Contents
Chapter 6: Julia
Overview
Julia tours Emmett’s grandparents’ farmhouse, sees their affection, and learns they raised Emmett from age ten. Leon outlines Stal Brandt’s ambition to breed top Canadian sport horses. Julia reflects on how the cruise incident reshaped her guarded, driven life. Tina reveals Emmett praises Theo, prompting tense, flirtatious secrecy between Julia and Emmett.
Summary
Julia meets Emmett’s grandparents at their farmhouse to discuss filming access. The home is off-limits but captivates her, revealing a vibrant family history. Tina casually mentions they raised Emmett since he was ten, surprising Julia and challenging her assumptions about him. Julia notes Emmett’s quiet tenderness with his grandparents.
Seeing the family photos and warmth triggers Julia’s reflections on the cruise incident and its aftermath. She recalls channeling fear into productivity: excelling in her master’s in film studies, pursuing a dream path toward directing and producing, adopting healthier routines, and remaining guarded about men and dating.
Leon proudly explains Stal Brandt’s mission: building a world-class Canadian sport-horse breeding program to keep elite bloodlines at home and support athletes, hoping one day for Olympic representation. Julia agrees to help keep the production from disrupting their operations and accepts a tour.
Tina recognizes Julia’s brother, Theo, and asks Julia to pass along congratulations on his championship, adding that Emmett often praises Theo’s talent. Julia catches Emmett avoiding eye contact. As they leave, Emmett quietly orders her not to tell Theo. Julia teases him, calling him a “special, wonderful boy,” and strides out to start her work.
Who Appears
- Julia SilvaLocation manager; tours the farm, learns Emmett’s past, reflects on trauma-driven focus and guardedness, trades barbed banter with Emmett.
- Emmett BushBull rider; raised by grandparents since ten, affectionate with them, secretly praises Theo, warns Julia not to tell.
- Tina (Oma)Emmett’s grandmother; warm and affectionate, reveals raising Emmett and that he praises Theo, welcomes Julia.
- Leon (Opa)Emmett’s grandfather; outlines Stal Brandt’s Canadian sport-horse breeding ambitions and offers Julia a tour.