In the next life, maybe ?

Chapter 4 : Dinner ?

Ever since the first day on set, it felt like Jenna and I had known each other for years. Our conversations were easy, and the chemistry was definitely there. But today felt different—the air had changed. Maybe it was that hug we shared or the fact that we ended the first night together, broke down some barriers. Who knows?

Either way, the rhythm on set had settled into a comfortable routine. Today's scene was crucial, focusing on the dynamic between Jenna's character, Mabel, and Toby's character, Charlie, her boyfriend in the movie. Charlie had planned a special date for Mabel at the quaint café where they first met. It was their first-year anniversary, and he wanted to make it memorable.

I was prepared for the day. With just one scene to shoot with my friend Niles, who plays Tom, I didn't need much. So here I was on the steps of my trailer, relaxing and enjoying the book I'd been reading lately. Fortunately, the weather was pleasantly warm. I was lost in my book when Jenna, carrying two mugs, decided to join me on the steps.

"So, what are you reading?" Jenna asked, her curiosity evident.

I looked up, my heart skipping a beat. I accepted the coffee she handed me with a smile. "Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami. It's a haunting love story about loss and longing."

Jenna's eyes lit up. "I've heard it's an emotional journey. I haven't read it yet—I'm a bit scared to dive into it, but I love Murakami's work."

"It's definitely intense," I agreed. "But there's something raw and genuine about it that keeps me hooked."

Jenna nodded, intrigued. "Murakami blends reality with fantasy so well. It sounds powerful."

I took a sip of my coffee, savoring the warmth. "Absolutely. His skill in mixing the surreal with the real creates a unique and beautiful experience."

My eyes back on the book, I sipped once more my coffee. I struggled to focus on my book, Jenna's gaze made it difficult. I turned the book towards her, offering her a chance to read along. She smiled, her lips pressed together, before resting her head on my shoulder as we both read the book together.

Well, she read while I tried to keep my composure. The proximity was sending my heart racing and my stomach into knots. I could smell her perfume, a delicate and captivating scent that made my heartbeat thunder in my ears. I just hoped she couldn't hear it.

"Everybody gather up! We're about to shoot!" Tim shooted 

Jenna looked up, seemingly a bit...disappointed?  Before I could comment, she spoke with a chuckle, "Well, I guess this is my cue."

"Yep," I said, closing my book and getting up. Seeing her confusion, I added, "I don't have many scenes today, so I thought it would be fun to hang out behind the camera."

Understanding dawned on her. "Shall we then?" she said, gesturing toward the set.

I nodded, and together we headed towards the set.

The set was transformed into a charming, dimly lit café. The warm lighting and vintage details created a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere.

Jenna and Toby were seated at a small, candle-lit table near a window. The light bathed their faces in a warm glow, emphasizing the emotional connection between their characters. Charlie had arranged this date to show Mabel how much he cared and to discuss their relationship. The scene was pivotal, capturing a moment of vulnerability and truth between them. It all takes place before our characters meet.

As the director called for silence, Jenna and Toby took their positions. Jenna's character, Mabel, was supposed to be both surprised and delighted by the setting, while Toby's character, Charlie, was eager to express his feelings.