Page 19 of Rewriting the Story

Then — July 2025

“Nobody talks about those friends who come into your life when you least expect it. The friends who, from one conversation, make you feel like the most transparent person on the planet from how well they seem to know you.” —Excerpt from Henry Hayes’ Notebook

AsIstareatthe same empty page I’ve been looking at for two weeks, I sigh heavily.

I don’t know what the hell is going on with me. I don’t know why I can’t seem to put the feelings of this character into words on the page. Usually, when I force myself to write these days, it all comesout sounding flat and uninteresting. The only writing I’ve been doing lately has been forceful because I need to finish this manuscript.

But my words are dull, vague, and two-dimensional. I’m not sure I can do this anymore.

My phone buzzes, and I don’t reach to look at it, already knowing an email is on the other end of it. The same one shows up in my inbox every week like clockwork. It’s from my agent, expressing his excitement about how he and my editor can’t wait to see what I have in store for my next novel.

I can never seem to reply and tell them I have nothing. At the rate I’m moving, I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to finish this book.

My first book—the one about a married couple who realize each of them is leading a double life—sold more than I could have ever dreamed of. I couldn't believe the response to it. Then, my second book—the one about a family whose patriarch gets diagnosed with a terminal illness—oversold my first by thousands of copies. I thought I was living in some sort of dream. I couldn't believe it. I was touring with authors I’d long admired and they were askingmequestions about my process, my characters, and more. These past few years of my career have been beyond my wildest dreams.

Yet, I still can’t figure this third book out. The idea I pitched was about a man who survives an attempt on his own life and how he and everyone who loves him come to terms with what almost happened. It’s about second chances, seeing life in a new perspective, and how the people who really love you will carry you through the tough times.

I outlined thirty chapters and sent them in, and every week since then, my agent is hounding me for pages to get to my editor. I know they’re excited about them, but they aren't even written yet, and I haven't found the right words to tell them I’m struggling.

I know I have to answer eventually, but I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it.

When my phone buzzes again, I decide to check it. Rarely does another email come through so quickly, but when I see who’s texting me, my heart drops to my stomach.

Grant: Is this thing on?

Oliver: Grant, seriously? That’s a terrible way to start this conversation.

Grant: I thought it was funny! Sue me, Oliver.

Unknown: I’ve got a really good lawyer if you need one, Grant.

Oliver: I regret this already.

Grant: Do you think he still has our numbers saved? Henry, it’s us, in case you couldn't figure that out yet.

Leo: You’ve only met me once years ago, but I’m Leo Zimmerman, Ella’s boyfriend.

I can’t help the smile that appears on my face as I read all the messages from people I used to call friends—well, and Leo. I’m not sure I can call him anything, because the last time I heard the name Zimmerman, Ella was cursing him out and trying to kill him.

How the hell did they go from that to dating? I would ask, but I’m a little afraid of the answer. I can’t help but wonder why they’re texting me. The group haven’t really stayed in touch since everything fell apart, but I do miss these guys. We got pretty close in college when we were all dating the girls of the book club.

At the mention of that, my breathing quickens, and I have to remind myself to stop thinking about her.

I grab my phone before I can stop myself.

Henry: Hey, guys. Long time no talk.

Grant: Oh my gosh, he answered.

Henry: Why wouldn't I?

Oliver: He thought you hated us.

Henry: Why would I hate you guys?

Leo: There seems to be a lot to unpack here.

Grant: Author Henry Hayes, are you available for a chat perchance?

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