1,2,3 And.. Love! (GXG)

Chapter 5

Olivia's POV

The camera flashes were blinding at first, but I soon became accustomed to them. They stopped bothering me and I learned how to avoid blinking. The heat from the bright lights above us was unpleasant, but it was important to maintain composure. We were on display, expected to give our best smiles. Actors were required to be friendly, always in a good mood, and not express any annoyance. We weren't allowed to appear human. As someone new to the industry, I imagine it must have been overwhelming for Zoya - especially since her first big break was working with someone as influential as Ezra. She wasn't gently eased into the spotlight.

As I glanced in her direction, she appeared terrified - like a deer caught in the headlights. I wanted to reassure her, but I wasn't sure how to go about it. So, I poured some water in the cup in front of me and slid it over to her. As she stared at the cup, then back at me, I took a deep breath and gestured for her to do the same, reminding her to remember to breathe. She gave me a nervous smile and slowly sipped on the water.

As I scanned the crowds for Elijah, I spotted him talking to a group of reporters. Elijah was no stranger to the spotlight; he worked in the industry, hosted a TV show, and had a loyal fan base. I smiled as I watched him confidently interacting with the crowd - he didn't need me to worry about him. But I noticed Zoya fidgeting nervously with her fingers.

"What now?" she whispered, momentarily forgetting that the microphones were still in front of her. Her voice echoed through the stage and everyone's attention suddenly shifted towards her. Her face flushed bright red with embarrassment and she looked to me for help, as if she was about to pass out.

"Yes, what now, Ezra?" I chuckle lightly, hoping to ease Zoya's tension, followed by a few laughs from the crowd. As she looked at me for reassurance, I took her hand and gave it a light squeeze under the table, letting her know that she did nothing wrong.

"Let's start by thanking everyone here for taking the time to attend today." Ezra followed my lead and began welcoming the guests, discussing the new project we were about to take on.

After Ezra's announcement, the curious reporters began firing questions about the TV show and its anticipated release date. They were particularly interested in the plotline and the cast, so their questions were directed mostly at me and some of the more well-known stars of the show. Watching Zoya on the sidelines, I could sense her anxiety gradually decreasing with each question that wasn't directed towards her.

"How does it feel to be working alongside such a talented cast for your first big project?" The reporter asked Zoya with a hint of excitement, causing her to fidget nervously in her seat. I noticed her looking towards me for reassurance before turning back to face the reporter.

"It feels like a dream come true. This opportunity is tremendous, and I'll give every ounce of my energy to meet and surpass everyone's expectations," she expressed, her voice brimming with confidence.

I gave her a slight nod to reassure her that she had done well. As I turned my attention back to the reporters, it was apparent that they still had innumerable questions lined up for everyone.

Once the reporters had dispersed, I asked her how she was feeling. "I'm mostly excited, but a bit overwhelmed," she chuckled nervously. She looked around everywhere except at me, and I realized that she was searching for Sebastian.

"He's with Ezra," I smiled warmly at her. I found it adorable that she was searching for him for reassurance.

"What?" she asked me, seemingly confused before she quickly shook her head and clarified, "Oh, I wasn't looking for him."

As I was about to respond, Elijah's arms wrapped around me, and he gave me a kiss on my shoulder. I leaned back in his embrace, and he whispered softly in my ear, "As always, you were great."