Writer’s Shop Talk: Maddie Fends Off a Matchmaker! (Writing Exercise)

Writing As a Craft: Keeping Secrets?

Author’s Note:

This passage is based on one of the many writing exercises from the book How to Write a Romance: Or, How to Write Witty Dialogue, Smoldering Love Scenes, and Happily Ever Afters. In this exercise, I wrote in the third person to practice creating engaging dialogue and developing character interactions. It is not part of my novel, Reunion: Coda, but rather a way to explore different narrative techniques and enhance my storytelling skills.

Today’s creative writing exercise is based on this prompt:

“I have someone I want you to meet,” her best friend said.

“Oh, but I –“

Finish this conversation:

“I have someone I want you to meet,” Emily said, her eyes gleaming.

“Oh, but I—” Maddie stammered, glancing around the busy coffee shop, hoping to find a distraction.

Emily leaned in, lowering her voice. “Come on, Maddie. He’s perfect for you. He’s a pianist, like you, and he’s super nice. I think you two would hit it off.”

Maddie took a deep breath, trying to keep her composure. “Emily, I appreciate it. But I don’t think it’s a good idea right now.”

Emily frowned, looking puzzled. “Why not? You’re not seeing anyone, are you?”

Maddie hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “It’s just… things are a bit complicated at the moment. I have a lot on my plate with rehearsals and all.”

Emily crossed her arms, giving Maddie a skeptical look. “You’re always busy with rehearsals. That’s nothing new. What’s going on?”

Maddie smiled weakly, trying to deflect. “Honestly, I just need some time to focus on myself right now. I’m not sure I’m ready to dive into anything new.”

Emily sighed, her expression softening. “Okay, I get it. But just know that he’s a great guy, and I think you two would connect. If you change your mind, let me know.”

Maddie nodded, feeling a mixture of relief and guilt. “Thanks, Emily. I’ll keep that in mind.”

As Emily turned to leave, Maddie let out a quiet sigh. Keeping her relationship with Jim private was starting to feel like a balancing act, but she wasn’t ready to make things public just yet. She needed to figure things out in her own time, and hopefully, Emily would understand.