Chapter Text
The studio lights dimmed slightly as the crew prepared for the next scene. The set was a cozy, dimly lit bedroom, with soft music playing in the background. Harry sat on the edge of the bed, running his fingers through his hair, trying to focus. The tension in the air was thick, almost suffocating. Across the room, Natalia stood with her arms crossed, her expression a mix of frustration and anxiety as she whispered furiously to Sophia.
"This is ridiculous," Natalia hissed, glancing at Harry out of the corner of her eye. "Why do we have to shoot this scene today? It’s not like we even get along."
Sophia, ever the voice of reason, placed a comforting hand on Natalia’s shoulder. "I know it's not ideal, Nat, but you’re both professionals. The sooner you get through this, the sooner it’s over. And who knows, maybe talking it out with Harry could help? You could rehearse together, make it less awkward."
Natalia raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "Rehearse with Harry? The guy who thinks he’s the next big thing? No thanks. He barely even looks at me unless we’re shooting. I doubt he even cares if this scene works."
Sophia sighed, glancing over at Harry, who was sitting alone, looking tense but quiet. "I think he’s just as nervous as you are. You two are playing lovers in this movie, but you’ve been avoiding each other off set. Maybe if you talked to him, it would make things easier. Just... try, Nat. You don’t have to like him, but you do have to work with him."
Natalia bit her lip, torn between her frustration and the nagging feeling that Sophia was right. The last thing she wanted was to make a fool of herself in front of the crew. But the thought of approaching Harry, of trying to connect with him even for a moment, made her stomach twist.
"I don’t know, Sophia," Natalia murmured, her resolve wavering. "He’s just so... infuriating. And now we’re supposed to act like we’re in love? It’s going to be a disaster."
Sophia squeezed her shoulder gently. "It doesn’t have to be. You’re both good at what you do. Just take a deep breath and talk to him. If nothing else, it might make the scene a little less nerve-wracking."
Natalia glanced over at Harry again. He was staring off into space, his jaw clenched, as if he was bracing himself for the worst. Despite her irritation, she couldn’t help but wonder if maybe, just maybe, he was feeling the same pressure she was.
Taking a deep breath, Natalia finally nodded. "Okay, fine. I’ll talk to him. But if he’s a jerk, I’m blaming you."
Sophia smiled softly. "Deal. Now go, before the director calls you both over."
With one last deep breath, Natalia straightened her shoulders and walked toward Harry, her heart pounding in her chest.