The heat is sweltering, and again you wonder why the festival has to happen on the hottest stretch of the year. Your friends aren't here yet, and there's still time before ${Fave band?} comes on. Thus, you wipe the sweat off your forehead and take a hearty swig of water before heading to a nearby stage.
You arrive just in time. Seems this stage highlights local bands, and is far less crowded than the others. The singer clears his throat and takes the microphone.
"We're No Reception," he says. "Pleased to play for you all today. I'm Elliot. Nick on bass, Rina on drums. Here's 'Out of Body Memory'."
With that, they start. As you listen, your heart pounds. The dew-drop guitar, the shimmering percussion, the slippery bassline, and Elliot's ethereal voice…all combine to produce a lush, otherworldly atmosphere. Between songs, Nick and Rina banter, Elliot focused mostly on drinking water. Despite that, the charisma Elliot has on stage is undeniable. His face is stunning, with delicate cheekbones and solemn lilac eyes fringed by the straight bangs of his curly short hair.
The end comes too soon. Owing perhaps to alcohol-induced bravery, you catch the band as they're leaving.
"Hey," you say. "That was a fantastic set. You guys local?"
"Wow, thanks!" says Rina brightly. "Yup, we are! First time playing a venue this big. All thanks to Elliot! He applied!"
Elliot chuckles. Off-stage, he still exudes that ethereal charisma. "I'm surprised they accepted us, honestly."
"Are you going to see the other acts?" you ask.
Rina nods. "Nick and I are gonna check out Parquet Courts. Elliot?"
"${Fave band?}."
Your eyes widen. "Me too!"
Rina looks at you and Elliot. "Say," she says slyly, "you two should go together."
"…what?" you say. "Seriously?"
Elliot shrugs. "Sure. You and Nick want private time, huh?"
"Yup! Gimme your guitar, I'll put it away. Have fun, you two!"
With that, you and Elliot are left alone on the grassy field.
"So…" Elliot says, "we have time before ${Fave band?}. Want to get