Compared to Charles' somewhat niche job, Nora's work seems more "ordinary" and closely aligns with what the general public understands.
Planning thematic concepts, managing budgets, securing funds, contacting artists, selecting art pieces, organizing exhibitions, writing scripts, and promoting the exhibitions.
That's pretty much it.
There's nothing particularly novel or extraordinary about it, but Nora's real strengths lie in planning and communication, showcasing her elite management skills. Over the past few years, she has successfully organized numerous stunning exhibitions in New York.
Even the Metropolitan Museum of Art has collaborated with Nora on three exhibitions, establishing her position in the industry as someone not to be underestimated.
The most remarkable thing is that both Charles and Nora have jobs that require them to travel frequently, yet the couple divides their work seamlessly and works together harmoniously, always ensuring they can personally oversee the education of their two children—
Especially Lucas.
By the time the original character was born, the Woods continued with their previous approach to parenting: one would stay in New York while the other traveled, but inevitably, Lucas took on some of the responsibilities. As a result, the bond between the Wood brothers became exceptionally close.
Later, after changing several housekeepers, they finally found Judy.
With Judy's help, the Woods were able to focus more on their careers, which flourished over the years, on par with Lucas' burgeoning career. Meanwhile, the youngest son, Anson, who hadn't yet fully matured, remained the most carefree—
Always lounging around at home.
It's worth mentioning that Darren Star was introduced to the Wood family through Nora. At one point, their homes were just a street apart. Later, thanks to Charles' help in New York, they grew even closer, and over the years, Darren has indeed watched Anson grow up.
However, it's unclear whether Nora's current trip to Paris is to meet with artists or to collaborate with other museums on a joint exhibition. But from Julie's brief mention, the former seems more likely.
Artists, after all, are distinctive individuals, and Nora couldn't predict how long it would take to finalize things, especially when dealing with French artists.
Oh, by the way, Nora is French.
Judy looked at Anson. "If you had come a little earlier, you would have seen Mrs. Wood. So, how long are you planning to stay? Maybe you can wait until they return."
Anson thought about Hayden's experiences, then recalled the bumpy road during the preparation for "Spider-Man." He couldn't give a definitive answer, "I don't know. I'm here for an audition, and my schedule depends on how the audition goes. The decision isn't in my hands."
"Audition?" Judy gave him another once-over, smiling in approval. "Now you're starting to look a bit like an actor."
Anson met her gaze, looking surprised. "What, you guys didn't watch 'Friends'?"
"Your parents didn't, but I did," Judy admitted honestly, not sugarcoating it to make Anson feel better.
Anson wasn't surprised. The Woods likely saw his enthusiasm as a fleeting interest, just a passing fancy, and with their own busy schedules, they didn't pay much attention.
Anson couldn't even remember the last time the Woods had turned on a TV.
Even so, Anson deliberately put on a wounded expression, shaking his head in mock despair.
Judy chuckled, "I thought you didn't care about that sort of thing." Despite her words, she offered a comforting thought, "When the movie comes out, we'll go to the cinema together. The big screen is something else."
"To be honest, watching it on the small screen, it felt a bit magical but also a bit unreal. It didn't seem particularly special—the character was pretty much you being yourself. Haha, I'm still more excited for the upcoming movie."
This was the plain truth.
No wonder everyone dreams of making it onto the big screen.
Anson shrugged lightly. "Well, first I need to nail this audition."
Judy didn't hesitate. "You will."
Anson couldn't help but laugh. "Judy, you don't even know what role it is."
Judy responded with a question, "Do I need to know?"
The light in her eyes was filled with certainty, an unwavering belief and support.
The smile on Anson's face paused slightly before blossoming fully. He nodded at Judy, "I share your sentiment."
"But if I want to perform well in the audition, I need this gentleman to get to work."
Turning around, Anson gestured toward Edgar. He hadn't forgotten this key player.
"Judy, could you please take him to the guest room? He might need an internet connection, a fax machine, and other tools I can't list off the top of my head."
"Captain, are you good with that?"
After giving his instructions, Anson finally looked at Edgar.
Edgar finally snapped out of his thoughts, digesting the massive amount of information to regain his composure. Without taking time to tour the house, he refocused on the task at hand—
The audition was crucial.
"No problem." Edgar nodded at Anson, making a gesture.
On the other side, Judy led Edgar to the guest room.
Meanwhile, Anson sat down in the living room and pulled out his phone to compose a text message.
The message had barely been sent before a reply came within fifteen seconds.
"Hey, man, are you ready? I'm coming to New York to compete with you head-on."
"Shut up!!!!!!"
Seeing the string of exclamation marks in the reply, Anson could vividly imagine James Franco's expressive and animated face. The text seemed to come alive, like a conversation with emojis, and a smile crept up on Anson's lips, a low chuckle rumbling in his throat.
Immediately after, James sent a flurry of texts.
"Seriously?"
"Dude, you're not kidding, right?"
"When are you coming to New York?"
Anson only had time to reply with, "The plane just landed."
That was enough, as his phone soon began vibrating non-stop.
"Wow!"
"Wow!!!"
This is Hollywood—roles are up for grabs, and any actor can compete for them. It's not uncommon for friends to compete for the same role.
That said, when Edgar informed Anson that he was heading for the "Spider-Man" audition, James' image was the first to pop into Anson's mind.
To be precise, this wasn't the first time.
Among their circle, they often shared audition information, and it wasn't unusual for a few of them to go for the same role together.
After all, at their current stage, every audition opportunity was incredibly valuable, and they couldn't afford to be picky. Any one of them landing a role was a win.
Of course, this audition might be a bit different, but fundamentally, it was the same.
Once Anson decided he was ready to take on the challenge, he also decided to let James know that they were about to engage in direct competition.
Now, seeing James' texts, he could sense his surprise and excitement, and Anson couldn't help but feel eager as well.
"Sorry, buddy, but this role isn't yours."
James, "Hahaha. Anson, that's the funniest joke I've heard all year."
Anson, "Oh, you're still laughing? That's a relief. I was worried you might lose control when you heard the news."
James, "Screw you."
James, "Anson, this was supposed to be top secret, but since you're about to lose to me, my agent is dead set on this. I've already met with the producer in private. Don't say I didn't warn you—when you get the rejection, remember to look up at the sky so your tears don't fall."
Anson, "Looks like you're experienced in dealing with failure. I'm glad you've figured out how to handle the sadness. That makes me feel better."
Anson, "May the better performance win the role."
James, "Same here."
End of the first update.