Book one | Alexa Harvey, a celebrated actress known for her fierce independence and uncompromising nature, has always steered clear of the sports world. But when her latest film role requires her to shadow Jude Bellingham, a rising football star wit...
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Alexa stared at her reflection in the hotel mirror, trying to summon the energy to look even remotely presentable. It had been a few days since she lost her job, and despite her best efforts to move forward, the loss still felt like a fresh wound.
Her usual confidence had taken a hit, and even the simplest things—like choosing an outfit for the evening—felt like an overwhelming task.
She picked up a wine-colored dress from the bed, holding it up against herself in the mirror. It was one of her favorites, a go-to for nights when she needed a little extra confidence.
But tonight, even this dress couldn't lift her spirits.
Still, she had made a promise. Jude had caught her off guard earlier today, walking up to her with a tentative smile that felt out of place considering their recent tension.
"I'm heading to a party tonight at Fede Valverde's place," he had said, hands shoved into his pockets as if he wasn't sure whether she'd say yes. "You should come. It's just a small gathering, mostly teammates and some friends. You know, blow off some steam."
For a moment, Alexa had hesitated, the instinct to decline on the tip of her tongue. After all, she wasn't exactly in the mood for socializing, let alone attending a party with people who were practically strangers. But there had been something in Jude's eyes—something softer, almost apologetic—that made her agree.
Now, standing in front of the mirror, she wondered if she had made a mistake. But there was no backing out. She was too stubborn to cancel, and maybe, just maybe, this would be a distraction from the mess that her life had become.
With a sigh, Alexa slipped into the dress and added a touch of makeup. As she did, she couldn't help but think about how strange it was that Jude had invited her at all. Their last few interactions had been strained, to say the least.
He didn't know about her losing the role, and she hadn't been ready to tell him. But tonight... well, tonight might be different. With alcohol involved, she might actually have the courage to let it all out.
A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Alexa's heart skipped a beat, and she took a deep breath before opening it to find Jude standing there, looking more casual than she had ever seen him.
He wore dark jeans and a fitted black shirt, his hair slightly tousled as if he had run his hands through it a few too many times.
For a moment, neither of them spoke. They just stood there, the silence stretching between them. Jude's gaze traveled over her, and Alexa felt a shiver run down her spine at the way he looked at her—like he was seeing her for the first time.
"You look great," he said, breaking the silence. His voice was low, almost reverent, and for a second, Alexa forgot all about their complicated history.
"Thanks," she replied, offering him a small smile. "You don't look too bad yourself."
He chuckled, the tension between them easing slightly. "Ready to go?"
