Lessons Learned, Healing Hearts

Crashing Hard (Chapter 11)

The time was 10:30 p.m., and the day's demands hung heavy in the air. With patience wavering, everyone longed for it to finally be over. As she entered the trailer and saw what KT was holding, Marlow said, "Absolutely not."

"No, no. Don't worry, this is not for you," she said, hanging the fuchsia bustier on a hanger. "I've separated the lingerie items that I think are more for you over here."

With limited choices, Marlow tried on the three remaining outfits. While they all offered coverage, none made her feel confident wearing them.

"Since you're supposed to be seductive in this scene," KT said, "I thought we could jazz up this black silk top and shorts with some accessories or hosiery."

"I like this," Marlow said, removing a cornflower blue silk robe covered in small cherry blossom vines from the rack of bustiers, corsets and lacey bodysuits.

"While this is gorgeous and looks beautiful..." Holding the robe against what Marlow was already wearing, they both agreed the two items did not work well together. Tapping her index finger against her upper lip, KT observed her client. Noting the flicker of interest in Marlow's eyes as she stroked the silk fabric, KT offered an alternative the slightly nudged Marlow just outside her comfort zone."

"What colour and style of bra and panties are you wearing?"

Taken aback by the unexpected question, Marlow's hands came up under her chin.

"Please, hear me out. If you absolutely hate my idea, we'll go with what you're currently wearing."

Timidly, Marlow answered, "My bra is pale pink with matching lace hipster panties."

KT grinned, her eyes sparkling as she gently guided Marlow toward the dressing room. "Change out of everything, but keep your undergarments on under the kimono," she instructed with a reassuring smile, her voice filled with encouragement.

"How's it going in there? Do you feel comfortable coming out and showing me?" KT asked, rubbing her hands together in nervous anticipation.

Marlow stepped out, the soft rustle of the curtain trailing behind her.

"I love this on you," KT said excitedly. "It brings out the pink tones in your cheeks and lips." Turning Marlow around to face a large, full-length mirror, she asked, "Do you mind if I make some minor adjustments?"

Loosening the tie around the waist just enough to pull the kimono up so it billowed slightly open, KT dropped the right shoulder, exposing Marlow's bra strap and a hint of cleavage.

"What do you think?"

Marlow's fingers brushed the cool fabric, the kimono's softness stirring something unexpected, a feeling of allure and romance she hadn't anticipated. If she had someone special in her life, she would wear this for him.

"I love this. I really do. It makes me feel truly beautiful."

"Good," KT said, clearing her throat. "If you still feel it's too much skin, we can leave the shoulder covered and accessorize with a long string of pearls." Grabbing her longest strand of pearls, KT demonstrated, "If you just do this, trust me, it will give Ignazio the incentive to want to check out what's underneath."

Bursting into laughter, Marlow agreed that this was the outfit to wear.

***

Wrapped in an oversized housecoat, Marlow stood behind the false doorframe and listened as the screenwriter explained to Ignazio what she wanted him to do. Hearing an assistant call for "quiet on the set," Marlow clenched her sweaty hands. With a racing pulse, she closed her eyes and prayed for the scene to be over quickly.