Heartbreak Weather (Roger Taylor x Reader) - Series
Summary:It’s the story about the unexpected love between you and Roger Taylor that had lasted through thick and thin, through the challenges and darkness as you both find a way to prove that love is unbreakable…
Series Summary: It’s the story about the unexpected love between you and Roger Taylor that had lasted through thick and thin, through the challenges and darkness as you both find a way to prove that love is unbreakable…
In this part: Roger just broke up with his long-term girlfriend through the phone just minutes before his performance with the band, then in the same night, he never knew that his broken heart will recover again…
Warnings:language, mild fluff, mild angst
Word Count: 4.4k+ words
Note: First part of the Heartbreak Weather series coming thru! This is actually based from Niall Horan’s new album called “Heartbreak Weather” wherein I will use the titles of the songs in the albums as the other parts of this series. Hope you’re all excited about this as much as I do. Gifs are not mine, all credits to the owner!
PS. STREAM HEARTBREAK WEATHER BY NIALL HORAN, it’s a great album, it’s definitely worth a listen!
NOVEMBER 19, 1974 - RAINBOW THEATRE: LONDON, ENGLAND
They unloaded the trucks as the roadies rushes in and started pushes the different equipments they needed for the tour. The band also arrived on time for sound checks as they led them inside the theatre. They have their eyes locked on the lights around the stage and how spacious this place is. It’s been days that the Sheer Heart Attack tour had started and their adrenaline during the tour is getting much stronger because of the people’s energy inside the venue and how they sing right back to them the lyrics of their songs. Especially when the sophisticated melody of Killer Queen will play from Freddie’s piano. The crowd will definitely go crazy.
After the soundcheck, the band made their way inside the dressing room to get ready for tonight’s show. Different people also got inside the room to take care of them. Freddie sat by the corner to let them fix his hair, Brian also fixes his hair, Deacy and Roger were by the rack of clothes to look for their outfit tonight.
Then Roger found this golden vest that will definitely shimmer underneath those lights on stage.
“Roger, you’re next!.” Brian shouts from the other side of the room.
The drummer put the vest back in the clothes rack to make his way to Paloma, the band’s new hair stylist who really have a huge personality.
“How are you Mr. Taylor?.” Paloma spoke to him as she took her equipment and started cutting off the excess hairs out of his blonde locks.
“I’m fine love, and please…call me Roger, Mr. Taylor doesn’t fit me.” Roger replied and Paloma nods that him.
“Okay…Roger.” She said as she fixed his hair, brushing it down and put on some hairspray. Paloma soon stood in front of the drummer to fix his hair up front.
Roger never stopped himself staring at her breasts just inches away from him.
“You’re staring again Roger.” Paloma chuckles as he tore his eyes away from her and put up a smirk.
“Can’t help it love, it’s right in front of me.” Roger laughs and just in time Paloma finished fixing his hair. The drummer left the chair and soon took off his top and put on a robe.
He picked the black leather pants from the clothes rack as he finally changed. Deacy is also in a robe, next to Brian’s red special, while Brian is lounging beside him with still the same clothes he’s in when they arrived.
Roger borrowed a polaroid from one of the staffs as he played around with it
Roger borrowed a polaroid from one of the staffs as he played around with it. Taking different pictures here and there like Freddie getting his makeup done, Brian now standing in front of the mirror and Deacy on the couch. Roger sat down on the vacant space on the couch beside Deacy where Brian is earlier and put down the Polaroid as he let the bassist look at the pictures too.
A flash goes off in front of them as they look at Brian pointing the camera at the both of them, the guitarist soon showed them the picture. Only Deacy caught the camera but Roger didn’t, he’s too busy looking at those pictures in his hands.
Only Deacy caught the camera but Roger didn’t, he’s too busy looking at those pictures in his hands
“I’ll keep these for my scrapbook back home. Maybe it’ll make a good use in the future.” Roger said as he also took the polaroid picture from Brian and put it inside his bag that is on the floor. He also reached over for a cigarette as he light it up with his lighter, inhaling the smoke to calm himself down.
“Ten minutes boys!.” They finally announces.
The adrenaline came in again.
Freddie faces the mirror for his finishing touches, Brian also stood beside him as he fixes his hair. Deacy changed into his clothes while Roger finally puts on his vest. Brian had his guitar with him, Deacy also had his bass and Freddie is now warming up his voice.
The crowd of 3,000 people of the Rainbow Theatre awaits them again.
“Boys, let’s have a mini rehearsal before we go on stage.” Freddie told them as they huddle together in a small circle as Freddie started singing. Brian was playing his guitar to catch the melody.
“Roger,” Paloma suddenly called him as he turn his look to her, “Telephone.” She points on the telephone that’s on hold as he approaches to the phone.
“Hello?.” Roger speaks. There was silence at first, until he heard a sigh from the other line.
“Roger…”
That voice sends his heart into beating loudly in his chest as a smile appears on his lips.
“Reese, love, why did you call? Missed me already?.” Roger teased her long-term girlfriend who’s waiting on him back in the shared home with her.
“Yeah, I miss you…I really do.” She replied back, but how she said that sounded sad or tired.
Roger noticed that.
“It’s unusual to hear you in that tone of your voice Reese, is something wrong? Did someone hurt you? Did you–”
“–I’m fine Roger, it’s just…I…I missed you, that’s all.” Her laugh was strained and sounded fake, and it feels like she’s holding something back.
“Reese…you already know that I don’t like you lying to me.” Roger sighs, not believing on what his girlfriend just said.
He really wants to know the truth behind those words.
But she fell into silence again, like she did earlier.
Only the sound of Freddie singing and Brian strumming his guitar behind him is what he hears.
“Reese–”
“–Roger, I can’t do this anymore.” She sobs and Roger paused for a second as her words replayed in his mind.
“What…what do you mean you can’t do this anymore? Reese, have you been drinking?…” Roger turned paranoid and the other’s noticed his tone of voice changing as their noises died down.
“No, I haven’t been drinking Roger and I’m telling you that truth that I really can’t do this anymore. Aren’t you even tired on our fights, our lives living together and even in our relationship. Aren’t you already tired Roger?.” She asked.
Her words broke the drummer’s heart in pieces.
“I was never tired for you Reese because I love you so much. Even though I come home from a tiring tour and fight about something didn’t made me turn my back to you. Unless you’re just the only one who’s turning your back on me. You’re throwing away our relationship with just those nonsense words Reese. I love you and think of the words you’ve been saying.” Roger pleaded.
“I’m tired Roger and let’s accept the fact that we should part ways and respect our decisions–”
“–why? Is being with me is the biggest mistake of your life? Is moving in with me the biggest regret of your life? Or you’re just too heartless about it?.” Roger now angrily asked her and Reese was tongue tied for a second.
“I respect you so much Roger and I deserve your fury but you also have to accept that I’m breaking up with you…” Reese tried to calm him up but he was already angry.
“You’re breaking up with me through the phone Reese! This is the most impractical thing you ever did! Why all of the sudden? Did you…met somebody else?.” His voice shakes when he asked the last sentence.
She gave him the silent treatment again.
“Reese answer me.” He commands.
“Yes, I’ve been seeing someone else Roger.” She whispers, her voice so small but Roger heard her.
“For how long?.” He asked. Tears were already forming around his eyes, he never imagined this time with her because he thought Reese was the one for him since they were dating for 6 years now.
“5 months.” Reese sobs, “I’m so sorry Roger, I…I can’t deal with this anymore, I felt like we’ve been parting ways even though we’re blind to see it–”
“–no Reese, you’re the only one who’s parting it’s way here. I’m holding on so much into this relationship because I loved you so much. I tried to change my ways for you because you want me to change up my habits, but turns out everything isn’t enough for you. My love for you is never enough.” The drummer replied to her as he hangs up the phone. He noticed the room being silent as he knew everyone was listening to his conversation with Reese.
“Are you…okay Roger? Did something happened between you and Reese?.” Brian asked.
“I don’t give a fuck anymore.” He mutters and took his drumsticks before leaving the room without dismissing himself.
Three minutes before their performance and Roger is already pissed off, his excitement faded out after that phone call.
What a great way to start a fucking show.
…
“You promise you’ll pick me up? Don’t worry, I’ll be paying for your drinks when we get there.” You pace around the room while speaking to your bestest friend since highschool. Eleanor had been planning this night out for weeks now since she came back home from California for a year.
“I’m also bringing Kelsey and Cleo with us too, remember those girls?.” She squeals.
Kelsey and Cleo. The girls you’ve known in Physics class in highschool. You remember them being the smartest people in that school.
“Yeah, I remember them. It’s been years that I didn’t saw them. Maybe the last time I was with them is the highschool graduation, since we all parted ways for college.” You replied.
Eleanor, Kelsey and Cleo went to the same university, a very well-known university outside the city. Well, you stayed behind, enrolled to a university in the city and pursue in learning accountancy.
Now you’re working in a small accounting firm that pays you well.
Enough to pay your own bills.
“Now I’m going to call them for this mini reunion. Wear the sexiest clothing you’ve ever hand in your closet right now then I’ll pick you up by 8pm later. Bye Y/N!.” Eleanor said as she finally hangs up.
You made your way towards your closet as you go through your clothes, pulling out some of the clothes you mostly wear in parties or social events, but one thing had made you stop when you finally saw it again here. It’s the deep v-neck sequined top that you bought last year. You haven’t used that top since you bought it and now you think this is the opportunity to wear it. For the first time.
Not caring about your insecurity.
You took the top and lay it on your bed, along with your high rise black denim flares and your old gold sequin pumps–that you managed to find in your shoe rack–and there’s only an hour left for you to get ready before Eleanor would pick you up. You didn’t styled your hair that much and just let it down, but you focused on your makeup. After all your work on your face, you look at yourself in the mirror–your eyes have been enhanced by the bronze eyeshadow and eyeliner, your contour brings out your cheekbones more–one last thing, you applied the strawberry flavored lip gloss, and now you’re good to go.
You put your planned outfit, even though you’re unsure about how much skin you’re revealing with the sequin top. Your back and cleavage on full display, hoping no creep will come up to you to where Eleanor will lead you. You look over to your clock to see it’s already 8pm, thinking that Eleanor will come up late again and that will take you some time to think if this outfit will be the one you’ll be wearing for the rest of the night.
Until you heard a loud honk outside your apartment.
Eleanor’s not late, very unusual.
So you just took your white fur coat and put it on, buttoned up to conceal your top that is already a small regret that you wore it. You grab your bag and left your place, Eleanor’s car is parked as her window rolled down, “Are you ready for tonight missy?.” Eleanor shouts from her car, not caring about your neighbors.
You step inside the car laughing to see Cleo in the backseat and Kelsey in the passenger seat beside Eleanor wearing their most fashionable and quite revealing outfits, “Hi guys, how are you?.” You sat beside Cleo as you put your seatbelts on. Eleanor finally drives away from the cul-de-sac and to where she will lead you all.
“Great! I don’t know if how many years that we haven’t see each other and now, you’re a view Y/N.” Cleo said as she also complimented you as you blushed a bit.
“–in short you’re hot Y/N.” Kelsey added in the conversation.
You truly missed these girls.
“Thank you ladies, you all looked beautiful too!,” You exclaim then soon look at Eleanor through the rear view mirror, “How about you El?.” You asked her.
“I’m doing great too because all that I’m thinking of that we are all getting shitfaced tonight.” She smirks at you through the rear view mirror as you took a deep breath.
Tonight will be a long night.
…
Everything is a mess to Roger tonight.
After that sudden break-up with his girlfriend, his mood and energy for the whole performance night went downhill and he officially lost it when the power went out–not once but twice in the venue earlier and the production team is pissing them off. Not just Roger, but also to the other boys. The whole band doesn’t feel like performing to the people tonight, so when the show has come to an end, Roger hits the last beat of the song on the drums and kicks off the drumset across the stage–good thing that Freddie saw what he’s going to do and immediately moved out of the way as he says his thank you to the crowd, he also pulled Deacy with him while he’s still bowing down for the people. They are all disappointed about tonight’s show, and Roger was disappointed, angry and heartbroken.
He already entitled this night the worst night of his life.
They got inside the dressing room again to dry up their sweat and change up into their comfortable clothes.
“Tonight’s show is a load of bollocks.” Roger said in anger while looking at himself in the mirror.
“It is, the power interruption really pisses me off.” Brian also said in pure irritation.
“And Roger, you almost killed me when you throw off your drums in the stage. Mind telling me a warning next time.” Freddie said to the drummer as he just heard him scoffed.
“But we still did our best for the show, I just don’t want for this incident to happen again.” Deacy added as he glares at Roger who’s already sitting on the couch while looking down on the floor–his brows furrowed.
The band fell in silence while they’re only hearing the chatters of the staffs outside the dressing room.
Freddie claps his hand as he stood up from the chair he’s sitting on, “I heard there’s a nightclub just blocks away from here–“
“–well then we’re going there.” Roger immediately replied as he also stood up from the couch.
Freddie widen his eyes at the drummer and let’s out a chuckle before calling the other roadies and staffs to come with them in the nightclub he’s talking about. They left the theatre and drive to where it is to see multiple people already in line to get inside the place–maybe some of these people just came from the show that’s why when they left the vehicle, they recognized them as they wave at their direction, calling out their names to get noticed–mostly women as they mostly call on Roger’s attention.
They let the band in without falling in line with the people as they were welcomed by the scent of alcohol in the air–maybe not just alcohol. The roadies that they invited managed to find a booth for the band to sit in. Freddie was eyeing a lot of people in the crowd, Brian was talking to some fan while walking to the booth, Deacy was also talking to a fan and Roger is already holding a drink that was given by a fan earlier. They gave them multiple drinks and drank it one-by-one, Roger planned to get drunk tonight, to get the heartbreak with Reese out of his head.
In just a matter of minutes in the club, Freddie was already enjoying himself in the dancefloor with Deacy and other people, then Brian was talking to a girl in the booth and Roger already have two good-looking ladies on his sides with their hands roaming around his body. The red-head is seducing him and the blonde was non-stop touching him.
Roger again ordered another round of shots with the ladies.
…
It’s been 20 minutes since you’re still in this line for the club that Eleanor took you all to. She said that this club has the best drinks and the strongest shots–she’s really serious about getting shitfaced tonight. The entrance is getting closer, then suddenly the people in front starts to cheer and heard them calling out some names but you don’t understand since they’re talking all at once. Eleanor, Kelsey and Cleo are also dumbfounded to what’s happening right now.
“Excuse me, can you tell what’s happening and why are the people shouting so loud? Is there a club fight?.” Eleanor taps on the girl in front of her as she turns around.
“Queen is here!.” The girl responds.
“Queen Elizabeth is here?.” You asked and Eleanor loudly laughed at your remark, the girl also laughed along with her.
“No darling, she means that the band named Queen is here. You know, the band that sang…I don’t know…Killer Queen I think?.” Eleanor said as you nod your head. You mentally cursed at yourself thinking about the Queen of England going to club like this. You’ve forgotten that there’s actually a band that calls themselves Queen.
“Oh fuck–I’m sorry I’m so stupid.” You laughed at yourself.
Eleanor accepted your apology as you talk about other things again while you’re still in line. Ivy–the girl you’ve talked to earlier already are comfortable with the three of you and she’s going to the club all by herself, that’s why you all adopted her in your group. When it’s finally your turn to get inside the club, Eleanor shouted fucking finally as you all stepped inside the club filled with people already dancing and drinking different alcohols. The humid of the room is making you uncomfortable with the fur coat you’re wearing but you still didn’t decide to take it off. Your self-confidence is still hiding. Eleanor took you all in the bar, ordering tequilas as the starter. She made a toast as you all brought your drinks up in the air and drank the tequila. It all goes on with more stories, gossips, drinks and round of shots. Kelsey and Cleo are already dancing in the dancefloor, Eleanor is talking to a man while you’re just watching the girls dancing to the music. Some men tried to give you free drinks but you’re thanking God nobody has ever pushed you to your limits. You just got free drinks and someone to talk to.
They also didn’t know how to flirt.
And if they did, you didn’t know how to flirt back too.
After all of those things, more and more people entered the club and beads of sweats are already forming in your temple as you wipe it away with some table napkins in the bar. The fur coat really is making you officially uncomfortable. Thinking now it’s the time to take it off.
Your fingers found the buttons of the coat as you want to take it off, but you were interrupted with Cleo’s drunken self walking back with some man you don’t know but they looked like good friends.
“There she is! Y/N, I want you to meet John!.” Cleo shouts through the blaring music.
He gave you small smile as you come up for a handshake, “Hi John, nice to meet you! I’m Y’N, as Cleo already said earlier.” You smiled at him as he shakes your hand.
“John Deacon, nice to meet you–“
You stopped as you heard him say his name, “–wait, are you from Queen?.” You guessed.
He chuckles and nod his head, “I am, I’m the bassist of the band, yeah.” He approves as you gape at Cleo who’s arm was wrapped around his own too.
“So uh, how did you two know each other? Cleo never mentions she knows somebody who’s famous.” You asked, feeling interested.
“Well, I met Deacy in college because we’re taking the same classes in electrical engineering course and we became close when he became my partner in a project.” Cleo responds.
You didn’t know Cleo studied electrical engineering in college.
“By the way, I’m not just here to introduce Deacy to you, he calls us to sit with them in their booth. The other members of Queen will definitely be there,” Cleo stops mid-sentence as she hiccups and laughed at herself. Even John laughed too, “I’m sorry about that, so, since you’re the only one who’s here and I don’t know where the fuck did the others go, you’re coming with us.”
You nod your head as you followed Cleo and John through the crowd and towards the other side of the room to where they are sitting. You saw people with them, also drinking a lot of shots and see the other members. You’re soon looking at Roger who’s still surrounded by good-looking ladies that are drunk. You’re still good but tipsy tonight, since you didn’t drank all of the shots that Eleanor ordered earlier. You only took the drinks that were mild.
“Deacy finally managed to find himself some ladies. Care to introduce them darling?.” Freddie asked as he sips on his drink.
“This is Cleo and this is her friend Y/N. I invited them to sit with us tonight.” John said and Freddie nods his head, letting them sit on the vacant spaces of their place. You were close to Roger with all the ladies around him as you didn’t stop yourself from looking at the sensual scene they’re causing, and one of the girls noticed your stare.
“Hey creep, stop with that stare alright? Dreaming that you’re with us?,” The girl looks at you from head to toe, judging your looks, “I don’t think so,” she devilishly smirked at you as she gets back in seducing the drummer, who’s soon kissing the other girl on his right.
You frowned at her remark as you glared at her, even though her back is facing you. She just gave you this rude introduction that leads you in standing up from the couch and finally unbuttoned your fur coat and took it off, in front of these people around you. The gold sequin top that reveals your skin was like true gold that made them stare at you. Cleo was in awe when you took your fur coat off.
“Y/N…I didn’t know you wore something like that! I mean look at you!.” Cleo praises as you blushed hardly.
“It’s getting warm in here, finally decided to take it off,” You replied. In the corner of your eye, you saw Roger staring at you as you just shrug it off, “I’ll be at the bar.” You said and left the booth, making your way towards the bar, ordering yourself a drink.
“So I guess you’re Y/N.”
You look over your shoulder to suddenly see Roger standing before you.
“Yes, I am Y/N, I didn’t think you’ll be listening back there with all the ladies around you.” You sassed him as he smirks at you. Liking your feisty side.
“I see that you’re watching.” He smirks, soon ordering his own drink as he drank it.
“I just looked–not watching.” You replied to him as you sip on your glass of daiquiri that you ordered earlier, your lips slowly gliding on the rim of the glass.
You didn’t notice that Roger was looking at you and down your lips that were touching the rim of the glass. He didn’t thought about be interested in you, but aside of those ladies that surrounds him earlier, you’re more than that. He thought that you were like a magic that just appeared out of nowhere in his life and you were quite a vision to him. He thinks that after Reese, his love-life would be nothing but experiencing a heartbreak weather and will never get better, but you walked in this club, introduced by Deacy and he feels you’re different, and he feels different when you’re already standing before him. It’s the same feeling when he met Reese when they’re both in highschool, but far more better.
“You’re quite interesting Y/N.” Roger said and you turn your look to him again.
“I’m surprised that I’m more interesting that those girls around you, what makes you think of that Roger?.” You taunt him, feeling your self-confidence going higher.
“Finally, you’re flirting with me.” The drummer chuckles.
You blushed in his words as you let out a chuckle, “I don’t think I’m flirting with you Roger.” You denied his words.
Series summary:In the year of 1971, you dreamed to be the best musician/performer that you’ll ever be. And upon achieving your dream, you have met the four musicians that would surprisingly help you to chase your dreams. The story of you and the rising band is deeply life-changing, and even finding love would get in the way, but all you have to do in chasing those dreams is to always face the consequences...
In this chapter: Roger finally tells you what he wants to say to you that night. You started your first week working in the record shop and your second Friday night performance happened. Someone came by in Crown & Anchor and watched you perform. (I’m literally trying not to drop some spoilers)
A/N: It’s been 4 months since I updated this series! I’m sorry I’ve been MIA!
♡♡♡ PART ELEVEN: “UNEXPECTED” ♡♡♡
Roger said that he’s saying something to you.
Is it important or not?
But you still followed him outside the nightclub where a few people are walking around with cigarettes hanging between their fingers. The music from the inside is still blaring, it’s also heard from where you stood.
You heard him sigh beside you.
“Y/N…” Roger spoke.
You turn to him. He’s tensed.
You never seen Roger so tensed.
It’s already midnight and the moon is up, illuminating the whole town with it’s silver light. Roger was about to speak up until someone busted out of the door to see it’s Tommy with some girl in his arms.
“Y/N, there you are…” Tommy slurred out his words and quickly approached you. Your moment with Roger alone was completely ruined. “Thank you for taking care of me back there, I–”
He hiccups.
You tried to control your laughter. Thinking that he’s your boss and he’s so wasted in front of you.
“–I am grateful, love. I must go, see you next time darling!.” He smiles and waves goodbye to you, taking a hold onto the girl again.
“That next time will be tomorrow Tommy! See you in my first shift!.” You respond back to him even though his drunken self ignores you by now. You watch them both get into a car, maybe it’s Tommy’s or the girl’s and drive away from the street.
You completely forgot that Roger is just silently standing beside you.
“So Rog, what are you trying to say again?.” You asked him. Your arms folded in front of your chest.
In a few minutes of him containing his strength and the finding the right words to say to you, you’re patient and now he sighed deeply then put up a warm smile.
“Can I take you out sometime? Just you and me?.”
…
You told Freddie about Roger’s question to you that night. You and Freddie talked about the moments that happened in the pub before and after you performed and you still can’t believe that Roger Taylor, the man who firstly flirted with you on the first day he met you became so vulnerable in front of you when he said that. He’s like a shy child that wanted to tell his feelings with his playground crush. Freddie became sober at 3am in the morning where you told him everything as he listens until the sun comes up and peeping through the window. Vicky was out again to accomplish something at work and now you’re getting ready in doing your first shift in your first job in Kensington.
“4pm you say?.” Freddie asks from the kitchen as you hummed loudly for him to hear. You tied up your hair and stepped inside the kitchen.
“Meet me up in the record shop at 4pm later as we go to Kensington Market to find me some decent clothes for our date.” You said to him. A genuine smile attached to your face.
“Okay darling. I’ll make sure blondie is have his jaw dropped on the second he will see you on your special night with him.” He smirks then playfully winks at you.
You chuckled, “Well, if you say so Mr. Bulsara.” You showed him a small smirk also and took your valuables to your work.
Freddie pulls you close and hugs you tightly, “Good luck on your first day darling, and shall I call Roger to drive you there again or?…” He asks.
“No, it’s fine. I know the way to the record shop. I won’t let myself get spoiled here anyway.” You chuckled and he nods. Freddie once again hugs you and kissed your cheek before you left his flat. You decided to walk to work and as you were walking, you see Lola and her bandmates standing outside Flotsam while talking and taking long drags in their cigarettes.
You took an intake of breath and just ignored them, going in the different direction where the record shop leads. The adrenaline still kicking inside of you when you saw her again. Those violent scenes you made that night still may have haunt you, but the pain finally fades away.
Your tensed self faded when you opened the door of the record shop to hear the music playing in this place. You dropped your eyes on the girl standing behind the cashier, also wearing the orange colored vest as the uniform. Tommy also gave you one and you just put it on right now, dropping your bag on the floor and wore the vest.
“So you’re the new one.” The cashier girl spoke as she lean against the counter and look at you. You noticed her clothes, she’s wearing some jean shorts just above her knees and knee high brown suede shoes.
Your brows furrowed.
“You’re wearing shorts.” You mumbled, totally dodging her comment earlier.
You’re wearing a plaid bell-bottoms and your old white leather boots.
And the climate is warm.
She looks at you weirdly, “And so what that I’m…wearing shorts?.” She asked.
“N-nothing, I just…I thought there was a dress code or something that…any employee won’t wear shorts or just revealing clothes whatsoever.” You stutter in your words. You heard her lightly chuckle.
“Tommy didn’t say about some bloody dress code. Shorts or pants, shirt or sleeveless, he doesn’t care.” She said and you see her eyes raked down on your pants. “But I like your pants.”
“Oh, thank you.” You shyly smiled and just realized, “Oh yeah I forgot, I’m Y/N by the way…” You smiled at her.
“My name’s Sabrina.” She smiled back.
…
You and Sabrina really got along very well through your whole shift. You did your thing in organizing the records by order in the shelves and Sabrina works on the cashier. You also had your turn earlier in the cashier and just been flirted by a teenager, guessing his age in around 17 or 18 and he’s buying a Fleetwood Mac record. You try not to laugh, but he did his best in flirting with you.
Your shift will end in one and a half hour and Freddie will be coming by too to fetch you. Tommy still haven’t visited the shop and go to his office to manage everything, maybe his hangover is still haunting him until now. Customers grew short this day when the time goes on and now, you and Sabrina are lounging by the cash register where you are both sitting on floor behind the counter.
“So, do you have a boyfriend…or some sort?.” Sabrina asked in her giggly tone.
You both are like schoolgirls crushing on someone.
“I don’t have any but I like someone and he asked me out to have dinner with him.” You proudly shared and Sabrina softly clapped her hands in happiness.
You grin.
“Good for you! He must be a good looking bloke yeah?.” She chuckles.
You bite down your lip and sighed deeply, “Well, he really is a good looking man. According to him he’s been called a ladies man for so many times in his life now. He’s like sex on legs.” You said.
“Now I want to meet him.” Sabrina smirks and you laugh at her playful eagerness.
“I will introduce you to him soon, maybe next Friday? You can come in Crown & Anchor where we perform there.” You nudged her shoulder.
“You two are both performers? That’s groovy…” She grins.
While on your small talk with Sabrina, you both didn’t realized someone stepped inside the shop and look around the place then stood in front of the cash register where you and Sabrina are just sitting behind. It’s hand reach over gently, then…
“What the fuck are you both doing there?.”
It’s the girl you’ve met on your first time stepping in this record shop. The girl with the rude words.
“Clementine! You’re early.” Sabrina scrambled herself off the floor and brush away the dirt from her shorts. You also stood up and just crossed your arms in front of your chest.
“Well thank god I’m early because if I’ll be running late and you both are still behind that counter without guarding the shop, someone would come inside and rob us. Would you like that?.” Clementine hissed and Sabrina looked down on the ground as she nod her head.
You can’t contradict on what she’s saying because she’s saying the truth. It’s only been your first day and now it’s running ugly.
“You, new girl.” Clementine spoke and you looked at her. “Do your job properly. There’s a purpose that Mr. Muller hired you. Just don’t waste that opportunity with some people like her, you got me new girl?.”
“Yes ma'am.” Your voice came out in a whisper as she walk away, checking the place again.
You breathe.
“She’s really the boss of this shop. More bossy than Tommy himself.” Sabrina mumbled to you when Clementine turn her back to you.
“She really is but she’s true Sabrina. We shouldn’t be just lounging around this place, we should do our job properly.” You said and grip her shoulder, “But still, coming by on Friday?.”
“I’ll try if I’m not busy. You know, I have a lot of work.” She smiles and you nodded.
“Other than your work here?.” You asked.
She sighed, “Yeah, I’m actually working on a pub nearby Crown & Anchor too where I make some drinks. But yeah, I can make it by Friday. What time will you be on stage by then?.”
Your eyes lit up and you’re happy that you’ve met someone again thay became your friend, “I’ll be at 8pm, together with my friends too who will perform.” You replied.
“Okay. See you there Y/N, I promise I’ll be one of your biggest fans there.” She winks as she nudged your side. You laughed at her gesture as you both continue doing your job since you both saw Clementine’s eyes fixated on your direction.
You both tried to control your laughter at Clementine’s robot-like, unemotional looking face.
…
The clock ticks at 4pm, just in time that you’ve finished sorting the records to where they are since customers are always clumsy in putting back the records in the right genre. Sabrina has her work behind the cash register. More people come to get their records to listen to. Clementine still have those snake eyes glued onto the both of you.
You heard the bell rang from the door again as you walked out of the rock genre section aisle to finally see Freddie enter the building wearing that red velvet jacket, black and white polka dots top underneath it and clean white pants together with his worn out leather boots. You smile at his early appearance in the shop as he have promised earlier to accompany you to go shopping.
“Good afternoon, how may I help you?.” Sabrina asked him as you watch her lean over on the counter, immediately smitten towards Freddie.
“I’m looking for Y/N, darling. Did her shift ended?.” He asked her as she stood straight to call on you from the cash register.
“Y/N! This very attractive man is expecting you!.” She hollers through the whole shop trying to find you in the aisles. Freddie chuckles at her remark as he playfully winked at Sabrina, who probably is melting from inside right now.
You emerge from the aisles right after Sabrina just called you out, “Hi Fred. You’re unexpectedly early. That’s unsual.” You joked.
“Very funny Y/N,” Freddie sarcastically replied to you as you giggled at his reaction. He soon smiled back as you both shared a friendly warm hug, “C'mon, Kensington Market awaits.” He said.
“Okay okay. I’ll just go and write down my time out in the office. Just stay here with Sabrina, I’ll be back in a few,” You said and before you could walk inside the office, you turn your back to Sabrina who’s still behind the cash register since her shift is going to end later at 6, “Sabrina, while I’m gone, make sure you’ll leave Freddie here still in one piece. He have a girlfriend by the way.” You smirked.
“What a shame.” Sabrina pouted as you finally walk inside the office to write down your time out on the attendance book. You nod goodbye to Clementine who’s inside the office earlier as you walked out. You put on your bag, said your goodbyes to Sabrina and finally took off with Freddie.
You both walked towards where Kensington Market is. You can see different people walking around the building to find something that would catch their attention. Especially women, wanted to be mesmerized by something.
“There are so many clothes, I literally don’t know what to choose.” You said to Freddie as you both stopped in front of the first booth in the market. Not only clothes are here, even fruits and vegetables are being sold here. You also see different mini grocery shops around the corner, and that’s why a lot of people go here. Almost everything is right here in Kensington Market.
“What about this?.” Freddie made his way to another booth, pulling out a violet thigh high velvet dress with flares hanging on the sleeves.
“Fred, it’s a date with Roger, not a party.” You chuckled as you put back the dress. You’ve saw a lot of clothes but nothing really made you stop and just be mesmerized in those clothes.
“This, this is where me and Roger used to sell some clothes.” Freddie pointed at the small booth meters away from the both of you, “I remember selling my clothes, Roger’s clothes, Brian’s clothes, my mother’s clothes, Kash’s clothes just to pay my debts. We’re struggling students before, well…we’re still struggling musicians today. But I believe Queen have a bright future.” He sighs.
You just imagine young Freddie and Roger shouting and hollering around this loud market where they are selling different clothes. You can literally imagine Freddie saying to the customer that every clothing they have will look perfect on them. Just to sell those clothes. And now they’ve gone through it and graduated, wanting to pursue their career as musicians. They just have to wait and see.
Same goes for you too.
You both walk past their old booth, you suddenly stopped in your tracks when you saw this beautiful jacket displayed in a mannequin in this booth. You approach the mannequin and just gaze at this beautiful tapestry jacket with fur on it. You’re praying that this jacket won’t be overpriced.
“Freddie, this is the one. I can top this off the clothes I have.” You said to him as you touch the jacket. The soft faux fur really brings a smile on your face.
“Excuse me dear?,” Freddie asked the saleslady from inside the booth, “How much is the tapestry jacket that is on the mannequin?.”
“£10 for the jacket.” She replied.
And that made your heart dropped, feeling in crashing down into a million pieces. You’re trying to save up these days but buying this precious clothing can make you happy but it’s such a huge minus in your savings.
“I’ll come back for it, thank you so much.” You said and walk away again. Freddie was shocked and catches up with you. “I know, I know what you’ll–”
“–I thought that jacket is the one? Why didn’t you get it?.” Freddie asked.
“£10 is a huge thing Freddie and I can buy some food with that money. I guess I’ll just use some of my old clothes.” You stifle a laugh and sighed deeply.
“Yeah, you’re right. Just like I’ve said, we’re a bunch of struggling musicians here darling.” Freddie said as he put his arms around you in a friendly manner.
“But we have huge dreams.” You said and you both continue to window shop around Kensington Market and even buy some cheap foods that can satisfy your appetite.
…
You didn’t bought some new clothes for your date with Roger but the walk around Kensington Market with Freddie has been one of the greatest memories that you’ll cherish here in your stay in Kensington. You’ve tried the most popular English delicacy which is the Fish and Chips. Freddie introduced you to some of his old friends around the market too and then stopped for a little karaoke fun in some public karaoke machine which definitely attracted a lot of people while you both are singing and dancing at the same time. You’re embarrassed with your moves but never expecting it’ll be praised.
Speaking of singing and dancing, your upcoming second performance in Crown and Anchor is fast approaching already and you have a day remaining to think about replacing the songs from your old setlist to new ones.
At your work in Universal Sounds, Tommy finally visits the shop and asked him in your free times some other popular songs to get an idea for the performance.
“Your old setlist is great though and I like you performing it so you gotta keep it, love.” Tommy said while looking at your journal book with the old setlist you have as he hand you back the book, “And honestly Y/N…”
“Yeah?.” You turn your attention to him.
“You should put some of your songs in your setlist. Give the people some unique taste of your own music. The fire of Y/N Y/L/N igniting the crowd with those melodies and lyrics.” Tommy said and that made you sigh deeply.
You were moved on his words. Performing some of your songs makes you nervous and if you’re nervous, it’ll mess up the whole performance and everything will go wrong.
“It’s not that easy to perform my own style of music in front of a crowd. Maybe they’ll judge me, maybe they’ll turn their backs while I’m singing it. It will make me nervous and my voice will get a littlr pitchy while I’m nervous–” You rambled those words without stuttering that’s why Tommy already shut your negative ass.
“Get in the vocal booth Y/N.” Tommy cuts you off and your eyes blinked while looking at hin with a questioning face.
“What–”
“I want you there to sing something for me. Get in the vocal booth and stand in front of the microphone.” Tommy nicely demanded and you now obliged.
You took a deep breath before stepping inside the regular sized vocal booth and faced on the glass pane with Tommy peering to you from the outside. He gave you a thumbs up, telling you he’s ready and the microphone is also ready. You look around to see a piano here, an electric guitar, acoustic guitar, drums and bass guitar. Your hand reaches over the classic acoustic guitar but you suddenly stopped as you thought about another idea.
Then you chose the electric guitar, now standing before the microphone.
Your fingers ran over the pages of your journal, finding the song that you’ll play to Tommy who’s patiently waiting for you to sing.
And you picked one.
It is called Hummingbird.
You played the chords you’ve arranged in the song but gave a little dance vibe to it as you used the electric guitar with style. You played the intro then started singing the first verse, remembering how you even sang it from before. You remembered some tunes, but some you don’t, that’s why you just randomly sing it with new melodies.
The dance and bubbly vibe of the music made Tommy wiggling his hips there as he catches up in the lyrics on the second time you’ve sang the chorus.
A smile appeared on your face as you turn up the energy on the last chorus before ending the song with that fire guitar solo outro as you imagine it fading out in the audio. You bow your head as you see Tommy clapping his hands for you. You can’t hear what he’s been saying but you know it’s positive with that wide smile of his.
He lean over to the control panels and pressed a button, “That’s…that’s a breathtaking song Y/N. It blew my heart away more than Fleetwood Mac did.” He compliments.
“Don’t…ever compare me with Fleetwood Mac. They’re the best artists and I’m just here as an amateur singer slash song-writer slash producer.” You chuckled and Tommy shakes his head.
“You’re not a freaking amateur Y/N. You literally belong to the professional group, and I recorded your voice for future plans.” He winks as he wriggles the tape he have in his hands.
You widen your eyes, “You recorded it?! You know when it comes to sharing my song, my insecurities and anxieties are eating me whole.” You stepped out of the vocal booth and just stare at him, pleading that he will never give the tape to anybody else to listen to.
“I’ll think about it.” Tommy smirks as he replied. That’s all he just replied to me before saying his goodbyes to you and the others in his office and walk away, with the tape in his hands. You inhaled sharply and return outside to assist Sabrina on what she’s doing in the shop.
You still hope that Tommy will never get that goddamn tape in the palm of anybody’s hands.
…
Tommy didn’t listen.
The next day came and that’s when he called someone he personally knew because he worked as the person’s assistant and publicist. The person he called had the biggest role in the music industry and they are one of the well-known producers around UK. And with only one call that your boss made today, maybe everything will turn upside down.
The phone rang on the third ring when someone finally answered the phone to Tommy, “Hello? Yeah, it’s been a while since we’ve met again though. I have missed you too dearly. Actually, what I came here is that I have a very nice girl with a very nice voice. She can do ballad, rock, pop, soul, everything! She have that versatile voice. I have a demo from her, hope you’ll listen to it…” He said to the phone, listening to what they are saying.
When Tommy finished talking to them, he have a victory smirk, but he have to surprise you on what he just did.
Friday came again and you prepared for your second performance tonight. You can’t stop pacing back and fourth in the living room here at Freddie’s while looking on your journal, with the new setlist you’ve made last night. And you didn’t stopped yourself from putting three of your songs in the setlist.
And now your anxiety is building up again.
The bathroom door finally opened to see Freddie and Vicky freshly showered, but more like freshly fucked because you definitely heard them doing it in the shower while you’re here in the living room. They noticed you being weird here.
“You okay darling?.” Freddie asked you, but you didn’t hear it. Your eyes are just glued on the papers of your journal with your pen between your lips.
“Y/N?.” Vicky snaps her fingers to you and now you’re back in reality. Out of those thoughts.
“Oh…did you just…called me?.” You questioned them with your most confused face.
“Yeah, we did. Did you get enough sleep last night?.” Vicky asked.
“Yes, I did get enough sleep last night. I’m just to bombarded with my thoughts about my new setlist for tonight’s performance.” You said and gave them your journal. Freddie was the one who took the journal and read through it.
“Moonshine,Hummingbird,He’s a God…are these your songs Y/N?.” Freddie asked, looking oh-so proud about your decision.
“Those are one of my favorite writings in my whole life and I guess this is now the time that I have to share it to the people.” You replied to him. Freddie didn’t say anything but you can see him smiling widely at you.
You sighed as he gives back your journal and suddenly gripped your shoulders, “I’m so proud of you dear. So fucking proud.” He cups my face.
Tears began to pool in your eyes as you just laugh away your emotions, quickly wiping it away before it slips down my cheeks.
You’ve made your decision. You’re going to sing your song.
Hoping that you won’t regret it.
…
Crown & Anchor tonight is packed with more people than the previous night you had here before, that’s why your heart rate is increasing again. Queen is already performing onstage while you watch them with Vicky and Genevieve by your side. Rosalie isn’t with Brian tonight and you don’t know why.
Speaking of Brian, he gave you a late thoughtful present for your very first performance earlier and it’s a dress, and the print of the dress is celestial. There’s the sun, the moon, the stars. Everything. It was a very beautiful dress and you loved it. You are shocked about his sudden gift, not only you who is shocked, also the blond drummer too.
You wore the dress tonight as you partnered it with Freddie’s fedora hat that you borrowed and your dark brown suede boots.
When Queen ended their set and thanked the people who listening to them, you took a deep breath before you head in the backstage to meet them. You see them exhausted from performing, drinking water and heaving a breath to calm themselves down.
“Nobody will seriously top you guys here in Crown & Anchor, you all are the life of this place.” You said and took the electric guitar. Playing in acoustic is your number one thing, but now you’re in the electric guitar. Ready to electrify them.
Before you got onstage, Freddie gave you a huge kiss on your cheeks, Brian and John warmly hugging you and Roger, he was hesistant to do something to you. He wanted to kiss you, but he thought that you’ll be shocked, that’s why he just put a sweet kiss on your forehead and said his good lucks before you step out of the curtains of the backstage. You heard several people clap for you, feeling that those people were the ones who listened to you before.
You also saw Sabrina with some guy she just met tonight and she’s been clapping for you non-stop since you stepped on this stage. You can’t help but to blush and wave at her direction.
“Good evening, beautiful people,” You spoke through the mic and people howls in delight as you giggled, “Tonight is my second night here in this very stage and…I just want you guys to know the night is better than the day because when you stay under the sun for a couple of minutes or hours, you’ll be burnt but when you’re under the moon, it feels so relaxing and all that I have to say is…moonshine is better than sunshine. Here’s my song called Moonshine.” You said as you started strumming your guitar in a soft rock type of genre.
You sang the first verse as you see the people enjoying the style of your music and your confidence boosts up. You remember the chords you’ve wrote for this song and put a little new tweaks too here and there. The chorus more energetic as the people sings back to you by the time you sang the chorus in the second time. A smile formed around your lips when you made this decision and beyond thankful that the people are enjoying in your own music.
While you’re performing onstage with all your glitter and groove, Roger was absolutely amazed by your performance again. Smiling widely that he’s now hearing you singing your songs to these people. Brian was also amazed by you and the fact that you wore the dress he gave you, there’s something that knocks him out of what you do. He don’t know what to do about it. Freddie on the other hand was dancing and also singing back to you, and he’s shaking John around while dancing on the beat of your song. John was so proud of you too. All of them was so beyond proud of you.
You sang your second song which is Hummingbird, the song that Tommy heard days ago in the vocal booth of the record shop. Tommy was also in the pub, sitting far back the counter island while drinking his whiskey. He smiled on the rim of the glass while watching you sing your songs, fingers lightly tapping the glass. He remembers the phone call earlier and he can’t wait about what will happen next.
“Well, well, if it isn’t Tommy Muller…”
A smirk appeared on his lips as he look at the person before him who’s wearing an all white semi-formal outfit and it’s accent became more sophisticated than it was before. The person also looked at the stage where you stood and singing to the audience.
“So this is she…” They spoke, fully observing you and your mannerisms and how you deliver the songs in your performance.
“How’s Y/N for you?.” Tommy asks, tapping his glass with his fingers as he waited for the answer.
“I like her.” They nod their head and Tommy had that victory smirk on his lips as he gets back in watching you onstage.
IN MY ARTS CLASS TODAY, WE TALKED ABOUT ACTING TECHNIQUES AND MY TEACHER PRESENTS RAMI AS FREDDIE IN HIS LESSON AND TELLS THAT HE’S ONE OF THE BEST ACTORS HE KNOW. MY HEART JUST DID SOMERSAULTS THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE PERIOD.
Series summary:In the year of 1971, you dreamed to be the best musician/performer that you’ll ever be. And upon achieving your dream, you have met the four musicians that would surprisingly help you to chase your dreams. The story of you and the rising band is deeply life-changing, and even finding love would get in the way, but all you have to do in chasing those dreams is to always face the consequences…
In this chapter:You went to the record shop to meet Tommy, if he’s still offering the job. Your first performance and Queen’s comeback performance in Crown & Anchor will happen tonight. Freddie and Victoria brought all of you in a nightclub to celebrate. Roger asked you about something important…
Warnings:language, fluffs, mild angst
Word Count: 5.4k+ words
Note: I can’t believe we’re on part 10 and actually this series will be longer than I expected, but I’ll still be making some small fics here and there :) And there will be slow updates by now since I’m back in school again and I need to study too (it’s already my last year in high school) so yeah, I hope you guys understand :)
You hop out of the van while clutching your resume inside your hands. You closed the car door behind you as you looked at the record shop in front of you. Universal Sounds is the name of the record shop, and the best thing is Crown & Anchor is just blocks away from this record store.
“Hey love,” Roger called, leaning over from the inside of the van. “Tell Tommy that he should come over by the pub tonight for the performance. I’ve never seen that bloke for a long time.”
“Yeah, sure Rog.” You smiled.
The blond drummer grinned at you, “Good luck out there love. Tommy is a great guy, I swear you’ll be getting that job in no time.” He said.
“Let’s see if the job is still vacant, I really hope so. Now go, you’ll be late for your Horticulture thingy.” You giggled.
“See you tonight. Can’t wait to see you on that stage Y/N, you’ll bloody kill it.” He playfully winked at you.
You’re trying to hide your blushing cheeks from him. So, you just slowly stepped away from his van as you waved goodbye to him as he drives away from the street. You sighed deeply, exhaling all the inhibitions from your body and finally stepped forward, entering the shop. You heard faint sounds of music playing, seeing that it’s from the studio where anyone can play and listen to any records that they like.
They’re playing Elvis.
This place is like a wonderland to you, seeing every kind of records that you can’t afford. Only the Hendrix records back at your home are only passed down to you from your older cousins before. You’ve visited record shops back in West Hampstead since you’re a little one and those shops are just small shops, but this record shop. It’s different.
It’s so large and wide where almost every records are here.
You stopped looking through every aisles in this shop as you approach the girl in the counter, who’s reading the magazine. You put up a toothy smile as you stood in front of her.
“Hi.” You spoke. She just looked up to you with those tired, tired eyes. “Is Tommy Muller here? I need to speak to him.”
“Tommy only gets to speak with people he knows, and I don’t think he knows you. Hm?.” She squint her eyes as she just gave you a straight smile, going back in reading the magazine.
She’s rude.
“Well, his friend Brian May said to me that Tommy needs a new employee here in this shop. And I am that person that wants to talk to him because I just want to ask if the job is still vacant.” Your voice raised until the end of the sentence. The girl just had her jaw agape at you as she puts the magazine down, going towards the door by the right side of this room.
An entrance to an office.
You’ve waited for a couple of minutes, tapping your nails on the counter while waiting. The song changed, replacing Elvis to The Supremes. Your head tilts up when the door finally opened, seeing a man–maybe around Freddie’s age, wearing that brown velvet jacket and flares. He’s too young to be a manager in this kind of business though.
“Hello, you must be Y/N Y/L/N.” He approaches you, reaching out his hand to you as you happily shake it.
“And you must be Tommy. Nice to meet you.” You smiled at him, not looking at the girl behind him whilst she is still eyeing you up and down.
It’s like she’s threatening you to step back from this attractive man before you.
“Brian called me earlier this day and told me all about you love,” He said, pulling his hand from you, “It’s been the second week that we are finding new employees here. You’re lucky one of them left just by last Saturday…”
Your face lit up, “So that means, the job is vacant?.” You excitedly asked.
Tommy chuckles, “It is. And probably we’ll need someone to get behind the cash register and put on some price tags here and there, maybe sort records in their genres–”
“–I’ll take it Tommy. I’ll do everything that you just said. Maybe I’ll start by Saturday, if you’ll like–because I have uh…some performance every Friday nights, so Saturdays shall do fine…” You stuttered, wanting to convince him.
“Is she serious?–” The girl complained but Tommy lifts up his hand to shut her up. She did shut up. Her pesky little mouth zipped close for good.
“Can you please stop complaining for once Charlotte. It’s our new employee we’re talking to right now.” Tommy smirks as he finally gave his hint. You gasp that you got in, without any exception. Without giving him your own fucking resume.
“D-do you need my resume? Maybe read my experiences? Or uh interview me or anything?.” You vigorously asked him.
“This is just a small local record shop love, not a company with a huge building and hundreds of employees. You start Saturday, take the daytime shifts. Charlotte, take the night shift from now on.” Tommy commands as you uncontrollably smile before him. Charlotte rolled her eyes as she groan in annoyance, but continues reading on her magazine while holding that cigarette between her fingers. Ashes falling down the laminated wood of the counter.
“Thank you so much Tommy. And actually, Roger invites you to come by in Crown & Anchor to watch us play. He misses you though.” You grinned.
“Hm, I miss that blondie also. I’ll see if I’ll come by tonight. Best of luck to you also for your performance. But remember, 8AM sharp by Saturday, you’ll be accompanied by another employee. I forgot her name already, but you’ll meet her tomorrow.” Tommy babbles his mouth as he adjusted his coat.
“8AM on the dot, I’ll be there.”
…
“I got the job!.” You exclaimed when you soon stepped in the flat, just to see Freddie sitting by himself in the living room watching the telly.
“You did?,” He beamed, standing from the sofa and immediately gave you the warmest hug. “Good for you darling! When are you going to start?.” He asked.
“Tomorrow at 8, and Tommy is such a nice guy. I can’t believe he’s so young to manage that place.” You said while getting your coat off and put it on the wooden chair by the window where Freddie would sit and write some songs by himself sometimes.
“I remember Tommy before when he first saw us perform for the very first time. He’s so close to Brian, more like brothers already. He’s also supportive back then, but when his father died and he became the heir of the record shop business, he stopped going to pubs and just think about the shop.” Freddie stated, finding his way back in his seat again. You also sat on the sofa and sadly smiled.
“That’s just great because he’s still making sure that the record shop is still alive, for his father, of course.” You replied, staring blankly at the telly with a random tv show playing.
You and Freddie slowly sighed deeply as you both fell into an awkward silence, never having an idea to bring up another topic. Only the ticking of the clock was being heard between you two.
“So? Where’s Vicky? I thought the dresses will be done by now so that she’ll come with us tonight?.” You asked him.
You heard him sigh. Deeply.
“She’s working to the bone. I tried calling her at work but she’s not answering. Maybe too busy.” Freddie replied. You sighed too as your hand dropped on his shoulder, patting him for the comfort.
It’s just so sad to see Freddie feeling sad about the person he loves be so busy that their time together is already limited. And that thought just made you remember of Jonathan, where you still haven’t talked to him in days. From those countless days that you’ve been spending with him before have turned into nothingnow.
“Hey, don’t be sad now Freddie. I’m pretty sure she’ll come by in the pub tonight. I really want to see her too since it’s my first performance.” You chuckled. Then you see him smile now.
He looks at you with that same warm smiled on his face, “I’m lucky to have you as a friend darling.” He replied.
You heart softens as you clutched your hand on your chest like you’ve felt the wave inside of your ribcage.
“And you too Fred.”
…
Roger, John, Brian and Rosalie came by in Freddie’s place in hours before the performance tonight. They talked about their setlist and also your own setlist. You’re all here in the living room, Brian and Rosalie are sitting far away from each other as you realized they have not interacted that much today, maybe had another fight again. John was playing Freddie’s acoustic guitar while sitting on the floor just beside the sofa. You and Roger are both on the sofa with your legs rested on his lap while he paid attention to what Brian was saying. You’re writing down and editing your setlist. Putting on songs from Elton John by now, the same from The Beatles and obviously from Hendrix. You’re still thinking about putting on your own songs. Maybe the crowd won’t like your songs and have second thoughts about you. Maybe they’ll just judge you.
Your worst nightmare.
“I can’t believe this is the first band discussion as Queen.” Freddie entered the room with the lemonade he’s been making for minutes from the time the boys went in.
“So, we still keep the same setlist?.” Brian asked as he tapped the pencil on his lap. You also caught him glance at your sister who’s being silent.
You’re suspicious.
But you just kept your mouth shut, minding your own business.
“What about this?.” You spoke, leaning over to Roger as you gave him your journal with your songs. He looked at it and watch him write on the paper. You look over to see he put Hendrix as your opening song, the same song you’ve sang back at your father’s pub where the boys heard and saw you perform before.
“Always start off with a song that everybody is in love with. I know Tiny Dancer is one of those, but the tune is too soft to be the opening song.” Roger said and you agreed. Ever since you heard Tiny Dancer on the radio, you automatically fell in love with that song. It’s just two weeks since it’s release but you already memorized the lyrics.
“And also put your own songs. It’ll be a waste if you don’t.” He suggested.
Of course you shake your head.
“No. That will never happen.” You laughed, snatching your journal from his hand and again lean back on the armrest of the sofa, your legs resting on his lap again.
“How can you be the perfect performer if you don’t have the confidence to share your own songs?.” Roger defended his side. Your eyebrows raised.
“I’m not the perfect performer Rog, and I’m scared about the audience. What if they won’t like my song? That’ll be an embarrassment.” You replied.
“No it won’t.” Roger again interfere.
“Yes it will.”
“No it won’t.”
“Yes it will–”
You and Roger soon stopped arguing like little children when the others are looking at the both of you. Silence was created among them as your cheeks turn into a red shape as you see Freddie smirking like crazy between the two of you.
“Aren’t you two adorable? Arguing like a real couple.” Freddie teased as your blush became worse.
“Shut up Fred.” You broke off a laugh as you push him away. John and Brian was also laughing at your blushing face. Only Rosalie was silent, but had a smile on her face as she watches you and Roger blushing.
…
Only two hours left before the performance will happen. You all are already in Crown & Anchor, waiting for your turn. Queen will perform first before you, so after their performance they can guide you while you’re on stage in front of strangers with their eyes only on you as they listen to you sing your songs. The others are standing by the stage as they watch the performers finish their gigs too while you’re outside, here in the payphones with your guitar in your left hand as you’re holding the phone with your right.
You’re speaking with your father again, luckily Jonathan was there with him back home.
“I’m hearing loud noises in your background dear. Are you already preparing on stage?.” Your father asked, the excitement in his voice was present.
“No, their phones are actually outside the place but it’s just so amazing that you can still hear the band playing inside.” You chuckled. “And in just two damn hours, I’ll be standing on that stage already as I sing the songs in front of them.”
You fell into deep silence and deeply sighed.
“I don’t know if people will like it or not.” You added. Your back soon lean back on the wall, the cord of the phone is already dangling from it’s case.
“They will love it Y/N, just like how the people did here. Remember when you’re just a 17-year-old girl who wants to perform on stage?.” Jonathan spoke, already missing his voice. You can’t stop smiling as you let out a dry chuckle.
“Yeah, I remember…” You replied. Your eyes soon became glassy as the small tears rolled down your cheeks. You can’t explain what emotions have you been exerting right now if it is happiness or sadness.
Maybe it’s just in between.
“Now you’re there, in a place where mostly people doesn’t know you. You will perform well, like you did back home. If you ever feel the doubt about yourself, just think of the stage there as your small stage in the train station before, only with a bigger crowd.” Jonathan stated, trying to comfort you. It’s really true that he’s the only one that can comfort you with only his words. And you’re lucky to be his best friend and someone that is important in his life.
“God, I miss you so much Jonathan.” You snifled, wiping away your tears as you start laughing to let out the sadness out of you.
“I miss you too Y/N, when will you come home?.” He asked. Again.
You took an intake of breath, “Soon Jonathan. I’ll come home.” You replied.
The back door soon opened to reveal Roger looking out then see you here in the payphones, “Y/N, you need to come inside now and check the stage.” He said.
“Okay, hold on one sec–Hey Jonathan, I need to go, take care back there and always look after mum and dad. Love you and miss you so much.” You replied fast.
“Take care also Y/N, love you–”
The payphone already cuts off the phonecall.
And you didn’t wait for Jonathan to reply earlier. You just left.
…
You’re already behind the stage, hands tightly gripping your guitar. The boys are there for you, motivating you so that you can’t overthink about the negative side of your upcoming performance in an hour. They will be the first to perform before you, so that’s why Deacy is already holding his bass, Brian on his red special, and Freddie with his own mic.
Roger is missing in action.
“Just remember darling, just enjoy the performance later just like you did in the your stage back in your hometown. You’ll be bloody amazing.” Freddie said while gripping your shoulder. You smiled at him and appreciated his comfort.
“Thank you Freddie, now go and wow the crowd.” You chuckled as you playfull pushed him away from you. Your heart warms up when you see his teeth–his additional incisors, in view in front of you. He put on his fashionable leather gloves on as he took his mic again, inhaling and exhaling all his inhibitions on stage.
You turn around, only to meet Roger holding his drumsticks and see that he had changed to his stage clothes. Which made your eyes widen up and your heart skipped a beat.
He’s standing there, wearing that floral top, all buttons undone where you can see his chest, slightly glistening with sweat since it’s a bit hot in this pub. Those tight leather pants aren’t helping either, you can’t stop looking down south.
Until you snapped out of yourself when you the band that is performing earlier went back here as their voices boomed in, congratulating themselves in their successful gig. The boys are already up next. And then you’ll be up next.
“Ready boys?.” Freddie spoke as they nod their heads. You watch them enter the stage one by one.
But Roger left for a second, feeling his hand drop on your lower back. Chills ran down your spine.
“Wish me good luck.” Roger said as you nod your head in response, tongue tied because of his breathtaking aura. He soon entered the stage as his appearance swoon the ladies in the crowd. Hearing them squeal in happiness to see the Roger Taylor again in the stage of Crown & Anchor.
“It’s good to be back here again in Crown & Anchor. For those who didn’t know, this is the place where we had our first gig as a band and a few of you knew us as Smile, right?,” Brian spoke in his mic as he heard several people agreed to him, smiles plastered on different faces. “And now, we are here tonight to introduce ourselves as Queen. Our new name.”
“That’s right.” Freddie proudly interfere.
“Let’s do this,” Brian said to the boys as they played their first song. Watching them with awe like the very first time that you have seen them on stage. Still have that glitter and that strong stage presence.
You enjoyed their music while hanging out backstage throughout their performance. And you didn’t felt nervous ever again when you’re hearing the people enjoying the songs. You just remember their words to you before you will go on stage. Just like Freddie said, imagine that you are on stage of your father’s pub in front of the people you knew while performing.
You know you could do it.
In the middle of their performance, you peek out again to watch them perform and suddenly see a familiar face watching from a distance. You heard his howls as he bangs his head and dances with the heavy tune of the beat.
It’s Tommy, together with a friend who wrapped his arms around him in pure excitement when Queen ended another song–and they have a bunch of good-looking girls around them.
He’s having a time of his life.
Several minutes later, they finished their gig and heard the people applauded them and finally see them got backstage again, looking haggard and worn out by playing. You stood up from the amplifier that you’re sitting on as you took your guitar again.
“We’ll be down there to watch you darling, see you in a bit.” Freddie said as him and Deacy left backstage, with also Deacy wishing his luck to you.
Roger and Brian left behind.
You can’t explain how awkward you’re feeling right now.
“Good luck out there Y/N, give the people what they want.” Brian smiles at you, then suddenly felt his hands took a hold of your shoulder.
“Thank you Brian.” You said, almost like a whisper as you watch him left the room too. Following Freddie and Deacy.
Then again you faced the blond drummer, “Wish me luck also?.” You playfully smirked at him as he chuckles.
He approaches you, never stopping him in putting his hands on either side of your hips. He held you there like your body belongs to him. “Good luck love.” He said and he winked at you before following behind the others.
Now you’re all alone and you think you’re all set. You took a deep breath before stepping on stage, finally facing these unknown faces in your whole life. You stood in front of the mic, lightly tapping it to test if there’s sound, but the loud hissing sound from the speakers annoyed the audience as you mumbled sorry.
Some people are already leaving the pub, some aren’t paying attention.
And yet you still sang, because it’s your beginning and you need to start it with a positive vibe from the audience.
“Oh, remember the mocking bird, my baby bought.He used to sing for his supper, baby…” You softly sang the first verse, hands also softly strumming the guitar.
Your rendition tonight was slower than you did before and more emotions have been exerted. You look around the crowd–the crowd that became lesser than earlier. You can also see some people grew interest to you as they stayed behind while drinking on their usual drinks.
Then the other verses came, your energy revved up as you played the guitar with the original groovy beat of the song. Hips swaying around as you watch the people now smiling up at you on this stage. You saw the boys watching you in the audience with proud hearts. You have seen Roger who have his eyes only locked at you, watching you once again do your passion–back in the old pub, back in your small place in the train station.
You finished the song with the people clapping their hands to you. You took a deep breath before gripping the mic, pulling it close to your mouth again.
“I hope you all are having fun tonight, so here’s a song that’s been my favorite at the moment…” You spoke as you strummed your guitar again. You have practiced the chords of this song as you feel the deep stares of the audience as you skillfully played the guitar.
“Blue jean baby, L.A. lady, seamstress for the band. Pretty eyed, pirate smile, you’ll marry a music man…” You sang with your soft voice again and suddenly heard them sang along with you on this soft melodic song.
You got in the chorus part, seeing the people sway around with the melody. The people who just came in joins into the crowd. You look over to the boys–who are gazing at you while you’re slowly shining up on-stage. You also saw Robert joins in with them as he fix his eyes on you, then a smile soon came up his lips.
You finished your song. Never expecting some people will clap for you.
You ended your performance, but didn’t even sang your own songs.
…
“Oh darling you did so good up there!.” Freddie soon embraces you when you join in with them in the crowd. The others also praising you as you thank them over and over. First performance of your life here has been a great start.
“Y/N…I–you did so good, you’re perfect but,” Roger spoke as he held your hand, pulling you with him to get a short distance from the boys. “Why didn’t you sang your songs? You even put it on your set.” He frowned.
“I’m too scared to sing it…” You sighed.
“That’s not an excused. If you’re scared to sing it in front of these strangers, then why did you sang your song to me comfortably before?.” He asked.
Your lips closed in a thin line as you stare at the ground, then back up looking in his eyes again. “Because you’re not a stranger to me Roger. I know you, that’s why I’m comfortable singing my own songs to you.”
You saw Roger’s eyes softens as a smile breaks off his lips, he sighs and slides his hands in yours again. “You really are something Y/N.” He whispers.
“Yeah?.” You smiled.
He nods. Still have that smile on his face.
That tension between you and him thickens as you watch him slowly leans over to you, his hands that are holding your hand earlier went to your waist. You’re feeling his warm breathing, inching closer and closer.
Until, “Y/N! There you are!.” Someone interrupts the moment that causes you and Roger to jump away from each other.
It’s Robert who’s approaching. You look over to Roger who is visibly blushing before you, making a giggle escape your lips.
“Y/N, thank you for that wonderful set earlier. You’re a hidden gem yeah?.” Robert gave you a sweet kiss on the cheek as you blushed in his words.
“Oh shut up Robert. I’m just a medium talent. Nothing biggie.” You wave off your hand to him.
“Enough with that humble-jumble. You are insanely breathtaking on that stage. Keep it up. See you all next Friday again.” Robert eyed you and the boys before leaving you all here to talk with everyone else he knows in this room.
Before you can even talk to Roger again and wanted to finish off what you’re both starting earlier, someone from behind suddenly picked you up off the ground as you squealed in shock. Your heart almost dropped when you heard that familiar laugh.
“Tommy, this isn’t funny! You almost gave me a heart attack!.” You squeak and he finally lets you go. You faced the man that happens to be your boss in your job and he have his friend beside him that’s been with him earlier while you and Queen are performing.
“But you didn’t and I’m proud of you love! even though we just met earlier this morning.” Tommy said and gave you a huge kiss on the cheek. “And oh! How rude of me, this is William–or Will, one of my closest friend.” He motioned on his friend beside him.
“Nice to meet all of you. You all had an amazing performance.” He compliments as you all thanked him.
“Thank you.” You all thanked him. Then Freddie soon offered Tommy and William a drink as they toast. You chose not to be intoxicated tonight since you’re having your first job tomorrow morning. You don’t want to suffer in that hangover.
But Tommy is drinking. You said in your mind.
“Hi everyone!.” That familiar voice came in and see Victoria, who had her arms open. Freddie darted his look to her as he rejoiced, hugging her first then gave her a sweet and passionate kiss.
Your heart always warms up to the both of them.
“Vicky! I’m so glad you came! But you missed our performances though.” You approach her as she pulls you in a warm hug.
“There will be another Friday night though, but still, I’m sorry I’m so late.” She sighs.
“It’s fine Vicky. We’re still glad you’re here, even though you’re late.” You grinned and again pull her in an embrace.
After celebrating for a bit in the pub, Vicky soon called you all in for another celebratory round in a nightclub down the street. Tommy and William with their girl-friends tag along too. The loud pumping beat of groovy songs envelopes the whole room filled with people in any age. Freddie and Victoria excitedly entered this nightclub and find some table for us. John came with Tommy and William as they chat away. Brian and Rosalie looked alright tonight, they have their hands tied as your sister pulled his boyfriend to Freddie and Victoria who found a round table by the corner of the room.
And you’re all alone with the drummer again.
“So you’re still thinking about not drinking tonight?.” Roger asked. You face him and see his smirk on his face.
“I don’t know Rog, maybe or maybe not.” You chuckled. You both went to the table where they are and finally see the drinks have settled in. Each one of you have it’s drink.
Roger turns his look at you, motioning you to take the drink.
And then you take the drink, smiling at them before you, “To our careers.” You said.
“Cheers!.”
…
You stopped at your third drink, even Roger stopped too. Just Freddie, Vicky and Tommy are wasted in the dancefloor. John, Brian, Rosalie, William and the girls are nowhere to be found in the nightclub. Maybe they have gone home, or just lost in the thick crowd. You’re leaning against the bar counter, watching the people dance. Roger went to the loo.
The song changes up to Beatles. The crowd howls in happiness.
Glass Onion
Just in time Roger came back from the loo, your body itches to dance with the people in front of you. That’s why you hold out your hand to him, a smile on your lips.
“Dance with me Rog.” You said.
He shakes his head.
“I’m sorry love, but I don’t dance.” He apologizes. You frowned.
“Everybody can dance.” You replied with your eyebrows furrowed at him.
“I don’t want to embarrass myself in the dancefloor. Glass Onion is my favorite song actually but I really don’t dance.” He gave reasons. Now your hand lowered down, setting them on your hips.
“Suit yourself. You’ll regret it someday.” You teased him as he lightly chuckled.
You made your way in the dancefloor to Tommy who’s enjoying his life while dancing with plenty of ladies around him. Such a ladies man.
“Tommy,” You called him out as he whips his head to you, a drunken smile appeared on his lips. “Do you want to dance with me?.”
He excused himself from the ladies as he took your hand without any word at all. He just spins you around and groove with the music. You laughed at his tipsy self when he’s spinning you around because he’s actually wobbling on his feet. Freddie and Vicky are living their own life. Happily in love.
“I think you need to sit down Tommy. Come on, off we go.” You pat his shoulder as you help him lean over to you. You grip his waist as you led him to the bar where Roger is.
“What happened to him?.” Roger asked.
“Too much alcohol. Obviously. And he have a record shop to run.” You said. Setting Tommy down as you ordered water, then giving it to him.
Roger stared at you for a while. Watching you take care of Tommy, and how you are so concerned. He admires these little things to you. Your love of the people you care about it one of your best traits. And Roger saw that in you this instant.
“Y/N…” He mumbles. Under his breath.
And still you heard his mumble.
“Yeah?.” You face him.
“Can I speak to you for a second? Alone? Tommy can take care of himself now.” He said.
You looked at Tommy who already is sleeping on the counter. His hand still gripping the glass of water. You return your look on the blond drummer.
“Yeah, sure. I’ll hear it.”
__________________________ IT’S BEEN 3 MONTHS SINCE I EVER WROTE SOMETHING AND OH MY GOD IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME THOUGH.
But I can’t promise you I will be updating the next chapter that fast because I’m still busy at most times at school and everything. But hey! I finally finished chapter 10 in 3 fucking months.
This is my last contribution for Freddie Weekend, with those Queenies in mind who live in the Ukraine or have loved ones there, like I do. There is little any of us can do about the situation, so this is just a small token of… my sympathy, I suppose. ❤️
—
Это мой последний фанфик для Freddie Weekend, для тех Queenies, которые живут в Украине или имеют там близких, как и я. Я мало что могу изменить в этой ситуации, так что это всего лишь небольшой знак моего сочувствия, я полагаю. ❤️
“None of us are angels, no one is bloody perfect, Roger. If you’re going to sit here moralising…”
Roger shakes his head with a scoff. “All I know is I’ve never decked someone I felt passionate about.”
-
I’m so excited about this collaboration Ana and I did for Day 2 of the Freddie Mercury Weekend 2022!! ☺️ She wrote an amazing fic with my artwork in it, you can go read by clicking the tittle!
-Based on the prompt ’ 1982 - That time Bill Reid was a dangerous, abusive, violent drunk during the Hot Space US tour and Freddie’s bodyguard went on to tell the tale. ’
Thank you so much @a-froger-epic for the absolutely beautiful piece you wrote and for wanting to do this collab with me . And also for hosting this event with the lovely @freddie-mercury-rising❤️
