I gesture to Clover, indicating I want her to answer first.
“It’s been incredible. There’s such a devoted fan base for the comics that it’s been an honor to take this on. I really hope they can see all the love and care that’s gone into the movie. As fans of the original work, we wanted to follow it closely, and I know we did. I think audiences are going to love it.”
Shauna nods thoughtfully, “And you, Roman?”
“I used to read the comics when I was younger, so when I knew there was interest in turning them into a movie, it was something I had to be involved in. I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I can’t wait to show it to the fans.”
“Speaking of the fans, director Arnold Chen, yourselves, and the rest of the cast are scheduled to appear at San DiegoComic-Con in a few weeks to show the first glimpse at the teaser trailer. Are you excited?”
“Absolutely.” Clover grins. “It’s going to be amazing to show them what we’ve been working on for months.”
I smile over at her. “What she said, Shauna.”
“What’s it been like doing your own stunts for the film? I can’t imagine all the strain that would put on your body, doing things like–”
“Excuse me,” an employee interrupts the interview. Shauna shoots a murderous glare the girl’s way.
“What is it, Leslie?”
“This is breaking, and I thought you’d want to know immediately,” Leslie nervously shuffles forward, handing Shauna a phone.
Shauna scans the screen, eyes widening and her expression taking on an edge. She looks like a shark that’s caught a whiff of blood, and she’s not going to rest until she gets the wounded animal.
“Roman, Clover, I’m going to pivot a little here. Can I get a comment on this?” She holds forward the phone so Clover and I can read what’s on the screen. Bile burns my throat as I quickly scan the article. It feels like I’m standing outside of my body as I read.
Celebrity Scene Online Exclusive…
Hailey McDonald cast as love interest in upcomingDarkness Risingfilms.
Trouble in paradise and on set? Insiders have confirmed exclusively toCelebrity Scenethat Hailey McDonald has signed on once again for the rest of theDarkness Risingfranchise, casting doubt on what Clover Daly’s future on the films will be.
When reached for a comment, Hailey McDonald’s representative said, “I can confirm that Haileyhas signed on for future films. She was devastated to miss the first one, but is looking forward to taking the franchise to new heights when she joins for filming onDarkness Reigns”.
Head of Starlight Studios, Deacon Everett, issued this statement when we reached out to him “I’m looking forward to the new direction the sequels will go in with Hailey.”
Where does that leave the superhero Roman Everett and his real-life leading lady?
The oxygen in the room disappears.
“Any comment?” Shauna twists the knife.
It’s quiet for way too long. The only sound is of the blood roaring in my ears. After what feels like forever, but is probably only seconds, I feel movement beside me. Clover gives a watery smile, and I can see she’s beginning to shake.
Her voice is soft when it comes out. “You know what Shauna, this is my first time seeing anything about that, so I’m unable to issue a comment.” Clover stands and reaches behind her for her mic. She yanks the mic out and grabs at the cord and pack as quickly as she can. Her movements are turning frantic as my stomach sinks to the pits of hell. It’s like it’s all happening in slow motion.
“If you want a comment, please reach out to my agent, Anita Percival, and I will provide one in a little while.” She yanks and frees herself from the mic before handing it to an employee. “If you’ll excuse me,” is all she says before walking off set.
Shauna protests, but it means nothing.
I fly to my feet, ripping off my mic and tossing it to the floor. Starting after her, I point to the cameras. “Cut them.” There’s enough malice in my voice that Shauna waves herhand to the operator to follow my command. The red light fades, and I know we’re no longer being filmed.
Besides, they got what they were after anyway, with Clover leaving the interview and me shouting at them to stop recording. I’m sure it’ll be fodder for gossip sites for weeks.
I round past the cameras and, to my horror, I locate Clover, storming right toward Deacon.
Chapter Sixty-One
ROMAN
