CHAPTER THREE - A Taste of Change

The news of Lucas Montgomery's plans for a high-end restaurant spread through Willow Creek like wildfire. Within days, it seemed everyone had an opinion on the matter. Ella found herself at the center of heated debates as she made her rounds at The Cozy Corner. "It'll be good for the town," old Mr. Jenkins declared over his morning coffee. "Bring in some tourism, maybe even some new jobs." Mrs. Henderson, seated across from him, scoffed. "And what about our local businesses? That fancy restaurant could put half the town out of work!" Ella refilled their cups, trying to maintain a neutral expression. "I'm sure it won't be that drastic," she said diplomatically. But privately, she shared Mrs. Henderson's concerns. The Cozy Corner had been a staple of Willow Creek for decades. What would happen if a sleek, modern restaurant stole all their customers? As she wiped down tables that evening, Marge approached her with a worried frown. "Ella, honey, have you heard the latest?" Ella sighed, bracing herself. "What now?" "They say Mr. Montgomery's been asking around about you. Wanted to know your background, how long you've worked here." Ella's brow furrowed. "That's... odd. Why would he care about that?" Marge shrugged. "Who knows? Maybe he's impressed by your service. Just thought you should know." As if summoned by their conversation, the bell chimed, and Lucas walked in. He nodded politely to the few remaining customers before making his way to the counter where Ella stood. "Good evening, Ella," he said, his voice warm. "Do you have a moment to talk?" Ella glanced at Marge, who shooed her away with a knowing smile. "Go on, I've got this covered." Ella led Lucas to a quiet booth in the corner. As they sat down, she couldn't help but notice how out of place he looked in his tailored suit, surrounded by the diner's worn vinyl and chipped formica. "So," Ella said, folding her hands on the table. "I hear you've been asking about me." Lucas had the grace to look slightly embarrassed. "News really does travel fast here. Yes, I have been. I hope you don't mind." "Depends on why you're asking," Ella replied, her tone cautious. Lucas leaned forward, his eyes bright with excitement. "I have a proposition for you, Ella. I'd like you to come work at my new restaurant as the head waitress." Ella blinked, stunned. Of all the things she'd expected him to say, this wasn't even on the list. "I... what?" "I know it might seem unexpected," Lucas continued, "but I've been impressed by your skills and your connection to the community. I need someone who understands Willow Creek, someone who can help bridge the gap between my vision and the town's traditions." Ella's mind raced. The offer was tempting – she couldn't deny that. A better salary, new experiences, a chance to be part of something exciting. But... "I don't know, Lucas," she said slowly. "The Cozy Corner has been my home for years. I can't just abandon it." Lucas nodded, understanding in his eyes. "I'm not asking you to make a decision right now. Take some time to think about it. But I believe you could do amazing things at the new restaurant, Ella. You have potential that's being wasted here." His words stung more than Ella wanted to admit. She stood up abruptly. "I'll think about it. But don't expect me to jump at the chance to help you put The Cozy Corner out of business." Lucas opened his mouth to respond, but Ella had already walked away, her heart pounding. She busied herself with closing tasks, trying to sort through the whirlwind of emotions Lucas's offer had stirred up. Over the next few days, Ella found herself constantly torn. The practical part of her knew that Lucas's offer was an incredible opportunity. The salary he'd mentioned would allow her to finally start saving for her dreams of travel. And the idea of learning new skills, of being part of something modern and exciting, was undeniably appealing. But every time she looked around The Cozy Corner, saw the familiar faces of her regular customers, heard Marge's booming laugh from the kitchen, she felt a pang of guilt. How could she leave all this behind? A week after Lucas's initial offer, Ella found herself walking up the winding driveway to the old Fairfax mansion. Construction crews swarmed the property, transforming the once-dilapidated building into something sleek and modern. Lucas met her at the door, a hopeful smile on his face. "Ella, I'm glad you came. Let me show you around." As they toured the site, Lucas painted a vivid picture of his vision. "We'll have a farm-to-table concept, sourcing as much as we can from local producers. The dining room will have panoramic views of the town. And here," he said, leading her to a cozy nook, "will be a small bar area, perfect for locals who want a more casual experience." Ella had to admit, it sounded impressive. But doubt still gnawed at her. "It's beautiful, Lucas. But how do you know the town will accept it? We're not exactly known for our fine dining scene." Lucas turned to her, his expression earnest. "That's where you come in, Ella. You know these people, their tastes, their concerns. With your help, we can create something that honors Willow Creek's traditions while bringing in new opportunities." Ella sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I just... I don't know if I'm cut out for this kind of place. The Cozy Corner is all I've ever known." "I understand your hesitation," Lucas said softly. "But sometimes, we need to take risks to grow. I believe in you, Ella. I think you could thrive here, if you give yourself the chance." His words resonated with something deep inside Ella, a part of her that had always yearned for more than Willow Creek could offer. She took a deep breath, feeling as though she stood on the edge of a cliff. "Okay," she said finally. "I'll do it." Lucas's face lit up with a brilliant smile. "You won't regret this, Ella. We're going to do great things together." But as Ella drove home that evening, doubt crept back in. Had she made the right choice? How would she tell Marge and the others at The Cozy Corner?