and everyone who works here, including me.”
“I realize that.” Avery sat up straighter in the chair. “That’s a lesson I’ve recently learned and it’s not likely that I’ll forget it any time soon.”
“Good. Good. We’re on the same page then,” Mary said succinctly. “In light of that, I’ve taken the liberty of putting a couple of things in motion for you.”
“What kind of things?” Avery asked, suspicion making her stomach muscles tense.
“I have a photo shoot for you with In Style magazine tomorrow morning and then an interview with Guitar World the next.”
“What?” She lifted an incredulous brow. “A fashion magazine? Guitar World I can understand but not In Style. I’m just a guitarist, not a model.”
“Avery.” Mary clicked her tongue, disapprovingly. “Haven’t you realized by now that you’re much more than that? You’re an accomplished female guitarist in one of biggest bands in the world. That’s the angle I want to capitalize on. And the one I’ve talked to Marcus about at great length.”
“Really?” she managed wondering why Marcus had never mentioned that to her.
“Yes. And like it or not, you’ve become a role model for teenage girls. You’ve proven that a woman can kick ass on the guitar. I want the public to get a chance to really know you. Accentuate the positive aspects of who you are as a person while emphasizing the success you’ve had in a male dominated profession.”
“Ok. All that sounds good, but how will taking pictures for a fashion magazine accomplish that?”
“It’s all part of the game. It’s about visibility. Image is everything in this business.”
“I know it’s important but not more than the music itself.”
“Trust me, Avery. I’ve climbed this hill myself, you know.”
Avery stared past Mary, looking out the large windows watching the sun sparkle on the water of English Bay while she mulled it over. “Are you sure Marcus is ok with all this?”
“He said it was your decision to make.”
“Ok, well that’s good. I guess it’ll be fine then.”
“Good. It’s settled then.” Mary watched her for a moment, her expression softening. “Avery Jones, I’ve had a good feeling about you from the beginning. I really believe things are just starting to take off for you, and the sky’s the limit, in my opinion.”
Avery glanced down at her feet, embarrassed by the uncharacteristic praise from the Black Cat’s exec.
“I fully expect Hollywood to call any day now. And I just want you to remember… always be true to yourself. No more lies or denying who you are.”
Avery nodded.
“How are the rehearsals going?” Mary moved back to her chair, all business again.
“Good. I think we’ve almost got the whole show blocked out. There are still a couple of issues with lighting.” She shrugged. “But Marcus seems pleased.”
Mary nodded and marked a line through a piece of paper on her desk.
Avery stifled a smile, surprised to discover that the ultra-organized owner seemed to be using a hand written “to do” list.
“A couple more things and I’ll let you go.” She rolled the pen between her hands. “I want you to seriously consider being a representative for a music related charity organization. Mr. Holland’s Opus and Fender Music Foundation are two really good ones. They raise funds to buy instruments and equipment for schools that can’t afford them.”
“I’d love to do that. Isn’t that something Brutal Strength could do together as a group?”
“Yes. But for now, I just want it to be you.”
“Ok.” Avery agreed, twisting on her arm band. “What else?”
“I want you to start working on writing some solo material.”
“Oh, no.” Avery shook her head. “No way. I’m more than happy in Brutal Strength. Marcus…”
“That wasn’t a question.” Mary cut her off with an even stare. “And Marcus knows all about this already. He doesn’t want to hold you back in any way. He believes as I do that you’re more than capable of managing both.”
“Alright.” Avery wilted back into her chair.
“Last thing.” Mary pushed a folder across the desk. “This is the information from several companies that have contacted us wanting you to endorse their products. Talk it over with Marcus and decide. Beth and I are also here to guide you.”
“Alright.” Avery felt a little lightheaded and swayed when she stood up.
“You ok?” Mary asked with a raised brow.
“I’m fine,” she said taking a deep breath. “It’s just a lot to take in.”
“You can handle it.” She gave a dismissive nod. “Don’t forget your shoot first thing in the morning.”
Avery moved to the door, breathing deeply as she exited