The Arrangement

46

Maya and Carina meet with the contractor in the penthouse to discuss the upcoming renovations. The contractor, a seasoned professional with a clipboard and notepad, is ready to take on the project.

Maya starts the conversation, "We need to transform the study into a home office for Carina. We'd also like to change Carina's current office back into a guest room and convert the guest room into a nursery. Additionally, after the renovations are complete, we need help with baby-proofing the penthouse."

The contractor nods, taking notes. "Got it. I'll make sure we have a detailed plan for each of these changes. Let's start with the study."

Carina chimes in, "For the study, we want to create a functional and stylish home office that complements the rest of the penthouse. It should be both practical and comfortable for me."

The contractor asks, "Do you have any specific design preferences or requirements for the home office?"

Carina responds, "I'd like a space that's bright and welcoming, with plenty of storage and a large desk. It should also have a comfortable chair and maybe some built-in shelves for my books and documents."

Maya adds, "And make sure it has good lighting, especially task lighting for late-night work."

The contractor makes notes and then moves on to the guest room conversion. "Next, we'll be turning Carina's current office back into a guest room. Do you have any ideas on how you'd like it to look?"

Carina thinks for a moment. "We'd like to keep it simple and cozy, with a comfortable bed and maybe a small sitting area. We want it to be inviting for our guests."

Maya adds, "And ensure there's enough storage space for our guests' belongings. We can transfer most of the furniture out of the guest room by the master bedroom that will transform into the nursery. We would like to handle setting up the nursery as much as possible but we will let you know if there are tasks we can not complete."

Finally, the contractor addresses baby-proofing the penthouse. "Once the renovations are done, I'll help with baby-proofing the entire penthouse. We'll cover things like outlet covers, securing furniture to the walls, and any other safety measures needed."

Carina looks relieved. "That sounds perfect. Thank you for accommodating all of our requests."

Maya nods in agreement. "Yes, thank you. We're excited to get started and make these changes."

The contractor wraps up the meeting, saying, "I'll prepare a detailed plan and timeline for the renovations. We'll make sure everything is completed to your satisfaction."

Maya and Carina thank him and head out, looking forward to the upcoming changes and the new chapter in their lives.

— — —

On a lazy Saturday afternoon, Maya and Carina are lounging comfortably in their cozy man cave, the dim lighting casting a warm glow over the room. They're surrounded by soft cushions and blankets, enjoying each other's company as they talk about the future and their growing family.

Carina looks over at Maya with a curious smile. "So, Maya, have you thought about whether you'd prefer a boy or a girl?"

Maya hesitates for a moment, her gaze drifting to her hand resting gently on Carina's belly. "You know, I think I'd love a little girl. Someone just like you—smart, kind, and full of life."

Carina's eyes light up with a soft, affectionate smile. "That's sweet. I have a feeling this baby might be a boy, though. I guess we'll find out soon enough!"