Page 16 of The Golden Scoop

Do you always rehearse your lines before speaking to people?

MY MAN

Only when it looks like they bite.

Ugh.

Infuriatingly smooth.

What time tomorrow? I can’t imagine how thrilled you must be to have to see me again.

MY MAN

I don’t mind you.

Sure you don’t.

Time?

MY MAN

See you at eight, honey.

I want to argue I’m not his honey and regardless of the assignment, he’s not mine, nor do I want him to be. But the more I tell him to stop doing something, the more committed he becomes.

So instead, I set my alarm for tomorrow and lock my phone. Then, I turn back to my open document.

I’ve gathered a fairly long list of everything I already know about him, but I still have one more thing to write.

P.S.…

M. Hunt Feature Notes:

What is he pretending about?

I’ll stick to the narrative… frustrating that exactly what you’ve told me… past seven years… cost me this role.

What happened seven years ago? Someone? Something?

Matt seems to be liked by everyone on set, although this could also be people sucking up to the lead actor. Conduct further interviews with the cast and crew when he’s not around. Try to get honest answers. Find the weak link (there has to be someone willing to spill about him. Preferably someone who hates him.)

He’s focused. Performs perfectly almost every time. He can switch from role to ‘real’ within seconds, flawlessly. It’s fascinating to watch, but also a little unsettling(?)

P.S. Turns out I might hate him even more than I thought. That feels like an accomplishment worth noting.

FIVE

Emma

Matt’s casually chatting with Frank when I get to set the next morning. The older man gives me a smile from ear to ear as he opens the barrier for me.

“Morning, Frank,” I tell him with my sweetest grin.

My head turns to the actor, a scowl already on my face. He winks before following behind me until I park.

“How is this an appropriate work vehicle?” he teases right off the bat, leaning against the side of my Jeep while I gather my things.

“You’re not welcome in it, so don’t stress.”