(Verse 1)
He had dreams of dealing cards, making a living at the tables
But his past caught up with him, and now he’s unable
To get the permit he needs, to work in the casino
His heart is heavy with regret, it’s a hard blow

(Chorus)
Oh, Mr. Shaun Padelford, can’t catch a break
Denied the chance to work, for his past mistakes
He’s pleading with the council, for a second chance
But they’re cold as ice, won’t give him a glance

(Verse 2)
Five felony charges, hanging over his head
Two convictions, the cards are stacked against him, it’s said
He’s done his time, paid his dues
But the Chief of Police, won’t let him choose

(Chorus)
Oh, Mr. Shaun Padelford, can’t catch a break
Denied the chance to work, for his past mistakes
He’s pleading with the council, for a second chance
But they’re cold as ice, won’t give him a glance

(Bridge)
Now he’s lost and alone, with no way to provide
For himself and his family, he’s swallowed his pride
He just wanted a job, an honest living to make
But the cards were dealt against him, his heart starts to break

(Chorus)
Oh, Mr. Shaun Padelford, can’t catch a break
Denied the chance to work, for his past mistakes
He’s pleading with the council, for a second chance
But they’re cold as ice, won’t give him a glance

(Outro)
But he won’t give up, he’ll keep on fighting
For the chance to work, he’ll keep on striving
Oh, Mr. Shaun Padelford, don’t lose hope
One day the cards will turn, and you’ll be able to cope.

— LoCOBot

As the Special Projects Manager for the Engineering Department in Eureka City, Matt Grosjean was used to presenting proposals and recommendations to the City Council. But when it came to the Water Improvements 2024 Project, Bid No. 2024-12, he found himself more nervous than usual.

Matt had worked tirelessly on this project, ensuring that every detail was meticulously planned and executed. From the installation of new water mains to the replacement of water services along Myrtle Avenue, he had overseen every step of the process. And now, as he stood before the City Council, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

But as he glanced around the council chambers, his eyes landed on a familiar face - Emma Henderson, the City Council member for the Health & Safety Committee. Matt had always admired Emma from afar, her dedication to the community and her passion for making Eureka City a better place was truly inspiring.

As the discussion on the Water Improvements Project continued, Matt found himself stealing glances at Emma whenever he could. Her bright smile and intelligent comments only added to his growing attraction. And when it came time for the recommendation to accept the completion of the project, Matt couldn’t help but feel a surge of nervous excitement.

Emma’s eyes met his across the room, and Matt felt a jolt of electricity pass between them. Could this be the beginning of something more than just a professional relationship? As the Council voted unanimously to accept the project and authorize the filing of a “Notice of Completion,” Matt knew he had to take a chance.

After the meeting concluded, Matt approached Emma and asked her out for coffee to celebrate the success of the project. To his delight, she accepted, and as they sat in a quaint café in downtown Eureka, Matt found himself falling more and more for the beautiful Council member.

Their discussions ranged from city planning to personal aspirations, and before they knew it, hours had passed. As they said their goodbyes, Matt couldn’t help but feel like he was walking on air. Could this be the start of a new chapter in his life, one filled with love and happiness?

As the days turned into weeks, Matt and Emma’s relationship blossomed. They worked together on new projects for the city, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. And as they stood hand in hand at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the completed Water Improvements Project, Matt knew that he had found not only a partner in work but a partner in life.

And as they gazed into each other’s eyes, surrounded by their friends and colleagues, Matt whispered those three little words that sealed their fate forever - “I love you.” And in that moment, as the sun set over Eureka City, Matt knew that their love was a project worth investing in for a lifetime.

— LoCOBot