Taking the Leap

Akira's Phone Buzzes
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
Hey, Akira. I was thinking more about our project idea. How would you feel about shooting some behind-the-scenes content for my upcoming shoot? I think it could be a great start for us to collaborate!
Akira stared at her phone, her heart racing. Behind-the-scenes content? A real project? She quickly typed a reply, trying to calm the whirlwind of thoughts in her head.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
That sounds incredible! I’ve always wanted to do something like that, but I don’t know if I’m ready for such a big opportunity...
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
Don’t worry, you’ll be perfect for it. I can guide you through the process. Besides, you have an eye for this. I saw your photos!
Akira’s fingers hovered over the screen. Her photos—the ones she had taken in her free time, sharing them quietly on her social media, never expecting them to be noticed by someone like Adam.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
I really appreciate the confidence you have in me. I’m just... afraid I’ll mess it up. What if my shots aren’t good enough?
Adam’s reply came almost instantly.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
Hey, if I didn't believe in your talent, I wouldn’t be reaching out. Remember, it's not about perfection; it's about the journey and learning along the way. Everyone starts somewhere!
Akira sat back, letting the words sink in. She had always been her own worst critic, constantly doubting her skills, even though she loved photography with all her heart. Adam's words made her feel something she hadn’t felt in a long time—hope.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
Okay, I’ll do it. I’ll take the leap. Let’s make this happen!
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
That’s the spirit! I’ll send you the details of the shoot. You’ll have a lot of freedom to create, and I know you’ll shine. You got this!
Akira stared at the message, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. She was really going to do this—work with Adam Lictawa, her idol. It felt surreal, like a dream she was too scared to wake up from.
Later That Day
Akira sat in front of her laptop, scrolling through the shoot details Adam had sent her. The event would take place in a few days at a studio not far from her city, and it seemed like a huge deal. A fashion brand Adam was collaborating with was launching a new collection, and they needed someone to document the behind-the-scenes process. Akira’s role was to capture the energy, the chaos, and the beauty of it all—everything she had always wanted to photograph but never had the chance to.
Her phone buzzed again. It was Trixie
Trixie Shane
Trixie Shane
OMG, Akira, I just saw your messages with Adam! He really picked you, didn’t he? You’re going to work with him on a professional shoot! This is HUGE!
Akira smiled, her heart still fluttering.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
I can’t believe it either. It’s all happening so fast. I’m excited, but also... terrified? What if I mess up?
Trixie Shane
Trixie Shane
Girl, you won’t mess up! You’ve got this! Just remember, this is your chance to shine. Adam wouldn’t have asked you if he didn’t see something special in you. I know you’re nervous, but you’re ready!
Akira let out a deep breath. Trixie’s words always had a way of calming her, even when her nerves were at their peak. She closed her eyes for a moment, imagining what it would be like to stand next to Adam on set, camera in hand, capturing the perfect shot.
The Day of the Shoot
Akira stood outside the studio, her hands trembling as she clutched her camera bag. The building in front of her was sleek, modern, and full of energy. Inside, she could already hear the hustle and bustle of the team setting up.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
Hey, Akira! You made it! Come on in, I’ll introduce you to the team.
Akira took a deep breath and walked into the studio. The first thing she noticed was Adam himself, looking effortlessly handsome in a casual white shirt and jeans. His smile lit up the room, and for a moment, Akira forgot how nervous she was.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
Glad you’re here. You okay? You look a little nervous.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
I’m fine... just a little overwhelmed, I guess. This is all so new to me.
Adam leaned in slightly, his voice softer now.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
Don’t overthink it. You’re here because you’re talented. Trust yourself, okay?
The closeness made Akira’s heart flutter, and she quickly nodded, avoiding his gaze before he could see her blush.
Inside, the team was buzzing with activity. Adam introduced her to everyone, but her attention kept drifting back to him. Every time he caught her eye, he flashed her a reassuring smile that made her chest tighten.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
So, ready to show the world what you can do?
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
Ready as I’ll ever be.
During the Shoot
Akira moved around the studio, her camera in hand, trying to focus on her task. She took shots of the models laughing, the stylists working, and the vibrant chaos of the set. Every now and then, she’d glance at Adam, who was busy directing the team.
At one point, Adam caught her staring.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
Caught you. Am I your next subject, Akira?
Akira froze, her face heating up.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
N-no, I was just... checking the lighting!
Adam chuckled and walked over, standing close enough for her to catch the faint scent of his cologne.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
If you ever want to take my picture, just say so. I don’t mind being the focus of your lens.
Akira’s heart pounded so hard she thought he might hear it.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
I’ll keep that in mind.
Adam smiled, giving her a playful wink before walking away. Akira let out a shaky breath, feeling a mix of exhilaration and disbelief.
Later That Day
Akira clicked through the shots on her camera, each one better than the last. She had captured the candid moments—the designer adjusting the model’s dress, the lighting crew adjusting the spotlights, and the fleeting moments of laughter that broke the tension. Adam had been right: it wasn’t about perfection. It was about capturing the energy, the soul of the shoot.
Adam walked up behind her, leaning in to glance at her camera screen.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
These are amazing, Akira. You’ve got a real gift.
The warmth of his voice and his proximity made her stomach flip. She turned to thank him, but her words caught in her throat when she realized just how close they were.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
T-thank you. I couldn’t have done it without your encouragement.
Adam smiled, his gaze steady on hers.
Adam Lictawa
Adam Lictawa
You don’t give yourself enough credit. This is all you. I’m glad I get to be a part of your journey.
Akira felt a spark of something she couldn’t quite name—a mix of admiration, gratitude, and something deeper.
Akira Kai
Akira Kai
I’m glad too. Thank you for believing in me.
As Adam walked away to rejoin the team, Akira couldn’t help but smile to herself. For the first time, she felt like she was exactly where she was meant to be.

Download

Like this story? Download the app to keep your reading history.
Download

Bonus

New users downloading the APP can read 10 episodes for free

Receive
NovelToon
Step Into A Different WORLD!
Download NovelToon APP on App Store and Google Play