When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 171: Ready for the Storm

Chapter 171: Ready for the Storm

He chuckled as he responded. That’s the life of an assistant director, huh? Keeping everything together while everyone else panics? You’re amazing, you know.

Flattery won’t get you out of this one, Sam, she teased. But thank you. How was your day, really?

He leaned back, feeling the tension of the day melt away as he typed. Honestly, it was fine, but I kept checking my phone, hoping to hear from you. I probably wasn’t very productive.

Her response came with a laughing emoji. Distracted by me? I’ll take that as a compliment.

You should. You’ve got a way of taking over my thoughts, Zia.

The lighthearted banter continued, easing the weight of their day. Zinnia shared funny moments from the set, like how an extra kept missing their mark and turned it into a running joke.

Samuel teased her, saying, Let me guess—you made them redo it until it was perfect.

Of course, she replied. Perfection takes effort.

The conversation drifted to simpler topics—what she had for dinner (a barely warm sandwich) and how he had spent his evening (reading, though he couldn’t focus). The humor and connection between them felt easy, natural.

As the clock crept past midnight, Zinnia sent, We should probably call it a night. Early start tomorrow.

Samuel hesitated for a moment before typing, Goodnight, Zia. Sleep well. Don’t overwork yourself tomorrow.

Her response was immediate. Goodnight, Sam. Sweet dreams. And thank you—for being patient with me.

Samuel leaned back in his chair, his thoughts lingering on the last message from Zinnia. Her words stayed with him, filling the quiet of his study with a warmth that dulled the edge of his restless day. He glanced at the calendar on his desk. Another five days before she would be home.

He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I wish this week would pass faster," he murmured. The house felt colder without her presence, even with all its usual noise. He could already imagine her walking through the door, her hair a little messy from travel, and that soft, tired smile she always wore when she came back from a long day.

---

Victoria adjusted her headset as she leaned against the rail of the ship, the salty breeze brushing against her face. The call connected after a few rings, and a calm, composed voice answered.

"Victoria," Lily said. "How’s everything on set?"

"Ms. Aquila," Victoria replied, her tone respectful. "Today went smoothly. No issues, no accidents. The crew worked hard, and we managed to finish earlier than expected."

"Good," Lily said. "That’s what I like to hear. Were there any challenges?"

Victoria nodded, even though Lily couldn’t see her. "A few minor hiccups with the equipment this morning, but Michael sorted it out quickly. The stunt rehearsals were flawless too. Marcos seemed pleased."

"And Zinnia?" Lily asked.

"She’s holding everything together like always," Victoria said with a small laugh. "It’s impressive, really. She’s everywhere—managing the schedule, coordinating with the cast, handling last-minute changes. She didn’t sit down until the last scene wrapped."

"That’s Zinnia for you," Lily said, a trace of fondness in her voice. "Make sure she doesn’t overwork herself. The last thing we need is her burning out."

"I’ll keep an eye on her," Victoria promised. "Anything else you’d like me to report?"

"No," Lily said. "Just make sure the crew stays safe and on schedule. Call me if anything changes."

"Will do, Ms. Aquila," Victoria said. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Victoria," Lily replied before ending the call.

Victoria slipped her phone back into her pocket and turned her gaze to the dark horizon. The ship swayed gently beneath her, the only sound the soft hum of the waves.

---

The next morning, Zinnia was one of the first to step onto the deck. The sky was painted in soft hues of orange and pink, the sun just starting to rise. She stretched her arms and took a deep breath, the salty air filling her lungs.

"Morning, Zinnia," Marcos called out, a steaming cup of coffee in his hand.

"Morning," she replied, smiling as she grabbed her own cup from the makeshift breakfast station.

The crew gathered slowly, some still rubbing the sleep from their eyes. Katherine stood by the railing, sipping her coffee while chatting with Sophie about the day’s schedule.

"Any idea when Trish will be up?" Sophie asked.

"Knowing her, she’s probably already reviewing her lines," Katherine said. "She’s always so prepared."

Michael joined them, holding a plate of toast. "I saw her earlier, actually. She’s already on the lower deck, warming up for the stunt scenes."

"That woman doesn’t quit," Sophie said, shaking her head.

Zinnia joined the group, her clipboard tucked under her arm. "Good morning, everyone. Ready for another long day?"

Michael chuckled. "As ready as we’ll ever be."

The main cast appeared one by one, greeting the crew with nods and sleepy smiles. Ryan grabbed a cup of black coffee, standing silently by the railing as he stared out at the sea. Trish arrived soon after, her energy already contagious as she joked with Leo about his bedhead.

"Did you even sleep, Ethan?" she teased, using his character’s name.

Leo grinned, running a hand through his messy curls. "Define sleep."

Tom and Julian were the last to join, their presence adding an air of authority and charm to the group. Tom’s deep voice rumbled as he asked Marcos about the first scene, while Julian flashed a quick smile at Zinnia before diving into conversation with Katherine.

Breakfast was quick but lively, the chatter a mix of casual banter and last-minute discussions about the day’s schedule. Plates and cups were soon cleared away, and the crew began preparing for the first scene.

---

The morning air was cool as the cameras were set up on the main deck. Marcos stood by the monitor, his eyes scanning the setup. Zinnia was beside him, her clipboard in hand as she confirmed the details with Sophie and Michael.

Marcos clapped his hands together, his voice carrying over the murmur of the crew. "Alright, everyone, listen up!" he called out, drawing all eyes to him. "First scene today will be the storm scene. Let’s get everything set up quickly—we’re racing against time here."