Chapter 1024
“It’s kind of fascinating, isn’t it? Off-set, those two hardly acknowledge each other, but as soon as they’re on camera, they just click. It’s like flipping a switch!” the director remarked, a note of wonder in his voice.
Calliope nodded, easily matching his enthusiasm. “We really did well with casting on this project. Look at the progress we’ve made on day one alone p>
“And hardly any retakes,” the director added, beaming. “Every shot just about perfect. I’m thrilled with what we’re getting p>
Zachary glanced at Calliope. “What’s your take on it p>
“If something wasn’t working, believe me, I’d have called out a cut long ago,” Calliope replied with a smile. “But honestly? There’s hardly anything to nitpick. They all understand their roles so well they barely need any direction from us p>
“My thoughts exactly. No wonder, considering the caliber of the actors we picked!” the director said, his pride evident.
Calliope grinned at him. “Well, we have your keen eye for talent to thank for a lot of that p>
He waved her off, laughing. “Come on, it was a team effort. I can’t take all the credit p>
They both leaned back, settling into their chairs as they continued to watch the filming unfold.
Throughout the shoot, the director kept things running smoothly, with Calliope occasionally chiming in on some subtle details. Overall, the day went off without a hitch, and before they knew it, evening had fallen.
Since this was just the first day and nothing had been scheduled for the night, everyone called it a day and started packing up. Spirits were high-maybe it was the rapid progress, maybe the director’s good mood, but the whole crew felt the energy. At this pace, the rest of the production promised to go just as smoothly, especially with such a talented cast keeping the standard high.
As everyone gathered their things, Linnea made her way to Julius. “Mr. Quillen, my car broke down. Would you mind giving me a lift back?” she asked.
Julius barely glanced her way. “Doesn’t the studio provide transportation?” he said matter-of-factly.
“I don’t have a car,” he continued, “so I’m riding with Callie. Maybe check with the director p>
His tone made it clear he wasn’t looking to chat, let alone offer her a ride.
here
Linnea blinked a little taken aback. She’d gone out of her way to find him, confident that a gentleman him wouldn’t turn her down. Yet he was turning her away without a second thought-and hitching a ride with Calliope, of all people.
“Are you really that close with the screenwriter she pressed, her tone sharpening. “Forgive me if I’m blunt, but during filming, being too friendly with Ms Jewell might get people talking. It wouldnt be great for the production-or for you, honestly p>
Julius regarded her coolly. “Then riding with you wouldn’t look good, either. And yes,
I am close with her. Is that a problem p>
Linnea found herself at a loss for words.
Julius didn’t linger. He turned and strode off toward Calliope.
Calliope had been watching-and hearing-the exchange from a distance. She frowned slightly as Julius approached shaking her head at her tactless emotionally clueless brother. Linnea was the female lead; they’d be working together for months. Was it so hard for him to be a bit more pleasant?
Thinking it over, Calliope called out, “Linnea, do you want to ride with me p>
“No, thanks!” Linnea replied sharply, then hurried away with her chin in the air. Calliope sighed inwardly. Great. She’d definitely managed to offend her.
Later, in the car, Calliope eyed Julius in the rearview mirror. “Julius, didn’t you notice? She’s clearly interested in you. Don’t you think you were a little… frosty? She’s your coworker, you know p>
Julius frowned. “If I’m not distant, she’ll just think I’m into her. We’re colleagues, nothing more p>