XVII

Summer Preston

The room was a whirlwind of activity as makeup artists, hairstylists, and fashion designers rushed in and out, carrying fabrics, tools, and accessories. Nolan, Adrianna, and I were in the center of it all, preparing for the premiere.

I was already dressed, my crimson gown fitting like a dream, while a stylist finished pinning and curling my hair into a chic bun. The curling iron's heat made me flinch whenever it got too close to my ears, but I endured it.

After about thirty more minutes of primping, I was finally ready.

I stepped in front of the full-length mirror, my reflection taking my breath away. The deep crimson dress highlighted my shoulders and neckline with its sleek silhouette, while the dramatic, textured skirt resembled sculpted roses, creating a striking, artistic effect.

My hair was styled in a middle-part bun with loose, lightly curled strands framing my face. The bun had a slightly undone, messy touch that added character to the look.

My makeup was soft and refined—just a hint of blush and concealer, with wispy lashes making my eyes pop. I wore a gold Cartier watch, elegant earrings, and rings to complete the ensemble. On my feet were Saint Laurent Opyum embellished patent-leather sandals, perfectly complementing the gold tones of my accessories.

A shimmer of Tom Ford body glitter gave my skin an ethereal glow under the light, while a spritz of Clive Christian No.1 enveloped me in a luxurious scent.

"I think I'm obsessed with myself," I said, turning to the team that worked tirelessly to perfect my look.

They laughed and waved me off modestly, but I made sure to thank them. "Seriously, you guys are amazing. Thank you so much for pulling this off."

After they packed up and left, I grabbed my Jacquemus gold clutch and checked the time—an hour and thirty minutes until the premiere. Perfect.

I headed over to Nolan's room and knocked. He opened the door and immediately spun around, giving me a full 360 of his look.

Nolan was dressed in a classic black suit paired with a crisp white button-up left open at the first two buttons. A Prada belt cinched his waist, and polished Prada loafers completed the look. Diamonds glinted from the Cuban link around his neck and his wrist. His freshly dyed blonde hair made the whole outfit pop.

"Okay, Mr. Handsome, who are you trying to impress?" I teased, smirking.

"I could ask you the same. You look incredible, Summie," he said with a playful grin.

Feigning a blush, I placed a hand over my chest. "How kind of you to say!"

He laughed, shutting the door behind him as we walked over to Adrianna's room.

Adrianna was putting on her shoe as we entered. When she stood up, we took in her outfit: a navy pinstriped blazer dress, the one she initially picked out for me, paired with silver Gianvito Rossi heels and a silver Cult Gaia clutch. Her hair was sleek and straight, tucked behind her ears to show off diamond studs and a matching bracelet.

She gave us an approving once-over. "We're some good-looking bitches, I can tell you that."

"For once, I agree with you," Nolan quipped, earning a playful shove from Adrianna.

"Okay, not to be dramatic, but I booked a photographer so we can get some group shots before the premiere. They're in the lobby now," Adrianna announced.

"Not even mad about it. Let's go," Nolan said, shaking his head with a smile.

I quickly texted my assistant to check if everything was on schedule. She replied promptly, confirming that the setup was nearly complete and paparazzi were already gathering outside. I thanked her and hearted her message before we headed down.

In the lobby, Adrianna introduced us to the photographer. We spent the next hour or so taking photos all around the hotel, using its elegant backdrops to our advantage.

"I just posed for a million photos, and now I have to do it all again on the red carpet," I grumbled.

"Yeah, but the red carpet's more fun—all the attention is on you," Nolan pointed out, nudging my shoulder.

"Good point," I said, smirking.

Soon, the premiere was only five minutes away. Our driver arrived in a sleek black 2025 Cadillac Escalade. He opened the door for us, and we enjoyed a glass of complimentary champagne on the way.

When we arrived, the streets were buzzing with fans and paparazzi. Cameras flashed from every angle as Adrianna and Nolan stepped out first, drawing cheers from the crowd.

I followed, the cheers growing even louder. I plastered a smile on my face, the crimson dress shimmering under the lights as I walked the red carpet.

"Summer, over here!"

"Look to the right, Miss Preston!"

"That red is stunning on you!"

The voices called out as I turned to pose.

My attention was drawn to another Escalade pulling up. The door opened, and out stepped Solené. She adjusted her blazer, scanning the crowd before her eyes found mine. She smiled, walking toward me with a confidence that made my cheeks heat up.

Her navy blue embellished pantsuit glimmered under the lights, the feathered accents adding flair. Her hair fell in soft curls down her back, and her black stilettos clicked against the pavement with each step.

When she reached me, she leaned down to kiss the side of my head, wrapping an arm around my waist.

"I don't think you've ever looked more beautiful," she whispered in my ear, her voice sending a shiver down my spine.

I looked up at her, smiling. "I could say the same about you."

"Miss Preston! Is Miss Beckett your girlfriend?"

"New couple of the year?"

"You two look amazing together!"

The crowd's questions buzzed around us as cameras captured every moment.

"Let's give them something to talk about," Solené murmured. She pulled me closer, her hand resting firmly on my waist, and posed for the cameras with a radiant smile.

I followed her lead, resting my hand on her chest and matching her energy as we basked in the spotlight.

We allowed them to take a few more pictures before stepping into the venue. As I stepped inside, I couldn't help but pause. Everything was even more breathtaking than I'd imagined. The room glowed with elegance, wrapped in a palette of white, nude, and gold.

The Photo Booth to our left immediately caught my eye. Cascading garlands of gold and nude balloons framed a shimmering custom backdrop that read, The Long Way Down in metallic gold script. Guests were already snapping pictures, laughing and striking dramatic poses under the soft, glowing light.

"This is insane," Adrianna whispered, her eyes darting around.

Straight ahead was the 360-camera setup. Its sleek, mirrored platform sparkled under a gold spotlight, and every spin of the camera captured attendees in all their red-carpet glory. A small crowd had gathered, eagerly waiting their turn.

"Definitely hitting that later," Nolan said. "I need everyone to see how good I look tonight."

"Don't break the platform showing off," Adrianna teased.

To the right, the cookie skillet bar caught everyone's attention. Rows of golden skillets lined the counter, each one filled with freshly baked cookies—gooey chocolate chip, caramel pecan, and white chocolate macadamia nut. Chefs scooped vanilla bean or salted caramel ice cream onto the sizzling cookies, the contrast of hot and cold sending sweet steam curling into the air. Toppings like edible gold flakes, crushed toffee, and roasted nuts sparkled under the lights, making every creation look like a masterpiece.

"I can't wait to grab one of those," Solené murmured, her hand still resting lightly on my waist.

I turned to see her staring at the centerpiece of the room—a champagne tower that seemed to defy gravity. It sparkled under the light, with golden bubbles catching the shimmer of the surrounding decor. At its base, a playful ball pit full of white, nude, and gold balls added a modern, whimsical touch, complete with oversized champagne bottles tucked in among the balls.

"I'm taking at least ten pictures in that ball pit," Adrianna declared.

"Save me a spot," I said, laughing.

At the back, the marble-topped bar gleamed under hanging floral arrangements and more garlands. Bartenders in white-and-gold uniforms shook cocktails with flair, the menu featuring custom drinks named after The Long Way Down.

"This is everything, Summer," Nolan said, shaking his head in awe. "Your vision is perfect."

Before I could respond, a staff member approached me with a clipboard in hand. "Miss Preston, some of the guests have been asking for you," she said politely.

I sighed softly, glancing at my friends. "Duty calls."

"Go be a star," Adrianna said, giving me a playful nudge.

"You'll be fine without me for a bit?" I asked Solené.

She smirked, leaning down to kiss my cheek. "I'll survive. Go handle business, Miss Preston."

I smiled and followed the staff member, weaving through the crowd. Guests congratulated me, complimented the event, and snapped selfies as I made my way around the room. I exchanged warm words with the film's producers, hugged the director, and even chatted briefly with some press who'd managed to sneak in.

Soon, my assistant appeared by my side. "It's time for your speech," she said softly.

I nodded, feeling a flutter of nerves, but also excitement. This was my moment.

The lights dimmed slightly as I stepped onto the small stage at the front of the room. A hush fell over the crowd, save for the soft clicking of cameras. The backdrop behind me shimmered, the words The Long Way Down glowing softly in the spotlight.

I took a deep breath and stepped up to the microphone. "Good evening, everyone," I began, my voice steady despite the butterflies.

A warm wave of applause greeted me, and I smiled, letting it bolster my confidence.

"I want to start by thanking all of you for being here tonight to celebrate something so special. The Long Way Down is more than just a film—it's a story about resilience, connection, and the unexpected paths life can take us on. And seeing all of you here reminds me just how lucky I am to have such incredible people by my side."

The crowd clapped again, a mix of cheers and supportive smiles spreading across the room.

"This night wouldn't be possible without so many of you—our cast, our crew, and everyone who believed in this project from the start. And of course, I have to thank my amazing friends, Nolan and Adrianna, for being my rocks through all the chaos. And Solené..." I paused, glancing toward her in the crowd. She smiled back, her presence grounding me. "For always keeping me grounded, even when I'm losing my mind."

A ripple of laughter moved through the crowd.

"Let's make tonight a celebration of art, creativity, and the people who make it all worth it. Now, let's grab some champagne and enjoy the night. Cheers!"

The room erupted in applause as I stepped back from the mic, exhaling in relief. I caught Nolan and Adrianna clapping enthusiastically, and Solené gave me a proud smile.

Tonight was only just beginning, and I was ready to soak in every moment.