Hollywood Director 1992

[Chapter 301: Why Did It Take So Long?]

In the afternoon, Cameron Diaz had only two scenes to shoot. After finishing, she sat on the sidelines, watching Link bustle around the set. Not only was he serving as the executive screenwriter giving pointers to the actors, but he was also the producer guiding the director and cameraman, as well as taking on editing duties.

His busy figure was visible everywhere on set. Despite the sweltering heat, he remained energetic and vibrant, seemingly tireless.

...

By five in the afternoon, the crew wrapped up for the day, but Link's work was far from finished. He still had to edit the day's footage, cutting out unnecessary shots while discussing the next day's shoot with the creative team.

Seeing him so consumed with work, Cameron took the initiative to bring him some bottled water, which he gratefully accepted. However, she found it difficult to say anything else when he was so serious during work.

...

Once finished for the day, Cameron returned to the hotel where the crew was staying. She washed off the grime in the bathroom, changed into a stunning rose-colored gown, brushed her beautiful golden hair, and spritzed on some delightful perfume. Given her natural beauty, she wore only light makeup.

After getting ready, she took her character script and knocked on Link's door.

When the door opened, Link was dressed casually in a crew neck T-shirt and comfortable pants. He had a tall, athletic frame, and the fitted shirt showcased his muscular build. It was evident he maintained his fitness despite a busy schedule, unlike many executives who inflated with wealth and lost their hair.

Cameron stole several glances at his back until Link invited her to sit down.

Her cheeks flushed as she took a seat on the opposite sofa.

Link began explaining the script and her role. She played Andy, the daughter of Professor Parker. Her character's main purpose was to bridge the gap between her parents, helping her mother accept Hachi as a beloved member of the family and creating a warm family atmosphere through interactions with her parents and Hachi.

The script was well-written, with a well-rounded character design. As long as she could immerse herself in the role and express genuine emotion, the performance would be easy.

Cameron listened intently, gaining a deeper understanding of the character and her confidence in bringing it to life grew. However, halfway through, she suddenly remembered her true purpose for being there.

As Cameron stood up to pour Link some coffee, she settled beside him on the couch and continued listening to his explanation, her legs accidentally brushing against him frequently, their eyes meeting often. Her gaze was filled with admiration and affection.

After a while, Link paused and looked at her.

...

Cameron dropped her gaze, brushing aside her golden hair, "Link, do you not like me doing this?"

"I don't mind, but you should know I have many rumored girlfriends. My romantic life is complicated, and getting too close to a playboy like me isn't good for you. You're young, with plenty of time and opportunity ahead. You have talent that doesn't require this," Link explained.

At 22 years old, Cameron was stunning and incredibly attractive, which made her the perfect choice for the lead in The Mask. Her future looked bright, and she was one of the few actresses earning over $20 million for a single film.

He didn't mind the allure, but some things needed to be made clear upfront to avoid misunderstandings down the line. 

"Link, you came from the bottom of this industry and know it well. An actor without connections has an uphill battle in Hollywood, especially a woman like me with decent looks. It's easy to face the darker side of the industry.

From what I've gathered, you treat the women around you very well, whether they're established stars or newcomers. You offer them support and protection, even with all the media accusing you of exploiting women.

But to us small actors, you're like a god, a being that can help us soar, and the safest harbor. I believe that not just me, but every woman qualified to be close to you would seize that opportunity without hesitation.

I consider myself lucky to have crossed paths with you early in my career, having the chance to sit beside you and hear you explain the script. I know this is a gift from above, and if I were to just sit here silently, I would regret it for a lifetime.

I don't want to regret anything, so I am taking the initiative to get close to you, to try to entice you. I don't know if my clumsy attempts will succeed, but at this moment, I'm making an effort. When this moment passes, I know I won't have regrets."

While saying this, Cameron's expression was serious. By the time she reached the emotional climax, her beautiful eyes filled with tears.

Link sighed gently and handed her a tissue.

Cameron accepted the tissue and buried her face in his shoulder, sobbing.

Link embraced her, gently patting her back to comfort her.

Cameron cried for a moment, then looked up at him through tear-filled eyes and asked, "Link, will you accept me?"

Link wiped her tears away, noticing her youthful, delicate skin, "I'm a playboy; how could I reject a confession from a gorgeous woman?"

Cameron's face broke into a smile. She leaned in, wrapping her arms around his neck, and pressed her lips against his.

Link tossed the script aside, hoisting up the slender but lightweight Cameron Diaz, and soon they were lost in the moment.

The sofa and bathroom soon bore the evidence of their affection.

...

However, shortly after they returned to the bedroom, a ringing doorbell interrupted them. Initially, Link ignored it, but soon his phone buzzed.

He reluctantly set Cameron down, threw on a robe, and answered the phone. It was Jodie Foster asking where he was, noting it was getting dark and why nobody was in his room. Was he out partying?

Link replied he was sleeping and asked what she needed.

Before he could finish speaking, the doorbell rang again.

Looking at the mess in the living room, he hastily picked up scattered clothes from the carpet and tossed them into the bedroom.

He reached the door and opened it.

"Why did it take so long?" Jodie sounded a bit impatient waiting at the entrance.

"What are you doing here at this hour? You're a woman; you should think about your image," Link said casually.

"I'm just a biological woman; I function more like a man," she retorted.

"Whatever you say. Is there something you need?" Link asked as he relaxed on the sofa, propping up one leg.

"Are you really sleeping? It's barely past eight. How can you be asleep?"

"Early to bed, early to rise is healthy," Link replied.

"Strange theory," Jodie noted as she plopped down on the sofa, taking Cameron's earlier spot. She sniffed the air and caught a pleasant scent. On the table were two cups, one clearly marked with a lip print. She raised an eyebrow, wearing a sly smile. "So, there is a woman here?"

"Cameron came by to discuss the script," Link explained.

"Just discussing the script?" Jodie glanced towards the bedroom door, laughing, "I bet someone's in there!"

"Want to go check?" Link teased.

Jodie blinked those striking blue eyes at him for a moment, "Forget it. Whether or not someone's in there is none of my business. I'm here to talk movies with you."

They soon delved into serious discussions, starting with how they were filming Hachi: A Dog's Tale, discussing the composition and performance-related issues. They moved on to recently released films, including The Man from Earth, distributed by Guess Pictures.

After more than an hour, Jodie finally wrapped it up with a playful note.

...

"Link, hope I didn't interrupt your date," Jodie said, a hint of mischief in her smile.

"It's alright. I told you, work is a leisurely activity for me. Talking movies with you is the same; it's not a bother," Link replied casually.

Jodie's expression fell at his comment; how dare he compare chatting with her to leisure activities!

She shot him an annoyed look before heading for the door.

At the entrance, she paused to ask if he wanted to attend the BAFTA Awards next week.

Link said he would go, and they could attend together.

Jodie didn't reply, simply wishing him a soft goodbye, telling him to be ready for stiff legs in the morning.

...

Once Jodie left, Link returned to the bedroom. Cameron lay curled up in the covers, sleeping peacefully, her face exuding a lovely charm. Not wanting to disturb her, Link wrapped his arms around her and slept through the night.

*****

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