A dilemma—
Kate has her own predicament, and Michelle has her own as well. They both need to face their decisions, which will determine the course of their careers.
In truth, Anson is no different. The future direction of "Eternal Sunshine" is just as crucial to him, but he cannot voice his opinion. Whether it's helping Michelle or helping Kate, he has no standing.
Everyone has their own dilemma.
"Director..."
Kate called out to Michelle, who was about to leave. Both Michelle and Anson were surprised, their faces full of astonishment as they looked at Kate—
So soon!
Such a life-altering decision should take time to ponder over carefully. Although, in Anson's experience, overthinking could lead to missing opportunities. Often, following one's instincts opens new doors. But most people just can't do that.
Kate was likely the same, or she wouldn't have been so restless all day.
But now?
Noticing Anson's concerned gaze, Kate flashed a quick smile to reassure him that she was fine. She then turned back to Michelle, took a deep breath, and braced herself.
"Michelle, give me some time."
"I... need to discuss it further, and think it over. Can I give you an answer tomorrow?"
"But tonight, let's continue filming."
"We've been busy for hours. I know everyone is tired, and it feels like we've accomplished nothing. I imagine the crew won't be able to sleep well tonight, so let's finish the job and at least wrap up the evening's work."
Michelle found it absurd. "What if we replace the lead actress tomorrow? What are we even doing here, wasting our time and energy?"
Kate smiled. "But what if I decide to stay tomorrow?"
Michelle was stunned.
The Kate in front of him seemed somewhat different. Though there was still a shadow of melancholy in her expression, her eyes and demeanor had grown calm—
Composed.
No matter the difficulties, there was a newfound courage and determination to face them head-on.
Kate continued, "Even if I ultimately decide to leave, at least the crew will know how this scene should be shot, and the director can get some practice."
"It might inconvenience Anson, though. He'll have to indulge me a little."
Being mentioned, Anson's lips curled into a subtle smile. "This is an actor's job. Whether it's one scene or ten, it's all the same to me. There's no such thing as indulgence; the real challenge is for the director."
Having said that, Anson and Kate exchanged a knowing glance toward the director.
Michelle's chest tightened. "Anson, are you sure?"
"This scene tonight was a disaster. Neither of you are in the right headspace."
"If we go back and try to film again now, with both of you distracted, I doubt we'll achieve anything by dawn after all this back and forth."
Anson shrugged. "I'm fine with it."
Michelle, momentarily at a loss for words, looked from Anson to Kate and couldn't help but sigh, "You actors... you're so willful."
Kate lowered her head, wearing an innocent expression, without offering a rebuttal.
Anson, normally quick with comebacks, was surprisingly deferential, listening quietly.
Without the expected retorts or jokes, Michelle's thoughts became jumbled, and he shook his head in exasperation.
"Fine, if you want to mess around, go ahead."
As he spoke, his expression softened, and he revealed a hint of inner struggle.
"It's my fault. Out of all the actors in the world, I had to choose you two."
Despite his words, Michelle still believed Kate and Anson were the best choices.
To be honest, Anson was right: if they could finish the filming as planned, Kate could continue portraying Clementine. Deep down, Michelle hoped she would stay—
He genuinely wanted to see Kate and Anson's version of "Eternal Sunshine."
But the choice had to be Kate's.
If she chose to leave, tonight's filming might be the swan song.
Michelle... couldn't let go.
He knew he was conflicted, that his mind was a mess, and he couldn't even remember half of what he had just said. But his frustration, his concerns, and his care were all real.
Looking once more at Kate and Anson, Michelle swallowed the rest of his words.
"I'll head back. You two gather your thoughts, and then return to the crew."
With that, Michelle left without further delay. As he walked away, they could faintly hear him muttering under his breath. Following his retreating figure, they noticed the crew peeking from the windows like prairie dogs, curiously observing—
"Ah!"
The crew, caught by Anson's gaze, ducked back in shock, disappearing as quickly as they appeared. The flickering lights betrayed their panic.
Anson's lips relaxed into a smile, which he quickly regained.
Kate smiled, too.
The problem was still there, waiting for a decision. But at least, with the weight lifted from her chest, Kate began to see a path through the fog, and that helped her rediscover herself.
"Thank you." Kate looked at Anson. "You really didn't have to listen to all this…"
Anson cut her off. "I know. But I don't mind. Hey, Kate, at least now I know you're not just a screen image, a simple label. You're just like me, a normal person."
"Ha." Kate laughed aloud. "So, have you been thinking of me as an alien these past few days?"
Anson pressed his lips together, not denying it.
This made Kate laugh even harder. "You're honest."
"When people look at me, they only see Rose. Not just the audience—the crew, the director, audition rooms, other actors—they're all the same. Rose has eclipsed Kate as my identity, at least in their eyes, but none of them want to admit it."
"So, that's where you're different."
Anson spread his hands. "Which also happens to be why I offend so many people."
Hahaha.
Kate couldn't stop laughing. So many words circled her tongue, but she swallowed them back down. "Are you ready now?"
Since their first meeting at the station, Kate had been looking forward to seeing Anson act. As time passed, her anticipation only grew.
As an ordinary person, and as an actor, Anson had revealed so much potential.
Anson took a deep breath. "I'll try my best."
Then, he gestured invitingly. "Are you ready?"
Kate, "No." An unexpected answer. "But I'll give it a shot."
The two actors exchanged a look, and the mood noticeably lightened. Then, side by side, they walked toward the apartment.
When Anson opened the door, it was clear that everyone inside was awkwardly avoiding eye contact, though they couldn't resist sneaking glances at the entrance—
It was so obvious they'd been watching.
Suppressing his laughter, Anson stepped aside, inviting Kate to enter.
Kate walked in confidently, her posture strong, her gaze once again filled with self-assurance.
If she decided to leave tomorrow, this would be her last chance with this script and this character, and she intended to make the most of it. If she chose to stay, then all the more reason to give everything she had.
"Alright, let's make some movie magic," Kate announced with renewed vigor.