Page 36 of After the Red Carpet
When everyone finally took their seats, he said, “I am truly floored. Thank you to the Academy for this most incredible, unexpected honor. I have to thank my parents for taking my childhood dream seriously and helping me achieve it.” He ran his hand through his hair and shook his head, clearly in shock. “Making this film was the artistic and personal experience of a lifetime. I’m indebted to Jean, the entire crew, and our incredible cast: Charlotte, Michael, Willow, and the incomparable Albie Hughes.” He paused to catch his breath as the audience jumped to their feet, cheering. “There’s another very special person to whom I owe a great debt, my brilliant wife, Ella, who was on location inspiring us every step of the way.” The entireCelebrationgang turned toward Ella and clapped vigorously. Finn looked directly at his beloved, who had tears in her eyes, and said, “Ella, this will always be the most magical shoot of my life because it’s where we met and fell in love. When I look at you, I’m certain that love is everything. Thank you for taking the leap with me and turning my life into this glorious adventure. I’m looking forward to every moment of our journey together, my partner and one true love.”
Ella smiled through the tears cascading down her face as Finn held up his award and said, “Thank you so much,” before exiting the stage to more applause.
THEY SPENT HOURS CELEBRATING WITHtheir friends at the after-party, finally wandering into their bedroom at two in the morning, equally exhausted and energized.
Finn set his Oscar down gently on his nightstand. “I still can’t believe this happened.”
“I believe it and I’m so proud of you,” Ella said, brushing her hand along his wrist.
“Tonight was such an incredible way to end the journey of this film, beyond my wildest dreams. It’s hard to believe it’s over.”
“Finn, maybe it’s time to start writing the next part of our story.”
“What do you mean, love?” he asked.
“I’m ready. Let’s make a baby.”
He smiled so wide he could hardly speak. “Just when I thought tonight couldn’t possibly get better.”
“You know, if we’re going to try for a baby, we’ll need to make love over and over again.”
“There’s no time like the present. Let me help you out of that gown.”
“Ilove our nightly ritual,” Ella said, turning to Finn and running her hand down his arm. “I always read while you review scripts, making your little chicken scratch notations. Without fail, I end up putting my book down and just staring at you—the sexy little lines around your eyes when you concentrate, the shape of your lips when you lean your pen there.” She shook her head. “It’s silly, but it’s been my favorite part of the day since we started our love affair.”
He smiled and flung the manuscript onto his nightstand. “That’s sweet, baby.”
“Your film wraps soon. You must be inundated with offers after your big Oscar win. Have you selected a script for your next project?”
“Yeah. I was just rereading it, actually. It’s a high-action blockbuster. It’s by no means great or important art, but the script is a lot of fun, much better than most in the genre. They’re offering an astronomical payday. I’m not getting any younger. My days as a hero-lead are numbered, so it’s time to cash in for our family’s future security. It films in LA too, and I figured, if you get pregnant . . .” She smiledand he continued, “Anyway, I told my agent I’d do it, but that he should focus on interesting or challenging indie roles moving forward.”
“Sounds like a good plan. And for the record, you’ll always be my heroic leading man.”
He blushed. “Will you read the script and tell me what you think?”
“Don’t I always?” She gave him a little kiss. “I love how we share our passions.”
“Me too.”
“Maybe that’s why I cherish our evenings so much. Plus, it’s so cozy in bed with you.”
Finn smiled devilishly. “I have to confess that my favorite part of the day is what usually happens next,” he said, playfully running his hand along the curves of her body. “Although since we’ve been trying to conceive, we’re doing it morning, noon, and night.”
Ella giggled. “Just an added benefit of trying to have a baby—I get to have you any time I want you.”
“Speaking of which,” he said, dimming the light and pulling her into his arms.
ELLA WAS HUDDLED IN BED, ANXIOUSLYplaying with her hair, the script beside her, when Finn finally came home the next evening.
“Hi, sweetheart,” he said, leaning down to give her a smooch. “Sorry I’m so late. We had to reshoot a scene about a million times. Mercifully, it’s the weekend. I could sure use the time off.”
“Uh-huh,” she grumbled.
“Did I wake you?” he asked.
“No, I was waiting for you,” she replied, propping pillows behind her and sitting up.
“Let me brush my teeth and wash up,” he said, darting off to the bathroom. He returned a few minutes later in boxer shorts and slipped into bed beside her. “Hi, baby,” he said softly, kissing her. “This is a pretty nightgown.”
