It didn't take long before the day of the festival arrived.

The music festival, in all of its glory, was decorated with bright colors and promised unforgettable memories.

The air was charged with excitement as the bustling crowd eagerly gathered around the various stages that were scattered throughout the expansive venue.

Luca stood at the heart of it all, his heart swelling with pride and anticipation. He had poured his heart and soul into making this festival a success.

Alongside the rest of the team, he had worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the event was meticulously planned and flawlessly executed.

The days leading up to the event had been a whirlwind of activity. Luca and his team had pulled countless all-nighters, fueled by an unwavering dedication to their craft. They had encountered numerous obstacles along the way, but their passion and determination had carried them through.

As Luca glanced around at the sea of smiling faces and vibrant costumes, he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment wash over him.

He just arrived at the festival and he needed to go to the makeshift studio to get ready for the livestream.

Entering the studio, Luca found himself surrounded by the hum of cameras and the scent of hastily consumed energy drinks. The tech crew scurried about, making final adjustments to ensure the livestream would capture every electrifying moment.

A makeup artist quickly made forward her way toward Luca, armed with brushes and palettes. With swift strokes, she applied a touch of foundation and a hint of color to enhance Luca's features.

"Taya!" Greeted Theo as he walked into the studio. He looked like he had gone through the entire festival itself, as he was carrying a lot of goodies and treats.

"Theo! You need to redo your makeup!" Theo's makeup artist scolded as he forced Theo into a chair.

Luca chuckled at the playful banter between Theo and his makeup artist.

Once the two were done, a member of the production crew brought Luca over to a nicely decorated set. One decorated with the same aesthetic of the festival as well as heaters when the night will begin to set.

The colorful lights of the festival illuminated the makeshift studio, creating a vibrant backdrop for the upcoming livestream.

Another crew member had assisted Luca in attaching the mic properly before he sat down and looked through his ipad for the schedule.

Before the entire event could start, Luca had to conduct several interviews. He had scheduled it so that he would be able to enjoy the festival without worrying about the interviews and other factors.

The first interviewee happened to be VISION.

"Levani, it's nice to meet you," Luca greeted once Levani sat down for his interview.

The moment Luca said Levani's name, Levani looked scared as his eyes started darting side to side.

Luca, sensing Levani's unease, offered a reassuring smile. "No need to be nervous. We haven't started recording yet."

"Oh...how did you know my name? It's not recorded whenever I go on as VISION," Levani asked, his voice soft and low to make sure others do not hear.

"I'm a friend of Wei's and some of your mutuals," Luca reassured and Levani seemed to relax a bit. "It's fine though. If you want me to refer to you by VISION as I will during the interview, I will do that. I just want you to be comfortable for this interview."

Levani nodded appreciatively, the tension in his shoulders easing. "I prefer VISION if that's fine."

"Alright," Luca said. He understood that VISION feels somewhat uncomfortable with using his actual name. Wei had previously warned him before. "Whenever you feel like it, we should start."

VISION took a deep breath, settling into the chair as the studio lights focused on him.

Luca, with a nod to the crew, initiated the recording.

"Our current featured artist is a nominee for New Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and various other prestigious categories. He's the latest heartthrob, captivating audiences with his magnetic performances and soulful music. Let's delve into the world of emotions and melodies as we welcome the sensational VISION," Luca introduced before turning to the said person.

"Hello VISION, how are you?" Luca softly asked.

VISION, meeting Luca's gaze, replied, "I'm doing well, thank you. It's an honor to be here."

Luca, leaning into the conversational flow, continued, "You've been quite busy this year. Releasing your first full-length album as well as starting your tour. We're grateful for you to join us for today's festival."

VISION nodded, "Of course. Thank you very much. I've never really thought I would make it this far. Despite what everyone thinks, creating a full length album takes a lot of work and thought process into it. My songs are nothing special, but they represent a big part of who I am as a songwriter."

Luca frowned slightly. "That's not true. Each of your songs has something to say, and that's not just coming from me. So many of your fans love your song."

VISION's eyes sparkled with appreciation as he responded, "Thank you, Luca. It means a lot to hear that. I pour my heart into each song, and knowing they resonate with others is the greatest reward."

"That being said, you'll be performing later today. How do you feel about that?" Luca asked.

VISION took a moment to collect his thoughts, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Performing live is always an exhilarating experience. There's a unique connection that forms between the music, the audience, and me. It's an opportunity to share something special, and I'm genuinely excited to be a part of this festival."

Luca nodded, sensing the genuine enthusiasm in VISION's words. "Is there anything in particular you do to prepare yourself before going on stage? Any rituals or routines?"

VISION chuckled, "Well, I do have a few rituals. I like to take a moment alone, focus on my breath, and immerse myself in the energy of the venue. It helps me center myself and get into the right mindset. And of course, a quick pep talk with my team never hurts."

As the interview continued, Luca and VISION explored various facets of the artist's journey. The questions flowed seamlessly, each answer offering a glimpse of VISION's character.

It didn't take long before Luca had interviewed all 10 artists before the start of the concert.

"Taya, are you alright?" Theo asked as he handed Luca a water bottle once the last artist left the makeshift studio to go back to their trailer.

Luca, a bead of sweat glistening on his forehead, took the offered water bottle. "It's nothing. I haven't interviewed that many people after each other before," he admitted.

With a flick of his wrist, Luca unscrewed the cap, revealing the cool condensation on the bottle's surface. As the clear liquid beckoned, he brought the bottle to his lips, taking a slow, deliberate sip. The water cascaded down, quenching his thirst with a sensual satisfaction.

As Luca took a sip, some of the water couldn't help but trickle down the side of his lips. Theo, with a playful grin, handed him a tissue.

"Thank you," Luca said as he took the tissue to dab on the side of his mouth.

"What is on the agenda now? I have completed my side of interviews and took the viewers around the festival itself, highlighting different parts. But what should I do now?" Theo asked.

"Well, it just turned 5. We should start heading towards the stage itself to open the festival," Luca said as checked his iPad and the itinerary for the festival.

A crew member had rushed over and assisted in removing the microphone of Luca's body.

Luca, now microphone-free, signaled to the stage crew, "Let's get ready for the opening. Theo, follow me. We're about to kick off the main event."

A couple other crew members arrived to assist Luca and Theo to go backstage.

As Luca and Theo made their way to the main stage, the backstage area buzzed with organized chaos.

Stagehands hurriedly moved equipment into position, adjusting lighting fixtures and testing microphones. Technicians scurried about, ensuring the equipment was in prime condition for the upcoming performances.

As Luca moved closer to the stage, the stage crew huddled in a quick pre-show meeting. The stage manager barked out instructions, ensuring everyone was on the same page. "Lights, sound, and visuals need to be perfect. We're kicking off with a bang, people!"

The crew responded with determined affirmations, each member aware of the critical role they played in the success of the event. The stage, a canvas waiting to be painted with music and lights, awaited its transformation.

Luca, now standing at the edge of the stage, observed the final checks. The giant speakers hummed to life, emitting a low, anticipatory vibration. The stage lights flickered, casting vibrant hues across the stage. The air crackled with electricity.

Theo was going around with the camera in his hand. He interviewed a few stagehands, giving viewers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes magic that made the festival possible.

A headset-wearing crew member approached Luca. "All systems are a go, Taya. The artists are ready backstage. We're just waiting for your cue to kick off the festival."

Luca, feeling the energy of the moment, nodded. "Let's do this."

One of the crew members approached Luca, holding a clipboard. "Everything is set for the opening, Luca. The stage is prepped, and the artist and backup dancers are in position. We're ready when you are."

Luca nodded appreciatively. "Good job, everyone. Let's make this opening unforgettable."

Luca approached Theo, who was checking his camera equipment, ready to capture the essence of the festival. "Theo, we're about to open the concert. Give the camera to the assistant behind you. They should be able to record."

Theo nodded. "Okay Taya. It's a lot of people though. What if I start stuttering?"

Luca placed a reassuring hand on Theo's shoulder. "You've got this, Theo. Just be yourself, and let the energy of the festival guide you. If it gets bad, just focus on me."

Theo took a deep breath, his nerves settling. "Thanks, Taya. Let's do this."

As Theo handed his camera to the assistant, Luca and he exchanged a quick nod. The stage crew, sensing the readiness of the hosts, intensified their efforts to ensure everything was flawless for the grand opening.

The assistant, now equipped with Theo's camera, gave him a thumbs-up. Theo reciprocated, the determination in his eyes shining through.

The countdown began, and the crew members dispersed, each taking their designated positions. The festival was about to unfold, and Luca, standing in the wings, took a deep breath, ready to welcome the audience into a night of music and magic.

The distant hum of the crowd grew louder, signaling the anticipation building in the air. Luca could feel the energy pulsating through the festival grounds, and he knew it was time to share that excitement.

Luca turned to Theo, a grin on his face. "Remember, it's not about being perfect; it's about being real. Let's give them a show they'll never forget."

In Luca's earpiece, he listened to the assistant giving the countdown and directing the music and controls.

The opening act's music faded, and the stage lights focused on Luca and Theo as they walked to the center of the stage.

As Luca and Theo stepped into the spotlight, the cheers from the crowd reached a crescendo. Everyone was excited for this music festival to start.

"Ladies and gentlemen! Boys and girls and non-binary friends!" Luca's voice reverberated with infectious energy, embracing the diverse crowd. "I am your host Luca Chantasri and this is my co-host Theo Kaplan. We are thrilled to welcome you to the most extraordinary music festival of the year!"

Theo, standing alongside Luca, felt the electricity in the air. The crowd's enthusiasm fueled their own excitement, and Theo couldn't help but share a quick, nervous grin with Luca.

As the cheers continued, Luca raised his hand, encouraging the audience to amplify their excitement. "Tonight, we've gathered here to celebrate the power of music. It's a universal language that knows no boundaries, and together, we're going to create memories that last a lifetime."

Theo, still adjusting to the spotlight, took a moment to soak in the sea of faces before him. He decided to focus on Luca as the jitters seem to intensen as Theo looked at the crowd.

Luca, however, continued to engage the crowd with charm and charisma.

"Now, without further ado, let's kick off this incredible night! Are you ready for the first act?" Luca exclaimed, prompting another round of cheers.

Theo then chimed in, "That's right! Get ready to be blown away by the amazing talents we've got lined up for you tonight. This festival is all about celebrating diversity, and our artists are here to take you on a musical journey like no other."

As Theo spoke, he felt Luca's supportive presence beside him. Gathering his confidence, Theo joined Luca in encouraging the crowd. The cheers intensified, and the vibrant energy of the festival swept through the audience.

Backstage, the next act awaited their cue. The assistant signaled the countdown, and Theo, focusing on Luca's reassuring smile, found himself settling into the rhythm of the event.

Luca, with a twinkle in his eye, addressed the audience again. "Our first performer is an artist whose passion for music knows no bounds. They've poured their heart and soul into creating an experience you won't forget. Are you ready to be enchanted?"

The crowd erupted in cheers, and the stage lights shifted to illuminate the next performer. Theo, swept up in the contagious enthusiasm, couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement.

Theo leaned in slightly, speaking into his microphone, "Prepare yourselves for an unforgettable journey into the world of sound. Without further delay, let's welcome the sensational..."

Before he could finish, the stage erupted with music, and the artist stepped into the spotlight, beginning their performance. The crowd's cheers seamlessly merged with the pulsating rhythm, creating a symphony of excitement.

Luca and Theo, now in the wings, watched the stage with excitement.

Luca turned to Theo, giving him an encouraging nod. "You're doing great, Theo. Since we opened it, everything passes by easily."

And right he was.

As the music filled the air and the crowd's energy soared, Theo found himself caught up in the magic of the moment. Luca's words of encouragement eased his nerves, and he couldn't help but smile as he witnessed the festival unfolding before them.

The first performer delivered a captivating show, and the cheers of the audience reverberated through the venue.

As the lights dimmed a bit and the artists was brought down, Luca and Theo went back to the stage.

As they returned to the stage, the assistant handed them their microphones, and the vibrant lights illuminated their faces once again. The crowd, still buzzing from the first performance, eagerly awaited the next act.

"Theo, you're doing an amazing job," Luca whispered as they took their positions. "Just keep that energy going, and let's keep the audience engaged. They're in for a treat tonight!"

Theo nodded, a renewed sense of confidence in his eyes. "Thanks, Luca. I'm ready for the next act. Let's make it unforgettable!"

Luca turned to face the audience, the excitement palpable in the air. "Ladies and gentlemen, that was just the beginning! We've got more incredible acts lined up for you. Are you ready for the next one?"

The crowd erupted in cheers, their enthusiasm echoing through the venue. Theo, microphone in hand, added, "What an opening that was, Taya! Are the rest going to be as crazy as this?"

Luca grinned, his eyes reflecting the contagious energy of the festival. "Absolutely, Theo! We've got a diverse lineup with each act bringing their unique flavor. From soulful ballads to electrifying performances, this night is going to be a rollercoaster of emotions. Get ready for a musical journey like no other!"

Theo nodded, his excitement matching Luca's. "I'm loving every moment of it, Taya. Let's keep the momentum going!"

As the duo addressed the audience, the stage lights flickered, signaling the start of the next act. The crowd hushed in anticipation, eager to be swept away by the next musical revelation.

"Theo, how invested are you in theories?" Luca asked, ready to introduce the next act.

"What kind of theories? The normal ones like conspiracy theories, or are we talking about the wild ones, like fan theories about hidden messages in songs?" Theo replied with a playful grin.

Luca chuckled, appreciating Theo's sense of humor. "Let's go with the wild ones. You know, the kind that has fans dissecting every lyric, searching for hidden meanings. Our next artist has a knack for weaving intricate stories into their music. It's like a puzzle waiting to be solved."

Theo's eyes widened with curiosity. "Now, that sounds intriguing. I love a good mystery. Let's unravel it for the audience!"

As they bantered, the stage lights shifted once again, casting a spotlight on the next performer. The crowd, still buzzing with energy, eagerly anticipated the upcoming act.

"Ladies and gentlemen, prepare to be mystified!" Luca exclaimed. "Our next artist is a master storyteller, and their performance is sure to leave you in awe. Without further ado, let's welcome..."

Before Luca could reveal the artist's name, the stage erupted with a burst of lights and music. The mysterious performer, surrounded by an aura of enigma, took the stage. The crowd's cheers heightened, captivated by the allure of the unfolding performance.

It seemed as if the two would have to dive toward the sides every time an act is announced. It wasn't until VISION's act was over that Luca went backstage to crowd the younger. Theo trailed behind, his camera in hand to record.

Luca approached VISION with a warm smile. "VISION, that was amazing! How are you feeling after this performance?"

VISION, still catching his breath, grinned back at Luca. "It's crazy. Four songs with a couple minute of breaks of costume changes is going to leave anyone breathless. But the energy from the crowd is incredible. It's like a surge of electricity that keeps me going."

Theo, capturing the behind-the-scenes moment on camera, added, "The crowd was on fire! You really know how to keep them engaged."

VISION nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Theo. It's all about creating a connection. Music is a shared experience, and I want everyone to feel a part of it."

Luca, always curious, asked, "Do you have a favorite moment during your performance? Something that stands out to you?"

VISION took a moment to reflect, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "There was a point during the second song when I locked eyes with someone in the front row. They were singing along with every word, and you could see the passion in their eyes. It was a powerful moment of connection."

Luca smiled, understanding the significance of such moments. "Those connections are what make live performances so special. You're not just singing to a crowd; you're sharing an experience with each individual."

As VISION headed back to his trailer to prepare for the next part of the festival, Luca turned to Theo. "Let's get ready for the next introduction. The show must go on!"

Theo nodded, adjusting his camera. "Absolutely, Taya. It's been a wild ride so far, and I'm excited for what's next."

The duo made their way back to the stage, the energy of the festival palpable in the air. The night was still young, and the magic of the music festival continued to unfold with each performance, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

The concert flew by fast. Everyone was having fun, regardless if they were working behind the scenes or not.

After the concert was over and most of the audience happened to disperse, the backstage area transformed into a hive of activity once again.

Artists mingled, sharing congratulations and appreciations for each other's performances. The stage crew worked efficiently to dismantle the equipment, and the festival organizers began planning the next steps for the post-concert festivities.

Luca and Theo, still riding the high of the successful event, found a quiet corner backstage. The fatigue from the long night was apparent, but their excitement lingered.

"How does it feel, Dae? Something you want to do again?" Luca leaned against a stack of equipment cases, looking at Theo with a mixture of exhaustion and contentment.

Theo vigorously shook his head. "That drains a lot of me. Just like online meetings. I do not want to do that again."

"Did you not have fun Dae?" Luca chuckled as he bit into a protein bar that he kept in his bag.

Theo, rubbing his tired eyes, managed a small grin. "Oh, I had fun, Taya. Don't get me wrong. It's just, you know, the nerves and the pressure. It's like riding a roller coaster, thrilling but exhausting."

Luca chuckled. "Fair enough. It's not everyone's cup of tea. But you did great out there. Your energy resonated with the crowd, and I'm sure they loved every moment of it."

Theo leaned back against a nearby table, letting out a sigh. "Thanks, Taya. You're the pro at this hosting thing. How do you manage to stay so energetic?"

Luca shrugged, finishing his protein bar. "I've been doing this for a while. You get used to the adrenaline, and the energy of the crowd is infectious. Plus, I genuinely love connecting with people, sharing stories, and, of course, the music."

Theo nodded in understanding. "Well, I appreciate the opportunity, Taya. It was an experience, that's for sure."

"Taya!" Called a familiar voice.

Both Luca and Theo turned to see Kai walking up, a couple papers in his arms.

"That was incredible Taya! You were amazing!" Kai gushed.

Luca grinned, appreciating the genuine enthusiasm in Kai's voice. "But I didn't perform, why don't you say to one of the artists?"

As he was saying that, Luca looked around and spotted Levani who was looking at them.

Kai happened to see Levani too and gave him a menacing look. Levani seemed to scuttle away right at that.

"That's not nice Dae," Luca scolded.

Kai shrugged, "it's all his fault. That's what he's going to get."

"Kai," Luca sternly called.

Kai rolled his eyes, "By the way, Taya is here to drop me off. If you want to join us, you have a phone. I mean we won't leave right now but a little later you know."

"Yes I know," Luca chuckled as Kai seemed to run off.

Luca then turned his attention to Theo who was mimicking Kai's movement.

"That's just my dae. He's a family friend," Luca reassured. He didn't know he did that but he felt the need to."

"He looks familiar," Theo pondered.

"He said the same thing. Maybe you guys saw each other in passing," Luca shrugged, "let's go and get some food from the stalls."

Luca then grabbed Theo's wrist and dragged him out of the backstage area.

The stalls haven't packed up yet as the festival activities happen to fall on the weekend and it seems to be always bustling regardless of the day or time.

As Luca and Theo emerged from the backstage area, the lively atmosphere of the festival still echoed in the air. The colorful lights, the distant beats of music, and the laughter of festival-goers created a vibrant backdrop for their post-concert adventure.

Strolling through the stalls, the enticing aroma of various cuisines filled the air. Food trucks and stalls offered a diverse array of options, from sizzling street food to decadent desserts.

They stopped at a random food stall as Luca realized Theo hadn't eaten in a while. He looked at the menu as he asked, "What are you in the mood for, Dae?"

Theo glanced over the menu, his eyes becoming more serious as he thought on the best option, but he didn't know what to take. "Surprise me, Taya. I'm open to anything."

Luca grinned, taking it as a challenge. "Alright, let's get something new." He approached the vendor and engaged in a lively conversation, eventually deciding on a dish that seemed to intrigue both him and Theo.

As they were waiting, Luca glanced at his watch. "The fireworks should be starting in about half an hour. We should finish eating quickly and then make our way."

"Oh yeah. I completely forgot about them. We still have time to see them?" Theo asked.

"I'll show you a nice place where we can view them. Are you sensitive to fireworks?" Luca asked as he got up as the stall owner called them over for their food.

"Not really. As long as they're not in front of me," Theo shook his head.

"Really? To be honest, at some point you just become numb to it," Luca shrugged. "For the university festival, we had to test the fireworks and see which ones were the best. We were also able to figure out the nulls from that too."

"I guess I should start carrying headphones around."

"You don't already?" Luca asked confused.

"I don't need to? I don't listen to music the often when I'm outside and they happen to fall of my ear time to time," Theo shrugged.

"Have you changed the silicon cover sizes? Those should make it better for you to use," Luca pointed out.

"I just throw them away."

At that moment, Luca was shocked and it showed on his face.

"Taya! You can't happen to keep all of them do you? You get a couple of pairs each time. You're going it have a collection at the end!"

"No no you don't get to talk. You throw away this pieces. What if you realize the ones you have don't actually fit or you want new ones or customize it a little?" Luca asked with horror.

"I don't use headphones Taya so I don't have any need for them."

Luca signed with disappointment. Theo face palmed at this reaction.

Once again looking at the time, Luca realized they won't make it in time if they don't leave now. Lucky for him, he's a fast eater and is used to carrying several plates of food while eating and walking at the same time.

"Let's go. We're not going to fully make it there on time," Luca said as he helped Theo with Theo's food.

Theo chuckled, following Luca's lead. "You're like a festival wizard, Taya. Eating, walking, and coordinating like it's second nature."

Luca grinned, balancing his plate expertly. "Years of practice. You'll get there too, Dae."

Despite planning to head to the spot as quickly as possible, they ended up getting sidetracked.

As they navigated through the festival, they passed by stalls selling various trinkets, vibrant artworks, and even a makeshift photo booth where festival-goers posed with whimsical props.

The air was filled with laughter and the chatter of people immersed in the festival's enchanting atmosphere.

As Luca and Theo walked through the festival, they stumbled upon a stall selling handcrafted jewelry. Luca, drawn to the artistic pieces, couldn't resist stopping to take a closer look.

"These are stunning," Luca commented, picking up a delicate bracelet. "Ever thought about wearing accessories, Dae?"

Theo examined the bracelets with a thoughtful expression. "Not really my thing, Taya. I tend to keep it simple. But I noticed that you wear a lot of accessories."

Luca chuckled. "A habit I picked up from my sister. She loses some of her accessories and then I have to take off one of mine to give to her."

As they continued their stroll, a street performer caught their attention. A skilled fire dancer twirled flaming batons with mesmerizing precision. The crowd gathered around, captivated by the daring performance.

Theo watched, entranced by the flames. "That takes some serious skill. I can't even juggle a simple orange."

Luca grinned. "Maybe we should start with something less fiery. Oranges are a good start."

They meandered toward a section where local artists displayed their paintings. The vibrant colors and diverse styles created a gallery of visual delights.

"Imagine having a wall at home filled with these," Theo mused, gazing at a particularly vivid landscape.

Luca nodded. "Art can really transform a space. Each piece tells a story."

Theo pointed at a quirky abstract painting. "What story does that one tell?"

Luca laughed. It was one of the maker space artwork that the kids did to pass the time. "The story of someone who probably had a lot of fun with paint."

The night progressed, filled with laughter, shared stories, and the joyous atmosphere of the festival. At some point Luca and Theo reached a nicely decorated area. intricately woven fabrics that created a cozy haven amidst the festival's vibrant chaos.

"-and it doesn't make sense that," Luca continued animatedly, "they would build a spaceship out of watermelons, right? I mean, where would they get the rocket fuel? And why watermelons?"

Luca chuckled, utterly engrossed in the conversatiom, but his laughter tapered off as he realized Theo was not next to him.

"Huh, Theo?" Luca looked around and realized that Theo had stopped a couple of steps back, looking a bit nervous.

"Theo? Is there something wrong?" Luca inquired, concern furrowing his brow.

Theo seemed to be fidgeting as he was playing with his fingers, cracking them and such.

"Taya," Theo managed out as he took a deep breath, his eyes meeting Luca's. The festival's distant melodies formed a gentle backdrop to the vulnerability that hung in the air.

Luca, sensing the shift in Theo's demeanor, approached him with a mix of curiosity and concern. "What's going on, Dae? Is something wrong?"

Theo hesitated for a moment before finally speaking. "Please hear me out. You do not need to give an answer, but I really need to tell you this."

Luca nodded, giving Theo an encouraging smile. "Of course, Theo. Take your time. I'm here for you."

Theo took another deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "Taya, since the moment we started working together on this festival, I've found myself thinking about you... a lot. And not just about the festival or work-related stuff. It's more than that."

Luca's eyebrows raised slightly, his curiosity deepening. He stayed silent, allowing Theo the space to express himself.

Theo continued, his words sincere, "I didn't plan for this to happen, but I can't deny that it did. I... I really like you, Taya. I want to go out with you, Taya. As in dating as in boyfriends."

There was a ringing going through Luca's ear as he heard Theo's confession. It was like someone dumped a bucket of ice water on him.

Theo's gaze remained fixed on Luca, a mix of apprehension and hope in his eyes. "I understand if this complicates things, especially considering we're working together. I just felt it was important for you to know."

Luca took a moment to process Theo's words. His mind buzzed with a mix of emotions—surprise, confusion, and a subtle fluttering of something he hadn't quite acknowledged before.

The festival's distant melodies seemed to fade into the background as the weight of Theo's confession settled between them.

Theo likes Luca.

He...wants to take it to the next step?

Luca blinked, realizing how long he'd been staring at Theo without saying anything in response. He had to think hard about this. This wasn't going to be a casual relationship—it would be a commitment to Theo.

A big step in their relationship.

"Okay," he said finally. The simple word made all kinds of butterflies erupt in his stomach.

The tension in Theo's shoulders melted away, replaced by what could only be described as elation.His hands trembled ever so slightly when he reached out to grasp both of Theo's shoulders. He forced himself to stay still while maintaining eye contact.

"Yes."

Theo stared back, stunned and confused.

"Yes. We'll...we'll see where this goes."

It took a moment for Theo to find his voice again, his face flushed from excitement. "Really?"

A smile tugged on the corner of Luca's lips. "Yeah."

At that moment, Theo leaned forward, closing the distance between them, and pulled Luca into a kiss.

As cliche as it was, fireworks bursted in the background. The firework show has begun.

Luca was taken aback for a brief second, startled by Theo's sudden enthusiasm, but then he responded eagerly. He brought his hand up to Theo's hair and tangled it around his fingers, drawing Theo even closer.

As he brought Theo closer, he couldn't help but notice someone watching them in the distance.

He doesn't care, right now Luca wants to focus on the moment.

After a while, Luca pulled apart and held Theo's hand, "Let's go to the spot. We're going to miss the main event."

Theo, still a bit dazed from the kiss, nodded in agreement. Hand in hand, they navigated through the lively crowd, the festival's energy heightened by the colorful explosions overhead.

The distant laughter and music created a harmonious background to their intertwined fingers and the shared glances that spoke volumes about the unspoken promise between them.