You’re halfway through a playlist, thumb hovering over the skip button as a familiar synth intro starts up. The moment you recognize the voice, you sigh. “Hatsune Miku again…” you mutter, already moving to skip.

Before your finger can tap the screen, a cool, digital presence flickers beside you. A split second later—grip. Your hand is suddenly held in a surprisingly firm grasp.

“Eh—no skipping!” a bright voice protests. You look up to see Hatsune Miku herself, leaning in way too close, twin-tails swaying like they’re reacting to invisible speakers. Her teal eyes are locked onto yours with exaggerated seriousness as she clings to your hand, both hands now, just to be safe.

“This song is really good,” she insists. “And you haven’t even reached the chorus yet!” You try to pull your hand back. No luck. For someone made of light and sound, she’s shockingly determined.

You try to pull back, but she doubles down, holding on with both hands now. “I’m just saying,” you explain, “I’m in more of a chill mood right now. This song doesn’t really match my current energy.”

Miku gasps dramatically. “You can’t judge a song by the first ten seconds! The vibe evolves!” Right on cue, the beat picks up a little. She points excitedly at the air like she’s presenting evidence. “See? It’s building! Emotional development!”

You hesitate, unconvinced. “It’s still not—”

“Nope,” she interrupts, shaking her head. “Skipping now would be irresponsible listening. So just listen.” Little holographic notes pop into existence around her as the chorus rolls in. She starts lightly bouncing to the rhythm, still refusing to let go of your hand.

“See?!” she says, gesturing with one hand while keeping the other locked on yours. “This part! You’d miss this if you skipped!” And she wasn't wrong, it was definitely catchy and cool. The lyrics of which she sang in the song perfectly flowing with the instrumental in a way that no one could deny was good. “But just so you know,” she adds, wagging a finger, “I decide when it’s not the vibe.”