The bright lights of Broadway always felt like home to Emma Lane. From the moment she stepped on stage, the crowd was hers. Tonight was no different—cheers echoed through the theater as she gave her final bow.
But behind her dazzling smile, Emma felt uneasy.
Backstage, she peeled off her stage makeup and changed into a hoodie and jeans. Her manager, Sarah Winters, stood by the door with a frown. A thick envelope was clutched in her hand.
Sarah: (quietly) "Another one came,"
Emma's heart sank.
Emma: "Already?"
She grab the envelope. Her hand slowly opening it.... Her eyes scanned the typed words:
"I see you. I always do. You belong to me."
A chill ran down her spine.
Emma: (softly) "That's the third one this week.."
Sarah: "And this one wasn't mailed. It was left at the front desk. Whoever it is—they're getting closer."
Emma sat down on the small couch, fingers tightening around the letter.
Emma: "This is insane. I haven't even told anyone. What if it's just a messed-up fan?"
Sarah: "Or something worse."
Emma: (frustrated) "I can't live like this, Sarah. I have shows, rehearsals, appearances—I can't hide forever."
Sarah: "That's why I already did something about it."
Emma looked up sharply.
Emma: "What?"
Sarah: "I hired someone. A professional."
Emma: "Oh, Is it a Bodyguard?"
Sarah: "Yes. Former Marine. Works private now. He's the best. Discreet. Strong. Smart. And I told him to meet us here tonight."
Emma: (in disbelief) "You just decided this without giving me a hint?"
Sarah: "I decided to keep you alive, Emma. You'll thank me later."
Before Emma could argue, the dressing room door opened. A tall man stepped in, wearing a plain black jacket, jeans, and a serious look. His presence filled the room instantly. He scanned it once and met Emma's gaze without flinching.
Max: "Max Reynolds. Miss Lane, I'll be in charge of your safety from now on."
Emma stood slowly, caught off guard by how calm—but commanding—he sounded. His deep voice held no emotion, but something about it made her pay attention.
Emma: "You don't waste time, do you?"
Max: "Time wastes people who hesitate."
Sarah stepped in quickly, sensing the tension.
Sarah: "Emma, meet Max. He's the best in his field. From now on, he's with you everywhere—events, rehearsals, even your apartment if necessary."
Emma: (half-joking) "Sounds like I just gained a very serious roommate."
Max: "Call me what you want. Just follow my instructions."
Emma: (murmuring) "Oh, this is going to be fun."
Sarah: He'll also be introduced to the public as your new boyfriend. It's the perfect cover.
Emma blinked.
Emma: What?
Sarah: "Nobody will question a boyfriend being close all the time. The press eats that stuff up. And it'll keep the stalker guessing."
Emma: (Disbelief) "So now I have a fake boyfriend and a real threat?"
Max: (flatly) "Better than a real boyfriend and a fake threat."
Emma stared at him.
Emma: (mutters) "You've got jokes."
Sarah: (firmly) "Max, walk her to the car. Emma, don't argue. This isn't just for your safety—it's for your peace of mind."
Emma grabbed her bag reluctantly and followed Max into the hallway. People glanced at them curiously, but said nothing.
Emma: (under her breath) "Can't you smile, why so serious?"
Max: "My smile will appear when my job's done!"
Emma: "Great. This should be a blast".
He said nothing.
She didn't know it yet, but the man walking beside her would soon become the most important person in her life.