Nandor is thrilled that, for once, his hair and renaissance faire experience are assets. Speaking Persian seals the deal, and this show could be his big break, if the blend of scripting, improv, and audience interaction catches on. He'll be less nervous once Mr. Broadway Bigshot arrives.
Guillermo de la Cruz looks younger than his bearded headshot, but his presence commands every room, in a gently charming way. He takes Nandor out for drinks, and draws him into a conversation about their experiences in the industry. It feels really good to share his perspective, but Nandor can be awkward without a script.
"It's a cliche profession for vampires, but I really like it!" Guillermo smiles encouragingly and nods, sipping his margarita de tunas rojas. Nandor's sangrÃa verdadera is excellent and well worth the price.
"Everyone expects you to stick with theatre, and it's proud tradition, but I prefer TV. And that's... not an easy sell, if you don't stick to playing vampires. A lot of people get fang surgery..."
Guillermo shakes his head vehemently.
"Fuck that! Who you are is good enough!" He gazes earnestly into Nandor's eyes, and reaches out to squeeze his shoulder.
Nandor shrugs.
"It's not that big of a deal to land a dream job. Pretty much just cosmetic. Like..." he tries to think of comparable examples.
"...circumcision..." (examples that don't refer to penises, or hint at your past in adult film!)
"...or liposuction" (examples that don't insult your gorgeous fat scene partner!)
"...or, or getting tattoos! Piercing your bellybutton!" Guillermo shakes his head, laughing, and changes the subject.
As they gather up their belongings, and Nandor leaves a generous tip, he fidgets, looking everywhere but at Guillermo. Once they´re outside, he feels a hand on his elbow.
¨Hey,¨ Guillermo says, ¨I´m a hugger. Is that ok with you?¨ Nandor nods, and is promptly enveloped in strong arms and soft warmth. It´s overwhelmingly comforting and wonderful. He leans down into the embrace, trying not to give off desperate, touch-starved-for-decades-vibes.
¨It is a big deal,¨ Guillermo tells him. ¨No one should have to change to get roles. If anyone tells you otherwise, I´ll be glad to kick some ass.¨
¨Thanks,¨ Nandor says, patting his shoulder. ¨That means a lot.¨
He starts to pull away, but Guillermo holds him tighter.
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