superstar: sings for everybody

July 14.

The Phelps twins finished their scene, looking a bit tired from all the traveling back and forth required to focus on filming. Since they had already graduated, they rested more than most.

–So, you're friends with all those guys? – asked Oliver, doubtfully. They were rock fans, friends of Billy's, and initially felt some envy after meeting him. However, over time, the iconic figure of rock faded into the background, and it was still pretty cool for them to be friends with one of their favorite musicians.

–Pretty much. – Billy commented, pointing to the group playing the "Witches of Macbeth." They were rock fans too, and the industry, initially unreachable, eventually became a circle where everyone knew each other. Many actively sought out conversations or collaborations.

–The rock circle is much smaller than most people think. At events, someone always wants to meet you… though I've never met Bon Jovi. – Billy murmured, referring to the one person who always seemed to escape his greetings for one reason or another.

–Damn, that must be awesome… Hey, are we playing video games? I think the guys are joining. – Oliver remarked.

Robert was talking with Emma Watson at a distance, awkwardly nodding or gesturing uncomfortably during their conversation. She gestured with questions that seemed alternately strange or ordinary.

–Sure, invite them. – Billy replied, guessing it might be Devon Murray, who played Seamus Finnigan, and Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom.

–We'll play at the downtown suite. They'll take us in armored vehicles to avoid… you know, paparazzi. – Oliver whispered the last part.

–That's good, though people already have theories that I'm involved in the Harry Potter movie. – Billy commented.

The excuse was that Billy's talents were being used for the soundtrack and rock music, which made sense. Fans had pieced things together, with the most obvious being the possibility of a rock band featuring in the fourth installment.

–We'll make it a tournament. Last night, I bought those things you like—cheese, yogurt, and carrot sticks. – Oliver said.

–Nice gesture. – Billy said, patting his back.

Robert arrived, looking worn out as he sat down and shook his head. Despite James and Oliver's curiosity, he refused to elaborate.

…

The guys were in the middle of a PES 2004 tournament, each trying to win while one of Billy's songs played on the radio, repeated every five minutes on a station.

–Damn it. – Robert muttered as James scored, making it 1–0.

I guess it's my day. – James commented, the jar with £100 inside—entry bets for the winner—sitting on the table. The boys played intensely, with James winning three out of his six matches.

The next match was between James and Devon, the two best players, completely absorbed in the game.

–I heard you've been doing some interviews. – Robert remarked.

–I have, but nothing's concrete. I recently auditioned for an indie film. It's for a supporting role—a good one—here in London. But I think it'll be a real challenge. – Billy admitted, taking a breath.

–For now, take it slow. You'll find roles eventually. Besides, we've got a lifetime to land the films we want. – Robert said, sipping his Coke as the two relaxed. After losing to James, Billy stopped caring about winning, feeling a bit foolish and unmotivated.

–I heard you might go on tour later this year. But it seems your scenes are being filmed more frequently, so maybe next year you'll get lucky with an acting role. – Robert said casually, aware of Billy's growing interest in cinema.

–I don't mind. I just want to do something in film. As long as I keep practicing and taking roles that aren't too demanding or damaging to my reputation, I'll be satisfied. – Billy said, catching his breath. Though his face didn't scream "teenager," finding roles was tough—especially good youth or adolescent parts, which were often mediocre.

–I'll give it a shot next year. – Billy concluded, feeling overwhelmed by his desire to get involved.

–If I land a good role, I'll invite you. I wouldn't mind. – Robert said.

–Thanks, buddy. If you ever need someone more handsome than you, give me a call, and I'll be there. – Billy joked. For now, he only had two goals: keep playing video games and stay involved in film for the thrill of it. His true interests were unclear, though his mind occasionally wandered to a Victoria's Secret model and nights spent tangled with an entrepreneur, yearning instead for the touch of a young rocker.

–Well, I think it'll be interesting to see how things start to take off. – Robert commented.

Billy drank more water while snacking on the cheese Oliver had bought for him. Thoughtful gestures aside, he felt failure might sometimes be a blessing in disguise. Heading to the twins' fridge, which looked oddly empty despite being packed, he poured himself a glass of water.

–You guys should organize this apartment. – he yelled from the kitchen.

–We do, but we eat out. – James shouted back.

–Honestly, just order a pizza. – Oliver yelled. – Or call your chef. –

–Impossible. – Billy muttered, dialing Mrs. G to request a family-style meal. He imagined it might take longer than expected but craved a hearty steak, salty potatoes, a salad, juice, fruit, and plenty of snacks.

–Well, I guess it's my turn to play. – Billy said, picking up the controller. His opponent was Devon Murray, likely the best player of the night. The kid seemed entirely dedicated to gaming, far surpassing the usual competition.

–Damn. – Billy muttered after losing his second game. Though he didn't do poorly, the kid was brilliant.

–Haha, Billy, don't get discouraged. Some play games; others just lose. – James said, patting his back. Devon ultimately won the tournament.

Jack Sauce sipped a drink while watching Kate Bosworth dance. She was in her element, moving effortlessly from one step to another, her rhythm quick and deliberate.

–What's up, handsome? – the blonde said, swaying to the beat. They were in Chicago at a party full of the wealthy and famous. The atmosphere buzzed with missteps and indulgences as each guest embraced their brand of chaos.

The gathering blended into one, its location secondary to the joy each person radiated. A long line of revelry stretched through the night, connecting everyone in a shared rhythm.

People drank, kissed, and resumed their activities as Jack took another sip of wine. Nearby, some musician friends joined him, sipping from his glass with casual familiarity.

–Let the party roll on. – one of the girls said, dancing with three other models.

…

Connor took a deep breath, feeling a lingering emptiness. Except for drumming, he couldn't find anything to fill the void consuming him.

–So, what do you want to do? – asked a goth girl with dark eyes rimmed with heavy eyeliner.

–Just pass the time. – Connor replied, kissing her lips. But beyond the kiss, he felt nothing—just the hollow ache in his chest.

–We could go all night if you want. – she said, laughing sweetly.

He thought only of drumming, a warm shower, and maybe a smoke to clear his mind.

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