17

For the second time in a minute, you catch your breath.

You keep your eyes on him as he says a few more things about how happy he is to be here—but really, all you're listening to is his voice.

After this morning in the forest, you didn't expect to hear it again so soon.

Next

Feeling yourself starting to shiver, you try to pay attention to what he's saying.

"I really hope that by the end of tonight, we'll all understand each other a little better. Our aim was never to disrupt anything about the town—quite the opposite. We want to help Silvertree grow. But, I'll admit, we overlooked the needs of the community when we made these plans. The announcement that we would be demolishing what seems like half the town I'm sure sounded extreme—our plan was only ever to acquire and demolish any buildings that have been standing empty for years and replace them with something that benefits the town.

"Because that is the goal of the Alberobello Developments: taking those parts that are being wasted and transforming them into something that will serve the town. Soon, everything that bears the name Alberobello—including Alberobello Apartments, Alberobello Gym and Spa, and, of course, our landmark Alberobello Resort, situated within the perimeters of the project's namesake, Alberobello Forest—will be the envy of every town for miles around. I'm aware that Silvertree is facing tough times; and I hope these developments will be like a much-needed shot of adrenaline for Silvertree's economy, what with tourism, new jobs, and much-needed improvements to infrastructure. But I think the real benefit will be just how beautiful this town will feel once our renovations arrive—all of them designed with your lovely natural surroundings in mind."

He pauses, clasping his hands together in satisfaction.

And as you watch him, the feeling that hits you stronger than anything is: