My Beloved Has Risen from Death's Embrace novel Chapter 210

Wrapped in a midnight trench coat, Maximus blended into the dim surroundings, a sharp military knife marked with a codename tucked at his waist.

He approached Phoenix slowly, taking a moment to admire her stunningly beautiful face, then abruptly tore off the tape on her mouth and gripped her chin tightly. "Phee, we meet again."

"Just get on with it—kill or mutilate. No need for all this nonsense,"

"Cut!"

In front of the camera, Kevin suddenly yelled "cut," leaving the actor playing Maximus to turn around in confusion. "What's wrong, Director? I was just getting into the character. Is there an issue?"

"It's not you, it's Phoenix," Kevin looked at Xanthea. "Your expression and tone are too stiff. This is a reunion between Phoenix and Maximus after a long separation. Despite being mortal enemies now, there’s a bond from their years at Ignite Camp. She should be more affected."

"Okay."

Xanthea nodded, adjusted her state, and a few minutes later, Kevin called for action again.

"Phee, from the day you stepped into Ignite Camp, I told you, you could only belong to me—Maximus, and me alone. No matter if you run to the ends of the earth or to the deepest depths, I'll always find you!"

Phoenix scoffed, a defiant sparkle in her eyes. "I've said it before, I will always be independent and free. I belong to no one."

"So..."

"Cut!"

Kevin called out again.

Xanthea stepped out of character, puzzled. "Director, am I too stiff again?"

"This time there was some emotional stir, but it still feels overacted. It appears fake. Once it seems fake, the audience’s immersion suffers."