Enjoy Things While You Can

Break time settled over the underground studio, a faint hum of chatter replacing the buzz of instruments. The band members drifted into clusters, their conversations a mosaic of shared stories and laughter. Simon stood near Beyond, animatedly discussing riffs, while Kokomi perched on the armrest of a couch, exchanging cheerful banter with Carter. Yet Albert remained by his keyboard, fingers gliding over the keys in search of melodies, absorbed in the solitude of his craft.

Noticing this, Kokomi leaned toward Carter, her voice light with curiosity. "Think he ever takes a break?"

Carter chuckled, shaking his head. "Why don’t you go and find out?"

Kokomi straightened, determination flashing in her eyes. She approached Albert, her steps light but purposeful, and came to a stop in front of him. Crossing her arms, she cast a playful shadow over his sheet music. Albert paused mid-chord, glancing up at her, his expression questioning.

"What did I say about rest time, Mr. Pianist?" Kokomi asked, tilting her head with mock severity.

Albert sighed, the faintest hint of a smile curling at the corner of his lips. “Practice time is for practice. Rest time is for rest.” He stood, conceding with an exaggerated bow. "You win."

"Great!" Kokomi beamed, gesturing toward Carter. "Come join us, then."

Albert followed her back to the couch, his expression neutral but his steps deliberate. Carter, watching their approach, stood to greet him.

“Nice to finally meet you, Albert,” Carter began with a grin. "I’ve heard—"

“Drop the formalities,” Albert interrupted, extending a hand. "We’re not signing a contract."

Carter raised an eyebrow, then laughed, taking the handshake. "Straight to the point. I like it. So, how long have you known Kokomi?"

"Now you’re getting it." Albert nodded, his tone lighting.

The three settled into an easy rhythm of conversation. Kokomi led the charge, weaving through topics with bright energy, while Albert added his measured input when the moment called for it. Carter, though new, found himself blending in effortlessly, his questions sparking laughter and shared anecdotes.

"Alright," Albert announced suddenly, his tone dry. "I have a joke for you."

"Let’s hear it," Kokomi said eagerly.

Albert leaned forward, his expression deadpan. "So, five aunts rent an apartment, right? Then another five move in. Now they’re... TEN-ants."

Kokomi clapped a hand over her mouth, trying to stifle her giggles. Carter, however, stared blankly, the punchline flying past him.

Albert turned to him, patient but expectant. "You get it?"

Carter’s brow furrowed. Kokomi braced herself, muttering under her breath, "Three... two... one."

Before Albert could launch into an explanation, the studio door burst open with a dramatic crash. All heads swivelled as Nahida stumbled inside, her breath coming in gasps.

“Knock first!” Beyond barked, his arms crossed.

"Yeah, yeah, sorry, old man," Nahida panted, brushing herself off. "Tripped."

Kokomi hurried over, helping Nahida to the couch. After a moment’s pause to catch her breath, Nahida pulled out a crumpled flyer, holding it up like a trophy.

"Battle of the Bands," she announced, her voice tinged with excitement. "Two weeks from now. Winner represents Malaysia internationally!"

The studio erupted into a flurry of voices. Questions flew—what song would they choose? Was there a cash prize? Could they really prepare in time? Beyond snatched the flyer, scanning its details.

"Two weeks,” he muttered grimly.

Albert’s reaction was immediate. "TWO WEEKS?!" His outburst echoed through the studio, prompting a wince from everyone.

Simon placed a calming hand on his shoulder. "Relax; we’ll make it work. We always do."

As the chatter subsided, Carter hesitated, then blurted out, "Can I join the band?"

Silence fell again, all eyes turning toward him. Kokomi broke the tension with a grin. "Of course! But you’ll have to audition."

"Fair enough," Carter replied, smiling.

Beyond sighed, reluctant but trusting Kokomi’s judgment. "Fine. But I’m judging."

As plans for the audition began to take shape, Nahida’s gaze drifted to Carter, her expression dreamy. "Who’s this handsome guy?"

Carter smiled, a flicker of pride crossing his face.

“I’m right here,” Beyond muttered, offended.

"You’re ugly," Nahida quipped, her tone teasing.

The studio erupted into laughter, Kokomi doubling over as the mood lightened. Even Beyond couldn’t help but chuckle, though he tried to mask it with a huff. Amid the laughter, the group felt a newfound sense of camaraderie, the promise of challenges ahead uniting them as one.