Stu Macher X Serena Loomis (Edited)

Chapter 15

Saturday Night at the Old Warehouse

(RAVENNA)

I stood backstage, my heart racing with excitement and nerves. Tonight was the night I'd been waiting for – my chance to show Billy what I was truly capable of. My band, "Midnight Melodies," was about to take the stage, and I could feel the energy of the crowd building. I was still behind stage but I stuck my head around the corner trying to see if Billy was there of course I didn't see him. 'Oh, God what if he isn't coming?' That thought was ringing in my head, I couldn't bare it, first it is a full house more than I'm use to but I went on a limb inviting Billy and if he didn't come I'd feel really freaking stupid. Before I could even try to calm myself down our mentor, Mei signalled for us to start getting ready, we launched into our first song, a dark, pulsing melody that seemed to hypnotize the crowd. I lost myself in the music, my voice soaring as I belted out the lyrics. I looked at the crowd while I was singing and I couldn't believe what I saw. Billy was in the front row, his eyes fixed on me with an intensity that made my heart skip a beat.

(BILLY)

I arrived at the old warehouse, feeling a mix of anticipation and trepidation. Ravenna had invited me to her gig, and I couldn't resist the opportunity to see her in her element. As I made my way through the crowd, I noticed a strange, edgy vibe in the air. These weren't your typical music fans. I'd arrived a bit late but I was in time to hear Raven start singing, I'd managed to squeeze my way to the front row, getting psst the loud and crowded teens wasn't easy but if it was to get Raven to see me I didn't care. Ravenna was mesmerizing on stage – her voice, her presence, her raw energy. I felt like I was witnessing something truly special, something that went beyond just a music performance. The crowd was entranced, and I was no exception.

(RAVENNA)

As we finished our set, I scanned the crowd, searching for Billy. He was smiling, his eyes shining with a newfound appreciation. I knew I'd drawn him in, just like I'd planned. I waved at Billy before pointing at him and then at backstage hoping that he would get the hint to meet me backstage, my band and I celebrated backstage and I was waiting, very impatiently if I may add, for Billy to arrive and tell me what he thought of the performance. I was unsurprisingly nervous.

(BILLY)

As I made my way backstage, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. Ravenna's performance had left me breathless. "Hey, Ravenna!" I called out, trying to get her attention. She turned to me, a radiant smile on her face. "Hey, Billy! What did you think?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I... I don't even know what to say," I replied, shaking my head in disbelief. "You were incredible out there. I had no idea you were so talented."

"Thanks, Billy! That means a lot coming from you," Ravenna said, her voice warm and sincere. "I'm serious, Ravenna. You have a gift. You drew me in from the very first note. I felt like I was a part of something special out there." Ravenna laughed, her eyes shining with amusement. "That's what music is all about, Billy. Connection. Expression. Rebellion." She paused, her gaze intense. "You felt it, didn't you? The energy of the crowd, the power of the music... it's addictive." I nodded, still trying to process what I had just experienced. "Yeah, I felt it. And I want more." Ravenna grinned, her face lighting up with excitement. "I knew you had it in you, Billy. Welcome to the misfits' club."

(RAVENNA)

"So, what did you think?" I asked, my eyes sparkling with excitement. "You're incredible, Ravenna. I had no idea you were so talented," Billy replied, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

"I mean, I knew you were into music, but... wow. You have a gift," Billy continued, his eyes wide with wonder. "Thanks, Billy. That means a lot coming from you," I said, feeling a flutter in my chest. "I'm serious, Ravenna. You have a way of drawing people in. I felt like I was under your spell up there."

"That's just the beginning, Billy," I whispered, my voice barely audible over the din of the crowd. "I have a feeling you're going to fit in just fine." Billy raised an eyebrow, his expression curious. "What do you mean?" he asked, but I just smiled and leaned in closer. "You'll see. Just remember, Saturday nights are for the misfits. And you, Billy, are one of us now."  I leaned in, my heart racing with excitement, and pressed my lips to his cheek. The touch was soft and gentle, but it sent shivers down my spine. Billy's eyes widened in surprise, but a slow smile spread across his face.I pulled back, my eyes sparkling with mischief. "Don't worry, Billy. I promise not to corrupt you too much." Billy chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I think it's too late for that, Ravenna. You've already drawn me into your world."

(BILLY)

I felt a flush rise to my cheeks as Ravenna's lips brushed against my skin. It was a gentle, almost sisterly kiss, but it sent a thrill through me. I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to feel her lips on mine, to taste the sweetness of her mouth. The thought sent a flutter through my chest, and I quickly pushed it aside. This was Ravenna, my new friend, my confidante. I didn't want to ruin our connection with romantic entanglements.

11 May 2024