Backstage, his friends — Maya, Emily, Misha, and Min-Jae — rushed to meet him.
Maya's eyes were watery. "You did it," she said softly.
Dayo gave a small smile. "It's not over yet," he said quietly. "But the tides are changing."
"Haha, it definitely will," Min-Jae said as he pulled Dayo into a hug.
Maya looked at Dayo and smiled. "Your songwriting has really improved."
Dayo nodded with a faint grin. "That's because of your teachings, Master Maya."
"Ugh, please, you two stop already," Emily said, rolling her eyes.
"Yeah, we know you both are great writers," Misha teased. "And Maya, why are you blushing?"
"Ahhh, Misha, stop it already!" Maya said, her face turning red as the others burst out laughing.
The three girls chased each other playfully for a bit before the sound of the bus engine broke the moment. It was time to head back.
During the bus ride, the atmosphere was different. The way the contestants looked at Dayo had changed.
