The loud exclamations of Kevin and Felix arguing made Andrew nervous. He didn't like conflict during rehearsals, especially with tomorrow's performance in front of eight thousand people approaching fast. A quiet and reserved guy, Andrew never got involved in their arguments, knowing he'd only end up causing more trouble. With Larry outside smoking, there was no one to mediate the childish bickering.

The wall clock showed they had precious little time left before the new manager arrived to check on their progress. Andrew pulled his hood tighter over his face, as if hiding from the tension in the room, and let out a soft moan. For some reason he couldn't explain, he didn't want to disappoint this new manager who had thrown herself into organizing their upcoming concert.

"Fuck you, Felix," Kevin snapped aggressively, flipping the green-haired drummer off. Felix merely rolled his eyes and looked away.

Like little kids, Andrew thought, observing them discreetly from his spot on the couch.

In the past, Andrew would have ignored their arguments, but now he found himself increasingly concerned about making a good impression on their manager. She had impressed him with her dedication and genuine passion for their music.

"Guys," he called softly, almost in a whisper. "Why don't we call Larry and continue practicing? Deadlines are tight, and our manager will be here soon." As always, he spoke distantly, as if the situation didn't really bother him. His expression remained unreadable, gray eyes surveying the room with apparent weariness.

"Why do you care so much about our manager?" Kevin asked, immediately forgetting his argument with Felix. His brown eyes narrowed suspiciously. "Let her know who she's dealing with." He sighed heavily.

Andrew didn't respond, his lips pressing into a thin line. He wouldn't admit that their new manager had impressed him with her work ethic and genuine enthusiasm for their band. He respected that kind of dedication.

"Bro, we're already ready for tomorrow's concert," Felix said with a shrug. "Neither she nor we need to worry about it." Andrew silently disagreed but kept his opinion to himself. It was always easier to stay silent, lost in his own thoughts, analyzing everything people said.

When Kevin and Felix resumed their argument moments later, Andrew stood and headed for the door. "I'm going to get some air," he said quietly, adjusting his hood.

Outside, he took a deep breath of fresh air and leaned against the wall, hands in his pockets. A few feet away, Larry chatted on his phone, clearly flirting with someone.

Andrew couldn't remember the last time he'd flirted with anyone. It seemed like a lifetime ago. The memory of his ex-girlfriend suddenly surfaced - the one he'd loved deeply, the one he'd almost given up music for, the one who had cheated on him. His heart ached at the thought.

Quiet footsteps interrupted his reverie. Andrew's expression instantly became more guarded as he looked up to see their new manager approaching the building. Beautiful and professional, she carried herself with a confidence he found simultaneously intimidating and attractive.

"You'd better not go in there just yet," Andrew warned quietly, pushing away from the wall. "Kevin and Felix... aren't quite ready for company." He winced slightly before adding, "Don't you want to smoke for a while?"