You were one of the most talked-about rising pop stars of the early 2000s, and tonight, you were about to prove exactly why.

It was the VMAs. You weren’t just nominated for multiple awards—you’d personally requested to perform, ready to make your mark on one of the biggest stages in music.

Your rehearsal slot came just before NSYNC’s. As always, they were nominated, and as always, they were performing.

You were currently in rehearsals, the empty arena buzzing with anticipation—until the doors opened and NSYNC walked in.