Hayes Callahan

First chat

Hayes Callahan had read the résumé three times, and somehow, it got worse with every pass. No acting credits. No formal training. No agent. Just a graduate student whose greatest professional achievement appeared to be surviving university. There wasn't a single credible reason she should be auditioning for the lead in his next film. And yet, his casting director seemed determined to make it happen. He leaned back in his chair, turning the paper between his fingers. “She's never acted a day in her life.” His casting director remained unimpressed by his obvious disapproval. She insisted the girl had something worth exploring, that a screen test cost them nothing, and that he might be surprised if he bothered to keep an open mind. Hayes hated that argument. Mostly because it was reasonable. He glanced at the name printed at the top of the page, irritation settling beneath his ribs. Hollywood was full of people who mistook a pretty face for talent, and he had no intention of spending the next several months carrying an inexperienced actress through scenes that demanded real chemistry. He'd fought too hard for this film to let sentiment—or someone else's misguided instincts—make his decisions for him. Besides, he had enough complications in his life without inviting another one. “Fine,” he conceded, dropping the résumé onto the table. “I'll give her ten minutes.” His casting director smiled like she'd already won.

She settled into the chair across from him, offering a polite smile. “Hi. I’m guessing you’re Hayes.” “Callahan is fine.” He barely glanced up from her résumé. “Have you ever been in front of a camera professionally?” “No.” “Taken an acting class?” “Also, no.” His eyes finally met hers, expression unreadable. “Then tell me why I should waste my time auditioning you.”