Marialena & Joaquin

By Eve Corso

New emotions unfurl as unforeseen events get thrown at Esteban and Marialena and their relationship is faced with new hardships never before contemplated.

How will it all unravel? Who is Joaquin and why does he capture both Marialena and Henry's hearts? Why does Joaquin make Christian Allen want the one thing he's always missed?

Find out in the last installment of Esteban & Marialena…

• Language: English
• Publisher: Crazy Ink
• Release date: Jan 7, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393059219

Book preview

Eve Corso

Copyright 2019 by Crazy Ink

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior written permission.

Publisher’s Note: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are a product of the author’s imagination. Locales and public names are sometimes used for atmospheric purposes. Any resemblance to actual people, living or dead, or to businesses, companies, events, institutions, or locales is completely coincidental.

I would like to dedicate this book to E.E. Thank you for your inspiration throughout the years.

Chapter One

Marialena looked at her reflection in the mirror as she put on her earrings, not recognizing the woman staring back out at her. She had done her hair first, styling it in a double French braid bun, a classic look for her. Then she worked on her make-up, which she was getting a lot quicker at doing since she started working with Patrick. A year ago, she’d step out wearing a little foundation, some eyeliner and eyeshadow. Now she had a small make-up case filled with more make-up than she ever thought she’d need. When your husband’s movie and the movie you helped cast both get nominated in the same year, you go all out.

She decided to go with a v-neck, floor length, dusty rose, chiffon gown. She had always loved how this color looked against her dark skin. The dress was elegant, but simple. She could hear Esteban in the living room on the phone, confirming their limo. He came in shortly afterwards, already dressed for the Oscars.

The car will be here in twenty minutes, he said. She turned around to look at him and nodded. My God, Marialena. You look absolutely stunning. He walked towards her, brushing an invisible strand from her face.

Thank you, she said a flutter of nerves. Looking into his hazel eyes, she tried to get a feeling as to whether he was nervous or excited, but he seemed remarkably calm. She thought back to last year, when she was helping Patrick Denny get ready for the Oscars, and he was calm as well.

Marialena voiced her thoughts. You seem calm, she said.

He kept a hand on each side of her waist, looking at her, leaning in for a kiss. It’s early still. I imagine the jitters will come once we arrive.

It wasn’t his first nomination. Paris in the Dark was nominated years ago for its cinematography. He hadn’t gone before due to a sudden illness. He had gotten pneumonia a few days before, and had a fever the day of. Laura, his then girlfriend, had pleaded with him, nearly dragged him to his feet, and threatened to go alone. He was in bed and was burning up. Go, he had told Laura then. And he hoped she would so that he could finally get some peace and quiet. In the end, she did leave him in peace and quiet, but didn’t dare attend the Oscars without him. Looking back, Esteban could have pushed himself to go, but he shuddered how he’d look on camera, sweaty and feverish. And if he had won, what if, just what if he had an episode like the one he had just the night before, rushing to the bathroom and emptying out his stomach’s contents into the toilet? No, he had thought, the world doesn’t need to see that. And it was just as fine, really. He hadn’t wanted to go. The nomination had been a great feeling, but that year he knew he wasn’t going to win. He was up against a film that had taken his breath away, a WWII film and it was indescribably beautiful. In the end, it had won, just like Esteban knew it would.

This time, he felt great. He had Marialena on his arm and a movie he was damned proud of. He had been nominated for Best Original Screenplay and hadn’t decided if he would or wouldn’t win that night. It was hard to say. He had written a speech, tucked away on the inside of his jacket just in case.

Marialena splashed a hint of perfume and followed Esteban out of the bedroom, her pointed-toe embellished nude flats in hand, opting to go without heels. The flats she had chosen were decorated enough and complimented the dress rather well, she thought. And more important, it kept her closer in height to her husband, who was shorter than she was.

Esteban poured himself a glass of wine, already knowing Marialena would decline.

You’re going to have to drink that quickly, she said to him, her eyes dancing. Esteban nodded towards the balcony.

Come out with me.

Marialena nodded, lifting her dress as she stepped over the door rail.

Be careful you don’t step on anything out here, he said, warning her in her bare feet.

They walked out to the guard rails, the sun starting its descent into the west. Esteban held his wine glass in one hand and took her hand in the other. He took a deep breath. I wish we could live in this moment forever. This moment right here, the calm before the storm.

I know what you mean. There’s a certain excitement in the air.

He turned to look at her. I’m just glad you’re with me tonight. It will mean so much more to me with you there, he said softly and meant it.

Marialena smiled at him, and then looked back out into the city below them. It feels surreal to be here in this moment right now. For years, I’d watch the Oscars alone; my parents never had an interest. A couple of times, Roxanne watched it with me. Once, she stayed up and watched them with me from Nashville, talking on the phone. She was always more into the dresses and gowns, while I was into the films themselves or the actors. Still, it was fun. And now, to think, I’m going for my first time. I’m so proud of the work you’ve done. Your film is so amazing. And I’m also proud of Patrick’s film, too. It really struck a chord out there. I think it has a winning shot, she said excitedly.

Esteban took a sip of his wine, feeling relaxed. A part of him wished he had the option of staying in, enjoying the night at home instead of the countless cameras, the endless sea of people, the circus of it all, but he knew he couldn’t. He had to suck it up and go. It was the price he paid for what he did for a living. While he loved his job, he hated the strings that were attached. Being recognized for your accomplishments was one thing, but having to mingle was something he had never gotten accustomed to. He told himself that it was different now that he had Marialena; she was good at that part of it, graceful even. He finished up the last of the wine and squeezed Marialena’s hand.

You ready? he asked with an eyebrow raised.

Marialena nodded with a big smile.

Alright. Let’s do this, he said as he double-checked to make sure his speech was in his pocket. He followed Marialena back inside and minutes later, they were getting inside of their limo. They were both quiet, lost in their own thoughts. When they arrived, they were dropped off the red carpet, and they made their way, hand in hand, amongst the throng of people. The day had turned out beautifully and it was only slightly breezy. Evening would be coming soon, but there was still plenty of light. Esteban stopped when a reporter shouted his name, though it was hard to hear over the throng of voices surrounding them.

"Esteban Gutierrez, who’s film Reader Meet Author has been nominated in Best Original Screenplay. Esteban, how does it feel to be among the nominees this year?"

Esteban didn’t hesitate to answer. Well, it’s quite an honor. It’s an incredible feeling just being selected.

Just then, Marialena felt a tug on her arm, and she turned around to find an excited Christian Allen. The reporter didn’t miss a beat and called out his name to join the couple.

Christian Allen, you’re presenting this year. Thanks for joining us. We have Esteban Gutierrez and Marialena Villanueva here. Now, correct me if I’m wrong, but the three of you need no introduction. There has been some talk of the two of you working together, and very soon.

Esteban smiled, but let Christian answer. Christian put an arm around Esteban as he did, towering over him. Oh yeah, you know, I consider myself one of the lucky ones. He’s always been a director I’ve wanted to work with, and I look forward to it. Stay tuned, you’ll definitely be seeing a lot more of the two of us. He winked into the camera, thanked the reporter and wished Esteban good luck, all in one smooth move.

"And we look forward to that. Best of luck to you," the reporter said, sending them on their way. Esteban led Marialena away into the thickest part of the crowd. He didn’t want to stop a second time. Marialena turned and saw Christian talking to another reporter. The crowd was dispersing. It was getting late and the show would start in fifteen minutes. Moments later, Marialena and Esteban were led to their seats. Her phone had buzzed earlier, and she checked it as they sat down. It was a picture of the cast from Keeper sent to her by Patrick Denny. The cast had decided to come together and dress in support of the LGBTQ movement. Joshua Rickett, who played Julian in the film, had worn a rainbow tie. Josephine Maldonado, who played Rosie was wearing a tuxedo with a rainbow bow-tie. A couple of the other actors wore a rainbow belt over a black dress, or a rainbow stripe down the tuxedo leg. They had planned it the day they found out the film was nominated and agreed to all go together and make a statement as one rather than individually. And sure enough, it was a trending topic.

Marialena showed the picture to Esteban, who took the phone and smiled. That’s so awesome, he said, handing it back to her. These are your kids. You selected them.

Marialena shrugged. I selected three of them. They’re awesome in their own right. I love how close-knit they all became.

Yeah, I like seeing that in my films, too. In the end, it’s one big, happy family.

Marialena put her phone away and scanned the crowd, seeing familiar faces. Some she had met in person, but most she only knew from the silver screen. Marialena resisted the urge to tap Esteban on the shoulder each time she saw an actor she had respected. Esteban, meanwhile, had his eyes on the camera men and the production crew more than anything else.

Moments later, Marialena looked up when she heard a voice. Hey, Christian said from the aisle in front of theirs. He was seated to Marialena’s right in the aisle just before theirs. Marialena briefly wondered if that was by coincidence, or had someone placed the two of them close together? Surely, it had to be a coinicidence.

Sorry about earlier, Christian said, talking to Esteban. I didn’t mean to steal your thunder or anything like that.

Esteban shook his head. No worries. To be honest, I’ve always hated that part. You came in and saved it, he said with a self-deprecating laugh.

"It’s liberating to finally be able to talk about Dreams, though," he said, referencing the film he and Esteban were going to start working on the following week.

Christian smiled at the two of them as if he was captain on the football team and turned around to face the stage. The production of the Oscars, to Marialena’s surprise, was more entertaining when it was on TV. But, of course, that was just the way it was in entertainment, and you just had to get used to it.

When Esteban’s category came up, it was surreal hearing his name. Marialena and Esteban both held their breaths. When the envelope was finally opened, the presenter called out a different name. A woman won. Esteban clapped, then stuck two fingers in his mouth and whistled. He had lost, but accepted his loss graciously. Marialena placed a hand on his knee, and he took her hand in his without skipping a beat. He was going to be okay. The rest of the ceremony felt long to Marialena, and she was tired of sitting. A couple of times, Christian had turned around to talk to them. He wanted to know which parties they were going to go to. Patrick had guaranteed their invitation to the Vanity Fair party, and Marialena already knew that Esteban would make a brief appearance then want to leave. Besides, who could blame him? He had lost, and who wants to celebrate a loss?

Christian would be going to that same party. After all, it was the best ticket in town. Lastly, it was time for Best Picture category and Marialena could tell the audience was starting to get as antsy as she felt. There was a distinct buzz in the air for two reasons. It was everyone’s favorite category, and the second reason, people were ready to leave.

Keeper was one of the ten films nominated that year. It had already won for best song earlier. Keeper was sung live that night by a grunge artist from the 90’s who decided to play an acoustic version of it. The audience had responded to its raw performance; it was easy to see why the song had won.

When it was time for the Best Picture category, Marialena felt herself holding her breath. She wondered if she imagined the audience cheer louder for Keeper that much more than the other films while they were being called. Her mind went numb when she heard the winning title read aloud. Keeper was the winning film of the year. She saw Patrick Denny rise from a few hundred feet away, and then the cast swarmed the stage, along with the producers and a few others. Patrick stood tall amongst the cast. He let one of the producers give a speech first while the cast celebrated arm in arm behind them, hugging, laughing, and crying. When Patrick spoke into the microphone a few minutes later, the cast behind him shushed down, sensing a moment.

Well, Steve, I think you got just about everyone there, Patrick said, referring to the producer’s list of names he had wished to thank. I’d also like to thank the gracious Esteban and Marialena Gutierrez, who showed tremendous support for this film. Thank you to the Academy. Patrick took the award in his hand and held it up, staring into the audience. "I would like to dedicate this award to the LGBTQ community. Ultimately, I decided on this film because I wanted to give a voice to the struggles, the hardships, and the triumphs that you have all endured. I know this movie won’t change the minds and opinions of every son of a bitch out there who tries to belittle you or make you feel small, but if this movie has helped in some small way to shed some light and to get just one more person on our side, then I am happy. Be strong, be brave, and always be you my darlings," Patrick said, ending the speech. He spoke with such vibrato. The audience was silent for a moment, taking it in, and then as if on cue, they erupted all at once with a standing ovation. Marialena wiped a tear from her eye, but her smile was glorious. The film had done exactly what Patrick had wanted it to do, to resonate with the hearts of people.

After the show, Marialena and Esteban headed back to their home so Marialena could do a wardrobe change, which had been a surprise to her earlier in the year when she found out she would need two dresses instead of one just for the afterparty. And the dress she had picked that time around definitely had some heads turning when they got to the party. It was a long shimmery cream-colored gown with a v-neck that went below her breasts. Needless to say, she looked spectacular and the cameras loved every bit of it. Esteban, who hadn’t needed to change, the men seldom did, beamed proudly next to her.

They found the Keeper party right away. Marialena made a bee-line towards Patrick and thanked him for including her and her husband in his speech.

Are you kidding me? How could I not? In fact, I was disappointed you hadn’t rushed to the stage along with everyone else.

Marialena smiled, used to Patrick’s effortless charm. Congratulations on the win, she said looking into his eyes.

It’s our win, all of ours, he replied.

Patrick chatted with Esteban for a few minutes while Marialena greeted the stars of the film, hugging each actor and remarking on their wardrobe.

A little later, Esteban excused himself from the group and mingled with a few people he had known from the industry and that was when Christian approached Marialena. He had changed into a white dinner jacket, and he looked every bit the star that he was.

Wow, that dress is incredible on you, if I may say so myself.

Marialena, a few drinks in, responded with a laugh. You may.

Christian didn’t take his eyes off of her. Marialena felt his penetrating stare and tried to ignore it.

No date tonight? she asked.

Christian shook his head. I usually come solo to these things. I might leave with a woman or two, but I think I might just keep things simple tonight. How about you? Where’s your partner in crime?

Marialena pointed to Esteban off in the distance, in deep discussion with a couple of other men. Christian nodded when he saw them.

"Hey, congratulations on the movie tonight. Keeper is an excellent film and it deserved the win."

Thanks. I think so, too.

How’s he holding up with the loss? Christian asked, nodding towards Esteban.

Marialena followed his eyes as she watched her husband. Good, I think. He hasn’t said too much about it tonight, but I expect to be able to answer that question better tomorrow.

Sure, yeah. The night of is always kind of a blur. He paused for a moment. "You know, it’s so crazy that we’re going to start Dreamers next week. He’s gonna be great, you know that, right? People can’t stop asking me about him. There’s an excitement there."

Marialena nodded, her eyes dancing. I’m excited, yeah. And I know what you mean; I get questions about it, too. A few people have been coming to me for a couple of weeks now asking it if was true. The ‘great Christian Allen’ working with the ‘great Esteban Gutierrez’. You can see the excitement in people’s faces.

A photographer came by and commented on the two social media friends together. Come on besties, let’s get a picture. Christian often referred to her in his social media posts as bestie and the media lapped it up.

Christian put a friendly arm around her waist. When the photographer left, Marialena laughed. Hey, we both kind of match.

Christian shook his head as a glass of champagne was offered to him. No, you’re definitely in a league of your own tonight, he said, before they were approached by a few actors coming over to greet Christian. Marialena snuck away to let the actors talk, and a few moments later, Christian returned to her side. He leaned in and whispered in her ear. Were you trying to run away from me? he asked.

Marialena smiled and shrugged. She took a sip of her champagne and turned to face the crowd. I wasn’t running, I just―

Hey, I’m only kidding. My god, you were almost flustered, he said with a laugh. Hey, so what’s next for you? he asked, genuinely interested.

Oh well, right now, Patrick is obsessed with a new script that he read a few months back, and we’re just waiting for the green light, really.

No time off in-between?

Marialena laughed. In this business? Are you kidding me? You take any time and someone is bound to beat you to the punch.

Don’t tell me you’re already jaded?

Marialena thought about it for a second. No, I’m not jaded. I seem to have surrounded myself with workaholics. She pointed at her husband. "I’m sure he’d rather be at home right now planning out Dreams than being here."

Speaking of being here, come on. Walk with me; let’s make some rounds.

Marialena glanced towards Esteban again; she wanted me to make sure she didn’t just abandon him, but he was in deep conversation.

Okay, but only few a few minutes. I don’t want people to get the wrong idea about us.

Christian led her away. Don’t worry, we won’t get too far. It’s starting to get crowded. They each ordered a drink stronger than champagne and mingled with a few other guests. Lots of photographs were taken. Marialena smiled and answered questions. They were both asked if the rumors were true about Esteban and Christian working together. After thirty minutes, Marialena decided to head back to Esteban, sneaking into his conversation. He welcomed her by placing an arm around her waist without skipping a beat. He kissed her on the cheek, drawing her near.

You doing okay? he asked.

Yeah, I was just with Christian for a little bit.

We were just talking about Christian Allen, one of the men said. Esteban took that opportunity to introduce her to two producers and one indie director, all similar in age to Esteban.

What about Christian? Marialena asked, wondering what they were talking about.

Oh, just that with it being his script and all, he’s bound to give Esteban a run for his money.

Marialena frowned at the man who said this, one of the producers. Meaning?

He’s going to want to control as much as possible, and Esteban just needs to figure out how to control him.

And this information is based on what? Marialena asked. She didn’t follow celebrities and their work ethic and habits as much as she thought she should, so this was news to her.

He’s a bit of a diva on the set, one of the other men said.

Marialena shrugged. He’s a big star. He’s not the first guy to come with some demands.

We are just letting Esteban know what he’s in for. Usually, he works with lesser known actors, and they’re great for molding. They’re so accommodating. Bad for promoting, but usually they do whatever you want.

Not always. Some of them are still wet behind the ears, another man said.

Esteban shushed them with two hands. Christian’s feedback on the project will be valuable, seeing as how close he is to it, Esteban said, trying to convince himself.

One of the men laughed. Well, it’s your nightmare, now.

Marialena frowned, not liking the conversation at all. No project is an easy project. Stars with demands, locations with rainy days when it calls for sunshine, or whatever the case may be. Directors are made great by what they have to deal with and how good they can turn it into. And dealing with a little bit of bad weather is what separates the good directors from the great, Marialena said, then took a sip of the Manhattan she had ordered earlier.

A loyal woman you have there, one of them said with laughter in his voice.

She calls it as she sees it, gentleman, Esteban replied with a smile.

You’re right, though. There’s nothing a good director can’t handle, the other director in the audience said.

Marialena smiled and nodded. Thank you, now if you gentleman will excuse me, she said, excusing herself with a bitter smile. Esteban was quick on his feet. This is my cue. He shook their hands and followed Marialena away from the throng of people. He took her hand as she rushed off.

Hey, wait up. What was that all about? he asked.

Marialena finished the rest of her drink and set it on a table that had since been emptied of all occupants.

Those men, they were awful. Who were they? she asked when they were out of earshot.

Oh, come on, that’s normal, he said, putting a hand on her waist. This is Hollywood, and I hate it as much as you do. Don’t let it get to you.

Marialena gave him a weak smile. Christian said something similar to me earlier today.

And now I’m saying it to you. Lena, those guys, I don’t share their perspective.

She looked into his eyes and nodded. I know. God, but they were so awful.

Sssshhh, he said and pulled her into a kiss. Do you wanna get out of here soon?

Maybe.

Did you get to celebrate with the cast?

Yeah, I did for a little bit. I just need to say goodbye to everyone.

I’m going to get one more drink. I’ll meet you back here in fifteen minutes.

Marialena nodded. She made her way back to the Keeper crowd, but some of the actors had dispersed, including Patrick. Marialena hugged the actors she