The First Book Signing
Many bookcases full of books line a path to a table with stacks of Steve’s book sitting under a huge poster with Steve’s smiling face on it. As they enter, Steve sees the poster and blushes. Greg stands next to the table, a big smile on his face, and a line of people wait on the other side of the table.
Greg announces Steve’s arrival, “And here he is, the man of the hour, day, week, month, and whatever! Give it up, people.” “Oh, Greg, please!” Says Steve. The people applaud. Steve blushes even more, even as Hillary and Greg get him to sit down at the table. Steve starts to sign books for the people waiting to see him. Steve signs book after book.
Hillary and Greg chat with customers and help re-stack the table as Steve drinks some water. Later, Greg rubs Steve’s right hand, as Hillary replenishes the table full of Steve’s book. “Oh... Thanks, Man. Boy, talk about writer’s cramp!” Steve says to Greg. “If this is any indication of how well this sucker is going to sell, we won’t need to rent an office, we can build our own!” Greg says, thrilled at the turnout.
“One thing at a time, Greg. Let’s see how this goes, and how...other things develop.” “Others?” Greg asks. “What, you got an idea for another book, or another website? Or, something else?” “Neither, I’m...wondering about Hillary, AND Jan.” “Jan? She blew you off weeks ago,” Greg asks, confused. “I know, but...I...can’t stop thinking about her,” Steve says reminiscing. “Hey, dude.
What you do in your love life is your business, and none of mine. I just don’t think she’s worth the effort. I mean, what about Hillary?” Greg asks. “Oh...We’ve had some laughs, but I’m just not that serious about her. Or, at all, really. She knows it, too. But…how do I…break it off? I mean, she’s my publisher! Won’t that be kind of awkward?” Steve is concerned, and looking for Greg to give him some advice.
“Uh, yeah. It could be. Steve, this could be bad for business. You need to think about your feelings for Jan, or having fun with Hillary and being rich at the same time. How lucky could any guy be? Steve starts to daydream again. Steve imagines being back in Hillary’s office. Steve stands in the corner, cowering behind a chair. Hillary stands on her desk, hurling books at him and announces, “How could you?