Page 88 of Deck the Hauls

“See, you just sound so realistic,” Dana said, as my character screamed for help. “It’s no wonder I thought you were terribly injured.”

I chuckled, but it trailed off as Austin assisted me down from the tree, his hand skimming my butt in the process. I wondered if Charles had seen it and made a note.

Olivia passed around some salty-and-sweet popcorn as Austin and my character continued their meet‑cute.

Everyone broke into a cheer as Novel Gossip came into frame. “Oh my god, George, look, it’s you!” Olivia said, as my character walked up to the counter and ordered a coffee from a smiling George. “And I think I can see my shoulder in the back. Oh actually, no, that’s just a shadow.” Olivia deflated.

On screen, Austin walked up behind me.

“Well, if it isn’t the Christmas tree farmer who got stuck up a tree,” he said with a smirk.

Ugh. He was sleazy even in the movie. I couldn’t believe that at this point in filming, I hadn’t noticed it yet.

“What are you up to?” Austin asked.

“I was just ordering a coffee.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Have time to have one with me?”

I was sure some women would find Austin’s confidence and swagger attractive, but it did absolutely nothing for me. I glanced at Dana, who was currently glaring at the screen. Dana, on the other hand... Blake turned to look at us, and I leaned away from Dana.

“It was about this time you came barging in and ruined the scene,” Blake said, grinning.

Jenny laughed. “I can’t wait for the grumpy waitress to make her appearance.”

Dana grimaced.

“Hey, I’m sure you’ll do great.” I moved to squeeze her hand in reassurance, catching myself just in time and letting my hand fall back on my lap. “Remember, Charles said you were the best grumpy waitress he’d ever seen.”

“I’m pretty sure that was you, and you were teasing me about my Oscar‑winning performance,” Dana murmured, her warm breath soft against my cheek.

Everyone cheered as Dana walked behind Austin and me, giving Austin the death stare.

“Wow, Dana! That glare.” George chuckled.

Dana snorted. “I didn’t need to do any acting for that.”

We spent the rest of the Novel Gossip scene excitedly catching glimpses of each other and other locals who’d been roped in as extras. Only Olivia hadn’t been spotted yet. Each time the camera swung to her, it cut or someone stood in front of her.

Then there was the ice‑skating scene. Memories of Dana at the rink flooded back as we watched. Dana kneeling in front of me to tighten my shoes. Patiently showing me the basics. Gently helping me to the truck after my fall.

“You did a really good job skating,” Dana whispered.

“Well, I had an amazing teacher,” I said. “No CGI required.”

The popcorn was passed around again, ads played, and people jumped up for a bathroom break or to refill their drinks.

“You and Mihira are standouts, Emily,” Jenny said as she grabbed another handful of popcorn.

During the next ad break, I shot Mihira a text.

Are you watching? You’re terrific.

Yes! Thank you :) The movie isn’t amazing, but you are. FYI, my friend gave me the script for their indie film and it’s so bad. We need to catch up for a drink soon!

The rest of the night sped by. Before we knew it, the Christmas market scene was playing.

“Hey, look! There’s George, Hannah, and Dana in the background!” Olivia exclaimed. “I must just be out of view.” The camera scanned to Olivia. “There I am! Finally!” she yelled, jumping up and dislodging the bowl of popcorn that had been balanced on the arm of her chair. “Whoops!” Popcorn covered the floor. “I’ll worry about that later.”