Eternal Echoes

Chapter One Hundred: The Audition That Could Change Everything

3rd Person P OV

The day had finally come. Elijah's audition was set for the afternoon, and everyone could feel the anticipation in the air. Michaella woke up early, her mind racing with thoughts of Elijah's big moment. She knew how much this meant to him—and to her. It wasn't just an audition; it was the beginning of a dream, one that tied both of their futures together in a profound way.

After her morning coffee, Michaella sent Elijah a text: "Good morning! Are you ready to make history today?" She added a winking emoji, trying to mask her own nerves for his sake.

Elijah's reply came in a minute later: "More ready than ever."

Perfect, she thought. After taking a long breath, she began to prepare for the day ahead.

The anticipation in the room was electric as Elijah adjusted his collar in front of the studio mirror. Michaella was at his side, her comforting presence a steadying force amidst the chaos. She caught his eye in the reflection, offering a warm smile. "You're ready for this, Elijah. Remember, this is your moment."

He nodded, his hands still shaking slightly. "I know. Just... thanks for being here, Ella."

Michaella gave his shoulder a squeeze, her own heart pounding for her cousin. This was a huge moment for him—and for her. It was the first time she'd see her screenplay brought to life through an audition, and it had to be perfect.

"Alright, let's do this," she whispered, her own nervous excitement barely concealed.

They stepped into the audition room together, where a table of executives waited. Damien sat at the center, his gaze fixed on Michaella as they entered, a smile already forming on his lips. Michaella felt the intensity of his eyes, something she had become increasingly aware of since their last meeting.

"Ah, Michaella, Elijah. Welcome," Damien said, his voice carrying an undertone of warmth. His eyes lingered on Michaella a moment longer before he turned to Elijah. "We've been looking forward to this."

Michaella took a seat beside Damien, settling her script on the table. Damien leaned closer, his voice low enough for only her to hear. "You look stunning today," he said, his eyes sincere.

Michaella glanced at him, caught off guard for just a second. She smiled, trying to remain professional despite the flutter in her stomach. "Thank you, Damien," she replied, her cheeks warming. She turned her attention back to Elijah, trying to ignore the way Damien's gaze made her pulse quicken.

The room fell silent as Elijah took his place in the center, and Michaella gave him an encouraging nod. Damien's eyes moved between Elijah and Michaella, as if watching not just Elijah's performance, but also Michaella's reaction.

Elijah began, and Michaella's script came alive in front of her. He embodied every nuance she had written—the vulnerability, the strength, the humour. She found herself lost in the moment, her emotions stirred by Elijah's delivery.

When he finished, the room remained quiet for a beat. Damien leaned back in his chair, his eyes locked on Michaella. "What do you think, Michaella?" he asked, breaking the silence. His voice held a gentle challenge, almost as if testing her.

Michaella felt the eyes of the room on her, but she didn't hesitate. She smiled, her heart swelling with pride. "He captured it," she said simply. "He brought the character to life exactly how I imagined."

Damien nodded, his lips curving into a smile that reached his eyes. "I agree," he said, but his gaze didn't leave Michaella. "Your writing deserves an actor who understands the heart of the character—and I think we've found him."