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Anna Todd, author of 'After' series, reveals her inspiration behind the sexy lake scene between Tessa and Hardin in the movie

A pretty important turning point in Tessa and Hardin's budding teen relationship, the lake scene showed us some intense sexual chemistry. But why did the author pay so much attention to it in the story?

If there's one thing that you will surely remember from Anna Todd's Wattpad novel 'After', apart from the sparks flying between its protagonists Tessa Young (Josephine Langford) and Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin) it has to be the steamy lake scene. A pretty important turning point in Tessa and Hardin's budding teen relationship, the lake scene showed us some intense sexual chemistry. One would wonder what the inspiration behind imagining and putting something like that on paper would be but as it turns out, it came to Todd naturally. 

"When I was writing, I didn’t really plan it and it came organically," she told MEA WorldWide (MEAWW) in an interview. "I love the idea of Hardin having this secret, quiet and unexpected place that he only takes Tessa to," she said. 

The iconic scene from the movie is one that really redefines all expectations that Tessa has from the chemistry. Although a part of her doesn't really know what she's doing or where she's going with the confused state of affairs with Hardin, the trip to the lake cements her feelings for him. As they swim, Hardin tells her he cannot stay away from her and the two share a kiss. "The hot parts just came out when I was writing the chapter and it was such an intimidate and timid moment for Tessa and her world expanded and changed after that day," Todd said. 

If you're someone who loves 'Twilight' and '50 Shades of Grey' and another Wattpad idea 'The Kissing Booth', you will definitely dig 'After'. The film isn't an exact match to the books ('After' is a five-book series), especially the character of Hardin. The original story is actually a Harry Styles fanfic - yes the same Harry Styles who stole hearts when One Direction hit it big. Todd and the movie have been accused by One Directioners of using Styles' popularity to make money while other critics have called it out for promoting a toxic male protagonist. In spite of the negative critique, the film has already made a worldwide total of $48.7 million, against a production budget of $14 million. 

The relationship in the film is actually much sweeter than the books and before you even know it, you will be obsessed with Tessa and Hardin’s relationship - and probably even get nostalgic enough to call your ex. And that's exactly what Todd wants you to feel. "Honestly, I want the audience to be entertained. I want them to feel nostalgic of their first love, or look forward to it," she said before adding, "Even with the heartbreak."