The suite buzzed with quiet energy. Soft chatter floated through the air as stylists moved gracefully around Tatiana, each focused on their task. A makeup artist dabbed a brush against her cheek, blending foundation with practiced ease, while a hairstylist adjusted the loose waves cascading down her back.
Tatiana sat poised in the velvet chair, eyes half-closed, feeling the calm hum of preparation settle around her like a second skin.
"Almost done with the eyes," said Lila, her lead makeup artist, her voice steady and reassuring. "Just a little more shadow to deepen the crease."
Tatiana nodded, barely needing to look. This routine was familiar—like a well-rehearsed dance she'd performed a thousand times.
Her manager, Viktor, stood nearby, scrolling through his phone with a furrowed brow. Every now and then, his eyes flicked up to her, a mixture of pride and admiration.
"You'll own that red carpet," he said quietly, stepping closer. "The press will eat it up."
Tatiana smiled, but it was thin. "Let's hope they focus on the film, not the dress."
Viktor's grin was sharp. "You're the whole package. They won't be able to help themselves."
A stylist handed her the midnight-blue gown on a padded hanger. The fabric shimmered softly under the chandelier light. Tatiana took it, fingers lingering on the silk. "Ready when you are."
As the hairstylist swept a final curl behind her ear, Tatiana's mind drifted for a moment—past the flashes of cameras, the scripted interviews, the applause. To a quieter place, where the spotlight didn't reach.
"BABE! You look stunning!" Tatiana's thoughts was interrupted by a high pitched voice. She turned around to see a tall blonde bubbly looking girl strolling towards her, it was Jessica, her best friend. "Jess, it's so good to see you, I didn't think you could make it" Tatiana smiled softly."Come on girl, you know I wouldn't miss this for the world" Jessica smiled with her big brown eyes.
"Okay, Tatiana," Lila said, brushing a last sweep of mascara onto her lashes. "You're glowing."
Tatiana opened her eyes and caught her own reflection. Elegant. Controlled. Ready.
Viktor gave a nod. "Time to make history."