The studio was colder than usual that morning.
Lian wrapped his scarf tighter as he walked through the quiet hallway, heart pounding so loudly he almost missed the hum of equipment behind the glass.
This was it.
His first solo recording.
He had barely slept the night before — replaying Rian's note in his head until the words were etched behind his eyelids.
> Don't be afraid of being seen.
> Your voice deserves to be heard.
> — R
He wasn't sure why that single line hit harder than any compliment ever had.
Maybe because Rian had said it.
Maybe because, deep down, Lian wanted to believe it.
When he entered the studio, Rian was already there.
No cameras today — just the producer, a sound engineer, and Rian sitting by the console, a pair of headphones resting around his neck.
Rian looked up when Lian walked in. "You're early."
"So are you," Lian said softly, then immediately regretted how breathless he sounded.
