Grayson grins. "It is."
"And I wouldn't have to dance. I can dance, but it's hard for me to pick up. That's the part I've been most worried about."
Grayson shakes his head. "Nope, no dancing. Just singing and acting like a big star."
Tabitha laughs. "I wouldn't even have to tap too deeply for that. I'm game."
I shake my head one more time, trying to snap back into reality. "Wait, Gray, what are you doing? What about Marcelina?"
"Marcelina would be great as Charity. This is her third season with us. She was smashing as Velma inChicagolast year. She can totally handle it. I'll go tell her."
And with that Grayson's off and running. "I can't believe he's doing this to me."
"To you? I'm the one who's been studying the wrong part for a week."
I look at her. "You have?"
"Of course I have. You sent the materials." She pauses. The head tilt is back. "Actually, it wasn't you who sent them. It was Grayson, wasn't it?"
"Yes." Better to say as little as possible. I'm in enough trouble.
Though, I remind myself, I want her mad at me. I don't want her to rush in and throw herself into my arms. That would make it harder. This is for the best.
"Okay, then. Well, I have my work cut out for me. I'll see you at rehearsal." She turns and begins to walk out.
I let out my breath that I'd been struggling to hold onto. I sink back into my chair, devoid of all energy.
"Wait!" Tabitha sticks her head back into the room. "When is rehearsal?"
"Monday, nine a.m."
"Okay, so I guess I'll see you then?" She hesitates, waiting for me to say something. I can't give her that.
Oh, but how I wish I could.
Chapter 25: Tabitha
That was good, yet bad all at the same time.
I mean, I should have guessed that Henderson wouldn't be waiting for me with two dozen roses and a bottle of champagne, but would a hug have been too much to ask?
At least Grayson gave me a hug.
I don't want hugs from Grayson.
Stupid, stupid, stupid Tabby. When will you learn that men want you for one thing and one thing only, and as soon as they have it, they're done with you?
I can't think about that now. I have to focus on the part change.
It's a lesser role for certain, but I know without a doubt, it's a smart move. I've been freaking out about my ability to do this. Jenny Lind, I can do.
I can be the starlet.
I can be the home-wrecker.
Hell, I don't even have to act.
I can sing about being unfulfilled.
