The Next Step: Reality

Chapter 9: Michelle

After what Julianna told me, I should be worried for the team. And I am. But not as much as I normally would be. I feel like Emily just completely kicked me away from everyone, and she must've done something to Riley too because I feel like my so-called "best friend" is drifting farther and farther away from me.

I'm just a home, watching some movies with a bag of popcorn in my hand. It's only about four thirty, and I usually watch movies at night but at this point I just want to sleep as early as possible to forget about this day. That's when I hear a knock on my door.

Hoping it's Riley, I get up and walk to the door, peeking through a small peephole that I before opening the door. In front of me is the woman I wanted to see the least. I'm closing the door when she pushes the door back. Smiling at me, she asks, "Can I come in?"

"Most certainly not." I reply.

She sighs and steps in anyways, closing the door behind her. We normally are close enough of friends for her to do this, but today all I am is mad at her. She used to be the producer of my other show, and sometimes she would write the script too. We were really close because I constantly had to work with her on the script so I could play a believable character. She was very nice. I don't know what happened now. It's barely been a year.

"I'm not here to mess with your life or whatever it is you think I'm here to do." Julianna starts, crossing her arms. "I'm just here to deliver a message for you."

"And that is?" I raise my eyebrow.

"Richelle Nolet." Julianna replies. "She has moved here."

~

Richelle is probably one of my best friends while we were filming because we had so many scenes together since she played my character's younger sister. She doesn't live here, and for all I know she lives in Los Angeles. She is actually an amazing dancer and I actually think she's better than most of A-Troupe despite being two to three years younger.

"That's nice to know," I state simply.

Julianna sighs and continues, "She's been signed on to the contract with the show."

Signed on to the contract. I try not to show my frustration with the show, so I just smile, "That sounds...great."

"And she would like to meet up with you." Julianna finishes. "I suggested going to Squeezed and she agreed. You'll be meeting her" — she checks her phone — "in ten minutes. Don't worry, I'll be driving you." Smiling at me, she pipes, "Have fun!"

"Ten minutes?" I almost scream. "How do you expect me to get ready in ten minutes?"

"Careful, Michelle." Julianna warns. "Your diva is showing."

Throwing my hands up in frustration, I walk away, cleaning up the TV room. I put the popcorn away and power off the television. I quickly go change into my outdoor casual attire. I don't think showing up with pink bunny pajamas would be a smart idea. Julianna busies herself on her phone while waiting for me.

By the time I get back down there are about five minutes left. I get into Julianna's car without looking her in the eye and we drive away. It's a good thing I live so close to the studio. Walking takes about twenty to thirty minutes while driving can take about five or so. By the time Julianna parks herself, we're a minute late.

"Thanks!" I say, before heading out. I'm hoping there aren't any cameras here.

When I make my way to Squeezed, I see Riley and her sister. They're talking and laughing with Stephanie. I nervously look away, seating myself on one of the couches. I see Julianna entering, sitting on the opposite side of the room, ordering herself a drink while winking at me. I barely see it, but I think that's what it is.