Page 62 of The Location Shoot
“Don’t let us stop you,” Jean said. “Play us something, like you did that time in Barcelona.”
Everyone took their seats, and the waiter promptly served their usual drinks.
Ella smiled at Albie. “Shall we? How about our old standby?”
Albie chuckled. “Let’s do it.”
The others sipped their cocktails as the duo played The Beatles’ “In My Life,” giggling at each other the whole time. They finished to a standing ovation. Albie hugged Ella tightly. “Thank you,” he whispered, and they joined their friends.
“That was great, sweetheart,” Finn said as Ella plopped down beside him. “I have a gorgeous piano in my house, but I don’t think it’s ever been played. The decorator suggested it. Now I finally know its purpose.”
She smiled. “I’ve always wanted a piano. Never had one. I don’t get many opportunities to play, but I never miss a chance with Albie. One of his many talents.”
“Life is a whole lot simpler sitting behind the eighty-eight,” Albie said. “Ella and I love playing that song. Though I must say, it’s become a bit more sentimental for me these days.” He picked up his bourbon and slowly took a sip.
Ella looked at him and smiled warmly. “Go on,” she said.
Albie nodded. “There’s something I want to tell you all.” He paused and took a breath before continuing. “Tomorrow’s shoot will be my last.”
“Are you retiring?” Charlotte asked.
“From life, I’m afraid,” he replied.
The mood in the room instantly turned serious.
Jean asked, “The cancer? It’s back?”
Albie nodded.
“Oh, Albie. I’m so sorry, old friend,” Jean said.
“I don’t know what to say. I’m terribly sorry,” Finn said.
Everyone echoed these sentiments, but Albie interrupted. “Now let’s have none of this. I’m an old man. I’ve lived my life. Damn well too.”
They all feigned smiles.
“Tomorrow is the last day of shooting, and I didn’t want to tell you at the wrap party and ruin everyone’s fun, but I thought you should know.”
Finn looked at him earnestly. “Albie, I want you to know that working with you has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. It’s truly been an honor. I’ll carry it with me always. And it hasn’t just been about the acting—I’ve learned so much from you about love and passion for life.”
“Likewise,” Charlotte said, putting her hand on his shoulder. “You and I go way back. I’ve learned more from you over the years than you may realize. You’re anextraordinary actor. Working with you has been such a gift. So has your friendship.”
“The same for me,” he replied, patting her hand.
“Albie, I’m stunned,” Michael said. “You’re larger than life, on and off screen. Truthfully, I never imagined that I’d get to work with an actor of your caliber. Like Finn said, it’s been an honor, and it’s been a blast getting to spend this time together. I just never expected that you’d be able to drink me under the table any night of the week.”
Albie chuckled.
Willow began crying softly. “I’m sorry,” she said. “I’m just so heartbroken. You’ve all become like family to me. Albie, working with you has changed my life. I never thought I’d have an opportunity like this. No one’s ever taken me seriously before.”
He smiled. “You’re a fine actress. Extraordinary, really. Jean was right to cast you. You’ll be the toast of Tinseltown when people see your performance. Make good choices, artistic choices, and the world will be your oyster. And don’t take shit from anyone, you hear me?”
“Thank you,” she murmured through laughter-laced tears.
Albie continued, “Okay, that’s enough. I don’t want to end this wonderful journey we’ve shared with sadness or pity. Frankly, I hate that shit.”
They laughed.
