So there I was. Absolutely nothing standing between myself and the studio doors. This was it, the studio that I would be working on for the next 15 months. I would be playing 17 year old Remy in the new up in coming film “This Lullaby.” I was 15 then so the two year stretch was something I needed to overcome.
I could hardly breath at that moment. My hands were shaking, my foot was twitching, and I was biting down on my lip so hard I thought that it was going to bleed. I realized that people passing by would notice the dazed and confused expression on my face. It didn’t matter that I was going to be lead in a new film, because at this moment I was just an awkward teenage girl blocking the entrance to the set.
It was another 30 seconds before I was able to walk on set. Walking just far enough for a woman with a walkie-talkie to ask me if I needed help. I must of still had the fazed look on my face, because she called for a cart to pick me up. The cart was larger than something you would drive on a golf range, but smaller than one of those hybrid cars. They took my bags and I jumped on the cart. From the cart I caught an elevator to the 2nd floor. Then maneuvered around countless number of rooms, finally reaching my destination.
Plugging in the key card I opened the door to suite 205. Inside of the suite was, well in the words of a 15 year old teenage girl, sweet. There was a huge bed outlined in a silk velvet bedspread, with a 48 in TV screen, that was cuddling up to the intense DVD-stereo system. My personal favorite was the bathroom features. The milky white marble tub that sat on the bathroom floor was definitely the best feature of the entire suite.
When at that moment my fantasy affair daydream with the tub was interrupted by the sound of three light knocks on the door. The first guest in my humble abode. I opened my door without the slightest clue to whom would be bothering me as I got settled. A girl, around my age was on the other side of the wooden door. She was noticeably happy about something. It really irritated me when people were happy, and I had no idea the reason. Grabbing me into her arms she hugged me. Already irritated, I was now more aggravated and pushed her away.
“Hello?,” asking as if to check if there were in lights on in the house.
“Hi,” she said through her obnoxious smile, “I’m Andrea.” She stood there as if there was going to be more to the conversation from my part. Once she finally realized that I had absolutely nothing to say she continued the conversation. “Yeah, I’m gonna be playing Chloe. So I thought I’d get to know everyone on the set… and well you were next door.” I am not sure if I was irritated more at the fact that this overly joyful person was next door to me, or that I could see where she was coming from for being so zealous.
“Cool,” I said mimicking her enthusiasm which I am positive she didn’t notice. “I’m Olivia, but call me Liv. Yeah and I’m going to be playing Remy and…”
“Wait your going to play Remy?” I nodded. “No way that’s amazing, you know she is the lead character?” I nodded again. “So you are playing Remy?” I nodded again. “The 17 year old Remy?”
“Seriously I’m gonna get whiplash. Yes I am playing Remy, the 17 year old lead character.”
“Sorry, I just meant… you look like a kid. I mean how old are you?”
“I’m 15, I’ll be 16 in 6 months.” I added the last part for kicks. Before she could say anything more about my age I changed the subject. “So have you met anyone else from the set?” She paused probably realizing that I wanted to nex the topic of age.
“Yeah a couple of people. They all are really nice.” I laughed thinking that I was probably not apart of the “they” she was referring to. “Oh and there are some really cute boys on the set.” Her face struck a new look as a new thought crossed her mind. “So… I’m going to get coffee, you’re welcomed to join me if you want.” She was really a sweet person, but I knew that if I went to get coffee with her I would probably kill her. So I declined the offer. Saying something about having to unpack and get cleaned up. I thought that I was off the hook when out of nowhere he came out.
“Hey Andrea, so are you ready to go?” said a deep and mellow voice.
“ Yeah, oh hey J.D. meet “Liv.” She looked over to me as to make sure that its okay to spread my “secret code name.” I put on a sarcastic smile and gave a thumbs up. As he turned around to meet my glance I could feel my mouth drop. Now wait a second if you saw him your jaw would drop too. He was about 5’ 9’’, he was in shape but wasn’t exactly ready to battle Chuck Norris. He had this spring aspect to his hair that made it bounce. His best aspect was his eyes. There was one blue eye one gray eye. And when he looked at you, you wanted to surrender your soul to him.
“Hey,” he put out his hand. My palms were sweating and I knew that if I were to shake J.D.’s hand the embarrassment would reach a whole new level. So I used my highly intellectual mind and made a fist. Thankfully he knew I was using the universal “pound it” and he did the same hitting my fist. I knew that fist to fist was the closet I could get to this guy without falling unconscious.
“Hi,” I said in a bemused voice. Luckily he didn’t stand in the awkward environment that was clearly producing.
“Are you in?” he was obviously addressing the question to me. I took a second to try to figure out the conundrum.
“Good hands? No I can’t drive yet.” He laughed. I mean it wasn’t like a fake flat out laugh, which Andrea was making. It was more a sincere “that was a good joke” kind of laugh.
“That’s a good one.” I decided to just go with the fact he thought I was joking, and completely forget the fact that I had no idea what he was talking about. “So I’ll take that as a yes.” YES, what did I just agree to? I tried to recollect what just happened in my head, no such luck.
“Great,” Andrea joined into our conversation. “So you will be joining us at Starbucks.” Holy crap is that what I just agreed to. How do I get out of this now? I tried to figure out a good excuse while Andrea kept rambling on about something. Luckily just at that moment my phone rang. A piercing sound from my Linkin Park ring tone.
“I’ve become so numb, I can’t feel you there; become so tired so unaware.” I scrambled to get my phone, and my lifejacket off this island. Once I found it, I hurried to answer it.
“Sorry,” I gave a sincere apology. They nodded in the collective I understand way. “Hey Matt,” I spoke in my phone.
“Why are you so happy?” Matt questioned me. I looked at Andrea and JD who were just standing there. I felt bad blowing them off, so I desperately made an excuse to try to take the call.
“Oh no, that’s horrible,” I sounded sincerely petrified. “Well, I don’t know what to say.” I really tried to pull this off. I put the phone on my side, and turned to Andrea and JD. “I’m sorry, can’t go.” Slightly shrugging they waved bye and left. I took one final glance at JD before the doors of the elevator closed. I was FREE. This is how OJ must felt when he was proven innocent. Really we were guilty, but we got away scot-free. Remembering that I had someone on hold, I brought my phone back to my ear. “Oh you have no idea how close that was.”
“Okay. So what the hell was that?”
“Does it matter, really? Anyway why are you bothering me?”
“Wow you went from hi Matt, to why are you bothering me. Nice change.” I went back into my room numb. I couldn’t believe how stupid I was. I had never frozen up in front of anyone, especially not for the stupid reason of a boy. In the back ground Matt was incoherent. So I said later and hung up. Completely jetlag and humiliated I laid on the bed until I fell asleep.
Two hours later I woke up to the sound of my room phone ringing, Why were so many people making an effort to irritate me today? “Yes,” I mumbled into the phone.
“Its 6,” I heard on the receiving end.
“ This effects me how?” tiredly I answered.
“ Well remind me to never wake you up,” he laughed. By the laugh alone I could tell who it was. Frick.
“Sorry JD,” trying to sound nicer. “I mean, oh yes it is 6 o’clock.”
“Yes, and you are sleeping… at 6. Do you have a bedtime?”
“Whoa, looks like you became the joker in this relationship.” Shit did I just say relationship? Hoping that he wouldn’t notice I moved on the conversation. “ No I don’t have a bedtime, but nice way of mocking my age.”
“What can I say, I get my comedy routine from Michel Richards.” This made me laugh. “Don’t worry I am only 17. I just look like I could get into an R-rated movie. But… back to you sleeping. Wake up.”
“Whyyyyyyy,” I tried not to sound like a total teenager.
“Because the sun is still up, and dinner will be served in an hour. The executive producers are having this huge cast dinner. Supposedly it creates unity.”
“Well then I’ll get up. I just do about anything for unity.”
“Good, I’ll see you at dinner.” He hung up.
The moment I hung up the phone it rang again. Seriously people stop calling me, I’m not that important.
“Hello” I used my nice hostess voice in case it was JD again.
“Hi is this Liv?” came a girls voice. I could tell it wasn’t Andrea, but since they called me Liv it had to be someone she had already talked to.
“Yes it is,” still using the voice. It was hard to stop once it was begun.
“I’m Jen. I was supposed to call you and inform you about dinner tonight.”
“Oh yeah I heard about dinner.”
“Well the girls from the cast were going to get together at the sets wardrobe for tonight’s wear. IF you would like to join us?” She really did sound sweet, and I really had no fancy outfit so I agreed to meet them in 10 minuets. I hung up the phone, backing away from it slowly. I got my makeup on and tried to fix my bed head, then got into the elevator.
When I arrived there was a woman with her back towards me. Figuring that it was Jen I called out, “Jen?” The moment she turned around I realized who she was. “Oh my God, you’re Jenna Fisher. You’re Pam Beesly!!! Do you know who you are?” She laughed really loudly then nodded her head. “You’re dating Jim Halpert, played by the gorgeous John Karasinkski.”
“I’m guessing you’re a fan of The Office.”
“Actually I’m a fan of John Karasinkski, but I do adore The Office.”
“Maybe sometime I could introduce you two?” She sounded so sincere about it I wanted to faint. I just slowly nodded my head with my mouth open. “Okay so I am glad that you came, we have the entire wardrobe for today.” I closed my mouth and smiled. She took me inside this room. The moment I entered I could feel the estrogen level in the room increase. There were changing rooms like there would be in a department store. Girls were talking and giggling loudly amongst themselves. Andrea was approaching with another girl.
“Liv this is April,” she pointed to me, “April this is Liv.” We politely smiled and said hello.
“Hey,” I said addressing April, “I’ve seen you in something.”
“Oh,” April said in an epiphany, “yeah I play Lori Trager on Kyle XY.”
“The alien show with the hot guy on the poster, right?” She smiled and nodded her head. “Wow must be pretty lucky to work with him in person.” They both laughed at this. I didn’t mean to say it aloud it kind of just slipped.
“Yeah, its too bad he’s got a girlfriend.”
“So,” Andrea interupeted, “did you come to find a dress?”
“Me?” I said sarcastically. “No way. I am more of a jean pants kind of girl.”
“Not even a skirt?” she sounded horrified.
“Rarely. I think I wore a skirt once in a play.”
“Then you must change your ways for tonight’s dinner.” She sounded matter-of-factly so I didn’t want to argue with her. “I think I know exactly what you should wear.” She was moving around clothes on a rack. There was a swish sound effect while she searched for the perfect outfit. I realized she found it when she yelled “aha” and handed me the ensemble. It was a pink top with black stripes, and attached was a frilly blue skirt that was really short. I thought of myself in it, I would look like a sock hop slut who was color blind. I tried to hide the disgust look in my eyes.
“You know, its rather loud for my taste. I think I’m just gonna look around.” She looked disappointed. “Thanks though, I think I will wear a skirt tonight.” She smiled at that. Shit why do I keep getting myself into pits like this. I walked away and looked through the hundreds of racks in front of me. I must have searched for around half an hour and couldn’t find anything. I thought if I closed my eyes I could picture what I wanted to wear in my mind. All I could see was gray sweatpants and my “We are the reason for GLOBAL WARMING” shirt. Closing my eyes, I dreamt about sitting on a comfortable brown barkalounger reading, when I was intermittent by a push on the back. Opening my eyes, I turned around.
“Sleeping again?” he asked. I found who but JD standing in front of me.
“Yes actually, I was. After we hung up I went back to sleep and I must have sleepwalked all the way down here.” He just smiled. I hated his smile, it was so sweet and cute that I had to smile. “What are you doing down here? Looking for a pretty outfit, that’s what I’m trying to do.”
“Yes actually,” he said mocking me. “I was looking for a nice skirt to match my pink converse.” I looked down to realize that he really did in fact have pink converse on his feet. Scary.
“In that case I think that Andrea has the perfect outfit for you.”
“No but really, I wanted to check on what was going on. I could hear girls laughing from upstairs, and I thought I should be apart of it.”
“Okie dokie,” I said realizing that I probably sounded like a little child.
“Well… don’t let me stop you. Continue your search for the skirt. But if I may make a suggestion,” he waited for me to give him some form of approval. I nodded. “go with something short and tight, guys like that.” He smirked at me. Rolling my eyes with an irritated look on my face I turned around and walked away. I was glad to know that he didn’t follow me.
Searching through clothes after clothes I finally settled on my outfit. It was this black knitted top that fitted perfectly to my shape. Then I had a white long sleeve shirt underneath. Then to finish it off I had a black skirt that cutoff at the knees. I thought it was Carrie Bradshaw but with a Rory Gilmore innocence. There was around 50 minuets left to the dinner so I decided to go back to my room. Walking to the elevator door I was stopped by April.
“Hey,” she pointed to the outfit, “found something,” I lifted up the number that I had chosen. “Very nice.” We walked to the elevator and got in. “So who have you met so far?”
“Well of course the first person I met was Andrea. Then I met Jen, and you. Oh and I also met JD.” I smiled when I said his name.
“Oh him,” now she was smiling too. “Very cute, I must say. He came up to me today while I was looking for an outfit, and he said something about choosing an outfit that was tight. Just like a guy, yeah?” She lifted her eyebrows as she asked me. I just nodded. In my mind I was thinking about how he said exactly the same thing to me. I guess my remark wasn’t special. Me thinking that it was, now that was a paradox considering of its shovanist origin. “Well, I think I heard him saying something about not having a girlfriend,”she had a devilish smile on her face.
“Oh did he say something about having a boyfriend?” I asked trying really hard to be with a sincere tone.
Shaking her head shockingly and devastatingly. “No, no. Hell wouldn’t that be horrible.” The elevator doors opened and we both stepped out. “So I’ll see you at dinner.” I waved goodbye and with relief I went to my suite door. I set my outfit on the bed and got ready.
When I got to the lobby where we were supposed to meet there were already loads of people. And may I say plenty of hot guys. I stood by the circular table in the middle trying to look like a wallflower. However something in the universe had made me stick out. Boom, I was hit on the back. Falling backwards I bumped into the table and fell on the floor with a bam. I stayed on the floor with visions of the room spinning.
“Dude,” some voice from behind me sounded, “you just hit a girl.” The room stopped spinning, and I tried to get up. The voice continued speaking. “Help her up stupid.” A hand reached out to help me out. I refused to accept their help, and stood up. As I looked awake I saw two guys ahead of me.
“Sorry,” said the additional guy. “Didn’t see you there,” he smiled. They began talking to each other about something, while I stared at them. They were really cute, which was something I noticed instantly. The first one was tall and muscular with short black hair. The second had a little less inches to him then the first, but was still much taller than me. He also had short black hair that he kept spiked, on a slim thin figure. Shaking back into reality I saw them looking at me. Great they probably think I’m slow. “Hey,” he stuck out his hand.
“Hey,” I said taking his hand.
“I’m Jean.” He smiled. “This good man is Steven .” Pointing to guy 2. Steven stuck out his hand and I shook his hand as well.
“Liv,” I said nodding my head. As entertaining as this stimulating conversation was I really wanted an exit. I began to step back when around the corner came Bachelor number 3.
“Liv,” JD slipped his way into the group. “I see you have met Jean and Steven.” I nodded my head and tried to slowly escape again. Lifting his arm he swept me under. “You must be baffled by the three handsome men surrounding you.” DUDE AWKWARD. Trying to think fast, I pulled myself away from him and began to walk backwards.
“Well, when I find them I’ll tell you,” I said shrugging. Making a one-eighty I managed to escape. In the mist of the background there was laughter. Good sign… I think. Didn’t really matter, because the mystery of the evening was overpowering my curiosity of these guys. I got my way onto one of the couches in the lobby. As I sat on the tacky tapestry couch, there entered the room was an older women attached by the arm to a young man. Hollywood, go figure.
The woman cleared her throat in an attempt to get the attention of everyone in the room. “Thank you all for being here,” she spoke loudly. “My name is Nancy Meyers and I am one of the producers in the film. Tonight we have joined the entire cast to get to know one another before filming next week.” She continued on to explain the restaurant that we would be dinning at, and finished with the usual were going to have a good set and make a great movie.
Now I knew this was coming. Anytime a new group of people are gathered there will always be a “get to know each other” activities. I can’t stand those stupid games, and I have yet to meet anyone that likes them. Its because the games are always awkward and boring. So people give the games a spin to the name. So when everyone arrived at the resturant we were asked to play an “ice breaker.” We were to collect the names of three different people and ask them ten personal questions. Shit. People around the table turned to the people next to them interviewing them. A woman turned her head around to meet my stare.
“Hello,” she stuck out her hand. “I am Jill.” I shook her hand and allowed her to ask her questions first. The range of questions from my name to my favorite color. The questions stayed trite. Then it was my turn. I basically asked her the questions she asked me. When we finished she left and contestant number two came up to me. I then met an actor that I had known from the movies. A Mister Greg Kinnner. When he introduced himself I dropped my mouth in shock. I couldn’t believe that someone famous was part of the cast. He was a really nice person during our conversation. I asked him over ten questions about filming Little Miss Sunshine and Sabrina. Which hardly gave him time to ask me any questions. He was really cool to talk to that I didn’t really want to talk to anyone else in the room, until…
OMG Jennifer Coolidge is also part of the cast. She was hilarious in Legally Blonde. She wasn’t talking to anyone and so I thought I would talk to her. Standing up I began to walk over to Jennifer, when came a tug of my shoulder. The force brought me down to my seat. Frick it was JD.
“Yo,” he smiled at me.
“You know what I already know you,” I stood up and looked at Jennifer Coolidge. Damn it, she was now talking to Andrea. “Shit.”
“Whoa such harsh language from such an innocent girl. Innocent?” He lifted his eyebrow.
“Yes, very innocent. Is that one of your questions?” Now I was raising my eyebrow to him.
“No,” he gave one of his award winning smilies. “Question one, why was you’re first reaction Shit when I came up to you.”
“Well, I really wanted to talk to Jennifer Coolidge about working on Legally Blonde and I missed my chance. Question two?”
“Seesh, what’s the rush. We’ve got all night sweetheart.”
“I love how you think you can win girls over with pshovanist remarks.”
“So I won’t win you with my words, I’ll get you with dazaling smile.”
“Damn you know my secret,” I spoke sarcastically. “I want you, I need you, oh baby, oh baby.”
“Nice reference to 10 Things I Hate About You.” I was impressed by his catch of my use of witty banter. “Okay question two. Why did you decide to be in This Lullaby?” He had an very impressive interview style of talking to me as if he were Larry King.
“Well, I read the book freshmen year, and I loved Dexter. I heard they were making a movie and I emailed the writer Sarah Dessen to tell her my personal thought about making the book into a movie.”
“Oh you told her that you wanted to be a star in the movie, and she just put you in?”
“Ummm, no. The opposite actually. I told her to pull the plug, that she couldn’t do this to her adoring fans. Most movies that were based on books are never good. I didn’t want them to ruin the book. Especially the characters of the book. I mean, to make a movie of This Lullaby they would need a really good cast. Especially…”
“Especially… WHAT?”
“Dexter. I mean did you read the book?” He shook his head no. “Well how they described him was the epitome of perfection, the bees knees. I just didn’t really think that there was a good enough guy to play Dex.”
“So I guess that you are happy that I turned out to be Dex, huh?”
“You’re not too bad,” I didn’t want to build up his ego even bigger.
“Then what happened?”
“Well, she emailed me back telling me that she liked my passion for the book. And that I should try to be an extra or something in the film. So I gave her a picture and my home address and told her that if they need extras to tell me.”
“So she just gave you leading role?”
“No, she mailed me a script and told me to try out for it. Something about flying out to California to go to some casting call or something.”
“Then you got the leading role?”
“I guess. I mean I went through so many fricken cast calls, I had no idea which part I was trying for.”
“And that was it?”
“Yup sir.”
“Alright, insight to a very intresting girl.” I smiled considering the idea that from him interesting was a compliment. “So question three…”
“Actually,” I cut him of, “you asked me nine questions through you’re one question. So you have one question left. Better make it a good one.”
“I’ll save that one question for later. Which makes it Your turn.”
“Okay… why did you choose to do the movie?” I tried to mock him with his own question. He didn’t catch my humor.
“Well, I was staring in little roles in disney shows. You know the cute guy who comes in for an episode to sweep the girl off of her feet. Which was cool, when I was fifteen. Then last year the producers of iCarly, a nickolodean show, had me star as Jay. The cute boy who Carly likes. They also liked me. So much that they made a reaccuring role for me.”
“This is all nice, but…”
“So I was filming when I realized something. I was always going to be him. Jay. If I kept playing it safe with kids television shows I was never going to be discovered. I wanted to play a part that would make people sit up and say hey this guy is good. I wanted my big role”
“This movie was your big role?”
“No, not really. However I thought I would slowly move my way up to Hollywood. The way I see it is, I go away from kid shows, and become the teen heartthrob in a teen movie. Then one day, I’ll get my Titanic, my No Country For Old Men.” I was actually amazed by what he was saying. He was actually somewhat profound and intellectual. But only a little bit. “But yeah. So question number two?”
“Okay, how about your family.”
“I am sorry your answer was not in the form of a question,” he had a crackle in his voice.
“What are they like?” I honestly didn’t care, but I was trying the questions that I had heard tonight.
“My mom and dad are both doctors. Hence my career choice not quite what they want me to peruse. But they’re still supportive. My brother is some big time lawyer working in Boston. Then its me and my little sister. She is probably the only sane one in the family. She is the Allie Caulfield to my Holden. She always worries about me. Asking me when I will return home, and if I made friends. Oh and she has to approve of my girlfriend before I marry her… her words.” That’s so cute. “Yeah, she is going to be a real ball buster one day.”
“You just keep impressing me.” Shit. I didn’t mean to say that out loud. He stared with a puzzled, yet flattered look on his face. “What I meant was,” trying to be nonchalant, “you’re not as vile as I thought you were.”
“What did you memorize the entire 10 Things I Hate About You movie?”
“Impressive, huh?” Now I was the smug one.
“Question numero tres.”
Thank God, he forgot the compliment. “Best movie, book, television show, and band?”
“The correct answer would be The Rolling Stones, Seinfeld, Lord Of The Flies, and Die Hard.”
“Just like a guy.” He just smiled at me.
“You’ve got 3 questions left. Choose wisely young Skywalker.” Just then Nancy Meyers whistled for everyone’s attention.
“Please everyone dinner will be served soon. Thank you.” She sat down in her seat. I noticed JD was staring at me. I figured that he wanted his final three questions.
“I’ll keep them for later.” I smiled deviously at him. Rolling his eyes he left to his seat.
The rest of the night was really rather boring. Nancy spoke about what the film was about and what her view of it was. Everyone seemed impressed by the plot of the film. It was apparent that no one had read the book.
Four hours later the dinner ended and we all arrived back on the stage. Noise was going around about staying up and conversing with one another. I rejected the offer and went to my suite. I fell on my bed, and within minuets was fast asleep.
Because it’s a winding road, I’ve been searching for a long time. I still have hope one day we’ll find our way home. The alarm went off and woke me up. Day two was commencing whether I wanted it to or not. Stumbling to the bathroom, I was half way there when… ring…ring. That damn phone, I swear I was about to have that fricken thing removed. I refused to answer it and finished my path to the bathroom.
Twenty minuets later I was half way ready for the day. I remembered that I had gotten a call and checked if the caller had left a message. Clear enough the phone was blinking green. I lifted the phone and pressed one.
“Hey little miss sunshine, I got coffee and will be up in 10. Hope you’re up and dressed, for you’re sake at least.” There was a slight pause where the voice let out a slight laugh. “Well okay, see you soon.”
I was confused. Not by the voice of course, I had known who it was by the laugh. But I was confused by the timeline. I had taken twenty minuets to get ready in the bathroom, and the message said he would be here in ten minuets. So either I had frozen time, or the person would have been here already. Deciding to check outside, I opened the door with a thump. Oh shit. On my floor laid a boy cradling in his hands his head.
“Dude,” I offered the idiot my hand, “I am so sorry.”
“No harm,” JD spoke while still holding his head with a hand,“ no foul.” Without thinking I stuck out my hand. “What?”
“Well I thought you were going to bring me something to drink.” Thankfully he knew I was playing with him.
He shrugged and said, “well I was. That was until you kept me waiting.” I wasn’t sure if he was joking or being serious. “Then you just roundhouse door kick me to the ground.” He smiled. I looked at him puzzled and irritated at the same time.
“Ok so where are we on the coffee?” Trying really hard not to smile, but letting one slip anyway. Laughing he replied.
“Well… I was hoping that you were going to be ready to go downstairs to the café.” This is what made me really smile. In the back of my mind I had an image of me and him in a café in London. I would be wearing the stupid beret while he was in the tight black and white stripped shirt. “Hello?” I shook myself from the reverie.
“Yes. I mean, sure.”
“Okay, so we’re going?”
“Totally.”
He took his phone out of his pocket and looked back at me. “Okay good. I think that most everyone should be down there already.”
“Most everyone?” I tried not to look confused but the shocking tone from my voice couldn’t equal it out.
“Yeah. I invited the cast to coffee.” My creeping shock look, turned to disappointment. “So girly are you ready?”
“You know what, I am not. I will meet you guys downstairs.” He nodded then waved goodbye.
Slightly embarrassed and perplexed I finished getting ready. About ten minuets later I arrived downstairs. Entering the café I noticed the cast right away. There were two tables that were connected together that everyone was seated around. I realized what JD meant by most everyone. The “younger” crowd. On the whole the people there would not have been alive to see the premiere of Mash. Walking to the table I felt really awkward. I felt like the new kid in school. Not even the Caddy Heron, the beautiful future mean girl. I was the geeky freshmen. Thoughts about turning back were racing in my head. The thoughts were intermittent by the Andrea who was signaling me over. Too late to turn back now.
“Liv, over here,” Andrea bellowed my way. I walked toward the group trying hard not to look scared for my life.
“Hey,” I said to no one in particular. One by one people said hi. April pulled up a chair and I sat next to her.
“Fashionably late?” She turned to ask me.
“Literally.”
“Nice seeing you again,” Jean smiled.
“Yeah and this time you didn’t have to hit her to get her attention,’” Steven laughed at Jean. Who then slugged him. I could hear him whisper shut up to Steven, which made me laugh. I noticed there were people that I wasn’t formally introduced to. So I somehow managed to get the guts and introduce myself. I reached my hand across the table in a gesture.
“Hi, Liv.” Across the table was an extremely cute boy with medium dirty blonde hair. He was painfully gorgeous.
“I’m Will,” he spoke with a british accent. Then he smiled, which tore me into two. Hello handsome. In a moment I finally realized who he was.
“Holy crap you’re from Chronicles Of Narnia. Peter.” I said in my best possible British accent. He laughed graciously.
“So you have seen my work, I am assuming.” He kept this excruciatingly beautiful smile on his face. “I am sorry to say that I can’t say the same.”
“Oh well, that’s not hard to believe. This is my first movie.” I was going to leave it at that. I mean I had the chance to flirt with William Mosley and I wasn’t going to waste that. Or at least that was my agenda.
“What?” My passionate stare at Will turned to a glare at Andrea. “This is you’re first movie?”
“Ummm yeah. I mean I’m not an actress. Nor am I part of the Hollywood scene.”
“WHAT?” Now I was being judged by everyone at the table. They stared at me puzzled as to my existence on their planet. “So you have no experience,” I nodded my head. “And you are the lead of the movie.” Instead of giving them a extended ummmm I decide to interrupt her.
I gestured towards Will, “William Mosley, Chronicles Of Narnia.” Moving my arm I motioned towards the guy sitting next to Will, “Douglas Smith, Big Love.” I went down and around the table. “Jean-Luc Bilodeau, Kyle XY. Steven Strait, The Covenant. Oliver Phelps, Harry Potter. Arielle Kebbel, John Tucker Must Die. April Matson, Kyle XY. Blake Lively, Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants. Sam Murphy, Keith. And Andrea Whitburn, Tell Me No Lies.” People stared at me as in, what is your point? “Well, who am I missing?” It took a second, but in a moment they turned to stare at JD. “Who is he?” Thoughts of awe now I get it came on faces.
“Whoa whoa whoa,” JD stopped me, “I have nothing to do with this.” I couldn’t tell if he was joking around or if he really didn’t want to defend me. So I continued.
“Exactly. You are not part of the Hollywood scene, neither am I.” I smiled in hopes to let people know I wasn’t being serious. JD smiled and slyly walked to me.
Putting his arm around me he said, “little girl, you should be in politics.” I know that references to politics were usually on the negative aspect, but I decided to take this as a positive. It was a light joke letting me know he knew I was joking. For some reason this unspoken connection that we were having was kind of romantic. Then the unexpected happened. Laughter broke out around the group. My checks became flushed. I wasn’t sure if they were laughing at me or with me. But since I wasn’t laughing it was probably the first one.
“You make an excellent point,” April spoke humorously. “And you did it with such flair.”
“Yeah,” Jean strut, his voice cracking, “most people would have gone all self-exiled on us. Not you.” I realized they were laughing at me, but in a good way. So I took it for what it was. In the side view of my stare I could see Nancy walking towards us.
“Well,” she began, “its good to see everyone bonding. I didn’t mean to interrupt, but the scripts are in. So if everyone would meet on the stage we will be handing them out. That is all.” I laughed when she said that final part. It was very Miranda Priestly of her. “Something funny?” she glanced at me. I guess I was louder than I hoped.
“Something Hilarious,” Jean came by my side to save the day. “You should have seen Liv today.” They walked into the distance still talking. There was some laughter from both parts as they slowly disappeared around the corner. Everyone stood from their seats and smiled friendly at me. It was then that I realized I was no longer the young girl, but I was accepted.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Rocket Science PT. II
Two steps away from my door something stopped me from entering.
“Wait…” running he blocked me from my door. “Night?”
“Remember when we were walking out of the van. Remember how dark it was? That darkness was a cause of nighttime.” I glared at him hoping it would telepathically move him.
“Haha,” he gave a sarcastic laugh. “You’re funny. No, what I meant was you’re going to bed?”
“It is eleven, and I’m tired.” His face showed no understanding of what I was saying. “Soooo… to answer you’re question I am going to sleep. ” This time I tried a more forceful tactic. Pushing him aside I had my key card in hand and opened the door. “Good…Ni…” before I finished the final word the door slammed. Walking away from the door, I felt… guilty. His persistence, thinking back on it, was not irritating but was somewhat… romantic. I should at least give him a chance. Opening my door, I searched for Reece. The search wasn’t long lived. Reece was pushing the door to his room open. His room was about a door away from mine. “Hey,” I tried to get his attention. The only response I heard was the sound of his door slam. Shoot. Hoping that he didn’t hear me, I went to him. Closing my door behind me I walked the hall to his room. Knock knock… For some reason I was nervous. Standing outside of his door, I anticipated his arrival. Ten seconds later he appeared. “Hello?” He seemed groggy.
“Hey.” I couldn’t help but notice his pajamas. They were so funky and cute. He had plaid pants that fell to the floor. Accompanied by a grey t-shirt that said the male gives birth. “You going to bed already?” He laughed and yawned at the same time. Very cute.
“Well, do you know what time it is?” His voice reeked of sarcasm. “So why are you up?”
“Well, I was going to bed and I couldn’t stop thinking.”
“About…”
“Well, I guess, about you.” He woke up when he heard this.
“Oh really? Well than, come on in.” He opened the door and gestured me into his room. Seeing no harm in this, I entered. The first thing I noticed was his clothes. They were all over the place. Next to his bed was an empty suitcase. I found it amazing how all those clothes could have once been stuffed in one suitcase. His script was opened on his desk. “So what exactly where you thinking about?”
“So what part are you on?” I walked to his desk and took a seat in his chair, completely ignoring his question.
“Part?” Looking over at me holding the script he understood. “Hal and Ben just entered the auditorium and Ginny glared and walked out. Fricken hate that Ginny. She can be so dickhead.” I laughed.
“So what do you think of it?”
“I love it. Its really insightful. Jeff mastered the theme of not be heard by using a boy who stuttered. It all just meant something. Its not just one of those crappy movies that get two stars and feature Ben Stiller or something.”
“Wow.” I was truly amazed by his insight. It made him seem so intellectual.
“Yeah. I came really close to the end but then Jeff called. He made me leave the script to meet someone.” Putting background clues together I figured out who that someone was.
“Me. I brought you away from finishing it?” He smiled.
“You could say that.”
“Well… I don’t want to keep you from finishing any longer. I’ll let you go.” I smiled and stood from the desk chair. Walking to the door his arm swung to halt me.
“Don’t think you’re getting away that easily.” He laughed, while I walked to the chair and sat back into the seat. “I’ll finish later.” He closed the script that still lied on his desk. “So you were thinking of me?”
“About how stupid you were tonight.” I stood up from the chair. “I’ve been shot.” I mocked his actions of dying. Holding my chest and I stumbled to his bed and fell onto it. I laughed hysterically.
“Stupid, or adorable?” He fell onto the bed beside me. I looked over at him.
“Stupid.” Lifting my hand I tossed his hair. “Nah. You’re cool in my book.”
“My goal in life.” He sounded tired.
“Tired?” He refused to answer this question honestly, shaking his head no. “If you are I can go.”
“Hold it.” He got up from the bed and head to the mini fridge by the bathroom door. As I sat up, I saw him pull out a soda. “Caffeine good to keep me up.” I shook my head and fell back down. “Want?”
“I’m good.” I honestly didn’t feel tired. The adrenaline of being with Reece was keeping me awake.
“So how far did you get in the script?” His voice came over from the desk.
“Janitor closet scene.”
“Now that is a good scene.” He laughed. “So are you playing Ginny?”
“Yeah. So I am really curious to see who Hal is.” He started to laugh. I didn’t get the joke. “Hahaha?”
“Hal.”
“You’ve met him.” I sat up intrigued. Now he was laughing hysterically. He nodded through the laughter. “Is he ugly or something?” His laughing was cut to a minimum.
“No way. He is very handsome. And smart. You’ll love him no doubt.”
“The way you describe him you are either gay or…” it finally dawned on me, “you. You’re Hal.” He smiled widely and smoothly moved towards me.
“Yup, and you should consider your self lucky to be making out with me.” His eyebrows raised and eyes wide, all I wanted to do was slap him. Although for some reason I couldn’t. Instead I just stood up and moved to the desk chair.
“New topic.” I was beyond embarrassed about thinking of Reece and I kissing. For some reason I think I felt embarrassed because I did somewhat feel lucky. Or at least I felt like I lucked out, Reece being somewhat cute and all.
“Well what’s on tv?” He reached for the remote on the bed stand. Flipping through the channels he couldn’t seem to decide on one. He threw me the remote. “You chose.” I took this as an invite to stay longer. Rolling my eyes I searched for something.
“Omg.” You’ve Got Mail was on. Flipping to that channel I could feel Reece looking at me. “You’ve Got Mail is on.” He looked stupidly at me. “Meg Ryan? Tom Hanks? Ring any bells?” He shook his head. “ Omg I can’t believe you have never seen this movie.”
“I can’t believe you have.”
“Not only have I seen this, but I’ve memorized it. Now this is a classic romantic film.”
“Or in other words a chick flick.”
“Ugh. Pshovanist male.” He laughed.
“Is that you’re favorite word?” I rolled my eyes, trying to keep from smiling.
Walking to the desk he got his soda and drank.
“Well if I’m going to watch this all night I’m going to need as much caffeine as I can get.” He smiled. The movie had just started so we were ensured for at least two more hours of each others company.
Through out the movie I would recite lines and Reece would tease the movie and me. The final scene rolled, and my eyes welled up in awe of this beautiful movie.
“You actually like these movies?” He asked.
“Yeah. Why wouldn’t I?”
“I don’t know. I just don’t see the point. Its not realistic at all.”
“Don’t say that.” I threatened to hit him. “Who says I won’t be able to meet a guy as perfect as Joe fox.”
“Well I’m not saying that. I mean I’m right here.” Laughing I walked from the desk chair I sat in the entire movie to the door. “No I just think you shouldn’t have such high expectations of how you’re going to meet this perfect person.”
“Fine. You may have you’re opinions. It won’t affect mine, but…” I laughed. Since the movie was over I felt that I should escort myself out. But some part of me didn’t want to leave. “Ok, its 1, and I‘m leaving.”
“You’re tired already?”
“Nah. But I know if I stay here I won’t go to sleep, like…ever. And I think I… we both are going to need rest for whatever tomorrow brings.” I opened the door and got about half through, when…
“Sleep is lame. Which I guess in point makes you lame. But whatever…” He laughed quietly.
“I am so not lame.” I came inside the room once again and partially closed the door.
“Fine.” It was funny. Standing there I was given the green light to leave, but I didn’t want to. For some reason I wanted to stay and watch movies with him. So that’s what I decided to do.
“Fine, I‘ll stay.” I tried to pretend that I was only staying because he was asking me. Not that he was actually asking me though. “ But I get to sit on the bed this time.” I laughed and walked to the bed. I don’t think he understood that I wanted the bed for myself. “That means you get the chair.” I pushed him off the bed.
“You know I am not making you stay.” I nodded, rolled my eyes, and laughed all at the same time. “Whatever,” he spoke sarcastically. Instead of the chair he laid on the floor. I guess the carpeted ground seemed more comfortable than the desk chair.
That night we watched two more movies. Clueless and Ferris Buller’s Day Off . The last movie is what consequently caused me to fall asleep.
I was half awake, but didn’t feel like opening my eyes. It just felt like another lazy morning at home. Except crap, I wasn’t at home. Opening my eyes I looked down on the ground to see Reece sleeping like a rock. I tried to remember why I wasn’t in my room. I could figure this all out later. For the moment all I knew was that I need to haul ass out of there. Trying to be quiet and fast I hurried out of there. Quietly I opened the door and snuck out. The moment I was outside I ran to my door and tried to go in. Frick. I didn’t have my keycard. Feeling like an idiot I hit my head against the door and fell to the ground. Sitting in the fetal position, I heard someone’s door open. Looking to see who it was I was relieved to see Blitz.
“Good morning?” He looked at me quizzically.
“I can explain this.” I tried to think fast for a reason as to why I didn’t sleep in my room, but instead I slept in Reece’s room.
“No need to explain. You woke up and stepped outside and the door slammed behind you.” I liked his story a lot more than mine.
“SO embarrassing.” I smiled.
“Well then I guess it’s a good thing they make two of these.” He entered his room and came back out with a keycard. Passing it to me, I thanked him and entered my room. It felt weird, being in my room. I hadn’t spent much time in it.
Having stayed up ‘til about five, I was beat. I decided to jump back into bed.
Two hours later I woke up feeling well rested. Sitting up I looked at my clock that read 9:00. Might as well get up, I thought. Getting out of bed I heard a knock at the door. Hoping not to see Reece, I was happy to see Nick at my door.
“Morning sunshine.” He smiled and walked into my room. He looked me up and down and laughed. I think he noticed that I was still wearing my pajamas. “Nice orange boxers.” His laugh sounded sweet, even if it was laughter meant to torment me.
“Shut up.” I stood standing as he made his way to my bed and sat down. “Can I help you with something?”
“Well, I was just going to see if you wanted to come eat breakfast with the group.” He took another look at me in my pj’s. “But seeing you’re attire, I see that you aren’t exactly ready.” He laughed.
“Nah. I’ll catch up with you guys later though.”
“Alright. Catch you later.” He did a 180 and headed out the door.
I spent about 30 minuets getting ready for the day. 20 of those minuets I spent thinking of Nick and his perfect smile. The other 10 I thought of what to wear to impress him.
Leaving my room at around 9:30, I saw everyone sitting on the couches in the lobby. They all had their scripts in hand and there was random food snack packages scattered on the table. They all sat still and quiet, and no one seemed to notice me when I entered. It was a serene moment and I didn’t want to break that. So sliding my script from my messenger tote, I took a seat on the floor next behind the couch. Facing opposite direction of everyone allowed me more focus on reading. The silence lasted enough time for me to just finish the script.
“So,” Blitz opened up the conversation. “What do you guys think of it?” No one responded. The thick silence was so intense. I knew that Blitz was probably really interested in our thoughts, so I decided to open.
“I thought it was amazing.” I didn’t peek my head from behind the couch. Instead I just let my voice travel over the couch to Blitz. “It was way insane in the membrane.”
“Insane?” I couldn’t see his face, but I could tell by his voice that he was worried by this remark.
“Don’t worry. Insane in the membrane is a good thing.” I smiled knowing no one could see me. “The way you used a boy who stuttered to get across the message of not being heard was mind-boggling. You could tell this will be a good movie.” Then I said something that I knew would catch Reece’s attention. “It all meant something. Its not one of those crappy two star movies that star Ben Stiller.” Everyone laughed, but I knew that one person would not be laughing.
“Well thank you.” Blitz sounded content with my answer. My one response seemed to open up the floor for discussion. I sat back listening to the responses flooding out.
“Dude your writing is the shiz,” Aaron spoke trying to be all gangster. This wasn’t the first time I was seeing his Asian gangster side. In the car ride back to the studio, while he was talking about his girlfriend, he said something like “gangster for life.” I looked up from behind the couch at Aaron. Looking at him with his black beanie placed carelessly on his head, his plaid shirt he wore open showing a plain white tee, and his black converse shoes. He dressed more punk rock than gangster, but who am I to tell him who he is?
“I thought the scenes between the brothers were intense. They felt realistic. The dialogue showed brotherly rivalry and yet they loved each other,” Vincent spoke with a smile. He seemed like a real standup guy. He was quiet and shy, but I hoped that within the nine months we would get to know each other.
“The ideas behind the screen play are complex. It shows the true Bohemian style of indie films.” Blitz sounded super smart. He was really brainy and his witty banter was remarkable. It was funny, that even though he was older than all of us, he wasn’t a father figure person to us. He was that cool older brother who made us laugh. “So, today we are going to be meeting more cast members. Right on.” That made me laugh. “ ‘Til then the time is yours.” Though Blitz had dismissed us, no one left from their seats. “Liv?”
“Yes sir,” I replied still behind the couch. Not even Blitz could make me move from behind the unbelievably comfortable back of the couch.
“Food is in the kitchen area if your hungry. Everyone else has eaten so its all yours.” I imagined an empty fridge with a carton of spoiled milk sitting outside on the counter.
“Thanks.” I tried to sound sincere through my tiredness. Footsteps began to shake up the floor. Guessing that people were leaving, I decided to just stay where I was at for a little longer. Staring at my script placed on my lap I started to dose off. My eyes were closed for one second, when…
“Sup?” I could recognize that gangster tone anywhere.
“Hey Aaron.” I opened my eyes to see his torso floating above me.
“So you in need of major energy?” I smiled and nodded my head. “Legal addictive stimulants in the kitchen. You want?”
“Sure.” I placed my script back in my tote, placing it over my shoulder I stood up. He laughed and stared at me.
“Olivia Montgomery.”
“Aaron…” I looked blankly at him. “What is your last name?”
“You.” He smiled wide, making his eyes tinier than they already were.
“What about me?”
“No, you.”
“I know my last name, what is yours?”
“Dude, its you.”
“The same as mine.” We walked into the kitchen area. “Your last name is Montgomery?”
“Y…”
“Why do I want to know?”
“Okay,” he sounded somewhat irritated. “My last name is Yoo.” I began to say something but he shut me up by continuing to speak. “ It is spelt Y…O…O.” I felt like a retard. I could tell he was annoyed, but I didn’t think it was an I’m sorry moment, so I made a joke to lighten the mood.
“You must get teased a hell of a lot.” He smiled and nodded. “You know that song, Soulja Boy? How does it start? YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOUUUUUUU.” He started to laugh. Walking to the coffee pot, I searched for a cup.
“You’re not the first to use that joke.”
“Damn and I thought I was original.” The laughter began to uproar. As I began to pour some coffee we were added one more person in the mix.
“What’s goin’ up in here?” Vincent greeted us.
“Sup bro?” Aaron took a seat in one of the chairs tucked into the round table in the middle of the kitchen.
“I could hear you guys from in the lobby. What’s so funny in here?” I walked with my coffee to the round table and took a seat next to Aaron.
“Yoooouuuu.” I tried to enter myself in the conversation.
“Me?” He smiled, still standing by the door.
“Inside joke.” Vincent came to the round table sitting across from Aaron and me. Aaron and Vincent began to talk amongst themselves. I sat listening and drinking my coffee. I stared at the original interior design of the kitchen. The bright orange table we were sitting at, was accompanied by bright neon chairs all different colors. Two purple, two pink, and two yellow. The beige wall color didn’t match the slightest to the red appliances within. A red toaster, microwave oven, toaster oven, blender, and even a big red fridge. I found it an eyesore. But then again I am a fan of Martha Stewart.
“ You in?” Vincent asked me. I was so busy criticizing the kitchen in my head, that I fazed out the entire conversation going on in front of me. Shrugging my shoulders, he smiled and clued me in on what I missed. “The mini mall, were going to go check it out. You wanna come?” I didn’t want to sound anti-social, but I was extremely tired so I decided not to go. Shaking my head I explained how I didn’t get much sleep last night and how I didn’t want to weigh them with my fatigue. “ Catch ya later.” They left the kitchen area, leaving me alone in this interior design hell. Slowly I finished drinking my coffee. I liked the quiet environment. I knew that I wouldn’t be spending a lot of quiet time alone when the filming starts.
Minuets flew by, and I had no idea of the time. I stared at the empty cup deciding if I should have another cup. “Nah,” I spoke aloud to myself. I do that sometimes. Just randomly I talk to myself. I know its weird, but I am pretty positive that almost everyone does that.
In the background I could hear a familiar song. Dun dunna dun dunna dun dunna dunna dun dun.
I totally forgot the songs title or the artist, but I know it. I decided to figure out where the music was coming from. Throwing the Styrofoam cup away I walked from the kitchen to the lobby. Walking in I found Blitz jamming out on a faux guitar staring intensely at the TV screen. It was the first time I had noticed the TV in the sea of couches. Dun dunna dun dunna dun dun… the music continued to play from the tiny speakers of the TV screen. Walking in I found a seat next to Nick on one of the couches facing the screen.
“Dammit,” Blitz yelled at the screen as a irking sound came out. The screen showed him trying, but failing, to click on round colored circles. “Crap, I suck.” He seemed to be laughing through his irritated expression. Three minuets of deep concentration on hitting the dots, and the song finished. “Hell yeah, 85%.” He was so childish it made me laugh. “Who’s next?”
“How ’bout you?” Nick turned to me. It was just Blitz, Nick, and I. Since the number of people seeing me in my moment of embarrassment was limited, I agreed. Rolling my eyes I walked up to Blitz and took the faux guitar.
“So how do I play?” I spoke to no one in particular.
“You’ve never played guitar hero?” Nick mocked me. Shaking my head he got up from the couch and took the guitar from me. He showed me the buttons to press and when I should use them. He introduced me to this device called a “whammy bar” to use when there are long notes. “So what song do you want?” He helped put the strap over my head falling carelessly on my shoulder. Staring at the play list of songs I found one. Clicking the green button the song began to play.
“I see a red door and I want it painted black…” Red, green, yellow, green, green… I could barely enjoy the lyrics of the song I was focusing on when to press what. Song only lasted 30 seconds. By that point the computer generated audience had “booed” me off stage. The word FAILURE came across the screen.
“Dude, you failed on easy.” Blitz seemed to enjoy my defeat. I turned to him and stuck out my tongue. He just wanted to be one of the teenage boys, then so be it. I turned to Nick, who also seemed to enjoy my failing attempt. He stood up laughing his way to me.
“Hint, ignore the lyrics all together. They’ll just throw you off.” Ignore the lyrics…ignore the lyrics… I kept saying this in my head. “Ready?” He smiled at me. I wanted to say with that smile I can do anything.” But I didn’t, I nodded my head instead. Pressing the green button again the song began to play. Ignore the lyrics…
The song began to play, but I didn’t hear the voice of Mick Jagger. All I could notice were the dots flying by. The song finished what seemed like a lifetime later. 84%. “Sweet,” I shouted to the screen. Nothing could fade my wide smile. Turning around I saw Blitz and Nick sitting on the couch nearest to the TV. A soft sound of clapping arose between the two. It was soon joined by another clap, then another, then another. Making a complete 180, I found three extra people who watched my performance. Extremely embarrassed, I felt my checks getting hot. I rolled my hand through my hair, like I do most times when I’m humiliated. Trying to smile through my mortified expression I turned to the unknown crowd, “Hello.”
“Hello,” the woman sitting on the couch greeted me. There was a girl around my age, and a boy not much younger sitting on the couch beside the woman. They greeted me with a head nod.
“Perfect time for introductions,” Blitz stood from his seat. “Liv this is Margo Martindale, Margo this is Olivia Montgomery.” She smiled politely. “Next is Emily Ginnona, and Josh Kay.”
“Nice to meet you all.” I tried to sound friendly. “Too bad it wasn’t my finest moment.” The three of them let out forced laughter.
“84%, that’s pretty impressive,” Emily tried to sooth my uncomfortable feeling.
“It was a hard song too,” Josh found his way into the conversation. “I’m sure you’d stink less on an easier song… that came out wrong.” He dropped his head. I tried not to laugh, but let a tiny one slip.
“Thanks… don’t worry I know I suck that much.” They gave me true laughter for this comment. “So, next?” I looked into the crowd. No one seemed to jump for the chance. “Well, I would love another turn, but…”
“But…” Nick made a sarcastic quizzical look. I glared at him trying not to smile.
“But, I thought Nick would want to show off.” I shoved the guitar into his chest.
“How did you know?” Strapping the guitar over his shoulder he smiled. Strolling through the songs he picked One by Metallica. Then strolling through the difficulties he paused on hard. “Nah,” he shrugged. Then clicking on expert the song began to play. A million miles a minute, notes rambled down. Nick didn’t seem fazed by this either. Ending the song with a worthy 99%, he looked at me and smiled proudly. “So how did I do?” Rolling my eyes I didn’t answer him.
“Hey did you all settle in your rooms already?” Margo and Josh nodded their heads. Next to Emily were her three suitcases. “Emily do you need some help with your bags?” She smiled sweetly and nodded. Walking over I grabbed one bag and the key from Blitz. Leaving the room felt liberating. Meeting up with Emily in the hall I turned to her. “I don’t think I can handle any more guitar hero.” She laughed. I could tell she was really sweet. She wore light yellow peasant blouse and a short denim skirt. Her blonde hair was worn up showing off her black framed glasses. I laughed when I noticed her shoes. “Nice kicks.” I pointed at my shoes. Noticing that we had the same black pair of converse shoes.
“Great minds look alike.” She smiled friendly. Arriving at her room I gave her the key card and helped her in. “Nice room.” She threw her two bags on her bed. Opening them up, massive piles of clothes were stuffed in. My amazement must have been apparent. “Yeah, I pack heavy.”
“Whoa.” One by one she took out her clothes lying them on the bed. There were diverse shirts and skirts. A few pairs of pants and about 4 pairs of shoes. “You really do pack heavy.”
“Hey, you look about the same size as me. Anytime you want to borrow…”
“Seriously?” It was like I had arrived at a mall with no spending limit. She nodded her head smiling. “I think this is a beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
We hung out, transferring her clothes to the tiny closet. Getting to know her, she was just as sweet as she seemed. Coming from a little city in Canada, she was raised by her mom. No siblings, her mom became was her best friend. It was like a Canadian version of Gilmore Girls. “So you’re a junior?” I asked her as we walked out of her room.
“Yup. Can’t wait for senior year though. Party year.” She pretended to dance to the beat of a song.
“Sure, you keep thinking that.” We stood in the hall way not knowing exactly what to do. It was about 11 o’clock and was almost lunch. Walking to the lobby we bumped into Reece.
“Hey cutie.” He smiled at me. Rolling my eyes I thought I’d introduce Emily, who preferred to be called Em.
“Reece Thompson, this is Emily Ginnona.”
“But call me Em.” She swept her hand up and embraced his.
“Nice to meet you.” He smiled politely. Ten seconds had passed and Em kept her hands enclosed on Reece’s. “So lunch?” He tried to take his hand back.
“Yeah, do you know what’s happening?” I tried not to laugh about Reece’s current predicament.
“I think Jeff Blitz is making the meal.” He smiled winning his hand back.
“So do you want to go look what’s for lunch? I know you’ve been talking about it.” I looked quizzically at her. I hadn’t mentioned lunch once during our conversation. From her glare I finally got the hint. She wanted to be alone with Reece.
“Oh, yeah. I have to make sure the meal is vegetarian friendly.” I made my exit quick.
There was this pit of the stomach feeling I had, and it wasn’t pleasant. I didn’t know the reason I had it, but I think it correlated to Reece and Em.
“Hey.” I heard a faint call from around the corner. Walking closer I found Blitz and Nick cooking.
“Wait…” running he blocked me from my door. “Night?”
“Remember when we were walking out of the van. Remember how dark it was? That darkness was a cause of nighttime.” I glared at him hoping it would telepathically move him.
“Haha,” he gave a sarcastic laugh. “You’re funny. No, what I meant was you’re going to bed?”
“It is eleven, and I’m tired.” His face showed no understanding of what I was saying. “Soooo… to answer you’re question I am going to sleep. ” This time I tried a more forceful tactic. Pushing him aside I had my key card in hand and opened the door. “Good…Ni…” before I finished the final word the door slammed. Walking away from the door, I felt… guilty. His persistence, thinking back on it, was not irritating but was somewhat… romantic. I should at least give him a chance. Opening my door, I searched for Reece. The search wasn’t long lived. Reece was pushing the door to his room open. His room was about a door away from mine. “Hey,” I tried to get his attention. The only response I heard was the sound of his door slam. Shoot. Hoping that he didn’t hear me, I went to him. Closing my door behind me I walked the hall to his room. Knock knock… For some reason I was nervous. Standing outside of his door, I anticipated his arrival. Ten seconds later he appeared. “Hello?” He seemed groggy.
“Hey.” I couldn’t help but notice his pajamas. They were so funky and cute. He had plaid pants that fell to the floor. Accompanied by a grey t-shirt that said the male gives birth. “You going to bed already?” He laughed and yawned at the same time. Very cute.
“Well, do you know what time it is?” His voice reeked of sarcasm. “So why are you up?”
“Well, I was going to bed and I couldn’t stop thinking.”
“About…”
“Well, I guess, about you.” He woke up when he heard this.
“Oh really? Well than, come on in.” He opened the door and gestured me into his room. Seeing no harm in this, I entered. The first thing I noticed was his clothes. They were all over the place. Next to his bed was an empty suitcase. I found it amazing how all those clothes could have once been stuffed in one suitcase. His script was opened on his desk. “So what exactly where you thinking about?”
“So what part are you on?” I walked to his desk and took a seat in his chair, completely ignoring his question.
“Part?” Looking over at me holding the script he understood. “Hal and Ben just entered the auditorium and Ginny glared and walked out. Fricken hate that Ginny. She can be so dickhead.” I laughed.
“So what do you think of it?”
“I love it. Its really insightful. Jeff mastered the theme of not be heard by using a boy who stuttered. It all just meant something. Its not just one of those crappy movies that get two stars and feature Ben Stiller or something.”
“Wow.” I was truly amazed by his insight. It made him seem so intellectual.
“Yeah. I came really close to the end but then Jeff called. He made me leave the script to meet someone.” Putting background clues together I figured out who that someone was.
“Me. I brought you away from finishing it?” He smiled.
“You could say that.”
“Well… I don’t want to keep you from finishing any longer. I’ll let you go.” I smiled and stood from the desk chair. Walking to the door his arm swung to halt me.
“Don’t think you’re getting away that easily.” He laughed, while I walked to the chair and sat back into the seat. “I’ll finish later.” He closed the script that still lied on his desk. “So you were thinking of me?”
“About how stupid you were tonight.” I stood up from the chair. “I’ve been shot.” I mocked his actions of dying. Holding my chest and I stumbled to his bed and fell onto it. I laughed hysterically.
“Stupid, or adorable?” He fell onto the bed beside me. I looked over at him.
“Stupid.” Lifting my hand I tossed his hair. “Nah. You’re cool in my book.”
“My goal in life.” He sounded tired.
“Tired?” He refused to answer this question honestly, shaking his head no. “If you are I can go.”
“Hold it.” He got up from the bed and head to the mini fridge by the bathroom door. As I sat up, I saw him pull out a soda. “Caffeine good to keep me up.” I shook my head and fell back down. “Want?”
“I’m good.” I honestly didn’t feel tired. The adrenaline of being with Reece was keeping me awake.
“So how far did you get in the script?” His voice came over from the desk.
“Janitor closet scene.”
“Now that is a good scene.” He laughed. “So are you playing Ginny?”
“Yeah. So I am really curious to see who Hal is.” He started to laugh. I didn’t get the joke. “Hahaha?”
“Hal.”
“You’ve met him.” I sat up intrigued. Now he was laughing hysterically. He nodded through the laughter. “Is he ugly or something?” His laughing was cut to a minimum.
“No way. He is very handsome. And smart. You’ll love him no doubt.”
“The way you describe him you are either gay or…” it finally dawned on me, “you. You’re Hal.” He smiled widely and smoothly moved towards me.
“Yup, and you should consider your self lucky to be making out with me.” His eyebrows raised and eyes wide, all I wanted to do was slap him. Although for some reason I couldn’t. Instead I just stood up and moved to the desk chair.
“New topic.” I was beyond embarrassed about thinking of Reece and I kissing. For some reason I think I felt embarrassed because I did somewhat feel lucky. Or at least I felt like I lucked out, Reece being somewhat cute and all.
“Well what’s on tv?” He reached for the remote on the bed stand. Flipping through the channels he couldn’t seem to decide on one. He threw me the remote. “You chose.” I took this as an invite to stay longer. Rolling my eyes I searched for something.
“Omg.” You’ve Got Mail was on. Flipping to that channel I could feel Reece looking at me. “You’ve Got Mail is on.” He looked stupidly at me. “Meg Ryan? Tom Hanks? Ring any bells?” He shook his head. “ Omg I can’t believe you have never seen this movie.”
“I can’t believe you have.”
“Not only have I seen this, but I’ve memorized it. Now this is a classic romantic film.”
“Or in other words a chick flick.”
“Ugh. Pshovanist male.” He laughed.
“Is that you’re favorite word?” I rolled my eyes, trying to keep from smiling.
Walking to the desk he got his soda and drank.
“Well if I’m going to watch this all night I’m going to need as much caffeine as I can get.” He smiled. The movie had just started so we were ensured for at least two more hours of each others company.
Through out the movie I would recite lines and Reece would tease the movie and me. The final scene rolled, and my eyes welled up in awe of this beautiful movie.
“You actually like these movies?” He asked.
“Yeah. Why wouldn’t I?”
“I don’t know. I just don’t see the point. Its not realistic at all.”
“Don’t say that.” I threatened to hit him. “Who says I won’t be able to meet a guy as perfect as Joe fox.”
“Well I’m not saying that. I mean I’m right here.” Laughing I walked from the desk chair I sat in the entire movie to the door. “No I just think you shouldn’t have such high expectations of how you’re going to meet this perfect person.”
“Fine. You may have you’re opinions. It won’t affect mine, but…” I laughed. Since the movie was over I felt that I should escort myself out. But some part of me didn’t want to leave. “Ok, its 1, and I‘m leaving.”
“You’re tired already?”
“Nah. But I know if I stay here I won’t go to sleep, like…ever. And I think I… we both are going to need rest for whatever tomorrow brings.” I opened the door and got about half through, when…
“Sleep is lame. Which I guess in point makes you lame. But whatever…” He laughed quietly.
“I am so not lame.” I came inside the room once again and partially closed the door.
“Fine.” It was funny. Standing there I was given the green light to leave, but I didn’t want to. For some reason I wanted to stay and watch movies with him. So that’s what I decided to do.
“Fine, I‘ll stay.” I tried to pretend that I was only staying because he was asking me. Not that he was actually asking me though. “ But I get to sit on the bed this time.” I laughed and walked to the bed. I don’t think he understood that I wanted the bed for myself. “That means you get the chair.” I pushed him off the bed.
“You know I am not making you stay.” I nodded, rolled my eyes, and laughed all at the same time. “Whatever,” he spoke sarcastically. Instead of the chair he laid on the floor. I guess the carpeted ground seemed more comfortable than the desk chair.
That night we watched two more movies. Clueless and Ferris Buller’s Day Off . The last movie is what consequently caused me to fall asleep.
I was half awake, but didn’t feel like opening my eyes. It just felt like another lazy morning at home. Except crap, I wasn’t at home. Opening my eyes I looked down on the ground to see Reece sleeping like a rock. I tried to remember why I wasn’t in my room. I could figure this all out later. For the moment all I knew was that I need to haul ass out of there. Trying to be quiet and fast I hurried out of there. Quietly I opened the door and snuck out. The moment I was outside I ran to my door and tried to go in. Frick. I didn’t have my keycard. Feeling like an idiot I hit my head against the door and fell to the ground. Sitting in the fetal position, I heard someone’s door open. Looking to see who it was I was relieved to see Blitz.
“Good morning?” He looked at me quizzically.
“I can explain this.” I tried to think fast for a reason as to why I didn’t sleep in my room, but instead I slept in Reece’s room.
“No need to explain. You woke up and stepped outside and the door slammed behind you.” I liked his story a lot more than mine.
“SO embarrassing.” I smiled.
“Well then I guess it’s a good thing they make two of these.” He entered his room and came back out with a keycard. Passing it to me, I thanked him and entered my room. It felt weird, being in my room. I hadn’t spent much time in it.
Having stayed up ‘til about five, I was beat. I decided to jump back into bed.
Two hours later I woke up feeling well rested. Sitting up I looked at my clock that read 9:00. Might as well get up, I thought. Getting out of bed I heard a knock at the door. Hoping not to see Reece, I was happy to see Nick at my door.
“Morning sunshine.” He smiled and walked into my room. He looked me up and down and laughed. I think he noticed that I was still wearing my pajamas. “Nice orange boxers.” His laugh sounded sweet, even if it was laughter meant to torment me.
“Shut up.” I stood standing as he made his way to my bed and sat down. “Can I help you with something?”
“Well, I was just going to see if you wanted to come eat breakfast with the group.” He took another look at me in my pj’s. “But seeing you’re attire, I see that you aren’t exactly ready.” He laughed.
“Nah. I’ll catch up with you guys later though.”
“Alright. Catch you later.” He did a 180 and headed out the door.
I spent about 30 minuets getting ready for the day. 20 of those minuets I spent thinking of Nick and his perfect smile. The other 10 I thought of what to wear to impress him.
Leaving my room at around 9:30, I saw everyone sitting on the couches in the lobby. They all had their scripts in hand and there was random food snack packages scattered on the table. They all sat still and quiet, and no one seemed to notice me when I entered. It was a serene moment and I didn’t want to break that. So sliding my script from my messenger tote, I took a seat on the floor next behind the couch. Facing opposite direction of everyone allowed me more focus on reading. The silence lasted enough time for me to just finish the script.
“So,” Blitz opened up the conversation. “What do you guys think of it?” No one responded. The thick silence was so intense. I knew that Blitz was probably really interested in our thoughts, so I decided to open.
“I thought it was amazing.” I didn’t peek my head from behind the couch. Instead I just let my voice travel over the couch to Blitz. “It was way insane in the membrane.”
“Insane?” I couldn’t see his face, but I could tell by his voice that he was worried by this remark.
“Don’t worry. Insane in the membrane is a good thing.” I smiled knowing no one could see me. “The way you used a boy who stuttered to get across the message of not being heard was mind-boggling. You could tell this will be a good movie.” Then I said something that I knew would catch Reece’s attention. “It all meant something. Its not one of those crappy two star movies that star Ben Stiller.” Everyone laughed, but I knew that one person would not be laughing.
“Well thank you.” Blitz sounded content with my answer. My one response seemed to open up the floor for discussion. I sat back listening to the responses flooding out.
“Dude your writing is the shiz,” Aaron spoke trying to be all gangster. This wasn’t the first time I was seeing his Asian gangster side. In the car ride back to the studio, while he was talking about his girlfriend, he said something like “gangster for life.” I looked up from behind the couch at Aaron. Looking at him with his black beanie placed carelessly on his head, his plaid shirt he wore open showing a plain white tee, and his black converse shoes. He dressed more punk rock than gangster, but who am I to tell him who he is?
“I thought the scenes between the brothers were intense. They felt realistic. The dialogue showed brotherly rivalry and yet they loved each other,” Vincent spoke with a smile. He seemed like a real standup guy. He was quiet and shy, but I hoped that within the nine months we would get to know each other.
“The ideas behind the screen play are complex. It shows the true Bohemian style of indie films.” Blitz sounded super smart. He was really brainy and his witty banter was remarkable. It was funny, that even though he was older than all of us, he wasn’t a father figure person to us. He was that cool older brother who made us laugh. “So, today we are going to be meeting more cast members. Right on.” That made me laugh. “ ‘Til then the time is yours.” Though Blitz had dismissed us, no one left from their seats. “Liv?”
“Yes sir,” I replied still behind the couch. Not even Blitz could make me move from behind the unbelievably comfortable back of the couch.
“Food is in the kitchen area if your hungry. Everyone else has eaten so its all yours.” I imagined an empty fridge with a carton of spoiled milk sitting outside on the counter.
“Thanks.” I tried to sound sincere through my tiredness. Footsteps began to shake up the floor. Guessing that people were leaving, I decided to just stay where I was at for a little longer. Staring at my script placed on my lap I started to dose off. My eyes were closed for one second, when…
“Sup?” I could recognize that gangster tone anywhere.
“Hey Aaron.” I opened my eyes to see his torso floating above me.
“So you in need of major energy?” I smiled and nodded my head. “Legal addictive stimulants in the kitchen. You want?”
“Sure.” I placed my script back in my tote, placing it over my shoulder I stood up. He laughed and stared at me.
“Olivia Montgomery.”
“Aaron…” I looked blankly at him. “What is your last name?”
“You.” He smiled wide, making his eyes tinier than they already were.
“What about me?”
“No, you.”
“I know my last name, what is yours?”
“Dude, its you.”
“The same as mine.” We walked into the kitchen area. “Your last name is Montgomery?”
“Y…”
“Why do I want to know?”
“Okay,” he sounded somewhat irritated. “My last name is Yoo.” I began to say something but he shut me up by continuing to speak. “ It is spelt Y…O…O.” I felt like a retard. I could tell he was annoyed, but I didn’t think it was an I’m sorry moment, so I made a joke to lighten the mood.
“You must get teased a hell of a lot.” He smiled and nodded. “You know that song, Soulja Boy? How does it start? YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOUUUUUUU.” He started to laugh. Walking to the coffee pot, I searched for a cup.
“You’re not the first to use that joke.”
“Damn and I thought I was original.” The laughter began to uproar. As I began to pour some coffee we were added one more person in the mix.
“What’s goin’ up in here?” Vincent greeted us.
“Sup bro?” Aaron took a seat in one of the chairs tucked into the round table in the middle of the kitchen.
“I could hear you guys from in the lobby. What’s so funny in here?” I walked with my coffee to the round table and took a seat next to Aaron.
“Yoooouuuu.” I tried to enter myself in the conversation.
“Me?” He smiled, still standing by the door.
“Inside joke.” Vincent came to the round table sitting across from Aaron and me. Aaron and Vincent began to talk amongst themselves. I sat listening and drinking my coffee. I stared at the original interior design of the kitchen. The bright orange table we were sitting at, was accompanied by bright neon chairs all different colors. Two purple, two pink, and two yellow. The beige wall color didn’t match the slightest to the red appliances within. A red toaster, microwave oven, toaster oven, blender, and even a big red fridge. I found it an eyesore. But then again I am a fan of Martha Stewart.
“ You in?” Vincent asked me. I was so busy criticizing the kitchen in my head, that I fazed out the entire conversation going on in front of me. Shrugging my shoulders, he smiled and clued me in on what I missed. “The mini mall, were going to go check it out. You wanna come?” I didn’t want to sound anti-social, but I was extremely tired so I decided not to go. Shaking my head I explained how I didn’t get much sleep last night and how I didn’t want to weigh them with my fatigue. “ Catch ya later.” They left the kitchen area, leaving me alone in this interior design hell. Slowly I finished drinking my coffee. I liked the quiet environment. I knew that I wouldn’t be spending a lot of quiet time alone when the filming starts.
Minuets flew by, and I had no idea of the time. I stared at the empty cup deciding if I should have another cup. “Nah,” I spoke aloud to myself. I do that sometimes. Just randomly I talk to myself. I know its weird, but I am pretty positive that almost everyone does that.
In the background I could hear a familiar song. Dun dunna dun dunna dun dunna dunna dun dun.
I totally forgot the songs title or the artist, but I know it. I decided to figure out where the music was coming from. Throwing the Styrofoam cup away I walked from the kitchen to the lobby. Walking in I found Blitz jamming out on a faux guitar staring intensely at the TV screen. It was the first time I had noticed the TV in the sea of couches. Dun dunna dun dunna dun dun… the music continued to play from the tiny speakers of the TV screen. Walking in I found a seat next to Nick on one of the couches facing the screen.
“Dammit,” Blitz yelled at the screen as a irking sound came out. The screen showed him trying, but failing, to click on round colored circles. “Crap, I suck.” He seemed to be laughing through his irritated expression. Three minuets of deep concentration on hitting the dots, and the song finished. “Hell yeah, 85%.” He was so childish it made me laugh. “Who’s next?”
“How ’bout you?” Nick turned to me. It was just Blitz, Nick, and I. Since the number of people seeing me in my moment of embarrassment was limited, I agreed. Rolling my eyes I walked up to Blitz and took the faux guitar.
“So how do I play?” I spoke to no one in particular.
“You’ve never played guitar hero?” Nick mocked me. Shaking my head he got up from the couch and took the guitar from me. He showed me the buttons to press and when I should use them. He introduced me to this device called a “whammy bar” to use when there are long notes. “So what song do you want?” He helped put the strap over my head falling carelessly on my shoulder. Staring at the play list of songs I found one. Clicking the green button the song began to play.
“I see a red door and I want it painted black…” Red, green, yellow, green, green… I could barely enjoy the lyrics of the song I was focusing on when to press what. Song only lasted 30 seconds. By that point the computer generated audience had “booed” me off stage. The word FAILURE came across the screen.
“Dude, you failed on easy.” Blitz seemed to enjoy my defeat. I turned to him and stuck out my tongue. He just wanted to be one of the teenage boys, then so be it. I turned to Nick, who also seemed to enjoy my failing attempt. He stood up laughing his way to me.
“Hint, ignore the lyrics all together. They’ll just throw you off.” Ignore the lyrics…ignore the lyrics… I kept saying this in my head. “Ready?” He smiled at me. I wanted to say with that smile I can do anything.” But I didn’t, I nodded my head instead. Pressing the green button again the song began to play. Ignore the lyrics…
The song began to play, but I didn’t hear the voice of Mick Jagger. All I could notice were the dots flying by. The song finished what seemed like a lifetime later. 84%. “Sweet,” I shouted to the screen. Nothing could fade my wide smile. Turning around I saw Blitz and Nick sitting on the couch nearest to the TV. A soft sound of clapping arose between the two. It was soon joined by another clap, then another, then another. Making a complete 180, I found three extra people who watched my performance. Extremely embarrassed, I felt my checks getting hot. I rolled my hand through my hair, like I do most times when I’m humiliated. Trying to smile through my mortified expression I turned to the unknown crowd, “Hello.”
“Hello,” the woman sitting on the couch greeted me. There was a girl around my age, and a boy not much younger sitting on the couch beside the woman. They greeted me with a head nod.
“Perfect time for introductions,” Blitz stood from his seat. “Liv this is Margo Martindale, Margo this is Olivia Montgomery.” She smiled politely. “Next is Emily Ginnona, and Josh Kay.”
“Nice to meet you all.” I tried to sound friendly. “Too bad it wasn’t my finest moment.” The three of them let out forced laughter.
“84%, that’s pretty impressive,” Emily tried to sooth my uncomfortable feeling.
“It was a hard song too,” Josh found his way into the conversation. “I’m sure you’d stink less on an easier song… that came out wrong.” He dropped his head. I tried not to laugh, but let a tiny one slip.
“Thanks… don’t worry I know I suck that much.” They gave me true laughter for this comment. “So, next?” I looked into the crowd. No one seemed to jump for the chance. “Well, I would love another turn, but…”
“But…” Nick made a sarcastic quizzical look. I glared at him trying not to smile.
“But, I thought Nick would want to show off.” I shoved the guitar into his chest.
“How did you know?” Strapping the guitar over his shoulder he smiled. Strolling through the songs he picked One by Metallica. Then strolling through the difficulties he paused on hard. “Nah,” he shrugged. Then clicking on expert the song began to play. A million miles a minute, notes rambled down. Nick didn’t seem fazed by this either. Ending the song with a worthy 99%, he looked at me and smiled proudly. “So how did I do?” Rolling my eyes I didn’t answer him.
“Hey did you all settle in your rooms already?” Margo and Josh nodded their heads. Next to Emily were her three suitcases. “Emily do you need some help with your bags?” She smiled sweetly and nodded. Walking over I grabbed one bag and the key from Blitz. Leaving the room felt liberating. Meeting up with Emily in the hall I turned to her. “I don’t think I can handle any more guitar hero.” She laughed. I could tell she was really sweet. She wore light yellow peasant blouse and a short denim skirt. Her blonde hair was worn up showing off her black framed glasses. I laughed when I noticed her shoes. “Nice kicks.” I pointed at my shoes. Noticing that we had the same black pair of converse shoes.
“Great minds look alike.” She smiled friendly. Arriving at her room I gave her the key card and helped her in. “Nice room.” She threw her two bags on her bed. Opening them up, massive piles of clothes were stuffed in. My amazement must have been apparent. “Yeah, I pack heavy.”
“Whoa.” One by one she took out her clothes lying them on the bed. There were diverse shirts and skirts. A few pairs of pants and about 4 pairs of shoes. “You really do pack heavy.”
“Hey, you look about the same size as me. Anytime you want to borrow…”
“Seriously?” It was like I had arrived at a mall with no spending limit. She nodded her head smiling. “I think this is a beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
We hung out, transferring her clothes to the tiny closet. Getting to know her, she was just as sweet as she seemed. Coming from a little city in Canada, she was raised by her mom. No siblings, her mom became was her best friend. It was like a Canadian version of Gilmore Girls. “So you’re a junior?” I asked her as we walked out of her room.
“Yup. Can’t wait for senior year though. Party year.” She pretended to dance to the beat of a song.
“Sure, you keep thinking that.” We stood in the hall way not knowing exactly what to do. It was about 11 o’clock and was almost lunch. Walking to the lobby we bumped into Reece.
“Hey cutie.” He smiled at me. Rolling my eyes I thought I’d introduce Emily, who preferred to be called Em.
“Reece Thompson, this is Emily Ginnona.”
“But call me Em.” She swept her hand up and embraced his.
“Nice to meet you.” He smiled politely. Ten seconds had passed and Em kept her hands enclosed on Reece’s. “So lunch?” He tried to take his hand back.
“Yeah, do you know what’s happening?” I tried not to laugh about Reece’s current predicament.
“I think Jeff Blitz is making the meal.” He smiled winning his hand back.
“So do you want to go look what’s for lunch? I know you’ve been talking about it.” I looked quizzically at her. I hadn’t mentioned lunch once during our conversation. From her glare I finally got the hint. She wanted to be alone with Reece.
“Oh, yeah. I have to make sure the meal is vegetarian friendly.” I made my exit quick.
There was this pit of the stomach feeling I had, and it wasn’t pleasant. I didn’t know the reason I had it, but I think it correlated to Reece and Em.
“Hey.” I heard a faint call from around the corner. Walking closer I found Blitz and Nick cooking.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Rocket Science PT. I
"This is you're room," the writer, Jeff, personally walked me to my room. "Thanks." I pulled my backpack off of my shoulder to the ground. Sliding out my room key he opened the door and held it open. Tugging my 9 months worth of luggage into my new abode, I scanned the four walls. "So here you go, and if you need anything else, please bother someone else with it." He chuckled at his own jokes. From the ten minuets I had spent with Jeffery Blitz I had noticed that he was a teenage boy stuck in a thirty year old mans body. He laughed at the dumb jokes he made, and it was essential he be accepted by everyone. I laughed along politely and waited patiently for his departure. "So the main cast will be having dinner at 8. Meet at the main stage." He waved goodbye and left. Hamlet once question why we imprison ourselves. While I sat on my bed staring at the door that just moments ago I had walked through, I began to wonder why I was here. Never in my 17 years of life have I ever considered being an actor. In my mind following the footsteps of Hepburn and Monroe weren't exactly in my high school portfolio. It wasn't until last semester that I found the stage. My senior year in high school, I was ready for a career with a HMO plan and a good retirement fund. My counselor told me that I had to join some extra curricula's to be accepted into a good college. That's when I auditioned for the play. A little thing my school called Who is Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf. A collection of plays that forced us to do some singing and dancing. I, Red Riding Hood, stole the show. Enough to get an agent, a woman named Chloe Sullivan, to approach me. Feeding me crap about how I was sooo talented. To speed up the story, I auditioned for the film Rocket Science and got the role of Virginia Ryerson, fast talking high school debater. This leads me to my current predicament. So was my being here, in the studio on set of a film I would be working on for 9 months, an imprisonment or a blessing? I hate when I over think. Needing to kill the hour and a half before dinner I found a block of white typed papers on a desk near my bed. They were tied together by brown string, and on the front page were the words "Rocket Science by Jeffery Blitz." The script was probably placed perfectly on the desk by the director to insure that the cast would be ready to film by next week. As if by force I picked up the script and began to read through. An half hour went by, when…Knock knock. Surprised and shocked I looked at my door. Grudgingly I pulled myself over to the entrance to my hell/ palace. Slowly I pulled my door open. When what to my wondering eyes should appear but my knight in shinning armor, with no metal gear. Barging in, he began to speak. " So I was sitting in my room reading the script placed oh so carefully on my desk when the director comes by room. According to him one of the cast members was here and I had to mingle. In hopes that we would get to know each other, and our new found chemistry would show on film. His words not mine. So I put down my script, in which I had only barely begun, and came here. To introduce myself. Hi I'm Nicholas D'Agosto." He stuck out his hand and I positioned mine into his. He for the first time in his long rant actually looked at me. Not through me or around me, but at me. The second after he looked he smiled. "Olivia Montgomery, but call me Liv." I took my hand back to my position, and stared aimlessly at him. I noticed his piercing brown eyes, and that cute funky hairdo that gave him the appearance of just waking up. "I apologize for the barging in, but little did I know that across my span was an attractive girl." His bright white smile made my palms sweat. "I figured that it would be some gawky boy with an six second attention span." He made his way to the chair that was sitting under the desk, pulled it out and took a seat. "So, I figured I would make a quick hello, and depart." "But, since you found it was me an attractive girl, in your words not mine, you decided to stay?" He laughed and nodded. He moved from looking at me to the desk. Noticing that my script was open he began to browse it. "Looks like you too have been doing some reading." His eyes didn't leave the pages, but still continued to hold a conversation with me. "How far did you get?" "Ummm, I got to the part where Ginny found Hal in the janitors closet and they begin to make out." This caught his attention, as he looked away from the pages and stared at me. "Making out… in a janitors closet? This movie is getting even more interesting." He slyly smiled. "Exactly how far did you read? Apparently its not as far as the point that I have read, made noticed by your unskillful knowledge of the script." "Well, I read the opening scene. Two students making out on a front stoop. As a bus passes by. Impressive so far. But this new scene that I have learned of, that just stirs up the pot." "I know now whom the target audience is. Horny teenage boys, with no real life, but a love for the independent films. Thanks for helping to clear that up." I smiled sarcastically at him, in which he replied with an eyebrow raise and his lips pressed tightly together. "I like you." He wide smile laughed. "You know everything, don't you? You are most definitely not afraid to show it. No crap from anyone." I could tell he was joking, but something in his tone said that he half believed what he was saying. I was just about to interrupt his second rant since he entered when his phone rang. A melody of Don't Stop Believing by Journey filled the air. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a tiny cell phone and answered the call. "Nick speaking," he spoke fluently into the speaker of the small device. "Yeah I heard. That shit is horrible." The second he realized what he had said, or more importantly whom he had said it in front of, he turned to me. "Dude hold it. Hey Liv I'll see you at 8, yeah?" I nodded, not wanting to interrupt his call. He turned towards the door and exited. The last words I heard muttered under his breath was, "Dammit don't be dim…" Like that he was gone. Maybe the cutest guy I have ever laid eyes on. The best part was he called me attractive. Lovely as that experience was, I did still have about an hour of time left. Sliding into the chair that just seconds ago was graced by the presence of renown greatness. I was still somewhat curious as to if Hal, the main character and underdog of the film, would end up with the out-of-his-league pretty girl. So I tried to finish the script. It was about 10 'til to the time that I had to meet the cast for dinner. Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing…. Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing… The room phone was buzzing. Scooting from my chair to the phone I answered in no hurry. "Hello?" "Olivia Montgomery?" A young male tone was on the other end of the line. "Yup." "Reece Thompson, from the cast. Well, the director told me to catch up with you before dinner, to get to know you or whatever. But I forgot which room he said you were and yeah…" As his voice trailed off I could tell he really wasn't interested in meeting me at all. It was an obligatory meeting. "Room 312. Its like three doors down from the vending machine." Right after I said that, I realized that I sounded like a "fatty;" knowing exactly where the vending machine was. So I thought it'd be only appropriate to add some comment about how I was indeed not a "fatty." "NOT that I know where the vending machine is because I keep visiting it, or whatever. I mean I just know where it is because, well its next to my room. Like and I passed it coming in, and yeah." The dead silence on the other end of the phone was uncomforting. After a couple of moments he decided to pitch into the conversation. "I'm sorry what did you say, I blanked out. Did I hear something about a vending machine?" I couldn't tell if he was being masochistic by trying to embarrass me till the point of combustion, or if he really wasn't paying attention. "Hello?" "Room 312," and like that I hung up the phone. Noticing the script that was now face down on the carpet, I went to pick it up. The page I was on was no longer there. I was lost. Trying to remember what page I was on I decided to just skim through the pages. I was just around the janitor closet scene again when… knock knock kncok. "Yo," spoke a teenage boy leaning on the door side arch. Sticking out his hand, "Reese." I shook his hand. He was different than Nicholas. He was shorter, still taller than me though. His hair laid differently. He overall looked, more loser-ish. I was intensely staring at him, trying to contrast him to Nicholas. "Whoa, you checking me out already?" He laughed. It took me awhile to understand what he just said. I mean I heard the words, but it didn't connect to my brain. So during the time of the slow connection, I stood in front of him nodding my head. Moments after I realized what I was agreeing too, my eye's popped out of my head."Wait, I mean no. No I wasn't… I was just thinking…""About me naked." His laughter grew. "Oh, yes. Am I that transparent? I want you, I need you, Oh baby, oh baby.""Brittany Spears song?" "Nope, movie line. 10 Things I Hate About You?""Good movie. Damn shame about Heath Ledger." "Yeah, yeah it was." It amazed me how he stood in front of my door. I was foiling his actions to Nicholas's again. Reese didn't try to invite himself in, or rant but waited for my part of the conversation. Most of all, he held my stare. Not looking past me, or through me. It was enduring. Even for these reasons he didn't hold a thing to the looks of Nicholas D'Agosto. "Ready?" He put out his hand. "Sure…" I stuck out my hand not knowing why. The moment my palm hit his, he rapidly jerked me from my room to the other side of him. It was like a ballroom dance move. Closing my door with his other hand, he kept his hand still in mine. He looked at me, then in a moment started running down the hall. I couldn't tell if I was running along with him, or I was just being dragged. Around a minuet later we found ourselves in the main stage. Out of breath, I tried to ask what the running was for. Opening my mouth, words ran short when I saw Nicholas. He looked around the room, and I had wished that the searching was for me. I may never know if I was the one he was searching for, but I do know that I was the one who he found. When he saw me, he began to walk over. My heart was racing, and I was freaking out that my hair was messy from all of that running. Which reminded me, shit my hand. My hand was still interlocked with Reese's. Pulling my hand away, I moved it to my side. "Hey," Nicholas stood opposite of me. "Hello, again." Shit that sounded retarded. Instead of wait for him to rant, I decided to take my own rant. "Nice ringtone. Don't Stop Believing good song. From an excellent band. But if you ask me, that song doesn't compare to other great Journey hits. Not that I am a huge Journey fan myself. Only really know there songs from the movies." I stared at his blank expression. "I don't think I've ever met anyone who has analyzed my ringtone." He gave one of his award winning smiles. Trying to hide my embarrassed expression with a smile, I began to walk away. Turning a half circle I bumped shoulders into someone behind me. This bump was consequently more forceful from the other person's side, thus causing me to fall from the collision. Landing on my back with a boom. A sharp was pain shooting up my back. "OOOOO." My eyes were closed. If I didn't see anyone, that meant no one was looking at me. "I am soooooooo sorry." Yet another voice filled with testosterone spoke. I didn't want to open my eyes. For I knew the moment I did the world would continue from the pause it was currently holding. "Can you hear me?" The voice now sounded worried. Not wanting him to worry even more, I opened my eyes. Above me was this Asian boy looking down. His head was accompanied by three others, Nicholas's, Reese's, and some guy I have never met. Eight eyes were looking at me, terrified that my brittle girly fragile bones were shattered. The Asian boy helped me up. "Aah." I tried not to let anymore sounds of pain out. I would not support their pshovanistic thought of my need for help. Standing up felt like hell, but I would rather feel like hell than shoot a hundred years of woman rights movements to hell. "Thanks." "I am soooo sorry." He said again. "I'm Aaron Yoo. And I feel like an idiot." He smiled friendly upon me. "Olivia Montgomery. And since I was the one on the ground, I think I'm crowned the idiot. Or at least for now." Smiling back at him. I couldn't seem to be angry at him. His features were just so friendly. His eyes small and brown were sweet. And his mouth was tiny in comparison to his wide smile. I wanted to pinch his checks and pat him on the head. He looked at the guy standing next to him, hitting his arm slightly. "This guy is Vincent Piazza." Vincent smiled and nodded. "The guy who hit me into you." They both laughed. "Domino effect.""I guess so," Vincent pitched into the conversation. There we stood. In a sea of testosterone, I alone fought for estrogen oxygen. Hoping that this wasn't the only cast members I looked around. The stage was empty, except for a shadow of a man coming across the stage. By the springy hair I knew it was the director Jeff. "Glad you all made it on time," he yelled across the stage. "This is everyone. For the time being. The rest of the members of the film will be coming along as the week progresses. Meantime I thought we'd all like to get to know each other." Then came the line I had heard before. "In hopes that our new found chemistry will show on film." He stood and smiled. "So you all have met?" His eyes scanned the five people. There was a scatter of yeahs. "Good, so I hope you all are ready to leave." We all walked to a blue mini van placed outside the stage. This was my chariot for the night, even though it still maintained its pumpkin form. The movie was being filmed in Baltimore, Maryland. Driving along the streets was serene. I was so caught up in the reflection of the streets that the sudden stop of the car caused me to slam back into my seat. Holding my head I hoped no one had seen that. "So here we are," Blitz spoke to the car. Almost in sync the three doors of the car opened. "Dude, where exactly is here?" Vincent questioned. Not exactly an unreasonable question. We were currently parked in a parking lot of a gray brick building. Since it was night it gave the building this creepy cult look. Blitz didn't respond but instead paced around the van, around the edge of the building that led to the front. The front placed a door, and a huge neon sign that said "LASER QUEST: LASER TAG AT ITS BEST." "So can you guess where we are at now?" Blitz looked so excited. "Hell," I muttered. Oh crap, I just said that out loud. Blitz now looked from the building to me. The darkness of night covered most of his face, but I was guessing he wasn't pleased with my response to this excellent adventure. "HELL YEAH!" I shouted trying to sound enthusiastic. "Can't wait either?" Blitz asked me. "Nope. Laser tag equals… awesomeness." Around me I heard chuckles from the four guys. But it didn't matter, I assumed Blitz was happy and that's all that mattered. "Wait…"Vincent came to my rescue. "Dinner?" I almost forgot about dinner. "Yeah," Nick joined into the conversation . "Speaking of I'm starving." He crept up next to me and swept me under his arm. "Dinner is here." Blitz pointed to the building. "Pizza before, or pizza after?" "Before," Aaron almost cheered. "Deal." Entering the laser arena was insane. The entire room was dark, except for the bright neon lights shining in every corner. Behind the desk encompassed random guys running around screaming. Taking a left we found ourselves at the food court. Tables placed outside of the laser arena functioned as our seats. The five stars took a seat as Blitz went to place our order. In the front was a man sitting at a desk. "Welcome to Laser Quest ," the guy at the desk spoke. He had a named tag that read Doug. "Laser tag at its best. How can I help you?" Turning away I analyzed the room. I couldn't understand how anyone could have fun running around in the dark. "Nice cover up." A voice behind me whispered. Turning around I saw Reece. I had no idea what he was talking about. "Ummm…. Thank you." "Hell… yeah," he mocked me. "So you've ever played?""No." And I really hadn't. I never had, nor did I ever plan on. It wasn't exactly on my life list. "Its a lot more fun than you imagine." He bumped my shoulder and smiled. "Sure…" Rolling my eyes I turned back to Blitz and Doug. Doug had come from behind the desk, and was approaching us with 5 vest. Blitz was already wearing his vest, and was holding 6 guns. Handing out the vests, Doug began to explain the rules. Apparently we were in pairs. We had three lives and if we were shot with the water gun-esque things three times we were dead. The person last standing was the winner. As if there were any real winners in this game. "Okay," Doug finished explaining where the limits were and how to shoot the guns. "So once you choose the teams I'll program it in the computers mainframe, and you can start." He went back to his desk. Blitz turned to us. "Teams?" Blitz scanned the five of us. UGH. I hate picking teammates, I am always last pick. "I'll take the girl." Whoa who just said that? Turning to the voice I saw Nick. He put his arm around me and smiled. I felt like Josie in Never Been Kissed, the scene where she was crowned prom queen. Amazed Nick picked me, I was more amazed by the fact that I wasn't picked last. "Nah," Reece pitched in the conversation, "I think I'll take the girl." "Doesn't matter," Vincent pitched in, "what you two say, because she wants to be teamed with me." Laughing at this cosmic joke, I turned to Aaron. "So do you want to be my partner?" I joked."Nah," Aaron laughed. "I pretty much think you are gonna suck." "Probably…" I laughed. "So where are we?," Blitz asked still looking for his kick-ass teammate. "Well…I want to go with Vincent," Aaron looked at Vincent who gave him a nod and went to stand by him. "You two?" Blitz looked at Reece and Nick. "I think," I chirped in, "they wanted to be teammates." They both quizzically stared at me. "Which I guess leaves you and me." Blitz seemed less than ecstatic about this. "Woot…" I tried to sound reassuring. Once the names were in the computer, our vest were on, and our guns were loaded we began our mission. Blitz turned to me."I believe in you. You will not get shot. You are a survivor." I laughed. It sounded like a spell. In the background "Miss Murder" began to play. "READY," Doug shouted as the music increased. "Go." And like that Blitz began to run wildly into the dark room. So… I stood not knowing what to do next. Starting to move away from my current spot in the dark, I saw a corner. Thinking that the corner could activate some kind of force field I decided to hide out there. Ten minuets went by. Still I stood in the corner. When Blitz ran by my corner. I didn't want to look useless so I jumped out from the corner. Blitz jumped around with his gun in the air. "Ok, its only you." He sounded out of breath. "So are you still alive?" I nodded my head. Technically that was the truth. He didn't ask if I had entered the battlefield. "Ok so Aaron and Vincent are both out. Which leaves Reece and Nick. I think Nick has one life, and Reece has two. I've been shot twice. How are you?""Ummm… got all three lives." He looked at me quizzically. "I got lost in the darkness." He chuckled and ran off. While he was running off, a neon light hit his vest with a loud irritating pew sound. Turning around I saw Reece and Nick. Oh crap. Running back to my corner, I could hear Blitz say something. "I don't know where she is." Sounds of footsteps came my way. They stopped just before the corner. "You go right," one of the voices tried to whisper. "If I hear a shot I'll come after you." Then one set of steps ran opposite direction of me. Petrified I didn't want to leave my corner. But the steps were coming closer and closer. As a shadowed figure approached me, I tried to focus my eyes through the darkness. Here goes nothing. A bright neon light shot from my gun, and that same irritating sound that had killed Blitz sounded. I couldn't tell who I shot, or if the shot killed, but left no time to figure out. Running away from the corner I found a random wall opposite of the corner that blocked me from the dark figure. "Dude," one of the voices yelled. "You hit?""Yeah," the second voice replied. Now both of the voices were in one spot. "You've got two lives right?" No response came for this question. "Alright… its up to you." Peeking around the corner I saw him go into another part of the room. One down…"Liv?" The voice shouted. As if it were a game of Marco Polo. "You over here?" From the sound of his voice he was on the same side of the wall. Turning around I saw the outline of the attacker. Omg… I raised my gun firing another neon light. I didn't want to stick around incase he had another life. So I ran to the other side of the wall. "Dudeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee…" I heard him complain. "Kay, I'm out." "Really?" I asked returning to the other side of the wall. When I got there I couldn't see anything. Worse though I didn't see anyone. " Wait… what?" Confused I turned around to Reece holding a gun. "Sorry." He fired and the neon light hit me. Having no idea what to do next I lifted my gun. Now both of our guns were ready to fire. "Its like a scene from Die Hard. Both of our lives are at risk." He laughed and walked closer as I drew back. "Only one difference…" Intently he stared at me. "This is just a game." I smiled hoping he would agree. Pew another shot fired. Still confused I shot my gun too. Pew… There we both stood. Not exactly knowing what happened I put my gun down. "Did I win?" No response came from the other side so I waited. "I've…" his mouth formed an "O," been…shot." Then he fell to the ground holding his heart. Staring at him I started to laugh. "Ummm…okie dokie." Trying not to laugh, I attempted to walk away nonchalantly. "You're just going to leave me dead?" Turning back I let out a laugh. "Pretty much." "Fine, will you at least help me up?" He reached his arm in the air. Leaning forward I decided to help him. Putting his hand in mine, I felt a tug. Boom… Hitting the floor back first, yet again. "What was that?" My laughter made the words incomprehensible. Moving to a sitting position. Looking over at Reece he was just staring at me. Not laughing or hiding, but watching. Instead of waiting for his response, I stood up. "I was punk'd." Still he spoke nothing. Steps were rapidly moving towards us. "You won." Blitz yelled from around the corner. He was soon followed by Aaron, Vincent, and the wonderful Nicholas. "You actually didn't suck." His smile shown brightly through the darkness. "I guess not." Reece finally stood up and went next to Nick. "So…"Blitz looked at the whole lot of us, "that was fun." I assumed he thought it was fun because he won. The excursion was through and we left. Giving the vests and guns back to Doug, we exited the dark room. Walking back to the car I felt a tap on my shoulder. Looking back it was Aaron. "Congratulations." He laughed and walked up to my side. "True gumption with a gun." "Ummm… gumption? Seeing as to I hid in the corner most of the game, I don't know…" Laughing his small eyes got wide. "Did you really hide?" He leaned into me as if it were a secret. "Our little secret," I leaned towards him. He smiled and laughed. Entering the chariot I sat beside the window and Aaron. The entire car ride back he told me of his life in New Jersey. About his college years at Pennsylvania, and every detail about his girlfriend at home. A petite girl named Emma. There story is actually enduring. They grew up together in Jersey, but began to date on the set of a TV show they did The Bedford Diaries."So… do you have a Emma?" he asked as we exited the van."Nah, I like guys." A devious smile composed on my face. Eyebrows raised and lips pressed together he waited for a real answer. "No." I smiled hoping that my relationship status wouldn't define who I was in his eyes. However just like most people in a relationship, single people were contaminated. "Ball buster?" he joked. "No. More like a Carmen Sandiego. I run away." His intense stare on my face looked sort of sad. He felt bad for me. "I have no real emotions. I guess that's why I'm an actor." Now he looked as though he really felt bad for me. "Stop looking at me like that." Entering the main stage I tried to change the subject. "So… goodnight," I addressed everyone. "Good play," Blitz responded. Random nights were spoken from the guys. Walking away I heard someone coming after me. Thinking it was Aaron I turned around and firmly whispered. "Ok, I am single. And that's it." A surprised Reece stopped in his tracks."Good to know I guess…" For the first time since I killed him did he actually respond to me. "Thought you were Aaron." Turning back, I continued to walk back to my room. I didn't want to catch the stare that he had been given me all night. "Night…" Twisting my hand backwards, I waved without turning around.
Summer Catch (PT.1)
Told in the tales of happy endings and romantic beginnings Jane tried to stay positive. A new beginning at a new school. Of course her mind wasn't exactly in belief that she would meet anyone. One of many things could possibly happen to ruin her "summer romance." Or what Jane liked to call a "summer catch." She stood 30 minutes in front of her closet. She looked at the clothes that she has worn 1000x, searching for something to meet her requirements of looking good. The outfit had to have a personal flair to it, a necklace or layered shirts. She refused to look like a Gap mannequin. It needed to make her look thin. At 110 lbs. her stomach needed to look slim. And it needed to make her 34 c boobs look not slutty. She hated when guys got to know her that way. She grabed 3 shirts and 3 pants and began to rearrange them to get "the look." She settled with a pair of ripped and patched jeans. A Gap shirt and a thin black jacket to cover her stomach. She added personal flair with her ruby heart necklace and white gold earings on her bottom holes and gold opal earings on the top holes. One last look in the mirror and she was out the door. Her phone sat permanetly in her pocket. She knew a friend of whom would be in her class. And the way she thought of it, if she wasn't alone she couldn't get hurt. The school she was about to enter was filled with 700 students, snobs all of them. She recieved her call and met her frined, connie, in the front. Fast forward past the search of the classroom and the beginning of class. As Jane sat in the back of the class next to Connie, the teacher began to talk about "the rules." Jane of course was not listening, insted she was doing what she called "the look over." It was the glance over the students searching for any form of cute boy in her class. Just then she saw the hope of her surviving this boring class. The cutest boy she has ever seen... Okay it probably wasn't the prettiest boy "ever," but for the moment at least. The only thing is she could only see the back of his head. OF cours to her that didnt matter. She just stared at him. With his dirty blonde hair tucked underneath hsi black "beanie" that was placed carelessly on top of his head. Then the teacher began the "ice breaker." Jane has never liked ice breakers, but this time she didn't care. Becuase she knew who her partner was going to be. Just at that moment Connie leaned over and said "partner?" But then something unexpected happend. Now theres a long and boring story as to what happened so lets just skip to the point. She became paired up with hot guy. He also went by the name of Shawn Miller. Their procedures for the ice breaker was to interview each other. Perfect way to ask all the personal questions to get to know him. She got his name, age, views of politics, and status. He was Shawn Miller of 16 years, hates watching the news, it brings him down so he says. He doens't care about global warming, is pro- choice as apposed pro- life. And most importantly is single. She counted the number of smiles, laughs, eye contact, and impressed reactions. Once they finsihed their interview they sat in awkward silence. She made a couple more pathetic jokes and he smirked off of what she thought was politeness. Fast forward past the presentation. Actaully that was all the interactions of that day, so fast forward to the next day. Jand did her usaul 30 minuets getting ready time. Then in class she just stared. If she had heat vision there would be two holes in his back. She just drifted off in her head. Thinking of him of course. Even though hes single doesnt mean hes not "fooling around" she thought. I mean i'm sure he has a lot of frineds who are girls that think he is cute. Then the worst possible thought came in her mind. What if hes gay? He is really pretty, and i think thats the saying, "too cute to be straight." Can't be. She kept thinking over and over agian about him with some other girl/guy. She analyzed his every move. How he only talked to one person, the guy sitting next to him. He smiled when he talked to him. I don't know , but i really hope he isn't gay. It really shocked her how no girl in class made any attempt to talk to him. I mean, she thought, more girls talk to the guy sitting next to him. No offense to that guy but he doesn't compare to Shawn. He was some what heavy set and his hair was placed life lessley on top of his head. His skin was oily and seemed rough. As compared to Shawn, whom had the skater build. With thin legs but not annorexic thin. And a flat stomach, but not hard abs. His face was the best part, well next to his hair. He had brown eyes, and two freckles placed above his lip and below his eye. He reminded her of an child actor who guest starred on "Ghost Whisperer." It was kind of irritating in a sense that no one could fully appreciate hi pretty-ness. But then again, she thought, should i really be complaining that no one is hitting on him. He is so off limits to everyone else. Since there was no interaction of any form that day, lets fast forward to the next day. Jane sat in class still in wonderment about Shawn. All she could think about was him. Was he thinking about her? Well of course he wasn't, she thought, he only knew her name. Even though she was clearly stalking him, she told herself and connie that it was only a crush. See to Jane a crush was different than a "like." Crush meant nothing more than staring and possibly talking. "Like meant talking and flirting in hopes of something further. She already knew he was out of her league, so it was just a crush. Still she wondered if they were going to "intereact" that day. Much more than she knew greater fate held her future. Their next class assignment was to group up. Now there were 6 groups. 2 groups of all girls, 2 groups of all guys, and 2 groups of both genders. She refused to join the group of all girls. Then she basically screamed in her mind to him, "don't join the guy groups." He must have heared, becasue he didn't move. So far so good, luckily he was in her team. After all of those mind tricks they were together. Howevver what seemed like a perfect situation was less than that. Okay two facts need to be made known. First, the topic of discussion was about teen pregnancy. Second, Jane is a strong feminist. She believes in pro life and that women are better than men. What happened next is so complteley horrifying that we will skip it, and just state the main points. First, Shawn made it known that he knows from experience that the worm in a margirita will knock you out. Second, he stated that some teachers are hott and in his discription "do-able." Third, he suggested a contest for guys to get a girl in every country knocked up. Finally, he doesn't care about sex, with whom its with, not a huge decision to him. Jane thought this was a huge problem. Her hot guy was a complete butt-head. How could he not be perfect. Its as Hugh Jackman told the press he was gay. ITS JUST WRONG!!! Fast forward to the end of the day. As she walked out of the class, all she could see was his face. It was as if a movie of him looking back at her was playing in her head. Well, she thought, at least I know hes not gay. It was irritating how this jerk made such an impact to her thoguhts. Since the weekend was next, well fast forward. For all that happened during her busy weekend, she still couldn't stop imagining him. The day after the weekend progressed. Jane had forgotten how he exactly looked like. However, once he walked into the classroom all the thoughts came rushing back. Even though she basically hated him, she still had a small hope that he would join her group for their new project. However, fate had another idea. What seemed to be a group consisting of him and her, ended up beging a group of her and the guy who sat next to him. He also went by the name of Kelsey. Through this project she got to know who he was. And he was actaully pretty nice. No wonder the girls liked him more than Shawn. After the group assignment the students just sat in thier desk, waiting for recess. She watched as girls began to talk to him, noticing his presence. It wasn't quite flirting but they were asking his name. Well, she thought, doesn't matter hes a complete jerk anyway. For the rest of the time he sat with his head between his arms on the desk. She noticed that the girls who usaully talked to Kelsey were now beginning to talk to Shawn. Ahhhhhh, hes off limits, she yelled in her mind. One, thing that really irritated Jane, was his shoes. He had rips and tears in his shoes. It made him look like a hobo. As if he could not afford new shoes. Okay, so maybe she was still crushing on him. She remebered the saying of how your heart says one thing and your mind says another. Jane just couldn't differinciate which organ was telling her she had a crush on him. For the rest of the day she just glanced back at him, then shook her sight of him. Reassuring herself it was only a crush. She watched as the thin asian girl whom sat in front of him kept talking to him. She wrestled in her mind about that girl flirting with him, and how could she flirt with her guy. Not like she cared of course.
Unrequited Love
I sat on my bed popping dark chocolate m&m's in my mouth. "I am not a stalker." I repeated this phrase multiple times to myself. Listening to Brittany Spears songs on youtube, I sat with my laptop open to his facebook page. Staring at his picture, which didn't resemble his current look in anyway. In the picture he had medium long dirty black hair hid under a tan fisherman's hat. He was shirtless in the picture, but showed nothing to do a double take at. Standing on top of a rock in the middle of a body of water. This figure in the picture, was not whom I liked. The person I gazed at every chance I could. This picture didn't resemble him in the slightest. In person he was gorgeous. He stood tall and thin. His buzz cut hair stood as a badge of being a student of JROTC. And the skater attire he usually wore fell on his thin bod, causing so many double takes that you would get a crank. The best feature, which definetly wasn't shown on his disgraceful facebook profile pic, was his award winning white smile. Biting down on lip, tilting my head to the right I dreamed of this smile. Seeing in my head him smiling upon me, it was throat thickening and heart pounding. Reading his information my affection for him grew. "My friends call me Justin. But you can call me tonight." If I had his number, and gumption I would call you. Family Guy and The News, were placed on his favorite tv shows. Omg, how cute is that. I think it shows he's a teenage boy who cares about the world. I bet he believes in global warming, but lets not get my hopes up too soon. His favorite books, the 66 books of the Bible. Now if that doesn't show dedication to God I don't know what does. The best part was his intrests. "I enjoy candlelit dinners, moonlit strolls on the beach, and drinking the finest of wine." Dreaming of that perfect situation me and him on that spectacular date, a smile creapt on my face. I imagined him holding my hand, smiling that perfect smile walking down the moonlit beach. How it seemed so wonderful and yet so improbable. It would seem the closet I would get to this angel of music, is his facebook page. The page at which I was currently drooling over. Also the page that he didn't know I was looking at. He has no idea of my existence. I admire from afar. Is that creepy? I wondered. He has no idea that I know him, or even that I am looking on his facebook page. I wonder if he would care. He probably has a million girls at the palm of his hand. I am not even managing to reach the palm of his hand. Insted I am the small speck at the bottom of his shoe. Ignored and invisisble. I go back and forth again and again, if it is worth liking him? My ambivalence of liking him, and him not knowing my being kept me pondering. Should I stop liking him, or should I march up to him and tell him I like him. Can't do either, having both an hopless romantic heart and no gumption. So my feelings for him stay an unrequited affair. He graduates this year, leaving in 6 weeks. The 6 weeks that most people can't wait to finsih, I dread of coming. So here I sit, now finishing the Britany Spears song. "My loneliness is killing me now." Could those words hold anymore truth?
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