Matthew Gray Gubler

The sun streams through the windows of the building, casting a warm glow over the concrete stairs. It’s one of those mornings where the world feels both full of promise and a little overwhelming. Today is a big day—auditions for the new series I’m directing and producing. The weight of it all is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking

I’m carrying a steaming cup of coffee in one hand and a stack of scripts and notes in the other. The elevator is out of order, so I’m taking the stairs to my office on the second floor. I take a deep breath, sipping my coffee, and try to calm my racing thoughts

As I reach the landing, I hear hurried footsteps coming from the other direction. Out of the corner of my eye, I see a young woman rushing up the stairs, her face a mix of determination and anxiety. She’s pretty, with a cascade of dark hair and bright, expressive eyes. I instinctively step to the side, but it’s too late—we bump into each other

“Whoa!” I exclaim, trying to steady myself and the coffee and papers in my hand “Sorry about that. Are you okay?”