(A/N: JESUS Y'ALL. I AM SO SORRY. But all the love y'all been showing me on this long hiatus has really been inspiring, and before I knew it, the writing bug done bit me again. I was re-reading my writing journal and this story and Bread came up, and when I pulled out my laptop, the words just started flowing out of me. All the characters came to life again and I actually had fun writing this. 

The next chapter I've already started writing, so believe me when I say it won't be years between updates anymore until this bitch is finished. Weeks maybe, a month or two at most, but this series is dear to me and I want it to go out with a bang. Literally or figuratively, you'll just have to wait and see. ;)

I know The Rona got a lot of y'all down, but I hope I can help you find some enjoyment, if only for a few minutes. 

Thanks for the love, and all of the above. Here's chapter 6. <3)

(Chapter 6)

Michael

Friday, July 30th

Arizona 10:36am/Chicagao 12:36pm

     Finally, this is the last night of this show. I can't keep the smile off my face from smiling so hard.  It's been wild with this schedule and all, but now I know this tour is the thing for me. Feeling that energy from the crowd... It's unlike anything I've felt before. I want that for as long as I can.

     I grit my teeth when a stab of pain goes through my head. I been just rolling with this migraine all morning, but damn if I don't regret going out with the crew last night. It was fun as hell, but this hangover ain't it.

     Looking from behind the corner from the makeshift stage, I see Marcella speaking with some of her other colleagues, and another man I don't recognize. I squint and see his visitor badge. Jahmir, I think it says. I'm not sure why I'm dead focused on him, but I got a hunch he's somebody I should know.

     "You good, Mike?"

     Bishop snaps me out of my spying, and I whip around to see him obnoxiously smacking on some Hi-Chews. Guess his night out ain't follow him to this morning. Lucky bastard.

     Holding my hand out, I turn back to watch Marcella and her group. I feel him drop a candy in my hand, and I don't even have to look to know it's strawberry. "It's all good, man. I'm trying to see who these new suits is that's walking around with Marcella. Maybe one of them is somebody I need to be talking to about a tour deal, you feel me?"

     Bishop looks over and we both watch, going unnoticed by the hustle and bustle of the crew getting ready and setting up. I wonder if I'd need a crew like this if I did decide to go on tour. Would my crew be enough?

     It hits me that I don't even know the first thing about going on tour. Who could I even ask to find out? Should I just wing it? Where would I go? Most importantly, who can get me there? I'm startled out of my thoughts again when Bishop slaps his hand on my shoulder.

     "Yo, I see the wheels turning in that big ol head of yours. Lemme see what I can do to help a brother out." He smirks, and in an instant he's gone as quick as he came. Man, he can be quiet when he wants to be. It's unreal how stealthy he can be. He ain't head of security for nothing.

     He's got the right idea though, I need to do something. All these thoughts in my head got me going mental. If important people are going to be watching me tonight, I got to bring nothing less than perfection at this last show. They ain't never going to forget this one.

     The main stage is still up, and only about a couple of people are at the back setting up the mics. I jog up the stairs to center stage, blocking out my space and humming a few runs to myself. Eventually, one sticks.

     Just like that, I'm in my own world. The walls fade into white and I'm back in my room in Compton, the run playing over and over in my head. My feet start to move, and I catch a glimpse of myself in the stained mirror on the back of my door. One step right, two steps left, crossing my legs and spinning in place. The chord keeps playing, there's no words. And then, I'm on the ground flat on my back, staring up at the white ceiling.

     "Michael!"

     Shit, my mama's calling me. What'd I do now?

     "Michael, get yo ass up! I told you not to have that four loco, but do you listen to me? Now look at you."

     Wait, what?

     My eyes snap open and immediately bright white lights are in my face. I squint to see two figures standing over me. After a second they come into focus, and I see Amiyah looking pissed and Bishop frowning, brows furrowed.

     "What happened?" I sit up, Amiyah immediately smacking me in the back of head.

     "Shit! The hell did you do that for?"

     "Damn fool! You was dancing around up here and just fell out on the floor! Honestly, you could've busted your head, you should've said you weren't feeling good this morning!" Amiyah smacks her gum, keeping her hold on my arm. I look around and see a few of the crew members stopped to watch, probably concerned if I'd get up.

     Ignoring the pulsing in my head, I stand up with Bishop and Amiyah on either side of me, smiling at the lighting crew. "It's all good y'all, just got a little carried away."

     They chuckle a bit, a couple shaking their heads, then go back to their work. I nod my head over towards the back entrance, and luckily Bishop and Amiyah follow me without a word. I lead them out down the hall to my dressing room for privacy. I damn near throw myself down on the couch inside, already feeling slightly better at not being on my feet.

     "Amiyah, you got any—"

     She holds a glass of water in my face while Bishop hands me a couple of pain pills, smirking. They look pretty big, must be hospital strength shit.

     "Mike, since when you ain't been able to hold your liquor, man? Never thought I'd see the day you actually had a hangover."

     "Whatever, I just ain't had no water, that's all. I'm good." I wave off his gloating. I bet he is feeling fine, only because he hasn't been up on that stage the past few days. Coming down off that adrenaline rush ain't no joke. "You got anymore of them Hi-Chews?"

     Bishop throws me a couple more, some cherries, to chase the gross flavor of the medicine with. Amiyah steps over to sit next to my legs propped up on the couch.

     "So that's what you're gonna do? Just pretend like nobody saw you fall out from exhaustion? You're not fine, and you know it." She says, staring at me hard.

     "'Miyah, relax. I swear to you, I'm fine. Ain't nothing that hasn't happened before. Don't be mad you didn't join us for them drinks. Don't tell Gabi, y'all." I joke, but she doesn't budge.

     "She right, though." Bishop chimes in. "I don't think I've seen you slow down since we landed in Arizona. Maybe a nap would do you some good."

     I frown a little. There's been so much to do, I don't even remember the last time I ate. But these have been my first extended show dates that actually lasted more than one night. Everything's got to be perfect. Looking at their faces though, I probably have been worrying the hell out of them.

     "Tell y'all what, I'll take it easy for the day, aight? I've already done two shows, I can probably wing it tonight."

     Amiyah's shoulders drop with relief and Bishop loses some of the tension in his arms. A second later, he checks his phone.

     "Damn, got a crazy hollering outside the studio. Lemme go handle him right quick." He shakes his head. "Hope they at least got all their clothes on."

     Bishop waves and ducks out the door, closing it shut behind him. Amiyah stands, still tense.

     "I know it's not my place to tell you what to do, but like Bishop said, at least take a nap. I know you're a perfectionist and all, but all that worrying you doing is gonna make you sick. Slow the hell down once in a while."

     My eyes narrow. "Why do you think it ain't your place to say something? You just were worried, that's all."

     "Trust a dude to only acknowledge the most irrelevant part of what I say." She smacks her gum again. "I'm not as tight with y'all as much as your day ones are to you. Just listen to me on this at least, okay? I know what I'm talking about."

     She looks towards the door, but I'm stuck on her expression. I've never known her to think of herself as less important than somebody else. To be honest, I'm shook. If I didn't trust her, I wouldn't have her on my team.

     "You know I appreciate all you done for our crew right? I ain't mean to make you feel like you didn't belong."

     She keeps her head facing the door, but I can see her purse her lips ever so slightly.

     "It's been long enough, ain't it? You don't have to punish yourself anymore, 'Miyah."

     Amiyah takes a deep breath, and it's silence between us for what feels like forever. She finally faces me, and I see her eyes a little wet, but I wouldn't dare say anything out loud. Standing up, she spits her gum into the trash, already unwrapping a fresh piece.

     "Remember what you just said the next time somebody from the neighborhood wants their own redemption. I know I ain't the only one around here who done did some grimy shit."

     I scoff, knowing she ain't lying one bit. "Yeah but—"

     She cuts me off mid-sentence, giving me a tight hug. I can feel wetness on my shoulder.

     "But thank you, to you and Gabi. For seeing me."

     I barely have a chance to hug her back before she's up and on her way out the door. Watching her leave, I can't help but smile. What a big ass softy.

     Amiyah's been keeping this whole operation organized behind the scenes. There's been many a time she could've sabotaged any one of us and cash out for herself, but she put in the work to prove that she could be a trustworthy person. Who shouldn't be rewarded for that?

     Leaning back to sip on my water, I linger on what Amiyah said. Maybe I haven't been as attentive to what's going on with my crew in my rush to get on tour. I know my relationships with them, but what about with each other? Like Jay-Z said, nobody wins when the family feuds. Takes someone who almost fucked up his own self to know what he's talking about. I'll have to keep my eye out from here on out.

     I know one thing, she obviously seems to have a soft spot for Gabi as of late. I can't blame her. Had somebody told me we'd have had that conversation 5 years ago, I'd have laughed too hard. Gabi must've saw what I didn't. Sure do now.

     Damn, now I got myself missing her. Taking out my phone, I dial the number by heart.

*****************************************************

Gabrielle

Friday, July 30th

Chicago 9:46am/Arizona 7:46am

     "Michael I swear to God I will come down there myself if I hear of you passing out!"

     I was driving down the lakeshore, on my way to my photoshoot with Nyx with Melanie's dress for me in tow. Checking my watch, I had about 15 minutes. Looks like I would just make it. Man, the butterflies in my stomach are killing me. More like wasps down there.

     "Baby, you don't have to, I swear I'm fine. It was just a couple drinks, no big deal."


     I smack my gum. "Literally just yesterday you were complaining about your back and how you were going to wear a support brace during the show. You might want to slow down, old-timer."

     "Woooowww, it's like that? You gonna talk about a dude's pain like it's nothing?" I laugh, practically hearing the smirk across the phone. "Well now it ain't just my back, it's my feelings too."

     "Poor baby. I'll apologize if you manage to take care of yourself over there."

     I drive up to the agency building, grabbing my purse and dress.

     "Alright, I gotta go. God, I can't believe I'm actually doing this shoot. I'll call you when I'm finished, okay?"

     "Can't be mad at you making your money." He chuckles. "Go kill 'em, lady. I love you."

     I smile, walking up to the doors. "Love you, too Applehead."

     I slip my phone back in my purse, hiking the dress higher over my shoulder. I can't help the butterflies I got in my stomach right now. Randy had offered to take me to the shoot in the London House, but I felt that would be pushing it. Michael was slow to trust him enough as it is, and while I didn't sense any malintent from him, I had learned my lesson. Never can be too careful.

     But I'm not going to worry about that now. It's time for my first solo gig.

     I nodded to the doorman out front, giving him a smile he returned as he unlocked the doors and let me in. Going up to the elevator, I took a second to marvel at how decorated this place was. Victorian-era paintings and rich colors were everywhere, but with a modern twist on it that made the place feel more relaxing.

     I step out at the top floor, the crew were already setting up around the foyer where I assumed I was going to mostly be at. The amount of natural light from the windows was inviting; I can see why they picked a morning time slot. I spotted Gabriel as I came in, organizing his brushes over by a large body mirror, a chair, and makeup stand already ready to go. He turns and spots me almost immediately, coming over to kiss my cheeks.

     "Gabrielle, my love, it's good to see you! How are you feeling, hm?"

     I smile at his bubbliness, laying my dress on the chair and returning his hug.

     "You already know, my stomach won't settle at all! I'm glad you could make it though, I appreciate it."

     "Oh love, it was no problem. I've been wanting to make it up to you since that incident with my intern, the moron. Make that FORMER intern." He waves his hand, leading me over to a table set up to put my things on. "Besides, I get to see the lovely First Lady stepping out on her own! UGH, it's so exciting!"

     I shake my head at his nickname for me. I wonder if he was the one to give me that name in the blogs. Still, his support made me less anxious as I watched the extras get prepped for the shoot. Not to mention his makeup skills are rumored to be amazing, and mine are...well. They're something.

     Gabriel rests a hand on my shoulder. "Don't you worry mama, you're gonna do amazing. Now come on back over here and lets get this face beat!"

     We walk back to the makeup station Gabriel had set up and I slip into the chair, squinting as Gabriel turns a small lamp towards my face. A comfortable silence settles between us as he's absorbed in his foundation palette while I'm in my own head as usual.

     I open my eye just enough to watch everyone bustling to get into place. From what I see, these other girls did not come to play around. Two of the women were helping each other braid their hair into elegant updos, and the other girl was reapplying her lip stain, her golden dress accentuating her slim figure. That was one thing I noticed about them. The women all had the slimmest figures, and their dresses, both long and short, fit them perfectly.

     Closing my eye back, I bit my lip. Now I'm wondering if I can do the dress Melanie made for me justice. Was this a mistake?

     "Alright Gabi, time to get you into that dress. Who is it, anyway? Wang? McQueen? Quit holding me in suspense, girl."

     I snap out of my thoughts and take a look in the mirror, letting out a gasp. My skin looked like glass it was so smooth, and the blue tone soft glam of my eyes and long winged eyeliner brought out the violet in my eyes with a sparkle.

     "Mhmm I know, bomb ain't it?" Gabriel snickers next to me. "I only go all out for the special ones, so you're welcome, love."

     "I'd never doubt your skills, of course." I smirk. "As for the dress, it's none of those. It's a Rogers."

     He tilts his head, almost looking like a confused puppy. "A Rogers? I've never heard that name, is he new?"

     Laughing at his expression, I hurriedly grab my dress as I hear the 15-minute reminder and purposely don't answer. They'll all know soon enough.

     After changing, I take a look at the halter neck long dress I'm wearing in the body mirror, a slit going up one leg on the right. The subtle shine of glitter twinkled as I moved, and the fabric felt soft against my skin. Melanie really put in work on this piece.

     I spot the slight dark spots on my shoulders and frown. Maybe I should have Gabe do a touch-up. Still, that wouldn't help tone my arms a little...

     'Come on Gabi, now's not the time for self-deprecation! This is your first solo gig, go show 'em what you got!' Shaking my head, I straighten up and head to the foyer.

     As I pass, I take time to greet the cameramen, the three women already in their positions, and the other extras who came in after me. It's always good to acknowledge everyone in the room.

     "Alright everyone, to the set! We're gonna start with the entrance scene!"

     I turn and see Randy with the director who had just called, both giving me a nod. Randy comes over to offer me his arm, chuckling at my confused look.

     "One of the male extras didn't turn up, I'm just doing a stand in for a shot or two." He then frowns, slightly lowering his arm. "I mean unless you'd rather another extra, I understand."

     I'll admit I was surprised, but I don't mind sharing the spotlight. Nothing can stop me today. I give him a small smile, linking my arm in his.

     "How about we turn a few heads, hm?"

---

Gabrielle

Friday, July 30th

Chicago 1:06pm/Arizona 11:06am

     Finally, it's time to break for lunch. Gabriel offered to grab lunch for us, which I had no objection to. It's almost 80 degrees out, and an iced coffee sounds so good right about now.

     I find a corner to sit down for a minute away from everyone for a minute of quiet. Sometimes I gotta settle my racing thoughts, especially after something as nervewracking as this photoshoot.

     'I think you're truly something special,

     Just what my dreams are really made of

     Let's stay together, you and me, boy

     There's no one like you around, oh baby'

     So much for some quiet. Michael's name flashes across my phone, and I move to answer it. I'll accept this interruption.

     "Didn't we just talk like, a few hours ago?"

     I can almost hear him smile through the phone. "Oh I can't miss my lady? None of these love songs I'm singing out here are getting through to you, huh?"

     "They are, trust me." Leaning back against the wall, I wave to one of the girls, Amina she's called. "But I got a little time to indulge you."

     "Ha, I won't stop you from getting your coin, Lady. How's it going out there so far? You liking the spotlight?"

     "Hell no." I snort. Michael cackles on the other end and I can't help a small smile myself. "Okay, I take that back. I really like everyone here and the getting all dressed up, it's just the cameras. It's..."

     His laughs quiet down. "Yeah, i know. I can't really say if you'll ever get over it. But if anybody can handle it, you can. You just gotta practice, get used to it, you know?"

     I squint even though he can't see me. "Speaking of practicing, you usually are at this time. I bet you passed out, didn't you?"

     I start cackling myself when Michael tells me about what I already knew was going to happen. It's a good thing Amiyah and Bishop were there. Somebody needs to force that man to slow down once in a while. Thank God he didn't hit his head or anything.

     Gabriel comes over as I'm saying goodbye to Michael, handing me my iced coffee and a cuban sandwich and plopping down next to me.

     "Was that the hubby? God, that's a man you got there. I gotta say, I'm excited to see what he's got planned for the last show tonight."

     "I know, he's been running himself ragged so it must be big." I offer him a plantain with my fork. "You're more than welcome to come to Studio 51 to see it. Marc can come, too."

     He flashes a smile and takes the plantain, eyeing it hungrily. "Oooh, my favorite. And that'd be great! The club me and the honey went to last night, just no. If that wasn't the most raggedy shit I have ever seen in my life, I don't know what's worse." Gabriel pauses and looks over to Randy who's chatting with the director over by the snack table. "Is there going to be a little family reunion in the works or is this strictly casual?"

     I almost choke on my sandwich, flashing Gabriel a surprised look.

     He just waves his hand. "Oh don't give me that look. Knowing all that I do about how business works around here, it's not hard to put the pieces together. I mean the cheekbones, the jawline, all of it just screams Michael with a darker complexion. They HAVE to be related somehow."

     Sighing, I look over to where Randy was now helping another one of the extras straighten a bowtie. I'd be asking for another fight with Michael if I invited Randy anywhere near our spaces, no matter how sure I am that Randy means no harm. I feel bad for not extending the offer but now isn't the time.

     "Oh Gabrielle, you're too soft. You're also like an open book. Whatever it is, I'm sure it's just a little tiff. They'll be back friendly before you know it."

     'Oh Gabriel, you don't know the half of it.' I wince. This was one thing I liked about Gabriel though. I can have a whole conversation with him without saying a word.

     He gets up to take the garbage away while I wrap the other half of my sandwich to have for later. I take his hand to help me up. Time to get back to work.

     "Let's get that lipstick touched up, hm?"

---

Michael

Friday, July 30th

Arizona 5:14pm/Chicago 7:14pm

     'You feel that fire...

     Just let it burn,

     'Cause there's no runnin',

     When it's yo turn (Call me crazy but I think I found the love of my life)

     Just let it burn'

     The music was blasting through the speakers as the people early to the concert slowly started filing in the club. Even though it was only a few hundred capacitance, it still made me feel good that this was a sold out show. Watching from the side of the curtains made me feel like I'm in high school theatre again, waiting backstage as everyone bustled around me to get ready for the show. I smile a little. The show they about to see was me. Damn, it feels good.

     "Just the man I wanted to see. Ready for tonight's show, Michael?"

     Whipping around, I'm startled out of my people watching to see the same man that was speaking with Marcella earlier today giving me a blinding smile. You could tell this dude used those whitening strips on his teeth religiously.

     I hesitate before finally reaching out to shake his hand. "I stay ready. And you are?"

     "Jahmir Rice, a pleasure to finally meet you in person." He says, shaking my hand. "My daughter's a big fan."

     "Awh that's nice to hear, I appreciate the love." I nod. "I take it you didn't come down here just for an autograph though."

     He chuckles and his posture relaxes a bit. "Straight to the point, I like you. But you're right, I really came to make you an offer, if you have the time?"

     "If it's for another cereal commercial, it's a no for me, man. Don't know why I keep getting shit like this."

     "Well I'll tell you what, I wasn't expecting that, but noted." Jahmir smirks in amusement. "But I'm trying to get a deal on the table with various venues to get a small midwest tour going, and I was hoping you'd be interested in being a featured artist for it."

     I stare, trying to keep my reaction to a minimum. But to be honest that's exactly what I'd be interested in doing. I'd have to scope this dude out, get the details, but I don't see why keeping him as a connect would be a bad idea.

     "Doesn't seem like a terrible idea. You got a card or something Jahmir? I wanna get a clear idea of the details."

     "Of course, here." He hurriedly takes out a pressed business card, his name and a few different numbers on it. I glance over it as he laughs. "It's my last one, take good care of it. Business cards are expensive." He jokes. The announcement for the show starting in an hour sounds through the speakers, and Jahmir gives me a nod.

     "Well, I'll leave you to get set. I'm sure I'm not the only offer you'll get tonight, but give me a call, maybe we can work out a deal to your liking." And with that, he walks off to the side and out to the main floor.

     Smirking, I twirl his card in my fingertips, thinking. I turn back to watching the crowd that's gotten larger since I last looked, their excitement hyping me up.

     "Yo, you heard all that, B?"

     I called out on a hunch, but sure enough, Bishop comes around the corner, rubbing his hands like Birdman.

     "Loud and clear, Mike. I ain't done recon in a minute, shit's gonna be fun." I let out a laugh, holding my hand out for some candy I know this dude got. I look at what he drops in my hand. Strawberry Hi-Chew.

     "This Jahmir seems like a cool dude, but you know how we do. Link up with Jesse and get back to me, see what y'all find. And if you could, hand this off to Amiyah for me." Turning towards the back to change my clothes, I hand Jahmir's card off to him.

     "Roger that. Seems like you gonna get yourself a tour deal." He smiles, then he's off just as quick as he came. Damn, how he keep doing that?!

---

     "Ugh, you always gotta be people watching RIGHT before the damn show! Now you got me rushing to fix this foundation on you, this shit takes time, pendejo!"

     I laugh at Melanie's huffing as she reaches up to my face as I stand by her makeup counter. She like to fuss, but she ain't the expert for nothing. I know she can get it done.

     The sound of the R&B playing and people chattering among themselves gets my adrenaline going sky high, and I think for a second if Gabi is already at the club back home watching the broadcast of the show. I'm not wondering for long as I feel Melanie stop powdering my face.

     "Ooooo Mike you better get a good look at your girl. She came to show the children how it's done!"

     She turns her phone towards me and I can see a picture from the shoot Gabi sent her. Her white dress hugged all her curves, and her chin-length hair flowed as she came down an all-white marble, winding staircase. I can't help the goofy smile that came on my face. My lady looked good.

     "You ain't lying. Seems like we both got something to celebrate when we go home."

     "I know! I'm so proud of y'all!"

     Just then I hear my title track playing through the speakers, and I know I better hurry my ass up and get to the stage.

     "Ay! Hurry up, lock your phone in the drawer. I got your stuff back here." Melanie starts putting her palettes away and after shooting Gabi a quick text, I hurriedly shrug on my jacket and head off.

     It's showtime.

---

Melanie

Friday, July 30th

Arizona 7:42pm/Chicago 9:42pm

     'And I wish I never met her at all

     Even though I love her so

     She got love from me

     But she still belongs to someone else'

     I'm swaying along to the song, seeing the audience do the same from the side of the stage. This is one of my favorite songs, and Mike was really getting the emotion down in them notes. It's written all over his face just how much he's feeling the lyrics. Dude was born for this.

     I step around the corner backstage to pull out my phone and check on my Jordan for the millionth time today, smiling at him sleeping on the baby cam. Looks like my other big haired baby managed to get him to sleep just fine.

     A loud clattering startles me and I drop my phone. Cursing, I check to make sure it's not cracked. A bitch just got this iPhone. That'll teach me to not get a damn case for the aesthetic. But who the hell is still back here?

     I get a sinking feeling in my stomach. Somebody ain't where they supposed to be.

     I walk on my tiptoes to keep my heels from making noise as I sneak along the wall, slowing down my breathing. I come to a door to the stockroom slightly open, hearing a soft moan.

     Peeking inside, I see Amiyah straddling Bishop's waist as he sat on a table, his hands running along her thighs as she kissed along his jaw, her shorts tossed aside. Looks like they been at this for a minute.

     I turn away, leaning against the wall for support. This fool was really playing with fire even after my warning. Somebody from crew starts heading this way.

     "This mothafucka owes me big time for keeping this shit." I mumble under my breath. Thinking quickly, I slam the door closed and turn towards Kane, the crew member now noticing me.

     "Oh hey, uh, Mrs. Rogers, is everything--"

     "Oh Kane please, just call me Melanie. You making me sound old as hell." I nonchalantly flip my hair over my shoulder. "But I was coming back here for some water and I think I saw a couple of roaches up in the stockroom. You might wanna get your tools or something, keep this under wraps you know."

     "Ah, gotcha. I'll be right back." With that he goes off back the way he came, talking into his earpiece.

     Once he's gone, I turn back and snatch the door open. Amiyah jumps when trying to put her heels back on, but at least the heifer got clothes on this time. Bishop opens his mouth to say something, but I hold up a hand, cutting him off. Both of 'em looking at me guilty as hell.

     I sigh, trying to hold in my irritation. Now that the snake knows that I know, maybe they'll get the hint to keep shit professional.

     "Y'all got about three minutes before he comes back, so unless you want your goodies out in the open I suggest you fucking get it together. Flight's at 5 in the morning, get your shit packed."

     I don't wait to hear the excuses and leave, heading back to my spot off to the side of the stage. I watch as Michael goes into his last song of the night, his cover of Love and War. Boy was singing without a care in the world, what I just saw irritating me even more. I don't even bother to look. I know they'll be gone, and hopefully, they'll stay the hell away from me for a while. Michael looks over, eyes brighter than the lights, and I return it with a thumbs up, though the tapping of my foot doesn't stop.

     God help me, I can't wait to go home. 

(A/N: I don't know how I feel about this chapter after reading it a few times, but it is important. Remember these people that be popping up, they may (or may not) be important later!

Feels good to be back. Again, lmao.

Comment, vote, and all that jazz. I'll be seeing y'all.)