Note: This will be told from Karma's POV.

Early morning, she wakes up

Knock, knock, knock on the door

It's time for makeup, perfect smile

It's you they're all waiting for

They go…

"Isn't she lovely, this Hollywood girl?"

And they say…

She's so lucky, she's a star

But she cry, cry, cries in her lonely heart, thinking

If there's nothing missing in my life

Then why do these tears come at night

Lucky-by Britney Spears

A New Hope

Karma's POV:

Well, this is it Karma. One final show to wrap-up the tour, and then you're free. For now anyway. Before you know it however, they'll have you back at the drawing board writing more songs and then want you to put in some studio time for the next album. Who knew being a popular rockstar would be so time consuming?

Lost in the confusion that is my life currently, I've misplaced my passion for writing and music. It's not important anymore. Not to me, and definitely not to the label. It feels like I've sold my soul to the devil. That the very essence of myself has been sucked into a black hole consuming my heart as well as my feelings. And it sucks, majorly. "It's not fair." I sigh sadly.

I miss my family. I miss Shane, my adorkable gay bff. I miss Lauren, my feisty sidekick. I even miss my boyfriend Liam although that ship is about to sink unfortunately. It's not fair to him for me to keep dragging him along when I'm not honestly all that interested in him anymore. He was fun and exciting when I first met him. He's handsome and persistent, and we always have a great time in each other's company. But once my career took off, we started drifting apart due to my scheduling and distance. Now, I'm numb inside and bored outside. This wasn't what I signed on for, not at all.

I'm always away and busy, and that's not part of the equation for a healthy relationship. So, I'm convinced to break up with him after I go back home. It's best for the both of us. It's tragic really. Is this the life I chose? If it is, then I chose wrong. I'm not in it for the money, the fame, or the lifestyle. I'm in it for the recognition, respect, and acceptance as a legitimate female artist.

Lost in my thoughts, I hear a knock on the door.

"Come in." I respond. The door opens and there stands Cameron. My stage manager. My little Cameron.

"Karma?" He asks.

"Yes Cam. What is it?" I reply irritated while looking at him.

"Umm...it's just...well…" He stutters.

"Jeez, just spit it out already." I growl. I'm quickly losing my patience with this kid.

"Thenewgirlishere." He mumbles.

"Huh?" I ask, not catching the rambling.

"The new girl. You know the one Lauren suggested you hire as your new assistant? Her step sister?" He answers.

Damn. That's right. I nearly forgot that Shane had hired a new personal assistant per Lauren's request of course. Step sister ehh? This should be interesting.

"Send her in for introductions." I tell him.

"Will do ma'am. By the way, ten minutes 'till showtime." He adds.

"Thanks Cameron. This shouldn't take long. I'm almost finished. You're dismissed." I command.

He gently closes the door and I hear faint whispering. No doubt, he's allowing the chick passage into my inner sanctum as I like to call it.

The door opens, and I turn my head. I'm stunned. In front of me has to be one of the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. With her silky, natural blonde hair, piercing hazel eyes, and warm smile. I think I'm in love. "Crap." I mutter under my breath.

If the girl noticed, she didn't comment on it. Instead of making the situation more awkward, I get up from my chair and walk over to her.

"I'm Karma." I say.

"I'm Amy." She replies.

Amy. What a simple, yet sweet name.

We shake hands. I instantly feel a jolting spark between us. Just from that one touch. A connection. A friendship. I wonder if she felt it too?

"I know I only got this job through Shane via Lauren's recommendation, but I appreciate the opportunity and I won't let you down. I promise." She rambles.

Aww, how cute. And she has dimples as well. "Glad to hear it." I smile.

Yep, I know you won't let me down because I won't let you. I think in that simple moment of interaction, I regained a part of myself that I thought was scattered to the winds, never to return. I think I found it again. My muse. My inspiration. 'Thank you Lauren,' I silently pray.

The End….Or is it?