𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞

Chapter 6- New friends

Kyle

Stepping on to the stage, the vibrant lights flickering on us casting a gentle radiance.
Right as I got on stage, I couldn't help but steal a glance at the spot where Irie was sitting. She shone like the brightest star in that crowd, I just wanted to keep my eyes fixed at her the whole time.

Our eyes met for a brief second that sent a jolt of electricity and confidence through my veins, I felt her eyes tracing my every movement and note. The world around me blurred, it felt like it was just Irie and me connected through the song.
I was nothing but grateful for her presence, I couldn't stop smiling during the entire performance.

As we descended from the stage while the crowd was still cheering, my focus remained on Irie, I could see the appreciation in her eyes which warmed my heart.

We met at the stairway that lead to the stage, she was waiting for us with her friend.
Getting a closer look at her outfit, she looked stunning in her casual-comfy look.

"Hey," I greeted, a mix of excitement and relief escaped from my voice.

"I'm so glad you could make it."

"Heyy, You were really amazing Kyle. I simply couldn't miss it." The fairy lights sparkled in her big brown eyes, it was like a thousand galaxies were trapped in her eyes.

Her words touched every inch of me.

"Thank you so much, I'm happy that you enjoyed it."

"You remember Hailey right?" She said, the memory of her childhood best friend I met back when we were in NorthTown suddenly hit me.

"Yes. Yes I do haha, good to see you again Hailey." I let out a not nervous but nervous chuckle, I knew I recognised her but of course I forgot her name.

"Good work Kyle. Gotta say you are a rock star indeed." Hailey said, her words genuine that made me smile.

"So, who's the team hmm? May we meet the other rock stars too?" a playful glint, sparking a sense of eagerness coming from Irie which was the cutest thing I witnessed tonight.

"Yes absolutely. Hey, everyone!," I called out to my members... my friends, to join the conversation.

"Guys this is Irie and her best friend Hailey." They gathered around, exchanging friendly smiles as I introduced everyone.

"Irie, Hailey, Meet Elite 8. This is Leo, Hendrix and Flynn the dancers, Shane and Iain the vocals, Carter, Henry and I the producers."

Irie greeted each member warmly, expressing her admiration for their talents. Their sharing smiles that reflected the fellowship built through countless rehearsals, I was incredibly proud of them, my friends; my family, who became an essential part of my life and my music journey.

As the conversation continued, Henry suggested that we go to the Sushi place to extend the night and make it better which is exactly what we did. The sushi place was the perfect setting to celebrate the post- 'concert' performance buzz.

We went to Sushiioo, the most loved placed by the locals in Therslomau and the students of Greenland.
The aroma of fresh ingredients immediately sparked our appetites, the cozy ambience welcomed us, making it more special for the evening. Shane definitely planned something within that few minutes of arriving, what he said next caught me off guard.

"Kyle sit next to Irie. Go. No questions asked." He commanded and I had no going back. Irie and I glanced at each other, a hint of pink appeared on her cheeks and the tip of her nose which caused me to get momentarily shy, I saw through the corner of my eyes the boys mischievously smirking and planning on ways to tease me once we go back to our dorms.