Chapter 10 Lights, Camera, And Chaos

• I step out of the greenroom, running my hands down the fabric of my gown, trying to fix my look. I can't look like I was about to get laid backstage. The distant hum of the event feels like white noise, almost soothing compared to the whirlwind of the last few minutes. For a second, I let myself breathe, steadying the rush in my chest. But it’s short-lived. The moment I spot Meera hurrying toward me, her face a mask of disbelief, I know my brief escape is over.
• “Nat?” Her voice is low, almost like she’s afraid I might disappear if she speaks too loudly. “Where the hell have you been? I’ve been calling you nonstop!” Her words are laced with both worry and frustration, but I can’t help the grin that tugs at my lips. She has no idea.
• “I threw my phone in the bin,” I reply with a casual shrug, as if it’s the most reasonable thing in the world. “Didn’t feel like dealing with Mike tonight.”