âHello, Selma.â
âHi,â Selma responded, shaking his hand. Around them, executives were busy consulting with a lawyer, leaving her momentarily out of the loop. She turned to Mayer with a question.
âDo you know whatâs happening?â
Mayer shrugged casually.
âNot really. Fannie just called me here last minute.â
âOkay.â A sense of unease washed over Selma.
âIsnât Judie supposed to be here?â she asked.
âIâm not sure,â Mayer replied.
Glancing at her watch, Selma noted they were already five minutes past the scheduled time. It seemed Judie would be a no-show.
A wave of relief swept through her.
She might not have Judieâs beauty or vibrant presence, and her personality might not shine as brightly, but she feared being overshadowed by Judie on the show. Now, with her absence, the spotlight might fall more favorably on her.
Mayer struck up a light conversation.
âI heard youâve been busy filming?â
âThatâs right.â Selma leaned back, stifling a yawn. âIâve been up all night learning lines. Itâs draining.â
âThatâs impressive. I look forward to picking up some tips from you.â
âMm.â Selma wasnât usually fond of artists who transitioned from pop idol status, yet Mayerâs charm and politeness were undeniable. If they were to become romantically linked on-screen, the younger man could stir quite the media frenzy.
While Selma pondered the potential buzz, Amy and Fannie entered the room.
âOkay, letâs get this meeting started. Iâm pressed for time, so letâs make it quick.â
Amy positioned herself at the head of the table, flanked by the boss on her left and Fannie on her right. The lawyer, circulating the room, handed a contract to Mayer.
âPlease review this document. If everything looks good, you can sign it.â
Understanding the gravity of signing a contract, Mayer nodded and took the document. âAllow me a moment to read through this thoroughly.â
âAbsolutely.â Amy nodded and turned to Fannie. âHave you briefed him on the key details?â
âYes, Iâve covered everything.â
Selma was next on the agenda.
Amy noticed Selmaâs efforts to look her best, though they were ultimately in vain.
âSelma, I regret to inform you that youâre not the right fit for this variety show.â
Selmaâs smile froze on her face. âWhy? We previously had such productive conversations.â
Amy explained, âWeâve weighed multiple factors. Our selection criteria are comprehensive. If thereâs no fit, thereâs no fit. Donât lose heart. With Fannieâs guidance, other opportunities will surely come your way.â
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