𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐘 | 𝐦. 𝐣𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧

32

Marlon's POV

Sunlight peeks through the curtains and I woke up feeling like a new man. I stretch, glance at the clock and can't help but smile, remembering Tonya and I's kiss from last night. I get ready for the day feeling on top of the world.

I step into the hotel cafeteria area with a spring in my step, seeing some of my brothers at a table. "Morning, everyone!" I call out once I make my way over.

Jackie, Tito, and Jermaine look up from their breakfast, clearly surprised.

"Morning, Marlon," Jackie says, raising an eyebrow. "You seem awfully cheerful today."

Tito chuckles. "Kid's bouncin' off the walls this morning."

I flash a big grin. "Just feeling good! Had a great night's sleep and I'm ready to have fun today."

Jermaine eyes me warily. "You seem kinda different. Everything cool?"

We've kind of been butting heads lately, and I'm suspicious of his expression and tone of voice but I just laugh it off. "Yeah, just in a good mood. Nothin' major."

During breakfast, I'm making jokes and sharing funny stories, my usual but I can tell the guys have noticed I'm happier than I normally am.

"So, did y'all catch that new move I added to the routine last night?" I ask, grinning.

Jackie and Tito exchange glances, while Jermaine leans back, clearly intrigued.

"You're acting pretty different today," Jermaine comments. "What's up with you?"

"Just feelin' blessed, man. I can't be happy?" I ask, feeling like there's an attitude in Jermaine's tone.

Jermaine puts his hands up in defense, "Nah, man. Do what you want."

Eventually Tonya, Michael and Randy join us and besides Jermaine's weird comments that seem like there's more to them, we had a pretty good morning.

---

After breakfast, the guys and I decide to explore a nearby market. I'm still buzzing with excitement, and my mood is rubbing off on everyone. Not to be prideful but I'm quite the charmer if I do say so myself...

As we walk through the stalls, I spot an old vinyl record store. "Hey, let's check this place out!"

The guys follow me inside. I'm going through records, excitedly showing off finds to Tonya and my brothers. "Check this out! They got some real classic stuff here."

Tito finds a rare album and shows it to me. "Look at this! I haven't seen this one in years."

We all start chatting and reminiscing about old music, laughing and having a good time. It feels great to be so connected and happy. This day feels unreal.

As we leave the market, we run into a couple of fans who recognize the band. They're excited to meet us, and I'm in such a good mood that I'm more than happy to talk with em' and take photos.

One of the fans mentions hearing about a new dance club in town and invites us to check it out. "It's the place to be tonight! A lot of other groups are supposed to be there too!"

I look at the guys. "What do you think? We should totally check it out."Jackie and Tito are on board, but Jermaine seems a bit hesitant. "You sure we have time for that? We've got rehearsal tomorrow."

"Forget rehearsal, let's turn up!" Randy exclaims, making me chuckle.

Michael gives Jermaine a reassuring smile. "Come on, it'll be fun. We work all day, we could use a break."

When we return to the hotel, Jermaine pulls me aside. "Marlon, I need to talk to you."

We find a quiet spot. Jermaine looks serious. "What's going on with you today? You're all over the place. You've been... different."

I laugh, trying to lighten the mood. "Just feeling good, Jermaine. Why?"

He looks uncomfortable. "It's just... you're acting all hyped up, and I'm starting to wonder if something's going on. Is there something you're not telling us?"

I consider his words for a moment, then decide to be honest. "Well, I guess it's true. I'm in a really good place right now. Had a great night, and it's making me feel like I can take on the world."

Jermaine seems to relax a bit, but his expression is still weird, I can't tell what he's thinking. "Alright, man. Just... be careful. Sometimes things can get complicated."

I blink, my smile fading. "What?"

He's so negative. What is this fool talkin' about? I can't help but feel like he's annoyed at me being in a good mood.

He doesn't respond and instead walks off from me. "Jermaine," I call out, and he waves me off. Vague, Mr. Mysterious ass. I look upside his head for a moment before heading off to my room to get ready for the dance club tonight. I'm not finna worry about him.

Later, we head to the dance club. It's packed, and the music is thumpin'. I'm feeling good, the guys are having a blast, and it feels like the perfect end to a great day.

Tonya and I share a dance, and I feel like everything is falling into place. I can truly feel the chemistry between us. It's one of those nights where everything feels right. 'Feels like I'm in a movie.

As the night winds down, I find a quiet corner with Tonya. "Tonight was amazing. I'm really glad we did this."

She smiles up at me, her eyes twinkling. "Me too, Mar'. You've been so happy lately, I love seeing it."

I pull her close. "I ain't never felt better. And it's all thanks to you."

We share a moment, feeling content and close. The night has been everything I hoped it would be.