Page 27 of Fearless Sinner

“Under normal circumstances I would have agreed to a much smaller loan amount.” She pauses, and so does my heart. “But this loan is quite substantial and there are some issues that concern me.”

“What sort of issues?”

“We tend to give loans to business investors who will undoubtedly achieve success. However, your mother’s restaurant has been losing money for nearly two years. In fact there seems more of a possibility of it going out of business.”

“I would like to save it so that doesn’t happen.”

“I understand that, but the restaurant business is a tough one.Especially when you’re already in the hole.” She places her hands on the desk and sits back against her chair. “It’s not simply about injecting a load of money into the business to revive it. Some people go through a whole brand overhaul. I’m not even sure that the money you’ve applied for is enough for that, along with everything else you need to do to fix the place and pay the debts. The prospect of you getting this loan doesn’t look good.”

My stomach tightens as though a wrench is clamped around it, squeezing. “Does that mean I didn't get it?”

“No. I will still hear your pitch, and we’ll still go through the normal process of assessment with our financial analysts. They’ll conduct a deeper dive into the business and look at the forecast based on previous performance. The only thing you have in your corner is the fact that the business has been running for over eighty years.”

“I hope it will be enough.”

“Me too. It’s always sad to see businesses like that go under, especially when it’s a family business.”

“It would really mean a lot to me if I got that loan. My mother is currently in a coma in the hospital. I’d hate for her to wake up and realize everything is gone.”

The firmness in her expression loosens with compassion, and she seems more personable for hearing my dilemma. “I’m so sorry to hear that. Let’s see what we can do. Ready to give me your pitch?”

“Yes.” I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.

I gave a killer speech. Something that would win me an Oscar if I were an actor in a summer blockbuster movie.

Roxanne helped me put the pitch together last night, then we spent hours practicing. It seemed to pay off, at least in the department of winning Mrs. Grimfrost over. Now I have to wait.

I’m at the restaurant with Roxanne and two other members of staff. I came here straight after my interview. I’ve been using my waitressing skills to help out.

The place is busier than it’s been in the last few days. That’s good for us, although getting business has never really been the problem.

Growing up, I can’t remember a time when the restaurant wasn’t packed.

The problem we’re facing now is what’s going on behind the scenes.

I carry out the orders for two tables and hand them over, then I’m back in the kitchen to take the next orders.

Luis, our chef, is loving my speed, so is Roxanne.

“You are super amazing at this.” He chuckles, handing me two plates of our signature lasagna.

“Thank you. I do my best.”

“I remember the summer you first worked here. It was a disaster.”

I didn’t think anything could make me smile right now, but I do because of the memory. I was so bad I set the kitchen on fire. Mom had to fire me. “I’m making up for it now.”

“You sure are. Great to have you back, kiddo.”

“Thanks, it’s great to be back.” I just wish the circumstances were better.

The door swings open across from us and a nervous Roxanne walks in.

“Holy hell,” she breathes out and quickens her stride toward me.

“What’s happened?” I don’t know if I can take any more shocks or surprises.

“Um… Cillian O’Ridian is here.”

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