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The set was silent, Clarke’s eyes were wide, her mouth slightly opened, she raised her eyebrows questioningly.
Lexa gulped down the lump in her throat and broke eye contact with Clarke, she couldn’t dare look at her co-star. It was pretty evident that everyone heard what she said, or else why the eerie silence? Lexa was about to panic, and Lexa Woods didn’t panic. She took a deep shaky breath and exhaled softly, she kept her gaze low, she couldn’t face Clarke after her huge mistake.
“CUT!” Finally the director shouted breaking the extreme awkwardness of the moment. “Let’s take a break, shall we.” Marcus added, and the crew shut down the set lightning, and reset everything for the next take.
Lexa turned on her heel and walked away from the blonde before Clarke said anything to her. Lexa felt her heart pounding in her ears, her lips were so dry that she had to lick them to keep them moisturized.
The green-eyed actress made her way back to her dressing room and shut the door. She grabbed a water bottle from the small fridge located in the corner and sat on the couch in the back of the room. Lexa took a sip of the cold water, she felt so damn hot, like her organs were melting and she was going to die, her cheeks were red and her head was about to combust. The door opened after a couple of knocks, and Anya came inside. Lexa eyed the agent and returned her attention to the bottle of water.
Anya walked across the room silently and sat next to Lexa. She let the silence extend for a bit more, giving her actor time to acknowledge that they needed to talk.
“Wao.” The agent interjected after several minutes of total silence, Anya leaned back on the couch, and crossed her legs getting comfortable. “You’re in deep Lex.”
“I lost concentration. That’s all.” The actor was trying to grasp what she just did; it was a stupid mistake but a very obvious one if you were paying attention. The issue was that Alexis felt the same as Lexa, and when the time came to open up she did so not as Alexis but as herself. She was declaring her love not to Jane but Clarke, and she let her feelings interfere with the shooting. Now everyone knew that Lexa had a bit more than a crush for her co-star, that all the rumors were pointing at an inherent truth.
“I was weak. I lost myself in Alexis and—”
“Don’t give me that shit, Lex. I have never ever seen you act with that passion, you bore your heart in that scene and it was magnificent. You’ve always lacked that connection to your characters, at least, when you try to connect your emotions with them and you know it. This is the first time that I have witnessed an authentic performance. Well it wasn’t a performance really, it’s how you really feel, isn’t it?”
Lexa looked down, she couldn’t say.
“Yeah, I thought so. You connected at a deeper level with this character and that’s great Lexa, you reached a level of empathy with this role and look at the results. There’s nothing to be ashamed of. Don’t close off Lex, not now that you’re giving the most honest performance of your career.”
“I’m a mess. I’ve failed Costia, and now I’m ruining this film.”
“Hey Lexa, it’s not your fault that you developed a thing for Clarke. Clarke Griffin has half the country enamored with her so no one can blame you. Shit happens. You just have to keep it professional. You have never involved yourself with any co-star during a shoot, and I don’t think you’ll start doing it now. You’ll be fine Lex.” Anya took Lexa’s hands in hers. “And you didn’t fail Costia. She knows how the business is - ruthless, competitive and harsh. If she can’t understand that your life is full of complex schedules, routines and fans everywhere, then she isn’t as good as you think she is for you.”
“I know Anya, thank you for always being there when I feel so lost. I’ll do my part and finish this movie.” Lexa drank more water, and shared. “You were right, this role has let me reach deeper into my acting skills. I don’t regret it. I’m happy that I was able to do something so different, and I have learned a lot from Clarke. She is truly a gifted actor; her energy on set makes it so much easier to connect with Alexis.”
Anya rested her hand on Lexa’s shoulder briefly, and then moved to give some space to the confused girl to let her clear her mind. Anya pulled her phone out and texted Raven.
Anya: Houston, we have a problem.
ZeroGRaven: more tabloids shit?
Anya: I think Lexa has fallen in love w CG.
ZeroGRaven: no shit, I think Lexie made it very clear in that scene lol. Hey, but don’t feel bad, Clarke too. I swore it was just a crush but yesterday CG kind of confirmed that she feels more than simple attraction for Lexie.
Anya: Shit. They are in love lmao how did this happened?
ZeroGRaven: umm heart eyes + sexy times = bbys in love loool.
Anya: Kidding aside, CG has won over me, she really seems to care for Lexa, but Lex is torn between what she feels and Costia.
ZeroGRaven: hell yeah, welcome to team Clexa dumbass. Clarke will keep her distance tho, I told u she won’t make a move. It pains me to see her so sad but it is what it is.
Anya: Yeah, Lexa will fight what she feels too. We should let them sort this out themselves; I mean, they’ve been denying that attraction for months so I think they got it under control.
ZeroGRaven: yup, let’s give them time to sort their feelings. And if they want to keep it private I will fight all the fucking press, so as far as the world is concerned Clexa are friends only.
Anya: I hear ya loud and clear.
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“I’m going to murder someone, Raven! Who on earth is leaking this info?” Anya was pushing her way into the trailers’ section, shouting and threatening to sue every single person on set. “I mean, it has been only two hours since the film break! And the fucking hashtag is a trending topic.”
“Let me see.” Raven took her phone and checked. “Daaamn that son of a bitch is fast. @Eonline: #Clexa movie becomes real life. Romance on the set blossoms.”
“Oh boy look at this one. @USweekly: #Clexa is canon!” Raven shut her phone. “I’m not answering questions. I recommend you do the same. Ignore the press and let those two conclude shooting this damn film and go home.” Raven patted Anya on the back and with a smile she went to meet Clarke.
Anya sighed, Raven had a point. Better let the girls focus on their work instead of the crazy gossip surrounding the movie. If they manage to keep their distance and forget about it the press would probably do the same and focus on the next scandal.
Anya returned to the dressing room and found Lexa reviewing the script. Lexa read and read, but her body was tense. Anya took the empty chair near Lexa, and instead of focusing on the actual problem she tried to divert her attention. “I got an interesting script, I forgot to talk to you since you were in the middle of the shoot. But now that you’re about to finish I think it’s the right time to discuss this. It’s a script for an action/horror movie, ‘The Decaying Flesh’ and the production team are looking for a female lead with some action background, and after ‘Grounders’ you have more than enough credit. I think this is a good role for you after a rom-com. Will keep you on your toes.”
Lexa left the script on the table and turned to look at Anya. “A zombie movie?”
“Yes. But it’s not like those dumb wannabe horror comedies. I think that the script will show you how the stakes are higher for each member of the group of survivors. It’s dark and gritty so I say give it a shot Lexa.”
Lexa moved her head slightly, nodding once. “I guess it’s better to keep myself busy.”
“It’s a change of setting and mood. It will make you feel less stressed. This could be the next big movie of the summer if production plays their cards right. I’ll make a call and set the audition then.”
“Thank you. I’ll read the script when I get back home.”
Anya gave Lexa a thumbs up and headed out to make her calls while Lexa returned to the set and conclude the scene.
“Scene 44, take 5, ACTION!”
Lexa went again through the lines, but they were robotic, lacking the feels that the scene required. Lexa was frustrated and all the lines between her and Clarke felt forced.
“CUT! Lexa come here.” Marcus took a step away from his camera to speak with the actor.
“Yes?”
“You’re acting is stiff, where the hell is that heart you showed us earlier? I need you to give Clarke something to work with.” The man pinched his nose, trying to come up with better guidance for the actor, but there was not much he could say. Lexa was doing technically all that was requested, and yet he couldn’t capture through his lens what he saw before between the two women.
“I’ll try sir. Sorry.”
“Look, don’t give it too much thought, go with whatever you feel, and don’t worry about the result, go with the process. Let’s close the scene and move on, alright?” Marcus made his way back to the camera. “Cameras rolling, slate board please.”
“Scene 44, take 6.”
“Action!”
“Tell me.”
“Because I… I love you Jane.”
Clarke needed to take Lexa out of that wall she just built up. She needed to speak with Lexa, she heard her, and her heart melted at those words but the time was not right. At least not yet.
Clarke reached for Lexa, her fingertips tracing her fine jaw, Clarke’s lips trembled, fighting the urge of Jane and herself, to kiss her and tell her that she felt the same. “And I love you, Alexis, but—“
“You can’t.” Lexa completed her sentence. “I understand.” Lexa smiled briefly and walked away.
“CUT! Great. It’s pretty late so we’ll resume tomorrow. Thank you everyone,” said Marcus.
The crew started to disperse, and Lexa went back to her trailer. She needed sleep and bury herself in shame after delaying the schedule due to that disastrous scene.
The brunette removed her jacket and hung it on the perch beside the door, she sat and removed her boots, she headed to the shower to remove the make-up covering her tats and wash her body. Once she cleansed her body she wrapped a towel under her armpits, covering her naked body and stepped out of the shower to change, when someone knocked on the door. Lexa sighed, wondering why Anya was insisting on rubbing in her face how awesome her feelings were for her acting blah blah blah. Lexa opened the door and met blue eyes instead of brown.
“Hi.” The blonde greeted, her pupils blown at the sight of the semi-naked woman.
“Hi.” Lexa was standing in front of the door, caught by surprise, still in a towel.
“Uh, I’ll come back later.” Clarke offered a playful smile, trying to ease the woman who sported a stoic face.
“No no, um, give me 5 minutes. Come in.” Lexa took a step back to allow access to her fellow actor. Lexa offered a chair to Clarke, and she strolled to her bedroom to put on some clothes. She dried her body and opened her drawers; she found a grey top and red boxer shorts. She combed her hair and finally went out to meet Clarke.
“Hey.” Clarke took a glance at the tattoo on Lexa’s right arm. She had seen some of the tats that Lexa sported in gossip magazines and on TV for red carpet coverage, but Clarke had never paid attention to them, until now. The convoluted patterns were beautiful. In their sex scene Clarke would have loved to trace each tat on Lexa’s body. Too bad they were all covered with makeup to match her skin.
“Hey.” Lexa took the seat in front of Clarke, bringing the woman’s attention back to her.
The silence extended for a couple of minutes.
“I think that—“
“I’m sorry about—“
Both said in unison. Clarke’s cheeks turned slightly pink, and Lexa avoided eye contact. Which was completely ridiculous, both were grown women who were acting like teens.
“You first.” Clarke nudged softly the brunette, expecting her response.
“I’m sorry about earlier. I shouldn’t have said what I said.”
“But you did.” Clarke measured her next question carefully, this could be a game changer, or not. “Did you mean it?”
The actor waited one, two, three heartbeats before giving a straight answer. “Yes.”
Clarke exhaled slowly, she held her lower lip between her teeth, her heart was racing and she had to keep it together. “I think that I love you too. So you’re not alone in this. Um, that’s all I came to say Lexa. Good night.” Clarke rose from her chair and turned around.
Lexa followed, “wait!” Lexa grasped Clarke’s arm and pulled the blonde with enough force to make her turn, staring into her eyes she did what she wanted to do for some time and kissed her. Soft lips met hers, it wasn’t wild and desperate like Alexis and Jane’s, Clarke and Lexa’s kiss was tender like a summer breeze, soft like silk, smooth like a baby’s skin. Lexa moved one hand to Clarke’s waist while the other cupped her cheek with care. Clarke held onto Lexa’s elbow for balance while the other gripped her back. A kiss worth all the awards, a kiss that was real and pure between two friends who weren’t really friends at all. And just how it began, the kiss ended.
Lexa was the first to pull away, she took a step back, and her eyes were so sad and heartbroken. Clarke knew what she was going to say, this couldn’t be. Not yet.
“Costia.” Clarke remembered.
“I wish that.” Lexa bit her tongue, better not to feed hope. “I’m sorry Clarke.”
Clarke curved her lips forcefully, her blue eyes watered the slightest but she wasn’t going to cry, that would be dumb when she needed to be strong for her and for Lexa. Better end things right now before they were too messy, too complex to break up later. “Good night Lexa.” The actor bid farewell to her colleague and left her in her trailer.
“Good night Clarke.”
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The blonde took her phone out and made a call to her manager. “I need Grey Goose, bring it to my trailer.” She shoved the phone inside her back pocket and went inside her trailer.
Clarke was sitting on her bed beside Princess. Raven made sure to refill her glass every time the blonde downed the hard liquor. She was clearly a mess, tears spilled in her face, sobbing uncontrollably while Raven was there to offer her unconditional support.
“It’s not fair Ray, why does Jane deserves a happy ending and not me!?” Clarke sniffed before taking a gulp of the vodka. “I really like her.”
“Yeah I know, you have liked Lexa since you saw that violent movie of hers. Who could’ve imagined that you were really going to fall for her in the only movie you have done together? That’s some weird destiny kind of shit right there, Clarkey.” Raven took a bite of her slice of pizza before taking a sip of the booze in her hand.
“I admired the actor, but the woman Ray, Lexa is amazing. She’s so smart and a big softie, she sucks at dancing, and is a complete noob tweeting and uploading pics on Instagram. And I love her.” Clarke cried.
“Aaaawww c’mon Clarke don’t cry like that, your eyes will get puffy tomorrow, and Jane can’t look like that on her wedding day.” Raven sat on the bed and pulled Clarke to her side, the sad blonde hid her face on the crook of Raven’s neck. Raven rocked her friend softly and Princess joined, licking Clarke’s arms.
Clarke cried all night until she fell asleep in Raven’s arms. The dark-haired manager sighed, wishing she could do more than just be here for her friend. Clarke was a professional, no doubt that she was going to finish this movie and do the promo of the movie in the next following months beside Lexa. Clarke was strong, but when this dummy falls in love, Raven knows that the shit is serious, Clarke falls hard and deep, which is why she has been careful to give her heart to anyone. However, Lexa Woods came into the picture and Clarke was toast, that stupid teen crush was still alive in her heart.
Raven arranged Clarke in bed and left her to sleep her drunkenness away. Tomorrow the movie was completing its shooting schedule and distance was what Clarke needs right now.
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Finn entered the bride’s room, he was wearing a tuxedo that fit him nicely, his hair was tamed in a ponytail and he knocked to call the bride’s attention.
Clarke was looking at her reflection, the white dress accentuated her curves and the cleavage revealed enough, the strapless top showed shoulders and a back filled with freckles. Below the hips the dressed puffed slightly giving room to Clarke’s legs. The ivory color mixed with golds gave the dress a princessy aspect.
“You look gorgeous.” The man who was her best friend walked behind her and rested his hand over her bare shoulders.
“Of course, you designed and made the dress.”
Finn smiled. “I’m sorry Jane, I should’ve told you when my feelings changed for you. I didn’t want to stop being friends with you though. I didn’t want to ruin it and yet, I did.”
Clarke looked through the mirror at her longtime friend. “Thanks for being here Tom.”
“Jane. You don’t have to do this.” Tom pleaded. “And I’m not asking for me, I know that you and I are pals forever. It’s Alexis… she’s a dumbass, the most creative and fun moron a friend could ask for. She helped me with my stupid plan to stop the wedding, and she ended falling for you.”
Clarke gulped down, clenched her jaw fighting the tears that threaten to fall. “I never meant for this to happen Tom, but I can’t do this to Ben. He’s so loving and a wonderful man who makes me happy. I just met Alexis 7 days ago. I can’t throw away my boyfriend of years for someone I just met.” The desperation in her voice was clear, the uncertainty of a future with a man she cared about but didn’t love just minutes away to be a reality.
Finn cupped Clarke’s chin tilting it up to look at her. “Jane, I’ve known you since we were kids. You’ve been the happiest version of you with Alexis. I get that you might be scared, but I also know Alexis, she cares for you.”
“Yeah, she’s not even here Tom. She left me!” Clarke wiped with a tissue the corner of her eyes and took a deep breath; it was time to walk the aisle.
“Believe in her Jane, I know you’re upset but trust your heart, listen to it. And I bet when you do you will find the answers that you’re seeking. Believe in what you two had.” Tom smiled sadly and leaned in to rest a soft kiss on her cheek. He winked at her and walked out of the room, leaving the bride to her own thoughts.
______________
Sitting on top of the hood of her car, Alexis smoked a cigarette wondering if she should even be there. Jane was marrying Benjamin Black, a dude with money and influence. A perfect match for Jane. A man that was nice but who couldn’t distinguish when Jane was sad, or when she was hungry. Ben could love Jane, but he never paid attention to her wants, to her laughter, the way her eyes glowed with excitement. How Jane pouted when she was being cheeky. In only seven days Alexis had learn to know and love Jane.
Lexa took a slow drag from the cigarette. Her thoughts going at 100 mph. Then she inhaled the smoke into her lungs, the burning sensation in her lungs spreading through her throat and later, blew the smoke through her mouth and nose. The woman whom Alexis loved was probably walking down the aisle right at this instant. Lexa closed her eyes, she couldn’t face that she was going to lose the woman who made her smile, who made her feel blissful again. Jane was everything to her and here she was, surrendering.
“Fuck this! I can’t let you go!” The woman threw the butt on the soil and with her boot she stubbed out the cigarette. She turned on the engine of her car and drove to where the wedding was taking place.
Alexis was not heading to stop a wedding, she was going to steal the bride.
Lexa reached the house and jumped out of the car, people at the entrance were looking at her weirdly since she was wearing black jeans and a hoodie, not at all like the attire required to attend the celebration. Evading security, she ran to the backyard as fast as her legs allowed, the violins playing music in the background while the marriage officiant was talking about how all of them were gathered to celebrate love and friendship and two young people who were ready to live their lives together as husband and wife. Alexis kept moving through the decorated patio until she was closer to the ceremony area. People sitting in lines on each side of the aisle, white flowers thrown on the lawn after the flower girls dropped them.
Clarke was standing to the right of Bellamy, both holding hands while facing the officiant, backs facing the guests; Clarke sported a small smile, not looking at the groom.
The officiant kept speaking about the importance of marriage, of how it represented the union of two hearts. Where they could live in joy, and talk freely, confiding in each other, to laugh with each other and share wonderful moments of quiet and peace.
Lexa ran up the aisle until she stood just a couple of steps from the bride and groom. “JANE!” Lexa screamed, gasping for breath.
“Alexis?” Clarke turned around, her face blank in surprise.
All the guests turned to look at the girl in the middle of the aisle with uncertainty, shock and curiosity.
“It might have been 7 days since we met, but I feel that I‘ve known you since forever. I cannot betray the one I love, because it’s you Jane. You hold my heart.” Lexa offered her hand to Clarke, waiting for the blonde to make a decision. The immediate murmurs of people who wondered what was going on began flooding the silence.
Clarke looked at Bellamy, who was frowning not getting what truly was happening, then at her parents, then at Tom who was grinning. Clarke faced Bellamy again. “I’m sorry Ben. You deserve someone who loves you with all their heart and soul. I’m not the one for you.” And she ran to Lexa and took the offered hand
Alexis didn’t waste time and ran away with the bride. The two women laughing and smiling to one another, celebrating their love and the hope of a wonderful future together.
“CUUUUUUUT!” Marcus shouted. “It’s a wrap people!” The crew started to clap and cheer. ‘Steal the Bride’ had been completed, and now the crew could focus on editing and post production while the actors promoted the movie.
Everybody said their goodbyes later that day, Anya had Lexa’s luggage ready and their private flight to L.A. was awaiting for them. Lexa wanted to get as far away from DC and Clarke as she could, even though she was clear there was a going to be lots of interviews and promotion in the next months. But she had to distance herself from the actor right now.
“It was awesome hanging out with you Anya.” Raven hugged the taller woman, before offering her hand to Lexa.
“Yes, you take care Raven and stay in touch.” Anya winked and headed to pick up their luggage to head back home.
“Nice meeting you, Raven.” Lexa stated, shaking the hand offered in return.
“Have a safe flight you two.” Raven waved goodbye and took a step back to let Clarke say her farewells.
“Hey.” Clarke approached shyly.
“Hey.” Lexa put her hands inside the pockets of her slacks, or else she was afraid she was going to try to touch her.
“It was a dream come true working with you. You’re amazing Lexa.”
“You too Clarke. You bring out the best of everyone. You’ll get the recognition you deserve soon.” The brunette smiled, then she eyed Anya who nodded as a signal that it was time and took the bags to the car. “May we meet again, Clarke.” Lexa turned around and strolled to her transport back to the airport.
“Don’t forget to keep posting pics!” Clarke shouted before Lexa entered her car.
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The travel back home had been awful. Lexa had never felt this empty in her life. Not seeing Clarke everyday was going to be the hardest thing she had ever gone through.
The only thing she could do was creep on Clarke’s Instagram account.
“You were happy with Clarke. Look at those pics. Since when have you smile like that?” Anya peeked at Lexa’s phone.
“Clarke is very special. A really good friend.”
“Oh, you’re still keeping that statement then?”
“Yes. We’re friends Anya. Nothing will change that.”
Anya took out her device and read the list of things pending in Lexa’s agenda. “Okay. Just FYI you have an interview next week on Good Morning America and then Late Night. You have the ‘Betrayal’ premiere to attend in Tokyo as well. After that, you come back to L.A. to do a TV special to commemorate the 10 year anniversary of ‘Grounders’, and we need to be on top of that audition for that zombie movie too.”
Lexa nodded, lacking enthusiasm or excitement.
Anya reached for Lexa. “You don’t have to let her go you know?”
“I can’t do that Anya, I owe an explanation to Costia first. I promised her that I was going to do better for us, and I have to show my face and tell her what happened after all the media frenzy and pictures, it’s only fair.”
Anya sighed. Lexa was a woman of her word. “Okay, but if things don’t work out don’t blame yourself. Costia might not forgive you, and she’ll hate you forever, it doesn’t matter that you still care for Costia as a friend. Clarke Griffin on the other hand…”
“Anya, no more.”
Anya smiled and nodded. “Fine. Just call me if you need anything.”
As soon as she arrived at her apartment Lexa dropped her bags on the floor and keys on the table and took a look around. If it wasn’t for Anya who made sure this place remained pristine and immaculate as she liked it, this apartment would be chaotic mess full of dust. Lexa started living in this place after she moved from New York to focus on her career. The place was pretty modest compared to other celebrities’ homes. This one had a spacious kitchen, a guest bedroom plus the main bedroom, a living room with a 42’’ flat screen and a leather couch. The condo also had a pool, but Lexa never had the time to enjoy it.
She went to her bedroom and thought that it had been a while since she shared this bed with anyone, even with Costia. Costia had been a great friend and supporter when they first met at a filming location last year. She was her makeup artist, and Costia was very talented and passionate about her work. Paying the utmost care to every color and shade she applied. After talking and getting to know each other, they went out on a date and things moved on from there. However, Lexa was so busy, her schedule was filled with work, and it was hard to spend quality time with her. More films and interviews got in the way, and the time they spent together was minimal. Lexa had assured Costia that she was going to do better for their relationship, she did try to an extent, however, it was simply impossible. Lexa loved Costia, she did. There is no question about it. Her feelings for the makeup artist had been as genuine as they could be. Buuuuut, they grew apart and then a blonde came by and stole her heart.
Lexa felt so sad about it, she wished that things between them had been better.
Lexa removed her clothes and shoes and changed into something more comfortable. She missed being in her old t-shirts and shorts. She took a selfie and posted it on Instagram.
“Home sweet home. Posting like @PrincessGriffin told me.” Lexa smiled at the thought that Clarke was going to notice that she was following her advice to post simple things for her fans. Next, she took her phone and made the call she knew she had to make. She pressed the contact name and waited. “I’m home. Yes, I know. We need to talk. Sure, tomorrow works for me. See you then Costia.” She closed her eyes after concluding the call and tried to ease the tension she felt on her back and neck. Her phone bleeped with a notification and when she slid her finger on the screen she saw the post.
“Proud of @LexaWoods already missing you.” Lexa smiled at the picture of Clarke and Princess. That was something that she wished she could have right now. “I miss you too.” She expressed.
The actor got comfy in her bed and closed her eyes hoping that tomorrow was a brighter day.
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Lexa was waiting for Costia while she watched a movie. It’s been months since they saw each other, and Lexa knew that the distance killed the relationship. And now there was another situation, she had fallen in love with her co-star Clarke Griffin during the filming of their movie, and the media made things worse for them.
The doorbell rang sometime later. “One second,” Lexa turned off the TV and took a deep breath before opening the door.
“Hello Lexa.” Costia greeted with some formality.
“Hi.” Lexa took a step aside to let her through; she shut the door and walked her to the living room. After both were seated comfortably Lexa spoke to the other girl. “I know that there’s been a lot of things going on lately, Costia. Our relationship has been strained since the beginning.” Lexa continued, “I understand that you’re angry and hurt, I told you that things would be better between us but so far it’s the same. I have a tight schedule, and I haven’t put in effort to salvage what we had and for that I’m truly sorry.”
“You think that I don’t understand? Lexa, I’m a makeup artist, I know how Hollywood works. I get that you have an incredible career to take care of and all that implies staying at the top.”
“Then why wouldn’t you talk to me? I tried to keep in touch and you shut me down.”
“Because you changed Lexa.” Costia said, then she kept going. “I read the news, I saw the pictures, you were so blissful in them. You started to open up more with the fans since you began to hang out with Clarke Griffin. You have never been the social type and to my surprise you were in nightclubs having fun with the crew?” Costia exhaled softly as if she was holding her breath for a long time. “This Lexa was not the one I knew, you met this girl and you became someone else. Someone I could never have helped to be like that.”
“Costia it wasn’t like that, the press painted a story that was non-existent. I became friends with Clarke. Clarke taught me that I could enjoy myself, that it was okay to feel things and be vocal about it and I’m grateful for that. And while I learned all of that we drifted apart.” Lexa tried to be as gentle as she could, she hated doing this, and Costia had been there for her on so many occasions, an invaluable friend when she needed it.
Costia remained quiet, looking at Lexa’s eyes and try to find deception, anything at all. But Costia knew that Lexa was honest, an open book. She had always have been like that, one reason why she fell in love with her.
“Did something happen between you two?” the girl asked with apprehension. Lexa wanted to reach for her but refrain, she didn’t want to make things worse. “Not what the media has been feeding you for sure, we aren’t gal pals or whatever they call us. But…” Lexa hesitated, unsure if being direct was the best course of action or if she keep certain details out of the conversation. “I, I fell in love with her,” was the answer of the brunette.
Costia lowered her head looking at her hands resting on her lap and took a deep breath, releasing it slowly. “You’re an idiot Lexa.”
“Costia, I didn’t pursue my feelings for Clarke. Neither did she, we respected our workplace and you. You know me, I could never do that to you or anyone else!”
“And that supposed to make me feel better?” Costia stood up abruptly from the couch and walked for the exit.
“Costia, please don’t go like this.” Lexa begged.
“What do you care Lex? We’re done!”
“I loved you Costia, not like you deserved but I did. I wished I had been more open with you; maybe things could have been different for us. I failed you as your girlfriend and I’m sorry, but I don’t want to lose my friend either.”
Costia laughed sarcastically. “Jesus Lex, don’t be so greedy. I don’t think I can be friends with you, at least for now. Maybe one day.”
Lexa escorted the woman to the exit door, there was nothing else to say, they were over and Lexa felt truly bad about it but she couldn’t lie to her. Not when she valued what she had with Costia. “I do hope so Costia. I’m going to miss friend.” Lexa embraced her before letting her go. “Good luck Costia.”
“Yeah, bye Lex.”
Lexa went to the kitchen and opened her fridge, sadly it was pretty empty, Lexa was going to need Anya to have it restocked soon, this was the right time to drink a beer or something that could help ease her inner turmoil. She just broke the heart of someone whom she cared about, and she wanted to tell Clarke that she was free, as if Costia had been a burden all this time and that made her feel shitty as hell. Lexa was in need of a distraction to occupy her busy mind so she took her phone out of her pocket and called Anya.
They spoke for several hours, discussing her schedule for the next week. She had so many interviews, and there were a lot of places to go, premieres to attend. It was going to be madness.
Many responsibilities and little time, but Lexa had to find a way to make things work and maybe find her way to Clarke again. Both were at the peak of their careers, work was overflowing for both actors. After they were done filming ‘Steal the Bride’ each one continued with their respective projects. How was Lexa was going to do that, when she was so broke inside. She couldn't do the same thing to Clarke. Start something that none of them could control, to have a relationship as intense as a flame, only to then spiral down when the fast flame burned out completely, and left them angry and blaming each other for the failure.
Time was the friend that Lexa needed right now. If Clarke Griffin was meant for her, she would find her again. Simple as that. Lexa wasn’t going to call her or reach for her, she was going to focus on her work and nurture these feelings. She was going to make sure that this was real and not because of a movie, the media or the fans. And if their mutual feelings remained after being apart, for sure they could stand the intensity of their line of work and make this work.
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Lexa was sitting in the makeup chair. She had an interview this morning that she wasn’t very excited to attend since she was so drained from work, but obligations were obligations. And Anya had insisted that this interview was extremely important, life or death levels of important, but Lexa couldn’t see the reason though. It’s been two intense months of traveling around the world and having photoshoots and interviews. At least Anya had made sure to keep her days busy to avoid letting her think too much of certain blonde actor that would otherwise consume her thoughts. Lexa had been in touch with Clarke through some social media interaction, they were friendly to one another, never insinuating anything beyond friendship, so the media was back to square one. They were simply buddies who respected and cared for each other.
Lexa had rekindled her friendship with Costia who happened to be working on the zombie movie as makeup artist. They were still a bit distant in their interactions compared to what they shared months ago, but they were starting to be more comfortable and friendlier with one another.
She closed her eyes and let the sound coming through the earbuds fill her mind. The hairstylist and makeup team worked on her for several minutes. Lexa posted a tweet on her account before going to stage.
“@LexaWoods: Rdy to be interviewed by the amazing @MonroeDaily.”
The audience welcomed her with applause, and Lexa took her seat in front of the host, Monroe.
“Thank you for coming to our show Lexa.” Monroe greeted with a smile and a kiss on the cheek.
“Thanks for having me Monroe.” Lexa took the sofa beside the host desk and crossed her legs waiting for the interview to begin.
“So as promised to our audience we have a teaser of your latest movie ‘Steal the Bride’ with none other than Clarke Griffin. Before commenting about it, let’s check it out.”
The studio lights were dimmed and the teaser began.
A bride to be and her best friend. The gravely voice narrated.
The best friend in love with the bride to be.
And the friend of the best friend join forces to stop the wedding.
What could go wrong when the friend of the best friend also falls in love with the bride?
There were some cheers of the audience when some sexy scenes between Clarke and Lexa were shown.
Steal the Bride. Coming soon.
The audience cheered after the teaser was over, applauding with enthusiasm and lots of energy.
“Wao, that trailer was incredible! You two look amazing. Tell me Lexa, how was working with Clarke?” Monroe asked.
“Clarke is the most talented girl I have worked with. A real pleasure to share this project with her and all the amazing cast.” Lexa offered with honesty.
Monroe nodded, and shot the question that couldn’t be avoided. “The teaser we just watch showed a bit of the chemistry that the media raved about which is very palpable, so congrats on doing a great work. There were rumors that you two were dating during the shooting of the movie. True or false?”
Lexa chuckled. “False, we weren’t dating. We had a connection, and we used that to portray our characters. I became close to her…” Lexa felt a lump in her throat, how hard it was to speak about Clarke when her feelings were as fresh as an open wound. “She was my…”
“Your gal pal.”
Lexa raised her sight looking around the studio. That voice, she could recognize that voice anywhere in the world.
“Hey Lexa.” The blonde smiled walking into the studio and waving at the audience who was applauding.
“Ladies and gents welcome our next guest, ‘America's sweetheart’ Clarke Griffin.” Monroe greeted Clarke with a hug and offered her the chair next to Lexa.
Lexa had her mouth slightly opened, her eyes were wide with the surprise of seeing the blonde after all of days and nights she drowned in her memories of her.
“So gal pals, could you elaborate Clarke?” Monroe asked Clarke.
“Not exactly, at least until it’s official.” Clarke smiled and winked at Lexa who was completely mute. The crowd cheered at that.
“I’m really happy to hear that, you two are seriously talented, and we can only hope the best for you two, ‘Steal the Bride’ seems like a fun movie but some have called it pioneer.”
“It is a fun movie that you can watch with your friends and enjoy it, there is no hidden message or we’re not trying to make a statement, it is simply a love story like any other romantic comedy. That the one who falls in love with the bride is also a girl? I say why not? We really hope to see you admiring this for what it is, a love story.” Clarke answered in depth.
“Now Clarke, you have a new Sci-Fi project called ‘Dropship 319’ which sounds fascinating and you Lexa, according to my notes, you already begun shooting a horror and action flick called ‘The Decaying Flesh’ with co-star Lincoln Abrams, please share with us a bit about those projects.”
The interview returned to its normal course, and once they were done the two actors headed backstage.
BARK BARK
“Princess!” Lexa kneeled in front of the dog who ran to meet her jumping in her lap and standing in two paws to lick her face.
“Yeah, she missed you.” Clarke came after her dog. “Hey! Leave Lexa, will ya? I want some too.” Clarke called Princess, and the dog returned to her side. The blonde kept moving until she was a foot away from the brunette.
“Clarke. I had no idea…”
“Yeah, your agent is pretty sneaky isn’t she?” Clarke winked at Anya who was behind some wardrobe with Raven discussing management stuff probably.
“Outstanding. She knew about this?” Lexa was indignant, and Clarke couldn’t help but laugh at the brunette. “Chill Commander, it’s not that I didn’t want to see you. I actually have thought about you. The time we were apart just served to amplify what I felt for you. I still like you Lexa. I really really like you. I’m ready for taking the next step. I need to know if you’re ready.
Lexa locked her eyes with Clarke, seeing the blue of her eyes was like being home, Lexa knew she wanted to see herself reflected in those eyes forever. “I’m ready.”
“Good. So um, are you going to be officially my gal pal, yes or no?”
Lexa thought for a second before smiling like only Clarke made her smile. “Yes I’d love to.”
“Come here.” Clarke pulled Lexa into a kiss, and it was just as she remembered, soft and sweet and so damn hot. “Now for the record.” Clarke planted a kiss on Lexa’s cheek.
CLICK!
“Clarke what the…”
“Now it’s official.” Clarke posted the pic on her Instagram account and wrote, “it’s true, @LexaWoods is my bae, gal pal, gf. Deal w it.”
“Clarke are we really letting everyone know?” Lexa laced her fingers with Clarke’s while they walked side by side with Princess behind.
“Press predicted it months ago, guess the least we could do was make it official. Now if you don’t mind Lexie, could you take me out of here?” Clarke suggested.
“Woah, Clarke you still have another inter—“ Lexa smiled and ran away with Clarke, Princess barking behind them to the exit, “—view.” Raven concluded shocked that her actor had been taken away.
“Well, she stole her from under your nose.” Anya came to meet Raven. “Wanna grab a coffee? I think we have time.”
“Yeah, sure, why not.”