Free The Right Side of Memphis by Jennifer Scott

California.  She would be sure to check out the sights before returning to Nashville.  She and Maria would plan a tour of Beverly Hills, Melrose, and the rest of the hot spots in LA., especially where they filmed one of their favorite soaps.  She thought.”I wonder if they decided to recast my favorite actress on the show?”  Maybe next year, I’ll fly here for the soap opera awards.” But, Billie knew she was already a part of her own personal soap opera.

 
Chapter 6
     
    The elaborate lifestyles of Hollywood entered the venue, where the ceremony was held.  Billie was not only a press member, but had tons of celebrity friends.  Chris was to be her escort, but they would have to arrive separately, if they were to remain a secret.  Her dreams were coming true anyway.  A lot had changed in a year for her.  She remembered trying to talk to Chris, but only sneaking in to his dressing room.  She also thought about the one that got away, Ricky Todd.  She wondered why she still had not been graced with his presence.  She couldn’t understand how she hadn’t run in to him anywhere.  Maybe it was a sign.  But, the only sign she could see at the moment was “Only All Access Passes Allowed.”  Those five words were the least of her concerns.
    The night went by smoothly.  Most of Billie’s predictions came true.  But, she had quite a few disappointments.  Ricky didn’t win a single award and neither did Chris. Bobby Douglas won two awards, which Billie congratulated him for after the show.  Chris caught them hugging and tried to make it into something.  He didn’t verbally accuse them, but Billie knew what he was thinking.  Andy Johnston was the host of the show, as he had been for almost every year.  He won for Entertainer of the Year.  Billie spotted him talking to Maria Dawson.  She had won for Best Female, which she richly deserved.  She was almost through chatting with him when she pointed Billie’s way.  They approached her as she was standing next to Chris.  Maria exclaimed, “Billie, I’m glad you could make it. You too, Chris.” 
    Billie smiled, “Where there is country, that’s where I’ll be.  I am just so happy for you, that you won that award."
    Maria continued, “I brought Andy over here to tell you the news.  It was his idea, and I suggested he invite the two of you.”
    Billie wondered, “Well, don’t keep us in suspense any longer.  What is going on?” 
    Andy answered, “Every year, I plan a get together for my good friends in the entertainment business.  I invite them all out to my cabin on the lake.  There is plenty of room and this year I have decided I would let Maria pick.  I guess you’re the lucky ones.” 
    Billie responded, “This is a privilege, I have to admit.  I’m flattered, but I’m not a country star.” 
    Maria giggled, “But, you are my best friend, so that’s what counts.  So, come with us.  We won’t take no for an answer.” 
    Billie looked at Chris and he shrugged his shoulders.  She returned, “It's up to my boss.” 
    Chris added, “I’ll handle him.” 
    Andy smiled, “Yeah, Chris can take care of any situation.  You will be glad you came. We are going to have the time of our lives.  You won’t regret it.  We assure you.” Billie graciously accepted.  She didn’t want to let this opportunity pass her by.  It might not happen again.  So much happening at one time, made her wonder if it were too good to be true.
    She returned to work, anxious to get caught up so she could take the time off to go.  She didn’t take a lunch break, just so she could get a lot done.  She left her office just for a moment to get a drink.  She happened to pass by her boss’ room.  The door was ajar, and she could hear his voice.  She quickly recognized the other voice, Chris'.  He was only supposed to be asking about the trip, but instead was meddling where it wasn’t his place.  Mr. Reid was describing some things she did,