Page 60 of You. Me. Us.

Hillary shook her head, her chestnut ponytail swaying. “I’m just not sure, Julius. What if the movie flops? I don’t want to lose what I have at Muse over a, maybe.”

“But you’re a natural! Everyone who’s seen the pre-edit clips have raved about you.” Julius gestured emphatically.

“I know, but...” Hillary bit her lip, doubt clouding her striking green eyes. “Can we just wait and see how this film is received first? I’m not ready to dive into another project yet.”

Julius sighed, running a hand through his tousled hair. How could he make her understand? This was her big break. “Fine. Do what you want,” he snapped, immediately regretting his sharp tone.

A look of disappointment clouded Hillary’s features, causing her face to fall. Without uttering another word, she turned and began to make her way through the sea of partygoers, quickly becoming swallowed up by the crowd and disappearing from sight. The pulsing beat of music and chatter filled the air around her as she pushed through the throngs of people, walking away from him. From their first fight.

Damn it.

He hadn’t meant to snap at her, and she’d walked away without even defending herself.

So go after her.

He started to move and stopped himself. He needed to calm down before he fucked up again.

They were so different that way it was a wonder they’d never fought before this. He was too passionate, and she was too afraid.

Julius briskly made his way to the bar. The sharp scent of alcohol and the low murmur of chatter enveloped him as he took a seat on one of the worn, leather stools. He needed a moment to collect himself before attempting to make amends with Hillary.

“Whiskey sour,” Julius tapped the counter when the bartender looked his way.

He watched the bartender deftly mix the drink and slide it toward him. The first sip brought a wave of warmth and calm over him, allowing him to think more clearly. Downing it, he winced slightly at the usual burn and took a deep breath.

“Time to eat crow.” He hadn’t meant to change Hillary. He loved who she was and who she is. He just didn’t want her to throw away opportunities because she was still nervous.

Setting the empty glass on the counter, he moved away from the bar, ready to apologize and let her know he wouldn’t dream of influencing her choices.

Then he spotted her across the room, talking with Ethan. Julius frowned. Something about the way Ethan looked at her made his skin prickle. The guy might be one of his best friends and frequent co-stars, but he had a habit of moving in on people and the way he looked at Hillary was the same way his character looked at Stella.

And Julius was less than okay with that.

He started making his way over to them, stopping just short of them thanks to Ethan’s next move.

Ethan pulled her close, drawing her in toward his body. As their lips met in a passionate embrace, he allowed his hands to trail up and down her back, feeling the softness of her skin beneath his fingertips. His fingers then found their way into her hair, gently twirling and tugging at the strands as their kiss deepened even further.

And Julius froze as his world shattered like sugar glass.

Ethan broke the kiss, a smug smile on his face when he pulled away and saw Julius behind Hillary, leaving Hillary standing there, staring as a hellish paparazzi broke out before leaving.

Julius’s fists clenched, and his face contorted in a mask of white-hot fury. How dare that smarmy bastard lay a hand on Hillary? His blood boiled as he pushed through the dense crowd of people, their curious eyes and gossiping whispers only adding fuel to his anger. All thoughts of their earlier argument were overshadowed by an overwhelming desire to protect her. He had to get her out of this place, away from the leering stares and judgmental glances. She was his to defend, his to shield from any harm even if he wasn’t certain she didn’t want Ethan to kiss her.

Julius pushed through the throngs of gawking onlookers, their excited whispers fading into a dull roar as he reached Hillary’s side. She stood frozen, her face contorted in shock and fear, her eyes wide and glassy as she stared out at the sea of people surrounding her. The bright flashes of cameras lit up the scene like bolts of lightning, capturing her humiliation from every angle. The air was thick with anticipation and tension, as if the very atmosphere was holding its breath for what would happen next.

His heart clenched at the sight of her distress. He quickened his pace, not caring who he jostled in his haste to reach her. How could Ethan blindside her like that? Kissing her in front of everyone, knowing full well the media frenzy it would ignite. Either he created a scandal or he’d taken what Julius loved most.

He focused on her again and realized Ethan was gone.

Julius’s jaw tightened, a muscle ticking in his cheek. He’d deal with Ethan later. Right now, Hillary needed him.

“Hillary!” he called out, his voice lost amid the clamor of the crowd.

She didn’t hear him, her gaze distant and unfocused. Julius finally broke through the last line of people, reaching for her hand. His fingers closed around her trembling palm, and she startled, her eyes flying to his.

“Julius!” Her voice wavered, barely audible above the din.

He drew her close, shielding her from the prying lenses and shouted questions. “Let’s get out of here,” he murmured, his breath stirring the wispy tendrils of hair at her temple.

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