“Oh, really?” I hadn’t known that.
“Why do you ask?”
Here went nothing.
“I’ve actually been eyeing that place up for a long time,” I said, aware that I wasn’t doing myself any favors letting him know how much I wanted that particular place. Maybe I wasn’t a true businesswoman at heart, but if I was going to do this thing, I’d do it my way. And if being honest shot me in the foot, so be it. “You know I make and sell jewelry?—”
He smiled. “And art.” Paul nodded to one of my earlier pieces. It was a simple object watercolor but fit perfectly with the decor. Paul bought it at a craft fair in the square one summer when I had a table there.
“And art,” I agreed. “For years I considered opening a studio, a place to sell my own pieces but also offer classes. I’m passable at pottery too and could have jewelry making, art, pottery… but actually,” I said, knowing I was talking fast, “in my business plan, I’m starting with the retail and adding classes later. I’ve done some research”—actually Pia did more of it, and so far seemed to think the studio would be viable—“and have worked with the small business center a bit since this isn’t my forte. Anyway, I wondered if the building is still for lease and if you could give me the costs?”
Paul was quiet for a second, likely taking it all in. Leaning forward, he broke out into a very encouraging smile. “Delaney,” he said. “I think that would be an excellent asset to the town. You are obviously very talented and have thought the business through. I love it.”
I love it.
He was also a businessman looking to lease the building. The practical side of me tried not to get too excited. “I know it’s not your job to predict the feasibility of having a profitable business but?—”
“It’s a great idea. I wouldn’t bullshit you, Delaney. Your father would have my head on a platter otherwise.”
My father was a big guy, but, in truth, he was a teddy bear too. “I haven’t spoken with my parents yet, so if I could ask for your discretion on this.” I swallowed. “I did earn a degree and have a job which, obviously, I would have to forfeit to move forward.”
“I understand. It’s a scary thing, especially having a lot of time and money invested in your current career.” He grinned. “I have a degree in forestry. Wanted to work in forest conservation, if you can imagine that. Never even had a job in the industry.”
“Forestry?”
“It’s a long, convoluted story. Point being, I understand your struggle. As for the cost, it’s fifteen dollars a square foot, so fifteen thousand a year. That includes utilities, and there’s no pass-through clause for taxes, but you are responsible for building upkeep and any necessary maintenance or repairs, including landscaping. You’ll also need your own insurance as well.”
I didn’t have a clue what the tax stuff meant, but the cost was actually lower than expected with utilities included. As for repairs… Nope. I would not think of Parker at the moment.
“That’s great to know,” I said. “As I gather information, would it be possible to let me know if anyone else is interested in the building? As you can imagine, there are a lot of moving parts here.”
Paul looked up, waved a hand, and focused back on me. “I have a meeting, but come by anytime with additional questions. The building is yours if you want it. You’ll have first crack at it if anyone else is interested, but as of this moment, you’re the first to inquire. So take your time, get your ducks in a row and stay in touch.”
I stood, not wanting to hold him up. Reaching out my hand, I shook his. “That is incredibly gracious, Paul. I can’t thank you enough.”
“My pleasure. I hope it works out. A studio like yours, as I said, would be a great asset to downtown Cedar Falls. Let me know if you need anything at all.”
“Thank you again,” I said as he moved off.
Sitting back down, not surprised the coffee shook a bit in my hand, I digested everything he’d said. At least I didn’t have to worry about dragging my feet and having someone scoop the building out from under me.
My phone buzzed. I took it out. Not Parker but my mother.
I clicked the text, any joy at the meeting with Paul instantly vanishing.
Call me ASAP.
35
PARKER
Delaney hadn’t texted yet.
She’d be finished with work by now and was likely already at her parents’ where she planned to stay for the weekend. Despite that she was supposed to have called to let me know how the surgery went, so far, nothing.
“Sorry we had to come back,” Beck said, pulling into Heritage Hill. “Friday night in the city would’ve been a good time.”
A few weeks ago? Sure. Tonight all I wanted to do was be with Delaney.
