บท 122: Just Go

I signaled to the server—who was, let's be honest, more of an enforcer—to proceed. He bowed and retreated. I offered Goren my warmest smile. "This seems like a pleasant sort of business to manage," I commented.

"Do you think?" he queried.

I nodded. "It's peaceful, has a loyal customer base—that's key, you know. Regular patrons. This place has been around for quite some time, hasn't it?"

"Since before the Regency Break, as far as I know."

I nodded, pretending I'd known that fact. "You see, some folks would want to enlarge this place—maybe add an annex or another level—but why mess with a good thing? It's profitable and people love it. I bet if they expanded, it would go under within five years. Some people just don't get that. That's why I respect the proprietors here."

Goren listened to my soliloquy, a subtle smile gracing his lips, nodding from time to time. He got what I was saying.