Yesterday's Future 2✔️

21. The MVP package.

11:36am,
Simi's Dance Studio,
Abuja, NIG

"That's a wrap guys. Good job today!" Teng clapped his hands together above his head as the morning dance class dissolved and Simi's song faded to the end. Rubbing off beads of sweat off his face with the back of his palm, he adjusted his tank top that clung on his dampened body, making his way into the restroom.

Deb went to unplugthe Bluetooth speaker when AJ entered into the studio. She waved at him and he smiled slightly, his eyes searching the room until he found her.

Empty bottle of water in her hand, tired Simi watched Ada load their ride with their luggage and camping kit with the help of the security guy and the driver through the window. Sweat dripped from her neck down her cleavage into her crop top and she drew in a long breath. She could feel the butterflies in her stomach at the thought of the trip she and her manager-friend were about to embark on, she exhaled.

"You good?" AJ came up behind her and she smiled, nodding.

"Why am I always the last to know about things around here though? It's unfair." He immediately followed up, throwing one hand up in the air.

"What do you mean?" Simi's forehead drew together as she turned to face him.

"I just heard that you guys are going on a weekend vacation. Mount Patti for that matter. Really? This is supposed to be a team bonding thing Simi. I've always wanted to see the confluence point."

She gave a dismissive wave. "It's not that much of a big deal. It's just one of Ada's impromptu stunts. But, I told everyone. I even dropped a message on the group chat, it is you who's been offline and MIA for days now."

"Yeah you're right. I'm taking a break from the internet."

"What? You're wilding AJ! You love the internet and you're always on your phone. You can't survive a day without it." Simi teased playfully.

"Well, It's crazy toxic on there these days. Not really been feeling the vibe. And it's 2025! Unbelievable things are happening on the internet and I just really wanna focus on music right now."

"That's valid tho," She shrugged, fiddling with the bottle in her hand, . "Sometimes I wish I could unsee some things myself. What are you up to anyway?"

"I'm working on a mixtape. I was gonna...play it for you, then I heard y'all traveling so I guess it's gonna have to wait."

"A mixtape. That's dope. I'll definitely hear it first thing when we get back. But, how's the album going?"

"Akay is working 30 hours a day on it and it keeps getting better believe me. He should be done by the end of the weekend."

"Sweet." A glimmer of anticipation coursed through Simi as her cheeks elevated, she heaved a breath and looked out again, but Ada was no longer outside.

"Hey!" Deb joined them by the window, she was now wearing a jacket over her costume and immediately she faced AJ but with minimal eye contact. "Are—are you free tonight?

"Not really. Wassup?"

"Teng and I going for this casino opening and he says it's going to be stupid lit. I was hoping you'd wanna...like come with us?"

"Yeah that! It's everywhere on my notifications. I wish it wasn't the same weekend as this trip." Simi pressed her lips together, a shade of disappointment on her face. Deep down, she was dying to attend.

"Well, I'll be there. Teng and I already made some plans. If all goes according to plan, I might even be playing there tonight." AJ explained to Simi.

"That would be fantastic! Please Debbie make videos of him for us."