Unlikely Harmony || DaouOffroad AU

CH3. Uneven ground

The days following the intense rehearsal sessions were a whirlwind of activity.

After another long practice session, the studio lights dimmed and the sounds of their combined music faded into the background. Daou stretched his back and began packing up his bag. He could feel the weariness settling in his bones, but there was a sense of accomplishment in the air.

Offroad, who had been busy re-adjusting the tuning on his guitar, glanced over at Daou. "Hey, do you want to grab dinner?"

Daou looked up, surprised. "Dinner?"

"Yeah," Offroad said with a shrug, his tone casual but his eyes betraying a hint of curiosity.

"We've been working together pretty intensively. Thought it might be good to take a break. Get out of here for a bit."

Daou hesitated. The idea of spending more time with Offroad outside the studio was daunting. Their interactions had been filled with tension, but there was something about the offer that seemed... reasonable. Besides, the idea of heading straight home and collapsing into bed was less appealing than it normally might be.

"Alright," Daou said finally, nodding.

"Where do you want to go?"

Offroad's grin widened. "I know a place. It's not far from here. Good food, casual atmosphere. Perfect for unwinding after all this."

They left the studio together, the evening air a welcome change from the sterile confines of the rehearsal room. The city's vibrant energy was a stark contrast to the quiet focus of their recent work.

The restaurant Offroad led Daou to was a cozy, unassuming place tucked away on a side street. The neon sign outside flickered intermittently, but inside, the ambiance was warm and inviting. The scent of grilled meat and spices filled the air, mingling with the soft hum of conversation.

Offroad led Daou to a booth in the back, away from the main crowd. As they settled in, the waitstaff greeted them with friendly smiles and menus. Offroad ordered a round of drinks, something strong for himself and a more moderate choice for Daou, before turning his attention back to his partner.

"So," Offroad began, his voice slightly more relaxed than usual. "How do you feel about how things are going?"

Daou took a sip of his drink, the coolness a refreshing change from the heat of the day.

"It's... coming along. We're making progress, but there's still a lot to do. I'm hoping we can get it all nailed down before the festival."

Offroad nodded, his eyes thoughtful. "Yeah, the festival's going to be a big deal. I've been getting a lot of pressure from my side too. This collaboration needs to deliver or it's going to be a huge letdown."

Daou studied him, trying to test his sincerity. "You don't seem too worried."

Offroad chuckled. "I've learned not to let it show. If you let the pressure get to you, it'll mess with your head. Better to keep focused and deal with things as they come."

Daou raised an eyebrow. "You're surprisingly philosophical."

"I've had my fair share of experiences. Learned a few things along the way." Offroad smirked.

As the food arrived, their conversation slowed to a more comfortable pace. They ate, exchanging casual remarks and enjoying the simple pleasure of a good meal. Daou couldn't help but notice how much Offroad seemed to relish the food, savouring each bite with an almost childlike enthusiasm. It was a rare sight—Offroad, usually sharp and rebellious, now seemed relaxed, even playful. It was a side of him Daou didn't usually get to see.