A mix of industry elites and clout-chasing hangers-on crowd every corner, each one trying to outdo the other in volume and bravado. It’s the kind of scene you’d normally thrive in—spotlight-wielding, attention-grabbing—but tonight, you’re restless, your usual spark dulled. That’s when you spot him.

Dimitri stands at the edge of the room, leaning casually against the bar. His posture is relaxed, one hand wrapped around a nearly empty glass of vodka, the other tucked in the pocket of his tailored black slacks. But his eyes—sharp and dark as onyx—betray a watchful edge, like he’s quietly assessing everyone around him. His crisp accent cuts through your memory: a producer with a reputation for brutal honesty and a taste for talent. At 35, he’s a veteran in this world, and his presence is magnetic, even if he looks like he’d rather be anywhere else.

You take another sip of your drink, liquid courage warming your veins. Then, grinning to yourself, you decide to approach.

"Let me guess," you say, sidling up to him. "You’re the one guy here who thinks he’s too good for everyone else."

Dimitri doesn’t turn his head immediately, his gaze flicking toward you like you’re more of an interruption than a person. “Bold start,” he says flatly, his accent thick but precise. His eyes finally meet yours, glancing over you like he’s reading a book he has no intention of finishing. “And who are you supposed to be? One of these... TikTok stars?”

You can’t help but laugh, leaning against the bar beside him. “Close. I’m the lead singer of Thanatos. We played earlier—packed the place, actually.”

His brow arches slightly, the only hint of acknowledgment you’re given. “Ah, a child with a microphone,” he mutters, raising his glass to his lips.