The Last Superstar of Hollywood

In the living room of a modest but comfortable house Alex and Nancy are discussing the next steps. It's evening, and the warm glow of lamps illuminates the space. A couch and a couple of armchairs are arranged around a coffee table cluttered with papers – scripts, casting call notices, and a few headshots. There's a sense of organized chaos, hinting at the flurry of activity involved in pursuing an acting career.

Alex is brimming with nervous energy, pacing with agitated steps that threatened to wear a hole in the rug.

"So… I have an agent," he said, his voice still filled with a hint of disbelief. "That's… incredible. But what now? How do I actually get a job?"

"Patience, grasshopper," Nancy said, her eyes crinkling at the corners as she watched his nervous energy. "This is where the real work begins. Getting an agent was a huge first step, and you skipped a lot of hurdles thanks to me and… well, your talent. Now we focus on getting you in front of the right people."

"Right. Auditions," he muttered, stopping his pacing. "But where do I even start? It feels like… everyone in this town wants to be an actor."

"That's true," she acknowledged, nodding slightly. "It's a competitive business. But we have a strategy. Given your age and where you're at, I think the best place to focus right now is the after-school specials on ABC, CBS, and NBC."

"After-school specials?" he asked, a slight furrow in his brow. "Like those movies they show during the week?"

"Exactly," she confirmed. "They often deal with important issues relevant to teenagers, and they're a fantastic platform for young actors to gain experience and visibility. The networks are always looking for fresh faces."

"Okay…" he said slowly, considering her suggestion. "That makes sense."

"And while we're at it, I can also try to get you auditions for small guest roles on some of the teen-focused TV shows that are around," she added, tapping the papers in her hand. "Even a few lines can be valuable experience and get your face out there."

"So, you can actually get me these auditions?" he asked, a hopeful tone creeping into his voice.

"That's what an agent does, honey," she said matter-of-factly. "Now that you're with CAA, they have connections. I've already spoken to a few people there about you. They were impressed with what I showed them – the tapes and things. They see your potential, Alex. I've seen it too. You have a real gift. Some of the best I've seen for someone your age."

"Really?" he said, a flicker of pride momentarily replacing his anxiety. "You think so?"

Nancy reached across the coffee table, placing her hand over his. "I know so," she stated firmly, her gaze direct and encouraging. "But talent alone isn't always enough in this town. There's also a good chunk of luck involved. Being in the right place at the right time, meeting the right people..."

Heaving a small sigh Alex said, "Luck. Right."

"But we can't rely on luck," she countered, her tone becoming more serious. "We can control the effort. We can prepare for every audition, work on your craft, and be professional. That's what we'll focus on."

 "It's just… it feels like such a big mountain to climb," he admitted, running a hand through his hair. "You and Mom… you both struggled for so long just to get a foot in the door. And I just… walked right in."

Nancy's expression softening, she reached out and took his hand. "You are fortunate, Alex," she said gently. "You have a head start that your mother and I didn't. Having an agent right away is a huge advantage. But you're right about one thing. This is just the beginning. Everything from here on out will depend on your hard work, your dedication, and your willingness to learn and grow. Don't ever forget that."

"I won't," he said, his voice firming with newfound resolve. "Thank you, Nancy. For everything."

"You're welcome, sweetie," she murmured pulling him into a hug, squeezing him tightly. "Now, let's get to work on finding you some auditions. I have a feeling this is just the start of something big."

A moment later, they hear a squeal from the door saying "Alex!"

Janet, an 11-year-old with fiery red hair, bursts into the living room and throws herself into Alex's arms almost throwing him off his balance.

"Alex! You're here!" she is shouting with excitement.

Laughing, Alex hugging her tightly, "Hey, Red! Missed you too, kiddo".

Janet pulled back and eyes sparkling said, "So, tell me everything! The agent, the auditions… are you going to be a big star?"

Alex grinning. "Well, it's a start."

Janet pointing a finger at him with playful seriousness. "Then you are going to sign your first autograph to me, right? Me, your favorite sister?"

Alex chuckled at that. "Deal. First autograph is all yours."

Nancy smiling said "Alright, alright, let the poor boy breathe."

And Alex felt like he is at home.