Page 28 of The Location Shoot
“Ella!” Michael called as she was traipsing to the van.
She stopped, turned to him, and said, “Hey.”
“Did you have enough already? You didn’t see any of my scenes today.”
“Another day,” she said politely.
“They’ll probably be working on that bit between Finn and Charlotte for a while anyway. Perk of being an actor, I suppose—being paid boatloads of money to make out with attractive people.”
“It’s just acting,” she said. “Hardly as intimate as kissing when there isn’t a camera crew and room full of extras watching.”
“You’re right about that. It’s so much better with privacy,” he said, looking at her suggestively. “It would still bother me if I were Charlotte’s husband or Finn’s girlfriend, though. It’s why I never let myself get tied down—too much drama explaining this kind of stuff to people you’re dating. Better to keep things casual.”
“Did you say Finn has a girlfriend?”
“Oh yeah, they’ve been together for a couple of years. She wants to marry him. He told me about her when we first got here.”
Ella looked away.
“Listen, I’m heading to my trailer until they call for me. Come, hang out. I’d love to hear more about your book. It sounds riveting.”
“Sorry, I have work to do. I’ll see you later.”
“You’ll be at dinner?” he asked.
“Wouldn’t miss it.”
AT THE END OF THE DAY’S SHOOT,the actors were all heading to their trailers to change into their street clothes before going back to the inn. Jean called to Finn, “Stay behind for a minute.”
Finn walked over and said, “I felt good today, like we were on to it. I can do it differently tomorrow if you prefer. Are you getting what you want?”
“Yes, we captured some gorgeous moments. It’s not about the film. There’s a personal matter I wish to discuss.”
Finn looked at him expectantly.
“It’s about Ella,” Jean said.
Finn took a breath and looked down.
“You are in love with her.”
“Jean, nothing has happened. I . . .”
Jean shook his head. “I see the way you look at her. I noticed it the first night she arrived, and every moment since, your eyes have betrayed you. Of course, I’ve seen many men become infatuated with Ella, most of whom she has no interest in. The connection runs much deeper with you. The way you spoke about her work this morning. The look on your face when you had to kiss Charlotte in front of her. Don’t try to deny it. You’re notthatgood an actor.”
Finn exhaled and his shoulders slumped. “She’s an extraordinary woman. I’ve never met anyone like her. I think we have a connection. But I’m completely committed to this film, so if . . .”
“It’s all right. She is not my lover. You are both adults. I didn’t want you to feel as though you must sneak around.”
“Thank you. I appreciate that.”
“You are right that she is an extraordinary woman. If she returns your affection, you’re a lucky man.” He paused and added, “Perhaps it isn’t my place, but there is something you should know.”
“I’m listening.”
“Ella may be unattainable. Yes, she is a romantic and a free spirit, but I’ve never seen her give herself fully to any man. I’m not certain she ever will. I’ve always suspected she intentionally dates men she’ll never love.” He huffed before continuing, “But I’ve seen the way she looks at you, so perhaps there’s a first time for everything. Besides, I suspect you’re so far gone that you’ll take your chances. Good luck,mon ami.”
“I WONDER WHERE ELLA IS,”Willow said. Everyone had been nursing their first round of drinks for over twenty minutes and the buffet was open, but Ella hadn’t shown up.
