Act Like You're in Love {Niall Horan}

Chapter 38: Fall

When they're acting in the movie, they might be referred to their movie role OR who they are in this actual story. Remember Mariah = Sofia, Callie = Jody, Randy = Tyler. :)

~Niall's P.O.V.~

"We have one week left of acting. One week, that's all. Then we take a week or so do finalize the scenes - just technical work, so only that crew needs to come in. Then we have about two weeks before the special premiere, then about another two weeks before it's open to everyone. I want everyone to try really hard this week. Push yourselves and prove yourselves," the director commanded the sea of actors and actresses before giving a quick clap to start the movement back up. "That's all I have to say, so scurry on and get ready."

As if time was merely frozen, the noise and bustle quickly continued. I went to the dressing rooms with Harry and was immediately greeted by Lou who ushered us onto the chairs. Time flew while she entertained us with conversation, so before I knew it we were ready to be in the scenes.

"Positions!"

Before I knew it, I was thrown in front of the camera with Mariah, and the cameras were rolling.

I was in the bedroom Mariah's character and I were sharing. Blackness surrounded the two of us as we laid still in bed.

We were both "sleeping," but Mariah more restlessly. Soon she started screaming and crying, and I woke up. I shook her awake until she was consciously crying in my arms.

"Sh," I soothed her. "It's okay."

"But I saw Tyler," she wailed referring to her nightmares of her former captor.

"I know baby and I'm sorry you have I go through it, but it isn't real."

Mariah wept more quietly in my arms until she calmed down. She still clutched me like she was frightened for her life. "Niall, I'm scared."

"Sofia, Tyler is dead."

"But he isn't in my mind," she whimpered. "He's still haunting me."

"But he's gone now. We'll get through it baby, I promise," I told her, running my hands through her silky hair.

She began to cry again, and it hurts me to see her like that even if she's acting.

"Cut!" the voice of the director called out.

The rest of the day went similarly to that, and it was really slow. Maybe it was because it was the first day back from vacation, or maybe it was because Mariah and I were going sightseeing later and I couldn't wait for it - it was another way to spend time with her.

"Niall, you ready?" Mariah asked, coming up behind me and slipping her hand in mine.

Her warmth spread from my hand through me and formed my smile. "Yea."

We walked to the car that she was driving and got in.

It took a while to get into New York City because of traffic, but the whole slow car ride was filled with chatter and laughter. When we got to the Statue of Liberty, we were allowed in and then went on our tour.

"Look at this view," she gasped, cuddling up to me. "It's gorgeous."

"Just like you," I commented and nipped her nose.

She giggled her adorable laugh. "Oh stop," she whined. "Enough of you and your corny comments."

"You know you love them," I called her out and by her suppressed grin I knew I was right on.

We stood a couple minutes in silence, enjoying the warm sun and each other's company.

"Could you take a picture of us please?" Mariah asked a middle-aged woman.