Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Over the years, the dream that her mystery novels would hit the shelves once more haunted her sleep.

She'd discussed this ambition countless times with Nadine, who always seemed to have a different excuse for deferring it.

Then, out of the blue, someone told her that her work could finally be published. Moreover-

Stoner: "If you're on board, we'll immediately apply for an ISBN, get in touch with the printers and the media to kickstart the initial preparations. After that, it's layout design, printing, marketing, and launch. We're looking at a timeline of about two months to get everything done." "As for the royalty rates and profit-sharing, we've got a preliminary plan in place. Of course, after hearing it out, you're welcome to share your thoughts, and we can negotiate to find common ground..." Stoner was evidently well-prepared.

The royalty rates and profit-sharing proposals he offered were incredibly fair.

Besides that, he even brought the contract with him.

From initial shock and confusion to earnest attention, Madge gradually found her calm.

"Mr. Stoner," she took a deep breath, "I'm sorry..."

moment Stoner heard her preamble,

than generous. It's really just my own issues... I

a decade in a pit of despair,

Nadine had been just as sincere when she first came knocking, only to lead to disappointment. Now, once bitten, twice

of disappointment flickered

decision: "Ms. Madge, I completely understand your feelings. It's natural to feel this way after what you've been through, but I

proceed, I hope Moonlight Publishing will be your

I've had them proofread already. While we can't proceed with publishing at the moment, thought it best to give you the revised versions. They might

already?!" Madge

for

All this effort, even without my

proofreading step would have cut at least half a month from the preparation time for the new release." Madge: "Aren't you

"Investing is always a mix of wins and losses,

huh? Madge