Picking up the contract, I read through it one more time. This time, I look at it with different eyes and my mom’s words floating in my head. Slowly, it all becomes clear.
• • •
“And you’re sure I can’t change your mind?”
Shaking my head, I reread the terms one final time before signing my name. Replacing the cap to the pen, I place it on top of the papers and slide it toward Eddie.
“We’ve discussed this. Stop looking so crestfallen.”
“I’m worried about you. This feels so sudden and out of character.”
Laughing, I lean back in the chair, my hands behind my head. “It’s actually completely within my character. I just forgot for a while who I was. I’m not quitting acting, just adjusting things a bit.”
He picks up the contract and stares at it wistfully. He’s so much more distraught about this decision than I am. That explains a few things. “You know, this is probably going to send Prince of Darkness fans into a frenzy. They won’t know what to do with themselves. Nikolai the crime fighting vampire in only six episodes a season.”
“They’ll survive and so will you. I owe my career to this show but it’s time for me to get back to basics.”
“Please. We know you mean getting back to the girl.”
He has no idea how true that is, but this decision is also about what is best for me. For my soul and how important acting is to keep me centered. Besides, Celeste has no idea I’m doing this. I wanted to tell her but each time we’ve spoken it never felt like the time. Maybe I’m a wimp or, perhaps, I’m scared she’ll discourage me from making this change. Or that she’ll simply reject me.
“If she’ll have me. Now come hug it out with me and wish me well. I’ll be back in a few weeks to shoot that episode, and I’m still expecting you to follow up on that indie film.”
Eddie grumbles but rounds the conference table and pulls me in for a hug. If I’m not mistaken, he sniffles. Oh jeez, he’s crying. I’ve got to get out of here. Cutting the hug short, I smack him on the back and exit the room. Waving to the receptionist on my way to the elevator, I scroll through my contacts. I know I saved it here. Or at least I thought I did. Shit. I didn’t. Great now I have to scroll through my texts for our conversation.
The trip to the garage level is quick but it’s enough time for me to find the conversation I was looking for. Sliding behind the wheel of my truck, I back out of the space and when I pull out onto the street, connect the call. Dammit. I didn’t even think of the time. Oh well, I can leave a voice—
“Hello?”
“Manuel? It’s Hunter Stone.”
“Hunter? Oh! Hey. Gimme a sec.”
Flicking my blinker, I turn to the onramp of the freeway and merge into traffic. The line is quiet for a few seconds before Manuel comes back on the line.
“Sorry about that. This is a… wow, yeah. This is a surprise.”
“I know. Sorry to call so late.”
“No bother. I’m a night owl. What can I do for you, Hunter?”
“I’m going to be making a move back to your neck of the woods and wanted to reach out.”
Why do I feel like I’m asking a girl out on a first date? I’m so nervous.
“Of course you are. It is the greatest city in the world. Hollywood isn’t for you.”
Laughing at his candor, I reply, “You have no idea.”
“Celeste hasn’t mentioned anything, I’m sure she’s thrilled.”
“She doesn’t know yet. I planned to surprise her but before I do, I wanted to see if you know of any productions casting? I’d like to give my agent a little nudge in that direction and it would help if I can hand him some potential auditions. You know, get him less heartbroken about my television exit and more excited about the Broadway potential.”
This time it’s Manuel who laughs. A very loud and boisterous laugh at that.
“As a matter of fact, I think I know of a production in need of a leading man. When do you plan to arrive?”
“I’m on the red eye Sunday.”
“Text me your itinerary and we will meet next week. And don’t worry—I’ll let you break the good news to Celeste.”
Chapter Twenty-Four
Celeste
Rehearsals have been going well. The cast gets along, the skeleton crew is quick and understands Manuel’s vision down