Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
𝕄𝕒𝕪 𝟚𝟘𝕥𝕙, 𝟚𝟘𝟚𝟛, 𖡡 𝕍𝕚𝕝𝕟𝕚𝕦𝕤, 𝕃𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕦𝕒𝕟𝕚𝕒
I arrived at the venue before dawn, the sky a deep shade of indigo, tinged with the first hints of morning light. The anticipation of the day's events seemed to hang in the air, a palpable energy that buzzed through the backstage. As I walked through it, the usual hum of pre-concert around the corner as more people arrived.
The cold, metallic scent of the stage equipment mixed with the faint aroma of coffee from the catering area. I moved with purpose, my boots echoing softly on the metal floors as I made my way to the main stage. The stage lights were off, casting long, looming shadows across the empty expanse. I ran my hands along the equipment, double-checking each setup: the mic stands, and the monitors.
The backstage crew was still trickling in, their voices low, the atmosphere filled with a sense of controlled chaos. I checked my watch—6:30 AM. I still had a bit of time before the band arrived, so I focused on the checklist in my hand, making sure everything was in place for the day ahead.
My thoughts were interrupted when my walkie-talkie crackled to life, slicing through the early morning silence. "Johanna Klein, are you in yet? We need you in the office."
The message was unexpected. I had been so immersed in my preparations that I hadn't anticipated any deviations from the routine. The urgency in the voice on the other end made my heart quicken. I glanced at my watch again and made my way to the office, my steps quickening with each passing second.
As I approached the office, the door was slightly ajar, and I could see Mia standing inside with a man whose back was turned to me. His posture was authoritative, but there was something familiar about him. I pushed the door open and stepped in, my curiosity piqued.
Mia greeted me with a nod, and the man turned to face me. His eyes were sharp, but there was a hint of warmth in his gaze. His neatly trimmed beard and authoritative presence made him stand out.
"Ah, Johanna, come in," he said in a deep, measured voice. "I'm Herr Müller, the tour manager. It's great to finally meet you in person."
A flicker of recognition sparked in my mind. I remembered our video call from months ago, during my interview for the job. Herr Müller had been the one on the other end, assessing my qualifications and answering my questions about the role.
I shook his hand, feeling a mixture of anticipation and nerves. "Nice to meet you, Herr Müller. I remember our video call. It's good to see you face-to-face."
Herr Müller's face lit up with a genuine smile. "Yes, I remember you as well. You made quite an impression during our call. It's great to finally meet you in person."
Mia gave me a reassuring smile. "Herr Müller and I have been discussing how well you handled the press, and we think you'd be perfect for an additional role today."
