A Shot at Love

Forever

A/N: You'll notice the second half of this chapter shifts into Noah's POV. For the full effect, queue up Forever by The Beach Boys when you get there. Trust me—it hits different. Dying to hear your thoughts at the end of this chapter!! <3

The town car glides to a stop at Dock 7, and my breath catches at the sight ahead. As I step out, the cool ocean breeze swirls through my curls, and I instinctively smooth the pale turquoise silk of my gown. In the glossy car window, I catch a glimpse of my reflection—the halter neckline plunges down my back, the sides daringly cut to reveal just enough skin to make me question if I'm really ready for all eyes on us tonight.

A silvery clutch dangles from my wrist as my heels click softly against the dock. The yacht looks like something out of a fairy tale—an impossibly glamorous, floating palace draped in a thousand sparkling lights, their twinkle dancing across the water. Overhead, the sky is painted in cotton candy hues, the colors of sunset melting into the horizon and turning everything—boat, water, and air—into sheer magic.

For a moment, it feels like I've stepped into a dream—everything glowing like the set of a modern-day Cinderella story. Only this time, it's my love story... and tonight, I'm the one who has to decide if I'm ready to introduce Noah and me to the world as more than just a rumor.

Will the industry think I only made it because of him?

What if this all blows up in my face?

Ugh! Why am I letting this get to me?

We fought so hard for this—for us. And now, we finally get to step into the light. I know what's real between us... so why am I still letting anyone else's opinion matter?

Enough second-guessing.

Tonight, I'm going public with Noah.

My pulse skips at the thought as music and laughter spill from the yacht ahead. A crew member in crisp white greets me at the gangway, offering a steady hand—and a chilled glass of champagne. I step aboard, the city lights fading behind me as I'm swept straight into the heart of the party.

The first sip of bubbles kisses my lips, a slow warmth spreading through me as my nerves begin to melt. I drift onto the main deck just as the opening notes of "Amazing" by Teddy Swims float through the speakers. Heads turn. All of them. And I keep walking—toward the grand staircase, lights catching the shimmer of my gown.

For a passing moment, it feels like I've stepped into someone else's dream.

Or maybe... finally, my own.

I set my champagne on a passing tray, glance down the staircase—

And there he is.

Noah.

He's working the room—greeting guests, shaking hands—but the second his eyes find mine, he stills. I swear, his breath hitches.

His gaze softens, a slow, easy smile tugging at his lips, as if the whole room disappears. I start down the steps carefully, aware that every eye is on me—especially his.

Noah looks nothing short of incredible tonight. A classic black tux, pressed white shirt, and shined Louboutins. The clean shave sharpens his already-chiseled jawline, and his thick hair is swept back just enough to make it look effortless. Elegant. Unmistakably him.

His eyes sparkle as I reach the last step. There's a flicker of hesitation in his posture—he's holding back, honoring my request to take things slow. But the look in his eyes says it all.

He feels it, too.

Noah steps forward, a grin playing at his lips as he offers his hand, keeping things formal—for show. He leans in, his voice just for me.