“Drew, I think it’s something that will transform my career,” Paige told him.
“I think you should strongly consider the NetPix drama,” he said. “The offer is solid, the shooting schedule is reasonable, and there’s a potential for the show to continue for multiple seasons. They’re also willing to give you a producer credit, which is what I thought you wanted.”
And Andrew had worked hard to get her that deal. The fact that Tanya had swooped in and convinced Paige that it would be better to do an independent film pissed him the fuck off.
“She wants to do something different,” Tanya argued. “The movie will open the door for more dramatic roles.”
“But streaming is booming right now. Isn’t it better to have consistent work?” The market had shifted lately as more and more people cut the cord on cable television and switched to streaming platforms. NetPix had built a strong portfolio of popular original series that had transformed careers in ways people had never dreamed of. And the schedule allowed actors and actresses to do other things.
“Paige is a film actress,” Tanya said. “This movie is a game changer. It will allow her the opportunity to sink her teeth into a meatier role, something different from the cute innocent heroine or torn lover roles she’s taken in the past. You know this will be good for her.”
Andrew didn’t know that. The only thing he knew was that Tanya was getting on his nerves. “Why is it better for Paige to turn down guaranteed money and exposure for a film by a director with a history of failed box office receipts?”
“Oh.” Tanya snickered. “I get it. It’s about the bottom line for you.”
“Don’t play me,” Andrew warned, his patience dangling on a thin thread. “I’ve never done anything for Paige because of money. I’ve always encouraged her to do what’s best for her career.”
“You mean your career,” Tanya muttered.
“I don’t care what you think, Tanya. My main concern is Paige. I’m not going to pretend this is a good deal. And I’m certainly not going to encourage her to sign a bad contract for a movie because you’re dating the damn director.”
“Okay, that’s enough,” Paige said. “I can’t do this right now. I have to meet with Michelle tomorrow.”
Andrew shook his head, his frustration at a tipping point. Yesterday, Julius filed another lawsuit against Paige for defamation of character, after her interview with the ladies ofThe Chat. He’d had to console Paige via video chat, and he hated it.
“I’m hopping off,” Tanya grumbled before disconnecting from the video conference.
After a tense moment, Paige called his name. “What’s wrong?”
“I’m just frustrated right now. Mom is still in a lot of pain and I can’t help her. Work is busy as hell, and I’m tired.”
They’d both had rough weeks. Between his mother and her ex, his job and her publicity schedule, they needed to decompress—away from everything and everyone.
“I’m sorry, baby,” she said. “I wish I was there with you so I could hug you right now.”
He smiled. “I wish you were here, too. How are you?” “Nerves bad. I’m thinking about canceling the Wendell Wilson interview this week. I don’t want to open myself to more gossip, more scrutiny. This lawsuit has prompted a new wave of press that I don’t need right now.”
“I’m sure Skye is on it.”
“She is, but I’m tired. Now I see why some women never get into another relationship after divorce.”
“You’ll be fine.”
“And you’ll still be there?” she asked.
“Yes. My flight leaves tomorrow night. I’ll come to your place when I get back.”
“Thank you. I’ll feel better if you’re here.”
“I promise I’ll be there.”
“I just want this to be over. I thought the divorce would give me my life back, but unfortunately I married an asshole.” She let out a frustrated sigh, shaking her hands in the air like he imagined she wanted to shake Julius. “Anyway, enough about me. You mentioned Connie is still in a lot of pain. What are the doctors saying? Is she at least improving a little?”
He nodded. “She is. But it’s a slow process. They told her today she couldn’t go to Vegas at Christmas.”
“Oh no! I know she was looking forward to it.”
“She was. We’re going to come here for Thanksgiving and Christmas, to sit with her.”
