Stars of My Heart

After putting her cell phone away, Emily went back to the living room and finally picked up the TV remote. She sat down on the couch and started flipping through the channels without rushing, still humming the song that was playing in her head.

She flipped through comedies, dramas, and even documentaries, unable to make up her mind. Then, when she switched to a news channel, something caught her attention.

On the screen, a serious reporter announced:

"Scandal in the entertainment world. Renowned actor Ricardo Velloso was caught at controversial parties, consuming illicit substances and participating in behavior considered inappropriate for young audiences."

Emily's eyes widened. Ricardo Velloso was a well-known name, especially among teenagers. He always played good-guy roles in soap operas and films aimed at young audiences.

The report continued, showing leaked videos of the parties. In one of the recordings, Ricardo appeared visibly upset, surrounded by people in a luxurious but chaotic environment.

"These images, captured by partygoers, raised questions about the responsibility of public figures who influence young people around the world. Ricardo's publicist has not yet commented."

Emily let out a heavy sigh. "My God, Ricardo... just you?" she muttered to herself.

The report continued with experts commenting on the impact this had on the actor's career. One analyst said:

"The issue here is not just drug use, but the fact that he is seen as a role model for young people. This type of behavior can seriously harm his public image and his future opportunities in the industry."

Emily turned off the TV, feeling torn. On the one hand, she knew that artists had private lives and that no one was perfect. On the other, she understood the weight that fame carried and how it could affect the audience that admired them.

"This is going to explode on social media," she thought. She could already imagine the hashtags and heated debates among fans. As someone who was also building an artistic career, she knew that situations like this could be disastrous, even for a well-established name like Ricardo.

Emily thought for a few minutes, reflecting on her own trajectory. She knew that fame could be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how it was handled. For her, keeping her feet on the ground and being true to who she was would always be a priority.

Determined not to let herself be shaken by the turbulent environment of the industry, Emily got up and decided to make herself some tea to relax. As she put the water to boil, a thought crossed her mind: "Maybe Ricardo will take a long hiatus."

Emily picked up her steaming mug of tea and settled down on the couch. She decided it would be a good time to call Matthew, missing him and curious to know how his day was going. She opened the video calling app and, in a few seconds, Matthew's face appeared on the screen. He was impeccable as always, wearing a smart suit, but there was a relaxed air to his expression.

Emily smiled broadly.

" Hi, honey! How are you? Heading to the office?" she asked in a cheerful voice, blowing on her tea to cool it.

Matthew chuckled softly, adjusting the camera as he walked down the glass hallway that led to the elevator.

" Hi, my love. I'm great, how about you?" He paused to look around before continuing. " Yes, I'm on my way to Lancaster Corp. Busy day today. We have a few important meetings and I still need to review a contract."

Emily rested her chin on her hand, watching him in admiration.

" Always so busy. How do you manage to juggle so much at once?"

He shrugged, with an amused smile.

" It's years of training. And of course, knowing you're supporting me makes it all easier."

Emily laughed, feeling warmed by his words.

"You know exactly what to say, huh? But seriously, don't overwork yourself. I want you all to myself at the end of the day."

Matthew arched an eyebrow, feigning offense.

"Oh, so that's why you call me? To give me orders?"

Emily laughed, almost spilling her tea.

"Yes! I'm your boss now, Mr. Lancaster! And bosses also give tips: how about a lighter coffee today?"

Matthew laughed, the deep, comfortable sound echoing through the call.

"I'll consider it, but you know my day doesn't work without coffee."

"Oh, I know." She paused, taking a sip of her tea before continuing. "And speaking of busy days, I have news."

Matthew narrowed his eyes, curious.

"What is it?"

Emily smiled, trying to build suspense.

"It's a secret… for now. But I promise I'll tell you later, when we see each other."

Matthew let out a light laugh, realizing she was joking.

"You love to keep me curious, don't you?"

She winked at the camera.

"Of course! It's part of the charm."

They continued talking for a few more minutes, with Emily telling her about her relaxing tea and what she had watched on TV, while Matthew talked about the day's meetings and some future projects for the company. Even in the midst of their busy schedule, those little moments together, even if via video, made them both feel connected.

Before ending the call, Matthew looked at her tenderly.

"Take care, my love. Talk to you later?"

Emily nodded, smiling.

"You bet. Good luck with your day. I love you."

"I love you too," he replied, with a sparkle in his eyes before hanging up.

Emily stared at the screen for a few seconds after the call ended, the smile still on her face. "He really is amazing," she thought, before finishing her tea and planning what she would do for the rest of the day.