Page 7 of Rescue My Heart

The director regarded her for a moment then nodded. “Yeah, that makes sense. I’ll send someone to bring her to your trailer.”

“Thank you.” Mazey offered a smile, her mind already racing ahead to the conversation she hoped to have with McKenna.

As she settled into her trailer, the buzz of the set faded into the background. The cozy confines of the small space felt oddly soothing, a stark contrast to the chaos outside. She waited, fidgeting slightly with the hem of her shirt, her thoughts swirling around the earlier encounter. There had been a spark, something electric in their brief exchange that she couldn’t quite shake off.

She replayed their banter in her mind, the teasing remarks, the genuine laughter, and the undeniable chemistry that crackled between them. It felt so easy, so refreshing. Mazey couldn’t remember the last time she had connected with someone like that. The layers of pressure she often felt in her interactions with others, especially in Hollywood, were stripped away in McKenna’s presence.

The actress wanted to delve deeper into that connection, to explore what had ignited within her. But more than that, she wanted McKenna to know her, really know her. Not just the actress who played a part on screen, but the person behind the façade. She needed McKenna to see her as genuine, as someone who wasn’t just playing a role for the cameras.

The anticipation of their conversation filled the air with tension. What would they talk about? What would she ask? Mazey had so many questions bubbling inside her, not just about McKenna’s life as a firefighter, but also about how she managed to remain so composed during the rescue. She felt a magnetic pull toward her, a desire to understand not just the bravery that had saved her life, but the heart behind that bravery.

The sound of footsteps outside her trailer broke her thoughts, and she held her breath, her heart racing at the prospect of seeing McKenna again. When the door finally swungopen, her breath caught in her throat. There was McKenna, looking as confident and composed as ever, her shirt still slightly damp from the exertion of the rescue but her demeanor radiating strength.

“Hey,” McKenna greeted, a small smile playing on her lips. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything.”

Mazey shook her head, her voice a little breathless. “Not at all. I was just…waiting for you.”

“Good,” McKenna replied, stepping inside and closing the door behind her.

“I just wanted to thank you. you know, without everyone around,” Mazey said, her tone softening as she met McKenna’s gaze.

“Oh, really? You didn’t have to,” McKenna replied, crossing her arms, a hint of surprise in her voice.

“Yeah, I know I didn’t have to, but I wanted to. I guess I wanted to know a little more about my rescuer. I mean, I am acting as one in the show.” There was a nervous energy in her words, a slight flutter in her chest that she couldn’t quite ignore.

“Ah, I see. So you just wanted me to help you with your acting, huh?” McKenna joked, a playful grin spreading across her face.

Mazey chuckled, but her expression quickly turned serious. “No, no. I am really grateful. For a while, I wasn’t sure if I could hold on. I just worry about burdening others.”” Her vulnerability laid bare, she felt a mixture of relief and apprehension, hoping McKenna wouldn’t dismiss her feelings.

“In those kinds of situations, you really shouldn’t,” McKenna said gently, leaning in a little closer. “I get it. But it’s our job to take care of people. You’re not a burden for being scared or for needing help.”

Mazey bit her lip, pondering McKenna's words. “I don’t know. I guess the way I was raised, it’s better to die than show weakness.” The weight of that statement hung heavy in the air.

“I think being vulnerable is brave, though,” McKenna replied, her voice steady, reassuring. Her beautiful brown eyes were full of care. Her chestnut hair messy and in a ponytail. “It takes a lot of courage to admit when you need help or when you’re afraid. You don’t have to carry that alone.”

“Well, anyway,” Mazey said, trying to steer the conversation, “tell me more about yourself.”

“Okay, well, tell me more about the character you’re playing. Then I can help you with things that I actually have experience with,” McKenna offered, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“I’m kind of not supposed to talk with anyone about this character or show, though. I signed an NDA.” Mazey grinned, her playful spirit returning.

“You did?” McKenna raised an eyebrow.

“Nah, I’m just kidding.” Mazey laughed, feeling the tension ease a little.

“Okay, then tell me. Start with the name, then tell me the rest.”

“Well, the character’s name is Lila.”

“Oooh, Lila. What a strong name,” McKenna remarked, leaning in with genuine interest.

“Yeah, well, Lila is actually a highly skilled rescue specialist and former Navy officer who now leads an elite international rescue team,” Mazey explained, excitement lighting up her face as she spoke about her character.

“Wow, a Navy officer?” McKenna's admiration was evident, her eyes wide.

“Yup, that’s right. Basically, she’s the kind of woman who stays cool under pressure while saving the lives of people. Kindof like what you just did, right?” Mazey teased, a smirk dancing on her lips.

“Oh, so you thought I was cool, huh?” McKenna's playful challenge made Mazey's heart race.

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