“I wish,” she said. “I moved here to get an acting job, but so far, I haven’t even gotten a decent interview.”

The man was older, probably about 45, and had dark hair and eyes. He was staring at her legs under her short waitress uniform. “Do you have a portfolio?” he asked.

“No. I have a few pictures that my ex-boyfriend took before I left home, but nothing that was done professionally,” she sighed. “I just haven’t had the money to be able to do that.”

He nodded wisely and handed her a business card. “I’ll tell you what. If you will go to that address at 2:00 tomorrow afternoon, I’ll arrange for your portfolio.”

“I can’t pay for it,” she protested.

“We’ll work something out,” he said.

“I’ll be there!” Joanie walked away with a skip in her step. Maybe he’d let her pay him after her first big job. That would be best for her. Or she could clean his apartment, whatever! Just so she got to have her portfolio pictures taken.

*****

Joanie was five minutes early the following afternoon. She’d chosen a short skirt and sweater with a pair of heels for the shoot. She would have wanted to wear stockings, but she had a hole in the last pair and just couldn’t afford to buy any more.

She sucked in a deep breath and knocked on the door. The business card had given the name “Hector Johnson.” When he opened the door, she smiled sweetly. “Hi, Mr. Johnson.”