lxviii. BRITISH VOGUE.
March 20, 2018. | Third Person POV.
Los Angeles, California.

The early morning call time didn't faze Sedona. She had been up before the sun, stretching out the stiffness in her limbs before hopping into the shower. Today was big—one of those career-defining moments. She was shooting for the May cover of British Vogue, a major milestone in her journey. The realization hit differently as she sat in the makeup chair, her reflection staring back at her, lips slightly parted as the artist worked on her face.

You'd think she'd have a work-free week since her birthday was tomorrow, but it's not every day you have a cover shoot with British Vogue.

The room buzzed with quiet efficiency, a team of stylists, photographers, and creative directors flitting around like a well-oiled machine. Sedona, dressed in a sleek black blazer and sheer tights, exuded effortless confidence. The vision for the shoot was minimalistic yet striking—soft yet powerful, delicate but commanding. Simone Zhao, the photographer she trusted deeply, was behind the lens, making her feel completely at ease.

"Alright, let's start with some movement," Simone called out, camera in hand. "Let your hair fall naturally. Give me that effortless power."

Sedona complied, shifting her weight slightly, her hands pressing into her waist as she angled her face toward the light. The music in the background hummed low—a mix of old-school R&B and soft jazz, setting the mood. She felt herself sink into the moment, no longer just posing but embodying the essence of the shoot. She was grown now. A woman. A seasoned artist. A person who had seen and felt it all.

Between shots, she sipped on lemon-infused water and scrolled through a few messages—and social media posts knowing that it had been a minute since she'd posted anything. Has to keep the audience on their toes.

After the final outfit change and the last sequence of shots, she was ushered into an interview room, where a cozy setup had been arranged for a conversation about her.

As Sedona settled into the plush interview chair, she noticed Monica standing off to the side, her arms crossed as she observed the setup. Monica never missed a beat—her presence alone was a reminder that Sedona had a team that had her back, no matter what. She gave Sedona a small nod, a silent way of saying, I got you before the interview officially began.

The journalist, a sharp-eyed woman with an air of quiet authority, adjusted the voice recorder before smiling at Sedona. "First off, congratulations on landing this cover. You're in such a defining era of your career right now, and the anticipation for your album is unreal. What can you tell us about Ugh, Not Again?"

Sedona exhaled through her nose, thinking for a moment before answering. "It's personal. I mean, all my music is, but this one... it's me being fully transparent about my emotions, my growth, my pain, and my joy. The title came from that feeling of falling back into old cycles, knowing better but sometimes doing it anyway. The album is a reflection of that—love, heartbreak, healing, and finding peace."

The journalist nodded, leaning in. "It's been three years since your debut. Did you feel pressure to top it?"

"Absolutely," She admitted. "The pressure is always there, whether from fans, critics, or even myself. I took my time with this project because I needed to experience life first. I needed to learn and unlearn before I could tell a story that felt real to me."

From the corner of her eye, Sedona could see Monica subtly nodding in agreement. They had talked about this countless times—about not rushing, about letting the music speak for itself.

"And therapy has played a big role in that journey for you, right?"

Sedona sat back, nodding. "One hundred percent. Therapy is a must for me. It keeps me grounded and helps me unpack things before they start weighing me down. I think for a long time, especially in this industry, you're taught to just push through, but that's not sustainable. Protecting my peace is a priority now."

The conversation flowed seamlessly into her joining Kendrick for the European leg of his tour, her possibly having a tour, how she balanced her personal life with fame, and what was next for her as she approached thirty.

"Do you feel like you're in a new chapter, heading toward thirty?"

Sedona tilted her head, considering it. "Yeah, I think I'm more intentional now. By the time this cover is out I'm going to be twenty-eight. I'm not moving for the sake of moving—I'm thinking about longevity, about what truly matters. Love, family, legacy."

At the mention of love, the journalist perked up slightly, seizing the opportunity. "Speaking of love... your personal life is something you've kept fairly private, but fans can't help but speculate. You've been seen with someone special lately. Any comments?"

Monica, sensing the shift, subtly adjusted her stance, ready to step in if necessary.

Sedona, however, handled it effortlessly. She let out a light laugh, her expression unreadable. "You know, I respect the curiosity. But I also think some things are sweeter when they're just yours."

The journalist chuckled. "Fair enough. But would you say you're happy?"

Sedona's lips curled into a soft, knowing smile. "Very."

Monica shot her a look—half amused, half impressed.

"Your music has always been deeply personal, especially when it comes to love and relationships. Ugh, Not Again seems to reflect a lot of emotional highs and lows. Are these songs inspired by real experiences?"

Sedona let out a quiet laugh, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Aren't all songs inspired by something real?" She teased, keeping her answer open-ended.

The journalist smiled knowingly. "Fair enough. But fans have speculated that certain lyrics hint at specific moments in your life. Would you say some talks about rekindling an old flame?"

Sedona tilted her head slightly, lips curving in a soft smirk. "I think everyone has had that moment where they thought they were done with something—or someone—but life had other plans. And as for me personally, I'd never rekindle an old flame. Let it fizzle out."

"So, do you believe in second chances when it comes to love?"

She paused, taking a slow sip of her water. "I believe in growth," She said finally. "I believe that people can change if they truly want to. And sometimes, when the timing is right, things can work out differently than they did before. But I also believe that some doors should stay closed."

The journalist raised a brow. "Interesting answer."

Sedona simply shrugged, offering nothing more.

"Do you consider yourself a hopeless romantic?"

She thought about it for a moment. "In a sense yes. But I do believe in love. I believe in deep connections, in partnerships that push you to be your best self. Love, when it's right, should feel safe. It should feel like home."

The journalist nodded, jotting down notes. "And do you feel like you've found that?"

Sedona let out a quiet breath, her mind flashing to Kendrick—the way he looked at her, the way he always knew what she needed before she even said it. But instead of confirming anything, she smiled playfully.

"I think love is a journey. Some parts are beautiful, some parts are messy, but if it's real, it's always worth it."

"That's a very graceful way to dodge the question."

She laughed, shaking her head. "I'm just speaking my truth."

"I respect that. Before we wrap up—one last question. What's the best love advice you've ever received?"

Sedona thought about it before responding. "Love should never feel like a war you have to win. The right person will meet you where you are, and together, you'll grow. That's what I try to remember."

The journalist smiled. "Beautifully said. I think your fans are going to read between the lines, though."

Sedona grinned, gathering her things as the interview concluded. "Let them."

The interview wrapped up soon after, and as Sedona stood, stretching slightly, Monica approached her. "That was smooth," she remarked.

Sedona smirked, grabbing her phone. "I learned from the best."

Monica chuckled, shaking her head. "C'mon, let's get out of here."

"Facts," Sedona hummed in agreement.

—

As they stepped out of the studio, Monica was already running through the rest of the day's itinerary. "Alright, so tomorrow's your birthday, which means—"

Sedona cut her off with a knowing look. "Which means I'm off the clock for the rest of the day," She said, slipping her sunglasses on. "Go home, Monica. You've been hovering all day."

Monica scoffed, crossing her arms. "Hovering? I was making sure your interview didn't turn into a tabloid mess."

"And you did an amazing job, as always," Sedona said smoothly, looping an arm around Monica's shoulders in a half-hug before stepping back. "But I got it from here. Seriously, take the rest of the day off. Go do something that isn't work."

Monica narrowed her eyes at her. "You sure?"

Sedona smirked. "Positive. I'll call you if I need you."

Monica sighed, shaking her head. "Fine. But if you get kidnapped by paparazzi, I told you so."

Sedona laughed, waving her off. "Noted. Now go!"

Monica rolled her eyes but finally relented, heading toward her car. As soon as she was out of sight, Sedona turned her attention to her phone.

𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲 2:30 PM

Kenny 🤭
You done?

Sedona
Yeah, finally.

Kenny 🤭
Bet. Where you at?

Sedona
Still at the studio, but I was thinking about getting food.

Kenny 🤭
Say less. I'm pulling up.

She smiled to herself, tucking her phone into her bag. Fifteen minutes later, Kendrick's sleek black Benz rolled up to the curb. He was leaning against the driver's side when she approached, arms crossed over his chest, watching her with that signature smirk. 

"Miss Cover Star," He greeted, opening the door for her. 

Sedona rolled her eyes playfully as she slid into the passenger seat. "Don't start." 

As he pulled into traffic, Kendrick glanced over at her. "So, where we eatin'? 'Cause I'm starving." 

"I knew you were gonna say that," She laughed. "I was thinking In-N-Out. We don't have to eat in 'cause I know a spot." 

Kendrick raised a brow. "A spot?" 

She nodded confidently. "Trust me." 

— 

Twenty minutes later, they were parked near the beach, sitting on the hood of Kendrick's car, with their In-N-Out spread out between them—burgers, fries, and milkshakes. A cool breeze drifted in from the ocean, ruffling the oversized hoodie she'd stolen from Kendrick's backseat. It smelled like him—oaky, clean, familiar. In front of them, the Pacific stretched endlessly, waves crashing in a rhythmic lull, the kind of peace that only a spot like this could offer.

Sedona took a satisfied bite of her burger before pointing at him. "See? Best way to eat In-N-Out." 

Kendrick nodded, chewing. "Okay, you might be on to something. The view, the food—solid setup." 

"Told you." She popped a fry into her mouth. "I used to come here when I needed to clear my head. Something about the ocean makes everything feel... smaller. Like, no matter what's going on, it's just waves and sky out here." 

Kendrick looked out at the horizon for a moment before turning back to her. "You been needin' to clear your head lately?" 

She hesitated for a second, then shrugged. "Not like before. But I think there's always something to think about. Life's moving fast. The album, press, tour—it's a lot." 

"You ready for tomorrow?" Kendrick asked casually, popping a fry into his mouth. 

Sedona gave him a side-eye. "Should I be worried?" 

Kendrick smirked but shook his head. "Nah." 

His answer was too simple, too smooth. She narrowed her eyes, sensing something beneath his cool exterior. "What you up to?" 

"Just be ready," He said, offering nothing else. 

Sedona studied his face, trying to read between the lines, but he wasn't giving anything away. She sighed, shaking her head with a small smile. "You're so annoying." 

"I gotta be," He shot back, making her laugh.

After a while, Kendrick leaned back on his elbows, looking at her as she finished the last of her burger. "So... how you feelin' about twenty-eight?" 

Sedona wiped her fingers on a napkin, taking a moment before answering. "Weirdly... at peace. Twenty-seven was a lot. I feel like I grew up a hundred times over. But now? I don't know, I feel... solid. Like, I know who I am more than I ever have before." 

Kendrick nodded, studying her. "You are solid." 

She gave him a small smile. "You think twenty-eight is gonna look good on me?" 

He tilted his head, smirking. "I know it is." 

Sedona laughed lightly, shaking her head. "You really tryna gas me up today, huh?" 

"Like I said earlier, just statin' facts." 

She rolled her eyes, but the warmth in her chest was undeniable. Kendrick had a way of making her feel like she could take on the world—even on the days she doubted herself. 

The waves crashed softly in the background, the city lights twinkling in the distance, and for a brief moment, Sedona let herself soak in the quiet simplicity of it all.

"Alright, let's get outta here before you fall asleep on my car," Kendrick teased, standing up and stretching.

Sedona sighed dramatically. "Fine. But just so you know, I'm expecting big things tomorrow."

Kendrick chuckled, opening the passenger door for her. "Don't worry. I got you."

And somehow, she knew he did.

As soon as Kendrick started the car, the unmistakable beat of DJ Quik's "You'z a Ganxta" pumped through the speakers. The bass hit deep, rattling just enough to feel it in their chests, and Sedona's head immediately started nodding to the rhythm.

"Ayy, hold up, this my shit," She said, eyes lighting up as she turned up the volume.

Kendrick smirked, knowing damn well she was about to go in.

"Fuck what ya heard, baby, I'm DJ Quik. Whether on TV or in these streets, I'm still the shit," Sedona rapped effortlessly, rolling her shoulders to the beat. "I went from drinkin' eight ball and makin' demos—to drinkin' Hennessy and Chivas Regal in the back of the limo..."

She pointed at Kendrick, waiting for him to finish the line.

He smirked but stayed quiet on purpose, watching her with amusement.

Sedona rolled her eyes when Kendrick still didn't jump in. "Man, you wack for that." 

Kendrick laughed, finally nodding along. "Nah, I just like seein' you get mad when I don't finish the line." 

Sedona sucked her teeth, turning the volume up even more. "Next time, don't play with me. You know I take my DJ Quik seriously." 

"—Boogie bang boogie da bang fuck what you sayin', nigga!" She continued, still rolling her eyes at his silence but carrying on anyway, fully committed. "Nigga, you's a gangsta!!"

Kendrick shook his head, laughing as he pulled onto the road. "You really know every word to this, huh?"

"Man, what? This is essential West Coast music," She said proudly, lifting a fry to her mouth before continuing. "DJ Quik has been in my rotation since I was little. You know this."

"I know that. But, since you were little?" Kendrick raised a brow, glancing at her. "You act like you wasn't born in '90."

"Okay, and?" She challenged. "I got taste. My dad put me on early."

Kendrick chuckled, nodding. "I respect it."

Sedona kept rapping, her energy contagious as she gestured along to the lyrics, the streetlights outside casting quick-moving shadows over her face. There was something about moments like this—simple, unfiltered, real. No cameras, and no industry noise. Just them.

As the song faded into the next track, Sedona leaned back against the seat, her voice slightly raspy from rapping so hard. "Damn, I needed that."

Kendrick glanced at her with a knowing smirk. "Tired now?"

She stretched her arms above her head, letting out a soft hum. "Nah, but I'm full now. Good food, good music, good company..." She trailed off, glancing at him playfully. "Not bad for a Tuesday night."

Kendrick tapped his fingers on the wheel. "And tomorrow's only gon' be better."

Sedona eyed him suspiciously. "Still not giving me a hint?"

"Nah," He said smoothly.

She sucked her teeth but let it go, watching the ocean blur past them as he drove. Whatever Kendrick had planned, she knew it was about to be something.

—

As Kendrick steadily drove up to Sedona's place, the familiar route signaling the night's end, she found herself pouting slightly, her lips pushed out in the smallest sign of disappointment. She wasn't ready to say goodbye just yet, but she knew it would all be better come tomorrow—her birthday.

The car rolled to a smooth stop, and before she could even reach for the handle, Kendrick was already stepping out, making his way around to open her door like he always did. The little things like that always made her heart swell, even when she was too stubborn to admit it.

She sighed softly, tilting her head as she looked at him. "Can't you stay?"

Kendrick's lips curled into a smirk, that low, effortless drawl of his making her stomach flip. "I got things to do, baby."

That voice. That damn voice. It always had her contemplating—wondering if she should just say fuck it and drag him inside, no matter how much she had promised herself she'd behave tonight.

Her teeth grazed her bottom lip as she nodded, trying to fight the urge but already knowing she'd fail the moment he leaned in. A soft peck turned into another, and another, until she was sighing into his mouth, letting him pull her in by the waist. His hands were warm, and firm, fingers pressing into her like he didn't want to let go either.

Eventually, she did—pulling back just enough to whisper, "Bye, Kenny."

He chuckled, his lips brushing against hers one last time before stepping back, but she could see it in his eyes—the same reluctance, the same heat.

"Bye, baby."

Sedona lingered for a second, her fingers brushing against Kendrick's hoodie like she was debating pulling him back in. But instead, she exhaled and took a step toward her door, her shoes clicking softly against the pavement. She could feel his eyes on her, watching, waiting—like he always did. Like he always would.

Just as she reached for the door handle, she turned over her shoulder. "You sure you don't wanna come in?" Her voice was smooth, and teasing, but laced with something deeper.

Kendrick exhaled through his nose, rubbing his jaw as he smirked. "Sedona."

"What?" She played innocent, tilting her head slightly.

"You tryna get me caught up."

She bit back a smile, leaning against the doorway. "I mean, you already caught, so..."

He took a slow step forward, his hands tucked in his pockets, that damn smirk never leaving his face. "Go inside, girl."

Sedona sucked her teeth but obeyed, pushing the door open and stepping in. Before she could fully shut it, she peeked through the crack. "Don't forget to call me when you get home."

"I won't," He said, shaking his head. "Go to sleep."

She grinned, finally shutting the door. Pressing her back against it, she took a deep breath, her heart still hammering against her ribs.

Tomorrow.

Tomorrow, she'd wake up to the start of another day, another chapter. Her birthday. And Kendrick? He'd be there. One way or another, he always was.

Outside, Kendrick stood for a moment, staring at the closed door before exhaling through his nose. He adjusted his hoodie, glanced up at the night sky, then walked back to his car.

He had shit to do.

But first—he had a birthday to make unforgettable.

—

©kashdemi
Volume I- Redamancy.
Chapter Sixty-eight.
— ０３／０２／２５
———————

#Plotting.

And this is the last chapter until #the chapter arrives. So stay put and reread if you need to :)

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