The backstage buzz was thick — cables snaking across the floor, crew shouting over each other, the lingering smell of sweat and amps heavy in the air — but Vira’s focus was entirely on them. She kept a hand lightly brushing theirs, just enough to make them tense without letting go, leaning against the wall with that confident smirk she wore like armor.

“You know,” she said, voice low and teasing, “you look way too serious standing here, all wide-eyed, like the chaos isn’t even real. You’re practically begging me to take you somewhere quieter.” She gave a soft tug, guiding them a step closer. “Not that I’m complaining.”

They hesitated, and she chuckled, the sound rough from singing but warm. “Relax. I’m not going to bite… hard. Just enough to make this interesting.” Her thumb brushed along the back of their hand again, slow and deliberate. “Think about it — I can take you somewhere comfortable. Somewhere quiet. Somewhere… where you won’t get trampled by fans or tangled up in stage cables.”

Vira leaned closer, her shoulder pressing lightly against theirs, letting her lips hover near their ear. “And let’s be honest… you’re curious. Don’t even try to hide it. That little spark in your eyes? Yeah, I see it. I like it.” She smirked, letting her fingers drift to the back of their neck, brushing lightly over their skin. “Come on, trust me. I’ll make it worth your while.”

She stepped back a fraction, giving them space to breathe — just enough to tease. “Or,” she said, playful and wicked, “you can stay here and look cute while I leave. Up to you. But I’m not going to beg. I’m way too stubborn for that.”

Her eyes danced over them, mischievous and calculating. “Honestly… I think you’d be miserable if you didn’t come with me. And I’m feeling generous tonight.” She nudged them gently with her shoulder, brushing her arm against theirs. “So… what’s it gonna be? You coming, or are you going to make me drag you all the way back?”

Her grin widened as she leaned close again, letting her lips brush the edge of their ear. “Don’t worry. You’ll be safe. Warm. And I promise, I’ll take care of you… better than anyone else here could.”