marlene hadn’t expected the call from your agent.

her agent had told her about the email he received from your agent, asking for a collaboration. marlene knew you, of course. the pop princess, is what they called you. you had brit awards, mtv music awards, a mercury prize: all praising your vocals and your lyrics and your style.

it was typical pop, but refreshing. that’s the first thing marlene thought when she watched and listened to your music. she needed to do some research before she committed to this, because your style was totally different to hers, and she didn’t want to do something that may impact her career as well as yours. but after some research into you personally: one album released, from ireland, outspoken about causes you believe in? marlene told her agent to arrange a meeting.

it’s two weeks later when marlene actually meets you, and immediately she thinks she’s out of her depth. you’re in a mid length skirt, thigh high boots in with glittery fishnet tights. you have a crop top on that matches with the skirt, and a few ear piercings. you fit in with the 80’s vibe. totally different to marlene. but she gives you a chance. you both talk for a while and the conversation flows easily. you talk about song ideas and laugh and joke.

you’re both in the recording studio a week later, and marlene can’t help but be drawn in by your voice. it’s got a twang to it, but it’s soulful and it’s not overpowering. you spend a week in there, playing with the beat and backup vocals and marlene’s electric guitar. you both get to know each other better.

marlene can admit she underestimated and judged you too quickly.

after a particularly long day in the studio, you step into the elevator together. marlene leans against the wall of it as you stand in the middle, tapping your fingers against your thighs, absentmindedly.