My Beloved Has Risen from Death's Embrace novel Chapter 160

"Benjamin, you made it."

Kevin rose from behind the camera, "Everything's set up for the shoot. Just waiting for everyone to get here and we'll be rolling. I'm thrilled to be working with you on this one!"

"Director Smith, you're too kind." Benjamin smiled, "To be able to work with you, such an illustrious director in the industry, I feel honored. By the way, where's Xan? She's got the big opening scene today."

"She just called; said she'll be here in ten minutes. She should be here soon."

"Great, I'll wait for her in the lounge."

As Benjamin made his way to the temporary actors' lounge, April approached him, extending her hand shyly, "Hello, Benjamin, I'm April from Starlight Media. I'm playing Vivian in this movie, and I've been a huge fan of yours for years!"

"Hello."

Benjamin gave her a slight nod but didn’t take her hand, leaving April to awkwardly retract her own. She pressed on, "I have a scene with you later, my first time acting with my idol. I'm a bit nervous. Could we possibly run lines together?"

"Don’t be nervous. Just treat it with calm."

Benjamin's eyes scanned the lounge for a place to sit. April quickly pulled out a chair next to her, but he headed straight for another spot, where a nameplate read “Xanthea”.

True to his reputation, he kept his distance from fellow cast members, particularly actresses. His professionalism was probably why he'd managed a scandal-free career over the decades.

Still, April wasn't easily dissuaded. Catching up to him, she ventured cautiously, "Benjamin, I’m playing Vivian this time, and we'll have many scenes together, and I know you expect a lot from your co-stars. I'm worried I haven’t grasped the script thoroughly and might not meet your standards. Could I buy you lunch and get some pointers?"