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, his

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

a decade in a pit of despair,

earnest proposal, Nadine had been just as sincere when she first came knocking, only to lead to disappointment.

of disappointment

eyes, but he respected Madge's decision: "Ms. Madge, I completely understand your feelings. It's natural to feel this way after what you've been through, but I believe that a mystery writer with impeccable logic, like yourself, possesses a clarity and rationality beyond that

Should you decide to proceed, I hope Moonlight Publishing will be your first call." "Thank

her, "this contains the digital manuscripts of your four books, handed to me by Roseanne. I've had them proofread already. While we can't proceed with publishing at the moment, thought it best to give you the revised

Madge gasped, taken

"I apologize for

without my agreement, seems wasteful. Is it worth

half a month from the

"Investing is always a mix of wins and

Madge was