Anna crossed the parking lot to the soundstage, watching John as he headed over to the production office. It had been more than a week since their date in the woods, and there were only four full days left on the schedule. As soon as they got back to LA, they could date like a normal couple. She didn’t care about her ex-husband, about what the press thought, or the fact that she was barely scraping by with enough money for rent.

Leaving those feelings behind her, like trailing a heavy backpack on the ground as she trudged home, she focused on work. The soundstage was crowded this morning. She put on her game face and entered the building.

That day’s scenes were set at a costumed ball, the last big period scene to be shot. Reed’s character was confronting Derek and Nicole. It was one of the few scenes that included extras—twenty-five this time, all in elaborate costumes with extravagant hair and makeup. Pauline and her assistants had done an admirable job of outfitting them on a limited budget.

Anna looked over at the older woman, who still had a cigarette tucked behind her ear and a set of pins between her lips as she made final adjustments. Sofia, had been drafted into service, and Anna again admired the younger woman’s ability to pitch in. Matteo stood with Cole; both men were tense behind the camera. Over the past week, Anna had talked to them separately and together in an attempt to find out the problems between the two, but in the end, neither had wanted to discuss their professional differences. Anna had dealt with Cole’s type of arrogance before in the industry. She was sure Matteo had, as well. The camera operator’s work ethic and diligence hadn’t dimmed in the face of Cole’s unprofessional behavior.

While it was enjoyable to see so many extras excited about being on set, it also would make for a long day. Anna had to make these twenty-five extras look like a hundred guests. With a series of medium shots and close-ups, she could make the scene between the two leads look more crowded as she shifted the extras to where she needed them in the background.

Derek and Nicole were in costume and ready to go. She went over a few last-minute ideas with Nicole while they discussed the scene, then they wrapped up their conversation when John entered the soundstage. She smiled at him, thoughts of the morning and waking up with him coming to her mind.

Nicole glanced between the two of them. “So,” Nicole drawled, “what’s going on with you guys?”

“Nothing,” Anna said a little too quickly.

“I don’t blame you. He’s delicious.”

“He’s a screenwriter.”

“He’s something.”