Menu

Shopaholic to the Stars (Shopaholic #7) - Page 119/155

I feel all prickly with guilt and resentment and frustration as I crash the plates into their piles. Why does everyone keep making me feel bad about stuff? At last Dad draws in breath and looks up at me.

“Becky, love, there’s something I’d like to say—”

“Sorry, Dad,” I cut him off. “I need to go and check on the children. I’ll be back in a while, OK?”

I cannot face one of Dad’s Little Talks. Not right now. I head upstairs and tuck all the children in, then lurk in Minnie’s darkened room for a long while, sitting with my head against her crib bars, listening to her twirly ballerina music box.

I don’t want to see Dad. I don’t want to see Luke either. Where’s Suze? I try her number, but her phone’s switched off. In the crib, Minnie gives one of her sleepy snuffles and turns over, sucking her rabbit, all cozy under the covers. I eye her enviously. Life is so simple for her.

Maybe I can fake some autographs in Dad’s book. Yes. Genius idea. I’ll pretend I bumped into a load of famous people at the filming. Maybe I could even forge Dix Donahue’s signature. I mean, Dad will never know the difference, will he? I’ll fill his book with autographs and he’ll be happy and it’ll all be good.

Feeling better, I switch on Minnie’s night-light and reach for Each Peach Pear Plum. It’s one of my favorite books. I’ll read this, and perhaps Guess How Much I Love You, too, and then I’ll go and check on my notes for the filming tomorrow. It’s a 6:00 A.M. call, so I need to get an early night.

And on the plus side, I’m totally prepared for the show. I’ve made about twenty pages of notes, with pictures and mood boards and everything. I’ve worked on every single fashion story I can think of, so I’ll be able to talk, whatever pieces they’ve chosen. Just thinking about it makes my stomach flutter. I mean, it’s Breakfast Show USA! It’s going to be huge! My career will be launched! And then everyone will see.

GREENLAND ENDEAVORS

… where challenge and adventure meet inspiration …

OFFICIAL REPORT

Client: Danny Kovitz

Subject: Medical emergency/airlift

The client began to exhibit signs of distress early on Monday. Despite encouragement from the team leader and other team members, he finally stopped skiing, threw down his pack, and began sobbing. The client was airlifted at 15:00 hours and taken to base camp on Kulusuk.

A full medical examination was undertaken and the client was found to be in good health, with no signs of frostbite or respiratory disorder. However, the client was in significant mental distress. Nurse Gill Johnson observed him for three hours, during which time she noted down the following remarks: My toes are gone; My fingers will have to be amputated; My lungs have frozen; I have snowblindness; Why me?; I’m ebbing away; Tell the world I was brave at the end. Despite her reassurances, he remained convinced for several hours that he was about to die.

The client subsequently enjoyed a substantial meal, viewed several episodes of America’s Next Top Model on the sanatorium TV, and slept a comfortable night before being transported the following day to Reykjavik and thence to New York.

Greg Stein

Team Leader

From: Kovitz, Danny

To: Kovitz, Danny

Subject: don’t know how i survived

dearest friends,

despite my best endeavors, my trek across the ice sheet ended prematurely when, against my own wishes, i was airlifted to safety. i wanted to continue but was told by the team leader that to do so would endanger myself and the others. you will be shocked to hear I was near death.

i feel heartache at leaving the expedition but i will always remember the soaring landscape and will re-create this in a series of winter white dresses for my next a/w collection it will be called ice and pain and will use textured quilted fabrics with raw bone nb Tristan, plse have list of raw bone sources ready for my return.

I am now, on medical advice, checking in to a place of rest and recuperation. You can send flowers and presents to me via my new york office.

kisses

Danny xxx

They weren’t interested in any of my notes. They didn’t even have any clothes in the studio. We didn’t talk about fashion at all. I’m sitting in the limo, numb with shock, driving away from the studios with Aran. How did that happen?

At first it all seemed perfect. The limo arrived at 6:00 A.M., and Jeff “secured” it, while I posed for pictures taken by Lon and all his friends, who were yelling, “Becky! Beckeeee!” I was wearing my exclusive Danny Kovitz dress with a little shrug over it, and I felt just like a top-notch celebrity. Then we whizzed off to the studios, and I had my makeup done next to Ebony-Jane Graham, who is totally famous if you watch weight-loss programs.



Category

Discovering the World of Free Online Novels

In an age where digital access is at our fingertips, the world of literature has evolved significantly. For book lovers and avid readers, the prospect of finding and reading novels for free online is not only exciting but also incredibly convenient. Whether you're looking for classic literature, contemporary fiction, or niche genres, there are countless resources available where you can indulge in your reading passion without spending a dime. Let's explore how you can dive into this literary treasure trove.

Why Read Novels Online for Free?

Reading novels online for free offers numerous advantages. For one, it eliminates the need to purchase physical books, saving you money and space. Additionally, with instant access, you can start reading as soon as you find a novel that piques your interest. Online platforms also allow for a vast selection of genres and authors, including rare or out-of-print titles that might be hard to find elsewhere.

Top Websites to Read Novels for Free

Several websites offer free access to novels, whether you're interested in classics, contemporary works, or indie publications. Here are a few reliable sites:

Legal Considerations

While the idea of free books is appealing, it's essential to ensure you're downloading or reading novels legally. Many websites, like those mentioned above, offer books that are in the public domain or have been released for free distribution by the authors. Always check the licensing terms of a book before downloading it to avoid any legal issues.

Genres to Explore

Whether you’re into romance, mystery, science fiction, fantasy, or historical fiction, there’s a wealth of free online novels available in every genre. Sites like Wattpad and ManyBooks categorize novels by genre, making it easy to find what you’re interested in. If you’re in the mood for something classic, Project Gutenberg has a treasure trove of time-honored works from authors like Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Mark Twain.

The Rise of Indie Authors

One of the most exciting aspects of reading novels online for free is discovering new voices. Many independent authors publish their work online for free to build an audience. Platforms like Wattpad have become launchpads for these writers, some of whom have gone on to publish bestsellers. By reading these novels, you’re supporting up-and-coming authors and getting in on the ground floor of potentially the next big literary sensation.

Community and Interaction

Reading novels online often comes with the added benefit of community interaction. Platforms like Wattpad allow readers to comment on chapters, interact with authors, and even contribute to the story's development in some cases. This level of engagement can enhance your reading experience, as you become part of a community of like-minded readers.

Accessibility and Convenience

With the ability to read on various devices—be it a smartphone, tablet, or computer—free online novels offer unparalleled convenience. You can carry an entire library in your pocket, ready to be accessed anytime, anywhere. This is particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently or have limited physical space for books.

Conclusion

The availability of free online novels has transformed the reading experience, making it more accessible and diverse than ever before. Whether you’re a fan of classic literature or looking to discover new indie authors, there’s something out there for everyone. By exploring the many free resources available, you can immerse yourself in the world of literature without any cost, and enjoy the freedom to read whatever, whenever you want.

So why wait? Start your journey into the world of free online novels today and discover a universe of stories waiting to be explored.