Playing a Little Read Free

before a shoot. Erik’s strong embrace, even while acting, had left her with a sense of emptiness once he had left the stage.
    “Erik’s opposite me? What does he play?” Camille forced herself out of her reminiscence.
    “Your teacher, Camille. In the film, he will be playing your pseudo-uncle in a life story known as age-play. Because this is something unique, and rather taboo, I decided that it would be best for the two of you to have some time alone to learn and practice the lifestyle before you do the final shoot. I will give you the actual script after that time. Like I said, it will be a challenge on so many levels, but I really believe you can do it. Are you up to taking a lead role in this film?”
    “Age-play? Like in making me dress like a child? Arthur, Pippi has grown up and…”
    “It does not matter, because she was never allowed to really be a little girl. By embracing this part, you will have the opportunity to not only play a child, but be allowed to freely react as one. Pippi’s character was always irresponsible, independent, and without boundaries. She was forced to look out for herself. This character requires much the same, but more reactive and with less production. You will be guided and directed by Erik and I expect him to elicit realism. I want the true essence of cause and effect, the raw emotions that come with finding yourself in a situation where you have no control. That will mean putting the professionalism aside and not being afraid of the consequences.”
    “How old of a child must I play? Pippi was nine,” Camille asked with doubt in her tone.
    “I will leave that up to you and your leading man. He has experience in this style of coaching as well as the actual lifestyle. We will adjust the script accordingly. All right, honey… You look skeptical. Maybe this will help you see how serious I am.” He wrote something on a piece of paper and handed it to her. Camille nearly choked as she looked at the number of zeros splattered on the piece of paper.
    “Is this how much it is going to take to produce this movie?” she coughed out. “This is seven figures!”
    “No, darling.” Arthur lifted a cup of tea as a toast. “That is your salary for both the time to train and then to make it. Well?”
    “Stan would kill me if I refused. I need some time to think about this, though. And more information. I just get the feeling that you aren’t telling me everything, Arthur.”
    “I am wounded to the depth of my heart! At my age…”
    “Arthur,” Camille said patiently, “my mother is the drama queen of all drama queens. Guilt does not work on me. You need to give me some time to think this out and discuss it with my agent. We are not just dealing with numbers; we are looking at my reputation. Granted, having a good reputation doesn’t put food on the table, but it makes for a good night’s sleep. Can you give me at least until tomorrow night to consider this offer and maybe get some more information?”
    “I suppose,” Arthur sighed. “Just so you know that you are as stubborn as that boy of mine. Having the two of you in one house would certainly provide some dynamic entertainment. I can see the sparks flying already.”
    “Then get a bucket of water and put them out. I hate fighting.”
    “Just one more thing, Miss LeCroix. The figure I wrote on that paper is a genuine offer. Accept it and you will never have to worry about auditioning for any more ugly roles or tolerating comments from any nasty costars. This movie is your ticket to freedom.”
    “Thank you. I appreciate you giving me time to consider.”
    “If you can wait a moment, I will call Kyle to take you to the cottage. We are getting up early tomorrow to head toward the lake house.” Camille just nodded, saying not a word.

Chapter Two
     
     
    Erik Renault paced impatiently in his hotel room, running his fingers through his thick, light brown hair as he glanced at the clock. He was waiting for the phone call