Page 62 of Filthy Rich

“Maybe especially if it’s the president,” she says. “He can be a little annoying.”

“It’s actually because everyone knows I’m not a good actor at all.” I wink. “That’s why they can see just how I feel when I’m with you and know it’s true.”

I watch sideways as Bea circles around, grabs Octavia, and they leave. Then it’s time to focus on getting through these scenes quickly—not that it’s too hard. I’m great at memorizing lines, and we’re filming scenes I’ve already done with Patrice. Even so, the first few scenes with a new actor are always the most critical. You have to find your stride.

It’s easy with May, so easy.

She knows her lines. She has a natural cadence, and she’s genuinely funny. This isn’t a comedy, but I almost wish it was. She makes things that aren’t even supposed to be jokes mildly comical.

Before I know it, we’re filming the very last scene. Our third cut felt great, but now we have to wait to see if they want us to run it again, or if we’re done until four.

“Heard you have lunch plans,” May says.

I nod. “I should, yeah. She has some filming for something today, or that’s what my sister said.”

“So you’re dating your sister’s best friend?” May’s eyebrows rise. “Is that complicated?”

“I guess I am.” I hadn’t thought about it like that, but Octavia has basically transformed Bea since meeting her. “You know, they haven’t even been friends too long, but Bea has grown so much with Octavia to push her.”

“The best friends are like that. It’s easy, it’s just right, and they make us better.”

“That’s exactly it,” I say. “I’d known Bea for a really long time, maybe too long. I didn’t realize she needed a push. I had let her become complacent, but Octavia saw the problem right away.” I can’t help smiling. “I hated her at first—she personally ruined Bea’s chance of winning this jingle competition. My sister was so upset.”

“I bet.” May’s smile is just like it is when the camera’s rolling.

“Anyway, now they’re almost inseparable. I think Bea said they should be done around one or so.”

“I can see why you like her,” May says. “She’s really, really pretty.”

“You haven’t even heard her sing in person yet.”

“Still,” she says. “Even in recordings, it’s really something, her voice.”

“It fits her,” I say. “All of it.”

Jane waves our direction. “We’re done.”

“Nice,” I say. “That was way faster than with Patrice the first time.”

“When it’s right, it’s right,” May says. “See you later.” She’s already on her phone, probably with her boyfriend.

When I call Octavia, she says, “Hey! Are you done already?”

“Yep, so much easier with May. Wrapped up early.”

“Awesome. We have a few things left—wanna text me a place? We can meet you there?”

“Hand the phone to Bea, would you?”

“Oh, uh, sure. Hang on.”

“Hey, stranger,” Bea says.

“Why are you crashing my date?”

“Do you not remember how obnoxious you were when I was dating Easton?”

“The difference is I was doing it because I didn’t want to lose you,” I say. “And you’re doing it because Seren wants to make sure I’m fine.”

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