The next morning, the group was up before the sun, the air buzzing with the usual pre-show energy. Everyone shuffled around, gathering their things and heading out the door. Story stifled a yawn as she followed Billie to the van, where Maggie, Finneas, Claudia, and Patrick were already waiting.
The ride to the arena was filled with quiet chatter and Billie's music softly playing in the background. Story leaned her head against the window, watching the city blur past, while Billie rested beside her, scrolling on her phone.
When they arrived at the venue, the team split up to get started on their respective tasks. Billie led Story to her dressing room, where they sat for a while, chatting and laughing as Billie sipped on her morning Poppi and reviewed her setlist.
"You ready for another day in the life of a touring artist?" Billie teased, stretching out on the couch.
Story laughed. "I'm always ready."
After some time, Story started to get curious about how the rest of the crew spent their day. She stood and smoothed out her outfit. "I think I'm gonna go find Maggie," she said, glancing at Billie.
"She's probably already bossing the entire backstage by now," Billie replied with a grin. "Have fun."
Story waved as she left the room, weaving her way through the maze of hallways until she spotted Maggie near the production area. Maggie was busy but carried herself with an effortless calm, her clipboard in hand and a smile on her face as she spoke with a group of crew members.
"Morning, Story!" Maggie greeted warmly when she noticed her.
"Morning! Thought I'd come see what you do around here," Story replied with a smile.
"Well, stick around," Maggie said. "It's not glamorous, but it's a lot of fun if you like organized chaos."
Story spent the next hour shadowing Maggie, and it quickly became clear that she was the backbone of the entire operation. Maggie had an incredible way of balancing kindness with authority. She gave the crew room to do their jobs while subtly steering things in the right direction.
When a lighting tech seemed flustered about a last-minute change, Maggie gently guided him back on track. "Take a deep breath," she said calmly. "You've got this. Just double-check the cues, and we'll be good to go."
Story watched in admiration. "You make it look so easy," she said.
Maggie laughed. "Trust me, it's not. But it helps when you have a great team."
As they moved through the backstage area, Story couldn't help but notice how everyone gravitated toward Maggie. Crew members stopped to ask her questions, share updates, or just exchange a quick smile. It was clear that they respected and adored her.
Eventually, Maggie led Story to catering, where the crew was setting up lunch for everyone. They grabbed plates and sat down at one of the long tables.
"So, how's it been hanging out with Billie on tour?" Maggie asked, her tone teasing.
Story laughed, her cheeks flushing slightly. "It's... amazing, honestly. She's so down-to-earth. I feel like I've learned so much just being around her."
"She thinks the same about you, you know," Maggie said, giving Story a knowing look.
Story blinked in surprise. "Really?"
Maggie nodded. "Oh, absolutely. Billie doesn't let just anyone into her circle. You're special to her, Story."
The words warmed Story's heart, and she smiled down at her plate. "That means a lot."
YOU ARE READING
Everything I Wanted
FanfictionRising star Story Belle is quickly finding her voice in a world where dreams rarely come true. With lyrics that cut to the core and a sound as unique as she is, she's caught the attention of fans everywhere. But there's one person she's always hoped...
