My boy / Drew Starkey

49

Mila

I stepped onto set, my coffee still too hot to drink, the crisp morning air biting at my skin as I pulled my jacket tighter around me. The sun had barely risen, casting long golden streaks across the trailers and the half-constructed sets in the distance. Crew members bustled around, moving equipment, adjusting lights, and running last-minute checks. It was the usual pre-filming chaos, a blend of quiet efficiency and frantic energy.

I walked past the trailers, giving quick nods and sleepy smiles to the people I passed. The familiar smell of fresh paint, seawater, and coffee filled the air—distinctly OBX.

The main cast was already gathered near the set chairs when I arrived. Madison was leaning against a table, scrolling on her phone, and Rudy was deep in conversation with Jonathan about something—probably a stupid bet they had going. Drew caught my eye from across the space, the faintest ghost of a smirk tugging at his lips, but he didn't make a move toward me.

We were still playing the game. Still careful. Still keeping us a secret.

I took my usual seat and set my coffee down just as Jonas stepped in front of us, clapping his hands together to grab everyone's attention.

"Alright, listen up!" Jonas' voice carried across the set, instantly commanding silence. He took a deep breath, adjusting his baseball cap before looking at each of us. "Last night was perfect. I mean it. The event, the interviews, the energy—everything was spot on. You guys did great, and trust me, the higher-ups are happy. Very happy."

A ripple of relief passed through the cast. Jonas being satisfied meant we wouldn't be getting a passive-aggressive lecture from the studio later.

Jonas continued, pacing slightly. "The premiere went off without a hitch. The first episode landed exactly how we wanted it to. The buildup, the tension, the damn cinematic moments—people are hooked. And that's exactly what we needed. We needed that buzz. That curiosity. That 'who the hell is this new girl and why does she matter so much?' And, Mila"—his eyes locked onto me—"you delivered."

I straightened slightly in my seat as a few people turned to look at me.

"You came in with a presence," Jonas said, pointing at me for emphasis. "The moment your character showed up, you weren't just there—you demanded attention. That's what we needed. That's what's going to keep people watching."

I felt a surge of pride in my chest, but I kept my expression neutral, just nodding in acknowledgement.

Jonas clapped his hands once again. "Alright, we've got a big filming day ahead. There's a pivotal scene going down today, one that'll shift the dynamic even more. So let's get to it."

--

The sun had fully risen by the time we made our way to the docks, where today's shoot was taking place. The boats were already in position, the camera crew setting up along the pier, adjusting angles, testing lighting. I could hear snippets of the crew talking—mentions of continuity, framing, blocking.

I exhaled, centering myself. Today's scene was a big one. It was the first real confirmation of my character's romantic entanglement with Rafe.

And the first time John B would witness it.

The set was buzzing with last-minute preparations. Makeup artists swarmed around us, brushing powder over our faces, adjusting hair, dabbing sweat off our brows even though we hadn't done anything yet. The wardrobe team fussed over last-minute outfit adjustments.