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"How did you write a book so raw, imaginative, and realistic? Why did you want to write about Japan? Why did you want to write about World War II Japan? Why is it so emotional? How do you channel your artistic work like that? How did—" Evans was continuously asking questions when Terry stopped him.
"Evans," said Terry.
"Ah! Sorry!" said Evans.
We were sitting in our living room. There were Mom, Dad, me, and this guy who had been talking non-stop since he came. Dad said he was an editor at Random House; he wanted to meet since he was intrigued by my work. But I could see greed in his eyes when he saw me. Is he a pedophile?
I instinctively covered my crotch with my hands and frowned at Evans. I think Mom also noticed me moving. When she saw what I was doing, she also put her hand on my lap to reassure me.
"I think we have a misunderstanding..." Terry said while looking at us. He is very perceptive.
Then he told us all about Evans; since they were close, he knew a lot about him.
"So, all in all, he is just a money lover, and he sees potential in you; that's why he was making that face," Terry said, looking at Evans, who was obliviously eating the cookies on the table.
Evans didn't care what people thought of him; that's why he didn't try to defend himself. Though he is thankful to Terry because he wanted to be Michael's manager.
But before he could say anything, Michael spoke.
"I don't really care about managers or stuff, but if my dad has recommended you, then I have no doubt you are qualified. But I have some rules..." said Michael without any interruptions from Evans. "I will not be pressured into writing something I don't like. I will not tolerate any changes in my work. All the rights to the novels and their adaptation rights will be mine and no one else's. That's it. I don't care about your percentage; ask my dad about it. He will look after my finances. And...never give me that creepy look again."
"Does that mean?" asked Evans, who was baffled and unsure what to say.
Michael put out his hands in front of him and said, "I want to be a world-renowned writer."
"Thank you, Mr. Michael," said Evans with hopeful eyes.
"No problem," said Michael.
The talks between the 4 people went on for hours and at the end the contract was signed.
"I think in two months the publishing should be complete since it is not a long novel," Terry contemplated.
"Okay, but remember what I said. On the cover I want a little girl with black hair and large, expressive eyes. She has distinct rosy cheeks.Yellow pan that is too big for her head.Her clothing consists of a light-colored, short-sleeved top and matching bloomers or shorts.She will be in a saluting pose with her right hand raised to her forehead, looking directly at the viewer with a neutral expression." Said Micheal.
"You don't have to worry about it anymore. I will do my utmost to make it possible. I will also look after your copyrights and everything. You don't have to worry. By the way, have you thought about what your next book is going to be?" Evans asked.
"Yeah...I have a novel in mind. Young adult mystery," Michael said.
"An adult mystery? After a tragedy book? I don't think it's going—" Evans tried to stop Michael, but what he heard next froze him.
"It's going to be a four-book series."
"Yes! I think this is the best time to write a young adult mystery novel!" said Evans.
Everyone looked at him with disgust. How can a person in a high post be a bootlicker?
"If you don't mind me asking...what will be the name of the book?" said Evans. He wanted to trademark everything in Michael's name so there wouldn't be any holes in the boat.
After thinking for some seconds, Michael said the name.
"A Good Girl's Guide to Murder."