Chapter 417 - The Talk with Billie (1/2)

Terry was the one who conveyed Finland's thoughts to Jean, because he also thought the same thing, ”My point is, you seem a bit strange today, because your attitude towards Marion is somewhat different. So mom and I are curious, whether you are in love, or not.”

”Gosh,” Jean put down his spoon in surprise. ”You think so?”

The four people at the dinner table nodded in unison. All eyes on him, staring curiously.

”You're a public figure. News about you kissing Marion last night has spread far and wide.” Finland sighed. ”I could only think about how Billie would feel if she read all that.”

Jean hadn't checked the entertainment news for a long time and he didn't expect that gossip about him had spread so quickly.

”Alright, after I finish my dinner, I'll call Billie,” Jean answered with a shrug. He resumed eating and tried to divert the conversation about the children's school. ”You're working  on your final assignment, right? After that, will you graduate?”

Terry, who was questioned by his father, looked a little listless, ”The only thing I still need to do is to make my short film. Nicolae had signed a contract to play in my project but he suddenly cancelled because of the incident with Aleksis. Now I need to find a new actor.”

”Why did you cast Nic? Can he act?” asked Jean in surprise.

”No, but he's handsome. I just need his good looks to attract an audience,” Terry answered lightly. ”If only I weren't the director, I'd play the part.”

”Hmm, is that so?” Jean frowned as though thinking, ”I'm still taking time off work until next year. I can help you, if you need it.”

Terry was astonished to hear Jean offer himself. He had indeed hoped that Jean would play in his movie, but he did not know how to request it, but now it was his father who offered.

”Really, Dad? Do you want to act in my short film?” Terry asked enthusiastically. ”I will be very happy.”

Jean nodded. ”Next year I will take on a new identity, so it would be great if my last appearance in acting will be in a film made by my own son. That would be a good way to end my career.”

Terry had heard of Jean's plans to fake his death next year and take on a new identity, but he hadn't expected that Jean would want to act for one last time. He was deeply moved and subconsciously he rose from his chair and hugged Jean.

”Thank you, Dad.” he whispered hoarsely, ”I promise to keep our relationship quiet.”

Jean nodded and told Terry to go back to eat. ”Just send me the script, I need to study it first.”

”Certainly.”

Terry was very happy throughout the night because without having to try hard, Jean was willing to help with his film. The handsome Nicolae would surely attract many viewers, but if Jean was willing to replace him, Terry's film would be even more successful because Jean was not only handsome, but he was also a very talented and famous actor.

Finally they made plans to return to Singapore to finish Terry's assignment so that the young man could graduate, and then go to Berlin to help Caspar, while Jean would return to Switzerland and help supervise Aleksis' care while Finland accompanied her husband.

***

After dinner, Jean excused himself to his room so he could contact Billie. He didn't want Billie to hear rumors about him from the gossip websites, so he hurriedly called his ex-girlfriend.

Finland was right; of course Billie's feelings would be hurt when she saw her ex-boyfriend had moved on to another girl so quickly after they decided to part ways.