Chapter 18: Hawaii

The afternoon sky is gray, matching the heavy mood that hangs between Magali and Conrad as they walk back from Khefner's funeral. Their black outfits mirroring the turmoil that swirls within them. The quiet city streets seem distant as the two of them navigate the oppressive weight of loss. Conrad's face is a mix of stoic resilience and grief, his eyes downcast, shoulders slightly slumped. Magali walks beside him, searching for the right words, though she knows that comfort, at this moment, feels fragile and elusive.

They walk in silence for a while. Once in the crew, Conrad finally breaks the silence, his voice rough from holding back tears. "I keep thinking… it's happening all over again. First my mom, now Khefner…" His words trail off as he takes a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "Losing people, family, but... it's permanent."

Magali's heart sinks as she hears the pain in his voice. She looks at him, her own eyes full of sorrow. "I can't even imagine what you're going through right now, Conrad. But I'm here for you, and so is Ryu. You're not alone."

Conrad's lips twitch into the faintest smile, though it doesn't reach his eyes. "I know. It's just… she was part of our family too, you know? This crew, it's the only family I've got left. I never thought I'd lose someone like this again."

Magali nods, her mind drifting back to her own worries. After a moment, Conrad glances at her, his brow furrowed in concern. "How did things go with your dad? You told me you were worried about what happened to your mom."

Magali exhales, recalling the conversation she had with her father, a long and emotional talk that she had been dreading but knew she needed to have. "We talked for a while," she begins, her voice steady though her mind lingers on the fear she had carried. "I asked him if my mom… if she died because of something like this. Like Khefner."

Conrad turns his head slightly toward her, listening closely.

"I was scared that maybe she went through something similar," Magali continues. "But my dad told me that wasn't the case. My mom died from natural causes… it was nothing like Khefner. It's a relief in a way, but it doesn't take away the pain."

Conrad nods, understanding the weight of her fears. "It's good to know, at least, that it wasn't because of some injury or something preventable. That would've been even harder to accept."

Magali looks down at the ground, feeling a swirl of emotions that she struggles to name. "I've just been thinking so much about all of this… about how dangerous our lives really are as idols. One wrong step, one hidden injury, and everything can change. It's terrifying."

They both fall into a reflective silence, walking side by side, the echoes of the funeral service still fresh in their minds. Magali's words linger in the air, mixing with the sadness they share for Khefner and the uncertainties that loom over their futures.

Magali looks over at Conrad, her eyes filled with concern as she softly asks, "How's Ryu holding up?"

Conrad sighs, his expression heavy. "He's… well, he looks like he's holding it together. But I know him, Mags. He's devastated. I don't think he's really processed it all yet. He's trying to be strong for Tarlya. She's the only one he has left, and he knows it."

Magali's heart aches at the thought of Ryu, burdened with grief but still having to push forward for the sake of his newborn daughter. She feels an overwhelming sense of helplessness. "I just… I wish there was something I could do for them," she murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I don't know what I can do. I feel so lost."

Conrad glances at her, his eyes softened by sympathy. "There's not much anyone can do right now. Ryu's got to find his way through this on his own. He's strong, but he's grieving, and that's not something anyone can rush."

Magali nods slowly, her thoughts heavy with the realization that there are no easy solutions in moments like this. She sighs deeply, feeling the weight of it all pressing down on her. "I guess the best thing I can do is just give him space. Let him figure out how to navigate being a single dad while he processes everything."

"Yeah," Conrad agrees quietly, his gaze distant. "But don't underestimate the power of just being there means. Ryu knows he has us, even if we're not always right by his side. That's something."

After a long silence, Conrad suddenly stands up, the weight of the moment still hanging in the air, but there's a subtle change in his posture, as if a decision has finally been made. "I can't do this, Mags!" he says, his voice steady but firm. "Khefner wouldn't want us to sit around and grieve like this. That's not who she was. She'd want us to celebrate her life, not mourn it."

Magali looks up at him, surprised by the sudden shift in tone. "Celebrate?" she asks softly. "What do you mean?"

Conrad reaches into his jacket pocket and pulls out two plane tickets, holding them up with a faint smile. "Hawaii," he says simply. "I want you to come with me."

Magali blinks in confusion. "Where did you even get those?"

Conrad chuckles softly, a glimmer of his usual light-heartedness returning to his eyes. "I won them a while ago. Some silly raffle, I think. But they're expiring soon, and with everything that's happened... I figured now's the right time. It's a chance to get away, to honor Khefner's memory in a way she would've appreciated. She loved Hawaii."

Magali hesitates, her mind immediately turning to Ryu. "Shouldn't you offer them to Ryu first? I mean, he's her husband. Maybe he needs the break more than we do."

Conrad's expression softens. "I already did. But Ryu refused. He said he wants to be alone with Tarlya for a while, to adjust and figure things out. He needs space, and I respect that."

Magali looks at him for a moment, the tickets still in his hand, before nodding slowly. "Alright," she says, a small smile playing at her lips. "Let's go. Let's celebrate her life the way she would've wanted."

Conrad's smile widens slightly, and for the first time in days, there's a sense of lightness between them. The trip won't erase the pain, but maybe it will help them remember the joy Khefner brought into their lives, and how she would've wanted them to live in her memory—not in sorrow, but in celebration.

A few days later, Magali and Conrad find themselves aboard a plane, cruising above the clouds toward Hawaii. The flight is relatively quiet, the soft hum of the engines and the occasional sound of passengers chatting filling the cabin. They sit side by side, the silence between them more companionable than heavy, each lost in their thoughts about the whirlwind of events leading up to this moment.

When they finally land and step off the plane, the warm Hawaiian breeze hits them immediately. The tropical air feels soft on their skin, and a sense of calm begins to wash over them. As their shuttle approaches the resort, Magali and Conrad exchange excited glances, like children about to explore a new adventure.

Upon arrival, they both gasp in awe. The lush greenery and the sight of the pristine, crystal-clear beaches stretched out before them take their breath away. Palm trees sway gently in the warm wind, and the vibrant blue ocean calls out with the promise of relaxation and fun. The resort is nestled beautifully along the coastline, a luxurious, yet serene paradise awaiting them.

"This… is incredible," Magali says, her eyes wide with amazement. She takes a deep breath, feeling the stress of the last few weeks melt away with every step they take closer to the resort entrance.

Conrad grins, nodding in agreement. "Khefner was here once during her honeymoon with Ryu," he murmurs, almost to himself, but with a tone that's more full of fondness than sadness.

As they check into the resort, it becomes clear just how much this place is catered to idols. Owned by Sweet Dance City itself, the resort is essentially a private getaway for idols who need to escape the public eye. Magali notices other idols scattered around the lobby and lounging by the beach—familiar faces from the industry—some chatting, others soaking up the sun in peace.

What's more, there are no screaming fans, no paparazzi, no cameras flashing in their faces. Just idols, relaxing without the constant weight of fame hanging over them. Magali smiles at the sight; it's like a small, hidden sanctuary for people like them.

"They really take care of their own here, huh?" Conrad muses, glancing around at the familiar faces, some of whom nod in recognition as they pass by.

Magali nods in agreement. "It's nice. It's like we can finally breathe for a bit."

With their bags dropped off in their room, the island and all it has to offer stretches out before them. The next few days promise to be a chance for them to unwind, celebrate Khefner's life in their own way, and maybe even rediscover themselves in the process.

As Magali and Conrad step onto the beach, their toes sinking into the soft, warm sand, they can't help but laugh at themselves. Both are dressed in the colorful, floral Hula Hula outfits they purchased from the resort's clothing store earlier that day. Conrad sports a loose, vibrant Hawaiian shirt paired with grass skirts, while Magali twirls playfully in her matching outfit, her lei of fresh flowers bouncing as she spins. The bright colors and relaxed island vibe seem to reflect their shifting mood—one of letting go, even if just for a little while.

For the next couple of days, they truly allow themselves to embrace the joy of the island. They throw themselves into adventure, trying things they would have never considered back in Sweet Dance City.

They dive into the thrill of skydiving—Magali's heart racing as she looks at the ocean from thousands of feet above, her hand gripping Conrad's tightly before they both leap into the blue sky. The rush of the wind, the adrenaline coursing through their veins, and the breathtaking sight of the island below makes everything else fade away for those brief moments of flight. Their parachutes open, and they descend with the ocean breeze guiding them back down, laughter spilling from both of them as they land, exhilarated and alive.

On another day, they dive beneath the waves in a deep-sea exploration, marveling at the kaleidoscope of colors and life swirling around them. Schools of vibrant fish, the eerie beauty of coral reefs, and the gentle sway of seaweed as they float weightlessly through the water—it's a serene escape into an entirely different world. Magali can't help but feel at peace as she swims alongside Conrad, both of them gesturing excitedly at the creatures they see, their laughter lost to the bubbles that rise to the surface.

When they aren't chasing adrenaline, they indulge in the simplicity of island life. They spend hours lounging under the sun, toes buried in the sand, letting the warmth soak into their bones as the sound of the waves lulls them into a peaceful, dreamlike state. Sunbathing side by side, they share stories and memories, their grief for Khefner still lingering but softened by the love and friendship that surrounds them.

In the evenings, they take to the resort stage, joining in the nightly festivities of dance and music. The tropical beats pulse through the air as they move, their bodies swaying effortlessly to the rhythm. For the first time in weeks, Magali dances without thinking, without worrying about performance or technique—she just lets go. Conrad joins her with ease, his usual grace on full display, but even he allows himself to be playful, laughing as they twirl and sway to the music. The carefree atmosphere of the island wraps around them, and they get lost in the music, forgetting everything but the joy of being there, in that moment, together.

For just a brief moment, all the sadness and grief seem to evaporate into the ocean breeze. Their hearts, though still healing, are lighter. The island becomes a place of healing, where they can remember what it feels like to be alive, to enjoy the company of each other without the weight of loss hanging so heavily over their heads.

As the sun dips below the horizon each evening, they share quiet moments, watching the sky fade into brilliant oranges and pinks, reflecting on life, love, and the friends they've lost, but also on the hope they've found. And, in those moments, they both silently acknowledge that this trip—this escape—was exactly what they needed to start moving forward again.

On the last night of their vacation, the stars shine brightly in the clear Hawaiian sky, their light reflecting off the gentle waves in the distance. Magali stands on the balcony of her room, gazing up at the twinkling lights scattered across the heavens. The time she's spent on the island has been a gift—a much-needed escape from the harsh realities waiting for them back home. The days have been filled with laughter and adventure, and for a while, it was easy to forget the sadness that had brought them here. But now, in the quiet of the evening, the weight of what happened begins to settle once more.

She closes her eyes and lets out a soft sigh, her thoughts drifting back to Khefner. She wishes that Khefner, Ryu, and little baby Tarlya could have been here with them, enjoying the beauty and peace of the island. In a way, Khefner's presence feels close, lingering like the warmth of the sun on her skin. But no matter how much she tries to convince herself that Khefner is here in spirit, it doesn't make the reality any easier to bear.

A faint, familiar sound reaches her ears. From Conrad's room, just next door, his flute plays softly, carrying a melancholic melody into the night. It's a tune Magali has come to know well, one that always seems to emerge when Conrad is deep in thought, wrestling with the emotions he keeps so tightly guarded. Even though they've been in paradise, having fun, Magali knows that Conrad is struggling in his own way. He's had a harder time accepting Khefner's death. They were friends for much longer than Magali ever was, their bond formed over years of shared experiences, highs, and lows.

The music tugs at her heart, and without thinking, Magali walks over to Conrad's room. She knocks gently on the door.

After a moment, Conrad's voice comes from inside, "Come in."

Magali steps in to find him sitting by the window, his flute resting in his lap. He looks up at her, his face a mixture of sadness and surprise. "What's wrong?" he asks, his voice low.

She shakes her head gently. "I just wanted to check on you," she says softly, walking over to sit beside him.

Conrad gives her a small, tired smile, but it doesn't reach his eyes. "I'm fine," he replies, though they both know it's not entirely true. He stares down at his flute, turning it over in his hands. "I just… I don't know. I keep thinking about her. About how she should be here. Khefner, Ryu, Tarlya… it doesn't feel right that we're here without them."

Magali nods, her heart aching for him. "I know," she whispers. "I've been thinking about that too. I wish she could be here with us. I wish things were different."

Conrad leans back in his chair, his gaze drifting out toward the ocean. "We've been through a lot together, Khefner and me," he says after a long silence. "She was like family to me. Losing her… it feels like losing a piece of myself. Even being here, in this beautiful place, it's hard to feel happy when I keep thinking about everything that happened."

Magali reaches out, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "You don't have to feel guilty for having fun," she tells him. "Khefner wouldn't want that. She'd want us to live, to enjoy our lives, even without her. I think she'd be happy knowing that we took this time to celebrate her, in our own way."

Conrad's expression softens at her words, but the sadness lingers. He stays quiet for a moment before speaking again. "It's just hard, you know? Moving on. Accepting that she's really gone."

Magali leans forward, her curiosity piqued as she asks Conrad, "Can you tell me some happy stories about Khefner? I'd love to hear more about her from your perspective."

Conrad, still gazing out at the ocean through the window, is silent for a moment. His lips curl into a small, wistful smile as memories begin to resurface. He taps his fingers lightly on the edge of his flute before he begins to speak, his voice low and filled with nostalgia.

"I remember the first time I met Khefner," Conrad starts, his eyes distant as if replaying the scene in his mind. "She was so young—just a bright-eyed, determined idol, full of ambition. It was right after Ryu and I had formed our little crew. Back then, it was just the two of us, figuring things out, trying to make a name for ourselves in Sweet Dance City."

Magali listens quietly, sensing the warmth in his tone as he recalls the early days.

"Khefner came to us out of the blue one day. She applied to join our crew. At first, I thought it was a bit odd—a young girl wanting to live and work with two guys she didn't really know." Conrad chuckles softly, shaking his head at the memory. "But, you know, she had this... energy about her. Like she wasn't afraid of anything. She was confident. So, I figured, why not? We let her join."

He pauses for a moment, a fond smile touching his lips as he continues. "At first, I didn't really understand why she was so eager to be part of our crew, especially when there were more established crews she could have joined. But it didn't take me long to figure it out."

Magali tilts her head, curious. "What was it?"

Conrad chuckles again, turning to look at her, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "She had a crush on Ryu. That's why she joined."

Magali's eyebrows shoot up in surprise, and she lets out a soft laugh. "Really? So that's why!"

Conrad nods, clearly enjoying the memory. "Oh, yeah. She was really subtle about it at first—always finding excuses to hang out with him, asking him for help with little things. I didn't think much of it until one day I caught her staring at him with these... love-struck eyes. That's when it clicked." He shakes his head, smiling. "She was head over heels for him from the start."

Magali smiles, imagining a younger, more carefree Khefner and Ryu in those early days. "And what happened after that? How did Ryu feel?"

"They started spending a lot more time together," Conrad continues, leaning back in his chair as he lets the memories flow. "And eventually, their bond grew into something more. It was like watching two pieces of a puzzle fall into place. They were inseparable after that. It wasn't long before they became lovers, and they started sharing a room."

Conrad's voice softens as he speaks, his smile fading into something more tender. "It was a good time. We were like a little family. Khefner had a way of bringing people together, making everything feel... whole. She had this fierce loyalty to Ryu, but she cared about all of us. Our crew wasn't just about dancing or performing anymore. It became about looking out for each other. We were each other's family."

Magali sits back, absorbing the warmth and love in Conrad's words. She can almost picture it—three young idols, full of dreams and determination, living together under one roof, forging a bond that went beyond their work. It must have been a special time for all of them.

"She really made an impact on all of you, didn't she?" Magali says softly.

Conrad nods, his eyes shimmering with emotion. "Yeah, she did. Khefner had a big heart. She was tough, stubborn even, but when she cared about someone, she gave it her all. She would have done anything for Ryu... for me too, in her own way. We weren't just crew members. We were family. And I think that's what made it so hard when we lost her."

Magali reaches out, resting her hand on Conrad's arm. "Thank you for sharing that with me, Conrad. It sounds like you guys had something really special."

Conrad gives her a small smile, his voice quieter now, touched with a deep sense of loss. "We did. And I'll always carry those memories with me. But even though she's gone, I want to remember the good times. That's what she'd want."

Magali squeezes his arm gently, a silent understanding passing between them. Khefner's loss still weighs heavily on their hearts, but in these stories, she lives on—a bright, fierce spirit who will never truly be gone.

For a few moments, they sit there in quiet reflection, the sound of the waves and the distant hum of the ocean offering comfort. Though their grief remains, for the first time in days, it feels a little less heavy. Khefner's presence is still with them, in the memories they carry and in the love she left behind.

As the silence between them lingers, the sound of the waves a gentle hum in the background, Conrad shifts in his seat. Magali notices something in his expression—a quiet resolve, a flicker of something meaningful behind his eyes. He reaches into his pocket, and before Magali can ask, he pulls out a small, beautifully designed key. It gleams in the soft light of the room, intricate swirls and patterns carved into its surface.

Magali raises an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "What's that?" she asks, a hint of amusement in her voice.

Conrad holds the key out to her, offering it with a smile. "It's a key to our crew," he says simply.

Magali laughs, the sound lightening the air around them. "I already have a key to the crew, you know," she teases, shaking her head. "Why are you giving me another one?"

Conrad chuckles softly but shakes his head. "This one's special," he explains, his voice more serious now. He presses the key into her hand, curling her fingers around it gently. "With this key, you'll be named the vice leader of the crew."

Magali's eyes widen in surprise, her laughter fading into stunned silence. "Vice leader?"

Conrad nods, his gaze steady and full of sincerity. "Yeah. With this key, you'll have the same authority I do. You'll be able to recruit new crew members, make decisions for us... and if anything should ever happen to me, you'll be the one to continue leading the party."

Magali's heart skips a beat at his words. She stares at the key in her hand, suddenly understanding the weight of the responsibility Conrad is offering her. "Conrad," she says softly, shaking her head, "don't say things like that. Nothing's going to happen to you."

Conrad's smile is warm, reassuring, as he leans back in his chair. "I'm not saying it because I think something bad is going to happen. I'm saying it because I trust you. After everything we've been through, I want you to be my partner in the crew. I want you to help me lead, to be there for the others like you've always been."

Magali looks up at him, her heart swelling with emotion. The trust and faith he has in her are clear, and it fills her with a deep sense of gratitude. She knows how much the crew means to Conrad, how much he has sacrificed and worked for them. And now, he's asking her to stand by his side, to share in that responsibility.

"I don't know what to say," Magali whispers, her fingers tightening around the key.

Conrad's smile widens. "You don't have to say anything. Just promise me you'll do your best. That's all I'm asking."

Magali's eyes well up with emotion, but she nods, determination and warmth filling her chest. "I promise," she says firmly. "I'll do whatever it takes to help you and the crew. I won't let you down."

Conrad nods, his expression softening as he sees the resolve in her eyes. "I know you won't."

They sit in silence for a moment longer, the key a small but powerful symbol of trust between them. The heaviness of the past few weeks, the grief, the loss—it's still there, but in this moment, it's accompanied by hope. A sense that, despite everything, they can still move forward, together.

Magali smiles, tucking the key carefully into her pocket. "Thank you, Conrad."

He returns her smile, his eyes bright despite the sadness that lingers just beneath the surface. "No, Mags," he says, his voice soft but full of meaning. "Thank you."

And for the first time in a while, there's a sense of lightness in the room, a flicker of joy and hope for the future. As the night deepens and the stars twinkle overhead, they both know that, no matter what comes next, they'll face it together—leaders, partners, and friends.