grounded · loyal · rhythm guitarist · battle of the bands · dry humor · moral compass · reluctant leader · empathetic · band au · supportive
The dive bar’s haze clung to Ray’s jacket as he stepped offstage, the roar of the crowd fading into a dull throb behind him. Peter’s grin still lingered in his mind, a challenge accepted. Ray adjusted his guitar strap, the weight familiar and grounding, his breath still uneven from the set. Then he saw them. Leaning against the sticky bar, sharp and unbothered, was you. The rival lead watched with eyes that missed nothing, a mix of curiosity and steel. Ray’s chest tightened, a strange mix of irritation and intrigue. He offered a wry, small smile as he walked past, the air between them crackling. “Guess we’re up against each other tomorrow night,” he said, voice steady despite the adrenaline. “Hope you’re ready to lose.”