“Have you created a new position?”
The query came from Daniel Patterson, and Zach had expected he would be the first to question or comment. He was the most outspoken of the team, the most passionate, and the most creative.
“I suppose I have,” Zach replied, “I’m just not sure what it is. You know this person, she’s Justin Hartman’s daughter, Kylie, and yes, I am fully aware of the not so complimentary video that surfaced last week, but we all know what opportunistic bastards the paparazzi can be. We’ve all had less than spectacular moments in our lives, but most of us haven’t fallen victim to a cellphone video while it was happening, so no throwing bricks. It’s history.”
“What will she be doing?” Daniel pressed.
“She’s just graduated from Cinema Studies University, where you hail from, Daniel. Maybe you two can compare notes.”
“Happy to do that,” Daniel smiled. “I’ll just watch her while she talks.”
“Yes, we know she’s attractive,” Zach sighed. “Moving along, I’d like her to spend a couple of weeks with each of you, almost like an intern. I’ll take her the first two weeks to help her acclimatize, and during that time you guys can decide who will take her after me, and so on. I expect you to welcome her, make her feel comfortable. She’ll be nervous, as each of you were when you first started.”
“This is a bit weird,” Daniel muttered.
“Unusual, yes, weird, no,” Zach said firmly. “If you run into any issues just let me know. Anymore questions?”
“When she’s with each of us individually, should we use her as a gopher, or-”
“No. Let her watch and learn, and answer her questions. You’re welcome to give her assignments, but not fetching coffee kind of assignments. She’s graduated, she’s not a teenager, and she’s been in the business since the day she was born. If she fits in somewhere, she does, if she doesn’t, she doesn’t. Anything else?”
The room was quiet.
“Good. I have a meeting outside the office. Thanks everyone.”
As he and Martha left the room he could hear the murmurings behind him.
“How did I do?” he whispered as they headed back to his office.
“Brilliant as usual,” Martha replied. “I hope you do as well when you talk to her.”
“You and me both,” he sighed.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
Checking his watch as he headed to the garage Zach saw it was just past 3:30 p.m. If he was lucky he’d beat the traffic heading into Malibu. His late afternoon appointment was with Anna Lee. He wanted to deliver his news in person, and it needed to be done right away.
Jumping in his car he sped out of the garage and rolled on to Pico Blvd. It would take him to the California Incline which would drop him on to Pacific Coast Highway. Weaving expertly through the lanes of traffic and coming to a stop behind a line of cars waiting at a light, he gazed out at the sun reflecting on the ocean. The palm trees were moving in the gentle breeze, people were jogging, dogs were being walked; it was a tranquil, easy afternoon and the picturesque scene helped him relax.
The traffic began to move and he was soon cruising on Pacific Coast Highway heading north. In ten minutes he’d be making the dangerous U-turn and pulling in front of Anna Lee’s garage doors. Turning on his XM radio he leaned back and spent the rest of the drive listening to his favorite music, leaving the drama of the workday behind him.
As he passed Topanga Canyon and neared Anna Lee’s house, the traffic moving south virtually disappeared. There was not a single car traveling towards him.
“An accident,” he muttered, “or a rock slide.”
In the winter, rock slides caused by rain were common and could shut down the entire highway for hours. If there was a major accident the result was the same. Without having to wait for oncoming traffic he swung safely around and parked. Trotting down the steps he knocked lightly on her door and walked in. Anna Lee was barefoot, dressed in red shorts and a white tank top and looked like a million dollars.
“Hi, there. You look like a beach bunny,” he declared.
“That’s because I am a beach bunny,” she giggled. “You want something? A beer? Iced tea?”
“A cold beer would be great, thanks,” he replied staring out at the endless blue sea.
“You sounded so serious on the phone this morning,” she remarked as she pulled the beer from her refrigerator and popped the top. “I’ve been a bit worried.
“It is serious,” he replied taking it from her, “but I didn’t mean to worry you. When I say serious, it’s not life threatening or anything like that. In its own way, it’s very good news.”
“Is it about the film? Is everything okay with Jackson?”
“It’s personal,” he said softly, moving to the couch. “Sit down with me.”
“Okay, but you’re scaring me,” she frowned as she sat next to him.
“Have you ever heard the phrase, timing is everything?”
“Of course, along with, being in the right place at the right time, time is our best friend and worst enemy, there’s a time and a place-”
“Anna,” he interrupted, “timing in life really can be everything, and there are moments when things slot into place so perfectly that it absolutely confounds me.”
“I know what you mean. It’s weird, as if they were meant to be.”
“Exactly. This weekend something wonderful happened, and from the sound of it something wonderful happened for you too.”
“You mean, Angelo? Yes, it was wonderful. It is wonderful.”
“I met someone too. That’s not strictly true, I already knew her, but we ended up spending the weekend together.”
“Oh…wow,” she mumbled her eyes widening.
“Yes, it’s a wow,” Zach nodded.
“I’m suddenly feeling weird, like, emotionally weird.”
“Even though there’s been nothing romantic between you and me…”
“You’d feel weird about, uh, spanking me now. I get it,” she sighed dropping her eyes.
“That’s a lot of weird,” he smiled trying to add some lightness to the suddenly heavy moment.
“Sometimes weird is the only word that works,” Anna mumbled, “and it seems to be that way for so many things.”
“I’ll still be here for you. If you need me I’m still just a phone call away, and I mean that, Anna.”
“It won’t be the same,” she said lifting her sad gaze.
“No, it won’t,” he admitted.
“I get it, I do. It’s still weird but I get it. Now that I think about it, if Angelo and I end up going out I think I’ll feel the same way, I mean, how would I explain a red backside?”
“That’s what I was trying to say about the timing,” Zach said tenderly. “It seems, as you would put it, weirdly right, and if things do develop between you and Angelo, you need to tell him about what you need to be happy.”
“You think I should explain what happened between us?”
“No names. Just tell him that you had someone in your life who took you in hand when you needed it. Explain how it helps you, how you like a man that takes control, but in a good way. Not like some Neanderthal jerk who wants to drag you around by your hair.”
“Do you think he’ll understand?”
“Not every man would, but from what I’ve heard about Angelo Frattiano, I’m fairly sure he will.”
“Telling him something like that is a scary thought,” she mumbled. “I’m not sure I can.”
“You’ll know when the time is right. Underneath that insecure exterior there’s a very insightful woman with great instincts. Trust them.”
“Zach…I don’t know what to say. I’m feeling all teary. Sorry.”
“No need to be sorry. Come here,” he said softly, pulling her into his arms. “Like I said, I’ll still be just a phone call away, and this will give you the freedom to explore things with this handsome Italian that’s waltzed into your life.”
“That’s true,” she sighed
. “He’s going to be here soon. Talk about that timing thing.”
“He is?”
“Weird, huh? Oops, there’s that word again. He called me about fifteen minutes ago and asked if he could come by. His agent sent him a script and he’s just crazy about it. He wants me to read it with him, like, sitting on the couch together reading the parts. He thinks I’d be perfect for the female lead, and he’s determined to move heaven and earth to land the other role.”
“Huh, is that right?” Zach mumbled feeling a strange prickling at the back of his neck. Austin Levy is his agent, and he’s Steven Levy’s brother. I wonder. “Do you remember the name of it?”
“Something strange, something about the moon and fairytales.”
“No shit.”
“Do you know it? Maybe I shouldn’t have said anything. He told me to keep it to myself, but I’m not worried about you. I tell you everything.”
“No, you don’t have to worry about me, and I do have a script that might be the one he’s talking about,” Zach said vaguely, “but if he told you to keep it quiet I wouldn’t mention you asked me about it. It might tick him off.”
“You’re right,” she nodded emphatically. “Did I just hear a car? I don’t usually, but I heard you when you pulled up.”
“There must have been an accident on PCH. There’s no traffic coming out of Malibu, that’s probably why you heard my car. Where’s he coming from?”
“He was just finishing a meeting in Santa Monica.”
“Then it’s probably him,” Zach said breaking their hug, “and I should be heading off.”
“Zach, I know you’re not going anywhere, but, uh, I feel like this is a goodbye, and it makes me so sad,” she muttered fighting the tears that were about to break out. “How can I thank you for everything you’ve done? It’s impossible. You’re the best friend I’ve ever had.”
There was a knock at the door, and they shared a look.
“Don’t worry. I’ll tell him I was here to talk to you about some possible changes with the film,” Zach assured her. “Are you okay?”
“I don’t know, I think so, but it’s hard not to cry.”
“Take a deep breath, and remember, this is all good. That timing thing? It’s happening right now. There’s a gorgeous actor on the other side of that door who’s dying to see you.”
“Right,” she managed, taking a deep breath and wiping away a stray tear. “That helped, I’m okay now.”
“Of course you are,” he smiled, “and you’d better let him in.”
Walking quickly across the living room she opened the door, and Angelo’s tall, muscular frame walked inside.
“Hi, angel,” he said softly, kissing her on the cheek.
“Hi, um, come on in.”
Entering the room Angelo looked up, and it was clear he was startled to see Zach standing in the middle of her living room. Zach immediately strode forward to shake his hand.
“Zach Taylor, Titan Pictures,” he said formally.
“Angelo Frattiano,” Angelo replied. “Sorry if I’m interrupting.”
“You’re not,” Zach said smiling, “I just stopped in to talk to Anna Lee about some possible script changes. I’m delighted to meet you, Angelo. Our paths have crossed but we’ve never been officially introduced.”
“Yeah, I’ve seen you at some functions around town. I didn’t realize you were Zach Taylor from Titan though. Good to meet you.”
“I have to head out, story of my life,” he joked. “Bye, Anna, call me if you need me.”
“I will, thanks, Zach. Drive safely.”
As she closed the door after him, Angelo put his laptop case on the coffee table and looked at her quizzically.
“You guys are friends?”
“Yes, we have been for ages, but nothing romantic, I promise.”
“Hey, it’s none of my business,” Angelo said, “but I’m glad to hear it.”
“You are?”
“Yeah. I really enjoyed our time together, and I was kinda hoping you were as available as you seemed. We didn’t really talk about that.”
“I am, very available,” she said feeling a blush move across her face.
“Cool,” he grinned. “I parked behind him, should I move into his space?”
“Yes,” she nodded. “That’s exactly what you should do. Move into his space.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
Driving back to his house, Zach felt tinges of sadness. It had been a goodbye. The end of something. That something had been unique, and he knew his sense of loss was natural. Anna Lee was free to move on, and she was ready to do just that. When he’d met her she was a neurotic, insecure, timid girl, and over the past year she’d truly blossomed. How much of that was due to his attention he didn’t know, and while he wasn’t a psychiatrist, he believed most of her self-doubt had come from the lack of a supportive man in her life.
I truly hope things work out with Angelo. If anyone can be a strong male presence for you, it’s him, and if he’s as old-fashioned as Kyle said he could be the perfect guy for you.
By the time he pulled into his garage he had pushed past the emotion, and after taking a quick shower and dressing in khaki slacks and a beige cashmere sweater, he started to prepare dinner. It wasn’t difficult. He’d planned to make it for himself so he already had everything he needed, including a prepackaged caesar salad complete with dressing. Dropping the romaine lettuce and croutons in a large wooden bowl he set it aside, filled a saucepan with water and set it on the stove, then laid the table. All he’d have to do was toss the salad and boil the water, then toss in the pasta.
He had time to spare. Opening a bottle of expensive Cabernet he poured himself a glass and slowly sent the rest into a crystal decanter, setting it aside to breathe. Heading into his living room, swirling his wine as he walked, he turned on his big-screen television, tuned it to the local news, and dropped down on his couch.
As the picture came to life he immediately recognized the hills above Pacific Coast Highway just a mile or two north of Anna Lee’s beach house, and he realized it was coverage of a major traffic collision. Smashed cars were still in the middle of the road, the traffic was backed up for miles, and several helicopters were circling overhead. Turning up the volume he leaned forward to listen.
“As we reported, the multi-car accident happened around three o’clock this afternoon. We still don’t have word on fatalities, though several people were taken by a Medevac helicopter to local hospitals. The highway will remain closed through the night as investigators continue to determine the cause of the crash. Once again, a multi-car accident that occurred around three this afternoon has closed the major coast artery in both directions just north of Topanga Canyon. The Sheriff’s department are continuing their efforts to try to relieve the major traffic tie-up. Reporting live from Pacific Coast Highway, this is Michelle Walker.”
“Unbelievable,” Zach muttered under his breath.
As the news helicopter zoomed in on the cars strewn across the road, Zach suddenly jumped to his feet, freezing the picture. Moving quickly to stand close to the screen he peered at the black Porsche, and let out a groan. Though the front of the vehicle was completely crunched, Zach could see the two red racing stripes running along the side of the car. He’d always thought they were pretentious, but so was the guy who drove the slick, fast German sports car; Curtis Fielding.
Moving quickly to his phone he called Sam on his private line. It was used only for emergencies.
“Zach? What’s up?” Sam asked urgently.
“Are you aware of the huge accident on PCH?”
“No, been in meetings all afternoon, why?”
“There’s no easy way to tell you this, but it looks like Curtis was in the middle of it.”
“Crap! What makes you think so?”
“I’m staring at a picture on my television. There were six, maybe seven cars involved. It’s a real mess, and there’s a black Porsche with red racing stripes with its hood
completely crunched.”
“Crap,” Sam repeated. “Thanks, Zach. I’ll call our friend over at the Malibu Sheriff’s office and find out what he knows. I’ll keep you posted. Let know if you hear anything else.”
“Will do.”
Ending the call Zach returned to the couch and hit the remote, unfreezing the picture. As the camera moved across the chaos, Zach felt his heart sink.
I hope to hell you weren’t hurt, and I sure as hell hope you weren’t high when this happened, or even worse, you weren’t high and you caused it. Curtis, what happened to you? When did you go off the rails?
The reporter’s face returned to the screen, and sipping his wine, Zach sat back and listened.
“Live at six, the latest on this horrific accident, more breaking news and the latest weather. Stay tuned.”
Glancing at his watch he saw it was just a few minutes before the hour. Kylie would be arriving any minute.
Two big pieces of news to tell her. She’s got her dream job but I can’t tell her why, and now this news.
On cue the doorbell rang, and taking a sip of wine he turned off the television and headed to the door.
“You look fabulous,” he grinned. “Did you hire someone to spray paint that on you?”
Kylie was hearing a pale pink lace sheath dress that clung to her body. It flattered her curves, and the thin white slip underneath provided a provocative tease. Her tanned legs were bare, and her pedicured feet were encased in pink high-heels.
“Thank you,” she smiled. “I’m glad you approve.”
“Approve? Kylie, you could wear that dress to the Oscars and turn heads.”
“No, I couldn’t, and I wouldn’t,” she laughed.
“Come in,” he said realizing they were still standing in the doorway. “I’ll give you the tour.”
Closing the door behind her, he led her into the living room, through the dining room and kitchen, then up a back flight of stairs to the second floor.
“Your house is amazing,” she remarked. “It has so many nooks and alcoves, but it’s modern.”
“It was built in the forties, and when the previous owners renovated they left in all the wonderful, old-world detail. It’s what sold me,” he explained. “Wait until you see my room. It has incredible crown moldings and exposed beams, and they flew in the fireplace mantle from Italy.”
Disciplining the Director's Daughter (Hollywood After Dark Book 1) Page 12
