The newspapers were sensationalist. By the time Billy finished playing with Kristin, the press had already flooded England with copies, like hot dogs sold on street corners. Gossip about their supposed relationship spread everywhere—they fabricated stories that they had known each other for years and had just reunited.
From romances to friendships to dates Billy himself didn't recall, the press turned everything into undeniable "truths." His refusal to comment or clarify anything only fueled speculation. Billy became a fiery headline once again, this time linked to a stunning actress who had recently gained moderate fame from a breakthrough role. For her, it was a magnificent rise to stardom, but for Billy, it tarnished his reputation—or so it seemed, given the harsh criticism branding him a womanizer and insensitive to women's emotions.
As they say, no publicity is bad publicity. The scandal energized young fans who dreamed they might be the "lucky one." Vans shoes doubled their sales, while Burberry's clothing line saw a three-point increase.
-That arrogant brat! They only tolerate him because he's an egocentric idiot who can't handle commitments,- grumbled J.K. Rowling.
-They've asked us to move up the shooting schedule for Billy's scenes. It's not impossible; we can focus on a few appearances and leave the final scenes for the last week of August,- commented Harry Potter director David Yates, fully aware of the packed schedule of a rising star: tours, promotional events, and everything else that comes with fame.
-Do it. We don't have another choice,- J.K. replied, clearly irritated. Still, she couldn't deny that Billy's portrayal of the Hungarian wizard was convincing. It even made her reconsider how attractive Hungarians could be. That was the magic of cinema—crafting an image that didn't exist. A blonde with eagle eyes that captivated women like daisies swaying in the wind.
Amidst it all, Billy dove into music, preparing songs for his next album while rehearsing lines. His free time evaporated as his schedule filled with interviews, skydiving practice, and countless other skills he barely understood, just throwing himself headfirst into danger.
-Let's organize some scenes for today on the beach and other locations,- suggested David Yates, noting that Billy wouldn't arrive until Wednesday. It would be just enough time to shoot a few quick shots, including one in the library with Hermione—a fleeting moment where he would exchange a sweet glance with her before she nodded.
-Now, let's address wardrobe. We're debating the cloaks, but we think the current costumes should suffice. -
The early-morning production meeting continued without pause.
...
-What a surprise you have the nerve to show up after all the chaos you've caused,- remarked Robert Pattinson, slapping Billy on the back.
-Man, the media twisted the story so much it's indefensible,- Billy muttered.
-But it's true,- Robert laughed, knowing Billy had once again fallen into another romantic entanglement.
-Shall we play Final Fantasy? I heard the remake just came out.-
-Finally! I thought you'd never ask. Let's play, but don't slow me down. You're pretty terrible at co-op games. Don't worry, I'll help. The twins already finished it—they're insufferable and won't share the key items with me,- Robert replied.
-Come over after the shoot. I started without you, but just for a few minutes,- Billy added.
-Sure, let's order pizza, - Robert suggested.
...
Billy's next scenes went smoothly. First was a beach sequence where he ran along the shore, chased by women. It was wrapped in under forty minutes, with time to exchange a glance with Hermione, who blushed at his gaze. The remaining post-Yule Ball and cemetery scenes were completed, and the cast prepared for the final act.
Robert and Billy practiced their acting along the way, experimenting with different roles. Robert adhered to the method acting style, immersing himself in his character and drawing from real-life experiences to shape his performances.
Billy waited in a lounge, having finished his scenes. There wasn't much else he could do, though other actors continued their work. He prepared for his climactic moment, free of stage fright now, able to face the camera without hesitation.
It wasn't a stage, but it felt like one, pretending to be someone else and believing it. In front of the camera, he followed his chosen method, harnessing emotions to their fullest, immersing himself in the character until he became one with the role, no matter how maddening the process.
-Hi,- Emma whispered.
-Hey, how are you? You seem to be doing well, dear girl,- Billy said, taking a deep breath as his suit felt tight around his neck, making it hard to breathe. She wore her Hogwarts uniform, her hair tied back in a bun.
-Balancing work and school is impossible. These past years have been so hard, and now it's even more difficult. I'm starting classes next week, but I'll try my best,- Emma confessed.
Billy observed her intently. In his past life, he never knew what she had done with hers. She seemed mature, yet distant as if she had disappeared after Harry Potter.
-Want my advice? - Billy asked, already thinking of ways to manipulate her, to trap her in his web. He was a miserable person, but he couldn't help being manipulative and condescending—it was his nature.
She nodded and moved closer, inspired by what she might learn from someone who had navigated the highs and lows of fame.
-We're lucky, so lucky to live this life. I hate music, but I love it. I hate how it's changed me, but I love what it's given me. Who I am now is because of music. For you, it's acting. Even if it sounds harsh, don't think about how fortunate you are. Think about your obligations. You're a celebrity, and maybe you'll always be one because you do a job that's so simple it makes me pity workers, struggling artists, salaried employees, nurses, or doctors. You have responsibilities. You need to be a professional and follow a profile... For example, an intelligent woman with principles who doesn't date idiots like me, - Billy said with a smile.
-Why do you always say I don't want to date you?- Emma replied. -As for the rest, I've never thought about it that way. My parents say I should be responsible, and my friends say I'm lucky, but to me, it's just a lot of work -
-Because it's true. I'm no good for you. I'm just a dumb rocker looking for fun,- he leaned in closer. -Promise me something—even if it's a silly promise. Be a great woman. Be a smart woman. Men will use you for two things: the idealized figure you represent and their twisted desires. Never trust their words; if they flatter you too much, it's just a cheap trick.-
-You sound like my dad, - Emma teased.
-I mean it. I've made so many mistakes, and I'm not proud of them,- Billy admitted.
He continued with his rambling, drawing her into his confidence, sharing stories about deceitful people who had tricked him with masks of trust.
-Then how do you know who's genuine? - She finally asked.
-You don't. But the trick is to make the right choice. When someone deceives you the first time, you'll think, 'How foolish I was.' But that's how we learn—through experience. -
Billy's next scene in the library was quick—just a few exchanged glances and a brief greeting. It was a tight production schedule, often interrupted by someone arriving mid-scene. The Hogwarts library set was the perfect backdrop for fleeting, understated moments.
....
...