ONCE MORE, WITH YOU

XVII

Summer Preston

The room was a whirlwind of activity as makeup artists, hairstylists, and fashion designers rushed in and out, carrying fabrics, tools, and accessories. Nolan, Adrianna, and I were in the center of it all, preparing for the premiere.

I was already dressed, my crimson gown fitting like a dream, while a stylist finished pinning and curling my hair into a chic bun. The curling iron's heat made me flinch whenever it got too close to my ears, but I endured it.

After about thirty more minutes of primping, I was finally ready.

I stepped in front of the full-length mirror, my reflection taking my breath away. The deep crimson dress highlighted my shoulders and neckline with its sleek silhouette, while the dramatic, textured skirt resembled sculpted roses, creating a striking, artistic effect.

My hair was styled in a middle-part bun with loose, lightly curled strands framing my face. The bun had a slightly undone, messy touch that added character to the look.

My makeup was soft and refined—just a hint of blush and concealer, with wispy lashes making my eyes pop. I wore a gold Cartier watch, elegant earrings, and rings to complete the ensemble. On my feet were Saint Laurent Opyum embellished patent-leather sandals, perfectly complementing the gold tones of my accessories.

A shimmer of Tom Ford body glitter gave my skin an ethereal glow under the light, while a spritz of Clive Christian No.1 enveloped me in a luxurious scent.

"I think I'm obsessed with myself," I said, turning to the team that worked tirelessly to perfect my look.

They laughed and waved me off modestly, but I made sure to thank them. "Seriously, you guys are amazing. Thank you so much for pulling this off."

After they packed up and left, I grabbed my Jacquemus gold clutch and checked the time—an hour and thirty minutes until the premiere. Perfect.

I headed over to Nolan's room and knocked. He opened the door and immediately spun around, giving me a full 360 of his look.

Nolan was dressed in a classic black suit paired with a crisp white button-up left open at the first two buttons. A Prada belt cinched his waist, and polished Prada loafers completed the look. Diamonds glinted from the Cuban link around his neck and his wrist. His freshly dyed blonde hair made the whole outfit pop.

"Okay, Mr. Handsome, who are you trying to impress?" I teased, smirking.

"I could ask you the same. You look incredible, Summie," he said with a playful grin.

Feigning a blush, I placed a hand over my chest. "How kind of you to say!"

He laughed, shutting the door behind him as we walked over to Adrianna's room.

Adrianna was putting on her shoe as we entered. When she stood up, we took in her outfit: a navy pinstriped blazer dress, the one she initially picked out for me, paired with silver Gianvito Rossi heels and a silver Cult Gaia clutch. Her hair was sleek and straight, tucked behind her ears to show off diamond studs and a matching bracelet.

She gave us an approving once-over. "We're some good-looking bitches, I can tell you that."

"For once, I agree with you," Nolan quipped, earning a playful shove from Adrianna.

"Okay, not to be dramatic, but I booked a photographer so we can get some group shots before the premiere. They're in the lobby now," Adrianna announced.

"Not even mad about it. Let's go," Nolan said, shaking his head with a smile.

I quickly texted my assistant to check if everything was on schedule. She replied promptly, confirming that the setup was nearly complete and paparazzi were already gathering outside. I thanked her and hearted her message before we headed down.