Chương 316: assistance.

March 10.

-I have to say, it's a very good script, - whispered Winona, taking note of the powerful script. It was a touching love story, along with a small book that had been released not long ago.

-It is. See why I say it's perfect for you? Even the first time I saw it, it was great. A second read made me realize it's a wonderful piece, - Billy commented, not lying. When he read the script, he didn't realize it had been read before, but he briefly remembered how magnificent the series was, one of the best films.

-You're an impossible man, - said Winona, throwing herself onto the grass next to the set, and looking at the blue sky. - I'll agree to the script, I'll do the movie... however, you should know that Gwyneth won't like us doing a movie together. Besides, I had no idea you two were dating. -

Billy relaxed next to Winona, took a deep breath, and rested in the sun. Yesterday, they had done numerous scenes, one of which was the night date. Due to his more emphatic performance, the director gave him a bit more screen time, and he was able to solidify the contradiction of the boyfriend against the bright and sunny fiancé.

-We're not dating, we don't have the relationship you might think... she has taught me a lot about women, about people, and has helped me navigate different waters, - Billy said calmly, taking a spot on the grass. The tree's shade allowed them to cover from the sun, but there was no doubt the days were quite long near the desert, and the nights warm, contrary to what was thought about the cold. He had acted foolishly, like a complete novice, something that still disappointed him. His emotions were out of place, his actions out of place, living in a world that annoyed him.

Doubting how to repay Gwyneth, even if he wanted to, he loved Alice much more than he did Gwyneth.

-We're not dating. She is a willful woman, jealous, sometimes superficial, and possessive. On the other hand, she's sweet, loving, permissive, lively, and homely. We have an understanding. I'll explain the situation to her. Besides, we have a promise to act together. Sometimes, she is an excellent actress, and other times, she's nothing more than a spoiled child, - Billy commented.

-Gwyneth can be very reasonable when she wants to be... besides, I'll do everything possible to reach an understanding. It's not my intention to cause fights between you two. She is a good friend, - Winona responded.

Both found comfort in their friendship, not without annoying each other, but understanding. The next take they were filming would be the last of the movie, the moment when Finn's thesis pages fly all over the place, the moment to provide some conclusions and pave the way for an ending, chosen by myth and superstition, but representing love, a love that helps.

Billy took note and continued with his course, the last scene a brief moment of handling, while continuing with his performance.

***

Billy left the set in the mid-afternoon with a sense of urgency; his interaction with Winona had proven more beneficial than he initially thought. Taking the route to Los Angeles, he faced a long drive to the Fox studios for the filming of the new and challenging Nixon biopic. This film, with a raw and firm portrayal of Nixon's life, promised to be a worthwhile watch. Anthony Hopkins' performance was magnificent, albeit somewhat lacking in certain parts.

Billy was to perform a minor role as Harold Nixon, the brother who died of tuberculosis. Harold's death haunted Nixon, marking him deeply. His brother's passing, after providing Nixon the opportunity to attend university, influenced Nixon's rise in politics, ultimately leading him to the presidential race. The film uniquely oscillates between Nixon's past and his future presidency, underscoring the importance of his early experiences.

-Come in, Mr. Carson, we've been expecting you, - said an assistant. Billy, now clean-shaven with slightly longer hair and loose clothing, looked like a teenager after a few touch-ups. The black-and-white filming was set to contrast the past and present.

-Thank you, - Billy replied. Accompanied by his bodyguard and a newly hired assistant named Rosa, who was appointed by Jim Waitt. Rosa, a 34-year-old woman with large round glasses and a traditional dress, was his new secretary.

Billy navigated the recording studio, noting everything he needed to do. Rosa stood in a corner, watching him with apprehension.

-Rosa, can you contact Ian McCalle's assistant to inform them of my delay? Also, call Anne to arrange the next meeting with Apple. You have until 5 PM when we wrap up filming. I won't need you for much more today. Speak with Anne for any further questions, and be ready to study all the companies and my contact list with me tomorrow morning before we head to the studio, - Billy instructed.

-Yes, sir, -Rosa responded, ready for the opportunity.

-Good. Make sure to call Anne; she will talk to Margot. You'll be communicating with Margot often, - Billy added.

Without further delay, Billy immersed himself in his work, focusing on his script and preparations. Working with child actors made filming more complex and required short, efficient takes. Adult actors often had to adjust their performances to support the children, who might need several takes for the same scene.

The first scene was set in a house, studio, and convenience store owned by the Nixons. Filming is primarily centered there. With a child actor in a supporting role, filming was more challenging, requiring patience and multiple takes to capture the right moments.

Billy finished his scenes exhausted. The day had little to no breaks, and Anthony Hopkins was notably absent, leaving the crew to focus on other scenes.

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