July 20.
Billy hadn't been very involved in the recordings lately, only being needed twice a week. During those days, the focus was on filming formal scenes requiring the presence of specific characters, each contributing in their way.
–I think the recordings will stall for a while in the coming days,– commented Robert Pattinson, observing how the schedule had become much more linear. They were focusing on scenes that didn't require CGI or special effects, supported by the incredible sets. Whenever possible, they used different model backdrops that perfectly captured the essence of Harry Potter—grand mechanical models and impressive miniatures seamlessly combined to create striking shots.
–Stall?– Billy asked.
–My agent mentioned that in the coming days, they might focus on organizing the dialogues, aligning them with the story sequence, now that they only need the essential performances,– Robert replied.
–Sounds unpleasant,– Billy said, exhaling deeply. –Sometimes just sitting around waiting gets under my skin. How am I supposed to keep acting without losing the rhythm?–
–Hey, this is only my second time doing this kind of thing. The only way to truly enjoy being in a movie for longer than necessary is by landing a lead role. Otherwise, you either attend cocktail parties between takes or rehearse your lines. Don't think that just because something's good, it's enough,– Robert said, taking a deep breath in the enclosed studio, which lacked the magical beauty that only emerged when the final project came together.
–I was recently asked to do a cameo,– Billy mentioned.
–What's it about?–
–A rocker who sleeps with the protagonist's girlfriend. It's a five-minute scene,– Billy explained. –The only thing that bothers me is I might get typecast for something I already do.–
–That won't happen, my friend. You're a good actor. My agent—and my dad, of course—always says as long as you're willing to take roles without diving into the blatantly obvious ones, you'll be fine. Take what you can, and make the most of it. Typecasting only happens when you're not willing to act. If I had to, I'd do theater—it's just more challenging,– Robert responded, reflecting on how accumulating experiences and taking on the right roles were keys to standing out.
–By the way, that girl Emma asked me if you're single,– he added with a sly grin.
–Girls these days are so bold. She wanted you to play matchmaker? I don't mind; I appreciate the effort. But what do you think? She's one of my many admirers. I should be gentle but firm, saying, "We can't date; I'm the guy your parents don't want in your life,"– Billy said, chuckling.
–You're not wrong. No mother wants you dating their daughter. I think parents would lose their minds and send her off to a convent,– Robert joked, bursting into laughter and rolling his eyes skyward.
–Escaping sin has never been so hard,– Billy quipped.
–Stop being ridiculous; they're running from you. By the way, I heard she's going on tour in September,– Robert commented.
–I have to head to the studio this afternoon to practice a bit,– Billy said.
–Goodbye to gaming afternoons, then,– Robert teased, flashing a playful expression. Meanwhile, Emma kept sneaking glances at Billy but seemed too shy to approach him.
–I've wrapped up my scenes for now. There are a few left, but they're scheduled for the coming weeks,– Billy said, high-fiving Robert before heading off.
***
Billy was working intensely, trying to bring some order to everything. He was practicing part of a scene while listening to "Best of You" by Foo Fighters. His next song choice was "Is It Any Wonder?" by Keane, which was becoming his new favorite.
Interestingly, Keane wasn't exactly a singer but a guitarist in a band. His songs had been somewhat sidelined, and as a result, Billy's playlist had started cycling through his tracks.
Michael tapped on his window.
–What's up, Michael?– Billy asked.
–Good news! You've got the small cameo in EuroTrip. The pay isn't great, but the role could help build your recognition,– Michael Oclakars announced.
–That's amazing,– Billy said, now feeling the need to practice even more and make an impression.
–How did you land the meeting with Michelle? That's pretty interesting,– Billy asked.
–It happens all the time. According to Jerry, it's common to arrange these secret meetings, though only some people accept. Popularity often hinges on screen time and the impact of the role,– Michael murmured. –Oh, I spoke with HBO. There's a chance you could get a secondary role in a TV series, which would give you time to further hone your acting skills.–
HBO, part of Warner's empire, seemed to be increasing its partnership with him. A role in a series could potentially elevate Billy's career.
–I'd love to star in an FX series,– Billy commented.
–I'll ask around,– Michael promised, giving Billy space to continue practicing. Lately, Billy has been consistently releasing one song per week, earning positive feedback.
***
–Completely frustrating and disappointing,– Avril muttered as she packed her bags for a trip to London. She was utterly lost among the clothes she needed to choose, leaving all her plain pajamas behind in favor of something sexier. She still hoped for a moment with Billy; she believed she could win him over if he realized she was there for him.
–What a waste of time,– her friend remarked, watching her spiral into misery.
–Wear that lace set you bought. Maybe the red one that flatters your figure—you know what they say, showing less can sometimes be more,– her friend advised.
–I'll take that one, and that one. He likes stockings, and also when he can see my stomach,– Avril said, oddly confident. Her health had been impeccable lately, something that had changed since Billy came into her life. His presence made her more willing to stay in the city rather than retreat to the countryside.