Nobody's Guard

IV

Richard Caldwell, Liam's manager called very early to let them know they had a brief meeting.She was worried about being fired when she had just started.

The fabric of her sundress clung  to her curves, a subtle rebellion against the starched collars and rigid norms. Sunflowers danced along the hem, their petals echoing her optimism.

Her hair—wild and untamed—framed her face like a halo. Strands of gold caught  the fluorescent light, turning mundane office tiles into gilded pathways. She was a literal sunbeam in a dreary room.

The manager, stern-faced and tie-strangled, awaited. Dana’s heart raced. Why this meeting? Why now? She imagined pink slips tucked under his arm, ready to shatter her world. Her fingers twisted at the hem of her dress, seeking comfort.

He  began, “Your ideas—like the  wildflowers—blossom unexpectedly and I appreciate your being here.But we have a problem."

She felt cold.What had she done this time?She had been doing her best to avoid being suspended.

Dana knew the implications of such a result on one's recommendation.

“I’ll cut to the chase. Our agency lost the bid for the lead role in ‘The Adam Project.’ It’s a major film, folks—a chance to work with A-listers and catapult your career, Liam.”

She let out a silent sigh,not knowing whether to be happy or sad.

Liam was the first to speak,"What? Why? What happened?"

The manager looked between them with the same cold gaze ,"It seems the producers had a change of heart and decided to go in a different direction. I know this is disappointing, but we have to move forward."

" But what about the staff I was supposed to have for the project?"

" Unfortunately, with the budget cut due to losing the project, we won't be able to afford a stylists and other staff for you. You'll have to rely on yourself for now."The manager quipped in the same monotonous tone.

" This is a major setback. What am I supposed to do now?"

The manager reassured him,"We'll  find you another project. In the meantime, focus on your other commitments and keep working on your craft. This is just a bump in the road, Liam. We'll get through this."

Dana realized she wouldn't be able to pay for her own utilities if she continued to work for Liam.Unless she cut off most basics.

She didn't want to imagine the worst yet it stared her in the face."Have I been cut off too?"

The manager looked at her and stood up.

"I'll leave you to make the decision.If you decide to leave,I'll find you a replacement actor but make the decision fast."

He left.

The two stared at each other for a while until Dana spoke up,"I want to stay.I need to find cheaper accommodation."

It was  decided that Dana would move into Liam's penthouse.He told her it belonged to a friend who was currently out of the country for a long while.She thought he was lucky and really organised.

He helped her move,using the agency truck.

The elevator doors opened to reveal a space that seemed to float above the city, bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. She took a tentative step forward, her heels clicking softly on the marble floor.

The grandeur of the penthouse was overwhelming. Floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the cityscape, the lights beginning to twinkle as dusk settled. The living room was a blend of modern elegance and timeless luxury—plush sofas, a grand piano, and art pieces that spoke of both history and taste.