Love, Inside Out

 EXCERPT FROM THE NOVEL:

    "So tell me, is there something you'd much rather be doing at work? Instead of fighting off obnoxious co-workers? Knitting sweaters at lunch break, perhaps?"

       She smiles wider, then leans closer, as if confiding in him is a secret. "My real love is music. My band is trying to play out more. Sometimes it seems impossible to get gigs with all the competition that's out there."                       

     "Aha, so you're a musician," he leans forward. "Unless you're trying to keep a secret, my words of advice are, you just need to practice more. Say to yourself, I can do it. You're capable of showing the world what you've got."

    The name of the band Mona has been raving about, The Sorry Seven, comes into her mind. She saw the poster on a signpost near her apartment about their upcoming gig. "My friend is performing with his band. Friday night. Why don't you go with me?"                                                                                     

     "And I should be socially responsible and wear safety pins in my torn white t-shirt, he says, breaking eye contact. He leans back, then lifts his arms to push himself closer to her. "I'd rather not."                                                                                 

    "Why not?" She holds her chin on her hands, and her eyes are lively. She puts on her most persuasive voice. "There's no dress code. I think you'd really enjoy it. Stop holding back. Break out of the mold." She glances at Rick, who seems to be ruminating over this.                                                                                         

     After a look that penetrates her with his charm, he finally relaxes. "OK. I'll try anything. I'm game. When do we start?"