Showbiz

Disclaimer: Flashbacks may have characters as children, however in NO sexual contexts. Only plot related.

Eighteen years ago…

Natalia was a redheaded beauty. Amber eyes. Busty. A pleasant smile. Button nose. She wanted to be the next It-girl more than anything. Tried for seven years with only a couple commercials to her name. Her Russian accent and poor English was a deterrent. Smile and don’t talk — holding a shampoo bottle.

“You have a nice rack… I can set you up with a casting couch deal…” an agent said.

“Casting… Couch…?” She echoed.

The agent made a finger and hole, laughing.

Natalia turned up her nose. Eyes narrow.

“I am to win a Oscar! Not whore!” She said. Swiping the desk papers and pens.

“What’s your fucking deal lady?!”

Furious. Leaving the office. Too many agencies selling porn deals to her.

She came home to a small flat. Nadia resting on the couch with a chocolate milk box in hand. 10 years old. Chubby cheeks. Cookie crumbs. Heart full of trust.

Natalia stroked her hair and put her in bed. Nadia…

Then she made a microwave pasta and got a cold beer from the fridge. Sat in the dark room watching TV. Blue hue.

“Showbiz is the biggest craze. Could your son or daughter be the next Britney or Micheal? All you need to do is pack up your entire life and risk it all. Move into commercials, modeling, TV shows, and even movies just with the snap of your fingers. It’s true. So what are you waiting for? Join The SuperKid Agency!”

Natalia watched the advertisement. My child could become a star?! A super kid?! It was all she ever wanted. But if she couldn’t have it, then Nadia… Nadia will do it instead.