Starbright

by Richland, Alexandra

  “I see.” Aidan folded his arms over his chest. “Nate, I wanna run something by you, okay?”

  Nathan shrugged. “Sure. What is it?”

  “While you were off on your errand across the lot, Mertz took advantage of your absence and called Beth into his office.”

  Nathan fiddled with the brim of his fedora. “Oh no. I’m sorry.”

  Beth let out a frustrated sigh. She refused to believe Mr. Mertz had some sort of conspiracy against her and Aidan. “What my beau failed to mention is the meeting was in regards to a positive matter. He wanted me to confirm Aidan and I were dating after he heard we were together at Romanoff’s on Valentine’s Day.”

  Worry flitted across Nathan’s face. “And you said…?”

  “Well, I couldn’t lie to him again!” Beth shook her head, exasperated that they thought she was unable to make such important decisions on her own. “He obviously had a lot of reliable sources this time. Romanoff’s was packed with his employees.”

  Beth launched into the story about what happened during the meeting, leaving out the part about Mr. Mertz’s hand on her knee. There was no point getting Aidan angry for no reason.

  “What do you think, Nate?” Aidan asked when she finished. “Fishy, ain’t it?”

  Nathan’s gaze drifted to Beth, revealing nothing. “Did Luther threaten you to get you to talk?”

  She shook her head.

  “And he said your contract is safe as well as your role in Golden Gloves?”

  She nodded. “Aidan’s role, too.”

  Nathan sighed. “It’s tricky. I mean, if Luther was angry, he would’ve fined you already, at the very least, and he certainly wouldn’t have told you it was all right to be photographed with Aidan at the Oscars. I’d be worried that he’d fire you after Golden Gloves, but the picture is guaranteed to make him a ton of money. He’ll want to capitalize on your popularity and put you in other films.”

  Beth snapped her fingers. “That’s exactly what I told Aidan.”

  Nathan looked at her beau. “Luther’s done stranger things for money before. He may not be fond of you, but perhaps he’s willing to overlook that to make a buck. My advice is to take whatever slack he’s given you but don’t push him.”

  Aidan nodded, but he still didn’t look convinced.

  “I’d never encourage you to make a deal with Luther if I had a bad feeling about it.” A disconcerting frown crept upon Nathan’s face.

  Beth and Aidan exchanged puzzled glances. Before Beth could inquire into his sudden sullen mood, he looked his cheerful self again.

  “In all honesty, this deal doesn’t seem so bad.” Nathan placed his fedora on his head. “There’s a good chance the public will be overjoyed to find out Golden Gloves’ leading stars fell in love in real life. Even if Luther doesn’t want to openly support your relationship, you two will be so big by the time the film is released that Beth’s career will be unstoppable. She can probably announce your love to the world against his wishes with only minor consequences.”

  Beth flashed an appreciative smile. “I’m glad you’re confident I made the right decision by telling the truth.”

  Aidan placed his hands in the pockets of his trousers. “Nate, you know Mertz better than anyone. So if you’re okay with it, I’ll try to be, too.”

  Nathan offered another grin. “Don’t worry, you two. The ball is in your court now. Luther needs you just as much as you need him, and if he ever pretends you don’t mean anything to him, it wouldn’t hurt to remind him of this fact.”

  Beth beamed at Aidan. “See, I told you this was a good thing.”

  He sighed. “I hope so, baby.”

  A stagehand arrived to call Beth and Aidan to the set. When Kazan summoned Aidan over to discuss the next scene, Beth took the opportunity to speak with Nathan in private.

  “We still have to iron out the rest of the details for Aidan’s party.” She kept her voice low, even though her beau was out of earshot. “His birthday is two months away, but there’s so much to be done. Perhaps we can meet tomorrow at the same time you suggested today?”

  Nathan nodded. “Sure, but how about we meet in the commissary instead?”

  Beth giggled. “Sounds good. Although my meeting with Mr. Mertz went well, I wouldn’t want to risk running into him again. There’s only so much of him I can take.”

  A shiver shot up her spine at the memory of his hand on her knee, regardless of how innocent the gesture was. Thankfully, her smile didn’t falter, so Nathan seemed none the wiser. He gave her a wave farewell and departed the soundstage.

  Beth watched Aidan rehearse with Wade, who had joined them for the afternoon. She was impressed by her beau’s dedication and couldn’t help but revel in their good fortune. She was relieved Mr. Mertz accepted their relationship. Now she looked forward to the Academy Awards even more, firmly believing in her character’s line at the start of the next scene:

  As long as we are together, my love, we can triumph over anything.

  Beth relaxed in her chair at the vanity after her makeup and hair personnel left her dressing room. Aidan was in his private quarters down the hall, preparing for his scene alone. Today they were filming one of the most dramatic scenes of the film: Joe’s confession to Mary regarding his apprehension over his return to boxing.

  During breakfast, Aidan’s usual enthusiasm was absent, and his bloodshot eyes indicated he hadn’t slept a wink. However, Beth refused to pry, using the rationale that if he needed to open up to her, he would do so without encouragement. She was very proud of him. He no longer suffered from nightmares and seemed to be very close to a full recovery. Just a little more time, patience, and support, and she hoped he’d heal completely.

  Beth’s excitement over today’s scene resurfaced with a knock at her door. “Please tell Mr. Kazan I’ll be out in a moment.”

  “Actually, Beth, it’s me.” The voice in the hallway belonged to Nathan.

  Beth swiveled around in her chair. “Come in!”

  Nathan entered the room, dressed in a navy blue suit and matching fedora.

  “Good morning,” he said, closing the door behind him.

  “I understand you’ve fared well so far during Liv’s driving lessons.” Beth smiled. She’d heard all about their adventures from Olivia earlier in the week.

  “Liv’s vehicle handling is progressing nicely, but she’s still nervous around other cars when we venture off the side streets.” Nathan grinned. “Luckily, I’ve borrowed a studio vehicle for her lessons, so my Cadillac is not in any danger.”

  Beth giggled. “I know she’s very excited to get her license—more so because of her desire to purchase the new Ford that just came on the market rather than gaining her independence—but it’s still nice to see her so dedicated.”

  Nathan chuckled. “I’ve heard plenty about that car, too. I have no doubt she’ll be ready to take her driving test in the next few weeks.”

  As his gaze swept the dressing room, Beth noticed his eyes looked bloodshot. Concern settled in the pit of her stomach with the reminder of Aidan’s ragged appearance this morning.

  “Are you all right?” she asked.

  Nathan dragged his hand down his face, as though he was trying to wipe away the physical traces of his exhaustion. He walked across the room and took a seat on the chair beside her, tossing his fedora onto the vanity, next to her script.

  “I was up all night on the telephone, attempting to clean up a PR mess at the studio.” He sighed. “Lydia Dale is in trouble.”

  “Trouble?” Beth’s eyes grew wide.

  “Three nights ago, a very famous director was caught in bed with Lydia by his wife.”

  Beth’s hand flew to her mouth.

  “The wife called a bunch of L.A. newspapers, adamant to expose the affair and ruin her husband’s reputation, which in turn, would destroy Lydia’s career. She’s already made arrangements to travel to Reno for a divorce.” Nathan shook his head. “Lydia’s—well, for lack of a better word�
�indiscretions are well-known in the industry amongst certain social circles. She’s always been able to remain discreet overall, so Luther has left her alone. Now he’s furious and looking to discipline her accordingly.”

  Beth thought about Mr. Mertz’s graciousness in allowing her and Aidan to continue seeing each other as long as they remained tactful. She couldn’t imagine the consequences if they were exposed prematurely without his permission—though her relationship with Aidan wasn’t as scandalous as Lydia bedding a married man.

  Nathan slouched in his chair. “I suppose it was only a matter of time before something like this happened to Lydia. Unfortunately, this time, she’s messed with the wrong woman. The director’s wife is a tough broad. Apparently, she’s had her suspicions in the past about other women but was never able to prove it. Now that she’s caught her husband cheating firsthand, she wants revenge. I already tried speaking with her, but her determination in bringing down her husband and Lydia is incorrigible. There’s simply no reasoning with her. The fact that Lydia is a much younger woman doesn’t help the situation.”

  Beth peered at him curiously. “Can you keep the affair a secret from the public? Or is it too late?”

  “I called the editors of the main Los Angeles publications at home last night and told them not to print any details of what they heard or else Luther would take immediate legal action. They couldn’t print specifics due to the censorship rules. Nevertheless, if anything leaks, Lydia’s career will be over.”

  “Won’t Mr. Mertz fire her anyway?”

  Nathan shook his head. “Suspension and a fine are more plausible. He’s invested so much money into her career at this stage, and regardless of her true personality, America loves her. As of right now, Luther’s best move would be to have her lay low for a while until things blow over—which will happen eventually since news never stays newsworthy in this town for long.”

  Beth wondered if Lydia’s scandal would affect the opening of Venus Rising.

  “But that’s not why I’m here.” Nathan’s blue eyes morphed into sparkling pools of enthusiasm. “I’ve come here to ask your permission for Olivia’s hand in marriage.”

  Beth leapt out of her chair and wrapped her arms around his neck. “That’s wonderful news! Of course I give my blessing.”

  She let go of him and took her seat again.

  “Isn’t it, though?” Nathan sighed, his grin intact. “My upbringing instilled in me it’s only proper to obtain permission before popping the question. Since you’re the closest person to Olivia I know personally, I wanted to ask you.”

  Beth brought her hand to her heart. “I’m honored that you came to me. You two are meant to be. Olivia will be thrilled.”

  Nathan stood. “Could you give me your opinion on her engagement ring? I’d sure appreciate it.”

  “Absolutely!”

  Nathan produced a small black box with gold trim from his pocket. “I bought it earlier in the week and kept it in my office safe. I’m fairly confident I know Liv’s taste, but she means so much to me, I’d feel better if you approved.”

  Beth gasped when he opened the lid. The fluorescent lights reflected off the ring’s large, square cut diamond, and what she assumed was a band of white gold, blinding her with a rainbow of colors.

  Nathan exhaled a deep breath. “Well, what do you think?”

  “It’s bigger than Connie’s.” Beth’s awed expression yielded to a smile. “Olivia will love it.”

  “I want it to be perfect. Liv deserves nothing less.” A perplexing sadness shadowed Nathan’s eyes as he closed the lid, but his smile reappeared with the return of the box to his pocket. “Thank you, Beth. I feel much more confident in my choice.”

  “You don’t need to worry, you know. She’s going to say yes.”

  Nathan placed his fedora on his head. “Yes, she is, isn’t she?” He cast a pensive gaze toward the far wall. “Anyway, please don’t tell anyone about the proposal. I’m a nervous wreck already and—”

  “I won’t. I promise.” Beth walked him to the door. “When are you going to ask her?”

  “Ah, now that is the million dollar question.” Nathan let out a soft chuckle. “As soon as I gather the courage, I suppose.”

  With a tip of his hat, he left the dressing room and walked down the corridor, his heavy footfalls echoing even after he was out of view.

  As Beth closed the door, she realized she forgot to ask him about the implications of Lydia’s scandal on Venus Rising. Since Mr. Mertz scheduled the film’s release for April, she reasoned that her inquiry could wait. Right now, she had to focus on finishing her current film.

  Next Sunday was the Academy Awards, and a week later, the Golden Gloves cast and crew would leave for Chicago for two weeks to conclude the picture. Promotion was in full swing for each of the nominated individuals and films. Oscar hype had taken over the entire town and everyone eagerly anticipated the ceremony. Beth’s parents had sent a wire earlier in the week declaring their continued excitement over her nomination. Due to limited seating in the venue, they were unable to attend but would tune in on television, which was the next best thing.

  Beth sat at her vanity again. The Academy Awards was an important, respectable event, and the additional pressure brought on by her nomination didn’t help her anxiety. She was part of a grand organization, the Mecca of Hollywood glitz and glamour, yet she always considered herself a simple young woman. Mr. Mertz’s vision for her reflected her true personality, but the image created around her real persona was bigger than anything she could handle on her own. The industry was daunting at times, but her friends, family, and Aidan kept her grounded. Without them, she would’ve felt lost.

  Beth folded her hands in her lap and closed her eyes. As she waited for her call to the set, she considered her present living situation. Once Olivia and Nathan were married, they would move in together, which meant she would have to look for a new place to live or buy out Olivia’s portion of the house where they currently resided. She felt a twinge of sadness at the notion.

  It wasn’t that she was unable to live on her own—she had more than enough money and felt mature enough—but she would miss Olivia’s company. As a consolation, she thought about how wonderful she would be if, one day, she and Aidan moved in together as husband and wife, and her forlorn mood promptly changed to one of joy.

  Aidan stopped pacing his dressing room and took a good look in the mirror. The Golden Gloves makeup team had worked a miracle on him today. When he arrived at the studio this morning, he was a sorry sight with an ashen complexion and dark circles under his eyes. He looked a true boxer, all right—an abysmal one—who had taken a pummeling in his last bout. Physically, he felt as wired as a champion, with enough pent up energy to bounce off the walls. Mentally and emotionally, he was spent.

  Aidan had asked Beth to give him some time alone to prepare for their scene today, and as usual, she was very understanding. He didn’t want to burden her with his issues, especially since she looked forward to the remainder of the Golden Gloves shoot. Besides, his current situation wasn’t like what he went through last fall.

  Aidan believed he could deal with his troubles on his own with a successful outcome and Beth would never know he’d felt distraught in the first place. She’d been so supportive of him. He didn’t want to let her down or make her think her love wasn’t enough to help him fully heal.

  Aidan’s crumpled script sat on top of the vanity, opened to the page they were starting with this morning. He was able to film the additional boxing bouts and apartment scenes in the last month since Valentine’s Day without any problems, but today’s scene was much more emotionally demanding. In fact, many of the remaining scenes were difficult. How would he get through the rest of the Golden Gloves shoot successfully?

  Over the last several days, Kazan’s words of advice when they spoke after the first cast read-through repeated in his mind. Aidan tried to get a handle on the notion that he had what it took to perform the scen
e today and give it his all without letting it consume him. He wasn’t the same guy from the Spike Rollins shoot who broke down months ago. His nightmares had subsided, and his daytime visions hadn’t returned since his visit to RCA Victor, proving he had made a lot of progress.

  Unfortunately, Aidan felt his control slipping little by little, despite his attempts to vent his anxiety through spending extra hours at the gym with Rocky and participating in practice sessions at the racetrack, keeping with his Golden Gloves contractual obligations not to race competitively.

  The long days on set, his constant worry regarding Mr. Mertz’s ulterior motives, the minimal sleep he got each night, and his trepidation over the approaching shoot in Chicago, left Aidan a tired wreck. He felt as if the walls of his dressing room were closing in on him like a prison while his tragic past trapped him mentally.

  Beth and their friends were excited about the upcoming Academy Awards, but Aidan regarded the ceremony as the last big event before the Golden Gloves cast hit the road to finish filming in the city where his father resided. He wished the day would never arrive.

  Desperate to ease his tension before he stepped onto the soundstage, he bounced in one spot and threw out a few punches, hitting nothing but air. After delivering a few impressive combinations—which did nothing to ease his anxiety—he tucked his script into the back pocket of his slacks and hit the hallway. He collided with Nathan outside his dressing room. The extra joyous look on Nathan’s face was something Aidan had never seen on him before.

  “Hey, Nate. What’s going on?”

  “I just came from visiting Beth.” Nathan hooked his thumb down the hallway in the direction of her dressing room.

  “Oh, yeah? What about?”