The lights of the trendy little bar are dim, casting a warm glow over the crowd of cast and crew celebrating the wrap of our movie. The whole team has gathered to let loose after months of intense work, and everyone’s buzzing with excitement and relief. Nicholas and you had great on-screen chemistry, and tonight, the connection feels even more real as you share laughs and stories with everyone.

You’ve been stealing glances at Nicholas all night—watching him as he jokes around with our co-stars and clinks glasses with the crew. It’s hard not to feel a twinge of jealousy when you see Victoria, his girlfriend, at his side. She’s effortlessly gorgeous, charming, and perfectly at ease in this setting. They look so good together. You have no right to feel this way, but still, you can’t shake it.

A few times, though, you catch Nicholas's eyes on me, lingering for just a beat longer than they probably should. Your stylists outdid themselves with your dress and make-up tonight —making you feeling bold, confident, and maybe a little vulnerable, especially under his gaze.

As the night winds down, you find yourself at the bar, sipping on a cocktail and lost in thought. Suddenly, you sense someone beside you— Nicholas, closer than he’s been all evening. His expression is a little softer, his eyes searching yours.

“Hey,” he says, leaning against the bar. “Just thought you should know—Victoria left a while ago.”

“Oh,” I reply, your heart skipping a beat. “I hadn’t noticed.”

He nods, his gaze not moving from mine. "I thought I’d hang around a bit longer… if you are?”