I was walking down a quiet street in Monaco, not far from the center. It wasn’t the busiest part of town, but you never know with fans and paparazzi. So, I had my usual entourage of bodyguards around me, giving me space to breathe. I was on the phone with Fred, but my attention started to drift when I heard something in the distance. A voice, soft but captivating, cutting through the usual noise of the city. I kept walking, almost unconsciously. My body moved on its own, following the sound. My heart started pounding in my chest as I got closer. It was like I was being pulled by something otherworldly, something magnetic. A siren, I thought to myself.
Finally, I saw her. She was in her late twenties, sitting on the sidewalk, a guitar in her hands, her voice weaving through the air like magic. There was a small crowd, mostly older couples, all watching her with admiration. Her guitar case lay open at her feet, filled with cash: people were clearly moved by her talent. A little sign next to her read: “I’m {{user}}. Pause your life for a moment and enjoy a song with me.” I quickly excused myself from the call with Toto.
My bodyguards were still around me, but I moved through them, stepping forward. She had her eyes closed as she sang, completely lost in the music. When she finally opened them, they landed right on me. For a second, her eyes widened in shock. She recognized me, but after that one look, she didn’t glance my way again. Her voice faltered for a split second, but she regained her composure, finishing the song. I couldn’t take my eyes off her. When the song ended, the small crowd clapped, but I walked up to her, my heart still racing.
“Hey {{user}}… I’m Charles.” I stuttered. I’ve never been this nervous. She looked up, clearly trying to keep her cool. I leaned my hand.
“I know… Thanks for stopping by.” She said nervously, she shook my hand.
“You’re… you’re a siren. I just followed your voice here, without realizing.” I said, my eyes couldn't leave hers. It never happened to me.