EuroLove (Ch 1)
Joost Klein x UK entrant Liz
A/N: this is my first fic in a while so I'm rusty but please enjoy
Amsterdam, Saturday, 13 April 2024
Liz sprinted down the corridor of the bustling venue, her manager Sophie hot on her heels. The sound of their hurried footsteps echoed off the walls.
"We are so late," Liz panted, glancing back at Sophie as they approached a door.
Sophie swung it open, and they slipped inside just as Francis, the tour manager, was addressing the acts. He turned and spotted them. "Just in time, UK," he remarked, his tone a mix of relief and mild reprimand.
Liz offered a sheepish smile. "Sorry, my plane got delayed, so we came straight here.
Scanning the room, she noticed Bambie and Marko had saved her a seat between them. She quickly made her way over, grateful for the familiar faces.
"Got your usual," Bambie whispered, handing her a coffee cup as Francis continued with the briefing.
"Thank you, you're a star," Liz murmured back, taking a quick sip of the much-needed caffeine.
Francis's voice cut through the low murmurs. "Right, next up after Ireland is Miss Late, UK," he said, eliciting a wave of chuckles from the room. "And then last will be Amsterdam himself, Joost."
Everyone's attention shifted to the front where a tall, blonde guy stood. His hair was a mess under a sideways cap, and he wore a white long-sleeve undershirt with a pink top over it. "This is your first show, so make sure to say hello to everyone if you can. Meeting's over, guys. Go chill and get ready; you have three hours until curtain up."
Liz leaned over to Bambie. "He's kind of cute."
Bambie rolled her eyes. "You said that about Marko too."
"They are right," Marko chimed in with a laugh.
"Yeah, but you're like a brother to me now," Liz retorted with a grin. "Elizabeta is like my sister; we even have the same name."
Marko laughed. "You two are like twins. You just like blondes, don't you?"
"She has a type," Bambie added, giggling.
"Shut up, you two," Liz said, playfully hitting Marko's arm. "I'm going to our dressing room, Bambie."
——————————————————————-
The backstage area at the Eurovision pre-party show was a whirlwind of activity. Contestants from various countries mingled, producers scurried about, and the buzz of excited conversations filled the area. Liz stood quietly in a corner, trying to stay out of the spotlight. Her heart raced with nerves as she mentally rehearsed her performance, hoping to avoid any awkward encounters.
She tugged at the hem of her dress, taking deep breaths to calm herself. Just then, a lively figure caught her eye. Joost, was moving through the crowd with an infectious energy. His laughter rang out as he greeted fellow contestants, his presence impossible to ignore.
Suddenly, Joost’s gaze locked onto hers from across the room. He paused, his smile broadening. Intrigued by her quiet demeanor amidst the chaos, he decided to make his way over to her. With an easy confidence, he weaved through the crowd, never taking his eyes off her.
“Hey there,” he said, his voice warm and inviting as he finally reached her. “You’re the UK entrant, right?”
She looked up, startled by his direct approach. “Y-yes, that’s me,” she replied, her cheeks flushing. “I’m really looking forward to your performance,” he continued, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest. “I’ve heard great things.”
“Thank you,” she managed, feeling a mix of shyness and flattery. Joost’s presence was both overwhelming and oddly comforting. His enthusiasm was contagious, and she found herself relaxing slightly.
“I’m Joost, by the way,” he introduced himself with a charming smile. “Not that you wouldn’t know, but formalities, right?”
She laughed softly, appreciating his attempt to lighten the mood. “I’m Liz,” she replied, her voice gaining a bit more confidence.
“So, Liz,” Joost said, leaning in a bit closer, “how are you feeling about tonight? Excited? Nervous?”
“A bit of both,” she admitted, glancing down at her feet. “It’s all so overwhelming.”
Joost nodded, his expression understanding. “I get it. This whole thing is pretty intense. But hey, from what I’ve seen, you’ve got nothing to worry about. Your voice is incredible, and your performance style is so unique.”
She looked up at him, surprised by his genuine compliments. “You’ve seen my rehearsal?”
“Of course,” he said, his grin widening. “I wouldn’t miss it. You’ve got real talent, and I’m not just saying that.
Her cheeks grew warmer at his praise, but she felt a flicker of confidence. “Thank you, Joost. That means a lot coming from you.”
Joost’s interest in her became increasingly apparent. He leaned in closer, his eyes never leaving hers. “You know,” he said softly, “I’ve met a lot of people through this contest, but there’s something special about you, Liz.”
Her heart fluttered at his words, and she looked up at him, her shyness giving way to curiosity. “Special? How so?”
Joost smiled, his expression earnest. “You’re genuine. You’ve got this quiet strength and authenticity that’s really inspiring. It’s not just about your talent; it’s about who you are.”
She felt a warmth spread through her at his words, and for the first time that evening, her nerves seemed to melt away. “Thank you, Joost. That means more than you know.”
Just then, an announcement echoed through the backstage area, calling for the UK entrant to prepare for her performance. Joost gave her hand a gentle squeeze, his eyes full of encouragement. “You’re going to be amazing out there. I’ll be cheering for you from the sidelines.”
With a final, lingering look, Joost smiled at her, his presence a comforting reassurance. She nodded, feeling a newfound surge of confidence as she turned to head to the stage. As she walked away, her heart was light and full, knowing that someone as wonderful as Joost believed in her.
———————————————————————
"Hey," he said, his Dutch accent adding a delightful lilt to the word. "Great performance out there. You were amazing."
She smiled back, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Thanks, Joost. You were fantastic too."
He took a step closer, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest. "I was wondering... I mean, if it’s not too forward, could I get your number? I'd love to stay in touch, maybe share some tips on surviving the madness of Eurovision."
The reader felt her cheeks warm, flattered by his attention. "Of course," she said, pulling out her phone. They exchanged numbers, and she felt a thrill as their fingers brushed briefly.
Joost looked at her, his smile turning a bit playful. "You know, there's this great little café not too far from here. If you're not in a rush, maybe we could grab a coffee before your flight home?"
She bit her lip, considering the offer for only a second before nodding. "I'd love that."
"Perfect," Joost said, his grin widening. "I know just the place."
——————————————————————-
"Star sign?" Liz asked with a playful smile, sipping her coffee.
"Scorpio," Joost replied with a laugh. "What about you?"
"Taurus," she said, her eyes twinkling. "My birthday is the 22nd."
"Got any special plans?" Joost inquired, leaning a little closer.
"I'll be starting rehearsals that day," Liz explained, a hint of excitement in her voice. "Flying in late on the 21st and then straight to the stadium. But I think Bambi and Marko might be cooking up a surprise."
"I arrive on the 20th with my crew," Joost said, chuckling. "Wait till you meet them. They're a handful."
"If they're anything like you, I'm sure we'll get along just fine," Liz winked, her smile turning a touch more mischievous.
Joost's eyes sparkled with interest. "Well, maybe we can sneak in some time before the madness begins. I'd love to show you around."
"That sounds like a plan," Liz replied, her tone suggestive. "Just make sure you're ready to keep up with me."
"Oh, I'm always ready for a challenge," Joost teased, his grin widening. "Especially one as intriguing as you."
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