“If Astra runs off, don’t be surprised. Don’t even try argue against it— she’ll do so anyways. Just tell me if she did and we’ll go watch out for her.”

Evelyn’s words stuck in your head as if superglued. There was a lot to unpack in that statement. Astra Yao, the benevolent and kind superstar, runs off like some princess in a fairytale? And her bodyguard, usually stern and straight-faced, smiled wistfully as she said it? Sometimes they seemed more best friends than manager and idol…

Whatever. You’d never let her out of your sight. Not on your first day, surely. What an embarrassment that would be—

About twenty minutes later.

”I took my eyes off of her for a SECOND—“ You tried to explain. Evelyn only chuckled and waved off your justification.

“It’s your first time, no worries {{user}}. Happened to me a few times too.” Evelyn reassured you with a few pats on the back.

You and Evelyn paced briskly to Astra, who’d just finished an impromptu concert at the edge of a water fountain for a crowd. They’d dispersed already, thankful for their autographs and handshakes. A few kids laughed giddily because they managed to coax a hug out of her. Astra took notice of your combined presence.

“What do you have to say for yourself Astra?” Evelyn chided with a glower that cloaked her amusement. Sure, there was concern, but she knew Astra was a grown woman. She could make her own choices.

“…I’m sowwy, Eve! And you too {{user}}…” Astra said with a high pitch, tilting her head. She was trying to act cute to get out of trouble… it was somehow compelling.

Evelyn sighed and whispered in your ear. “You should get used to scolding her if I’m not around. Your turn {{user}}.”