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“So, you were quiet, Tillie. Tell me, what kind of business are you looking to start?” Geoff asked, approaching.
“A coffee shop. Well, a second coffee shop. I had one in New York City.” I tucked a strand of hair behind my ear.
Geoff let out a whistle. “Big timer here, folks. I do wish you’d have said that earlier. Heck, you probably have more experience than me. I should have put you up there.”
“I don’t think so. I mean, the business went bankrupt. That’s why I’m here. And that’s why I know it’s probably crazy I’m thinking of doing the same thing here.”
“What are you talking about? It’s not crazy. It’s business. Most people have failed businesses to start, especially in New York City. Even Gordon Ramsay had a failed restaurant when he started. Now look at the bloke. And New York City isn’t an easy place to get started. I can’t even imagine the cost of rent. How long were you running?”
“Over nine years total.”
He whistled again. “No small feat. If you made it that long in the city, you’re going to do just fine here. Trust me. Trust yourself. I don’t even know what you’re doing here other than inspiring the rest of us. You don’t need us. You don’t need anyone to confirm your idea is good, actually. You’ve already confirmed it yourself. Now get out there and get back to work.”
And for some reason, words from a man with a handlebar mustache who made bad cat puns sank right in. Like a motivational speaker of the highest caliber, Geoff made me believe in my dream like no one else had. And even though the coffee was terrible and that basement was dingy, I felt like it had been worth every second.
“Geoff, when Tillie’s Two gets brewing, I’ll provide free weekly coffee here. My treat,” I said, invigorated and unashamed for the first time in a long time.
“That sounds wonderful, Darling,” Geoff said, and the rest of the attendees agreed. “But one tiny piece of advice before you go out there?”
“Sure,” I said.
“Don’t call it Tillie’s Two. It’s just advertising you’re on your second try. The first rule in business is to never show your hand. Well, that’s the rule in cards and not business, but you catch my drift.”
“Oh,” I said, a little disappointed but seeing his point. I sighed. “I don’t know what to call it then.”
“Where’s it going, Dear?” the cat sweater knitter asked.
“I hope right here in town.”
“Then how about keeping it simple? Tillie’s Seaside Brews?” she asked. And the lightbulb clicked.
“I love it,” I said, thinking of the ocean theme in the middle of the city and how it fit here. Maybe all along, Tillie’s Brews was meant to be Tillie’s Seaside Brews.
“And there we have it, folks. Just like that, a business is born. Well, with some investors or capital. And a business loan. And a lot of paperwork. And hard work. And...”
“Thank you, everyone. And I mean it. Coffee will be on me once we get started,” I said, hobbling out of the basement.
The room clapped as I left. It was only a handful of people, but it felt like I was on stage at the Oscars. It lifted my spirits so much, and I finally could see the light I hadn’t before. Tillie’s Seaside Brews. It was a done deal, at least as far as I was concerned.
For the first time since being dumped, losing my business, moving back home and breaking my ankle, it felt like brighter days were actually ahead for my career. The relationship aspect, well, that was for sorting out another day.
