Lucas nodded, a slight smile playing on his lips. "It's very good. I like it."
Roy's face lit up, clearly pleased. "You liked it? So, are you in for voicing the animated film?"
Lucas nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Why not?" Then, with a chuckle, he added, "But the negotiations will be up to my manager."
"Of course," Roy smiled, understanding the game.
With that, Lucas left the building, his mind already racing ahead to the next move. As he stepped out into the sunlight, he couldn't help but marvel at the strange dance he was performing - one foot in the present, one in a future only he knew.
Meanwhile, "A Star is Born" was taking on a life of its own. The music tracks were spreading like wildfire, not just in the USA, but around the world. People who hadn't even seen the film were humming "Shallow" as they went about their day.
On Vine, the songs dominated feeds. Users took advantage of the app's 3-minute video limit to cover the tracks, free from copyright concerns. It was a viral sensation in the making.
The global reach of Vine meant that even in countries where the film hadn't been released yet, people were getting a taste of its magic. Curiosity was building, with questions flying around social media:
"How does Jackson die?"
"What's the reason?"
"Isn't he famous?"
The box office numbers were impressive. In just nine days, the US box office hit $69 million. International markets, including England, France, and Australia, added another $28 million in just two days of screening.
Estimates suggested the film would reach the $100 million mark within a day or two, an unprecedented feat for an indie film.
Sure enough, "A Star is Born" hit the $100 million milestone, combining domestic and international box office figures.
The unexpected success of "A Star is Born" sent shockwaves through the industry. Box office analysts were scrambling to revise their projections, while industry veterans were left scratching their heads.
"We're seeing numbers typically reserved for superhero blockbusters," one analyst commented, "but this is an indie musical drama. It's unprecedented."
Warner Bros. executives were practically giddy. In a press release, they stated:
"We're thrilled by the overwhelming response to 'A Star Is Born.' This film's success reaffirms our commitment to bold, original storytelling."
Behind closed doors, however, the mood was even more celebratory. Sources reported champagne corks popping in the executive suites.
"They're already talking Oscar campaigns," an insider revealed. "And you can bet they're looking at Lucas Knight's contract for future projects."
The film's success wasn't lost on other studios either. Rival executives were reportedly reassessing their strategies, wondering if they'd been underestimating the draw of character-driven dramas.
Meanwhile, indie filmmakers saw a glimmer of hope. If "A Star Is Born" could compete with tentpole blockbusters, maybe there was still a place for thoughtful, mid-budget films in theaters.
***
With "A Star is Born" capturing the industry's attention, it became clear that Taylor had genuine acting talent. While she couldn't match Lucas Knight's prowess, she definitely surprised everyone with her performance.
As the film's story spread across social media, fans began shipping Lucas and Taylor with increasing fervor.
"Lucas and Taylor's chemistry is off the charts! They NEED to date IRL! #Taylucas"
Am I the only one who thinks Lucas and Taylor would make the perfect couple? #AStarIsBorn #RelationshipGoals"
Meanwhile, Jennifer, fresh off her latest film project, was informed about the buzz surrounding Lucas and Taylor despite not having social media herself.
At first, Jennifer felt a sinking feeling in her stomach, thinking Lucas and Taylor had actually become a couple. Relief washed over her when she learned it was just fans shipping them due to "A Star is Born."
Still, she couldn't shake the discomfort of seeing Lucas paired with another woman, even if it was her friend, Taylor Swift.
***
Meanwhile, Lucas was in the recording room, observing the voice cast for "Big Hero 6" at work. He also got to watch some of the animated film. After watching, he met with the other cast members: Scott Adsit (Baymax), Jamie Chung (Go Go), T.J. Miller (Fred), Damon Wayans Jr. (Wasabi), and Genesis Rodriguez (Honey Lemon).
They greeted him warmly, with some even asking for pictures and autographs.
"It's amazing to have you on board, Lucas," Jamie said, smiling as she shook his hand.
"Your work in 'A Star is Born' was incredible," Genesis added. "We can't wait to see what you bring to Hiro."
Lucas got along well with them, and when it came time for his recording session, he surprised even the seasoned voice actors with his skill.
After a particularly impressive take, Scott whistled in appreciation. "Wow, kid. You're a natural at this."
Lucas smiled humbly. "Thanks. I actually learned a lot about voice acting when I did 'The Lorax' a while back."
They gathered to watch the replay of Hiro competing with his invention, a microbot swarm, in the robot fights. "No more little Yama," Hiro said triumphantly as his creation claimed victory.
Lucas's youthful voice matched Hiro perfectly, capturing the character's enthusiasm and cockiness. As the recording sessions continued, Lucas noticed cameras rolling during each take, likely for promotional material later on.
Over the next week, Lucas impressed everyone with his efficiency and skill, nailing most takes with minimal errors. The Disney team, hoping for some bloopers to use in promotions, found themselves a bit disappointed by Lucas's near-flawless performance.
As he wrapped up his work, Lucas bid farewell to the cast and crew, posing for a few final photos before leaving the studio with a sense of satisfaction.
Just as he exited the building, his phone rang. It was Jennifer.
"Jennifer? What's up?" Lucas answered, sliding into his car.
"Your done with your voice acting work?" Jennifer asked, familiar with his current project from their text exchanges.
"Yeah. Just finished it today," Lucas replied.
"So, do you have time now?" There was a hint of loneliness in her voice that Lucas couldn't miss.
Lucas paused, remembering his pending cameo for "House of Cards." But hearing that tone in Jennifer's voice, he pushed it aside. "Yeah, want to see me?"
"Yes," Jennifer's tone immediately brightened.
They chatted for a bit longer before ending the call. Lucas would meet her in New York, which meant he'd need to adjust his Netflix work.
***
Two days later, Lucas and Jennifer finally reunited.
As they embraced, Lucas noticed Jennifer's grip was tighter than usual. Confused, he jokingly asked, "Whoa, why the death grip? Afraid I'll disappear?"
Jennifer chuckled against his chest, her voice muffled. "You've been quite naughty lately, Mr. Knight."
"What do you mean?" Lucas asked, genuinely puzzled.
Jennifer pulled back, a playful sneer on her face. "Don't play dumb. I've seen how people are shipping you with Taylor."
Realization dawned on Lucas, and he couldn't help but chuckle. "That? Are you jealous or something?"
"What if I am?" Jennifer shot back, her tone a mix of humor and something more serious. "I watched that 'Shallow' scene with you and Taylor. You two looked pretty sweet there."
Lucas shrugged, his expression softening. "It's just work. You know that."
"Do I?" Jennifer's voice held a hint of vulnerability that caught Lucas off guard.
He cupped her face gently, looking into her eyes. "Hey, you're the only leading lady in my life, on-screen or off. Taylor's great, but she's not you."
Jennifer's expression melted into a smile, the tension leaving her shoulders. "Smooth talker. But I'll take it."
Later, Lucas and Jennifer found themselves tangled in sheets, their earlier tension melting away into affection. They showered each other with kisses and caresses, making up for lost time as if they hadn't been apart for weeks.
Afterwards, feeling refreshed and reconnected, they decided to head out to Central Park, Manhattan. As they strolled hand in hand, it didn't take long for the paparazzi to spot them.
Within minutes, photos of the couple flooded social media. The speculation about their supposed breakup was quickly put to rest, much to the delight of their fans.
"Take that, haters! Our ship is sailing strong! 🚢❤️ #Lucifer"
"LOL at all the TayCas shippers. This is what a real couple looks like! 😂 #LuciferEndgame"
The "TayCas" fans couldn't hide their disappointment. Some, however, refused to give up hope:
@SwiftKnightDreamer insisted: "It's just for show, guys! Their teams probably set this up."
As the internet buzzed with reactions, Lucas and Jennifer remained blissfully unaware, enjoying their moment together in the park.
As they strolled through Central Park, Lucas and Jennifer were well aware of the paparazzi lurking nearby. Jennifer nudged Lucas, whispering, "You really don't care about them at all?"
Lucas shrugged, "Not really. If taking our pictures puts food on their table, it's fine. They're just photos."
Jennifer chuckled, shaking her head. "Are you a saint or something?"
"Nah," Lucas replied, his expression turning more serious. "Actually, I'm okay with paparazzi because lately, I've noticed people stalking me everywhere."
Jennifer gasped, her eyes widening. "My God, for real?"
Lucas nodded solemnly.
"What did you do? Did you report them?" Jennifer asked, concern evident in her voice.
"I did," Lucas confirmed, "but there'll always be more. That's why my guards are keeping them at bay." He nodded towards Jack and Simon, who were discreetly keeping watch nearby.
Jennifer felt a chill run down her spine. The dark side of fame was something she was familiar with, but hearing about Lucas's stalkers made it all too real.
"That's... that's scary," she said softly.
Lucas squeezed her hand reassuringly. "It's part of the job, I guess. But don't worry, I've got it under control."