"It must have been tough for you, Franz," Nate said as he watched Franz finish his drink. The low table between them held several half-empty glasses, water rings forming on the surface. "I am surprised you have not left the showbiz industry yet."
Franz glanced at him without immediate reaction, setting the glass down near the edge of the table before leaning back slightly. The lighting in the private room was warm but subdued, casting softened shadows along the walls.
"I almost did," he admitted after a brief pause. "I considered breaking my contracts and stepping away entirely."
"So what changed?" Nate asked, resting his forearms on his knees as he leaned forward.
Franz smiled slightly. "I married Arianne. It is hard to imagine how our lives would be now if she had not come into them."
The three men looked at each other. Franz thought he was hiding how much he cared, but it showed in his voice and posture.
