If youÕd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com.Ê Please refrain from sending suggestions or corrections.Ê ThatÕs the job of my publisherÕs editor.
Helix
by
Kim Pritekel
Part 3
Chapter 8
Rae was already in the office when Tonya arrived with a box full of a can of coffee, powdered creamer and a can of sugar.Ê She peeked her head into RaeÕs office as she passed by.
ÒMorninÕ.Ó
ÒHey, Tonya.Ê Be there in a sec.ÓÊ Rae made finished the email she was typing, then headed out to help set up for the auditions.Ê Six people would be parading into the downtown offices, the first Ñ Kali Rasmussen Ñ due to arrive in forty-five minutes.Ê The thought made her stomach churn a bit, nervous butterflies flapping all around her insides.Ê
Tonya, oblivious to RaeÕs predicament, headed into the main room where their secretary usually was, and began to set up the coffee maker sheÕd borrowed from her mother.Ê She didnÕt want to make espresso for the auditions, so figured good olÕ fashioned coffee and water would do the trick.Ê Those waiting would wait in the main room, the others doing their cold read in TonyaÕs office, which was a bit bigger than RaeÕs.
ÒDid you get the Irish Cream?Ó Rae asked, looking through the box of coffee goodies.
ÒNo.Ê You didnÕt ask me to.ÓÊ Tonya snatched the package of filters from RaeÕs hands, tearing into the plastic and plucking one out.
ÒI thought I did,Ó Rae said, brows drawn.
ÒAnd you thought wrong.Ê Here.ÓÊ Tonya shoved a small packet of papers into RaeÕs hands.Ê ÒGo make copies.Ê Those are the scenes you wanted done today, right?Ó
Rae read over what sheÕd been handed while Tonya set about making coffee and getting everything set up.Ê ÒWhereÕs scene forty-eight?Ó
Tonya looked at her business partner like she had three heads, then she remembered.Ê ÒShit!Ê I forgot.Ê IÕm sorry.Ê Here, finish this, IÕll go-Ò
ÒNo.Ê Finish the coffee.Ê IÕll go print it out.ÓÊ Rae trotted off to her office, barely in her seat before she pulled up the script for Shadows.Ê She isolated the scene she wanted, then hit print, the printer spitting out the page and a half that was scene forty-eight.Ê It was an important scene for AmberÕs character, and Rae wanted to see if Kali could handle it.Ê As if on cue, RaeÕs cell rang, the number reading KaliÕs.Ê ÒHey.Ó
ÒHi.Ê IÕm kinda lost,Ó Kali laughed, her voice sounding far away through the cell connection.Ê ÒI turned onto Kipling.Ê Now where?Ó
Rae directed the actress to the building, her palms beginning to sweat as she slapped her phone closed.Ê She rubbed her hands on the thighs of her jeans, glancing at the clock.Ê Kali was thirty minutes early.Ê She headed out to the outer office where the coffee was set to make, the machine groaning and leaking into the glass carafe.Ê
ÒKaliÕs on her way,Ó she said, trying to seem as casual as possible.
ÒWow.Ê She must be excited to do this.Ê Early.ÓÊ Tonya was setting up chairs, which Rae helped her do.Ê TheyÕd brought in a half dozen metal chairs Ñ borrowed from the soundstage Ñ the day before.Ê Stepping back, Tonya looked around to make sure everything was ready to go.Ê ÒDid you get the scene?Ó
Rae wiggled the pages over her head, then felt her stomach drop as the elevators
just outside the office dinged open.Ê The harmless butterflies in her stomach
from moments before instantaneously turned into fighter pilots engaging in a
dog fight around her heart.Ê She needed a breath, and she needed it now.
She hurried off toward TonyaÕs office, telling herself that she had to get the camera ready, when in fact, sheÕd done that when sheÕd first arrived that morning.Ê Blowing out several deep breaths, Rae glanced out one of TonyaÕs windows.Ê ÒGet it together,Ó she whispered, able to hear her heart hammering away.Ê Out in the other room she could hear the office door open then close, Tonya greeting someone, then the familiar voice of Kali Rasmussen.
Kali took the hand that was offered to her, shaking TonyaÕs hand.Ê ÒIÕm sorry IÕm so early,Ó she said, surreptitiously looking around for Raeann.Ê Her heart was hammering in her chest, and sheÕd never admit that the reason she was so early was because she couldnÕt wait.Ê She was so excited about the project, and to meet Rae.
Her attention was caught when she heard shuffling to her right.Ê She turned to look and saw a hallway with a woman standing in it, leaning casually against the doorframe.Ê She knew it was Rae, taking in her baggy corduroys with a red t-shirt, the white sleeves of a long tee underneath.
Rae met KaliÕs gaze, and felt her breath catch.Ê Kali was gorgeous, and she had no words.Ê Pushing off the doorframe, she walked over to the actress, taking the hand Kali offered.Ê ÒHi.Ê IÕm Rae.Ó
KaliÕs smile was radiant, her entire being glowing with it.Ê Rae felt the same hit between her eyes as sheÕd felt the first time sheÕd seen KaliÕs picture.Ê She knew this woman, and felt she knew her with her whole heart.
ÒItÕs so nice to finally meet you, Rae,Ó Kali said, her own mind whirling with thoughts.Ê She looked into the writerÕs eyes, and there she saw her entire soul.Ê She saw someone who was kind and gentle, someone who was wise, her wisdom far older than either of them.Ê Looking deeper within, she saw RaeÕs nervousness, which matched her own.Ê She saw a comfort within the other woman, something that called out to her in a way she couldnÕt quite grasp.Ê It made no sense, and she didnÕt question it.Ê These were thoughts and feelings to examine later.Ê
Tonya watched the two women closely.Ê She had been curious to see how Rae would react, knowing full well that Rae had quite the crush.Ê But, as she watched, she saw something that she hadnÕt expected.Ê There was a connection between the two that was palpable.Ê It was almost like a bolt of lightning traveling from one to the other, crackling with energy, though it wasnÕt sexual energy, exactly.Ê It wasÉ something more.Ê She watched RaeÕs reactions to Kali with great interest.Ê Her friend was normally quite, reserved, but as she talked with the actress, she was vibrant, animated, and quite chatty.Ê
Rae didnÕt even notice as Tonya slipped away.Ê She couldnÕt take her eyes from KaliÕs as they talked.Ê She could see a light coming from the green depths that reached out and gave her a zap of life and energy.Ê She couldnÕt remember the last time sheÕd felt so alive.Ê She could have talked to Kali all day but the office door opened, and Stacy walked in, looking less-than-thrilled to have to be at work on a Saturday morning.Ê
ÒHey, Stace,Ó Rae said, giving Kali an apologetic smile before heading over to the receptionist.Ê
Kali watched as Rae instructed on the young blond on what needed to be done, explaining the consent forms, showing the two manila folders that had been set up: one for consent forms, the other for headshots.Ê
Slowly people began to file in as it got closer to the hour.Ê Stacy was busy directing everyone to sign in and fill out the consent forms, consenting for Foster Films to use their image on video, as the auditions would be taped.Ê Rae had disappeared into the inner office ten minutes ago, so Kali sat in one of the chairs, chatting with some of the other actors who had arrived, including an adorable ten year old little girl, who she wound out was there to audition to play AmberÕs daughter.Ê
Rae and Tonya got everything set up as they wanted in TonyaÕs office, a set up which would make things as painless as possible.Ê It was a small space to have auditions, but there werenÕt enough people to warrant renting a larger space, and using the soundstage was out of the question, so the offices would have to do.
Stacy tapped lightly on the door before entering, one of the folders in hand.Ê ÒHereÕs all the headshots and resumes.Ê Everyone is here.Ó
ÒGreat, thanks, Stacy,Ó Tonya smiled.Ê ÒWow.Ê I think thatÕs a first Ñ everyone to be on time.Ó
ÒThatÕs the truth.ÓÊ Rae plopped down in one of the chairs set out for her and Tonya behind TonyaÕs desk.Ê ÒWho do you want to start with?Ó
ÒWell,Ó Tonya said, shuffling through the headshots.Ê ÒI know the girl Ñ what was her name Ñ Tori?Ê She has to be out of here by ten.Ê They came up from Colorado Springs, and she has a play or something sheÕs doing there this afternoon.Ó
ÒOkay.Ê LetÕs start with her, then.Ó
ÒOkey doke.Ê IÕll grab her and Kali.Ó
Rae got two copies of the scene ready for the two actresses.Ê She was putting a huge gamble on Kali, not even considering anyone else for the role of Amber, so she hoped the redhead was good.Ê She felt in her gut that they had found their Amber.Ê She also felt in her gut a strong need to help KaliÕs career in any way she could.Ê She new from the actressÕ resume and their first conversation on the phone that Kali was just getting into the film industry, coming from a distant background of theater.
The door to the office opened and Tonya led Tori and Kali inside.Ê Rae smiled at them both and moved out from behind the desk and her booted up laptop.Ê ÒHey, guys.Ê Welcome.Ê This may be a little different, but I like to have actors audition with other actors.Ê IÕm not a huge fan of the cold read or monologue,Ó Rae made a face to emphasize her point.Ê ÒSo, that said, Tori, Kali, are you guys okay with doing this together?Ó
ÒSure,Ó Kali said.Ê ÒIÕm good with it.ÓÊ Tori nodded her agreement, the cute, freckled-face girl exactly what Rae wanted in the 9 year old character of Laura.
ÒCool.Ê Then letÕs begin.Ó
As the two actresses read over their scene for a moment, Tonya got the camera ready, making sure it was focused and that both Kali and Tori were in frame.Ê
Kali looked up.Ê ÒReady?Ó
ÒWhenever you are,Ó Rae said, glancing up from her laptop as she typed a few notes.Ê ÒGo ahead and slate for us, guys, both of you.Ê Your name, part youÕre reading for and your phone number.Ó
Kali slated first, followed by Tori.Ê That finished, Rae watched intently as Kali sat on a chair, script in her left hand, using her right to put physical movements into the scene.Ê RaeÕs eyes bounced back and forth between the two.Ê She was amazed at the look of matured concentration on ToriÕs face.Ê It was reminiscent of Dakota Fanning.
The scene being done was an intense one, and it was a fairly pivotal moment in the film.Ê More than once Rae had asked herself why she was entrusting a very new actress with a part like Amber.Ê Why was she taking such a chance?Ê Rae realized it was silent, all eyes on her as the scene had been finished.
ÒDid you get it or do you want to see it again?Ó Tonya asked softly, standing behind the camera next to Rae.
ÒGuys, let me see that one more time.Ê Tori, I want you go ahead and move a little to your rightÉ yes.Ê Perfect.Ê Kali, can you please tuck your hair behind your right ear?Ê ItÕs obstructing your face.Ê Awesome.Ê Thanks, ladies.Ê Okay, letÕs take it again.Ó
This time Rae cleared her mind, giving her full attention to what was happening before her.Ê Truthfully the two actresses didnÕt really need to do anything different, but Rae felt she needed to give them some sort of direction so they knew she was paying attention.Ê She was struck as the two began again, this time the emotions flowing from Kali in waves.Ê Rae was riveted, unable to take her eyes or attention away from her.Ê Kali was such a natural.Ê She was not using any sort of method, or acting technique.Ê Rae knew that what she was seeing was coming from her soul, from the core of her instinct, and she was blown away.
The scene was completed, and again Tori and Kali looked to Rae for instruction.Ê Rae could only sit back in her chair, staring at the two.Ê ÒWow,Ó she said finally, unable to formulate a full sentence or thought.
ÒGuys, can I get you to go one more time?Ó Tonya asked, surprising Rae.Ê She felt they had it.Ê She glanced up at her friend, only to see Tonya fiddling with something on the camera.Ê She knew Tonya was up to something, but wasnÕt sure what.Ê SheÕd find out in time.
Rae watched the third take, just as spellbound as sheÕd been the time before, this time able to focus on Tori as well, but just barely. Her eyes were drawn back to Kali time after time.Ê She couldnÕt shake the feeling of a treasure found.
The scene was finished, and Kali took a deep breath.Ê Her emotions were at the surface, which surprised her.Ê She smiled at the little girl who had just shared that emotional roller coaster with her, and felt a bond.Ê ÒYou did great, Tori,Ó she said softly.Ê The kid grinned from ear to ear.
ÒSo did you.Ó
Rae normally would wait, talk things over with Tonya, but she felt in her gut, she had just found her Laura and Amber.Ê She stepped out from behind the desk and walked over to the actresses.Ê ÒListen, I normally wait, but I canÕt.Ê Tori, IÕd like you to be our Laura.Ê Are you okay with that?ÓÊ The little girlÕs squeal made everyone laugh.Ê Rae met KaliÕs gaze, seeming to share a secret communication with her, just for a moment.Ê Rae turned to Tonya, who didnÕt look at all surprised.Ê ÒIÕm going to go talk to ToriÕs mom.Ó
Kali watched Tori and Rae leave, then turned back to Tonya, who was grinning at her.Ê ÒWhat?Ó
Tonya just shook her head, not wanting to share the amusement she felt at RaeÕs reaction to the beautiful redhead.Ê ÒNothing.Ê You did fantastic.Ê I was really impressed.Ó
ÒReally?Ó Kali said, surprised, especially after the disaster that had been her last attempt.Ê
ÔYes, really.Ê Great job.Ó
Rae walked back in, blowing out a breath.Ê She knew she definitely wanted Kali as her Amber, but knew that if she told Kali that, there would be absolutely no reason for her to stay, and sheÕd go.Ê Rae wasnÕt ready to let her go, yet.Ê A thought occurred to Rae.Ê ÒKali, would you be willing to stay, read with the other actors?Ê I want them all to have someone to read against.Ó
ÒYes!Ê Definitely!ÓÊ Kali was overjoyed, as she wasnÕt ready to leave, either.Ê ÒWhat do you want me to read?Ó
The next two hours were some of the most fun of KaliÕs life.Ê She, Tonya and Rae laughed, joked around, and Kali was able to stretch her acting legs like she hadnÕt been able to for a long, long time.Ê She read four different characters against the remaining actors.Ê She was tired but exhilarated.Ê Finally Tonya went out to talk with Stacy, leaving Kali and Rae alone.
ÒI want you to be Amber, Kali,Ó Rae said, standing in front of where Kali sat on a folding chair.Ê ÒYou were amazing today.Ó
ÒThank you!ÓÊ Kali was beside herself.Ê She wanted nothing more than to run over to Rae and give her a huge hug, but something stopped her.Ê ÒIÕd be honored to play her.Ê Thank you so much.Ó
Rae chuckled.Ê It seemed as though Kali would bounce right out of her chair, she was so excited.Ê
ÒHow many actresses did you have lined up to try out for Amber?Ê Or how many have you seen?Ó
Rae grinned, all nice and evil.Ê ÒNone.Ê Just you.Ê I took a gamble, and just hoped you didnÕt suck.Ó
Kali laughed, surprised and charmed.Ê ÒYouÕre kidding?Ê Just me?Ê Really?ÓÊ
ÒYup.Ê I donÕt know what it was.ÓÊ Rae cocked her head to the side, looking down at the redhead.Ê ÒJust something about you.Ê You were Amber to me.Ó
ÒCan I ask you a question?Ó
ÒSure.Ó
ÒDo I look like a drug-addicted, white trash mom or something?Ó ÊKaliÕs eyes sparkled with mischief.Ê
Rae laughed.Ê ÒNo, why?Ó
ÒBecause the last project I worked on, they cast me as a drug addict, and I also had a daughter.Ê IÕm just wondering if I give off the addict vibe, or something.Ó
Ònope.Ê Just got the white trash look.Ó
Kali gasped, but settled when Rae broke into laughter.Ê ÒNice.Ê Thanks.Ó
Tonya came back in, a tired, but satisfied look on her face.Ê ÒThatÕs all, folks.Ê WeÕre all clear.ÓÊ She looked at Rae, knowing her all too well.Ê ÒDid you offer it to her, yet?Ó
Rae looked away, not wanting them to see her blush.Ê ÒYep.Ê SheÕs our Amber.Ó
ÒGreat!ÓÊ She walked over to Kali, who stood from her chair.Ê ÒWelcome aboard, Kali.Ó
ÒThank you.Ê Thank you both so much.Ê This was truly the most fun IÕve had in a long time.Ó
ÒSame here.ÓÊ Rae stuffed her hands into the pockets of her cords, rocking nervously on her Vans.Ê
Kali grabbed her jacket from where sheÕd left it on a chair two hours before.Ê She pushed her arms into the leather sleeves and adjusted her hair over the collar.Ê She looked at Rae, who was looking back at her, and smiled.Ê She didnÕt want to leave.Ê ÒWell, guys, thanks again.ÓÊ
She headed for the door, but stopped, turning back around.Ê Tonya was the first one she came to, so she gave the older woman a quick hug, then hurried over to her true target.Ê
Rae closed her eyes as she returned the embrace, which was tight and warm.Ê It felt like her world had righted itself as she felt Kali against her.Ê She felt her squeeze, and so Rae squeezed back.Ê She didnÕt want to let her go, felt as though sheÕd be missing a part of herself if she did.Ê Even so, propriety had other ideas.Ê Kali slowly moved away, giving Rae a radiant smile, then left the office, leaving Rae feeling bereft and very alone.
Chapter 9
The sky was the color of a robinÕs egg, white, puffy clouds floating by, as though propelled by an unseen hand.Ê The greens, blues and browns of the surrounding wooded area, mountains and hills and grass were lush.Ê She walked along, holding the reigns of the horse in one hand, a warm hand in the other.Ê She could feel the presence next to her; warmth of body and spirit.Ê She looked over and up, but could not see the face of her companion.Ê It didnÕt matter, as she knew she was safe.Ê She knew she was loved and protected.Ê
Suddenly, fire swept the land, screams of agony and regret echoing in the valley.Ê She was running, the wind sweeping through her long, dark hair.Ê Running, running, falling.Ê The weightlessness, the cold air rushing up to meet her as did the ground, far below, but coming closer.Ê
A scream.Ê A word called, yelled, desperate for it to reach her ears.Ê HeÕs calling me.Ê HeÕs alive.Ê The ground is closeÉ
KaliÕs eyes opened, a gasp ripped from her throat.Ê Her palms were sweating, breath stolen from her lungs.Ê She took several deep breaths, then looked over at the alarm clock.Ê The glowing red numbers read 3:21.Ê It was cold in the house, a shiver running through her as she shoved the covers aside and tossed her legs over the side of the bed.Ê Staying as quiet as she could so as not to wake up David, she pulled on her robe and slippers, and shuffled out of the bedroom, closing the door behind her.
Kali managed to stifle a cry as she kicked one of LachlanÕs toys that had been left lying in the middle of the hall.Ê She picked it up, carrying it with her through the dark house until she reached the kitchen, where she knew she could safely turn a light on without rousing the house.Ê She placed the toy on the counter and began to search through cabinets, looking for what, she wasnÕt sure.Ê All she knew was that she was wide awake now, and disturbed from the dream, only remnants still with her.Ê
She decided some decaf coffee sounded good, never able to drink regular as it made her heart beat at a very uncomfortable cadence.Ê She readied the machine, then walked over to the window above the sink, looking out into the inky blackness of early morning.Ê Her alarm would be going off in about two and a half hours.Ê Maybe sheÕd just stay up.Ê Whether she did or she didnÕt, work was going to suck.Ê SheÕd be exhausted.Ê
As the coffee made, she headed into the home office, booting up the computer.Ê She needed to pay some bills, so decided to be productive with her early morning.Ê
Ten minutes later, hot mug in hand, Kali logged onto her bankÕs website, checking over her and DavidÕs accounts before logging onto the Verizon site, paid her bill, then moved on to all the utilities.Ê Bills paid and account depleted, Kali logged into her email, resting her cheek against her fist as she lazily scrolled through the messages, many of which were spam.
ÒCanÕt say as I really feel the need to enlarge my penis, or see Cindy take it from behind,Ó she muttered, deleting the unwanted messages.Ê She smiled when she saw she had one from Rae.Ê Clicking on it, she sipped from her coffee as she read:
ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ Hey, Kali.Ê Thank you so much for coming to auditions the other day.Ê It was great to finally meet you, and you were fantastic!Ê I really look forward to working with you on this project.Ê By the way, I was so impressed with your audition, IÕd really like to talk to you about an upcoming project we have.Ê I think youÕd be perfect for it.Ê IÕd love to talk to you more about it.
ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ Rae
Kali felt her stomach drop as nervous little fingers poked at her.Ê ÒOh my god,Ó she breathed, elation beginning to override the nerves.Ê As she sat back in her chair, she studied the words before her.Ê She had seen RaeÕs future with just one look into the writerÕs soul, but had not imagined that her own future would be influenced and affected by that.Ê
Curious, Kali hit the reply button:
ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ Hey, Rae!Ê I had such a blast at the audition.Ê Thank you guys for including me in the whole day.Ê You and Tonya are great!Ê I have to admit, you surprise me by already wanting to involve me in a second project.Ê IÕm excited, and am interested to know what it is.Ê Would you mind sending me a script, or telling me more about it?
ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ Take care and IÕll talk to you later.
ÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ Kali
Kali shut down the computer, thinking about the current project she would be doing for Rae.Ê The part of Amber though important, was small.Ê Maybe that was what Rae had in mind for her for a second project.Ê Kali couldnÕt help the goofy grin that spread across her lips.Ê Maybe she would be able to fulfill a life-long dream and see herself on the big screen.Ê Or, maybe sheÕd fulfill another dream and see her name listed on the IMdb website.Ê There was a list Kali had in her head, little checkmarks next to those things sheÕd achieved.Ê The list was long, but she felt she was on her way to marking off every single item on it.
***
Rae was sitting in the production offices, going over the last few signed contracts that had been sent from Foster FilmsÕ attorney.Ê Music played softly from her laptop speakers, her foot tapping absently with the beat.Ê Satisfied that everything was in order and a go, she gathered all the contracts together, tapping them into line, then pushed away from the desk, rolling over to the filing cabinet theyÕd brought with them from their downtown offices, and filed the contracts away.Ê The next round would be starting soon, those connected to the newest talent that had been cast.Ê
Pre-production was swiftly coming to an end, and Rae had a day free, so decided to spend it going through every detail of what had been done, making sure that every ÔTÕ was crossed, and every ÔIÕ dotted.Ê Principle shooting would begin soon, and Rae was more than ready.Ê She turned back to the desk, grabbing a file folder that had been brought with her from her home.Ê Inside were the schematics her 1st AD had drawn up after following Rae and the Director of Photography around the various locations, as well as the soundstage sets.Ê The schematics plotted out every camera position, every place a light would be set up, and what kind, including any gels that would be used.Ê The schematics showed whether tripods would be used, dollies and tracks, cranes, or handheld.Ê
Grabbing a pencil from the deskÕs long, skinny pen tray drawer, she was about to make a few marks when her cell phone chirped to life.Ê She picked it up, flipping it open.
ÒHello?Ó
ÒI canÕt believe you want me to play a lead!Ó came the excited, nearly breathless voice.
Rae grinned, tossing the pencil to the desk.Ê She had emailed the script to her next project to Kali in the wee hours of the morning.Ê Apparently Kali had read it.Ê ÒThat I do.Ó
ÒBut why?Ê I donÕt get it?ÓÊ Kali was pacing outside her office building, unable to keep her excitement in check.Ê SheÕd opened her email once sheÕd gotten to work, shocked to see that Rae had responded to her own email less than an hour after it had been sent.Ê In RaeÕs response, she had attached the script, as well as the name of the character.Ê Before sheÕd even read it, Kali had scrolled through the pages, seeing the characterÕs name on page after page after page.
ÒBecause youÕre immensely talented, Kali.Ê I see it in you.Ê That plus your personality, youÕre a dead ringer for Samantha.Ó
ÒWow,Ó Kali blew out, sitting on the curb.Ê ÒMy husband is going to freak,Ó she chuckled.Ê ÒHeÕll be so excited.Ó
ÒGood.Ê He should be.Ê HeÕs got an incredibly talented wife on his hands.Ó
KaliÕs excitement ebbed as a thought occurred to her.Ê ÒRae, David and I are wanting to have a second baby.Ê I was going to try and get pregnant soon.Ê Should I put it off?Ó
ÒNever put your personal life off, Kali.Ê ThatÕs too important.Ó
ÒBut, I want to do this.ÓÊÊ Kali chewed on her bottom lip until she tasted her lip gloss in her mouth.Ê ÒWow.Ê When do you want to start filming?Ó
ÒWell, we still have to shoot Shadows, then get through post.Ê We already have investors involved, so, IÕd say weÕll be going into pre-production in about another five months.ÓÊ Rae lazily twisted the chair back and forth, her fingers playing with the once-abandoned pencil.
ÒThatÕs pretty soon,Ó Kali said, smiling at a co-worker who was coming back from lunch.Ê ÒI need to talk this over with my husband.Ê I have my job to think about, too.ÓÊ Kali felt her heart fall at all the complications her current life would bring to her newly-found acting career.Ê ÒDo I have to give you a decision right away?Ó
Rae smiled, completely charmed.Ê ÒNope.Ê You take all the time you need.Ê Once we finish this film, we can talk more about it.Ó
ÒOkay.Ê IÕve got a lot to think about.Ê I mean, what would I do with my son?Ê Where are you filming?Ê Here in Denver?ÓÊ Kali pushed up from the curb, wiping the seat of her pants as she headed back inside the building.
ÒNot sure yet, but it wonÕt be here.Ê Probably in either New Mexico or Canada.Ó
Kali blew out a breath.Ê Oh.Ê Wow.ÓÊ She felt overwhelmed, yet extremely excited that Rae would consider her for such a role.Ê ÒI still canÕt believe you want me for this, Rae.Ê ItÕs just, wow.Ó
Rae grinned.Ê ÒYouÕre that good, Kali.Ó
ÒWell,Ó Kali blew out, a surge of excitement rushing through her.Ê ÒI have to get back to work.Ê I was just so excited, I had to call.Ó
ÒYou call anytime.Ê I enjoy talking to you.Ó
ÒMe, too.ÓÊ Kali waived to the guards sitting at the desk in the lobby of the building as she hurried toward her department.Ê ÒWell, I have to go, but maybe IÕll give youÊ a call on my way home.Ó
ÒYeah, please do.ÓÊ Rae couldnÕt keep the smile off her face at the thought.
***
Rae sat up on the kitchen counter, heels of her boots tapping lightly on the cabinets below.Ê She sipped her bottle of water as Tonya leaned against the opposite counter.Ê
ÒRae, do you realize this could be disastrous with the investors?Ó the older woman asked, intense gaze boring into Rae.Ê ÒThis could be a legal issue, offering roles to people before weÕre even on that project.Ó
Rae could tell that Tonya was irritated at her, and suspicious.Ê Yes, Rae could be impetuous, but typically never when it came to the business.Ê The fact that she was already talking to Kali about a role, and had offered it to her, was out of the ordinary, and she new she had some serous explaining to do.Ê The problem was, her decision had been made purely out of gut instinct; there was no fact behind it.Ê ÒI know it seems odd, Tonya.Ê Trust me, I do.Ó
ÒOdd?ÓÊ Tonya began to pace along the length of RaeÕs kitchen.Ê ÒThis goes beyond odd, Rae.ÓÊ She paused, studying her friend.Ê It made her feel better that Rae met her gaze dead on Ñ she wasnÕt hiding anything.Ê ÒWhatÕs going on?Ê WhatÕs up with this woman?Ê I know youÕve got a crush-Ò
ÒItÕs not a crush, Tonya,Ó Rae said quietly.Ê She let out a sigh, setting her bottle down and crossing her arms over her chest.Ê She hadnÕt talked about it out loud, and was glad to finally be able to do so.Ê She was beginning to think she was crazy.Ê She hopped down from the counter Ñ her favorite perch Ñ and set about making coffee.Ê This would be a lengthy conversation, she knew.Ê She was glad, as Tonya was a level-headed woman, not inclined to a lot of the whimsical fancy that Rae experienced as a writer.Ê Tonya was down to earth, and logical.
Tonya could tell something was really bothering her friend, and had been since the day sheÕd first seen Kali RasmussenÕs email.Ê She was hoping they could finally get to the bottom of it, before it led Rae to do something stupid.Ê
Rae scooped in the coffee grounds into the paper filter as she began to speak.Ê ÒThe moment I saw KaliÕs picture I was struck.Ê I mean, yeah, I thought she was beautiful and all that, but it was more than that, Tonya.ÓÊ She glanced over her shoulder at her friend to gauge TonyaÕs reaction.Ê The older woman was simply waiting for more, her face impassive.Ê ÒI felt a connection to her, and I felt,Ó Rae paused, unsure if she wanted to say it out loud.Ê Òlove.ÓÊ RaeÕs laugh was mirthless.Ê ÒItÕs crazy, I know.Ê Somehow I knew that the feeling of love didnÕt come from this lifetime.Ê It was like, I donÕt know.Ê It was like my soul knew her somehow, from somewhere, and thatÕs where it came from.Ê Another time.ÓÊ She turned to face her business partner.Ê ÒDoes that make sense?Ó
ÒTell me more.Ó
ÒIn order to do that, I have to tell you about Siege.Ó
ÒSiege?Ê Rae, I donÕt need to know about a story-Ò
ÒHush, and listen.Ó
Tonya listened quietly as Rae weaved her tale, explaining about the presence that had been with her over her entire life, leading her to write the novel, Siege, which would soon be a film from their company.Ê She listened as she was told about KaliÕs email, and how she had been affected when reading the online synopsis of the story, and RaeÕs suspicions as to just where the two women had known each other before.Ê
ÒWow,Ó Tonya said at last.Ê ÒYou know, I have to be honest.Ê I watched you two at the auditions, and you guys have a palpable connection, Rae.Ê Anyone can see it.Ê I truly thought it was just a crush, but did begin to question it after that.Ê I realized that it was coming from both sides Ñ you and Kali.Ó
ÒDo you?Ê Really?Ê Cause, IÕm telling you, Tonya, I feel like IÕm crazy.Ê This woman isnÕt gay.Ê I know that much, but I swear I can feelÉ something.Ê SheÕs married.Ó
ÒI know.Ê What do you mean, when you talk about the love you felt?Ê Do you still feel it?ÓÊ Tonya walked over to the coffee pot, which had finished brewing during RaeÕs story.Ê She poured them both a cup, handing one to Rae.
Rae sipped, contemplating the question.Ê How did she feel?Ê She definitely felt a connection to Kali, and it was one that made no sense.Ê They hadnÕt spoken much, had only met in person once, and yet she felt it.Ê It was almost as though from the moment Kali had stepped into their offices for the audition, her soul had begun to cry out for the actress.Ê ÒIÕm not sure.Ê IÕm trying to wade through emotion and logic.Ó
ÒCan logic really be used in this situation?Ê It seems to me like itÕs a fairly illogical thing.Ó
ÒThat it is.Ê One thing I do want you to know, Tonya, is my offering Kali the role has nothing to do with all this craziness.Ê I asked her because intuitively I know sheÕs the right one for the part.Ê I swear.Ó
Tonya nodded, believing Rae.Ê She could see it in her eyes.Ê ÒI know.Ê But I do hope you took to heart my warning.Ê DonÕt make this a habit.Ó
Rae chuckled, shaking her head.Ê ÒNope.Ê Somehow I donÕt think this kind of thing will come up again.ÓÊ She was about to say more but was interrupted by her cell phone ringing to life.Ê She walked into the living room, where it lay on the couch, and looked at the caller I.D. screen.ÊÊ ÒItÕs Kali.Ó
Tonya smirked, walking over to where sheÕd left her keys and phone on the kitchen counter.Ê ÒOkay.Ê IÕll leave you be to talk.ÓÊ She patted her friend on the shoulder as she passed her on the way to the door.
ÒSee you later,Ó Rae called out, then answered her phone.Ê ÒHello?Ó
ÒHi,Ó Kali said, her voice light and friendly, bringing an instant smile to RaeÕs face.Ê
ÒHey.Ê How are you?Ó
ÒGood.ÓÊ Kali glanced quickly into her rearview and side mirrors before changing lanes.Ê ÒIÕm on my way home from work.Ê God, what a long day.Ê I ended up having to do some overtime.Ó
ÓUgh.Ê I remember those days.ÓÊ Rae poured herself more coffee, then headed
into the living room, flopping down on the couch and folding her feet under
her.
ÒYeah, yeah, rub it in.Ê What are you doing?Ó
ÒI was just talking to Tonya.Ó
ÒOh!Ê IÕm sorry to interrupt.Ê Should I let you go?ÓÊ Kali felt her stomach fall in disappointment.Ê There was also a strange surge of jealousy that shot through her gut.
ÒNo.Ê WeÕre done.ÓÊ Rae sipped from her coffee, completely unaware of the turmoil in KaliÕs head.
ÒWill she mind that weÕre talking, then?Ó Kali asked, sending out her fishing line.Ê Rae had told her during their first phone conversation that she was a lesbian, and ever since sheÕd seen her and Tonya together at the audition, sheÕd wondered.Ê There was obviously a close familiarity between the two women, and Kali wondered just how close.Ê Another part of her brain screamed at her that it didnÕt matter.Ê Still, she had to know.
ÒNo.Ê Not at all.Ó ÊRae was slightly baffled by the question.
ÒYouÕre sure?Ê I donÕt to cause problemsÉÓ
Ding!Ê A light lit in RaeÕs mind.Ê ÒOh, no.Ê Not at all.Ê ItÕs not like that.Ê SheÕs a friend and my business partner, but thatÕs all.Ó
ÒOh.ÓÊ Kali rolled her eyes at her own ridiculousness, but she did have to admit she felt a slight bit of relief.Ê Ridiculous.Ê Absolutely ridiculous.Ê ÒI had such a crazy day at work today.Ó
Rae moved from sitting on the couch to lying on the floor to pacing through her house, to sitting back up on the kitchen counter as their conversation continued.Ê She was shocked when she looked at the clock on the stove, realizing that theyÕd been talking for more than two and a half hours.Ê
ÒAre you still on your way home?Ê How far away do you work from your house?Ó she asked.
Kali laughed.Ê ÒNo.Ê IÕm sitting in the parking lot outside my sonÕs daycare.Ê Shit!Ê I need to go in and get him.Ê They close in seven minutes.ÓÊ Kali felt panicked, guilt stabbing at her.
ÒOh, crap!Ó Rae chuckled.Ê ÒIÕd better let you go so you can go in and get him.Ó
ÒYeah.Ê Man, I donÕt want to hang up.Ê YouÕre so easy to talk to.Ê I canÕt believe how long weÕve been talking.Ó
ÒI know.Ê I just looked at the stove clock.Ê IÕm pretty surprised, too.Ê Would you believe me if I told you I donÕt like to talk on the phone?ÓÊ Rae tapped one heel against the cabinet, pulling the other leg up, her foot resting on the counter she sat on.
ÒNo,Ó Kali laughed.Ê ÒI wouldnÕt.Ê Every time weÕve talked, just about, itÕs been for an hour or more.Ê I think youÕre pretty much full of it.Ó
Rae grinned.Ê ÒYeah, yeah.Ê Thank god I have unlimited minutes on my phone.Ó
ÒI donÕt.Ê IÕm a little worried about my cell bill, to be honest.ÓÊ Kali climbed out of her car, slamming the door shut as she walked toward the Prim Rose Daycare Center, where her son awaited his mother.Ê ÒIn fact, write this number down, itÕs my home phone.Ó
Rae hopped down and hurried to her home office, scribbling down the number she was given.Ê ÒOkay, got it.Ê This is my only phone, so use it any time.Ó
ÒOkay.Ê Well, I see Lachlan, and he doesnÕt look happy, so IÕd better go.Ó
ÒOkay.Ê Thanks for calling, and IÕll talk to you later.Ó
ÒGood night, Rae.ÓÊ Kali slapped her phone shut and gathered her child, all the while feeling elated, her heart light and a smile on her face.Ê She felt so happy t hear RaeÕs voice, so happy to hear what she had to say, to know more about her.Ê She really didnÕt want to hang up with her, but David had already called in once during their conversation, and Kali felt incredibly guilty, as she hadnÕt answered his call.Ê
Chapter 10
The murmur of a television wasÊ heard in the background Ñ talking.Ê A newscast, perhaps.Ê She can feel carpeting beneath her hands, which held her body weight up as she sat.Ê She could feel she wasnÕt alone.Ê She closed her eyes as she turned her head, warm breath brushing against her cheek.Ê She felt fingers run through her hair, then soft lips press against her ownÉ
Kali gasped as her eyes opened.Ê She looked around the bedroom, DavidÕs soft, even breathing putting her at ease, yet sending a shot of guilt to her gut.Ê She knew the person in her dream hadnÕt been her husband.Ê Deep down inside, she knew exactly had been the person who had kissed her, though she wasnÕt ready to admit it to herself in the stark reality of her marriage bed at 4:15 in the morning.Ê
Tired and not ready to be awake yet, Kali cleared her head of the images from her dream, and closed her eyes, preparing for sleep to take her once again.
***
Rae absently reached down at rubbed the head of her cat, Athena as she lay in bed, propped up on pillows.Ê She held the remote control in one hand as she watched an episode of Queer As Folk.Ê She watched as David asked Michael to move in with him, while Michael figured their relationship was over, considering how badly Michael had blown the dinner party David had held, inviting his snooty friends.Ê Rae marveled at how different the two characters were, and hadnÕt been surprised the first time sheÕd seen the show, to see that they finally split up.
Those thoughts brought her to her own previous relationships, all of which had ended fairly badly.Ê It had been a long time since sheÕd been in love, since sheÕd been touched or hell, since sheÕd even had sex.Ê She had decided to focus on her career, as that would never let her down.Ê It would never leave her, and she held the reins.Ê
Even so, her thoughts turned until she saw KaliÕs face before her mindÕs eye.Ê She had spoken to her earlier in the evening, when once again the actress had called her on her way home from work.Ê TheyÕd talked about just about every topic.Ê Rae had learned that Kali wasnÕt a huge fan of her mother-in-law, yet was close to her husbandÕs sister.Ê She had learned that, though Kali was close to her own parents and sister, yet was often so hurt because they had yet to accept her for who she was, instead they put demands on her that crushed her free spirit.Ê
Rae thought about the connection she felt toward Kali, and considered talking to her about it.Ê To what end, she wasnÕt sure.Ê She just couldnÕt shake the feeling, nor could she shake the need and craving she had for Kali: to talk to her, to see her, to touch her.Ê TheyÕd start shooting in a week and a half, and KaliÕs scenes would be shot within the first week.Ê Rae was excited, but dreaded it at the same time.Ê She would see Kali, spend time with her over those two days, but then that would be it.Ê Rae would be so busy directing the film, and then the production would be heading to New Mexico for the final week of shooting.Ê SheÕd have no time to give to Kali at all.
SheÕd had a dream that had awoken her, leading to her middle-of-the-night Queer As Folk marathon.Ê The dream had bothered her in no small way.Ê Kali was a married woman.Ê She was a married straight woman Ñ a deadly combination.Ê Though sheÕd known women had found it a challenge to either sleep with or ÒconvertÓ straight women, Rae was not one of those.Ê Never, ever had she given a straight or married woman a second glance, because that wasnÕt her style, nor did she want that kind of game.Ê But she couldnÕt seem to turn away from Kali.
The episode ended so Rae got the next one started.Ê As the opening credits played, she stare blankly at the TV, not really seeing the male dancers, or the psychedelic colors.Ê She continued to see KaliÕs face, the sparkle in her eyes and she couldnÕt suppress a smile.Ê No one had ever made Rae feel so alive before.Ê It crazy and dangerously addictive.Ê
Though their conversations had been nothing but friendly, never anything even close to flirting, Rae felt the same addiction within Kali.Ê Even the night Kali had called after the conversation Rae had with Tonya.Ê Rae could sense that Kali was fishing, asking if Tonya would mind that she was calling.Ê KaliÕs tone had been nothing but friendly, even concerned in her questioning, but Rae knew.Ê Kali wanted to know that status between Tonya and the writer.Ê Why?Ê She thought she knew why, but was afraid to think in those terms.Ê Again, Kali was married.Ê There was no reason she should be wanting to know RaeÕs relationship status.Ê Unless she was simply curious about RaeÕs life.Ê
ÒYeah, thatÕs got to be it.Ó
***
ÒHey, Kali?Ó David called, wandering through the house buttoning his shirt.Ê He had just showered, the house alive with the three of them getting ready for their workday.
ÒYeah?Ó Kali called from the kitchen, where she was waiting for her bagel to finish toasting.Ê She rested her palm on the counter, her other hand resting on her hip.Ê David appeared in the doorway of the kitchen, his hair slicked back, shirt halfway buttoned.Ê ÒYou missed one,Ó she noted, pointing to the off-kilter pattern he was creating with the missed button.
David looked down at his shirt.Ê ÒShit.ÓÊ Quickly fixing it, he walked over to the fridge, grabbing the carton of orange juice and taking a swig.Ê He ignored his wifeÕs admonishment.Ê ÒAre you working overtime again tonight?Ó
Kali didnÕt turn around or take her eyes off the toaster.Ê She felt a wave of guilt wash over her.Ê Every night that week sheÕd sat outside LachlanÕs daycare, talking to Rae.Ê ÒNo.Ê IÕll be home normal time tonight.ÓÊ She smiled at him over her shoulder.
ÒGood.Ê I want to go out to that new Mexican place tonight for dinner.ÓÊ He walked over to his wife, placing a kiss on her cheek.Ê ÒI gotta go.Ê See you tonight.Ó
ÒÕKay.Ê I love you,Ó she called after him.
ÒLove you, too!ÓÊ The front door slammed, and a moment later the car started in the driveway.
Kali snatched her bagel when it popped up from the toaster slots, blowing out a breath.Ê ÒDamn,Ó she murmured.Ê She would miss talking to Rae.Ê Maybe sheÕd take a lunch and call her then.Ê Or, maybe sheÕd call her later on, from home.Ê