Chapter 1
Ardith Law, a Hollywood star for forty years, attended the Golden Globe Awards every year to pay respects to her fellow actors and to be seen herself. At sixty-two, she was known for her variety and depth of roles and the quality of her movies. She was picky about the parts she took, wanting to be in movies with depth and merit. Ardith was known for her high standards and perfectionism on set, which gave her the reputation of being unpleasant or a diva. She was a consummate professional and a star to her core, and her career was vital to her sense of well-being and purpose. She had a daughter, Morgan, who chose medicine as an exciting and satisfying alternative to the Hollywood scene.
Ardith regrets not spending more time with Morgan when she was younger, but her career was too busy and she was too away on location. They had diverse personalities and jobs, and they spoke regularly yet agreed on very little. Ardith had never married again and had no regrets about not having children. Morgan had little recollections of her father, John Walker, who perished in a fatal helicopter accident. They lived on opposite coasts, and they saw too little of each other to heal the damage of the past. For the past twelve years, Ardith found comfortable companionship with William West, a handsome and energetic actor with a fifty-year career. They had their careers in common and were kind, attentive, and good company. Ardith found him somewhat narcissistic, but they were each the longest relationships either of them had ever had. They became a legendary Hollywood couple, and they were always seen together.
Ardith West and Bill West, two Hollywood icons, arrive at the Hilton in a sleek black satin gown. They are greeted by the press and the press, who assume they are married. Ardith, a strong, self-sufficient woman, believes marriage wouldn’t change anything as they have lived together for ten out of twelve years. Bill, who has beaten prostate cancer, is unable to perform sexually, which she accepts. They are both Hollywood icons and thought to be the perfect couple. They watch the Golden Globes and the Oscars, with the foreign press predicting their success. Ardith and Bill both agree to leave after the awards, leaving Ardith to pack his medications. The next day, Ardith wakes up early to read the news, and Bill leaves her in charge of world news.
Ardith, a young actress, is offered an assistant by the producers to help her with her small tasks. Ardith is grateful for the help and feels guilty leaving her alone. Bill, a bankable name, is offered the assistant as part of his contract. Ardith is concerned about the assistant’s potential annoyance but accepts it as a perk. Ardith is impressed by Morgan’s medical career and her lack of interest in marriage and children. Bill is impressed by her work and her commitment to her daughter.
As Bill leaves for London, he is excited to work on a film for two months and has a good role. He is not jealous of Ardith’s fame and is content with his career. He is easygoing, comfortable with his success, and doesn’t want more than that. Ardith envies him for wanting to leave for a film on location, but they are a good fit.
Ardith Law, a housekeeper, wakes up to find her house under attack from a motorcycle rider who looks like Darth Vader or a Hell’s Angel. She uses a panic button to evaluate the situation and suspects the biker might be armed. She finds Josh Gray, Ardith’s assistant, who is a former actor who had been assigned to her by Bill’s producer on a sci-fi movie. Ardith is hesitant to accept the job, as she had read about her reputation as a diva and had no desire to be her cabana boy for two months. Josh, who had been acting in second-rate movies for the last ten years, is still hoping for his big break, but Ardith Law is not it. The police arrive in less than ten minutes, and Ardith is left to deal with the situation. The incident highlights the dangers of letting go of personal relationships and the importance of maintaining a professional image.
Josh, a man with a green face and a toy poodle, is hired by Ardith, a producer, to work on a canceled sci-fi movie. Ardith is hesitant to hire him due to his appearance and fear of terrifying the neighborhood. Josh is offered a job as an assistant while Mr. West is away, but he is not a trained bodyguard. Josh is also required to dress decently and not scare the neighbors. He is stuck with his mistress for eight weeks, and Josh is unsure if he can leave. Oscar, who is not a diva, is hesitant to leave, and Josh wonders what the production company would do if he quit. The job is high-stress, and Josh is unsure if he will need a tetanus shot if Oscar bites him.
Chapter 2
Ardith, a young, casual actress, visits Josh’s Beverly Hills home. He is surprised by her appearance and realizes she is not famous. Ardith, an unemployed actor, has appeared in many sci-fi and horror films, but she wants to act. Josh, in his late 20s or early 30s, is hesitant to act, but Ardith assures him he can get a good part if he gets the right part. In addition, she never sang, but her mother wanted to act. Ardith leaves Oscar with store-bored Josh. Josh and Ardith politely ignore each other as Josh reflects on Ardith’s acting advice. He enjoys talking to her different side. Ardith, unlike the legend she was, runs errands like a normal woman.
After a rough start, dedicated actor Ardith Law returns home. Her Oscar dinner reveals that Josh, a starving actor, is her errand boy for two months. She wonders if Josh is musically talented. Josh is remembering his mother Ardith’s advice to keep going. He wonders if his father thought acting was pointless and if he would marry. He appreciates Ardith’s help and hopes her advice will bring luck. Josh looks forward to work tomorrow despite his menial job.
Ardith calls Morgan early to schedule surgeries and work because she feels harassed and disciplined. The out-of-work actor Bill is smart and talented, according to Ardith. He seems nice, but Ardith feels guilty using him as an errand boy. Morgan, Ardith’s daughter, enjoys working two jobs. Ardith misses Bill, who is in Korea for a convention, but she calls him before his early morning hair and makeup call. She applauds Bill’s success but wants to work again. Working with Bill’s strength and youth is nice, but she misses his attention. She is happy for Bill’s happiness and plans to visit him in England in a few weeks to discuss future projects.
A handsome young actor named Josh arrives at work dressed like a grown-up. He likes his body and looks like an assistant. Young actress Ardith may sign Josh to her agency if he proves worthy. Josh uncrates and hangs Ardith’s auction-purchased French painting. He drives a Bentley, Range Rover, and toy poodle for Ardith. Josh is intrigued by Ardith’s tenderness and respect for Bill despite his age. Ardith’s parents opposed her acting career, but she succeeded. Ardith later discovered John cheated on her, but she thought it was fair. Even though he broke her heart thirty years earlier, Ardith’s Hollywood career was worth it.
Morgan created a father figure for herself despite her anger at her late husband, John Walker. Josh, who had never met her father, was fascinated by Ardith’s family, acting, and life. He admired Ardith’s deep, sensitive, and thought-provoking nature. Josh grew to respect her and felt obligated to protect her from exploitation.
Josh realized as they worked that he had not pushed himself in a long time and had been offered bad roles. Ardith said that putting more effort into a bad part could improve it. Josh appreciated working with Ardith and felt connected to her. She taught him a lot as an actor, and he appreciated every day with her.
Chapter 3
Morgan, a medical professional in New York, worked closely with her partner, a well-known TV anchor and journalist, at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. She treated patients with facelifts, Botox, and skin grafts, and admired the patient’s post-surgery results. Morgan’s office was located next to the hospital, where they operated on more serious cases. Morgan’s final patient was a well-known TV anchor and journalist, Andy, who had undergone multiple surgeries. Morgan’s busy schedule led her to have little social time, and she had a significant relationship with another Hollywood brat, the son of a famous actor.
Morgan, a lifelong New Yorker, adored New York and her post-residency practice, but still hated Hollywood and her mother. She was fascinated by Ben Ryan, a twenty-five-year-old surgeon who was always friendly and professional. Morgan planned to build her profession without marriage after college, but never met a man she wanted to marry. Ben invited Morgan to dinner, but Morgan hesitated due to her senior partner’s friendliness. Ben offered to talk to Morgan about their relationship, and Morgan agreed. Ben’s attentiveness and charisma made Morgan feel enticing, and she was excited for the date. Despite her resentments, Ben’s smart and cosmopolitan demeanor and direct attention made her feel a little guilty.
In New York, Morgan, a woman who had never been to a top French restaurant, met Ben, a worldly, intellectual, and educated man. They had a lucrative practice and had a daughter from their first marriage. Ben had a difficult past, including a five-year marriage and a year-long divorce. He had a daughter who was an artist and serial student. Morgan was curious about Ben and asked if he wanted additional kids. Ben agreed, but he chose women for their looks and personalities, not their depth. They had a memorable night together, and they shared a deep desire for each other. They felt like something big had happened, and they unintentionally ignited a forest fire that night.
Ardith, a Hollywood star, was adamant about her relationship with Josh, a man she had admired for his openness, honesty, and straightforwardness. She had worked with Josh on various projects, and he was a blessing to her. However, she was surprisingly alone and misunderstood, especially in the midst of fame.
As she flew to London to see Bill, she received news that Bill West had died in his sleep after a major heart attack. Ardith, a Hollywood legend, had been working with Josh and enjoyed the camaraderie he shared. However, after a week of work, Bill West died in his sleep, leaving Ardith alone. She felt helpless, as she had planned John’s burial properly.
As she cried, she reflected on the life she had with Bill, the man he had become and the memories he left behind. She felt a sense of loss and regret, as she had to accept the loss and live without him. This tragic event marked a crucial chapter in Ardith’s life, leaving her alone and unsure of what to do without him.
Chapter 4
Ardith and Josh, who had never met Bill in London, met him at LAX. The funeral home sent a hearse to fetch and prepare the casket for Sunday’s viewing. Josh was startled by Ardith’s high costs for the mahogany casket and all the services she needed. Ardith was kind to everyone, and Josh guided her through the harsh currents. Ardith knew she would miss him after the fanfare, but not as much as she expected. Josh kept Ardith busy with the overwhelming arrangements. Josh, who had no duty to attend Bill’s funeral, thought surgeon Morgan was selfish. Ardith needs Morgan’s restrained support because she blamed her mother for her father’s death and has maintained it.
Oscar, a Hollywood star, and Ardith Law, who lost her job after Bill’s sudden death, meet at Luigi’s, a small Italian restaurant. Ardith appreciates Josh’s support and kindness as her official errand boy for two weeks. After sharing pizza and a hot fudge sundae, Josh tells her she needs kindness. Ardith has seen his horror and sci-fi films and is astonished by his talent. Oscar is grateful for her friendship as they discuss their lives.
Oscar growls at Josh when they get home, but Josh tells him he has a new friend. She smiles at him, and he understands he was lucky to meet her. They’re lucky to have a Hollywood friend.
A familiar server greets Morgan and Ben Ryan at La Grenouille for supper. They talk about their special bond. On Sunday, they cook for each other, but Morgan has attend her mother’s London funeral. Ben is astonished to find that Morgan’s mother is a movie star and icon. Morgan’s mother chose medicine over other careers. Morgan says she enjoys dating someone her mother’s age when Ben asks if it’s unusual. He says men grow up slower and focus on marriage and babies, while younger women focus on relationships. The couple’s relationship shows the power of love and connection.
Morgan, a non-married lady, loves Ben, whom she thinks is wonderful for her. Ben, who has searched for her throughout her life, has been waiting for her since seeing her. Morgan loves seeing him and fantasizes about him. Ben, a prominent TV actor, is notorious for womanizing and thinks they were intended for each other. Ben passionately kisses Morgan after dinner on a weekend in New York while drinking champagne and wine. Stay in New York over the weekend to visit Ben.
Twenty-five-year-old New Yorker Ben Ryan had a spectacular night with Morgan, a lady who had never experienced anything like it. Their Central Park West night was spent making love and spending time together. Ben traveled the world and was more glamorous than Morgan. He informed her about his hectic schedule before their Wednesday meeting. When they arrived in London, Ben swore to love her forever, and Morgan was thrilled with a sense of wonder and love. The experience proved love’s strength and the longevity of relationships.
Chapter 5
Josh expects Benicia to join fellow friends Ardith and Josh in a threesome. Ardith feels bad about her feelings for Josh, but she understands she has been faithful for 12 years. Ardith worries about her appearance and connection with Ben, but Josh leaves and returns.
Morgan, a news anchor and correspondent, works hard. She worries about Ben’s silence after 14 hours together. She requests a week off to go to Paris with him, but her senior partner, Dr. Andrew Scott, brings her into his office five days after Ben leaves for China. Morgan worries about her medical mistakes and plastic surgery’s psychological and medical complexities.
Andrew Scott asks Morgan to explore an ethical issue outside of work. Andrew and Ben Ryan attended Harvard together, and Morgan knows about it. While he was abroad, Morgan saw Andrew, their lone female partner, for a surgical follow-up. Morgan fears Ben may break up with her throughout the conversation.
Morgan thinks about their relationship after Ben kisses her hard at his flat. He’s been gone for six days, which she doesn’t like. Ardith’s agent, Josh, likes the script and fast filming. Ardith wants to work with Josh on location as his assistant. Josh is shocked Morgan went on location since telling the truth is simpler than lying.
After a busy week, Morgan and Ben return to New York. Ben must edit a French presidential interview for a TV special. They meet Stan Silver’s attorney and Tracy McCarthy’s attorney. Tracy and Ben’s DNA test and settlements are discussed. Ben thinks Tracy is a crook and didn’t rape her, but they’re worried about the implications. They tentatively agree to the test. If the baby is Ben’s, Tracy wants a lump sum and child support till 21. In the event that the baby is not his, she wants nonnegotiable damages and a formal agreement that Ben won’t sign. Ben and Tracy fight bitterly and complexly.
Hollywood starlet Ardith is preparing for her new film and Josh, her first public appearance together. Josh worries about media reaction as they attend the Academy Awards. Ardith looks renewed and feels like an icon. Morgan and Ben are rekindling, but Tracy is out on bail for fraud and extortion. While working, Ben talks to the network head about Morgan. Josh wants to take Morgan to Venice for a few days after her emergency surgery on a 10-year-old child. Tracy McCarthy has pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree murder and is in detention awaiting sentencing. Morgan’s mother says she can’t control Ben, who dropped a trip to Iran and went to Manila to interview Morocco’s new king.
In New York, actors Ardith and Josh meet Ben and Morgan, who are romantically traveling to Rome and Venice. Randith buys Josh a vintage Harley and they travel around Bel Air. London is their meeting point for exploring a private airport near the production. Josh offers to fly over the region for free, but Ardith lets him enjoy it.
Josh is killed when a small plane catches fire during a shooting practice. Ardith is sad after losing her husband in a helicopter disaster and getting Josh. The crew rushes to help, but Ardith fears another fuel explosion. The pilot is dead, so people stay away to prevent explosions.
Chapter 6
Ardith, who was unsure if Josh was alive, woke up to discover him disappeared. She sipped whiskey and closed her eyes, thinking he would return. They cried as he hugged her. Ardith understood her heart and life were his and wanted to marry him. After she finished filming, they invited the cast and crew to a wrap party. The London embassy issued a special license for their marriage. After vowing, the cast and crew rejoiced. They celebrated film’s completion and marriage’s start. After being surprised, Josh sat in his lap and expressed his joy and knowledge that they were soulmates despite their age gap. They had created new possibilities for each other, making their marriage wonderful.
Discussion Questions
- Mothers and Daughters: The plot concentrates around Ardith and Morgan’s difficult relationship. How does their past affect their present? How do they deal with reconciliation and competing ideas of life?
- Unconventional Romance: Ardith and Morgan discover love in unexpected places. How do these partnerships defy social norms and redefine romance?
- Second Chances: The novel delves into issues of starting over and embracing fresh beginnings. Do the characters find redemption or new views despite the obstacles they face?
- Ageism and Beauty Standards: The book addresses societal biases against age and looks. How do these themes fit into the plot and character development?
- Finding Happiness: What is the ultimate definition of happiness for these characters? Is it about relationships, work accomplishments, or personal development?
Reflection Essays
- Choose a character and study their transformation. How do the characters’ ideals, goals, and relationships change during the story?
- Investigate the importance of a certain symbol or motif. How does it affect the novel’s overall meaning and atmosphere?
- Consider the role of fate and free will in the characters’ lives. What events appear predestined, and what choices influence their fates?
- Compare and contrast the two primary female characters. What similarities and differences exist in their approaches to life and love?
- Draw analogies between the characters’ experiences and your own. What personal insights or lessons can you take from their journeys?