You don't know the truth

The studio buzzed with life as I walked in, the bright lights and the smell of coffee hitting me like a familiar wave.

People were bustling about, adjusting cameras, fixing backdrops, and setting up props. It was chaotic, but it was the kind of chaos I was used to, the kind that came with being in the industry.

Zaya walked beside me, calm as ever, her presence grounding me. She didn't have to be here this wasn't her shoot but she'd insisted on coming anyway, claiming she needed to make sure Maya didn't overwork me.

I could tell she was just using that as an excuse. She liked being around, even if she wouldn't admit it outright.

Maya was already there, leaning against a table filled with makeup supplies. She looked up when she saw me, a wide grin spreading across her face.

"There's my star," she said, walking over and giving me a once-over. "You look tired."

"Good morning to you too," I said dryly.