Worst Nightmare

Chapter 21

Authors Pov

Yoko performed her royal duties with a poise befitting her title, never faltering in the grace that defined her as a Princess. Her involvement in I Still Love You was less about acting and more about embodying her lineage, portraying the historical Queen of the Wang-Yi dynasty with authenticity only she could bring. The series demanded meticulous attention to detail, but it was her work on the OST that added an intimate layer of challenge. Every note carried the weight of her responsibilities, her perfectionism shining through.

Faye, meanwhile, juggled her dual roles with a quiet efficiency that masked her growing exhaustion. As the face of the elusive Prince and Yoko's ever-present shadow on set, she moved with precision, seamlessly balancing logistics, press obligations, and the unspoken role of Yoko's safeguard. Her presence was understated but undeniable, her watchful eye catching every potential misstep before it could ripple into chaos.

The tension between them, once sharp and prickly, began to ease under the strain of their shared burdens. What had been biting retorts softened into a rhythm of playful banter, their exchanges more reminiscent of long-time confidants than two people navigating a labyrinth of complexities.

The thing is that why does Mr. Wang still allowed Faye to be Yoko's manager? Isn't that weird or just want the Malians to suffer more seeing the pride of Thailand is under the princess of China. So Mr. Wang wantedly made Faye work more. Both Freen and Faye didn't understand the reason, but they definitely understood that something's wrong because it's like he wanted the princess and Faye to stay together but not closer.

...

The sun was at its peak, bathing the bustling film set in golden light. The crew buzzed around, adjusting camera's and fine-tuning lights, preparing for the next scene. In the midst of the action, Big, the charismatic main lead, commanded attention with his infectious charm.

"So, there I was, looking all heroic..." Big's voice boomed as he reenacted his earlier stunt, his arms flailing dramatically. "And then—bam! Right on my face!" He mimicked his fall, his expression exaggerated, sending the crew into fits of laughter. His magnetic energy was undeniable, his humor lighting up the atmosphere with ease. Even Yoko couldn't help but chuckle, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

Big was effortlessly charming—his playful banter contagious, his charisma making the set feel alive. He had a way of pulling people into his world, his carefree demeanor a stark contrast to the secret tension simmering beneath the surface.

Amid the laughter and cheer, Faye stood at a distance, disguised as Mali—Yoko's loyal manager. Even with a mask covering her face, her commanding presence was unmistakable. Shoulders squared, stance firm, she exuded an aura of confidence and authority. Her usual alpha demeanor was unshakeable, like a silent protector always watching.

But today, Faye was distracted.

"Mali," the head manager's voice was sharp, pulling Faye out of her trance. "You've been unfocused lately. schedule is tight, and I need you to stay on track." His tone was firm, his gaze critical. "This isn't like you."

Faye's posture stiffened, her head slightly bowed as she faced. Her hands curled behind her back, fingers clenching tight. She forced herself to listen, nodding in obedience, her voice steady but low. "I understand. It won't happen again."

From across the set, Yoko watched the scene unfold, her eyes narrowing as a thrill ran down her spine. Seeing Faye—normally so composed, so powerful—being scolded was... amusing. It was rare to see the ever-so-confident Prince in disguise falter like this.

Yoko bit her lip, suppressing a smile as her gaze locked onto Faye. There was something deliciously entertaining about watching the great "Mali" lose cool. Her eyes glinted mischievously, a subtle flirtation shimmering beneath the surface.