As Bianca was about to say something else, Dave stepped forward, took out his phone, and made a quick call.

Seconds later, the phone on the receptionist’s desk rang, startling her. But her attitude changed after answering the call. She talked to Bianca and Dave with more respect, saying, “Darien is in the rehearsal hall on the third floor, watching auditions.”

Bianca looked at Dave in surprise and asked, “How did you manage that?”

Dave replied casually, “I have a friend who works here. I asked him for help.”

Bianca nodded, fully trusting Dave’s explanation. They walked together toward the elevator at the end of the hallway.

The receptionist watched...