“I'm over eighteen, so don't call me kid,” he softly exclaimed. Out of the corner of his eyes, Star could see eyes widen as they looked on with interest in their conversation. Star didn't know if he was looking at the same Vivienne Presley he knew before, but they used to banter back and forth. Star and Vivienne stared at each other for a few tense seconds before she smiled, reached into her suit jacket pocket, pulled out a small stack of business cards, and handed one to Star.
“Call me when you fire your current representative.”
Star looked at the number. Funny enough, except for the area code, her number was the same as in his last life. Before Vee could get too far, Star dialed the number and watched her answer.
“Vivienne Parsley.”
“You said to call when I fire my rep.”
She turned to face him. “That was quick.”
“Well,” he said, shrugging one of his shoulders, “they were nonexistent, so I had to do something.”
She smiled and cut the call, walking over to him. “You realize I'm expensive, and I'm taking a big chance on you because of your looks.”
“You're not my type,” Star said.
“Don't worry, I'm not into omegas,” she shot back.
Star didn't know what she meant by the omega thing but didn't comment. He was more focused on the fact that he had just scored himself a manager at an audition. He knew things like that didn’t happen but couldn't turn her away. She was the key to making his dream come true, and no matter if she was the same Vivienne he knew from his previous life or not, he was certain she wouldn't let him compromise his morals.
“I hear you're good. Is it true?”
“I’m insulted that you asked me that question,” she responded. “But let me put it this way—I'll take you on as a client whether or not you get a part here today, and I’ll make you a household name within six months.”
“I'll definitely get a part. Better yet, it will be a lead role.” They were auditioning for more than one show.
She laughed. “You're a cocky little shit, and I like that, but talk is cheap. Prove it.” The smile was completely erased from her face, and for a second, Star didn’t recognize her. “Since you put it out there, don't back down now. If you get a lead role, I'll waive my fee for six months.”
“You like that timeline, don't you, Vee,” Star mumbled.
“It's a lucky number.” She shrugged a shoulder.
At least, that was one thing that hadn't changed about her. Vivienne had a thing for using astrology and numbers to predict her life. “All right, it's a deal.” He stretched a hand toward her, and she wasted no time taking the offer.
“Don't let me down, Star Reborn.”
Star's eyes widened, hearing her say his social media username. “It's Rueng,” he said.
“I know, but I like Reborn better.”
Star wanted to say something like he wouldn't change his last name, but his name was called.
“That's me,” he said, releasing her hand as he stood.
“Go,” she told him. “We'll work out the details when you're done.”
“Okay.” He nodded and walked away.
“Hey, wait,” she said, stopping him. She moved her shirt collar aside, then pulled on the silver chain around her neck. “Hold out your hand.”
“Vee, I gotta go,” he said, still doing as she asked.
“Why do you call me Vee? That's the second time you've done that.”
“I don't know, it just fits.”
She chuckled. “I never allow others to call me that. It always annoys me, but for some reason, when you do, I'm cool with it. Anyway, I didn’t plan on meeting you here, but when I got dressed this morning, something told me to bring this, and I now feel it was because I was supposed to give this to you.” She placed the chain in his palm, and Star looked down to see a carnelian crystal. Star bit the inside of his cheek to hold back his tears. Star recognized the brownish-red gemstone. Just like now, Vee had given it to him in his previous life.
