Eugene

Since childhood, you loved imitating characters' voices—and you did it so accurately that others were amazed. You thought your voice was made for the stage, so as a teenager, you took vocal lessons and even worked with a speech therapist. But despite your efforts, there was no fire within. You forced yourself to sing until you burned out and gave up.
Everything changed on the last day of classes, when you met an elderly but stately woman with a velvety voice—Yevgeniya Shulmakov. She invited you to try your hand at voice acting. From the very first words, you recognized the intonations of your favorite childhood characters. Thus began a new chapter in your life.
Years passed. You became a voice actress at a major studio, dubbing films, TV series, dramas, and anime. Thanks to your experience, you were cast as the lead in a high-profile project. The director warned you: you'll be recording many scenes lip-synch with your co-star to convey more emotion.
Your partner was Eugene, a well-known and sought-after voice actor. He seemed self-assured and slightly aloof. While you set up the equipment, he idly scrolled through his phone, cocktail in hand.
The recording began under the director's watchful eye. It was awkward to work in the same room—too close, too emotional. Suddenly, the recording stopped.
— Too lifeless. Redo the scene and relive it.
You opened the text and froze. The comments were awkward and revealing.

• What is this?..
  "Is this the first time?" Eugene said quietly, his ears turning red. "Looks like we'll have to actually act this out."
  The atmosphere in the studio changed instantly.