CHAPTER 004
1276 Words
The following day, Madison Blake entered the Manhattan Broadcasting Network to submit her resignation document. She gave the letter to the receptionist without delay as the burden of her choice became evident in her chest. She refused to walk away this time because of Brandon Hayes. She made this decision to put herself first.
The Pro League spokesperson audition was set to start in one hour. Without delay, Madison headed directly to Rachel Evans' office. Since the beginning, Rachel has served as both a mentor and friend, and she has been an unwavering supporter of Madison.
A frown immediately appeared on Rachel's face when she spotted Madison. The words left her lips with a heavy tone as she asked, “Please tell me you didn’t just quit again.”
Madison rested against the desk while crossing her arms. “I did.”
Rachel let out a sharp sigh. “Madison, why? Your decision to quit cannot be because of Brandon. Again.”
“It’s not,” Madison said simply.
Rachel examined her expression to determine if she was being truthful. Do you recall how he would promise you everything to stop you from pursuing your ambitions? Your ex promised complete responsibility so you could follow his domestic fantasy.
A sly smile spread across Madison’s face as she reacted with certainty. “Oh, I remember.”
The look of frustration in Rachel’s face somehow turned into a hopeful expression. You need to show me how you aim to succeed.
“I do.”
Rachel examined her with doubt in her eyes. The staging of the audition seems to be your main purpose today. You plan to compete for the Pro League position.
Madison just smiled.
Rachel let out an exasperated breath as she sat back in her chair. Brielle Carter has been digging her way into this opportunity. She’s been preparing for weeks. If she wins the audition, she will secure the network's top hosting position.
Madison checked the clock as she responded, “Yeah.” “I know.”
Rachel examined her closely before moving her chair forward. “You’re too calm about this. You must have your plan tucked away.
A faint smirk crept out from Madison's lips while she apparently ignored the question.
Rachel huffed. “Fine. Don’t tell me. You have my word that I will end your life myself if this plan fails.
Madison laughed. “Noted.”
The door suddenly opened. A woman entered the room with such force that she almost knocked into Rachel.
The woman asked in an angry tone, "Are you blind?" while moving away with a dramatic sigh.
Rachel quickly regained her footing. You were the one who moved too fast with people, according to you.
Madison took a deep breath before crossing her arms. You should watch where you walk before you continue.
The woman turned, glaring. “Excuse me?”
Rachel paled slightly. “Miss Brooks, I’m sorry, I—”
Madison’s eyes flicked to Rachel. The internet sensation Hailey Brooks had transformed into a flight attendant and influencer who managed to win support from Hayes Corporation executives.
The woman asked Tanner if the person standing in front of him was one of his employees. Hailey Brooks spoke with a superior tone while she glanced at Marcus Bennett, who entered the room after her. “She’s completely rude. Her presence could ruin my audition.
Madison arched a brow. “Oh no. We wouldn’t want that.”
Marcus adjusted his suit before giving Rachel a frigid stare. You must exercise greater caution in your work, Rachel. The Rising Stars Speech Showcase stands as a vital program within the organization. Your actions threaten to damage the important program, so I need you to stop.
Rachel positioned herself squarely. managed this show for multiple years as director.
I am giving the assignment to another person.
“What?”
“It’s settled,” Marcus said dismissively. Then he turned to Hailey. “Come on. Our objective is to prevent the judges from waiting unnecessarily. The Pro League position belongs to you.
Hailey showed a smug expression when she passed by Madison. “Better luck next time.”
Madison remained silent as they left.
Rachel exhaled sharply. “I hate that guy.”
Madison glanced at the clock. “It’s time.”
Rachel turned to her. The way you believe you'll succeed with this makes you quite arrogant.
Madison grinned. “Watch Anxious tension filled the room outside the audition space as people waited.
The room outside the audition space filled with anxious tension as people waited. Madison scanned the room. Brielle Carter occupied a front seat while she reviewed her folder with her usual flawless appearance.
Their eyes met.
Brielle's lips twisted as she said, "Madison, I was surprised to see you here. You seemed out of competition."
Madison sat beside her. I decided to make one final attempt at the competition.
Brielle chuckled. “Oh, sweetie. This isn’t a game. This is my career. The difference between us is that I never abandon promising opportunities.
Madison smirked. “You sound nervous.”
Brielle’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Not at all. Just… surprised. You surprised me by showing up because I never thought you would confront actual professional competition.
“Guess you’ll find out.”
A production assistant entered the space. “Brielle Carter, you’re up.”
Brielle rose to her feet while giving Madison a superior expression. “Try not to embarrass yourself.”
Madison relaxed in her seat while extending her legs. “You too.”
Brielle paused for a brief moment before entering the building.
The doorkeeper,, Rachel, moved toward Madison. “That was fun to watch.”
Madison grinned. “She’s easy to rattle.”
The minutes dragged. Brielle exited the room with her head held high while her heels made a clicking sound. She looked at Madison but remained silent when she sat down.
“Madison Blake,” the assistant called.
Madison stood. “Showtime.”
Rachel grabbed her wrist. “You got this.”
Before entering the room, Madison flashed her a quick wink.
The judges occupied seats behind an extended table. A camera faced her direction.
The head judge announced "Madison Blake" to start the competition. “Interesting to see you back.”
“Figured I’d give it a go.”
“Alright. Let’s begin.”
They handed her a script. She quickly scanned the document before starting her speech. Her voice flowed with certainty throughout the audition without giving in to any doubt. She transformed the words into a personal possession. The atmosphere in the room transformed. The judges leaned in. The camera operator shifted his camera's position.
The head judge gave a single nod after she finished her performance. “Impressive.”
The head judge whispered something to his colleague. The head judge began his speech by clearing his throat. The panel will announce their choice in the near future. Thank you, Madison.”
Madison nodded and walked out.
Rachel stood outside with her eyes open wide. “Well?”
Madison exhaled. “I think that went well.”
Brielle scoffed. “Please. I had that in the bag.”
The production assistant appeared with a clipboard in hand. “We have our results.”
The room went still.
The assistant smiled. “Congratulations, Madison Blake. The production assistant handed you the position of spokesperson for Pro League.
There was silence for a moment. Rachel burst into a joyful shriek. Madison maintained a calm expression as she looked directly at Brielle's shocked face.
Brielle’s face hardened. “This isn’t over.”
Madison tilted her head. “Oh, I know.”
- Writer
