I hadn’t thought about it that way, but it put things into perspective. It had just been a few months. Maybe I could use that same amount of time in Golden Falls to turn things around.
“You’re right. I hate that the audio clip is out there and people heard what he said, but at least I know the truthnowand didn’t fall deeper for him. He’s right about one thing—we never would’ve worked in the real world. I can’t be with someone who is so self-absorbed, entitled, and willing to do anything for money.”
Lily nodded in agreement. “Oh, totally. From the first episode I could tell you were too good for him. Your person is out there for you. I know it.”
I shook my head with a scoff. “I have no interest in finding my person, at least not right now. I’m focusing on myself and figuring out next steps for my career. I love interior design and working with people, but I’ve lost my passion for it. The clients have also been extra difficult lately, which doesn’t help. I don’t know. I feel…stuck.”
“You’re clearly good at it and have a vision. We gotta get you back to why you started.” Lily tucked her legs under her, turning so she was facing me more. “What if we worked together? I’ve been wanting to give my café a refresh but have been struggling to find the time and motivation. I have some ideas, but it feels daunting to try to tackle it on my own while also running the business.”
I thought about Lily’s suggestion. Luxe Living catered to wealthier clients and businesses, and I’d always wondered if we were missing out by not offering more affordable packages. I hadn’t had time to think through the idea—but now, time was all I had. I didn’t want to get ahead of myself, but I immediately recognized the potential of partnering with small businesses.
“I…yes. Yes! I’d love to.” I paused before getting too excited. “Are you sure?”
“Very,” Lily assured me. “Let’s start this week, if that works for you? Send me your rates, and we’ll go from there.”
“Of course, that’ll work for me. My schedule is wide open.” I grinned. “I can’t wait to stop by your café.”
I couldn’t remember the last time I was this excited about a project. Since I wasn’t working for Luxe Living over the summer, I’d approach Lily’s request on a freelance basis and adjust my rates accordingly. Maybe there were even other businesses in Golden Falls I could work with to see how well this type of modelwould work. If this proved to be a success and I wanted to return to Luxe Living once I was back in Chicago, I could potentially pitch a business expansion to Cheryl.
A wave of excitement suddenly coursed through me. I couldn’t wait to hear Lily’s ideas and brainstorm with her. And I hoped this temporary fresh start would work out in the long run.
“I’m so glad you stopped by today. I didn’t really know what I was doing when I booked the cabin, and I know it’s still early, but I have a really good feeling about the summer. I appreciate everything you’ve done to make me feel welcome,” I admitted to Lily.
“I have a really good feeling about the summer, too.” Lily nodded in agreement. “You’re going to bring energy and excitement into town that people will love. I know it’s just for the summer, but it’s been a while since we’ve had someone new in town, besides the summer tourists who usually stay for a week or so. I’m excited to get to know you more—and make a new friend.”
My smile widened at Lily’s words. “Me, too. I think we’re going to make a great team.”
4
JULIETTE
A couple days later,I was making good on my promise to visit Lily’s café. Plus, I needed to go into town to restock my fridge again…and maybe grab another bottle of wine.
The short drive was peaceful, and thanks to my GPS, I didn’t get lost on the back roads. Since it was still early June, I was able to roll down my windows and enjoy the breeze before temperatures got too hot.
Golden Falls was a town of a couple thousand people, which meant there was minimal to no traffic. Such a welcome change from driving in Chicago.
Lily told me it would get busier during the summer as couples and families from across the state and Midwest came to visit. Apparently, the population more than tripled. Most spent their time enjoying the warm weather out on the water or on the trails, but the historic downtown also drew people in.
As I got into the heart of town, I immediately understood why.
The historic Victorian-era buildings blended effortlessly with the newer constructions, giving the town a rustic, cozy feel while staying modern. Antique light posts lined the brick sidewalks,along with flower planters and benches. Many of the local restaurants offered outdoor seating, and the picturesque Lake Golden provided a perfect view. I loved that the calming water was in view regardless of if I was in town or at the cabin.
I pulled into a parking spot right in front of Lily’s café: Purrfect Blend Cat Café. As I got out of the car, I glanced around and also spotted a clothing boutique, yoga studio, and pizzeria on the same block. The grocery store was only a short walk away.
I couldn’t wait to explore downtown, and that started with my meeting with Lily at Purrfect Blend.
“What if you moved these tables from the far wall so they were closer to the windows? It’ll give customers a nice view, while also providing enough space for those walking in. We can plant some flowers in front of the café to enhance the view, similar to the other businesses on the street,” I suggested as Lily and I walked around the space.
Lily tapped a pen against her chin in thought, slowly nodding. Her wavy golden-blonde hair was down today and kept out of her eyes with a light-blue headband. “Yeah, I love that idea. The space will feel more open, and it might even give me the opportunity to fit an extra table or two down the line.”
Her café was now closed for the day, and we were in the middle of brainstorming upgrades to give the space a fresh, new feel. I could tell right away Lily loved her business and was proud of it. For good reason, too.
As soon as customers walked in, they were welcomed by the fresh smell of coffee, cinnamon, and caramel. Muffins, coffee cake, and various cookies were neatly organized inside three glass cases sitting on top of the light oak counter. Since it was only her baking, Lily often had a limited supply of pastries that sold out before the morning was over. It was her goal over the next year or so to hire some help, but on extra busy summer days, her mom stopped in to help take orders.
Behind the counter, Lily had various appliances, syrups, and mugs to make coffee and tea for her customers. Chalkboards hung on the wall behind the register with her feminine cursive writing detailing what drinks were available. For any lattes, Lily dusted a coconut sugar and cinnamon blend in the shape of paw prints.
There were circle tables and wooden chairs set up in the main room, as well as stools off to the side near the counter so customers could chat with Lily as she made their drinks. Lily displayed art from local artists on the walls, including paintings and drawings of cats, local views, and abstract art.
