Beyond the lens - Billie Eilish

33 -

Ellie and Billie had come back from their walk with Livai and Shark, still buzzing with the fresh air outside. They'd decided to make a nice meal, a way to relax before thinking about anything else. Joan, as usual, had anticipated everyone's needs and stocked the cupboards with a wide variety of food, including an impressive spread of vegan options for Billie.

Billie: "Joan?! You didn't need to spend so much on me, you're completely nuts."

Joan grinned, pulling out the food. "Don't worry, dude, it's my pleasure. I've actually been thinking about trying it out too, getting all sensitive with every animal documentary these days."

Billie: "Thank you, really, I'd be thrilled to welcome you to the vegan club."

The three of them got busy with the meal prep, each taking on a task. Billie, even as the guest, insisted on helping. Joan, the perfect host, ended up doing most of the joking, sharing stories that were as ridiculous as they were obviously made up, while Ellie watched Billie and Shark blending so easily into the relaxed atmosphere. The fact that everything felt so natural with Billie was comforting to Ellie. She caught herself thinking that if someone had to shake up their usual routine, she was glad it was Billie.

When they finally finished the meal, they sat around the table, and Joan, in a spontaneous moment, brought up an idea that would completely change their quiet evening plans.

Joan: "Alright, girls... what if we threw a little party? I'm getting depressed here."

Ellie, still chewing, nearly choked on hearing that: "A party? Tonight?"

Billie, on the other hand, looked totally up for it. "I'm 100% in, I've had enough rest anyway."

Ellie frowned, uncertain. The thought of a party where Billie might be recognized didn't sit well with her.

Ellie: "I don't know... I mean, there's a chance you'll get recognized, and... I don't want things to get complicated for you."

Joan, true to himself, jumped in quickly, clearly eager to persuade her. "Don't worry, Ellie. We'll only invite close friends, super chill people you know. And worst case, we ban phones, so no one's taking photos."

Ellie pressed her lips together, looking at Billie. She could see how excited Billie was about the idea, and she suddenly felt torn. Part of her didn't want to take any risks for Billie, but another part knew Joan was right. This was a chance for them to have a good time, to relax without stress. And deep down, she didn't want to be the buzzkill who said no to everything.

Ellie: "Are you sure, Billie? You don't feel pressured or anything?"

Billie shook her head with a little smile. "I promise, I need these kinds of moments, you know? Just... being with normal people, away from all the public stuff. And if Joan says it's safe, then it works for me."

Ellie looked at her for a few seconds, still hesitant.

Ellie: "Alright... But if at any point it gets too crazy, we kick everyone out, okay?" she said, trying to make an agreement with Billie and Joan.

"Yes, mom," Billie and Joan chimed in unison.

Joan, clearly delighted, jumped on the opportunity to start organizing everything else. He pulled out his phone to text a few friends, while Aubrey began thinking about decorations.

Ellie: "Seriously, Aubrey? We're really decorating the place for a casual party?"

Aubrey: "Of course! I have a reputation to uphold, you know."

Billie watched the scene with an amused smile. All this fuss reminded her of the simple times she rarely got to experience back in Los Angeles. It was this kind of normalcy, away from prying eyes and cameras, that she sometimes missed.

Billie watched Aubrey making some signs out of paper. "Guys, you're serious? You're making signs to mark the bathrooms?"

Joan: "Wait until you see the red carpet leading to Ellie's bed."

Ellie: "Joan, shut up, please."

The hours passed quickly as they finished preparing. Ellie, who had finally let go a bit, watched with some amusement at the excitement around her. Joan and Aubrey were taking this "mission" so seriously you'd think they were planning a formal gala.

Billie walked over to Ellie and whispered, "This is going to be a night to remember, huh?"

Ellie smiled and shrugged, "With them, it always is."

As evening approached, the apartment was nearly ready to welcome the carefully selected few friends Joan had invited. Their friends were mostly trustworthy people, used to their group's vibe and the close-knit feel of it. Ellie felt a bit more relaxed, even if the thought of having Billie here, among them, still felt a little surreal.

She watched Billie from across the room, noticing how much more comfortable she seemed. Maybe she had overthought this, as she often did. Maybe this party would be a chance to see Billie in a new light, away from the spotlight.

As they wrapped up the last touches, Billie gave Ellie a knowing smile.

Billie: "I'm excited."

Ellie returned the smile, reassured by the ease that Billie seemed to bring along with her.