Chapter 1856

The lobby manager, sweating bullets under the pressure, climbed onto a chair, holding a megaphone.
Thank you all for your passion and patience, but please, line up in an orderly fashion! We dont want any accidents here.
Drinks and pastries are also available here! he called out, trying to maintain order amidst the chaos.
Despite his towering frame and the muscles that strained against his suit, his tone was surprisingly soft, a far cry from the arrogant, aloof attitude he had displayed when he had first met Ariana.
Just then, the CEOs exclusive elevators doors slid open with a quiet ding, and out walked Holden, flanked by his subordinates.
The lobby managers sharp eyes caught Holdens entrance immediately.
Without a second thought, he handed the megaphone to a nearby employee and rushed over to Holden.
Holden was in the middle of listening to a report on the companys latest operations when the lobby managers sudden appearance derailed his train of thought.
He frowned in slight irritation.
Mr.
Fredrick! Here to see Miss Edwards? the lobby manager asked, oblivious to the dark cloud of displeasure forming on Holdens face.
He pointed toward the long line of people. Miss Edwards is still busy.
Look at that crowd-theyre waiting for the artist draft.
The line stretches all the way to the lobby! Sensing Holdens rising annoyance, Devin quickly stepped forward and pulled the manager aside.
The CEOs got a lot on his plate right now, Devin whispered.
Why dont you head over to finance later? You can get your bonus there.
The lobby managers face lit up at the mention of a bonus.
With a wide grin, he watched Holden leave before rushing back to his post.
The lobby buzzed with anticipation, voices and footsteps echoing off the high ceilings.
A petite young woman with bright eyes and a hint of nervousness squeezed through the crowd, finally escaping outside to dial a number.
As soon as the call connected, she spoke hurriedly.
Im here already.
Where are you? Just then, a gentle hand rested on her back.
Milly, Im here, said a familiar voice, breathless.
The person who had just come was Marlowe.
Marlowe knew how much this audition meant to Milly-a shy girl who had always marveled at the way performers sparkled on stage.
Millys admiration for stars ran deep, but social situations drained her, so Marlowe had taken a day off work to accompany Milly for the audition.
I was worried you couldnt make it, Milly said, slipping her phone back into her pocket and looping her arm through Marlowes.
Marlowe squeezed her arm reassuringly.
Id never break a promise to you.
Come on, we should hurry and get in line.
There are so many people here.
With a nod, Milly let herself be guided inside, clinging to Marlowes steady presence.
Thirty minutes later, it was finally Millys turn to fill out the registration form.
She hesitated before picking up the pen.
Turning to Marlowe, she said, Are you sure you dont want to fill out a form, too? Youd definitely get in-youre gorgeous. Marlowe chuckled and shook her head.
This companys all about singing and dancing, and thats not really my thing, she said.
Im holding out for acting roles, even if its just a small part.
Thats where I want to be.
Milly nodded in understanding.
You know, it might be easier if you signed with an agency.
Whether its acting or singing, they could help boost your popularity.
Doing this all on your own… Its hard.
Marlowe shrugged.
Maybe.
We can talk about this later.
Once Milly handed in her form, an employee in a dark suit guided Milly and Marlowe to the audition area.