A Sampler Platter? (CMW)

"Oh my, to think you would come here good sir. Visit me store directly."

"Huh? Isn't that the point of a store?" Eddie asked.

"I suppose it is," I said. I'm not used to being inside my own stories. Or, I suppose I am not used to my characters coming to visit me like this.

"You got any books?" he asked.

I smiled. "Beyond the curtain," I said pointing to a green cloth. "I must warn you. They can be a bit... inspiring."

"Isn't that the whole point of a book?" he asked, a raised eyebrow. "I am looking for some on sex. Any of these particularly good at that."

"I suppose it is. And yes, I think they would all help you in one way or another."

"Just seven?" he asked looking at me. "Strange titles. Souris Triste?"

"Well, six. That one is promised already I am afraid. Though, big strong boy like you. Wanna make a bet?"

"On what?" he asked.

"If you can toss that book, Souris Triste into the basket it belongs. You can take one of the other six for free. If you miss, well, then you got it closer for free. It is a win win for me."

"Haha! Your on lady!" he said. He soon realized it was heavier than it looked. Yes dear boy. Knowledge is quite heavy isn't it. With a huge toss, he flung the book and it landed within the basket. The trap door then opened and it fell open.

"So where is it going?" he asked.

"Where all things go, another place, another time. I suppose. Perhaps you will see it again. I have a feeling you will," I said with a smile. "So which book would you want as your prize?"

"Mona? What kind of title is that? It is a name? Moorhelfer? Bee Ez Bulb? These titles seem like nonsense? Vellus Pedis? Mamma Uomo and Torno Vano. Souris Triste Seems to be the only good sounding one," he said.

I giggled. "Such a young person response. To want the one thing not offered. Well, I would offer a recommendation, but then... what fun is there in life if we don't get to make our own mistakes."

"Mistake? You think I am gonna pick the worst one?" he asked.

"I don't think that is possible. These books are equals. Each with different wonders, and stories to tell. I have held them all. Obviously. And well, they each will give you a very different outlook on things. I suppose how that will be a mistake is for you to figure out?"

"I already told you, I am just looking to spice the bedroom up a bit, geez. Do you always speak in riddles."

"Perhaps. Well, Eddie Hawk. Which one will you pick?"