Page 3 of A Simple Love

“Are you done?” she asked.

I shrugged, unsure what to say.

“This is what is going to happen,” she said, pushing off the desk and sitting. “You need to think, and I need a break from you.”

“You’re dropping me?” I asked, aghast.

“I’m saving you,” she replied. “You’re taking a sort of hiatus. Leaving LA for a while. There’s a movie being shot in Canada, and you’re going to be in it. Not the leading role, but a good sidekick. A meaty part.”

“I haven’t heard about this role.”

“I accepted on your behalf.”

I grunted as she handed me a script.

“You’re heading home. It’s being shot in Toronto and a place you’re familiar with. Richton.”

My head shot up. “Richton?”

“Yep. Your old hometown. I’ve rented you a place for the next month. You can decide whether to stay or move elsewhere. You are going to do some heavy thinking. Shoot this movie. Decide what your future holds. Pull yourself up by your bootstraps and get back in the game, or move on. If this isn’t the life you want anymore, Oliver, stop wasting my time. Or yours. Find what you love and do it.”

“I love being an actor.”

“You did. I’m not sure you do anymore.”

“What else would I do?”

She sat back and pursed her lips. “You have enough money you can do whatever you want. Direct. Produce. Buy a farm. Travel. Get married and have a bunch of kids. Whatever you want.”

I grimaced. “I don’t want kids.”

“Then find out what you do want.”

“Couldn’t I stay in Toronto? Richton is in the middle of nowhere. No bars, restaurants, or entertainment.”

“Exactly. You need to concentrate. Stop this excessive drinking. Get your head straight.”

Her tone changed, becoming more personal and warmer. A rare happening for Annie. “Whatever makes you happy.”

“And if I don’t do this?” I challenged.

Her all-business manager tone returned in an instant. “We’re done.”

My shoulders fell. I tried one last time.

“This will blow over, Annie. It always does.”

She stood and went over to the window. “You think?”

I joined her, gaping at the paparazzi gathered outside.

“They’re out for blood. Yours.”

“Dammit.”

“You’re going out the back while I go down there and make a statement. Get home before they crowd your gates. A car will be there tonight to pick you up. Be ready.”

She looked at me, serious and firm. “Unless you refuse and we part ways today.”