What a few weeks. It’s been a whirlwind of emotion. Heartache, embarrassment, and pain, but so much pleasure. Nothing beats this. Just being here with Nate. He’s transitioned from the movie star I had pinned on my wall, to well, my person. My everything. I don’t know why I didn’t just open up to him in the beginning.
Shame, I suppose. Insecurity that he’d see what I’ve always felt my parents see - someone lacking.
But instead, he stepped up. I’m under no illusion this viral video is going to disappear completely, but with him by my side, it’s a lot easier to swallow.
His commitment is unexpected in so many ways, yet unsurprising in others. From the very first moment we met - well, from the moment I stopped crucifying Mariah and actually spoke to the man - something clicked between us.
And every day we’ve spent together that has magnified.
His gentle thumb strokes across my skin express more than a million verbal I love yous.
The Ten O’clock News rolls across the screen in the background, but I’m paying more attention to the soothing heartbeat pressed against my chest.
The presenter’s smooth, clipped voice tears my attention away from Nate by name dropping a bomb I never thought I’d hear on TV. ‘Hotelier Dan Hargreaves from the prestigious Hargreaves Hotel chain is facing a lawsuit following allegations of professional misconduct.’
I jolt into a sitting position and grab the remote from the coffee table, my thumb frantically turning up the volume until the newsreader’s voice resonates throughout the entire spacious living area. Dan’s face appears in a grainy photo on the screen.
‘An investigation is underway following a social media protest campaign started by Savannah Kingsley, known as Single Sav to many of our viewers. The campaign #amanscorned, highlights a cruel prank played by Mr Hargreaves on his former girlfriend, Holly Hazelwood, and the injustice of the laws surrounding filming in public places.
‘Somehow, Dublin-born action movie hero, Nate Jackson, got wind of this horrific personal attack on Holly Hazelwood and stepped up to support Miss Kingsley’s campaign. The matter is finally receiving the attention it deserves. Looks like our Nate isn’t just a hero on screen. Now for the weather.’
I mute the TV and turn to Nate, who’s languidly draped across the couch sporting the biggest grin. ‘No one messes with my girl.’
Yep, I’m officially ruined.
ChapterTwenty-Eight
NATE
19th December
‘Okay, guys, that’s a wrap for this leg of filming, anyway.’ Max’s deep voice resounds across the set, and a tidal wave of relief sweeps from my head to my toes. The spotlights fade. The camera crew exchange a few easy pleasantries as they pack away their equipment.
I can officially say I’ll never accept another romance role in my life. And truth be told, when this cheesy shit airs, I’ll probably never get offered one.
It’s taken thirty-four years, and one tough Hallmark hellish lesson which I’ve scraped through by the skin of my teeth, and an exceptional muse, but finally, I realise I have nothing to prove to anyone.
I’m proud to be a one-trick pony. We all have our own lane. There’s nothing wrong with staying in it and excelling in it.
We still have a couple of weeks of filming to do after Christmas, but they aren’t love scenes. They follow my character, Ryan, as he goes on tour to Vegas. That I can live with.
Macy tuts, rounding up the discarded costumes which have been dropped at her feet. ‘Do I look like the fucking cleaning lady?’ She watches the cast swarm like flies towards the twinkling Christmas tree in the castle’s hallway.
Max hired some real waitresses for once, and they’re currently handing out champagne and canapés to celebrate the last day of filming before Christmas. Our very own Hallmark Christmas party.
My eyes lock with Holly’s across the room in an unspoken agreement. One drink to be sociable. Then we’re out of here. There’s far more fun to be had at home, especially now my parents have gone back to Dublin and aren’t liable to let themselves in while we’re getting down to business.
There’s no bigger cockblocker than your mother walking in on you on the job, even if it iswhat we were put on this planet to do.
And as well as the sexy-time fun, we need to pack Holly’s belongings. Tomorrow, we leave for Dublin, and I can’t wait to tick off a few more of Holly’s festive fantasies, starting with the lights on Grafton Street. Ice skating. A trip to Brown Thomas. The urge to spoil her eats at me.
Holly takes a step towards me, but Max grabs her by the elbow, halting her where she stands. It’s impossible to hear what he’s saying over the buzz of chatter. I hesitate for a beat, then cross the floor to join them.
‘Ah, the hero of the hour.’ Max’s cocky grin translates to,I knew Holly’s secret all along and I’ve seen your girlfriend’s tits.
It would be really unprofessional to punch him in the teeth, but I haven’t ruled it out.
‘I still think you’d make an amazing Playboy Bunny.’ Max’s beady eyes linger on Holly’s waitress outfit.
