Chapter 39

Scarlett’s POV A week later, I found myself at the casting site for the new film. Seven or eight people sat behind the long judging table—producers, the director, investors, and editors. I kept a low profile, tucked in my seat next to Wyatt Robert, sunglasses and a baseball cap shielding my face. From time to time, I leaned over to discuss something quietly with him. Casting could make or break a film, and everyone in the room knew it. Most of the roles had been settled already through the so-called “open audition” process—or at least, that’s how it looked on the surface. Of course, a few parts had been unofficially locked in for months. Some of today’s actors were only here to put on a show. James Parker was one of those. Even though his role was a done deal from the start, he still threw himself into preparation for today. Just minutes ago, he’d gone head-to-head on stage with another young actor for the part, and James’s performance had left everyone sitting a little straighter in t