[Chapter 122: Catherine Zeta-Jones]
The music video shoot went smoothly and finished on schedule. On the last night, after the wrap party, the two didn't hang out but went straight back to the hotel, naturally continuing their intense connection.
Considering they would part ways tomorrow and return to Los Angeles, with many inconveniences and concerns ahead, this was a rare, precious final moment, so they cherished it fully with passion.
Nicole was especially open, giving herself completely, offering every part of herself, making Linton's experience and sense of accomplishment unparalleled.
...
The next morning at breakfast, with separation looming, Nicole felt a bit sad and reluctant but more concerned about their future intimate life.
She asked Linton: "Honey, once we're back in Los Angeles, can we still be this close?"
"Nicole, I don't think that would be easy. I see your relationship with Tom is good, right?"
"No, that's just on the surface. You know, he joined that science group that throws weekly parties. After each party, there's wild stuff going on. I really can't control him, and he doesn't care about my feelings."
"But we are neighbors after all, right?"
"That doesn't matter. Who says neighbors can't get close like this? Besides, we're in Hollywood; this kind of thing is common here, isn't it?"
"Still, that won't work. I don't mind, but if the paparazzi catch wind of it, it will ruin your reputation."
"Then we'll keep it as discreet as possible. You try to meet once a month at most, okay?"
"Once a month might be too frequent for you; you're more worried about being exposed. You know, Los Angeles is full of paparazzi everywhere."
"You manage, at least once every two months, okay?" Nicole sat on Linton, sending a kiss, seductively adding, "Maybe you could try more variety sometimes."
---
Catherine Zeta-Jones had just arrived in Los Angeles from the UK. But instead of heading straight into the audition room, she found herself met by Robert, the production manager.
"I'm sorry, Ms. Jones," Robert said with a polite but firm smile. "Mr. Anderson is not available now. He won't be back for a few days. I'm afraid we'll have to ask you to wait."
Catherine's expression tightened slightly. She had flown in from London, even quit her job, and now she was asked to wait without a set appointment.
With a polite nod, she left with her agent and checked into a hotel nearby.She waited. One day. Then two. Eventually, five.
---
Returning to Los Angeles and rejoining the Speed crew, Linton found the set in good shape. All preparations were progressing on schedule, and the assistant directors had nearly completed the storyboard breakdowns per his instructions. Linton was pleased.
Once he had settled in, Robert approached with updates.
"Welcome back. Everything's on track," Robert said. Then he added, "By the way, Catherine Zeta-Jones has been waiting. She arrived five days ago."
Linton raised an eyebrow.
"Catherine Zeta-Jones. You remember, the British actress you suggested? She's been waiting for five days."
Linton looked surprised. "She's already here?"
"She came from London. Said she's here for the audition you personally invited her to. I asked her to wait since you weren't around."
Linton sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright. Tell Catherine to come to the company tomorrow afternoon. We'll work on her image and camera presence together."
---
The next afternoon, before work officially began, Catherine arrived at the production office with her agent. The crew on set paused to stare. She was more breathtaking than in any photograph -- an ethereal blend of classical and modern beauty.
"Mr. Anderson," her agent called. "Catherine Zeta-Jones, here to audition."
Linton approached, and for a brief second, even he was taken aback. Catherine wore a fitted blue long dress and white low heels that highlighted her tall, graceful frame. Her long white hair fell elegantly over her shoulders, and her pronounced features gave her a timeless, magnetic charm.
As Linton reached out to shake Catherine's hand in courtesy, instead of just a handshake, the latter gave him a small hug, letting Linton feel her fullness and softness.
"Ms. Jones, sorry. The last few days I have been shooting promo clips outside, and just got back. Sorry to keep you waiting."
"No problem, it is fine," Catherine said cautiously.
Afterward, Linton pressed the call button asking the assistant to excuse Robert. Together, he and Catherine conducted a detailed and complex audition.
...
Once inside Linton's office, Catherine gave a performance that far exceeded expectations.
"Should I now show my talent to impress you?" Catherine worried about her lead's uncertainty.
"Talent? What talent?" Linton showed interest.
She danced with the elegance of a ballerina and the raw energy of modern street choreography, blending styles effortlessly -- her West End background shining through.
Midway through her routine, Catherine mimicked a few moves from Step Up, then suddenly spun into Linton's arms. He caught her reflexively, their eyes locking. Without words, he shifted her into a princess carry.
Just as he started to lower her, Catherine wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. Linton blinked, momentarily stunned, but then kissed her back.
She felt like dreaming and, realizing it was real, warmly hugged Linton and gave him a kiss.
Catherine perfectly fit the role requirements; Linton didn't hesitate but directly told her the audition was successful and to have her agent come the next day to discuss the contract.
Catherine was excited but also surprised. No red sofa or casting couch rules, just a complicated audition and immediate decision - is this still Hollywood?
Catherine hesitated. "Before we sign… I have one more thing."
"I can dance for you," Catherine said looking at Linton's small office, locking the door tightly and quickly undoing her dress.
Linton blinked. "Wait, dancing also involves undressing?"
"Sometimes," she teased, taking off her long dress, leaving only a sexy white lingerie, complementing her slender stature and pale skin, maxing out the sex appeal. But since Linton hadn't seen much, his restraint still had limits.
By then, Linton understood Catherine's intentions, and indeed Catherine was an exceptional beauty who aroused desire. Checking the time, it was already 4 o'clock.
Well, he couldn't disappoint such a cold beauty. Linton responded sweetly, and soon the office was filled with melodious music.
---
It had been seven or eight days since Jennifer arrived in Los Angeles. Still there was no sign of Linton. But when she heard he was finally back, she rushed over, heart pounding.
When Jennifer found him, she smiled. "Linton, can I invite you to dinner tonight?"
Linton was impressed with Catherine's talent and accepted a dinner invitation at the estate for the evening with her. However, when faced with Jennifer's dinner invitation, he could only politely decline. "Sorry… tonight's already booked."
Jennifer pouted. "What about tomorrow night?"
Linton gave a polite nod. "Okay, no problem tomorrow night."
---
Back in the office, Catherine leaned into Linton, still glowing from the passion. Linton smiled faintly, wrapping his arms around her once more.
*****
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