A Big Decision

Mom and I made our way to where the results of the main contest were about to be announced. I fiddled with the card that John gave me; I looked at it again.

Lumina Publishing

John Reynolds

Associate Editor

A publishing company had noticed 'Toy Story.' This was the best outcome I could have gotten from entering the contest. But what if it's just a formality? What if it doesn't lead to anything substantial? A whirlwind of thoughts entered my mind.

"No, stay positive," I whispered to myself. This could be a turning point, a chance to get my story out there. Mom seemed excited too, but doubt still lingered. Was it too good to be true? I needed to be cautious.

We arrived where the results for the main contest were being announced; there was a large audience gathered there, larger than the one for the writing sprint. The air was thick with anticipation. I saw Emily waving at us; she was standing on the other side of the room with her friends. I waved back, my heart pounding in my chest, as a man took to the stage.

"I would like to thank all the participants that entered the contest. We have had the chance of reading some great stories today, but there can only be one winner."

The audience applauded, and the man continued, "But first, I would like to mention the five best stories of the contest."

"In no particular order, our five finalists are Emily Miller with 'The Clockwork City,' David Roberts with 'Serpent's Sonata,' Isabella Bennett with 'The Serenade,' Michael Anderson with 'Chronicles of the Smith,' and Jessica Turner with 'Journey to the Forgotten Moon.'"

The applause erupted as each name was announced, and my heart sank. My name wasn't among them. I was shocked and surprised; I was so sure that it would at least make the finals. I looked to my mom; she gave me a supporting smile and squeezed my hand.

'What just happened? I was so sure, especially after that encounter with John. Did I overestimate my chances?' A whirlwind of thoughts swirled in my head.

The mature part of me could handle it because i knew the story wasn;t mine i just 'borrowed' it,but the ten-year-old was upset. It was like a punch in the gut for my younger mind.

'But why? What did those other stories have that mine didn't?' His younger mind was in emotional turmoil; I tried to suppress it. Damn I really need to get control of it 

My Mom noticed my distress, moved closer, and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"Daniel, sweetheart," she whispered, her voice a soothing balm, "I know this wasn't what you expected. You've come so far, and I'm incredibly proud of you."

"You had high hopes, and it's okay to feel disappointed. But this is just one step in your journey. Look on the bright side, your story was noticed by that man from the publishing house." she added

He saw Emily approaching them. "Daniel, I was so sure your story would make it to the final list. What happened?" Emily asked, genuine surprise etched on her face.

"It's okay; I am happy I got to participate and congratulations on being one of the finalists. I'm rooting for you," I said.

"Thank you for the support, Daniel. I hope you continue writing," she said, trying to console me.

Mom stepped in, her voice carrying a mix of assurance and pride. "Something else happened, Emily. A representative from Lumina Publishing noticed Daniel's story. They want to discuss the possibility of publishing it."

A spark of excitement flashed in Emily's eyes. "Lumina Publishing? That's a big deal! Daniel, this is amazing and even better than winning this. Congratulations!"

Emily's surprise transformed into a thoughtful expression as she processed the information. Her brows furrowed slightly. I noticed her expression. "What is it?"

"Wait, so your story didn't make it to the finals, but Lumina Publishing wants to discuss publishing it?" Emily questioned, her curiosity evident.

I nodded. "You noticed it too, right?" I replied.

Emily crossed her arms, deep in thought. "That's... unusual. I mean, no offense, Daniel, but the representatives only get the best stories, that means the five that were announced just now. So why didn't your story get included in it?"

Mom chimed in, "I don't understand; is there a problem?"

Emily's suspicion lingered, but she ultimately smiled, offering support. "Well, whatever the reason, it sounds like a great opportunity. Hear them out first; don't accept anything yet."

.

.

.

Emily ended up winning the contest; it looked like she was approached by people from publishing companies too. We left to go to the cafe where John had scheduled the meeting with us. Entering the cafe, I spotted John and his colleague sitting at a corner table. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. John noticed them and stood up with a welcoming smile.

"Daniel, Miss Adler, please have a seat," John greeted them. "This is Lucy Wallace, my colleague; she was one of the judges for the contest," he said.

"Hello, Daniel, your story was amazing; such talent in writing at your age is so rare," she said, complimenting me.

She turned to my mother. "You must be very proud, Miss Adler, to have such a talented son."

My mom preened with pride. "Oh, I am incredibly proud of Daniel; he has always had a passion for writing," she said as she gave me a one-handed hug.

"Thank you again for meeting with us," John began. "We were genuinely impressed with your story, Daniel. It's not every day we come across such talent, especially from someone as young as you."

"Thank you; today has been a roller coaster of emotions for me. When I met you before, I was so sure I would at least make the final list, but not making it was unexpected."

Lucy interjected with a nervous smile, "Daniel, these competitions are subjective, and sometimes the judging process can be unpredictable. Your talent, however, is undeniable. We are interested in discussing the potential of your story."

John nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. We see great promise in your work, and we want to explore how we can help bring it to a wider audience."

Mom spoke up, her voice filled with a blend of motherly pride and concern. "We appreciate the opportunity, truly. But I also want to make sure this is the right step for Daniel. He's still young, and I want him to have a positive experience in the world of writing."

John acknowledged her concern. "Miss. Adler, our intention is to nurture Daniel's talent, not overwhelm him. We understand the balance needed for someone his age. Our meeting today is just an exploration, a chance to discuss possibilities. If, at any point, you feel it's not the right time or direction, we respect that decision."

My Mom seemed reassured by his answer.

He looked at me and continued, "Daniel, we want to be upfront with you. Your story, 'Toy Story,' is remarkable."

Lucy chimed in, her eyes reflecting sincerity. "But, like any piece of writing, there's always room for improvement. What we're proposing is a collaborative effort. We believe, with some enhancements, your story could not only be published but also become incredibly popular, especially among younger children."

John added, "Exactly. Your story has the potential to resonate with a younger audience, and the fact that a ten-year-old wrote it adds a unique charm. It could become a sensation."

"Picture this, Daniel – a young, talented author with a heart-warming and imaginative story. It's the kind of narrative that captures the hearts of readers, and your age makes it even more special," Lucy said with a glint in her eye.

I sat there, the weight of their words sinking in. The cafe seemed to fade into the background; I thought back to what Emily had suggested, not accepting anything at first.

John continued, "Of course, any decisions we make will involve you, Daniel, and your mom. We're here to guide and support, not to rush things. We can discuss the potential changes, get your input, and work collaboratively to make your story the best it can be." Lucy nodded, emphasizing their collaborative approach. "Your voice is essential in this process. We see a budding writer in you, Daniel, and we want to nurture that talent."

While John and Lucy heaped praise upon him and presented the offer, I couldn't ignore the power dynamic at play. I was a young, new author, and they could try to take advantage of that. So I needed time to negotiate with them on equal standing. If this company liked my story, others might like it too. I also needed get a good deal and not get the short end of the stick.

With a polite smile, I responded, "I appreciate your offer, really. The story is something special to me, and I need some time to think about everything. It's a lot to process."

John and Lucy exchanged understanding glances. John nodded. "Of course, Daniel. This is a significant decision, and we respect that. Take the time you need." Lucy added, "We're not here to rush you into anything. Your story, your choice. If you have any questions or need clarification, feel free to reach out."

Lucy handed me a business card. "Don't hesitate to reach out whenever you're ready. We're here to help."

Lucy and John bid their farewells and left the cafe, leaving me and mom alone in the booth.

"So, Daniel," she began gently, "why did you hesitate back there? They seemed sincere."

"We have to be very careful about this, Mom, and also I can't shake the feeling that there's something off," I confessed.

"You are right; this is a huge decision," Mom agreed.

I nodded slowly. "Exactly. I don't want to rush into anything."

"Well, this has been an eventful day."she said, standing up.

 "Come on, sweetheart; let's go home you must be tired"

I looked at her and smiled.She was right i was tired,another drawback of my younger body.

We exited the cafe and began our journey home.