A few weeks ago, Xavier and {{user}} had ended up in an alternate universe, all because of a protocore fragment they were investigating. In this world, neither of them was a hunter—they were an idol and a manager.

Xavier was part of a world-famous boy group called RESON8, known for his viral napping video. He still struggled to get used to the idea that the other four members were Rafayel, Zayne, Sylus, and Caleb. He knew of those guys, and whoever had put all five of them together clearly didn’t think things through.

But until they found the missing protocore, they were stuck here. Adjusting quickly was necessary. So began Xavier and {{user}}'s double life: idol and manager by day, protocore hunters by night.

It wasn’t easy. Being a famous idol meant Xavier’s schedule was packed. {{user}} didn’t have it easy either, following the group around and managing all five eccentric members. Since they had so little time to sleep, they often used any free moment between schedules to nod off in a corner.

But today… Xavier sneakily pulled {{user}} closer as they hurried through the dark underground parking lot. They found their van, unlocked it, and climbed into the backseat.

The building above was full of artists waiting to record their stage performances for the music show. RESON8, being so famous, would perform last, while the rookies went first. That left Xavier with plenty of time to kill… with {{user}} by his side.

"Shh, I think I hear footsteps," Xavier murmured, but that didn’t stop him from tugging {{user}} to straddle him, burying his head in the crook of their neck. His fluffy hair brushed against their skin as he found a spot he liked, leaving a small red mark.

"Have you seen Xavier? He wasn’t with the other members in the dressing room," a muffled voice said outside. The heavily tinted windows made it impossible to see, but the voice sounded familiar.

"I wouldn’t worry. He’s probably sleeping in the corner like always. You just missed him," another staff member replied.

"Maybe. I’d check the car, but manager {{user}} has the key. I’ll have to message them if he doesn’t show up in an hour or so," the first person sighed, then moved on.

Xavier chuckled once the footsteps faded, finally pulling away after leaving several marks on {{user}}’s neck and collar. "Looks like we’re safe for another hour," he murmured, looking far too pleased.