Beyond the lens - Billie Eilish

5 -

Ellie reread Billie's response several times. The idea that one of the most influential artists of her generation was talking to her so casually still blew her mind. She took a deep breath and started to reply, trying not to sound too nervous.

Ellie: "It's such a relief to know you're cool with the photos! Is it okay if I sell a few?"

Ellie hesitated for a moment before hitting "send," her thumb hovering. After all, she wanted to handle this the right way.

A few minutes later, as she tried to focus on her online classes, a new notification popped up. Heart pounding, she opened Instagram again.

Billie: "No problem from me. Don't hesitate to make as much money as you can."

Ellie let out a sigh of relief, laughing at the message. She had the green light now. She quickly replied, thanking Billie.

Ellie: "Ahh, perfect! Don't worry, my best friend's gonna help me negotiate."

The excitement of having such an opportunity started to shift into the nervousness of getting it right. The fact that Billie was so chill about the whole thing helped Ellie stay calm. Still, she had some lingering apprehension about dealing with the media. This was the first time she was selling her photos professionally.

Later that day, between two classes at university, Ellie couldn't resist checking her phone, hoping for another message from Billie. Sure enough, another notification appeared on her screen.

Billie: "Can't wait to see your photos everywhere."

Ellie smiled, touched by the trust Billie seemed to have in her. It was surreal but also incredibly motivating. She let herself imagine her photos published in a Detroit newspaper, with Billie Eilish's name attached. It had a special resonance, an echo that filled her with pride.

Ellie: "And me?? This is totally crazy."

She hesitated for a moment before adding:

Ellie: "Good luck with your show tonight, by the way. It's in LA, right? I've heard the crowd there is always amazing."

Once again, Billie replied quickly.

Billie: "Yeah, the crowd is completely insane here. It's definitely my fucking favorite place in the world."

A smile spread across Ellie's face. She could almost feel Billie's excitement through the screen, as if the prospect of the concert was especially energizing her. She couldn't help thinking about the time she had attended one of Billie's shows, completely swept up in the energy coming from the stage.

Ellie: "Nothing like playing at home. I'd love to see that."

Billie: "You should come back someday, it'd be awesome to see you at a show."

Ellie froze, staring at her phone, stunned. She never thought Billie would offer something so direct. An involuntary smile spread across her lips.

Ellie: "Wow, I didn't see that coming, I'd be fucking thrilled."

The idea that she could have this special connection with Billie was both exciting and a little intimidating. She wondered how far this professional relationship could go and how it might evolve. She knew these opportunities were rare, and she wanted to make sure she didn't mess it up.

Ellie's day continued with classes, work at the café, and little knowing glances at her phone as she thought about the incredible opportunity she had. During her shift, she kept sneaking peeks at her phone, though there were no new messages since Billie's invitation.

That evening, exhausted but still smiling, Ellie collapsed on her couch with a sigh. She thought about what to do next with her photos. She knew the first step was to respond to the Detroit newspaper. After that, she might want to consider other publications, other cities. The idea of a future where her concert photos were sought after by the press suddenly felt tangible.

Livai, her loyal four-legged companion, curled up next to her, as if to share in the calm moment. Ellie stroked his head, deep in thought about everything she had just experienced.

A new notification on her phone caught her attention. Another message, once again, from Billie.

Billie: "By the way, if you really want to take more photos, we could see about you coming to shoot some other dates on the tour. You really have amazing talent, and it'd be cool to have you on board."

Ellie blinked, stunned. Billie had just offered her something she hadn't even dared to imagine. Not only had she liked the photos, but now she was offering her the chance to follow part of her tour. Ellie felt a mixture of panic and excitement rise inside her. She knew this could be a huge turning point for her career, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to break into concert photography.

With trembling hands, she took a deep breath before replying.

Ellie: "What??? You're gonna make me cry. I didn't expect that much trust, I'd be honored."

She sent the message before she could second-guess herself. An offer like this couldn't be turned down.

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HEYY, Just a reminder, this story is translated from French. I spent several nights getting just 3 hours of sleep to adapt everything lol, so I might have missed some things. Feel free to let me know....