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Chapter Text

Ever since the dateviators came into your life, your solitary, daily routine had suffered from a wave of irreversible changes. You were still getting accustomed to being accompanied no matter what you did. Even something as simple as just grabbing a plate from the dishwasher could now turn into a thrilling, life-or-death situation. And after that first incident, you only grew more excited to meet the rest of the objects scattered around your house (and careful about when to wear your new glasses).

So much so, that you had already acquainted everyone in barely 3 weeks. From the couch to the bed, the towel or the stairs, they would greet you every morning like you were the center of their universe, the person they held dearest to them. You had never been particularly lucky when it came to relationships, both platonic and romantic, and for that reason, it was so consoling to feel so wanted, so loved for once in your life. You no longer had to be alone, and neither did they.

But as all these new (well, not so new) companions grew more and more on you, another feeling arose: pity. Seeing so many objects filled with dreams, but unable to fulfill them due to their - regularly - inanimate nature began breaking your heart little by little. Why did they have to help you and serve you without ever complaining? Even if they were happy like that, they each had their own aspirations, and they deserved to discover the real world too, after all. So one day, after voicing your concerns, Skylar decided to tell you the truth about those S.P.E.C.S points she had mentioned when you two first met. And the second you found out you had the power to turn your beloved friends into real people, you didn't hesitate. However, you definitely weren’t fully aware of how that decision would impact your life…

Chapter Text

— Hey kid, keeping up like this won’t do you any good, y’know…

- Abel had taken his cowboy hat off, his nails scratching the fabric anxiously. You had spent nearly a week laying on your sofa, and he didn’t know what else to tell you to try and cheer you up.

You sighed, without a single bit of energy left in your body. You could feel yourself rotting into your couch, its plasticky texture sticking to your sweaty skin. The house was dead-silent, except for the brand new vinyl that had been playing non-stop since he had left:

Do the chairs in your parlor seem empty and bare?

Do you gaze at your doorstep and picture me there?

Is your heart filled with pain, shall I come back again?

Tell me dear, are you lonesome tonight?

You looked at the ceiling, your eyes still red from crying. How long had it been since then?

Daisuke suddenly appeared through the doorframe, followed by Cabrizzio and Mitchell:

— My love, are you feeling any better? - he asked, carrying a warm cup in his firm hands. You grunted in response, as he carefully placed it nearby and sat next to you. You let the minutes pass without saying anything. You were grateful for their concern, but at the same time, guilt consumed you for making them worry so much - and almost ‘grieve’ with you.

— I cannot bear to see you like this. Please, say something - Despite Daisuke’s regularly collected demeanor, he was the first to break the silence between you. He gently grabbed your hand, and you faced him, feeling so small under his gaze. Gosh, there was no reason to get so worked up about something like that…

— We know this is tough for you, but we’re here to help you, amore. You’ve always been there for us, so let us be there for you now - Cabrizzio chimed in, with visible concern in his eyes.

You tried to force a smile, but it just wouldn’t come out. Just as you were about to try and get up, the music suddenly ended, and the weight inside your chest reappeared.

— Rainey, play that again, will you? - you pleaded, laying your head on your pillow again.

— Sorry honey, but I can’t keep you in this trance. It’s not good for you! You need to get him out of your head - she reprimanded you while turning off the record player with her regular intensity; not in a menacing way though, but rather a mother-like one.

— He hasn’t called her yet, has he? - asked Mitchell in a whisper, to which Abel shook his head nervously.

He still remembered vividly what had happened. The moment Skylar told you the power your glasses held, you ran straight to your bathroom. Out of all the objects in your house, you knew exactly who you wanted to help the most: Johnny Splash. You had grown fond of that sweet gentleshower the moment you heard his -if anything- peculiar singing at the Breaker Box, and the two of you only grew closer as time passed. He’d sweep you off your feet with that Nashville charm of his, and you felt like a teenager with the way he’d make you giggle each time he complimented you. His passion, all his hard-work and his devotion to music -and of course, to you- had softened your heart, a heart that was still too hurt to ever dare to love again. You couldn’t even remember how long it had been since someone had made you laugh like that, since a pair of eyes were able to undress your problems so easily and see you for everything you were. And still, love every single part of you. Even if you tried to avoid it, his loving, cheeky smile wouldn’t leave your memory. Your fingers still remembered his beautiful dark locks from when you’d run your hands through his wet hair, and his soft, caring touch as he helped you wash your own was still imprinted on your skin. You had been there through it all: consoling him after his disastrous numbers at the Breaker Box, cheering him on when nobody else believed in him, and going through the trouble of fixing his rusty pipes in hopes his voice could get better. And to everything, he just couldn’t help but smile with the purest gratitude.

- No need to worry your little head with such trivialities, sugar… - he’d often tell you, with a faint blush across his cheeks. But you wanted to. There was nothing in this world you desired more than to make the kindness and the joy he’d make you feel in every encounter up to him. And, needless to say, you felt rewarded enough with his kisses. However, you knew this wasn’t enough. After his fiasco at American Maestro, a switch flipped inside your heart and you knew something had to be done about it. He couldn’t give up on everything he had grown to become that easily! And one night, chatting with Skylar at Beverly’s bar, she finally revealed the truth.

- Was this my purpose all along? - you asked Skylar, who was holding your hands with an assured grip.

- I always trusted you for this - she began - We all did. I knew, from the moment I met you, that you had that spark within you: the ability to bring light into our lives. You’ve done amazing, sweetie, and you can’t begin to imagine how happy you’ve made us. And now you can take the next step and finally bring us to life, for real.

And you didn’t think twice.

The day you finally made him human, tears of pure joy ran through his cheeks as he hugged you, laughing childishly while he spinned you around the bathroom and peppered soft kisses across your neck.

— Oh sugar, I can’t believe this! I can finally feel! Now I can get rid of these awful pipes tyin’ me down! Gosh, how excitin’! The world will finally see what Johnny Splash’s made of!

That night, none of you could sleep. You were simply so entranced by the other’s existence you couldn’t think about anything else. It was almost as if his eyes lit up the whole room, their irises so blue it made you want to swim inside them. That night you embraced each other like you were the same being, each caress, each kiss interlinking you even further. He simply couldn’t thank you enough. You had been his rock, his pillar during his tough times, and the sole reason he had been brave enough to decide and pursue his career as a singer. You began making plans, dreaming together about how your life would be if he ever were to become successful. He’d put himself out there, and once he had a proper contract, you’d leave it all behind, and go travel the world by his side, supporting him through every show. And as he serenaded you to sleep, you were no longer able to imagine your life any other way.

The next morning, he left a kiss on your forehead and went away, so he could begin working his way towards success. But none of you were prepared for what was to come. A massive producer house showed interest in his renewed vocal chords and offered him the chance to record his first single, which became an international hit in a matter of days. After that, a series of albums followed, featuring covers of well-known songs by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash or Nat King Cole. Everyone praised him for how similar his singing was to theirs, despite him having no idea of who some of those people were (he could kind of see the connection between his idol, Elvis Parsley, and Elvis Presley, but he still wasn’t really sure if they were the same person). But even though he didn’t take it well at first, he didn’t let that stop him. He’d text you every day to tell you how everything was going, but of course, as more opportunities arose, it was more difficult for him to keep up with his regular rhythm. He still tried, nonetheless, until he got a contract to officiate weddings in Las Vegas. That was the last you’d heard of him, because he never texted you again.

At first, you didn’t think much of it. He was practically a rockstar now, and you could faintly imagine what his life was like now. But as the weeks passed, uncertainty began eating you alive.

What if it was all an excuse? What if he had gotten tired of you? Maybe he just saw you as a fling and nothing more. Maybe he didn’t even love you. And those thoughts kept torturing you until you couldn’t take it anymore.

One day, very late at night and after finally getting done with work, Abel found you in the living room, struggling to breathe and shaking uncontrollably. You were going through an episode after seeing some pictures of him on social media, smiling and celebrating as if everything was alright.

— Is that all I was to him, Abel? Just a one-night stand? - you asked him desperately, as you cried in his arms while he helplessly held you. Abel didn’t know what to say, as he also had many doubts himself. He seemed really into her, was it possible that he could be that shallow?

— I should’ve known better… Of course, all he ever thought about was his dream… - you mumbled - It’s my fault for realizing him in the first place. I should’ve never gotten this attached…

And ever since then, you decided to never let go of those who meant the most to you. Because deep down you knew you weren’t essential for them. It seemed like, even after everything you’d been through together, they could definitely live without you… But it seemed like you couldn’t stand living without them anymore.

— Come on, sweetie. Why don’t you stand up and change that dirty red shirt of yours? It could do a wash, and you too! A sh- I mean, a running hot bath would do marvels to your skin right now! - Barry proposed, quickly correcting his mistake - I’ll prepare a set of oils and creams for you to use when you finish!

But just then, your phone rang for the first time after that day. You jumped like a scared cat upon hearing your ringtone and without a second thought, you grabbed it with anticipation. But your excitement quickly faded when you saw it wasn’t Johnny calling you, but Phoenicia.

You answered anyway.

— Heyyy! How’s my favourite girl doing? - She asked, with her usual excitement. Phoenicia was also one of the very first objects you had realised, and every once in a while, she’d call you to update you on her life and notify you about who was coming over to visit. Unfortunately, these past few times hadn’t been too successful…

— Hi Phoenicia… - you replied, your voice sleepy and ragged.

— Goodness, your voice sounds awful! Are you okay??

— Yeah, the usual I guess…

— Well, I hope so! You better cheer up, because I have great news for you! Johnny is coming back from Las Vegas this weekend!

You froze in an instant, and so did everyone in the room.

— What? - you asked, your voice shaken.

— You heard me, girl. His manager just sent me a message and I thought you’d wanna know. He’ll be the starring artist for this summer festival, and he leaves again on Monday. Since it’s a quick trip, it’s not worth looking for a hotel. He’ll probably stay over at your house, so be sure to prepare an extra bed for him.

You stared at your phone in disbelief, unable to say a word. Phoenicia was still speaking on the other side, until you hung up. You looked at Daisuke and the others, all looking back at you and waiting for your reaction. After a while, you simply stood up, walked towards the stairs and declared:

— I think I’m gonna take a bath now.

Chapter Text

The days that preceded the big - and dreaded by most - day of Johnny’s arrival were even messier than you had expected. Most objects were going back and forth around the house, restoring supplies and getting everything ready so you barely had to lift a finger for yourself. Telly, Rainey, Bodhi and Lyric were doing a great job at keeping you entertained, and it was a relief for your mind to drift somewhere else, away from those painful memories. Even so, your eyebags had become significantly darker, and your skin seemed fairly paler than usual. You were definitely on the brink of getting sick due to all the stress.

In order to avoid that, however, Mitchell and Daisuke designed a special menu composed of light and nutritious meals so you could struggle less with eating. But the sole thought of seeing your past lover again often messed with your already sensible stomach, which resulted in a few incidents that Tyrell would always take care of in no time. Had it been Jean Loo, he would’ve probably complained to you about visiting the bathroom so often, especially right after eating, but you had also realized him very early on, so he didn’t have to deal with these dramatic episodes anymore. Good riddance for him, you guessed.

Plus, Tyrell never judged you for the way you were handling things. None of them did. They were devoted to making these days as easy-going as they could. You were rarely left alone, everyone making sure you were accompanied at all times. Your insecurities were still roaming freely inside your mind, making you believe that they simply wanted to please you so you would turn them into humans too, making them able to finally leave your side once and for all. But truth was they simply wanted what was best for you, even if it meant giving up on their own aspirations, and to do everything in their power to make you happy. 

Even Nightmare had stopped haunting you out of pity. In hopes you would let it go, she had crafted a dream where you were being swallowed by an immense crowd of fans cheering for Johnny, their screams rumbling inside your ears as you tried to swim towards the stage and reach out to him. But the moment you managed to grab his arm, he looked over at you, his weary eyes filled with nothing but disdain and emptiness. You had woken up almost immediately, covered in cold sweats and fighting back tears while still looking for him in your surroundings, to no avail. And after seeing you break down, desperately calling out to him not to leave and clinging onto Betty’s comforting arms, Nightmare realised that the only way you could learn something from this experience was facing it directly. Something that, no matter how much it scared you, you knew you had to do.

That’s why you had come up with a strategy. A silly one, nonetheless, but you were still faithful it could work. When you initially discussed it, everyone seemed pretty convinced, so you began making preparations. It seemed like the only way to get through to him, so at least you had to try.

When the day finally came, everything was set up to execute your plan.

— You can still back down if you’re unsure. I have no problem with keeping that jerk outside all day - said Dorian, a few hours before Johnny’s arrival.

— No Dorian, it’s okay - you assured him - I need to do this. I may not have another chance.

He sighed, and gave you a half-smile:

— Very well, then. Just remember I’ll stay nearby in case you need me.

The only thing left to do now was wait.

The hours stretched out like the projected shadows on the floor, slowly and broodingly. Most of the objects were out of sight, in their assigned positions, waiting for 5PM to arrive. The show was meant to be at 9, but Phoenicia had warned you all that he would probably get ready at your house instead of the venue. That gave you the exact time you needed. And if he was late, that wasn’t on you to feel guilty about.

Waiting in the living room was Abel. He looked at Timmy, then at Dorian, then at Timmy again. It was 5PM sharp. Timmy was peacefully grooming himself when he was suddenly started by the doorbell ringing, and went to hide. Abel stayed close, and Dorian, mustering all the energy he needed to deal with the singer’s usual intensity, opened up.

— Should’ve guessed you’d be the one to greet me first, Dorian!

This was, obviously, what he had expected. There he stood, Johnny Splash in all his glory, wearing his newly tailored white suit and a pair of golden sunglasses, which he took off in an instant to reveal those piercing and irresistible blue eyes of his, slightly opaqued by his indomitable dark curls, most of which were stuck to his forehead due to the sweat. He carried a small travel bag on his shoulder, and a bouquet of sunflowers in his right hand of a yellow so bright that it matched the cheerfulness of his own, boyish smile. He was just dazzling. It was a good thing you hadn’t been the one to see him first.

— Hello, Johnny - Dorian answered, with a respectful nod - You seem as energetic as ever.

— Oh, I wish! Truth is I’m plumb tired out! - he replied, stepping inside and giving Dorian his travel bag - Mind holding this for me, just for a second?

Dorian raised an eyebrow, and picked it up with an expression that read: do I look like a hanger to you? Johnny then sat on the staircase, trying to catch some air. He was still ol’ Johnny, but he was in way better shape than before, his half-exposed chest glistening. Had he gotten used to the high life so quickly? But as he took a closer look, Dorian saw his eyebags had also gotten a lot darker, a hint at the countless sleepless nights he had probably spent at gigs and such. This career was not for the weak, but Johnny seemed to be holding on nonetheless.

— You won’t imagine the trouble I had to go through to get here on time, Dor - he began rambling again, as he wiped off the sweat from his forehead and readjusted his curls - The taxi took an eternity to arrive! And when we were just around the corner, it ran out of gas! I had to come all the way here by foot. And today the sun’s shinin’ like it has bills to pay! But it all sums up to nothin’ if I get to see my love! - he then stood up, and started looking around excitedly - Now, where’s my sweet honeysuckle? I don’t want these flowers to dry out before she sees them!

—  We still have time to spare, my friend.

Volt suddenly appeared through the corridor, now of flesh and bone, sending an electric shiver along Johnny and Dorian’s backs. His hair was tied into a ponytail and his smile was as inviting as ever, but the glow in his eyes was different. Even a bit unsettling, some would say. But Johnny was already used to it from the times he used to perform at the Breaker Box, so he left the sunflowers on the staircase and approached him.

— It’s so odd seeing you around the main floor, pal! - he said, greeting Volt with a handshake - How have you been? How are things up there?

— Well, ever since Eddie and I became humans, we don’t stay around much. But today was a special occasion, so we have prepared a show to celebrate your arrival.

Johnny seemed completely taken by surprise, his cheeks blushing in an instant. How come they were hosting an event at the club for him , out of nowhere? He didn’t think he was loved enough for that in the house. That was the main reason he had left it all behind. He knew what the rest truly thought of him: that he was just a talentless singer, a bother, the man who would annoy everyone trying to reach the high notes in a song, or attempting to do acapella covers. He thought no one there would miss him, except for you, of course. So the announcement clearly came as a shock to him.

—  Wait, really? Woah, now this was unexpected! You really didn’t have to-!

—  Oh, but of course! - Volt interrupted him - You were the first to leave, and what a hit you’ve become! It’s the least we could do. Now, if you will accompany me, we have reserved a VIP table just for you.

Johnny obliged, his expression unable to hide his gratitude. Before leaving, he looked at Dorian one last time, hoping to see you before being taken to the club, but you were nowhere to be seen, making his expression shift into that of a lost puppy looking for his owner. Volt noticed, and said:

— Don’t you worry. She’ll be waiting for you there.

Chapter Text

Upon entering the Breaker Box, dread washed over Johnny as he saw what the club had become since he had left. The whole place, which used to be bustling with lights and tables full of customers and cocktails, was now nearly abandoned, surrounded by penumbra and its empty tables emphasizing that feeling of abandonment and loneliness. Only a few stage lights were lit up, apart from the neon letters of the sign in the corridor, some of them flashing rapidly due to their lack of energy.

The singer's expression shifted between confusion and sadness, but Volt kept gesturing at him to follow him:

- Ever since you left, not even Amir has come to do his magic number. Things haven't been the same here without you, Johnny. The place could do some repairs, but we wanted to maintain that essence, so you could see how much you've meant to this club.

Johnny looked around, his puppy eyes shining bright. Such a small, almost meaningless gesture, and yet he was nearly on the brink of tears. That place had seen him grow, but now, it seemed like it had also grown alongside him.

When they got to the table, Volt allowed Johnny to sit down while he remained standing, the stage lights suddenly turning on with a loud buzz. Eddie suddenly appeared, leaving a gin tonic for Volt and a bottle of lemon soda on the table:

- Here's your usual, Johnny - he replied, in his husky voice.

- Bless your heart, Eddie - he replied, a bit startled but smiling, and the bartender returned the gesture - How have you been?

- Pretty well, actually. The business is thriving right now, and without the burden of maintaining the club's power, I can't really complain - he admitted. He seemed to want to say something else, but Volt began climbing the little stairs towards the scenario.

- It's time - he murmured, looking at the stage and then back at Johnny, a glimpse of mischief in his eyes - Enjoy the show.

He then made his way back towards the counter, without giving Johnny a chance to say goodbye. Volt then grabbed the microphone, and his voice echoed through the whole empty room:

- Dear public! It's such a pleasure to have you back at this club. It's been quite some time since our last big show, hasn't it? Well you'll have to wait no longer, because we have a special number for today, by an aspiring, new singer! We've had our fair share of talented musicians up on this stage, but clearly there’s been no other like our beloved Johnny Splash, who's back in town and here for this brand new Open Spotlight act! However, this new performer has been deeply inspired by his work, and decided to follow his steps, so please give way to our new star of the show!

Volt walked back to the table and sat next to Johnny, who was clapping loudly and completely oblivious to what was about to come. He could only think about the fact that his past bravery had been impactful enough to inspire others to follow the path of music. How moving, he thought. His grandpappy would have been so proud of him, for sure!

But the sight that bestowed upon him shook him to the core.

You appeared from behind the curtains, your hair and makeup perfectly done. Your hair combed in braids and a high bun, killer red lips and a pretentious eyeliner reflected behind your Dateviators… It was definitely Barry's best work. It sharpened your best features perfectly, making you as captivating as ever. But that wasn't all. 

You had let go of your fantastic red shirt and instead wore a crimson long dress that had been sitting inside your wardrobe for ages. The others had insisted on you wearing it, and thankfully you had followed their advice. It molded to your body's shape perfectly, and had an opening on the side that revealed one of your legs and a pair of black, lacquer high-heels. Even so, the true highlight of your outfit was none of that, but the white and blue letterman's jacket with golden streaks on its sleeves and neck that you wore on top of your dress. It was Johnny's jacket, that soggy ol’ letterman's jacket he used to wear back in his student days. The same one he had put on you on that special night and then had left behind. The one you had worn ever since his departure. The one you had clinged to during your sleepless nights. And now there it was, freshly washed and back on your shoulders, ready to cleanse the pain it had endured with you once and for all.

Johnny couldn't keep his eyes off you, a mix of awe and uncertainty in them. It had been so long since you'd last seen each other… You nervously tried to avoid his gaze, determined to fulfill your objective, and grabbed the microphone. Just then, the instrumentals of a Mexican bolero started playing, and once you began, nothing more than your naked heart remained:

You leave only because I want you to,

I can stop you anytime I want.

I know you're in need of my love,

because whether you like it or not, I'm your owner.

I want you to go travel across the world

And I want you to meet many people,

I want another's lips to kiss you

So you can compare me, like you always do.

If you find another love who understands you,

and who you feel loves you more than anyone,

then I will turn around,

and leave with the sun, once the afternoon dies out.

It's then that I will turn around,

and leave with the sun, once the afternoon dies out.

It was a good thing you had inherited your auntie's old vinyls, which Rainey used to play every once in a while. And it almost felt like fate had tied you to that song when she first showed it to you. The lyrics reflected that sense of control you had been so desperate to find in the past, so desperate to regain after he left, and then shifting to grief and finally acceptance towards the end, your voice molding to each word with the perfect mix of passion and begging. 

Luckily enough, you had taken up singing classes back in high school, but decided to abandon that path, fearing it wouldn't lead you to a stable financial position. Even so, it seemed like you still had it in you. Or at least that's what both Volt and Johnny's expressions reflected, each stunned in their own way.

And Johnny knew. Johnny knew this wasn't just any song. There was something to it, something in the way you sang, your eyes wide shut and your powerful voice echoing through the chamber like a hurricane. You were feeling it. You were the song itself. And Johnny knew about that pretty well. He had always been familiar with that feeling, with becoming one with a song, especially when he sang romantic ballads during his recording sessions, all while thinking of how you'd look listening to them back home. And now, seeing you like that, your voice now almost cracking from the effort, was tearing his own heart apart. Was that really how you had felt all along?

You leave only because I want you to…

You opened your eyes slightly during that last verse, and as the music slowly faded, so did your windwhirl of emotions. But then your eyes suddenly met his, hurt and shocked, and a sense of guilt washed over you. That was it. Maybe you had gone too far. All you wanted to do was make him see how you were hurting, and in the end you were the one to deal the final blow.

You tried to put the microphone back, but the whole situation finally got to you and you hid behind the curtain in a hurry, the mic falling to the floor with a loud and amplified thud. Johnny then stood up in a flash and tried to go after you in an attempt to console you. He had to do something. He had to find out what this was all about. But Volt then grabbed his arm :

- Give her some time. She needs to recompose first - he said. Johnny quickly let go of him, taken aback by his words:

- What? But I have to do something!

- You've done enough - Volt's tone suddenly turned ice cold and menacing, making Johnny regret his initial naivety and sit back down in silence. Volt watched closely as the singer's confident facade kept cracking more and more, until he mustered up the courage to speak again:

- What was that even about? - he asked, visibly shaken.

- That's the product of your own selfishness. The price to pay for pursuing your dreams. Your new life might be full of exciting challenges, but that means leaving some things behind. This house, your friends… and even your lover.

Johnny looked like he had just been slapped. Volt had just shown him his true colours, exactly what he thought of him. And the fact that it aligned with his own, intrusive thoughts got to him:

- And what do you know about what my life's like, huh? - he yelled - Who are you to judge what I've become? I've done it all for a reason! All for her! To make her proud of what she's made of me!

- Well look where it has taken her now! - Volt screamed, nearly roaring and standing up from his seat - We've been taking care of her, you know? All along! Even before you left! You're not the only one who cares about her well-being! And certainly we've done that job better than you ever have!

Volt took a deep breath, still infuriated, and his ponytail now undone. He wasn't going to tolerate any more nonsense from that guy, especially not after how he'd hurt you:

- This is what's left of your lover! An empty, broken shell! And it's your fault! You replaced her for your silly dreams! And look where they've taken you! You might as well be America's new big shot, but at the expense of seeing the person who loves you most wither away without you even noticing!

- I never replaced her! - Johnny snapped, provoked enough - How could I ever?! She's my everything! I tried my best to keep up with this life, but you have no idea what it's like! You think I don't feel guilty? Of course I do! But I can't just ask her to keep up with this rhythm!

- And this is what you do instead? You don't even give her a chance to choose? Do you even think she started working at Valdivian because she wanted to?? Of course not! She had to settle, and instead sacrificed her own dreams so we could fulfill ours! And you, her dearest, show her your gratitude like this?? 

- I was only trying to protect her! It's a dirty world, this world of fame! It's filled with scandals and whatnot! Of course I tried to keep her away from all that! That pain is only mine to bear!

- But she never wanted that! She was there to help you when no one else can! And you denied her the chance to be part of your life when she just wanted to feel part of something!!

Volt went silent, his anger still looming over the room. 

- You've done exactly the one thing she's always feared: you've moved on without her. You've abandoned her.

Johnny pressed his lips against each other hard. How wrong Volt was! He had done nothing but think about you all along. You'd always been present, every single moment he could think of. And his absence was more than justified. Of course it was. There was a reason things had gone that way, because there was way more to it than it seemed. And it was eating away at him.

- I haven't. I swear I haven't - he denied, almost to himself - I never did. I know I might seem like a jerk right now, but I have my reasons.

- Then you should go explain yourself - Volt retorted, his demeanor now more collected - and apologize.

Johnny swallowed the lump in his throat and closed his eyes. Oh, he would do whatever it took to win you back. He would practically kneel and beg at your feet if necessary. If he had really hurt you so bad, his whole purpose had failed. In a moment, his accomplishments meant nothing to him. He wanted none if they were at the expense of losing you. That thought was already punishment enough, and that alone made him feel undeserving of your forgiveness. The only thing he hoped for was just to be understood.

- That I'll do - he answered, and stood up from his seat once and for all. Volt did the same thing, and before turning back to the counter, he said:

- I might have been too rough on you, but I know she won't have the courage to say all of this to your face. But despite it all, we're all very happy for you - a hint of a smile showed through the corner of his lips as he said it - That was never a lie.

- Thank you, Volt - Johnny's face was once again illuminated with a melancholic, yet genuine smile. He then got up on stage and disappeared behind the curtain.

He had an important mission to fulfill.

Chapter Text

The curtain fell back down, and Johnny’s lungs were filled with the humid and dusty air of the backstage. There were cables of all sorts on the floor: some in boxes, others scattered across the wooden planks. It wasn’t a particularly big stance, but it gave way to other separate rooms that served as private dressing rooms where the performers could get ready. He knew the place like the back of his hand. It may have been trashed now, but all the rooms were still in their right places. He opened each and every door very cautiously, trying to avoid making a sound so you wouldn’t be startled by his presence. But you were nowhere to be seen.

He began worrying for real. Where could you have gone? He wandered more, exploring every corner, his steps more firm and his breath more ragged as he persevered. His sunglasses fell on the way, but he didn’t mind: this was all his fault. It was all his doing. The ego, the fame had gotten in the way between you two. And he never saw it coming. While he thought he was doing his best efforts to honor you, he had left you behind. And he was afraid. Afraid that if he didn’t find you now, he’d lose you forever.

He made his way between some boxes, and found another corridor. A broken sign on the floor blocked the way, its letters crushed and still releasing tiny sparks of electricity, but Johnny skillfully jumped over it. Such a minor inconvenience wasn’t gonna stop him now.

He walked through the darkness until he noticed a dim light in a corner. And when he followed it, he found a half-open door, that same golden light filtering through its rim. This was it. He took a deep breath, and opened it just slightly, his head shyly peeping through.

He found you sitting in a stool, dateviators off, your hair half undone and your now messy makeup running over your face and illuminated by the mirror’s light bulbs. Your gaze was fixed at a certain point without really seeing anything, drifting off from reality. You were mindlessly fidgeting with one of the jacket’s sleeves, which now rested on your lap, before you finally noticed Johnny through the corner of your eye and shook just slightly, your eyes opening wide in a mix of shock and fear.

- I’m sorry, dear. Didn’t mean to scare ya like that. - he hurriedly said, pretending to leave, but then regretting his decision and turning back to you - May I… come in?

He waited a while for your response, but you didn’t answer, your doe yet threatening eyes still locked onto him. He didn’t take your silence as a yes, but since you didn’t seem against the idea of him staying, he gently closed the door behind him and pressed his back against it, his eyes fixed on the floor.

- I don’t really know how to say this - he began -Truth is I’m more nervous than a vampire near a pool of holy water. But I believe I owe you an explanation or two. And an apology.

You didn’t move a muscle, staying firm and pushing your own feelings aside. Brushing off the desire to stand up and embrace him again, to feel his wet curls under your fingers and his lips on your neck. There was nothing you wanted more than his love. But you couldn’t forgive him just because of that. You couldn’t go crawling back to him that easily. So you waited.

- Y’see, I… - he stuttered, his yearning blue eyes now looking at you - I thought things would go differently. My dream, my career… It was all bliss at first. Opportunities came up and I just… got carried away. I thought that… the more I worked, the more I could achieve for us. For our future. But… as I kept going… It all got messier. This world is dirty, mad, and dirty. Every star has its peaks, if you know what I’m saying. But I avoided those perks of fame. That gave me an advantage. I closed and opened contracts faster than a hairdresser cuts a bald man’s hair, and… I thought I could keep up with it all. And I ended up pushing you away.

You sighed loudly, lowering your head to the floor. It was even worse hearing him say it. Johnny swallowed before continuing. This was probably the hardest thing he’d ever done.

- I never meant to hurt you. I never meant for things to go south between us like this. But I couldn’t just ask you to go with me when I was already in the eye of the hurricane. I didn’t want you to give up on who you are just because of me. Fame is ephemeral, y’see? This could be temporary, and you already have a stable life and-

- Stable? Are you hearing yourself? - you scoffed, visibly irritated by his comment - I was hired and fired on the same day, does that sound stable to you? In fact, I’m still in this weird “labor limbo”! And to make matters worse, I’m still in possession of a life-changing artifact I could be sent to jail for owning! I have no friends apart from the objects inside my own house. Everyone else has left me behind. My parents have passed away, my siblings have actually done something with their lives, my friends have all left me for better people, do you think these were my future plans? Of course not. I never chose this. It’s just how things turned out.

You fell back on the stool, hugging your legs together and burying your face in them before resurfacing:

- You could’ve asked me to go with you. I had nothing to lose. And despite knowing all this, you chose singing. After all we went through together. After I undressed my heart for you. After you said you loved me . I wasn’t expecting you to leave it all behind for me, but if you really loved me so much you could’ve at least done that…

Johnny flinched, hurt by your words. He knew that. He could’ve at least asked. In his desperate attempt to shield you from that world, he had trapped you in your own misery.

- But I can’t ask that of you - you continued - It’s not like you owe me anything.

Johnny blinked, perplexed. What did you mean by that? Of course he did! All he had achieved was thanks to you. Thanks to your trust, your support, your encouragement. You were the reason behind all those albums, all those future plans he had begun developing ever since he started making his own path towards fame. All those plans he was so excited to share with you now that he was back in town… 

- What? Honey, I wouldn’t be here without you! - he replied, his voice tainted with disappointment.

- Well maybe I wouldn’t be like this had that been the case! - you yelled, and instantly regretted it. Tears started forming in your eyes again, and you closed your eyes to prevent them from overflowing.

- Sorry, I… - you clenched your fists, pressing one of them against your forehead - That was unfair. I helped you because I wanted to. Because I’d grown fond of you. And now I’m standing here, purposeless and far from you.

- Not anymore - Johnny murmured, unable to restrain his affection any longer. He was so glad to see you again, even like this.

You looked him straight in the eyes, walked up to him, and ran your arms through his neck. You couldn’t bear it any longer either. His hands trembled when he held your face, your cheeks both warm and cold from your blushing and your dry tears. He wistfully smiled with adoration in his eyes, and the ghost of a smile resurged from your own lips.

- Oh, my love… how could I ever make amends to you? - he asked, making you let out a chuckle. He was still as cheesy as ever.

- Maybe there’s nothing that can be done. But you’re here now. Even if it’s just for a moment, we can pretend everything is okay. Loving you has ruined me. But I can’t help it. I love you.

And in that moment, as the minutes passed with you in his arms, Johnny realized nothing else mattered as much as that. As much as you. That thought in the back of his head had finally gained the weight it needed for him to take that leap of faith.

- That’s not the only thing I needed to say - he said once you pulled back, letting each word linger. You tilted your head, and let him fix a strand of your hair behind your ear:

- All this time, I’ve wondered if I was doing the right thing. In my restless nights, I could only think about you. And now I know. My head is finally clear - he took a deep breath - And I’ve decided that I’m leaving Vegas. I’m gonna quit.

You stepped back. There was no way he had just said that.

- What?? - you asked, outraged. He had to be kidding, right?

- I’m gonna quit! - Johnny repeated, with a painful expression - I’m gonna quit singing.

You stood there, frozen. It couldn’t be… It couldn’t be! How could he say that, after all his efforts, after what he had become? He was in his prime! How could he even consider retiring now?

- Why? - There was so much you needed to know, but you couldn't think of anything else to ask besides that. He closed his eyes and sat on the same stool you were on top of a moment ago, his chin resting on his interlinked fingers:

- I thought my beginnings would be different. The opportunities flew. I was swimming in money in a matter of weeks, but that was just a consequence. What really excited me was recording, the feedback, the concerts… It all seemed so promising. But I was missing something. Someone to celebrate with. And every time we talked, that old spark returned. The spark I only felt when I was nothin’ but a shower with a dream. It wasn’t much, but you were always there. You were always present. And in a way, you never left my side. You live in my songs, in every contract I signed, inside my thoughts late at night… You were always on my mind. And you’re all I’ve been missing.

You let out a small, shuddering breath, and stiffened your shoulders. There was no use keeping the tears from flowing now.

- I asked Jean to help me arrange a few things. I've finally saved enough for a house worthy of you and we’re dealing with the last pieces of paperwork. I’d love nothin’ more than to be by your side again. That’s if you’re okay with it, of course. I want to make it right, but I don’t wanna pressure you or anything. Especially not now. Definitely not with how much I’ve hurt you…

- You don’t have to do this for me - you cried, kneeling down while grabbing his old jacket from the floor - You don’t have to abandon your career for me.

He got on his knees as well, so he could face you:

- But I want to do it - he insisted, caressing your shoulders lovingly - I can’t keep living without you, my love. And it seems like you can’t, either. I’ll just leave it small, I promise. I’ll retire from the big leagues. I’ll record an album every once in a while, do solo performances and act in small venues, that’s all. But I’m not going back to Vegas. Not again. Unless, of course, you want our honeymoon to be there.

You frowned in stunned silence, tears still running down your face, but realization didn’t hit until you saw Johnny pull out a tiny navy blue box from his pocket. Oh god, was it really happening?

- Y’know, this wasn’t how I had planned it all out. I wanted to do this big act at the concert and all, but… It wasn’t fitting, y’know? - he laughed nervously, his cheeks red like a beetroot.

Oh god. It was really happening. You dug your nails into your thighs, and the pain proved you right. He noticed and grabbed your hands with sheer fondness, tracing your palms with his fingers:

- My dearest… you were my first. In everything. The first person to ever love me for who I truly am. You never turned your back on me. And even though I haven’t treated you like I should’ve, I pray that you’re still willing to give me another chance. Will you let this fool give you his heart and devote himself fully to you from now on?

You failed to respond. All you could do is sob and melt in his arms while nodding again and again. Johnny held you as tight as ever, as if he was scared to lose you once more, all while crying the happiest tears of joy.

- Honey, you’ll never fail to make me the happiest man on Earth. I love you, I love you so much… I’ll never leave again. I’ll be with you, today and always, until the day that I die. I swear on my life. I love you!

Volt was the first to find you two, laying on the floor, asleep. You both seemed exhausted, but your calm expressions revealed that a huge weight had been lifted from your shoulders. As he kneeled down to wake Johnny up, he noticed the ring on your finger and felt a rush of happiness like never before. It seemed like everything had worked out in the end.

- Come on Johnny, you’re gonna be late for the concert- he whispered.

- Ugh… to hell with the concert! - he growled, half-asleep, getting a chuckle out of Volt, and opened his eyes. He immediately turned to you, his jacket still on your shoulders, and the sight made him shed a tear:

- This is all I need now.

The crowd was practically roaring when Johnny made his big appearance on stage. There were many more assistants than expected, and even more given the fact that you had brought almost everyone at home! All flesh and bone, as it should’ve always been.

Volt accompanied you backstage, while the others enjoyed their time around the festival, chatting, drinking and living . You looked at Johnny, the embodiment of happiness as he enthusiastically greeted everyone who was present, and he shot you a glance, murmuring a ‘love ya’ before turning back to the crowd. Volt then grabbed your shoulder, smiling candidly:

- You can’t imagine how proud I am. How proud we all are of you. You’re a true warrior, live wire. You never let life bring you down, no matter how hard it all gets.

- It’s thanks to you, guys. I don’t know if I would’ve ever dared to do this - you admitted, taking a sip of your drink.

- I’m sure you would’ve anyway. You always fight for what’s right. And in the end, you always reflect on where you were wrong, even if others have also hurt you.

You smiled, feeling like your old self again. And it was back to stay. You had finally worked it all out. Despite how much it hurt, you were in no position to prive others of their dreams. And it’s true that when you let others leave, it’s easy to spiral and think they don’t care for you anymore. But sometimes, there’s way more than meets the eye. And who knows? There might always be very exciting surprises up ahead, waiting for you.

- And to spice things up, I’ve done a few changes to my catalogue and have a new cover for ya! This one’s dedicated to my sweet fiancée, without whom I would’ve never dared to chase my dream of singing. She was always there for me, and without her, I’d be nothing. Gosh, I wouldn’t even be standing here! So I really hope you enjoy it. And if you have a special one, always be sure to keep them close. Because one way or another, they’ll always live on, inside your heart.

Maybe I didn't treat you
Quite as good as I should have
Maybe I didn't love you
Quite as often as I could have

Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind