TwistofFateP1

Twist of Fate

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3

Page 4

Page 5

Page 1

PROLOGUE

I sat before the woman dressed in the stiffly starched dress with the Colgate smile, wondering what on Earth I was doing here. I agreed to an interview. Of course, for them, it was going to sound good. The new actress talking about the big hit movie that started her career has a huge interview in their magazine. I get publicity and they get a few ratings, right? She smiled, waiting on her partner to come in, telling me that he would write down all that I said. I didn't see the point since it was being recorded anyway, but I agreed to wait just the same. The silence hung in the air like stale perfume and her smile annoyed me to my end. I pitied her, that smile a permanent part of her face, no matter what she felt inside. Perhaps she should have been an actress. After all, we all are actors and actresses in our own little way. We all play a part whether we like to acknowledge it or not.
Finally, I heard a door clicking open and the shuffling of feet behind me. I never turned toward the person who entered, wanting to get this interview over as quickly as possible. It had been some time since I had been on the movie set or even seen it. The last time I had even thought about the movie was when I saw it on some premium channel as I flipped through the programs, and even that had been nearly two years ago. I had reviewed some things about it the night before and just wanted to get started while everything was fresh in my mind.
She smiled at me again, the only difference being that her cheeks were puffed out now with the strain where they hadn't been before. "We're ready to begin. Basically, we just want to know all about you. Tell us a little about yourself, then tell us about filming the movie and your interaction with the other people there. Tell us everything, if you can."
I smiled at her and nodded, glad to be finally starting. "Great." She sat smiling at me, waiting for me to begin I suppose, but I didn't know where to start.
"Tell us a little general information about you. The kind of girl you were. Just let it flow."
So I did.
My English teacher in high school always told me to 'give away the cookies' in an essay. Right from the beginning. No fluff or games. Just get to the point. Let people know what's going on. That way, if they want to, they can keep paying attention, or they can just tune it out. So, the choice is yours.
With that said, let's dive into the cookie jar.

I was never your typical girl. Go figure. I didn't like the dresses. I didn't wear clothes that showed off my body. I was conservative, yet most people just called me weird. As always, anytime someone tries to stray from the crowd and become an individual, they were weird. Well, if standing up for what I believe and being the person I was born to be is weird, then I accept the title gladly.
Still, in the face of it all, I wasn't as weird as people thought. I still had the same fears all people my age did and I still wanted to accomplish my dreams, just like everyone else. I suppose it was my methods that made me stand out, but even through that, there was one thing that failed to separate me from the people of the world. Every girl has her celebrity crush, and I wasn't above that. Okay, so there were many; I had crushes running out my ears. It wasn't just because they were cute, but it was always something more. They had a kind heart, or a great sense of humor, or a beautiful accent, or a unique sense of style. Something had to draw me to them- good looks and a bright smile were simply not enough, though killer eyes got me every time. In my spare time, I combed the internet and magazine stands, drooling over pictures of these people and even writing some stories about them, which I now look back on in horror. The stories were always far fetched, and always innocent, of course. It was always a dream to know them, to meet them, to talk with them for just a moment. I wanted to give them a reprieve from the screaming fan girls and fainting obsessive people. I wanted to give them an intelligent conversation- something I felt they didn't see much of in the routine of their lives. If I never told them I thought they were gorgeous, then I wouldn't be crushed. Did they need to hear it five million times to believe it anyway? Just to let them know that I admired them for what they stood for and the person they showed themselves as would have been enough.
Though there were many people that shined in the spotlight that I could have complemented, there were two that I admired above all: Michael Trent and Brayden Cross.
Michael Trent was most often known as Mikey in his younger days and Mike, now as he grew to a distinguished gentleman, never showing his age. He had become a legend, working for years, doing what he loved. He enjoyed small films, but occasionally, he scored a landmark role and it was talked about for years. His most memorable roles had been in his later years of work and it seemed as though they never stopped. He had begun starring in films directed at children and had learned to pick his parts based on that. He was an instant hit with everyone, young and old alike, for what he brought to the role. Soon, without meaning to, he began to gain even greater fame than he had ever known. Each movie became a hit followed by nominations and recognition and the critics praised him like there was no tomorrow. Still, through it all, he kept his values and morals. He never soaked himself in the gossip and stayed as far away from the bustling cities as possible. It was this, above all else that drew me to him. He wasn't like the others- he still cared.
Brayden Cross was cut from nearly the same mold as Michael. They had starred together in a movie once, and became instant friends. Though Brayden was much younger, a newcomer to the world of the screen, he and Mike had a connection- some common force or drive that brought them together. He complemented Michael- they were almost like opposite sides of the same coin. Where Mike was seen as dark and brooding, Brayden seemed light and carefree, never afraid to be himself. Brayden got in on his looks, so many said, but looking back today, I don't believe it. I'll be the first to admit that when he made his first debut, I was afraid that he was just another pretty face thrust into the spotlight. The golden boy. His roles seemed tired, done too many times before, but as I began to pay closer attention, something flickered beneath the monotony. Soon, even I was proven wrong. As he grew as an actor, his roles began to take shape. He wasn't just the silent man in the background or the pretty boy standing by the wall. He was the star, the leading man, but he was still the polite British gentleman- always modest and friendly, always faithful to his family and honest, as more people should have tried to be. He didn't fling himself into scandals and he never wanted to be a huge star. He wanted only to act for the sake of providing some enjoyment in an already weary world. Fame never tainted his purity and innocence. As he ripped through the screen, his face pasted on every magazine cover across the globe, I began to take notice. It was in a low budget film that I saw him for the first time without the glitz and glamour he had been used to, his true talent shining through as he mastered the character with a devilish smile, smooth talk, and a fresh accent and poured his heart into the role. The film was never said to be a success and many tossed it away, but there was something in that movie that made Brayden glow. It was one day, while watching him glide across my television screen that I realized that I admired him nearly as much as Mike, though the time frames were nothing alike.
I had liked Mike since I was a child, nearly seven years old, but I had only discovered Brayden a few years ago. Just as I did and many others seemed to, it was evident that Brayden admired Mike. He mimicked his antics and was drawn to him, never far behind. You could see it in his eyes when he looked at him, the true admiration that he had for Mike, holding him in such high regard. Perhaps the same thing that drew me to Mike had drawn Brayden to him. My love for Mike and admiration for his art had been long instilled in me. With every passing year, I adored him more, loving each character he portrayed, but even more, admiring the man behind the costumes and lights. It was the same with Brayden, but on a smaller scale. Someday, I knew he would be the legend that Mike had become, but for now, he was the new guy with promising abilities. Though he was the new guy and had just begun to establish himself, I admired him just the same.
So it was that they became the dynamic duo of the big screen. Whenever you saw one, there was a great possibility that the other wasn't far behind. Even with their generation gap, they became the best of friends. You couldn't help but love one without loving the other. It was a vicious cycle full of beautiful men. What girl wasn't in heaven when those two showed their faces on screen?

I suppose you're wondering know where I fit into this fairytale of tinsel town. Like I said, I�m just a girl. Well, the truth is, I wasn't supposed to be there at all. I was never meant to meet these men. I was never to shake their hands or smile at them. I was just a girl, working at a book store and going to college, hoping one day for a break but never expecting it. I was just the girl, loyal to her friends and faithful to her family. I never expected the chance of a lifetime. I never expected fame. I never expected to find the secrets that others never even glimpse. I think it's fair to say that I was far more surprised when I found myself face to face with them, but now, I think I should decrease the dosage of details. I wouldn't want to give it all away. I think I'll keep some of the cookies for myself, if you don't mind.

I heard her voice again as I finished up with that, false and bubbly in the sterile, florescent lights, "Now, tell us about the filming and the bonds you formed. You're still friends with the famous Michael Trent and Brayden Cross, are you not?"
I nearly groaned, knowing it would come to this. I tried to tell her the truth, but I couldn't tell everything. It would have been all over the world by morning, and there were things that I wanted to keep to myself. For them, I spoke the abridged version, but for you, well, I can give you nothing but the best

Part I
Down the interstate, it had been fun and games, singing to the songs on the radio or gossiping about the people as they passed us by, but as we neared the theater, a silence fell upon us. She became more nervous with each mile marker and I grew more solemn, unsure of what to do to help her. This was her first major audition and I wanted her to make it. She had acted in the school plays and was always a part of the Drama Club, but this was different. This was her dream. She would be starring in a movie with some supposed stars. On the letter she had received, it had said that the main actor and the director wanted to find a fresh face for the part- no typical Hollywood actress would do.
I saw the building come in sight before she does and suddenly grew silent, afraid of what her next choice may be. She glanced up from the road and saw, wedged between the high rise buildings crowding the city, a small theater- the top domed like the Basilica and the rest, open and inviting. Or at least, that is how I pictured it. I saw the muscles in her arms tense and the tendons in her neck stand out. I grabbed the handle above the window and hoped that it would save me from what she was about to do.
"IF YOU DARE TRY TO TURN AROUND ON THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSTATE WITH THOUSANDS OF CARS CROWDING US, I WILL BEAT YOU! - assuming you don't kill us first."
Her head whipped around as she stared me boldly in the face.
"You heard me! Just because you're scared does NOT mean I will let you run away from your dreams! Now, get off on THIS exit and GO to that theater!"
"But what if I can't do it? What if I mess up the lines? What if I'm not what they're looking for? What if I can't become this character? What if..."
I cut her off mid-sentence, a habit I've tried hard to break, "What if you are amazing, absolutely perfect for the part and they hire you on the spot? This is your dream. This is the star that you've been reaching for since I met you! You can't just turn back now. You've come this far. We've practiced the lines, the mannerisms, and the tone. You are set! Now, get your butt to that theater and do what I know you can!"
"How can you be so positive, so sure? I've never done this before"
"It's a little thing called Faith, you should look into it. And, as far as this being a new experience- Life is full of 'em. Get used to it."
All I could get out of her was a tiny smile- at least I think it was a smile, the corners of her mouth curled a little. In my opinion, that counts as a smile. As we drove, I turned the radio up loud on an oldies station and sang my heart out. It wasn't long before she was laughing on the brink of tears. I knew she needed to mellow out, and if I lost some dignity at her expense, then so be it.
The theater came in sight again as we made our way around the loop. This time, there were no awkward silences and no sullen looks. I was still singing and she was still laughing. So far, so good. We pulled into the lot and saw that only a few cars were there. I thought to myself that this meant she had a great chance- she had talent without a doubt- she just had to channel it. Just one delivery fit for a king and the job was hers. I knew it. If only I could convince her of it too. As she pulled the parking break up and switched off the radio, I heard a huge sigh coming from both of us. This may have been her dream but for so long, I felt like it was mine too. I wanted her to have this part more than anything.
I reached for the handle of the door, but her voice stopped me, "If I don't make this, are you still gonna believe in me?"
"Until the day I die." was all I said as I opened the door of her car. I heard her latch click open followed by an ungodly squeak.
I shot a smirk in her direction, "Are you ever gonna oil that thing?"
"Nope." I saw that smile, the mischievous grin always present when something happened that she knew annoyed me. Squeaking car doors was one of them.
All I could hear was the clicking of her shoes as we made our way across the lot and up to the sidewalk leading the to theater. I approached the door before she did and pulled it open for her, smiling a broad smile, "After you, my lady".
She scoffed at my attempt at humor when inside I knew she was giggling. "You know, one of these days Mara, you're gonna realize that guys open the door and girls walk through them."
"So, what happens if it's just girls around? Do we stand there and wait for some guy to come up so the door can be opened? Are guys the door openers of the universe? Am I not allowed to pull that handle just because I'm a woman? I just don't get it. I mean, what if the guy is really slow and I need to open the door? What if.."
"All right! Enough already! I get it..." She tried her best to sound exasperated, but couldn't hold a straight face. We were both laughing as we walked through the dimly lit corridor. Our mirth was cut short as we looked up and saw the place for the first time. The ceilings went on forever and arched over our heads. The place was covered from top to bottom with velvet and dark mahogany. It was every actor's dream and every cleaner's worst nightmare.
"Gah...." was all I heard from Alana as I pulled her arm in the direction of a cute guy in a suit, waving us over.
Though he was cute, his voice was filled with annoyance. His pompous air would have withered bitterweed.

"I assume you're here for the part." was all he said, never bothering to look us in the eye.
"Yes. Well, I'm not, but she is. You see, I'm just here for..."
"Yeah, that's great. Walk this way please, and try not to touch anything."
I felt my eyelid twitch as the guy turned to lead us down the hall. One nicely planted foot could send him reeling. Alana shot me a sideways glance. I raised my eyebrows and tried my best to act innocent.
If I couldn't do something, then I suppose only words would work. "You got it, Jeeves."
"My name's..."
"Yeah, that's great. Could you just lead us to the room, and try...not to get lost."
I flashed him my "screw-you" smile and waved him onward. Alana elbowed me in the ribs and glared. She mouthed something to me, but I wasn't sure what it was. Probably another death threat. You know the kinda said through clenched teeth, "If you screw this up for me I swear I'm gonna..." Yep, those are the best.
Jeeves picked up the pace a little and lead us down the hall. We came to the end and he opened the door for us, admitting us into what appeared to be a waiting room. Beside the door were chairs, huge, fluffy ones- the kind where when you sit in them, it's nearly impossible to rise again. He smiled slightly and said that someone would be with us shortly. I nodded curtly. He turned quickly on his heel and walked away.
"You really could have blown it for me!"
"What? Oh, you mean Jeeves..."
"His name isn't Jeeves!"
"Yeah, I know. Look, calm it down just a notch. You're still here and I doubt butler boy has anything to do with it."

"I'm sorry Mara, I'm just really nervous, and..."
"Yeah, yeah, I know. Snap and kill. Look, why don't we read over your lines again."
"You're gonna act them out with me, here?"
"Um, yeah, that was my plan. Now, just like always. I'm Marcellia and you're Tiffany. Tell me, what's Tiffany like?"
"Well, she's rich, but feels burdened by someone else, forcing her to do things she doesn't want."
"Right. So, when you're portraying her, you have to act that way. You have to get it across. You also have to interact with Marcellia who is a stronger woman. She's in charge and knows what she wants. You got it?"
"Yeah, I got it."
"Alright, get your script."
She reached into her oversized purse and after a few minutes of rummaging, she brought it out. I saw the title flash as she turned the pages. Into the Night. Finally! One of my favorite books was being made into a movie and my dearest friend had a chance to be in a star role. Not my favorite female role, but a good one just the same.
"Mara?"
I looked up from my thoughts, wondering if there was anything else I could tell her about the characters that would make her put a little more enthusiasm into them, but I was stopped by the sound of her voice calling my name, "Hmm?"
"Here's the scene. You've got the first line."
"Alright. Ahem. 'We are not simply pale and our eyes are not simply faceted. We are creatures of the night! We can soar above the clouds and move things with our minds because we are immortal! You cannot just accept that we are different. You cannot know what we are. Just because Corven is enamored by your beauty does not mean that you understand. Do you know what it's like to live each day knowing that you will never die! That nothing you do will matter because you have centuries to be forgiven. In a world where everything changes, nothing matters!' "
" 'I can understand! I may not be as cultured as you, but I do understand! Corven has lived longer than any of you. He's an ancient. He's told me how he feels, he's shown me the agony with which he lives! I know! You let your jealousy blind your words, just as you let your pride push Corven away. If you would have stayed it...' "
" 'It what? It all would have been different! What do you know of it? Were you there when I said my goodbye? You can never know Corven the way I do. He made me! He- made- me! I saw his past, I felt his wounds, I heard his cries. When he made me, he shared it all. That is the way of the Dark Gift. With your fledglings, nothing is a secret. That is why he cannot hear my thoughts and I cannot hear his. We do not need to because we have shared it all. No matter what, he will love me. He has for centuries, before he was a vampire. Did he tell you of that? He was a roman senator and I merely a girl. He was in negotiations with my father- vowing for my hand! Did he tell you that, my darling?' "
" 'I. He. Why?...' "
" 'You poor pathetic little fool. Did you think that Corven was born the way he is? He was a man, you silly girl! A man, living and breathing and wanting, just like every other human. Yes, cry my little one and wipe your tears before he comes in. He mustn't know of your weakness. Your mortal emotions sicken me. You're weak! Do you think he can love you!?' "
" 'He does love me! He comes to me and sits with me and..' "

" 'And talks of paintings and poetry. Tell me, did he paint your portrait? Ah, yes, you needn't answer. The look in your eyes tells me he did. Yes, he will paint your portrait. You will spend many nights talking of philosophy and literature and then, one day he will be gone. Nothing will remain and you will wonder if that man with the flowing blonde hair and savage green eyes ever existed. You will go out of your mind and tell yourself it was real, but in truth, you will never know. He comes in like the wind and disappears like a dream upon waking.' "
" 'Why are you so cruel, Marcellia? What has made you this way?' "
" 'Time. Haven't you ever heard, 'Time Heals all wounds'? The wounds scab over and harden and soon, you can only speak the truth. I will not waste gentle words on you. I will leave that to Corven. Now, go back to your men and your silken pillows. They wait for you with gifts and wine. You can't disappoint them, can you? Be gone from here!' "
" 'Corven will hear of this! He will not let you....' "

I waited for Alana to finish her line, the best in the entire scene -- it had such emotion, such strength, but she only looked behind me. I looked at her, waiting for her to finish her line, but she only stared, her mouth open in awe. Curious, I turned around and saw a door behind me, slightly open. Standing in that door was someone, but all I could see at that angle was a shadow. I turned more to the side and saw him, His eyes a deep brown, soulful and enigmatic, his lips soft and sensual, and his cheekbones- lord, his cheekbones. They were high and stood out. He was a handsome man. I felt I had seen him before, perhaps in passing or- then it hit me. I had seen him. He was Dorian Gray. He was a computer genius, he was a mind reader, he was a detective. He was my idol. He was Michael Trent. As he stood in the doorway, looking like a dream, I couldn't help but stare. He was within an arm's reach of me and I was frozen to my seat. All I could do was stare into his eyes, so deep and never ending. I thought back to my earlier days, cruising the forums full of fan girls, screaming and wanting to marry him and talking of their overly dramatic reactions should they meet him- I realized that I was doing exactly what I had detested so early on. Come on, brain, give me a little reason. Don�t fail me now. Suddenly, as if I'd been slapped by a gloved hand, I came to my senses. The light came back into my eyes and my brain worked once again. As he stood leaning casually against the door frame, I walked to him and extended my hand.
"Hello. I'm Mara, and this is my friend Alana."
He shook my hand. Those hands, as if sculpted by Michelangelo himself, were resting in mine. The firm grip on my fingers, feeling the warmth of his skin. Who knew a handshake could stir so many emotions?
"A pleasure to meet you...both. I'm Mike. Please, excuse me. I�d love to linger just a bit longer, but I have a very pressing matter that I must attend to." A polite smile graced his face as he removed his hand from mine and walked out the door.
My dream that had lain dormant since my high school years was coming true. The goofy girl, clumsy as anything, with the glasses and the curly hair had grown into a woman, chestnut hair in flowing waves and dark rimmed specs highlighting her eyes, full of grace. But now, as if the hands of time slowly turned back, she was the same giddy girl again. My pulse pounded as water crashing on the shore during a storm. I had met Michael Trent. I could die now and would reach the gates with a smile on my face. It was eternal bliss.
"Mara....Mara. MARA!"
I shook my head, coming out of the coma of joy that I had lapsed into, "Yeah, huh?"
"You're zoning...again." She let loose an exasperated sigh and looked at me, as if I was completely hopeless. Of course, I was, so there were no hard feelings there.
"Did you NOT see who that was? Are you completely blind? That, my friend, was the messiah of actors!"
"That wasn't Sean Connery..."
"You�ve got to be kidding me! I don�t believe this! You seriously don�t know who that was? I�m ashamed of you! That was the man that made Hollywood and brought forth something no one else had ever seen- heart. That is the man who, when he graces a movie a screen, enthralls young and old alike. Sean Connery, my dear, has nothing on this man! That beautiful creature that graced that doorway just moments ago and took my hand in his was none other than Michael Trent. Michael Trent!!!"
"Are you sure? Because he..."
"I'm SURE! Positive! That was him. I shook his hand...looked into his eyes...Holy Jesus...I swear I've died and gone to Scotland."
Mara raised an eyebrow, looking at me, thinking I had indeed lost my mind. �Scotland?�
I nodded, �Yes. Scotland. You know, it�s where all those....�. I saw her looking at me, wondering what I was babbling about. �Never mind. It was just a joke. Forget it.� I turned around, looking at where Michael had been standing just moments ago. �I swear I�ve died and gone to heaven.�
She nodded slowly, still eyeing me doubtfully. "Right. Mara...maybe we should practice my lines. I wanna make sure I've got this down."
"What? I just met..you mean...Fine! Give me the script!"
She looked at me with scepticism and curiosity. I knew she didn't believe me, but for me, there were no doubts. I knew. One look in those eyes and I knew. I'd seen them enough to know. It was him. She thumbed through the incredibly thick script, looking for more dialogue between Marcellia and Tiffany. Upon finding some, she handed me the script, pointing to where I should start. It seemed just like the other scene. They were all the same. Marcellia and Tiffany were enemies. They would fight. It was inevitable.

" 'Ah, Tiffany, so nice of you to join us...Tell me, will you be staying long?' "
" 'Bonsoir, Marcellia. Regrettably, no, I will not be able to linger long in your company.' "
" 'Wonderful. I do have so many other things to do.' "
" "Of course, the busy, nocturnal life of a vampire- killing and draining- it must be excruciatingly tiresome.' "
" 'You know nothing of tired. Four hundred years of sleepless nights and a chasing sun. You cannot know tired.' "
" 'Yes, will you tell Corven I came?' "
" 'Hmm, no. I am not your messenger.' "
" 'Why can't you just accept me? All I want is to get along with your for Corven's sake. It kills him that we fight so.' "
" 'I highly doubt it kills him....He is immortal. Only the rays of the sun can kill him. Only fire can harm him, or a wooden stake through his still heart. But our quarrels, your pleas for peace? Never. They cannot kill him and I will not stop. I cannot accept you. You are below me. You are not worthy of me. You are human- flesh and blood. You will grow old, die, and rot- but I will live forever. I can never accept that which I despise.' "
There were a few moments of silence where I waited again for Alana to continue. I looked up at her and out of the corner of my eye, I saw the door to the room open. Another man approached us, but not the one that had escorted us before. As he stood there, I looked at Alana and smiled. He beckoned her forward to follow him.
"Good luck! You're gonna be amazing!"
She just stared ahead and looked solemnly at the wall behind me, "He wants you."
I was rendered speechless yet again. I looked at the man with pleading eyes. I was lost in a four by four cubicle with no hope of finding my way out. He only smiled and extended his hand, asking me to rise and follow him. I looked to Alana for advice, but she did not return my gaze, she only turned her head away. I did not know what was going on and could only think that perhaps the audition would be held here while I was led to another room. It was empty enough for her acting to be properly observed. I followed the man down the hallway and through several doors. Had I been left to my own, I never would have found my way again. While we were walking, I was a hundred miles away, wondering why I was being led away- it was like being sent to an execution as I remembered the look on Alana's face. Her face twisted with emotion was the only thing I could see, while everything else around me was merely a blur of color and cloth. She had judged before either of us knew what had happened. I heard a voice, sounding far off as if in a drum...
"Miss...Miss..." He touched my shoulder lightly as I turned to meet his face, staring blankly once again. "Miss, they're waiting for you, expecting you to be in there when they are ready. Just go through the door and someone will come to speak with you shortly."
"What is going on? I'm not here for an audition. Why..?"
"Miss. I only do as I'm told. I can't help you. I'm terribly sorry." His manner was kind and gentle. He smiled apologetically as I marched into the room and sat rigid in the chair before me.
I waited for some time before I heard the soft tread of leather soles on the carpet. A man entered wearing a fedora and a green silk shirt. His face was tanned, naturally it appeared and his eyes glowed from beneath the brim of the hat. He flashed a broad smile as he took a seat across from me at the desk.
"Hi! How are you?" His voice was not what I had expected. From this man, slight in build, emerged a deep baritone voice with what I detected as a slightly Scottish accent. Long ago, it may have been strong brogue, but now, only the quiet melody remained.
"I'm..I'm...good."
"I bet you're wondering why in the hell you're sitting in here, huh?", he asked, a grin on his face as he looked over at me from across the table.
I tried to smile back, his voice and word choice humorous to me, but I found it impossible. I was too confused for any range of emotion. "The thought had...crossed my mind."
"Well, you see, that man you met in that other room, he's a friend of mine. Wonderful actor. Talented musician. Hell of a man, no doubt. He had been sitting in a neighboring room and heard you practicing some lines with your bud. He was really impressed. So, basically, lass, you've got the part. You're our new Marcellia. We've been searching for someone since the crack of dawn...3 months ago..and you fit it perfectly. Mike just knew that you were it." He nodded enthusiastically, smiling and winking at me, obviously having thought he gave me the best news in person could dream of hearing.
I nodded, not fully understanding as my head was swamped with questions that could form no complete thoughts. "But...my friend...what about her?"
His smile faded as he looked at me, pity filling his eyes. "She's...not what we're looking....for exactly. To be blunt, she's just lacking. Her delivery is weak and she's just not cut out for the big screen- according to Mike. I haven't heard her yet, but I'll listen to the tape in a bit."
I heard all this with a solemn face, knowing nothing could be done. "You...you recorded us?"
"Well, yeah, company policy. It was in the sheet we....Never mind...that boy is an idiot. He never does what he's supposed to."
"Oh, you mean Jeeves...I mean, the escort?"
I heard something like a guffaw escape from him, "Oh man! Yes, Jeeves. He's a real prick if you ask me. Pardon the language."
I simply nodded. He raised his eyes and smiled, waving something into the room. I hadn't even heard footsteps behind me. I was numb to the world. I saw a shadow extend over me and looked up to see Mike standing beside me. He looked at me and winked.
He turned his gaze away from me, glancing inquisitively at the man across from me. "So, have you told her?"
It was as if I was no longer sitting there. The man in the funny hat looked to Mike and shrugged, "Somewhat. I told her she got the part, but I got no reaction."
Mike nodded in return and looked as if he was thinking something over, "Shock?"
The man shrugged yet again, the shirt wrinkling each time he moved his shoulders and his hat bobbing on his head, "Could be. Let's try it again, eh?"
This time, I heard the smooth, deep voice as soothing as silk on a sunburn.
"Mara?"
I looked up at Mike, a blank stare on my face. "Hmm?"
"I want to congratulate you. I was listening in on your conversations with your friend while you were in the waiting room, and I couldn't help but hear your amazing performance as Marcellia. You're exactly what we've been looking for. You're sarcastic, cold, and ruthless in your portrayal. You only showed tenderness at the mention of Corven. That is exactly how we imagined Marcellia would be. The minute after I heard your delivery, I told my friend that I had to tell Ned about you."
I looked at him, narrowing my eyes, unsure of who he was talking about "Ned?"
The man nodded solemnly, then as if something dawned on him, he spoke again, hurriedly, "Sorry, love. In all the excitement, I forgot my manners. Ned Malloney. Director of this little flick."
My eyes popped open as I heard this man speaking to me. I shook my head in disbelief and stared at him, turning my eyes from Mike to this man, now called Ned. "Whoa! You're the director?"
Mike sighed heavily, rolling his eyes in exasperation. I guessed from the look of it that this had happened before. "You know, Ned, you may have gotten a reaction had you actually said who you were and what you were doing. Sorry, miss, if we gave you a fright."
I smiled, waving it away. It truly didn�t matter to me, even though now I was a little more at ease, knowing a little more about what was going on. "It's alright. I think I can forgive it this time. So, basically, what you're telling me is that I have been chosen to play Marcellia in this film with you directed by Neddy over there?"
Mike nodded, smiling softly. "In short, yes."
I couldn�t believe my ears. I knew this was an audition, but I had never dreamed of being picked as part of the cast. I had only went for moral support, not this. "Holy...."
Mike grinned, winking at me again. " Nope, vampires."
I couldn't help but chuckle. This was the guy telling me about vampires. I'd read every vampire book in existence. If anything, I was an expert.
"Yeah, I've um, read this book. Actually, the entire series- written by Ayla Huntington. Into the Night is the story of Corven- a child of the Old World, so to speak. He's as ancient as they come. The title resembles his life. The day he was turned is the day he was banished forever from the light, sent into the night. He's strongly attracted to Leander, a probably middle aged vampire with a devil-may-care attitude, but before that, takes Amadeus, a gentle soul, under his wing. He loves Marcellia with a passion that will not die, no matter how long the years may last, and Tiffany is a mortal to begin with and his love interest as he moves to a new place. Corven is cultured, sticking to the old ways of life- writer, painter, whatever. He teaches boys to become valuable members of society and wants only to be helpful in a world where he is feared and misunderstood. It's perhaps the best book in the series."
A bright smile broke out across Ned�s face as he looked at me. "Mike, man, we've got us a winner. She's perfect. She's got background experience and is a hell of an actress. You two are gonna be perfect on screen. I can see it already. The boy's gonna love her. I can�t wait to go tell..."
Mike nodded, waving his hand to quiet him some before he continued. "Ned, don't scare the girl. So, have you acted before?"
I looked up at him, wondering if that question had any bearing on me keeping this part. I shook my head slowly, then grinned. "Do you count reciting lines from movies as you watch them?"
"Well, um, sure. You've got to start somewhere, right?" Mike looked at Ned, who only shrugged and smiled. It didn�t matter now. It didn�t take a genius to figure out that I had the part.
I was still in shock. Here I was talking with an amazing director and joking with a legend. I was explaining a book I adored to them and they were listening. My joy could not be contained, until I thought about Alana sitting in the other room, alone and waiting.
"Um, guys, I hate to interrupt, but what about Alana?"
Mike looked at me, a sadness creeping into his face as if he hated to have to break the news to me. "Mara, sweetheart, this just doesn't seem like her part. We've already cast someone for Tiffany a long time ago."
I nodded slightly, looking down at my hands. "Oh, I see."
I felt my heart sink into the floor. They may as well stomp it now because she will never forgive me. I had stolen her glory and her chance. She'd never forgive me.
Ned glanced at Mike, wondering what they should do. Mike cleared his throat, "Doll, Mara. Um, we could let her audition anyway, couldn't we Ned? I mean, we aren't leaving until Wednesday. That gives us today to let her audition, tomorrow to consider, and then Wednesday, you can call and let her know she didn't make it."
Ned nodded in approval and sent an apologetic smile my way. "Yeah, sure Mike, That's not a problem. The poor girl has been here a while. It's the least we can do."
Mike turned to me, laying his hand on my shoulder as I looked up at him with searching eyes. "That alright with you, Mara?"
I managed a half smile and nodded in agreement.
He saw my poor attempt at a smile and knelt down beside me, face to face with me. "You can't blame yourself. You tried to help her, we know that."
His kindness and sincerity pulled at my heart. How could I be so down when he was doing his best to make up for the situation? "Of course. You both are very generous. Just a chance to audition will make her happy."
Ned nodded again, getting up from his seat behind the great desk. "Well, then, let's bring 'er in!" Ned yelled into the hall at the boy that had brought me to his office. "Tony, go fetch the girl and find out where the prick is. He needs to be briefed on some proper procedures...again."
"Yes, sir, Ned." He suppressed a smile as he turned and walked away. I chuckled, amused at the fact that no names were necessary to get the guy in question. �The Prick� was all he needed to say.
So, even though my friend wasn't going to get a part, she was going to audition. That was something, right? Was it my fault that we'd been taped and they chose me? I felt the guilt rise in my throat, choking away all the happiness. I knew there was nothing I could do, but I felt a twinge of regret just the same. I forced myself to accept what was before me. I had been given a chance that few people get. I was going to star in a movie about something I loved. I'd never acted before, but I would be on screen with Mike Trent and some other guy mentioned earlier who would be happy to see me, whatever that meant. This was fate, and I was merely another spoke turning the wheel.

Part II

I groaned again, having heard this particular argument that bounced off the walls many times in the past few days. "I know, Mom, but this is an amazing opportunity. I get to star in a huge film with Michael Trent! Not just some everyday actor fresh out of theater school, but Michael Trent! The last of the true actors of Hollywood."
My mom nodded, letting free a small sigh of her own. "Mara, I know this is exciting for you, but that's just so far for you to go. And what about your classes? Are your teachers even going to understand this? People around here don�t just up and become movie stars, Mara."
"Mom, I'll agree with you, it is a long way for me to go. And we're filming in several locations for different parts of the movie, but I think the distance is more than worth it. As far as my classes, I've spoken with my teachers and they've agreed to e-mail my work to me and give me most of it before I have to leave. The semester is nearly over anyway. The tests can wait until I get back. I can just double up and finish before I go. You know the teachers there are very understanding and try to be as flexible as possible with the students. That's why I picked the place. I just wish you could see this the way I do. It's the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me. My life can go in a direction that I never even imagined possible. I never thought I'd be an actress. It wasn't even one of my dreams, but now I am given the chance. I can't just turn it down. Do you know how many people would give anything for this chance? " I looked at her, trying to put on my most convincing face.
My mom smiled slightly, but still spoke with the same tone. "Mara, I'm happy for you. I always knew you could have been an actress. You can be funny, or serious, or tragic, or dramatic depending on the situation, and you can make it believable. I just hope this is the right thing for you. I don't want you to have any regrets."
I placed my hands on her shoulders, trying once again to appear mature and convincing, though it hadn�t worked thus far. "Mom, it's the regrets in life that help us grow, but I can't see this as ever being a mistake. We just have to trust as we always have that this is another part of the plan that God has in store for me. I can't question what has happened, Mom. This whole situation is nothing but fate."
My mom looked at me, then turned her head away, nearly giving in to what I had been saying since I had came home from the audition. "Well, Mara, this is up to you. I can't hold you back from this, so I can only give you my blessing."
I walked over to my mother again, sitting at the kitchen table picking at the lace mat on the edge. I looked at her for some time and couldn't help but be overcome with admiration. This woman was nothing but a pillar of strength. She had gotten the family through dozens of hard times and had helped me get through high school, heartbreaks, and now, college. Now, after all that, my mother even had the strength to let me go. I knew she was only uneasy about the decision for my own safety. Though deep down I knew that Mom wanted me to stay, she would not hold me back. She was completely selfless and the thought sent tears streaming down my cheeks.
I reached out and wrapped my arms around her, the tears still flowing freely down my face. I couldn't help but cry as I thought of all the times we had shared and all the moments I would miss when I left. She was my best friend throughout everything, and now, the thought of leaving her behind was more than I could take. I couldn't be without her for a whole six months, or maybe longer. I just couldn't. I released my grip and smiled as I saw her looking up at me. Then, the solution slapped me in the face.
"Mom, I've got to go make a phone call. I'll be back in just a second."

She nodded, getting up from the table to start something else. The woman never could be still. "Ok, honey. Take your time."
I walked out of the kitchen, my shoes squeaking on our freshly mopped floors and ran through the hall to my bedroom. I picked up the receiver and dialed the number written on the crinkled sheet of paper I extracted from my pocket. My heart pounded as I heard the ringing on the other line. I jumped as the ringing ceased.
"Hello? Hello?..." A voice came over the line, smooth and intoxicating.
"Hey, Mike, it's me."
"Oh, Hey Mara. How's it going? You scared me there for a minute."
"I'm sorry, Mike. It's going...well, let's just say it's going. I just..."
"Told your mom about having to go away?"
"Um, yeah..." I nodded, knowing he couldn�t see me.
"And, how'd she take it?"
"Well, it's funny. I don't really know. She seemed happy for me that I got the part and she was willing to let me go, but..."
He cut me short, and I finally realized how annoying it was. "Let me guess. There was an eerie silent feeling and you didn't really know what it meant."
I nodded again, shaking my head, surprised that he knew all this, hitting the nail on the head, so to speak. "Yeah." I was amazed at his seeming knowledge of everything. It was like he could read my mind.
The silence lasted for a few minutes longer as I tried to find the words to ask Mike about my plan. I had no clue as to how to approach the situation, and just blurted it out, hoping it would make sense.

"Um, Mike?"
He spoke quickly, as if he had been waiting for me to say something. "Yeah, doll?"
I took a deep breath and sighed, knowing I couldn�t stall any longer if I wanted to get a solution any time in the near future."The reason I called was to run a plan by you."
"Alright, go ahead."
I sighed again, and just started talking, hoping my words would form some kind of thought that he could understand. "Well, my mom and I are really close and being away from her for so long would just be agony. So, I was wondering if there was anyway that she could come with us. You know, stay nearby while we're filming so that I could visit her and all?"
Mike took a deep breath into the phone, as if he was mulling the whole thing over in his mind, causing me to fear the worst. When he finally spoke, I took a deep breath, not realizing I had been holding it in. "Of course, Mara. I don't see why not. I'll have to get a definite yes from Ned, but I don't see any problem with it at all."
"So, should I run the idea by her now, or wait until I hear something else from you?"
" Go ahead and tell her. Ned isn't gonna say no to you, sweetie, as long as I have a say in it. I just think he deserves to know what's going on."
I smiled at being called �sweetie�. "Oh, ok. Cool."
Just as I was about to end our conversation, he spoke up. "There is one thing though, Mara."
I tensed, holding the phone closer to my ear. "What's that?"
He spoke in a tone that was so urging that I could never have refused. "Your mom can't tell anyone where we're going until we get there. They want total secrecy on this thing. I don�t know why, it's just what I've been told."
I nodded again, knowing that it was to keep out the vultures of the media. "Oh, you don't have to worry about that, Mike. I can promise you that my mom won't say a word."
He chuckled and spoke to me again, his tone back to it�s soft and melodic sound. "Ah, well then I have nothing to worry about. A promise from a beautiful woman is seldom broken."
I could feel a red tint creep up my cheeks at his words. I chuckled lightly into the receiver. "Well, thanks for all your help, Mike. I really appreciate this. I don't know how to thank you."
"No problem, doll. Just glad I could help. Feel free to call me if you need anything else at all."
I smiled, grateful to be able to ask advice from someone so charming. "Thank you so much, Mike."
"You're very welcome, Mara."
I sighed again, wanting to tell my mom the news, but not wanting to end my talk with him, though it was over anyway. "Well, um, I suppose this is goodbye."
"Nonsense. This isn't goodbye. Goodbye's are too final, don't you think? Let's just say "Later". I'll see you in a week."
"Alright, then. Later, Mike."
"Later, Mara. Take care."
At that, the line went dead. I was still holding the phone to my ear, thinking that he would come back on and say something else. I shook my head as I realized the humor in my actions. If I was going to be around him for a while, I had to get my reactions in check. After a quiet chuckle and a thanks to God, I bolted down the hallway to my mother, anxious to tell her the news.
I took a deep breath and began yelling, my voice sounded with every other foot fall. "Mom! MOM! MOM!"
She ran to meet me, a look of great concern on her face. "What? What is it, Mara? What's the matter?"
I grinned broadly at her, dying to tell her the news. "Mom! You can come with me! I just called and talked to Mike..."
She nodded at me. "Mr. Trent... He's still your elder, Mara."
I nodded, not really caring at the moment. "Yeah, of course, and he said that you can come with us and stay nearby so I can visit you anytime I want! Isn't that amazing?!"
She looked away, then turned her eyes back on me as I stood there waiting for her reply. "Mara, I don't know what to say..." Needless to say, that was not what I expected.
I sighed and looked at her. "There's nothing to say, Mom. All you have to said it agree and then get to packing. We're leaving in a week!"
She jumped as I told her the time frame we had, a grin creeping across her face. Finally, it was sinking in. "A week?!?! That doesn't leave us very much time!"
I nodded, a smile breaking through. "I know! Now get to packing!"
She turned to go, but whipped around, looking at me. I looked back, waiting for her to say whatever it was that was on her mind. "Well, where are we going to be?"
I felt a smack on the forehead coming on as I realized that in the middle of it all, I had forgotten to ask Mike exactly where we would be. Genius, I tell you. Pure genius.
She chuckled slightly, grinning at me. "You didn't ask, did you Mara?"
I shrugged, smiling sheepishly, turning slowly on my heel to walk away."Well, um, no....not exactly..... I tell you what. You go find out suitcases, Mom and I'll go call Mike back and ask him that."
This time, I walked slowly to my room. I could just imagine how stupid I was going to sound. I was definitely the new kid in town, because I had no idea what is going on. I was thinking so many other things that I didn't even realize that I had walked past my room. I made a u-turn in the hallway and headed back in to my study. I picked up the phone and glanced at the paper again as I dialed his number for the second time. The rings began again, but I didn't have to wait as long to hear his voice come over the line. As he picked up the phone, I could hear music in the background. With the whine of the electric guitars and the steady rhythm of the drums, I could tell that it was absolute rock.
"Hello?"
"Hey, Mike. Mara again."
His voice was so full of energy as he spoke and I wondered if it was the music. "Mara! So nice to hear from you again, and so soon too. I was just about to call you. I realized a little while ago that I never told you where we would be so you would know what kinds of clothes to pack."
"Yeah, that's why I was calling. I told my mom about her joining us and she immediately asked where we would be. I'd forgotten to ask you. I'm sorry about having to call back again."
"Oh! It's no problem at all. It's my fault completely. I'm the elder, I should have
told you. And besides, I do love hearing your voice. You're so entertaining to speak with."I blushed again, thankful that we weren�t standing face to face, though the view
would have been considerably better. "Well, thanks Mike. So, where are we going to be?"
"Well, the first thing we're going to do is fly you two out here to L.A. so you can meet the rest of the cast. You'll be here a few days or weeks, depending on what they decide to try and get done while we�re here, so you'll need clothes for that. Then, we're flying to Rome to shoot the film. It will be shot mostly in Italy. Later, we'll fly to Ireland and Louisiana to shoot a few scenes, but that won't be until much, much later in the filming. Since most of it is going to be in Italy, we're gonna shoot all that first, then work our way over to Ireland, then end up back in the States in Louisiana tp wrap things up. That way, we'll be closer to home when it's all over and you ladies won't have far to travel back home. Of course, after the movie, there will probably be a few premieres that we'll have to go to, and some press conferences during filming, but those will either be somewhere near the site, or it will just be a one day thing where we fly there in the morning and then fly back that afternoon."
I nodded, wondering if I should grab a pen to write all this done, but deciding against it. "Okee dokee. That's sounds great, Mike. Thanks so much! Man, that is a lot of flying..."
He chuckled into the receiver "Okee dokee? Ha, that's cute! Have you ever flown before?"
I smiled and shrugged, "Yeah, I tend to say things like that a lot.... Um, no, I've never flown before. I like to keep my feet permanently planted to the ground."
"Ah, I love it when people say things like that. It makes it so much more interesting in a conversation. So, you're afraid of heights?"
I shook my head, realizing that he didn�t hesitate about anything. "Yeah, I'm afraid of heights....I get really nervous and freak out. I don't know why either."
"Well, don't worry about it. I'm terrified of flying and heights. No matter how many times you do it, it doesn't get any easier."
I groaned, hoping that the comment wasn�t supposed to be encouraging. "Great...."
He chuckled lightly and kept talking, his voice still soothing as he spoke. "Oh, don't worry. You're completely safe. Besides, from L.A. to Italy, you'll be on a plane with me."
I grinned at him, thinking he could protect me. "Ha. I feel safer already."
"Did I detect a hint of sarcasm in that comment, young lady?"

My grin broadened as he caught me, "I have no idea what you're talking about."
We both began to laugh. It was just a funny moment. His mock offensive tone and my innocent voice. Quite a combination.
�Well, thanks so much for your help and time, Mike."
"Ditching me, are you?"
I shook my head, feeling bad and not wanting to hang up now. "No. No, of course not. I can talk if you..."
He laughed softly and spoke gently to me, "Mara, sweetheart, I was just joking."
I smiled slightly, even though he couldn�t see and blushed a little at my own sensitivity. "Sorry..."
"No apologies necessary. Now, what were you saying?"
I smiled, repeating myself again. "I was just saying I had to go. My mom and I really need to get everything packed and ready since we have less than a week."
There was a sigh and a small silence. I waited anxiously for him to speak again. "Actually, I just got a call from Ned and he wants to fly you out here the day after tomorrow. He says the sooner we get things started, the more time we will have to work on the details."
I gasped, nearly screaming into the phone. "The day after tomorrow?!?!?! Wow. That means...."
"You better get busy." He finished my sentence, laughing at me.
I laughed too, feeling the adrenaline rush as I prepared for the hurried packing that would follow. "Yeah, my thoughts exactly. I better get going, Mike. I'll see you soon."
"Sure thing, Mara. If you need anything else, just call me."
"Thanks, Mike. You're a real lifesaver."
I could feel the mirth in his voice as he spoke again. "Minus the hole in the middle... You're welcome Mara."
I laughed at his little joke, pulling the phone away from my ear, ready to hang up and get to packing. "Cute. Later, Mike."
He chuckled lightly, then ended our conversation, knowing that I had to go. "Later, Mara. Take care."
I hung the phone up and sighed, leaning against the wall, catching my breath before I ran to tell my mom. I knew this would send her into overdrive. I thought back on my conversation with Mike, grinning like a fool. Each time I'd talked to him, he'd made me so happy. It was such an amazing feeling. I ran back through the house and found my mum rummaging through the closet looking for the rest of our suitcases. She didn't even turn around when I walked into the room, she just spoke.
"Well?"
I winced, wondering what her reaction would be. "Well, first we're flying to L.A. so I can meet up with the rest of the cast. You know, that whole pre-bonding thing, I guess. Then, we'll be flying to Italy a few days later. That's where most of the movie is filmed. Then, after that, we'll do a few scenes in Ireland and fly back to the states to wrap up a few scenes in Louisiana. I'll have to go to some press conferences during the filming, most likely, and then I'll have to go to the premiers when the movie is released."
She nearly squealed, her usual composure gone. "Ah, this is all so exciting!"
I smiled at her, glad she was finally agreeing to this. "I'm glad you think so, because now I have some other news. Don't give me that look. The director, Ned, has decided that we need to be in L.A. sooner to get things on a roll, so he wants us to fly out there the day after tomorrow." I waited silently for a reply, not knowing whether to wince or smile.
She looked at me, trying to decide if I was joking. I held my gaze, causing her to shake her head. "Wow. I wasn't expecting it so soon. Well, then I suppose we had better get packed and in a hurry if we have to leave on Thursday. Here are your suitcases, pack everything you can. You're gonna need it."
I nodded, waiting for further instructions. That was my mom. Taking charge in a tough situation. She was amazing under pressure and it always stunned me that she could do anything, no matter what may have been bothering her at the time. I was pushed back as she thrust a suitcase into my open arms and told me to get packing. Obeying as always, I walked off to my room to begin raiding my closet of all my clothes. I'd need pretty much everything if I was going to be gone so long.
Two days later, a huge suburban assault vehicle pulled up into our yard, the kind that should have been left in the armed forces, where they belonged. They were nothing but pollution machines and gas guzzlers, destroying the world and our natural resources. The man got out and walked up the pathway between the hedges. He rang the doorbell several times. I ran to get it as quickly as I could. My mother demanded we not keep anyone waiting that wished to enter. I opened the door with a smile. He returned it on much smaller scale. He then reached inside his blazer and pulled out an ID card. Extending his arm, I took the card from his hand. It looked official enough, but I called mom to the door just the same.
She greeted the man with a smile- my smile. The one thing I had inherited from my gorgeous mother.
She nodded curtly,"Hello, sir."
He smiled at her, his face nearly hidden behind the dark shades he wore. "Hello, Mrs. Kensington. I'm here to pick you ladies up and transport you to the jet in the hangar that will take you to L.A. Someone else will be there to pick you up and take you to Mr. Malloney's office. If not, I�m sure you can find your way easily. Your daughter has my ID badge if you'd like to take a look at it. I understand you can't be too careful these days."
I looked at him, not really paying attention. My mother spoke up, taking the badge from me. "Yeah, you're absolutely right, sir." My mother examined the ID badge thoroughly and I knew she was looking for something that I didn't see. Apparently, everything met her expectations.
She handed the badge back and nodded to him. We brought all of our bags from the house and set them on the sidewalk. The man began to load them into the back one by one as we carted more to the edge of the street. Finally, the man had broken a sweat and all the bags were loaded into the SUBURBAN ASSAULY VEHICLE that looked a little more weighed down now than it had when it first pulled up to our house. My mother made one last sweep over the house, making sure everything was secure and that nothing had been forgotten. The past two days had been crazy, so anything missing would have to be overlooked. As my mother walked around, checking oven knobs and power cords, I wandered down the hall and felt a sadness clenching at my throat. This would be the last time I would see my home where I had spent my entire life for a very long time. All the memories were etched into the walls and could be heard in the creaks and groans that echoed from the aging boards. A hot tear slid down my face as I closed my door to my room and walked down the hall. All the plans had been made. Mom's position at the company was being held open for her return. The bills would be forwarded to Ned- I mean, Mr. Malloney. The neighbors were watching our house. The teachers were sending my work. The newspaper boy knew not to come. I had called Alana to tell her I was leaving and suffered through her monotone response. It was all over. Everything sealed and shipped away. My mother met me at the end, linking her arm with mine. We walked out of the house, locking the door behind us, and slid onto the warm leather seats in the back of the vehicle. Slowly, our house where so much of me still lingered faded away into the distance as the white lines on the road passed more steadily.
I turned to my mom, sitting beside me, looking out the window. "This is like a new life for us, Mom."
She only nodded, never meeting my gaze. I knew she was crying, though she wouldn�t let me see her tears fall. "I know, sweetheart. I know."

Part III

"Wake up, Mara." My mother shook me gently as the plane was preparing to land.
"We're here?"
"Yes, now buckle your belt."
As I fumbled with the belt, I began to think about what would happen at in the office in L.A. Who would be there? How were they going to treat the new girl? Was Mike going to be there already? Even though I'd only spoken to him a few times, I wanted him there. I felt protected and calm with the thought of him being there.
"Mara? Honey?"
"Yeah, Mom?"
"You were zoning out again. Everything okay?"
"Yeah, everything's fine. I was just thinking..."
"Ah, the endless thoughts of a young woman?"
"Oh, mom!"
"Just kidding, doll. Seriously, do you want to talk about it?"
"I just don't know. I'm just wondering what all this is going to be like, how people are going to act toward me, and stuff. I'm just worried about walking into something like this completely clueless. Now that we're so close to the place, it all seems so overwhelming. I just hope..."
She looked at me, that soft smile on her face. "...That Mike's there. I know, sweetie. Don't give me that look, Mara. I'm not crazy. You were totally glowing when you got off the phone with him."
"I know, Mom. He's just so charming and funny. I feel so lucky to have him as a mentor, you know? I think I can learn a lot from him. It's like having an older brother or something. It's reassuring that he knows how all of this works and stuff."
"Well, Mara, you need someone like that. I'm just glad Mr. Trent is going to be the one to guide you around. Well, we better be getting off. This baggage thing is going to take a while and then we'll have to find out how to get to Mr. Malloney's office."
"Alright. Let's go, Mom.� I was ready to get off when a horrible realization smacked me in the face. �Crap!"
Jerking her head around, she looked at me, puzzled by my outburst. "What?"
I looked at her, throwing my hands up, then putting them over my face, hoping to hide my stupidity. "I just remembered that I have no idea where Mr. Malloney's office is. I don't even have the address! What are we going to do?" I was near panicking. My only thought was to call someone, but who? There was nothing we could do.
A voice resonated from behind us, "You're going to come with me. Now, what kind of guardian and mentor would I be if I didn't come to pick up my co-star at the airport? I have to show you around during your first visit to L.A.!"
I stiffened at the sound, then began to relax. My fear melted away. We were saved. I felt the smile spread across my face- 40 miles wide.
"Mike!!!!!!!". I ran over to him. Then, jumping into his arms, I kissed his cheek and hugged him. I was so glad he had came, even though we may be swamped with fan girls at any moment since I just yelled his name loud enough for the people at the terminal gates to hear. Sure enough, a few heads turned, but since we were hugging, they all went back to their own business. At least I was safe again. My mom and Mike were here with me. What more could I ask for?

He set me down gently and patted my shoulder. Looking over, he nodded to my mother and spoke, a charming smile on his face. "Hello. You must be Mara's mom. You're daughter is an amazing actress."
My mom looked at us both, then began to smile. I was sure I would hear about that later. "Yes, I'm Mara's mom. Mary Kensington. It's truly a pleasure to meet you. She is an amazing actress- she always had a flare for the dramatic. Thank you so much for meeting us here. It was very kind of you. How are you, Mr. Trent?"
Mike nodded at me and nudged me with his elbow, grinning. "Well, Mara. I see where you're manners come from. Mrs. Kensington, I insisted on coming out here to meet you. By the time I realized that Mara had no directions to Ned�s office, it was too late. You two had already left. Someone was supposed to be here to pick the two of you up, if it was at all possible. I made sure it was. It's no problem. I was glad to get out of that office to come pick you both up and get the chance to see Mara again. She just has that magnetic personality- she draws people to her - well, me anyway. I'm doing very well, Mrs. Kensington. How about you? How was your flight? Was it that bad, Mara?"
I looked at him, smiling, as he talked with my mother as if he�d known her forever. He was always polite and kept good eye contact, nodding at all the appropriate times. I shook my head and smiled at him. " I slept most of the flight, Mike, so it wasn't too bad. I'm still not looking forward to the next plane flight anymore than I did this one. Besides, this was a jet...not quite as big."
He grinned at me, nodding. "Well, you can just go to sleep again. But next time, it will be a real plane. There's more people that will be going along. I'm sorry, Mrs. Kensington, you never did get the chance to reply to my question. How are you?"

My mom nodded her head at him, telling him it was alright, then answered his question. Her tone was a little more relaxed than it had been moments before and she seemed to relax herself. "That's alright Mr. Trent. I can excuse it. Mara is so excited, and honestly, so am I. I'm doing fine and the flight was pretty smooth. Mara slept the entire time, so she should be ready for whatever you can throw at her."
He smiled at her, then wrapped an arm around my shoulder at the mention of me. "One can only hope, Mrs. Kensington. Now, what do you ladies say to some lunch and some rest at the hotel. Then we'll head over to the office? There, you'll sign your contract for the movie and meet the rest of the cast and other directors and stuff. They're all really anxious to meet the new Marcellia."
I grinned, glancing at his arm wrapped around my shoulder and nodded. "Well, lunch sounds great. Mom and I are starving. As far as the business at the office, what are these people going to think of me? I mean, I just pop up out of nowhere..."
My mom nodded in agreement, concern making it�s way to her face. "Yeah, Mara has been really concerned about that, Mr. Trent."
He smiled and hugged me closer for just a minute, as if to reassure me that it would all be fine. "Well, to answer both of you, Mara, you have nothing to worry about. I'll be there with you so nothing is going to get out of hand, and the others, well, they're happy about seeing a fresh face. No one is going to shun you because you're new. Everyone on the cast knows why they're there. To make movies, not to judge the actors. We've chosen the best possible combination. Everyone is going to adore you, just like I...I mean, Ned and I do."
I sighed, hoping he knew what he was talking about. "I�ll pray that you're right."

He turned his head to me, a solemn look on his face before it was brightened by that gorgeous curve of his mouth. "Cheer up, doll. Everything's going to be just fine."
My mom spoke, seeing that I was too worried to talk. Just because he said it, didn�t mean it was true, no matter how much I wanted it to be. "Mr. Trent, we're so lucky you're here. Mara and I have no idea what is going on. It's great that someone is here to explain everything."
He released his grip on my shoulder slightly and turned to my mother, "My pleasure, Mrs. Kensington. Now, where would you ladies like to eat? My treat."
I thought I could see my mom�s ears perk up as he spoke. "That's really not necessary, Mr. Trent. We can pay for our meals, and as far as the place, you can choose. We're merely visitors here. You're choices will be much better."
Mike shook his head slowly, not taking no for an answer. "Mrs. Kensington, I insist on paying. Lunch was my idea and I would be hurt if you didn't allow me to pay. Now, for the place, do you like Chinese?"
My mother sighed, not liking him insisting on paying for our food. "Mara loves Chinese. It's her favorite. I'm up for anything. I still insist that you let us pay."
"Nonsense. I pay. End of discussion." He winked at me and I managed a smile. If he only knew my mother. She was headstrong and proud- a total feminist. She wanted to pay for her own food, open her own doors, and pull out her own chair. I admired her for it and adored her for standing up for herself. I also thanked her for teaching the same things to me. Sure, I still enjoyed chivalry and manners, but that didn't mean I had to always accept it.
We got our bags from the claim and walked out of the airport. It seemed like days as we trudged to Mike's car, parked on the other side of the lot. We finally got there, loaded all our bags into the trunk and made our way to the doors.
My mom took the backseat and pushed me up to the front, forcing me to sit with Mike. Not that I was complaining, but her urging in the matter confused me. Driving along, I tried to take in all the sites around me, but I couldn't focus. It all seemed so surreal- that soon I was going to wake up and realize that this was just another dream. There was no movie, we never went to an audition and I never spoke to Mike Trent- EVER. I prayed that it wasn't so, but deep down, I knew that was the only explanation. As the minutes passed, I didn�t know what else to think. I felt a warm joy growing in me as well as an underlying fear- it was all real. I sat back, trying to relax, the hum of the tires on the asphalt making me sleepy. We drove for what seemed like hours. Mike wove through traffic like a professional and I never felt a jolt or bump, no matter how tight the situation got. Soon, I found it hard to keep my eyes open, struggling against their weight. I looked over to Mike, humming softly to the radio and then to the back at my mother, sleeping peacefully, her head resting against the window. I looked back to Mike and found those soulful eyes looking at me.
"Mara, honey, you must be exhausted. You should get some sleep before we stop for lunch. It will still be a while before we get to the restaurant."He smiled at me softly, then turned his eyes back to the road.
I sighed, fighting back a yawn, "Yeah, but then you'll be pretty much alone with no one to keep you company. That'd be kinda rude of me, don't you think?"
He shook his head, turning to smile at me quickly. "Not at all. Just get some sleep. I'll wake you when we get there."
I yawned again, trying to speak through it. "Are you sure?"
He chuckled, then nodded his head. "Yes, Mara. I'm sure. Go to sleep."
I tried to mumble a reply, but sleep had already weaseled its way in. The motion of the car lulled me to sleep as did Mike's soft humming to the soft songs on the radio. I slept so sound that I don't even remember dreaming of anything, just complete darkness as the exhaustion seeped from me. I felt a hand gently touch my shoulder and a voice fade in from the silence.
"Mara....Mara...."
I opened one eye, still half-asleep. "Hmmm?"
He smiled, patting my cheek. "Mara, wake up. We're here."
I opened both eyes and sat up straight, expecting it to be Josh, my best friend with the worst since of time, waking me up again because he wanted to chat or tell me about his newest girlfriend. I was shocked, to say the least, to see brown eyes instead of green and dark hair instead of bright red. "Mike? Whoa, I almost forgot where I was."
He grinned at me again, fixing a lock of hair that had fallen in front of my eyes."Yeah, you were sleeping pretty good. I hated to wake you, but you do need to eat."
I shoved the lock behind my ear and yawned, stretching my arms out careful not to hit him. "Mmm, it's ok. Thanks for waking me."
He dodged an arm, grinning and nodded. Then, motioning toward the back seat, he whispered, "No problem. Now, wake your mom up. She's been out like a light since we left the airport."
I looked back at her and smiled. She looked so peaceful laying there, like she had no worries in the world. "Yeah, she's probably exhausted."
"I think you both are."He smiled at me as I looked at her, thanking God for all the things I�d been given, but most of all for her. It may have seemed like an odd time to do it, but when it comes to being thankful, no time is inappropriate.
I turned to him and nodded. "Ha. Yeah. Mom? Mom..." I reached into the backseat and shook her leg. Finally she began to stir.
She sat up slowly, rubbing her eyes and looked at me. "How long was I asleep?"
I shrugged, smiling at her. She was so cute when she first woke up- so innocent and childlike. "I don�t know, since we left the airport."
"Yes, Mrs. Kensington, you've been asleep about an hour and a half. We're at the restaurant now, if you'd like something to eat." She jumped at the sound of Mike�s voice, then smiled. I guess I wasn�t the only one that had forgotten where I was.
She nodded, stretching her arms and twisting her neck. Sleeping that way must have put some strain on it. "Sure, I'm kinda hungry. You ready, Mara?"
I grinned at her and nodded. "Yes, mom."
We all climbed out of the car and stretched our legs. The ride wasn't that long, but it had definitely been long enough, and on top of the plane ride, my mom and I were pretty stiff. Mike slapped on a baseball hat and some sunglasses. I shot a glance in his direction, but then realized, not everyone was just going to see him as an ordinary guy. The truth was, he wasn't- he was so much more.
"Mara, I'm going to go ahead in and go to the ladies' room. You help Mr. Trent with the orders."
"Yes, ma'am."
Mike looked in my direction through his darkened shades. "So, what would you like to eat, Mara?"
I shrugged and told him. It was always the same. "Well, I always order Sesame Seed chicken and Mom would want sweet and sour chicken, with fried Huntington of course. What about you, Mike?"
"Chicken Fried Rice for me. So, you know your mom pretty well, huh?"
I nodded and began walking with him as we made our way into the restaurant. It was already dimly lit and I wondered how Mike could see at all with those sunglasses on. "Yeah, we're really close. She's been my best friend for as long as I can remember. I can't imagine being without her."
He smiled, then walked up closer to the counter, looking at the menu overhead. "Wow, that sounds like a wonderful relationship. So, are we eating here or taking it to your hotel?"
"Um, you know, I think it'd be easier to take it to the hotel."
He nodded in agreement. "That's what I was thinking. That way you both could get changed and get some rest and then eat whenever you got ready."
I nodded again, but then I remembered that someone had to get us back to the hotel and he wouldn�t stay here if we didn�t."Yeah, but what about you? When are you going to eat? Certainly not while you're driving."
He smirked and me and shrugged. "Well, I guess not while I'm driving now. Don't worry about it. I'll eat later."
I shook my head. He wasn�t going to go without eating. I wasn�t a health fanatic, but I knew what was and wasn�t good for you. Not eating fell into the second category. "No, you probably haven't eaten in a while. We'll stay here while you eat."
"It's alright, Mara. All of the cast are staying at the hotel. I think our rooms are next to each other. I was planning on eating when we got back."
I looked at him, my eyebrow raised, giving him to once over. "You promise?"
He smiled at me and nodded. "Of course, love." He drew a Trent over his chest and grinned, �Cross my heart.�
I laughed at him and shook my head. "Well, if you don't eat, I'm gonna sit in your room until you do!"
He lowered his sunglasses, looking over them at me for just a minute before he pushed them back up. "You promise?"
I reached out and smacked his arm, laughing the whole time. "Mike!"
He shrugged and turned back toward the menu, grinning. "Just kidding...."
About that time, my mom walked out of the ladies' room and saw me hit him lightly on the arm. I'm sure she had plenty of thoughts going through her mind, but she never said a word. Just as always, she was trusting my judgement and she was sure that Mike was becoming just another close friend. I was sure of that too. He was so thoughtful and considerate, I wondered if that was always the case.
She walked up and propped an elbow on my shoulder, "So, have you guys ordered?"
I turned to her and smiled, wondering what she was thinking. She had that faraway look in her eyes but only for a moment.. "Not yet, Mom. We were just waiting."
She raised her eyebrows and looked at me. "On?"
"Well, we wanted to see if it was okay if we just took the food back to our hotel rooms, or if you wanted to eat here."
"What do you guys want to do?" She shrugged, not caring either way.
"We were thinking of taking it back to the rooms so we could just relax and be lazy for a little while if that's ok with you, Mom."
"That's fine with me. I'm looking forward to a bed as opposed to seats."
"Ain't well all, sugar?" I looked at her and grinned, knowing her butt was hurting just about as bad as mine was.
She smacked me playfully in the back of the head. "That's Mara's southern accent coming out. You'll have to excuse it, Mr. Trent."
He turned, looking at the both of us, grinning. "I think it's adorable."
My mom nudged me in the ribs as I smiled at him, shooting her a glance when he turned around again. Another blush for the road. It never fails. Just when I think it's all going normal, he says something like that. He was the most unbelievable combination of friendly, sincere, comedic, and romantic. No wonder the girls flocked after him. Wait, never mind, that's just because he was a movie star- and the best looking one ever...of course if they knew him...what would they do then?
My thoughts were interrupted by a high pitch voice that seemed to have giggled one too many times.
She spoke through her nose, chewing on her gum like a cow stuck out in the field. "What would you like to eat?"
Mike stepped up to give the order, so Mom and I went to fill up the glasses with something to drink. I was about to yell over to Mike to ask what he wanted when I realized it might cause a scene. I was feeling hyper after the bit of sleep and felt like goofing off for just a bit. Maybe it was time to put my acting skills to use. I walked over to Mike and put my hand on his forearm.
"What do you want to drink, baby?"
He glanced at me with a surprised expression for only a minute, then caught on to what I was trying to do.
"I'll take Coke as always, babe."
"Just making sure, doll. Don't be too long." I kissed his cheek as I walked off from him. The cashier merely glanced in my direction, then went back to calculating Mike's order. I walked over to my mom and saw the look on her face. She was shocked, I knew, but I could also tell that she was about to bust out laughing. Any minute now, she was going to snort and try to suppress her fits of laughter, but fail miserably. Luckily, we didn't have to wait that long.
"Mara, baby, are you ready?"
"Yeah, of course, baby. I was about to go crazy waiting for you." I wrapped an arm around his waist and I felt his arm rest on my shoulders.
Mike called back to my mom, "Come on, Mom. Let's get out of here."
I waited for something, not knowing what she was going to do, but she blended as always. "Alright, son. Let's go. I'm starving."
I was about to fall on the ground laughing as my mom joined in on the skit too. I couldn't believe he called her Mom, but it surprised me even more when she called him son. It was too odd to be true. We made a break for the car and he opened the doors for us as we climbed in.
When we were safe inside, I busted out laughing, not able to hold it in any longer. "Mom! Where did that come from?"I asked through fits of laughter that shook my whole frame.
My mom just smiled and shrugged her shoulders.
Mike laughed, looking from me to my mom."Mrs. Kensington, I have to say, that was very nice the way you went along with all of that. And Mara! Why did you do that?"
I tried to calm down a bit so I would actually be able to answer him. I shrugged, "Well, I needed to ask you what you wanted to drink, but I couldn't just yell, 'Hey Mike!' all the way across the room since all the girls would hear and trample you, and maybe some guys too, so I had to come up with something. That was the first thing that came to my mind."

He smiled, "Well, it was great. Shocked the hell out of me, that's for sure. Oh! Sorry, Mrs. Kensington." He turned around and looked at her like a kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar. I laughed out loud again. He was just too adorable for me.
"Don't worry about it, Mike. It shocked me too. I was about to go in lecture mode until I realized what she was doing."
I chuckled for a bit then sighed, wanting them to stop. "Alright guys! Let it go. I was just trying to get Mike out of there without being mobbed and get us to this car as soon as possible."
"Well, it was brilliant, Mara. I think you saved me from some potential harassment!" He leaned over and kissed my cheek. I glanced quickly back to see my mother's face, but to my surprise, she was only smiling. What had gotten into her?

This originally started out as a short fanfiction, but morphed into something entirely it's own. It needs a ton of editing and some serious revision, but for now, this is it- the basics.