Ava_000

Layla Nightshade, a rising star in the acting world, is determined to become one of the greatest actresses. Her journey is fueled by her admiration for Zaya Swanson, a top model with a mysterious, icy heart. Two years after their first encounter, fate brings them together again when Zaya is forced to take on a lead role in a movie alongside Layla.

As they navigate the challenges of the film set, Layla’s warmth begins to melt Zaya’s defenses. However, Zaya’s reluctance to engage in romantic scenes and her disdain for acting create tension. Layla is determined to uncover the reasons behind Zaya’s cold demeanor and help her rediscover the joy in life and love.

Second act

The drive to Layla's apartment was suffocating. The tension in the car was a living, breathing thing, pressing against my chest until it felt like I couldn't take a full breath.

Layla sat beside me, staring out the window, her face unreadable. I wanted to say something, anything, to break the silence, but every word that came to mind felt too small, too inadequate.

This wasn't how tonight was supposed to go.

I tightened my grip on the steering wheel, forcing myself to focus on the road instead of the ache in my chest. My mind raced, replaying every word of our argument, searching for where it had all gone wrong.

"Layla," I started, my voice hesitant, breaking the heavy silence. "I'm sorry."

She didn't turn to look at me, but her shoulders stiffened, a small sign that she'd heard me.

"I didn't mean to shut you out," I continued, keeping my tone as even as I could. "I'm not good at this... at being open. But I'm trying."

Don't leave me