Page 5 of Taking the Heat

Matt jumped back up again. ‘Thanks everyone! That’s it for today. After the Sydney auditions next week, we’ll give the successful candidates a call. The rest of you will get a form email. But thanks for coming in, and make sure you tune in to watchErotic Island!’

I snatched up my bag and practically ran for the lobby. Serena was waiting for me. ‘Oh my God! I can’t believe you made it all the way to the final round! You go, girl! Amazing!’

‘Thanks. Let’s get out of here.’

Serena’s eyes narrowed. ‘Wait … is that the guy from the coffee shop?’

Chris passed behind us. I could feel him on my skin, the way you can feel heat from a bonfire. Ignoring my traitorous body’s reaction to his presence, I said, ‘Yup.’

‘He’s pretty freaking hot.’ Serena watched his denim-clad butt disappear through the door. ‘He was just about removing your clothing with his eyes right now. Wow—do you think he’ll be on the show? Oh my god, how hot would that be? You and coffee-dude!’

I shivered at the thought, a vivid flash of Chris’s mouth on mine, his hands in my hair. Shaking my head, I replied, ‘Never going to happen. Not even for a million dollars.’

***

A week later, I was pulling extra hours at the hotel where I work night shift. My feet sore, I leaned heavily on the high counter at the reception desk. Luckily it had been quiet, so when my phone rang in my bag I answered it immediately.

Normally, Ella and Serena are the only people who call me after 6pm, so when I saw the unknown number on my screen, I frowned.

‘Hello,’ I answered, speaking softly so my voice wouldn’t echo around the deserted lobby.

‘Is that Tara?’

‘Yeah,’ I said, cautiously. ‘Can I help you?’

‘Tara, this is Maxine. I’m the executive producer forErotic Island. Is now a suitable time to talk?’

‘Sure!’ My voice was just a little high, hardly betraying my drumming pulse at all.

All week, I’d been convincing myself that they wouldn’t call. I’d checked my inbox every five minutes for the first three days, and once an hour after that, waiting for the rejection email that never arrived.They’re busy, they’ve found people they like better, they want more Kylies.Honestly, I didn’t for a second think that the phone would ring.

Maxine spoke in a clipped, British accent. ‘I shan’t beat around the bush. We loved your audition footage and we’d like to offer you a place onErotic Island.’

Lucky no one was nearby, because my legs gave out and I sank to the cold foyer tiles. ‘Oh my god. Oh god! Really?Really?’

‘Yes, really,’ came the neutral reply. ‘I’m aware it’s quite late in Melbourne, but check your inbox as soon as you can. You’ll find an email from us, with flight details and non-disclosure agreements. Return them swiftly. You’re booked on a flight to LA to film pre-interviews next week.’

‘Next week?’ Now my voice was practically a screech.

‘Put your affairs in order, Miss Tara. You’re about to start a new adventure.’

***

Of course, I immediately called Serena, who screamed so loud I could hear our neighbours yelling at her. Sadly, there wasn’t anyone else to tell. My parents are, well, old-fashioned. They wouldn’t understand what I’m doing here, and they’re not exactly the target viewing audience since the caravan doesn’t even have a TV, so I don’t worry about them finding out.

As for my gorgeous sister, I called Ella the day before I left. ‘Hey, girl!’ she answered, as bright as ever. Her spirit is stronger than any disability. ‘When are you coming up to see me again?’

My eyes prickled. Without a car, it was impossible for me to get to Ella unless my parents were travelling up. ‘Ella, I’m so sorry. I just found out about this trip I’ve won, and I’m heading out tomorrow.’

‘What? You won a trip! That’s amazing!’

My deception cut through me, but I couldn’t let on. ‘Yeah, it’s pretty cool. I’m flying to this island and I’ll be off the grid for about a month. It’s pretty remote.’

‘Like a health spa? That sounds like heaven! Will you bring me back something?’

‘Yes,’ I promised. ‘Yes, I will.’

***

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