Sent my manuscript to a small, newly set up publisher. They asked for a sample chapter (up to 5000 words) which I took to mean one chapter up to that length. I read it over and over thinking one chapter seemed short but wanted to stick to guidelines.
They sent an email asking for up to 5000 words. I didn't receive it as my phone was being repaired and I am rubbish with technology and didn't realise I wasn't getting them on my old phone.
Got my phone back today and there was a rejection but they did offer feedback, which included asking why I didn't send more words.
I was a bit perplexed about their submission wording so I replied about.
They replied immediately asking if I got the email about asking for more words. I looked back and found it. It was a week ago. I do feel if they'd read more it would have made a difference and they probably wondered why I hadn't replied.
Basically I've blown a chance because of technological incompetence and I'm so upset about it.