The Lies We Tell Ourselves

Chapter 3

The commercial, despite the underlying tension between Serena and Laurent, was a hit. Their professionalism shone through, and the final product left fans buzzing with excitement. The media couldn't get enough of the story: two rival celebrities, both at the top of their game, somehow managed to create magic on-screen. Gossip columns speculated wildly about the pair-had they finally buried the hatchet, or was it all just a clever marketing ploy?

Audiences were captivated by their chemistry, sparking an outpouring of requests for the two to collaborate on a film together. Though insiders knew it was unlikely given the deep-seated animosity, the public's fascination with the duo grew stronger by the day.

As the buzz around the commercial continued, Serena made an appearance on a popular talk show.

Serena sat gracefully on the plush chair under the warm studio lights, looking every bit the superstar she was. The talk show set buzzed with energy as the host, a seasoned interviewer with a knack for getting the juiciest details, leaned in with a knowing smile.

"So, Serena," the host began, adjusting her glasses as the audience quieted down, "I have to say, your latest commercial with Laurent is all anyone can talk about. I mean, you two were electric on screen, but everyone knows there's some... history there."

Serena smiled politely, stirring her tea as if the mention of Laurent was just another casual topic. "Well," she started, her voice calm and measured, "that's true. There's always going to be history when you've been in the same industry for as long as we have."

The host grinned, sensing Serena wasn't going to give it all away so easily. "But let's talk about the elephant in the room. There are rumors about tension between the two of you. Was it difficult working on the commercial with him?"

Serena sighed softly, her expression perfectly composed. "You know," she began, choosing her words carefully, "I wouldn't say it was difficult, but... Laurent was definitely a bit distant during the shoot." She paused, letting the words hang in the air for effect. "I mean, we're professionals, of course, so we got the job done. But there was definitely something off. It wasn't the same Laurent I'd worked with in the past. I am trying my best to put the personal issues behind the work but I don't think he really likes working with me"

The audience murmured, clearly intrigued, and the host leaned forward, clearly hooked. "Distant, you say? That's interesting. Why do you think that is?"

Serena glanced down briefly, as if hesitant to say more, before raising her eyes to meet the host's gaze. "I'm not really sure," she said, sounding almost vulnerable. "Maybe he has his reasons. I just think, in this industry, you come across so many people and situations, and sometimes... you don't really know what's going on in their minds."

The host gave her a sympathetic nod, playing into the moment. "It sounds like there's a lot more going on behind the scenes than we realize. But you handled it so gracefully. The audience couldn't tell there was anything off at all."

Serena smiled modestly, shrugging as if to brush off the compliment. "Thank you. I just did my best to stay focused and make sure the project was a success."

The host, sensing she had tapped into something bigger, shifted in her seat. "Well, it's no secret that fans are now asking if you two might be cast in a film together. People are loving the chemistry you have on screen. What do you think? Could we see a Serena and Laurent team-up on the big screen?"

Serena laughed lightly, shaking her head. "Oh, I'm not sure about that. I think one project is enough for now." She leaned in slightly, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Besides, I don't think Laurent would enjoy it as much as people think."