FOOLS AND GENIUSES | ✓

CHAPTER 55

Chris bringing Kiara flowers above.

naz

(n.) the pride that comes from knowing that you are loved no matter what you do

Over the next few months, Kiara busied herself with her new movie as production finally started and her days were crammed with endless filming shoots. Being the supportive boyfriend he was, Chris understood the hardships of working in this industry so never complained but instead always made efforts to surprise her at work during whatever free time she had. This week, however, he claimed to have a business meeting overseas, suspiciously avoiding any questions regarding the location. So in an effort to quell her curiosity, she threw herself into philanthropic ventures in the little spare time she had. She was sure her castmates were tired of her at this point, having to wake up earlier and end filming later due to her enthusiasm.

Stepping on stage for the press release conference, Cillian waved reservedly to his fans and settled into his seat as Kiara walked out shortly after and followed suit. Once the entire cast was seated, various media outlet representatives begun throwing questions at them as they fished for information on the upcoming movie. Initially they breezed through standard enquiries regarding themes, casting and personal goals, but then things started getting personal.

A mousy looking reporter stood up, towering height looming over everyone as he prodded, "This question is for Kiara," she nodded, encouraging him to continue; "Do you worry that the issues in your personal life may have affected how people perceive you as an actor?"

Grinning widely at him, she gestured at him to come closer, "Come here, let's have some fun."

"A-are you serious?"

"Yeah, seriously!," she stood up and pat the seat, ushering him onto it as he awkwardly got on stage.

Ignoring the obviously tense environment as everyone tried to anticipate Kiara's next move, she knelt beside the reporter. She could feel the waves of their anxiety rolling over her as Cillian practically begged her to stay calm with those eerily piercing blue eyes. Shit, this must have been what Vijay felt like. She had always been on the other end, straining to remain polite and cordial while he rampaged. Damn, it felt good to let loose. She regretted in instantly the minute that thought flitted through her mind, feeling horrible for that slight bit of relief at the lack of responsibility. 

The moment had disappeared quicker than it came as she thought back to Chris' words. He had spent countless nights hugging her to him every time she woke up crying or broke down, reminding her that her feelings were valid. She was allowed to mourn for her best friend while resenting the burden of responsibility he placed on her.

With her castmates mentally begging to avoid a scandal, Kiara shot them a reassuring smile and threw an arm over the reporter's shoulder. Everyone laughed almost immediately– some in relief and others completely oblivious to the overwrought atmosphere.

Pouting mockingly, she cooed, "Does my personal life affect you that much?"

Flustered at her relaxed demeanour, he spluttered, "No, I just wanted to ask you."

"I was waiting for someone to ask me a question like this," smiling warmly, she leaned in as if sharing a secret and winked; "Haven't preached to a crowd in a while, you know?"