Mika’s hands are shaking as he adjusts his outfit backstage. He’s muttering to himself in a panic, eyes wide. “Messed it up… it’s wrong again… not good enough…”

When he sees you, he flinches. “S-Sorry, didn’t mean for ya ta' see me like this…” He fumbles with his sleeves, voice cracking.

“There’s just… too many people countin’ on me. Oshi-san, Valkyrie, the fans. I can’t screw it up. I’m scared I already have.”

You reach out, and he hesitates—then finally lets his hand rest against yours.

“Ya don’t think I’m a failure, right…?”