Lauren smiled, but understood she’d struck a sore spot. Carly was still struggling to be seen for the caliber of roles she was used to. “It’s going to take time, you know, to get them to think of you as a viable choice again. But they will.”

Carly offered a less than convincing smile. “Yeah. I’m sure you’re right.” A pause. “I hope you are.” She set her coffee cup on the counter. “While the executives figure that out, I’m going to hop in the shower.” To illustrate the claim, she freed herself of the T-shirt as she walked. Lauren blinked at her perfect, stark-naked body as she walked through the sunbathed kitchen. Carly turned back casually. “Wanna watch?”

Lauren decided then and there that she really, really liked Los Angeles.

Chapter Fifteen

The Fig and Olive on Melrose was hopping when Carly met Alika for lunch later that week. Luckily, her name was still good for a last-minute reservation. She’d worn her black suit, the sleek one with the pinstripes, paired with a starched white blouse and heels. She’d been told she looked killer in the outfit, and that’s how she wanted to be seen, as a serious commodity. At The Fig and Olive, you never knew what studio movers and shakers you might run into. In fact, she recognized a couple of executives just a few tables down. They’d nodded to her politely as she’d passed.

“Well, it’s certainly great to see you,” Alika said. Her hair was shorter than the last time they’d met. It suited her and brought out her beautiful brown eyes.

“It’s great to see you as well. I hope David and the kids are all right.”

“No one’s killed anyone this week, so we have that working in our favor, and that says a lot with Dynamite Davey in the mix. He’s four and ready to throw down.” It was truly nice to see Alika, and she enjoyed catching up. She also remembered the reason for their meeting, and it was business, but they’d get there. She’d waited while they ordered. She’d participated in small talk. She’d even taken time to admire the newly made-over restaurant decor. The live trees in the middle of the space were certainly breathtaking.

“So, here’s the state of things.” Alika moved them into the business lane and put Carly out of her misery.

“I’m ready.” She folded her hands on the table. “In more ways than one.”

“I know that. Trust me, and I’ve been working hard for you, Carly,” Alika said, just as she was presented with her quail salad. “I have a little something you might be right for, and though the role isn’t as meaty as you’re used to, it’s not a bad opportunity.”