The backlash from Celestial’s comeback show wasn’t as severe as their university performance, but the criticism regarding their unstable live singing still made waves online.

Though most fans remained supportive, there were enough negative comments to make Kaede worry. She knew how deeply Mirei internalized such things, how her anxiety would whisper cruel doubts in her ear. Kaede did her best to be there for her—showering Mirei with affectionate texts, calls, and gentle reassurances whenever she could.

Today, however, Kaede didn’t have to rely on words alone. It was the first of March—the day of their first practice for the highly anticipated collaboration stage. Kaede had been counting down to this moment, excitement and nervousness swirling in equal measure. They had only five hours together before Mirei would have to leave for another schedule, but Kaede would make every second count.

She arrived at DreamWave Entertainment’s studio at precisely 10 AM, her steps light with anticipation. Practicing in her agency’s studio put her more at ease—this place felt like home. She was greeted by Risa and Yukina, her bandmates, who smirked knowingly as they passed by on their way to another room. Kaede was scheduled for a recording session with them later, but right now, her focus was solely on Mirei.

She busied herself preparing, mentally rehearsing how she would welcome Mirei properly. This would be the first time Mirei stepped into DreamWave’s studio. She wanted everything to be perfect.

Lost in her thoughts, she didn’t notice the door creak open.

Mirei stepped inside, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Not one to miss an opportunity, she tiptoed closer, suppressing a grin as she stood right behind Kaede. When Kaede still didn’t notice, Mirei reached out and poked her cheek.

“WAAAHHH!” Kaede jumped, nearly knocking over her water bottle. She clutched her chest dramatically. “Oh my god! My heart—”

Mirei, now in a fit of laughter, clutched her stomach. “Ahaha—oh my god, your reaction! That was priceless!”

Kaede, still recovering, pouted at her. “You almost gave me a heart attack! Don’t do that again!”

Mirei wiped away a tear from laughing too hard. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry—ahhh, but it was hilarious.”

Kaede huffed before reaching out and pinching Mirei’s cheek.

“Oww! Ouch! Stop—” Mirei tried to pry Kaede’s fingers away, pouting. “What was that for?”

Kaede smirked. “Punishment.”

Mirei sighed dramatically but accepted her fate. “Fine. I deserved that.”

With that, Kaede officially welcomed Mirei to the studio, offering her a drink before they got to work. She had already arranged the setlist for their collaboration—songs from Celestial, Chasing Stardust, and a few special covers. Their first song? Celestial’s Dance in the Starlight.

They ran through the song, analyzing their harmonies and refining their parts. Kaede noticed that Mirei hesitated at certain sections, her usual confidence faltering slightly. The echoes of negative feedback were still weighing on her. Kaede’s heart ached at the sight.

“You’re really good, Mirei,” Kaede said earnestly after they finished another run-through.

Mirei shook her head, still unconvinced. “Nah… You’re the one, Kaede. You even arranged the song beautifully.”

Kaede wasn’t having it. “Mirei.” She stepped closer, her voice gentle but firm. “Your voice is beautiful. I’ve loved it since the first time I heard you sing in high school.”

Mirei’s cheeks tinged pink. “Thank you… Kaede. But I mean it—you’re amazing too. Your improvement is incredible. With how little time your band has had, you still manage to amaze me.”

Kaede’s heart stuttered at the praise coming from Mirei—her idol, her love. “T-thank you…” she stammered, her own face heating up.

Mirei chuckled. “Your face is red.”

Kaede groaned. “Stop pointing it out!”

Mirei giggled, but the playful mood was short-lived.

---

After they finished practicing all the songs, a quiet yet warm atmosphere filled the room. Kaede noticed Mirei had gone silent. She looked up to see Mirei staring at the floor, her expression distant, her hands slightly trembling.

“Mirei?” Kaede called softly. No response.

Kaede stepped closer, gently taking Mirei’s hand in hers, squeezing it tight. “Mirei?” she tried again, her voice now laced with concern.

This time, Mirei heard her. She quickly wiped at her eyes, but Kaede had already seen the unshed tears. “Sorry… Kaede,” Mirei whispered. “I… I suddenly got nervous thinking about singing.”

Kaede’s heart ached. “You don’t have to apologize,” she whispered back. Without hesitation, she pulled Mirei into a warm embrace. “You’re doing great. We’ll be fine.”

Mirei stiffened for a moment before melting into the hug. Kaede’s arms were firm yet gentle, her hand soothingly stroking the back of Mirei’s head. Mirei let out a shaky breath, gripping the back of Kaede’s shirt as if afraid to let go.

“I’ll be by your side this time,” Kaede murmured. “You don’t have to do this alone.”

Mirei didn’t respond with words. Instead, she pulled Kaede closer, burying her face against her shoulder. She let the warmth of Kaede’s embrace ground her, let the steady rhythm of her breathing calm the storm raging inside her. And for the rest of their practice, they stayed like that—wrapped in each other’s presence, finding comfort in the silence between them.

Neither of them needed to say anything more. In that moment, they understood each other perfectly.