The Work of a Legacy

Chapter Two

The next few weeks fly by in a blur of emails and essays. Ora and Roza call once a week. I've never needed a break more.

Somehow, just missing two hours of work has backed me up for weeks. I've barely gotten any sleep, and I haven't even had time to eat. Finally, things start to slow down.

New message from Orabela.

I frown in surprise. Ora never texts me.

*How could you. You know how much Chanced means to me.*

-What are you talking about?-

*They rejected my video! They want you to film your own application instead.*

-What? Why?-

*Apparently, you have 'character' and 'a personality'.*

-I'm a little busy for this, Orabela.-

*You should do it. Go. Live MY dream.*

-I don't want your dream. I'm Skype-chatting a student right now.-

*Don't be stupid. This is finally your opportunity to make your legacy.*

I pause at this. None of the work I've done has gotten me a lick of recognition so far. Everyone in the world watches Chanced.

*You know I'm right.*

-I can't put my job on the line for a tv show I might get on.-

*Look, they don't give out free chances like this. For some reason, they really liked you. That's something you can't let go of.*

I sigh in defeat.

-You should have been a lawyer.-

I wrap the tutor session up and fly through the rest of my work faster than I've ever worked. I finish up in three hours what I usually get done in six.

That leaves me three hours to do this stupid video that might be the answer to all my prayers.

"Hi, my name is Stelara Ford from Yokohama, Japan, and you're watching Disney Channel."

Two hours later, I'm finally finished. I send it off and collapse on the floor, planning on taking full advantage of this next hour alone.

My phone lights up and starts jiggling in vibration.

"WHAT THE SHIT!" I scream in exasperation. Of course I won't be given a break.

"This better be worth it," I mutter, picking my phone up and answering.

"Hello?"

"Hi!" An deep, animated male voice replies. "Are you Stelara Kiyoko Ford?"

"I am," I answer cautiously. "Who is this?"

"This is Hank Ryan, from the hit tv show 'Chanced'. I'm calling to tell you congratulations!"

"Congratulations? I literally just finished my application."

"Yes, we saw it! Stelara, we are very impressed. You're quite a character. You should be running for governor, not applying to a dating show. We can't pass up a chance like that."

I roll my eyes. "Are you done buttering me up?"

His shock is almost palpable. After a few elongated seconds, he barks out a laugh.

"That's why we love you! Anyways, we're calling to tell you that you're accepted and you need to get on a plane to Los Angeles ASAP."

I blink. "Will this flight be payed for?"