Next audition

Once Lily left, you got dressed again and headed back out. Your assistant handed you the next folder, and you saw it was for a young Black woman with curly hair, tattoos, and a decent body. Normally, for a show like this, you wouldn't even consider her—the role involved showing off too much skin for that amount of tattoos—but you decided, what could it hurt? You stepped into the waiting room and called out, "Amara, it's time for your audition."

You saw a hopeful look cross her face as she stood to follow you back to your office, though you could tell she was nervous. You gave her a reassuring smile as you sat behind the desk and motioned for her to take the chair across from you.

"Relax, Amara. We're just going to have a chat and see if you're a good fit for the role," you said, trying to put her at ease.

"So, tell me a little bit about yourself," you asked, glancing at her resume.

"Well, my name is Amara, and I've been acting for a few years now. I've been in a few short films and some commercials," she said confidently.

"That's great. Any credits we might recognize?" you inquired.

She looked at you for a moment before responding, "I was in a few episodes of a show called The Bold and the Beautiful."

"Oh, I know that show," you said, purposely trying to show that you were unimpressed by some daytime TV gig.

"So, tell me, what is it about this role that interests you?" you asked, trying to gauge her passion for the part.

"I love this character, and I think it would be a great challenge for me. I'm really excited about the opportunity to showcase my talents in a more dramatic role," she replied enthusiastically.

You nodded in agreement, impressed by her confidence and enthusiasm. "That's great, Amara. By the way, did you bring a headshot and resume with you?"

She produced them from her bag and handed them over. As you looked over her headshot, you couldn't help but admire her striking features and the way she captured the lens—but you also noticed her tattoos and let her see your hesitation.