“Hmm, yes.”
I received my final pay overnight and never want to think about Frank or that damn show again.
Not after the wrap party.
Not after what he did.
Frank thought he owned me from day one after giving me the role onHigh Tops.I was stupid enough to agree and let him think he did.
It was my first proper part—I was in every episode of High Tops—and that’s a big deal for a newer and struggling actor.At twenty-four, I should have had more work, but I hadn’t.I’d been waitressing and doing part-time retail work until that gig came up.
So I was very grateful.
Now it could be the last bit of acting I ever do.
That night, after wrapping on set, the crew got together and had drinks...which turned into more drinks.
Frank asked me to join him for a chat in his office later in the night.Honestly, I thought he was going to invite me to return for another season.Or discuss another show.
I was wrong.
So fucking wrong.
When I stepped into his office, I came face to face with his smug, creepy smile, which had red flags flashing around me.He stepped a little too close, pushing me against the back of his desk.
“You did well this season, Jess.Real good.”
“Thanks.”I tried to move, but he patted the desk.
“Sit.”
Then another man I hadn’t seen until today on set, walked in and shut the door.An extra click told me he’d locked it.
Panic set in.
“What’s going on?”I asked, nervously laughing.
Frank grabbed my knees and spread them apart.“It’s time for my payment, and there’s nothing I like more than sharing my winnings.”
“What?No.Oh my god.Get off.”
I tried to knock him away, fear thrusting through my veins, but he was much stronger than me.And seemed to be getting off on my resistance.
“Whoa, a little spitfire.”The other man laughed.“Does she suck well?”
Frank grabbed my face.“She has a big mouth and a lot to say, so I bet she does.”
“Stop.Get off me!”I’d screamed.
Frank slapped me.
“Shut up.If you want to work again, here or in Hollywood, you’ll shut your dirty slut mouth and do as I tell you.”
I knew then for sure I was in big trouble.
I should have kicked him in the balls.
I should have screamed my head off.
