CHAPTER FORTY-TWO
Hayley
“Cut.”
I pull away from Aiden—the actor playing Cynthia’s love interest inReckless Desire—and hold his gaze before I smile. That was intense. I’ve had chemistry readings before—hell, my chemistry session with myJaded Beginningsco-star was one for the record books—and yet, I have no idea how this one went.
For the first time in a while, my confidence is shot.
Reed has spent the past week calming my nerves after the images from the beach hit the media. But while the headlines have been mostly positive, I haven’t allowed myself to hope. Not after so many failed auditions.
Jaded Beginningswas amazing for my career. It was released over a month ago and it’s still making waves. Yet, I can’t get another role. It’s not like I expected my agent's phone to be ringing off the hook, or for me to be getting roles without auditioning, but I didn’t expect the level of negativity I received because of the role. Or the personal attacks.
I’ve had directors politely, or not so politely, remind me it wasonehit, suggesting I remain grounded. I’ve had fellow actresses whispering in the waiting room, thinking I can’t hear what they’re saying.
“Wait until she falls from grace.”
“I don’t see the appeal.”
“One movie and she thinks she’s a star.”
And while I know it’s just talk—or tall poppy syndrome at its finest—it still bloody hurts. I wonder if they even know what tall poppy syndrome is. Or even know that they’re doing it—cutting people down that they perceive to be achieving more than them, trying to make them feel smaller. Why can’t we all build each other up? Support each other. Congratulate each other on the wins, sympathise on the losses.
I’ve been a mess these past few weeks—travelling back and forth to LA hoping to increase my chances of securing a role, without any luck—but with me through it all was Reed, keeping me smiling, making sure I value my worth.
And now…it all comes down to this.
“Wow.” Aiden’s the first to speak and my eyes dart to his. “I’m torn between wanting to kiss the fuck out of you and tear the world down to find the man who broke your heart. That was intense.”
“Thank you?”I think.
“Aiden’s right.” The director smiles, drawing my attention to find him watching me in awe. “I felt everything you were feeling in that moment. And if I didn’t know any better, I’d believe this was real life.”
I rush out another thank you and the director laughs. This can’t be real life. Because that would mean I might finally be getting another break.
“As we said when you first arrived, it’s down to you and two other actresses.” Moreexperiencedactresses was the term heactually used, but I let that slide. “We’re seeing them both this afternoon and we’ll make a decision after that.”
“Thank you. I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me again. I look forward to hearing from you.”
I look forward to hearing from you?My God, who am I? I’m usually so bubbly in auditions. I’m usuallymyself.
I turn to leave, but Aiden calls out before I’ve taken a step. “I’ll walk with you. I’m taking a break.” He loops his arm through mine and waves over his shoulder, turning as the door clicks shut. “For the record, I want you for the part. And I told them thatbeforeyou came in and blew us all away.”
“What?” My eyes widen.
“Mate. What do you mean, what?” His smooth American accent makes way for an Aussie twang and my jaw drops.
“You’re Australian?”
“Fuckin' oath, I am. I’m an Aussie through and through. And I’ve been a fan of yours since I first saw you guest star onWilde Country.”
“Jesus. That was years ago.”
“It sure was. But you being an Aussie isn’t why I want you for the role.”
“Why then?”
“Because when they showed me your first audition, youwereCynthia. I sawHayleywhen you said hello, and then she was gone and I will never unsee that. You embodied her, and in my opinion, the other two actresses failed at that.”
