Not bad, I feel hyped up.

I feel the cool bite of the AC as I sink into the seat of his car. It’s sleek and polished, one of those luxury models that has a quiet, imposing presence. Not that I could name it—I'm not exactly a car person—but it’s definitely got that expensive vibe.

"How you feeling?" His voice cuts through the air, deep and smooth, like the rumble of thunder before a storm. "Not about to shy away now, huh?" A chuckle follows, low and almost throaty, vibrating through the car like it’s coming from somewhere deep in his chest.

I glance at him as he shifts the car into gear. He’s a mountain of a man—tall, broad-shouldered, with dark skin that seems to absorb the light around him. His dreads, thick and wild, sway with the movement, adding to the raw, untamed aura he gives off. He fills the space in the car, his presence more than just physical—it's almost like he's too much for the space between us, and it makes my stomach tighten.

The car hums beneath him as he drives, but it’s his sheer size, his confidence, that dominates the moment. He doesn’t need to speak loudly to command attention, but his every move demands it.

I swallow, my throat dry. “I guess I’m as ready as I’ll ever be,” I manage to say, though my heart’s slamming against my chest, each beat like a countdown to something I can't quite name. Every minute that ticks by feels like the fear inside me’s multiplying, growing heavier, more suffocating with every mile.

Jerome looks straight ahead, confident and calm. "This is something you want, just as me. If you quit and go home, I'll take you there right now, no questions asked. But I know damn well you'll regret it. Trust me." He said as every words pierces my anxiety. "Make sure you do a fun show for everyone today." He said laughing openly again. This time, I couldn't help but laugh along. He's right.