A Woman in Search Of...

She arrived home and fell onto the bed. She didn’t know how to handle this. She wanted to talk to Cindy, but they didn’t seem to be communicating much. Besides, with her being so busy Wendy didn’t want to burden Cindy with her issue. No, this decision she’d have to make with Jake. But what was the best way to handle it? Too tired to think she instead got herself a glass of wine and watched the news. Deep trouble for Nixon and it looked like impeachment was imminent. She set her wine down, turned off the TV and went to her office.

At her desk she wrote down what she discussed with Howard…to fire Stan and find someone to replace him, thereby maybe saving the Grill, or to simply sell the Grill. She knew to cover the mounting bills Stan only made minimum payments. They owed money to several different sources. If they sold the Grill, they’d be able to pay the debts, but probably not make much of a profit. The ideas of firing Stan and replacing him or selling raced through her mind. There didn’t seem to be much choice.

She met Jake the next day at his attorney’s office. Jake’s eyes focused on Wendy. “I know we could make a go of it by borrowing money, but to be honest Wendy it is a lot of work to keep the diner going. I’m ready to let it go.”

“I’m sorry, Jake. I know how much you wanted the place.”

“It’s okay. I tried it and now I’m ready to retire. I’d like to travel.”

“What a wonderful idea.” She went to him and gave him a big hug.

“Thanks, meanwhile, we need to find when to close the Grill and let the patrons know. We also need to know when to stop deliveries. I’ll talk to Ben and let you know.

Elliott and Wendy sat together on her sofa, he held her hands as tears trickled down her cheeks.

Using his fingers Elliott wiped away the tears. “I’m really sorry about this whole mess. I know how hard you worked to make the Grill good.” “Thanks. I never, ever thought something like this could happen to me. I mean, I knew about situations like this from people and the news. I just never expected to have the same problem.”

“You’re lucky he got caught before you lost everything.”

“I can’t wait to fire the bastard myself. Will you come with me?”

“Sure, when?”

“How about tomorrow?”

“You can’t do it then. Jake should be there.”

“I don’t know why I said that. I wouldn’t do anything without Jake. You’re right,” she said with regret and exasperation.

“You couldn’t anyway because the business is still open, and you need him.”

“Oh shit. I can’t think straight. All right, I’ll talk to Jake about posting a sign when the Grill will be permanently closed. What do you think?”

“I’d imagine your cousin and his attorney will be on top of that.

She kissed his cheek. “Thanks for helping me grapple with this. When we fire Stan, we’ll still need to find someone to run it until it closes. I guess the other bartender, Ralph, could run it.”

“You may not want him there.”

Wendy looked at Elliott with questioning eyes.” You don’t know if maybe he was entwined in the scheme, but I think I know someone you can trust.”

“Even if it’s short term?”

“Yep. He’s on the lazy side so he’ll like a short-term job, plus he worked at a hotel in San Francisco for years, which is where I first met him, and he moved down here and helped at a couple of art show parties. He’s learned all about booze, as well as other useful things involved in the bar business.”

“I’ll have to check with Jake.” Needing reassurance she asked, “You’re sure we can trust him?” She nestled next to his legs like a cat cowering in a corner.