Chapter 46 Sarah Has a Surprise
The read through went very well. Andrea had most of the script memorized and didn’t need to look at it too often. During the breaks, she did her best to pay attention to the other cast members and get to know them. Should it come down to it, she wanted them on her side, not Sarah’s. She prayed this didn't turn into some middle school popularity contest, but she wouldn't put anything past the blonde. Besides, Andrea really was interested in getting to know the other cast members.
“I’m sorry I won’t be seeing all of you for a few weeks,” Sarah said when the reading was over, her bottom lip protruding. “That’s what happens when you’re making more than one movie at a time. Some people wouldn't know anything about that.” She looked at Andrea, a fake smile. The first gauntlet had been thrown.
“Luckily, you don't have a lot of lines in this film so you have time for other things.” Andrea hoped her fake smile looked genuine, as if she were trying to compliment Sarah.
“You would know a lot about small roles. You've practically made a career out of them.” Sarah’s smile wasn’t quite as convincing now. “I’ve got to go. It was lovely seeing most of you.” Sarah waved at almost everyone and then left the set, her entourage of assistance following her as if she was so very important.
She could've said something ugly back, but Andrea decided to let it go. No reason to be petty. She made a mental note that she needed to hire more staff. She’d already arranged for a couple of bodyguards to accompany her when Sarah started filming, but she’d had no idea Sarah would be on set today. As it was, she hadn’t even brought Kelsey with her. She’d never needed an assistant on a read-through day before.
She gathered up her belongings and told everyone goodbye. Checking her phone, she saw that she had a text from Case. He’d come to pick her up! A smile crept over her face as she thought about how sweet that was.
Until she realized Sarah had just walked out the door ahead of her!
Picking up speed, Andrea took off for the exit, praying Case and Sarah didn’t run into each other. But when she opened the door, all hope faded away.
Case was standing near the parking lot, his arms folded while Sarah was in front of him, her back to Andrea. The way her arms were flailing, Andrea was ready to step in and defend her man. She considered pulling her earrings off as she walked over, thinking she’d just set her purse and jacket she was holding down on the asphalt and kick off her shoes, but she didn't. Hopefully, this wouldn't come to blows.
But Case saw her and slowly shook his head. He didn’t look mad that Sarah was speaking to him. He looked… concerned. Maybe overwhelmed. Andrea froze, giving them some space. What in the world could she possibly be saying to him that would make him react that way.
Then, she realized Sarah was crying. Was she trying to guilt him into getting back together with her? She pulled something out of her bag, something that looked like pictures, and Case studied them for a second. Now, it looked like he might cry. What the hell was going on?
After a few moments, Sarah took the pictures back, put them in her purse, swiped at her eyes, and then Case hugged her. Andrea was ready to fight again, but this time, it was him she wanted to slug. What the hell was he thinking, hugging that faker right in front of her?
He released her, said a few more words, and then she walked away toward her waiting car. Andrea wasn’t sure what to do. She was tempted to run over and confront Case, but he still looked upset.
“Is everything all right, Andrea?”
She hadn’t heard him come out the door, but Travis was standing next to her, his eyes wide with concern.
“Oh, yeah. Just peachy.” She couldn’t help but roll her eyes.
“Do you need help?” He eyed Case like he wouldn’t mind finding out who was better with his fists.
“No, it’s okay. Thank you.” She patted Travis on the arm, thankful he had her back. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Okay. Call me if you need anything.”
“Thanks.” She smiled at him, appreciating the gesture, even though she didn’t even have his number. Slowly, she walked over to Case, hoping he had a pretty d*mn good explanation.
“We need to talk.” His tone was serious, his face pale.
“Yes, yes we do.” Silently, Andrea followed him to the car, let him open the door for her, and got in, wondering what in the world he was about to tell her. It was time for answers, even if it meant whatever it was the two of them were doing together was over. At least she’d finally have some clarity.