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. I 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.
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.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The CEO's Unplanned Heir