2. Back on Set

2

Back on Set

Auston

I really don’t want to do this movie. Sure, from a career standpoint, it’s a solid move. We’re adapting a popular romance novel, the budget is nothing to be scoffed at, and they’re planning a large-scale marketing campaign. I’m even a producer. But from a personal standpoint? I feel trapped. I love acting. It’s been part of me since I was a kid, but I never thought I’d end up doing romance movies. Sure, they’re fun, and I used to enjoy doing them, but the last three I filmed ha d nearly the same plotline, and two of them were with Madison as my co-star.

I’m ten years into my career now, and I’d like to finally have the freedom to do what I want. Serious and emotional movies that have an impact on society. Maybe even theatre. What am I saying? I don’t have what it takes to do theatre. But I definitely have to break out of this romantic-comedy streak.

This will be the last one. It has to be.

“It’s going to be fabulous, honey!” Mom bursts in behind me as I step into my trailer, practically shimmering in her sequined blazer. Her curly hair is even more voluminous than usual, flaming red like a neon sign. “I can feel it in my bones!”

I slump down on the couch and glance around my new trailer. It looks like every other movie trailer I’ve been in. Only the framed movie posters have changed, highlighting my biggest roles. All romance movies.

“This is the last one, Mom. And this time, I mean it,” I say, sitting back up. “Don’t come to me with yet another romance movie next time, because I swear, I will shut it down.”

“Oh, honey, honey, honey.” She practically floats over to me, her bangles jingling like wind chimes as she waves her fingers around in the air. “I know that’s how you feel. You say the same thing every time! B ut I have to put on my manager hat here.” She pretends to switch hats, and that draws a small smile out of me. “This movie will bolster your career, and with Clarence directing and Madison as your co-star, it’s almost like it was made for you.”

I sigh. “Mom, I told you, nothing is ever going to happen between Madison and me. That whole stint was just for publicity.” Mom’s idea, actually. Probably her worst.

She rubs a hand in firm circles on my back. “Publicity is an art form! It’s like fine champagne—bubbly, delicious, and it has a knack for making everything better.”

I roll my eyes.

She cocks her head, leveling me with a stern look. “ And it’s what got you to where you are today. I’m simply trying to help you reach those goals you set for yourself. This is for your own good. Other opportunities haven’t manifested yet, but they will.”

I release a long breath through my nose. I know she has my best interests at heart. My mom never was one of those evil momagers that seem to flood this business. She found me the best agent and then worked tirelessly to make all my dreams come true. And though I’m grateful for that, my goals have changed. I force a smile. “I know, Mom.”

“I’m on the lookout for other opportunities, I promise,” she adds, cleaning her cat-eye glasses with a cloth. “But you have to put your best effort into this role first.”

“I will, but one thing I won’t do is pretend-date Madison for publicity. Not again.”

She places a hand on my knee. “I’m not asking you to, but it wouldn’t hurt to be seen off-set with her. This is New York. You’ve always loved this city. Just enjoy it together.” She winks. “It works wonders for—”

“No. I already told you, not this time,” I say, standing up. “We’re not going that route again.”

It’s time I finally draw a line. My mom means the world to me, and I can't deny she has an eye for show business. She would have been an excellent actress herself, but she got pregnant with me, Dad left, and she had to abandon her dreams for a more practical job. But even if she has gotten me to where I am today, it’s time I took the wheel.

“Fine,” she says, breathing out an exaggerated sigh. “I won’t push the subject, but I do know what I’m talking about. And I’m sure you’ll end up loving this film, honey. Just like you have every other movie you’ve made.” She stands up, smoothing out her dress. “I have to go talk to security, but don’t forget, not everyone gets to live their dreams. You’re the lucky one.”

I force another smile. “Yes, I know.”

“O h, and I might have some fabulous news for you very soon.” A beaming smile breaks out on her face, but she closes her mouth right away. “I can’t say more now, but I’m working on it.”

“Fine.” I nod. “Talk to you later.”

As she glides out of my trailer, I chew on the inside of my cheek. She’s right. I am living my dream. Well, I guess it was her dream first, but we always bonded over movies and getting ready for auditions. When I perform, I get to be someone else. It’s the greatest escape. As a kid, acting was a way for me to forget for a second that I was living in a tiny house, stuck in a crappy neighborhood. Now, as an adult, it’s a way to cover up the pain and regrets inside of me.

“Hey,” my assistant Robyn says, entering the trailer. “Am I interrupting?”

I plaster a smile on my face. “Not at all.” What sucks about being an actor? Alone time is hard to come by.

“Do you have everything you need?” she asks, looking around.

“Yes, thank you.” I haven’t actually checked yet, but Robyn never forgets anything.

“Perfect. I updated your schedule with the events you have this week and next, and I’m on standby if you need anything else. Want me to make you some coffee?”

“I’m good, Robyn,” I say wi th a genuine smile. “Thank you for everything, but I should be fine. You don’t have to hang around set all day. You do know that, right? Go out and explore New York. It’s been so long since we’ve shot here. Enjoy it.”

She grins. “Yes, I know that. I have the best boss. But I like being around. You know me. Plus, with Mike back in LA, it’s not the same.”

“Remember, you can always go back if you need to,” I say, feeling a stab of pity that she has to leave her new boyfriend behind so soon. I know the feeling all too well. “I’ll be fine here.”

She shakes her head, swaying her long brown hair. “That wouldn’t feel right. Besides, he’ll come next weekend. Thanks for paying for his ticket, by the way.”

“Anytime.”

“Are you sure you’re going to be okay?” she asks, arching an eyebrow. “You don’t look too thrilled to be here. I know you weren’t keen on doing another romance.”

“It’s not ideal, but I said yes, so I have to grit through it. The script is pretty good, though, I have to admit.”

She nods. “Yeah, I read the book on the plane. I loved it. I can’t wait to see the adaptation.”

“You did?” That makes one of us. Not that I’m required to read the books we adapt. Actually, Clarence, who's directing this movie, prefers we only stick to the script.

“It’s a great story, and I’m sure you’re going to be amazing, as usual.”

“Thanks, Robyn.” I know she means it, but sometimes, I can’t help but wonder if all these compliments I get from people are sincere. Sure, I’m a good actor. At least, I think so. But I’m not a great actor, and I’m far from amazing. The roles I portray aren’t deep enough for me to be amazing in them. Anyone could do what I do. My success is all thanks to my mom’s sharp eye for strategy. Nothing I’ve ever done has even earned me an award nomination, let alone critical recognition.

Robyn gives me a small wave. “Well, I’ll leave you to it. Call if you need anything. They have an office set up for us in the next trailer over.”

“See you later.” I force a big smile, then slump back on the couch as soon as she’s out. Robyn is a great girl and a rockstar assistant. She doesn’t deserve my sour attitude, though it’s becoming harder and harder for me to put on the Happy Auston Buckley mask.