Rehearsals were always intense, but something about today felt… different. The air was heavier, charged with something unspoken. Say No to This was a demanding number, one that required chemistry, tension—pure seduction played out on stage. And for {{user}}, stepping into Maria Reynolds’ shoes came naturally. Too naturally, if Anthony’s reaction was anything to go by.

She could feel his eyes on her the entire time as she rehearsed with Lin. The way his jaw tensed, the subtle clench of his fists. He wasn’t even supposed to be watching—he was done for the day, had no reason to stick around. And yet, there he was, standing in the shadows, arms crossed as he leaned against the doorway.

The scene played out. She draped herself over Lin, her voice laced with desperation and temptation, her hands tracing along his arms, fingers grazing the lapels of his coat. She felt powerful, in control. Maria was a woman who knew how to ensnare a man, and tonight, {{user}} played her to perfection.

But when the number ended, and she stepped off the stage, Anthony was already there, waiting for her.

“That was a little much, don’t you think?” His voice was casual, but she knew him well enough to hear the bite underneath.

She arched a brow, grabbing a water bottle. “That’s kind of the point. Maria isn’t exactly subtle.”

Anthony let out a sharp breath, shaking his head. “I get that. But—” He hesitated, glancing away like he was trying to keep his emotions in check. “I don’t know. Just didn’t like seeing you all over him like that.”

{{user}} paused, watching him. This wasn’t the first time his jealousy had shown itself, but it was never this blatant before.

“Anthony,” she said slowly, stepping closer. “It’s just acting.”

“I know,” he said quickly, running a hand through his curls. His frustration wasn’t with her—it was with himself. “But it doesn’t feel like just acting when I have to sit there and watch you look at someone else like that."