Page 89 of Save the Drama for your Mama
“You aresowrong, my dear.” I moved closer, my mouth so close to hers I could feel her breath on my lips. “You’ve got brains, no doubt about it, but you are also the most beautiful and breathtaking woman I have ever met.” I pressed my lips to hers.
The kiss didn’t last long since Melody jumped when the contract fell out of my hand and hit the floor. I picked it up, eying the producer’s name, address, and phone number on the contract.
“He’s in Burbank,” I said.
Melody nodded, then checked her phone. “And it’s before five. He’s probably still in the office right now.”
“Are you saying what I think you’re saying?” I asked.
She clasped her hands together and practically screamed, “Just do it! Please!”
I laughed. “It is a shame you don’t show any emotions.” I pulled out my phone, tapping in his number.
“Jim Stevens,” he answered after the second ring.
“Hey, Jim, this is Cooper Galloway,” I began. “My mother was Sandra Galloway.”
“Cooper, I know who you are,” he said. “What a pleasant surprise.”
“I promise—I won’t take up a lot of your time.”
“No worries,” Jim said. “How can I help you?”
“I’ve been going through my mom’s things. I just found out she turned down your TV adaptation offer some time ago. I had no idea. Honestly, I was shocked she didn’t say yes to you.”
“You’re not the only one,” he said. “We had A-List actors ready to attach their names to the project. Everyone thought it was a done deal.”
“That’s why I’m calling—I now own the rights to her stories,” I said. “Does your studio still have any interest in developing the series?”
“I can almost guarantee it!” the man bellowed, practically blowing out my ear. “I would just need to talk to the other producers involved, but I don’t foresee any issues at all. Personally, I would love nothing more than to bring her stories to life.”
Grinning, I met Melody’s delighted gaze since she was leaning close and listening to the conversation. “Then let’s make this happen, to honor her memory. I can be there as soon as tomorrow to discuss details, if you’re available.”
“I’ll make the time,” Jim said. “And thank you for reaching out to me.”
After settling on a time to meet, I hung up the phone and turned to Melody, beaming. “Wow—I can’t believe this could be happening. Thank you for finding this. I never would have thought to pursue it otherwise.”
“Of course,” said Melody, glowing with enthusiasm. “I just know this is going to be a tremendous success. Your mom’s legacy will live on.”
I pulled Melody into a grateful hug. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome,” she said, then patted me on the leg. “I need to stretch a little.”
“Come with me to the backyard,” I said, gesturing to Romeo who had his eyes closed, his head resting on his front paws. “I need to pick up his poop.”
“You really know how to sweet-talk a girl,” Melody said. “And who could resist seeing Super Cooper with a pooper scooper?”
I crossed my arms. “How long have you been waiting to say that line?”
“Ever since the first day when I saw you picking up his poop out back,” she said, laughing.
We headed outside with Romeo, and Melody wandered over toward the giant oak tree, looking up to the treehouse.
“You can go up whenever you want,” I said.
“Don’t mind if I do.” Melody reached up to grab the rope ladder, then climbed.
“Now?” I asked from below, since she was already half-way up.
