Page 83 of The Producer: Aaron

It’s been a month since Aaron came to my hotel to apologize, and as much as his words touched me, he was right about one thing, I had to be the one to decide, and doing it in the rush of the moment was not a wise decision. Too many times, I forgave Serena because the apologies seemed sincere, but then I found myself in front of the same behavior. I needed to be sure of the step I was taking.

The relationship between Aaron and me was born from a forced cohabitation and inside the bubble of his home that protected us from everything. As soon as reality crashed our lives, our relationship began to falter. Deciding to use the keys and go live with a man I am in love with requires more than beautiful words and a repentant look. It requires that I am sure of taking this step. And I needed to reflect on whether I’m ready to commit to him for what seems to be a long, very long time. Strong feelings and phenomenal sex shouldn’t cloud my judgment. For this reason, I needed time to detach myself and think about it.

“Why? Shouldn’t I?” My question is a bit hesitant because, although I’ve made a thousand reasons about what I want to do with Aaron, maybe she knows some reason why I shouldn’t live with him.

“No, I was wondering why it took you so long. I mean, you are both very invested in this relationship, and, although Iadmit that he behaved like an asshole, there are extenuating circumstances that make me cheer for him.” She smiles at me.

The squeeze in my stomach her first question caused dissipates, leaving room for a feeling of butterflies when I think of Aaron.

“Because I’m not forced to live with him this time, and I want him to be the right choice. There will always be someone who will say that I don’t deserve the success I have because of my relationship with him. I don’t want to make this decision lightly.”

Tracy smiles at me and shakes her head.

“Are you sure you’re only twenty-four?”

“Trust me that sometimes I feel as old as Aaron.”

Tracy laughs leaning against the back of the bench on which we sit, then observes me carefully.

“Are you really determined to help him? Many of those who worked in the division have already found another job.”

“I know. But you are still without a new boss. This gives me hope that the bests are waiting for his return.”

I know Tracy is waiting for Aaron to call her to work for him again, but if I’ve come to know him at least a little over the last year, I don’t think he’s going to involve anyone at least until he’s gotten back on his feet and has something to offer the people who work for him. Rumors circulating in the industry say they saw him in jeans and a T-shirt at the warehouse he bought for the company he found, throwing garbage in the bins. As much as I made fun of him because he never takes off his jacket and tie, I can’t believe he is doing it.

“Now, don’t be the know-it-all with me, but you’re right. I know some are waiting for the right job,” she confirms.

“Can you see if they’re interested in a new streaming service?”

“I already contacted them when I received your phone call. They are calling other people. As much as Aaron has a reputation as a person who terrorizes his employees, everyone knows that he is the best in this industry.”

“I knew you were waiting for him!” I laugh amusedly.

“Why, aren’t you? I know you’ve received at least three offers, but you’ve turned them all down.” She winks at me, and I blush.

My agent is having panic attacks because I’m refusing offers that are nothing short of amazing. Two of these are as the protagonist in two films next to Hollywood stars who I didn’t even know were aware of my existence.

“I’m waiting for the right job.” I wink at her while sipping from my Frappuccino.

“Okay, since you are sure about it, I will send you a list of people you need to call to explain the situation. You have to tell them to spread the word. I’ll take care of the other half of the list,” she tells me before a group of teenagers approaches us, squeaking.

“Dakota, can we take a selfie with you?” a blond asks, the bravest one, perhaps thirteen or fourteen years old.

“Yes, of course,” I say as Tracy gets up from the bench and walks away, saying goodbye with a wave of her hand.

“We’re so sorry that your show has been canceled,” says another who sits next to me for the photo.

“I’m sorry, too, but there will be other shows you’ll love, I’m sure.” I smile.

“Really? Do you already know which one?” she asks with eyes that shine with emotion.

This is why I love being an actress. Not the selfies with fans or the number of followers on Instagram or TikTok. But because I can give a face to characters that kids love and want to see on screen. These girls cry, laugh, despair, and rejoice together with those characters who, week after week, appear on the screen. It is as if, little by little, they become their friends, part of a family and a community that unites them beyond the geographical area in which they live. They feel they belong to something, whether it’s the fandom of a show, a book, or their favorite band. The sense of belonging is so strong that the feelings that bind them become sincere, powerful, and sometimes more than family ties.

“I still can’t tell you anything, but if it goes as I hope, you’ll soon hear from my Instagram account.” I wink at her as I get up and get ready to go and make those phone calls that Tracy has instructed me to make.

“Really?” the blond asks, almost jumping on the spot with excitement.

“Of course!” I smile at her, and an idea comes to mind seeing their excitement. It could be a total fiasco or the reason why we soar. “Actually, you know what? We will need a street team to promote this project. If you give me your emails, I will contact you as soon as we have news. What do you say? Would you like to be the first official participants of the street team?” I ask them and the excited screams from their lips are almost deafening.

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