I let out a sigh, trying very hard not to feel flattered. “But the story?”
“It’s great.”
“I need real notes.”
“It is. You’re killing it, Francesca. You really are.”
“Why do you keep using my full name?” I flustered.
“Because I like how it flusters you.”
I balled my fists and let my hair fall to block my smile trying to escape. “You are incorrigible,” I mumbled.
“Where were you thinking this scene was stuck?” he asked, getting us back on track.
“The whole fight? It didn’t feel, I don’t know, forced?”
“Nah. It only feels that way to you because you know what it’s leading to.”
I let out a long breath. “Okay then. Well, thank you. For, uh, listening.”
“You have an extra arm, though,” he dropped in casually.
“What?”
“Yeah. During the struggle with the trooper. You added an arm.”
“I did not.” I frowned at my laptop, quickly scanning the page. “Did I?”
“Read through when he’s grabbing Adam.”
“No. I don’t see.”
“I can’t really explain.” He shook his head. “Let me just show you.” He stood up and stretched. He popped his back and then gestured to his side. “Come here.”
“What?”
“You heard me.” He gently put my laptop to the side. I glared at him. “Come on. You’ll be Adam in this scene, and I’ll be the mercenary.” He pulled me to stand.
“I don’t think—”
Just then, he lunged at me. I froze. Too late, my body caught up. My arm shot out.
“Ouch. Not very Adam Abbotts to sucker punch.” He rubbed his pec.
“Sorry. Habit.”
He raised an eyebrow at me. “One day, I will unlock all your secrets.”
I waved him off. “That day is not today,” I teased. “Also, you attacked me.” I shifted on my feet, feeling slightly defensive but mostly playful.
“We’re acting out the scene.” He dropped his arms to the side, sort of hopping in place like a boxer preparing in the ring.
“I’m not an actor, Harrison.”
“You don’t have to be. Just think of it like writing. Close your eyes and play the scene in your mind.”
“God, please let’s go back to the reading out loud. Why do you keep making me do stuff?” I whined, still a little jittery with a post-adrenaline rush.
