Chapter 40

• From the dock, Nick could hear the gentle creaking of the boats as they bobbed in the water. The sound of the cranky waves crashing against the shore was a clear indication that winter was approaching. The burnt orange sunset painted a vibrant streak across the sky, cutting through the encroaching darkness and casting a warm glow on the archway of lights from the Newburgh Beacon Bridge. With his hands tucked into his Armani suit jacket, he savored the sensation of the pure, refreshing air filling his lungs. The serene beauty of his beloved mountains enveloped him, and he knew deep within his soul that this was where he truly belonged.
• A decade ago, the waterfront property was overrun by drug dealers and crack addicts, leaving a negative impact on the community. The beautiful lines of the river were steeped in garbage, the elegant brick buildings stood empty, their broken windows a cry for help. Eventually, investors saw the potential of the area and threw money into a dream of restoration.
• Nick and his uncle observed the project, taking in every detail and patiently waiting for their moment. Somehow, they had both suspected the opportunity would finally come for Dreamscape to profit locally. The first daring person to open a bar in the area drew a new crowd who wanted to have a beer and some Buffalo wings while watching the seagulls. As the cops descended into the heart of the city, cleanup projects sprouted up from not-for-profit organizations. The last five years proved the project was worthy of investors’ attention. The restaurants and spa Nick wanted to build would change the Hudson Valley forever. And a powerful conviction washed over him, affirming that he was meant to build it.