Chapter Text
Ariana ended her Zoom meeting as Toulouse continued to bark at her feet. Taking a moment to gather herself, she reflected on the thrilling news she had just received: she had been cast as Glinda, a dream role she had cherished since childhood. All she knew at that moment was that the identity of Elphaba's performer would be revealed to her later that day.
Stepping outside into the sweltering Los Angeles summer sun, Ariana watched as Toulouse darted about in pursuit of a squirrel. Excitedly, she called her mother to share the news. Their conversation was filled with laughter and tears, and Joan expressed immense pride in her daughter’s achievement.
As the afternoon wore on, Ariana felt a sense of disbelief as if she were living in a dream, unsure when she might wake up. With the rest of the cast yet to be announced, they needed to keep this information confidential for a few more weeks. She tried to keep herself occupied until a text notification from Jon broke the silence.
J: Ariana, I’m thrilled to inform you that Cynthia Erivo will be playing Elphaba.
A: OMG, she’s incredible, Jon. This is fantastic! Do you think I could get her number? I’d love to reach out.
J: Absolutely, she asked for yours as well. I’ll email you both the details shortly. Talk soon.
Ariana's excitement soared at the thought of working alongside the immensely talented Cynthia Erivo. Having never met her, she was familiar with Cynthia's remarkable work. Before Ariana could even read Jon's email, her phone rang.
“Hello?” she answered cautiously.
“Hi, Ariana?”
“This is she.”
“Hi, this is Cynthia. I wanted to congratulate you on your casting as Glinda.”
“Oh my goodness, Cynthia. It’s such a pleasure to hear from you. Thank you! I was so thrilled to learn you’d be playing Elphaba.”
“Thank you, love. I was wondering if you might be free later today or in the next few days to get together and chat?”
Ariana felt a surge of excitement, almost bouncing with joy. “I’d love that, I’m actually free tonight, if that’s not too soon.”
“Tonight works perfectly. I’ll send you my address, come over any time after 5:00 PM.”
“Great, I’ll see you then. Thank you.”
After hanging up, Ariana squealed with delight. The day was only getting better, she was about to meet Cynthia Erivo, a powerhouse in both voice and acting. Though initially intimidated, she pushed those feelings aside as she prepared for the evening.
By 5:30 PM, Ariana arrived at Cynthia's home.
“Ariana, please come in” Cynthia greeted warmly as she opened the door.
As they embraced, Ariana immediately inhaled her sweet yet oaky sent. This is exactly what she pictured Elphaba smelling like, like literal perfection. “It’s so wonderful to finally meet you” Ariana said, her nerves bubbling beneath the surface.
Cynthia smiled and led her into the living room.
“Your home is beautiful, Cynthia,” Ariana remarked, glancing around the room.
“Thank you, can I get you some water or tea?”
“I’m fine, thank you.” Ariana nervously fiddled with the hem of her sweater as she beamed at Cynthia.
“I thought it would be good for us to get to know each other since we’ll be working together for the next few years. Open communication will be essential throughout this process.” Cynthia said, sipping her tea.
There was something about the way she spoke, so elegantly, and purposeful with her words. Ariana wasn’t used to someone being so upfront with her, usually she was the one to do that. “I completely agree. This is the biggest opportunity I’ve ever had, and it’s vital to be surrounded by supportive people,” Ariana shared, pausing as Cynthia’s gaze met hers.
“What’s on your mind, love?” Cynthia inquired gently.
Ariana chuckled and shyly covered her face with her sweatshirt sleeves. “I think I’m just a bit starstruck.”
Cynthia laughed softly. “You’re not exactly a nobody yourself, Ms. Ariana. It’s an honor to do this with you, and I’m looking forward to it.” She squeezed Ariana’s hand reassuringly.
“Now, tell me about yourself, and not the public persona, but who you truly are.” Cynthia smiled as she sat back in her chair.
Taking a deep breath, Ariana began to share.
For the next several hours, the two women engaged in heartfelt conversations about their lives beyond the spotlight, discussing their aspirations and fears. Laughter and a few tears were exchanged as they opened up about their hopes for this journey and their concerns.
Later, the sound of the door opening startled Ariana.
“It’s just Lena; she must be home.” Cynthia explained.
“Lena?” Ariana questioned
Moments later, Lena entered the room. “Hey Cyn…” She paused, noticing Ariana. “Hi,” she greeted, and Ariana nodded in acknowledgment.
“Oh goodness, it’s getting late. I should head out. Thank you so much for having me.” Ariana said as she stood, Cynthia following suit.
“Of course, love. You’re welcome anytime. Thank you for coming.” They exchanged a warm hug at the door. “I’ll see you soon, okay?” Ariana confirmed with a nod before stepping outside.
As she drove home, Ariana felt a sense of relief and happiness after meeting Cynthia. She had only just met her, but already felt a strong sense of trust and comfort in her presence.
Back inside, Lena kissed Cynthia as she returned to the kitchen. “I never thought I’d see the day Ariana Grande was in our living room.” Lena opened the fridge for a bottle of water, leaning against the counter while looking at Cynthia. “So, what did you think of her?”
Cynthia tilted her head, considering her response. “I believe Jon made the right choice. She’s going to be fantastic as Glinda.”
Lena raised her eyebrows skeptically. “Really? I don’t know, Cyn. Doesn’t she have a reputation for being unpredictable and a bit obnoxious?”
Cynthia scoffed. “Lena, don’t start this. I think a lot of people misjudge her; she doesn’t seem like the person the media portrays. I’m excited to work with her.”
Lena laughed, shaking her head as she approached Cynthia for a hug. “Come on, let’s get some rest.” She kissed Cynthia’s forehead before releasing her arms and heading toward the bedroom. Cynthia sighed, smiling, and followed her.
At home, Ariana tried to share her experience with Dalton.
“She’s so lovely, Dalton. Really smart and talented. I can’t wait to start working with her.” Noticing Dalton engrossed in his phone, she walked over to him “Did you hear a word I said?”
Dalton sighed and looked up. “She’s lovely, you’re excited about working with her; did I miss anything?” His annoyance was palpable.
Ariana shook her head, feeling dismissed. She retreated to their bedroom, followed by Dalton.
“Why are you upset with me?” he asked, removing his shirt.
“I’m just tired; let’s go to bed.” Ariana replied, climbing under the covers.
“Here we go again,” Dalton muttered, slipping into bed beside her. Ariana tucked the blanket up to her chin, silently wiping away the tears that had fallen.