Falling Between the Notes (Nicholas Galitzine)

Chapter 10: A New Day, New Opportunities

The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over the room. I blinked my eyes open, slowly adjusting to the warmth of Nick's body next to mine, his arm draped lazily over my waist. The events of the previous night played in my mind, bringing a smile to my lips. It hadn't been a random moment—it was something deeper. We'd crossed into new territory, and I could feel the shift between us.

I stretched carefully, careful not to wake him just yet. His breathing was deep and steady, his face soft with sleep, and I took a moment to admire him—this boyish, peaceful version of Nick that I didn't often get to see. My fingers lightly brushed his hair off his forehead, and a soft smile tugged at my lips.

As much as I wanted to stay wrapped up in the warmth of this bed, I had to get ready. Today was important—Harry and I were finishing the last two songs for the album, and I needed to be sharp for it. But the thought of leaving this space, this cocoon we had built together overnight, made it difficult to move.

Quietly, I slipped out from under Nick's arm, pressing a light kiss to his temple before sliding out of bed. His soft murmur in his sleep made me smile as I padded across the room to the bathroom. This wasn't a rush to escape—this was home now. At least, it felt like it.

I turned the shower on, letting the steam fill the bathroom as I washed away the haze of sleep. The warm water was soothing, and for a moment, I let myself get lost in the sensation, thinking about how everything in my life was falling into place. The album was almost finished, Nick and I were officially together—it was all finally coming together.

Once I stepped out of the shower, I took my time brushing my teeth and getting ready for the day. I glanced at the mirror, running a brush through my hair, feeling a sense of calm settle over me. Everything felt right. When I walked back into the bedroom, Nick was stirring, his eyes fluttering open as he stretched.

"Morning," he said, his voice rough with sleep, but his smile was warm.

"Morning," I replied, walking over to sit on the edge of the bed. "Sorry if I woke you."

He shook his head, pulling me closer for a quick kiss. "No, you didn't. You heading to the studio?"

"Yeah, we're recording the last two songs today," I said, my excitement bubbling up again. "It's a big day."

Nick nodded, his eyes filled with warmth as he brushed his hand down my arm. "You're going to kill it. I know it."

I grinned, leaning my forehead against his. "Thanks. And hey, I'll try to finish early tonight. Maybe we can celebrate after?"

Nick's smile widened. "I'd like that."

As I stood up to leave, Nick reached out and grabbed my hand. "Wait—before you go, there's something I need to tell you."

I paused, looking back at him. "What's up?"

He hesitated for a moment, then ran a hand through his hair, looking almost bashful. "I got a call from my agent last night, after you fell asleep. There's an audition. For a lead role. It's a big one."

My eyes widened. "Nick, that's amazing! When is it?"

"Next week," he said, his voice cautious, as if he wasn't sure how to feel about it yet. "It's for a new movie—an action film. They're looking for someone with my type of look. My agent said I have a real shot."

"That's incredible," I said, feeling a surge of pride for him. "I knew something like this would come your way. You've worked so hard for it."

Nick smiled, but there was a hint of nervousness in his expression. "Yeah, but it's a big leap. If I get it, it could change everything."