A Pie Plate Pilgrimage Page 5

  Part of Gerald’s business success was his innate ability to detect when people were not being completely honest. “You’ve observed this process a few times already, I’m sure,” he began, giving no credence to her hesitations. “So, I fully believe that your memory will be quickly refreshed.”

  Strangely, Gerald’s confident manner was having a convincing effect on Lydia.

  “The topic received approval a long time ago, so you get to start at step two,” said Gerald, sliding his folder across the table to her. “You know our procedural expectations for finding an author, and I’ve included the info for a few candidates that I think might be worth talking to.”

  Lydia looked down at the papers blankly for a little while, still overwhelmed by the whole idea.

  “Are you going to just sit there,” asked Gerald, feigning impatience, “or are you going to get to work?”

  “I’ll get right to it,” she said, gathering up her things and heading for the door. “Oh, and Mr. Simmons,” she added, turning around before she walked out the door, still not sure if she believed what she was about to say. “Thank you for this opportunity.”

  “I’ll see you in two weeks.”