Rylee poured some of the tea into a paper cup and handed it to the other girt.

A few moments Later, Judy squirmed in her seat. "Uh, I think I need to use the bathroom." With that, she dashed away to answer nature's call.

She passed by the corner, where Maria and Francis were quietly discussing some of the details about the film. Maria couldn't help but roll her eyes at Judy's round belly as she hurried past them.

“Oh, thank God, it's over!" Hanna muttered under her breath as she exited the record room. She Licked her Lips and nervously approached the director.

It took Rylee a couple of minutes to realize that she was up next. "Oh, it's my turn, right?" She rushed to the recording room, leaving her tumbler uncovered in her haste.

Elma was all by herself in the waiting area. She eyed the tumbler with a sinister gaze, the corners of her mouth already lifting.

“How did I do, Mr. Jackson?" Hanna asked anxiously.

“Quite good," Francis said, nodding.

He was struggling to appear gentle and kind in Maria's presence.

Even so, he couldn't resist adding, “To be honest, though, your performance was slightly below our expectations. I'm sorry, Miss Norris, but I don't think you will be chosen for this job."

Hanna visibly paled at his words, but she managed to compose herself in the next minute.

It was all in a day's work, Celebrities might appear put together in front of the camera, but in reality, they were constantly dealing with the pressures that plagued the industry.

Hanna mustered a smile and said, "I understand. Thank you all the same, Mr. Jackson, for giving me an opportunity to try out for the role."

Francis returned her smile with an awkward one of his own. He had to admit, he felt a Little sorry for her.

Thankfully, Hanna was gracious throughout the ordeal, expressing her sincerest gratitude and even shaking hands with Francis

She was turning to leave when Maria's voice suddenly stopped her.

“No offense, but I don't think your skills can hold up on their own. Consider working with a partner, maybe form a duo with another singer."

Both Francis and Hanna froze in shock.

Hanna, in particular, was at an utter loss. She had been so focused on her audition that she failed to notice Maria.

Still, she figured that Maria must be a recognized figure in the world of music, especially since she appeared to be well-acquainted with Francis.

“Thank you for your advice, but I'm afraid it's not that easy for me to find a suitable partner," Hanna said wryly.

Maria was aware that the girl was a freelance artist who had built a small studio for herself. Hanna did have several people working for her, but she didn't have enough resources to hire a professional agent.

“Oh, I think she would be the perfect choice for you." Maria pointed toward the recording room, where Rylee was in the middle of singing the first song.

Francis was astounded. Only then did he realize that Rylee's singing was not fit for the soundtrack, either.