Merch bitch - Ariana Grande

Chapter 4 - Let the music play

or how to listen to a live album every day for free 

Eileen still woke up her grey Stanford sweater, not remembering last night's dream. But instead of finding herself in her cozy and slightly cold dorm room, she was in a hotel room in Albany. She had her work cut in front of her, so she put her hair up in a ponytail and got her headphones. There was no better way to start your morning than with a song. And Lena choose one of her all-time favourites, humming along as she did her makeup. After she was done performing her one-woman production of Rent, she shrugged off her hoodie and changed into a button-up. It was time for her to actually start the day and that began with a visit. Ariana, please take me for what I am, Eileen thought.

  After knocking on Ariana's door and being let in, Lena began by simply saying

''Miss Grande, I would like to apologize for my behaviour yesterday, it was highly unprofessional and it will not be repeated.'' 

''There's no problem, I understand how all of this can feel overwhelming better than anyone. I just wish that you could have stayed and enjoyed the concert.''

''Yes, then I would have finally heard your songs.''

''Do you mean hearing them live? Or have you never heard my music before?'' The singer asked. It was obvious that she would be confused, after all, it was bizarre that a girl her age wouldn't be listening to one of the biggest pop stars and overall artists of the year.

''I'm afraid it's the second one.  I don't know if I should be proud or ashamed of this, but my music taste consists of solely classical rock and show tunes. So it's nothing personal.'' Eileen explained.

''Okay, then let me sing something that's more your speed before you hear one of my songs.'' Lena half-expected Ariana to start belting out something like ''Don't stop believing'', but that was not the case. On the contrary, she started singing ''Take me or leave me'' from Rent, the very song that had started off the other's morning. Fate was a cruel mistress. Either that or they were soulmates as if such an outlandish concept would exist. Eileen had been snapped out of her daze by Ariana hitting the perfect note, which was expected. When the song ended she clapped enthusiastically, not caring if she looked stupid.

''Okay, this little concert aside, I have prepared some information about this tour, I'd love for someone to confirm it as soon as possible, so I can come up with a future marketing plan.''

Ariana looked over the table of contents and thought ''Triple h model? Four c model? What is this - kindergarten with all these letters and numbers?'', but instead she said 

''I'll have someone who actually understands this look at that. You know that even if I'm technically in charge I'm not actually in charge. But it seems like you really know what you're doing. I'm glad that you applied for this position, it feels nice to be in the presence of a smart young woman.''

''Thank you. Actually, this was sort of one big coincidence. But that's a long story you probably don't have time for right now.''

''Unfortunately, you're right. But that doesn't mean that I wouldn't love to know you better, after all, we're gonna be working together for a while. So what do you say to a girls night, sometimes this week? I'll let you know when I have time.''

''Sounds good.'' Lena found herself saying. She had a feeling that this girls night would be unlike anything she experienced with Sandy watching Netflix in their pyjamas and stalking their high school classmates on Instagram. But whatever their future ''party'' entailed, Eileen was ready for it. Or so she thought.