Before she could answer they were interrupted by a middle-aged couple who’d seen his most recent movie. They were townies, though Chloe didn’t know their names until now.
Once they left, Liam sat down again. “Maybe this was a bad idea. People know I’m here for the movie so they’re on the lookout. Let’s meet someplace more private when we’re working on Ledger’s role and keep the public appearances for the other end of our bargain.”
“That’s probably a good idea. We can alternate days: work on Ledger’s role one day and your image the next, at least until filming starts.”
“Agreed.” He emptied his mug. “My place or yours?”
She felt stronger on her own turf. “Mine, if you wouldn’t mind. We can sit outside so your cat allergy isn’t an issue.”
“Sounds good.”
They decided they’d ride together in her car, which wouldn’t draw attention. But when they neared her house, media vans were parked out front. “Oh boy.”
“Keep driving.” Liam ducked. “Don’t slow down.”
“I thought we wanted to be seen together?”
“Not right now. And I don’t want them following us. I’d rather they not know where I’m staying just yet.”
It was impossible not to gape at the media mingling at the end of her drive as she passed. It was such a strange sight to see in her quiet little neighborhood. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”
“I’m sorry, but it was only a matter of time. They’ll lose interest soon enough.”
“But I have to go home eventually.”
“They can’t come into your yard. If they do, call the police. Just say, ‘No comment,’ and keep moving. You might want to close your blinds though. They have telephoto lenses.”
For heaven’s sake.“Great.”
“It’ll be fine. It’ll be easier if you can park your car in the garage and enter that way.”
“It’s full of junk.”
“You might want to clean it out then.”
She checked the rearview mirror. No one had paid much attention to her vehicle. “Okay, we’re past. You can sit up now. I don’t think they recognized me.”
He did as she suggested. “Let’s head to my place.”
He hadn’t been kidding about the house he’d rented. It was on the strip of beach north of town and boasted a large beautiful deck with comfy outdoor furniture.
The inside was tastefully decorated. It was clean but for the sandals lying by the french doors, a newspaper splayed on the sofa, and a few pillows askew. The house held the faint aroma of Liam’s cologne.
They spent the morning talking shop on the deck. They discussed two more of Ledger’s qualities—protectiveness and selflessness—and talked about the scenes in the story where he demonstrated those traits.
Liam threw together sandwiches for lunch, and afterward she helped him run lines from the scene where Ledger and Cate meet. Chloe was impressed. His voice held just the right awestruck tone.His expressions betrayed interest in Cate while his gestures gave away the adorable awkwardness she’d written into the scene. With only a few prompts from her, he nailed it. And that was such a relief. She could tolerate the tabloids’ insulting interpretation of their relationship if their work produced results like this.
Chloe would’ve liked to have gone home to change for work, but the gaggle of reporters in her yard deterred her. Later that night as she was preparing for bed, she received a text from Liam.Was the paparazzi there when you got home?
She settled against the pillows and responded.They were gone, thank God. My morning agenda is cleaning out the garage.
She’d leveled with Sean last night about the photographers. After all, they might show up at Docksiders too. Although she wasn’t really the person of interest here. They were trying to catch Liam and her together.
I’ll come over andhelp out. It’s the least I can do.
What if they’re back? Besides, we’re supposed to be working on your public image tomorrow.
This could serve as a photo op too. Naturally I’d be visiting my girlfriend’s house while I’m in town. Andalsoa new couple would be seeking privacy. It won’t seem genuine if we’re parading around town every day.
