Page 9 of Wynns of Change
Harlow’s mind whirled. Yes, she had an agreement with Robert, but it was merely a formality. He’d always been her manager, going back to not long after they met.
Her career was climbing at a rapid rate by the time she met Robert. During their first meeting he’d convinced her he could skyrocket her name into the stratosphere.
He’d sounded so convincing…knew all the right people…knew exactly what to say to a naïve, inexperienced woman who had gotten a lucky break.
She bought it hook, line and sinker and in the process had fallen in love. At least she’d fallen for Robert. His end was more along the lines of a partnership with benefits, which happened to include a certificate of marriage.
Harlow never regretted her decision to hire him. He had done what he promised, turning her into a household name and one of the most sought-after A-list actresses in Hollywood, securing multi-million dollar deals.
“I don’t. This is going to make me sound like an idiot, but I never read the terms. I guess I didn’t bother because I didn’tthink my husband would take advantage of me. We’re on the same team. Why would I?”
“He sent a copy of an ironclad management agreement, which is valid until next October.”
Harlow clutched her stomach, feeling as if someone had kicked her in the gut. “A year from now?”
“Twelve more months. I’ll send you a copy.”
“Yes. Please.” Harlow started to pace. “Maybe he’ll be open to cancelling it.”
“Perhaps. However, considering the amount of money involved, I would be surprised if this was the case.” The attorney suggested he could have his colleague contact Robert’s attorney, whose name sounded vaguely familiar.
“Or I could try talking to him,” she said.
“The decision is yours. How is your relationship these days?”
“Pfft.” Harlow made a fizzling sound. “It’s not great, but I’m willing to try.”
They chatted for a few more minutes before the call ended. As promised, Nigel forwarded a copy. Sure enough, she’d signed off, contractually agreeing to a two-year management term.
Mentally bracing herself, Harlow dialed her husband’s number, expecting it to go to voicemail like it always did. She was surprised when he picked up.
“Hello, Harlow,” he coolly greeted her.
Her greeting was equally frosty. Harlow skipped the small talk and got right to the point. “I spoke with my attorney. You were served the divorce papers.”
“I was. I’m having my attorney review them as we speak.”
“Perfect. As you know, my goal is to move this along as quickly as possible. I would like to go ahead and list our properties for sale.”
“I agree. I see no sense in hanging onto any of them, not that you ever cared for our homes.”
“I’ll admit, I won’t miss them, except for maybe the condo in Palm Beach.”
“Only because I was the one who picked them out,” Robert said.
“My feelings about our properties have nothing to do with who did what. The reason I’m calling is to discuss the management agreement between us.”
“Which is valid for another year,” he pointed out.
“I thought the agreement was only for one year.”
“They were, in the past. When it came up for renewal last year, we agreed to increase it to two,” Robert said.
“I don’t remember having a conversation about extending the contract. I would like it terminated.”
There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line. “Have you found another manager?”
“Does it matter? Clearly, it would be best if we cut all ties, including professionally.”
