Prologue

PROLOGUE

May 21

Entertainment News Report

The last day of the Cannes Film Festival proved to be the stuff of legend. We all thought the big story would be the highly anticipated screening of Jean Mercier's latest film, Celebration , which featured Albie Hughes's final performance, but in fact, it was Finn Forrester who stole the show. Captivating the world and igniting a feeding frenzy among the press and onlookers, the Hollywood star got down on bended knee in the center of the famed red carpet and proposed to writer Gabriella Sinclair, known for her provocative philosophical musings on sexual politics. The huge rock he slid onto her finger was almost as blinding as the incredible firestorm of camera flashes his proposal generated, the likes of which we've never before seen. When Finn picked up his bride-to-be, spun her around, and kissed her passionately, it was clear she had said yes. Rumor has it that Sinclair is a longtime friend of Mercier, and the pair reportedly met on the location shoot for the film.

While Forrester's many fans took to social media to share a collective sigh, bemoaning the fact that the beloved leading man is officially off the market, many others gushed at the iconic fairy-tale moment. Costars were quick to add their congratulations. Willow Barnes retweeted a photo of the pair kissing on the red carpet with the caption "Aww . . . I always said you two made the cutest couple ever," followed by a string of heart emojis. Charlotte Reed commented, "Feeling warm and fuzzy. Couldn't be happier for you both," and Michael Hennesey wrote, "Way to go, guys! Let's meet for a drink in LA." When Mercier was asked if the proposal seen around the world was a publicity stunt, the tempestuous director laughed and said, "I'm not that clever. I'm thrilled for my friends, who are very much in love. I wish them a lifetime of happiness." The reporter then asked if Mercier was worried the engagement would steal the spotlight away from his film, to which he replied, "You're talking about it, so no." Forrester and Sinclair made a quick exit after the film screening, avoiding detection. One thing is for sure: the world will be watching, waiting to see how this real-life fairy tale unfolds after the red carpet.