The temps are watching me. Waiting to see what the chef does when logistics collide with principles.
I think about my aunt. About the way she'd source everything within fifty miles even when it cost more and took longer. About the handwritten note in her recipe book:Local isn't convenient. That's why it matters.
I also think about the debt. About the critics who'll attend Friday. About the Foundation representatives who'll decide if we're worth future contracts.
About Ivy, who drove forty-five minutes in the dark to rescue seeds because she keeps her promises.
"Find me another option," I say.
Maya looks up. "Rogan, I just told you there isn't one."
"Then we make one. Who else grows bitter greens this time of year?"
She sighs. Starts scrolling again. "Potentially, there's a farm about an hour north. They do microgreens and specialty lettuces. But they're small-scale. Unproven."
"Call them."
"They might not have the capacity."
"Call them anyway."
She does. Puts it on speaker while I walk Derek through proper stock reduction.
"Hello?" A woman's voice. Wary.
"Hi, this is Maya Chen calling from Thorn's Bistro in Pine Hollow. We're looking for a frisée supplier for a Friday event. Do you have availability?"
Pause. "How much do you need?"
"Twelve heads. Pristine condition. Delivered by Thursday evening."
Longer pause. "That's cutting it close."
"We're aware. Can you do it?"
"Maybe. But I'd need payment up front. And I can't guarantee uniformity. We're a small operation."
Maya looks at me. Raises an eyebrow.
Non-uniform means more prep work. Means sorting through leaves and building around imperfection instead of relying on cookie-cutter consistency.
Also means keeping the chain local. Means honoring what this place is.
"What's your price?" I ask.
She names it. Thirty percent higher than the conventional option.
"Deal," I say. "Maya will send payment details."
Maya ends the call. Looks at me like I've lost my mind.
"That just cost us most of the margin on the salad course."
"I know."
"And we still have to make it work with inconsistent greens."
"I know that too."
