“If only it was that easy.It sickens me that people like the mayor of Los Angeles and even some ill-informed celebrities are encouraging illegal migration.This caused all these children to die, to go missing.Trafficked, sold, never heard from again.”
I couldn’t help but shudder.These smiling out-of-touch multimillionaire and even billionaire celebrities were worst than you could even imagine.
NINE
Ileft Kenneth to getmy hair and makeup done. As I sat in the chair getting my hair pinned up just right, I thought of the children. And as my face was being powdered, I thought of the women.
Slipping into the pretty dress that I was going to wear for my next scene, I considered what my life would be had I not been born where I was, and to whom I was.
With slow steps that didn’t hold the usual bounce and enthusiasm, I reached the music room for a group scene; the occupants ofMansfield Parkwere putting on a theatrical play.
I looked at the other actors. Did any of them know how the opulence around them was being maintained?
Before shooting the scene, Keely went from one actor to the other, giving suggestions and letting them in on her vision of their part.
She came to me. “You’re looking a little tired, Darling.”
“Am I?”I said, surprised.
“That’s just fine. You’re perturbed and unhappy in this scene. You find the play they are putting on immoral, and you’d like to see it stopped. The tiredness in your eyes should play well with the lines that you have.”
I smiled despite my concern over her statement.
“Get into place everyone,” Keely called out. “The Crawfords on the settee, Darling, right where you are. Edmund, please come forward a bit...a bit more. Right. Perfect.”
I pulled in a long breath.
“Action!”
“Edmund,” I said. “I do believe you’re in over your head. Have you not thought of your father and his wishes. He would be devastated to see this display of debauchery.”
“It’s not that bad, Fanny.”
“I do wish you would reconsider.”
“Cut!”Keely called out. “Could we start it again, but...” She came to me. “You’re right to play Fanny as angry, but your words are a little too biting. Remember, you are actually in love with Edmund, even though you may not fully realize it in the moment. Your words are to be firm, but still amicable.” She turned to the group. “Okay. Let’s try it again.”
