Page 55 of You and Me, For Real
“Eh, I’ve been looking to hang up my hat. Not sure I’m still willing to play the game anymore. You know what I mean, kid?”
His eyes are genuine, sincere, and a bit weary. “I think I do.” We stare at each other for a meaningful beat before he lightly pats my arm in the most fatherly gesture I’ve felt in years.
“Hang in there, kid. There’s some good stuff, too. Just focus on the good.”
And without a “goodbye” or a “nice to meet you,” he turns down the hall and disappears into the bathroom.
I hope when I look back on my career, I’ll see that I’ve done some good too. And that chance starts soon. This film project has the potential to change my life and legacy forever. So long as I don’t screw it up.
16
ASHTON
It’s been five days since my phone call with Griffin that went late into the night. And while our conversation started about social media, we definitely veered off topic.
“I may have watched a few episodes ofMalibu Shoresrecently.”
“Oh, really? You don’t say.”
The smirk in his tone makes me slap my face with embarrassment at admitting to watching episode after episode of him running around on a beach shirtless.
“What’d you think?”
“I love your character. He’s charming, fun, and a caring friend. He’s a lot like you, really.”
“Huh. Never thought about it that way.”
“Don’t get me wrong, your acting is great, too. Quite frankly, you sell the role. You always manage to deliver the subpar dialogue in such a natural way. Viewers have no choice but to love you. I mean him. As in you, the character. You know what I mean.”
“Did you saylove?”
My face flushes. Oh. My. Gosh.Ashton, quit word-vomiting!“Yes. The character.”
Not him, you see. The character. The clarification is necessary. To himandmyself.
He has a girlfriend!
“I’m sure you know how much fans love you. I have no doubt they’ll follow you wherever your career leads.” He’d told me about his big meeting that night with a film producer. He didn’t give a lot of detail, only that he really wants the role. I’m guessing until things are finalized, he can’t share many specifics.
“Thank you for that. Truly.”
Griffin’s tone of surprise that night, along with his sincerity at receiving my compliments, stuck with me throughout the week. I found myself wanting to learn more about him. I anticipated each of his measly texts like some teenager with a schoolgirl crush—pathetic, I know—especially considering he’s already taken, but I can’t seem to help myself. Despite the simplicity of our texts, each one brightened my day, and made me all that much more excited about our next training session.
Monday
Griffin
Thank you for the cookies. They were delicious. I’m about five pounds of sugar fatter thanks to you.
Ashton
I highly doubt that, but you’re welcome.
Griffin
I only wish I had been there when you delivered them.
Ashton
