You weren’t sure what you had expected when you got cast as Zoey in The Other Zoey, but it wasn’t this.

Working alongside Drew Starkey was supposed to be a dream come true. He was effortlessly charismatic, talented, and had a reputation for getting along with everyone. Yet, somehow, you seemed to be the exception.

It wasn’t that he was outright rude—he was professional, polite. But that was just it. While he joked around with the crew and had easy banter with the director, his interactions with you were… restrained. Like he was keeping you at arm’s length.

And it was getting to you.

Now, sitting on set between takes, you watched him from across the room. He was laughing at something Madelaine Arthur said, his usual warmth on full display. But the second his eyes flickered to yours, the smile faded—just for a second, but enough for your stomach to twist.

Did he not like you? Did he think you weren’t good enough?

“You okay?” a voice pulled you out of your spiraling thoughts. It was one of the PAs, adjusting a piece of set decor near you.

You forced a small smile. “Yeah, just… in my head.”

Before they could respond, the director called for places. You took a steadying breath, walking toward your mark. Drew was already there, waiting.

He studied you for a moment, then, in a low voice, said, “You seem off.”

You blinked, surprised. “I—yeah, I guess.”