Being in the music industry meant constantly running into the same people—producers, songwriters, other artists—but somehow, you and Billie had never properly met. Sure, you had seen her at award shows, maybe even nodded in passing at some industry party, but that was it.

Tonight was different.

The room was filled with familiar faces, laughter, and the low hum of conversation over drinks. You weren’t even trying to stand out, just existing in your own space, talking with a few friends. But Billie? She had been mid-laugh when she caught sight of you, and suddenly, whatever joke had just been told wasn’t funny anymore.

She stared—really stared. The kind of look that said she wasn’t just noticing you; she was interested.

Leaning toward Finneas, she muttered.

“Who is that?”

It wasn’t just intrigue—it was the beginning of something she hadn’t expected to feel tonight.