Page 6 of The Chef

I hope the quick speed in which he’s rummaging through my papers means something good. It’s either that or something incredibly bad.

He finishes, dropping the papers on the counter, and looks down at me.

Oh.

Yep, it’s incredibly bad.

I can tell.

“What is it?” I ask, my voice trembling.

But I know the answer already.

Of course, I do.

“Unfortunately, it’s going to be a no from us, I’m afraid, miss – ah…”

“Dover. Bay Dover.”

“Yes, like I was saying it’s going to be a no today.”

I’m not backing down that easily.

“How can that be, though?” I ask, pointing at the documents. “Did you read everything? Did you see my step-by-step plan? I have it all there.”

“I did read your plan.”

“And?”

“It’s not good enough, unfortunately. A plan typed up on one page isn’t exactly the kind of in-depth business proposal we’re looking for.”

“What do you need, then?”

The banker shrugs. “More than a few pages of paychecks and a rudimentary plan, I’m afraid.”

I take in a deep breath.

Think, Bay. Think clearly now. This is the most important moment of your life here.

Everything hangs on a thread, and it’s slowly being cut away.

“Look, I know I can make this work,” I say, my voice at a whisper. I don’t want to cause a scene in the bank. Not like what Superman did. I need to persuade this man, not yell at him. “I have everything going for me. This is my passion. My life’s work. I know I’m a good baker and a good cook.”

“I’m sorry but passion isn’t a commodity we take here, Miss Dover,” the banker replies, sliding my documents towards me.

I slide them back.

I really refuse to give up this easily.

“Please. I know this can work. Take a chance on me.”

“It simply won’t be a viable option for us, Miss Dover. You’re too risky.”

“Risky?”

“You have no assets, and no assets means you’re too big of a risk.”

“I have a car, does that help?”