Chapter 22
Emma was at fever pitch. She was overseeing the catering staff in the kitchen, making sure all the canapes were prepared and the bubbly perfectly chilled. Thankfully, everything was in order. The clock chiming told her the launch party would be starting in approximately half an hour.
‘If you could start to bring the glasses and champagne onto the lawn, that would be great,’ she instructed the staff, wanting their guests to be greeted in style.
Felix, meanwhile, was in the hall, testing out the large screen that had been installed. Situated centrally by the entrance to the staircase, it meant that everybody would have a good view. They’d had to hire chairs to seat all attending. Sound reverberated from the speakers he’d set around the marbled hall, bringing the place to life. Excellent, thought Felix, this was exactly what he’d been at pains to create. He so wanted the first episode of his first-ever drama to sound pitch perfect. He also wanted Emma’s voice to shine too, knowing what a huge deal it was to her – and him.
‘Everything on track?’ he asked as Emma came up the kitchen stairs to join him.
‘Yep, all good. What about here? Is it working all right?’ She nodded towards the screen.
‘Certainly is,’ he replied, then checked his watch. ‘Come on, they’ll be arriving soon.’ He took her hand and together they made their way to the grounds outside to meet their guests.
As predicted, the coaches carrying the film cast, crew and production team arrived first. It pleased Felix that they were the earliest. It was, after all, a party to celebrate their hard work. Out they poured, full of spirit and cheer, excited to see the startofLady Scarlett Investigates. As director, Felix had naturally seen the complete series, but the actors and crew hadn’t seen a full episode yet, only dailies from scenes made on the day. Felix knew they wouldn’t be disappointed. It was a fine production and one they should all be very proud of.
‘Hello and welcome!’ gushed Emma, running to meet them. The catering staff were well trained and made sure everyone had drinks.
Polly Andrews wove through the crowd to seek out Emma. Felix had brought Polly from London to Samphire Bay to stay a few days in his home before filming, to introduce Polly to her surroundings and give her a sense of familiarity. Being a similar age to Emma, and also sharing the same mischievous sense of humour, the two had much in common. Many a time they’d be seen huddled together, whispering, gossiping and chuckling.
‘Emma!’ Polly cried, arms outstretched.
‘Polly!’ Emma hugged her friend in glee.
‘I can’t wait to see it,’ trilled Polly, then hastily added, ‘and hear your voice.’
‘I know! It all feels a little surreal, doesn’t it?’ Emma instantly cringed. Of course it wouldn’t feel surreal to Polly, she was a well-known actress.
Polly grinned and hooked arms with her. ‘You’re going to wow them all,’ she said with a wink.
Next to arrive was Jennifer, Felix’s PA, along with her husband. Felix was glad she hadn’t made the trip from London alone, knowing how she had resented having to travel to Samphire Bay initially.
‘Jennifer, good to see you, and you too, Alan,’ he said, kissing her cheek and shaking hands with her husband.
‘Fantastic place you’ve got here, Felix,’ remarked Alan, gazing out at the bay.
‘It is. We’re very lucky,’ he replied.
Jennifer’s mouth twitched at the reference towe’relucky, notI’mlucky. So, he and Emma were obviously going strong then.
Felix scanned the crowd. He knew his mother’s flight was on time and he’d sent a taxi to meet her at the airport. He noticed Perry and Bunty arrive and went to greet them.
‘Hi, Perry, Bunty.’
Perry nodded in acknowledgment, while Bunty’s eyes darted around the lawn, which was buzzing with activity.
‘My, my, I’ve never seen such a star-studded crowd. Is that Brian Chapman?’ she gasped, recognising the famous actor.
‘Yes. I’ll introduce you, if you want?’ laughed Felix, earning a sly grin from Perry.
‘Oh, would you?’ gushed Bunty.
‘Felix,mon chéri!’ called a lovingly familiar voice. He whipped around to face his mother.
‘Oh, Mum.’ He hugged her hard. ‘Meet Emma’s dad, Perry, and his wife, Bunty.’
‘Enchanté,’ said Madeleine with a charming smile.
‘Pleased to meet you,’ they both replied in unison. They were soon joined by Emma.
