ALL NOVEL 362. practice: inferring.
The beautiful woman crowded the airport, her beauty being the only thing that kept people following her with their cameras. Without wasting any more time, she took the private car to the city center. Without paying attention, she arrived at a large photography studio, ready for her new photo session.
Prada had a special shoot featuring dresses. The camera focused on her with an air of power. The lens captured Monica, who occasionally smiled, but her smile was so distant and detached that it was caught in wide shots, reflecting a syndrome of detachment.
She continued her work, appearing here and there as the cold began to set in. The autumn season arrived with strong winds, and summer was forgotten for new coats. This year, gray was the new fashion, along with prints.
She arrived at the Panini commercial set for 1998. The idea of being a model seemed ridiculous to her, but now, dressed in the colors of various countries and multiple outfits for the upcoming World Cup in France, she participated in several commercials. Dressed in different national team uniforms, she extended her hands while a green screen behind her showed various scenes. She narrated some fun facts about the World Cup and mentioned the favorites for the tournament, talking about Italy, Brazil, Germany, France, Argentina, and England.
She did it in Italian and English. She wouldn’t turn down a campaign with such global impact, the popularity, the pay, and the proximity to new job opportunities satisfied her.
Her friend was waiting, as always, with bags under her eyes since her breakup with Johnny Depp, a problem with men that was different in its way.
Monica arrived in New York, wearing black lipstick that highlighted her fair skin. She met Winona, who smiled, her crooked front teeth charming, an imperfection that added to her unique beauty.
-I missed you, Monica. I couldn’t talk much with you in Italy, - whispered Winona, hugging her. Both were symbols, and their presence caused a stir. New York knew that unexpected visitors walked its streets, which is more common in places like Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and the fashion capitals for special events.
-I think we should hurry; people might get curious, - Monica commented, noticing some people watching them from a distance. They moved to a more private spot, a less crowded terrace.
-I’m meeting Billy, - said Monica.
-Sure, - Winona replied, trying to ignore the awkwardness she felt. In a childish act, she had introduced Billy to Monica with a different proposal. Now, she was nervous about what might happen if she said too much.
-How’s it going with that handsome British guy with black hair? - Monica asked.
-Nothing new, very polite, very cordial. However, he behaved strangely over the next five days. I think he expected a commitment. I ended up running away. It hurts, but I don’t think I can commit to anyone right now, - Winona said, sipping some juice. There was a hint of annoyance in her voice; relationships were not what she wanted.
-That’s uncomfortable. You need a vacation away from work. A weekend isn’t enough for you. You need a month, away from the cameras, in your privacy, without calls, maybe at your parent's ranch, - the dark-haired woman suggested.
Their bond had strengthened by chance, but now, with the arrival of Laetitia Casta and Linda Evangelista...
***
Billy had received all sorts of reviews, but Jim Waitt was already sending scripts for his next projects. Many of these scripts could be done solo or with favor... nothing particularly interesting or determined for this year or the next. However, a few films did catch his attention, “Freeway” being one of them, and his interest was renewed. Kiefer Sutherland, his recent co-star, could now be his rival, which added a certain allure to the role.
-I'm interested in Freeway; however, my schedule is possibly occupied. I've committed to voicing 'Diego' for 'Ice Age,' and I need to be present for all the promotions for Sev7n, along with the promotion for Jerry, which starts in January, - Billy remarked.
-You have the time. I'll handle the rest. It's enough that you make some trips to the major capitals. Your face is more recognizable than it was a year ago, and since the contract, the conditions of popularity are different. Your recent appearances in various magazines have given us a lot of power, - Jim commented.
-It could be beneficial, - Billy responded.
For now, he was only waiting for the impact of his work—a year of effort and guidance on multiple projects, each different in minor aspects. Every job, whether spontaneous or planned, was enough to secure his place in the industry. As his fame increased in the coming year, he was confident that he would have creative freedom as an actor. Participating in different projects that would have a positive impact on critics and audiences alike could pave the way for others to seek him out for roles they dream of seeing materialized. His involvement in such films could promote better terms than merely attaching himself to projects. The investment was just a palace that he would leverage in the coming years to engage in what he considered valuable.
-It's more than beneficial. Many people have asked about your schedule, and just being visible is good. When something appears everywhere and catches the public's attention, you need to ride the wave. It can sometimes fall, but taking advantage of the moment to make enough movies to establish yourself in the actor category is crucial. Even if you don't make it to the top list, it's good to have something to back you up, gaining experience while the iron is hot, - Jim Waitt commented.
Following these steps is advice on what Hollywood is. Many actors, who faced failure after failure, rose from some relationship or job, climbing up from supporting roles, and series and that's how they sustain themselves. Many movies are strategic in reaffirming connections with others.
-Schedule the audition, - Billy said, following through. Taking the address given by Monica, he arrived at an exclusive restaurant bar. Monica smiled at him from there, accompanied by three other women. It seemed his concern was misplaced; Monica was flushed from the wine and the friendly chatter.
...