Ivy paused mid-stroke as she was towel-drying her hair.
Her assistant, always one to shoot straight, was visibly peeved. How could anyone expect her to hold her breath deep underwater when she had a water phobia?
After all, acting was just a job, and fansâ adoration was just an added halo of glory.
Ivy did not need to risk her life for a scene, did she?
Besides, she knew all too well that for Ivy; sinking into the oceanâs depths was not as simple as closing her eyes and then opening them again.
Every second submerged felt like an eternity to her.
In the grip of such terror, how could she possibly control her movements?
Dianaâs comments were obviously flippant. After all, she did not fear the water, but she was not the lead actress.
Ivy stopped her assistant, appreciating her concern. This was the only person who would stand up for her.
But the assistant was just that-an assistant. Her influence was minimal, and Ivy was unsure she had the clout to ensure her safety.
When faced with Dianaâs provocations, she would rather take on a bit more grief than let her assistant take risks on her behalf.
âLetâs cut to the chase. If youâre not shooting, give the director a heads-up. No need to keep testing the waters and wasting everyoneâs time. Drying your hair takes long enough as it is.â
Ivyâs hair had to be dried repeatedly to recreate the exact conditions for the shoot.
It was then that Colton approached, eyes filled with concern.
âThereâs no need to cave to someone elseâs baiting. Your health is paramount.â
If possible, he would love his film to have no stunt doubles, but sometimes actors had no control over, he had no choice but to compromise.
He was not some old-school tyrant insisting Ivy learn to tread water.
For actors, valuing their health was crucial to their future prospects.
Ivy took a deep breath, dabbed at her hair, and nodded.
âDonât worry, I wonât push myself. Just give me five minutes, and Iâll give you a definite answer.
Colton nodded, giving her the space she needed.
The rest of the crew was told to stand down and take a break.
âWhat do you think about this? We shoot a few more takes or let lvy shoot just the scene. where she falls into the sea and then use a stunt double for the underwater shots.
That way, we can keep the story seamless.â
Colton took a drag of his cigarette, exasperated. âYou think I havenât thought of that? To be honest, Iâm realizing the downside of casting such a distinctive lead! These stunt doubles are skilled and look good, but up against Ivy-especially on camera-theyâre miles off.
Ivyâs not just pretty; she has a presence thatâs uniquely hers. How could we not have continuity issues?
If we have to, weâll just go with it. If it looks off, it looks off. We canât drive our leading lady to the brink.â
The producer chuckled and slapped Coltonâs shoulder. âYouâre not afraid of killing the rest of us with jealousy, huh? Youâve got a lead actress whoâs both talented and low-maintenance. Just count your blessings. Once we wrap this film, I need to talk to Ivy. Iâve found a script that if sheâs willing to continue collaboratingâ¦â
His mind raced to the filmâs potential blockbuster release, and he could not help but smirk smugly.
âI hope she agrees to work with me.â
Colton stubbed out his cigarette. âIf your scriptâs good enough, sheâll certainly sign on.â