Chapter Text
“Morning sunshine” the message read. Ready to shoot our short film wifey?”
“Shit.” She screamed. What time is it anyway?” When she realised it was almost noon time, she rushed out of bed, falling flat on her face, in desperate need for her daily caffeine dosage. Then, she quickly grabbed her phone and texted back.
“Xaxaxa, morning Chris. I’m ready, how ‘bout you?”
“Super excited actually, are you kidding? I’ll get to see my two babies today; Blue and Claire, what else could I be possibly asking?”
Bryce didn’t know how to answer that last text. She smiled as soon as she read the word excited but got lost when her mind properly processed the name Blue being next to the word baby. He did realise he was only talking about an animatronic right? She thought to herself, and then proceeded to respond, wanting to hide her annoyance.
“See you in a while then”, followed by a smiley face.
Filming a short clip was not very challenging. All they had to do was stick to the script and everything would run smoothly. And it did. Each actor practiced their lines, and then one more time in front of the cameras, just to make sure they were shooting from the right angle, and then, they would be free to enjoy the rest of the day off. However, the actor who was playing the airline facilitator was petrified by the animatronic, and Chris couldn’t help himself and kept laughing, take after take, giving Bryce a hard time to stick to the script. She finally succumbed and added a few lines of her own, which ended up better than the initial script.
“Well, that’s a wrap, everyone. I will render the video, and if I need to make some changes I will let you know, so please, try and stay within reach just for today, please.”
“Alright” everyone responded and headed out to the studio’s coffee station. Bryce posed no exception. When she poured her coffee on her reusable cup, she accidentally spilled a few drops on her, but given how hot the coffee was, she gasped. Chris noticed immediately, and run towards her, wanting to make sure everything was alright.
“Are you okay, did you burn yourself? How bad is it?” He worriedly asked.
“Im okay, I’m okay”, Bryce quickly responded, suddenly feeling slightly uncomfortable. “It’s nothing really, my clumsy self just spilled some coffee on my thigh, that’s all. It happens more times than I can admit”, and then she smirked, now feeling very embarrassed for causing a scene just for a few drops of coffee on her jeans.
“Let me help you clean yourself up” Chris offered, and for a mere moment, Bryce wanted nothing more but to accept his proposition, but of course she didn’t. “No, don’t worry, it’s nothing really, see, already evaporated.”
“Fine, but if you need anything, please let me know” Chris said before walking himself towards the studio’s exit doors.
“Thank you and will do” Bryce said before realising that Chris was nowhere to be seen.
“Well, that was awkward”, she thought to herself and then immediately rushed to her trailer. If they had to reshoot the short film, she should probably grab a quick snack before starting over.
By the time she opened a granola bar she heard a knock on her trailer’s door.
“Chris, hi. Um, what are you doing here? Are we shooting again?” She couldn’t help but ask, given the fact that only half an hour had gone by since they last spoken to each other.
“Um, no, I have no idea actually, but I think they will call us if they need us. That’s actually not why I’m here. All I wanted was to check on you and see if you are feeling alright.”
Oh, that’s actually very kind of you Chris, but yeah, I’m fine. It was nothing, really. Just a few drops of hot coffee that happened to land on my favourite pair of jeans, that’s all.”
“Well, that’s good. Glad to hear that. Well, don’t want to keep you from devouring that granola bar, I guess I’ll see you around. Bon appetit, he said jokingly, and turned around.
“.. Wanna join me? You know how much I hate eating alone. They refuelled my snack bar while we were filming and I think I saw a couple of your favourites in that basket as well.”
“My favourites, huh? Can’t say no to such a generous offer Mrs. Howard”, he said in a playful manner and Bryce blushed again.
“You are a big dude, Chris, you most certainly need them more than I do.” She quickly responded, properly masking her feelings and adrenaline rush this time.
By the time they had finished eating their snacks they had both received a text on their phones dictating them to meet with the director in approximately ten minutes.
“Here we go again, said Chris. I have been summoned to join the director he said, so I guess I’ll see you later Bryce.”
“Wait, he wants me as well”, she added, “so why don’t we go together?”
“Okay then, let’s go!”
…
“The film was okay, the overall performance was very pleasing, but I feel there was something missing. Owen and Claire’s dynamic seemed a bit off, so I want you guys to shoot these scenes one last time. I promise I’ll make it quick” the director said and immediately summoned his whole team. The other actor was already on set, rehearsing his lines, trying to overcome his irrational fear for the animatronic dinosaur. “There is no way I am putting my hand on that cage, he kept complaining, not sure how Bryce and Chris managed to film all those scenes without flickering.
“You will get used to it", Chris said, lowly approaching him. "The first couple of times can be truly humbling but after a while you just don’t get scared that easily", he added. Bryce couldn’t help herself and smiled, unable to believe what a nice person Chris actually was. He was kind to everyone, he always gave great advice and was eager to make his fellow actors feel comfortable when shooting together. A truly remarkable person.
“Thanks guys” the other actor said, it has been a privilege working with you. Third time’s the charm they say. Let’s just hope it works for me as well.
“Ready people? Bryce stand on the left side, Chris on the right, bring in the cage please, and action!”
“No no no no no, she is a service animal, I mean, he needs her for emotional support”
“Cut. Bryce please move a bit closer, Chris you’re doing great. And action!”
(Airline guy) -No
(Owen) -Yes, please. We’re not just one of those bogus a-hole couples. I get anxiety and I need her to calm me down.
(Airline guy) - A word, cause I’m getting anxiety just standing here.
(Owen)- Shh. I was with her at birth. And I’ve been separated from her one time and I will NOT let that happen again. Chris said while addressing Bryce.
(Claire) - He wouldn’t even have the courage to talk to you right now if she weren’t here, Bryce responded, unsure where to place her hands and went for the obvious choice and awkwardly placed them on the counter.
“No, no, no! Bryce please come over here, see there, how unrealistic this whole acting looks? You two are supposed to be an old married couple by now, do you see any of that in the monitor?”
“I apologise! It won’t happen again. I promise I’ll be more focused this time.”
“Guys listen. I have been informed that Bryce and Chris have been booked for another interview and this time they must fly all the way to Costa Rica to promote the movie, which means we only have today to wrap it up. Take 10 and we’ll start from scratch.”
Ten minutes flew by and the actors were now back on set. Everything was ready and every single person in that studio was determined to deliver. The director took position and shouted action crossing his fingers he wouldn’t have to interrupt them again while filming.
[…] - He is the most cowardly man you’ve ever seen, said Bryce and caressed Chris on his back. It’s so unattractive, she continued.
All actors played their part and when the dialogue was finally over, the director screamed for the very last time; “cut!”
“That was remarkable. Great job everyone. I can now say with certainty that it’s a wrap. You are dismissed. Will let you know when the final cut will be ready. Chris amazing performance, Bryce you too. I would prefer you too acting a bit goofier towards each other given the fact that you can finally enjoy being a married couple who is allowed to travel with Blue, but it is what it is.”
“Have a great evening”, Chris said loudly enough so everyone could hear him and then went straight to his trailer.
“Bye guys, it was a pleasure working with you, followed Bryce, eager to return to her trailer as well.
“Come on, let’s go, Chris moved towards Bryce, grabbing her from her waist. We could definitely use some rest, it was indeed a very long day today, wasn’t it?!”
“Yes, it most definitely was” said Bryce, upset about the comments she had received on set a few moments ago. “Was I that bad? she asked, not really knowing what to expect from Chris.
“No, babe, of course not. This whole idea was a bit stupid, that’s all. Blue being a service animal? Who thought of that?”
“Xaxa, I know, right? My thoughts exactly. Anyway, I do feel the need to apologise about my poor acting, regardless of how you and I feel about it. I wasn’t being professional and that’s not typical of me at all.”
“I know babe, and that’s why you don’t have to be so defensive, at least not around me.”
“Well, here we are. I guess you and I have to start packing our suitcases for Costa Rica.”
“We most certainly have to. Good night babe, see you tomorrow. Oh, and before I forget, please have a look on my last video upload, I need your genuine reaction, so if you watch it, make sure you’ll FaceTime me.”
“Actually, I have a better idea. You come inside and show me the video and afterwards we can help each other pack our things for our upcoming trip to Costa Rica.”
“I, okay then, are you ready to be stunned?”
“Sure am!”
Chris took out his phone, only to realise he had 2 missed calls and about 14 unread messages, not to mention his triple digit emails. “Just give me a sec”, he said and quickly scrolled through his camera roll, unable to find the edited version of the video he had filmed earlier.
“Ah, there it is, please enjoy…”
Bryce couldn’t help but laugh throughout the entire video. Chris had a unique way of owing things, this food tasting channel posing no exception.
“This is actually very good, Chris. You must upload it immediately.”
“Thanks babe, glad you liked it. And now, since we’ve determined the fate of my video, shall we move on to our next challenge?”
“Pack our bags, you mean?”
“Indeed. Do you have any idea how hot it is right now in Costa Rica? We must pack lightly.”
Bryce didn’t spare a second. She packed almost everything she needed on that trip in less than an hour and was determined to help him pack as well. “Are you hungry? She asked
“Starving, Chris responded. But you know me, I’m always hungry.”
“How about we order something to eat and while waiting we can go to your trailer and pack your suitcase.”
“Can’t turn down that offer Mrs. Howard, even if my life depended on it.”
“Shall we?”
“After you” he said and rushed to open his trailer’s door for her.
“How chivalrous of you, Mr. Pratt, she teased him back, truly reminiscing the days back on-set when she used to call him Mr.Grady even if the script was dictating her to call him Owen.
Thirty minutes went by, the bags fully packed.
Wow, that was fast, she exclaimed, not able to believe that they had both finished packing for tomorrow’s adventure.
“I’ve truly missed this, you know? Being able to travel again, even if that means only promoting the movie, giving interviews and moving from one set onto the next. Just a couple more weeks and then straight back home.”
“Yeah, me too”, he said, not realising that in two weeks time he wouldn’t get to spend all day everyday with her. Slowly gaining their lives back was a blessing he didn’t want to take for granted but, on the other hand, he considered all these people like family. They shared the same hotel, eating breakfast, lunch and dinner all together, starting new hobbies together, training hard together. Yeah, these people were definitely his family.
“Do you know where we’ll be staying tomorrow? Bryce interrupted his thoughts.
“They were supposed to send us an email, but haven’t checked yet. Have you?”
“No, not yet. But I think we must. I sure hope we get to stay at the same hotel like last time! I really loved it there.”
“And, yes! Your wish has been granted Mrs. Howard. We are staying at the exact same hotel.”
“Great!” She said and she immediately felt her phone vibrating inside her front pocket.
“Your food is ready Mrs. Howard, I will be at your trailer in 5 minutes, the waiter said”, eager to call it for the evening.
“Oh, perfect thank you”, Bryce said “We will be waiting for you.”
After finishing their meal they both decided that it was getting relatively late. “I will help you clean and then I’ll leave”, Chris said.
“No, it’s okay, you don’t have to do that. I’ll throw away the leftovers and I will call the waiter to come and pick up the trey with the plates. Being her usual clumsy self, Bryce stumbled upon the tiny coffee table the studio’s managers had chosen for her trailer, and fell onto the ground, shattering both plates into tiny pieces. Although she managed to quickly clean the mess up, one particular piece found its way and pierced her skin, sending signals of excruciating pain to her brain.
“You son of a * she whispered, not knowing why she raged on a broken plate.”
“Bryce, you okay?”
“Yes, uh, fine” she responded back immediately, but the pain kept increasing.
“Hey, Bryce, hey… got ya” Chris’s voice suddenly becoming distant. “Hey, Bryce, hey, babe, stay with me babe, stay with me Bryce”
For unknown reasons, Bryce fainted. Blood never truly bothered her, but maybe there was more to it. Chris laid her on the ground, raising her legs high above her head, not knowing what else to do to help. He was gently stroking her hair, patiently waiting for her to open her eyes, and when she finally did, he sighted with relief.
“Hey, you, you scared me. Are you feeling better now?, he asked, unable to disguise his concern.
“Wh, what happened? Bryce asked, not sure why she was laying on the floor. And then she remembered. She had fainted. She tried to pull herself up but she felt weak.
“Hey, take it easy, Chris commanded her, now holding her head with his left hand, gently caressing her cheek with his right.
“Ugh, I am feeling much better now, she said and tried to stand up, but everything went black again.
“Wow, easy, he said, and helped her sit on the couch. When she began feeling better, Chris immediately started lecturing her about that stupid diet he had noticed she had been following, unable to understand why Hollywood forced beautiful and healthy women to lose weight.
“Chr… Chris, I’m sorry. I don’t know why I fainted but I’m sorry for scaring you twice.”
“No worries babe, I’m right here if you need anything, but you really need to focus on your diet. Not eating is definitely not the solution Bryce. Would you like me to stay?”
“No, I’m okay, you can go. I think it would be best if we rest well tonight. Huge day ahead tomorrow.”
“There is no way I’m letting you travel in this situation. While you were unconscious, I called for a doctor. We need to check your hand. It might need stitches. And don’t try for a second to hide the fact that you fainted.
“Go, I’ll be fine. I will be in good hands.”
“I can’t leave you here alone, he replied, the Fallen Kingdom scene now being mixed with his reality. “Bryce, what did you just say? He wanted her to repeat that phrase one more time.
“I said you can go. Our trailers are literally next to each other, and if I need anything, be certain that I’ll call you. But it won’t be necessary cause I’m fine.”
Alright I… I’ll go.” Good night and please be careful, no more accidents for today, okay?!”
“Good night. Yeah, I think two accidents are enough for one day.”
Chris never truly left. He waited for the doctor on her trailer’s doorsteps and only after the doctor reassured him that he had absolutely nothing to worry about, did he finally return to his trailer, the doctor’s words circling his mind.
“You truly care about her, don’t you? Been an on-set doctor for so many years and I have never seen such chemistry between two people. It’s actually a remarkable thing.”
“Good night doc. And thanks for taking good care of her. I appreciate it.”
Oh, doc, one more thing, are you absolutely certain she is clear to fly tomorrow?”
“Yes, 100%. Just make sure she stays hydrated during the flight.”
“Will do! Thanks doc.”
Bryce’s phone suddenly lit up. 1 new message from Chris Pratt. She quickly unlocked it and read the message out loud, and then giggled.
“Doctor said you’re clear to fly tomorrow Mrs. Howard, can’t tell you how relieved I am you’ll be joining me. Couldn’t do it without you. Good night.”
Bryce kept re-reading that message, over and over. Being away from her family for so long used to be painful, especially during night time. She used to feel lonely, and isolated herself from time to time, but now, she felt this place like home. She kept staring at her stitches, all five of them, gently brushing her finger above the wound. “Oh shit, I forgot to answer”
“Glad to be cleared as well. Wouldn’t miss it even if my life depended on it! See ya tomorrow!”
Chris kept re-reading her message, an uneasy feeling unwilling to let him fall asleep. There was no interview in which he admitted how upset he was that in less than a month the film would be released in theatres. The LA premier was the final stop and then they would never see each other again, at least not with that frequency. He truly hated that. Not being able to see her after spending nearly a decade with her, discovering all aspects of her character, correction, almost all aspects, being around her, making jokes with her, pushing himself harder just to be worthy of her on set. He always respected her as an actress, but it was different now. He used to admire her immense talent, now he admired her personality, her integrity, her authenticity, her kindness, her professionalism…
“Go to sleep Chris” he kept repeating to himself. You got this man! We still have time.”
…
The next morning a private jet was waiting for them. Hair and make-up already awaited in Costa Rica and as soon as they arrived, they had approximately 3 hours to prepare for the interview. They knew it would be a demanding interview, but none of them knew the extent. Their managers and producer of the scheduled interview, had agreed to conduct the interview on set, and they would surprise the actors with an animatronic dinosaur, just to make them act like Claire and Owen for one last time, their mission to protect the journalist who was interviewing them.
“Hey, have you read the questions? Bryce asked.
“Yeah.. but something is not adding up, Chris said. Do you find that interview weird or is it just me?
“Yeah, no, you’re actually right. The questions are so random, as if the interview is fully scripted, unlike the others we have given so far.
“I guess we’ll have to wait and see for ourselves.”
“I guess..”
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your pilot speaking. Please fasten your seatbelts as we begin to descend to Costa Rica. The temperature is estimated at around 35 degrees Celsius. Crew prepare for landing.”
“Mr. Pratt, Mrs. Howard, please store all your personal belongings, and switch your electronic devices” a cabin crew member instructed them, forcing them to take a break for the next 20 minutes.
As soon as the plane landed, a car was waiting for them to escort them to their hotel, in which they were scheduled to spend the next 3 days.
“Welcome to Costa Rica Mrs. Howard, Mr. Pratt”, the driver said, with a wide smile on his face, indicating how much of a Jurassic fan he was.
“Great to be here again”, both of them said, and then looked out of their windows, ready to gasp the view. Oh how much they had missed this place. So many memories suddenly flooding their brain, so many funny moments they both got to experience there, chased by imaginary dinosaurs, surrounded by lab-made lava, falling off a cliff trapped in a giro sphere.
“Great memories, huh? Chris said.
“Yeah, I will always reminisce this place. I loved it here.” Bryce agreed, unable to hide a tear that slowly glided on her left cheek.
“I will miss playing Owen as well, babe” I know how you’re feeling right now. I just never had the courage to admit it in front of an audience.”
“I really loved playing Claire you know. I will miss her, Chris, I already miss her. There was something about Claire that reminded me of myself. I never really felt the need to pretend I’m someone else, does that make any sense?”
“|I does, babe. It does.” Same with me and Owen.”
“I hate to interrupt, but we’ll be arriving to your hotel shortly. I will be your personal chauffeur and will be at your service 24/7 until you board that plane back to LA. This is my card, you can call me anytime you like, just give me at least a 20 minute notice so I won’t keep you waiting whenever you need to be transferred elsewhere.
Bryce reached out her hand and immediately grabbed his card. “Thank you” she added and before she could resume her conversation with Chris, the car suddenly stop, the doors instantly opening, two gentlemen escorting them to their hotel’s lobby. A young lady approached them, offering them a welcome drink which was very refreshing after their flight, and then proceeded to explain where their rooms were located.
“Mrs. Howard, your room number is 0302 and Mr. Pratt yours is right next to Mrs. Howard’s room 0304. In case you need anything, please make sure you dial 9 for the reception, and a colleague will assist you 24/7. Should you need a wake up call, please dial 2 and let us know what time you wish to be awakened. Is there anything else I can do for either one of you?
“Oh God, no. thank you! You have been extremely helpful so far.” Bryce said with a smile.
“No, thank you.” Chris replied, also smiling. “This is for you, and he offered her 10$”
“Thank you Mr. Pratt but I will not accept it. It has been an honour getting to meet both of you, that is enough for me as it is.”
“Have a great day, Ms. …”
“Rodriguez”, at your service.
As soon as they heard her name, they both looked at each other.
“Oh, and before I forget, your car will be picking you up in an hour.”
“Perfect, thank you. Shall we Bryce?”
“Yes, of course. Thank you Ms. Rodriguez, it was lovely meeting you.”
They both entered their rooms simultaneously, unable to grasp that view. Tall trees surrounding the entire property, both rooms facing the huge swimming pool located on the ground floor. I wish we had some time to really enjoy the hotel premises and relax like we used to during the pandemic, Bryce said, totally forgetting she was staying alone in that room. “Great, now you talk to yourself, great way to start your day Bryce”.
She quickly stepped into the shower, as she always did after traveling, and got out just when she heard someone knocking on her hotel room’s door.
“Mrs. Howard I am Claire. I will be responsible for your hair and makeup, may I come in?”
Bryce opened the door, and greeted her make up artist.
“Hello, I’m Bryce Dallas Howard, lovely to meet you. Please, come in” she said while pointing directly to the vanity they had installed especially for her.
“Mrs. Howard I will be responsible for all your public appearances during your stay and have been instructed to select a few outfits for today’s interview. Is that alright with you?”
“Yes, of course. But please, can you call me Bryce? After all, we will be spending a lot of time together as it seems, and the formalities simply don’t add up. What do you say?
“Sure, I’m Claire, it’s lovely meeting you Bryce. So, for today, I have been instructed to do your hair and make up exactly like they used to do it on Jurassic’s set, a no makeup makeup look. Your hair is already lovely, just a simple blow dry will do. Your outfit will be arriving shortly. Any specific requests on your behalf?”
“No, please, you are here to make my job easier, so I intend to do the same for you. Do whatever you have to.”
Almost an hour had gone by and Bryce was now ready. She looked stunning in that jungle, Indiana Jones inspired outfit she was wearing.
“It was lovely working with you Bryce. There is a car waiting for me, I will be your make up artist on set as well, so if you need a touch up during the interview, don’t worry. I will be there to assist you.”
“Oh, that’s actually great. Thank you Claire, it was lovely meeting you. I’m glad they send you this time.”
See you later Mrs. Howard”
As Bryce prepared to close her room’s door, she heard Chris whisper
“Wow, you look stunning babe, look at you, all Claire’d up! And smirked. He loved teasing her and he had a weak spot whenever he made her blush.
“Thank you, can say the same about you, Mr. Grady, look at you. I see you came prepared for a date this time, avoiding wearing those board shorts you adore so much.”
“Not risking my chances with you again, Ms. Dearing. I’m a man who learns from his mistakes.”
“I see, shall we go to the lobby now? I believe they’re waiting for us.”
“After you, Indiana Jones” he said playfully.
…
The car ride lasted for an hour, and during that time, Bryce and Chris were checking on the questions one last time. They were informed that the Q&A would last for approximately 30 minutes, and after that, they would be answering some questions that the fans posted on their social media platforms. Not just regarding Dominion, but all three movies. They had no idea what these questions would be, but they were both instructed to answer them with honesty and a playful manner. “The audience must be pleased with your answers” were the final directions they both got before moving to set.
“Hi, guys, my name is Alexis, and I will be hosting this interview today. I must say I am very excited to embark on this journey with you, and can’t wait to dive deeper into the Jurassic World’s secrets.”
Chris couldn’t help but notice how pretty Alexis was. She looked like a Victoria’s Secret model and his reaction made Bryce uncomfortable, but she was determined to hide it, as if her life depended on it.
“Lovely to meet you, Alexis. I’m Bryce Dallas Howard.”
“Nice to meet you, Bryce. So whenever you guys are ready, we can begin.”
“I think we’re both ready”, Bryce snapped, leaving no room for Chris to speak.
“Okay then.” Alexis said, taking position to begin the interview.
“And.. action” said the director, and suddenly everything fell silent. In 3, 2, 1 …
“Hello everyone, this is Alexis Rivers from Scripted and today I have here with me two very special guests. Please welcome (camera slowly drifting to their direction) Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt.
“Hello everyone, I am Chris Pratt” Chris said smiling to the camera
“And I am Bryce Dallas Howard” said Bryce, looking directly at Alexis.
“One month left till the LA premier and I can’t help but wonder how do you guys feel now that you are almost ready to send the movie to the world, given the fact that it’s allegedly the last of the franchise.”
“For me, Bryce began, it has been a true privilege and an honour to work with all these talented actors. It hasn’t been easy, especially after we wrapped up filming a couple of months ago. But yeah, other than that, we are very excited to bring it to the world. I just hope all this hard work and dedication will pay off.”
“Chris, any comments? Anything you want to add?”
“Well, Bryce pretty much summed up my feelings about this movie. i am just as excited as everyone else to watch the movie and see what all of you guys think.”
“Great. Being a huge Jurassic fan myself, I wanted to ask you how did it feel like working with so many animatronic dinosaurs. Was it easier for you to act on something that was there, or was it more challenging?”
“I personally loved working with the animatronics, although I must admit that I got pretty scared on multiple occasions, given how realistic these models looked. Their movements, roars, even the texture felt ridiculously realistic. Fun fact about me, most of the screams you’ve seen so far in the other two movies, were mostly real. Chris on the other hand, is not that easily scared, he only did some face expressions with his eyes, indicating he felt slightly uncomfortable being around them, but never screamed. I am the screamer, yeah. “
“It’s true, Bryce is way better at it than I am. I find it a bit hard to express my true emotions” and while he said that he was looking directly at her. “Bryce’s screams allowed me to dive deeper into my role as Owen and some of our dinosaur encounters, no spoilers here, will shake you to the core.”
“Before we move to the audience’s questions, we saw on the trailer, that Claire and Owen spend most of their on-screen time being chanced by dinosaurs. Was it hard to film those scenes, given the fact that you are alone, or was it easier?”
“Well, I can tell you that the sequence you see with Claire being chased around Malta was extremely challenging to film and I would like to thank my outstanding stunt double who guided me step by step throughout this process. I wouldn’t be able to pull this off without her. It was very challenging obviously, but it was also my favourite scene to film. Truly amazing.”
“At some point we see Owen being chased by two raptors and this sequence was very difficult for me to film. My stunt double did all the hard work because it was very dangerous to actually drive my motor bike in such speed, and so I also wanted to thank him for risking his life to deliver such an amazing performance.”
“So, that wasn’t you driving the motor bike?”
“Yes and no. some scenes you get to see Owen drive the motor bike, but no, most of that sequence was filmed using a stunt double. The really tricky part was that he wasn’t allowed to wear a helmet, for safety purposes we had only one opportunity to shoot this scene, and he had to learn my kinesiology to convince the audience that I am the one who is driving that motor bike.”
“Thank you Chris, that was truly impressive. Now, a fan is asking if Bryce and Chris can act as if they’re being attacked by a dinosaur, right here, right now.”
“Really? You want us to really act like we’re being attacked now? Am I aloud to scream? Can you guys handle the sound?”
All people behind the scenes are now positively nodding to Bryce’s questions.
“Alright, Chris, what do you think, shall we?”
“Yeah, okay.. let’s do it!”
Bryce and Chris immediately pretended that a dinosaur was approaching them. Chris placed his right hand in front of Bryce’s abdomen, and Bryce rolled her eyes, acting surprised and scared at the same time.
“Shhh”, Chris whispered, and Bryce immediately turned her head to face his, their eyes now locked at each other, Bryce’s lip slowly trembling, a tiny tear about to escape.
Clapping sounds was all Bryce and Chris could hear, relieved that this “scene” was finally over. They quickly returned to their initial positions both ready to hear the upcoming questions. Suddenly, Alexis jumped off her seat and hid behind a prop jurassic park car that was standing behind her, watching two gigantic doors opening at the distance. Bryce and Chris were startled and tried to calmly assess the situation. Bryce suddenly felt something touching her shoulders, immediately feeling the urge to look above her head. To her surprise, a T-Rex was standing behind her, making her scream louder than she ever did while filming Jurassic. Chris immediately grabbed her arm and pulled her towards him, his survival instincts slowly kicking in.
“Shhh, it’s alright, I got you”, he whispered and Bryce nodded, feeling her adrenaline spiking.
Her premier instinct was to hide behind Chris, but as the T-Rex began approaching them, she felt the urge to run. And she did.
“Owen, ruuuun” she screamed, not realising she wasn’t on set.
Chris obeyed, suddenly bewitched by her distress.
“Come on, follow me” he whispered as he grabbed her arm. But she didn’t. Then he tried one more time.
“Claire, move!” and she did. You could see their expressions shifting, their eyes filled with fear, Bryce sweating inside that outfit they made her wear earlier, Chris feeling uneasy and restricted inside those tight pants.
Everyone on set began clapping, thrilled by their acting skills and outstanding performance, but when they yelled “cut” Bryce and Chris were nowhere to be seen.
“Bryce? Chris? Are you guys alright?” The producer calling their names, but neither of them was responding. The director suddenly was struck with an idea. What if they continued playing along for a little while, granting Insider a BTS exclusive starring Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt. The audience would love that, he whispered, and immediately commanded his crew to follow the actors into the jungle. “Hollywood here I come” he thought to himself, certain that Insider would now be granted all future movie premiers.
“Where are we”, Bryce asked, the place barely looking familiar.
“I don’t know, actually. But don’t worry. We’re safe.”
“Safe? We are in the middle of a jungle, chased by a T-Rex animatronic we have never worked with, totally unpredictable and not to mention how hot it is out here.”
“Can’t believe we fell for this shit. They played us very well.”
“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”
“No!”
“Why not?”
“Bryce, there’s no way.”
“Do you trust me?”
“I don’t see how this has anything to do with me trusting you or not.”
“Chris, do you trust me?”
“Yes, I do!”
“Great, if they’re the players then we are the game. It’s payback time. So, here’s what we’re going to do. We will pretend to be lost in the jungle, but not as Bryce and Chris, like Claire and Owen, and when they find us, which sooner or later will inevitably happen, we offer them a spectacle they will never forget. Are you with me?”
“Mrs. Howard you are indeed something else!”
“Stop calling me Mrs. Howard, from this moment you must only address me as Claire, and I will call you Owen. Do we have a deal?”
“Okay…but how are we gonna trick them exactly? If that’s what the intended to do, aren’t we giving them that?”
“We are, yes. Partially. They wanted to see Claire and Owen in action. And that’s exactly what we are going to give them, but if I learnt anything after becoming a producer, is that people truly hate major plot twists. That is exactly what we’ll give them. A plot twist they won’t be able to exploit, a plot twist they would never dare to upload on their social media platforms. Major character death.”
“No, are you serious?”
“Who’s dying?”
“Well, when we were running it hit me. The damsel in distress is always selling in Hollywood, but we will deliver the opposite, so, you are!”
“Me? How? Why?”
“The audience has seen us both survive several times, you have saved me, I have saved you, but this time, the odds won’t be in our favour.”
“What do you think? Are you with me on this one?”
“Bryce, I… I don’t know babe!”
“Chris, do you trust me?”
“Yes, babe, I do! but…”
“Just follow along okay? Revenge is a plate always served cold. Here’s what we’re going to do.”
By the time Bryce explained what Claire and Owen had to do, the producer had tracked them down. “Action” he screamed, unaware how close Bryce and Chris were.
“It’s time! Are you ready?”
“I was born ready. Let’s get them babe.”
“Good. Now run as fast as you can, please try not to get actually lost. I’ll kill you if you do.”
“Be careful, okay? I… Never mind. Bad old habits”
Bryce took her time and began screaming his name. “Owen, Owen? Were are you?”
“Guys, keep camera 2 focused on Bryce and don’t lose her for a second. This will be juicy.”
“Got it boss, the camera men said, and followed Bryce, making sure they remained unnoticed.
After a while, Bryce found a piece of fabric hanging on a bush. “No, no no… Owen?”
Her clothes were torn, her shoulders covered in mud and blood, her hair suddenly looking so messy.
“What happened out here? The producer wondered, totally unaware he had messed up with the wrong people.
“Owen, I… please… I need you. Were are you? Please, answer me.”
The director was now at the edge of his seat. “Where did he go? Why wasn’t he with her?”
All of a sudden, he heard Bryce scream, it was so loud that the microphones began ringing.
“Oh, God, no, please God, nooooo. Oweeeen, nooo” her acting skills were truly impressive. She knew Chris was alright and yet, she had convinced everyone that something was terribly wrong.
“Come on Owen, please, don’t do this to me. Not after everything we’ve been through.” Not now, I need you more than ever.”
“Cl… Claire, h.. help.” The slightest whisper left his lips, he was evidently gasping for air.
“Owen, I’m here, just tell me where you are. I’m coming Owen, please hold on! Please!” Her voice cracked. She started crying uncontrollably. That performance would’ve granted her an Oscar if the film ever made the final cut.
In the meanwhile, Chris had burried himself into the mud, even tricking Bryce for a second that he was stuck in quick sand, little did he know, that he was actually in imminent danger. Luckily, Bryce managed to track him down after a while, still in Claire’s shoes.
“Owen, I’m here, hey. You’re okay, look at me, you’re okay. Let me get you out of here.”
As soon as she began pulling him out, she realised he was submerging even more. Could that be….
“No no no no no… HELP!!! PLEASE, SOMEONE HELP. PLEAAAASE!!!! OH GOD, WHAT HAVE I DONE. CHRIS HOLD ON, I’LL GET YOU OUT OF HERE.”
Chris was feeling himself sinking faster than expected. Bryce, babe, listen to me. I’ll be fine. I need you to run and bring help. But you got to do it now. Bryce look at me, GET HELP! NOW!
Bryce froze. Her feet felt numb, her head unable to process what was actually happening around her. Then she found her strength and screamed one last time HEEEEEEEEEELP. NOW!!!! PLEASEEEEEE. HEEEEEY.”
The guys behind the cameras soon realised that these people weren’t acting. Chris was actually stuck in quick sand and he would soon be completely devoured by it. Their initial thought was to help, their survival instincts kicking in, but the producer had instructed them to retreat, not wanting to be held responsible for any of this. And so, they left. Leaving them in God’s mercy.
“Go, Bryce, please”, tears started forming on his eyes. “No pressure here, babe, but my life is in your hands now, literally. Just think what Claire would’ve done in a situation like this. You’ve got this! I trust you. No one else can pull this off but you, babe!”
Bryce leaned over and pressed a gentle kiss on his lips. “I love you” she whispered and then run as fast as she could.
Five minutes later and Bryce was nowhere to be seen. Chris had stopped moving, buying himself some valuable time, but all he could hear now was his own heartbeat, and that wasn’t exactly comforting.
“I… I…” no words coming out of her mouth. HEEEELP, she desperately screamed one last time, only to realise that no one was there to help them. If she wanted to save Chris’s life, she had to do it on her own. “Think like Claire, Bryce, be Claire” she kept repeating that to herself, almost like a meditation technique to prevent herself from totally losing it. She was admittedly close, but there was no time for her to collapse. She kept running in circles, almost as if she tried to remember where they initially came from, but the tall trees and the scorching hot sun that was now penetrating her skin, giving her severe sun burns, were disorientating her. All she knew was that time was extremely valuable in a situation like this, and every millisecond counted. Tears started streaming down her face but she was unwilling to let go that easily.
“My phone, my mobile phone”, she thought and looked in all her pockets. No, no, no… we left the damn phones back on-set.” “Shit!”
Bryce had to come up with another idea, but before she did that, she thought that it would be best, if she checked on Chris one last time. When she finally got there, she saw him lying on his back, mud almost covering his entire face, but couldn’t help but notice that discreet smile etched on his face. His eyes were glowing, hadn’t lost hope yet, his willingness to live triggered something in her. “Hold on”, she said, I’ll figure something out. I promise you.”
“Don’t worry about me, babe. I’m not intending on going anywhere. You’re stuck with me”, he said, but as soon as he tried to slightly lift himself up, he submerged even more, his chin now completely covered in mud.
“No, God no”, Bryce said and instinctively threw herself into the muddy pond. “I’m getting you out of there, Chris, just hold on for me, okay?”
“What did you do, Bryce? Why did you do that?”
“Couldn’t leave you here alone, Chris, I just couldn’t. These assholes abandoned us the moment they realised you were in danger. Insurance issues matter more than a human life these days, it seems. But don’t you worry, I have a plan.”
“Dying with me is no good plan, babe.”
“We are not dying today. You and I will have plenty of time to discuss our future plans together, just hang on for me, okay?
“Ok.. he said, taking a deep breath, his head now almost completely submerged.
“Lean back” she screamed. Just lean back.”
Chris tried to spread his arms and legs, allowing his body to lean backwards. He felt the sand slowly releasing his body, gaining his mobility. He wasn’t sinking anymore, granting Bryce more time to think.
“Good, that’s good”, she said, unable to fully believe she hadn’t lost him, and then she continued. “I will grab that track, and I will pull myself out. While I’m doing that, make sure you grab my leg, I think I can pull us both out.”
“I’m too heavy Bryce. And I would hate myself if I endangered your life just so you can save mine.”
“Too late for that. Just do as I say. If Claire and Owen could do it, then we both can do it. Claire and Owen are us, not the other way round. So, on the count of three, okay?”
“Whatever you say, Mrs. Howard. You’re the boss.” And he smiled. Again. His expression so serene, so gentle. How could he not? That woman was truly something else.
“Ugh, I can’t… reach. Damn it!” She said, now panting. Come on Bryce, one more.. tiiimeeee…and she did it. She had managed to reach the bark, slowly but steadily feeling the sand’s pressure lifting. Chris, GRAB MY ANKLE, NOW!
And he did. His hands slowly slipping, unable to hold on very tightly but he trusted her, completely. He wasn’t willing to die like this, not before letting her know how much she had impacted his life the past eight years, how much he needed her, how much he loved smelling her hair, every opportunity he got.. unlike her, he wasn’t vying to kiss her on-set, but he was dying to smell her vanilla-scented hair, capturing the moment, hoping it would last forever, and every time he heard the director say “cut” he made sure her smell would last long enough before the next time he got to be with her.
Her loud cries made him snap out of his thoughts. They had actually made it, and the only person he could thank, was her. She never let go, she never quit, not once did he doubt she would, but being alive right then and there, felt different. He crawled next to her and gave her a hug. He wasn’t ready to let go, but she pushed him away.
Chris, I…. There are no words to explain how sorry I am.” “I should’ve known. If anything happened to you, your wife, your kids, oh God, how stupid am I?”
“But you couldn’t have known. Chris felt the urge to press a gentle kiss on her lips, a sign of pure gratitude for saving his life. “I love you too” he said and he kissed her, not once, nor twice. He expected her to push him away once again, like she did with the hug, but she didn’t. She couldn’t. All those years they had spent together, all the Claire and Owen energy flouting on air, their minds and hearts both in sync, their bodies desperately craving one another, but they didn’t surrender. They couldn’t. They both pulled away simultaneously, speechless, blaming the kiss to the heat of the moment, two humans seeking for mutual love and understanding in desperate times.
“We should probably head back to the hotel”, she said, gently touching her lips, that where now so wet. “Our phones must be back on-set. We should probably call our driver, before it gets dark. I’m not willing to spend another damn minute out here. I think we both had enough for one day, don’t you think?” She asked, but as soon as she turned around her head, she realised that Chris was already ahead.
…
On their way back to the hotel they didn’t exchange a single word. Bryce was still unable to process everything that had happened, replaying their conversations over and over, not truly consolidating how close they were from dying on that island and Chris, well, he was desperate to take a shower and spend his entire evening in his room, probably eating something and watching tv, or working out. Maybe he would do both, he hadn’t quite decided yet. Whenever he felt pressured he always found cardio workouts to be the perfect vent and that’s exactly what he needed right now. A vent, a chance to clear his mind, to start over.
When they returned to the hotel, they both headed straight to their rooms, using separate elevators. They couldn’t handle being around each other, guilt slowly kicking in. They both were married, both had children waiting for them to come home, but when stranded in that jungle, they kept thinking of each other, their families not once crossing their minds. How could they do that to them? How would they look them in they eyes? Should they tell them what happened during that interview?
Bryce locked herself in her room, asking for a bottle of sparkling water. She never drank alcohol and she wasn’t intending on doing so now, but deep down she felt the urge to drink something that would make her forget what had happened out there. She quickly ran into the shower, washing all the dirt off her body, and every time a chunk of dirt came out of her hair, the same image haunted her; Chris completely submerged in quicksand, gasping for air, helplessly waiting for her to save him, and her, unable to reach that thin tree bark, both of their lives laying in her hands.
Chris, on the other hand, took a quick shower and immediately rushed to the hotel’s gym. He didn’t want to waste another second. He never thought that an interview could be so life-threatening but the thought that kept torturing him was Bryce throwing herself into the quicksand pond, just to save his life, not once considering saving hers. He was forever in her debt for that, but sadly enough, he couldn’t confront her, at least for the time being. He had to focus elsewhere, pushing himself harder and harder, set after set, and then, when he decided to check the time, he realised he had been working out for three hours, his body ready to give up completely.
As he walked to his room, unavoidably he had to walk through hers first, he intended to knock on that door, but a power inside him refrained him from doing so. Just before he opened his, he heard Bryce calling his name.
“Chris, hi!” She said. “Do you have a minute?”
“Uh, Bryce, hi. Sorry, just came back from the gym, let me take a quick shower and I can join you in a while. Wanna meet downstairs at the lobby’s bar?”
“Okay, see you there”.
When Bryce walked downstairs she recognised a familiar figure waiting for her at the bar. “No, he can’t be” she thought to herself but she soon realised she wasn’t wrong. Chris was actually there, waiting for her, all cleaned up, looking fascinatingly handsome.
“I ordered your favourite”, he whispered, desperately trying to break the ice between them.
“How did you.. remember?”
“You’ll have the quarantine to blame for that” he added mockingly, unwilling to admit he knew everything about her.
“Well, that’s very kind of you, thank you” she said, feeling unprepared to continue the conversation.
“Truth is, I am the one who has to thank you, Bryce. You saved my life today, and for that, I will forever be grateful.”
“No, Chris, please. It was all my fault. I wanted to kill myself knowing I was the one responsible for all of this, and honestly, I would’ve if you never made it today. Be certain for that.”
“Shh, no, I don’t want to hear it. What you did out there, the way you jumped inside that pond, that was so fucking brave and stupid at the same time, Bryce. I was the one who made the wrong call to begin with, you had nothing to do with that. All you ever wanted was to punish those assholes for playing with us. What they did was inhumane and I’ll make them regret it, you have my word for that.”
“I am sure our managers and lawyers can handle it discreetly, I wouldn’t want my family involved in a situation like this, and I’m sure you would want the same for yours, to protect them I mean.”
“Yes, of course, you are absolutely right about that.”
As soon as he finished his drink, Chris asked for another. He drank it in one-piece and then excused himself.
“Sorry, babe, I feel a bit under the weather. I think I should take some rest” he said and patted her on the shoulder.
“Yes, of course, I understand, I think I’ll follow your lead” she said, and as she got prepared to tip the barman, she realised he had left.
“Hold the elevator please”, she kindly asked, and Chris had no other option, but to wait for her.
“Chris, is there something bothering you? You seem… different.”
“No, why?”
“I don’t know, you just seem different. You’re not your typical goofy self and I am a bit worried, that’s all.”
No, I’m fine. I’ll rest and I’m sure you won’t be able to notice the difference by tomorrow morning.”
“Alright, yeah, you did go through a lot today. I understand. I’m sorry, didn’t want to remind you again.”
“Good night” he said, sounding so sharp, that it took her by surprise.
“I guess that’s my queue she said, and walked towards her bedroom door, when she suddenly felt two strong masculine hands grabbing her waist so tightly almost forcing her to gasp for air.
“What?” She tried to say but Chris took her by surprise. “I can’t pretend any more. It’s killing me.”
“Pretend what? Chris… I… I don’t understand.”
“Pretend I’m not in love with you, pretend not to be bewitched by that captivating scent you always wear, pretend that all the time we got to spend together means nothing to me when it means the most to me. You, you mean everything to me. I… love you Bryce. I’m in love with you. From the moment my lips touched yours that day on-set I cannot get you out of my mind. I have spent countless nights awake, unable to process how much you came to mean to me. I want to be with you, with all of you, from the moment I wake up I can’t wait to see you, listen to your voice, look at those beautiful green eyes of yours… I can’t pretend anymore. You saving me today was the greatest torture. If I died, that secret would’ve died with me, but seeing you sacrificing yourself just to save me, pained me even more. The thought of losing you, even for a mere second, still haunts my mind. I would’ve died for you. I… “
“Chris, no… I… we can’t, we’re married. We’re happily married. We could never… I could never…” and before she even finished that sentence she locked herself in her room. She slowly slid on the ground, behind the door, unable to process everything she had just witnessed. It couldn’t be. He was saying all that because she had saved him. It could happen to anyone. Her heart was racing, she could feel her legs numbing, her hands slowly and unvoluntarily sliding to her side, she was gasping for air, again, the walls suddenly becoming narrower, ready to squeeze her, she was suffocating. When she regained her strength, she stood up, slightly opening the door to see if Chris was still there. Before realising it, she had walked herself to his room, and she was now standing naked in front of him, unable to let go. “Just for one night” she kept repeating to herself, knowing deep down that she was lying. He had tasted her juices, her breasts were now in his hands, his dick so deep into her vagina, she couldn’t help but moan. It was so hard, so big and hard, just for her. Only for her. And she was soaking wet, her body desperately asking for more, all her cells crying for attention, crying for more. He was pushing himself deeper and deeper, she could sense him braking every barrier her body put up, forcing her to further arch her back and clawing her hands on the bed sheets every time she felt closer to an orgasm. She was undoubtedly his, and his alone.
They fucked everywhere that night. On the bed, the sofa, in the shower, on Chris’s vanity, on the floor, at the balcony, and again on the bed, their bodies unable to let go, acting as one. Their moans, and kisses covered the air around them, his hands sculpting her body, his teeth bitting her lips, confirming he was now hers, and hers alone, a bite so rough, blood began to flood his mouth, but he didn’t stop. He couldn’t stop. He came inside her not once, nor twice, but thrice that night, completely surrendered to the spells she had cast on him.
The next morning, the sun’s rays flooded the room with abundant light, forcing Chris to wake up. He immediately reached over to the other side of the bed, merely asleep, only to realise she was gone, a note taking her place in bed. Without wasting any time, he began reading it, unable to control his rage. “What have I done?” He thought to himself and rushed out of bed, in hopes to get a chance to talk to her in person. He crushed the piece of paper and then decided to read it one last time, aloud;
“I really had a great time yesterday. I need you to know that I love you, but nothing can ever happen between us. Maybe in another life, but in this one, it is our duty to protect our families at all costs. See you at the LA premier. Forever your Claire, Love, Bryce”