The energy inside the arena was electric. Eurovision 2021 was in full swing, and the competition was ruthless. Every artist in the green room had their eyes locked on the same prize, but there were two names on everyone’s lips.

Måneskin. The Italian rock revolution shaking the stage with raw, untamed energy. And you— the only real threat standing in their way.

“You again,” a familiar voice murmured as you reached for a bottle of water at the backstage refreshment table.

You turned, locking eyes with Damiano David. “I'm starting to think you’re following me,”

You scoffed. “Funny. I was just about to say the same thing.”

His smirk deepened. “Well, makes sense. Can’t blame you for wanting to keep an eye on your biggest competition.”

You arched a brow. “Oh, I do. But not for the reason you think.”

That caught him off guard for half a second—just long enough for you to take satisfaction in it. But Damiano was quick, recovering with a slow tilt of his head, studying you like he was trying to solve a puzzle.

Before he could throw back another remark, a crew member called his name from across the room. He didn’t move immediately, though—just let his gaze linger on you, as if making a silent note of something.

"See you out there," he finally said, voice quieter now. Less cocky.

You rolled the cool water bottle between your palms, heartbeat steady but thrumming with something you weren’t sure you wanted to name. This was more than just competition.