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  “Hurry. Find him and Taser him now,” said the man with the ponytail.

  “Hey what’s going on here? You can’t just come in and hurt the guests. Get out now,” said the manager. She entered a number on her watch.

  “Damn, Johnson, I’m surprised you’re not fired yet. Now how are we going to explain this?” said Dr. Neilson.

  “Calm down, man. Too many people here,” said Johnson.

  Haley quickly recovered from her hiding place under the table.

  “Hey, did you guys see that? I was just talking to a guy that turned into a lion and I got it all on this pen. Do you know what’s going on?”

  “Lady, you didn’t see anything. And let me see that before it hits G Net. Let’s go, Johnson now,” said Dr. Neilson. He stole the pen and put it in his pocket.

  “He couldn’t have disappeared. Must still be in here,” said Johnson.

  The door opened again. “Must be the police,” said the manager.

  The lion slunk toward the opening, jumped to attack and bounded back through the forest.

  A frightened old man threw up his hands to protect himself.

  Dr. Neilson and Johnson took off swiftly in their truck, the squeak of tires and smells of burning fuel left behind.

  Lena

  “Nice car, maybe you could give me a ride someday,” said Tim.

  Rolling down the window of her candy-red Turbo Racer X, Lena eyed her younger co-worker. Green pills afforded her a wad of green: enough to buy a new car, a club membership, and a stash of expensive clothes. Her fat paychecks, due to an eighty-hour work week and additional client list, had elevated her recently to associate partner and increased her ego. The Turbo Race X that topped 250 mph was her first big purchase and she wanted to show it off.

  Lena went crazy after not bringing in any income for years, mostly paying cash for the down payment on her car, her fancy apartment, memberships, and toys, all part of her new image. Now all she needed was some eye candy to show the world she could buy the young guy if she had to. Hopefully I can get his attention with this car and my new status, she thought.

  “How about tonight after work? Dinner at La Fleur?” she asked, then motioned him to the window. Enticed, he strode over to her car to view the woman everyone in the office was talking about. He noticed the diamond sparkling in the center of her low-cut silk blouse, having heard she just made partner and was the top stockbroker. All he wanted was a ride in her Turbo Racer X and then tell everyone how he scored. Tim flashed a fake smile.

  “Sure, Lena. Meet me in the back parking lot at 6 p.m.,” said Tim.

  Lena checked her watch for a third time, noting she didn’t want to be late for her first date in over two years. She needed to make an impression on Tim, but it would be difficult, knowing that she had missed a lot in the nuances of dating and being fifteen years older. Living on the streets had aged her, but her new stylist assured her that all she needed was a facial, haircut, and maybe a little Botox every week to keep herself in the game. All this money was well spent if she had Tim, who would soon be her assistant if the partners approved. Because of the client base she acquired and return on investment on all her accounts, Lena was free to do whatever she wanted within reason. She gazed out her office window, admiring the view of the city, streets filled with scurrying people and lights of the shops and restaurants.

  It’s better to view the city from this vantage and not the corner alley. I finally made it, but I’ve got to hold onto it! Lena thought.

  “Nice work on nailing the Thorsten account, been wanting their business for years. Do you have a minute to discuss?” asked Whitaker.

  “Uh, can’t tonight, got some family business to settle. How about tomorrow morning, first thing?” said Lena. She watched Tim pack up his desk from across the hall.

  “Sure, Lena, take a night off, you deserve it. We’ll catch up tomorrow at 9 a.m. sharp,” said Whitaker.

  The parking lot was empty as Tim slid in the front seat beside her; she admired his muscular arms and chiseled face. His spicy cologne overwhelmed Lena and made her heart flutter, but they managed to make small talk as they rode to the restaurant. Lena parked her car in front so you could observe it from the window.

  “This restaurant has a great reputation, but unfortunately is in the seedy part of town,” Lena whispered to Tim, clutching his arm as they entered the doorway. Dimly lit chandeliers cast shadows on the lilac walls, plush booths, stark white table cloths and real waiters, right out of late 90s. This is a place my grandparents would love, Lena thought. A man in a tuxedo played jazz tunes on a grand piano. An elegant bar with an assortment of fine wines and liquors lined the back walls.

  “It’s so nice to see you again, Lena. Let me show you to your table by the window; we have an ice bucket waiting for you,” said the manager.

  Lena nodded to the manager to bring an expensive bottle of wine, realizing the $200 she slipped to him was well worth this moment. After several glasses, Tim filled her in on how he got his job at the firm. Lena listened intently and hoped this dinner would lead to an exciting night ahead.

  Tim seems animated and impressed by this place, especially after he found Whitaker hangs out here, she thought.

  The night culminated with the bananas flambé as the two shared the dessert quietly. Lena embraced the pseudo-romantic moment with the ambience and charm of the evening, even if only she felt it. She doted on Tim’s wants as he ordered the chef’s special of lobster tails and filet mignon imported from Argentina and made sure he always had a Scotch. He reveled in the attention, especially when Lena offered her credit card, never offering to pay.

  “Madame, this credit card was declined. Do you have another one?” the waiter whispered in her ear.

  Flustered she searched her wallet, wondering if she would embarrass herself or if she went over her limit. She’d have to call the bank tomorrow and find out if they discovered anyone compromising the account. She tried another and after a second time, the card failed again. Thoroughly embarrassed, her pulse rate racing, then Tim excused himself. She imagined him slipping out the back door to avoid any complications.

  “Ms. Davis, we know your credit is good and we value your business. We’ll put this on your business account and you can take care of it later, preferably tomorrow. Okay, sorry to mess up your date,” the maître ‘d said.

  Lena breathed deeply and pulled herself together. Was she overdrawn or was this a huge mistake? Luckily the restaurant had her back for now. She checked her make-up and wondered if Tim was coming back. Two embarrassing moments in one night would put her over the edge. Smiling, Tim came back and stood in front of her, waiting patiently. But then, fulfilling Lena’s wish, he took her hand and said, “Back to your place?”

  Lena grabbed her coat from the manager, noting that they were the last guests to leave. She signed and gave the manager a reassuring look. Her Turbo Racer X, parked in front, remained untouched as the couple approached it. At least nothing happened to her prized possession.

  “Hey, do you mind if I drive you home? Never handled such a sweet car as this one,” said Tim.

  Lena hesitated, noting his sobriety and sincerity. “Ok, do I need to show you…?

  “Not at all. Let’s go.”

  Lena checked the street for oncoming cars and observed two figures in the shadows across the street. She thought it strange that the two stood there staring, an old man holding onto a young guy. Probably some homeless people because of the neighborhood.

  Tim punched it and the car accelerated, leaving the neighborhood in less than ten seconds. Lena sat back, feeling the rush of the ride, a young male driving her home, and the feeling of confidence at getting back what was taken from her.

  A set of extraordinary bright lights from the side-mirror almost blinded her as the vehicle followed her car a little too closely. It stayed on them, making Lena nervous. “Gun it, Tim,” she said. He followed her directions and they took off, leaving the vehicle behind.

  Th
ey pulled into her driveway; Tim pulled her close and planted a rough kiss on her mouth, biting her lower lip and inserting his tongue. It lasted for a few minutes, then they entered her apartment. She moaned, her adrenaline growing as the night continued.

  Maggie

  Damon from Entertainment World led the news about Love 2040, sparking a media leak that led EI to design, print, and publish her book in a matter of hours— 36 hours to be exact. George ramped up the team and everyone worked non-stop to complete and promote her book, sending pre-orders and the number of bloggers into the millions to catch the next few chapters. Many people read her blog online, but some only wanted to enter the Sim World, which appeared to crash every two hours due to the number of users. EI shut it down temporarily until the Love 2040 launch.

  An overnight sensation that almost pushed Maggie over the edge with calls, online messages, and social media buzz for interviews, appearances, and photo ops. Lacy directed her campaign, tracking her responses and acquiring online reviews from other top bloggers and of course, Bookish, the top book reviewer that had launched many authors onto the New World bestseller list.

  “Love 2040, the love story of our times, grabs the reader with its beautiful prose, then projects you into its world and the reader becomes a real participant in this incredible drama. Magical, Incredible, and Otherworldly! -- Marian Danson, Bookish.”

  “Amazing review— MJ, you’ve got to start writing the sequel or at least have a plot in mind,” said George, days after the promotional blitz and the day before the book signing.

  “But first we must get through this book signing; let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” said Vera.

  George frowned and looked at her in surprise.

  “Always the pessimist. Our numbers are over the top, per Lacy, and we have to think ahead. That’s why EI is ahead of other publishers and the fact we’ve stayed in business so long.”

  “Noted. Just being pragmatic and realistic. I will work with MJ on an outline for the next one.”

  Lacy opened her computer and ran through all the postings, positive responses, and reviews for Love 2040.

  “You can’t argue with success; it’s right here and people are excited and experienced the Sim World. I’m happy to be on the MJ, Love 2040 team.”

  She gave a thumbs-up to MJ.

  “I really appreciate everyone’s support. To be honest I’m not ready for a sequel, just need to focus on this book signing,” Maggie said.

  At 6 p.m. George dismissed his team.

  “Our star has spoken. Let’s all go home and get a good night’s rest. Tomorrow is going to be a big day.”

  Maggie woke tired from a restless night, her nerves frayed and her confidence lacking. Getting low, need more, she thought, swallowing a green pill. She felt addicted to those pills and now they were about to run out. Those powerful pills brought her determination, magnetism, and fearlessness. Her phone buzzed; she received a hologram from Lacy, her new publicist: Don’t forget your book signing tonight at 7 p.m. at The Leisure Lounge with Janis James.

  Twelve noon. Seven hours to clean up, pick an outfit, and memorize her speech to her new fans. Lacy set up this event last week at the prestigious center, The Leisure Lounge, a magnet for celebrities, new age entertainment, and especially women, its primary target. It was not enough that she had to win over her prospective readers, but in addition to impress the ever-popular Ms. James, a world-renowned author extraordinaire.

  She took a long shower, reviewing the talking points that Lacy gave her. Choosing jeans, boots, and a leather jacket that would become her signature outfit, she tossed aside the feminine flowered dress and flats given to her by her publicist. She let her hair go free and curly, instead of the perfectly straightened hairstyle pictured on the back cover of her book. Downing half a bottle of wine, she said a prayer and stepped into a black limo that was waiting outside. Janis James, dressed in black leather pants and jacket, handed her a glass of wine.

  “Hey girl, I guess you got the memo. Just relax and enjoy the ride. Here’s what you need to do…,” said Janis. They clinked glasses and as Janis continued to fill her in on tonight’s details.

  A swarm of admiring women filled the center as Lacy escorted the two authors to the theatre with its mega sound system, massive monitors, and augmented and virtual reality kiosks. Maggie spotted George in the audience, who winked at her, and Vera, who gave her a disapproving look. Janis took the podium first, telling tales from her childhood as the audience laughed hysterically at her every word. Most of the audience had already read the series and eagerly awaited having their books signed. Maggie drowned out the laughter and comments, intent on memorizing her speech, and almost missed her cue.

  “Enough of my antics tonight. Ladies, you are in for a treat. It’s my pleasure to introduce you to this newest member of the Entertainment International’s family, with a twist on the idea of romance. Her book, Love 2040, is written about the essence of true love-- one you can fully experience for yourselves. Please welcome, MJ Moore,” said Janis.

  Maggie realized that Janis had called MJ Moore to speak and it sounded foreign to her. Her hands shook as she entered the massive stage and looked out into the vast audience that had spilled over out into the hallway. Hundreds of eyes focused on her, waiting for her to speak. Her mind went blank and she decided to abandon Lacy’s notes that were not true to her thoughts.

  “Hello, I’m Maggie M…oh I’m so nervous. This is my first book signing and I’m not sure what I’m doing,” Maggie laughed and focused on a stunned audience. No one said a word and Lacy approached the podium.

  “Sorry folks, give her moment. Let’s regroup,” Lacy said.

  Maggie gulped and stared at her notes. It’s your once in a lifetime moment, don’t ruin it, her inner voice prompted her.

  “Let me begin again—I’m MJ Moore. As you know I started with a simple blog and a love story. But technically I knew I could do more. People want personal interaction and to experience the essence of true love…”

  She felt like a romance therapist, giving advice to the lovesick and those in need of true love. MJ had to entice them so they would want to participate in the real Love 2040’s experience. Her confidence and knowledge of her new self, came back. The words tumbled out as she charmed the audience, making them laugh and hang on her every word.

  Many knew about her blog and had experienced the intimate scenes with her characters when they entered Sim World firsthand. Scenes from her Sim World flashed across the surrounding monitors. As promised, a secret, enclosed booth had been set up for guests to participate and many waited in anticipation. It was Lacy’s idea and she initiated all the hype and mystery behind it. All MJ had to do was connect with the audience and lure them in.

  After her little talk and answering questions about the book and a possible sequel, they lined up to Love 2040’s Sim World to relive the story firsthand. Each entered the booth, drawn into it for a three-minute period, many awestruck with emotion.

  “It’s like being a voyeur into Tony and Polly’s love affair!” exclaimed a viewer.

  “Can’t wait until the next adventure, got to buy the book!” said a fan.

  “It’s a magical moment for the reader and those beautiful lovers!” said a young woman.

  The well-spoken MJ mingled with the readers, joked with Janis, and winked at Mark, while the inner Maggie stared in amazement at the waiting crowd, consisting of mostly women with a few men lingering in the background. Mark stood on the sidelines, giving her a seductive smile. Janis nodded her head in approval and whispered, “You are the best thing that’s happened to EI in a long time. Maybe you could create a Sim World for my books.”

  MJ beamed with pride at her compliment. If only they knew me. To think I almost blew it before I started, she thought.

  “You went off message and almost choked, but the audience thoroughly enjoyed your presentation and everyone has lined up to see the Sim World. Congrats on your first book signing, a great suc
cess! I have never seen this many people so intrigued by an author’s debut book,” said Lacy with a perplexed smile on her face.

  The crowd gathered at the two tables, first having Janis sign her book, then switching to Maggie for her signature. Maggie cajoled her new fans, signing individual messages for each one. After the 500th signature, she sighed and shook her cramping hand. Hours later, both authors agreed that it had been an extremely successful book signing, amplified by both their presences.

  “Other than a slow start--I’m so proud of my two special authors; you make quite a team! It’s been a real entertaining experience and EI is the first to do it! I want interviews set up for early morning and late night shows. Can you make that happen, Lacy?” said George.

  “Yes, it’s already been set up; they’ve contacted me. I’ve posted on all the social media sites and there’s quite a buzz already due to all MJ’s pre-press online. She’s becoming a household name. Now’s that’s a push for a sequel or creation of a new Sim World Series,” said Lacy.

  Vera chatted with a reader, who had bought several books for her daughters.

  “Can you tell me what the excitement is all about and why you purchased the books?” she asked.

  Mark waited patiently until the entire room had emptied, except for the EI staff and then strode up to her table.

  “Let’s continue where we left off at lunch. Got a slow start, but then you suddenly really breezed through those interviews.”

  Maggie smiled demurely and said her goodbyes to George and Vera. She promised Janis that she would have lunch with her next week to finalize their next promotional efforts. She thanked Lacy and walked in the clear night to Mark’s car. She wished she could forget about Seth, but she wasn’t ready for a rebound relationship. Drawn to Mark, but still hurt from Seth’s rejection, Maggie decided on caution.