Page 168 of If Ever

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With music pumping in my ears and sweat rolling down my back, I up the tension on the treadmill. I didn't have a single workout while Chelsea was gone, not that tearing my hair out with worry didn't burn a few calories.

Having her take off reminds me of when Max referred to her as a unicorn, easily startled and nearly impossible to catch. Well, now that I have my unicorn back, I want to keep it that way.

My phone buzzes over the sound of my music, startling me out of my thoughts. I slow the machine and jump off. It's Sean. I've talked to him more this past month than I have the past year. "Hey." I grab my towel and wipe my sweaty face. The workout room is loud, so I collect my water bottle and head into the hall.

"We have an offer."

I stop in my tracks. Thank God. "For what?" I've been auditioning for so many parts it could be anything.

"The movie offer came in about an hour ago."

"Bloody hell! I thought I bombed the screen test. What took you so long to call?"

"I touched base with the new musical and they don't want to lose you. They're pulling together an offer as we speak."

I'm stunned. I rub my towel over my face. "Holy shit."

Sean chuckles. "You're also on the short list for the lead in the Netflix pilot."

"How is this possible? I've been at it for months with nothing."

"They're all finalizing casting at the same time and when I let them know that you're considering multiple projects, they stepped up to the table. So now you've got some big decisions to make."

I fling the towel over my shoulder and pace the hallway. "And what do I take?"

"That, my friend, is up to you. With the movie you'll garner enormous exposure, which translates to more work. The musical is a gamble depending on whether it goes to Broadway after the out of town, but if it does, you'll have stability and can stay in New York. And if the series offer comes through, well, you'll be in L.A. for a while with the possibility of a long term contract."

My mind is reeling. A supporting role in a movie would be great, and I haven't done one since I left the UK. But the new musical is with an acclaimed director with a script I love. While a lead, the role wouldn't be nearly as demanding as my role in Crossing Lines. And what about Chelsea, what would work best for her? "Geez, Sean. I'm going to need some time on this."

"Take your time, which translates to decide fast. You only have a couple of days. I'll send the offers over so you have all the facts."

We end the call and I pound my fist in the air and scream a whoop of celebration, gaining me startled looks. I can't wait to tell Chelsea.

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