December 15 (Saturday Morning-Afternoon)

Erin was quiet as they boarded the bus from Grand Central Station to Monticello, NY. She had barely spoken more than a word since Lij had hailed them a cab from Central Park. Amy was playing mother-hen. Turnabout is fair play.

When the streaming lights of the city were behind them and the dawn threatened to approach, Amy stopped her story about Billy and the woods. Turning to her best friend, “Hey, he didn’t do anything to you. I mean, he didn’t do anything you weren’t consenting for?”

“No.” Erin mumbled her head vibrating on the thick smoky glass, her body scrunched up in the seat.

“You looked like you were having a good time. Are you pissed off at Billy or Lij?”

“Stop talking about them like we know them. We just hung out with them, they aren’t our friends or anything Amy.” Erin snapped, never taking her eyes from the road outside her window.

“Well I sure as hell felt like we were being treated as their friends. But screw it, that’s just my opinion.” Amy grumbled, flipping idly through the paper she bought at the station. Getting mad at her isn’t going to solve anything.

“I don’t know why you gave Billy your number, you won’t hear from him again.” Erin stated, coldly.

“Well its not like I could have given it to Orlando, seeing as you gave him more than your digits.” Amy felt like shit the minute she said it.

“Oh, your shitting me, right? You had it for him, didn’t you? That’s why your getting so pissy with me? Don’t you have a boyfriend?” Erin felt her blood racing.

“Don’t you?” Amy countered, coldly.

Silence.

“Oh shit, I don’t want to do this with you Erin. Lets not fight over bullshit. Orlando was digging you. And why shouldn’t he? Your pretty fucking wonderful, if you ask me.” Amy rested her head on Erins shoulder. “Billy was really cool and much sweeter when we were alone. Nothing intimate or anything, don’t take that offensively, please. Billy was just really great and we had the most amazing talk. Yeah, I admit I thought Orlando was a hot-pants. He’s too wild and yet too serious for my taste. It’s that Capricorn thing.”

Erin banged her forehead on the glass, softly. “After he kissed me, he said he was sorry.”

“Ouch, that prick.” Amy growled, looking up, meeting Erins eyes for the first time since departing Grand Central Station.

“You know, I probably wouldn’t have thought a moment about him once we left, even after the kiss. But now that he said that, I feel like there is something wrong with me. Like he was taste testing me and decided he didn’t like the flavor.”

“Well screw him. He isn’t worth it. Then again, no man ever is.” Amy sighed as Erin set her head on her friends shoulder. “What about John? He wasn’t worth me doing this to him. I feel like shit. I didn’t even know this guy and probably would have done more if he pushed for it. What kind of a person does that make me?”

Amy smoothed Erins tangled burgundy mane. “The fact that you are feeling this way should say it all. John is a great guy but he has done some messed up shit too. So, what he doesn’t know won’t hurt him one bit. You had a few drinks. Don’t give me that look, I know its no excuse. But you were having a good time, feeling safe and you are an affectionate person. Consider the kiss as nothing more than a kindness exchanged between friends. Okay?”

The kiss was anything but friendly, no matter how much I want to make myself believe it. Erin could have throttled herself for putting herself into this situation. Orlando will forget all about you when the morning comes. I need to do the same.

“It was cool to get to meet Elijah Wood. He has the most beautiful blue eyes I have ever seen. And what a helluva cool guy! He totally did not have that movie star aire about him. And you met Liv Tyler! Doesn’t that bring back memories of Headbangers ball and Aerosmith? You had the biggest crush on Joe Perry back in those days!” Amy laughed.

Erin could not keep herself from giggling. “You used to say he had the biggest nose you had ever seen. I thought his nose made him handsome and distinct.”

“Who were you kidding? You weren’t looking at his nose.” Amy laughed louder. “Damn if we aren’t overtired.”

“We aren’t going to say anything to John and Scott are we? About last night?” Erin looked up.

“About what? Do you think they want to hear how we got back from the city, unplugged the phone and did some binge and purge with a lethal combo of Ben & Jerry’s and a bottle of vodka? Lord knows what trouble those two got into last night in Albany, anyway.” Amy smiled. “We will be home soon. I’ll put on a pot of coffee.”

“Hey, Amy?” Erin looked up with tired eyes. “I love you. Your not my best friend, you’re my sister.”

“I love you to Erin.” Amy smiled.

“I have been trying to call you, all night.” Jemma hissed. “You told me you were going to call me before you went to the pub with the boys? What the hell happened, Orlando? Your voice mail kept coming up on that infernal digital phone of yours. Must have left 100 messages, not to mention my calling the hotel.”

Orlando laid back on his bed, his hand braced at the line of his brow as he studied the intricate carvings on the ceiling of the Presidential suite. Jemma had filled up his voice mail and a pile of messages were awaiting him at the front desk. “I told you, I got caught up with my mates and once we got into the club, there was no reception.” Your lying. She knows your lying. Your phone wasn’t even on.

“You couldn’t have stepped outside for a minute, I was waiting all night to hear how it went!” Jemma sighed.

“And if I would have gone outside, I would have been attacked by every man, woman and child there. This is huge, Jemma. New York is wild.” Orlando cast his eyes to the luxurious appointments of the suite, still in disbelief that such a room was warrant to his status. Hell I have lived on a means before, I still can’t get over this. I am tuning her out. I can’t do that. She deserves more than that.

“So, how many times did that yank, Liv, put her hands all over you?” Jemmas’ voice was sour.

“Bloody hell, Jemma. I told you it’s not like that. Liv is like an older sister for Christ’s sake. Are you sure your not my mother?” His brogue was getting heavier. He was getting pissed.

“Oh, that reminds me. Mum called me looking for you last night as well. Might want to ring her next. I have to get back to work, the photographer is getting a bit antsy. I’ll be seeing you shortly. I look forward to the premiere. I love you.”

“Right. Right. Love you to.” Orlando sighed. “Will call later. Stay beautiful.”

Orlando sparked another cigarette to life as he dialed the phone. Kicking aimlessly at a disregarded sock beside the bed, he waited. He really needed to talk to his best friend.

The answering machine picked up. “Andre, man, its me. Ring me back on my cell when ya get this. Its important. Cheers mate.”

Orlando grumbled as he dialed his mum. The thought of her voice warmed him instantly. “Hello, Mum?”

“Orlando, darlin’. How are you? Been worried sick about you!”

“I’m alright Mum. Just getting ready to catch a bit of sleep. Jemma called and told me you were looking for me. The time difference has me a bit lost and all. Everything alright?”

“Course everything is alright. Just wondering how New York is treating you. Jemma told me you went to the pub with your mates last night. Did you eat before you left? Something more than vegetables, I hope?” She sounded like the typical worried mother, uncomfortable with her sons sudden change in eating habits. “And to think there was a time when you were a babe, that I could dance on my head and you wouldn’t eat your peas.”

“Not really Mum, didn’t have time for much more than a cup of coffee and a biscuit. Stopped for a bite to eat with my mates after though.” Orlando could not help but smile.

“Tell those boys I have another home cooked meal planned for the lot of them. Even bought some of that Chinese tea Elijah takes. Nasty tasting stuff.”

“I am sure they will love to see you again. Might visit with Lijahs parents before Billy, Dom and I board the plane for home. His family is still waiting to meet the lot of us.” Orlando exhaled, flicking the ashes into the ashtray. “I will give you a call tomorrow mum. If you need me, ring my cellphone, you still have the number I left you, right?”

“Course I do. I just have to find it. Jemma can always be counted on if I am desperate to find you. I know your sister has your number too. Samantha is running amuck, but I should expect you give her a call sometime soon. Now, don’t go getting into any trouble out there, you mind me?” Mum put on her stern voice. “That includes going to hospital.”

Orlando laughed. “Right Mum. I have to get to bed, we have some promos to get to this afternoon and I look like hell. The New York Premiere is only a few days away and I will be home for a spell, before the next phase of Return of the King.”

“Alright, get your sleep darlin’. Send my regard to the boys. I love you.” Orlando could hear her smile, even on the phone.

“I love you too mum.” With that, Orlando clicked the phone off and threw himself down on the bed. Now if I could only quiet this voice in my head and let the night slip away from memory…

Orlando jumped from his thoughts. Grasping his cellphone, he flipped it open and lifted it to his ear. “Hello?”

“What’s going on, OB, you sound like shit?” the familiar voice of his best friend greeted him.

“Bloody hell, Andre. man, you’re a sound for sore ears. Damn, I am glad you got my message.” Orlando felt an instant of relief wash over him in the soft tones of Andre Schneider.

“You owe me for this one, I was chatting with the most delightful boy. Oh, the things I give up for you!!” Andre laughed on the other end of the phone. “Been out drinking. Your pissed. I can tell. How much do you need for bond money? What was her name? Which hospital are you at?”

“Funny, man. Real funny.” Orlando sat on the edge of the bed, his black jeans unbuttoned dangerously low, his head resting in his free hand as the other held a cigarette. “I did a rather nasty thing last night.”

“Maybe I should ask what his name is, eh? The closet couldn’t hold you anymore, eh, mate?”

“Man, this is serious.” Orlando inhaled the calming smoke, feeling it tingle in his lungs.

“Alright, all jest aside, mate. What’s going on?” Andre grew serious.

“I met this girl, last night.” Orlando paused.

“You did? Oh thank our lucky stars! Are we kicking little-miss-struts-her-stuff to the wall?” Andre paused. “Um, scratch that. Yeah mate. So, this girl last night. What happened?”

“Well, I met this girl at a coffee house, she had her friend with her. A cute blonde you would definitely like, strictly in a shopping way.” Orlando waited till Andres’ chortle passed. “Anyway, we had a spot of coffee together…”

Orlando filled Andre in on all the events surrounding the past 24hours. “Sounds like a delightful girl. So, when do I get to meet her…or what aren’t you telling me?” Andre begot his accusatory voice.

“After that kiss, I told her I was sorry and stormed off. She took a cab while I was smoking a cigarette and talking to Billy. I feel like an arse. I know I hurt her feelings and it is really eating me up inside.” Orlando sighed. “Lets not forget Jemma in all of this.”

“You are such a bitch.” Andre grumbled. “She sounds a hell of a lot nicer than your supermodel fiancée, forgive my saying. There is no love lost between Jemma and I. Not that you should be slipping any rings on any other fingers, any time soon. It’s not like you to be that cold, mate. Not for as long as I have known you. And, your not the type of person to eat yourself up inside about someone you had no feelings for. Don’t make me give examples, you know what I mean.” Orlando knew precisely what Andre meant.

“So what are you saying?” Orlando laid back on the bed, feeling more relieved now that Andre was involved.

“Well you have a great thing going for you with the Rings coming out all over. There is still the remainder of the Return of the King. You have a ton of scripts to look through and that twinkle-in-the-eye-star-quality-heartthrob career going for you. Not to mention Calcium Kidd. You have to keep that first in mind. Its what you have been working for, for all these years at Guildhall. If you kissed this girl like your telling me you did, honey, there are some problems with your whole engagement. You might want to consider looking at your life, mate. But right now you cant seem to focus on anything but this girl last night. Your tired and coming down. Catch some beauty sleep. If, when you wake up and make it through your day, you still can’t let it go. Find her and at least apologize to her.”

Orlando nodded. Andre was just reconfirming everything he already knew. “Alright, mate. Get back to chasing the boys. I am going to chase this hangover away with some sleep. Thanks, man.”

“Anytime. Call me when you figure out what you want to do and I will be here to back you up. Cheers, mate..”

“Cheers, mate.” Orlando sighed, hanging up the phone.

In moments he passed blissfully into the arms of sleep.

The pot of coffee was abandoned the moment the duo walked into the door. Amy and Erin found themselves exhausted and extremely hung over.

Somewhere around mid afternoon, Amy stumbled to the bathroom, thankful she only had toast in her system. Erin, feeling like death warmed over, sat herself down on the couch. Tylenol in hand, Erin prayed for release from the up and coming taste of whiskey in her throat.

Amy joined her on the couch. “Jesus. This is insane. My head is spinning. I will never again mix whiskey and vodka. What the hell was I thinking?”

“I have been asking myself that, even in my dreams.” Erin grumbled. “I am going to make some coffee. Any word from Scott or John?”

“I think they are at your place in Loch Sheldrake. At least, that is what I think the message said. We will wait till later and give them a ring. John has your car anyway and I really don’t feel like driving you home, even it is only 20 minutes away.” Amy hung her head, her hand grasping for the TV remote.

Erin fumbled around in the kitchen, awaiting the soft scent of fresh brewed coffee. I feel like shit in every way humanly possible.

Amy flipped through the channels, pausing on E- entertainment television. “Erin…get in here.” She called out suddenly.

“What’s wrong?” Erin came rushing in, resting her hip against the sofa, a soft hand against Amys tangled blonde tendrils.

Amy, speechless, motioned to the TV and Erin followed her fingertip. “E” was airing a special on the coming release of Lord of the Rings, Fellowship of the Ring from Director Peter Jackson. Before their eyes, the cast was speaking candidly about the filming process, combining 3 epic films to span the works of Tolkien. Billy Boyd was giving an interview.

“Oh my god. That’s…that’s…Billy!” Amy felt her throat close.

The interviewer was asking him to release some candid information on his co-stars and his relationship with each. Billy, in typical fashion, let it all hang out, his Scottish brogue, enchanting.

“It was great playin’ a hobbit. I had the chance to spend 4 months with just Dom, Lij and Sean. Every member of the cast is a part of family. From Lij to Orlando, Viggo to both Sean Astin and Sean Bean. Lets not forget Liv Tyler, Cate Blanchette, Ian McKellan, Christopher Lee or Hugo Weaving. Dominic Monaghan is probably my best mate. I did most of my footage with him which will carry on through The Two Towers, due for release next December.”

The cameras caught up with Elijah Wood, playing Frodo Baggins, one of the most central characters. Amy and Erin could do nothing more than exchange shocked glances back and forth. Then the Cameras shifted to Ian McKellan, playing the character of Gandalf Greyheim.

Orlando Bloom, full of energy and looking simply delicious gave his candid comments about his supporting role as Legolas Greenleaf, Elven Prince of the Wooded Realm of Mirkwood. Oh my god. I can not believe this. I read these books, years ago. I know these characters, intimately well. I know the history of Middle Earth from the Lost Tales and the Simirillion. All of the knowledge of Tolkiens world, previously buried, surfaced with the invisible touch of her fingertips.

Amy looked to Erin. Erins’ expression was pained. “So that is what all the comments about the Elves were about. Holy shit. Erin! HOLY SHIT!”

Erin was silent, locked in disbelief. How the hell did we not know about the making of these movies? I really have been living under a rock. It is apparently the biggest movie to hit the screen since the epic, Titanic. This movie is more anticipated than any other, since Star Wars, in recorded movie history. This is what he was hiding. This is what they all were hiding. This is why they were treated to such exception in the club. This explains it all.

The interviewer asked Orlando Bloom about the rumors of his engagement to the British Model, Jemma Kidd. His response, “I will not confirm or deny anything. Makes me more interesting, that way.”

Erin sank to her haunches, recalling his words from last night. “I am seeing someone, nothing too serious though.”

“Oh, god damn that prick. Honey, honey, I am so sorry.” Amy reached a shaking hand out to Erin.

Erin turned her eyes from the set. To look at him was painful. This can not be happening to me. It can’t be. None of this is real. It’s a dream. It has to be. He lied to me. He used me.

The interviewer continued with a comment on his burgeoning movie career. “According to fans, you are poised at becoming one of the Glitter Capitals new, shining stars. Your following has already launched thousands of sites on the internet. How do you feel about that?

Orlandos response was charming. His eyes were beautiful, his accented voice, utterly enchanting. “I am still amazed every time someone recognizes me. I can’t believe this.”

The interviewer ended with two leading questions, Which of your co stars did you get along most and least with? How has the role of Legolas Greenleaf in Lord of the Rings, changed your perspective on life?

Orlandos’ response was precise and warm. It was obvious he was brimming with energy. “Well, I enjoyed all of the cast of Lord of the Rings. Viggo Mortensen picked on me endlessly as did Sean Bean. I got along great with Ian and all the others. When coming to New Zealand to film, I met Billy Boyd first. We flew in together. I felt like I knew him for years. I think Liv Tyler was one of my most touching friends. She was like an older sister. I had to drive her everywhere when we all stayed in Wellington. As an American, she didn’t feel comfortable driving on the left side of the road.” Orlando paused, clearing his throat. “As far as playing Legolas, I had to undergo a good deal of training. I was taught a martial art, archery, swordsmanship, horseback riding, canoeing, you name it, man. Before playing Legolas, I had been involved in Animal Rights groups. After taking on a character so in touch with nature and his surroundings, I decided to become a vegetarian.”

Amy and Erin hung onto every word before the camera switched perspectives to Viggo Mortensen and then, Sean Bean.

“Viggo is hot. I remember him from that movie, GI Jane. Holy shit, Erin. I want to meet that one! Oh, Sean Bean too! Damn, I think he is wearing a wedding band. Can’t tell though. I will stick with Viggo. You can’t have. I claim him in the name of friendship, so hands off!” Amy was bounding over with joy.

Erin was still in shock. Orlando Bloom as Legolas Greenleaf in the epic trilogy of movies that mirror the books of the same names. Orlando, the actor, the man she had spent last evening with. The guy she had hid in the woods with to play hide and seek in the middle of Central Park. The one she had shared intimate moments with. This can’t be happening. It can’t be. And, he is engaged. He is engaged!! To a supermodel. God, I feel inferior.

“Oh, sweetness, what is running through that mind of yours?” Amy leaned over the arm of the couch, her hand falling into Erins hair.

“This can’t be happening. It can’t be. This isn’t real.” Erin mumbled.

The interviewer informed all the listeners that the New York City Premier of “The Lord of the Rings, Fellowship of the Ring” was scheduled for December 17. General release in NY was slated for December 24, 2001.

“It is happening. It did happen. How fucking cool is this? Tell me how cool this is. I can’t wait to tell everyone at work, they aren’t going to believe we spent the night with the cast of the Fellowship of the Ring! Half of them probably won’t know what we are talking about, but who cares. Finally, something exciting happens to us! Oh, shit, what will I say if Billy calls me?” Amy was panicking. “Dude, I gave Billy Boyd my phone number! I gave the number to Elijah Wood! You kissed Orlando Bloom! I want Viggo Mortensen! Holy shit!”

Erin rose like a zombie. She retrieved some coffee as though this was another perfectly normal day where she spent the night at Amy’s after a long shift at work. I am not going to think about this. I am going to think about how much sugar to put in my coffee. Three tablespoons. Any more than that and I might as well be drinking the sugar. If Amy could hear me now, she would think I sound like a crazy person. Look straight ahead, make some coffee.

Amy rose, fighting nausea, to find Erin preparing coffee in the kitchen. “Erin! Come on, this is the coolest shit to happen to us in like, forever!”

“I guess.” Erin nodded, taking her cup of coffee to the table.

“Erin, come on. What are you thinking?”

Erin sipped her coffee before turning her eyes away. “I don’t care if he is some bit hot-shot-on-the-rise movie star. What he said to me last night can not be pushed off on his status. He is engaged to a supermodel. What the hell was he doing with me then? I am, sure as hell, no supermodel. Look at me, I am about as real as it gets, fat and all. I need to suck down a pack of Ex-Lax.”

“You are totally NOT fat. Screw that shit.” Amy threw in.

“It doesn’t matter what you say, 20lbs, according to the scale. But that isn’t even the point. Does he think he can get what he wants from people just because he is some rich, beautiful movie star?” Erin turned her eyes to Amy.

Amy leaned over the small round table in the kitchen and grasped Erin. “You are right, yanno. But last night they weren’t movie stars to us, they were just a group of guys we hung out with and had a blast.. Last night was pretty cool minus the Orlando stuff. Come on, admit it…you know you want to!”

Erin could not help but crack a slight smile. There is hope where there is a smile. “Alright. Last night was fun, minus the Orlando shit. I had a blast, one of the best nights I can remember. And my best friend was with me. Yeah, I can admit that.”

“Excellent. Now, which of our friends do we call and brag to?” Amy grabbed the cordless phone. “Samantha and Cassandra? Yeah, lets do it.”

Orlando turned his head as a knock came to his hotel room door. Disoriented, he rose, his hand grasping against the wall to guide his way. “Bloody hell. Who is it?”

“The limo is going to be here in half an hour. You almost ready?” Lij called out as Orlando opened the door. “Dude, you look like shit!”

“That’s a pretty accurate description. I have to shower and get dressed, take a shave real quick.” Orlando grumbled through the opening. “I will be ready.”

Lij nodded and headed down the hall toward his room.

Orlando sat on one of the leather chairs in his presidential suite. His head falling into his hands as his fingertips smoothed through dark, unruly tendrils. I feel like I have been hit by the metro. Get it together, promos are on the agenda.

Orlando rose and ran a shower. The hot water was eye opening and delightful. He was cautious when sliding the razor along his flesh, afraid a knick would show up on camera. Not vain, simply image conscious. Stepping out, he ordered a double shot of Expresso from the kitchen as he set his clothing out.

“Git off yer arse, Bloom an’ open this door.” Billy pounded relentlessly.

Orlando took another draught from his cup as he opened the door. “You look quite impressive today.” He nodded to his mate. Billy was wearing an informal deep beige suit jacket, matching slacks and a white shirt.

“Yer lookin’ better than Lij described ya. Mind if I take a seat before the limo gits here?” Billy stepped in, not affording protest. “How are ya doing from last night?”

Orlando sipped at his Expresso. “I am a bit out of sorts but coming round slowly. I wish I could say last night was a blur, but I am not so fortunate. I spoke to Andre and my Mum. She sends her love to all. Course, I spoke to Jemma. She will be here in a few days for the premiere. I…” Orlando faltered as he smoothed over his tacky yet trademark white and yellow checkered button down shirt. “I am still at a loss. It’s eating me up inside, Billy. I keep thinking about her. Even dreamt about her.”

“Aye lad, I had no doubts about such. It just so happens, I have Amys’ number. I could, give her a ring.” Billy looked to Orlando concernedly. “If that is what yer wantin’.”

“I think that might be…” Orlando looked up at the steady rhythm of footsteps. A familiar face peeked around the open doorway.

“Softie!” Came the scream of an exceptionally familiar voice. Short cropped blonde hair, glittering eyes. Sean Bean.

“Man, how ya been?” Orlando grasped him up at the doorway, causing Sean to drop his shoulder bag. “Flight alright?”

“Great, mate. You look healthy and all that. Ready for all these promos we have scheduled? Big premiere in a couple days.” Sean patted his back before releasing his embrace.

“Just about. Where is Viggo? Did the limo get him?” Orlando asked as Billy joined him at the door.

“Billy!” Sean grasped him up into a hug.

“Wondered when ya were getting’ here, mate.” Billy laughed clasping his friend. “Yeah, where is Viggo?”

“Viggo is takin’ a shave. Can you believe he walked here from his place on the East side? Damn native New Yorkers.” Sean sighed. “His room is down the opposite way, mates. Let me get my things settled an’ I will be right with you. Where are the rest?” Sean shouldered his bag.

“Lij and Dom are playin’ some PS2, waitin’ fer us. Liv went with the limo to pick up Ian and his mate and then wait for Christopher at the airport this mornin’. They should be meetin’ us. As far as Sean, well, think he got into a spot of trouble with his wife last night, long story. They are staying with family in the city.” Billy nodded. “We’ll see ya in a minute, mate.”

Sean flipped the key card to his room from his palm to his fingers. “Right.”

“We will finish up our talk later, lad. I’ll run off to get Dom and Lij, meet ya in Viggos’ room.” Billy patted Orlando on the shoulder and took off down the hall, brushing past Sean as he stepped into his room.

Orlando took off in a full run down the corridor opposite of Billy. Grasping his hand along an open door jamb, Orlando flung himself into Viggos’ room. “Stinkin’ human!” The excited Brit called out.

“Prissy elf.” Viggo called back, stepping out of the bathroom his face half covered in lather. A wide smile slipped across his warm face as he grasped Orlando, leaving a trail of white foam on the shoulder of his shirt.

“Bloody Hell, Vig. I don’t have anything else pressed to change.” Orlando smiled. “Damn, its good to see you, man.”

“You too.” Viggo continued to shave, tilting his head up as he dragged the razor from his gullet toward his chin without the benefit of a mirror. “What’s everyone been up to?”

“Promos. Partying. Getting ready for the Premiere.” Orlando could hear the footsteps, like a cavalry of horses approaching. “Hobbits are here.” He tilted his head, nonchalantly.

Billy, Dom and Lij dove into the room, pushing and shoving to greet Viggo first. “Where is he?” Dom laughed, tripping over Lij and tumbling into the armoire as Lij tried to catch him.

“Were is that filthy wretch?” Billy laughed, watching Dom rub his shoulder. “How does it feel to be graceful, mate?”

“Alright, no fighting.” Viggo shook his head, a smile evident in his eyes. The three descended on him as Viggo clasped each on the back. “Good to see you all. Where is everyone else?”

Lij plopped down on the bed, sending the weather beaten notebook Viggo often carried, onto the floor. “Sorry about that. Don’t want to crumple your poetry, man.” Lij bent to pick it up. “Sean A is with his wife, should be meeting us at the studio. Sean B is in his room, unpacking but you already know that. Liv went to pick up Ian and Christopher this morning. No idea when Pete or Fran will meet up with us.. I am sure we will get the memo.” A chuckle broke out among the group at the inside joke. “No word yet on Hugo Weaving. That’s the round up. So, we doing lunch after this? I’m starved.”

“When aren’t you starving?” Viggo smiled, grabbing his towel to clean up the remainder of the lather on his cheeks. Looking down at errant tendrils of his long, auburn hair, Viggo removed some lather from the tips.

“When are you going to cut that hair? You are looking more and more like Aragorn every day, mate. Soon, you wont need the wig.” Dom shook his head. Both he and Billy were locked in a battle to shift the other one off their gravity. Shoulder to shoulder they silently shoved into each other, arms crossed against their chests appearing almost innocent.

“Come on kids, you will ruin your good Sunday clothes if you keep that up.” Lij laughed, hurling a pillow at Dom and Billy.

“You don’t like the shaggy look? I think it says, ‘starving artist’.” Viggo ran his fingers through his hair, tossing the towel into the bathroom.

“Did you have to say the word starving?” Lij groaned.

Orlando shook his head, his thoughts preoccupied. Viggo was a good mate to him, a bit of an older brother figure for him while on location. Though Viggo had a definite connection with every member of the fellowship, more evident with Sean B and Ian. Viggo was just the one you went to speak to when you had something on your mind. He was like the calm center in the midst of the maelstrom and his soft voice with gentle wisdom could lighten the load of your problems.

“Still with us, Orlando?” Viggo strapped on his watch, looking up through errant tendrils.

He always seems to know when something is amiss, Orlando nodded to Viggo and in response to himself. “Still here, mate.”

“We will talk later.” Viggo gave that knowing nod as Dom looked up, unsure of what problem had crept in since the previous night. Billy and Lij looked to Dom with a widening of the eyes as if to say “we will fill you in later.”

There was no privacy among the fellowship of friends. Every night was boys night and every problem was solved with a pint. When Liv or Cate was around, the atmosphere changed, entirely. Orlando lost himself in thought, jolted by a familiar voice.

“No one ever misses the dwarf.” John Davies growled in the thick brogue, akin to Scottish and much different from his normal, gentle Shakespearean trained voice. “Except, perhaps, for the elf.”

Orlando whirled around and grasped John tightly. “Holy shit, man. No one had any idea where you were or when you were coming in.”

John returned the embrace, towering over Orlando. A much different sight than Legolas towering over Gimli in the movies. “A dwarf, much like a wizard, arrives precisely when he mean to. Good to see you lad. All of you, though our numbers are a bit fewer than when we departed New Zealand.” John returned the embrace.

Orlando stepped back as the rest of the group made John welcome, explaining where everyone was just as Sean B stepped in, instantly embracing John. “Now that is a welcome!” John laughed, his mirth filling the entire room.

Lij and Dom greeted Sean as he released John from his embrace.

“I think I need a bigger room.” Viggo shook his head as he pat John on the back. “Why is my place always the designated meeting area?” He grabbed up his notebook, sticking a pencil behind his ear.

Even in Wellington, Viggos’ was the place to be. Some things never change, Orlando noted as he watched Viggo gather his things. Viggo is the quintessential artist, forever finding inspiration in every place, every person he met. I can not recall the last time I sat down to sculpt. Cant remember the last time, I had time. Orlando mused as the group chattered away aimlessly, breaking off into pairs as they walked the corridor to the elevators.

Billy and Dom led the group, followed by Sean and Viggo and John and Orlando. Everyone chatted amongst themselves, exchanging exaggerations and pleasantries. Once downstairs, the group let out additional excitement as they stormed the lobby to meet with Sean A, Liv, Chris and Ian. Embraces and kind words were exchanged and nothing but mirth seemed to fill the expansive room.

Orlando grasped Ian and Chris before the throng made way to them. Stepping back, Orlando observed the joy. You would think we haven’t seen each other in years, rather than the few weeks of break we have to return to our neglected lives. Yet, the friendships here transcend all time and distance. My life. Now, that is a novel thought.

Orlando felt a hand pat him hard on the back. “Your looking a bit pale, my boy. Take whatever worries are in your mind. This is the stuff, the fabric that life is made up of. These are the ties that bind.” John smiled before departing to the fleet of sleek black limousines outside. The group herded toward them as Orlando smiled. John couldn’t be more right.

The cast of Lord of the Rings bounded off for the days events, united again, and ready to take on the outside world.

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