Cadenza [BINI Mikha X OC]

Chapter 23: Nightmare

Thursday morning. There were only two days left before the start of the BINIVerse II regional concerts. The clock was ticking for both BINI and Solstice, with just two days of rehearsals to perfect their performances. Despite the tight schedule, their synchronicity made it possible to work efficiently. However, today wasn't about rehearsing—it was about logistics.

It was time to transport the materials and equipment for the upcoming concert. Trucks loaded with instruments, sound systems, and stage setups were scheduled to arrive well before BINI's flight, as these resources required extra time for setup. Jon and his band, Solstice, had opted to travel early with the production crew to ensure everything was ready by the time BINI arrived.

At 4 a.m., the roads of Manila were still dark and quiet. Jon drove his car, accompanied by Rose and Elio, both of whom sat slumped in their seats, trying to catch up on sleep. The air was crisp, with the occasional streetlight illuminating the empty roads. Jon sipped from his coffee tumbler, trying to shake off the drowsiness that crept in. He had a long drive ahead.

In the backseat, Elio had his headphones on, eyes closed, presumably listening on the songs they had to practice. The 18-year-old had impressed Jon with his dedication. Elio had taken a gap year to pursue music with Solstice, a decision most people his age wouldn't dare make. But here he was, on the road with them, committed to chasing a dream that was still taking shape.

Jon glanced over at Rose, who had dozed off moments after they began the journey. He smiled softly. Despite her sharp and witty personality, Rose always managed to find comfort in any situation. She had been with him the longest, both as a friend and a bandmate, and there was an understanding between them, one that longtime friends have.

The streets were still manageable, with barely any vehicles to disrupt their pace. It was one of the few advantages of driving this early in Manila. Jon's mind drifted, thinking about the upcoming concerts, the equipment they were hauling, and whether everything would go smoothly. He knew that testing the venue's sound system early was crucial, and that's why they decided to travel with the logistics team.

After about two hours, the sky was beginning to shift, hints of orange creeping along the horizon. The inside of the car was quiet, save for the soft hum of the engine and the music that played in the background. Jon was lost in thought, but the sudden vibration of his phone snapped him out of it.

A name flashed on the screen, and Jon couldn't help but smile. It was a bit surprising to get a call this early, but he answered without hesitation.

"Good morning," Jon greeted. "How are you awake at this time of day?"

"I just woke up," Mikha said, her voice slightly groggy. "I remembered you guys were traveling today, so I thought I'd check in."

"How thoughtful," Jon replied, a teasing edge in his tone. "Did Haru wake you up?"

Jon could almost picture Mikha pouting on the other end. "She did. I don't know what to do with this cat sometimes."

"You should bring her along one day," Jon suggested, eyes still on the road. "Then I can finally meet her."

"Are you fond of cats?" Mikha asked, sounding genuinely curious.

"I have one myself, actually," Jon said, glancing briefly at the rearview mirror to check on his passengers. Both Rose and Elio were still fast asleep.

"Really?" Mikha said, surprised. "I always thought you'd be more of a dog person."

"I also have a dog," Jon chuckled. "Maybe one day I'll bring them both to meet you."