“The feedback has been way more than I ever expected. People think you’re funny, relatable, and kind. The ratings for your episodes have been stellar. Not only do the game shows want you, but the phone is starting to ring again on other projects.”

“Really? And what do the people on these calls say?”

“Do you have a minute? I have a list.”

Carly set down her fork in mystification. “Shockingly, I do.”

She heard the sound of shuffling paper. “I have an indie film script that they’re ready to simply sign you up for. It’s an offer, and a decent sized role, too. A couple of TV guest-starring gigs, an endorsement deal for an orange soda company, an Off-Broadway play is showing major interest, and the new Jackson Mullens film is moving into casting. They’ve reached out about your status. I left that one for last because I knew you’d flip out.”

Carly didn’t hesitate. “Tell me about the play.”

“What? The play is not high profile. Jackson Mullens is.”

“Tell me about the play,” Carly said calmly, a second time.

“You’re stubborn, you know that?”

Carly laughed. “I’m charting a new course. I have new priorities.” She liked her world, of late, and had learned that what made her happy was more important than what would further her career. Status, as Fallon not so long ago pointed out, was not high on her list of priorities. Since she’d acknowledged that, the pressure had been off. She enjoyed her days, treated people with kindness, and daydreamed about a time she’d maybe get a second shot with the woman she loved. Yes, loved. She’d known it for a while now, but this was the first moment she’d actually allowed herself to accept what this was. She was gaga in love with Lauren Prescott and would follow her anywhere if she’d let her.

“Okay, let’s see here,” Alika said. She heard some clicking sounds, which meant Alika was bringing up the email. “They’re describing it as a contemporary piece by a new playwright, Heather Kim. A family drama about adult children coming to terms with secrets from their past.”

“I’ve heard of Heather Kim.” Several of her castmates from Starry Nights had gushed about her work, and recommended Carly read her stuff. She was all ears. “What are they asking for?”

A pause. “A meeting in New York.”

“Set it up for me?” Carly asked.

“Is this really what you want? More stage?”

Carly didn’t hesitate. “I might have the bug.” She smiled. “Honestly, Alika, nothing was more satisfying than the run of Starry Nights. I feel like I’m a better actor for it and want to do more.”

“Fair enough, Little Miss Stubborn. I’m on it.”

“Thank you.”