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I was tempted to throw my phone across the room.
“I’m not saying no, Henn, it’s just?—”
“I know, sweetie, I know, but this is a good thing. It’s a solid role, with writers that are known for their hit shows. No, it’s not a movie deal, but it’s still great money. And a regular schedule which will leave you time for other auditions. Plus, no creepy predators. That I know of. And who knows from there? Come on, most actors would kill for this kind of offer.”
“You’re right, I know you’re right. I’ll take it.”
“Amazing! I’m emailing you the contract. Let’s meet for lunch tomorrow to celebrate, your pick.”
“Thanks, Henn.”
I sighed, staring out my window. At the orange glow of the sunset in the distance.
My movie dreams fading as fast as the sunlight.
“Reed, you’re a wonderful actor, and this is going to be good for you.”
“I know,” I replied and hung up.
I thought about my goals when I’d arrived in LA three years ago. And this was not where I thought I’d be by now.
Not like Tate.
My friend had launched—not all the way to the top, but close—and left me in his stardust.
I thought for sure he’d have pushed our friendship aside too, but he surprised me. Despite his success and hectic shooting schedule, he always made time for a text or a call. Sometimes a dinner at my place when he had a few hours to spare.
No, it wasn’t like it was when we were roommates but then, nothing was.
And despite my busy work and social life, none of the men I met ever compared to him.
It was stupid and foolish. Tate didn’t see me like that.
I was his friend, and only that.
And friendships were too rare to risk. Even for me.
Lovers I could pick up any day, but someone I could confide in?
Fuck, no.
I texted Tate to tell him about the contract.
He was always the first person I went to with any news. Even before my family back home. Sure, my mom, dad, and sister were proud of me. They were there when I needed a boost and vice versa. And my mom was a former drama teacher, so she knew all about actors.
But Tate was going through the exact same thing as me and he could relate in a way no one else in my family could. Working actors dealt with a seesaw of emotions, the ups and downs of our employment status playing havoc with our bank accounts and our confidence.
Not ten seconds after I sent the text, my phone rang.
“Hey.”
“Hey? Is that the best you can do?” Tate yelled in response. I heard traffic noise in the background. Not surprising, since half of your life in California was spent on the road. “At least act enthused. You got a contract, Ree! This calls for celebration. I’m picking you up in half an hour.”
“Sounds good. Where do you want to go?”
“How about a private party up in the hills hosted by none other than Kendrick Sloan, the producer? I snagged an invite from Erin.”
“Are you… is she… coming with us?”
