“Now let me drink my tea you so disapprove of.”

Olivia sniffled and laughed.

“Sorry for being so self-centered. I’ve been caught up in my drama and haven’t even asked about your auditions. How did they go?”

“Don’t worry about it, Liv. I know you’ve had a lot on your plate lately. As for the auditions, well, they were just the usual mix of nerves and excitement.”

“Oh yeah? How about the intriguing man you met at your waitressing job? You just went silent on that.”

Avery’s expression brightened as she leaned in, eager to share the story. She’d texted her friend about a rich man she met during her shift.

She recounted how a sophisticated and affluent-looking man had come to the restaurant, engaging her in an unexpected conversation, and she admitted she was in limbo.

To her surprise, he had handed Avery a card, offering her the chance to become his assistant.

“Wow, Avery! That’s incredible! Are you serious? This could be your chance to step into a new adventure, to get a foot in the industry,” she exclaimed, genuinely excited for her friend.

Avery nodded; her face lit up.

She understood the depth of Avery’s aspirations and the dedication she poured into her auditions and a temporary waitressing job.

“Avery. It’s a fantastic opportunity, and you deserve it. Go ahead and give him a call. Who knows where it might lead? I believe in you, and I’m confident that this could be a stepping stone toward your dreams,” Olivia said.

“I’m excited; you know I can’t help but imagine the possibilities that lay ahead. The thought of breaking free from my current circumstances and venturing into a world aligned with my true passion. I can stop getting hung up on bills that take away most of my salary at the end of the month.”

“And no more carpooling,” Olivia added, laughing, and Avery joined her.

“You’re right, Liv. This could be my ticket to pursuing my dreams and leaving the temporary waitressing job behind. I’m going to seize this opportunity and make the most of it, thank you for making it clear.”

As their conversation shifted toward dreams and aspirations, their laughter echoed through the air, creating a buoyant atmosphere of support and encouragement. They reminisce about their shared journey, both the ups and downs, finding solace in the unwavering bond they shared.

Finally, the time came for them to part ways, but their connection remained strong. Olivia embraced Avery tightly, her voice filled with warmth and appreciation.

“Avery, you inspire me with your hard work and dedication. I’m grateful to have you as my friend, and I do not doubt that you’ll achieve great things. Remember, I’ll always be here to cheer you on,” Olivia said, her words reflecting a deep-rooted friendship.

Avery smiled, her eyes shining with gratitude.

“Thank you, Liv. Your support means everything to me.”

“Now, how about Tim?”

She scoffed, taking another sip from her tea.

“None of your business.”

Olivia burst into a peal of laughter, her troubles with her boss temporarily forgotten.

***

“What do you mean Michael is going to Marcus?”

A deep line was forming between his brows as he swiveled in his seat.

“I mean, Michael is quitting because he said Marcus offered him a better deal, and he’s going to be signing a contract with him by the end of next week when his contract with us ends.”

Roman gritted his teeth.

Over the years, he had indeed stolen many prospective and committed clients from Marcus, who was his biggest industry rival.