Episode 643: Starlight

"I’m sorry," she said.

"What for?"

Adria twisted her mouth at him. "You know what for. New Year’s is the anniversary of when we met. This is our night. I swear I really do want to spend tonight focused solely on you and me. I just need a couple more minutes then I’ll be all yours, okay?"

"No problem." Ryley genuinely looked as though he’d meant it.

Adria smiled.

He smiled back.

She returned to her pacing and rehearsing for her audition. After a little while, Adria noticed Ryley still watched her. She also noticed her reflection in their living room’s mirror-like wall art.

Adria noticed how pale she appeared, how sweaty, and how her script shook in her hand. She turned to Ryley again. "I’m sorry."

This time his mouth screwed up. "You already said that and I told you there was no reason to feel sorry."

"Yeah, there is. I mean, look at me; I must have you concerned. I’m kind of concerned now that I look at me."

Ryley stood and wrapped his arms around her. He dropped a kiss on her forehead.

It was a comfort, but still. "I’m freaking out," Adria admitted. "This is just as bad as business school. Maybe I’m just as bad-"

"This is different," Ryley insisted. "This audition is something you’re passionate about, the only person you’re looking to please is yourself."

"So you think it’s good that I’m freaking out?"

"It’s a thousand times better than seeing you beat yourself up for nothing. I’d much rather ring in the New Year with you freaking out for the best reason."

Episode 644: Catch My Breath