always just did what I was told and didn’t resist in the least. He has shown me that it’s okay to have a say in my own life.
“Okay, let’s move on.” My publicist Erin looks over at me. “I have been fielding questions about the two of you since you did Morgan’s talk show. I need to start answering some of those questions or people will just start making answers up. It’s been a month and I have avoided asking you, but now is the time.”
I knew this was coming. What do I say? Everyone is staring at me, waiting for an answer. Hunter’s hand rests on my thigh in support. “We are together. I don’t know what more you need.”
“I need to know if there are any skeletons I have to worry about popping up.” Her eyes narrow at Hunter in question.
“I have a bunch of skeletons, honestly. Some wear hats, others you can pose whatever way you want. The trick-or-treaters love them.” No one laughs. The entire room is silent.
Awkward. I don’t even know what to say to break the deafening silence.
“Okay, Jesus. I don’t have anything to hide.” I hear him exhale loudly and I know that he hates dealing with this stuff. I do too but it comes with the territory.
“Okay, moving on again. Samantha, the press knows someone is leaving you notes and such. I have a few different offers for exclusives. Do you have a preference for who we go with?”
“What do you mean exclusives? What do they want?”
She sighs as if I am bothering her. “They want an exclusive interview with you. No limits. You and a reporter talking about the terror you are living.” Well, that just sounds delightful.
“I don’t want to do that. Obviously they know and they can write about it, but it isn’t even over yet. I don’t want to share with the world that I am terrified of this monster.” This is a complete invasion of privacy by the people who are supposed to be looking out for my best interest. People that I am supposed to be able to trust. More and more lately I feel like the only person I can rely on is Hunter, which is crazy because he has known me the least amount of time.
“Samantha, you should really reconsider. I mean, at least look at the offers. People is offering two million for the story and a tour of your house with the two of you.” Two million dollars? That is insane.
“Erin, she will do it. I think maybe she is just a bit cranky today.” My mother gives one of her fake caring smiles.
Cranky? What am I a toddler? “No. This is not up for discussion. I am not willing to do an interview about this right now. Maybe once it’s over, but not while it is still going on.” I cross my arms across my chest, trying to make it clear that I have taken a stand and do not intend to back down.
“Samantha, by the time it’s over people may not care anymore. You need as much exposure as you can get.” Her eyes bore into me and I search them for a shred of the mother I had before she became a manager. I can still remember the second I saw the change start.
“Good luck baby. I’m sure you will do great. I love you.” My mom gives me a quick kiss on the forehead before I walk into the audition room. It’s my first audition since I finished all of my classes that Mom paid for and I’m super nervous.
“My name is Samantha Baker and I’m nine years old.” I run through my monologue, stumbling a few times out of nervousness. I just want to do well. I want to be able to get a job to help Mom with the bills. I know my classes were expensive but she worked extra hours to pay for them because she loves me.
I exit the room and they call my mom in. She is my manager because she loves me and knows I can make it. I always wanted to sing but acting is a good way to get your foot in the door. When I see her come out of the room, she looks upset. I didn’t get it. She sits next to me in the chair.
“We need to start taking things more seriously, Samantha. No more running around outside with those animals you call friends. We need to