“I’m not doing anything just yet.” With a soft smile, Elissa answered, “All you need to do is wait. Everything will reveal itself soon enough.”
Casting a quick look around, Elissa edged closer and dropped her voice, whispering in Hadley’s ear, “Here’s what I’ve been thinking…”
Every change in Hadley’s face made her thoughts clear. “Elissa, what are you talking about?”
Elissa lifted a finger and pressed it gently to Hadley’s lips, signaling for silence. That silent gesture said enough, and Hadley gave a quick nod to show she understood.
They both knew Ernest’s people were all over the place, so even a stray word could get them into trouble.
Later on, when she left Lion Bay behind, Hadley made her way to the studio, where Elvin greeted her.
“Here.” Elvin passed her a folder. “Ms. Beckett wanted you to have these. Give them a good read.”
“Thanks, Mr. Webster.” Flashing a grateful smile, Hadley took the folder from him. “I’ll make sure to look through them.”
Just then, Elvin let out a heavy sigh. “The program has been rescheduled. It’s starting the day after tomorrow, and we’re sticking in Srixby this time. That should make things easier for everyone. Hopefully, everything runs smoothly this time.”
“You don’t have to worry,” said Hadley, trying to ease his concerns. “I’m sure everything will be just fine.”
“Mr. Webster, Hadley,” Chelsey entered the room, calling out to both of them. “We haven’t even rolled a single frame, and there’s already trouble in Tidebourne. Not a good sign, if you ask me.”
Elvin, clearly rattled, snapped, “Don’t put those ideas in our heads! That kind of talk is enough to send me over the edge!”
Watching Elvin work himself up, Hadley stepped in to calm him.
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Hadley comforted him softly, “Mr. Webster, don’t worry! Chelsey is just a kid, and kids sometimes say things without thinking… Besides, everything good takes a little while to get started.”
“That’s right,” said Elvin, nodding with relief. “Couldn’t have put it better myself!” After the three shared a few lighthearted moments, Hadley left the office, still holding the folder, ready to head back home.
She hadn’t even made it out the door when her phone rang. The caller ID flashed Zane’s name.
She answered on the second ring. “Hello, Zane.”
Ever since Tidebourne, their paths hadn’t crossed, nor had they spoken.
“Hadley.” On the other end, Zane’s voice came through. “Are you at home?”
“Not now. I’m actually at the studio right now,” she replied.
“Alright…” Zane’s tone shifted. “Do you have time to meet? There’s something I’d like to discuss.”
Instead of answering right away, Hadley posed a question of her own. “Is it something important?”
“Yes, I need to talk to you,” Zane responded.
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.
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