[A tempting offer.]

Jeremy found himself unable to get up from bed, yet his consciousness refused to yield to the tantalising drowsiness of slumber. His mind churned with a plethora of thoughts, reeling him back to the events that had unfolded prior yesterday.

The humid air was starting to get onto Jeremy's nerves. He groaned and fanned himself with his already-damp shirt, hoping the small wind would provide at least a little assuagement from the merciless summer heat. It was even worse after their performance- he stank of sweat.

Perhaps he really should've taken Mark's advice to change before he headed out.

'Whatever,' he chided himself. 'You've already left. Just get the damn parts and return to shower.'

And that, he did.

The cool air of the shop was like water in a desert. The chill nipped his clammy skin the moment he pushed open the glass door. He couldn't help but exhale in relief.

"Jeremy, just on time," a stout man from behind the counter called out, catching his attention. "I see you guys performed yet another gig? How'd it go?"

"Not as many people as we thought, but it counts." With a forced laugh he slid onto a chair and leaned against the counter. "That aside, are the parts ready?"

The man grinned. "Sure they are. Hold on, I'll get them for ya." And with that, he lumbered off into another room.

Once alone, Jeremy let his head drop into his arms, a dispirited sigh escaping his chapped lips as he recalled the lamentable crowd that actually came by the club. He couldn't blame it on the club owner though, as it should've been expected for a small town like theirs. They were never going to make a name for themselves.

Perhaps... he should listen to his parents, quit the band and start studying for college. Maybe get a degree in finance or something.

Lost in his thoughts, he hadn't even notice the door creaking open again until a thump resonated against the wooden surface. He glanced up and blinked upon seeing a big bottle of juice in front of him.

"Where're the parts?" he blurted the first thing that popped into his mind amidst the minor puzzlement. The 50-year-old man merely let out a hearty laugh. "You're impatient, all right. Can't you give an old man some time?" With a huff, he heaved a case next to the bottle. Flipping open the lid, Jeremy peered over and couldn't help the smile tugging at his lips.

"Everything's here, like you requested," his tone was laced with pride as Jeremy brushed his fingers across the items, then picked them up to examine them with such delicacy one would handle for fine china. Aside from the guitar strings, drummer sticks and other small pieces, a shiny, silver capo caught his eye. The unique golden floral ornament that weaved in between the gap of the handle surrounded a horse mid-gallop, and its beauty instantly captured his heart.

"Uncle Rob..." he could only stutter. The bearded man ran his hand over the curve of his bare head, grinning. "Just a personal gift. So when you make it out to the city there ain't no reason to forget me, yeah? I have high hopes for you, son."

His words struck his chord in his heart. All he could feel was wordless gratitude and newfound determination. "T-Thank you, uncle... If we make it out there, I'll be sure to let everyone know of you."

Another guffaw broke from the older man's lips. "You better. Now hurry along, and take this with you." He shoved the 1.5 litre bottle into his hands. "My treat."

All Jeremy could do was tip forward into a bow, before he turned to leave.

However, before he could commence his journey back, a black limo pulled up in front of the street rather abruptly. He frowned at the driver's recklessness, but as soon as the rear mirror pulled down he realised it was intentional.

The man in the back slid down his sunglasses to peer at the said teen with black irises. "Jeremy Siew," he uttered, and Jeremy froze. Who was this man, and what did he want?

The man didn't await his reply to proceed. "My name's Terrence Chew, director of the music company CG Enterprise. Would you mind coming in for a short chat?"

Jeremy hesitated. He didn't know his authenticity, and if what he said was true, but he gradually nodded. If someone wanted to kidnap him he doubt it would be in a limousine. And so, the door swung open, and he warily slipped in.

Once seated on the posh cushion, "Mr Chew" stretched a hand out for a handshake, to which he returned. "Pleased to meet you, Jeremy. Let's get straight to the point, shall we?"

"Y-Yes, likewise, Mr Chew," the stutter at the beginning caught himself off guard. He had not expected this day to find himself in such predicament.

Satisfied, the man leaned back into his seat and linked fingers across his crossed lap. "I have been watching you for some time and come to the conclusion that..."

Jeremy gulped, his heart palpitating against his ribcage.

"... I want to offer you a place in my company as a member of an uprising American-Asian band I hope to create. Your talents at the guitar aren't... incompetent either, and your voice has potential."

Jeremy could feel himself literally lighting up in jubilation, but it simmered as quickly as it surface. "Wait... you mean... only me?"

Mr Chew's smile widened. "Yes, only you."

The sudden realisation shattered his ecstasy. This was the offer of a lifetime, a huge leap to reach his dreams... at the cost of his bandmates.

Before he could dwell any longer, Mr Chew proceeded to explain: "You will be provided with a place to live in the city throughout your training session, and of course, there would be monetory rewards when all goes swell, which I'm quite confident of. Free coaching sessions will be provided along withal the facilities you need to utilise your practices. It's a great opportunity to hone your talents."

"At... what price...?" was the only thing he could muster out. An amused glint flashed in his eyes. "A contract. But of course, it will be revealed only if you concur."

His mind was a myriad of thoughts now, overwhelmed by the scenario. "I..." Jeremy took a deep breath. "I need some time..."

With a knowing smirk, Mr Chew reached into his pocket to take out a wallet. "Of course, here." He presented Jeremy a business card.

"Call me anytime. But remember, this may be your only chance."

Jeremy groaned and buried his face into his pillow. Of course, Mr Chew would know the power the tempting offer possessed over him. That was why he was unable to bring himself to discuss with his bandmates. How could he? They had been together for three years now, and the vow they made to each other weighted his heart.

Yes, this was what he had always yearned, but to betray his brothers, was it really worth the weight of his promise?

In his heart, he knew it was.

Unable to hold in any longer, he leaped up from bed and reach for his phone. To hell with the time, if he was disturbing them they would be wide awake after hearing his news.

"Hey, Mark, I have something I gotta tell you..."

♧[26/5/2020]♧