Chapter 1990
“How could I possibly accept this?” Clara snapped the script shut with a look of distaste. “Quincy is clearly just a side chick and not the lovable kind. How can I play a role like this? If this airs, I’m gonna get roasted online!”
Orion glanced at Clara and then pointed toward a nearby room, “Ms. Dunhill, I get it; the character’s backstory isn’t exactly flattering, but the role itself has a big part! Playing the villain is a real test of your acting chops. If you nail it, you could be looking at an award. Look over there. There’s a whole line of actors waiting to chat with the director, practically tripping over themselves for a shot at any role. If you pass this up, you’re missing out. Plenty of others would kill for this chance!”
Clara hesitated. The last thing she wanted was to be cast as the antagonist.
Just then, Ivy burst out of the room and made a beeline for the assistant director, grabbing him by the arm, “Orion, if she’s not up for it) what about me for Quincy? There’s a lot of meat on that role, and if I nail it, I can make a name for myself. I want in!”
“Ivy, what are you doing here?”
Seeing Ivy’s sudden appearance, Clara’s face fell.
Ivy turned around, feigning surprise at seeing Clara, “If you’re not into it, then just split. I hustled hard for this audition and I don’t mind playing the bad
I believe as an actress, you can make your mark with any role!”
guy.
With that, Ivy turned back to the assistant director and continued to schmooze, “Orion, give me a chance. I promise I’ll treasure it and give it my all.” Orion gave a helpless smile, “Well… I don’t make the calls here. The director did say Clara was the best fit for the role. But since she is backing out, could try talking to him and letting him give you a chance.”
“Who said I’m backing out?” Clara blurted out in panic and grabbed Orion’s arm. “I’ll take the role. Arrange me that audition now!”
The assistant director looked at Clara, puzzled, “Really? You just said you didn’t want it.”
“I wasn’t thinking straight before. I’m clear-headed now and I’m up for it. Besides, didn’t the director say I was the perfect fit? No need to waste time on others who are clearly out of their depth!” Clara was still reluctant to play the part internally, but she’d be damned if she let Ivy have it!
“Alright then,” the assistant director conceded, “let’s pretend this whole conversation never happened.” He then turned to Ivy and said, “You see the situation. I can’t help you right now. Maybe try your luck with another production?”
“Orion, you really can’t give me just one chance?” Ivy pleaded, a frown creasing her brow.
“Sorry!” he replied.
Ivy sighed in frustration and trudged back into the room she had come from.
Clara watched her defeated retreat with her eyes filled with smugness, “Keep dreaming, Ivy. You think you can compete with me? Not in a million years.”
The audition was about to commence.
