14 October 2026 · Aurelia's studio diary

I only came to listen

Celeste plugged in the new guitar. I forgot what time I was supposed to leave.

I thought I was going to be a bad influence on Celeste. Then she plugged in the new Schecter.

There was this little pause before she played. A hand resting on the strings. That flowered strap over her shoulder. She looked far too pleased with herself for someone who hadn't done anything yet.

Then came the riff.

I had a perfectly good comment ready. Something clever. I can't remember it now. I remember reaching for the mic.

You already know I've joined Hocus Modus. Black Cat Media put my album on hold after that decision, and I know the sudden quiet left questions. This is a little of what has been happening inside it.

Celeste played. I tried a line over it. She changed the ending. I tried it again. At some point we stopped pretending I was only there to keep her company.

Every time another piece of equipment arrives at the studio, someone finds a new reason to stay late. The sound is changing. I'm starting to notice other things changing with it.

I'm keeping those to myself for a little longer.

Celeste asked if I wanted to hear it once more.

I was already holding the mic.