lix. OSLO.
March 2, 2018. | Third Person POV.
Oslo, Norway.

Sedona stirred awake, her eyes fluttering open as she felt the gentle rise and fall of Kendrick's breath against her chest. It took her a moment to realize how they were tangled together, his head nestled comfortably on her, his arm draped protectively around her waist. She blinked, her heart doing a little flip as she took in the peaceful look on his face. His brows were relaxed, lips slightly parted, a softness to his features that she rarely saw. 

A small smile played on her lips. How the hell did we end up like this? She had no memory of shifting into this position, but she couldn't deny how good it felt—how right. 

She reached over to the nightstand, careful not to wake him as she grabbed her phone. She angled the camera just right, making sure his face was visible, still lost in sleep, his head resting so naturally on her. She snapped the picture, her chest warming at the thought of keeping this moment just for herself. For memories, she mused, slipping the phone back before settling into the mattress. 

Kendrick stirred, his face nuzzling deeper for a brief second before his eyes opened, blinking against the sunlight creeping in from the curtains. It took him a moment, his gaze unfocused before he looked up at her. A lazy smile curved on his lips. "Well damn... didn't know we was havin' a lil' sleepover." 

Sedona laughed, the sound soft and sleepy. "Yeah, neither did I. But I didn't mind it." 

He stretched, his arm tightening around her before he pulled away, his eyes lingering on hers. "Shit, I could get used to wakin' up like this." His voice was groggy, deeper than usual, and the way he said it made her stomach flip. 

She rolled her eyes, playfully shoving at his shoulder. "Yeah, don't get too comfortable." 

Kendrick laughed, the sound warm as he sat up, rubbing a hand over his face. "Too late, ma. You got me spoiled already." He looked at her, his eyes lingering as his grin softened. "I really did knock out, huh?" 

"You did. Out like a light," She teased, stretching her arms above her head. "I don't even know how we ended up like that." 

He shrugged. "Guess I just knew where I wanted to be." 

Heat crept up her ears, and she quickly moved to sit up, tossing a pillow at him. "Boy, shut up." 

Kendrick dodged it effortlessly, his laughter filling the room. "Okay, I'll chill. But for real... I wouldn't mind that happenin' more often." 

She paused, her eyes meeting his. His expression was sincere, the playfulness gone as he watched her carefully. Sedona felt her heart thump, a fluttering feeling in her stomach. She tried to play it cool, shrugging. "Yeah... I wouldn't mind either." 

His grin widened. "Say less." He leaned back, stretching before swinging his legs off the bed. "I'ma head to my room, freshen up. We got rehearsals in a couple hours, right?" 

"Yeah. But I wanna roam around a bit before then. Maybe grab somethin' to eat nearby." 

Kendrick stood, his shirt riding up as he stretched, revealing a sliver of skin. "Bet. I'm down." He shot her a wink. "Meet you in the hallway?" 

She nodded, trying to ignore the way her pulse quickened as she watched him leave. "Yeah... hallway." 

When the door clicked shut, Sedona exhaled, sinking back against the pillows. She glanced at her phone, pulling up the picture she'd taken earlier. Her fingers hovered over it, her smile widening as she saved it to a locked folder. For memories.

—

Two hours later, Sedona stood in front of the bathroom mirror, securing the last of her necklaces before stepping back to take in her look. She wore a fitted white tank top that hugged her frame, layered beneath an oversized olive-green button-up left casually open. Her grey sweatpants hung low on her hips, Calvin Klein waistband peeking just above the fabric, paired with classic white Nikes. Her hair was out, falling just past her shoulders, a leopard-print tote slung over one arm. She was lazy today.

Satisfied, she grabbed her phone and a bottle of water, headed out the door. Kendrick was already waiting in the hallway, leaning against the wall, his phone in hand. He looked up when she approached, his eyes raking over her outfit. 

He whistled low, his gaze lingering. "Damn... you really be doin' the most without even tryin'." 

She rolled her eyes, fighting a smile. "Shut up." 

Kendrick pushed off the wall, falling into step beside her as they made their way toward the elevator. "Nah, for real. You look good, Sedona." His voice softened a sincerity to his words that made her heart flutter. 

"Thank you." She glanced at him, noting his all-black tracksuit, and the minimal chains around his neck gleaming under the hallway lights. "You clean up nice yourself." 

He smirked, nudging her shoulder. "You know how I do." 

She laughed, the sound echoing as they stepped into the elevator. The doors closed, the hum of the machinery filling the silence as they stood side by side. Their reflections stared back at them, and for a moment, Sedona wondered how they looked to other people. If they looked as good together as it felt. 

As they walked through the lobby and out into the brisk Oslo air, Kendrick wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her in closer. "Where to first?" 

Sedona took a sip from her cup, her eyes scanning the streets. "Let's just walk. See what we find." 

Kendrick nodded, his arm staying firmly around her as they began to stroll, falling into easy conversation. They wandered the streets, exploring the shops and stopping for pastries at a nearby café. Time seemed to slip away as they laughed, joked, and simply enjoyed each other's company. 

It felt natural. Easy. Like they'd been doing this forever. 

And in a way, Sedona realized, maybe they had. 

—

They wandered down a narrow street lined with quaint shops and cafes, the chilly Oslo air nipping at their noses. Kendrick kept his arm loosely around Sedona's shoulders, his body warmth a welcome contrast to the cold. 

They paused in front of a display window filled with eclectic jewelry, Sedona's eyes lighting up at the sight of delicate gold chains and vintage rings. She pressed her hand to the glass, her breath fogging up the window as she leaned closer. 

"These are cute," She murmured, her fingers tapping lightly against the glass. 

Kendrick followed her gaze, his chin resting briefly on her shoulder. "You want one?" 

She turned, her brow raised. "You buyin'?" 

He chuckled, his dimple showing. "If you want it, ma." 

Sedona bit her lip, pretending to think it over before shaking her head. "Nah, I'm good. I got enough jewelry." She took a step back, her eyes drifting to Kendrick's reflection in the window. Her gaze trailed up to his head, where his braids were neatly styled, each plait clean and precise, the parts straight as arrows. 

She smirked, turning to face him fully. "I did you right, huh?" 

Kendrick looked down at her, his eyebrows knitting together. "Huh?" 

She reached up, her fingers gently brushing over his braids, feeling the smoothness under her touch. "Your hair. I did you right." 

His lips curved into a grin, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Oh, that's what we doin' now? You lookin' for praise?" 

Sedona laughed, her hand lingering a moment longer before she pulled it back. "Nah, just stating facts. You look clean." 

Kendrick's grin widened, his dimple deepening. "I mean... you did your thing. Ain't nobody touch my hair like you do." He tilted his head, his eyes flickering with something she couldn't quite place. "Not gon' lie... I like when you take care of me like that." 

Her breath caught, her pulse quickening. She quickly looked away, pretending to be fascinated by a group of pigeons pecking at crumbs on the sidewalk. "Well... somebody's gotta keep you lookin' presentable." 

He laughed, the sound rich and warm. "Word? That's what we call it now?" 

"Yup." She started walking again, Kendrick falling into step beside her. "Can't have you out here lookin' crazy. Reflects bad on me." 

He shook his head, his arm finding its way back around her shoulders. "You somethin' else, Sedona." 

"I'm just honest." 

He didn't respond, but his silence said more than words ever could. 

They continued down the street, the conversation light and easy, their laughter mingling with the sounds of the city. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, painting the buildings in shades of gold, Sedona found herself stealing glances at Kendrick, her heart fluttering each time. 

She tried to ignore the feeling, tried to brush it off as just a side effect of the lingering jet lag. But deep down, she knew it was more than that. 

It always was. 

As the morning came and went leaving the evening the pull-through, they made their way toward a small café nestled on the corner of a cobblestone street. The scent of freshly baked pastries and strong coffee drifted through the air, wrapping around them like a warm embrace. 

Kendrick held the door open, gesturing with a playful flourish. "After you, ma'am." 

Sedona laughed, brushing past him. "Such a gentleman today." 

"Always." He followed her inside, the cozy atmosphere enveloping them. The café was quaint, with wooden tables and mismatched chairs, soft jazz playing in the background. It was the perfect spot to warm up before rehearsals. 

They ordered their drinks—an iced chai latte for Sedona and an Americano for Kendrick—before settling into a corner booth by the window. Kendrick leaned back, his legs stretched out under the table as he watched Sedona stir her drink. 

She looked out the window, her eyes following the people passing by, each wrapped up in their own world. Her fingers toyed with the straw, absentmindedly swirling the ice. Kendrick's gaze softened, a smile playing at his lips. 

"What you thinkin' about?" 

She turned to him, her eyes flickering with surprise. "Hm?" 

"You got that look," He said, leaning forward, his elbows resting on the table. "That far-off look you get when you are in your head too much." 

Sedona's cheeks warmed. "I don't got no look." 

"Yeah, you do." He grinned. "So what's on your mind?" 

She hesitated, her eyes dropping to her drink before meeting his gaze again. "Just... everything. This tour. Us." She laughed softly, shaking her head. "I still can't believe I'm here sometimes." 

Kendrick's expression softened. "You worked hard to get here, D. Ain't nobody hand you nothin'. You earned all this." 

She smiled, her eyes shining. "I know. But it still feels surreal sometimes. Like... what if it all disappears tomorrow?" 

"It won't." His voice was steady and confident. "You too talented for that. And even if it did... you'd figure somethin' out. You always do." 

Sedona's heart fluttered at his words, the unwavering belief in his tone. She took a sip of her drink, letting the cool sweetness ground her. "You always know what to say, huh?" 

Kendrick shrugged, leaning back again. "I'm just keepin' it real." He tilted his head, his eyes narrowing playfully. "But don't let it get to your head." 

She laughed, rolling her eyes. "Oh, please. My head ain't nearly as big as yours." 

He clutched his chest in mock offense. "Wow. Disrespect is crazy." 

"Just stating facts." She took another sip, her lips curving into a smirk. "You lucky I even let you sleep over." 

Kendrick's eyebrows shot up, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Let me? You was all cuddled up on me, talkin' bout how warm I was." 

Sedona's mouth fell open. "I did not say that!" 

He laughed, the sound rumbling through his chest. "I'm playin'... but you did look comfortable." He paused, his voice softening. "I wouldn't mind more nights like that." 

Sedona's heart skipped a beat, her eyes meeting his. There was no teasing in his expression, no playful smirk—just sincerity. Her chest tightened, a warmth spreading through her. 

She took a breath, her voice quieter. "Yeah... me neither." 

For a moment, neither of them spoke, the weight of their words lingering between them. Then Kendrick cleared his throat, his playful demeanor returning. "Alright, enough of this mushy shit. You ready to get to rehearsals and show these folks how it's done?" 

Sedona laughed, the tension easing. "Hell yeah. Let's get it." 

They finished their drinks, the easy banter continuing as they made their way to the arena. But even as they joked and laughed, Sedona couldn't shake the fluttering feeling in her chest. 

More nights like that, huh? 

She could get used to that. 

—

The Telenor Arena buzzed with activity as they arrived, the energy palpable even from outside. Sedona's nerves started to creep in, her stomach twisting with a mix of excitement and anxiety. She hadn't been on stage in days, missing out on shows because of the food poisoning. Even though she knew it wasn't her fault, she couldn't help but worry—had she let her team down? Would she still be able to bring it like before? 

Kendrick must've noticed the way she fell silent as they walked through the backstage doors, his fingers brushing hers for a brief moment. "You good?" 

She swallowed, giving him a tight-lipped smile. "Yeah... just got the jitters." 

"You?" He feigned shock, his eyes wide. "Sedona Baptiste got stage fright?" 

She nudged him with her elbow. "Shut up." 

Kendrick's laughter was warm, wrapping around her like a protective cocoon. "You got this, D. They been missin' you." 

They rounded the corner to the rehearsal area, and as if on cue, a chorus of excited voices erupted. 

"Sedona!" 

"There she is!" 

"Look who finally decided to show up!" 

Her dancers rushed over, enveloping her in hugs and cheerful greetings. Even her choreographer, usually strict and no-nonsense, gave her a warm smile. "It's about time you came back. We've been holding it down, but it's not the same without you." 

Sedona's eyes stung, the nerves easing as she hugged them back. "I missed y'all too." 

One of the dancers grinned. "Girl, you better be ready 'cause we're not holding back today." 

Sedona laughed, her confidence reigniting. "Oh, I'm ready. I hope y'all been practicing, 'cause I'm not taking it easy on you." 

"That's what we like to hear!" someone shouted, and the group burst into laughter. 

As she looked around, soaking in the familiar faces and the vibrant energy, the tension in her shoulders melted away. Kendrick was right—they had missed her. She wasn't just another performer to them; she was a part of the team, the family. 

She glanced back at Kendrick, who was leaning against the wall, watching her with a proud smile. He gave her a small nod, and her heart fluttered. 

Monica and Dave appeared from the other side of the room, arms crossed and identical looks of mock irritation on their faces. 

"Took you two long enough," Dave said, his eyes narrowing playfully. "Thought y'all got lost or something." 

Sedona rolled her eyes. "We were just... taking our time. Enjoying the scenery." 

Monica raised an eyebrow. "Uh-huh. I bet." She looked her friend up and down, taking in the relaxed fit of her sweatpants and the layered gold chains around her neck. "You look cute, though. Comfy." 

Sedona grinned, striking a playful pose. "Always." 

Dave's gaze shifted to Kendrick, his eyes lingering on the freshly braided style. He whistled low. "Yo, D, you did his hair?" 

Sedona's chest puffed with pride, her eyes flicking to Kendrick. "Yeah, I did him right." 

Kendrick smirked, running his fingers over the neat rows. "She got me lookin' clean, huh?" 

Monica laughed, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "I see y'all bonding." 

Sedona felt the heat rise to her cheeks but played it off with a shrug. "I'm just versatile. Hairstylist, singer, actress—what can't I do?" 

Kendrick chuckled. "Ain't nobody takin' credit away from you. You got the skills, D." 

Their eyes met a spark passing between them before they both looked away, trying to act nonchalant. But Dave and Monica weren't fooled, their knowing glances speaking volumes. 

"Alright, lovebirds," Dave teased, clapping his hands. "Let's get to work. You ready, Sedona?" 

She squared her shoulders, determination lighting up her face. "Hell yeah. Let's get it." 

As they headed to the stage, Kendrick walked beside her, his voice low. "Told you they missed you." 

Sedona looked up at him, her heart swelling. "Yeah... you were right." She bumped his shoulder. "Don't get used to hearing that." 

He laughed, his eyes twinkling. "I won't... but I'm glad you're back where you belong." 

She held his gaze for a moment longer, her nerves replaced with excitement. He was right. This was exactly where she was meant to be. 

As the lights dimmed and the music started, Sedona took her place center stage, her team rallying around her. She could feel the rhythm pulsing through her, her body remembering every step, every beat. 

She caught Kendrick's eye from the side of the stage, his expression steady and supportive. She took a deep breath, the familiar rush flooding her senses. 

This was her world. And she was ready to take it by storm. 

—

The rehearsal room was alive with energy, the speakers blasting the beat of her opening track. Sedona stood at the front, eyes sharp as she watched her dancers run through the steps. Her stance was firm, arms crossed as she moved her head to the rhythm, scrutinizing every detail. 

"Again," She commanded, her voice echoing through the space. There was no room for mediocrity, not tonight. Not after being away for so long. "I need those transitions smoother. And more energy. If y'all ain't out of breath by the end of this, you ain't doing it right." 

The dancers didn't protest, quickly resetting to their starting positions. They knew how Sedona operated—strict but fair. She demanded the best because she always gave her best. 

They moved through the choreography once more, sharper this time, the routine coming together seamlessly. But Sedona's eyes didn't miss a thing. She clapped her hands, signaling them to stop. "Monica, I need more snap on those turns. I want them clean. Leon, you're getting lazy on that footwork. Tighten it up." 

Leon's eyes widened. "Damn, D. You ain't even miss a beat." 

Sedona smirked, her confidence seeping through. "I may have been out for a few days, but I don't forget." She stepped forward, taking her spot at the front. "Alright, one more time. Full-out. If I catch anyone slacking, we're doing it again. Let's go." 

The music dropped, and they launched into the routine, their bodies moving in perfect sync. Sedona led them, her movements were fluid yet precise, her energy electrifying. She was light on the choreography, allowing them to focus on execution and flow, but her presence demanded perfection. 

By the end, they were all panting, sweat dripping, but the routine was flawless. Sedona's grin widened, satisfaction written all over her face. "Now that's what I'm talkin' about. We ready." 

The team cheered, the tension easing as they laughed and high-fived each other. Sedona's nerves were gone, replaced with the fire that always burned before a show. She was back. 

—

The lights went out, and the crowd erupted in anticipation. A hush fell over the arena before the booming bass of her opening track shook the venue, neon lights dancing across the stage. Sedona stood in the shadows, her heart pounding, a rush of adrenaline coursing through her veins. 

She glanced down at her outfit—a cropped black jersey with bold red numbers, paired with oversized denim jeans that hung low on her hips, cinched by a statement belt. Red sneakers completed the look, perfectly matching the vibrant accents on her jersey. She looked effortlessly cool, the epitome of street style, and she felt powerful. 

As the spotlight hit, she strutted out, her movements smooth and calculated, oozing confidence. The crowd went wild, their roars echoing through the arena. She took a deep breath, gripping the mic as she approached the edge of the stage. 

"Oslo!" She shouted, her voice cutting through the noise. She hesitated for just a second before adding, "Hei alle sammen!" It wasn't perfect, her accent a little off, but the fans ate it up, screaming even louder, their appreciation palpable. 

A laugh bubbled from her chest, her confidence skyrocketing. "I missed y'all. Let's make this one to remember!" 

The beat dropped, and she exploded into the routine, her body moving with fluidity and power. She hit every step with precision, her dancers perfectly in sync behind her. The energy was electric, the audience feeding off her vibe, singing along to every word. 

Sedona's eyes sparkled as she switched up the choreography on the fly, sliding into moves she'd created for Push 2 Start. Her team caught on instantly, matching her every motion, the improvisation adding a rawness to the performance. 

She moved across the stage effortlessly, her voice strong, unwavering, as she commanded the crowd. There was no sign of hesitation, no sign of the nerves that had plagued her earlier. She was in her element, dominating the stage like she was born to do it. 

The breakdown hit, and she dropped low, her body rolling to the beat before popping up with a sharpness that made the audience gasp. She smirked, flipping her hair back, knowing she had them wrapped around her finger. 

Sedona locked eyes with Kendrick standing in the shadows, his face beaming with pride. She winked, throwing in an extra spin, her braids swinging with the movement. "I told you I was back," She thought, a rush of joy flooding her chest. 

The final chorus hit, and she gave it everything she had, her vocals soaring, her dance moves unstoppable. She finished with a powerful pose, chest heaving, sweat glistening under the lights as the last note echoed through the arena. 

The crowd erupted, the noise deafening. They chanted her name, the love and admiration radiating from every corner of the venue. Sedona stood there, soaking it all in, her heart racing, a smile plastered on her face. 

She raised the mic, her voice breathless. "OSLO, Y'ALL ARE INCREDIBLE!" The roar intensified, and she laughed, the sound pure and joyous. 

This was what she lived for. This was who she was. 

As the lights dimmed and Sedona made her way off stage, Kendrick was waiting for her, his posture relaxed but his eyes blazing with pride. She crashed into his arms, his embrace grounding her as she caught her breath. "Look at you," He whispered, his voice low and full of admiration. 

Sedona pulled back, her face glowing. "I'm starting to think London has some competition with Oslo."

Kendrick laughed, his eyes never leaving hers. "They ate that up. You owned that stage." 

Her chest swelled with joy, but she knew the night was far from over. She placed her hands on his shoulders, her expression softening. "Your turn now. You ready?" 

Kendrick's smile shifted into something more focused, his game face sliding into place. "You already know." 

Sedona bit her lip, her eyes raking over him, taking in his all-black outfit, sleek and effortlessly cool. "You look good. They're gonna lose their minds when you come out." 

He crossed his arms. "You set the bar high, though. Can't be out there lookin' weak after that performance." 

She laughed, the sound light and musical. "I have no doubt you'll match it... maybe." She teased, her eyes sparkling. "But don't be trying to outdo me, though. This is still my night." 

Kendrick chuckled, his hand coming up to cradle her face. "I'll let you have that. But I'm still gonna show out." 

Sedona's smile softened, her fingers adjusting the chain around his neck. "Go show them why you're the king, baby. I'll be right here cheering you on." 

His eyes softened, a rare vulnerability showing. "Means everything, having you here." 

She pressed a quick kiss to his lips, her voice dropping. "Now, go kill it." 

Kendrick gave her one last look, his eyes lingering before he turned and headed towards the stage entrance. Sedona watched him go, her heart thudding with anticipation. She knew he was about to light up that stage just as she had, and she couldn't wait to witness it. 

As the intro to his set started and the crowd roared in excitement, she smiled to herself, pride and love radiating from her. Tonight wasn't just about her comeback; it was about them both standing tall, side by side, unstoppable. 

With that thought, she moved to the side of the stage, ready to cheer him on, just as he had always done for her.

—

Sedona sank into the plush couch in the green room, a sense of relief washing over her as she finally let herself relax. Her body hummed from the adrenaline of performing, but the cravings she'd been ignoring were now impossible to deny. On her lap rested a bowl piled high with vibrant green grapes and juicy cantaloupe slices. She picked up a grape, popping it into her mouth, savoring the burst of sweetness. 

Kendrick's performance echoed from the screen in front of her, his energy electrifying as he commanded the stage. She smiled, watching him move with ease, his charisma enveloping the crowd. He was born to do this. 

Feeling a wave of affection and excitement, she glanced at her phone. She hadn't been live on Instagram in a while, and after being out of sight from fans during her food poisoning ordeal, she figured now was as good a time as any to check-in. Setting her phone up at the right angle, she made sure the background was clear, her bowl of fruit still in view, and hit the "Go Live" button. 

Within seconds, her screen flooded with comments. 
@fan1: OMG SHE'S ALIVE! 
@fan2: Sedonaaaa we missed you! 
@fan3: Girl, you good? Heard you were sick. 
@fan4: Wait, she's eating fruit. SHE'S OKAY! 

Sedona laughed, the sound light and genuine. "Okay, okay, I see y'all missed me. Yes, I'm alive," She said playfully, adjusting her hair. "I'm officially better. Food poisoning is no joke, though. I wouldn't wish that shit on anybody. Not even my enemies. But look—" She picked up a grape and held it to the screen before popping it in her mouth, chewing dramatically. "See? No more issues." 

@fan5: Not her doing a grape test 😂 
@fan6: Girl, we were worried sick! Glad you're back! 
@fan7: What's with all the cantaloupe tho? 

Sedona chuckled. "I don't even know, honestly. Just been craving cantaloupe and green grapes like crazy. It's hittin' right now." 

A notification popped up on her screen—Tyler was requesting to join her live. Her eyes lit up as she accepted, leaning back as his face appeared in a split screen, his backdrop showing a dimly lit room. 

"Sedonaaaa!" Tyler's voice was playful, his grin wide. "Eating fruit like a damn bug on live? Really? That's what we're doin'?" 

Sedona burst into laughter, rolling her eyes. "Mind your business nigga! A girl can't snack in peace?" 

"Nah, I just wanna know why you eating fruit like it's gourmet." Tyler feigned seriousness, his face comically judgmental. "You over there making grapes look like a five-star meal." 

Sedona snorted, struggling to contain her laughter. "You a hater. Why you worried about my grapes?" 

Tyler leaned closer to his screen, squinting. "Nah, for real. You good? Heard you was down bad. Like stomach hurt down bad."

Sedona nodded, her expression softening. "Yeah, I'm good now. Food poisoning had me in a chokehold, but I'm back and better. Even hit the stage tonight." 

Tyler's eyes widened, his excitement evident. "Oh snap! That's what's up! Did you hit that little spin move you be doing?" 

She beamed. "You already know. I had to show out." 

They continued to banter, their dynamic effortlessly funny and lighthearted. 
Tyler started mocking her dance moves, over-exaggerating her signature spin, which had Sedona clutching her stomach from laughing so hard. She retaliated by mimicking his "serious rapper face," contorting her features dramatically. 

@fan8: These two are a mess 😂 
@fan9: Y'all should have a show frfr! 
@fan10: Not him roasting her dance moves 🤣 
@fan11: Their friendship is everything! 

Tyler switched gears, his face taking on a fake-serious look. "So... when you gonna drop that new music, though? The people wanna know!" 

Sedona raised an eyebrow, playing along. "Oh, you thought I was just gonna spill my secrets on live? Nice try." 

Tyler rolled his eyes, feigning disappointment. "You no fun." 

She leaned into the camera, her voice dropping to a whisper. "But just know... it's coming. Real soon. I suggest you rewatch my Grammys performance. It tells you."

The comments exploded, fans freaking out over the teaser. 

Sedona laughed, leaning back as Tyler's dramatic gasps filled the live. "A'ight, a'ight, I'll let you have your moment," He conceded. "But just know, I better get first dibs on the new tracks." 

Sedona waved him off. "You already know you're at the top of my list." 

They spent the next few minutes joking, roasting each other, and answering random fan questions. It was effortless, their playful banter making the live feel more like a FaceTime call between two close friends. 

After a while, Sedona glanced at the screen showing Kendrick's performance, her eyes softening. "I gotta get back to watching Kendrick kill it on stage," She said, her voice tinged with pride. "But thanks for hopping on, Ty." 

Tyler grinned. "You know it's always love. Tell Kendrick not to mess up!" 

Sedona laughed, shaking her head. "You a hater for real." 

They said their goodbyes, and as Tyler's screen disappeared, Sedona turned back to her bowl of fruit, the laughter still bubbling inside her. The live had been fun—a well needed distraction.

Just as Sedona was about to wrap up the live, a question caught her eye.

@fan14: How's the tour been so far? And would you ever do your own tour?

She smiled, leaning closer to the screen. "Tour's been amazing. Crazy, exhausting, but so worth it. Seeing y'all in the crowd, feeling that energy? There's nothing like it." Her eyes sparkled as she spoke, clearly reminiscing. "And as for my own tour... I'd love to, honestly. But if I had to choose, it'd be in theaters. I love the intimacy of a theater tour—not that I don't like stadiums or arenas," She quickly added with a laugh. "But there's just something special about that close connection you get in a theater. Feels like I'm singing right to y'all, you know?"

Sedona laughed at the enthusiastic responses, warmth spreading through her chest. "We'll see, y'all. We'll see." She glanced at the screen again, Kendrick's voice booming as he hyped up the crowd. "I gotta get back to the man himself doing his thing, though. Thanks for hanging out with me. Love y'all!"

She ended the live, her notifications going crazy as fans shared clips and screenshots. Setting her phone aside, she focused back on Kendrick, who was now delivering his final verses with all the energy he had. 

Sedona's heart swelled with pride, her fingers absentmindedly picking at another grape. It felt good to be back, surrounded by love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

—

The concert was a resounding success. The crowd's energy was electric, carrying both Sedona and Kendrick through their performances with a wave of unrelenting excitement. Backstage, the entire team buzzed with adrenaline and pride. The dancers couldn't stop talking about the seamless choreography, the band exchanged high-fives, and Dave's smile was wide enough to touch his ears. 

Sedona took it all in, her heart full as she watched Kendrick wrap up his set with explosive energy. She knew he'd give it his all, and he never disappointed. When he came off the stage, his face glowing with sweat and triumph, she was there waiting for him, wrapping her arms around his neck. 

"Not too bad Lamar," She whispered, giving him a small hug.

He pulled back, his eyes softening as he looked at her. "Right back at you. That 'Hei alle sammen' was cute. They ate that up." 

She laughed, the sound light and unburdened. "It wasn't perfect, but it did the trick." 

"It was more than perfect," Kendrick insisted, his hand slipping to the small of her back. "Might as well start teaching me." 

They rode the wave of victory all the way to the sprinter, where Sedona settled into her seat, the high of performing gradually giving way to exhaustion. Tomorrow, they were headed to Stockholm for another show, but tonight, she was allowing herself a moment to breathe. 

Dressed in sweats and an oversized graphic tee, her curls tied up in a messy bun, she looked every bit as relaxed as she felt. Under-eye masks clung to her skin, fighting off any signs of fatigue, while her fingers moved swiftly over her phone screen. 

She watched the playback of her performance, her eyes laser-focused on every detail. The way she hit her marks, her vocal runs, the timing with the dancers—all of it under her meticulous scrutiny. Sedona was her biggest fan, but also her harshest critic. 

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she replayed a section of Push 2 Start, her head tilting as she considered how she could've hit that move just a little harder, emphasized that note a bit more. She made mental notes, knowing she'd bring it up to the choreographer tomorrow. 

"Still working?" Kendrick's voice cut through her thoughts as he settled in beside her, his arm finding its way around her shoulders. 

"Always," She murmured, leaning into his warmth. "Just... trying to be better." 

He pressed a kiss to her temple. "You're already the best." 

Sedona smiled, her eyes still on the screen. "Nah... not yet. But I will be." 

Kendrick didn't argue. He knew better than anyone how relentless her drive was. How much she demanded from herself. It was one of the things he admired most about her. 

As the sprinter rumbled down the road, the city lights of Oslo gradually fading into the distance, Sedona continued her self-assessment, preparing herself for the next stage, the next crowd, the next moment to prove that she was born to do this. 

Tomorrow was another show, another opportunity to be better than she was today. And she wouldn't have it any other way.

—

©kashdemi
Volume I- Redamancy.
Chapter Fifty-nine.
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Spam dumping chapters until we reach the long awaited chapter. ;)

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