«You’re not allowed at our vacation home,» Mom texted. A week later, they got a notice: the resort had a new owner. Their access cards stopped working…

I think I like having my daughter as my host, he said with a small smile, especially if you keep stocking that, Margot. The remaining days of my family’s vacation unfolded with a complex mix of tension and tentative reconnection. My mother maintained a chilly distance, taking breakfast in the villa rather than joining the others at the main restaurant.

But even her resistance began to show cracks when guests repeatedly complimented the resort’s new touches, often within her earshot. My father’s 60th birthday celebration became a turning point. I’d kept my original plan for a private sunset cruise, though now as owner rather than just generous daughter.

As we sailed along the coastline, the catering staff serving his favorite seafood dishes, a genuine warmth began to permeate our family dynamic. When the moment came to present his gift, I felt unexpectedly nervous. The Patek Philippe box seemed suddenly inadequate.

What was a watch compared to buying an entire resort? I had this made for you months ago, I explained, handing him the box. Before, everything. He opened it slowly, his eyes widening at the blue-faced timepiece nestled inside.

He turned it over to read the engraving, his initials, and the coordinates of Blue Water Cove. Harper, this is. For the first time in my life, I saw my father at a loss for words.

He carefully put the watch on, then embraced me. Thank you. It’s perfect.

Later that evening, as we returned to shore, Jason approached me at the stern of the boat. So, he began awkwardly, how’s the transition going? Running a resort must be a massive operational challenge. It was the first genuine interest he’d shown in any of my professional endeavors.

Steep learning curve, I admitted. The hospitality industry has completely different metrics than tech. I’m drinking from a fire hose right now.

He nodded, looking thoughtful. You know, my background in financial planning could be useful. If you’re interested in optimizing your revenue streams, seasonal staffing models.

I studied my brother’s face, seeing something I hadn’t noticed before. A hunger for meaningful work, perhaps even a touch of envy for my bold career moves. Actually, I said, I could use someone with your expertise.

The resort’s books are solid, but old-fashioned. There’s potential to modernize our financial approach, especially for off-season sustainability. A spark lit in Jason’s eyes, the same spark I’d felt when building Security Shield.

I could look things over while I’m here. Give you some initial thoughts. By the next morning, Jason had commandeered a desk in the resort office, spreadsheets open on his laptop, already deep in conversation with the accounting team.

He looked more engaged than I’d seen him in years. Amanda proved a harder nut to crack, maintaining a polite distance until our third day when she overheard two guests raving about the resort’s new look. The previous design was so dated, one woman told her friend by the pool.

Whoever did this renovation has an amazing eye. Later, Amanda approached me hesitantly. The new textiles in the villa’s living room.

Who chose those? I worked with a designer, but the final selections were mine. I replied, bracing for criticism. She nodded slowly.

They’re really good. The way you’ve updated everything while keeping the original character. She trailed off, looking uncomfortable with the compliment.

I learned a lot about design aesthetics from you. Actually, I offered. All those home renovation projects you’re always working on.

A small smile. Really? Your Instagram is basically a masterclass in coastal New England interiors. This tiny olive branch opened a door…