Hookup ✓ [MikhAiah] [Book #3]

41

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The soundcheck finally wraps up, and the girls step off the stage, leaving their instruments resting under the spotlight. They drop down the stairs, tired but relieved, each one unclipping their mic packs and handing them over to the staff waiting backstage. They make their way back to the waiting room, where a comfortable couch awaits, beckoning them to unwind.

Aira smiles as they settle in. "If you guys feel like it, you're free to roam around the venue since it's still early. Or, if you want to check out your outfits in the dressing room or make adjustments to your instruments, feel free to do that too."

"Will do, Ai," Johanne responds, and the others nod in agreement, their tired faces brightening a little.

Aira adjusts her watch. "Okay, I'll be out with some of the staff for a bit. Rest well, girls." With a final wave, she heads out, leaving the band alone in the quiet room.

Johanne stretches, glancing around. "Parang gusto ko mag-ikot."

Gale sighs, dramatic but tired. "Dito muna ako. I'll nap for a bit. Kulang tulog ko kanina," she says, laying down on the couch and crossing her arms over her chest.

Miki stands up and rolls her shoulders. "Tara, Johanne. I need to unwind a little, kahit sandali lang." Johanne loops her arm through Miki's, and Miki grimaces in playful disgust.

"Parang diring-diri ka naman sa'kin," Johanne teases, feigning hurt.

Miki laughs. "Hindi lang parang," she replies, and they exit with grins, leaving Gale and Chase to themselves in the room.

From her spot on the couch, Chase watches the two leave, the room now quiet. She glances over at Gale, who yawns and stretches. "I'll nap for an hour siguro," Gale mumbles, her voice muffled as she pulls her hoodie over her face and settles into a comfortable position.

Chase nods, already feeling the weight of her own fatigue. "Same here. Medyo bitin din tulog ko kanina." She yawns, settling back into the couch and covering herself with her own hoodie. She crosses her arms, allowing herself to drift, knowing she'll need the rest. Today was going to be packed, more than any other day, and she could feel the tension loosening as sleep gradually pulled her under.