Limelight

The offer

... A silence ensued.

“You want... me... to be Harry Styles’ girlfriend?” I must have misunderstood that. There is just no way she could have said that. No way.

“No. We want you to pretend to be Harry’s girlfriend. There’s a big difference.” Marca looked at me uncertain.

“I don’t get it. Why me? Why not someone prettier... Like Bee?” I wondered out loud.

“Well to be fair, our interest did go out to Ms Dennis. That is, until you came along with her to her audition shoot. We fear she might be a bit too accustomed to the spotlight, and drag attention to herself. We feel this would not be the case with you, since you were prone to stay out of the limelight yesterday. From what I’ve seen you are a pretty convincing actress, who just hasn’t had her breakthrough yet.” Marca looked at me with a guarded expression.

This was just... Wow. My head was reeling. I did want to become an actress. And there was no better way to see if I was convincing, then to actually be acting in real life. But was this really the way to do it? Taking advantage of a popstar to further my own career? On the other hand... It wasn’t like he was forced now was he? It would actually be good for him, helping him out.

“What we’re offering is no light feat Ms. Carter, please know this. You would have to sign a contract for the duration of 8 months. After this we can all reconsider, and maybe renew the contract if both parties are still interested. But for these 8 months, you have to put your own life on hold and be available 24/7 for us and Harry. In compensation we would give you a weekly pay of £1500. In addition to this we will also get our own PR people to get you noticed by casting directors, other agencies and drama schools. This really could be a huge step on your way to a successful career but please do realise you will have to make certain sacrifices as well.” With every word Marca spoke my decision became clearer.

There was just one thing holding me back.

“This is... I mean wow... It’s just that uhm... I kind of have a boyfriend.” I stumbled.

“I see. Unfortunately you can’t be seeing anyone else during the duration of this contract.” Marca spoke gravely.

“Right. But can I tell him? You know, just why I can’t be with him for a while?” I questioned, afraid of the answer I was certain she was going to give.

“I’m afraid not. The only people who would know about this situation would be us, Harry, the rest of the group and a few people here at Modest.”

This day had turned out so much different than I had expected. This job could open so many doors for me in the future, but was I ready for the sacrifices? 8 months. I guess it was not that bad. What is 8 months in a lifetime? Besides... The outrageous pay could also mean I finally didn’t have to worry about rent anymore. I could save up the extra cash and... Who was I kidding? I could finally go shopping!

“Okay.” I blurted without giving it a further thought. If I kept it at bay I would start over thinking all of this, and would probably end up driving myself mad with the pro’s and con’s.

“Okay...? You’ll do it?”  Marca asked, her expression shocked.

“Yeah.” I smiled. “I’ll do it. When do I start?” I felt giddy about the whole situation.

“Oh... Well, I had expected to have to do some more persuasion. But I guess you could just sign the contract now if you’d like. Just make sure you thought this through.”

I grabbed the pen from her hand and signed my name at the dotted line. No thinking it through. If I did that, I’d probably change my mind. I had to do this, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and would help my career. What else is there to think about? I shoved thoughts about Jace to the back of my mind.