run the event perfectly.”

“I’ll arrive around 6:30 p.m. When my father asks what I’m doing there, that’s when I’ll need you.”

“I’ll be ready,” Patricia said.

Continue reading…