With shaky hands, I read it:
Dear Ms. Westfall,
Due to rising property maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and local tax adjustments, this letter will be serving as formal notice of a 25% rent increase in accordance with the terms outlined in your lease agreement, effective on the first of next month.
All other lease terms and conditions will remain unchanged.
Sincerely,
Karen F. Lattimer
Meadow Hills Commercial Properties
I sigh, setting the notice down. This is the last thing I need right now. Though I’m grateful to have Lana as my bather, I’ve finally managed to get to a place where I feel comfortable operating without my last groomer, Agatha anymore.
It will be fine, Romilly, you’ll just take on a few extra dogs every day. It will all work out.
Still, I can’t stop myself from sending Agatha a text, because I’m already working so much, and it would be nice not to have to add even more to my plate.
Me
Hey! Any chance you’d want to come work at The Paw Spa with me?
Agatha
I’ve told you, sweetie. I’m working in Portland, now. But thanks for the offer.
I try to swallow back the burning in my throat.
Me
To be honest, I could really use the extra hands around here. I just got hit with a rent increase
Agatha
Oh, honey. I’m sorry. Unfortunately, after the way things ended last time, I don’t really feel comfortable coming back. I’ve told you that.
Me
But this building is in much better shape than the last one. I’m not closing down over expensive repairs again. Besides, I’m renting now! If anything happens, it’s up to the landlord.
It takes Agatha a while to respond, and I clutch my phone tight as I wait.
Agatha
That’s good. But have you seen your online rating? Only 3 stars.
Me
I can get that rating up easily.
Agatha
I’ll tell you what…if you can get to 4 stars, I’ll consider it.
My chest lightens at the sliver of hope.You hear that, Romilly? All you have to do is get to four stars!But I have no idea how to do that when I’m not sure why my ratings are so average to begin with. I pull up my business page online and read the reviews. Most of them are merely star ratings with no text, but one catches my eye from an anonymous user.
Cute shop, and I love Romilly, but she really needs to hire another person. It takes too long to get an appointment because she’s always booked, and her grooms take forever to finish. Might get my dog groomed out of town next time.
