I read an article once that said an actor should have two auditions prepared in case someone else has the same piece ready, also so you can read the room and do whatever feels the most appropriate at that time. I had “Don’t Rain on My Parade” from Funny Girl and I had the “I Don’t Tip” speech from Reservoir Dogs memorized, which could be a controversial choice but a surprising one, I think.

Keep them on their toes.

I snapped my compact closed and moved my face closer to the mirror over the sink.

“It’s opening night,” I said, pulling an orange hair off my face. “It’s opening night and it’s time to put on a SHOW.”

The whole way to my audition I sang “Don’t Rain on my Parade” under my breath, infusing it into my system. I wasn’t expecting to turn the corner and run into Tanner. But there he was, standing outside the auditorium in his soccer jersey and jeans, grinning like he was holding a package for me.

Special delivery.

“Anne Shirley.” He smiled wide. “How can I help you this fine morning?”

I reached for the door. “I’m here for the auditions, Tanner Spencer. Please move.”

“Oh ho no.” Tanner moved slightly so he bumped my arm out of the way. “Just hold on a minute.”

“Tanner,” I said evenly. “Move. Now.”

“Guess you’ve never auditioned for a play in Greenville before.” Tanner crossed his arms over his chest. “You got your audition ready?”

I buttoned my lips together.

“You got your outfit.” He nodded at my pants. “Got the password?”

“What password?”

“Oh, if you’re going to audition for a play here, you got to have a password. If you don’t. . .” Tanner held up his hands. “What can I do?”

His face bobbed in front of me, swimming on a sea of psychic steam that was clearly pouring out of my ears. He had a zit on the tip of his chin.

“You know what? I’m going to give you two guesses.” Tanner’s teeth flashed.

“Tanner.”

“Three guesses. For the new girl.”

My face was getting hot, not helped by the fact that I was wearing a turtleneck, which was funneling all my body heat into my cheeks.

“Tanner.” My voice burned. I looked down the hall, which was empty.

“You think the password is Tan ne r?”

I visualized my fist connecting with Tanner’s jaw, cracking that smile off his face. The vision was powerful. But I also knew I was a hallway away from my mom’s office.

But still, it was a very satisfying idea and Tanner was being a jerk.

“How about zit?” I said. “Is ZIT the password?”

I rubbed my chin with my middle finger.