Chapter 40: In a Rough Place

Mason’s POV

The studio was buzzing with anticipation. The lights dimmed to just the right degree of intimacy.

The place looked incredible; Nadia had really outdone herself this time. Fairy lights were strung across the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the crowd as the music pulsed through the speakers. But, despite how great everything looked, I could tell Nadia was on edge.

She stood near the makeshift stage, trying to greet guests, but her smile was strained. I watched from a distance as she fumbled over her words with the event’s opening announcement. A few people in the crowd snickered, and I could see the nerves creeping in on her face. She was holding her cue cards too tightly, and her voice wavered as she spoke.

“C’mon, Nadia,” I muttered under my breath, willing her to find her rhythm.