Summary:You and John spend the week together in Tokyo, Japan. A week that would change your lives for good.
Warnings:Bit of drinking and swearing but that’s about it, lots of fluff!
A/N:I know it’s been far too long!! Sorry about that! Just been so busy between life and writing that I haven’t had the chance to take the time to upload and edit my work! Plus the eye infection didn’t help Nevertheless, here is the next part- lookout for a little song reference Enjoy!
A restless night was washed off in a quick shower. The sleep was still softly clutching onto your body however, but you had a busy day ahead and you couldn’t let that get to you. You tossed your old towels into the empty bath for the housekeeper to take away and changed into something comfortable before making your way downstairs for breakfast. It was seven thirty in the morning.
You stepped into the lift and pressed the floor where the restaurant was. When the lift stopped in the floor below yours, a flurry of excited and eager butterflies emerged in your stomach. You were disappointed when the doors opened and John wasn’t there- but he still might be sleeping. Instead a young family entered and pressed the button to the lobby. When you got out of the lift, you slowly walked to the restaurant and were led to a table. There was a spread of food along a wall and a menu on the table. You ordered a few things from it and the biggest cup of coffee they had. You got up and grabbed a bowl of funky sounding fruit to start with and grabbed one of the newspapers they had and put it on the table beside you, reading it while you ate your fruit.
Your coffee arrived…and so did someone else. “Morning!” They chirped and you looked up, a smile suddenly appearing on your face.
“Good morning, John,” you folded up the paper “How’d you sleep?” You asked.
“I didn’t.” He still managed to lowly chuckle despite being exhausted.
You smirked “Neither did I.” He was still standing- there was a spare chair across from you. “Do you want to join me for breakfast?”
“You sure?” He asked, already pulling out the chair.
“Course,” you smiled and he sat down, and placed his order with the server. “I like having company.” You smiled into your coffee cup “I always travel alone- it’s a nice change having breakfast with someone.”
“I hope I’m not keeping you from your work.” The worry was adamant in John’s voice but you waved away his concerns and told him that he wasn’t. “I’m assuming you’re a fellow Londoner from your accent?” He put that out there and then silently thanked the waiter for his tea that he had ordered.
“You assume correct. I live just west of Kensington.” John choked on his tea and you raised a brow. “What?”
“I live just west of Kensington!” He grinned. “Melrose Gardens!”
You went wide-eyed “No way! I stay on Dewhurst Road! You are like five minutes away from me!” You giggled and John rested his chin on his hand with a toothy grin. Your laughter died down and you looked at him with a soft, amazed smile. “Isn’t it funny that you can travel halfway around the world and then find someone who lives down the road from you?”
“Very funny,” he mused.
“It’s fascinating how small our little big world is.” You said just as your breakfasts arrived.
“So what are your plans for today?” He asked. “Do you focus on a particular point of interest or sights to write about?” John was genuinely interested in what you did and when he arrived back in the U.K., he was sure to get his hands on a paper to read your work.
“I try and focus on a bit on every aspect. I tend to spend a week wherever I go to try and do a bit of everything a place has to offer.” You began to explain, the pair of you still eating away at your breakfasts. “So today for example, today I’m going to the shops and I’m going to explore a little- jot down anything I find interesting or if I spot any quirky hotspots . I’ll take a lot of photos too. But during the week I’ll go on a excursion, see what modes of public transport are available, check out the nightlife, try the traditional restaurants…that sort of thing.”
“You’ve certainly got a jam-packed week. Sounds fun too!” He took a bite of toast. “I’ll probably be stuck in here all week- especially since my bandmates will be far too busy lazing about.” He added with an eye roll.
You chortled before you were hit with an idea. “If you’re not busy…you could always tag along with me if you want? I don’t mind.” You nonchalantly shrugged and sipped away on your coffee.
“R-really?! Sure! I’d love to!” John knew he sounded a little too enthusiastic.
“Great! Well I’ll get myself organised and I can meet you in the lobby in twenty minutes?” You suggested and both stood up at the same time.
“Perfect!” You both made your way to the lift, John got off at his floor. “See you soon!” You sent him a small wave and continued going up another floor. You grabbed your bag that had all your necessities in it and your camera along with a guidebook. Before you went anywhere you always read up about where you were going and took a guidebook on the journey with you. The maps inside were especially handy.
Twenty minutes later you met with John who was eagerly waiting for you and an adventure around Tokyo. “Ready to go?” You asked and he nodded and the pair of you stepped outside. The sun was out and there was a scattering of fluffy white clouds in the sky. You ended up down a busy little side street. You spotted a shop who’s window display consisted of bright yellow, plastic streamers and questionable looking mannequins in even more questionable positions. “We should head in,” you pointed to the door.
“In there?” John pointed too “It looks mad!”
You took his hand and you both felt a jolt of electricity bolt up your arms. “That’s exactly why we’re going in.” John was happy to be dragged by you into the weird wonderland of whimsical mishmash paraphernalia. It held everything from telephones to a literal kitchen sink, as well as odd pairs of shoes, cut out bras and glittery rubber ducks.
“This looks like the inside of Freddie’s head,” John murmured with a smirk while he took in the emporium of sheer madness.
You smiled and made a mental note to ask about his bandmates later. Walking up ahead, you laughed and picked up a cowboy hat “John,” you called him and he looked over, stifling a laugh. “What do you think?” You dramatically accentuated your poses.
“You actually really suit that! You should get it!” You took it off and admired it before taking his advice. John found himself in a little gap filled with rails of clothes and picked up a very jazzy, sequinned, feathery bra. “Think this is too much?” He joked and you giggled.
“Matches your sparkling eyes…” you said without even thinking. Your mouth just blabbed the truth. John had a shy smile on his face while yours went bright red. “Um…” you nervously picked up something and held it in front of him “I think you’d look good in this shirt. Brings out your eyes.” You mentally slapped yourself bringing up his beautiful eyes yet again within a matter of seconds.
“You got a thing for my eyes?” He teased but John was a giddy, nervous wreck now he knew that you liked his eyes. He’d use that to his advantage.
“I think we should pay and explore more of the city,” you managed to speak out and after grabbing a few more things which included a pair of sunglasses and funky light up earrings, you paid and headed to more shops.
You and John found yourselves in a clothes shop that was deeply embracing the trends of the 70’s along with a few traditional outfits. You snapped a few photos of the store and of the cheerful cashier who happily stuck his thumbs up when you snapped a picture. You thanked him and continued taking more photos, including one of John candidly looking through the rails. After picking up an armful of clothes each, you tried them on- some for a laugh and others because they were genuinely nice pieces. You emerged out of the changing booth, pulling back the orange velvet curtain and looked in the mirror in front of you. Then John emerged and you burst out laughing at what you were both wearing. “We look like Sonny and Cher!” You giggled and John stood next to you and scrutinised the immensely tacky outfits.
“I don’t have a moustache!” He chuckled.
You reached across and pulled a strand of his long hair in front of his face, above his lip. “Now you do!” You laughed even louder.
John grabbed a piece and placed it over your lip. “So do you.” He took it away and lightly gasped “It’s still there!” Your jaw dropped but your mouth was curving upwards at his playful remark.
You lightly jabbed his side “Very funny.” The cashier, who was laughing at the pair of you, pointed at your camera and then the two of you as if to ask ‘Would you like your photo taken?’ You nodded with a small smile and handed him the camera. He took two and handed it back. “Arigatō!” You bowed and he did the same. John looked at you with an amazed smile.
“You know Japanese?” He asked.
You shook your head and changed, still talking to him- the room was so small and the wall and curtains were thin enough for him to still hear you. “Only a little. 'Thanks’ is pretty easy- I couldn’t have a full blown conversation in the language.” You changed into a traditional dress and stepped out, John was still admiring his choice of outfit that made him look like Sonny. “What do you think?” You asked and he looked at you via the mirror. His heart skipped a beat and his breath caught.
“You look beautiful in that…” he was dumbfounded by your beauty in such a traditional look.
You sheepishly smiled. “Arigatō…” you winked and then changed back into your own clothes, picking out a few bits that you liked and a jumper that your mum would love as well as the traditional dress. You both paid and headed to the next shop, snapping yet more photos, then another, and then another, then stopped off for some street food- a platter of sushi and gyoza’s before heading to yet another shop and picking up a kimono each. “That was a very successful day shopping!” You entered the hotel with your arms full of bags.
“I think the term 'shop till you drop’ is the definition of what we’ve done today!” John tiredly laughed. “God, I need a shower now! That was so fun!”
“I’m glad you enjoyed yourself,” you managed to press the lift button. “Thanks for coming along with me. I had a great time and got lots of great photos!”
“Thanks for the invite.” John sent you a warm smile. “Now it’s my turn to return an invite- meet you at the bar later? Around seven?” He asked with a glimmer of hope in his eyes and nervous, twiddling fingers.
“Yeah!” You quickly agreed- perhaps a little too fast but that didn’t bother John.
He got off at the floor below yours and headed to his room with a smile. He had never had so much fun in such few hours- especially shopping! It was like you had opened his eyes to a new and exciting world. Then it dawned on him that perhaps the company made a difference and was the influence of why he had such fun. Sure, he had been to the shops with past girlfriends but it was a chore to him. But shopping with you and your 'eyes wide open to everything and anything’ view changed his initial perspective on going shopping with someone.
You put all your bags down in the corner of your room for now, you’d pack everything away at some point. You took out the camera and photos from the bag it was in and smiled at one- of many photos- of John. He was standing facing a sign that was in Japanese, the light from it bounced perfectly off his face and he looked ethereal- he was glowing. The shadows created perfectly highlighted his exquisite features. You were in awe.
Seven o'clock rolled around fast. John was at the bar first waiting for you with a untouched glass of Suntory beside him. He looked up at the right moment and saw you walk in wearing a lovely black dress with little flowers on it. “Thought I’d make an effort for rock royalty…” you spun on the spot.
John decided to joke with you. “That’s an effort?” He widely grinned and you feigned offence with a smirk. “I’m only kidding! You know I’m joking!”
“You’re ballsy, John Deacon!” You pointed as you sat next to him, then you saw the drink. “And you got my usual.” You leaned forward and clinked your glass with his. “Am I that predictable after being in my company for just over a day?” You both looked over hearing an eruption of laughter. The group of Japanese businessmen who were there in the same spot as last night. “People drinking for days gone by, huh?” You smirked and motioned over to them. “They were here last night too. But then again, time don’t mean a thing- especially when you’re jet lagged.” John hummed and nodded in agreement. “I wish I could sleep.”
“Me too,” John sighed and took a drink. “Maybe one night I’m here I’ll be able to.” You casually rested a hand on your cheek, keeping your attention on John. “That night feels like years away….” he laughed “But then again, time don’t mean a thing.” He repeated your words and the corner of your lip tugged upwards for a split second.
The group of men laughed again and you and John smiled “Sounds like they are having fun.”
“I had fun today,” John said before taking a sip of his drink “Most fun since I’ve been here really- our management were really pushing us last week in Kyoto. Wasn’t very enjoyable, a lot of pressure.” He sighed and played with the napkin under his glass.
Your eyebrows softened and you reached across and instinctively placed your hand on his forearm and he stopped toying with the napkin. The contact sent John’s heart fluttering. “You know, maybe you should take a break from listening to what they tell you to do and start listening to yourself. You might actually live a little and feel better if you did.” You suggested before taking a drink. “You’re your own person John. No one can ever take that away from you.” You smiled at him. John placed his hand on the top of yours, his thumb brushed over the back of your hand.
“I might just do that, Y/N.”
You were looking at each other in silence for a few minutes and then the bartender- the same one from last night- disturbed you both. You had both learned his name, Harry, he asked if you’d like another round of drinks. “Last round for me,” you looked to John “I hope you don’t mind, I want to attempt to get some sleep tonight!”
John nodded with a grin “I’m on the same boat as you! I’ll make an attempt to get some shut eye but I doubt I’ll get much.”
“The jet lag is still kicking the shit out of me so I’ll be up most of the night too no doubt.” You tiredly smiled “It really sucks.” You thanked Harry with a silent smile and raised your glass at John who did the same. You both took your time on your last drink before parting ways for the night. “Thanks for a great day, John. I had an amazing time.”
“Hope we can do it again…I’d really like it if we did.” He bit on his lip and you shyly smiled while nodding your head. You were hoping he’d say that. “Hope you get some sleep.”
“I hope you get some sleep too, John.” You got off first. “Night. Sweet dreams.” You waved and caught one final glimpse of him. Or so you thought.
John pressed his hand against the door to hold it open and popped his head out “And Y/N!” He called.
You turned around “Yes?”
He smiled, admiring the sight he knew was fortunate enough to be looking at. “You really didn’t need to make the effort. You already look absolutely beautiful.”
You bashfully smiled “Thank you.” John forced himself back into the lift. The doors shut and he endured another floor in the lift listening to yet more piano music. You quickly changed into your pyjamas, turned off the room lights and tossed yourself onto the bed- not bothering to find what remote closed the curtains. You fell asleep with the glowing Tokyo lights in the background while thinking of John.
These can be used for any fandom but I had both Queenandthe Beatles in mind while writing these. This is my first time doing this but I figured if I’m not going to write a fic why not help others out! I hope these aren’t crappy, oops.
1. “Why are your lips so god damn soft”
2. “You’re such a tease”
3. “You’re hot when you’re mad”
4. “Stop blushing so much people are gonna start wondering”
5. “What if (band members/persons name) walks in”
6. “Turn on the lights I want to see your face”
7. “Why would he write a song about me”
8. “It’ll be our little secret”
9. “Tell me how does one dance so badly”
10. “Cause I love you.” “Yah?” “Yah yah.” [that was so bad and cheesy]
11. “We are at an important dinner we can’t just leave”
12. “I’m tired of scrabble, how about a game of truth or dare”
13. “Pinky promise”
14. “You have horrible taste in music”
15. “Shirts have buttons for a reason”
16. “Take a picture it’ll last longer”
17 “If I’m that bad then come teach me”
18. “That skirt’s awfully short”
19. “Quiet down someone is going to hear us”
20. “Don’t call me cute. I’m not cute”
-I’ll be making more of these for sure but this was my first time making a prompt list and I don’t really know if I did it right but eh. Also sorry that they’re bad I’m just not that creative, oof. (sorry that it’s so short I’ll try and make some longers lists but for my first one this should be good-ish)
- “She’s his bestfriend, her forever companion after all the years. She wants to say everything she feels towards him, but she guessed she’s just too late…”
- “You got a job as a bartender in a yacht somewhere in Switzerland, and you didn’t know that the yacht was rented by a famous band for the whole weekend…”
- “You have been having a huge crush on your friend Roger back when you’re still in college. Now he’s a rising rockstar and selling out universities in UK. You’re still finding the time to tell your feelings to him because that silence inside your heart kills you slowly.But he suddenly put up an argument with you that pretty sure broke the friendship a little bit. How will you both recover from that?…
- “Mistakes were proven. Now you’ve seen it and felt the pain that suffers you in the heart right there in the scene you’ve caught. He knows what he did was unforgivable but he wants you to forgive him still, but it’s just impossible…”
-“In 1982, you are invited to his wedding. He was the love of your life before, but now you’re just watching him showing his love with another woman, that is supposed to be you. You can’t stop but to remember the things that had happened between the both of you that really struck your heart…”
•Finding You (series coming soon)
- “Something happened after your 25th birthday. Wishing on your birthday candles for one small thing in your life became a huge deal when your actual wish turned real as you woke up after your party, living in the year of 1975 and being as another person. You didn’t know that wish you’ve made was a mission. A mission that you have to find him, for you to go back to in your own time…”
- “Your life-long friend Rami called you in to come with them in a Queen+Adam Lambert concert. It turns out you’ll be facing your celebrity crush, Joe Mazello…”
- “You’re the only daughter of the famous actor James McAvoy and in his major film, X-Men, you have met someone that would unexpectedly change your life…”
- “Gwilym takes you to his parent’s summer cabin and everything just got carried away…”
•Heartstrings(series coming soon)
- “You are a local instrument teacher that teaches children to play the guitar. You’ve met Florence, a little girl that is far more interesting than the other kids, and then you’ve met her father, a single father that wants his daughter to feel like she’s a rockstar through the lessons…”
- “After your major heartbreak, you have called the only friend that will always listen to what you’ll say. Confessions exposed unhand, but would he feel the same way too?…”
-“In the summer of 1975, you’re working as Paul Prenter’s assistant and asks you to come with him in Ridge Farm for the recording for Queen’s upcoming album. While the band isn’t around in the studio, you tried singing by yourself with the song you’re randomly making until John Deacon found you alone there…”
- “She’s his bestfriend, her forever companion after all the years. She wants to say everything she feels towards him, but she guessed she’s just too late…”
- “You got a job as a bartender in a yacht somewhere in Switzerland, and you didn’t know that the yacht was rented by a famous band for the whole weekend…”
- “You have been having a huge crush on your friend Roger back when you’re still in college. Now he’s a rising rockstar and selling out universities in UK. You’re still finding the time to tell your feelings to him because that silence inside your heart kills you slowly.But he suddenly put up an argument with you that pretty sure broke the friendship a little bit. How will you both recover from that?…
- “Mistakes were proven. Now you’ve seen it and felt the pain that suffers you in the heart right there in the scene you’ve caught. He knows what he did was unforgivable but he wants you to forgive him still, but it’s just impossible…”
•Finding You (series coming soon)
- “Something happened after your 25th birthday. Wishing on your birthday candles for one small thing in your life became a huge deal when your actual wish turned real as you woke up after your party, living in the year of 1975 and being as another person. You didn’t know that wish you’ve made was a mission. A mission that you have to find him, for you to go back to in your own time…”
- “Your life-long friend Rami called you in to come with them in a Queen+Adam Lambert concert. It turns out you’ll be facing your celebrity crush, Joe Mazello…”
- “You’re the only daughter of the famous actor James McAvoy and in his major film, X-Men, you have met someone that would unexpectedly change your life…”
- “Gwilym takes you to his parent’s summer cabin and everything just got carried away…”
•Heartstrings(series coming soon)
- “You are a local instrument teacher that teaches children to play the guitar. You’ve met Florence, a little girl that is far more interesting than the other kids, and then you’ve met her father, a single father that wants his daughter to feel like she’s a rockstar through the lessons…”
- “After your major heartbreak, you have called the only friend that will always listen to what you’ll say. Confessions exposed unhand, but would he feel the same way too?…”
-“In the summer of 1975, you’re working as Paul Prenter’s assistant and asks you to come with him in Ridge Farm for the recording for Queen’s upcoming album. While the band isn’t around in the studio, you tried singing by yourself with the song you’re randomly making until John Deacon found you alone there…”
-“In the year of 1971, you dreamed to be the best musician/performer that you’ll ever be. Upon achieving your dream, you’ve met these musicians that came unexpectedly in your life. The story of you and this rising band will be the biggest rollercoaster ride. Upon chasing those dreams together, there always be a consequence…”
- “She’s his bestfriend, her forever companion after all the years. She wants to say everything she feels towards him, but she guessed she’s just too late…”
- “You got a job as a bartender in a yacht somewhere in Switzerland, and you didn’t know that the yacht was rented by a famous band for the whole weekend…”
- “You have been having a huge crush on your friend Roger back when you’re still in college. Now he’s a rising rockstar and selling out universities in UK. You’re still finding the time to tell your feelings to him because that silence inside your heart kills you slowly.But he suddenly put up an argument with you that pretty sure broke the friendship a little bit. How will you both recover from that?…
- “Mistakes were proven. Now you’ve seen it and felt the pain that suffers you in the heart right there in the scene you’ve caught. He knows what he did was unforgivable but he wants you to forgive him still, but it’s just impossible…”
•Finding You (series coming soon)
- “Something happened after your 25th birthday. Wishing on your birthday candles for one small thing in your life became a huge deal when your actual wish turned real as you woke up after your party, living in the year of 1975 and being as another person. You didn’t know that wish you’ve made was a mission. A mission that you have to find him, for you to go back to in your own time…”
- “Your life-long friend Rami called you in to come with them in a Queen+Adam Lambert concert. It turns out you’ll be facing your celebrity crush, Joe Mazello…”
- “You’re the only daughter of the famous actor James McAvoy and in his major film, X-Men, you have met someone that would unexpectedly change your life…”
- “Gwilym takes you to his parent’s summer cabin and everything just got carried away…”
•Heartstrings(series coming soon)
- “You are a local instrument teacher that teaches children to play the guitar. You’ve met Florence, a little girl that is far more interesting than the other kids, and then you’ve met her father, a single father that wants his daughter to feel like she’s a rockstar through the lessons…”
- “After your major heartbreak, you have called the only friend that will always listen to what you’ll say. Confessions exposed unhand, but would he feel the same way too?…”
-“In the summer of 1975, you’re working as Paul Prenter’s assistant and asks you to come with him in Ridge Farm for the recording for Queen’s upcoming album. While the band isn’t around in the studio, you tried singing by yourself with the song you’re randomly making until John Deacon found you alone there…”
-“In the year of 1971, you dreamed to be the best musician/performer that you’ll ever be. Upon achieving your dream, you’ve met these musicians that came unexpectedly in your life. The story of you and this rising band will be the biggest rollercoaster ride. Upon chasing those dreams together, there always be a consequence…”
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.
