The completed first draft of Asha Means Hope was 199 pages long, and of course my printer ran out of ink after spitting out page 195. Trotted off to Staples, made a copy for myself to read (later, much later), bought the ink cartridge, printed the last four pages, and mailed the manuscript to Laura Rennert, my agent. "Free! I'm free at last," I wanted to shout, falling on my knees, but it wouldn't be true. I have to begin working on Sparrow's story immediately (as in three months ago) which, however, will be fun and light, nothing like Asha's emotional journey. Goodbye for now, Asha my love. Peace be with you till Round Two.