Back in Manehattan, Bookworm had a meeting with his publisher, Deal Maker, about his new book. Deal Maker was an earth pony, with dark brown fur, a white mane and tale, and his cutie mark was a contract. He was almost always smoking a cigar, and wearing a red tie.
“So this is your new story, kid,” asked Deal Maker, arching an eyebrow at his client.
“Yes, it is Mr. Maker,” said Bookworm.
“I told you a million times, kid, just call me Deal Maker or DM for short,” said the publisher. Anyway, I noticed this aint a Daring Do story.”
“Um, yeah,” began Bookworm. “I got inspiration for something else and decided to try something more original.”
“Even using your given name,” noticed Deal Maker, taking a puff of his cigar. “I will say, using your initials is a nice touch.”
“Oh thank you,” said Bookworm. “A special…um friend, gave me that idea.”
“Well it aint the usual thing we do with you,” said Deal Maker. “But what the hay, sometimes it’s good to change it up!”
“So we’re going to publish it,” asked Bookworm in surprise.
“Sure thing, kiddo,” said Deal Maker enthusiastically. “Romantic crud like this is always in style! Now don’t get me wrong, I aint sayin it’s a bad read, just sayin romance stuff aint exactly my cup of tea if you catch my drift.”
“Oh, yes, I totally understand Mr.,” Bookworm began to say, before Deal Maker gave him a sharp look. “Um, I mean Deal Maker. But you know, inspiration hit me…”
“I totally understand, kid,” said Deal Maker. “I think this book is gonna be a major hit! Who knows, maybe some big wig movie colt will think to make it into some sort of moving picture!”
“Sounds cool,” said Bookworm with little enthusiasm.
“What’s the matter with you, kid,” asked Deal Maker. “You look like you been dragged through the streets by a herd of manticores.”
“Just been having some troubles,” said Bookworm.
“Girl troubles,” asked Deal Maker, raising an eyebrow.
“Hit the nail on the head, DM,” said.
“Broads,” commented Deal Maker. “They’re a whole mess of troubles for sure! Did you know I’ve been married three times?”
“I had no idea,” said a stunned Bookworm.
“Damn skippy I have,” said Deal Maker. “Suppose it’s true about third time being the charm, as number three has been my longest by far. Also the one that produced some foals for me.”
“Oh, that’s good,” said Bookworm. “Is that why you’re other marriages didn’t work? Not being able to have kids?”
“Nah,” said Deal Maker. “It was various reason with the others. Either they were gold diggers or they weren’t nearly as kind hearted as they appeared. But number three is a real winner! Sweetest thing you ever did see! So what’s your special filly like?”
“Oh, she’s wonderful,” said Bookworm. “She’s feisty, full of life, loyal to a fault.”
“And I bet she aint to bad on the eyes either,” said Deal Maker with a sly grin.
“She’s absolutely beautiful,” said Bookworm. “And I have the best time with her.”
“So what’s the problem,” asked Deal Maker.
“She won’t be honest with her real feelings,” said Bookworm.
“Ah, she’s one of those,” commented Bookworm. “She doesn’t think it’s quote unquote ‘cool’ to be expressing your feelings. Am I right?”
“You’re really good at this,” said Bookworm.
“You been in this business as long as I have, kid, you gotta be able to pick up on things,” said Deal Maker. “I’ve met all kinds of ponies in my travels, good and bad. Do you think you’ll ever see this special filly again?”
“I don’t know,” said Bookworm morosely. “I just don’t know. I hope I do.”
“Time heals all wounds, kid,” said Deal Maker. “Now lets start getting this book here to print! We’ll get a press conference set up, have a special premiere party, all that good stuff.”
“Sounds like a good idea,” said Bookworm. “Thanks, DM. You’re a good agent…and a good friend to have.”
“Don’t get all mushy with me, kid,” said Deal Maker. “But you aint too bad yourself. You’re definitely one of my better clients. I wouldn’t give all them the opportunity I’m giving you today. I’ve never had a problem with you getting stuff in on time. Must be that studious nature of yours.”
“Suppose so,” said Bookworm.
“I’ll say it again, kid, this book is gonna be huge,” said Deal Maker with a confident smile.