Page 11 of Bear Creek Valentine
“That’s better, isn’t it? Now, tell me what you’d likeDeliciousto do for the resort.”
Dash huffed several times and wiggled so his head rested against Aiden’s shoulder. After a deep sigh, he began talking.
“I think my guests will love your sweets just as much as I do. I’d like to see them on the restaurant menu, in special occasion baskets, and as complimentary samples in each room. The cafe could also sell your bars, Nut Bombs, and hot chocolate mixes directly to guests or to take home.Deliciouscould reach new customers all year round, and we’d provide brochures so they can order online at home. The shop would also be a major attraction for day tours into Bear Creek.”
Aiden had already considered most of Dash’s ideas, but questions remained.
“Would I have an exclusive contract with the resort?”
“Yes, renewable annually.”
“Who has control over the product mix and packaging?”
“Aside from some standard items, you do, including new recipes or seasonal offerings. The packaging would need to reflect both the resort andDelicious, but I’m sure we can come up with something.”
Aiden liked what he heard, but still needed more information.
“Can you give me an idea of the volume we’re talking about and how the pricing will work?”
Dash had done his homework, coming up with estimated figures for the number of guests and a percentage-based pricing system. Aiden’s jaw dropped at the incredible numbers.
“Those are conservative estimates, and I expect demand to grow along with the resort’s reputation.”
Dash caught Aiden’s scent of disappointment and regret before he said a word.
“Wow, this is much more than I expected. It’s an incredible opportunity, but you have to remember I’m a one-horse operation. I don’t have the space, employees, or money to meetthe resort’s requirements. I’m very sorry, Dash, but there’s no way I could possibly do what you’re asking.”
Aiden noticed Dash didn’t seem at all surprised, but then, he was used to large budgets and grand ideas.
“I know this is a big change, and maybe it isn’t your vision forDelicious. If I have to, I’ll settle for whatever you can give me, but what if you had a business partner with the funds to get things started? Someone who believed in you and your success?”
Aiden was no fool, and the look on Dash’s face gave him away.
“You want to invest inDelicious? It would certainly solve the financial problem, but I need some time to think it over.”
Dash didn’t hide his disappointment very well but rallied quickly to reassure Aiden before he rejected the whole idea.
“This would be a personal investment, not connected to Bear Paw Holdings or the resort. You’ll retain ownership and complete control of the business while I provide the financing and practical advice. That’s it. And in case you’re wondering, the partnership is totally separate from our... personal relationship.”
Aiden almost cheered when Dash admitted his interest, though the poor man seemed to have difficulty spitting it out. Something painful must have happened in his past, reminding Aiden they were still practically strangers. It was past time to change that.
“First, I want to say how much I appreciate your offer and your honesty. I’ve actually been working on an expansion plan, though nothing quite as grand as what you’re proposing. Even if it fell through, I need to hire more staff just to keep up with the demand. So, the idea of building my business isn’t new; it’s the scale of operations you’re talking about that scares me. I don’t want to grow so big and impersonal that I sacrifice what I love just to make money.”
Dash understood completely, having faced the same challenges himself.
“You’re right. Money is nice, but it’s just a tool. Personally, I believe you can grow and still keep the things you enjoy. I’d be glad to help if you want some free advice, but it’s your choice.”
Aiden, the business owner, wanted to pick Dash’s brain, but it could wait until the elephant in the room was addressed. He reached down to thread their fingers together, and Dash pinked up nicely.
“I’m going to take you up on that offer later, but I want to talk about us for a while, okay?”
Dash nodded; body and expression tense.
“Good, because I like what we have and want more. I think you do, too. Am I right?”
“Y...yes. This is... I haven’t... there are things I need to tell you first.”
Dash knew this moment would come, which might mean the end before they got started. When he began to huff and grunt, Aiden recognized his distress and pulled him onto his lap.
