Michaella, a gifted writer, finds herself haunted by the memories of a love that slipped through her fingers. As she pens down her heartache and cherished moments with Gabrielle, an architect whose charm and warmth once made her world brighter, she...
Michaella woke up to the soft patter of raindrops against her window. Today wasn't just any day—it was the day she would meet with the movie producers, the day her manuscript, her story, would begin its journey to the big screen. Excitement fluttered in her chest, but so did nerves.
She decided to start her morning slow, knowing it would calm her. After all, this was a huge step. Michaella filled the tub with warm water, adding a generous amount of her favourite lavender bubble bath. As she sank into the soothing warmth, her thoughts wandered to the meeting ahead. She knew the script inside out, but what about the actors? That's when it struck her—Elijah. Her cousin, famous actor, and one of the most talented people she knew. If anyone could bring her lead character to life, it was him. The added bonus? He'd be going to London with her.
A smile tugged at her lips as she imagined him in the role, his intelligence and depth breathing life into her character. It was perfect. The thought calmed her, and after a few more minutes of relaxation, she stepped out of the tub, wrapped herself in a towel, and checked the weather. The rain continued to fall steadily, casting a soft grey hue over everything. She picked out a classic old money outfit— grey skirt, a soft black turtleneck, and a grey trench coat. After curling her hair and applying soft makeup, she was ready.
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By the time she reached her agency, her nerves had settled, and anticipation took over. As she stepped into the meeting room, Sarah was already there with Michaella's agent, chatting softly.
"Good morning," Sarah greeted, handing Michaella a coffee. "You ready?"
"As ready as I'll ever be," Michaella replied, taking a sip of the warm drink.
They waited for the producer, and when the door finally opened, Michaella wasn't prepared for who walked in.
He was tall, impossibly handsome, with olive skin and dark hair that fell just right. His sharp jawline and piercing eyes made her heart skip. He looked like he had stepped straight out of a myth. Michaella even heard Sarah whisper "wow" under her breath.
He didn't notice them at first, walking in with an air of confidence and shaking her agent's hand.
"And this is Michaella," her agent began, introducing them.
Damien turned, and for a moment, time seemed to stop. His eyes met hers, and there was a flash of something—surprise, intrigue, maybe even admiration. Michaella felt her cheeks warm under his gaze.
"Pleasure to meet you, Michaella," he said, his voice deep, with a British lilt. "I've heard a lot about your work."
"Thank you," Michaella managed, her voice barely above a whisper. His presence was... overwhelming. She noticed the way his eyes lingered on her, as if he was trying to decipher the layers of her character.
They sat down, and the meeting began, discussing the manuscript and potential casting choices.
"Have you thought about anyone for the lead?" Damien asked, leaning back in his chair. He had a way of making everything sound so effortless.
Michaella hesitated for a moment before gathering her courage. "Actually, yes. I was thinking of Elijah Stone. He's a brilliant actor, and I think he'd be perfect for the role."
"Elijah Stone?" Damien's eyebrow lifted in interest. "I've heard of him. Talented, indeed. But... he'd have to audition first. If he's convincing enough, the role is his."
Michaella smiled, relieved but still nervous. "He'll be convincing. I'm sure of it."
Damien's gaze softened as he looked at her, and for a brief second, the conversation felt personal. "I trust your instincts," he said, his eyes locking onto hers in a way that made her heart race.
The meeting wrapped up, and Michaella quickly excused herself, needing air. Once outside, she pulled out her phone and dialled Elijah's number. He picked up on the second ring.
"Where are you?" she asked, her voice laced with excitement.
"At Matthew's. What's up?"
"I'm coming over. I have news."
Michaella arrived at Matthew's house, shaking off the rain from her coat before stepping inside. The warmth of the room and the familiar scent of home wrapped around her like a blanket. She greeted everyone with hugs, her excitement bubbling up.
"So, what's the news?" Matthew asked, curiosity dancing in his eyes as he leaned forward.
"Well..." Michaella paused, savouring the moment. "Today, I had a meeting with a movie producer."
Marian gasped. "No way! That's amazing!"
Michaella smiled, but her eyes were fixed on Elijah. "We were discussing the cast, and well... I suggested you for the lead."
Elijah froze. "Wait, what?"
"They accepted," Michaella continued, "but they want you to audition tomorrow. If you nail it, the role is yours."
There was a brief silence before Marian squealed, "Oh my god!"
Elijah's shock finally wore off, and he stood, crossing the room in a few quick strides to wrap Michaella in a tight hug. "Thank you, Ella," he whispered. His voice was full of gratitude, emotion thick in his words.
"That's not all," Michaella said, pulling back slightly with a mischievous grin.
"What else?" Matthew asked, eyes wide with anticipation.
"If you get the part," Michaella's voice rose in excitement, "you'll come to London with me!"
The room erupted into cheers and laughter. Elijah stared at her, wide-eyed. "You serious?"
"Dead serious," she laughed, unable to contain her joy.
They all celebrated the news, the excitement infectious. The conversation shifted between teasing Elijah about his audition to making plans for London. Michaella felt a sense of contentment wash over her. For the first time in a long time, things were falling into place.
And through it all, Damien's face lingered in her thoughts, making her smile without realizing it.
