Chapter 407 Premeditation or Coincidence?
Faced with a barrage of questions from reporters, Margaret kept her cool and dodged them skillfully. Luckily, there were fewer reporters this time compared to the last, and they quickly hopped into the nanny van and headed back to the set.
Lyle let out a sigh of relief once they were in the car, sinking into his seat. "Man, I didn't expect to see them when I got discharged."
Margaret laughed, "Good thing the set's locked down now, and security's tighter. Plus, everyone's gonna be stoked to see you back."
"Hey, let's swing by the company first. You just got out of the hospital and need to chill. You can get back to the set in a few days."
"No way, let's go straight to the set. I miss everyone, and we gotta catch up on the filming schedule. We can't afford to fall behind."
"It's cool."
"Margaret, seriously, listen to me. I'm an actor, and filming's my job. Working overtime is no biggie."
Seeing Lyle's determination, Margaret couldn't argue.
They chatted and laughed as the nanny van pulled up outside the set. Everyone knew Lyle was coming back, and several staff members were already at the entrance to greet him. Lyle walked onto the set confidently, waving to the busy crew and fellow actors.
"Hey everyone, I'm back!"
"Lyle, you're back!"
"Mr. Pennington, is your injury better? Do you need more rest?"
"Lyle, it's awesome to have you back. The set felt empty without you these past few days. How are you feeling now?"
Lyle responded to everyone's greetings with a big smile, patiently answering each one. Margaret stood beside him and addressed the group, "Lyle's injuries are almost healed, but he just got out of the hospital today. How about we let him rest at the hotel for a day and start filming tomorrow?"
Everyone nodded in agreement, but Lyle shook his head.
"No need," he said, smiling at Margaret. "I've been lying in the hospital for days, and the doctor said I can start working normally. Let's get going."
"But you—"
Margaret was still worried, but Lyle gave her a reassuring look.
"It's fine. We've fallen behind on the filming schedule. Let's catch up so we can submit it to the film festival on time."
Seraphina watched Lyle from the crowd, smiling. She liked Lyle, and that was a fact.
Though she felt a bit down seeing Lyle with Margaret, she knew she wasn't yet on Margaret's level. People naturally gravitate towards better things, and she couldn't fault them for that.
"Alright then, let's get started. No more resting, let's get to work!" the director called out, and everyone responded enthusiastically, diving into the filming.
Lyle had some solo scenes to reshoot, but most of his scenes were with Seraphina. During Lyle's absence, Seraphina had improved her acting skills significantly by working with other actors.
Moreover, they played a couple separated by fate, where love was the most crucial element.
Lyle relied on his acting skills, while Seraphina's feelings were genuine.
In almost every emotional scene that required eye contact or the female lead gazing at the male lead, Seraphina's performance was genuinely moving.
So, whenever they reshot tender scenes, their collaboration was flawless.
After two hours, Lyle was impressed. When the director called for a break, he smiled at Seraphina and sincerely praised her.
"Seraphina, I didn't expect your acting to get so good so fast. I haven't seen you for a few days, and you've really blown me away."
Seraphina blushed and quickly looked down, smiling modestly. "I've been working with the senior actors in the group, and they've taught me a lot. But if Mr. Pennington praises me, it means my efforts haven't been in vain, right?"
Lyle laughed, and during the filming, Margaret had been sitting with the director, observing every actor's movements, expressions, and lines.
Seraphina's progress was clear, and her gaze towards Lyle was undeniably genuine.
Seeing Lyle and Seraphina chatting, Margaret walked over and smiled. "Seraphina, you've made great progress. Your chemistry with Lyle is obvious. With time, you'll become an outstanding actress."
"Thank you, Margaret! I'll keep working hard!"
Seraphina was thrilled and even bowed to Margaret, who laughed heartily and waved her hand.
"Alright, alright, we're all friends here. You're very dedicated to your acting, so no need to be so formal."
Margaret suddenly remembered something and turned to face the busy or resting staff, clapping her hands and raising her voice.
"To celebrate Lyle's successful discharge, I'm treating everyone to dinner at Wisteria Restaurant tonight. Make sure to come after we wrap up!"
"Alright!"
Everyone cheered in unison, and the atmosphere on set was harmonious.
In the evening, the remaining staff and actors headed to Wisteria Restaurant in small groups. Margaret had already reserved the hall, as they hadn't had a team-building event since filming started.
But no one noticed a sneaky figure near the set.
It was Anna.
Since her last encounter with Margaret, she had been keeping an eye on Margaret's movements. She had already found out the location of "The Last Actor" set and knew about tonight's big event.
Inside Wisteria Restaurant.
The private hall on the second floor was filled with the crew and actors, everyone enjoying themselves. Some even encouraged friends to perform, earning cheers and creating a lively atmosphere.
"Mr. Pennington, you just got out of the hospital. You should eat something light."
Seraphina served Lyle some food, smiling politely.
Margaret watched from nearby, her face full of satisfaction. She could tell Seraphina was a good person.
"I need to use the restroom."
Margaret whispered to her companion and headed to the restroom. While touching up her makeup in front of the mirror, a woman emerged from a stall.
Seeing Margaret, she paused, then exclaimed in surprise, "Margaret, is that you!"
Margaret turned, puzzled, and saw a familiar face. Anna.