Chapter 24
The room burst into spontaneous applause.
Even Julian Montoya, usually so reserved, stepped forward to hand Vivian a tissue with genuine admiration. "Absolutely breathtaking!" Julian was renowned as the most gifted among the new generation of actors, constantly pushing his craft to new heights.
Previous actresses who'd auditioned opposite him had crumbled under his unpredictable intensity.
His patience had been wearing thin with each disappointing session.
Vivian's raw, authentic performance reignited his passion for the craft.
Exchanging relieved glances, both Vivian and Lydia let out breaths they hadn't realized they'd been holding.
The director approached Vivian with warm appreciation. "Thank you for that extraordinary performance today. We'll be in touch regardless of the outcome."
Meanwhile, Serena Whitmore happened to glance up just as Vivian and Lydia stepped into the elevator, their cheerful chatter floating through the lobby.
A shadow of concern flickered across Serena's face before she turned to her manager. "Miranda, could you discreetly inquire about Vivian's audition?"
Miranda Graves scoffed, eyeing the closing elevator doors with disdain. "Why waste your energy? She's a nobody without connections. For a role this significant, no director would risk an unknown. With you in contention, it's unthinkable they'd choose anyone else - unless they've completely lost their senses."
Serena's worried expression lingered for a heartbeat before nodding, somewhat reassured by Miranda's logic.
Her thoughts were interrupted when a production assistant called her name, forcing her to shelve her concerns about Vivian for now.
Julian's unexpected presence during her audition threw Serena slightly off-balance.
She felt her performance lacked its usual sparkle in his formidable presence, though she doubted it would significantly impact her chances.
The production team's lukewarm response afterward left her unsettled.
"Thank you for your time, Ms. Whitmore. We'll notify you of our decision," came the polite but distant dismissal.
Serena's perfectly arched brows drew together in confusion at their indifferent reaction.
Noticing her client's distress and Julian fetching water nearby, Miranda flashed a practiced smile. "Mr. Montoya, what did you think of Serena's performance today?"
"Ms. Whitmore is always a professional," Julian replied, his compliment carrying a distinct reserve that Miranda's sharp ears immediately detected.
With decades in the industry, Miranda recognized the subtle shift in atmosphere instantly.
Someone else had clearly captured the production team's favor.
Exchanging curt pleasantries, Miranda guided Serena from the building, her expression turning grave the moment they were alone.
As Serena's audition concluded, the exhausted team welcomed their scheduled break.