𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐎𝐌 | ⁿⁱᶜʰᵒˡᵃˢ ᶜʰᵃᵛᵉᶻ

32 | sparkly nominee

The day of the grammy awards had arrived, and my apartment felt like a backstage dressing room, with stylists and assistants coming in and out, finalizing every little detail. My stylist, John, held up the dress I had chosen with Cooper- a stunning, dark green gown that hugged my figure and fell elegantly to the floor. The fabric shimmered under the lights, rich and mysterious.

Meanwhile, my makeup artist, was setting up her kit with an collection of shimmering shades and glossy palettes. "Let's do something soft but glowy," she said thoughtfully, inspecting my face. I nodded, trusting her vision. She began working on my skin, creating a flawless, glowing base before moving to my eyes, blending earthy tones that brought out my natural warmth. The subtle smokiness was dramatic yet refined, perfect for tonight. Not forgetting my signature glossy lips.

As she added the finishing touches, my mind drifted to the night ahead. It was a huge evening—not only was our movie up for a big nomination, but I'd be facing Nicholas on the red carpet. We hadn't seen each other for a while, and I wasn't sure how things would feel now.

After what felt like hours, she took a step back to admire her work. "You're going to be the highlight of the night," she said with a smile, handing me a mirror. I gazed at my reflection, barely recognizing myself.

My hair got arranged into soft waves, creating a gentle frame around my face that complemented my look with effortless elegance. I looked powerful, glamorous, and just beautiful.

The car arrived shortly after, and as I headed to the door, I took one last glance around my apartment. The night was just beginning, and I had no idea what was waiting for me at the grammys, but whatever it was, I was ready to face it.

I stepped out of the car, pausing as the noise and flashing lights washed over me. The energy in the air was heavy, people shouting my name from behind the velvet ropes, cameras clicking, capturing every angle. I straightened my dress, giving myself a moment before taking a step forward.

As I moved toward the carpet, the flashing cameras intensified, and I lifted my head with a practiced smile, shoulders back, giving the crowd the look they'd been waiting for.

Just as I turned around, I spotted Nicholas, surrounded by flashing lights voices calling his name. Our eyes met, and he gave a slight nod, the corner of his mouth lifting in a subtle smirk.

Nicholas looked really fine in his suit, his tie perfectly matched to the deep, luxurious green shade of my dress.
It created an effortless sense of unity between us. The cut of his suit highlighted his broad shoulders, and he looked so effortlessly handsome, like he belonged on every red carpet, owning every moment.
He looked more mature, really masculine. And even though I don't want to admit it to myself- it drove me crazy.

He extended a hand toward me, guiding me into place beside him as the photographers shifted their focus to us. I turned slightly, but I could feel his gaze on me.

"You look beautiful tonight," he said, so quietly it barely registered above the noise. His voice was calm, yet strong.

My insides melted after hearing his compliment. I wasn't used to him being nice but I kind of liked it.
"Thank you," I replied, eyes forward, focusing on the cameras.
It was so different from out first red carpet event where we used to hate each other and couldn't even stand next to each other. But now it was different and I couldn't figure out why.

"Let's go," Nicholas said, and without waiting for a response, he took my hand in his. The moment his fingers wrapped around mine sent a feeling of warmth through me. It was both surprising and comforting.

As we stepped forward together, the camera flashes intensified- this is what they want- me and him together. For a moment, I was lost in the chaos, feeling like we were the only two people in the world.