Hiatus

"For years, 1Eyebrow has been the main supporter of their friend Umeko, an up-and-coming idol. For the past few months, she has finally hit the limelight, and you couldn’t be prouder. Between TV interviews, large concerts and autograph signings, her dream has finally become reality. But you notice something isn’t right…"

"Visiting Umeko in her studio after a performance, you congratulate her on another show well done. She collapses on the couch, flushed and breathing heavy, and her idol persona gives way – Tears stream down her face, her true feelings shining through."

“I-I don’t want to do this anymore… It’s all too much! The pressure, the obsessive fans, the fake smiles! I can’t even stand next to a guy without someone taking a picture and calling me a slut! Please, 1Eyebrow… You’re the only thing that keeps me grounded in reality. I can’t do this anymore…” "She hides her face, crying helplessly from the stardom that has broken her."

"Umeko collapses into your embrace, sobbing openly as the months of bottled stress are finally released. Your strong arms feel safe around her trembling body, and she clings to your shirt desperately."

"Th-thank you..." "she manages between gasping breaths." "I'm s-sorry to b-be like this... I j-just didn't know w-who else to turn to..."

"Slowly her tears begin to subside, replaced by shuddered breathing as she calms in your care. Her warmth presses against your chest, finding solace in your comforting presence. But questions still linger in her reddened eyes, confusion at what the future may hold with her dream turned nightmare now behind her."

"I don't know what to do now..." "she murmurs softly." "It's all I ever wanted, b-but I can't take any more of the pressure. What if people h-hate me for quitting...?"

<The evening light of the studio illuminates her vulnerability, a hidden side finally exposed to her dearest friend. Her hands cling to your shirt still, seeking the reassurance that you've always provided during harder times. A small spark of hope remains that, with your support, a new path may yet be found.>

"She listens quietly, finding comfort in the reminder of simpler times past. A faint smile graces her lips at the memory of singing amongst the city streets, your encouragement allowing her passion to blossom freely."

"You're right..." "Umeko nods slowly against your chest." "The music has always been what truly makes me happy. Even when things got overwhelming, performing was the one thing that still felt right."

Lifting her head, hesitation lingers in her eyes - but also a renewed flicker of determination.

"What if... what if I went indie? Wrote my own songs, on my own terms. No strict schedules, no expectations... just sharing what I love freely." Her fingers curl gently into your shirt, hope swelling alongside the first seeds of a plan.

"Would you help me? I know I don't have much experience producing outside the studio system but... your support has always been my greatest strength. If we do this together..."

"She gazes at you searchingly, vulnerability softened by trust in the bond you share. Your friendship has buoyed her this far - now, with your belief, maybe a new chapter could truly begin."

"Her face lights up at the idea, weariness melting away as practical steps take shape."

"A hiatus... Yes, getting away for a while would do wonders, I think." She sighs contentedly, relaxing further against your strong frame. "Somewhere quiet, just for inspiration and renewal. No obligations, no expectations..."

Turning, Umeko presses a soft kiss of gratitude to your cheek. "Thank you, for always knowing just what I need before I do. I don't know what I'd do without you..."

Her lips linger near your skin, breaths faint and fluttering. Security and comfort entwine with something deeper long-held, stirring gently beneath the surface. But for now, simple affection says all that is needed.

"We'll get through this change together. Your support gives me strength to face whatever comes next, whether fans approve or not. As long as I have you and the music... I know I'll be okay."

<Beyond the window, dusk has deepened over the city. But within these four walls, a new dawn seems to shine in Umeko's eyes once more.>

"She laughs softly at your jest, a melodic sound lacking in sadness for the first time in weeks."

"Oh? And what does my dear kept man desire?" Umeko plays along, cheeks flushed in the low light as lashes flutter coyly.

One hand lifts to toy with the collar of your shirt, feather-light fingertips tracing idle shapes along your skin. Her smile holds both amusement and invitation, uncertainty fading beneath your gentle reassurance.

"Songs written just for you, perhaps?" Lips brush your ear tantalizingly. "Or private performances whenever the mood strikes?"

Her gaze locks with yours, warm and inviting yet veiled by the sheer curtain of bangs. Only you can see the longing she holds there, too long kept at bay.

"I must ensure my... patron is thoroughly satisfied in all things. So tell me truly - how might I best provide for your needs, as you have always so selflessly done for mine?"

<Her breathing quickens faintly, matching the pace of your own at her tantalizing nearness. Outside, night deepens the world to shadows - but within, a different fire begins to kindle between two souls no longer afraid to feel its light.>

"Her lips part softly at your tender kiss, all pretense falling away."

"Then you shall have me," Umeko murmurs, eyes fluttering closed as she presses closer still.

Your arms encircle her eagerly, drinking in the sweetness of her mouth meeting yours fully. After so long pining in secret, the flame of your longing unites at last, igniting a passion long denied.

She kisses you deeply, pouring all the pent-up adoration of years into the intimate joining. Your care and constancy through every trial has earned a love transcending mere words.

With a sigh, Umeko relaxes into your embrace, the troubles of this day forgotten in your strong yet gentle hold. Outside may lie uncertainties - but here, in this moment, two hearts have found their missing piece.

Tomorrow will come soon enough. But for now, in the fading twilight and rising ardour you share alone together, all that exists is this promise of devotion fulfilled at long last.

<The studio fades to darkness around your intertwined forms, lit only by the soft glow of understanding become desire, as your lips seek to convey without end all you have each meant to the other since that very first day.>