“Your name wouldn’t be on the book cover. But itwouldbe on the check.” He cocked his head. “Let me ask you, have you enjoyed taking my class?”
That one was easy. “Very much.”
He beamed. “There you go, then. This would be more of the same. An intensive mentorship. A sustainable career, if that’s what you choose. And you’d be paid.”
I was dizzy with the possibilities. “Can I have some time to think about it?”
“Of course, of course. I’m not going anywhere. Except back to New York. Something else to think about, right? The Big Apple. Heart of the publishing world. It would be a great place for you to get your chops.” He winked. “Just let me know before I go.”
—
Did you know Oscar Diggs uses ghostwriters?” I asked.
“In the same way I know there is no Santa Claus.” Tim’s mouth curved. “You can accept something factually and still not want to believe it.”
“Why does it matter?” Reeti asked. She was a little drunk. Her exams were over, and we had gone out to celebrate.
“He wants me to write for him. For Shivery Tales. It’s his bestselling line.”
Tim frowned. “Not really your sort of thing, I would have said.”
“He wants more girl power.”
“He liked your story, then.”
“He did.” I gulped wine, the alcohol adding to my general buzz. “I was so surprised. And flattered. He asked if I’d ever considered moving to New York.”
Like my mother. Like Toni.
“You’d be closer to your sister,” Reeti said.
“I know, right? She could live with me. Or at least use me as her permanent address, if she decides she wants to apply to school in New York next year.”
“You’re serious,” Tim said.
“I don’t... Maybe?” I took another sip of wine. “I mean, I was planning on staying in Dublin, at least through the summer. But now...”
“Yeah.” Reeti looked guilty. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that.”
“About what?”
“It’s the condo. After I get my degree, I’m moving to London.” She reached across the table for my hand. “You know you can stay in the flat as long as you want. And I’m not asking for a penny more in rent. But my parents bought it as an investment, so if you could give them a move-out date, it would really help them lease the place for next year.”
“Oh.”Oh.“Sure. Of course.”
“I’m sorry. I should have said something to you earlier. I kept chickening out.”
“No, it’s okay.” I squeezed her fingers, trying to disguise my shock. “So. London. Are you...?”
Her pretty face set. “I’m going to teach. I’ve applied to a gurdwara school.”
“Reeti, that’s wonderful!”
“I still haven’t told my parents.”
“But you will.”
“When they come for graduation.” She smiled. “Vir said he wanted to be there when I tell them.”
