Page 81 of Give Me a Reason

“And modern romances don’t?” Andrew arched an indignant eyebrow, and red splotches blossomed on Meredith’s cheeks. Anne opened her mouth to intervene before things got awkwarder.

“Sorry, Meredith.” Andrew held up both hands with an apologetic grimace. “I promise it’s not you. I get worked up when I start talking about romance novels and society’s skewed perception of the genre.”

“Too many people relish being bullies when there’s an easy target,” Anne said with a quiet sigh. “And the romance genre is publishing’seasiesttarget.”

“Well said, Anne.” Andrew stared at her with blatant admiration, making her blush. “Pride and Prejudiceis a romance at heart. And I want to pay homage to the genre by delving deeply into Elizabeth and Darcy’s emotional journey toward each other. From the world’s worst first impression to the glimpses of how right they are for each other—despite their many wrong turns—then to their discovery and acceptance of the all-consuming brilliance of love.”

Anne partially melted in her seat even though the cynical side of her noticed he was laying it on pretty thick.

“Say no more. I am thoroughly convinced.” Meredith laughed lightly. “And how would Anne fit into your vision?”

“Anne is my vision,” Andrew murmured quietly. When Meredith blinked in surprise and Anne fidgeted in her seat, he shook his head with a chuckle. “I mean she would fit into my vision perfectly. I’ve watched her performances, and I believe she can fully embody the vitality, cynicism, and intelligence of our Elizabeth. Of course she would have to audition, but it would really be a formality at this point.”

Anne knew she missed acting, but she hadn’t realized how much. Her heart fluttered at the thought of working again, and she would be lying if she said she wasn’t flattered. Andrew Cha was a Hollywood hotshot. Having him respect and admire her work made her feel validated as an actor. It felt good. It feltreallygood.

She had never been out from the shadow of her family ever since her mom died, and she’d almost allowed herself to fall right back into the same pattern. She had to domorethan become a little selfish and take up some space. She had to start living for herself and step out into the light at long last.

Working on a Jane Austen adaptation was a dream she hadn’t even dared to dream. If she chose to do this, Anne wouldn’t be doing it for anyone but herself. She would finally be able to separate her love of acting from her resentment toward her family. This choice required no sacrifice—just joy. And it was past time she claimed her joy.

“How far along are you in production?” Meredith asked, pulling Anne out of her thoughts.

“We’re pretty much set on location and casting. We’re onlymissing the perfect Elizabeth Bennet.” Andrew grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Let’s just say I’ve been alittleparticular about casting our female lead.”

“Let’ssupposeyou have the perfect Elizabeth.” Meredith returned his smile with a professional one of her own. “How long until shooting starts?”

“Once an offer is made and accepted,” he said with a courtly nod at Anne, “shooting can start as early as next month.”

Anne gasped. “Next month?”

“That is rather soon.” Meredith squeezed her hand under the table. “Anne has enough experience to hit the ground running, but it does mean we have to decide quickly.”

“I don’t mean to rush you,” Andrew said suavely, “but weareeager to bring this project to life.”

Meredith engaged Andrew in more shoptalk while Anne sat with her thoughts. The conversation moved on to the state of the movie industry and dipped lightly into Hollywood gossip. Andrew couldn’t keep his eyes off Anne the entire time. He obviously admired her as more than an actor. She couldn’t deny she appreciated this aspect of his admiration as well.

Anne glanced at him from beneath her lashes and smiled. His answering grin was so swift and broad that she chuckled, tucking her chin to her chest. There was something guileless about him that she liked.

“Your enthusiasm for the project is more than a little contagious, Andrew,” Meredith said in even, measured tones. But she caught Anne’s gaze and conveyed an excited squeal via her toothy smile and raised eyebrows. She turned back to the director and glanced at her watch. “I don’t want to keep you too long. I know you’re a busy man.”

“It was a pleasure formally meeting you, Anne.” Andrew rose to his feet at the hint and shook hands with both of them. “And, Meredith, don’t be a stranger.”

Andrew left the café first with Anne and Meredith following a few steps behind. He turned to wave a final goodbye before rounding the corner at the end of the block. He was refreshingly down-to-earth for someone so famous.

Meredith turned to Anne with a teasing smirk. “I sense some mutual admiration going on there.”

“We’ve only just met.” Anne lowered her lashes. “But I have to admit, he is quite charming.”

“And hot as hell,” her friend drawled.

“Yes.” Anne laughed. “There’s that, too.”

“But if you get this role, you’ll be working closely with him.” Meredith’s brows furrowed over her eyes. “I heard he was professional and respectful toward the actors, as well as the crew, but I’m worried you might feel uncomfortable, knowing he’s so into you.”

“I don’t know aboutsointo me,” Anne said with a cheeky grin. “But I’ve been in this business for a long time. I know how to take care of myself.”

“Even so, please don’t feel obliged to me.” Meredith placed her hand on Anne’s arm. “Take your time to consider their offer before accepting it. I’ll support you either way.”

“I haven’t even gotten an offer yet.” Anne crinkled her nose, not wanting to assume too much.

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