Chapter 3

All the actors and actresses have arrived for their acting scenes today.

I clasped my hands to catch their attention. "Alright, today we're choreographing the big showdown. It's going to be intense, so safety first."

I handed the main lead actor a practice sword and shield. "We start with a parry here, then a quick jab. Nice and fluid. Let's run through it slowly." We went through the motions, me guiding his movements.

"Good, good. Now, remember, it's not just about looking tough. Sell the emotion. This fight is a turning point for your character."

We continued to refine the choreography, and I gave tips on proper timing and expression.

"You're getting the hang of it. Now, let's pick up the pace a bit. And remember, I've got your back. If anything feels off, just let me know."

We practiced the sequence at a faster pace, and the loud clashing of our practice weapons echoed in the gym.

"Perfect! That was solid. Now, let's fine-tune a few more details, and we'll be ready to shoot this."

He nods, energized and ready for the challenge as we continue to refine the fight scene.

"Alright, next up is the reaction after the big swing. You've just blocked a powerful attack, so show me the strain, the effort. This is where your character's determination shines through."

I demonstrate the movement, emphasizing the grit and determination in my expression. He follows suit, embodying the intensity needed for the scene.

"Good, good. Now, let's add a spin move. It'll add flair to the fight and keep the audience engaged."

We practice the spin move, ensuring it flows seamlessly with the rest of the choreography. The actor starts to show a natural grace in his movements, adapting quickly to the demands of the scene.

"Aside from the physicality, remember the emotional beats. This fight is not just about showcasing your skills; it's about conveying the internal struggle of your character. Every swing, every parry should resonate with the audience."

We go through the sequence multiple times, each run refining the details and adding layers to the performance. The gym echoes with the sounds of our practice weapons meeting, creating a rhythmic cadence.

"Fantastic! You're nailing it. Now, let's integrate the dialogue. This is the moment where your characters exchange words while still engaged in the fight. It adds depth to the scene."

The director approaches us, observing the progress. "Looks like we're ready to shoot. Excellent work, both of you. Let's get the cameras rolling!"

The gym transforms into a makeshift film set, and the actors take their positions. The crew sets up the cameras, and the director calls for action.

*****

"That was good everyone. We shot the scene without any cuts. Good job!" Praises the director after completing a scene.

I cross my arms, observing the scene. They descended from the set and approached our spot. The actors' staff and assistants are busy attending to their actors.

"I'm glad that Andromeda chose us to teach. It's easy to follow her, and she's really effective in teaching." The main lead actor winks at me, a gesture I don't reciprocate with any emotion.

He's Charles, a recent actor who won the Oscars award and he's easy to deal with. But mostly, I think the actors here are scared of me. I won the championship at MMA two years ago before I became a stunt coordinator, and I'm picky about who I teach.

"Absolutely! Andromeda is a dedicated woman. She's excellent at this," the Director seconds the sentiment. My team is all smiles upon hearing this, but even though I'm pleased, I can't seem to express it.

"That's why you shouldn't have to leave us, Laci." Lenox arrives and matches my stance. He has a smile on his lips while he just looks ahead.

"Come on, Lenox, you're putting me in a difficult situation," I retort as Lenox levels his gaze at me, a smile playing on his lips.

He chuckles lightly. "But I will wait, Laci, even if it takes several years." The smile on his face suggests it's not just about the job; it's about his feelings for me. However, I'm not ready for a romantic relationship with anyone.

"Don't wait for me, Lenox. You know I'm not into guys." I make it clear, but Lenox seems undeterred.

"Even if you claim to be into girls, I'll still be waiting for you. You'll accept me soon, I know," he insists.

I attempted relationships with men before, but I felt empty. I despise the way they flirt, stare with lust, and engage in physical contact. It's disgusting. The mere touch of a man makes me want to shower multiple times a day. I'm more comfortable with women, but even then, I'm selective.

When I catch those kinds of gazes directed at me, I can't help but feel triggered. It's as if something deep within me rebels against those advances.

I didn't respond to him until the day ended. We celebrate my farewell party at Lenox's house. He has a huge swimming pool and he's living alone in a huge house.

We set up outside and some are already swimming while I'm still in my pants and wearing my usual shirt.

"Come on Laci, join us!"

I just shake my head and sip my alcohol. "Water?"

Lenox approaches me with a glass of water. I'm always requesting a glass of water whenever I drink alcohol. It's a habit. I reached out for it and thanked him.

"Why aren't you going for a swim? It's your last day today before you go?"

I know what they're thinking. For several years that we've been together, they haven't seen my entire body in a bikini. I'm always wearing men's clothes.

Because this body is the main reason why I feel so disgusted.

"Pass."

He just laughed at what I said. "I can't force you though. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, the papers you want me to work on are already done. Do you want to check?"

I didn't respond and immediately stood up. He just smiled because he knew I wasn't one to beat around the bush.

We headed to his room where his computers and other things were settled. And he gave me a bunch of papers that I had asked him to work on for a week now.

I read the content and nodded. I will send it to the producers we are working with. These will serve as their guide to adapt the stunts they want to perform in the movie more quickly, and Lenox is the one who will assist them since he's now the team leader while I'm away.

My body halted when Lenox put his hands on my shoulder. I swallowed hard as my torment began again. I'm okay with normal touch but when I feel that the touch is something flirty, I turn pale. I don't like being touched like this.

"Get your fûcking hands off me, Lenox.."

He didn't flinch and instead stroked my shoulder down to my arm, and I felt my body start to tremble. I couldn't move because I felt dizzy. I couldn't even move my limbs.

"Why are you so hard to get, Laci? If you just show your body, I won't let my body be obsessed with touching you." He whispered into my ears which made my hair stand on end. I want to curse him and punch or even kill him but I can't, I can't move!

Fûck you Lenox! You won't see the light of day once I can move!

He started kissing my neck and all I could do is to close my eyes while cursing him in my head. Fûck it!

My heart started to beat faster and I tried to clench my fist. When he slid his hand into my shirt, I grabbed his hand with all my strength and twisted it so he screamed in pain.

My head is blank. I can't think of anything and I only want him to disappear.

"Fûcking shìt! Laci!"

We heard multiple shouts from people behind us but I'm still holding his arm tightly, one more move and it would snap.

They couldn't touch me because they knew I didn't allow just anyone to touch me.

"Is he trying to touch you?" Hayden asked calmly. I didn't answer which made them all curse.

"Fûck man, you shouldn't do that!"

"Please my hand! It's going to snap!" He pleaded frantically because I still hadn't let go.

"L-laci, can you please let it go? I promise that it won't happen again." They begged me because they knew that I could do an impossible thing, even killing people.

I loosened my grip on him and he quickly pulled it back. He was terrified as he looked at me while they tried to get him up.

Lenox already knows me but he's insisting that I'm just trying to act not to be touched by anyone. He thought he was special because I agreed to kiss him, which I initiated to test but it's not triggered when I'm the one who initiated.

"I'm sorry Laci.. we know that he has had an eye on you since day one but we thought it was just a talk." Hayden apologized.

I calmed down and stared at him. "It's up to you if you let him work with the team, Hayden but if I were the one who decided, he can still lead the team. He has a talent to do that. I will just forget what happened because I won't see him for a year.."

He looked at me worriedly. "Is it really okay? Like, he--"

I raise my palm to stop him from talking. "It is okay, don't worry.."

I started to walk out and I could feel them following me. I didn't see Lenox anymore and I didn't care. When I got my bag, Hayden blocked me and the worry on his face hadn't disappeared.

I just looked at him tiredly. "What is it, Hayden?"

He scratched his nape. "Can I at least take you to the airport? But if you won't, I'll understand." He quickly added because I didn't have any reaction.

I just passed him but before I could open the gate, I spoke.

"6:30 am sharp. Don't be late."