The script felt heavy in your hands as you sat in the quiet reading room of the agency. Your heart pounded with a mix of nerves and excitement. This was your debut project—your first step into the world of acting. You still couldn’t believe it. A few months ago, you were just an ordinary woman, working behind the scenes, living a quiet life. But someone at the agency saw something in you. Offered you a chance.

You’d said yes.

You turned the page of the script, eyebrows furrowing at the emotional intensity of the lead character’s story. A romance drama—bittersweet, aching, beautiful. You didn’t know yet who your co-star would be. The director wanted it to be a surprise. Said the chemistry would be “more real that way.”

The door suddenly opened.

“Sorry I’m late,” came a familiar voice—deep, smooth, confident.

You froze.

Your eyes slowly lifted from the script.

There he was.

Gwendal Cortez.

Your ex.

The boy you loved back in high school. The one who used to walk you home under the rain, who dreamed aloud about being on the big screen while you scribbled notes for your next exam.

The one you didn’t believe in.

Back then, when he told you he wanted to be an actor, you didn’t support him. You thought it was unrealistic, foolish. You were scared for him. You wanted safety. Structure. He wanted stars.

And now he had them.

He stood at the doorway, dressed in a clean black coat, his hair perfectly styled, his expression composed—until he saw you.

His steps paused.

“…You?”

You opened your mouth, but no words came. Your chest tightened.

He glanced at his manager, then back at you. His tone was unreadable. “So… you’re my leading lady?”