The Arrangement

31

After a few weeks of adjusting to their new roles, Maya, Carina, and Jack have begun to find their rhythm. The transition hasn't been without its challenges, but each of them is slowly settling into the responsibilities that come with leading the family businesses.

One evening, as they gather in the living room to unwind after a long day, Carina brings up an idea she's been mulling over. "You know," she begins, glancing between Maya and Jack, "I've been thinking about how we've been working between the two current offices. It's not the most efficient setup, especially with all the back-and-forth."

Jack, who's lounging on the couch with a drink in hand, nods in agreement. "Yeah, it's definitely been a bit of a headache. We lose time just traveling between locations."

Maya, sitting beside Carina, looks thoughtful. "What are you thinking, Carina?"

Carina leans forward, her eyes bright with the idea that's been brewing in her mind. "What if we set up a central office? A new, modern space where all three of us can work together, and where we can consolidate the teams from both businesses. It would streamline communication and decision-making, and it would really unify the two companies."

Jack raises his eyebrows, clearly intrigued. "That could be a game-changer. It would also make it easier for us to establish a new culture, one that reflects our vision for the future of these businesses."

Maya nods slowly, turning the idea over in her mind. "A central office would make sense, especially as we're stepping into these new roles. It would help us stay on the same page and create a more cohesive leadership structure."

Carina smiles, glad to see they're both on board. "Exactly. And it would also give us a fresh start, a space that's ours, where we can really make our mark."

Maya looks at Jack, then back at Carina, already imagining the possibilities. "We could design it to fit our needs, create a workspace that really supports collaboration and innovation."

Jack grins, already thinking about the logistics. "I'll start looking into potential locations and costs. This could be exactly what we need to take things to the next level."

Carina reaches for Maya's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I think this could be a really exciting step forward for all of us."

Maya squeezes her hand back, a smile spreading across her face. "Let's do it. Let's find a place that's perfect for what we're building together."

— — —

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky turned shades of orange and pink, Maya and Carina found themselves relaxing on the rooftop. The cool breeze brushed against their skin, and the faint hum of the city below added a soothing background to their conversation. With drinks in hand, they leaned back on the comfortable lounge chairs, enjoying the peacefulness of the moment.

Carina, ever playful, broke the silence with a grin. "So, have you given any more thought to our Halloween costumes?"

Maya chuckled, taking a sip of her drink. "You know, I have. I still can't believe we're doing a couple's costume. I never thought I'd be that person."

Carina laughed, nudging her gently. "Well, it's our first Halloween as a married couple. We have to make it special!"

Maya rolled her eyes, but there was a smile on her face. "Okay, okay. I've been thinking... What if we do something classic, but with a twist? Like, Bonnie and Clyde, but modernized. Something badass and stylish."

Carina raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Bonnie and Clyde? I like it. But what kind of twist are you thinking?"

Maya leaned forward, getting into the idea. "We could go with sleek, modern outfits—like tailored suits for both of us. Think a bit of old-school gangster vibe, but with a modern, high-fashion edge. You know, like we just stepped out of a Vogue shoot."