1221-1225

Chapter 1221: The World Spins

Connor: "I'm leaving. Goodbye. Don’t disturb me."

Seeing Connor's utterly disheartened expression, Miles and Lily couldn’t hold back any longer. The tension and anxiety dissipated as they burst into laughter.

Although Connor hurriedly tried to leave, CBS wouldn’t let him go so easily.

Whether it was Anson or the August 31st band, they were the center of attention. This marked the band’s first official group appearance. Leading the Grammy nominations with six nods, they were also set to perform live at the ceremony tonight.

There was no shortage of highlights, even amid the star-studded Grammys.

What’s more, the Grammys had been waiting for this moment to provoke the Oscars. Unlike the Oscars and its stuffy scholars, the Grammys embraced trends and youth, dismissing superficial concerns like appearances.

*Anson Wood?*

The ultimate conversation starter in the entertainment industry. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was foolish to exclude Anson, clinging to its self-important ideals.

The host: "We’ve heard that August 31st will deliver an incredible performance tonight. Can you share any details about your plans?"

A professional question, perfectly designed to keep Anson in place.

Although the question was meant for Miles, he noticed the host’s gaze and wisely deferred. "Anson?"

Anson: "?"

Miles: "I think people would love to hear your answer."

Anson turned to the host. "Are you sure?"

Host: "Absolutely! If you could enlighten the audience, that would be wonderful."

Anson spread his hands. "That’s unfortunate. I think we should preserve some mystery and let the audience stay tuned for the live show. We’re not a visual-kei band; we let the music speak for itself."

Host: "… Did you just crack a visual-kei joke?"

Anson: "Shh. Since no one caught it, let’s pretend I didn’t."

The joke wasn’t funny, not at all. Yet, the effortless back-and-forth between Anson and the host revealed a subtle charm.

The host couldn’t help but laugh.

Host: "Wow, clearly, you’re a genius full of quirky ideas. I don’t understand why people label you a pretty face."

Anson: "Maybe because they haven’t truly listened to our music."

Brilliant.

Witty and humorous, simple yet profound.

When people dismiss Anson as merely a “pretty face,” they overlook the talent hidden beneath his exterior. His depth and essence are embedded in the music, waiting to be discovered by anyone who listens intently.

However, people are often blinded by prejudice, unwilling to open their minds to learn and explore—a regrettable reality.

With a casual remark, Anson once again showcased his uniqueness.

The live reaction from the red carpet spoke volumes. Screams erupted once more, an uncontrollable wave of excitement flooding the Staples Center.

As Anson prepared to leave again, the host quickly stopped him. "About tonight’s awards—August 31st has six nominations. Do you have any expectations?"

Anson paused mid-step, a subtle smile tugging at his lips. "Music. Tonight is all about the music. We’re here to enjoy the performances. In that sense, we’re already winners."

Bold, dazzling, radiant.

For a moment, his charm was irresistible.

Host: "??? Is this some kind of artsy monologue? Who talks like this in real life?"

But just as no one expected, Anson paused again, turned back, and said earnestly, "I’ve always wanted to try saying something like that. I think it came across a bit cringy. I should probably stop referencing romantic movie quotes."

Wait—was Anson mocking himself just now?

The host couldn’t hold back and burst out laughing.

Anson merely left a suave silhouette as he walked away.

The crowd erupted.

Laughter, cheers, screams, and applause blended into an overwhelming storm.

Not only the fans lining the red carpet but even CBS’s seasoned live broadcast team froze momentarily, stunned by what had just unfolded.

Anson effortlessly commanded the scene. Even when sparring with the TV crew, he maintained control without being overbearing.

A natural vibrance and energy radiated from him, outshining even the glowing sunset.

It wasn’t just about showing off.

Many misunderstand that good-looking individuals must act aloof and flawless, showing no cracks in their facade. But in reality, those who can laugh at themselves, embrace humor, and shed their need to always appear perfect are the ones with true charm.

Anson exuded an aura of charisma, naturally becoming the center of attention wherever he went.

Dressed in a sleek black suit, he stood out effortlessly on the colorful red carpet. Even the crimson beneath his feet seemed to submit, drawing eyes to his graceful movements and making hearts flutter like butterflies in flight.

This—this was stardom.

The world seemed to spin around him.

It was hard to believe this was Anson’s first time attending the Grammys. As a newcomer and an outsider, many in Hollywood had mocked him for being out of his depth, attempting to stand out with limited talent.

But tonight, with his Grammy debut, Anson won hearts through sheer personal charm.

Who could resist him?

Now, people finally understood what had happened at the Cannes Film Festival.

Back then, with no social media or smartphones, the world had only rumors of Cannes’ spectacular events. Without video footage, it was hard to imagine the grandeur of Anson’s appearance at the Palais des Festivals.

Doubts and ridicule were inevitable.

But tonight, those questions were answered. The buzz from Cannes was barely a fraction of the storm Anson unleashed.

Only by witnessing it firsthand could one understand.

This wasn’t just an awards show—it felt like a concert.

Now, with August 31st’s performance looming, memories of their stunning European street shows filled fans with anticipation.

Stay tuned!

With Anson’s arrival, a wave of excitement swept across North America, bringing an unexpected surge in Grammy viewership.

While the Recording Academy leadership was preoccupied and unaware of this development, word spread like wildfire across Hollywood.

Even the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences seemed rattled—

"What’s going on!?"

Meanwhile, Anson stopped once more on the red carpet. His gaze settled on the crowd, and his radiant smile bloomed.

Without words, his expression conveyed pure joy and contentment, infecting those around him with a similar happiness.

Wait—what had Anson seen?

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 1222: Silence Falls

The entire Staples Center was in uproar. Not just the red carpet, but even inside the arena, the frenzy was palpable, as though the entire venue were spinning at high speed.

Waves of heat rolled through, shaking the ground and igniting the air with fervor.

Despite Anson's known popularity and the success of the August 31st Band last year, the spectacle unfolding before their eyes still defied belief. Even Luther Vandross, a seasoned Grammy attendee, wore a look of astonishment.

"I've never witnessed anything like this."

The bustling crowd, the animated chatter—every conversation revolved around Anson.

And yet, at the very center of this storm, the protagonist himself seemed blissfully unaware. Standing on the red carpet, he casually enjoyed the festivities of the night.

Amid the countless gazes fixed on him, Anson paused, turned, and walked.

With quick steps, he stopped in front of a man.

The man appeared to be in his thirties, impeccably dressed in a shirt layered with a sweater vest, topped with a bowtie and blazer. He had even donned a light gray bowler hat, adhering to the highest standards for the Grammy Awards.

His clean-shaven face carried traces of unease and nervousness, but his gaze never wavered from the members of the August 31st Band—not just Anson.

There was Lily. And Connor. And Miles.

The glimmer of hope and excitement in his eyes quietly conveyed his admiration and reverence.

And then.

As Anson approached, the man instinctively held his breath, his face flushing a deep red.

But Anson didn’t seem to notice. His attention was entirely drawn to the vinyl record the man was holding carefully against his chest.

"Is that… a ‘Midnight in Summer’ vinyl record?"

Anson’s delight was unmistakable.

He looked up to see the man nodding vigorously in affirmation.

Anson turned and waved enthusiastically. “Hey, come here! The vinyl is out!”

The other three members hurried over, crowding together excitedly, craning their necks like moles popping out of their burrows.

The vinyl record was pitch black, its cover depicting a night sky with a vibrant, flowing Milky Way. Four indistinct silhouettes streaked across the stars like shooting stars, each figure representing a unique color that subtly illuminated the night.

At the bottom of the cover, a graceful inscription read:

*“Midnight in Summer.”*

*“August 31st Band.”*

Unable to contain his joy, Anson looked up at the man.

“I heard it sold out on the first day. We wanted to get a copy for ourselves, but this is my first time seeing one in person.”

The man’s face was filled with excitement. He opened his mouth as if to say something, but his words came out as indistinct sounds. Anxious, he gestured with his hands, but the vinyl in his grasp limited his movements, making it difficult to express himself.

Initially, Anson assumed the noise of the scene was too overwhelming for clear communication. Fans often became too excited to articulate themselves in such settings.

But he quickly realized something was different.

This man likely had a hearing or vocal impairment. He was attempting to express himself through mouth movements, but the sounds were faint and unclear.

Anson smiled warmly and began communicating in sign language.

“This is my first time seeing it in person. I heard it sold out on the first day.”

In an instant, the man’s eyes lit up like a starry sky.

---

*Archie Fearn* knew he was embarking on a foolish endeavor.

A person with a 30% hearing loss and an inability to speak, attending the Grammy Awards?

For someone with his disabilities, navigating crowded places was already a significant challenge. The Grammys, with its whirlwind of chaos, seemed like an impossible venture—a tiny ant being tossed into a vast ocean.

How could someone like him protect themselves in such a crowd? What would he do in an emergency? How could he possibly blend in?

The sensible choice was to avoid crowded areas altogether, to neither trouble others nor endanger himself.

That’s why people like him often stayed in the shadows, hidden from view—not because they didn’t exist, but because self-preservation demanded it.

But now, Archie was defying reason, heading straight into the fray.

His friends, who also faced various disabilities, urged him to reconsider, warning of the challenges and risks he would face.

Still, Archie wanted to try.

He wanted to thank Anson in person. Not for anything grand—just a simple "thank you."

Thank you, Anson, for creating those songs.

Thank you for believing in dreams.

Thank you for stubbornly persisting in what many deemed meaningless.

Thank you for lighting up their shadowed world with your music.

Of course, it wasn’t just Anson but the entire August 31st Band.

It wasn’t just their music. Their journey—touring the streets of Europe, exploring life’s possibilities step by step—resonated deeply with Archie. Even when no one listened or paid attention, they never gave up.

Perhaps they didn’t realize it, but to Archie, they were the world.

He didn’t want to trouble or disrupt anyone’s enjoyment of the event. He only wanted to convey his gratitude to Anson and the band.

This small token of gratitude, insignificant to others, was a beacon of light in Archie’s world.

Despite his fears and hesitations, he decided to take the risk.

So Archie arrived. A day early, he stood in line at the Staples Center, determined to secure a front-row spot along the red carpet.

But as the moment drew closer, Archie realized something:

How could he convey his feelings to Anson?

In the roaring sea of noise, where he was as insignificant as dust, how could he make the band understand?

Frozen in uncertainty, Archie had no solution.

Should he leave?

No.

Even without an answer, Archie refused to leave.

He simply stood there, resolutely holding his cherished vinyl record aloft.

Like the August 31st Band, Archie believed that even if his voice couldn’t be heard, his unwavering determination would carry his message to the band.

Silently, stubbornly, Archie held the record high.

The world around him remained a cacophony of chaos, but in Archie’s ears, it was quiet. The noise swirled like a distant fog, never reaching him.

Though surrounded by people, Archie stood isolated, an outsider in the crowd. He couldn’t hear others, and others couldn’t see him.

Then, Anson appeared, walking toward him.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 1223: Breaking Through the Darkness

Does anyone know what it’s like to live in a world without hearing?

It’s not the imagined silence of absolute stillness. Instead, it’s like holding your breath underwater, where the noises and clamor of the outside world faintly reach the depths.

They can hear some things, but not entirely—vague and indistinct, like a muffled dream.

For those with more severe hearing loss, the sounds are fainter, more distant. For those with milder impairments, the sounds are clearer and closer.

But most can still feel rhythm—not melody or tone, but vibrations—transmitted through the surface of water and resonating in their blood.

The world gently trembles, like a series of tiny earthquakes.

It might sound unbelievable, but many people with hearing disabilities love music. Even if they can’t hear the lyrics, the vibrations of the melody and the rhythm remain a way for them to connect with the world.

Archie retains 70% of his hearing, but the doctors say it’s gradually deteriorating.

He doesn’t know what the future holds. Perhaps, one day, his world will be devoid of all sound—even rhythm.

Because of this, he wanted to tell Anson: thank you.

And yet...

Anson appeared, followed by the members of the August 31st band.

But Archie realized he couldn’t express his thoughts.

He tried. He made an effort. But what came out were indistinct syllables, meaningless and garbled, making Archie increasingly anxious.

The opportunity was right there before him. What should he do?

His heart raced, yet he was at a loss.

Archie stared at Anson with wide eyes, trying to smile, but his inner turmoil and panic seeped through uncontrollably.

At that moment, Archie saw Anson’s lips curl into a smile. He raised his hands and began to sign in ASL.

“This is the first time I’ve seen it in person,” Anson signed. “I heard it sold out on the first day.”

Archie swore that, at that moment, he saw an angel.

A feeling of indescribable joy flooded his chest, silencing the chaotic noise of the world. Everything became simple and pure.

He wanted to dance. He wanted to cheer. He wanted to sing.

“Thirty minutes.” Archie handed the vinyl record to Anson and signed quickly, “It sold out in just thirty minutes.”

---

As 2003 came to a close, everyone marveled at the astonishing box office success of The Butterfly Effect. However, another phenomenon could not be ignored: the sales of the album Midnight in Summer.  

To be precise, Midnight in Summer was released in October 2002. After four slow and lackluster months, the album began climbing the charts, ultimately becoming the most popular album of the year.

Its momentum was unstoppable.

The album stayed in the top ten of the Billboard charts for an extended period—still holding its position even now. On the Billboard Rock Albums chart, it dominated the number one spot, where it remains to this day.

Its reign was nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing its dominance with overwhelming force.

On the 2003 North American Album Sales Chart, Midnight in Summer secured third place with five million copies sold.

The champion? 50 Cent’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’, a rap album that swept the market, selling an incredible 6.5 million copies.

In the post-millennium era, physical album sales had been declining. While three to four million in sales were often enough to claim the top spot for the year, 50 Cent’s debut shattered expectations, proving his unmatched market appeal.

Second place went to Norah Jones’s Come Away with Me, with 5.1 million copies sold.

This album was undoubtedly one of 2003’s legends.

Released in 2002, it initially garnered modest success, with total sales under 600,000—a respectable figure for a niche work.

Then, at the 45th Grammy Awards, Come Away with Me swept four major categories: Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best New Artist. Norah Jones became the first artist in history to win all four general awards. While the Record of the Year award technically went to the producer, the public saw no difference. The impact was immense.

The week after the Grammys, Come Away with Me saw a 330% surge in sales, soaring to unprecedented heights. Its momentum continued unabated, ultimately earning its rightful place as the year’s runner-up in album sales.

In third place was the August 31st Band’s Midnight in Summer.  

The album’s remarkable journey speaks for itself. Yet, when the year-end sales figures were released, the public was still stunned—

Five million copies?

In all of 2003, only three albums reached this milestone, and one of them was Midnight in Summer?

Even though people knew the August 31st Band had risen to prominence and dominated the year’s conversations, such numbers?

Five million? Really?

Numbers don’t lie. At this moment, the public finally grasped the magnitude of Midnight in Summer’s success. Alongside Come Away with Me, it stirred a whirlwind in the realm of “alternative music,” painting a unique picture of 2003.

---

The rest of the top ten included Shania Twain, Linkin Park, Evanescence, Beyoncé, R. Kelly, Coldplay, and The Rolling Stones.

Linkin Park broke through with their second studio album, Meteora, selling 3.5 million copies. Coupled with Evanescence, Coldplay, and the August 31st Band, the voices proclaiming “rock is dead” were silenced, as the music market experienced a remarkable resurgence.

Surprisingly, Beyoncé’s solo debut sold "only" 2.5 million copies. Despite her undeniable rise as the next pop queen, the year-end sales numbers fell slightly short of expectations.

However, this only highlighted the brilliance of the August 31st Band.

From the unexpected success of The Butterfly Effect to the meteoric rise of Midnight in Summer, Anson’s relevance and popularity permeated the entire year. While they didn’t top the charts like Spider-Man did the year before, Anson’s influence and dominance were even more palpable.

Their success was undeniable.

Because of this, Warner Records released a special vinyl edition of Midnight in Summer two weeks ago to commemorate the album’s five million sales and celebrate the August 31st Band’s six Grammy nominations.

Usually, such events aim to boost sales further. But Warner Records had a slightly different intent this time: to give back to the fans.

After all, Midnight in Summer had been an unconventional project—obscure and unremarkable in the music market. Without the passionate support of their fans, the August 31st Band might have been lost in the vast sea of music forever.

This limited-edition vinyl release was restricted to just 10,000 copies.

The response? Nothing short of spectacular.

---

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 1224: A Glimmer of Starlight

In a rare move, Warner Records decided to prioritize gratitude over profit, releasing a special edition vinyl of "Midsummer Midnight." This limited edition, meant as a gift to loyal fans, created a stir.

A total of 10,000 vinyl records, individually numbered from 1 to 10,000, made each album a unique treasure.

What’s more, Warner Records priced it at a modest $29.99—a refreshing display of sincerity that earned widespread praise from fans.

Unsurprisingly, this exclusive release caused an uproar.

Being a limited edition, even the band members themselves weren’t allowed copies—

No exceptions.

Rumor had it that the black market price for one of these records skyrocketed to $7,000 within two weeks, yet demand still far outstripped supply.

So it was no wonder that when Anson spotted this vinyl in the crowd, he couldn’t contain his surprise.

“Thirty minutes?” Anson’s disbelief was palpable, his eyes filled with astonishment. “…Why?”

Archie, watching Anson’s sign language, couldn’t suppress his smile, which bloomed across his face.

But Anson was serious. “You do realize there’s no exclusive track on this, right? It’s just the same album re-recorded in a different format.”

To Anson, vinyl records were no different from tapes or CDs—just another medium for the same music, hardly worth special attention.

As the band members examined the vinyl with curiosity and excitement, Archie’s gaze softened. The joy radiating from their expressions was contagious, warming his heart.

“Collector’s value,” Archie gestured with his hands. “It’s limited edition.”

Anson’s expression remained stern. “Limited edition is just a marketing gimmick by record companies to make money. You shouldn’t fall for it so easily.”

Laughter rippled through the group.

Archie silently laughed along, signing, “But it’s not expensive—just $30. The record company isn’t overcharging.”  

Anson nodded lightly but still looked unconvinced.

Archie understood. Anson’s stance had never wavered—

Music should be about music. It shouldn’t be made unnecessarily complicated.

From the album’s release to the band’s street tour across Europe, and down to the music itself, everything was simple and pure.

Could anyone believe it?

Midsummer Midnight, an album with no music videos, no deluxe editions, no elaborate marketing campaigns, and no autograph signings, was simplicity personified—almost to the point of being crude.

Yet this same album, available at Walmart for just $9.99, sold an astounding five million copies across North America.

“Thank you,” Archie signed.

Finally, he said it out loud—well, through his hands.

Anson looked puzzled. “For what?”

“For the music.” Archie signed again. “Thank you for still believing in music and dreams. In a world obsessed with commercialism, hardly anyone believes anymore.”

“Thank you for speaking out, for using melodies to chase away the darkness. My world is silent, but I need some noise to bring my life back to vibrancy. I’m so happy I can still hear your music.”

“There was a time I wished I could disappear. If I didn’t exist, I wouldn’t burden others. If I didn’t exist, I wouldn’t get in anyone’s way.”

“But now, I want to keep existing. I hope my existence can inspire others to keep fighting and believing in the power of dreams.”

“Just like you do.”

“So, thank you.”

Archie had expected to feel nervous—and he was, incredibly so. But somehow, the cacophony of emotions in his mind flowed out smoothly, leaving him with an overwhelming sense of happiness.

“Yeah!” Archie clenched his fist and silently cheered for himself.

Not just Anson, but Miles and the rest of the band also noticed this interaction. Even the surrounding crowd couldn’t help but turn their attention to Anson and Archie.

The Staples Center remained as loud and lively as ever, with cheers and shouts pouring down like torrential rain. The red carpet was ablaze with excitement.

Yet, in one small corner of this chaotic scene, a quieter moment unfolded.

Even those who didn’t understand what was happening could sense the power in Anson’s focused, sincere gaze. Amid the din, a rare calmness settled over their hearts.

The world, noisy yet silent—two opposites coexisting in harmony and beauty.

Anson looked at Archie, his lips curling into a soft smile.

“Do you know why the night sky is beautiful?” he signed slowly, unsure if the differences between Chinese and English sign language might affect the meaning.

“Because it’s filled with countless stars. People always admire the bright, dazzling ones, but the tiny, seemingly insignificant ones are just as important. They use their faint light to illuminate their own patch of the sky.”

“From Earth, we might see only a weak glow. But travel 100,000 light-years, and you’ll see—they shine brilliantly in their own worlds.”

“Do you believe it? You shine, too.”

Anson’s movements were deliberate, as his distant memories of working in a school for the deaf resurfaced. Back then, after his father’s scandal, he’d been fired from his TV job, attacked online, and left without prospects—until that school hired him as a janitor.

People often view those with disabilities differently, but they’re just ordinary people, no different from anyone else. Some who appear whole lack emotional maturity, while others, despite physical challenges, are resilient in countless ways.

That period was pivotal for Anson, helping him rebuild his life and hope.

Now, facing Archie, he signed again.

“So, thank you. Thank you for loving our music.”

And then, he extended his right hand, looked Archie in the eye, and mouthed carefully:

“Nice to meet you. I’m Anson.”

Archie, overwhelmed by emotion, felt a warmth flood his chest. His vision blurred, but he didn’t wipe away his tears. Instead, he let his smile shine through them and mouthed back just as deliberately:

“Nice to meet you. I’m Archie.”

But it didn’t end there.

Anson introduced Archie to every band member, ensuring he felt like a valued part of the moment.

Archie’s heart raced uncontrollably, his excitement and joy indescribable. He tried to speak but stumbled over his words in his enthusiasm. Anson raised a hand, signaling for him to calm down and express himself slowly.

Taking a deep breath, Archie said, “Sorry, could you… sign my vinyl?”

Anson laughed heartily. “Of course! Do you have a pen?”

That question stumped Archie. He fumbled through his pockets, his expression freezing.

Clearly inexperienced in fandom etiquette, Archie hadn’t come prepared.

Now, with the August 31st Band members right in front of him, he found himself stuck—over something as simple as a pen.

What to do?

Anson glanced at the crowd. “Excuse me, does anyone have a marker?”

A hand shot up, holding a pen high. “I do!”

(Chapter ends.)

Chapter 1225: Back to the Beginning

"I!"

From the crowd, a hand shot up excitedly, trembling with barely contained joy. Even a single syllable of the voice carried its exhilaration.

At this moment, the rest of the crowd collectively showed expressions of regret, visibly disappointed at having missed their chance.

The crowd parted slightly, creating a small path. From within the sea of people, a figure emerged with great effort, waving their hand frantically.

"I have it! I have it!"

Following the voice, Anson’s face broke into a wide grin.

"Hey, Gloria."

The familiar figure was none other than Gloria Preist.

Breathing heavily, Gloria finally made her way to the front and began rummaging clumsily through her backpack.

Anson chuckled. "No rush; we’ve got time. But what are you doing here?"

Gloria pulled out a carbon-ink pen and held it up. "How could I miss the Grammys? Oh, and congratulations on your nomination!"

Anson smiled. "Thanks!"

Nearby, Miles and the others stared at Anson and Gloria in utter confusion: What?!

Anson laughed. "An old friend."

Connor grumbled from the side, "Why is it that you seem to have friends everywhere?"

Miles quietly added, "Don’t forget, we’re his friends because he reached out to us first."

Clearly, Miles was referring to how they had first met. If Anson hadn’t taken the initiative, there would’ve been no story to tell.

The surrounding crowd quickly caught on and burst into laughter.

Taking the pen from Gloria, Anson swiftly signed Archie’s vinyl record. Then, Lily, Connor, and Miles each added their signatures.

The next moment, whoosh!

Albums came flying in from all directions, all of them copies of Midnight Summer. Anson’s eyes widened in disbelief as he looked around.

"Are we in the middle of a Midnight Summer fan convention?"

His words were a playful double entendre.

The crowd roared with laughter.

After pausing for a few moments to sign more albums for enthusiastic fans, Anson and the band realized the red carpet was growing busier. They couldn’t stay too long without monopolizing space meant for other artists and fans. After exchanging quick goodbyes, the band finally moved forward.

Archie clutched his signed vinyl tightly, taking a deep breath as emotions surged within him.

When he turned his head, he saw Gloria’s radiant smile. She extended her hand warmly and introduced herself. "Gloria."

Archie felt the warmth emanating from Gloria and, summoning a bit of courage, shook her hand.

"Archie."

---

After the Grammy Awards, stories of Anson and Archie’s interaction spread like wildfire among music fans.

As expected, music truly is the window to the soul. From Midnight Summer, listeners could glimpse Anson’s essence—he was far more than a pretty face.

Of course, the vinyl record signed by the August 31st band members on that night became a sensation. Limited in every sense, it was a one-of-a-kind treasure.

Rumor had it that someone on the black market offered $100,000 for it. Later, the price climbed to an astronomical $150,000.

But Archie stayed firm, refusing to put a price tag on the memory or the record.

Outside the Staples Center, the crowd continued to buzz with excitement. Archie had made a new friend and was finally learning to enjoy the magic of the Grammy night. Meanwhile, August 31st seemed to vanish into thin air once inside the venue.

That night, both the band and Anson Wood were in the spotlight.

Particularly after the recent Oscars controversy, everyone was curious: What is Anson really thinking?  

Many were eager to get closer to Anson and the band. Despite their frequent headlines, the group remained shrouded in mystery in North America.

Anson, once known only as an actor, had stunned the music world. Meanwhile, Miles and the other band members had spent most of the past year in Europe, avoiding public appearances. Their elusiveness only fueled the intrigue within the North American music scene.

Tonight was a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with August 31st. For once, they had emerged from their mysterious shell!

But where were they?

Despite reports of their arrival on the red carpet, no one could spot the band or Anson within the venue.

Especially Anson.

Anson Wood, usually a magnet for attention wherever he went, seemed to have disappeared entirely from the Grammy stage.

What was going on?

A flurry of question marks filled the air at the Staples Center.

---

"Hey, guys, do you remember the first time we met?"

After leaving the red carpet and entering the Staples Center, Anson called out to his bandmates.

The three exchanged puzzled glances.

Miles, ever the earnest one, replied, "Of course. We were on the streets of Manhattan when you walked up to us and asked if we wanted to jam. We all thought you were insane. But in the end, we did it, and Wake Me Up was born."

"Ha!" Anson burst into laughter. "So, how about it? Want to try that again?"

Lily: "…"

Connor: "…"

Miles: "You mean… tonight? At the Grammys?"

Anson spread his hands, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "I just had a flash of inspiration. It’s like when we met on that Manhattan street corner."

Even Miles was speechless this time.

The Grammys. A global live broadcast.

No delays. No do-overs. Everything would be seen in real time.

Because of this, the organizers were notoriously strict. Performers rehearsed rigorously—sometimes for months—to ensure everything was perfect.

For example, Beyoncé’s performance involved over fifty dancers, multiple stages, and countless lighting and equipment adjustments. Rehearsals began as early as November, with Beyoncé stepping into an unfinished Staples Center stage in December just to finalize her positioning.

Even August 31st had spent the past month rehearsing for their special Grammy performance.

Preparation was everything.

And now?

Anson wanted to throw all that out the window for a spontaneous performance, like the one on that Manhattan street? Was he insane?

The Grammy organizers and CBS would probably want to strangle Anson if anything went wrong. He might even end up blacklisted.

Yet, strangely, Miles felt a spark of excitement.

Their chance meeting in Manhattan had marked the start of a magical journey. Now, standing on the Grammy stage, returning to their roots could bring their story full circle.

Perhaps this was fate.

Taking a deep breath, Miles looked at Anson. "Last time, we spent nearly two hours practicing. How much time do we have tonight?"

(End of Chapter)