Third Person's POV
"Go ahead!" Jessica laughed, covering her mouth.
"You and Catherine are friends?" Harley noticed her role as Catherine's bridesmaid and guessed they were close.
"Yes, we're bestie!" Jessica's tone turned affectionate when mentioning Catherine.
"I see..." Harley paused, then asked, "You were about to say something too, right?"
Jessica nodded. "I heard Nebula Entertainment is courting you. Planning to switch companies?"
"Sent by Leo or your own curiosity?" Harley smiled faintly.
"Pure curiosity!" she explained hastily.
"Can I pass? I haven't decided yet." Harley shrugged politely but kept his distance.
Jessica grew awkward. "Sorry for the intrusion!"
"No apologies needed." Harley's gentle smile eased the tension. The atmosphere turned stiff again.
"Let's not fuel any ship when we meet the press, shall we?" Harley broke the silence.
Jessica's eyes lit up. "Lucky guess! I was thinking the same! Afraid your girlfriend gets jealous?"
Harley gave a wry smile. "More like preserving my reputation. How's that for a reason?"
"Works for me! Though I'm dodging someone's jealousy," Jessica winked playfully, blushing at the thought of Cedrick.
Despite their unpublicized relationship, Cedrick had discreetly managed previous gossip.
"Just being able to date openly is such a bliss," Harley's tone carried a hint of envy.
"Do you have a girlfriend? The media's never linked you to anyone!" Jessica whispered, her curiosity piqued.
A flicker of discomfort crossed Harley's eyes before he shook his head. "Single."
"Really? My girl squad will go wild! Need me to set you up?" Jessica nearly jumped in excitement.
"Could you arrange a dinner with Catherine?" Harley swiftly changed the subject, his Adam's apple betraying his nerves.
"Anytime! I can call her tonight!" Jessica boasted confidently.
"How about dinner tonight? My treat," Harley's gaze was earnest.
"Uh? Sure... Let me check with her," Jessica realized the conversation had veered unexpectedly.
She called Catherine immediately.
Catherine was at the office, smiling as she answered, "Jess, what's up?"
"Free for dinner tonight?"
"Let me see... I'm good! Shall I book the restaurant?" Work had slowed down, and Catherine was eager to unwind.
"No, no! I'll handle it, and I'm bringing a friend."
"Cedrick?"
"Nope, my new drama partner, Harley!"
"Oh?" Catherine paused, recalling the awkward encounter at the charity gala's restroom.
"Yep! It's an art house film with a top director—can't pass up such a role!" Jessica explained.
"See you tonight then," Catherine agreed after a moment—perhaps it was time to talk things through with Harley. Even without a stance, she couldn't ignore his well-being.
Hearing Catherine's agreement, a rare gleam of anticipation lit Harley's usually indifferent face.
Jessica, oblivious to his shift, glanced down at the script. "This role's got some tough scenes—I'm terrified I'll mess up!"
"I've seen your work; you're perfect for it," Harley reassured her.
"But opposite you? Acting with you's a huge pressure!" she said.
"Let's do our best. Once we commit to the script, we owe it to the team," Harley grew serious when discussing work.
Jessica, inspired by his dedication, nodded vigorously. "Right! Can't let everyone down!"
The assistant then signaled the press meet-and-greet was about to start. Harley adjusted his suit collar and said to Jessica, "Time to step out."
A handsome man and a beautiful woman always draw the eye.
When such a high-wattage duo appears, it's easy to sense a strong romantic vibe.
Harley had a signature habit—he always wore a perfectly tailored suit to any event.
This meticulous style complemented his steady and mature aura to perfection.
Today, he donned a deep-blue suit with a simple white shirt underneath, no extra embellishments, which highlighted his elite charm.
Jessica wore an elegant little dress, her hair casually swept up in a loose style that blended playful youthfulness with a hint of languid sophistication.
Below, media photographers held cameras, keep shooting them.
In the first half, they talked at length about the film's content. However, during the Q&A session, a reporter suddenly posed a sharp question, "Are the two of you considering dating for real? Fans think you're such a perfect match—how about a handshake on stage to fulfill everyone's wish?"
Jessica and Harley exchanged glances, both sensing impending trouble.
"Do it! Do it!"
"Want to see some couple interaction!"
The crowd's chants rose and fell.
Harley took the microphone and quipped, "Sorry to disappoint everyone, but I've always respected Jessica—we're just friends."
Jessica breathed a quiet sigh of relief.
She'd never been good at such occasions, and Harley's deflection was a godsend.
"Do you have a girlfriend, Harley? Can you spill who she is?"
"Rumour has it you've had a crush on a girl for years. Who is she?"
Jessica froze, turning to Harley—did he harbor a long-hidden crush? Who could it be?