Her interpretation was hard to fault. It was deep yet concise-it was perfect, really.

Or at least, that was how it appeared to Rooney. As someone who was touted for his acting and had even bagged a Best Actor award, Rooney was willing to applaud Maria for her insight.

As soon as he realized this, he, too, felt dispirited.

Wasn't Maria the excellent choice to continue reading and explaining the script for them? It had been going so well. Why did Jessie have to intervene unnecessarily?

“Okay. Let's pick up where Maria left off." Francis sat back on his chair with the script in his hand, and couldn't help but heave a resigned sigh.