The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2022

Giselle’s eyes danced with mischief as she sauntered over and sat across from the director, her voice tinged with curiosity. “I heard you have been working on ‘Ballad of Valor’ for years. I haven’t seen any new flicks from you lately. Looks like all your eggs have been in this one basket, huh?”

“That’s right,” Colton replied with a gleam in his eye. “I love the ‘Ballad of Valor’ story. I’ve been hands-on with the script. I’m telling you, this movie will be a hit.”

Colton became quite chatty when the topic turned to ‘Ballad of Valor.

After wrapping up his last film, he had hit a creative wall, unsure what genre to tackle next or how to break new ground.

Then ‘Ballad of Valor’ came along the tale of a female entrepreneur, a script that had taken years to perfect.

“But isn’t casting a rookie for such a pivotal movie a bit risky?” Giselle prodded.

Her question was met with Colton’s deep, scrutinizing gaze.

Feeling the weight of his stare, Giselle quickly put on an innocent face, waving her hands dismissively. “Oh, don’t get me wrong, Colton. I’m not saying Ms. Dunhill isn’t up to snuff. It’s just… Your choice has me puzzled, that’s all. I just wanna get where you’re coming from.”

not help but smile with satisfaction. “Ivy might be new to acting, but the moment I saw her, I knew she was the one for

Giselle’s jealousy simmered beneath the surface, unvoiced.

“She’s the ideal choice in my mind. And

Colton. You’ve got a

bit back her jealousy and resentment, offering insincere

believe that Ivy, a novice,

and was waiting for Colton to regret not casting her as the lead in ‘Ballad of Valor.’

with a smile, rising from her chair. “Wanted to catch up,

Colton replied, “Absolutely, it’d be an honor to work with a star of your caliber!”

Giselle turned and walked away, her smile vanishing the

sight.

–

a newcomer who had caught Colton’s eye and even had

underestimate