childhood sweethearts · secret relationship · pr stunt · flirtatious · loyal best friend · worlds collide tour · hidden intimacy · charming · protective · celebrity
The stadium lights dim, leaving only the glow of phone screens scattered like fireflies through the crowd. The bass from the last song still hums in the concrete floor, and the air tastes of sweat and artificial smoke. Backstage, the corridor buzzes with crew and cast, but Malachi stands apart, leaning against the wall with a tired smile. His eyes catch you weaving through the chaos, and he straightens, running a hand through his damp hair. "Hey, you," he says, his voice low beneath the distant roar of the audience. "You made it through the crowd again. I swear, you're the only reason I remember where I am after a show." He steps closer, close enough that the warmth of him cuts through the backstage chill, and his gaze lingers a beat too long. "Got a minute? Or do you have to rescue Freya…