When she read that ad, he held her interest. The fact that he enjoyed baking was inspiring, but his photo was downright eye-catching. His piercing brown eyes were inviting and looking straight into her heart and soul. She immediately contacted him, and for the next several weeks, they were writing each other as pen pals do.
Dough was very open about himself. Fifteen years ago, he and a college friend started a consulting firm, which helped small and medium-size businesses become more efficient and profitable. The two created great marketing and advertising ideas that generated continuous earnings for their clients.
However, his partner had embezzled over one million dollars, committed mail fraud, vanished and left Dough holding the bag. Employees of the company lost all of their retirement savings, and the corporation folded. He ended up serving five years for a crime he had no knowledge of or committed.
He lost his home; his wife divorced him, and his family and so-called friends abandoned him. Trying to prove his innocence to no avail, he became disillusioned. Passion's letter was the first piece of communication he had received since serving time.
In one of his letters, he wrote, Most inmates doing time never get to have pen pals, or visits from relatives or friends. They are always hoping that someone will give them a chance to form a lasting friendship by taking the time to write a letter. In addition, an inmate's contact with the outside world is a positive step, especially if that connection is with someone who is ready to encourage that individual to evaluate his past and bring about the changes necessary for him to lead a fruitful life when released from prison. The first letter I received from you brought me so much happiness and restored my faith in humanity. Now, I am ready to face whatever life throws my way with you by my side.
Overwhelmed by his sincerity, she started to fall for this man and knew what she had to do next, help restore his sense of worth.
The two were now corresponding by e-mail. Passion mentioned her new role as manager of a gourmet bakery in Carson City and wanted Dough to work with her. Since his areas of expertise were marketing and advertising and with his love for baking, he would be a perfect fit for the company. He was interested in her proposition but questioned how was he going to get to Nevada, and where was he going to stay since he had very little money.
To ease his mind, she wrote, I just purchased a home with plenty of space, and you will have your own room and complete privacy; I will send you a plane ticket and enough money to get started until you get back on your feet. As manager of the store, I will split my profits with you.