Just for Tonight

2.

Chloe had just called it a day at Finland's Greatest Music and was stepping into a cab when her phone buzzed.

The screen showed an unknown number.

"Hello, Chloe, it's Ville."

She recognized his deep voice immediately."Hello, Mr. Valo. How are you? The interview we did yesterday will be published in a few hours. I've been working on it all day, trying to capture your words exactly as you meant them. I hope you'll like it."

"Maybe for once, I'll read it," he chuckled. "It was honestly one of the best interviews I've done in a long time. I called because... well... are you free tonight? I have an idea I'd like to discuss with you."

"Of course," she replied, intrigued. "Where would you like to meet?"

"If it's possible... maybe at your place? It'd be easier that way, you know, paparazzi and all..."

"Good idea. I'll text you my address," she smiled to herself, surprised by her ease in inviting him. They said goodbye, and she hung up.

As she typed her address into a message, Chloe found herself feeling unexpectedly calm. She'd just invited an almost-stranger over to her apartment, yet everything about it felt oddly right. He had an idea to share, and she could tell he was a little nervous. A message came through a moment later; Ville would arrive around 7 p.m.

There was hardly time to stress over what to wear or if she should adjust her makeup-before she knew it, her doorbell rang.

"Come in," she said, opening the door.

Her flat was small but warm, with a cozy atmosphere that instantly made people feel at ease. The main room included a small kitchen area, a soft couch, and a television, with doors leading off to her bedroom and bathroom. Paintings lined the walls, and a shelf overflowed with CDs of bands and solo artists she loved.

"This is... very interesting," Ville remarked, his gaze taking in the artwork and the music collection.

"Well, it's part of the job," she replied with a laugh. "I'm a journalist, always diving into culture and art. And I love it."

She could tell he was biding his time, perhaps gathering his thoughts for what he wanted to say."Would you like some coffee, or something else, Mr. Valo?" she offered.

"Coffee would be perfect. And please, call me Ville," he smiled.

They sat on the couch, each cradling a warm cup of coffee. Chloe could sense his hesitation, so she took the initiative.

"Well, you mentioned an idea...?"

Ville took a steadying breath. He'd been so focused on this idea all day, but now, facing her, he worried that she might not understand or might even refuse.

"Yes... right," he began slowly. "In three days, I'm heading out on tour for about a year. And I need someone like you on my team. Yesterday, you showed me something rare. You noticed how exhausted I was, showed genuine concern, and let me talk about music without prying into my personal life. I really appreciated the way you handled the interview."

"You know," she replied, nodding, "I've interviewed a lot of artists over the years, and many of them have shared their frustrations about press who dig up dirt for clicks, without a thought for the consequences. I promised myself I'd be different, that I'd never use anyone's life just for headlines."

Ville smiled widely, visibly relieved. "I could sense that yesterday. So here's my idea... I don't know if there's someone waiting for you or any reason you'd have to stay, but would you consider being my press agent during the tour?"

Her eyes widened in surprise, her heartbeat quickening. "That's... wow, that's huge! And an incredible opportunity for me! Could you tell me a little more about how you imagine this?"

"You'd be handling all my press interactions during the tour. You'd plan the interviews and make sure the journalists stick to professional questions, like you did yesterday. It would mean meeting them in advance, giving them some guidance on what to avoid."

"That sounds fantastic," she said, the excitement in her voice undeniable. "Are you sure you'd want me to do this? I mean... I've never done something quite like that before, so maybe I..."

Ville gently interrupted her, his tone reassuring. "If there are any bumps, I'll let you know directly, and we'll work it out together."

Chloe felt the warmth in his words and was touched by his kindness.

"This is... a lot to take in," she admitted, taking a breath. "I don't want to sound ungrateful, but could I have a little time to think it over? I'll need to speak to my boss and see if he'd consider letting me go on tour with HIM."

"Of course, I understand. But remember, we're leaving in three days," he said, smiling.

"I'll let you know as soon as possible," she promised, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement she hadn't felt in a long time.

----

If you are here, thank you so much !

Again, I do not own anything, any character or so. It's just an fanfiction and the story popped up into my mind. I felt the need to write it down in english, which is quite challenging for me but well... Let s say I m training my brain 😉