I attempt to project leadership and confidence in one syllable, but the delivery falls flat. It’s awkward. I’m awkward—because as thrilled as I am to have someone as talented as Danica to direct, I can’t just forget how vocal she has been against me and Reid as codirectors. Or how she became the person in the middle.

Of Henry and Fitz.

Of Henry and me.

“Question.” Danica flips her hair in front of her head, bunching it in a messy topknot, then reaches into her backpack for her script and a pencil. “Me. Asking Fitz out. How would that go?”

Holy shit. I was expecting a Melted question!

Now I have so many questions.

“You and Henry—?”

“Are friends. I swear! One drunk kiss does not make a relationship.”

I frown, confused. “Does Henry know that?”

Even though we’re fighting, I can’t help feeling protective.

“Yes! Trust me, I am so not the reason Henry is miserable right now.” Danica takes a seat and flips through her script as I try to form a response other than ouch. “Never mind. I’m sorry I asked. I really don’t need the judgment that’s all over your face. You don’t know me, Natalie.”

Danica’s tough exterior cracks. It is a shock to see a single tear slide down her cheek.

Shit. Rehearsal hasn’t even started… and the talent is already crying?

I take a seat next to Danica. “You’re right. I don’t.”

Danica wipes her cheek. “Sorry. For the record, the passing judgment is very mutual.”

The laugh that escapes me is a surprise. “I noticed.”

“Maybe we can stop that.”

“I wouldn’t hate that.”

Danica nods. “Henry’s, like, the best person I know. He will literally do anything for you—and sometimes you take that for granted. It sucks to watch. People Pleaser tendencies should not apply to friendships.”

I want to retort.

But People Pleaser reverberates in my ears.

I think of every Henry note I’ve argued against—from directorial cues to prank wars. When Henry and I collaborated, I always thought the decisions were mutual. What if Danica has a point? What if Henry was just letting me win? What if we’ve never been on the same page?

Oh my God.

I cover my face with my hands. “I didn’t see it that way at all. Not even when he told me.”

Danica shakes her head. “No. Henry can also be a shit communicator.”

I nod. “He really is.”

“Yeah. So now that your flaws have been exposed, why not just apologize? Life is short. The planet is dying. You both are too stubborn.”

“Both?”

“Don’t fish. Obviously, I’ve been telling him to get his act together too.”

I laugh. “Fair enough.”

“Text him,” Danica says.

“I will,” I promise. “So. Fitz.”

Danica blushes. Blushes!