Dinner was wonderful, and the second course was dessert—a chocolate cake crafted with such precision it could be described as the Italian's Swiss cake, for its meticulous proportions where every layer was carefully designed to deliver a deep, resonant flavor. The chocolate was rich and well-blended, the sponge moist, and paired with a touch of wine, it was the perfect counterbalance to the pasta and its robust vegetable sauce, served delicately on a small plate.
Billy tasted everything with delight, feeling a rare sense of peace. For the first time since the year had begun, after endless commitments, he was able to rest from the exhaustion that had been weighing on him. The roles he had played had drained him of enough energy to make him long for an entire year free of work, but such relief was impossible when he saw all the opportunities present before him, and the ones yet to come. Even so, he was certain that just ten more days like this could be called a true rest.
-I've heard that for some time now, you seem to be in everyone's sights… it almost feels like your disappearance from central California came at just the right moment.- Monica remarked, fully aware that Titanic had marked a definitive turning point in Billy's career. Along with all the films he had acted in, his success owed much to critical recognition, though often it meant little once he carried those smaller roles forward. Even with his recent release of Fight Club, absent from the spotlight until its screening at the Toronto Film Festival in 1997—where it was first booed and then embraced—his career reflected the polarizing nature of criticism, swinging between adoration and disdain. Yet, within that mix, actors found freedom, a chance to test their limits, roles designed to stretch performance to its edges, or at least prove that many great ideas could come from one person taking on every challenge. Such films were, in truth, made to last in the minds of people for centuries.
-Well, it's not as though I wanted to force anything, but its real premiere is set for October. We submitted the film at the last minute so people would have time to build stories around it. I honestly don't know if relying on my fame or status will cause problems.- Billy confessed, awakening in himself a thought that had lingered with time. With less than three years left before the decade's close—a decade that had begun with such intensity—he felt a certainty that perhaps, even the critics might see things differently.
He took a long breath as wine was poured. Their conversation wove through dreams realized and those left behind. The place itself was spacious—a cabin in form, though outfitted with every indulgence of the 21st century, built with a focus on durability and efficiency. In time, the land would be green again, once alive with animals and movement, but for now it was covered in a fine layer of snow that drew the night closer. It was not yet winter, though frost was beginning to bite in certain places. The air was crisp, the sky painted in shades of blue that blended with intricate tribal motifs. Billy felt a sudden urge to say the cabin was simply fabulous, and to imagine building more cabins further south, a showcase of architecture intertwined with the city's charm.
Four bedrooms, and an upper floor dedicated to a master suite—cozy and warm—with a small heater battling the chill that slipped through the cracks. Jet lag left Billy lightheaded.
-A fantastic story. I think persistence would help if you practiced with me.- Monica replied. By her third glass of wine, she was tipsy, her strict six-month routine of diet and discipline having made her unusually vulnerable to alcohol.
-It would only be fair if, in doing so, you become a teacher of patience.- Billy said, settling into bed and closing his eyes. Monica lay beside him, two snowbound angels sharing the gift of rest.
-Do you really think the idea of a production house could work?- Monica asked. -I mean the one you mentioned, surrendering entirely to the director's whims.-
-Of course. As long as some conditions are respected. But people have such a marvelous way of creating, of bringing things to life so spectacularly. Cinema, at its heart, is an artistic expression, and success is tied closely to the quality of the work.- Billy answered. He had learned in recent months to discern the qualities of a good series from a poorly made one. Sometimes, limiting creativity only caused headaches—many renowned directors had found that true freedom was rare.
-You're so impressive.- Monica replied, knowing he had the capacity to build such a company, to see the world tomorrow through his own eyes, unrestrained.
-I am only what I am.- Billy said, turning slightly to watch the bridge of Monica's nose, her profile defined with such elegance. There are certain ways to tell when something is simply different from all else—profound, like the Caspian Sea.
She studied his face, and both leaned closer, realizing intimacy itself was a gift they had earned after so long. Monica's unique confidence shone, paired with Billy's understated way of finding himself in her presence. Tangled together.
-Many times, in the fashion world, they spoke about you behind my back. They thought I was foolish for not knowing, but I speak four languages. I understood most of it. I heard them, in that public whirl, almost idolizing you as one of the next figures who will shape history—the mysterious businessman, the charming artist who always delivers precision in every film, even if rejected, the good actor behind the mask. They know so little of who you really are.-
She ran her fingers through his hair, brushing it back, not changing its natural weight—thick, blond, silky, falling perfectly into place. His profile was strong, handsome, the kind of striking look the fashion of the nineties had been lucky to have in its orbit.
-You'll have to sign some autographs for me. I'd rather not ask, but you've become the superstar of love.- Monica said.
-Signatures for who?-
-For some friends I met at university. They have sisters, friends, who are crazy about you. It's the first time anyone has asked me.- Monica explained.
-What exactly do they want?- Billy asked.
-I want you to sign a few books. They say you never like to sign books, so it makes it all the more special.- Monica said.
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