Page 85 of Cut up
“You don’t do that kind of thing with yours?” she asks gently.
“Um… no. She died when I was young.” She reaches for my hand. “It really makes you appreciate how precious that time is. I just wish I could have one more girls day with her.” I smile sadly.
“Cam, I’m so sorry, Honey. I can’t imagine what that must’ve been like. You should come hang out with us one weekend.” She reaches out and holds my hand.
“I’d love that, how about this Sunday?” I say sincerely.
“Sounds great! Let’s meet at Gloria’s Cafe for brunch?”
We hear the front door open and look up—Rhonda walks in.
“Hey, ladies,” she looks between us. “Camille, could I have a quick chat?”
She gestures for me to follow her to the back room. Her eyes look glassy, like she’s been crying.
“What’s up?”
“I… don’t really know how to say this,” she begins. “I’ve decided to put the business up for sale.” Shock hits me, but I keep my expression neutral and let her continue.
“As you know, I’m not a hairdresser. So with me not being able to bring in money here… Well let’s just say. This last year has been rough. With Sandy and Louise basically just draining money; I’ve had to rely entirely on you to keep the place afloat. And even though this week was better with you and Sarah, it’s just not enough to catch up. I can’t keep going. I have to sell.” My mind is racing, but I stay quiet.
“I wanted to give you the first option to buy me out and take over. I’ll give you two weeks to figure things out, but if you’re not interested, I’ll put it on the market. I’m sorry, Cam. It’s just what I have to do.”
This is shit timing after quitting the bar. I’m stunned. But honestly, part of me saw this coming. I could always see what was wrong with how the business was run, but I felt powerless to change anything.
“Wow… I don’t know what to say. I’d love to run my own salon, but I need time to think about it—figure out if it’s even possible right now. Can I get back to you?”
“Of course. For you, I’d sell it for ten thousand. That includes all the furniture, stock, the business name Snips, clients and everything else. Rent would be your responsibility, obviously.”
“I’ll think about it, okay?”
“Okay. I won’t say anything to Sarah just yet—I don’t want her freaking out or quitting. I really need you both this month to help keep things going. Have a good weekend.”
She gives me a weak smile and walks out.
Sarah comes into the back room a minute later. “What was that about?”
I hesitate. “Oh, nothing… She was just asking about some clients. I’m heading home, you ready?”
“Yep, let’s go.”
We head to our cars and say goodbye.
On the drive home, I put on some Dean Lewis and let my thoughts shuffle through my head.
I’ve got about eight thousand in savings—maybe that’s enough or maybe I could get a loan? But is it even worth it? I don’t like the name Snips, and the place is so dated. I’d want to do a full refit. I don’t even know if I love the location either.
Maybe I’ll talk to Lucas.
He’s started a successful business—he might have some advice.
43
Early knock-off
Tonight is our Friday family dinner and I’m feeling excited that Camille agreed to come. I’m still at work but I’m planning on actually knocking off early today. Since hiring more people, it’s taken so much of the weight off me. I’m feeling proud of myself for trying to make more time for me lately. And maybe more time with Camille too.
“Hey Ty, let’s start to pack up mate. I’m bloody ready for the weekend.” I say to Tyler.
