When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 177: Seas of Deception - Scene 9

Chapter 177: Seas of Deception - Scene 9

The soft creak of the ship echoed as morning broke. The rising sun cast a golden glow over the deck, painting everything in warm hues. The sea was calm, a stark contrast to the chaotic days the cast and crew had spent filming.

Victoria stood quietly at the edge of the deck, her arms crossed. Her gaze followed the hustle of the production crew as they prepared for the final take of the sea scenes. She admired the sheer dedication of everyone involved.

Marcos, the director, barked orders into his megaphone. His voice was sharp yet steady, cutting through the morning air. "We need that rig tightened! Sophie, confirm with Michael if the stunt setup is ready!"

Sophie Tran, the producer, stood nearby, clipboard in hand. She scribbled quick notes, her eyes darting between the crew. "Michael, are we good for the water sequence?" she called out.

Michael Zhen, the stunt coordinator, gave her a thumbs-up. "All set! The lifeboat’s secure, and the safety divers are in position."

Zinnia, being the assistant director, walked over to Marcos, holding a tablet. "The actors are ready. Ryan’s already in costume, and Katherine just gave final notes to Leo."

"Good," Marcos replied, nodding. "Let’s keep it tight. I want this scene done by noon."

Katherine Lee, the casting director, was nearby, adjusting Trish’s costume. Her sharp eye missed nothing. "You look perfect," she said softly. "Just remember to let the exhaustion show. This scene is all about raw emotion."

Trish nodded, her face pale under the makeup that made her look even more worn. "Got it. I’ll channel the days without water."

Victoria observed everything in silence, marveling at the teamwork. She had seen movies before, but witnessing the behind-the-scenes effort was different. Every person played a role, from the lighting crew adjusting reflectors to the sound team checking microphones.

The camera team finished their setup, positioning themselves at various angles. The lifeboat was already in place, rocking slightly in the artificial waves created by the ship’s movement. The illusion of being lost at sea was flawless.

Marcos clapped his hands, calling for attention. "Alright, everyone, positions! This is a heavy scene, so let’s keep it quiet on set. Zinnia, give us the signal."

Zinnia raised her hand, glancing around to ensure everyone was ready. She nodded toward Marcos. "We’re good to go."

"Action!" Marcos shouted.

The scene began.

Daniel, played by Ryan Kim, sat at the edge of the lifeboat. His face was gaunt, his eyes hollow. He stared at the horizon, his body slumped as if the weight of the world rested on his shoulders.

Alex, sitting beside him, broke the silence. Her voice was raw, cracked from imaginary dehydration. "How much longer, Daniel?"

Daniel turned slowly, his movements heavy. His voice was barely above a whisper. "I don’t know. We just need to hold on."

Victoria watched intently, captivated by the realism. The way Daniel’s hand trembled as he adjusted his position, the way Alex’s shoulders shook with suppressed sobs—it was all so real.

Ethan, the youngest character, fidgeted in his spot. Leo, the actor portraying him, let out a soft, frustrated sigh and glanced nervously around. He looked as if he wanted to escape, but there was nowhere to go.

Michael Zhen stood just off-camera, watching the actors closely. His fingers hovered over his walkie-talkie, ready to jump in if any stunts went wrong. "That boat rocking looks a little too real," he muttered to Sophie.

"It’s perfect," Sophie replied. Her gaze was steady as she assessed the scene. "Let’s just hope the lifeboat holds up for a few more takes."

Captain Harding’s actor, Tom Ellis, an older man with a commanding presence, added to the tension. He sat silently in the corner of the boat, his expression grim. His eyes scanned the horizon, his posture rigid with suppressed worry.

The sun climbed higher, its harsh light reflecting off the water. The actors’ makeup artists had ensured their skin looked sunburnt, their lips cracked. It added a layer of authenticity that made the scene feel even more desperate.

"Cut!" Marcos shouted after a particularly emotional exchange between Ryan and Trish. "Reset the boat and get ready for the next angle."

The crew sprang into action. Lighting technicians adjusted reflectors to mimic the changing sun. Camera operators repositioned their equipment. A small motorboat brought water bottles to the actors, who sipped cautiously to maintain their parched appearances.

Victoria stepped closer, listening as Zinnia gave quiet notes to Leo. "That fidgeting is great," Zinnia said, her tone encouraging. "But try to let the fear build more in your eyes. Think about what it feels like to lose hope."

"I’ll try," Leo said, nodding. His hands clenched the edges of his chair as he mentally prepared.

Meanwhile, Katherine approached Trish. "Your voice is perfect, but don’t be afraid to let it break more. This is the moment where desperation overtakes you."

Trish nodded, taking a deep breath. "Got it."

Victoria couldn’t help but admire how collaborative the process was. Every detail, every gesture was planned and adjusted to perfection.

As filming resumed, the tension in the lifeboat grew. The sun began to dip lower, its golden light replaced by a dusky orange. The actors’ movements slowed, their exhaustion palpable.

Daniel leaned back, his voice filled with quiet despair. "I can’t do this anymore."

The line wasn’t in the script, but Marcos let it slide. It fit the moment perfectly.

Then came the sound of salvation—the helicopter. The roar of its blades filled the air, created by speakers positioned out of frame. The actors’ reactions were raw and immediate. Relief and disbelief mingled on their faces.

"It’s them!" Daniel shouted, his voice cracking with emotion.

Ethan stood, waving his arms frantically. "Help! Over here!"

The scene ended with the actors being lifted to safety. The lifeboat rocked violently as they climbed the rope ladder, their movements shaky but determined.

"Cut! That’s a wrap on the lifeboat sequence!" Marcos announced.

The crew erupted in applause. Victoria clapped along, smiling at the camaraderie.

Marcos then shouted, "Next will be Victor’s scenes!"