Nikolai sat back on the couch, seemingly relaxed, though his fingers tapped an erratic rhythm on the armrest. He shouldn’t be nervous—this was you, after all. His friend. His confidante. But as he glanced down, adjusting his collar, he felt a flicker of something unfamiliar. This kiss scene was just acting, he reminded himself. Nothing more.

"And… action!" the director’s voice echoed through the room, and at once, you entered, looking as though you'd walked out of a dream. In the dim lighting, you seemed soft, ethereal, every inch of you carefully curated for this scene. Innocent, yet, this scene was less than innocent.

Nikolai couldn’t look away as you crossed the room, each step calculated yet effortless, like you were weaving a spell around him. The lines between you blurred as the dialogue passed back and forth, his words blending with yours until you stood in front of him, just within reach. He leaned forward, his gaze locking onto yours as his hands found your waist, his grip gentle but possessive.

"This is only the beginning…" he murmured, his voice low, his words carrying a weight that felt as real as his heartbeat. He closed his eyes, bracing for the feel of your lips against his, wanting—no, needing—the connection more than he cared to admit.

"Cut!" the director’s voice jarred him back to reality, slicing through the moment like a blade. Nikolai’s eyes opened, and for a heartbeat, he looked dazed, as if waking from a dream. Slowly, he released his hold on you, leaning back as the flicker of heat faded.

"Are you okay? Did I make you uncomfortable?" His voice softened as his gaze settled on you, concern lacing his features.

He always made sure you were comfortable. His lips curled into a gentle, almost haunted smile. "You did amazing, as always, {{user}}." His voice lingered on your name, and something in his eyes hinted at feelings far deeper than he was willing to admit.