After Caitlin's remark, the production assistant blinked in surprise and, only a moment later, snapped back to reality. Everyone's heads were muddled after Ana's crying, and they'd been so busy coordinating with her staff that they'd completely forgotten about this issue.
"This time, we'll make an exception," the staff member announced decisively.
"With all our guests in tears, pushing them any further would be too harsh," he explained. "We never expected it to rain two days in a row, so we're bending the rules for now. But under normal circumstances, no exceptions will be made."
"Alright, alright. Let's get some food," Herne grumbled. Even though George and his three buddies had already stuffed themselves, they still got up to help Herne's group prepare the meal.
...
Once Herne's team had eaten their fill, everyone was in high spirits, and someone suggested a game of "Truth or Dare".
"I really want to hear Demi sing," someone said eagerly.
Everyone—except Ana—wore anticipatory smiles, and even the staff members were looking forward to it.
"We can't let Demi keep singing like this," Maria objected, shaking her head. "She's already performed live on stream, and that takes away all the mystery. How are we supposed to market her album then?"
"Don't worry," George replied confidently. "Even if everyone has heard it on the live stream, they'll still be willing to buy her record or pay for a download."
"Exactly!" the rest of the group chimed in.
...
The live chat exploded with messages.
"Exactly!"
"I can't wait for Demi's album!"
"I had those six songs on repeat all day yesterday—they're amazing!"
"I can already see a new music icon emerging!"
...
"Anyway, if Demi drops an album, I'll be the first to buy it!" someone declared.
"Me too!" another chimed in.
Soon, everyone's voices overlapped.
"Count me in! I'll buy a hundred copies! I'll even give one to every friend and keep another hundred for myself!"
Demi laughed softly. "You guys are exaggerating."
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