Beverley said, "Avery and Leah have always been tight. He treats her like his own little sister." "So, does Leah see Avery as a big brother?" Marianne inquired.
Instead of answering, Beverley asked, "How did you end up as Avery's makeup artist? You're not trying to snag him, are you?" "I'm starstruck, not lovesick," Marianne chuckled, "Makeup artistry was always my career plan. Luck had it that Kiri, my mentor, recommended me. Imagine getting to work up close with Avery, making a living, and living the fan dream all at once." With a casual tone, Beverley said, "That's a relief. | wouldn't want you stirring up any tabloid gossip with Avery.
Aurelia and Arnold would be none too pleased." It was a veiled warning to Marianne.
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Marianne caught the drift and asked with a half-smile, "They don't want Avery dating?" "Avery's on fire worldwide. Hollywood big shots are extending olive branches, begging him to lead their next blockbuster. In the whole entertainment industry, you won't find another with his lethal combo of looks, acting chops, killer lines, and a voice to boot. And he's only twenty-three, in the prime of his life. If he starts dating, his fanbase would trigger a seismic meltdown. Any girl brave enough to date him would get a not-so-warm welcome from his hardcore fans," Beverley explained.
Marianne pouted, "Even superstars are human, not deities. Why shouldn't they date? If it's such a big deal, they could always keep it under wraps." Beverley shrugged, "I guess Avery hasn't found the right girl. He's been burned before. His heart was broken when his love left him in his hour of need. He's bound to be wary about diving into love again." "I heard about that. Bonnie's been begging for a second chance, but I'd be surprised if Avery took her back," Marianne said.
"Avery's got a soft spot for her, though, He looked out for her and got her a decent role in a Serenity Films production. Not a lead, but not bad either," Beverley replied.
Marianne gave a thumbs-up, "Avery's a big person." Watching Leah play with the kids, Marianne saw her chance and sidled up to Avery.
"Hey, Avery, how about a selfie? I'm your makeup artist, so no scandal worries," she beamed.
Avery didn't refuse. Marianne whipped out her phone and snapped a few pics.
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"You're a knockout. Using a beauty filter would be an insult," she praised.
Avery joked, "By that logic, seems | don't even need a makeup artist." Marianne playfully stuck out her tongue, "You'll always need one for the right look on camera, depending on the scene. Oh, and | never told you that Kiri is my mentor, we're both trained by the same person, my mom. Kiri's recommendation landed me this gig. Serenity Films wouldn't hire just anyone to glam up the industry's top star." Avery raised an eyebrow, "Kiri's not worried about you taking her spot?" Marianne said seriously, "Kiri's focus is shifting towards her family now. She won't be on set year-round anymore." Avery sighed, "Fair enough." Not far off, Leah was playing games with the kids. She noticed Marianne chatting easily with Avery and instinctively moved closer, but then hesitated and stepped back.
She didn't want to be seen as clingy, hovering whenever Avery talked to another girl. That was a surefire way to turn him off.
"William," she asked suddenly, "who do you think is prettier, Marianne or me?"