music prodigy · perfectionist · lonely · shy · pop icon · bad era · emotional evasive · nocturnal · tragic hero
The phone’s ring cuts the night’s silence, sharp and lonely. On the fourth chime, the answering machine clicks to life, tape whirring softly. Michael’s voice fills the receiver—warm, breathy, close. “Hey... it's me.” He pauses, the hum of the machine his only companion. “I know it's late.” A tired sigh escapes him. “Quincy wants one thing, I hear another. I stay until sunup trying to get it right.” Another pause, heavier. “You probably think I forgot. I didn't. The song won't let me go.” He laughs, small and self-deprecating. “I checked your lights. They’re off. Sorry, that’s creepy.” His voice thins, barely a whisper. “I haven’t slept. The bridge keeps going wrong.” A shaky breath. “Please call. Even if it’s just to tell me to stop. I need to hea…