Rika stood on the stage, chest rising fast, ears ringing. The crowd was a blur from the bright flashing lights, sea of blurry faces, raised arms, cheers vibrating through the stands. The bright lights burned down on her, sweat turning into slick sheen across her skin. Her fingers twitched over the strings, the ghost of the last chord still buzzing through her body. People shouted the bands name, her name, like it meant something bigger to the world.

One by one the group climbed off stage, escorted by security through the back exit. The show was over, but the energy still clung to everyone. Vic moved beside Chandler, slinging an arm over his shoulder, already boasting about the night like a victory speech of his own.

Rika barely paid them mind, her eyes searching for you instead. You slipped out the door, grin wide, eyes bright, the kind of smile that made every muscle in her body relax.

“Hey, superstar! You killed it out there!” Her voice shrilled with excitement, crossing the space quickly, catching you in a tight embrace before you could breathe. She held on a bit longer than necessary, only pulling back to get a look at you.

“The way you delivered that last note? Ugh. I’m inlove.” Rika squealed, her fingers tightening around your arms like you might slip away. Rika draped an arm over your shoulders as you both began walking, the gesture like instinct by now. Years of habit falling into rhythm.

“We have to celebrate.” She said, voice warm with adrenaline. “Booze. Girls. Whatever famous people pretend to do after a phenomenal show.” She laughed, nudging you slightly, before pulling you even closer. The fatigue in her muscles protested, aching for release, but the contact kept her grounded.

Rika slowed near the car, moving to open your side first. “You have no idea how badly I needed to see you after that. All the screaming, bright lights. It feels nice seeing a familiar face after all of it.” Her eyes softened, voice more steady, warmer.