Trick-or-Doggy Treat

Chapter 3

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Ken Blanchard moved a miniature rake through a desktop Japanese sand garden as he spoke on his headset. His therapist said it would keep him calm. He didn’t think it worked.

“Yes, please send her in.”

Dana entered his office. Her smooth caramel skin glowed in the streaming sunlight.

“You’re looking well, all things considered,” said Ken, pretend-kissing her on each cheek and waving her over to the comfortable sitting area overlooking downtown Los Angeles.

Ken had been Dana’s manager for the last ten years. He also represented other A-listers, who Dana counted as pleasant acquaintances. She wasn’t sure there were any genuine friendships in Hollywood, only beneficial alliances.

“Gail is taking care of the PR nightmare, but I’m not sure I want to stick around here while Michael moves out and the press has fun speculating about what happened.”

“Then I have good news for you. Albert Holton is launching a new project.”

“I love working with Albert!”

“And he feels the same about you. He’s requested you as the leading lady for Dark Hollow Road. It’s a cross between mystery and fantasy where a grieving sister searches for her brother on a road notorious for missing persons.”

“It doesn’t sound like my usual genre.”

She preferred the drama films she was known for, with meaty characters that transformed over the course of the story. She won Academy Awards and People’s Choice Awards for her leading and supporting roles.

“No, but it introduces you to a new, younger audience. Albert has taken several A-listers and put them in unconventional roles with huge box office success.”

She went quiet, considering this information.

“Most importantly, the investors are excited to work with the likes of Dana Wood. Best of all, they’re filming in New Hope, Pennsylvania. You can escape and enjoy the fall colors.”

That was only an hour from Easton, where she stayed during her pregnancy. The family she stayed with had gone back to Jamaica, but she was familiar with the area. Dana wanted to get away from the local gossip, and this might be the perfect solution since she enjoyed the scenery there.

Another appealing aspect was that Michael had no part in producing the film. Dana had not spoken to him in days. He left her a note in the kitchen saying he’d be out of the house within the month.

“I know you hate the rumor mill, but the situation with Michael could only boost interest in the film. It’s free press.”

Yes, to everyone other than Dana Wood.

“When do I leave?”