The Greatest Love Story Ever Written - Conclusion

Taking over from K.K. Weil is Sandra Dailey

“I can do this, right?” Nick’s heart was pounding. “Can I do this?”

“I don’t know much about writing, but I think I’m getting to know you.” Ronnie stepped closer. “What I know for certain is that I believe in you.”

She was so close he could feel a brush of her sweet breath against his lips with every word she spoke. He didn’t think. His reaction came by instinct alone. He wove his fingers through her hair and gently tasted her lips. When she put her arms around his waist their bodies fit perfectly. He wanted to memorize every inch of her against him, just in case this was only in his imagination. Then he deepened the kiss and she made a soft little dove-like croon. It almost undid him. He had to learn every dream she’d ever had and make each one come true. It would be his life’s mission.

When he could no longer take a breath on his own he forced himself to pull away.

“I’m ready. I can do this.”

****

Nick and Ronnie rode the elevator to the tenth floor. They both faced forward as stiff as statues.

 Ronnie was the first to speak when the doors slid open.

“You turned the manuscript in a week ago. Why do you suppose the publisher called you back in?”

“I did lie about working with Clarisse before her death.” He guided her around the corner. “Maybe the work I did on the book sucked. Maybe they think I’m a con-man and a thief. Maybe they’re bringing me in to have me arrested.”

“They would have done that at your home. Besides, your contribution didn’t suck. It was awesome.” They stopped outside the glass door. “The last Clarisse Heartfelt manuscript would never have seen the light of day if it hadn’t been for you.”

A thin brunette in a tweed pencil skirt and silk blouse came out to lead them to an office.

“You must be Nick Valentini. I’m Charlotte Piper, Clarisse’s publisher. You can call me Charlie.” After shaking Nick’s hand she turned to Ronnie. “Who do we have here?”

“I’m Veronica Baker, but my friends call me Ronnie.”

“I’m pleased to meet you, Ronnie. Both of you, please, have a seat.”

Nick noticed that Clarisse’s manuscript lay in the center of the table. He’d never experience a face-to-face rejection. This must be the way they do things in the big leagues. Had a Clarisse Heartfelt story ever been rejected before? Had he ruined it that badly?

“I’ve been working with Clarisse for many, many years. I know her voice. I’d be able to pick one of her manuscripts out of a mile high pile of books in a minute. This is definitely one of hers. However, I detected your influence in it, Nick. The manuscript is fabulous. The part where Dexter wants to make Becky’s dreams come true brought me to my knees. It will undoubtedly sell millions. There is just one little problem.” Hear it comes. Nick gripped the chair arms to brace himself for the impact. “We can’t give you credit on the cover. We can give you a mention in the acknowledgements, but without instructions from the author, that’s all we can do. I’m afraid all the royalties will go to Clarisse’s estate, as well.”

“That’s it?” Nick held back a laugh. “I don’t care about the money. I don’t need any credit. I just wanted to make sure her last book reached her fans.”

“Said like a true author,” Charlie quipped. “I just wish there was something we could do for you.”

“I have a suggestion,” Ronnie sat forward in her seat. “I’ve watched Nick tweek a half dozen of his own books just this week. I think they’re as passionate as any you’ve published. But, they’re just taking up space on a shelf.”

“Ronnie!”

“You have some of your own work that hasn’t been seen?” Charlie’s eyes sparkled. “I want first crack at them. How soon can you have them sent over?”

“Umm, right away I guess.” Nick rose to shake Charlie's hand again. “I’m so glad you liked Clarisse’s book.”

“Are you kidding,” Charlie laughed. “I think its The Greatest Love Story Ever Written.”