L.M. Nelson's Blog, page 35

Author Confessions Round 3

Day three of author confessions. How many WIPs do I have?

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Currently, I have three works in progress. The final book in my Scrubs series is in the editing phase. It will be sent to my designer/ formatter in the near future. I’m also working on a Young Adult fantasy book and an adult crime novel that focuses primarily on arson. I have two other books brewing in my head, but have yet to put any of those ideas down on paper.

Author Confessions Round 2

Day two of the 31-day author confession- What is your biggest writing challenge?

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My biggest writing challenge is describing character expressions without sounding monotonous or repeating myself constantly.  This has always been a challenge because there are only so many ways to express a character’s feelings before a word or phrase is repeated. I don’t want to lose my voice or my style while describing facial expressions and body language, but I also don’t want to sound like a broken record. I’ve discovered a few useful resources which have helped to alleviate this problem.

I’m doing my best to grow as a writer. It takes time, but I’m getting there.

 

Author Confessions Round 1

I’ve accepted a 31-day author confessions challenge. The day to day challenges are listed below.

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I’ll begin with the first challenge-Who is your favorite character in your WIP?

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My favorite character in my current work in progress is my main male, Roger Zellers. Roger has been a professional actor, singer, and dancer on Broadway for the last eight years. He was born and raised in upstate New York and spent his whole life taking dance classes, theatre training, and voice and piano lessons. He’s performed on stage since he was five years old and has earned a couple of Tony nominations, winning one for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical.

Roger is my favorite character in my current book for several reasons. First, he’s a down to earth guy who enjoys life and is fun to hang out with. He’s also multi-talented, has a playful sense of humor, and randomly blurts out showtunes or tap dances down the streets of New York City. Although he’s recognized for his immeasurable talents, he’s humble and goes out of his way to support other entertainers rather than promote himself. Most importantly, he’s benevolent and compassionate. It’s not unusual for him to donate large sums of money to various charities. He’s actively involved in the Broadway Cares Foundation, donates toys to the Toys For Tots program, and is often seen providing food, blankets, shoes, and jackets to the homeless. He sings Christmas songs with sick children at children’s hospitals or the children’s shelter and volunteers his time and talent to various fundraising efforts. He even takes in an abandoned dog to keep him from freezing to death.

Roger does have a past, however, which he doesn’t like to talk about. His biological father died before he was born, he had a bit of a reckless youth, and he’s been in his fair share of bad relationships. He’s friendly and kind, but has a hard time trusting people. It takes a long time to get him to open up to you. Once he does though, he’s loyal and supportive.

Roger is first introduced in the first scene of Center Stage, where he’s returning to the Ambassador Theatre to retrieve the cellphone he had mistakenly left behind. That’s where he encounters Lauren, one of the main female characters in the last book in my series. Here’s an excerpt:

Theater is a calling, an art, and the Juilliard School in New York City was one of the most respected and renowned places in the world to perfect this art. Known for its rigorous program and extensive admission requirements, Juilliard only accepted eight to ten new candidates into the actor training program each year.  Ever since she was a little girl, Lauren Hanson dreamed of singing on a Broadway stage. Gaining admittance into Juilliard led her one step closer to fulfilling that dream.

This year’s incoming freshmen had the opportunity to go on an educational tour through various theatres in New York City. While touring the Ambassador Theatre, Lauren and her classmates were invited to act out impromptu or monologue on the stage if they wanted to. But Lauren didn’t do either of those things. Instead, she confidently stood before an empty house and belted out the song ‘Defying Gravity’ from the musical Wicked.

Roger Zellers, a professional Broadway actor, was backstage retrieving his cellphone when he heard Lauren’s heavenly voice echo through the theatre. He roamed onto the stage wing to investigate. Standing center stage, singing her heart out, was an incredibly attractive young woman wearing a Juilliard tee-shirt and jeans. He watched in rapt attention, mesmerized by the intense emotion she projected through her performance. He had to find out who this woman was.

When the class was about to exit the theatre, Roger intercepted her at the door. “Excuse me, Ma’am?”

Lauren turned around. “Yes?”

“I’m sorry. I know you don’t know me, but I just heard you sing, and you have the most beautiful voice I have ever heard.”

She offered him a small, shy smile. “Thank you.”

“I am correct to assume that you’re a student at Juilliard?”

“Yes, I am.”

He extended an open palm and graciously shook her hand. “I’m Roger Zellers, and if you’d allow me, I’d like to offer my assistance.”

“Assistance with what?”

“I would like to provide you with an opportunity that will help you gain exposure and allow you to meet and work with people in the Broadway community.”

She asked for clarification. “What do you mean?”

“I’m an actor currently doing a show here at the Ambassador. I happen to know that the manager of this theatre is looking to hire theatre arts students as interns. You’ll be behind the scenes during productions, you’ll get to work directly with Broadway performers, and you’ll learn a few tricks of the trade. It’ll get your foot in the door, and people will get to know you. I’d like to give your name to the manager. You certainly captured my attention, I know you’ll capture hers as well. You interested?”

The chance to meet and work with Broadway actors and be backstage during shows was a once in a lifetime opportunity toward fulfilling her dream of performing on Broadway. As excited as Lauren was about this opportunity, she was a bit apprehensive because she knew nothing about this man and didn’t know if she could trust him.

Sensing this woman’s reluctance, Roger offered her an alternative. “Tell you what, why don’t you stop by tomorrow afternoon and talk to her.” He pulled a business card out of his wallet and grabbed a pen to write something on the back. “We have rehearsal tomorrow at 3:30. When you get here, go around the back and enter through the stage door. Show the security guard this card and tell him Roger sent you.”

He handed her the card and she carefully examined it. Printed on the front in huge block letters were the words Roger Zellers, Broadway Vocalist/ Actor/ Dancer. A phone number and website followed.

“So will you stop by tomorrow?”

She smiled with satisfaction. “I’ll be here.”

BtH Review

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Fast Friday Interview

A was recently interviewed on Martin C. Wilsey’s blog. Here’s my Fast Friday Indie Author Interview.

179 Hashtags writer needs to know

This is helpful information.

Ashli Avalon

Every writer needs to be on social media, but most don’t know which hashtags to use. I have compiled a list of 179 hashtags to help you grow your audience and increase your reach.

Hashtag rule of thumb on social media:

Facebook: Most people don’t use them or search for them.

Twitter: 2-3 per post

Instagram: 11-30 in the first comment

Pinterest: 2-3 per post

#140Poem
#1K1H (write one thousand words in one hour)
#99c (to offer or pick up an eBook bargain)
#99cents
#ABMlifeiscolorful
#Amazon
#AmazonKindle
#Amazonlikes
#AmazonPrime
#amblogging
#AmEditing
#amreading
#AmRevising
#amwriting
#ArchiveDay
#AskAgent
#AskAuthor
#AskEditor
#authorlife
#AuthorRT
#bestread
#bibliophile
#blogger
#bookaddict
#BookBuzzr
#bookclub
#BookGiveaway
#bookhaul
#bookish
#booklove
#BookMarket
#BookMarketing
#booknerd
#bookoftheday
#bookporn
#bookreview
#Books
#booksofinstagram
#bookstagram
#booktastic
#bookwhore
#BookWorm
#bookworm
#boolnerdigans
#borrow
#calledtobecreative
#Comedy
#CopyWriting
#creativeentrepreneur
#creativepreneur
#creativityfound
#Crime
#DarkFantasy
#Dystopian
#eBook
#EditGoal
#Editing
#ePubChat
#eReaders
#Erotica
#FaithLitChat
#fiction
#FollowFriday
#FreebieFriday
#FreeReads
#FWRT (Freelance Writer Retweet)
#GetPublished

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6 Quotes To Inspire You In 2017!

Some inspiration for you for 2017.

lifesfinewhine

For more quotes click here.

For more inspirational posts click here.

And if you enjoyed this post don’t forget to like, follow, share and comment!!

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Self-Publishing

Couldn’t have said it better myself.

writerchristophfischer

Source: Advantages and Disadvantages of Self-Publishing

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF SELF-PUBLISHING

DECEMBER 5, 2016RUTH NESTVOLD17 COMMENTS

I am finally (finally!) compiling my “Starting Out as an Indie Author” series into a book, and since I started this weekend, I’ve noticed a couple of things I still need to add. Since the first part of the book revolves around the question, “Is Self-Publishing For You?” I realized I had to write my own version of the consideration of the pros and cons of indie and traditional publishing. (I have a few more things up my sleeve that I will probably blog about in the next week or two.)

So with no further ado, here’s my take on the debate:

Advantages of Self Publishing

– Speed

A traditionally published novel can easily take up to two years from the time it is accepted to the time it actually comes out…

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Goodreads Giveaway

Enter for your chance to win a free signed copy of Beyond the Hardwood, the latest book in the Scrubs books series.

 

Goodreads Book Giveaway


Beyond the Hardwood
by L.M. Nelson

Giveaway ends January 31, 2017.

See the giveaway details

at Goodreads.

Enter Giveaway

 

Center Stage – Chapter 1

I’m currently in the process of revising and editing the fourth and final book in my Scrubs series, titled Center Stage.  The book is still in revision, but here’s a sneak peek into the first chapter. This content is under copyright and I own all rights.

Chapter 1

Theater is a calling, an art, and the Juilliard School in New York City was one of the most respected and renowned places in the world to perfect this art. Known for its rigorous program and extensive admission requirements, Juilliard only accepted eight to ten new candidates into the actor training program each year.  Ever since she was a little girl, Lauren Hanson dreamed of singing on a Broadway stage. Gaining admittance into Juilliard led her one step closer to fulfilling that dream.

This year’s incoming freshmen had the opportunity to go on an educational tour through various theatres in New York City. While touring the Ambassador Theatre, Lauren and her classmates were invited to act out impromptu or monologue on the stage if they wanted to. But Lauren didn’t do either of those things. Instead, she confidently stood before an empty house and belted out the song ‘Defying Gravity’ from the musical Wicked.

Roger Zellers, a professional Broadway actor, was backstage retrieving his cellphone when he heard Lauren’s heavenly voice echo through the theatre. He roamed onto the stage wing to investigate. Standing center stage, singing her heart out, was an incredibly attractive young woman wearing a Julliard tee-shirt and jeans. He watched in rapt attention, mesmerized by the intense emotion she projected through her performance. He had to find out who this woman was.

When the class was about to exit the theatre, Roger intercepted her at the door. “Excuse me, Ma’am?”

Lauren turned around. “Yes?”

“I’m sorry. I know you don’t know me, but I just heard you sing, and you have the most beautiful voice I have ever heard.”

She offered him a small, shy smile. “Thank you.”

“I am correct to assume that you’re a student at Juilliard?”

“Yes, I am.”

He extended an open palm and graciously shook her hand. “I’m Roger Zellers, and if you’d allow me, I’d like to offer my assistance.”

“Assistance with what?”

“I would like to provide you with an opportunity that will help you gain exposure and allow you to meet and work with people in the Broadway community.”

She asked for clarification. “What do you mean?”

“I’m an actor currently doing a show here at the Ambassador. I happen to know that the manager of this theatre is looking to hire theatre arts students as interns. You’ll be behind the scenes during productions, you’ll get to work directly with Broadway performers, and you’ll learn a few tricks of the trade. It’ll get your foot in the door, and people will get to know you. I’d like to give your name to the manager. You certainly captured my attention, I know you’ll capture hers as well. You interested?”

The chance to meet and work with Broadway actors and be backstage during shows was a once in a lifetime opportunity toward fulfilling her dream of performing on Broadway. As excited as Lauren was about this opportunity, she was a bit apprehensive because she knew nothing about this man and didn’t know if she could trust him.

Sensing this woman’s reluctance, Roger offered her an alternative. “Tell you what, why don’t you stop by tomorrow afternoon and talk to her.” He pulled a business card out of his wallet and grabbed a pen to write something on the back. “We have rehearsal tomorrow at 3:30. When you get here, go around the back and enter through the stage door. Show the security guard this card and tell him Roger sent you.”

He handed her the card and she carefully examined it. Printed on the front in huge block letters were the words Roger Zellers, Broadway Vocalist/ Actor/ Dancer. A phone number and website followed.

“So will you stop by tomorrow?”

She smiled with satisfaction. “I’ll be here.”

 

After class the next day, Lauren headed over to West 49th Street. She wasn’t sure what to expect and wasn’t totally convinced this Roger guy was telling her the truth about who he was or his connections with Broadway. But as soon as the cab pulled up to the Ambassador Theatre, any doubts Lauren had about Roger quickly disappeared. The marque out front promoted the musical Chicago. Larger than life still shots from the show, one of which captured Roger posing in a black suit, were displayed on the walls outside. Obviously he had been honest with her about his involvement on Broadway, and she felt less reluctant about blindly walking into the theatre.

Once Lauren gained access inside, she took a seat in the back and watched the performers rehearse. Roger, dressed in black jazz pants and a tee-shirt with Chicago printed on the front, danced around the stage with a black fedora on his head and a cane in his hand while he sang a song called ‘Razzle Dazzle.’ He had a powerful baritone voice and quite the stage presence. He was incredibly entertaining to watch.

At the conclusion of rehearsal, Roger gulped down a bottle of water and peered out to the rows of empty seats. When he saw Lauren seated in the back row, a huge grin brightened his features. Removing his fedora, he stepped off the stage and strolled to the back to greet her. “I’m glad you made it,” he said. “I told Carmen about your remarkable performance yesterday. She’s looking forward to meeting you. Come with me and I’ll introduce you.”

Lauren stood up and followed him.

The theatre manager, Carmen Hollister, discussed details with Lauren. Job responsibilities included cleaning up props, helping with costumes, and basically running around making sure the performers had everything they needed before and during the show. Carmen was willing to work around Lauren’s class schedule and offered her twenty hours a week during nighttime and weekend performances. After chatting for about thirty minutes, Lauren gladly accepted the job.

When Roger found out Lauren took the position, he beamed with excitement. “That’s fantastic. Congratulations!”

“Thank you so much for your help.”

“No problem. When do you start?”

“Monday night.”

He flashed her an irresistibly captivating grin. “I guess I’ll see you on Monday.”

 

On her first day at the Ambassador, Lauren arrived early, eager to get started. Several cast and crew members were already there, including Roger. He leaned against the makeup counter conversing with another man. The moment Lauren walked in, conversation ceased and Roger’s eyes drifted her direction. “Well, look who’s here. Hello, Lauren. It’s good to see you again.” He motioned for her to come closer. “Have you met Jason? He’s our lead dancer.”

Jason welcomed her with a firm handshake. “Welcome aboard. Always good to have a helping hand around here.”

“Thanks. I’m looking forward to it.”

Roger stood up straight. “Let me show you around.” He said goodbye to Jason then led Lauren back to the dressing rooms. He introduced her to several performers from the show and she met one of the makeup artists. Roger showed her where props and costume racks were stored then guided her back to the main gathering area. Several dancers were now warming up, and crew members busily began to prepare for the show. “Do you have any questions?” he asked her.

She looked around the theatre feeling a bit overwhelmed. “This is a lot to take in.”

“It is, but things run pretty smoothly around here. We’ll help you figure it out.” He checked the time on his watch. “I have to get ready for the show. Have fun tonight.”

“I’m sure I will. Break a leg, Roger.”

“I’ll try not to.”

During intermission, Roger reached into the mini-fridge to grab a bottle of water. As he unscrewed the lid, he caught sight of Lauren. With the bottle in his hand, he moseyed her direction. “How’s it going?”

Lauren looked up. “Busy, but I love it. Everyone has been so helpful.”

“I’m glad to hear that.” He leaned against the wall with his hand in his pocket and gulped down a huge drink. “How are you getting home tonight? Is someone coming to pick you up?”

“I was going to take a cab.”

His eyes widened. “By yourself?”

“Yes.”

He rubbed his hand across his chin. “Traveling alone at night in New York City can be dangerous. Please allow me to escort you home after the show.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“I insist. I won’t be able to sleep tonight if I don’t see you home safely. Meet me by my dressing room after the show and I’ll take you home.”

Grateful that he cared so much about her safety, she agreed. “That’s very kind. Thank you.”

“It’s my pleasure.”

 

Over the next month, Lauren worked three evening shows a week and all day on Saturdays. Prior to Saturday’s matinee, Lauren tapped on Roger’s dressing room door to see if he needed anything.

“It’s open,” he called out.

She walked in to find Roger clothed only in a pair of black trousers, holding a white button-up dress shirt in his hand. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize you weren’t dressed.”

Roger shrugged it off. “It’s alright. Come on in.” He slipped the shirt over his shoulders, leaving it unbuttoned.

In her hand, Lauren held the black fedora Roger needed for his opening number. “You left your hat by the makeup counter again.”

“Did I?” He chuckled at his own forgetfulness. “Silly me.”

She stepped closer and placed the fedora on his head.

“Thank you for returning it. I appreciate the way you keep tabs on the items I’m always misplacing. Keeps me in check.”

“Someone has to.”

“And I’m glad that someone is you.” He turned away and began to button his shirt. “You’re doing a great job, by the way.”

“Thank you.” Gaining his approval boosted her confidence. “Do you need anything before the show starts?”

“No, thanks. I’m fine.”

“Alright. I’m going to check on the others then. See you later.”

During a break between the afternoon and evening show, Roger bounded backstage and rubbed his growling stomach. “My tummy is rumbling. We should do a Schmackary’s run.”

“I’m in.” Jason reached for his wallet and handed Roger twenty dollars.

Several other performers added to the fund.

Lauren overheard the conversation and joined them. “What’s at Schmackary’s?”

“Only the best cookies on the planet.” Roger slipped the wad of money in his pocket. “Do you want to come with me? I could use some help carrying the boxes back over here.”

“How far is it?”

“About half a mile. We have plenty of time.”

Lauren willingly agreed to go with him.

When they arrived at the bakery, Roger ordered two dozen cookies—Sch’mores, Carmel Apple Crisp, Chocolate Chip, and his personal favorite, Peanut Butter Cup. Once the boxes were filled with everyone’s favorites, he asked Lauren, “Any kind in particular you’d like to try?”

She peered into the glass case, eyeing the huge selection of sweet treats. “I want one of those sprinkle cookies.”

“Good choice.” He added one to the box just for her.

On the way back to the theatre, Roger struck up a conversation. “Have you seen much of New York City?”

“My sister and I went exploring when we first got here. We saw Central Park and quite a bit of Times Square.”

“Experienced any nightlife?”

She shook her head. “Other than working in the theatre, no.”

“Some of us are going to 54 Below tonight. Would you like to come with us?”

“What’s 54 Below?”

“A dinner club with live performances and drinks. It’s open stage night, Broadway Sings the Ballads. Do you want to come?”

Uncertain, she lifted a shoulder. “I don’t know.”

Hoping to entice her, he offered, “I’ll pay your cover and buy you dinner.”

“That’s really not necessary, Roger.”

He did his best to convince her. “C’mon, Lauren. Come cabaret with us. You’re in New York. You need to get out and experience what this city has to offer.”

“Are you sure the others won’t mind?”

“Of course not. We’d love to have you.”

After a bit of persuasion, she agreed to go.

Around 11:00 P.M., Roger, Lauren, and a two other Chicago cast members strolled over to West 54th Street. As soon as they arrived, they descended a narrow wooden staircase, enclosed by walls plastered with red-patterned wallpaper. At the bottom of the stairs, they were greeted by a 54 Below doormat. The maître d’ met them at the entrance and graciously invited them inside.

This intimate and classy restaurant was full of sophisticated New York City glam. The décor was stylish and inviting—leather backed chairs, archival pictures, and a central stage complete with grand piano. The entire place had a 1920’s ambience. Every detail from the wallpaper to the molding to the art was reminiscent of a speakeasy.

The group was led to a four-person banquette table. Lauren took a seat next to Roger.

“Do you want a drink?” he asked, hanging his jacket over the back of a chair. “They have a ginger lemonade that’s pretty tasty.”

Being adventurous, she decided to give it a try.

Once everyone was situated and the waiter took their orders, Roger updated the group on the latest news. “Holiday Inn premiers in a few weeks.”

“Yes, I saw that,” Jason said. “I’m surprised you aren’t involved in that.”

“Don’t have time right now. With eight shows a week, benefit concerts, and recording sessions, I barely have time to breathe.”

“Recording sessions for what?” Lauren asked, curious about Roger’s activities outside the theatre.

“A collaborative benefit Christmas album. It occupies a lot of my time, but it’s for a good cause. That alone makes it worth the hours I devote to it.” He took a sip of his wine then set the glass on the table.

While they ate, several performers took turns singing, each entertaining the crowd with their own rendition of various classic ballads. When it was Roger’s turn to take the stage, he sat at the piano and began pounding away at the keys with effortless eloquence. He sang boisterously, pouring his heart into every word. The intensity of his performance gradually increased until it reached its powerful crescendo. He ended the final note with his eyes fixated right at Lauren.

The restaurant patrons applauded, and Roger slowly rose from the piano bench and shuffled off the stage.

When he returned to the table, Lauren praised his performance. “I had no idea you could play the piano.”

“A little something I do in my spare time. It helps me unwind.”

At closing time, Roger offered Lauren an escort home. When they arrived at Lincoln Center, he walked her up to the main building of the Juilliard dormitory. “Did you have fun tonight?”

“I did. Thank you for inviting me.”

“Thank you for joining us.”

She pulled her keys out of her purse. “I appreciate you going out of your way to walk me home.”

“It’s my pleasure, and it’s not out of my way. My apartment is only a few blocks from here.” Hoping to get her to mingle with some of his Broadway connections, Roger suggested, “Some friends and I are meeting at Tavern on the Green for brunch tomorrow morning. You’re welcome to join us.”

“I appreciate the offer, but my sister and I made plans to hang out tomorrow, and I have some studying to do.”

“Alright. I just wanted to throw the invitation out there, help you meet some new people.”

“Thank you for being so welcoming.”

“It’s not a problem. Enjoy the rest of your weekend, Lauren.”

“You too. I’ll see you on Monday.”

He smiled charmingly then stepped away from the entrance and headed home.

 

At the theatre the following week, the cast and crew of Chicago decided to order takeout between shows. Everyone pitched in for fresh salads, flatbread sandwiches, and a variety of homemade soups.

Roger claimed a foldup chair and pulled it over to a nearby table. Jason took a seat beside him. With warm lentil soup and kale salad in front of them, they dug in while they talked.

“My sister called me last night,” Jason said, pouring balsamic vinaigrette dressing over his salad. “Apparently, she and Leo split up.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Roger dipped his spoon into his soup and took a bite. “I thought they were engaged?”

“They were. It’s complicated. According to my sister, Leo only proposed to her because he was afraid to admit he was gay. When he finally realized he couldn’t suppress the truth any longer, he broke off the engagement and openly came out.”

Roger set his spoon down and wiped his mouth with a napkin. “Oh man. What an awful way to discover the truth about someone. How’s she handling that? Is she doing ok?”

“As good as can be expected, I guess. That’s a lot to soak in.”

“The next time you talk to her, wish her well for me.” Lauren was sitting nearby munching on a sandwich. Encouraging her to be social, Roger said, “Would you like to sit with us? I promise we don’t bite.” He set up another chair to make room for her.

She rose to her feet and slowly trekked over to the table.

“So,” Roger said, popping the top off his cranberry and pomegranate juice. “Anything exciting going on at Juilliard?”

They chatted about school and happenings on Broadway before Roger retreated to his dressing room to make a few phone calls and prepare for the 7:00 P.M. show.

After the curtain call that night, Roger, still dressed in stage attire, ran into Lauren at the costume rack. “Hello, Lauren.”

She pivoted to the sound of his voice. “Great show tonight, Roger.”

“Thanks. Can I talk to you for a minute?”

“Sure.” She placed a few costumes on the rack then gave him her full attention. “What’s up?”

He chuckled at her innocence. “Not here. Come with me.” Seeking a more private location, he led her into his dressing room and closed the door.

Being shut in here with him made her a bit uneasy. “What are we doing in here?”

Since Lauren started working at the Ambassador, Roger made several attempts to get to know more about her. He included her in conversations and encouraged her to hang out before and after shows, but with their busy schedules, they had difficulty finding time to connect outside of work. In an attempt to become better acquainted with her, he offered a suggestion. “Have dinner with me.”

This comment took her by surprise. “Roger, I…”

“I know what you’re thinking,” he cut in, sensing her uncertainty. “But I just want to talk.”

Lauren had serious doubts about this. Not only was this man far more experienced than she was, he was also ten years older than her. Although Roger was always kind and quite often went out of his way to help her, the thought of spending an evening alone with him made Lauren’s nerves shaky.

He didn’t want to pressure her or make her feel uncomfortable, but he was sincere in his invitation. “Just dinner. That’s all I’m asking.”

Reluctant at first, she gave in to his request.

“Fantastic! Are you available Wednesday night?”

“As far as I know, I am.”

“Do you like Mexican food?” he suggested.

“Love it.”

“Great! I’ll make reservations at Rosa’s. Will six o’clock work for you?”

“Six o’clock is fine.”

 

Wanting her sister’s opinion about this situation, Lauren paid her a visit. She told Lacy all about Roger, explaining how he was the one who hooked her up with the theatre job at the Ambassador. “So what do you think?”

“He’s taking you someplace public, isn’t he?” Lacy asked, concerned about her sister’s safety.

“Yes.”

“Is he cute?”

Picturing Roger’s incredibly handsome face, mysterious hazel eyes, and adorable smile made Lauren’s cheeks flush. “He’s gorgeous, and he’s an amazing performer. You should hear his voice. The man has some serious pipes.”

Taking everything into consideration, Lacy offered her opinion. “Go for it, but keep your phone on. Excuse yourself to the restroom and call me if anything weird happens.”