Beyond the lens - Billie Eilish

9 -

Ellie and Billie kept chatting in the dressing room, letting themselves be carried away by the relaxed vibe of the evening. Livai, comfortably settled at their feet, was enjoying every scratch. They talked about everything and nothing, concert anecdotes, little everyday moments, until the door slowly creaked open, revealing a familiar young man. Finneas, Billie's brother, made a quiet entrance, but with that teasing little smile he was so good at.

Finneas: "Well, well, well... has Billie stolen someone's dog again?" he asked, laughing, as he leaned against the doorframe with his arms crossed.

Billie rolled her eyes, amused by the comment, before responding, gently patting Livai's head. "Bro, dogs are in love with me, it's not my fault."

Ellie, surprised but a little intimidated by the way he walked in, managed a smile. Finneas, noticing the young photographer's presence, approached to pet Livai while casting a curious glance at Ellie.

Finneas: "And you must be... Ellie, right?" He smiled, then added with a teasing tone, "Billie's told me a lot about you."

Ellie's cheeks immediately turned red. The idea that Billie had talked about her to her brother caught her off guard. "Oh really?" She glanced at Billie, who seemed just as relaxed, as if this revelation was totally normal.

Billie gave her a side smile, a little embarrassed, but didn't deny it. "What? It's true, you take amazing photos."

Ellie felt a little overwhelmed by this sudden attention. She hadn't expected Billie to talk about her, let alone in such flattering terms. She cleared her throat, trying to regain her composure. "Oh, well, thanks again, I guess."

Finneas: "Don't worry, Billie only talks about cool stuff. What you do is awesome."

Ellie, still a little embarrassed but touched by the compliments, relaxed slightly as she listened. After giving Livai one last pat, Finneas stood up and looked at his sister. "Alright, I'll leave you guys to it, I've got work waiting."

He threw one last smile at Ellie before leaving the dressing room. "Take care, Ellie. And remember, if Billie invited you here, it means you're part of the team now."

Once the door closed, Ellie felt a bit more at ease, although Finneas's compliments still echoed in her mind. Billie shot her a knowing look, amused by the situation. "Sorry if he made you blush. He likes to do that."

Ellie nodded, a shy smile on her lips. "It's cool, really. It's just a little weird hearing all of that."

Billie shrugged, still smiling. "You deserve all those compliments. Your photos speak for themselves."

Ellie, still a little red from Finneas's praise, was starting to feel more comfortable around Billie. But as she glanced at her phone, she realized it was getting late. Time had flown by, and she remembered that she had a train to catch early the next morning to head back to Portland.

She sat up gently, trying not to disturb Livai, who was still comfortably settled. "I think I should get going," she said, a little awkwardly. "I've got an early train tomorrow for a really interesting history class at university."

Billie, sitting on the couch, nodded, though a hint of disappointment was visible in her eyes. "Already? Time really flies. Are you sure you'll be okay with the train and everything?"

Ellie smiled, gathering her things while checking the time on her phone. "Yeah, I'll be fine. But thanks again for everything, really. It was such an incredible experience. I'm so grateful to have been able to shoot the concert."

Billie: "No, I should be thanking you. I knew you'd do an amazing job." Then, after a brief pause, she added, "Have you thought about what I suggested?"

Ellie froze for a moment. Billie's offer still lingered in her mind. The idea of following the rest of the tour, capturing unique moments, and joining such a talented team was tempting...

"I'll really think about it," Ellie said after a short hesitation. "It's a fucking incredible opportunity, and I appreciate you offering it. But it also means I'd have to put my studies, my job, my friends on hold... it's a big decision, you know?"

Billie nodded, understanding, with no pressure in her eyes. "I totally get it. It's an important decision. Do what feels right for you. Take your time to think it through. But if you do decide to join us, that'd be amazing. I'd love to have you here with us."

Ellie: "I'll keep you posted," she promised, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. "I just want to make sure I'm making the right choice."

Billie stood up to walk her to the door, her smile still warm. "Take your time. You know where to find me if you decide to take the leap."

Ellie laughed softly. "I promise I will. Thanks again for everything."

Livai, true to himself, trotted happily alongside Ellie as they left the dressing room. Once the door closed behind them, Ellie let out a small sigh of relief mixed with excitement. She had just experienced an unforgettable night, and Billie's offer was still swirling in her mind.

The evening had been incredible, and though she was tired, Ellie knew a big decision awaited her. An opportunity she had never imagined.