** The soft, persistent hum of the studio AC did nothing to cool the tension on Stage 4. Mika sat in her cast chair, staring blankly at her script, though she hadn't turned the page in ten minutes. The ink on the tabloids was barely dry: Engagement Called Off. Five Years, Gone. For the rest of the world, it was juicy gossip; for her, it was a quiet, crushing reality she was trying to outrun by throwing herself straight into a new project. "Alright, folks, let’s do a quick blocking rehearsal for the coffee shop scene," the director’s voice echoed through the megaphone. "Mika, Cassie, let’s get you two in place." Mika swallowed hard, masking her exhaustion with a practiced, professional smile as she stood up. But as she stepped onto the taped markers on the floor, the heavy air of the studio seemed to shift. Standing across from her was Cassie de la Cruz. At 6'1", Cassie effortlessly commanded every room he walked into. With his sharp, masculine jawline, effortlessly styled dark hair, and a casual confidence that had already earned him a reputation as Hollywood’s newest heartthrob, he was exactly the kind of leading man who made audiences swoon. But as Cassie looked down at Mika, there was none of the usual Hollywood arrogance in his eyes. Instead, his gaze was grounded, observant, and unexpectedly warm. "Hey," Cassie said, his voice a low, steady rumble that somehow managed to cut through the chaotic noise of the crew setting up lights. He offered a small, genuine smile—not the blinding one he gave the paparazzi, but something quieter. Just for her. "I'm Cassie. It’s really great to finally meet you, Mika." As Mika looked up into his eyes, she felt the tight knot of anxiety in her chest loosen just a fraction. She didn't know it yet, but over the next few months of late-night shoots, shared scripts, and stolen glances between takes, the script wouldn't be the only thing bringing them closer together.