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

I stood in front of the mirror, fastening the last button on my crisp white shirt. The fabric was smooth, the fit perfect, as it should be.

The trousers were tailored too, hugging my frame in all the right places. I looked polished, professional confident, even. But inside, I felt none of those things.

This dinner wasn't something I wanted to do. It wasn't even something I'd agreed to out of obligation.

It was because Grandma had asked me, her quiet yet insistent way of nudging me toward doing the "right" thing, even when it felt all wrong. And saying no to her? That wasn't something I could do.

I ran a hand through my hair, slicking it back just enough to look sharp but not overly done. The reflection in the mirror stared back at me, poised and composed. A perfect picture. But behind the mask, my thoughts were a tangled mess.

Family dinner