Kaija's brow furrowed in utter confusion.
Not only was Karl offering her a song he had written himself, but the young man was openly suggesting she break the rules despite being one of the festival judges.
"But isn't everyone supposed to do everything themselves?" she asked. "Even the songwriting? If I take your song, I'd basically be disqualified."
"But did Liisi write that song herself?" Karl shot back immediately, one eyebrow arching. "She did you dirty, and you still want to be nice and play by the rules?"
He scoffed and leaned back against the counter, crossing his arms.
"Let me give you some veteran advice, birdie. There is no such thing as purity in this industry. Doing whatever you have to do to stay on top is the only rule that actually matters."
His expression darkened slightly.
"Otherwise, you'll never survive a game where everyone wants the same thing and nobody wants to lose."
For a moment, something older flickered behind his youthful face. Something tired.
