Cross Roads

The next morning, Ben was having coffee when Cue walked in. “Ready for a talk, Ben?”

“Hey, come on over and pull up a chair.”

As Cue poured his coffee, he looked up. “You need a refill?”

“No, get over here and let’s talk some more. Tell me about this new bar next door and how it’s taking away your business.”

“Oh, well things are bad here, really bad. I don’t know how long I can keep the doors open.”

Ben leaned across the table. “You have my attention. You’re not a complainer, so what’s up?”

He took a breath and paused. “You know Templeton, right?”

“Templeton, you mean the guy who owns most of the land around here? Of course I do.  How can he be a threat? You own this property.”

“You must have noticed the lack of customers last night. Templeton’s the one who built the fancy bar and hotel next door, and he’s got the money to offer weekend get-a-ways and specials on menus. I don’t know how to fight him, Ben. I’m just a little guy. He advertises in the big magazines and I sit here looking like a Ma and Pa joint. He wants me to fail so he can take over my land. He told me so. He’s already designed his fancy hotel to take the place of Sticks.” He stopped and put his head down. When he resumed, his voice was shaking. “I’m a tough guy, Ben, but I’m at a loss with this.”

“I still don’t understand, Cue. You own the deed to this place. Even if you were discouraged enough to sell, you wouldn’t sell to him.”

“No, that’s not exactly true.” He stood and began to pace. Looking nervous, he came back to the table and leaned on the chair. “Ben, Katie didn’t even know about it at the time, but last fall, I borrowed money against the place, and a little extra to fix up the house next door. I had no choice, close the doors or find money to keep her open. Templeton knows the banker and is using this information to take me down. All he has to do is take away my business and wait for the bank to foreclose.” He wiped his forehead and took a seat. “I finally had to tell Katie, one of the worst days of my life.”

Ben turned and looked around the bar, memories racing through his head. It was a good place to entertain people. In one corner of the vast room were four pool tables. A shuffleboard table sat next to the windows facing the parking lot, and near the entrance was a massive fireplace made of large stones that gave the room atmosphere on cold nights. The stage was a perfect size for small groups to entertain, with plenty of room for dancers to show their appreciation for the music. Finally, there was the magnificent bar. It was long and had a circular shape but with a wide opening for Mori to slip through and work her magic. One could sit there and watch the river through the huge windows that covered the entire front of the building. Ben had so many good memories in this room.

He suddenly smiled and put his hand on Cue’s arm. “Get your rod. You and I are going fishing, and later, you and Katie will go to the Rodeo with me. Mori can man the bar while you’re gone so don’t argue with me. I need some time to think but I can tell you this, we’re going to fight back and win this battle. We‘re going to figure out a way to bring back your business. We just need a good plan. Now go get your gear while I eat my breakfast.”

Ben was in the middle of eating and reading the paper when he was shaken by a voice that he dreaded hearing again. Turning, he faced Mickey. “Son of a bitch. I told you, old man. I told you that I’d call the police if you persisted on following me. Is this a test or something?”

“Ben, nice to see you too.” Mickey sat across the table from him, acting as if a good friend had just greeted him. “Don’t look so surprised. I told you I was coming here to fish. Say, would you mind giving me a lesson? I’m a quick study so it wouldn’t take too much of your time.”

“Why don’t you take some time and explain how you know so much about me, Mickey? Then, if it makes sense, just maybe I’ll feel more friendly around you.”

“Now, you’re being sour again, Ben. I told you that was not acceptable.” He was shaking his head while keeping his eyes focused. “Listen, maybe today isn’t the right day for my lesson. I have plenty of time to wait for you to come around.” He rose and tipped his hat Ben’s way. “You have a lovely time at the rodeo, Ben.” With that, he strolled to the front door and disappeared.