I'm supposed to be at a party right now. I'm not there. I'm being selfish.

Why? I'd love to see Ellie and all the other friends who will no doubt be there, but I'm on a roll with my book this afternoon and I can't quite bring myself to stop. Ellie and company throw wonderful, fun, and vibrant parties, and I know I would have a good and worthwhile time—but I had such a hard time finishing the last chapter that I guess I'm almost afraid to lose my momentum on this one. I don't get my usual three-day weekend this week, and I have to go to Arizona for a wedding party over the President's Day weekend, so my upcoming schedule is pretty oppressively cramped.

So, Ellie, I hope you will forgive my absence, and likewise anyone else reading this who might have expected to see me this afternoon (Baldanders?). I feel at least badly enough to take time out to excoriate explain myself in public. I hope to see you all soon.