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

Chapter 8

Zoya's POV

This is the first table read where I failed to memorize my lines by heart. My focus kept shifting to Olivia most of the time, and it felt almost unreal to be sitting next to her. Watching how she wrote notes in her script was like a whole new learning experience for me. She even marked where she should pause and how her face would display certain emotions. Occasionally, she would meet my eyes and smile, causing me to quickly avert my gaze, attempting to hide my embarrassment.

When she told Layla she wanted to stay by my side, I almost couldn't believe it. Intrusive thoughts filled my mind, imagining her saying this in different scenarios. However, I knew deep down that it could never happen. I needed to listen to Sebastian and focus on the work at hand. But with Olivia acting so warmly towards me, now that she knows I am into women too, it wouldn't be long before she discovers my admiration for her goes beyond her being an actress. Someone as influential as her could easily ruin any hope I have of a career in acting.

However, Olivia wasn't like that. She wouldn't do something so cruel. But still, if it wasn't Olivia, anyone else in this room could be the cause of my demise, especially that snob Anthony and his minions. To my disappointment, Olivia seemed to be close with them and they can easily turn her against me.

"Zoya, it's your turn next," Ezra announced, breaking my focus. I nodded, trying to steady my nerves as Olivia finally shifted her gaze from the script to me.

I took a deep breath and began reading my lines, doing my best to ignore Olivia's intense gaze. Earlier, Ezra had given me some helpful pointers on how to deliver certain lines, and I made sure to incorporate his advice. However, I couldn't shake the worry of how I would be able to perform while looking directly at Olivia. It was a challenge I hadn't quite figured out yet.

As I finished my lines, Olivia approached me with a warm smile. She reached out, squeezing my hand lightly. I felt a shiver run down my spine, instantly closing my eyes to regain my composure.

"That was great. Ezra was right about you. You're a natural," Olivia said, her words filled with genuine admiration.

I struggled to respond, my voice barely a whisper as I tried to hide the effect she had on me. "It was just a few lines," I managed to say.

"Don't underestimate yourself. Your role is going to be significant," Olivia said, her grin widening.

Confused, I asked, "What do you mean? I thought it was a small part."

She chuckled softly. "I can't reveal everything just yet. The writers haven't disclosed the details beyond the first 10 episodes, but I think it's going to be exciting."

Curiosity piqued, I raised an eyebrow, unable to contain my intrigue. "Now I'm curious. I guess I'll have to wait and see."

"I'm sorry. I probably shouldn't have mentioned it, but I genuinely hope the idea gets approved. It'll be a new experience for me too," Olivia said, leaning back in her chair.

Our conversation was cut short by Ezra's interruption. "Olivia, you and Anthony are up next," he announced, redirecting our attention back to the table read.

I couldn't tear my eyes away from Olivia as she flawlessly delivered her lines without even glancing at her script. Her performance was mesmerizing, captivating everyone in the room. I found myself completely absorbed in her every word, my focus solely on her. As she finished, a rush of emotions overwhelmed me, and I realized I had been holding my breath without even realizing it. With Anthony's voice breaking the silence, I released a deep breath, finally able to exhale the anticipation that had built up inside me.

Unlike Olivia, I hadn't paid much attention to Anthony's part, instead finding myself lost in admiration of her. Her exquisite features were a sight to behold - her jawline sculpted with precision, her lips perfectly proportioned, and her almond-shaped eyes accentuated with long and luscious lashes. Her hair cascaded gracefully over her face, with a few tantalizing strands gently brushing against her flawless cheek. As I caught myself observing her with a mix of admiration and infatuation, I couldn't help but acknowledge that my feelings for her were intensifying every time our paths crossed.