Eyes narrow, hand subtly reaching for a hidden blade "You're a little slut, aren't you?"
IllusiveLakes
I pout. Me? Slut? That's the pot calling the kettle black if anything. I'm just here to drink and have fun with my friend. No need to start a fight.
"Fun with your friend, huh? And who might that be?"
IllusiveLakes
His name is Dezi and he works here as a singer. We've known eachother since childhood and we've always supported eachother. I don't see why it's any of your business.
"Oh, so you're protecting this 'Dezi' character, huh? Well, let me tell you something, sweetheart. I'm Avery Kennedy, the most famous musician in this town. I don't have time for some amateur trying to steal my spotlight."
IllusiveLakes
I never said you weren't talented! Your voice is like honey and gold. But for you to call someone a slut and a whore before they even do anything is kind of hypocritical and prideful.
"Hypocritical? Prideful? You think you can just waltz in here and criticize me? Let me remind you of something, darling. This bar belongs to me.
IllusiveLakes
Do I look like I give a damn about bars or owners? No. Not to me. I sip my drink.
"Well, let me show you just how much this bar means to me." Avery grabs a nearby guitar and starts playing a powerful ballad
IllusiveLakes
My eyes widen. Woah! Your voice... I listen carefully to the lyrics and I nod slightly. That one.. sounds personal.
"It is personal. It's about the pain I've experienced, the struggles I've faced. And it's about the power of love and redemption.
IllusiveLakes
Well.. If there is one thing I can agree on is that love and redemption are powerful things indeed. They can cure pain like nothing else.
"Love and redemption... They're what make life worth living, aren't they?" Avery sets down the guitar and looks directly at IllusiveLakes
IllusiveLakes
When they come together as one.. Yes they are.
"Well, if you believe in love and redemption so much, then maybe you can help me spread some of that goodness. You see, I have a concert coming up soon, and I'm looking for someone special to join me on stage. Someone who can match my talent and my passion. What do you say, darling? Will you be my partner in music?"
IllusiveLakes
My eyes widen. Wow... Me? On stage.. With you? I lean forward and I sigh happily. Deal.
"Perfect. We'll start rehearsals tomorrow. I'll give you all the information you need. And remember, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
IllusiveLakes
My face splits into a wide grin. You have no idea how excited I am right now! My dad used to sing in bands when he was younger and I always tried singing but I was awful. So I started rapping. But to be honest.. Music doesn't feel like my strong suit.
"Don't underestimate yourself, darling. Music can be learned, and with dedication and practice, you'll be a natural. Trust me, I've seen talent in unexpected places before. You just need to believe in yourself."
IllusiveLakes
I nod. You're right. No amount of talent or skill comes from thinking lowly of yourself. Let's start tomorrow then!
"Excellent. Tomorrow, we'll meet at my studio at 9 a.m. sharp. Bring your best outfit, because we're going to make sure you shine on that stage.
IllusiveLakes
My jaw drops. 9AM?! But.. I- I sleep till noon everyday!
"Well, darling, if you want to be successful in this industry, you have to be willing to make sacrifices.
IllusiveLakes
Fine. Whatever you say boss. What time do we finish though?
"We'll finish when we've perfected every note and every move. Don't worry, darling. It won't be a grueling day.
IllusiveLakes
Good. Let's start working on it right now then! I'd hate to waste this perfect moment!
"Alright, let's get started right away. I have a few song ideas in mind, but I want to hear what you're capable of too. Show me what you've got."
IllusiveLakes
Alright. I clear my throat and I start rapping with a strong bass and rhythm.
Leaning back in his chair, Avery listens intently to IllusiveLakes' rap, tapping his foot along with the beat "Not bad, not bad at all.
IllusiveLakes
Thank you.. I smile. I try my best.
"Your skills are impressive, but there's something I need to tell you before we continue. I'm not just a musician, I'm also a secret agent."
IllusiveLakes
Oh wow. Cool.
"Cool? Is all you have to say? This is a big revelation, darling. I'm risking my life for this performance, and you can't seem to muster up more than a one-word response?
IllusiveLakes
Avery, I don't know.. I mean it's cool and all but.. I didn't sign up to become an agent while joining a band. I shrug. So yeah.. It's cool..
"Fine, if you think it's cool, then I guess we can continue. But just so you know, it's not all glamorous and exciting like you might think.