Page 23 of Bold Encounter
During the break between sets, Genevieve made her way to Stephen Canton's table.He was a distinguished man in his fifties with silver hair and an expensive suit, known throughout the industry for his ability to spot talent and develop careers.
"Stephen, I'm so glad you could make it tonight," she said, extending her hand.
"Genevieve, wonderful performance, as always."He stood to greet her."I wanted to discuss possibilities with Pickford Recording.Do you have a few minutes?"
"Of course."Genevieve felt a thrill over the conversation that could change her career.It was the moment she'd anticipated.
But as Stephen began to speak about opportunities and touring possibilities, Genevieve became aware of another presence approaching their table.She looked up to see Jason Thornton walking toward them with a look of superiority, as if he had every right to join their conversation.
"Stephen Canton," Jason said, then extended his hand to the executive."Jason Thornton from Thornton Music Group.I don't think we've met."
Stephen shook Jason's hand politely."No, I don't believe we have."
"I've heard great things about your work at Pickford," Jason said.Without being invited, he pulled up a chair."I actually wanted to talk to you about Genevieve."
Genevieve felt her stomach drop.She glanced toward the bar and caught Abe's eye.He was already moving in their direction, but Jason was speaking quickly.
"Genevieve and I go way back," Jason said, in a casual tone."I gave her some of her first big breaks in the industry.She has amazing talent, though I have to say that working with her can be challenging."
"Challenging how?"Stephen asked.
"Oh, you know how artists can be with their creative temperament and all that."Jason laughed as if sharing an inside joke."She's had some personal issues lately that have affected her reliability.There were a few missed rehearsals, and some conflicts with band members.I'd hate to see a company like yours get caught up in any drama."
Rage coursed through Genevieve's veins."That's not true.Jason is—"
"Just concerned about your wellbeing, as always," Jason said without missing a beat."The music industry can be tough on someone who's dealing with any instability."
Abe appeared at the table, his presence immediately shifting the dynamic."Excuse me," he said."Mr.Thornton, isn't it?"
Jason looked up with a feigned surprise."Detective Stewart.Fancy meeting you here."
"I could say the same thing."Abe's gaze was steady."I thought you might want to know that there's been some concern about harassment issues in the local music scene.We're advising venue owners to be vigilant about any unwanted behavior toward performers."
The message was clear, and Jason's smile faltered slightly.But he recovered quickly, then stood and straightened his jacket.
"Well, I should be going anyway," he said."Stephen, it was a pleasure meeting you.Genevieve, always lovely to see you.I hope everything works out."
He walked away, as if nothing inappropriate had happened.But the damage was done.Genevieve could see the uncertainty in Stephen Canton's eyes.The seed of doubt that Jason had planted was taking root.
"Stephen, I can explain," she began, but the executive was already standing.
"Genevieve, you're incredibly talented, and I meant what I said about your performance tonight," Stephen said."But Pickford Recording needs to work with artists who are stable.Perhaps we should revisit this conversation in a few months when things have settled down."
He walked away, leaving Genevieve standing beside the table, watching a career opportunity slip through her fingers.
Abe placed a gentle hand on her back."I'm sorry.I got here as fast as I could."
"It doesn't matter."Genevieve's voice was flat with disappointment."The damage is done.Jason just destroyed my chance with Pickford Recording, and he did it without breaking any laws or even raising his voice."
"He's not going to get away with this."
"How can you stop him?He didn't threaten me or do anything illegal.He just had a conversation with an important executive."Genevieve felt tears threatening and fought them back."This is exactly what he wanted.He intended to hurt my career without giving you anything you can arrest him for."
The stage manager appeared beside them."Genevieve?You're on in five minutes."
She nodded, trying to compose herself.The show had to go on, regardless of what had just happened.She had a professional obligation to the audience and to the club.
"I have to perform the second set," she said to Abe."Can we talk about this afterward?"
