The Space Between

SIX

Standing on the stage at Union Transfer, I can feel the energy of the crowd pulsing through me. I had just finished singing "Like A Movie" and "Mascara" from my EP, and the response had been incredible. But now, it is time for something new, something special. I was about to perform an unreleased original song, "Caffeine," and I can feel a mix of excitement and nerves bubbling inside me.

As the funk-pop beat starts, I take a deep breath and look out at the sea of faces. To my delight, so many girls start shaking and putting their hands up, feeling the groove of the music. It is an amazing sight, and it gives me the confidence I need. I know my true fans will understand the song's deeper meaning—it is about Malia. I begin to sing the first verse, pouring my heart into the lyrics:

"Had the world on our fingertips
Oh yeah
I knew it when I read your lips
Can't deny it yeah
Made everybody curious
Like are we getting serious?
Tell me what you doing tonight
Hope you don't have plans at all
Better catch me just as I fall
Fall"

The words flow and hang in the air, and I can see the connection forming with the audience. They are hanging on every word, swaying to the beat, and I feel a rush of adrenaline. This is it—this is the moment I have been waiting for. As I move into the chorus, the excitement in the room reaches a fever pitch:

"I need you like caffeine yeah
Taste of your lips
Get a shot yeah
Let your kiss give me energy
You don't know what it do to me"

It is such a magical feeling, knowing they are connecting with the music and the meaning behind it. I continue, feeling more confident with each note.

As I reach the end, I can see the joy and excitement on the faces of my fans. They are dancing, singing, and completely immersed in the music. It is everything I have hoped for and more. The performance ends with a burst of applause and cheers, and I can't but smile. "Caffeine" has made its debut, and it is an unforgettable moment. I hope this show can be just as memorable to fans as it is for me.

I'm back on the tour bus and on to the next location, Pittsburgh. I can't help but think of Malia, and how we're worlds apart. Me on the way to Pittsburgh and her in LA. But I know that the long stretch apart has nothing on us.

I also kept in touch with Vivian earlier today before my last Philly show. It's turns out she lives in Pittsburgh and wants to hang out again. Crazy what meeting a long-time-no-see friend can do. I didn't expect to meet a friend during tour, but I like it a lot, it's comforting.

I take out my phone and text Vivian to discuss plans.

Vivian Stone

What do you have in mind? I'm sure you know all the best spots to eat and hang out!

She responds right away, and I feel a burst of joy.

For sure! What venue are you performing at next? We can hang out around there.

Oh, bet.

Warner Centre in downtown Pitt

Gotcha, we can totally meet up around there. How do you feel about sushi? I know a great spot!

I'm down, are there any good stores to shop at? I wanna get my girlfriend a gift from every city I'm touring in. Those diamond earrings I bought at the market are for her.

Oh, you and Malia are dating for real? My niece has been trying to figure that out LOL, but yeah we can totally go shopping tomorrow!

Okay cool! I better get some rest. Night :)

Gn, see you tomorrow

BABYGIRL 🫶🏻

Heyyy baby ❤️

Hey omg I heard your new song. I've been tagged in so many fan posts since your tour started. It's insane. I love the song and you. Thank you. I need you like caffeine hehehe. You're so talented 🩵

ugh I miss you

I miss you more

No way I do. How's LA?

Gosh, I love it! It's so much fun and working with Zoe Saldana is incredible. Same with Priah and Ariana, who has been tormenting me all day haha. Well her character bullies my character at school. We actually shoot at a real high school which is pretty cool and it makes the show more authentic

Sounds like a lot of fun

If only you were here :(

Eventually babe :)

I gotta go another long day awaits me tomorrow. I love you, night 🩵

Love you sleep well baby ❤️

I drift off to sleep too, with thoughts of Malia, and seeing her when the time comes.