"Wait for the shoulder seasons," his mother had always told him. "Between the holidays and the weddings."

Because it was the , Miller didn't show him the door. Instead, he pulled out a calculator. They danced. They haggled. They talked about inventory turnover and the upcoming July trade shows where Miller needed cash to buy new stock.

"It’s a beautiful piece," Miller sighed. "A bit niche for some, but perfect for the right person."