Holliewood (Completed)

chapter one

holliane "hollie" smith

Often I found myself in a mental state where I'd be within certain social settings, but not actively taking part in them. It was like some sort of disconnection from my surroundings. I'd just listen, nod and respond when I was being spoken to.

My psychologist referred to it as 'disassociation', but I easily debated that. I just believed I had the tendency to get lost in my thoughts so I tried to disguise it by doing my best to interact, and not make it noticeable.

Kind of like I was doing right now.

It also didn't help that I was tipsy and trying to keep my eyes from giving into slumber.

I didn't remember drinking that much in the first place, but I guess I had always been called a lightweight. It wasn't anything to be ashamed of really - I just took it as my cue to go easy on the drinks.

The strobe lights bounced off the walls and shone on the partygoers that moved to the rhythm of the music.

It was two am and everyone was still at it.

I sat on the couch, observing my surroundings while everyone made the most out of the experience.

Nothing screamed 'LA' like a celebrity house party. I was no stranger to them, in fact, I had hosted many during the earlier days of my career. At this point, I was sick of them.

I didn't have a choice when it came to this party because a lot of decisions were being made for me.

"Hollie, are you good?" My manager, Devon, asked me after approaching me where I was seated.

"Yeah, just a little tired," I suppressed a yawn.

"At your own celebration? Come on now! You should be going crazy right now," he spoke joyfully.

Keyword: should.

Yes, I should've been partying hard, but I wasn't. The little happy-dance I did a day ago should've been enough, but my record label thought otherwise and had other plans.

They planned a party in less than twenty-four hours and I only found out that I was having one when delivery trucks with party supplies started showing up at my house in the morning.

I gave Devon a tired smile.

"Maybe I should get you something to drink. How about a cocktail?" he suggested, looking towards the bartender who was mixing drinks on the kitchen island.

"I've drunk enough."

"Okay, then maybe you should get up and dance. At least try and make it look like you're having fun."

I groaned.

Devon stood up and reached his hand out to help me stand. I held onto him and stood to my feet.

"Come on now. You know you love this song," he danced, as he watched me lazily sway side to side.

It wasn't long before the event photographer began snapping pictures of me. I took it upon myself to strike every pose and allow Devon to join in on the pictures.