Page 30 of The Fake Script

I fight my way out of the sheer fabric, being extra careful not to rip it. By the time the gown is back on its hanger, I’m already breaking a sweat. Thisis why I don’t do shopping. Next, I try on one with long sleeves. At first, it looks decent, but then I notice the deep slit over my right leg. Seriously?

My shoulders sag, and a sigh escapes me. Why on earth did I say yes to this? Trying on fancy dresses is so not me. I glance at my reflection, and while the dress is flattering and the slit only shows my skin in certain positions, it couldn’t be further from who I am. It’s like looking at an alternate-universe version of myself.

“Everything okay?” Robyn calls.

“It was, until half the dress split over my thigh.”

I can almost hear her freeze on the other side of the curtain. “You tore it?”

I roll my eyes. “I’m talking about the slit.”

“Oh.” She blows out a breath of relief. “Well, it’s sexy. I’m sure you look fantastic in that gown with your long legs. Let me see.”

I reluctantly open the curtain, and she squeals when her eyes land on me. “Yes. Absolutely. Perfect. Now, turn for me.”

I rotate like a robot, trying my best not to “activate” the slit, and she claps her hands together. “You should still try the last one, but I think we have a winner.”

“Really?” I look down at the dress. “I’m not so sure.”

“I am.Trust me on this.”

I let out a sigh. “Fine.”

Closing the curtain again, I shrug out of the gown and reach for the next. The last dress is an off-shoulder black gown with beige leaves embellishing the fabric. I immediately vibe more with this one. Tropical enough to fit the theme, but still low-key enough for me.

“I’ll take this one,” I tell Robyn, swinging open the curtain.

“Good choice.” She approves. “I do prefer the other one, but since it’s your first red carpet, comfort is important.”

“And the theme is tropical, so I think this one fits the bill.”

“It does, but you should take the other one too. I’m sure Auston will have more events to take you to. And he has a premiere coming up soon.”

Sweat prickles on my neck. “Um, I’m not sure . . .”

“Or I can go back and look for something even better,” she says with a shrug.

I can feel my eyes widening. “No, it’s fine. We’ll take both, just in case.”

Guess I’ll just have to master walking in that dress without flashing everyone.Ifthere’s a need for me to wear it. Suddenly, something spikes in my chest, and a small part of me hopes there will be.

13

Rules & Red Carpets

Auston

I’m as stressed as a high-school boy about to take his date to prom. At least, how I think a high schooler would feel in that situation. I only came as close as portraying one in my first role. I’ve already rung the doorbell, and I’m now waiting for Emma to come down the stairs. The street is quiet, quieter than I’ve ever seen it. Most of the equipment has been stowed in the bookstore, and only a few props remain outside. It’s a no-man’s land, except for Gary and Joe from security, to whom I waved when I reached Warlington Lane. I’m surprised Clarence isn’t here tonight. Like me, he likes to hang out on set after hours. It helps him think.

Finally, I hear muffled footsteps on the other side of the door, and Emma opens it.

“Hey, sorry I’m late,” she mutters, locking the door behind her.

I remind myself to close my gaping mouth. “You’re beautiful,” I breathe out.

A slight blush coats her cheeks—even if my words don’t come close to describing how gorgeous Emma is right now. She’s magnificent. Her dress suits her perfectly, revealing her graceful shoulders and falling right below her knees, making her legs seem endless. Her short black hair is down, as usual, and some makeup highlights her electric-blue eyes.

“Thank you,” she says, ruffling her bangs before roaming her eyes over my dark-green suit. “You look good too.”

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