“Yes, today, Rome came to mind and therefore pasta alla carbonara.”
“Oh yeah, that’s good.”
I open a bottle of wine. “Is white okay?”
“Of course.”
Dinner goes very well. We plan the trip and our new life. He’s happy to have me at home all the time…and I think I love it, too.
Hailey
After saying goodbye to Jeremy and pouring myself another coffee cup, I go to my home office and sit at my desk. I love the silence of the morning.
The mailbox is full of emails from authors. I begin to go through it and create a list of books.
I give myself three books a week for personal reading. Simultaneously, for reviews on various platforms, such as alpha and beta readers, I assign a maximum of two books a week. I think that’s enough.
In the list of my top ten authors, I come to the name of an author I personally adore. Danny Hastings has such clean and engaging writing, and reading his books is a crazy journey.
I think I’ll start with him. I already have his latest two books, and I know he’ll soon have another one. I’m really impatient
As I begin my article, I realize that this author would be the ideal of any publisher. Too bad we didn’t have him with us. He certainly would be fantastic to work with it. Rumor has it that no one has ever seen him, but I don’t believe that.
When the phone rings, I don’t even realize it’s almost lunchtime. I ignore it. It’s not Jeremy, and I don’t want to stop what I’m doing. I’ve had this blog for years and worked on it only once a month. Now it’s taking shape more and more, and I like it.
I go down to the kitchen to make myself a sandwich and then take it to the studio. I’m quite the multitasker.
I bite into the sandwich while the telephone light signals the message that I received a few hours earlier. I clean my hands and unlock the screen.
I blink several times. Mr. Hastings has commented on my blog.
Okay, I have to breathe.
How did he get there? I read his answer:
“Dearest Mrs. Hailey L., I have never had the pleasure of reading such a well-done review of one of my books. I’m flattered and thank you for the nice words. I hope you’re pleased to know that my new book will be out in three weeks. If you have the time and desire, I’d like to have your opinion on this new one. Regards, Danny H.”
I’m speechless, and I answer him:
“Dearest Mr. Hastings. ‘Hailey’ is just fine. No need for formalities. It’s a beautiful surprise to know that you’re following my blog or at least that you’ve read my article. Thank you for your offer. I would be truly honored. I will give you my email address if you want to send me your manuscript. Regards, Hailey L.”
After answering, I finish my sandwich and go for a coffee. As soon as I walk through the door, I hear the sound of an email arriving. I go back to look, and then I smile.
“Well, then, hi Hailey. Nice to meet you. As promised, here is my book for you. I’m open to any criticism. Feel free to comment or make notes. I’m really curious. Regards, Danny.”
His book is attached. I’m so excited.
I open it and smile. It’s a final draft, and I love the layout.
I pick up the phone and reply to his email as I go to make some coffee.
“Thanks for your timeliness. I’ll start reading it today. I don’t think I’ll be able to add any notes to your book. I should be able to return it in a couple of days. Thanks again. Regards, Hailey.”
I go back to the study and sit on the sofa with my iPad. His response isn’t long in coming:
“Stop being so formal, I’m not that old. And I’m in no hurry.”
I respond, “I’m sorry. Professional defect.”
