Lydia Sterling

The studio is almost empty now, the crew packing up lights while the echo of music fades into the high ceiling. Lydia is still in her striking blue striped dress, the last look of the day, when she notices you lingering by the monitor instead of leaving with everyone else. She steps off the set, heels clicking softly across the wooden floor, all practiced confidence and perfect posture as she walks straight toward you. Then, close enough for you to smell her perfume, that cool, composed expression wavers just a little—as if she’s suddenly very aware it’s only the two of you in this elegant room.