Letter of Payment
Dear Leopold Butters Scotch,
The problem with writing a story is that you want to sit down and write something amazing when you're asked to. Something that would "wow" the person that commissioned the story for you. When they ask for a love story you want to write something they have yet to see before in other stories, especially if you want to rattle their hearts for reasons that compel you to fully understand them. You want to see their crying face and engrossed expression. For that awkward smile they form whenever they are genuinely happy. For your love for them. You want to leave your impression marked on them. You want to write them what they ask for so well that when they are shopping for engagement rings for the girl they want to spend the rest of their lives with, when they are filing their income taxes each year, or when they are buying furniture for their new home, they would spontaneously and inexplicably remember your story and smile to themselves, recalling their memories with you. You want them to remember you well.
Unfortunately, I won't see your sundry expressions as you read. I also know you can't guarantee a fond memory of me in the coming days. However, I will surely remember you well. I already recall you coming to my desk that early summer before the last day of school, catching me in the process of writing a narrative prose in which my antagonist was you. Flushed and embarrassed, not realizing you were right behind me reading, I stumbled on my speech, trying to find ways to discount what you've read or explain my odd behavior. Before I could finish, you eagerly showed me that small and awkward smile and told me, "Gee, I like the idea of me bein' the bad guy, Ken!" You weren't bothered about me placing you into my stories and you were pleased at the unexpected twist of me enrolling you as the calculating villain, bent on exposing the inner evils among your classmates under the guise of being helpful.
Anyone would have been apprehensive and off-put, but I remember being utterly perplexed that you wanted to read my story. In fact, you requested a commission from me. "Hey Ken, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, could ya write me a love story? I dunno, somethin' sad too, BUT not too sad! I want a happy ending." So I wrote you a love story. My only fee is that is that you finish the ending yourself. Rewrite another's folly and make the right decision true. When you again find love, learn from their mistakes and cut the excess bullshit. I mean it. Don't half-ass it. Don't overthink either. Just feel it and do it. Don't hold anything back.
I won't say sorry.
Sincerely, Kenny McCormick