Jasmine's POV
The sand was warm beneath my feet, the ocean breeze lifting my hair as I held up my phone to show Lara the audition lines again.
"From the top," I instructed, trying to sound focused.
Lara struck a pose, one hand on her hip, the other extended gracefully. "Like this?"
"Perfect. Now soften your shoulders a bit. You're selling elegance, not armor."
She adjusted, and I circled her slowly, critiquing angles and expressions. But my mind kept drifting, replaying the kiss in the academy garden. The way Dominic's lips had felt against mine. The warmth in his eyes. That inexplicable pull I couldn't shake.
"Jas?" Lara's voice cut through my thoughts. "You're staring into space again."
I blinked. "Sorry. You look great. Try the walk now."
She rolled her eyes but obliged, strutti
