Who: @thecursed-starters When: 17 June, 1989 Where: Waldenbooks Type: Open
Despite the recent earthquake that had shaken Salem to its core, Damien found himself seated at the signing table, amidst a bustling chain bookstore in the heart of the city square. Damien unbuttoned his cuffs as he sat at the signing table, a small crowd of eager readers already forming a line before him. The backdrop behind him displayed a large poster of his latest novel, "Destiny’s Whispers: Book 4," showcasing an intricate cover that gleamed with an ethereal, almost mystical quality. The chain bookstore, in the center of Salem city square, was bustling with energy, a mixture of anticipation and adoration filling the air.
As the first customer approached, a middle-aged woman with a sparkle in her eyes, Damien's lips curled into a charismatic smile. Her cheeks flushed as she placed her book before him, her fingers trembling ever so slightly. "It's such an honor to meet you, Mr. Le Fay," she gushed, her voice tinged with nervous excitement. "I've read all your books, but this one, it's my favorite."
Damien's smile deepened, a hint of genuine warmth breaking through his usual composed demeanor. "The honor is mine," he said smoothly, taking the book from her hands. "It's readers like you who bring my characters to life." He opened the book to the title page, his pen dancing across the paper with a flourish as he signed his name and added a personal message. "May your destiny always be filled with whispers of hope," he added, handing the book back to her with a wink.
The woman practically glowed as she accepted the book, her face a picture of happiness. As she moved aside, another woman took her place, this one younger with a hopeful look in her eyes. Damien's charm didn't waver as he engaged her in light conversation, asking about her favorite parts of his stories, his eyes never leaving hers. The way he spoke, each word carefully chosen, made her feel as if she were the only person in the room. This was what he did best.
A man approached next. Damien's enthusiasm dimmed slightly, replaced by a polite, tight-lipped smile. He signed the man's book with practiced efficiency, offering him a curt nod and a quick thank you, his attention drifting back to the female admirers in line. Despite his lack of genuine interest, he knew that each book sold contributed to his growing success, and for that, he managed to maintain a semblance of cordiality.
Momentarily distracted by a rather pretty blonde near the middle of the crowd, Damien was caught off guard when someone approached his table and placed a book down for signing. It wasn’t one of the crisp, new editions of "Destiny’s Whispers" stacked beside him, but a worn, well-read copy of his first novel. The corners were dog-eared, and the spine was cracked from repeated readings. Damien's gaze lingered on the book, a flicker of surprise crossing his face before he looked up at the person with renewed interest.
"You’ve really put this one through its paces," he said, his tone carrying a hint of admiration. Though this one wasn't making him a dime. "I'm sorry, but I'm only signing my new book today. Maybe if you make a purchase, I'll sign both."