44 Time Distortion (1/2)

Even if Sandra Bullock has died, Shield Surveillance Network should have been able to locate her.

The only reason that it could not is probably because Sandra herself might has left the country. In that case, Selene should tell me which country she is in instead of being unable to locate her at all.

There is something very odd about that.

I will have to get to the bottom of it.

But before I do, I need to do something about this stalled production.

I frown deeply and scan the entire filming set for Sleepless in Seattle.

Although Sandra Bullock did not show up when she supposes to, the production and filming crews did use the time to adjust their cameras and shot the scene that did not involved her.

They know that if they wasted time idling, I will have their collective asses.

Time is money. And I hate wasting money, especially millions of dollar.

Another reason for their motivation is what remains of the filming budget is divided amongst the crewmen as bonus. It gives the incentive to not waste time.

”Sharon. Please come with me for a minute.”

I request once I have made up my mind. The future shows me that she never shows up, not today, not tomorrow, not even in a month time.

Whether it is fate or otherwise, Sandra Bullock has proven to be a liability at the moment. To have the entire production waits on her – I shouldn't allow something like that to happen.

No actor or actress should be allowed to have that kind of power.

I might also be a bit biased since Sandra did turn down my contract.

Sharon hesitates at my request, but follows me once she realizes I am heading towards the director.

If it was to somewhere private, I think she might have breakdown a little. She has assumed that I would not harm her publicly and in front of so many people.

That assumption is incorrect. I make a mental note to prove it to her one day.

”Mrs. Ephron. I believe a change in casting is required.”

I tell the new director.

Her name is Nora Ephron. She is the original director to Sleepless in Seattle.

The only reason that Nora was passed over as director the first time around is because I wanted one of my employees as the director.

Why outsource when I could nurture in house talents. It is just better to support the people who are already working for me fulltime.

Directing a movie will provide my employee with valuable experience as well as leadership skill.

But after what happened with Howard Weinstein, I decide I will make an exception this time around.

To be honest, I do not lack aspiring or experienced director since Terra Entertainment is very generous with their salary packages and bonuses. I am planning to gather some talented one such as Christopher Nolan.

I believe Mr. Nolan is in England right about now.

”Who do you suggest Mr. Maxwell?”

Nora questions. She knows who I am. She also knows what had happened to her predecessor. It shows in the way she looks at Sharon.

Everyone seems to be of the same opinion regarding Sharon Stone.

I could use it to build an image for her – the misunderstood heroine.

”This is Miss Sharon Stone. Her acting skill is on par with Miss Sandra Bullock. If it wasn't for the latter, I believe the part is rightfully belongs to her regardless of other... unsavoriness. Since Miss Sandra has not shown up since morning, I am voiding her contract and assign Miss Stone as the main heroine.”

I gesture at Sharon, who widens her eyes.

”Mr. Maxwell...”

Both Sharon and Nora begin, but I gesture my hands to stop them.

”I have already made up my mind, so all you have to do is carry out my request.”

I pay attention to Nora only.

”There is no need to write up a new contract for Miss Stone. She is a fulltime actress of our company, one of many. We still have several hours of daylight left, so I suggest the crew begins filming or do you have any other questions?”

”No further question, Mr. Maxwell.”

Nora replies and eyes Sharon. She wonders how Sharon manages to charm me into giving her the role over Sandra.

However, Nora is a professional woman so she will not let her misguided prejudice to affect her work.

Once I have given my order, Nora passes it along the chain of commands.