Free Blind Reality by Heidi McLaughlin

your job to protect your wife.” I point to the area where the girls disappeared. “She’s your priority now, not the show.”
    “He’s right,” Gary adds. “We each need votes to win, so you have to show those women out there that you’re a good guy.”
    Cole looks at Gary and shakes his head. “We’re battling for votes and you’re telling me to show the voters how sensitive I am?”
    Gary shrugs and looks at me for guidance. I have none. I’m solely counting on my fans to come through for me. For all I know they could be hating on Joey and my plan could backfire. I’m praying that they love her, and find her a perfect match for me. It’d be nice if they hold off on the hate until after the show when I tell them all that marriage wasn’t for me and that Joey is the most amazing woman I’ve ever met, that she and I will remain best friends. I can’t let the media drag her through the mud. It wouldn’t be fair.
    “I just think … hell, I don’t know what I’m thinking. We’re about to go into a competition and I’m thinking of throwing it so Amanda and I don’t win. I’m fairly certain the thought of me repulses her.” Gary’s frustration with Amanda is very evident when we’re all hanging out. He’s a clinger, and she’s got eyes for me even though she knows I’m happy with Joey. It’s all about how you act in front of others.
    “You know the microphones are on and the producers will likely replay this for the viewers, right?”
    Gary sighs heavily. “My wife is hot. I’m not. I know I have a lot to do to catch her eye, but three months isn’t enough time to change this.” He motions down the front of him. He’s not out of shape, but compared to Cole and me, he’s a bit portly. He’s a guy who sits in front of a computer all day and most likely eats there; he could probably use a gym buddy.
    “I can always help,” I volunteer before I realize what I’m saying. I want to take it back because I don’t want to be committed to helping him, but it’s too late. Gary’s eyes go wide with surprise and I know he’s going to accept my offer. I would if I were him.
    “Really?”
    I nod, albeit reluctantly, but have no choice. He already follows me around like a puppy when the women are doing whatever it is they do. I’m the movie star and to him that means fast cars, lots of woman, and tons of cash to throw around at him. Two of the three I’m lacking. Women aren’t the issue. “Sure, why not. I work out anyway, so you might as well join me. You have to change your diet, though. Don’t be guzzling beer and eating chips all the time. If you don’t take this seriously, it won’t work. Watch what you eat, don’t sit around so much, and be proactive. Amanda will start to notice.”
    Gary leans forward, clearly excited about our newfound friendship. “Do you think you can help with her?”
    “I have my own issues to take care of.” Rising, I stretch, hoping that the cameras are panning around. I rub my abs for good measure.
    He scoffs. “Joey is so into you.”
    “That may be, but we’re still getting to know each other.”
    I walk into the kitchen, grab a glass, and pour myself some water from the pitcher that is sitting on the counter. Gary and Cole follow. Cole goes for the water, while Gary grabs a soda. I tsk and he looks down at his hand and puts it back. He opts for the water, too, and while I know this may backfire, the fact that he looks up to me is a bit comical since he’s supposed to be competing against me.
    “Newlyweds, your next competition begins in ten minutes. Please change and meet out back.” The voice clicks off and we stand there in silence. After downing the rest of my water, I take off toward the bedroom Joey and I have been staying in. Within the next half hour, everything is going to change and she and I will be in the master suite playing husband and wife.

T he computer voice tells us it’s time for our competition. I’m not sure if I want to win