Page 6 of What Comes After

I had experienced a lot of bad moments that had impacted my life tremendously, and never once did they feel like this. That’s when I realized that this wasn’t a bad moment that would change my life.

It was the moment that was going to end it.

ONE

Theo

“I’m not sure if this is the right spot.”

“I completely understand the frustration you’re feeling right now, Mr. McCormick, but I’ve got a full day of showings scheduled for us today, and I’m certain we’ll find the perfect space for you.”

With my phone to my ear as I stood out on the balcony of the luxurious hotel I’d spent the night in last night, I took in the scenery.

The view was magnificent. Anyone who saw it would think I was crazy to not invest some time into more searching.

Considering how my night last night had been and the way I’d woken up this morning, I, too, was wondering if I’d lost a few marbles.

Granted, I’d spent the night in the hotel room and had every amenity at my disposal along with the coastal views, so it was difficult not to wonder why I was having this conversation.

But there was something nagging at me, telling me I was wasting not only my time, but the realtor’s as well.

“I just don’t think I’m going to find what I’m looking for here, and I don’t want to waste your time, Charles.”

Charles, eager to please, didn’t hesitate to respond. “It’s no trouble for me at all,” he insisted. “I think, especially after yesterday, I have a much better understanding of what you’re looking for, and I’m confident we’re going to have some success. I’ve got some exquisite properties for you to take a look at today.”

I took in a deep breath and let it out as I watched the waves roll in. I wanted this, but my gut told me this wasn’t where I was supposed to be.

I rolled my eyes.

To think that this was the worst of my problems.

As it turned out, I was making a life change. And just thinking about it felt a bit strange. The truth was, life had been good to me. I’d worked for years as an actor, and I’d seen great success in my career.

From the very first movie I’d filmed up until my most recent, I had a lot to be proud of.

Beyond the actual work I’d done, there really wasn’t anything for me to complain about. I had plenty of money, more than I’d ever need in my lifetime, and could easily never work another day without having to worry. I had an amazing family and wonderful friends.

It seemed impossible that I couldn’t just be happy with that.

While I felt extremely grateful for the life I’d lived, lately, I’d been considering what was next.

For the last several years, I’d been working on a major film franchise that had been wildly successful. We’d done several movies in the franchise, and when my leading co-star, Lily Mack, decided she wasn’t going to sign on for any additional films following the end of her contract, it got me thinking.

Because Lily hadn’t decided to end her time with the franchise to go on to do a different project. She’d decided to take some time off, to get out of Hollywood. About a month ago, Lily had packed up her things and moved back to her hometown in Steel Ridge, Pennsylvania.

Just recently, I’d paid her a visit. Seeing where she was living, realizing how much more relaxed she was, and having conversations with her, I couldn’t deny that I felt a bit envious of her.

Lily was right where she was meant to be.

And it seemed she’d found happiness in another form, too.

Not only had she been able to put the pressures of work behind her, but Lily also found a guy she was interested in. From what I could tell, given that I’d sort of put him through the ringer, he was seriously into her, and I hoped it would work out for them.

But I had to admit that the life change I’d already been considering was solidified following my visit with Lily.

The end of the movie franchise and Lily’s move out of Hollywood really allowed me to take stock of my life.

I’d accomplished everything I’d wanted to in my career. I’d loved what I’d done, the people I’d worked with, and the friends I’d made. I was particularly proud of the work I’d done, and I wondered if staying in Hollywood, continuing to make movies, was really going to bring me any additional happiness.

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