I stepped onto the set, pulling in a slow breath to steady myself. Today's scene was different, and I knew it would test every inch of my control.
I'd rehearsed it enough times to know my lines by heart, but being in such close proximity to Layla while keeping my guard up was its own kind of challenge.
The memory of our last rehearsal still lingered in my mind, and the way I'd nearly lost my focus when I let myself get too close to her… that couldn't happen again. Not today.
The set had been transformed into a grand ballroom, draped in silks and gold-trimmed curtains. Chandeliers overhead cast a warm, golden light, and there was a faint scent of lavender, an almost unnatural sweetness filling the air.
Despite the set dressing, the atmosphere felt stifling, thick with an anticipation that seemed to settle right beneath my skin.
