"Creating this book is my greatest accomplishment ever," I said, and I meant it with every fiber of my being.
The reporter leaned in, eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Every fan in the world is dying to know-what's the real story behind this book?"
The truth was too painful to share, a wound still raw beneath the surface. But hiding my pain behind a practiced smile, I replied, "That's a tale for another time."
After what felt like an eternity, the interview finally ended.
As I made my way back to the studio, my phone rang.
"Hey, Liela. You're the only person I want to talk to right now. What's up?"
Liela Terra, my manager and best friend, sounded equally excited and frantic. "Hey, girl! I just watched your interview-you're blowing up on social media! And we have actors waiting to audition. Where are you?"
"Just pulling up. See you soon."
Not nervous at all-well, maybe just a little-I reminded myself that today was the day I'd choose the people who would bring my story to life.
Cool. Calm. Collected.
As I walked into the studio, juggling a million thoughts, I greeted everyone, "Good morning, all." A dozen eager faces turned toward me, awaiting their moment to shine. I slid into the seat next to Liela, who was already deep into her clipboard.
"Isa, why are you so late? We've got a crowd waiting," Liela chided.
"I'm so sorry-traffic was insane, and my mind's been all over the place." I turned to my assistant. "Can I get an iced coffee, please?"
The auditions began. We saw some good candidates, but none had that elusive spark I needed to see my book breathe on screen.
Then we found our Stella Garcia.. Lucia walked in, and I knew she was the one.
But the male lead-Matteo Costa-was proving more difficult. I saw a few actors who were good, but none that took my breath away.
Until he walked in.
My heart stopped. No. It can't be. Am I imagining this? Is this real? What the hell is he doing here? Does he even remember me?
"Isa? Isa! Isabella, are you with me?" Liela's voice pulled me back to the room.
"What? Yes, yes, I'm here. What's up?" I stammered, trying to regain my composure.
"Isn't he perfect?" Liela asked, her excitement palpable.
I couldn't move. I couldn't speak. He was staring me in the face, and I was paralyzed.
"Isabella, are you serious? He's miles ahead of anyone else we've seen. It's like Matteo Costa stepped right off the page!"
I nodded weakly. "Yes... I suppose he's good."
"Carlos Rocco it is, then!" Liela declared, sealing the deal.
"Carlos..." I whispered. My voice trembled, betraying the shock that still coursed through me. "And don't forget, we have lunch scheduled with the new cast members today," Liela added, her enthusiasm unshakable.
Cool. Calm. Collected.
"Sure... I'll meet you there," I mumbled before quickly heading to the bathroom.
Once inside, I closed the door and leaned heavily against it, as if my legs could no longer hold me. Tears slipped down my cheeks as the memories I'd buried deep began to resurface. How was I supposed to face him now?
YOU ARE READING
Drawn By You
RomanceShe was a small town author who was bound to her sorroundings... She was a sunshine, ready to burst... Who knew that a believer of that love in books doesn't exist in real life would have such luck... ...
