Record Me Saying I Miss You

Chapter 3: Babe

Carl played two animation drafts for us to understand our characters better.

"She looks so amazing." I said, watching the character I was voicing. Carl smiles proudly.

"The character design actually was inspired by one of my nephew's drawings. I can't wait to show him the character that will soon come to life. Especially with the help of your voice."

"Thanks." I replied, "But the genius behind it is you. I'm only enhancing the thing that's already so perfect and well done."

"I'm absolutely flattered." Carl said, "I'm going to get us some coffees to start the morning off. You two get into the booths and ready for the next scenes." He exited the room and I noticed Dylan scowling at me again.

"It's painful to see you kissing his ass so hard." he said. My relationship with Dylan wasn't improving at all. He's insulted nearly everything I've done, from my "stealing of the female lead" to my "strange choice in clothing." I'd expected to deal with a little bit of criticism, but Dylan was an arrogant jerk. Compared to my stereotype of celebrities, he wasn't far off. 

Ignoring him, I went into the booth and got the script ready. Carl soon returned and handed us two coffees. Soon, the room was filled with reading and Carl's steady directing.

Dylan, more than I wanted to admit, was a natural voice actor. It probably came from his years of acting, both in voice and in body, but the talent radiated from him and his voice sounded perfect no matter how many times he said a line to get it just right. I glanced up at him as he was running through an emotional monologue to see his face melded with the scene, as if he was the character himself. 

Today, Carl wanted to hear me sing for the first time. After listening to the demo and receiving the sheets for the song, I was fairly nervous that I wouldn't be able to reach some of the notes. Nonetheless, I settled in my chair and tapped my fingers to the opening melody. 

And as the sun pulled out of the sky, I exhaustively finished the last run through of the song. 

"Great work today, Hazel." Carl said, picking up his now frosty mug, "I'll see you tomorrow." 

I nodded in response and slumped in my chair as soon as he exited the room. Dylan had been lying on the couch, ankles crossed, and endlessly on his phone throughout the day. He paid no attention to me as I turned off the studio and stepped into the hallway. I guess I'd just have to put up with him seeing me as an annoyance, or simply ignoring my entire presence. 

When I reached the lobby, I dialed Andrew's number and waited until he picked up. 

"Hazel?" 

"I just got off work." 

"On my way, babe."

"Babe's hardly a romantic nickname." I said, "Maybe something more-"

"I'll see you later, sweetie. Honey. Miss Perfect." I heard the smile in his voice. 

And soon, his flashy red convertible pulled up and I rushed out to him. People around us took glances at his gorgeous car, its roof pulled down and showing off the equally pretty guy inside. He was no billionaire celebrity, but I still glowed at the sight of him. 

"Hey, sweetheart." Andrew said as I settled in my seat. I rolled my eyes. 

"You're so embarrassing." 

"No, I just looove you." 

"So are we heading back to yours?"

"That's the plan." The car engine revved and we shot off into the highway. The night wind blew against my face and my hair fluttered against my face. Cali felt so different, with its buzzing night scene and heavy traffic.