Chapter One: After the Flashbulbs

After wrap, the crew surged toward the celebration area while Jianwei stayed to inventory the jewelry. Half the studio lights had gone dark. Wen sat before the makeup mirror as Qiao removed crystals from her hair. “On mark seven, I slowed by half a beat,” Wen said suddenly. “You frowned behind the monitor.” It took Jianwei a moment to realize she was being addressed. “The skirt was heavy and the heels were narrow. You weren't slow. You were finding your balance.” “Everyone else said it looked perfect.” “It did.” Jianwei returned an earring to its velvet box. “Effort doesn't appear in the frame.” In the mirror, Wen studied her for two seconds. The eyes that millions had praised briefly held the fatigue of a living person.