Forgotten Love

Chapter 3

Allen woke up feeling refreshed and excited for her adventure with Eleanor.

She quickly got out of bed and began tackling her to-do list, determined to finish all her work before their outing.

After a productive morning, she took a leisurely bath, got dressed in a comfortable yet stylish outfit, and was just finishing up her hair when the doorbell rang.

She opened the door to find Eleanor beaming with enthusiasm, looking chic in a striped Breton shirt and black pants.

"Bonjour, mademoiselle!" Eleanor said, handing Allen a baguette and a bouquet of fresh flowers. "I brought breakfast and a little something to brighten up your day."

Allen's eyes widened in delight as she took in the thoughtful gestures. "You're too kind, Eleanor! I'm so ready for our adventure today."

Eleanor grinned mischievously. "Bien! Then let's get started. We have a lot to explore, and I have a few surprises up my sleeve."

And with that, the two women set off into the Parisian morning, ready to take on the day.

As they sipped their coffee at a charming café, Eleanor reminded Allen, "Don't forget to call that publisher I told you about. You know, the one who might be interested in your book?"

Allen hesitated, her mind racing with doubts. "I don't know, Eleanor. I'm not sure I'm ready for another rejection."

Eleanor placed a reassuring hand on Allen's arm. "Nonsense! You have to try. What's the worst that could happen? They say no, and you're exactly where you are now. But what if they say yes?" Allen took a deep breath, gathering her courage.

"You're right. I'll do it." Eleanor grinned and handed Allen her phone. "I'll dial the number for you. Just talk to them, and see what happens."

With trembling hands, Allen took the phone and waited for the publisher to answer.

"Bonjour, this is Andre Thomas. How can I help you?" Allen's heart skipped a beat as she introduced herself, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Hi, Mr. Thomas. My name is Allen, and I'm an author. I was wondering if I could discuss a potential book deal with you?"

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and for a moment, Allen thought she'd been disconnected.

But then, Mr. Dupont spoke, his voice firm but polite. "I'm afraid we're not interested in publishing your work, Ms. Allen. Your style doesn't quite fit our current catalog. I wish you the best of luck in finding another publisher."

Allen's face fell as she hung up the phone, feeling a stinging sense of rejection.

Eleanor's expression softened in sympathy. "Don't worry, Allen. That's just one no. There are plenty of other publishers out there who will say yes."

But Allen couldn't shake off the feeling of disappointment, wondering if she was delusional to think her writing was good enough.

Eleanor's eyes sparkled with a fire as she began her story.

"You know, Allen, I want to tell you about a young girl who had a dream. She wanted to be a dancer, but everyone around her said she was too clumsy, too awkward, too uncoordinated. They told her to give up, to find a 'real job'."

Eleanor's voice cracked with emotion. "But she didn't listen. She practiced every day, pouring her heart and soul into her craft. And you know what? She became a principal ballerina in one of the most prestigious companies in the world."

Allen's eyes widened, inspired by the story. Eleanor's voice dropped to a whisper. "But here's the thing, Allen. She faced rejection after rejection. She was told she wasn't good enough, that she'd never make it. But she didn't let that stop her. She kept pushing forward, with confidence and determination."

Allen felt a surge of confidence flow through her veins. She realized that she wasn't alone in her struggles, that everyone faces rejection and doubt. But it's how they respond that matters.

She looked at Eleanor, her eyes shining with tears. "Thank you for telling me that story. I needed to hear it."

Eleanor smiled, her eyes warm with encouragement. "You have a gift, Allen. Don't let anyone take that away from you. Keep trying, keep pushing forward. You got this."

Allen nodded, a newfound sense of determination burning within her. She would keep trying, no matter what. She would make her dreams a reality.

Eleanor's face lit up with a mischievous grin. "And now, for a change of pace, I have a surprise for you!" She pulled out two colorful tickets from her pocket. "I booked us tickets to the amusement park! Whoohoo!"

Allen's eyes widened in shock, and then a huge smile spread across her face. She let out a squeal of delight, throwing her arms around Eleanor in a tight hug. "Oh my gosh, I'm so excited! I haven't been to an amusement park since I was a toddler!"

Eleanor laughed, hugging her back. "I know, I know, it's been too long! We're going to ride all the roller coasters, eat all the cotton candy, and scream our lungs out!" Allen pulled back, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "This is going to be the best day ever! Thank you, Eleanor!"

Eleanor beamed with joy, happy to see her friend so carefree. "Anytime, Allen! Now, let's get ready for a day of thrills and laughter!" And with that, the two friends set off on their adventure, ready to create unforgettable memories.