Chapter 1992
The director remained silent, not even calling “cut.”
Clara had been through hell and high water to land this role and, with no other choice, she gritted her teeth and continued her performance, “You dare call me a bitch? You’re the bitch! Dante and I have the real deal!”
As she spat out the words, Clara lunged at the leading lady, grappling with her in a dramatic tussle.
“Cut!” the director suddenly announced.
Clara was about to strike back at the lead when Ivy sent a discreet signal to the director, prompting the timely cut.
Immediately, Clara ceased her movements, straightened up, and fixed her clothes and hair before excitedly rushing over to the director, “How was that for a performance, huh? I can take on this role, right?”
The director, having fulfilled his purpose, showed no interest in further discussion and turned to leave.
Clara’s heart sank at his silence. After enduring slaps and insults for this audition, she couldn’t let him walk away just like that, “What’s this about? I did everything you asked-fought, screamed, and you say nothing? Can I have the role or not?”
The director, with a look of disdain, withdrew his hand, “It’s not up to me. You’ll have to check with our big boss!”
“The big boss? The investor?” Clara’s eyes lit up at the mention. “Then call them in, I’ll talk to him directly.”
She knew well that if she could charm the investor, who surely had more than this one project, it could pave the way for a smooth sailing career with multiple roles.
With a tilt of his chin, the director signaled his assistant to invite Ivy out of the observation room.
Clara was surprised but a big part of her felt sick as Ivy showed up again, “Why are you still here? Still haven’t given up on competing with me for the role? Save your dreams. I’m about to meet the investor for the show so I’ve practically got it in the bag!”
Ivy looked at her serenely, “Haven’t you heard? I’m the boss.”
Clara was stunned, her face a mix of disbelief and amusement, “You? An investor? Don’t make me laugh, Ivy! Weren’t you just groveling to the director’s assistant to beat me for the part? Stop pretending please!”
“I’m not the investor. I’m the boss,” Ivy corrected as she gestured to the crew. “Thanks for your hard work, everyone. You can collect your pay from accounting.”
As Ivy finished, everyone bowed respectfully and began packing up their gear, quickly vacating the premises.
Now alone with Ivy, Clara was forced to confront the truth of Ivy’s words.
“What… What’s going on? Did you really invest in this show, Ivy?”
The irony was that Clara still didn’t doubt the existence of the show; she’d rather believe Ivy invested in it than accept she’d been hoodwinked.
