Beyond the lens - Billie Eilish

71 -

The day had unfolded like a dream, fast and seamless, filled with simple yet genuine moments. After their walk in the park with Shark, Billie and Ellie had returned to Billie's place, their cheeks flushed from the crisp air. The sun was setting, bathing the apartment in that soft, golden light that comes just before nightfall.

Ellie, collapsing onto the couch, watched Billie pull off her hoodie and glasses with a relieved sigh.

"Don't you ever get tired of having to hide like that?" Ellie asked, her curiosity tinged with a note of sincere concern.

Billie glanced thoughtfully out the window before turning to Ellie with an honest smile.

"Absolutely. But honestly? I wouldn't trade my life for anything right now."

With those words, Billie stepped closer, her eyes locked on Ellie's. She gently cupped Ellie's face in her hands, her thumbs brushing softly against her cheeks, and kissed her. Her lips were light, almost hesitant, but full of unmistakable affection. Ellie smiled against her lips and murmured with a laugh,

"Still got energy for a third round?"

Billie smirked, her gaze suddenly playful.

"I always have energy for that. But..." She stepped back slightly, her expression turning mysterious. "First, I have a surprise for you. It should be here any minute now."

Ellie raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"A surprise? Again? I'm going to start feeling bad for never giving you anything."

Right then, the doorbell rang, startling Ellie. Billie burst into laughter, glancing at the clock.

"Perfect timing."

She went to the door and opened it to reveal a delivery driver holding a massive bag. After a brief exchange, Billie handed over a generous tip, earning a grateful thanks from the driver. Closing the door, Billie turned to Ellie with a triumphant smile, holding up the bag.

"Tadaaa!"

The smell wafting from the bag was enough to give away its contents. Ellie jumped up, her eyes wide, and let out a delighted yell.

"BILLIE! Holy shit, I've never seen this much sushi in my life!"

She grabbed the bag, placing it carefully on the table. Inside, a mountain of sushi of all kinds was neatly arranged in boxes. It must have cost a fortune.

Billie laughed at Ellie's awe-struck reaction.

"I know how to make you happy."

Ellie turned to her, her face lighting up with a brilliant smile. She planted a quick kiss on Billie's lips before diving into the feast.

"I don't even know where to start," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Billie raised a hand, feigning a mock-serious expression.

"You could start with me if you want."

Ellie burst into laughter, grabbed a random piece of sushi, and popped it into her mouth without even chewing.

"I'm saving you for dessert. Sushi comes first."

The rest of the evening passed in a peaceful rhythm. Sitting on the couch, they put on Killing Eve, one of Billie's favorite shows. Billie commented on every scene with contagious enthusiasm, her witty and passionate remarks making Ellie laugh out loud. Between bites of sushi, Ellie would occasionally pause to watch Billie, captivated by the simple warmth and light she exuded.

As the episodes rolled on, Ellie eventually succumbed to fatigue, curling up against Billie's side. Billie draped an arm around her, gently running her fingers through Ellie's hair while keeping her eyes on the screen. When she noticed Ellie had fallen asleep, she lowered the volume and softly brushed her fingers against Ellie's cheek to wake her.

"Hey babygirl, don't you want to head to bed?" Billie whispered.

Ellie groaned sleepily, her voice muffled.

"Mmhh, if you want..."

With infinite care, Billie helped her up. The two girls slipped into pajamas, a simple yet tender act that carried a comforting intimacy. They climbed into bed, and Ellie immediately moved closer to Billie, seeking the warmth of her arms.

As they lay entwined, Billie's steady breathing brushing against her neck, Ellie's mind began to wander. She couldn't help but wonder what they truly meant to each other. Was this something serious? Just a fleeting moment? The thoughts swirled in her head, but she pushed them aside. Now wasn't the time to complicate things. She was happy, deeply happy, and that was all that mattered for now. The rest could wait until tomorrow, or maybe a little longer. Tonight, all she wanted was Billie and the reassuring warmth of her embrace.

They both drifted off quickly, peaceful smiles on their faces