After almost no wait, a man’s voice comes through.
Clipped. Arrogant.
“Ms. Bismark. This is Milo Holmes, Mr. Sterling’s assistant. Hesaw your impromptu performance last night and would like you to come in. Would noon be convenient?”
“For an audition?” I ask. “He wants to sign me with Sterling Records?”
But Milo only repeats himself. “Would noon be convenient?”
I run a mental checklist. My resume is ready. But what will I wear? What will I sing? “Today? Yes, it’s possible. But I need?—”
“The situation is urgent,” he continues. “Mr. Sterling will tell you more when you arrive. I’ll send a car. Please give me your address.”
It’s all happening so fast, I find myself giving my address before I have the chance to think it through.Why does he need to see me immediately?A warning bell goes off, but before I know it, I’m thanking Milo and ending the call.
“Well, guys,” I say, grinning at the dogs. “Looks like somebody tossed me a real bone this time. I’ll share the bounty.”
I reach into my sack and pull out a container of biscuits, giving them each a premium treat.
They crunch happily, sharp teeth working overtime.
For a second, the world narrows to just the sound of them. Safe and simple.
I wrap the leashes around my wrist, pulling them in closer.
“All right, you freeloaders,” I tell them. “Let’s get you back to your mommies and daddies.”
I feel a dangerous flicker of hope.
Time to go home.
Time to get ready.
Time to see what happens when luck finally calls my name.
CHAPTER 14
BIX
“The limo’s here!” says Keesha, who’s been peeking out the window. “Time to shine.”
I dart around the living room, popping things into my purse, finding my shoes. Just as I cross to the door, she stops me.
“Wait.”
She unclasps a chain from her neck, the metal fine and shimmering. “Take it. The Ethiopian cross. It brings good luck.” She steps forward and places it around my neck.
The cold metal feels powerful against my chest. Weighty and reassuring.
“Thanks, but this belongs to you. I’ll have perfectly fine luck without it.”
Keesha grips my hands in hers. “You deserve this. You and Hilary both.” She hugs me, and after a moment, I hug back.
When we part, she gives my arms a comforting squeeze.
Yet as I make my way down the stairs, her earlier words linger in my mind. She was right to be suspicious. Everything has happened too fast.
Getting into Taboo.
