Turning Red ; Feeling Blue

Malia's POV: reality check

She's a triple threat. Singing, dancing, and acting. We are in week two of boot camp. Lately, it's been dance rehearsals, skill-building, and very long days. I watch the way she carries herself like no other. Her body moves, grooves, and sways to the beat effortlessly. Kylie is confidence in a nutshell. Her whole aura is powerful. She has a way of making those around her feel seen, important, and loved. Not to mention, her work ethic is absolutely flawless and admirable. The way she's dancing is sending me. Her single, elastic, which is a reoccurring jam, is speaking its truth right now at this moment. She is flexible and certainly makes it work every time. This girl can dance, and she dances with her heart.

I'm sitting down against the wall just watching her in awe. My eyes are glued to her as she twirls, turns, and shakes her hips with such sass. Focused, she is staring at her reflection the whole time. I wonder what she sees when she looks at herself. This studio has mirror all around us and we constantly stare at ourselves. Most of the time, it feels good to look at yourself and own it. Especially when you're dancing with your cast mates turned friends. However, if you're dancing solo, it's all you, and all eyes are on you. At first, I feel nervous when I have to rehearse solo. When I auditioned for this movie, I hadn't danced in so long. Nor could I sing. But with support all around me, I feel at ease. I get to do what I love. This is my reality and I'm ever so grateful.

Kylie is incredible and talented. It was an instant click, like a simple push of a button. Setting off to the start of a new adventure and new-found friendships. I already feel so close to her. Our movie characters, Red and Chloe Charming are complete opposites. Red is rebellious and Chloe is kind-hearted. At first, our characters dislike each other. I already love working with Kylie, and I know it's going to be a challenge to have to hate each other.

Ruby is approaching me. She's another good friend already. Her character is Bridget, who is sweet and friendly with lots of pink and cupcakes. Her character is also the younger version of the Queen of Hearts. Oh my gosh, Rita Ora and Brandy! Where do I even begin? Two icons! I can't wait to see them on-set when the time comes. First of all, Rita and Brandy playing Kylie and I's mamas is the best thing in existence. How is this real life? Regardless, Ruby's just as sweet as her character and thoughtful.

Ruby sits next to me with her contagious smile. It's enough to add a little sunshine to your day. I smile back.

"Some of us are going to Guan Cafe for Erewhon smoothies. Then we're coming right back. Care to join? It's on me," she asks considerately.

"For sure. Thanks, Rubes, but Erewhon smoothies are crazy pricy, are you sure?" I ask surprised.

"Of course, don't sweat it," she says.

***

I hold my strawberry smoothie, sitting at a window-side table while we wait for Morgan to finish ordering. I notice Kylie making eye contact from the next table over. There's something in the way she stares at me. As if her eyes are swarming in a crowded room and they're specifically looking to meet mine. Her gaze has been reoccurring recently. I'm not uncomfortable about it or anything, but I also don't know how to feel.

"We should start getting back guys," Dara says, in between me and Kylie.

"Yeah, can't be late for the next dance rehearsal. Time for the VKs to shine," I say nudging Dara.

After the four of us have our smoothies, we follow Ruby out the door.

***

What a long day, but it's worth it. I remind myself that to make my dreams come true, I must be dedicated and give it my all. Nothing less. Being a part of a Disney movie is nothing short of a dream. Disney was and continues to play a part in many childhoods. If only little me could see me now, she wouldn't believe it.

My phone dings. I pick it up immediately. It's a text from Kylie, asking if I want to watch something tonight. I love spending time with my cast mates whenever there's a chance, especially by the end of the day. Kylie, however, we have a bond that's different from the rest of our castmates. Like our connection is electric.

Mom is lying on the couch with her back facing the opposite way. She's already knocked out. I don't want to wake her, so it's not a good idea to let Kylie in. I have to go to her trailer. Two hours tops. I text Kylie that I'll meet her at her trailer soon.

I slip on my white Adidas and put on a hoodie. For some odd reason, it feels cold at night. Maybe that's just me, but oh well. I open and close the door slowly, stepping down quietly. Kylie's trailer is two over to the right of mine. Her light is on. Doesn't seem like anyone else is there with her except for her mom. Carol is so nice and inviting. I quietly knock on the door.

"Hey girl, you're right on time. The popcorn just finished," Kylie says excitedly.

Don't get me wrong, I like my trailer. I have my own walk-in closet with a bathroom in it. Kylie's trailer though. It looks like a mansion inside. There's a popcorn machine, ping pong table, PAC MAN arcade, and a built-in jacuzzi. A literal jacuzzi in her trailer. What?!

I make myself comfortable on the couch like always. She scoops some popcorn into a clear bowl. Kylie chose a show on Paramount Plus called School Spirits. I've heard of it and I think she has Milo Manheim's number.

We lay on opposite ends of the couch as the first episode starts. I look around her trailer and then glimpse at her. I feel like we are already becoming on-set BFFs. My life feels surreal.