I hope you enjoy today’s short story!
Lucas rubbed the back of his neck as he stared at the blank document, interrupted only by a notification box in the bottom corner with a stream of messages from his editor. The manuscript was six months past due, and he still didn’t know how to write book two.
Another beep, another email, this one threatening to cancel the contract if he didn’t deliver.
He glanced at a calendar, listing 233 days sober. He couldn’t even remember writing his debut novel, though memories of editing it were…painful. The temptation to hit the liquor store to help him out was strong, but no. He couldn’t.
He couldn’t disappoint the love of his life and their tiny daughter again.
Just like he couldn’t not turn in the book and earn money to provide for them, too.
Lucas spun in his chair, his eyes searching for inspiration. His small bookcase, the pile of forgotten dishes, the picture of his daughter smiling at her first birthday cake.
Maybe he should read book one again. Lucas grumbled as he reached for a copy from the bottom of his bookshelf. His fingers brushed worn leather, an odd book he saw at the used bookstore and he couldn’t resist but never got around to reading it.
Deals with Demons: How to Eternity-Proof Your Contract
Lucas paused, shoving his own book back and grabbing the demon one. The leather was supple and cracked beneath his fingers, and the heavy pages well faded.
This, this was his answer.
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