Writer's Cramp: The First Book Signing
Hillary parked outside a large commercial bookstore. She and Steve got out and headed for the store where, inside, many bookcases full of books lined 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 entered, Steve saw the poster and blushed. Greg stood next to the table, a big smile on his face, and a line of people were waiting on the other side of the table.
Greg announced Steve’s arrival, “And here he is, the man of the hour, day, week, month, and whatever! Give it up, people!”
“Oh, Greg, please!” protested Steve. The people applauded, making Steve blush even more, even as Hillary and Greg encouraged him to sit down at the table. Steve started to sign books for the people waiting to see him. He signed book after book, while Hillary and Greg chatted with customers and helped re-stack the table with Steve’s books as Steve drank some water. Later, Greg rubbed Steve's right hand, as Hillary replenished, yet again, the table filled with Steve’s book. “Thanks, Man. Boy, talk about writer's cramp!” Steve said to Greg.
“If this is any indication of how well this sucker is going to sell globally, we won't need to rent an office; we can build our own!” Greg said, thrilled at the turnout.
“One thing at a time, Greg. Let's see how this goes, and how ‘other’ things develop.”
Steve thought he was soon to be finished signing the books, but a new line of people started to form. “You would have sworn I’d written Groundhog Day or story called A Day in Hell for a Writer’s Hand.” Greg couldn’t help but laugh.