can immerse myself into the character, and then a couple months later, move on to something entirely new. With theater and TV, it’s a lot of the same over a longer period of time. Not that I’m not open to those opportunities, but my preference is film.”
He nodded, like he understood.
I decided it was my turn to play twenty-questions. “You’re at the top of your game. Why start a production company?”
“I suppose it’s for some of the same reasons you like film. I want to be involved in different aspects of the industry to keep things interesting. Plus, I can’t act like this forever. If I diversify my skills, I’ll have a longer career in the industry. Finally, it gives me control over the projects I’m in and how they’re produced.”
This was the first time, since I met him this morning, that I felt he was sincere. I was catching a glimpse of the real Theo Wolfe.
I actually considered pulling out a second bottle of wine as Theo and I finished the one he brought. As it turned out, Theo was an interesting person to talk to. And I was getting a lot of insight into how the film industry had changed over the last fifteen years since I left. However, it seemed like a dangerous idea to get too tipsy with Theo Wolfe around. I actually wasn’t very concerned that he might make a move on me, but booze had a way of lowering inhibitions, and as the wine made me loose and relaxed, I was noticing all the fine parts of Theo Wolfe.
He finished his last bit of wine. Setting the glass down on the table, he stood up. “Well, I guess I should be going.”
The fact that I was a little disappointed told me that it was absolutely a good idea that he got going. “Let me show you out.”
I stood and walked with him to the door. He opened it and stepped into the hallway, turning to look at me. “Thank you for the crackers and cheese.”
“You're welcome.” I leaned against the door jamb like I had when he arrived. “So is my audition finally done? Do I have the part or not?”
He arched a brow and looked at me as if he hadn’t been expecting that question. “The audition was done before today.”
“Are you sure?”
“I’m not sure how you got the impression that I was still interviewing or auditioning you because you have the job already. Today was just about seeing how we work together.”
I rolled my eyes. “Let’s be honest now, Theo.”
He gave me a smirk. “I like how you always say exactly what you’re thinking. Yes, there was a part of me that was concerned if we would work well together. You more than proved yourself and even taught me a thing or two in the process.”
I wasn’t sure what I taught him about acting, but maybe I taught him something about manners.
“This movie has some touchy-feely scenes and I don’t want to do anything that is going to make you uncomfortable, so I’m thinking maybe we’ll need to talk through those scenes to make sure we’re on the same page.”
I was a little surprised by his comment. And warmed by it. “I understand what the scenes are and that there can be a little bit of interpretation. But if choreography can help out, I can do that too.” All of a sudden, I realized that as a child actress, I’d never done a love scene. The idea that I was about to pretend to make love to someone on screen sent a scary chill down my back.
“What’s going on? All of a sudden, you look like you’re standing on the ledge,” he asked.
I shook my head and waved my hand to let him know that I was okay. “I was just realizing I’ve never actually filmed a love scene before.” And then I wondered about the wisdom of admitting this to Theo, as he might rethink me for the part. On the other hand, he knew I’d been out of the business for fifteen years so he had to know already.
I reduced my panic by reminding myself that while sex scenes were titillating and interesting, it was the chemistry that would make the movie work.
He gave me a wicked smile. “A film sex scene virgin. I’m looking forward to being your first.”
The Shoot
Theo
When I got to the elevator, I mentally kicked myself for the virgin comment. Jesus. I really was a douche.