Turning Red ; Feeling Blue

Malia's POV: positive intuition pt. 2

The afternoon sun cast a golden hue over Piedmont Park, making everything look like it was bathed in warm, honeyed light. Kylie and I found ourselves on a bench swing by Piedmont Lake, the gentle swaying motion adding to the serene atmosphere. The view of Atlanta City in the distance was breathtaking, its skyline standing in stark contrast to the tranquility of the park.

Kylie's hand is in mine, and I can't help but feel a surge of affection. The warmth of her touch, the way her fingers fit perfectly between mine, make my heart flutter. I glance at her, taking her in as she gazes out over the water. She looks so peaceful, so content, so beautiful.

"Malia," she said softly, turning to face me. Her eyes were filled with an intensity that made my breath catch. "There's something I need to tell you."

I nod, my heart pounding in my chest. "What is it, Kylie?"

She takes a deep breath, her grip on my hand tightening. "I've liked you since the moment we met on set. From the very beginning, I've been drawn to you. Over time, it took me a while to realize what and how I truly feel. You're beautiful, talented, and incredible in every way. And... I'm in love with you, Malia."

Her words hung in the air, heavy with emotion. I feel my heart swell and ache at the same time. I always knew there was something special between us, but hearing her say it out loud make it all so real. I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself.

"Kylie," I begin, my voice trembling slightly. "I love you too. I really do. But... I've been thinking that we should keep things friendly and professional. As actresses, it's important to maintain that boundary."

Her face falls, and I see the light in her eyes dim. The sadness washing over her expression breaks my heart. "I see," she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

I reach out, cupping her cheek in my hand. "Kylie, please understand. I will always love you and be there for you. You mean so much to me."

She nods, tears welling up in her eyes. "I understand, Malia. I just... I hoped things could be different."

I pull her into a hug, holding her tight. "I know. I hoped so too. But this is the best way to protect what we have."

As we sit here, wrapped in each other's arms, I feel a pang of regret. Deep down, I'm scared to fall and be vulnerable in such a way. I am terrified of what it would mean to open myself up completely. But I can't bring myself to admit that to Kylie.

We stay like this for a long time, the sun slowly setting behind the city skyline. The world around us seems to fade away, leaving just the two of us in our little bubble of emotion. I hope that one day, I will find the courage to face my fears and be honest with Kylie. But for now, I'm holding her close, cherishing the moment and the bond we share.

Just as the last rays of sunlight fade, casting long shadows across the park, I heard the sound of someone running towards us. I turned and saw Dara, her face a mix of relief and frustration. My heart skipped a beat. We are caught. Shit.

"Malia! Kylie!" Dara called out, breathless but determined. "I knew I'd find you two together." 

Kylie and I exchanged nervous glances, our hands still intertwined. "Dara, we can explain," I began, but she cut me off with a stern look.

"No time for that now," Dara said sharply. "Morgan and I have been searching everywhere for you. Peder and Tristan are out looking for Ruby and Joshua. And just so you know, I informed your moms about where you are."

We both wince at the mention of our moms. This was not going to be good. "We need to head back to the studio," Dara continued. "It's practically dark, and we have to wake up early for set tomorrow."

I nod, swallowing hard as I squeeze Kylie's hand one last time before letting go. "Alright, let's go," I said, trying to sound braver than I felt.

Dara's phone rings. She answers it as we rush to the car.

"You found Joshua? Great! What? He's with Ruby? Oh..." She says, both relieved and bewildered.

As we walked back towards the studio, to our trailers, a mix of emotions churned inside me—relief that Dara found us, anxiety about the consequences, and a lingering sadness about the interrupted conversation with Kylie. Whatever awaits us, we'll face it together, and maybe, just maybe, we'll find a way to get through it all.