Streaming Romance

Chapter 4

Unscripted Moments

In the picture: Saya Frost and David Dern

Saya Pov

The phone buzzed just as I was about to leave for the studio. David's name flashed on the screen, the familiar ringtone filling the room. I answered with a sigh, feeling the weight of the past few days settling in my chest.

"Hey, Saya," David's voice was warm, tinged with concern.

"I wanted to check in. Everything that happened at the theater and the game... I'm really sorry. It wasn't fair to you." I could hear the guilt in his voice, and it tugged at my heart.

"It's alright, David," I replied, trying to sound reassuring.

"Things got out of control, but it's not your fault."

"I feel terrible," he insisted, his tone earnest. "How about I take you out to dinner tonight? My treat, as an apology."

I hesitated, glancing at my watch. The studio session was looming, and I needed to focus on my work. "I appreciate the offer, but I'm heading to the recording studio. It's a busy day for me."

"But maybe after?" he pressed, hope lacing his voice. "It could be nice to relax and unwind."

I sighed, trying to be gentle but firm. "I think it might be better if we lay low for a bit. Besides, I need to focus on my music today. We'll catch up soon, though. I promise."

David was silent for a moment, then sighed too. "Alright, I understand. Take care, Saya. Let's talk later."

"Thanks, David. Talk to you soon," I said, ending the call. The mix of relief and guilt left me feeling unsettled. As much as I appreciated his concern, I couldn't shake the feeling that we needed some space, especially after the recent chaos.

Arriving at the studio, I was met with the familiar hustle and bustle. The building, usually a haven, felt different today—almost stifling. The paparazzi were already gathered outside, their voices rising as they spotted me. Dressed in a red t-shirt and black cargo pants, I kept my head down, pushing through the crowd with practiced ease. The questions about Bryce and the swirling rumors were relentless, each one more invasive than the last.

"Are you and Bryce dating?"

"How do you feel about his defense of you on social media?"

"Are you guys dating since Amusing My Family drama days?"

I ignored them all, my mind focused on the day's work. Once inside, the usual sense of sanctuary felt elusive. The recording booth, a space where I usually found peace, seemed almost foreign. I settled in, ready to pour my emotions into the new song.

But as the music started, something was off. My pitch wavered, and the notes felt slippery, just out of reach. Frustration bubbled up, each mistake grating on my already frayed nerves. I couldn't seem to find my rhythm, the melody escaping me.

During a break, Kylie approached, her concern evident. "Saya, maybe we should take a break. You seem really distracted."

Worried 90%

I clenched my fists, trying to hold back my irritation. "I can't seem to focus. Everything's just... off."

The producer, usually a picture of calm, nodded sympathetically. "It's understandable, Saya. A lot's been going on. We can pick this up later."

Angry 88%

I glanced at the stats above their heads—my producer's anger was high, and Kylie's worry skyrocketed. The numbers only heightened my frustration, a stark reminder of the turmoil surrounding me.

"Let's take a lunch break. I promise I'll be more focused after."

As the team began to disperse, I stayed behind, trying to collect myself. As much as I hated to admit, Bryce's tweets really affected me.

Why did he defend me all of a sudden? What's going on with him?

The door to the studio opened, and to my surprise, David walked in dressed in his team's blue bomber jacket and black jeans, looking fresh as ever with a bright smile plastered on his perfect white teeth. He was also carrying a bag with a familiar logo. His presence was unexpected but oddly comforting.

"Surprise," he said with a sheepish grin. "I brought sushi. Thought it might cheer you up."

I couldn't help but smile, the gesture touching in its simplicity.

"David! You didn't have to do this."

"I wanted to. Besides, I thought we could use the time to relax and talk." He shrugged, looking a bit bashful.

We settled in the break room, the scent of fresh sushi filling the air, mingling with the sterile scent of the studio. David was apologetic, reiterating how bad he felt about the recent drama.

"I've asked my PR team to handle the tweets and protect you better. I never wanted you to go through this."

I waved off his concerns, trying to keep the mood light. "It's part of the job, David. I'm used to it. But it's sweet of you to be so concerned."

He looked at me, his eyes earnest and sincere. "I'm a big fan of your music, you know. It would be amazing to watch you record."

I hesitated, then nodded. "Let me check with Kylie."

I quickly texted her, and she gave the positive sign for David to stay.

Back in the studio, David's presence was a surprising source of comfort. As I started singing again, the tension and nerves began to melt away. His supportive gaze was like an anchor, steadying me and helping me find my footing. With each note, I felt a surge of confidence, the music flowing more naturally.

The producer, who had been quietly observing, suddenly stood up, clapping enthusiastically. His previous irritation was replaced with admiration, the stats above his head showing his happiness at the highest level. It was a small victory, but a much-needed one.

David clapped along with everyone else, his face glowing with pride.

"You were incredible," he said, his voice filled with genuine awe.

I blushed, the warmth of his compliment spreading through me. "Thank you. It means a lot."

As we wrapped up the session, David looked at me with a hopeful smile. "So, about that dinner...?"

I chuckled, shaking my head in mock exasperation.

"You don't give up, do you?"

"Not when it comes to good food and good company," he quipped, grinning.

I sighed, pretending to be reluctant. "Fine, fine. Dinner it is. Just let me know where and when."

He gave me the brightest smile possible. I couldn't help but smile back at his enthusiasm, appreciating his company. The stats above his head were still the same as earlier, with a high level of sincerity. But the thought of his lifespan, visible only to me, lingered in the back of my mind.

As we left the studio, the paparazzi were waiting, their cameras flashing. For the first time in days, I felt a sense of peace. Maybe things weren't perfect, but for now, I could enjoy this moment, with David by my side. It was a small reprieve from the chaos, a brief moment of calm amidst the storm.

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