When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 165: At the Port

Chapter 165: At the Port

The first rays of sunlight stretched across the horizon, casting a golden glow over the port near Lily Oceanic Industries. The salty breeze carried a sense of anticipation as the production crew began to trickle in.

Trish Watson was the first to arrive, her boots clicking softly against the concrete as she made her way toward the set. She glanced around, her sharp eyes scanning the familiar arrangement of equipment and props. The ship loomed in the distance, a stunning backdrop for the shoot.

"This place never fails to impress," Trish murmured to herself as she adjusted the strap of her bag. Spotting Marcos near the director’s tent, she raised a hand in greeting.

Marcos waved back, his clipboard already in hand. "Trish! Bright and early as always."

"Someone’s gotta set the example," she teased, walking over. "How’s everything looking?"

"Smooth so far," Marcos replied. "Let’s hope it stays that way."

Moments later, Ryan Kim arrived, his confident stride making it clear why he was the lead. Dressed in casual attire, he greeted Trish with a warm smile. "Morning, Alex. Ready to save the day again?"

Trish laughed. "Always, Daniel. Someone’s got to keep you out of trouble."

Tom Ellis followed closely behind, his calm demeanor instantly grounding the group. "Good morning," he said, his deep voice carrying over the sounds of the bustling crew. "Coffee’s a must today, huh?"

"Already on my second cup," Trish said, holding up her thermos.

Leo Taylor came in next, headphones hanging around his neck and a mischievous grin on his face. "Am I late, or are you all just early?"

"You’re on hacker time, Ethan," Ryan quipped.

"Always." Leo smirked, giving Ryan a playful nudge.

Julian Perez strolled in last, his natural charm making even his casual arrival feel theatrical. "Good morning, everyone," he greeted with a grin. "Let’s see if we can outdo yesterday’s rehearsal."

The cast exchanged quick laughs and small talk as they made their way to the set. The crew was already buzzing with activity—cameras being adjusted, props being arranged, and lighting tested. Katherine Lee, the casting director, stood off to the side, chatting with Michael Zhen, the stunt coordinator.

Sophie Tran, ever the perfectionist, was reviewing notes with Marcos. "We’re aiming for seamless transitions today," Sophie said, her tone firm yet encouraging.

"We’ve got this," Marcos assured her.

The group began to prepare, the crew checking lighting and cameras while the cast rehearsed their lines. Their excitement was palpable, and the energy grew as more people arrived.

Then Zinnia appeared, her cheerful voice cutting through the morning bustle. "Good morning, everyone!" she called out, her energy lighting up the dock. "I’m so excited for today’s shoot. Let’s make it a good one!"

Heads turned as she approached, her enthusiasm infectious. The crew and cast greeted her warmly, their admiration evident.

"Morning, Zinnia!" Trish said, waving her over.

Ryan gave her a nod. "Always good to see someone as motivated as you this early."

"Good morning, Miss Lopez," Marcos added with a smile. "Ready for another round?"

"Absolutely," Zinnia replied, her tone full of confidence.

Despite the knowledge that she was the chairman’s daughter and the sole heiress to her family’s company, Zinnia treated everyone with the same warmth and respect. She chatted with the crew, asked about their work, and made sure to compliment their efforts.

"I don’t know how she does it," Trish whispered to Ryan. "The more I see her, the more I want to give my best."

Ryan nodded in agreement. "She’s got that effect. Genuine people always inspire."

As the morning preparations continued, a new presence caught everyone’s attention. Victoria arrived, her sharp suit and commanding aura making her stand out. She greeted the group with a nod before walking straight to Zinnia.

"Good morning, everyone," Victoria began, her tone professional yet warm. "Zinnia, a quick word?"

"Of course," Zinnia said, stepping aside with her.

Victoria adjusted her glasses and spoke with a seriousness that made Zinnia pay closer attention. "We’ll make sure nothing like last time happens again. Security will be tighter this time—no unauthorized personnel will board the ships, and we’ll keep a close watch on the surroundings."

"That’s good to hear," Zinnia said, relief evident in her voice.

"I’ll also be onboard this time," Victoria continued. "To ensure everything runs smoothly. My boss cares deeply about this project and its success."

The mention of Victoria’s boss caught Zinnia’s attention. She had always known Victoria as the branch CEO, but Lily Oceanic Industries remained shrouded in mystery. The company was globally renowned, one of the top twenty in the world, but the identity of its owners had always been kept secret.

"Your boss?" Zinnia asked, trying to sound casual.

Victoria gave her a polite smile but didn’t elaborate. "Let’s just say this project is important to us. We’ll do everything we can to support it."

Zinnia nodded, her curiosity piqued. The idea that someone so influential was invested in their movie filled her with pride. She silently vowed to give her best and make this project a success.

As they spoke, Zinnia debated whether to press further about Victoria’s mysterious boss. But she stopped herself. She knew Victoria wouldn’t reveal anything, even if she asked.

Her thoughts were interrupted when Marcos clapped his hands and called out to the group, "Alright, everyone! Let’s start preparing for the shoot!"

The cast made their way to the trailers, where the costume department had everything set for their transformation into their respective characters. Trish walked in first, greeted by a rack of sturdy utility jumpsuits and tool belts that screamed "ship engineer."

Her stylist, Nina, smiled as she adjusted the outfit. "You’re going to look like you’ve been working on engines your whole life, Trish."

"Perfect," Trish replied, stepping into the jumpsuit and fastening the belt. "Alex wouldn’t have it any other way."

Ryan was next door, buttoning up his tailored suit as Daniel, the seasoned agent. His stylist, Mark, inspected him critically. "You look sharp enough to cut through steel," Mark joked, straightening the tie.

Ryan chuckled. "Good. Daniel has to exude authority."