Page 86 - James Caan - The Real Deal

The Real Deal

she talked I realised that she didn’t just have a dream, she had a
plan, and I found that really impressive. I had never had a plan in
my life, but she had real structure to back up her ambitions.
As she talked, I couldn’t help but get swept up in her passion for
the idea, her commitment to it, and I actually found her quite
inspiring. At times, I was saying things without really thinking
because the conversation was flowing so freely. She told me that
her dad was going to back her, and I realised that this was my
chance to get involved in her plans.
‘You know, when you find this boutique I would love to back
you, too, because I think it sounds pretty incredible. So if you
want, you could have me as a business partner.’
Did I just say that? Oops, I think I really did. Never mind, it’s
just talk. Most likely nothing will come of it. The conversation
moved on and I pretty much forgot that I’d said it, and I suppose
I was hoping that she would forget, too, but towards the end of
the week she called me up.
‘I’ve spoken to my dad and told him that you’re interested in
backing me. He’s a bit concerned because he doesn’t know you.
I’ve told him a bit about you and I’ve convinced him you’re
genuinely interested.’
‘I am.’
‘So he was suggesting that you put half the money in each. Is
that OK?’
‘Sounds great.’
‘I thought you’d say that, so I’ve set up some viewings of
premises with a couple of agents. There are three booked in for
Saturday and I was wondering if you’d like to come along.’
‘Sure.’
My first thought, if I’m honest, was ‘What a great reason for us
to hang out together’, and if I really did somehow invest in her
business then we’d have a reason to be together, and from her
parents’ point of view that would be acceptable. I was pretty

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