India

As Arell and Geoffrey entered the venue, the bass thrummed through the floor. Craig spotted them and waved them over to a quieter corner where ASAP Rocky was lounging on a leather couch.

"Arell, Geoffrey, glad you made it," Craig said. "Rocky, this is Arell, the mastermind behind Infinity I was telling you about."

Rocky stood up, extending his hand. "What's good, man? Heard some buzz about your line."

Arell clasped Rocky's hand firmly, his demeanor relaxed and confident. "Appreciate that. Your stuff's been turning heads too. That last collab was fire."

Rocky grinned, nodding appreciatively at Arell's knowledge. "You know your shit. How you finding SXSW?"

"It's been wild," Arell chuckled. "Just came from a shoot with Miley Cyrus. Let's just say it was... an experience."

Rocky burst out laughing. "Man, I can only imagine. That girl's a trip."

The two fell into an easy conversation, trading industry stories and cracking jokes about the chaos of SXSW. Their rapport was natural, like two colleagues who'd known each other for years.

"You know," Rocky said, leaning back, "we should think about doing something together. Your aesthetic could mesh well with some ideas I've been playing with."

Arell raised an eyebrow, intrigued but not overly eager. "Could be interesting. What you got in mind?"

"Nothing solid yet, but hit me up after the festival. We'll grab a drink, kick some ideas around."

"Bet," Arell nodded, pulling out his phone to exchange contact info.

As they dapped up, Rocky grinned. "Looking forward to seeing what we come up with, bro."

"Same here," Arell replied coolly. "Catch you around."

<> 

As the sun rose over Austin, the digital realm stirred with whispers and shouts alike. The photo of Miley Cyrus and Arell spread like wildfire across Twitter.

@MileysMostLoyal: "Who's this guy with our girl? 👀

@PopCultureVulture: "Sources say he's a rapper named Arell. Up and coming, but is he on Miley's level? 🤔

@Suad: "Y'all need to chill. Miley can hang with whoever she wants. That hoodie is 🔥 tho

@FXO: "ID on that purple hoodie Miley's wearing? It's giving vintage vibes and I'm here for it

@HHScout: "Just found this Arell guy's music. He's actually got some decent tracks 👀 [link]

@MileyUpdates: "EXCLUSIVE: Miley and mystery man (Arell?) spotted at SXSW afterparty. Things looked cozy 😏 [photo]"

@CelebrityShipper: "Miley x Arell. I'm calling it now. They'd make a power couple 💑 #Ariley? #Mellare? We need a ship name!"

@FashionCetra: "That purple hoodie Miley was wearing? It's from Arell's brand 'Infinity'. Clever marketing

@MileyFanClub: "Miley, if you're reading this, please be careful with Arell. We don't know enough about him 😟

@MileyExpert: "Analyzing Miley's body language in that SXSW pic. She seems comfortable with Arell. New BF?

@BreakfastClubAM: "Missed our interview with @ArellOfficial? Catch up here: [link]"

@BarsOverBullshit: "Yo this Arell dude can spit. That 'Fair Trade' snippet on Breakfast Club was 🔥🔥🔥

@IndustryInsider: "From baller to rapper? Arell's story sounds too good to be true. Industry plant?"

@Machhher: "Arell talking about his come up from prison to rap game. Respect the hustle, but something feels off"

@Chiraqeuons: "For those asking, yes, Arell is really from Chicago. Grew up in the trenches. Don't let the clean-cut look fool you."

@MileyLoverForever: "I don't care who this Arell guy is, he's not good enough for our Miley!"

@Historian: "Interesting how Arell mentions A$AP Rocky as an influence. You can hear it in his flow. Not bad, kid."

@DJ Akademiks: "BREAKING: Arell and local rapper J Soulja almost came to blows last night outside Stubb's. Witnesses say Arell didn't back down"

@DPRV: "First Lil Reese, now J Soulja? Arell's collecting opps like Pokémon 😂"

@MRMoneyMan: "Y'all forget Arell's from Chicago. He don't play that sweet shit 💯 J Soulja lucky it didn't pop off"

@JVEPZ: "J was just trying to welcome Arell to Austin. Ya'll blowing this out of proportion 🙄"

@SheetReader: "Anybody else catch that news about Lil Reese's homie getting shot up in Atlanta? Hearing whispers Arell might be connected 👀l"

@12345s: "Let's not spread unfounded rumours. We don't know if Arell had anything to do with that Atlanta shooting. Focus on the music."

@MileyDefender: "Can we PLEASE stop talking about this Arell guy and focus on Miley's upcoming album?"

@HipHopNewsDaily: "EXCLUSIVE: We've obtained footage of Arell's near-altercation with J Soulja. Check it out here: [link]"

@Meaddddad: "Just watched that J Soulja footage. Arell kept his cool but you can tell he was ready if it popped off. Real one 💯"

@MusicalChameleon: "Listening to Arell's tracks. He's versatile - can switch from hard beats to melodic flows. Impressed 👏 #UpAndComing"

@DJ Akademiks: "No evidence linking Arell to ATL shooting. Stop spreading fake news 🛑"

@RapperBackstories: "Digging into Arell's past. Anyone got info on his time in Chicago? DM me."

@SXSWHighlights: "Top 5 SXSW performances so far: 1. Kendrick 2. J. Cole 3. Arell 4. Chance 5. Run The Jewels #SXSW2015"

@Icy: "Arell, J Soulja, Lil Reese, ATL shooting... it's all connected! Wake up sheeple! 👁️"

@LyricalAnalysis: "Breaking down Arell's 'Fair Trade' snippet. This guy's wordplay is actually pretty clever"

@MileyNewsNetwork: "Miley's team declines to comment on her relationship with Arell. The plot thickens 🤐 #MileyUpdate"

@RapperBackstories: "FACT CHECK: Arell did serve time, but details are sketchy. Anyone got court records?"

@Makerline: "Arell's giving me early A$AP Rocky vibes mixed with a bit of Kendrick's storytelling. Not a bad combo"

@RapperBacksoties: "Looking into Arell's past. If anyone went to high school with him or knew him in Chicago, hit me up."

@SXSWReviewer: "Arell's performance was a highlight. Raw energy, great stage presence. This guy's going places "

@ZeeProphet: "Mark my words: Arell's gonna be a household name by the end of the year. Remember this tweet 📈 #FutureOfHipHop"

<> 

As the early morning light filtered through the hotel room's curtains, Arell lay in bed, scrolling through Twitter on his phone. The photo with Miley had taken over his feed, with comments ranging from supportive to skeptical. He smiled, feeling the excitement of the buzz around him.

Beside him, India Love stirred, her curly hair spread out across the pillow. She turned her head to look at him, curiosity in her eyes. "What's got you smiling like that?"

Arell ran his hand through her hair, the soft curls twisting around his fingers. "Just checking out Twitter. That photo with Miley is blowing up."

India rolled her eyes playfully. "Oh, gonna leave me behind for some pop princess?"

Arell chuckled, shaking his head. "Nah, it's just business. You know how it is."

India propped herself up on one elbow, giving him a mischievous look. "So, you wanna fuck her or something?"

Arell laughed, setting his phone aside. "You're wild, you know that? Miley's cool and all, but it's not like that."

India smirked, leaning in closer. "Good, 'cause I don't share."

She straddled him, her fingers tracing patterns on his chest. "Besides, she's not even that cute. You need someone who can really keep up with you."

Arell admired her confidence and the way she commanded attention without even trying. They'd only recently met, but there was an undeniable chemistry between them. "What you got planned today?" he asked, changing the subject.

India stretched, her movements graceful and unhurried. "Got a couple of shoots lined up. But right now, I'm all yours."

Arell nodded, his mind already racing with the day's agenda. "Yeah, I got some meetings, another performance. SXSW is crazy."

India traced a finger along his jawline, her touch light and teasing. "Don't forget about me when you blow up even more, alright?"

Arell smirked, his hands resting on her hips. "You know I won't. But you gotta stay on your grind too."

She leaned down, her lips brushing against his ear. "Oh, I'm always on my grind. Just like you."

After a moment of silence, India pulled away slightly, looking into his eyes. "So, you really don't wanna fuck Miley? Not even a little bit?"

Arell shook his head, amused. "Nah, I'm good. She's too much drama."

India laughed, a sultry sound that sent shivers down his spine. "Good answer. Now, how about we get breakfast? I'm starving."

As they got up and began to dress, the conversation flowed naturally, their playful banter interspersed with more serious topics. Arell learned about India's family, her career as a model and influencer, and her aspirations beyond social media.

"So, what's it like being in the spotlight?" India asked, slipping on a pair of jeans. "I mean, I get a lot of attention online, but this music thing seems different."

Arell paused, considering her question. "It's a trip. Sometimes it's amazing, like when the crowd's feeling you, and other times it's... overwhelming."

India nodded, understanding in her eyes. "Yeah, I get that. The internet can be brutal too. People always got something to say."

Arell smiled, appreciating her perspective. "Exactly. But having real ones around makes it easier."

India walked over and wrapped her arms around him, resting her head against his chest. "Well, you got me now. Realest you'll ever meet."

They finished getting ready and headed down to the hotel's restaurant for breakfast. Over coffee and eggs, they continued their conversation, getting to know each other better.

"So tell me more about your family," Arell said, taking a sip of his coffee. "You mentioned you have sisters, right?"

India nodded, her eyes lighting up. "Yeah, four of them. We're all pretty close. Crystal, Morgan, Bree, and Brooke. We actually have a reality show together called 'The Westbrooks.'"

Arell raised an eyebrow, impressed. "For real? That's dope. What's it like, having cameras follow you around all the time?"

India shrugged, stirring her tea. "It has its ups and downs. Sometimes it's fun, but other times it feels like there's no privacy, you know? But I guess that comes with the territory when you're trying to build a brand."

Arell nodded thoughtfully. "I feel you. It's like that in music too. Everyone wants a piece of you when you start blowing up."

"Speaking of blowing up," India said, a hint of playfulness in her voice, "how are you handling all this new attention? Seems like everyone wants to know who Arell is now."

Arell chuckled, shaking his head. "Man, it's wild. One minute I'm just doing my thing, the next I'm all over social media because of a photo with Miley."

India's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of Miley's name. "Yeah, about that... You sure there's nothing going on there?"

Arell met her gaze, his expression sincere. "Nah, for real. It's all business. Besides," he added with a smirk, "I got my hands full right here."

India smiled, seemingly satisfied with his answer. "Good. Because I don't play when it comes to my man."

As they continued their breakfast, the conversation shifted to their respective careers and aspirations.

"So what's next for you?" Arell asked. "You gonna keep focusing on modeling and social media?"

India took a bite of her avocado toast, considering the question. "Yeah, for now. But I've been thinking about branching out. Maybe starting my own clothing line or something. What about you? Any big plans for your music?"

Arell nodded enthusiastically. "Definitely. I'm working on my debut album."

" Just don't forget about little old me when you're hanging out with all those famous people." India said with a flirtatious smile,

Arell chuckled, shaking his head slightly. "Come on now, it's not like that. We're just getting to know each other."

India leaned in, her voice lowering. "Well, I think we'd make a pretty hot power couple. Just saying."

Arell laughed it off, deflecting smoothly. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. We're both focused on our careers right now, right?"

<> 

As the Atlanta sun dipped below the horizon, Kenny lounged on the couch, his eyes fixed on the television. Arell's interview on The Breakfast Club played out before him, stirring memories of their shared past.

Malik sat beside him, fingers dancing across a PlayStation controller. The room was quiet save for the TV and the soft clicks of Malik's button presses.

As Arell spoke about their high school basketball days, Kenny nodded, a confident smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, that's about right," he murmured. "Arell's got a good memory."

Malik paused his game, glancing at Kenny. "Man, hearing Arell talk about those days... brings it all back, doesn't it?"

Kenny leaned back, his posture relaxed but proud. "Sure does. You remember how it was, Malik. We were something else on that court."

As Arell described Kenny's game on the screen, Kenny nodded in agreement. "He's not wrong. I was a triple threat out there - could shoot from anywhere, slash to the basket, and distribute the ball."

Kenny's voice took on a matter-of-fact tone. "Senior year, I put up 22 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds a game. Had a couple triple-doubles too. We made it to the state semifinals that year."

Malik nodded, remembering. "Yeah, you were unstoppable. Those college scouts were all over you."

On the screen, Arell mentioned paying for Kenny's college tuition. Kenny fell silent, his expression thoughtful.

Malik set down his controller, turning to face his friend. "You know, Arell's right. You should be in college hooping right now. With your skills, you could probably still make a team somewhere."

Kenny didn't respond immediately, his gaze fixed on the TV.

"What's holding you back?" Malik asked, his tone casual but curious.

Kenny sighed, his confidence wavering for a moment. "I don't know, man. It's been a while. The game's changed."

Malik shrugged. "So what? You've always been adaptable. Remember how quick you picked up that new offense Coach threw at us senior year?"

Kenny nodded slowly. "True. But college ball... that's a whole different level."

"Maybe," Malik conceded. "But you know Arell was probably scared too when he moved here to start making music. He still did it though."

Kenny looked at Malik, a spark of determination igniting in his eyes. "You're right. If Arell can risk it all for his dreams, why can't I?"

As the interview wrapped up, Kenny stood, his old confidence returning. "I'm gonna do it. I'm gonna talk to Arell about this college thing. It's time to get back on the court."

Malik grinned, offering a fist bump. "That's what I'm talking about. Who knows? Maybe in a few years, we'll be watching you on TV."

Kenny laughed, bumping Malik's fist. "Why not? Stranger things have happened."

<> 

As the Texas sun climbed higher in the sky, Arell and India strolled through the opulent corridors of Tiffany & Co. in Austin. The air was thick with the scent of polished metal and expensive perfume, a stark contrast to the bustling streets outside. India's eyes sparkled as she flitted from case to case, her enthusiasm infectious.

Arell watched her with amusement, his mind partly on the glittering displays and partly on the upcoming performance that evening. His phone buzzed in his pocket, and he fished it out, curious.

A message from Kenny lit up the screen: "Yo, you for real about that tuition thing?"

Arell's eyebrows shot up, a mixture of disbelief and amusement crossing his face. He shook his head, chuckling softly to himself. "This nigga thinks I'm not serious," he muttered under his breath.

Without hesitation, Arell tapped the voice message icon. "Broski," he began, "find a college today, nigga. I meant every word. It's time for you to shine on that court again. Don't sleep on the opportunity, you hear me?"

As he finished recording, a sales associate approached, her smile as polished as the diamonds surrounding them. "Mr. Arell?" she inquired, her Texas drawl softening the edges of his name. "I'm Bethany. I understand you were interested in some of our bracelets?"

Arell nodded, slipping his phone back into his pocket. "Yeah, that's right. Something with diamonds, but nothing too flashy, you know?"

Bethany's eyes lit up with understanding. "Of course, sir. We have some exquisite pieces that I think would suit your taste perfectly. If you'll follow me?"

As they moved towards a display case, Arell's mind raced, calculating figures. The performance had netted him 18k, and he still had 50k from his initial windfall. He set a mental limit of 20k for himself, determined not to let the glitz cloud his judgment.

Bethany unlocked the case with practiced ease, pulling out a tray of bracelets that seemed to capture the very essence of light. "This," she said, lifting a sleek platinum band studded with small, brilliantly cut diamonds, "Is the Tiffany T1 narrow diamond bracelet in 18k gold is priced at $10,000," she explained.

Arell nodded approvingly. "That's perfect. I'll take it."

For India, he chose a Tiffany Victoria diamond vine bracelet in platinum, priced at $8,500.

When Arell presented the bracelet to India, her eyes widened. "Oh my god, Arell!" she exclaimed, immediately wrapping her arms around him. "It's beautiful!"

Without hesitation, India pulled out her phone. "We need to capture this moment," she said, pressing herself against Arell's side. She tilted her head onto his shoulder, looking up at him adoringly as she snapped several selfies.

"Let's do a video too," India suggested, her voice soft and affectionate. She started recording, gazing at Arell with seemingly genuine admiration. "Look what my baby got me," she cooed, showing off the bracelet. She then planted a kiss on Arell's cheek, lingering there as she ended the video.

"Thanks," she said, her tone a touch cooler than before. "This will definitely boost engagement on my next post."

Arell nodded, noticing the change but choosing not to comment. He understood the game - this was as much about image as it was about genuine connection. Still, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment as he watched India immediately start editing the photos for her Instagram.

Later that day, India posted one of the photos on Instagram. The image showed her nestled close to Arell, her new bracelet prominently displayed, with the caption: "When he surprises you with Tiffany 😍💎 @ArellOfficial you're too good to me!"

Comments quickly flooded in:

@Mischeif: "You two look so good together! 🔥🔥🔥"

@CelebrityHoax: "Wait, wasn't he just with Miley Cyrus? 👀"

@MissyQuen2: "Arell moving fast! From Miley to India in no time!"

@MileyLover4Ever: "He's cheating on Miley! 😡 How could he?!"

@HipHopInsider: "Yo, isn't India dating The Game? @losangelesconfidential you seeing this?"

@TVManFan: "Someone tag The Game! This is getting messy 👀🍿"

@Gabey21: "@losangelesconfidential you gonna let this slide?"

<> 

Took time to make something else which I enjoy. It's a oneshot, Luka Zoric, about football, 8k words and its pretty good, I'd try reading it if I were you. Access it through the comment on my profile.