Chapter 1

Even from inside the limo, I could hear the distant shouts and screams of the people waiting outside the studio. I didnt have to see the crowd to know it was made up of reporters and excited fans. There was just something about the noise that was easily recognisable.

While I was still in the privacy of the car, I closed my eyes and leaned against the cool glass of the window, hoping it would chase away the slight headache building. No matter how many times I did it, the pressure to appear perfect in public never got any easier.

Breathe, Bo suggested gently. The show starts at seven so you have some time. The soundcheck is already done, and youve got hair, makeup, and wardrobe to go to. I made sure to choose styles that you like so you dont have to worry about not feeling like yourself.

And this was why having a good manager was priceless. The fact that I could also consider a friend made me one of the luckier artists out there.

The car turned and I caught a glimpse of the crowd. There were even more people than I expected, and I already dreaded having to face them.

Do I have to? I asked, already knowing the answer.

I could throw a jacket over your head, Bo suggested, her tone making it clear it was not an option.

The car came to a halt and I took a deep breath, readying myself for the intensity of the next fifteen minutes. I let my hands glide down my body, smoothing away the wrinkles in my dress. As soon as the door opened, every minuscule thing I did would become something for the internet to dissect.

Bo cleared her throat. Ready, Mei?

I wasnt but I had to be. Im ready.

She gave the signal to the people outside and my door was opened. The clamouring intensified and I saw the first flashes of cameras. I swung my legs out, letting my heels hit the ground together for a smooth exit. Everything had to be perfect.

With a practised smile, I left the privacy of the car and threw myself into the lions den. The noise was overwhelming and I could only make out a few of the shouts.

Mimi! Mimi!

Look this way!

I love you, Mimi!

A gesture from Bo reminded me to start walking and I did with all the grace I could muster. The barriers kept the people at a distance, but that didnt stop them from leaning over as far as they could, their arms reaching for me. I tried my best not to get intimidated by their adoration and diverted from the path, stepping towards a group that looked like fans instead of reporters.

A young woman with streaks of pink in her hair held a notepad out. I love your music! Moments is my favourite album ever!

Thank you, Im glad you like it! I signed my stage name in bold characters for her and she squealed in excitement. Just seeing her so happy made me feel better. Even though interacting with fans was still nerve-racking, at least they cared about my music instead of gossip, scandal, or lining their pockets. The paparazzi were a whole other matter.

I managed four more signatures before Bo patted my arm to let me know I was running out of time. Technically, I shouldnt even be stopping, but these fans had probably been waiting hours just to get a glimpse of me, I didnt want to disappoint them.

I strode past the rest of the shouting reporters, relieved when we made it into the studio and the doors closed behind me. The night had only started, but I felt much better now I was inside and away from them.

A woman with a clipboard greeted us with a polite bow. Welcome, Mimi. My name is Ying, I will escort you to your dressing room. Refreshments will be waiting there for you. Were so excited to have you perform on our show tonight. if theres anything else you need, please let us know.

Thank you. One of these days, Id get used to the special treatment.

She led us through the studio and I was surprised when we got to the empty dressing room. Normally, it would be swarming with people to help me get ready. Not that I minded, I would gladly take a few minutes of quiet.

Once the door was closed, I sank into a chair. Im exhausted already. I dont want to sound ungrateful, I love making people happy, but sometimes I just want to be Mei and not Mimi. Do you know what I mean?

Bo adjusted her earpiece. Considering I dont have a stage name, not really.

I cant say I recommend it. I need a break.

Well, youve got some days off coming up.

I perked up instantly. I do? It wasnt perfect, especially because I wouldnt have a chance to go home, but at least it was something.

Yes, you have nothing planned this weekend. Then well be travelling to the Meru Palace. Theres a portal to the god realm nearby so well be staying in the city to cut down on travel time. Accommodation is sorted already.

I raised an eyebrow, not sure if she was messing with me. The Meru Palace? Thats where the Four Heavenly Kings reside.

Yes, youll be part of the entertainment at their latest banquet. I heard one of them is a music god. You should try to impress him if you want to continue your career to continue in the paranormal world once your time here is up.

I never wanted to be successful. I just want to make music. But she had a point. As a xian, I wouldnt age the same way a human would. At some point that was going to start raising questions I couldnt answer.

Everything has its price. Bo checked her phone and tapped it a few times. Wheres the prep team? Im going to check whats going on. Ill be right back.

I welcomed the click of the door shutting behind her, leaving me with something that had grown surprisingly rare. Alone time.

I pulled out my phone. If we were staying in the city for a few days, there was something I wanted to do. I tapped on the Jinx dating app that lived in a secret folder on my home screen and changed my location so it would show me matches in the area. I never stayed anywhere long enough to actually meet someone, and my profile picture of half my face wasnt a very big draw, but I didnt dare put more on in case anyone recognised me.

It was unlikely that anything would come of it if I did match with anyone, but even a conversation would be worth it. And if I was really lucky, maybe Id meet someone who was interested in Mei and not Mimi.