AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Prologue
JULIANNA KENSINGTON - STUDIO OWNER
Christmas was supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” but you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise based on the gloomy expressions of the people gathered in Studio 6 of Heart & Soul Studios. I called the meeting yesterday, summoning the cast and crew on short notice–hence the resentment percolating in the air.
Two weeks ago, a well-respected Hollywood writer named Nick Saint approached me and pitched his film,The Naughty List, on a ridiculously short timeline. As the owner of Heart & Soul Studios, it was my job to sign off on this movie. Initially, I was reluctant, what with the filming being so close to Christmas, but he offered an obscene amount of money and wished to donate his portion of the revenue to charity. I couldn’t say no.
However, he had one more request—he wanted to hand pick most of the cast and crew. I was dubious about it, especially when I saw the list. It was no secret that most of these people weren’t fans of Christmas. But after seeing those he wanted involved with the project, I decided it would beinterestingto see if the festive spirit could work its magic and create some love connections as well as a wonderful feel-good Christmas movie.
I tried to warn him, but he simply laughed and told me all they needed was a little magic in their lives. He seemed to know a lot about this eclectic group, even though he was adamant he’d never met any of them. There was a twinkle in his eye that made me think of Santa Claus, even though the man didn’t resemble him in any other way—other than his name resembling St. Nick.
As I stood at the front of the studio with the cast and crew gathered around me, I silently wished Nick good luck.
Some were seated, while others stood, arms crossed, shifting uncomfortably on their feet. You’d think I’d called them to a funeral. I mentally sighed.That won’t do. No, that won’t do at all.
These grinches were in need of a little Christmas magic–which was where I came in—well, Nick and me.
As a former model and actor, I was familiar with the industry and the dynamics involved in making a movie. What sometimes presented as animosity between people often hid a deeper well of emotion, and an explosive attraction. Despite the chilly vibes emanating from some of the people gathered here today, you could cut the chemistry between several of them with a butter knife.
I smoothed my hands down my designer pantsuit and cleared my throat. “Thank you, everyone, for coming on such short notice. I know it’s asking a lot this close to Christmas, but this movie is important for studio revenue, and a percentage of the profits will be going to charity. I think we can all agree it feels good to spread a little magic during the holidays, and our movie ‘The Naughty List,’ truly reflects this sentiment.”
I paused as I looked around at the glum faces. Perhaps the movie should be renamedHollywood Humbug.
Kane, the normally laid-back handsome lead actor, sat with his arms folded over his wide chest, his fingers drumming on his firm biceps as he attempted to ignore the leggy brunette besidehim. Scarlett, his leading lady, glared at his profile, her amber eyes shooting sparks.
Yeah, there’s history between those two.
“It’s great that some of you have worked together before, which will make things flow much more smoothly on our limited timescale. And I’m sure those with any …differences,” I look pointedly between Kane and Scarlett, “will put them aside for the sake of this movie.”
Scarlett muttered something under her breath and Kane’s jaw tightened but he didn’t say anything.
“You’re all professionals, so you know the drill. We’ll be hitting the ground running this afternoon through Christmas Eve. Luca will be running the show as director.” I nodded toward the tall, muscular man with a thick head of dark hair dressed in black. “I know you’ve all heard that Bryce’s wife went into labor. I heard from him yesterday, and she successfully delivered twin girls. They’re a little early but doing just fine.” There was a smattering of cheers and applause. “Butthat means we need a replacement for assistant director. Hailey Walker will be coming in to fill the position. She’ll arrive later today.”
Luca stepped forward to address the cast and crew. “Kane and Scarlett will be filming a scene later. For those of you not involved in the scene, I’ll expect you on set at 8 AM sharp tomorrow.” His dark eyes narrowed as scanned the room, and his tone brooked no argument. The man was a perfectionist, so I had no doubt he'd create a masterpiece.
“We’ll need you to coordinate the fight scene this afternoon, Jackson,” I said, seeking out the large, tattooed stunt coordinator. Rumor has it that he and Hailey have history–it’ll be interesting to see that dynamic play out.
Jackson nods. “Not a problem.”
“Good. Laura and Abel, we won’t need you until tomorrow.” I looked between the other actors, who nodded.
“More time to learn my lines,” Laura said, green eyes sparkling and cute dimples on display as she grinned.
At least one person seems happy to be here.Laura was a sweetheart, and got along with everyone.
“Lines? There are lines? In a movie?” Andrew gasped in mock horror.
“Funny guy,” Abel grumbled, shooting the supporting actor a harsh look. It was no secret that Abel was here as a favor to a friend. I knew he was bitter about being canned from the show he was starring in, but he needed to get on board with this project.
Andrew ignored Abel’s bad humor. “Do you need my finely-tuned body on set this afternoon?”
My mouth twitched at his playful tone. “Makes sense to have you here as you’re Kane’s body double,” I replied with a smile. “And, of course, we’ll need Max, in case of any mishaps,” I added, turning my gaze on our dark-haired medic with the bombshell curves.
Few people were more prepared for emergency situations on set than Max, although her bedside manner could use a little improvement.
“Mishaps are my middle name,” she spouted glibly, folding her arms over her chest.
“Max Mishaps Sawyer. Catchy.” Andrew pursed his lips and nodded his head approvingly.
