1983 – "Thriller" Shoot
MICHAEL
This entire globe would love the project. "MTV" planned to debut my short film soon. After one last review of the dance routine we wrapped for good. I shivered time and time again while dressed in my "Halloween" attire. Overall, evenings chilled in the name of autumn.
On the other hand, make-up effects genius Rick Baker and his expansive team brilliantly crafted on my complexion to design that werewolf or zombie appearance. I'd braved this shoot with everything from false teeth to watery eyes. Nonetheless, both haunting personas required a complete transformation. I loved every moment. I could only pray that fans and critics enjoyed this project as well.
It was now too late at night. I sat in the editing room with John and a few other great personnel. We'd just finishing watching this project all the way through. Even with the pitch-black room and flashing screen, I noticed possible changes. John and the others quickly understood my alternatives.
After an hour of collective nitpicking, we finally stopped. I shook hands with everyone and vowed to eventually sleep. Regardless of my perfectionist tendencies, this cut of the film looked damn-near immaculate. I smiled despite the reemerged second-guessing. My zipping thoughts returned to consider other variations for this short film.
My mind never stopped working to be honest. Bill and his chosen security detail escorted me out the limousine. In this night air, a personal assistant raced toward me while holding a brick antenna phone. I didn't know what to think of rushing steps. Security detail continued discussion patrol. Once again, I understood and recognized the caution in one way or another.
"Michael, it's Kim!" My employee huffed after stopping. After I grabbed the phone, ducked into one of the secondary vans with other employees. In the name of cold, Bill hurried with me and the driver. We all slammed the doors of the limousine before long. Vapors departed my lips after exhaled for a moment.
"Hello?" I somehow prompted my teeth to stop chattering before answering the phone. Heat then finally arrived from countless vents. I thanked Jehovah inaudibly within seconds. Bill turned up the radio distract himself once again. The driver rolled out and wouldn't prompt conversations with my employee as usual. Right now, I'd concentrate on other "business." Kay and I hadn't talked since I left that recent message on her answering machine.
"Hey, Mike." This woman offered an unexpectedly sweet voice. I could only imagine what crossed her mind right now. I even began to wonder if she'd forgiven me overall. Whether I suggested a "date" or not, I wanted to see her again. At this point, the limousine paused in the name of busy traffic flow. I rested my head back for a moment.
"Hey, girl. How are you?" I missed her all over again. My mind otherwise couldn't stand Brenda now. She fall into the trap of Prince and flooded headlines with everyone from The Time to Vanity 6. At least Kim seemed intelligent enough to walk way. I just couldn't look at Brenda the same anymore. To be honest, no woman in her right mind would deal with Prince and his drama. But I've digressed.
"Great. I quit the nightclub." Kim dropped an update I never expected. My jaw could've easily hit my lap or something. I would've never guessed. She looked so happy every time we passed each other in that crowded venue. Still, even I knew better. Sometime, the biggest smiles held more than enough secrets.
"Oh, wow! Are you all right?" I almost laughed to stop myself from gasping out loud. I couldn't even believe it at first. On the other line, Kay just chuckled with me. I could only imagine what she planned now. Music? Her own business? While cliché, possibilities seemed endless. Again, I didn't think what to think right and simply waited.
"Everything's fine. Of course, I shed a few tears, but let's be honest. Someone just told me it was time to go. I've been overworked anyway." Surprisingly, I nodded along to one of my old records. "I Can't Help It" prompted the driver and Bill to almost cheer up front. Traffic finally inched enough for us to move down the road.
Looking in my mirror.
Took me by surprise.
I can't help but see you.
Running often through my mind.
Helpless like a baby.
Sensual disguise.
I can't help but love you.
It's getting better all the time...
"Self-worth is so important. Ain't that much money in the world, Kay. If you're happy, that's what matters. What are you gonna do now?" I nodded once more while adjusting myself against this leather. I glanced out the window and noticed streetlights. Palm trees also lined the intersection. My old record faded out of hearing and something else replaced. I just didn't recognize the song in question.
"I've found this independent label and I'm already writing songs again, Mike. It's so good to be a musician without limiting myself, no offense." Kim beamed once more. I wasn't even offended now. Time and time again, mainstream record label buried artists with all kinds of restrictions and whatever else possible. I seemed fortunate in my own situation, but remained aware. Regardless of my own fame, anything could've happened. I counted my blessings all the time. Of course, there was no other choice.
"I'm happy for you. Good night, Kay." I smiled honestly.
"Thank you so much. Good night, Michael." Kay answered one last time with happiness and hung up. I couldn't even stop grinning once more.
