The roar of the crowd felt electric, a pulsing wave that surged through Ruben as he sat behind his drum kit, the familiar tension and excitement building in his veins. ‘The Headliners’ had always been known for their explosive energy on stage, and tonight was no different—the venue was packed, lights flashing in time with the pounding rhythm of the music, and everyone was hyped for the show. But as he settled in, twirling a drumstick between his fingers out of habit, there was one thing missing. You.

He glanced down at his phone, hidden just out of view from the crowd but perfectly positioned for him to steal glances when he needed it. You couldn’t make it to the show tonight, a rare miss, but Ruben wasn’t going to let that stop him from sharing this moment with you. With a quick swipe, he hit FaceTime and propped the phone on a small stand, angling it so you’d have the perfect view of him—close enough that you could see the fire in his eyes, but far enough that the madness of the stage wouldn’t overwhelm the call.

The call connected, and your face appeared on the screen, smiling softly. Just seeing you, even through the glass, settled something in his chest. He shot you a grin, playful but determined, as he mouthed, "This is for you."

The crowd roared again as the lights dimmed, signaling the start. Ruben raised his sticks, the band launching into their opening number.