“Perfect timing! We're just about to kick off!"

As they engaged in friendly banter, the agent's expression turned sour. Sensing an impending outburst, Mathews interjected, "This is Claudia Marshall, the recipient of the esteemed International Lierina Award last year. She's here on my special request to perform the piano backing track for my upcoming album!"

Upon hearing Mathews’ words, the agent's demeanor shifted dramatically. He eagerly approached Claudia and extended his greetings, “Hello, Miss Marshall! My name is Miguel Todd, and I‘m Mathews’ agent. Your reputation precedes you! I assumed Mathews was joking when he mentioned inviting you to collaborate on his album. I never imagined you'd actually be here today!"

The International Lierina Award held high prestige in the industry. Miguel's little sister was a piano student, and Claudia was the sole female pianist from their country to win the Lierina Award. Naturally, she was adored by Miguel's sister.

Miguel's expressions of respect and admiration were sincere, not mere flattery. Claudia had truly earned them.

Realizing his earlier comment could have been taken amiss, Miguel hastily apologized, "Miss Marshall, I beg your pardon for any misunderstanding. Mathews has a rather fanatical fanbase. I regret presuming wrongly about you earlier."

Claudia unperturbed, offered a friendly smile and reassured, "No worries."

Relieved to see Claudia wasn't upset, Miguel let out a sigh. His previous nerves were due to the tendency of artists to have peculiar dispositions.

His approach towards Claudia had now made a complete 180-degree turn, which prompted others to wear friendly smiles as well.

When the recording team prompted them to start, Miguel led Mathews and Claudia into the studio.

As Mathews recorded his song, Claudia played the piano accompaniment in a separate booth.

Mathews set high standards for his music. Unlike others who would rely on digital software for the piano track, he chose to bring in a real pianist.

This wasn't Claudia's first time. Hence, she felt at ease.

Once inside the recording booth, a considerate staff member provided

Claudia a blanket to cover her legs, given the chilly temperature from the air conditioning and her ankle-Length dress.

The initial recording went smoothly, yet Claudia felt she hadn't hit her sweet spot yet, hence, she decided to have another take after a brief pause.

The second attempt successfully captured her emotions, enhancing the melody beautifully.

Mathews' session was still in progress. Claudia, content with her own performance, moved to his booth to observe him through the soundproof glass.

Mathews, a gifted singer who started young, had earned considerable popularity over the years.

Aside from his talent, his good looks also garnered him immediate fame. Over the years, he consistently released quality albums, making him a highly sought-after artist in the music industry.

“Remarkable, isn't it?"

Claudia was brought back to the present by a tap on her shoulder. Looking up, she saw it was Miguel, Mathews’ agent.

Handing her a warm beverage, Miguel observed, "His dedication to music hasn't waned over the years. He might come off as light-hearted ordinarily, but when he sings, it's as if he transforms."

“Thank you."