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Nia's Pov
I slid into the booth at Delilah before Ryan got there, already regretting the fact that I'd made the reservation under my own name. The hostess had asked for a photo when I arrived and I could practically feel half the room glancing my way.
Not that I wasn't used to the attention—but tonight, I wanted to keep things quiet.
I was here for answers. Not the paparazzi.
Ryan strolled in five minutes later, hoodie over his curls, all energy and warmth. We hugged, and he sat down across from me, grinning like always.
"You know you didn't have to feed me just to talk movies," he said, pulling a menu toward him.
"I know," I said, smoothing the cloth napkin into my lap. "But I figured it'd be easier than catching you after a panel or some press junket."
He chuckled. "Fair. You been busy?"
"Trying not to be," I said, sipping my wine. "But you know how it is. Hollywood don't rest."
He nodded. "Ain't that the truth."
We placed our orders and settled in. He started talking about his next project, a low-budget indie he was executive producing for a first-time director. I listened, nodding, chiming in here and there. But my thoughts kept drifting.
Eventually, I steered the conversation.
"So..." I said lightly, "that young woman at the screening the other night—YN?"
He raised a brow, smiling. "Yeah, that's my girl. Real talent."
"I figured you knew her well."
"She's one of my mentees," he said, sitting back. "Been helping her out here and there. She's sharp. Crazy creative. Hustles hard but stays grounded. Rare mix."
I nodded, tapping my nails against my glass. "That's good to hear."
He studied me for a second, then smirked. "Why you asking?"
I smiled like it was nothing. "Just curious. She didn't mention she was in the business when I met her. Surprised me."
"She's not flashy like that," he said. "Keeps her head down. But don't get it twisted—she knows she's good."
I hummed. "She seems... confident."
"Very. But respectful with it. She's the kind of young director people want to work with. And she listens. Like really listens."
That last part hit me harder than I expected. I looked down at the rim of my glass and tried not to let it show.
"Is she seeing anyone?" I asked casually. "Or... involved with someone?"
Ryan blinked. "You doing casting or matchmaking now?"
I gave a short laugh, brushing it off. "No, no. Nothing like that. Just wondering, in case I end up working with her. It's always good to know if someone's personal life is, you know... balanced."
