Beauty is Power (2nd Place)

“More wine?” Ted asked.

“Why yes.” She flashed a smile and leaned forward to accept.

“So, why did you want to see me?”

“I have a proposition for you.” Carlena walked her fingers up to his lips. “But before you think it’s that… think again. It’s more of a business proposition.” Her words chosen and measured.

“What kind of business proposition?” Ted inquired as he topped his glass, and leaned back to face her. His eyes undressed her.

“I need a publisher for my new book -- It was the worst experience of my life

“A book?”

“Yes, I’m an author.”

Ted’s eyes drifted up and down Carlena’s body like a hungry wolf. Her sumptuous lips, voluptuous figure, and mesmerizing eyes had Ted’s libido in overdrive.

“That’s an interesting title, sweetheart. What could have possibly been so bad in your life? You obviously could have just about any man in any room you’d enter. Did something happen to you?”

“Let’s just say it wasn’t always like that. It’s a book about my childhood.” She swirled her wine, and took a long drink. “I used to weigh over 300 pounds.”

“Wow. You really turned it around. I can’t believe it. How much do you need?”

“Fifty thousand to start.” She smiled.

“Forward the book to my office. I’ll read it. I’ll have my investors read it as well. If it has merit, you can have the fifty thousand.” Ted’s steely eyes met hers and they kissed.

Carlena stood up and straightened her dress. “Thank you, Ted. I’ll contact you later.”

“Why don’t you stay a while?”

“Just keep that thought.” She blew him a kiss, and slipped out the door.

I can’t believe it. I really am beautiful. One hundred forty pounds in one year. I feel so powerful.



298 Words
Flash Story Must contain the line: "It was the worst experience of my life"