17
Rome, 1952
The cast and crew had just returned from the mid-August break for the Ferragosto holiday. When Ruby finished her stand-in tasks for the director for lighting and camera angles, she left the set. Nearby, she saw Audrey shuffling cards, waiting for her call. Her dark eyes lit with delight when she saw Ruby.
“You looked so lovely up there, and I appreciate your patience,” Audrey said. Today, they wore the same costume—a light-weight blouse and skirt.
“I’m learning so much,” Ruby said. “It’s exciting.”
“I know you’re going to be a famous star someday,” Audrey said, setting the playing cards aside. She picked up a fan to alleviate the blistering heat. “And how was your holiday?”
Ruby perched in a canvas chair next to her. “We went to Lake Como.”
“We?” Audrey’s voice dropped
