xv. THE ROAD AHEAD.
January 14, 2018. | Third Person POV.
Los Angeles, California.

Sunday, began like any other Sunday for Sedona. She'd woken up early, made herself a cup of tea, and settled into her favorite spot by the kitchen window with her laptop. The FaceTime call with Kendrick had been the highlight of her morning, his steady humor grounding her before the day began.

"Don't overthink it," Kendrick had told her as they talked about her plans for the year. "Just do you, Dee. The rest will fall into place."

His words stuck with her even after the call ended, echoing in her mind as she finished her avocado toast. She was just starting to settle into the idea of a slow, productive day when her phone buzzed again. This time, it was Monica, her manager.

"You free in an hour?" Monica asked without preamble.

"Uh, I guess?" Sedona replied, glancing at the clock. "Why?"

"We've got a meeting at Roc Nation," Monica said briskly. "Kendra from A&R wants to see you. It's important."

Sedona frowned, setting her plate down. "Today? What's going on?"

"You'll see," Monica said cryptically. "Just be ready. I'll pick you up in thirty."

By the time Sedona arrived at Roc Nation's sleek office in Los Angeles, her curiosity had morphed into mild anxiety. Monica was tight-lipped on the drive over, and Sedona couldn't shake the feeling that something big was about to happen.

They were ushered into a large conference room where Kendra, the VP of A&R, was already seated, scrolling through her phone. She greeted Sedona with a warm smile.

"Good to see you, Sedona," Kendra said, gesturing for her to sit.

"Good to see you too," Sedona replied, still trying to piece together what was going on.

Before she could ask any questions, the door opened again, and three men walked in—Top Dawg, TDE's CEO; Dave Free, the co-president; and, to Sedona's surprise, Kendrick.

Her eyes widened as Kendrick shot her a small, amused smile, his presence instantly easing some of her nerves.

"Didn't expect to see you here," She said softly as he took the seat across from her.

"Same," Kendrick replied, a hint of a grin tugging at his lips. "Guess we're both about to find out why."

Top Dawg and Dave Free exchanged brief pleasantries with Monica and Kendra before turning their attention to Sedona. Dave's gaze lingered for a moment before he spoke, his tone easygoing but direct.

"So, you're the one I've been hearing so much about," Dave said, his lips quirking into a slight smile.

Sedona blinked, caught off guard. "Oh, uh... hopefully good things?"

Dave chuckled, his eyes sharp but friendly. "All good. You've got people out here rooting for you, Sedona. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do next."

"Thanks," Sedona nods, feeling somewhat embarrassed at the unexpected compliment.

Top Dawg soon took the lead, steering the conversation toward the main reason for the meeting.

"Sedona, we've been talking with Monica and Kendra about your comeback," Top began, his tone calm but commanding. "And we all agree—timing is everything. You're in a good place, musically and personally. Now it's about making the right moves to get you back out there."

Sedona nodded, her pulse quickening.

"That's why we want you to join Kendrick on the European leg of the DAMN. tour," Dave continued, his eyes steady on hers. "We think it's the perfect opportunity to reintroduce you to a global audience."

Sedona blinked, certain she'd misheard. "Wait, what?"

"You're serious?" Kendrick added, leaning back in his chair with a mix of surprise and amusement.

"Dead serious," Kendra chimed in. "The tour starts February 7th in Dublin. You'll be opening for Kendrick—performing some of your new material from the upcoming album, as well as a couple of classics."

Sedona stared at them, her mind racing. This was huge—far bigger than anything she'd anticipated. The thought of stepping onto those massive stages, of performing in front of thousands of fans again, was exhilarating and terrifying all at once.

"I don't know what to say," She admitted, glancing at Kendrick, who was watching her with an unreadable expression.

"Say yes," Monica said simply, her tone leaving no room for argument.

"Look," Top added, his voice softening, "We know it's a lot. But we've got faith in you, Sedona. This is your time."

Kendrick leaned forward, his elbows resting on the table as he spoke. "It's a big move, Dee. But if anybody can handle it, it's you. And you know I got your back."

Sedona took a deep breath, letting their words sink in. Her nerves were still there, but beneath them was something stronger—an undeniable pull toward this moment, this chance to reclaim her place in the industry.

"I'm in," Sedona said finally, her voice steady. "All in."

The room broke into smiles, Kendra clapping her hands together in satisfaction.

"Good choice," Top said with a nod.

"You won't regret it," Dave added.

As the meeting wrapped up, Sedona found herself walking out with Kendrick, the two of them falling into an easy rhythm as they headed toward the elevator.

"You good?" Kendrick asked, glancing at her.

"I think so," She replied, still processing everything. "It's just... a lot. But I'm excited."

He nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "It's gonna be dope, Dee. Europe's gonna love you."

"Thanks, Kenny," She said, her gratitude sincere.

As the elevator doors closed, Sedona felt a surge of determination. February 7th was just around the corner, and the road ahead was daunting. But for the first time in years, she felt ready. Ready to face the stage, the crowd, and whatever else the world had in store for her.

—

©kashdemi
Volume I- Redamancy.
Chapter Fifteen.
— ０１／０７／２５
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Happy New Year! May 2025 be filled with blessings, wealth, good health, and all your troubles be put away. I have good faith in this year and hope it can only grow.

Thoughts on the chapter? And what do you expect for the next one? Also, is this moving at a good pace?

Stay tuned for the next chapter, & til next time!
- shea