Chapter 40

In the story, Valerie and Raviel tried to save their relationship despite having a lot of misunderstandings, doubts, and trust issues. But just like a broken mirror, the crack on its reflection is still visible no matter how much they fixed it. In the end, they decided to end their relationship and heal their broken hearts.

"Well, that's it. Do you still have any questions for me?" Director Cartel asked.

"None for now." Francheska said with a smile.

"Good. Just do your best, Francheska. I already watched some of your films and I can say that you take your acting seriously. I am confident that you can do well in this movie."

"Thank you for your trust in me, Director Cartel. I mean it."

"Oh, it's nothing." The director said before looking at her wristwatch. "We still have to wait for forty minutes before we start filming."

Director Cartel stand up and stretched her arms a little.

"Sorry for taking your time, Francheska. I also apologized for talkative."

"You do not have to say sorry, director. I enjoyed our conversation today. You also helped me by giving me a lot of emotion that can help me with my role as Valerie."

"If that's the case, then I am glad to hear that. Then, I will go first. I have to double-check everything so we can shoot later without any problems."

After that, Director Cartel left the tent so she can use the remaining time to rest. Jess entered the tent while holding a cup of mango shake and a pack of oatmeal cookies and banana bread. Jess told her that it was Rissa who prepared her snack since she knew that Francheska has a big appetite.

Francheska spent her remaining time chatting with Jess while munching her snacks. So far, Francheska does not have any problems with Jess. She is very smart and humble. Francheska plans to observe her for a while before deciding to hire Jess as her permanent assistant. With Jess around, then Rissa's work will be lessened.

Then a staff called Francheska to tell her that the whole cast was already there. After thanking the staff for informing her, Jess fixed her make-up for the last time before giving her good luck cheer. Arriving at the spot where the other casts were gathering already, they all greeted her and Francheska also did the same.

When Rachel greeted her good morning, accepted it with a smile on her face. During their time together here, Francheska swears that she will never avoid Rachel. If there is someone who needs to hide here, then it will be Rachel.

"Since everyone is now here, then you should all prepare, change your clothes and do your make-ups. I already sent a copy to your managers of what scenes we are going to shoot today. Please read and memorize your scripts so we can avoid retakes and finish our shoot early today. Is that clear?" Director Cartel asked.

Everyone said yes in unison. So the rumors about Director Cartel being strict on time is real. She even made a schedule on what scenes they are doing to shoot for the whole week.

"We are going to shoot Francheska's solo scenes first." Director Cartel said before looking at Rachel. "Ms. Tan, you should prepare since we are going to film your solo scenes next."

"Yes, director." Rachel answered in a sweet voice.

"Good. So everyone, we are now going to officially start the shooting of 'Withering Red Lotus'." The director declared.

After that, every actor and actresses go straight to their designated tents to prepare for their scenes. While everyone is busy, Rachel secretly moved to stand next to Francheska who is waiting for the director to call her.

"Hello, Cheska. I did not expect that we are going to be in the same movie right after you come back." Rachel started the conversation.

But Francheska did not say anything. She only remained standing with her arms crossed on her chest. Rachel did not get mad at it. Instead, she smiled sweetly but the words she speaks were full of viciousness."

"But why did you come back? It would be better if you just stay abroad and never took a step back in this city. Is the damage we'd done not yet enough? Do you want me to let you experience more?"

Again, Rachel did not receive any answers from Francheska. This made her pissed but she cannot express it. One of the things she hates was being ignored.

"Francheska!" Rachel hissed her name.

"Hmm?"

Then with a bored look, Francheska turned her head to look at Rachel who has a smile on her face yet her irritation is very obvious in her eyes.

"Pardon me. But are you talking to me, Ms. Tan?" Francheska asked as she blinked her eyes.

"You—"

"Ah, sorry. I guess your presence is not that obvious to me. Well, I guess it's my fault?" Francheska continued with a shrug. "Or maybe yours?"

Before Rachel can answer her, Director Cartel called Francheska's name so they can finally start. Francheska walked towards the director and did not give any more attention to her ex-stepsister.