Extra help from the studio

The next day at three in the afternoon a knock came at the door. Jennifer was on the treadmill, so she answered the door toweling off her dampened forehead. At the door stood a 30 year old woman, with a red bob of hair and bangs. She looked firm and formal in a skirted business suit and heels. Jennifer felt the slightest disadvantage, wearing a loose cotton tank top and shorts.

“Yes?” She asked. May I help you?”

“Jennifer? Hello, I'm Maryanne Barlow.” The woman extended her hand for a brief, curt handshake. “I've been hired by the studio to prepare you for you're role in the new show. May I come in?”

“Of course.” Jennifer said, letting the woman by her into the den. Inwardly, Jennifer was a little annoyed. It wasn't that unusual to receive some coaching before a role by the studio. Jennifer considered herself a professional though, and this was an unnecessary process for her.

“Well, what did you have in mind?” Jennifer asked, trying to be cordial. Maryanne reached into her purse and pulled out several large photo prints. Jennifer picked them up. They were from the last episode of Brianna's world. Three shots of her from various scenes.

“Those pictures were from the last time the audience saw the charter of Gretchen. This is how she's identified. Now, I can see that you've altered your appearance a a fair amount since then. We're going to need you to alter it back as much as we can.”

“What? Why?” Jennifer asked. She'd worked hard to look like she did now: A respectable young adult. Gretchen looked like an awkward teen.

“It's what the audience is expecting to see.” Maryanne explained. “Most of the audience base is returning fans. They want Gretchen, not the real life Jennifer Brigham.” She rose to her feet. She pulled a card from her purse and handed it to Jennifer.

“What's this?” Jennifer asked.

“The address of a stylist. I've already explained everything to them. You have an appointment tomorrow, they'll match you're appearance to the fans perspective.”

“Whoa, wait.” Jennifer said. This was all moving too fast. “I agreed to take a role, not to change everything about how I look!”

“Actually, that's exactly what you agreed to.” Maryanne explained. “You really should look over your contract. Anyways, this show will be a huge hit, be grateful for the opportunity.” Maryanne turned away, leaving Jennifer practically sputtering with anger. As she walked towards the door Maryanne hesitated by Jennifer's gym.

“Is this all yours?” Maryanne asked.

“Yes, of course it is.” Jennifer said. Maryanne looked to Jennifer, looking her up and down. Jennifer suddenly felt rather exposed in her workout clothes.

“What are you looking at exactly?” Jennifer asked, a catty edge in her voice.

“Well, you're very fit.” Maryanne said.

“Well, thank you.” Jennifer said, beaming a little at the compliment. She worked hard to get in shape and was glad when people noticed.

“Unfortunately, you're too fit. The character Gretchen is supposed to be getting you're degree in biochemistry. That wouldn't leave time to develop such muscles.” Maryanne turned on her heel and started walking away.

“I'll arrange for some people to come by tomorrow and pick up this equipment and put it in storage.” She said without looking back. Jennifer stood watching her leave, jaw dropped indignantly.

As soon as Maryanne left Jennifer called Frank.

“Yes Jennifer?” He asked from the other side of the phone.

“Frank, a woman just came by.”

“Oh yes, Maryanne. Quite an efficient woman.” Frank said.

“Well Frank, she just came in and made a bunch of outrageous demands!” Jennifer said.

“What demands were these?” Frank said, sounding a bit exasperated.

“She said I have to get my hair dyed and cut, that they were going to change my whole appearance!” Jennifer complained. “Frank, she said they were going to take my gym and put it in storage.”

“Yes Jennifer, that's all perfectly clear in the contract.”

“It is?” Jennifer said, shocked. She hadn't read the contract, she trusted Frank for such things.

“Yes, they have rights to do whatever they deem necessary cosmetically to get you to look the part. The gym equipment would be included, though it will still be yours, they will just hold it for the time being.”

“Frank, is this normal?” Jennifer asked, a bit ignorant to contracts.

“Well, honestly no, it's a bit demanding.” Frank explained. “But, at the rate they're giving you, it's not that out of line. They're putting a lot of money towards you. That means they're very invested in your character. Just go to the meeting, follow Maryanne's instructions, and in two months when filming begins you'll be fully ready. Then, after the first season's done you can go back to whatever hairstyle you prefer.”

“I...” Jennifer started. She didn't like this, but had no rational reason to argue it. If the pay was this good Jennifer could finally get out of debt.

“Okay Frank.” She said reluctantly. “I'll do what they say.”

“Great! You won't regret it!” Frank reassured her. “This show will put you on the map in a big way. A leading T.V. Role can lead to film, acclaim, the skies the limit!”

Frank had become an expert of working Jennifer over the years. He knew as he hung up the phone that she'd be dreaming about academy awards and Oscars all night.