Chapter 10
Ryan Hayes was considered an “old soul” of Hollywood, despite being only a few years my sexdor
The nickname came from his impressive career–an Emmy and Oscar winner who started as a child actor, beloved by audiences nationwide,
In the film, we played childhood sweethearts from a mountain village, eventually torn apart by ideological differences during times of social upheaval,
Neither Ryan nor I were naturally outgoing, so Director Grey kept hinting we should spend more fitte together off–camera to build chemistry,
We both took on this task, awkwardly trying to make conversation whenever possible.
Everyone knew I was Alexander Sinclair’s wife, making Ryan initially hesitant during our “chemistry building” sessions.
I broke the ice: “I’m sure you’ve seen the entertainment news before joining the project. I’m yesterday’s news now–you don’t need to worry about Alexander Sinclair blacklisting you.*
Ryan nodded, relaxing. “Good to know. Then I won’t have to worry about our on–screen romance spilling
over.”
Director Grey watched our casual interaction with approval.
“You two have what the kids call… ah yes, ‘shipping potential.‘ Quite compatible!”
“Perfect–when the behind–the–scenes footage leaks, we won’t need to manufacture chemistry for
publicity…”
Ryan laughed heartily. “Director, our characters end up apart–who’d root for that?”
Grey waved dismissively. “Ryan, you’re more old–fashioned than me. Tragic endings are trending… You
two have that sense of destiny about you.”
“Question my filmmaking if you want, but never question my casting. Every lead I’ve chosen has become
a star!”
“You two–perfect match!”
Grey’s certainty made me blush.
I quickly raised my water bottle, turning away to hide my face.
06:37
Seven Years of Love, Seven Minutes of Trail
33.1%
Chapter 30
Grey’s on–screen couples had indeed led to several real life romances.
But I’d always believed in separating art from life.
Work was work, feelings were feelings.
Before, I could step out of character instantly after filming, never carrying roles home with me.
Yet now, why did my heart flutter unexpectedly around Ryan?
I blamed it on his excellence as a scene partner.
Talented, yet humble.
During script readings and our scenes together, Ryan proved himself the industry gold standard.
Every look was textbook perfection.
Following his lead, I found myself forgetting all about Alexander and Claire’s drama back in the city.
