Unscripted After

Chapter 15

The next morning, Talia wasn’t sure what to expect when she stepped into the breakfast nook. Cassian was nowhere to be found, but Mia was already seated, scrolling through her phone, a cappuccino in hand.

Talia hesitated, unsure, until Mia looked up with a wide smile.

"Good morning, gorgeous. You sleep okay?"

Talia relaxed, smiling. "Yeah, surprisingly. You?"

"I never sleep well in this house," Mia teased. "But today’s going to be fun. I hope you're free—I’m kidnapping you for the day."

Talia blinked. "Kidnapping?"

"Shopping. For the next gala. You’re coming with me."

The car ride to the shopping district was light and full of laughter. Mia was vibrant, witty, and easy to be around. She asked questions about Talia’s interests, her childhood, and even teased her about Cassian’s grumpy morning face.

They arrived at an upscale boutique district in the heart of the city. Stores with names like Véla Couture and Maison Ruisseau lined the street.

Inside Maison Ruisseau, a tall, sharp-faced attendant barely glanced at Talia. "That rack’s more... appropriate for your price range," she said, pointing to a corner.

Talia’s cheeks flamed. Was it really that obvious I wasn’t a regular here?

Before she could respond, Mia’s voice cut through the air. "Do you know who she is? That’s Cassian Locke’s fiancée. Do you really want to lose your job over being snobby to the wrong person?"

The attendant paled, bowing slightly. "I—I apologize. Please, this way, ma’am."

Talia watched the woman scurry off and blinked. "You didn’t have to do that."

"Oh, honey, I wanted to," Mia said with a wink. "Let them know who you are. You deserve respect."

In Jardin Noire, Mia pulled her toward a collection of deep emerald and satin gold gowns. One had a slit that screamed trouble. Another had a plunging neckline and delicate crystal embroidery.

"Try this one," Mia said, handing her the emerald gown. "It’ll make Cassian combust."

Talia laughed. "I’m not trying to kill the man."

"Just torture him a little. It’s fun."

They giggled like high school girls. It felt normal. Comfortable. Safe.

After several bags and hours of shopping, they collapsed into a velvet booth at a nearby rooftop café. The view of the city glistened beneath them.

"You really like him, don’t you?" Mia asked suddenly.

Talia paused, stirring her iced tea. "I do. More than I thought I would."

"He’s... complicated," Mia said. "But I’ve never seen him try for anyone. Not like this. Not since… ever."

Talia looked at her. "Do you think I’m good for him?"

Mia reached over, squeezing her hand. "I think you’re exactly what he needs. And he knows it, even if he hasn’t said it yet."

The warmth that bloomed in Talia’s chest stayed with her long after they returned to the penthouse.

Arms filled with shopping bags. Hearts a little fuller.