Chapter eleven
Jimmy hoped he wasn't sweating through his security guard uniform. He hoped he was looking at last mildly blank-faced and calm. On the inside, though, his heart was racing, and he was bracing himself. Hope had been right: this was it. He was going down. He hoped he didn't end up taking her down with him, because she might never forgive him for that.
"Yes?"Jimmy said calmly. "What did you want to talk to me about?" Maybe being with an actor was rubbing off on him, because his voice was completely believable.
Laura Mayes, the casting director, looked down at her clipboard and cleared her throat. "You're a local, correct? And part of a pack?"
"Yes, that's correct." What did that have to do with getting fired for sleeping with an actor?
"Wehave an upcoming scene where we could use some extras. Wolf background actors." She cleared her throat and fiddled with a pen. Was she nervous? "The studio is talking about hiring some animals and their handlers for the role, but in light of the basis for this show, it seems inappropriate. From several angles. We'd rather cast wolf shifters. Only one or two speaking roles, very brief. Butthe main thing will be having several wolves in several shots. If you're interested, I'd like you to read for one of the speaking roles, and if you're willing, pass along the word to your pack that we could use some extras for a few days' filming. A per diem would apply, and credit for individuals. We'd be glad to add a special thanks to the pack as well."
Wow. This was...cool. "We couldbe on the show? For pay?"
"Yes, that's correct. Normal pay for non-union extras is around minimum wage, but considering what they were going to be spending to truck in some trained animals, I think I can pretty reliably guarantee better pay terms for this one shoot. Of course, there would be contracts to sign, that sort of thing. So, if you could pass that word along for me, I'd appreciateit. Here." She handed him a printout from her clipboard. "This has all of the relevant details to show to your pack leader."
"Okay. Thanks." He glanced around, self-conscious suddenly. "You really want me to read for a role?"
"Just a small one, but yes. You have a certain...look." She waved a hand vaguely, looking slightly embarrassed.
"Okay, well, as soon as you want me, I'll be there."
"Excellent. Tomorrow at noon would be preferable. I'll speak with your supervisor so you'll have a short break in which to read."
"Thanks," said Jimmy. He wondered if he should play it cool, but really, why bother? This was exciting—more exciting than being a security guard. "Okay, I'll see you then!"
He cornered Hope before the end of their shift and told her about it briefly, givingher the paper to take home to show the pack. "I'll call Dad tonight and talk to him about it," he added. "It's kind of exciting, huh?"
She studied it, pursing her lips, then looked up at him uncertainly. "Did Hayes pull strings?"
"No, no. He's been working all day. When would he have had time to? This was good luck, that's all." He hesitated. "Um, don't tell them about him and me, okay?Let me take the time to break it to them my own way. If it turns out to be anything serious, that is."
She rolled her eyes. "It's already serious—to you," she said pointedly.
He waved that away. "Never mind, never mind. I know you don't approve. Just give me some time, all right?"
She nodded begrudgingly and folded the paper carefully, then slid it into her uniform pocket. "This couldbe good for the pack, if it's real," she said cautiously.
