Chapter 3: The First Break
Alexander Reed sat in his modest apartment, the soft hum of the city outside a stark contrast to the storm of thoughts swirling within him. The events of the past few days had set the foundation for his comeback—his meeting with Maria Valencia, the tentative partnership forming between them, and his deepening connection with Eva. Yet, for all the steps he had taken, he knew he was still at the starting line.
His goal was clear: get a foot in Hollywood's door. But the industry was a ruthless beast, devouring hopefuls and spitting them out without a second thought. He had seen it firsthand in his past life—actors who were talented but unlucky, projects that held promise yet never saw the light of day. He refused to be one of them again.
The first step was securing a role. Not just any role, but one that would place him firmly on the industry's radar. He needed something with prestige, something attached to a director or producer with influence. He racked his mind for what movies would be entering production soon.
Then, like lightning striking his mind, he remembered.
"Crimson Lies."
A thriller directed by Logan Pierce—a name that, in his past life, had been whispered with reverence in Hollywood circles. Pierce was known for crafting intricate, suspenseful stories with raw emotional depth. In this timeline, "Crimson Lies" hadn't started production yet, and Alexander knew it would go on to become a sleeper hit, launching the careers of several of its cast members.
In his past life, the male lead had been played by an unknown actor who shot to stardom overnight. That role had been a breakthrough opportunity—one that could be his.
But first, he had to get an audition.
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The Strategy
Alexander spent the next day gathering information about the casting process. Unlike his past life, where he had wandered aimlessly, submitting headshots and hoping for luck, this time he had an edge: he knew where to strike.
He learned that casting for "Crimson Lies" was being handled by Samantha Goldstein, a respected casting director with a keen eye for raw talent. She was notoriously difficult to impress, but she valued confidence and preparation. If he could get in front of her, he could win her over.
However, there was one problem.
He didn't have an agent.
Without one, getting into high-profile auditions was next to impossible. But Alexander wasn't about to let that stop him. He needed a shortcut. And he had just the right connection—Eva.
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A Favor from Eva
Alexander met Eva at a small, upscale café in Beverly Hills. She arrived in a flowing white dress, her dark hair cascading in loose waves over her shoulders. She carried an effortless elegance, her presence turning heads as she walked in.
"Alex," she greeted, her lips curving into a smile. "You sounded urgent on the phone. What's going on?"
He took a breath. He hadn't intended to involve Eva this early, but desperate times called for bold actions.
"I need an audition," he said, meeting her gaze. "For Logan Pierce's next film."
Eva raised an eyebrow. "Crimson Lies? That's a major production, Alex. They're looking at seasoned actors, not newcomers."
"I know. But I also know I can play that role better than anyone."
She tilted her head, intrigued. "And how do you expect to land an audition without an agent?"
He leaned in slightly. "That's where you come in. You know Samantha Goldstein, don't you?"
Eva studied him, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her coffee cup. "I've worked with her before on a few projects," she admitted. "She's tough but fair. But Alex, getting you in won't be easy. Even if I introduce you, you need something to prove you belong there."
Alexander smirked. "I've already prepared a monologue that fits the film's theme perfectly. All I need is a chance to show it to her."
Eva sighed, running a hand through her hair. "You're really serious about this, aren't you?"
"More than you know."
She was silent for a moment, then nodded. "Fine. I'll set up a meeting. But after that, it's all on you."
A surge of adrenaline coursed through Alexander. This was it. His first real step toward success.
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The Meeting with Samantha Goldstein
The next day, Alexander arrived at an office building in West Hollywood, where Samantha Goldstein's casting agency was based. Dressed in a fitted suit that accentuated his sharp features, he walked in with the air of a man who belonged there.
Eva had done her part—securing him a ten-minute meeting. That was all he needed.
Inside, Samantha sat behind a sleek glass desk, her piercing blue eyes scanning him as he entered. She was in her late 40s, exuding authority with every movement.
"I don't usually do favors," she said without preamble. "But Eva spoke highly of you."
"I appreciate the opportunity," Alexander said smoothly. "I won't waste your time."
Samantha gestured to a small stage-like area in her office. "Then show me what you've got."
Alexander took his position, closing his eyes for a brief moment to center himself. Then, with a deep breath, he became the character.
The monologue he chose was a raw, emotional piece, perfectly mirroring the themes of "Crimson Lies." He delivered each line with precision—his voice shifting between controlled calm and bursts of intense passion. He embodied the desperation, the internal conflict, and the simmering tension of a man on the brink of ruin.
When he finished, silence filled the room.
Samantha studied him for a long moment.
"…That was impressive," she admitted. "You've got talent."
Alexander remained composed, though his heart pounded. "Does that mean I get an audition?"
She tapped her fingers against her desk. "I'll put your name on the list. But that doesn't mean you'll get the part. You'll be competing with professionals who've been in the industry for years."
"That's all I need," Alexander said.
Samantha nodded. "Fine. The official auditions are in three days. Be ready."
As Alexander walked out of the office, his pulse raced with excitement.
This was it. He had secured an audition.
The real battle was just beginning.
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The Preparation
The next three days were relentless.
Alexander studied the script from every angle, memorizing lines until they were second nature. He practiced in front of a mirror, in different settings, at different emotional levels. He analyzed Logan Pierce's past films, studying his directing style, understanding what he looked for in actors.
At night, he barely slept, running the scenes over and over in his head.
He would not fail.
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The Audition
The day arrived. The casting call was held at Silver Screen Studios, where dozens of actors gathered, each hoping for their breakthrough moment.
Inside the audition room, Logan Pierce himself sat alongside Samantha Goldstein and several producers. The atmosphere was tense.
Alexander stepped onto the stage.
Pierce barely looked at him, glancing at the name on his list. "Alexander Reed, correct? You're new."
"I am," Alexander admitted. "But I promise I won't disappoint."
Pierce raised an eyebrow. "We'll see. Begin."
Taking a deep breath, Alexander launched into his scene.
This was no longer an audition. This was his reality. He embodied the role—his movements natural, his emotions raw, his voice laced with conviction. He wasn't acting. He was the character.
When he finished, the room was silent.
Then, Logan Pierce leaned forward, interest flickering in his eyes.
"…Interesting," he murmured.
Samantha Goldstein exchanged glances with the producers.
Alexander stood tall, waiting.
Then, Logan Pierce nodded.
"You're in."