The Number One Star in the Interstellar Era

"FINALLY, we're back.  I thought that dinner was never going to end," Reas said when they entered the apartment.

"You didn't enjoy dinner?" Astrid asked while picking up Xiao Lan.

Reas only snorted.  "Why would I, when I was sitting beside that Thomas Grimaldi?"

He knew that his impression of the other was greatly affected by how he appeared on their mother's story of the past.  Although everything was told in their mother's point of view, the fact that Thomas Grimaldi didn't stop the duke from pushing their mother to that Cecil Lancaster.  That was enough for Reas to dislike him.

The only good thing about the other was that he's not talkative.  If he was, then his dislike for him would definitely go up to the next level.

"I think the food is good, at least," Astrid commented, sitting on the couch.

He didn't bother to as if he liked Thomas or not, because Reas obviously didn't.  Not that he could blame him.  Because he probably also felt the same.  Actually, he didn't care much about the other.  As long as he just remained as a stranger to them and didn't try to ingratiate himself in their lives, then he wouldn't have any opinion either.

Well, at least Thomas seemed to really care about his son.  He just hoped that he wouldn't be like the duke and use Nicole as some sort of pawn or something.  Because that would be just heartbreaking for the kid.

"Your food is definitely more delicious," Reas said, responding to his comment about the food.

Astrid chuckled.  "That's because you're use to my cooking.  In your opinion, my food always tastes better."

"Because it's the truth."

"Anyway, at least now that business with the Grimaldis is finally over," he said. 

"Do really think so?  That kid seems to like you quite a lot.  What if he pesters his dad or uncle to let him meet you?"

Reas question was not really unfounded.  Earlier, the reason why they weren't able to go back right after the dinner was done was because of that kid.  Nicole wanted to bring them to the duke's mansion.  No, actually, it was only Astrid the kid wanted to bring back with him. 

Of course, they had to refuse.  They didn't want to suddenly meet the duke for no reason.  It was a good thing that Thomas seemed to be still wary of them and didn't agree to his son whim.  Or who knew what would have happened now.

"It might be so.  But school is already starting soon.  I'm sure a noble kid like him has many other things to focus his attention on than me.  Besides, despite his gratitude towards us for saving his son, I don't think Thomas Grimaldi would want him to be close to a pair of commoners," Astrid said.

Which was kind of understandable, in the other's view anyway.  After all, who knew what kind of influence they would bring to his very impressionable son.

"Hah, what a prick."

Astrid only laughed at his brother's choice of words. 

-----

The next morning, Astrid was busy preparing breakfast when his Terminal sounded for an incoming video call.  He checked it and saw that it was from Miria.  It must be about the music video.  So, he put down the knife he was holding and quickly answered it.

Miria, who was waiting for her call to be answered, was startled when he saw Astrid.  Not because of the other's natural beauty but because he was wearing an apron.  So, the first words that came out of her mouth was;

"You know how to cook?"

"Yes," Astrid answered with a smile.  "And good morning to you too, Miria."

Miria realized that she must have just came off as rude just now.  "Yeah, good morning.  Am I interrupting you?"

"No, not at all," Astrid said.  "Are you calling because of the music video?  Is everything alright?" 

"Well, the job is almost yours."

Astrid quickly caught the keyword – 'almost'.  "So, what do I have to do so it's no longer an 'almost'?"

Miria was glad that the other was quick on the uptake, so there was no need for her to explain more.  "You just have to meet with the composer/producer of the song and get his approval.  He's kind of eccentric.  But if it's you, I think you'd do just fine."

Her agent already agreed with her suggestion of using Astrid in the music video of her new song.  She actually immediately agreed the moment she showed her Astrid's photo.  Which was actually secretly taken by her assistant.  A lot of ideas for hype had already entered her agent's mind when she saw Astrid's picture.  In fact, Miria had a feeling that her agent planned to scout Astrid.

But she's kind of against that.  Astrid wouldn't grow in Kaleido.  With his face and talent, a lot of artists would try to suppress him.  He's too eye-catching.  A big company such as Kaleido wouldn't be a good fit for him.  She hoped Astrid could also see that and make the right decision.

This gig should be easily given to Astrid just based on her agent's reaction.  But the composer of the song refused.  Usually, composers usually didn't have a say in making MVs of a song they made.  Especially if they made the song for another artist.  But the thing was this composer was also the producer of the song.  And more importantly, he's also pretty famous.

Under normal circumstance, Miria wouldn't have a chance to work with him with her current standing in the Star List.  But because of Director Trevane's request, that person agreed on composing the theme song of the movie.  He even agreed on producing the song. 

That's why they had to get his permission first.  But getting that guy to approve would take more than seeing Astrid's picture.   

"Do I need to meet him alone?" Astrid asked.  He must admit, he's not really keen on that.

Miria understood the other's worry and answered, "Don't worry, my agent and I will also be there.  You can even bring that brother of yours."

"When and where shall I meet you?"

"Tomorrow, if possible.  I'll send you the address of the place."

The two of them talked some more before they ended the call.

Astrid closed his Terminal.  Hmm, it seemed that tomorrow's going to be a busy day.