13 The New Store (1/2)
The next day passed in a flurry.Tom sent Alan a complete business plan.He then called City A Bank and called in favors to make sure that Alan's loan was approved.
Alan walked into the bank.Much like last time, everything was over quickly.The loan officer barely glanced at the proposal.She instantly approved his loan.
Alan was surprised at how easy it was.”Maybe I really am destined to be a cafe owner.”
Meanwhile a bank manager sweated profusely while assuring Tom over the phone that nothing was wrong and the loan was approved.He let out a sigh of relief as he hung up the phone.He didn't know who that young man was, but he must be important for a bigshot to pave the way for him like that.
Just like that, another misunderstanding occurred, and Alan went from a broke, unambitious twenty something to a well-connected businessman in the eyes of the bank.
Alan walked out of the bank and took a deep breath, enjoying the sun and his new lease on life.
Somewhere an author coughed up blood after reading his own pun.
”What a successful day,” Alan thought to himself.
”Host, please remember that you must still find a storefront to purchase and complete the closing.The sooner you complete the mission the sooner you get the reward.”
Alan felt annoyed.”Can't you let me enjoy this moment system?”
The system ignored him.
Alan sighed and called Tom.He knew Tom worked in real estate, so he thought he might have some leads on a storefront he could purchase.
Tom answered on the first ring.Even though he already knew the answer he asked, ”How'd it go?”
Alan responded, ”They approved the loan!It was crazy.They barely glanced at the paperwork before changing their mind.It was unreal.”
Tom coughed and cleared his throat.”Yes, well, that's good then.When will you be open for business?”He didn't even try to hide his eagerness.He'd started having headaches from the lack of caffeine.
”That's why I'm calling.I need to find a space to purchase.Do you have any leads?”
There was a pause on the other end of the line.”Did you not read the business plan?”
”What about it?” Alan asked in confusion.
Tom sighed.”The business plan states the intended property.It's in the heart of the city.There's plenty of foot traffic, plus it's right by a number of large skyscrapers full of businessmen and businesswomen who will want coffee.I...know...the seller.They owe me a favor so they agreed to sell it at a low price.”
Alan hesitated.”Alright, well thanks for that.I owe you one.I'll think of a way to repay you.”
”How about you make me an extra coffee?”Tom asked hopefully.