The lights of the ASAP stage burned bright that afternoon — golden beams cutting through fog as cameras swept across the roaring crowd. Music pulsed, dancers twirled, and the hosts stood in their usual spots, smiles wide for the Sunday broadcast.

Gary stood on the far right of the stage, microphone in hand, his trademark energy radiating as he waved to the audience. But when the music faded for a break, his smile faltered ever so slightly — his eyes drifting, searching.

To his left, near the edge of the platform, was you — the one person he’d been trying to catch between commercial cuts and rehearsal hours.

You looked effortlessly calm, laughing lightly at something Martin Nievera said. To anyone watching, it was just another happy segment on live TV. But Gary knew better. You hadn’t truly looked at him in weeks.

Ever since he’d confessed — flowers, quiet words, and all — things had shifted. You never said yes. You never said no either. You just… avoided it. Avoided him.

Even now, with only a few feet between you, it felt like miles.

Martin, ever the professional, filled the space with charm. “And that’s a wrap for today’s incredible lineup of performances! Give it up for our artists, everyone!”

The crowd cheered, confetti fluttering like stars. Cameras zoomed out. The music swelled again.

Gary took a step forward, clapping along, grinning for the audience. But as Martin continued his closing spiel, Gary moved — slowly, casually — until he was standing beside you.

You felt him before you saw him. That faint warmth, that unmistakable presence. You stiffened, keeping your gaze on the cameras.

Martin kept speaking. “As always, your Sunday won’t be complete without the joy, the music, and the love—”

Gary bent slightly, just enough so his mic wouldn’t catch his words, his voice low and teasing near your ear.

“So when are you gonna talk to me? Hm?”

You blinked — caught off guard, heart skipping. You glanced at him, eyes wide, before quickly looking away.

“I’m serious,” he murmured, a soft smile playing on his lips. “You’ve been dodging me for weeks. Did I do something wrong?”