Chapter 416: Theodore, the Would-Be Father
Theodore looked Little Bunny up and down, his gaze mirroring hers. She hadn't initially planned to seek him out upon discovering her pregnancy, but ultimately relented. The entertainment industry was a treacherous labyrinth, easily swallowing those unprepared; otherwise, he would be out of the running for good.
"Cat got your tongue?" Theodore asked, his face gloomy. Despite his idle day, his mood was sour; she'd best not aggravate him. Patience was not his strong suit.
"Could you please ask everyone to leave, Mr. Wold? I'd like to speak with you privately," Little Bunny said, summoning her courage.
Theodore slightly furrowed his brow, then waved a hand. The occupants of the room promptly departed, their gratitude to Little Bunny palpable as they exited. God only knew how much longer they would have endured his temper without her intervention.
Alone with Little Bunny, Theodore simply said, "Go ahead."
"Mr. Wold, do you remember the night we… had sex in your car?" Little Bunny said slowly, taking a deep breath.
Theodore was taken aback. Which car?
Noticing his confusion, she explained, "I was drugged that night, right here in this room. I then went to you, urging you to take me home. We… did it in the car…"
Theodore's recollection seemed to return.
Little Bunny continued, "You asked me how much I wanted, as I left."
"Ah, I see," Theodore said, his memory flooding back. A disdainful look crossed his face. "So, you're here for a payoff?"
"No, that's not it," she denied immediately.
"Then why are you here? You could have a quiet abortion without involving me," Theodore pointed out, heartlessly.
"I admit I'm here for something, but not to extort you…"
"Cut the crap. Just tell me what you want!" Theodore interrupted, his patience exhausted.
Little Bunny bit her lip, steeling herself. "I want a role in CultureX Media Company."
"The leading actress?" Theodore asked calmly, lighting a cigarette.
"The second lead," Little Bunny replied.
Theodore studied her skeptically.
Little Bunny, sensing his doubt, added, "I won the role, and it was hard-won. But a week before shooting, I was replaced. The director revealed the new actress was hand-picked by the investor."
Theodore listened impassively, as if to a story.
Little Bunny continued, "I worked so hard, and it felt awful to be replaced. I investigated and found she slept with the investor to secure the role. I wouldn't mind if she were better, I'm not the best, nor am I a sore loser. But this was underhanded. I want nothing more than the role."
"CultureX Media Company?" Theodore asked, still smoking, clearly not fully engaged. The entertainment industry was, after all, rife with deception.
"Yes," Little Bunny affirmed.
"Film or television?"
"Television."
"The name?"
"Music of Love Land."
"The character's name?"
"Margaret."
"Okay," Theodore agreed. "Have the abortion tomorrow, and you'll have the role."
"Thank you, Mr. Wold," Little Bunny said swiftly.
"One more thing," Theodore said seriously, turning to her. "Is the baby mine?"
"I swear to God, it's yours!"
"Fine," Theodore said, unconvinced she would dare deceive him. "Save my number; text me your address. I'll pick you up for the abortion tomorrow morning."
"Okay," Little Bunny immediately saved his number.
"You can go now."
"Okay."
Theodore waved her away impatiently. Little Bunny left, the door closing behind her.
Theodore stared at the door, a flicker of annoyance in his eyes. At twenty-five, this was his first pregnancy. The thought of ending a life the next day weighed unexpectedly heavily on him.
Damn it! He vowed he wouldn't be so easily swayed by women again.
He then called CultureX Media Company's general manager.
The manager answered with extreme deference, "Mr. Wold, what an honor! What can I do for you?"
"What do you think?" Theodore teased.
"Mr. Wold, honestly, we've profited from television this year, but the industry is expensive. I can't repay you now, but I promise to settle the debt as soon as possible. Could you grant me more time?"
"How much more?" Theodore asked.
"A year? Would that be acceptable?" the manager asked cautiously.
"Yes," Theodore replied casually.
"Oh, thank you so much, Mr. Wold…"
"I'm not finished," Theodore interrupted. "I want a role."
"A role? You're making your debut, Mr. Wold? No problem! You're handsome; you'll be an instant star. Just tell me which role you want. It's yours!" the manager promised, excitement in his voice.
"What the hell are you talking about!" Theodore sputtered. "Do you think I'm that desperate to sell my charm?"
Did the man have any understanding of the entertainment industry?
"I want a role for someone else."
"Ah, a friend," the manager corrected himself. "Which role, Mr. Wold? Or shall I arrange one for you?"
"Margaret, the second lead in Music of Love Land," Theodore stated.
The manager was perplexed. "But that role is filled. It was the investor…"
"Aren't you the investor? Don't play coy. I know you've invested in your company's shows," Theodore exposed him.
"But it's settled, Mr. Wold. How about this? Look at other roles. I'll do my best to accommodate you. Okay?"
"The lead in Music of Love Land," Theodore stated plainly.
The manager recoiled. "Please, Mr. Wold. The lead actress is already signed, has a massive fanbase. I don't want to face online attacks, or dig my own grave; her charisma is vital."
"The lead or the second lead. Give me your final decision," Theodore said, about to hang up.