Fortnight [H.S]

Chapter 4

In that moment all I wanted and felt like I needed was Louis to show that he cared.

And once I got that, all other logic seemed to leave my brain.

However, now that we are a couple of days removed from the situation all my (justified) anger is back.

My name is still being thrown around the news and media cycles.

It's starting to feel like this isn't something that will just go away.

I fear I've really screwed up this time.

Alex keeps trying to reassure me that all this will blow over and that I'm not at fault. It was whoever took those photos in the first place. A complete invasion of privacy and done without my consent.

She's right on that note but at the end of the day I know what it's like to be at the level of fame that I'm at. I can never assume I'm truly alone or have some sort of privacy.

It's a painful and bitter reality and it's one that I chose so I can't complain.

I won't.

Even if that means I just lost a role I've worked so hard to get. One that I've wanted for so long.

My hands shake slightly by my side as Jennifer and I wait for our meeting with Thomas to start.

He had texted last night requesting a meeting with me and Jennifer, my manager, before what is supposed to be the final audition and chemistry test with the three guys his casting team picked out.

Jennifer and I talked about how this is most likely his way of breaking off my role in this film.

I wouldn't blame him, with the way the media has come after me and certain groups have been so vocal about removing me from the project I get it...you know if he had to cave to the outside pressure.

Jennifer grabs onto my hand, squeezing it lightly.

"You'll be fine." she breathes out, sounding just as nervous as me.

I appreciate the thought though.

Despite Louis and his team's attempt of getting the photos and video removed from the web it was Jennifer and my team that had actual success in doing that. However, as I stated earlier the media still can't keep my name out of their mouths.

This is the first major role she has helped me get since I stopped having my mom be my manager and I'd feel awful if I messed this up for the both of us.

"No matter what happens, keep your head up." she encourages.

"We can only-" she starts but gets cut off as the door to Thomas's office opens.

A man with gray hair and tall lanky build steps out of the office.

"Mr. Payne is ready to speak with both of you." he says with a monotone voice.

Jennifer and I get up simultaneously and walk into his office with dragging feet.

"Arden! Jennifer." Thomas greets, shaking both of our hands.

The tall lanky guy slams the door closed behind him as he exits the office once again.

"It's great to see the both of you." Thomas begins as he takes a seat in his chair.

This causes me and Jennifer to take a seat as well.

"So, I've seen the news and I want you to know that I -"

Here he goes.

My hands grip onto the arms of the chair, squeezing tightly.

"I want to keep you on this film."