The Love Game

Why hadn’t their other marketing consultant reviewed this simple concept with them?

This wasn’t the first time Anderson Adventures had contracted with a marketing firm. Although obviously profitable, like most companies these days, it operated with a lean staff. From her research, Iris knew the gaming company had a strong sales force, and a sizeable research and development team. But support departments such as human resources, accounting and marketing were slim. Most of the functions those departments performed were outsourced, which kept consulting firms such as hers in business.

Xavier crossed his forearms, bunching impressive biceps beneath the long sleeves of his bronze shirt. He shot a look toward Tyler and Foster before settling again on her. “It appears the marketing firms we’ve contracted with in the past didn’t give us our money’s worth.”

Kayla cocked her head. “Didn’t Loretta work for one of those firms?”

Xavier seemed surprised. “Her name’s Lauren and she doesn’t work for a marketing firm.”

Tyler and Donovan exchanged a look. It was similar to the silent communication Iris shared with Rose when Lily was on the edge, or with Lily when Rose was ready to blow a gasket.

Kayla continued. “Well, going forward, we now understand the value of an internal launch. Thank you, Iris.”

Donovan raised a hand. “I’d like to point out that, if anyone had listened to me, you’d have understood its importance years ago.”

“A prophet is never appreciated in his own time.” Tyler’s voice was somber though his ebony eyes twinkled with mischief.

So, the vice president of product development does have a sense of humor.

The words and reactions directed toward Donovan Carroll made it clear that he was part of the family despite his different surname. In fact, this planning session felt more like a family discussion than a corporate meeting.

Foster returned to the agenda. “What’s our next step?”

Iris shifted her smile from Tyler’s and Donovan’s antics to Foster. “We need to determine the type of internal launch. Simple or elaborate? Serious or festive? Do you envision an associate meeting or an event?”

“I’m sure I can guess what type of launch you’d prefer.” Xavier’s tone was dry.

Iris’s cheeks warmed. “‘Osiris’s Journey’ is an exciting product. I don’t think a simple associate meeting would do it justice.”

“Iris is right.” Kayla addressed Xavier. “‘Osiris’s Journey’ is worth an event rather than a boring old meeting. If Lisa made the suggestion, you know you’d agree.”

Xavier sighed. “Her name’s Lauren, Mom. And associate meetings don’t have to be boring.”

“But they are.” Kayla’s nod added emphasis. “Don’t you agree, Iris?”

“I agree with Iris and Kayla.” Donovan’s interruption saved Iris from responding.

“How elaborate are you thinking?” Xavier propped his forearms on the glass table.

“You’re just thinking of the price.” Kayla crossed her arms.

Xavier gave his mother a look. “Someone has to.”

Kayla sighed. “You wouldn’t be so focused on the cost if this was Lori’s idea.”

“Lauren,” Xavier corrected. “And yes, I would.”

Why couldn’t Kayla remember Xavier’s girlfriend’s name? The older woman didn’t have any trouble remembering Iris’s name and they’d just met.

“Xavier has a point, Aunt Kayla.” Tyler spoke up. “If the goal is to give associates information to help sell the produ

ct, why does the meeting have to be elaborate?”

“This isn’t just about information. It’s about people, our people.” Foster’s quiet response carried a wealth of meaning and messages. “We want to show our associates that we care about them. They’re an important and strategic part of this launch.”

“Understood.” Tyler’s tone was respectful but Iris heard the tension in his voice.

“So, we’re going with a bigger launch.” Xavier held Iris’s gaze. “Don’t break the budget.”