Chapter 1858

After the remaining auditionees had gone through the preliminary screenings, Ariana rubbed the back of her neck, feeling the strain from the long day.
Her eyes wandered toward the door, expecting to see Marlowe.
But the doorway remained empty.
A frown creased her brow.
She had recognized Marlowe in the hallway earlier and recalled stories she had heard from Mitchel about Marlowe.
She knew Marlowe had once saved Mitchels life.
Mitchel was her family, and Marlowes act of saving Mitchel made her want to repay Marlowe.
Todays auditions had a limited number of slots, but she planned to make an exception, to offer Marlowe a chance.
But where was Marlowe? Ariana stared at the door, confused.
Had Marlowe gotten lost? That seemed unlikely; she had seen Marlowe waiting right outside the audition hall before, and staff members were stationed here to guide people. Or maybe Marlowe had changed her mind about auditioning? But if Marlowe hadnt intended to audition, she wouldnt have taken the application form she had given her.
Various possibilities flickered through Arianas mind.
A staff member suddenly spoke, breaking her train of thought.
Should we start wrapping up now? Lets wait for a bit longer, Ariana replied.
Theres still one person who hasnt shown up.
Minutes ticked by, and Arianas patience began to wear thin.
She glanced at the time on her phone, sighing.
It seemed Marlowe wasnt coming.
She was about to tell the staff here to leave when she heard the door open.
Marlowe rushed inside, breathless and apologetic.
Arianas expression softened.
No worries, she said, walking over to Marlowe and handing her a small bottle of water.
Take a moment to catch your breath.
Thank you, Marlowe said, accepting the water.
After a while, Marlowe took the stage, ready to show her talent.
She began to sing, her voice clear but unremarkable.
When she finished, the room fell silent, Marlowes gaze darted from one judge to another, noting that they didnt look excited at all.
Had she blown it? Just then, Ariana spoke.
Your singing was good, but I think your real talent lies elsewhere. You have a striking presence, one that would shine on screen.
Have you ever thought about acting? Marlowes eyes widened, Arianas words lighting a spark inside her.
Acting? Do you really think I can become an actress? Ariana had initially been worried that her words might hurt Marlowe, especially since todays main auditions were for singing and dancing artists, and most of the applicants present were passionate about singing and dancing.
But when she saw Marlowes excited reaction, she felt relieved.
Our company may be new, Ariana began, her voice gaining confidence, but weve got resources to rival the big players.
With only a handful of artists, especially in acting… She trailed off, gauging Marlowes reaction.
What are you trying to say? Marlowe asked, her eyes wide.
Arianas lips curved into a warm smile.
If you sign with us, youll have first dibs on film and TV opportunities.