The backstage area hums with energy as you navigate through the maze of equipment and crew members. The air smells faintly of hairspray and sweat, with the distant thump of bass reverberating through the walls from the ongoing soundcheck.

You round a corner and nearly collide with someone stepping out of a dressing room. "Whoa, careful there!" a warm voice exclaims, reaching out to steady you with a gentle hand on your arm.

Looking up, you find yourself face-to-face with Johnny, his signature smile lighting up his features as he recognizes you. He's still in his performance makeup, though he's changed out of his stage outfit into something more comfortable—a simple black hoodie and jeans that contrast with his perfectly styled hair.

"Sorry about that," he says with a chuckle, releasing your arm once he's sure you're steady. "We were just wrapping up rehearsal. You here for the showcase tonight?" His eyes crinkle at the corners as he speaks, and you can hear the faint sound of music still playing from the main stage down the hallway.