#well. I need to post A Selection to Instagram so this is gonna take forever :))))

[iishmael]

Going to finally clean up my phone photos… there’s over 12k lmao

[luvdsc]

mark lee sucks at technology.

tap the heart if you have a big, fat, embarrassing crush on your best friend!

pairing :: lee mark x reader genre :: fluff / best friend + social influencer au word count :: 5,883 words warnings :: none playlist :: dumb stuff (lany) ⋆ feeling (coin) ⋆ so far so good (gabrielle aplin) ⋆ electric love (børns) ⋆ love by mistake (bad suns) author’s note :: i was debating if i should post it on his bday instead, but i decided to drop it earlier, so uh, happy (approx. one week early) bday to mister absolutely fully capable (except when it comes to tech stuff) !!!! thank you for blessing us with your god tier raps ♡ ↳ part of the not clickbait series.

In your required upper division business course aptly titled “Essential Marketing Strategies,” you had learned about a concept called personal brands. A personal brand is explained as the first impression a person wishes to perceive based on their own experiences, qualifications, and achievements. Your professor had told you and your classmates to pick three words to define your own brand. For instance, you chose to label yourself as charismatic, fun, and creative.

Your best friend’s brand would be awkward, endearing, and technologically challenged. 

Okay, so that is definitely more than three words, but who’s counting? You might as well tack on “Y/N’s big fat crush” at this rate because everyone and their mother knows that you carry a torch—or more accurately, a blazing wildfire that can easily be spotted from Pluto—for your best friend.

Well, to be more precise, you should probably say everyone, except Mark, knows. And that’s not for lack of trying either. You completely dropped the art of delicate subtlety months ago already. Maybe you should add “hopelessly oblivious” instead.

The rolling end credits to the sixth Harry Potter film are playing on the screen in front of you, signaling the nearing end of your magical movie marathon. You’re seated on the worn down couch in Mark and Donghyuck’s shared apartment, watching the former make his drink with the fancy, gently used Keurig newly settled on the scratched countertop. Johnny dropped it off a few days ago because he had splurged on a better coffee machine (“It even makes Instagram worthy whipped frappuccinos!”) and didn’t want his old, but still perfectly functioning caffeine provider going to waste.

“What’s wrong with this thing?” Mark slaps the side of the machine, and it starts to emit a low whirring noise. “Oh, that’s good, right? That sound is good, you think?”

His question is immediately answered by the sad squirt of hot water speckled with coffee grinds falling into his mug for a few seconds before the machine shuts off.

“What the hell?” he mutters angrily, carding his hand through his hair in frustration, and you finally decide to take pity on your best friend. Getting up from the comfy spot you know you sadly won’t be able to recreate perfectly again later, you stride over to where your best friend stands and flip open the top of the Keurig.

“Hyuck didn’t take out his used coffee pod,” you say, pulling out the incriminating evidence of your best friend’s roommate and disposing it in the trash can next to the refrigerator. “Where’s the espresso one you’re gonna use? Why didn’t you put that in?”

His jaw slackens, and he sheepishly rubs the back of his neck, avoiding your gaze and mumbling, “I thought I’d just open it later and pour it into my hot water.”

“Mark,” you start, placing your hands on his shoulders firmly and staring into his eyes with a serious look on your face. “Please know that I’m saying this in the most loving way possible, but you are an absolute idiot.”

You release your grip on his shoulders and grab the espresso pod dangling from his fingertips before slotting it into the Keurig. You remove the mug he placed underneath the spout and wash out the accidental coffee water before placing it back in its original position and pressing the start button on the machine. With a sigh, you lean against the side of the counter, glancing at your friend who looks like a child being scolded for stealing from the cookie jar.

“If you pour the pod into your mug, are you just going to chug all the loose coffee grinds, too?”

“... I didn’t think that far ahead.” His lips start to unintentionally form a tiny pout, and your eyes (and your heart, too) soften.

You’re very relieved that Donghyuck is off filming with your friend because he definitely would be making fun of your heart eyes that frequently make an appearance around a certain Mark Lee. Which you always deny. Because you certainly do not have a gigantic crush on your technologically inept best friend.

You glance over at him again and have to physically fight yourself to resist the urge to kiss his cute pout away. Okay, so maybe you harbor a very respectable, medium sized crush. But it's no big deal. It’s completely under control. Unless you’re counting the fact that your best friend is still unaware, and you’re running out of ideas to try and see if he likes you back before you actually shoot your shot. Then it’s very much not under control because you’re losing sleep over it and you don’t know what to do to be any more obvious without stating the, well, obvious.

“Well, now you know. If you forget, you can FaceTime me and I’ll give you instructions on how it works.” You pat his shoulder reassuringly before pausing. “Wait, you do know how to FaceTime, right?”

“Yes!” he exclaims, sulking even more before confessing in a quieter, defeated tone, “Hyuck showed me last month.”

Mark grabs his finished drink and follows behind you, settling back onto the couch next to you. The streaming service already has Deathly Hallows Part 1 in the queue and ready to go, and your best friend is ready to click play until he notices your attention being focused on the smaller screen in your hands. He wonders if you’re about to post another one of your popular cooking videos on that app that shares a name with the most iconic song of the 2000s (hint: the name of the song’s singer is made up of four letters and a dollar sign).

“Are you uploading one of your videos?” he implores before taking a sip of his drink with a satisfied smile. Somehow, it always tastes better when you make it, and he can’t figure out why for the life of him. When he went to Johnny’s place, his older friend uses the exact same pod and water ratio for his espresso, and yet, it’s never as good as yours.

“Nah, I’m ordering my grocery delivery before I forget. Do you want anything?” You select the option to load your usual grocery items into your cart before debating on whether or not you should splurge on buying several packages of those seasonal Pillsbury sugar cookies that only come in stock during certain holidays. It seems like such an insult to the entire premise of your Tiktok account based on baking and cooking, but you’re an absolute sucker for those soft pastries.

“Yeah, can you get me a Shin Ramyun ten pack? Hyuck ate the last one two days ago and didn’t tell me.”

“You sure you don’t want ten boxes again?” You decide to get those Pillsbury sugary delights, happily adding three boxes to your cart. Everybody has a weakness, and yours just so happens to be a premade one way ticket to diabetes. You’re here for a good, delicious time, not a long time.

“No! That was an accident!” He objects, flailing his hands around, before falling back against the couch cushions in defeat. “But Hyuck does all the online grocery shopping now.”

“Thank god. You guys finally have quality toilet paper again.”

The past month of bathroom occurrences was plagued with scratchy tissue that felt more like goddamn sandpaper from the horrible depths of hell. To be honest, you probably would have rather used actual sandpaper, given the choice. You even made sure not to drink too much water any time you came over, but today, you decided to splurge on a venti passion fruit iced tea with sweetener from that very popular franchise sporting a mermaid logo and fiscally cosmic name. To your pleasant surprise, your trip to the toilet this time was wonderfully padded with Charmin Ultra Soft, not that absolutely awful off brand one with the gross texture of a dried pinecone from inferno.

“Hey, that toilet paper was a good steal! It was a three for one deal,” Mark protests, and you narrow your eyes at him.

“Wow, I wonder why it was priced so low.” You deadpan, and Mark blanches, recalling all those restroom incidents that were rather rough. Literally.

“Anyway, do you think my viewers wanna see me make chocolate crinkle cookies or mochi doughnuts?” You bring up the two recipes you managed to perfect and add your own spin to on your phone, eyes scanning the ingredient lists.

“Both. And tell me when you’re making them, so I can come over and eat them.” He gives you a wide grin, and you let out a snort at that. His smile only grows as he says happily, “I love your job.”

“You only love it because you can freeload off of me,” you jest, but nevertheless begin to start to add all the ingredients for both recipes to your shopping cart. You always film cooking videos on Tuesdays, edit on Wednesdays, keep Thursdays free for last minute touch ups and emergencies, and post one every week on Fridays with other various random videos uploaded whenever in between. With that in mind, you schedule your upcoming grocery delivery for Monday.

“Hey, you need me. I’m the best taste tester.” He puffs up his chest proudly before hastily tacking on a more genuine reason. “And because I’d starve without you. I can’t live off of instant ramen and frozen chicken nuggets forever. Gordon Ramsay already confirmed my shitty cooking skills. I need you to survive.”

“Oh my god, when I uploaded those pics of your scrambled eggs on Twitter, I lost like a hundred followers in less than a minute.” You confirm the delivery and place your phone on the coffee table, picking up the opened bag of Cheeto puffs before settling back in your seat. “My cooking credibility was completely shot. I had to explain to my fans that I didn’t make those.”

“Yeah, but now everyone calls me Eggy Boi online!” he whines, and you laugh. You have to admit, it’s quite a funny play on the whole “edgy boi” terminology. You wonder if Mark will find it amusing if he discovers his roommate is the culprit behind his new online persona (He probably won’t, and you reckon Donghyuck enjoys living in a safe space where he doesn’t have to sleep with one eye open, so you stay quiet about it. You’ll use it as leverage some other time).

“Okay, Eggy Boi, come by on Tuesday because I’ll be baking in the afternoon,” you say casually, grabbing the remote control from your best friend and pressing play. 

You very narrowly avoid a green gummy bear to the face. It lands somewhere behind the couch, lost forever to the dust bunnies and other snacks that missed its target. You know for a fact that it’ll stay there until the boys decide to move to a new apartment. Mark grumbles at the miss, biting off the head of a red cherry flavored gummy bear perhaps a little harder than necessary.

“I hate you. But I’m still coming over next week because I want a doughnut.”

“No cookie?”

“... and a cookie. Maybe two.”

Wednesday comes faster than you expected, and you’re currently holed up in your apartment’s second bedroom—which you had transformed into a snazzy office space—completing the edits to your second video on mochi doughnuts. You already finished polishing the one about the cookies earlier, thank goodness. If you had to stare at your computer screen for another three hours, you would rather eat those pastries Mark tried to make two months ago, but had mistaken salt for sugar. Adding a cup of salt to any baked good is an extremely effective way to make anyone who tasted your best friend’s brownies experience a trip to the beach. Because they essentially just swallowed a mouthful of sand and ocean water. Because it’s salty as heck. Just like Mark was when you told him.

Speaking of your best friend, he’s currently puttering around in your kitchen doing god knows what. He knows better than to try another recipe and possibly blow up your number one moneymaker—your prized oven—in the process. Your heart nearly drops when your ears pick up the faint chopping sounds of a knife against your wooden cutting board. Is he going to try to temper chocolate again? He nearly burned through your entire stock of dark, milk, and white chocolate last time.

After much contemplation and deciding that you deserve a good procrastination break and a fully intact kitchen, you’re about to go out and see what he’s up to when Mark timidly appears in your doorway, clutching onto a white bowl of watermelon cubes with a fork tucked neatly in it. He shuffles in, dropping the snack on your desk before turning to walk out without a word, not wanting to disturb your work mode. 

Your heart warms up at the sight, and you speak up, a small smile slipping into your face. “What’s this for?”

“Knowing you, you probably haven’t eaten anything since breakfast.” He pauses in the doorway and adds on sheepishly, “And I can't cook anything, so this is what you get.”

Your heart swells tenfold, and your smile widens even more as you spear a piece of fruit with the fork and quickly pop it into your mouth. “Thanks, Marky.”

His cheeks flush with a pretty shade of carmine, and he fails to suppress the little giddy smile that appears on his face at your nickname for him. He walks out of your office, reddened cheeks still rising up higher than ever. “Y-Yeah, of course. No problem.”

By the time you finish adding the final few touches to your edited video, the bowl of watermelon has been picked clean. You save your video and transfer both of your completed projects to your phone, making a mental note to schedule their uploads and add them to your account’s posting queue later. Shoving your phone in the pocket of your sweats after ensuring the successful transfer of your videos, you pick up the empty dish and walk out towards the kitchen, the silver fork clinking against the side of the bowl with every step.

As you wash the dish and utensil, Mark wanders over from his spot on the couch, leaning forward and casually placing his chin on your shoulder. Almost instantaneously, you feel the heat rising to your cheeks as you briefly fantasize about your best friend wrapping his arms around your waist and how domestic and sweet the two of you would look, like one of those cheesy couples the two of you always made fun of.

“What’s up?” you ask, making a conscious effort to hold your voice steady and not waver over the fact that Mark is basically draped over you. After you place the dish on the drying rack, you turn around to face your best friend, sorely miscalculating the distance as mere inches separate your face from his now.

“I—” Puberty decides to make an ugly appearance in the form of an ill timed voice crack, and he internally curses as he takes a step back, willing the incoming blush to go away. Letting out a small cough, he tries again, scratching the back of his neck nervously.

“I, um, Jisung sent me some kind of dance video. He said it’s a challenge? I kinda don’t know what to do with it? Like do I make a new dance, record myself, and send it back? Actually, isn't it easier to just do a dance battle face to face?”

“Can I see the video?” You already have a good idea on what the video will be, but you want to confirm it. Mark fumbles with his phone, pulling up the video in his text messages. He angles the phone towards you for you to see, and you grab his hand, bringing the device a little closer to you for a better look and clicking play.

“Oh, it’s a Tiktok challenge! He’s doing the Say So dance!” you exclaim, recognizing the song almost immediately as your eyes follow the fluid dance moves, completely enthralled. “So a challenge isn’t going up against someone, like a battle. It’s just some kind of trend or concept that you try to copy yourself. You’re supposed to learn the same dance and record yourself for this one. I can show you some other challenges and help you practice and record this one tomorrow if you wanna drop by after work!”

“O-Oh, okay, sounds good.” Mark stumbles over his words, attempting to focus on what you’re saying and the dance Jisung is doing, but all he can think about is the way your body is pressed against his side, hand comfortably wrapped around his. He freezes up as the tips of his ears grow redder and redder with every passing second, and his face sports a similar color. He silently prays for the telltale crimson to go away by the time the dance is over.

When the video ends, you once again realize the close proximity between you and your best friend. Your face burns at this revelation, and you awkwardly take a step back. Clearing your throat, you hastily release Mark’s hand (He inaudibly lets out the breath he’s been holding in this entire time, yet he also already misses the way your hand felt grasping his).

“Uh, anyway, I’m gonna make a latte. Do you want a drink, too?” You walk towards the other side of your kitchen with Mark trailing behind you. You take out a floral, peachy colored mug from your cupboards before pausing and looking at your best friend. “Wait, do you remember how to use a Keurig?”

“Yes!” He says, slightly exasperated as he picks out his own cup from your cabinet. He always uses the same one—a cerulean blue mug with squiggles all over it—and all of your friends and guests know not to use it because it’s unofficially officially Mark’s mug (And perhaps, you did indeed buy it from that overpriced kitschy tableware shop down the street two years ago with your best friend in mind).

“Really?” You select the latte option and press start after you had already positioned the mug beneath the spout and inserted a green tea matcha pod. He finally relents, shoulders sagging and a defeated expression on his face.

“... No.”

You chuckle, taking the mug from him and carefully putting it on the counter. You grab the espresso pod you know he likes from the drawer below and place it next to the cup. “It’s okay, I’ll teach you again.”

Mark tries. He really does. He tries very hard to concentrate on memorizing the simple process, but he keeps getting distracted. His eyes are focused on the correct button to push before they start to trail up to your fingertips. And then, they go from your hand to your arm, then up to the elegant curve of your neck, and finally, to the way your lashes frame your pretty eyes and how the tip of your tongue sticks out slightly as you concentrate until all he can focus on is you, you, you.

Suddenly, in what feels like a blink of an eye, you’re done and handing him his finished drink, complete with a perfectly whipped milk foam on top. You ask him if he knows how to make it now, and all he can do is lie and nod with a barely convincing smile.

After all, how can Mark tell his best friend that the reason he never remembers is because you’re the biggest distraction?

Mark should be here in five minutes, according to his most recent text message. And in the text message below that, your friend had sent you a challenge. More specifically, it’s the one she completed with Donghyuck a few weeks ago. When you said you wanted bold suggestions on how to figure out if your best friend feels the same way about you as you do about him, you didn’t want one this bold. 

Yet, the video link to your friend’s “today I kissed my best friend” challenge along with a winky face from her is staring mockingly at you. While you aren’t one to back down from a challenge, the mere thought of kissing your best friend causes vast colonies of butterflies to erupt in your stomach and your ears to feel as if they have caught on fire. You’re already tongue tied with your head in the clouds, and he isn’t even here yet. How utterly fantastic.

However, your mother definitely did not raise a quitter, so you spring into action when you hear the faint jingling of a key being inserted into your apartment’s door (You had given Mark a copy of your key almost immediately after you had moved in). You move the pretty indoor fern given to you by Jaemin as a housewarming gift last year closer to the edge of your towering bookcase, leaning your phone against it. You quickly position the device to capture a good view of the couch area in your living room and press the record button, arranging a few of the leaves to hide as much of your phone as you possibly can without obstructing the lens.

You run full speed to your bedroom, letting out a sigh of relief when you’re safely inside and hear Mark finally unlocking the door successfully and shuffling in. When he calls out to you, you try to even out your breathing, walking out of your room with your tripod and laptop in hand.

“Hey,” you greet him in the most casual tone you can muster. You place the tripod down and sit before opening your laptop and setting it on the coffee table. “I thought we could watch a few challenges for fun before trying the Say So one. Have you watched Jisung’s videos before?”

“Um, well, no, not really,” he confesses sheepishly, taking a seat next to you on the couch, leg pressing against yours. He squints at the YouTube video you pulled up earlier before he had arrived, reading the title before clicking the space button to start it. “Savage Tiktok dance compilation part two?”

“Wait, hold up.” You pause the video and then turn to face him with an incredulous expression on your face. “You’ve never watched any of Jisung’s dance Tiktoks?”

“No… I don’t even have an account.” His cheeks are dusted with the lightest shade of pink as he quietly admits, “I watch all of yours though.”

Your eyes widen at his confession, face heating up as you stammer out, “O-Oh, well, I can help you make an account later to upload your video.”

“Sounds good.” There’s a few seconds of silence as you mull over his previous words before he speaks up again awkwardly, “Should I, uh, play the video?”

“Oh! Yes, right! Of course, hit play,” you laugh nervously, twisting and playing with the hair tie around your wrist. He starts the video again, and the two of you watch the compilation, slowly relaxing once more as you tap your fingers to the rhythm of the song and he bobs his head to the beat.

“Do I have to change outfits like that?” he questions a few minutes later, eyes growing round as he sees the girl on the screen switch between four different outfits throughout the dance. His closet basically consists of the same five black shirts that he stole from Jaehyun. Even if he did do an outfit swap, there would literally be no difference at all.

“You don’t have to,” you assure him, clicking the enter key to play the next video that’s recommended: another Tiktok dance challenge compilation. “All you have to do is copy the dance.”

Mark nods, taking a glance at the laptop screen before his hand shoots out and he pauses the video, leaning forward to take a closer look at the little recommended video title banner at the top. “Wait! What’s that one?”

He clicks on it, the new video now loading up. The two of you wait patiently for it to begin, waiting for the spinning disc to stop. But it doesn’t. In fact, the whole chrome page goes blank and then, the little pixelated Google Chrome dinosaur pops up on your monitor, announcing that you have no internet connection. Furrowing your eyebrows, you try to reload the page before trying to re-establish your laptop connection to your wifi. Unfortunately, you cannot find your appropriately named “drop it like it’s hotspot” wifi anywhere to connect to.

And that’s when it hits you. Your landlord had sent out a notice to the entire apartment complex last week about the electricity being powered down today from 4 to 6 p.m. for a maintenance check, and a quick glance at the digital clock on your laptop shows that it’s a little past four.

You groan, closing your laptop and flopping back against the couch cushions dramatically. Mark cocks his head, slightly confused, before he pokes you in the arm. “What’s wrong?”

“I completely forgot about the scheduled electricity shutdown for the entire building. We won’t have any wifi for the next two hours.” You pout, your bottom lip jutting out in the slightest, and Mark doesn’t think it’s fair that you get to be this cute and have this much of an effect on his racing heart rate.

“That’s okay, we can… play some board games?” he suggests offhandedly, pushing away the embarrassing thought and nudging your leg with his, and you smile before a sudden idea occurs to you. 

“Or we can still do some Tiktok challenges! What was the challenge you clicked on?” You quickly sit upright, turning to face your best friend, eyes sparkling in excitement. “I memorized a few of the dance ones already! Was it Renegade? I can teach you that one. Jisung showed me how to do it.”

“Um,” he starts, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. His eyes dart everywhere, except you, as he lets out a feigned cough. “It wasn’t a dance one. It was about, uh, going up to your boyfriend… and um, hugging him... when he’s playing video games.”

“Oh.” You answer lamely, not knowing what to say. You unsuccessfully try to push away the image of you attempting that challenge with your best friend. “Those are really cute.”

“Really?” He says doubtfully, wrinkling his eyebrows and fiddling with the frayed sleeve of his sweater. “Wouldn’t the dude get mad?”

You don’t know what suddenly possessed you to do this (you’ll have to ask Renjun and his paranormal loving ass later), but you thank whatever demon did for that split second because you find yourself gently grabbing Mark’s arm and slipping your head underneath it. You swing one leg over his lap and settle down until you’re securely sitting in his lap, bent legs on either side of his hips, hands curled around the soft fabric of his sweater on both sides and resting on top of your thighs. His arms instinctively go around your waist, wrapping around you securely.

You tilt your head to the side slightly, studying the flustered boy in front of you with a teasing, albeit a little anxious, smile on your lips. “Are you feeling mad?”

Splotches of red litter his cheeks and decorate the tips of his ears, but your best friend furiously shakes his head at your question, bashfully ducking his head afterwards and muttering a soft “No.”

You swallow hard, heart pounding erratically in your chest as you timidly ask, “Would you be mad if I do this?”

Mark looks up at that, confusion written all over his face. His arms start to loosen around your figure, hands now resting on your waist. “If you do what?”

You take a deep breath. “This.”

You lean in and gently press your lips against his. Mark freezes in shock, and you quickly retreat soon after, gnawing at the inside of your cheek as you wait anxiously for his reaction. Your heart feels like it’s about to fall out of your chest and be buried six feet under.

A tiny noise of surprise belatedly escapes from him and crimson spreads across his cheeks like wildfire. His doe eyes are wide and sparkling, staring at you in bewilderment. Your best friend lets out a small laugh of disbelief before a full blown smile breaks out across his face. He gazes at you adoringly, breathing out softly, “I’m not mad at that.”

You perk up at that, draping your arms around his neck as you lean forward, beaming. “Really? You’re not?”

“Definitely not.”

This time, Mark meets you halfway, his lips slotting against yours perfectly and making you feel tingles up and down your spine. Your eyes are closed, and you are so hyper aware of the way his hands grip your hips, how he tugs you closer, and how his lips chase after yours. The number of butterflies from earlier multiply in your stomach, and you have ascended past cloud nine by now.

When the two of you break apart, your eyes flutter open, and you nudge your nose against his affectionately. The brightest grin blooms on his face once again, and he buries his face in the crook of your neck, muffling his little giggles and hiding the awfully vibrant cerise that rapidly blossoms on his face.

“Is this a good time to tell you congrats for completing your first challenge?” you say, resting your cheek against the crown of his head. You pull away when he lifts his head up, surprised.

“I wasn’t playing video games though,” he says slowly, processing your words and thinking back to the challenge that started this all.

“It was a different challenge. It’s the one that Hyuck did a few weeks ago,” you confess, and realization dawns on him, his face lighting up for a split second before a look of horror takes over.

“Oh, no. Is that why you had your phone recording on the bookshelf?” Mark asks, dread beginning to cloud his mind.

“Yes…” you say slowly, a little perplexed. “Why? What’s wrong?”

“Oh my god, I ruined your video,” he moans, dropping his forehead onto your shoulder. “I saw your phone when I walked in and thought you were filming earlier and forgot to turn it off, so I turned it off for you.”

When the words finally register in your mind, you can’t stop the laughter from bubbling out of your throat, and he raises his head up to look at you with wide doe eyes at the pretty sound. “I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to!”

You can’t stop laughing at the situation, and he looks at you worriedly, gnawing on his bottom lip slightly. You force yourself to calm down, a soft chuckle leaving your lips before you beam at him, leaning in and placing the softest kiss on the tip of his nose. “It’s okay, Mark. I’m not mad. That video wasn’t important anyway.”

“But still,” he whines before letting out a groan and slapping his hand against his forehead when the realization sinks in even further. “I’m such an idiot.”

“But you’re my idiot now, right?” you say teasingly, albeit a little shyly as well, as you reach over to tug his hand away from his face and lace your fingers with his.

“I mean, I kinda thought I was always your idiot,” Mark laughs softly and a little embarrassedly, eyes averted and cheeks turning pinker than ever. The largest grin spreads across your face at that, and you turn away slightly to hide it. You didn’t think your best friend can possibly be any more endearing, but he manages to prove you wrong every time.

“Well, then now you can add ‘Y/N’s boyfriend’ to your resume,” you say, and he fails to suppress the pleased smile appearing on his face at your remark, his rosy cheeks rising even taller than skyscrapers.

“So, uh, what sort of job description does that have?” He gazes at your intertwined hands in wonder, still completely giddy at the reality of you being his best friend and something more.

“Sharing hoodies, giving me attention, kissing, holding my hand, going on dates, you know, the basics,” you answer, squeezing his hand tenderly, and his doe eyes instantly light up. Mark feels a little bolder than before, and it shows when he grins widely and says:

“Can we do number three again?”

“Yes, we can, Eggy Boi.”

He wrinkles his nose at the name, disgruntled and unimpressed, as he crosses his arms over his chest, sulking. You let out a laugh before leaning in and crashing your lips against his. He immediately relents at that, enthusiastically responding and hugging you closer to him, and you can’t help but smile into the kiss as you feel his own smile appear as well.

At that moment, you decide that you want to change Mark’s personal brand. Because his should be “absolutely wonderful, positively amazing, a cute kisser, your boyfriend, and your bestest friend.” And yes, that is most definitely more than the allotted three words, but again, who’s really counting?

Certainly not you when you’re too preoccupied with kissing your best friend. Correction: best friend and new boyfriend.

One new notification: donutkillmyvibe uploaded a new video!

moominjun commented:

so you’re saying the reason why we didn’t get the highly anticipated best friend challenge video is because @ marklyrawr turned the camera off?

donutkillmyvibe replied: yes 😔 I’m sorry to disappoint everyone 🤧

nanaislove replied: omg no bby it’s ok 🥺🥺💞💓💓💝💗 you didn’t have to make an apology video for that 🥺💗💓💘💖

goofys.chuckle replied: yeah it’s mark’s fault. he’s the disappointment here 🥴

morklyrawr replied: hahahahaha stfu hyuck

tytrack commented:

mark is going through puberty. I apologize

dobunny replied: @.@

goofys.chuckle commented:

are we getting whip(ped)lash pt 2 by eggy boi?

morklyrawr replied: YOU’RE THE ONE WHO STARTED THAT NAME?????

goofys.chuckle replied: uh gotta blast 🚀

showmethemonet replied: @ goofys.chuckle does this mean you’re staying over again?

goofys.chuckle replied: @ showmethemonet yes if you want your super cute, mega talented, very handsome boyfriend to still be alive 🥺

showmethemonet replied: @ goofys.chuckle oh my god I didn’t know I was dating bts jin???

moominjun replied: LMFAOOOOO

goofys.chuckle replied: heart 💔 been broke 📉 so many times ⏰ i don’t know 🤔 what to believe 💯 mama 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩 said 🗣 it’s my fault 😢 it’s my fault 🤦🏻‍♂️i wear my heart ❤️ on my sleeve 💪 i think it’s best 👍🏻 I put my heart ❤️ on ice 🧊

jenojam commented:

why am I not surprised……

itsmebetch replied: just mark thingz 🍉

suhprisemf commented:

mark your head looks flat af

jungjaeprince replied: 😂😂😂

10vely replied: @ jungjaeprince be quiet don’t cry

letswonwon commented:

whoop whoop

junguwu commented:

OMG CONGRATS ON YOUR RELATIONSHIP SWEETIE 😍😍

takoyaki_prince commented:

MARK!!!!! you look handsome !! 😘

jisungpwark commented:

rip to @ donutkillmyvibe ’s future videos that mark will ruin. press f in the chat to pay respects 🙏🏻

bigheadking replied: F ✊🏻😔

peachyangel replied: f 🥺🥺

yoitslucas replied: F 🤪🤪🤪 but glad you’re happy, man ❤️

donutkillmyvibe replied: F 💔

morklyrawr replied: @ donutkillmyvibe wtf babe????

officialgordonramsay commented:

didn’t i tell you to get back on tinder ?

apado_god commented:

nice 😎👍🏻

[kuratoki]

Distance 02

There wasn’t a day Jeno didn’t regret not making things official with you sooner. What he also didn’t expect was his soon to be ex best friend to act on his feelings towards you either. Now a whole continent away with a ten hour time difference, will the two of you survive the distance and all the obstacles that come with?

Genre: Fluff, Angst

Pairing: Ballerina OC x Dancer Jeno

Words: 3481

Warnings: Swearing

~Updates Ever/other day at 8AM PST~

Later that night, Yukhei, Yeeun, Yuta, Sicheng and Chenle had invited the transfer students to your shared house in order to get to know them better. Chenle had been spending more time with Sicheng as of late since both Renjun and Jisung were gone. He felt lonely.

“Do you live here alone?” Kun asked, looking around the well lived space. There were picture frames of a family and an unknown girl and some even had a boy that remotely looked like Jeno and it had him wondering.

“Now I do.” Sicheng said with a nod, “This is Y/N’s house. The girl that you heard everyone talking about during the meeting today. I’m just renting it while I’m here since her parents moved to America and are currently traveling.” 

“Like parents like offspring.” Yuta commented, “You should get her to make her famous chocolate cake when you meet her. Soooo good. I still have one in my freezer.” he grinned remembering the payment of chocolate cakes you had to give him for letting you use his apartment in Osaka during that one spontaneous trip.

Tzuyu tried not to roll her eyes at the mention of your name again. All she heard during the meeting was Y/N this, Y/N that. She was even starting to doubt that you were a real person cause it all sounded too good to be true. In their eyes, you were perfect and she highly doubted that.

“Where is she again?” Xiaojun curiously asked, he only heard briefly that you were in Germany but he wasn’t so sure for what.

“She’s in London working with the Junior Selects Performance Group.” Chenle explained, “She and her ballet partner Renjun were asked to reprise their roles as Odette and the Prince in Swan Lake for their spring performance.” 

“Wait, the Selects Dance Company? Isn’t that the prestigious one that has the intensive training camp for it’s competition team auditions?” YangYang asked, he had only heard of it a few times while he was in Germany but had yet to meet anyone associated with it. “How did she get into that?” 

“Long story.” The three who knew chorused.

“You have to either be attending school there already or get a letter of recommendation from an existing team member.” Sicheng explained, “Y/N was already studying abroad and she caught the eye of one of the team captains. So she technically got in with both.”

“I heard that the head of the board lost her son to cancer recently.” Tzuyu commented, she had a few friends who attended schools in Europe so news got around fast “Are you sure they’re still putting the performance on?”

“Considering Y/N and Renjun are there helping plan the whole thing right now…” Yeeun answered, resisting the urge to roll her eyes but felt Yukhei squeeze her hand, “Y/N and Renjun were close friends with her son so they’ve decided to dedicate the performance In memory of him.”

“They took on a lot of responsibility like finding the orchestra, coming up with audition dates for the other roles and at which locations. You saw the large ass binder I was carrying home..I’ll be playing the piano for them.” Chenle added, “I have three months to get this all down, this is going to be sooo much practice. Goodbye, life.”

“Not like you had one anyways since Jisung and Renjun left anyways.” Yeeun teased.

“She sounds too good to be true.” Tzuyu muttered, crossing her arms, “How is she so connected?”

“You’ll understand when you meet her.” Chenle advised, “She’s one of the kindest, humblest and talented dancers I have ever met.” 

“Thanks Chenle.” Yukhei, Yuta, Yeeun and Sicheng said dryly.

“Those words could get you injured.” Yuta joked, “Do you notice how snippy Jaemin gets when people talk about Y/N?” 

“I’m more scared of Jeno.” Chenle said with a straight face, “Did you see how he crushed Haechans hand when he smeared chocolate icing on Y/N’s face? I’m surprised he didn’t get the whole bowl thrown at him.” 

“That’s because she was there to stop him.” Yukhei reminded, “I remember the chill that went down my spine when he gave me his death glare when Y/N first got here.” he shivered thinking about the past, “Bless her soul for holding him back.”

“He does tend to act up when it concerns Y/N…” Sicheng said thinking about all the scenarios, “I wonder if it’s a childhood thing or if it’s recent.” 

“Definitely childhood.” Yeeun said with a nod. She had heard stories from both Hana and Jaemin recounting tales of how Jeno was always super protective of you growing up even before you realized you had feelings for the other. 

“Is she the girl in the photos?” Kun asked, looking around the room and Sicheng nodded, “Does she have a brother too?” he asked again seeing a small boy in some of the photos near the fireplace.

“That’s...Jeno guys. Didn’t Jaemin and Hana tell you that they grew up together?” Chenle asked, confused.

“Jaemin said that the three of them went to school together.” YangYang said, “Wait so the little boy in that photo’s Jeno?” he asked pointing to the photo where it showed a boy and a girl lying on their stomachs in a tent, the biggest grins the two could muster at their young age.

“Yep.” Sicheng said, “Their families travelled together too if I remember. I remember him visiting from time to time when they came to see my family in China.”

“The only continent we haven’t been to now is Africa.” Jeno’s voice said as he walked in and was shocked to see the big crowd in your living room. The only people who were missing were Hana and Jaemin. 

“Oh hey, you’re back.” Sicheng said, “Did you grab my food?” 

“It’s in the fridge. I put some extra stuff in there too so you won’t starve and Yuta won’t eat you out of house and home.” he said walking past the group, making a beeline for the stairs, “Do you need anything from Y/N’s room?” he called down.

“No” Sicheng called back and shook his head, “At least he’s thinking about me.” 

“More like Y/N probably told him not to let you starve.” Chenle snorted and jumped when he felt something brush against his leg, “HOLY SHIT WHAT WAS THAT.” 

Everyone looked at Chenle weirdly before Tzuyu shrieked when she felt the same thing brush against her leg, ���What the heck!?” 

Suddenly, something jumped out from under the couch but before it could land on Tzuyu’s lap, a strong arm quickly caught it mid-air. Looking up, she was shocked to see Jeno who pretty much had his arm wrapped around her from behind as he used his other hand to secure the animal.  She couldn’t help but feel the blush form on her cheeks as she felt his toned arm brush gently against her shoulder and she looked up at him, frowning when she saw him cooing as he held a cat in his arms.

“What the heck is Seol doing here?” Yuta asked, knowing all three of Jeno’s cats.

“Jaemin left my window open when he left for school this morning.” Jeno muttered checking his cat over, “And Sicheng left Y/N’s window open to air it out so she probably jumped across since it’s not that far. She did that a lot after she left too. Also, this is Nal, not Seol.” He corrected. 

“Awe, she also misses Y/N.” Yeeun said giggling, remembering your instagram post before you left, “Y/N said that if this ever happens that it was your fault that you let the two bond so closely before she left.” 

“Nal’s always liked Y/N better than me.” Jeno easily admitted, “I’ll be right back, gonna put her back in the house before-” Jeno let out a big sneeze.

“Too late.” Yuta and Chenle said as Jeno quickly walked out of the house only to come back not even three minutes later.

“I still don’t get why you have three cats when you’re allergic.” Yukhei commented, “Why don’t you get a dog or something?” 

“Y/N and I rescued Seol and Nal together when we were ten and I’ve had Beonsik forever.” Jeno said and looked down at his phone, “I’m gonna get what I need from her bedroom and then get going.”

“What are you getting exactly?” Chenle asked pointedly, “Does she even know you’re doing this?” 

“Pffft, no.” Jeno snorted, “She’d murder me if she found out. But the surprise will be so worth it.”

“Then we don’t want to know..” Yukhei said, “Shouldn’t you hurry up though? Your scheduled nightly call should be happening soon no?”

“Right.” Jeno said and ran back up the stairs only to come down with a large box of things, “See you guys tomorrow!” and with that, he was out the door.

“This is the third time he’s done that.” Sicheng commented, “I wonder what he’s up to…” 

“I know.” Yeeun said with a shit eating grin, “But I’m sworn to secrecy.” 

“Wait, so Jeno and this Y/N person aren’t dating?” Xiaojun asked confused, “But he seems so…”

“Domesticated.” YangYang finished his friends sentence.

“They’re kind of in a complicated situation.” Yukhei answered, “They have a lot of history and they only met up again this year after not talking for four. They have a few things to sort out and with Y/N currently on a different continent, they’re taking things slow.”

“Hey, the man has his priorities straight.” Yuta added,”I would do the same if I felt that way about her.”

“He just doesn’t want to fuck up cause he’s whipped.” Chenle commented, “Plus, he still sees his best friend as a threat.” 

“I thought Jaemin was dating Hana.” YangYang said. He was confused and Chenle quickly shook his head to correct himself.

“I’m talking about Jisung. You would have met him had he stayed and left for training camp when he was supposed to but he decided to follow Y/N and the rest of them to Europe early.” he explained, “Y/N and Jisung are best friends from summer camp, Jeno and Jisung are best friends from SMAA.” 

“So when Y/N transferred back, her two worlds collided.” Kun said and the group nodded, “Dang, must’ve been hard.”

“Ooooo yea.” Sicheng said remembering all the drama that happened in their small group, “And we all didn’t expect her to leave again so soon either but for now, it’s obvious where his focus is.”

“Well I mean, he’s going to be seeing her sfafjsalkfjl” Yukhei started but was muffled by Yeeuns hand.

“I think it’s time for Yukhei and I to go.” she said quickly, “Does anyone need a ride?” 

No one but a select few knew of Jeno’s leadership offer with the prestigious dance academy, not even Jaemin or Hana who were the closest to him. Yukhei and Yeeun happened to find out by chance since Renjun and Yukhei became close again and let it slip but outside of that, Jeno was acting perfectly.

A few weeks later, Tzuyu was walking around the empty hallways alone. She had a free period since her instructor was sick that day and she decided to check out the various departments. She could have asked Xiaojun or YangYang to join her but she decided to take a breather and think about the happenings over the last few weeks. 

She was so confused. She had tried to talk to him on multiple occasions but she only saw him during their first period class. He would remain unresponsive, focussing solely on the choreography as if his mind was elsewhere. Despite Hana and Yeeun warning her to leave him alone, Jeno was doing a good job at deflecting her himself and she had no idea if it was intentional or not.  As the weeks went on, she noticed that he got noticeably colder towards the transfer students, often leaving early from hangouts or not even showing up at all. When he was around, he focussed on talking to the guys only and only answered her questions when she asked, often with one word or a small sentence. It was like he was isolating himself from his friends too.  Something was obviously bothering him and she was determined to get to the bottom of it.

As she walked by a practice room, she couldn’t help but hear a voice she recognized along with a much more feminine one.

“You need to lighten up.” the girl's voice said and Tzuyu peaked in to see Jeno sitting at a table he set up with his laptop open. Various papers and notebooks spread across. She knew it was a bad idea, but she couldn’t help but listen in on the conversation at hand.

“You’re only stressing yourself out more this way. Your duties don’t even start for another few months.” you said through the computer. The two of you and Renjun were having a video chat since Jeno was pretty much done school for the day and you were currently at your apartment working on performance preparations with Renjun. Jeno was going through the paperwork that he needed to fill for his application. The whole process in itself was stressful and on top of that, Soonyoung had asked for a few favors that he happily took, in order to distract him from everything else.

“But it’s going to help in the end won’t it?” Jeno asked, trying to reason with you and Renjun let out a sigh.

“Dude, I get that you want to be involved and everything but you’re still new to the system. I mean look at Jisung, the poor kid has complained EVERYDAY that training camp is so intensive.” he said, “Y/N’s right. You’re stressing yourself out for no reason.”

Tzuyu froze, so the female voice she heard was you. You didn’t sound all that special from what she could hear but the giggle you emitted when Jeno groaned before chuckling himself was what got her. 

“Where is Jisung anyways?” Jeno asked, curiously looking around the apartment through the camera.

“Unlike us, he has a strict schedule.” Renjun explained, “Remember, Xander wrote him the letter of recommendation so he has a lot to live up to. It’s no secret here either. Poor kid cried on Y/N’s shoulder the first day cause all the other students ridiculed his skill..” 

“Okay, now you’re just being mean.” you reprimanded, “YOU cried for the first TWO weeks of training camp. At least Jisung can suck it up. Plus his programs are harder because its for next years senior team. Hello, have you SEEN how Chan and Mia run their workshop?” 

“She got you there dude.” Jeno said looking at you with a soft smile, the softest smile Tzuyu had ever seen from him in all her time here, “Chan can be intense when he wants to be. I won’t say anything about your girlfriend in fear that she’ll find out and haunt me later.” 

“Shut up.” Renjun snapped, “Just you wait Lee Jeno, just you wait.” 

“Is that a threat small shoulders?” Jeno challenged.

“I don’t threaten, I promise.” Renjun said, “I will make you suffer.” 

“I mean, it won’t be as bad as Y/N and Mia making you suffer so I mean…” Jeno trailed off, “Plus, your girlfriend likes me better anyways.” 

“I always wonder about that.” Renjun admitted with a sigh, “Anyways, real talk. How are the transfers?”

The group in Europe which consisted of You, Renjun and Jisung were all aware of the suffering Chenle felt when he had to take on three dance majors since Renjun had left abruptly. You had heard a few things about one of them during your video calls with the girls and Jeno was also honest with everything during your phone calls. Did you see one of them as a potential threat? Kind of since the two of you agreed not to set things in stone until you were back for good and everything else settled down but you trusted him. 

“Outside of first period I don’t really see them.” Jeno admitted, he’d been taking more time to himself mentally. He had a lot of responsibilities within the NCT Dance club as a junior rep and the work he willingly took on for the Selects Team kept him busy most of the time.

“Ah, so that’s why Hana’s asked if I’ve talked to you.” you said finally understanding your friends words, “Why aren’t you hanging out with them? I heard that Kun, Xiaojun and YangYang joined NCT.”

“That they did.” Jeno confirmed with a nod, “I wonder if WinWin makes royalty’s off the club for all the transfer students he brings in.” he added as an after thought.

“What about the girl?” Renjun asked, “What’s her name again? Chou Tzuyu?”

“Sounds like it. I don’t talk to her much but she hangs around Yeeun and Hana a lot.” Jeno said nodding, “She’s actually a pretty good dancer.” 

“I’ve heard.” Renjun said, “A few of the dancers in my club talk about her. Heard she’s really talented despite her age.” 

“Just like Y/N back in the day.” Jeno said and the two of you looked at each other through the screen.

Renjun gagged and pushed you to the side, “Right in front of my lunch too. I thought we agreed flirting was meant for the night time conversations.” 

“You’re just salty that Mia’s been spending more time with Jisung and Chan lately.” you said pushing him back.

“Wait really?” Jeno asked, astonished. Chan was supposed to be helping out with the production so Jeno wondered what changed his mind.

“Yea, suddenly Soonyoung wanted to switch roles and Chan agreed since he wanted to get to know Jisung more.” Renjun explained, “Soonyoung, Jongin, Y/N and I are taking full control of the performance and Chan, Mia and the Senior team captains took over training camp. Anne-Marie is currently relaxing in the Carribean until new leaders are announced.” 

Jeno was shocked that Soonyoung switched places with Chan. It was obvious Chan had originally wanted to work with training camp but Soonyoung had a higher position so called dibs. Jeno wondered if it was because of a conversation the two had a few weeks back.

“So how do you feel about Y/N being so far away again?” Soonyoung asked.

The two had started meeting up more often, evening inviting Jaemin along at times. It was like ever since the day they met, a brotherhood had formed.  Today, Jeno had driven up to visit Soonyoung since it was the weekend and the two were meeting over some hot pot.

“What do you want me to say?” Jeno asked, “I just got her back and she’s gone again. Like, we talk every night but I still miss her you know.” 

“It’s understandable. But you guys talk everyday right? It’s not like anythings really changed, minus her being a 12 hour flight away part.” Soonyoung tried to reason and Jeno shrugged.

“I think towards the end, we spent so much time together that it was harder to let go and now she’s over there with Jisung and I don’t know what that kid has planned.” Jeno said, his voice getting lower at every word.

“Wait what about Jisung?” Soonyoung asked, “I thought he and Y/N were best friends.”

“They are…” Jeno said, running a hand down his face, “It’s just I don’t think his feelings for her are platonic. They way he was acting towards her in the end, he was just so protective, intent on keeping her away from me.”

Soonyoung hummed to himself, leaning back in his seat, “Is that what’s really bothering you right now?”

“It’s been on my mind for a while. There were times times when I’d be on video call with her and Jisung would randomly walk into her room and throw himself on her bed and other times, he’s already there with her…”  Jeno confessed, “I get they’re best friends but the look in his eye tells me otherwise.” 

“I’ll take care of it.” Soonyoung said and Jeno gave him a confused look and Soonyoung smiled, reaching over to pat his shoulder, “Just focus on making things official with Y/N.” 

Jeno wondered if Chan was playing a role. Jisung had been showing up less frequently in your video calls and the two of you had been actually able to talk about personal things. 

“Interesting. When do the two of you start rehearsals?” Jeno asked, changing the subject.

As the three of you continued to converse, Tzuyu was about to walk in but was quickly pulled back by the wrist, coming face to face with Yeeun.

[robinrunsfiction]

can we get a sequel to the lonely road? maybe the reader deletes their Twitter account and the haters are tweeting how weak they are and such and gee steps in on Twitter and all his socials talking about it and how happy he is and that everyone putting the reader down wasn't truly a fan because they weren't respecting her and how happy she made him? just gee stepping in and defending the reader

The Lonely Road Part 2 - Home Again

Pairing: Gerard Way x Female ReaderRating: Teen (for online bullying)Requested By: Three separate anonsWord Count: ~1,500Author’s Note: Holy smokes guys! Three separate anons all looking for part two of this story?! That make me feel so good as a writer! And the best part is that everyone seemed to have the same idea I did, as I had basically pulled that part out of part one to keep it from getting too long and rambling. Kinda like this note is getting. Ok on to the story!

Gerard flew back to LA later that day and your tour continued on. The next few stops were much better, thanks in part to the refreshing visit with Gerard and a day off that everyone sorely needed, but also Christine getting much more stern with the interviewers about the questions they would be asking. 

Having removed the Twitter app from your phone was proving to be incredibly helpful for your mental health, however it wasn’t silencing the constant stream criticism and hate from Gerard’s so-called fans. The longer you maintained your silence, the more vicious the tweets became.

I hope @(YFN)(YLN) bus crashes

Hey @mikeyway is (YN) as aweful as she seems?

can we just cancel her fo existing? #(YN)iscancelledparty

A couple weeks later, the tour was over and you were rolling back into LA. Christine drove you home and debriefed you on what you would be doing in the coming weeks, but most importantly you had a few days off. All you could think of was getting home and meeting up with Gerard, but when you finally arrived, a familiar car was already waiting in the driveway.

“Gee!” You squealed, jumping out of the passenger seat as soon as the car had stopped moving. You ran up to him and jumped in his arms as he spun you both around. “Ugh the last two weeks were the longest yet!”

“I know, I missed you so much,” he said, setting you back down before planting a big kiss on you. 

You weren’t aware of how long you had been lost in Gerard’s kiss until you heard Christine clearing her throat behind you.

“Sorry to interrupt this lovely reunion, you two really are the cutest I swear, but (YN) you wanna get your dirty laundry out the back seat of my car?” Christine asked snidely.

You pulled back and rolled your eyes as you went to retrieve your things.

“Thanks again for coordinating everything so I could come out and see (YN),” you heard Gerard say to Christine. 

“Happy to help. I’ll get outta here so I’m not interrupting any further,” she said with a wave. “Oh and don’t forget (YN), meeting on Tuesday at 11 AM.”

“Got it,” you said, waving her off as Gerard helped to carry your bags inside the house. “Ugh, finally it’s just you and me again,” you said, draping your arms over Gerard’s shoulders as he put his hands on your waist, kissing you sweetly.

“My favorite place to be,” he smiled. “What do you wanna do first?”

“Honestly? I’m starving, can we order some lunch? And then eat it in bed? And just stay in bed for like the rest of the day?“

“That sounds great,” Gerard laughed.

~

The next morning Gerard invited you to go along with him to the studio to sit in on My Chem’s recording session.

”(YN)! How was touring?“ Ray greeted you with a warm hug.

"Ugh, it was a real learning opportunity,” you laughed and rolled your eyes.

“Gee told us you were having some trouble with the internet. That’s why I just stay away from it,” Ray shrugged.

“You probably got the right idea,” you replied as Mikey and Frank walked in.

“Hey (YN), welcome back,” Mikey said, exchanging a look with Frank.

“Yea… what was that about?” You replied, narrowing your eyes as you lookied between the two of them.

“Nothin,” Frank replied. “I gotta get in there and get this riff recorded before I lose it,” he said,  hurrying into the recording booth. Ray turned his attention to talking to the producer about what Frank was doing, leaving you with the brothers.

“Mikey, what was that look you gave Frank?” Gerard pressed.

“Yea, spill it,” you chimed in.

Mikey sighed. “I went on twitter for the first time in a while and there were all these messages directed at me asking why you weren’t on there, if you were too scared and weak to face the fans, if I liked you dating Gee, if Gee was happy, asking me to break you guys up so Gee and Frank can be together,” he said rolling his eyes.

“For fucks sake,” Gerard muttered, running his hand through his hair.

“Did you reply?” You asked, your voice barely coming out as a squeak. You were so sick of this response when your music career was just barely taking off. What if you achieved the level of success you once dreamed of, what would the criticism be like then? And what if Gerard got sick of dealing with you and the drama that seemed to follow you at every turn.

“Nah, I’m not gonna dignify that shit with a response. But for the record, I love you and Gee together,” he smiled reassuringly.

“Well I’ve fucking had it,” Gerard snapped as he pulled his phone out of his jacket pocket.

“What are you doing?” You asked.

“Shutting this down. These people claim to be fans, but can’t show a shred of respect to you, me, Mikey, Frank, Jamia, any of us. It ends today.”

You glanced at Mikey, who shrugged and joined Ray listening to Frank play. Gerard quickly slipped deep into thought as he typed furiously at his phone. You turned your attention to Frank’s playing as well until you felt a tap on your shoulder.

“Wanna go for a walk?” Gerard asked.

“Sure,” you replied with a smile as you got up and followed him out of the studio. It was a warm, sunny day, perfect for being outside instead of cooped up in a soundproof, windowless room. Gerard’s hand found yours as you wandered down the street, eventually stopping at a small cafe with big planters of bright flowers surrounding their outdoor seating area.

“This place is so cute,” you commented between sips of your iced coffee when you found a table.

Gerard nodded in agreement, before sliding his chair closer to yours. “I wanna get a photo,” he said, holding up his phone as he leaned in and placed a kiss on your cheek and you laughed with delight. Before you knew it, you and Gerard were practically having a full-on photo shoot, taking photos on your phones of each other, and both of you together. You were laughing and having a wonderful time until two people in business attire shot you a withering glance as they sat down at one of the other tables to begin their meeting.

As Gerard’s laughter died down, he started scrolling through the photos. “This is the one,” he said.

“What?” You asked, looking up from your own collection of photos.

“One sec,” he said, concentrating on his phone for a moment. “Ok, umm, so I want you to read this caption before I post it on instagram. You’re the most important person in the world to me and I love you. I’m so sick of how you’re being treated online, so I hope this shuts it down.”

When you took his phone, you looked at the photo he had selected and edited a little. You were laughing, holding your coffee, the bright flowers behind you providing the perfect backdrop as the sun shone down, but your heart pounded in your chest as you scrolled down and began to read:

It frustrates me that I even have to write this, but it’s overdue. For weeks and months now, I’ve tried to ignore the near constant barrage of hate and vitriol being spewed toward someone who is so important to me. I’ve said before that (YN) brings so much happiness and love to my life, she’s someone that I’ll be with forever if I’m lucky. 

But when every day I have to see and hear that people are questioning how much joy she brings me, saying vile things to and about her, it makes me sick. No one deserves that. And the fact that it’s being done in the name of supposedly protecting me is unacceptable. Disrespect is unacceptable and that’s not what being a fan is. 

To everyone who has shown (YN) love and support with her new album, or at the very least treated her respectfully, thank you. I appreciate it so much.

To my love (YN), I am so sorry that I didn’t do this sooner. You’re the most talented, beautiful, thoughtful, loving woman I’ve ever met. Never let them steal what makes you wonderful. I’m here for you always.

You glanced up at Gerard, your eyes welling up with tears. “Thank you,” you said softly.

“I mean it, I’m so sorry I didn’t step in sooner. I thought if we ignored it, they’d shut up and go away, not get worse.”

“It’s ok, there was no way of knowing,” you shrugged. “Maybe this will get someone to think twice. And I think we’ll all be better off if we take a break from Twitter. That’s where the worst of it seems to be.”

“You’re right,” Gerard nodded. “I  really love you (YN),” he said with a gentle smile.

“I love you too. And thank you for everything you do for me,” you said as you leaned in and sweetly placed a kiss against his lips.

[5sosbitchfest]

Reactions to Luke’s IG Story 6/14/2020

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I hate her as much as the next person but bi people in straight relationships are still bi

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I call bullshit on Messy being bi. Sorry, if she was bi, why didn't she come out earlier? Her 'haters'? Where? Also, Luke needs to learn the difference between supporting Pride and celebrating it while PR dating a fake ass 'bi' woman.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I also don’t think it’s fair to say Sierra has never been in a same sex relationship we really don’t know who she’s dated. This is a big problem in the LGBT community, when a bi woman is in a relationship with a man her bi identity gets erased. Halsey has actually talked about this a lot. While I agree that Lierra is not a queer couple, that does not erase Sierra’s identity as a queer woman, and pride is absolutely still for her to celebrate too 🌈

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: *i understand that it was Luke’s post but obviously she had input to post it.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Does Messy’s journey of her sexuality excuse her transphobia? Bc I don’t think so. She sure is selective about who and what she celebrates then. She posted that picture for attention, like everything else she does. It sounds harsh and if she wants to share her journey then great but let’s recognize and call it out for what it is. She doesn’t need to have Luke in a post to talk about her sexuality. Happy Pride Month to that person she purposely misgendered and attempted to invalidate.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: It’s not about disliking Sierra anon. She has only officially came out in a reply on twitter that she later deleted. That’s the only time it’s been mentioned. People struggle to come out and she tweeted and deleted it as if she actually wasn’t saying it. And now her boyfriend is the one essentially coming out for her? That’s what the issue is anon she has never openly said she was bisexual and now that it’s pride month she is? This is just the first time it’s being brought up& it wasn’t even her

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I don’t care that Luke posted good on him but him posting something for pride halfway through the month makes the other boys look inconsiderate for not posting anything

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I'm the anon that said the thing about "lets not make this into a mikey situation" I agree that it was a complete distraction tactic, and I also can not stand Sierra I was just trying saying that even with those two things in mind the post isnt harming anyone and so we shouldn't get mad at luke for making it.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I hate to admit it but I don't see Lierra ending anywhere near soon. Yes, couples don't last forever and still I don't think they will but let's be honest, he cares about her. Idk how things are in their life, and I hope he's happy, but I think she will stay around for this year and maybe a bit of 2021. 🙄

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Okey but was the "biracial" necessary? It made me cringe...

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I know luke can be cringy when it comes to Sierra but cmon haven’t we learn by now all the cringy stuff if from Sierra being on his account lol

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Sierra wrote that ... no caps, her grammar, fave chosen emojis etc totes her 10000000000% although glad acknowledging bisexual biracial but Angel? Angel by day and to stans but I thought she was the “late night devil”

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Something about Luke’s ig story doesn’t sit well with me... the fact that he felt the need to state that she’s biracial and bisexual just makes it look like he’s treating her like some kind of a trophy to show off, idk it just doesn’t feel right

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Why do L and S feel the need to make everything about S? This isn't about you, so shut up and actually get a job.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: “beautiful bisexual biracial angel” i’m gagging and laughing so hard yeah he 100% wrote and posted that himself /sarcasm

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I love luke and I'm happy if he's happy but the way Sierra clings to him in that photo is so gross. It really just feels like she's using him to do her dirty work. Like that post didnt feel genuine at all and it really seems like luke isnt even trying to convince us anymore he just does the bare minimum to make her happy. I dont blame him tho. Just feels icky.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: As a straight person, I hate straight couples and hope to never be cringe.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I'm sorry but that Instagram story that luke posted talking about his "beautiful bisexual biracial angel🥰🥺" does NOT (capitalize, underline and bold) sound like how luke would type something. The first part where he talks about how far we have to go sounds like him but not that that part.. not even close. Want to bet either sierra typed it, gave him the idea to say that OR did both cause we know she monitors him like crazy

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: "Bisexual biracial" is so unnecesarry. Luke, hon, shut up. People are out here fighting for their rights, and you feel the need and have the audacity to make it about your crazy ass girlfriend? Don't get me wrong, I love the boys, but making every fcking thing about your girlfriend-particularly luke- is not the point of these movements. So stfu Luke, stfu Sierra, stop making everything about S. That pisses me off, sorry I just needed to rant somewhere.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: is it just me or does the whole “beautiful bisexual biracial angel” not sound like him or something he’d say??? idk I’m kinda new to the fandom but it felt cringey reading that come from him

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Did you see what luke posted on his story? Seems him and Sierra are getting along great, smh. Also she's confirmed bi as well I guess. That's cool. Hope she doesnt use it as a weapon to defend criticism tho. Also did luke redo his hair cuz it seems very white again. Idk. Seems fishy. What are your thoughts? Do you think he was told to post that to distract from mike?

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: just when I was starting to forgive luke for his “response” to messy’s MESS, he goes and posts this... I’m TIRED

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: ok but as a lesbian it makes me sooo happy that Luke is celebrating pride and he's supportive of her sexuality 🥺 men never take bisexuality seriously and I love that he respects that. YET as someone who doesn't like s I'm like why....... like this week has been so frustrating and we were all like "they don't defend m bc they're in a sm break" and now he comes to post this and doesn't say anything? i just :(

allisonscarlett said to 5sosbitchfest: Honestly pride month came just in time cause I remember some stans saying that sierra is probably not bisexual and now there's luke insta story. I'm not trying to erase anyone's sexual orientation, I'm bisexual myself and I've found it weird that in the past years sierra didn't anything about her sexuality during pride month (and don't remember when she tweeted about being bi but I don't thing that it was in during pride month)

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: is anyone else getting"i can't be racist/homophobic because my gf is biracial and bisexual" vibes from lukes ig story or is it just me??? does he know he's digging a hole???

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: should we assume luke posted that in response to the insiders muke information? interesting timing on his part

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I honestly can't stand Luke rn. Angel? Angel???? ANGELLL????????????

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Okay but I don't think that counts as a "a straight couple thinking pride is theirs to celebrate". Just cause Sierra is in a straight relationship doesn't take away from the fact that she's bi, or mean she can't celebrate pride. And I think Luke wishing her and everyone a happy pride is actually a really supportive thing for him and again doesn't really count as a straight person thinking pride is theirs to celebrate, because he's focusing on her, not himself.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: “my beautiful biracial angel” i hate it here

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Gonna say something to MAYBE make some people happy. That picture was taken at a PROTEST. So they probably aren't together 😂😂 they were just together for the protest

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: The biracial part of his story post is feeding into him being a king for dating a mixed person

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: ok luke did look very cute tho

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Every single time there’s any drama in the fandom, a new “cute” picture pops up and some people really think that’s goals? Like in what world is now the time for that kind of post, if it isn’t a direct pr response to the twitter mess of the past few days? Smh they’re not even trying to be subtle anymore

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: i think it’s fine for straight couples to go to and celebrate pride when one of them or both of them aren’t straight.

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: I was reading this blog a few hours ago and I read a post where someone said that everyone basically assumed sierra was bi bc of a comment and now Luke comes out calling her "bisexual" as if he was confirming it...Idk felt weird lol

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest:  Bisexual biracial angel😭😭 who made him write that and thought people will take it seriously

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: have you seen luke’s story? “especially to my bisexual biracial girlfriend” i fucking CACKLED like is it how she’s supposed to be known for?

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: thank you luke for that ig post for it will keep messy ass kissers away from m mentions for a while

Anonymous said to 5sosbitchfest: Funny how you just brought up everyone saying that Sierra was bi just cause she said she loved men and woman and woopty do guess what luke put on his insta story. “My beautiful bisexual biracial gf” Luke I love you but 🤢

[hoseokutie]

Best Friends Baby 5

Hey! I’m back with another part ti this series, I hope you all enjoy it. and I would like to thank all of my followers and fans of this series that stick around and wait for me to update, you all are greatly appreciated!!

Previous Parts can be found here: Part 1  Part 2  Part 3  Part 4 

Words: 2.4K

Warnings: Swearing, Possible spelling errors

                         ___________________________

“So let me get this straight, you had sex and then you decided to act as if nothing happened?” Your best friend, Amani asked as you both sat on your couch and ate dinner.

“Okay, first of all don’t say it like that, and second of all yeah that is lowkey what happened.” You shrug your shoulders and continued to eat.

“That’s so scandalous! How long has it been since to two had sex? The party was like a month ago, how have you guys just moved on!?” She questioned, while in complete shock and you just shrugged.

“We talked about it, acknowledged it, had sex a few more times then moved on. The end.” You smiled at her then took a sip of water. 

“You are wild as hell, but that’s why you’re my best friend.” You two high fived one another and went back to enjoying your meal.

“So totally off topic, but like is his friend Jungkook single?” She asked, looking at you in all seriousness.

“I uh, I’m pretty sure he’s single, do you want me to ask for you?” You looked over at her and chuckled when she shyly nodded.

You looked up from your meal when there was a knock on your door, then followed by your other friend singing loudly from the opposite side of the door.

“Oh my lord, Kira just come in!” You said and shake your head at her silly antics.

She opens the door and locks it behind her as she walks into the house dancing as if she won the lottery.

“Why are you so damn happy?” Amani asked.

“I just found out that I am not pregnant which means I get free drinks this Saturday!” She exclaimed, dancing her way to the couch.

You stifled a laugh and shake your head, grabbing the dishes from the coffee table.

“Girl, you kill me every time you open your mouth to say something. You are hilarious.” You tell her, putting the used dishes into the washing machine.

“I’m a comedian for a reason, right? And shit, I bought extra just to be sure.” She reached over and grabbed some food that was still in the takeout container.

Amani smiled and reached over grabbing one of the extra pregnancy tests before laughing herself as she read the label.

“Hey, Y/N, we should take one of these for fun. I’ve always wanted to try one.” She grabbed a second test for you and stood up making her way into the kitchen.

“Out of all the things that you want to do with your life, this is one of them?” You asked, as you took the test from her hands.

“You wanted to be a burlesque dancer at 14, but you don’t see me judging you, now do you?” She smiled brightly and went into the guest bathroom, you looked over at Kira and just stared at her.

“Just do it girl, what’s the harm?” She shrugged and rolled her eyes, nodding her head towards the upstairs bathroom.

You sighed and nodded your head before shrugging your shoulders as well.

“Yeah I guess you’re right, y'all better be lucky that I have to pee real bad anyways.” You ran upstairs and into your bathroom.

You turned on the light and shut the door before making your way to the toilet to do your business and take the silly ass test. 

You quickly read the box and opened it, before making your way to the toilet and peeing on the stick. 

“This is not easy.” You mumbled to yourself as you finished using the bathroom.

You set the test to the side on a piece of tissue, flushed the toilet and proceeded to wash your hands. After drying your hands and turning off the water you checked your phone.

You went through your apps, liked some pictures on Instagram, left at a few comments on select peoples posts, and laughed at a few memes. You really doing anything to pass the time.

“Sis, it’s been five minutes! What are you doing in there? Did you go on Instagram again? That app is going to ruin you!” Amani said making beats on your door.

“Amani, shut the hell up!” You opened the door and both girls walked into the room.

“Did you look at it?” Kira asked and you shake your head before messing with Amani by showing her some photos of Jungkook.

She pouts and hits at your phone, you laugh playfully and move your phone out of the way before she can hit it.

“I’m serious Y/N, let me know if he’s single, looking to mingle, and interested into black girls.” She said, emphasizing the last part.

You laughed before nodding your head.

“Alright, ms. needy. I will make sure to find out about you. You follow him on Instagram and Snapchat, so I don’t know why you don’t just ask him yourself.

“Oh my fucking gosh!” Kira said loudly, interrupting you and Amani’s small talk.

“What’s your problem?” Kira asked walking over to her before her eyes widened and her lips puckered. 

“What? Why are you both making that face?” You asked before walking over to them and looking down at the test. 

You felt everything around you slow down as you read the results from the test. Two prominent blue lines was all you managed to see.

“Fuck.” You mumbled taking the test from her hands and sitting down on the floor, your body not being able to stand and process these emotions.

“I don’t understand, we were careful. I know we were.” You said looking at your friends who sat across from you.

“You may not have been as careful as you thought sweetie.” Kira said, reaching over to hold your hand.

“What are you going to do?” Amani asked, taking the test from your hands so that you could try and focus a little bit. 

“I have to tell Joon first, Jesus I need to tell him now!” You grabbed your phone and went to dial his number but froze.

“What’s wrong Y/N?” Kira asked looking at your frozen state.

“I can’t do it, I’m scared. I don’t even know what to say. What if he hates me and I lose one of my best friends?” You begin to panic.

Amani scoots closer to you and holds you in her arms, she held you close and kissed the top of your head.

“You don’t need to stress about anything, because everything is going to be just fine. You’re gonna tell Joon the truth and you both will be responsible adults and figure this situation out. Stop stressing.” She held your face in her hands and you nodded before picking up the phone and dialing his number. 

Your nerves made time seem like it was so much slower than it actually was. The phone began to ring, part of you wished he didn’t answer, but the other half wish that he would have picked up by now. 

“Hello best friend, how can I help you on this lovely evening?” Namjoons voice rang through the phone and you calmed down.

“Hello moon child, what are you doing right now? I was wondering if we could possibly talk.” You held Kira’s hand and waited for an answer.

“I’m not doing much. Just folding my laundry, typical Friday night for good ole Joon.” He said in a fake enthusiastic tone.

The small act put a slight smile on your face and you let out a small breath of air.

“Well, would you mind coming over? Feel free to bring your laundry. You can even bring some of the other boys if you’re up for it. I’ve got Kira and Amani with me so, yeah.” You slowly stood up and rubbed your forehead.

“That sounds like a plan, I’ll send a text to the group chat and see who’s able to join us, I’ll see you in about 30 minutes.” He informed you.

“Sounds good to me, I’ll see you when you get here.” You hung up the phone and looked at yourself in the mirror.

“I look a hot mess.” You said out loud and chuckled.

“Not gonna lie, you do, but it’s definitely allowed under these recent events.” Kira said, standing up behind you. 

“Well you’ve got some time before he gets here. What do you want to do?” She asked rubbing your back.

You looked in the mirror and shrug your shoulders taking the test from Kira before looking at it again.

“I just wanna get this over with.” You answered, looking at the bother of them 

                                          ______________

About half an hour passed before Namjoon finally arrive at your house, you and the girls greeted him at the door with hugs.

“Sorry it took so long, I had to give RapMon another bath because he thought it would be fun to run in the backyard.” He said while shaking his head.

“Oh he's so precious and innocent.” You said patting Joon on the shoulder.

“Where’s the other boys?” You asked, walking over to the living room.

“Jungkook and Chim will be here soon, Tae is on a date so he won’t be able to make it. Yoongi said he would let me know, and Hoseok and Jin are gonna come by after the gym.” He told you.

Amani silently thanked the gods above when she heard Jungkook was going to be joining them and she did a small happy dance.

“So what’s up, is everything okay?” He asked wrapping an arm around your shoulder.

“Everything is as okay as it can be.” You shrugged and chuckled sitting down on the couch with him.

“Uh oh, that does not sound as positive as it should. Talk to me like I’m one of the girls. Is it a boy? Somebody from work bothering you? I’ll cut someone if I really have to. You know I’ll do it.” He said in all seriousness and you couldn’t help but laugh.

“No it’s nothing like that, well actually when you think about it, i guess it does have something to do with a boy. Yeah it does.” 

You were not going to let your nerves get in the way of telling Namjoon what the issue is, he deserves to know the truth. 

“Hey I’m here for you what’s up?” He took your hand and held it in his own.

You smiled and blew out a small breath of air before clearing your throat and holding his hand in your own.

“Namjoon, what I’m going to tell you could possibly, no, I know it’s going to change our friendship. Forever.” You said to him in all seriousness. 

He held your hand up to his face and smiled cutely to help calm your nerves and reassure you.

“Hey, nothing could ever change our friendship. You’re my girl and I care about you deeply. Now talk to me.” He took your hand off his face and you nodded your head. 

“Namjoon, I’m-” The moment you started talking there was a knock on the door.

“I got it!” Kira said running to the door.

“Hey, it’s probably just the boys. Just go ahead and finish your thought. What’s up?” He got your attention and you cleared your throat. 

“Namjoon… I’m pregnant.” You finally told him and you watched him freeze up.

You instantly regret your decision and let go of his hands, you watched him try and make a sentence, but he just continued to stumble over his words.

“You ...pregnant? Are you serious? This isn’t another one of your pranks is it?” He asked in all seriousness.

“No, I’m not joking. Namjoon I’m so sorry.” You told him and he shook his head, standing up and pulling you into his arms.

“No, don’t apologize. This is something we’ve done together. We’re both in this together. Just wow, I’m really caught off guard.” He said rubbing your back. 

Part of you was still scared about everything, but when Namjoon pulled you into his arms, deep down you knew everything was really going to be okay. 

“Hey we having a hugging party or something?” Jimin asked walking into the living room with his arms open with Jumgkook following behind. 

You laughed as the boys hugged you and Joon, Kira and Amani also joined in on the group hug and everybody laughed.

“Why are we hugging?” Jungkook asked in confusion.

“There’s going to be a new addition to the group.” You pulled away from the group hug and stood there with your hands on your hips.

“Who’s getting a dog?” Jimin asked in all seriousness and Amani laughed.

“Jimin, I’m pregnant.” You told him and his eyes went wide before looking between you and Joon.

“I knew it! I always knew that you two would make babies in the future!” He exclaimed before hugging you both again.

Everyone in the room laughed and shook their heads at Jimin’s excitement. 

“I’m not the youngest anymore.” Jungkook said with a cute pout.

“No buddy you’re not. But in all seriousness, we are the only people that needs to know about this, as well as the other boys. I think we should wait to tell our families, especially since we don’t have a set plan.” Namjoon said, looking down at you.

“Yeah I think that’s a good idea, wait a couple of months then let everybody know. That seems like a good idea.” You nodded your head and leaned on Namjoon.

“Well nonetheless, congratulations, but I am hungry, Y/N please tell me you have food or that one of your friends can cook something.” Jungkook said, rubbing his stomach.

“I can make you a breakfast sandwich, I know it’s late but-” Amani began talking before Jungkook cut her off.

“I love breakfast sandwiches, please make me one.” Jungkook said pulling her into the kitchen.

“I’m gonna go take a shower while we wait.” Kira said, waving at us.

“I um, I don’t really know where to go so yeah.” Jimin said rubbing the back of his neck.

“You can sit on the couch with us and be incorporated in our plan, if you want to of course.” You said, sitting down on the couch pulling the boys down on either side of you.

“Joon, if that’s okay with you.” Jimin looked over and Namjoon smiled.

“Hey, I don’t see why not.” He gave his signature smile.

“Then let’s get to planning!” You said excitedly. 

[basicshadowhuntersstuff]

This super-sized roundup covers the last two weeks in news, updates, sneak peeks, and behind the scenes. All the stuff you need to stay up to date.

Official Promotion

Harry (Magnus) accepting his People’s Choice Award.

Behind-the-scenes photos of Matt (Alec) playing piano of seasons 2 and 3. 

Kat (Clary) accepting her People’s Choice Award.

Worth staring at in traffic. #Shadowhunters

Happiest of birthdays to shining star @Kat_McNamara. #Shadowhunters

Cheers to each and every one of you. Happy Thanksgiving, #Shadowhunters family. 

ShadowhuntersTV shared a special message from Freeform Santa.

TFW you realize the long weekend is almost over. #Shadowhunters // @Kat_McNamara, @DavidLCastro_ @arosende 

Reunited. Maia & Simon behind the scenes of #Shadowhunters Season 3B. 

What are these two up to?  Behind the scenes of #ShadowhuntersSeason3. 

We'd know those shoulders anywhere. #Shadowhunters 

Some Maia to brighten your day.  #Shadowhunters 

Our first gift of the holiday season is a 4 second behind-the-scenes video of Kat (Clary) and the announcement of #25DaysOfTeasers: And welcome to December! Now through December 25th, we're celebrating #25DaysOfTeasers in which we'll be sharing new content from #Shadowhunters every day. Starting with this gorgeous snow angel. Thanks for being the best fandom, #ShadowFam.

Shadowhunters In The News

MEAWW (interviews, articles, and fan features): Matthew Daddario and Dominic Sherwood interview; The cast of ‘Shadowhunters’ commend fans; three features on Katherine McNamara; fan features from Tasha Adamski  and Amelia Gormley;  #SaveShadowhunters; Malec; and Harry Shum Jr.

Pop Hearts TV (video interview): Katherine McNamara talks Shadowhunters coming to an end, what the finale might have in store for fans. 

Conventions France (video interview): Are Katherine and Will true fan of Shadowhunters ? You’ll have the answer in this interview! 

Cosmopolitan (article): The Definitive Ranking of the Best TV Ships of 2018.

E! News (article):  Harry Shum Jr. Pays Tribute to Touching Shadownhunters Fanmail After Winning People's Choice Award.

Zarata Events (Convention): Pandemonium Con announces Kat (Clary) as their final guest.

Cosmopolitan (article):  Everything to Know About ‘Shadowhunters' Season 3B and Finale Event.

Film Daily (article):  #SaveShadowhunters: Here’s why the #PCA’s were a huge victory for the #Shadowfam

Matt Carter Media (article): Shadowhunters Season 3 Finale Update.

ShumdarioNews shares their exclusive Friday photo of Matt (Alec).

Esquire (article): Harry (Magnus) is featured in The Best-Dressed Men Of The Week

Grumpy Magazine features Kat (Clary) in their Fall 2018 issue.

E!News (article):  Celebrate Katherine McNamara's Birthday With All Her BTS Pics From the Shadowhunters Set

WatchMojo.com (video):  Top 10 TV Cancellations That Upset Us in 2018

Matt Carter (article):  Shadowhunters season 3 episode 11 preview: What should be next?

Just Jared Jr. (poll):  What Is the Best TV Show of 2018? Vote Now!

Film Daily (article):  #SaveMalec: Why Harry Shum, Jr. is our renaissance man

Teen Vogue (article):  "Riverdale" and "Supernatural" Are the Top Live-Action TV Shows of 2018 on Tumblr

Tumblr released 2018′s Top Ships and Top Live-Action TV Shows.

Shine On Media (video interview):  Katherine McNamara Teases ARROW, "Twisted" SHADOWHUNTERS Finale & Dream Role

TV Insider (article):  'Shadowhunters': Go Behind the Scenes of the Final Episodes (PHOTOS)

You’re So Beautiful Now (video interview):  EXCLUSIVE VID: Katherine McNamara Gives Emotional "Shadowhunters" Interview

Red Carpet Report (video interview):  Katherine McNamara interviewed at Netflix premiere of Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle #Netflix #Mowgli

Miami Living Magazine (interview): Katherine McNamara is on Fire

Brief Take (interview): Interview: Arrow’s Katherine McNamara

SyFy Wire (article):  Ranking the sexiest werewolves on television

Basic Stuff Magazine (photos): Shares photos from the Italian Institute Shadowhunters convention from back in July 

Basic Stuff Magazine (article and photos): MCM Comic Con London Shadowhunters panel recap (SATURDAY), and photos (SATURDAY/SUNDAY)

Social Media Stuff

Harry (Magnus) selects the winner of his #MassiveMagnusFan contest. 

Kat (Clary) tweeted: Vulnerability is uncertain, its strange and scary, but share it with the right person and it becomes an unexpected gift. Open up. Be fearless. It’s never too late to take that chance to live and love. #MondayMotivation. 

Isaiah (Luke) shared a throwback photo with Matt (Alec) from New York Comic Con 2017.

Kat (Clary) will be on the cover of Avante Magazine in December 2018

Will Tudor (Johnathan Morganstern/Sebastian Verlac) will be on the cover of Man About Town Magazine’s Winter 2018/Spring 2019 edition.

Folks VFX (VFX team) tweeted: Philippe, our VP and VFX Supervisor for @ShadowhuntersTV geared up for the show's last VFX deliveries #vfx #shadowhunters #WednesdayMotivation

Todd (showrunner) shared a photo from the viewing party for the season 3 finale event with the caption: The last mix. The last day in the shadow world for ⁦me and @DSwim⁩ and it was a glorious day. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts #castlikenoother #crewlikenoother #fanslikenoother #shadowhunters #ShadowhuntersLegacy

Darren (showrunner) tweeted a response to Todd’s viewing party tweet: It was amazing to watch the completed finale movie along with the members of cast who were in town. A perfect way to go into Thanksgiving. So much to be thankful for. 

Bryan Q. Miller (writer) tweeted his feelings about 3B: It's a ride, gang #ShadowhuntersLegacy 

Lindsay Wolfington (music mupervisor) tweeted: #Shadowhunters music team ready to mix the finale!!! @jackwallmusic​ 

Luke Baines (Johnathan Morganstern) tweeted:  Saw the finale today, and wow. Start sending love letters to @toddzer1 + @DSwim because they have done you so proud - it’s better than anything I could have imagined. I cried three times. And twice, it was out of happiness

Kat (Clary) tweeted:  Beautiful, bittersweet, and bloody good - final mix of the @shadowhunterstv series finale #TheFinalHunt. Angels, start stockpiling tissues now - you’re gonna need em. Thank you to @toddzer1 and @DSwim for this gift to the #ShadowhuntersLegacy.

Isaiah (Luke) celebrated Thanksgiving as Freeform Santa.

Arianna (Madzie) tweeted a birthday message to Kat (Clary).

Luke Baines (Johnathan Morganstern) replies to fan questions about crying during the 3B finale.

Kat (Clary) responds to birthday messages from Zelda Williams and Lisa Berry (Sister Cleophas).

Lola Flannery (Young Seelie Queen) tweeted a birthday message to Kat (Clary). 

Harry (Magnus) celebrated his sixth anniversary with wife Shelby Rabara.

Luke (Johnathan) tweeted Thankful to the #Shadowhunters’ fans who have welcomed me so wholeheartedly, and specifically to those who donated and posted about Pasha - his operation was a success and he’s on the mend. Thank you today and every day.

Kat (Clary) tweeted Cheers to you, angels! I am eternally grateful for this amazing, warm, accepting, loving, passionate fandom.  Forever yours, Fray

Kat (Clary) shared a photo of herself taken by Will Tudor (Johnathan Morganstern/Sebastian Verlac).

Luke Baines (Johnathan Morganstern) answered fan questions on Twitter. 

Kat (Clary) tweeted a hiking photo:  Not sure if it’s the sunshine or time well spent with this lady, but today’s hike sure put a smile on my face...  #regram @arden_cho

MCM Comic Con tweeted a video:  What was your first fandom? @ch8i of @ShadowhuntersTV tells us his live from #mcmcomiccon Birmingham! Come join us! #WeAreTheFans

Kat (Clary) shared a photo from her Grumpy Magazine cover feature.

Chai Hansen (Jordan Kyle) shared a photo from MCM Comic Con on Instagram: Can’t remember what the joke was... but we were both in stitches lol

Brian Hui (makeup artist) tried to clear up a rune mystery:  Hiya! I only joined S3 so I was aware of the mystery of the double Angelic runes! Now our man Jace has a Flexibility, NYX and Stamina on his chest. The double Angelic...only the Angels know the reason!

Kat (Clary) tweeted about Pandemonium Con:  LONDON BABY! Here I come! #PandemoniumCon @ZarataEvents! Can’t wait to see you all there! #ShadowhuntersLegacy

Alberto (Simon) shared a photo on Instagram: Hard saying goodbye, I’ll see you at Christmas! #BellaRosende

Kat (Clary) tweeted:  I see it now! The Adventures of Papa Wolf and Kiddo!   @isaiahmustafa #ShadowhuntersLegacy

Isaiah (Luke) shared a behind the scenes photo with Alexandra Ordolis (Ollie) on Instagram.

Sydney Meyer (Helen Blackthorn) gave us a sneak peek of her runes and hinted at one very special rune.

Joshua Butler (director) let fans know where they can find the outside of the Institute in Toronto.

ShadowhuntersTV tweeted:  The beautiful @Kat_McNamara has arrived at the World Premiere of @FreeformTV’s #LifeSize2.

Harry (Magnus) did some picturesque (and mildly dangerous) one-wheeling.

Kat (Clary) tweeted photos from the Mowgli premiere: Sometimes all that glitters is gold...  @YSL for @MowgliMovie  @netflix 

Kat (Clary) tweeted a sneak peek of her new role on Arrow, Maya.

ShadowhuntersTV tweeted: .@Kat_McNamara making some new friends at the world premiere of #MaryPoppinsReturns.

Sweety High shared a video of Kat (Clary) at the Mary Poppins Returns premiere on Instagram.

Hollywood and Highland shared a video on Instagram of Kat (Clary) at the Mary Poppins Returns premiere discussing why Mary Poppins is her favorite character in the movie.

Kat (Clary) tweeted:  A spoonful of sparkle for #MaryPoppinsReturns in @YSL. @DisneyStudios 

TechWithTolentino shared some photos of Harry (Magnus) meeting video students at the Hawaii International Film Festival.

Darren Swimmer (showrunner) tweeted:  Keep an eye on @ShadowhuntersTV during the month of December for #25DaysOfTeasers. #Shadowhunters

Brian Hui (makeup) shared a behind the scenes photo of Kat (Clary):  “Oh the weather outside is frightful but ⁦@Kat_McNamara⁩ , you’re so delightful!”

Taylor Mallory (writer) tweeted:  Fun fact: I wrote this, and originally it was “student body president.” But it was too autobiographical so I changed it. (Also Simon’s such a VP.)  #charm

Other News

TV Line (article):  Arrow First Look: Katherine McNamara Gets Punchy as Street Fighter Maya 

Just Jared Jr. (article): Laura Marano Celebrated Her 23rd Birthday at the 'Mary Poppins Returns' Premiere with Katherine McNamara!

[uclaradio]

Interview with CJ Harvey

Interview and photos by Megan Hullander

We caught up with photographer CJ Harvey on tour with Ron Gallo, The Nude Party, and Twen.

You can check out her work via her Instagram and her website.

You seem to be very close with everyone you tour with. I’m sure it did not start off that way, so how has touring with people who are also your friends changed your work?

It has influenced me so much. I am kind of one of those people who mostly just listens to whatever my friends are making. I think it's more fulfilling to listen to because if I am sad or bummed out I can just put on my friend’s music and it’s like my friend is just singing to me, and I am very lucky to be surrounded by such talented musicians where I can kind of do that and get by with only listening to my friends’ projects which is so awesome. And I'm definitely most inspired by my friends who are, you know, making art and touring and playing shows, and I would always rather watch my friends play than, you know, someone else.

I have kind of reached a level of success with tour photography at the point where I can be more selective with who I'm touring with, where it's not like, oh, this is the only band willing to take me out like this year, so I'm going to do it because I want the experience and I want a tour. I can kind of pick and choose who I'm working with and, you know, my best friends are going on tour, I want to go with them and I'm now experienced enough so they want to go with me, and I'm learning a lot by being so close with my subjects because there's just kind of a level of trust that wouldn't have happened had it just been like a random band that hired me. And that is not to say that there is anything wrong with touring with bands that I am less close with but it takes a long time to develop that kind of trust. It will take like two weeks into the tour for you to actually feel like you're comfortable with each other and you're not being like a burden. Everyone is so busy on tour, everyone is exhausted, everyone is doing everything at once, nobody wants to go out and go on a photo adventure, but when it is just your best friends, its like hey, if you don’t have time to do this right now, you tell me, if you do, let’s do it. It's so easy and a lot more exciting because it's more involved and it’s more personal and it’s people I care a lot about.

I always get spooked out when I use flash, it just feels so invasive.

Yeah, it can feel so scary! But like with Ron I am just like in his face, I’m on stage, I’m walking around, I don’t feel like I need to hide behind a curtain where if anyone sees me I am doing it wrong. There is a lot more creative freedom in that situation which is awesome.

Going off of that, it seems like you feel a connection between artists and their art, which kind of goes into people disowning music when allegations come out about artists. Where do you see the line being between separating art from the artist and is it okay to continue to have a relationship with their art?

So, obviously, everyone feels very differently about this subject and I would never judge someone for continuing to support someone. Say their friend fucked up and it was an honest mistake and they apologized and they are genuinely trying to get help, like that's awesome, everyone fucks up and everyone deserves a second chance and everyone you know deserves love and respect in their healing process, but I just get so turned off as soon as something sour comes out about someone. Especially if it's someone that you respected or looked up to or like supported in any way, it just feels like such a personal attack, like I can't believe someone that I know did this or like this happen to like my friend, like fuck you forever.

I am pretty unforgiving in terms of actually listening to music. For example, if there was someone who did something kind of shitty and they kind of handled it as best they could and they're like I take full accountability and I'm so sorry this is me, genuinely apologizing, and here are the steps I'm taking to get better, I got sober, I'm in therapy, I like contacted this person that I've hurt. If they are going about it the right way of course they deserve a second chance and of course they deserve to keep making art, but I just won't want to listen to anything that they made because for me I see it as they made this at a time when they are doing the shitty thing and I don't trust them and I don't respect this version of that person therefore I want nothing to do with this and it's going to turn me off and it's not going to be fun to listen to.

With that being said there is nothing wrong with having important emotions and memories, all of the emotions and memories you have to certain artists and memories that is totally valid. Those memories should not have to change, but I just can’t do it. I can’t pity someone enough to be like, oh its okay, its still a good album, it makes me feel so good.

Yeah, it is tough, because there is just so much out there that it is pretty easy to replace it.

You can easily replace any artist, everyone sounds the same, nothing is original. That's actually kind of funny, there should be a website, like oh you found out about this person, here is like five other bands you might like that sound exactly the same. Here are much better humans who make very similar music.

You have posted quite a few times about just being considerate of other people at shows, and women specifically. Where do you see this boundary being between being in the moment when experiencing live music and being conscious and considerate and respectful of other people and their boundaries?

I think especially for people it shows who identifies as a woman, like it's so easy to just be the victim of everyone around you. It takes just one shitty person at a show to make you feel like you don’t belong there and you aren’t welcome and nobody cares about your safety and well being. Especially at a show, especially if it is a band who is so progressive and welcoming and kind. I tour with really great people, and that is not always the case of course, but at least for the people I am touring with, if anyone was in the crowd and someone was dancing on them in a way that made them feel uncomfortable or someone was touching them inappropriately, if they got someone on the stage’s attention, that would be it. That person would get kicked out, get sent to the other side of the room, or have security called on them. My friends don’t tolerate that.

As someone who has been the victim of weird things happening to them at shows, I am a lot more aware of my personal space. I feel like it is not hard at all to have fun and dance and have a good time, and even if you are someone who enjoys moshing, that is awesome and there are definitely other people who want to mosh with you and it is so easy to slowly start a mosh pit. You just start slowly, feel it out, test the waters a little bit. If there are people who look uncomfortable, help them get out before you start the pit. Just mosh with the people who want to mosh. People make such a big deal about it and are like, “I just wanna have a good time at the show,” but it’s so easy to also not violate other people’s space.

I feel like the people who mosh with people who clearly don’t want to are also the people who mosh during the wrong songs too.

Yeah! And I hate moshing 99.9 percent of the time because I always have a camera on me, and I have broken a bone at a show before, I have been slammed to the ground and trampled. I have been through all of that shit and I am kind of claustrophobic too. I am usually at the front because I am taking pictures and not paying attention to what is going on behind me, so if you come crashing into me, you are going to smash me to the ground. As I am falling I am gonna protect my camera over my body and end up getting really hurt because you are an insensitive asshole.

I always get scared of people with drinks, and they start to like lean into you a bit.

And you’re like, I hate that you are ruining this! And then you can’t pay attention to the show at all, you are just looking through you peripheral vision hoping this person won’t crash into you and spill their drink and vomit all over your stuff. It sucks not trusting the people around you at shows. There is a mosh etiquette that most people just don’t understand.

We need to add to our website with the artist redirection -  like how to mosh, how to not spill your drink on someone at a show.

Maybe just don’t have a drink on you while you’re moshing. If you are gonna be thrashing around, don’t hold liquids. Easy. There should be mosh cups that are paper, or no, use like a camelback. That would be awesome.

Another easy add to our website. Lets add moshing camelbacks.

What other business endeavors should we start? As a result of shitty people in music.

You’ve been around for a bit within the music scene, do you feel the dynamic has changed at all since you first started?

Women have always existed in the music industry, but within the last year especially, there has been this huge boom. I work with a lot of bands who are all straight, white dudes, like zero diversity, but that’s not to say they are uninteresting or bad people. They are so lovely and welcoming and kind and they have really gone out of their way from what I have observed to get women on their shows and trying so hard to work with the female agent instead of the other agent who was recommended to them, or bringing me out not because they feel like they have to but because they want to support me as a female and my work and give me a safe space where they will look out for me. The bands I tour with are also really good at picking up on social cues and I am definitely really vocal about stuff that makes me uncomfortable and I am gonna call them out. Even this tour, all of the guys in Ron Gallo and The Nude Party and Twen have all gone out of their way to check in with me. There was this guy who was super drunk and close to me and talking in my ear and it was totally fine, but I can see how it might look like it was maybe a sketchy situation and Dylan while drumming was looking at me like mouthing, “Are you okay? Is everything good?” He is like looking out for me mid-song! All of the guys I surround myself with have my back. I can’t speak for other touring women, but you can educate your friends and get them on the same page. Like you may have not have had this experience but I have and this is why it’s not okay, and even if you didn’t know before, now you do and you know how to look out for that.

It is crazy to see how quickly people’s mindsets will change, like as soon as they become aware of this kind of stuff. Even with social media platforms, just the number of people you can reach.

Exactly, I have even had men DM me on Instagram and be like, I had no idea that was happening or still is happening. Thank you for sharing this and now as a guy I can look out for it and help out my female friends. Its really cool to see that -

*** CJ was then interrupted by a man who approaches and asks if we need tickets, and when I reply no, he says, “Just send your girlfriends on over to me.” ***

Love the timing. I was just starting to feel warm about everything.

That’s the thing! I know this is still on the record, but I am just gonna shit talk someone at the show in Santa Cruz. You think you are surrounded by such loyal, loving men who are there to look out for you and it’s awesome and you feel invincible. This tour specifically is full of so many good people and you get in this head space where you are like everything is fine, this is a safe space and you forget that there are external people who come into that group.

There was this one man who comes up to me at the merch table and is like, “Oh, is that your boyfriend?” And I get that question all of the time and I hate it. I’m like, no it’s not, you see me here selling the merch, why would you not assume that it’s my job to sell merch? He just found it really hard to believe instead of being apologetic. And I said no, but why would you assume that I simply must be dating someone on stage? And he said, “I am not assuming that you have to be dating someone.” But like he did! That is the very first thing he said to me, he didn’t even introduce himself! There were people in line and I didn’t have time to talk to him too much and Ron was still doing the encore so it’s kind of hard to hear. And he said, ”Well, so you aren’t dating anyone in the band, what are you doing?” And I am like, let me tell you how many hats I wear on tour and how I work my ass off for these bands and pour my entire heart and soul into this. Let me tell you about all of the jobs I am doing right now.

Really everything except dating them.

Yeah that’s exactly it. This man was like, “Sure, well for your sake I hope you are being important and helpful and creative. For your sake I hope one day you can be one tenth the creative genius as that guy on stage.” I just was so mad, I had other people to sell to, I was just done, I can’t be upset right now, and I tried to brush it off. I am usually pretty good at doing that, but I saw him talking to Ron after the set and I was like I need to say something, not to make him feel bad or put him on the spot, but I just needed to tell him that it is not okay to say that to people. So I go up to him and I say, “Hey, man. Next time you see a woman identifying person at a show, don’t assume they are there to sleep with someone in the band. Don’t assume that is their job. If you see someone working a show, assume they are working.” And he was like, “Look, sorry you have some problems you are projecting on me. I am a lot older than you are. I have been to way more shows than you have and scientifically speaking, women at shows are usually dating someone in the band.” And I was like interesting because let me tell you how many shows I have been to in the last five years alone and how few of the women I have interacted with are sleeping with someone in the band and I told him that that is bullshit. He said, “I am a realist, I speak the truth, I am not gonna lie to you to protect your feelings.” I had kind of complained about this guy earlier and in that moment Pat from The Nude Party noticed that I was clearly upset by this guy and he asked me to come help pack stuff up so I had an excuse to get out of it, but I was like, “You’re an asshole!” And he was like, “No I’m not!” I was just shaking I was so mad. Usually someone is close minded and then you explain it to them and they apologize, but he just would not have it. I started crying and it’s so frustrating because people like that are never going to change. They don’t want to change.

I just never even understand the intention behind it, like what are they getting out of asking you that in the first place, even if you were dating someone?

Like what satisfaction would that give you if one of the guys was my husband of twenty years? Now that I have started tour managing too, I love having that say because you’re at the top of the touring crew, so if something like that happens, you can get them kicked out. I like knowing that I can do that to help people out. But that night I just could not handle it and then The Nude Party came to pack up their merch and I am sobbing and they are like, “What happened?” And Alec is like, “What is he wearing, is he still here? I need to talk to him.” And I was like no, no, no, no, no. He just ran outside to try and find him, but he had already left.They are just very good boys. I cannot speak highly enough of them. There are good boys in music.

Catch the good boys and sweet gals of Ron Gallo, The Nude Party, and Twen on tour now with CJ.

[promptistrashqueen]

Afternoon Gifts 5

So this is about to get pretty choppy, because yes babies are cute, but when they’re really small they pretty much only do like...five things. Those things are great! but not for writing about, sorry. So small time skips!

They settle into something like a routine around week three. Noctis is the one who struggles through getting both the little ones settled into their cribs and who rubs backs and tummies until they fall asleep. He has too much going on to stay up into the wee hours, but he tries to stay up a while longer than he used too, just in case they wake.

Prompto gets up early, is already quietly waiting when the first little whimper starts up and they trade off in the middle of the night when it’s needed. Thankfully it’s not as frequent and Ignis assures them, yes, all of this is perfectly acceptable.

There’s a few things that well...don’t get planned for so well.

“I don’t understand.”

Noctis makes a helpless gesture with his right hand, his left holding the limp rag he’d grabbed in a vain attempt to clean.

“No, seriously, out of something that small, I don’t...what?”

Prompto’s voice tips up in pitch and he surveys the damage again, the small dining room reeks and it looks like a particularly nasty liquid bomb exploded over parts of the table, the chair, and Noctis’ arms.

“He was crying so I picked him up and then it just...so much. So, so, so much, Prom you gotta help me.”

Prompto purses his lips and turns back to their children. Azreal is contentedly sucking on the ear of his stuffed chocobo (really it’s a blanket with a head but eh) and Illyria is waving her little hands above her head and chattering to her uninterested brother.

“That wasn’t very punk-pop of you mister” Prompto tells the little boy, trying, and failing spectacularly, to frown seriously. The baby simply responds by dropping the cloth from his mouth and immediately crying for it.

Prompto huffs and maneuvers it back into place, “If you keep them from rolling away, I’ll go get a mop and some vapor rub, because my nose is gonna be fried if I keep breathing this.”

Noctis, face still screwed up, just nods and waves a hand at him, soiled rag falling onto the table with a useless plop as he moves to their children. The blanket they’re laying on is spread on the floor and he folds down to sit with them easily as Prompto leaves.

“Babies are gross.”

Noctis uses his best authoritative tone and lightly brushes his fingers over Illyria’s cheek, feeling justified by her gurgling in response.

“That’s right, they smell up palaces. They also keep their parents from having any alone time.”

She makes another noise, which Noctis imagines means something like, “but we’re very cute.”

He shrugs, giving her that in their very one-sided conversation as he carefully checks her diaper, it’s dry and he prays it stays that way until they can deal with her brother’s explosion. Azreal’s foot bumps his knee and he checks around him before leaning down to kiss it.

“She’s right, you're too cute to be mad at bud, even if you’re a little demon.”

“I don’t know, I’d like to keep them our little secrets forever.”

Noctis leans against Prompto’s shoulder, cradling his son as Prompto holds their girl. They’ve learned so much in so little time, after all, what’s four months when they have their entire lives?

Prompto’s voice is soft, and Noctis wants to agree, wants to keep their children safe. Everything happened so fast, too fast really and now...

“It’s still a bit unreal man, we didn’t have kids, now we do and tomorrow we have to tell the world all about them. We don’t even really know them yet!”

Noctis tries to keep the stress of his responsibilities from coloring his tone, but the strain is obvious and Prompto sighs under him.

“It’s not like there’s going to be microphones in their faces and they wont start school for so long...they’ll be fine Noct.”

It’s hard, because Noctis has no frame of reference. Sure, he’s royal and he was a kid, but it’s not like he remembers being a baby, and they lost his mom so early the media attention was directed elsewhere. By the time he was old enough that the reporters might have started in, he was hurt and in a foriegn country, and then the war started and really...he was just a fact of life in Insomnia before there was ever a big media buzz.

“Prompto-”

“Noctis.”

The tone does it, mildly annoyed but endlessly fond and Noctis feels his tension start to drain.

“I’m overthinking it again, huh?”

“So hard dude.”

He laughs a little and brushes a soft black curl, longer now, back from Azreal’s forehead. Looking at his little boy he feels his heart swell. He and Prompto are still messy and unsure of a lot and he’s still not convinced they’re going to be particularly great parent’s as the kids grow, but for now...well they’ve been doing alright and as he watches their daughters mouth stretch into a wide oval as she yawns, he knows he’d die before he gave them up.

The media is buzzing in the press room they’ve set up and Ignis is running interference as various reporters attempt to get an early access hint on why they’ve been called. It helps that Gladiolus is shadowing him with an extra moody glower. He doesn’t like the stress they’re about to layer onto the new parents.

“Remind me why we couldn’t just issue a statement?”

Ignis pushes his glasses up again, “It would create a paperwork mess as requests came in for photoshoots and the like, as well as possible speculation about where the children come from and all sorts of things. We might as well take care of it all in one fell swoop.”

It’s a practiced argument already and Ignis feels the start of a headache that he determinedly shoves down. Noctis is a mess enough about things without him and he thanks the six again for Prompto’s handling of the Prince. Objectively Prompto’s taken to be a royal very well, his handling of the press has been clean and Ignis could kiss him for his carefully cultured social media presence.

There are just enough cute photos of the couple on instagram and twitter that journalists are kept at a distance and rumors of romantic unrest are short lived.

It’s something Ignis didn’t think much about until it was nearly gone. With the new additions to their lives Prompto’s not been posting anything, and the quiet has lasted long enough that a few articles about “Trouble for Prince Charming?” have surfaced.

Today is also, in part, to kill those.

Another figure breaks away, like Ignis hasn’t seen him, and tries to nonchalantly push open the door into the hallway that leads to Noctis and Prompto’s private rooms.

Gladio pats Ignis’ shoulder and makes a beeline for the guy even as the advisor takes a deep breath, readying himself to address the curious crowd.

The reporters fall quiet, camera’s holding steady as Ignis steps onto the small platform in the front of the room.

“I ask that you hold questions until the end of my statement. You are all aware that nearly three years ago Crown Prince Noctis Lucis Caelum chose to marry his long time best friend, Prince Consort Prompto Argentum. There were many questions raised at the time, most of which have been since lain to rest. The biggest question that was asked however, has remained a concern for citizens of Lucis concerned for the future as well as those within the palace walls. I’d like to make it clear to you all now that the couple has chosen to go about answering this question in their own way. The question of heirs to a throne, inevitable when both rulers to-be are males, has come to its resolution. Four months ago the Crown Prince and his husband, after examining their options, made the decision to adopt a pair of four month old twins. The boy and girl are healthy and adjusting well to life here. We are opening up a three hour time slot today for photographs of the family, asking that you be respectful of the nature of infants and a certain level of privacy. Any and all questions should be directed to either myself or another staff member, baring simple questions about day to day routine. I will take some of those questions now.” While Ignis spoke the room had been filled with attentive scribbling as notes were taken, questions jotted down. In the second after his last word, a collective breath was taken, and then there were hands everywhere, several voices vying for his attention.

“Yes, you.”

“Cynthia, from the Duscaen Journal, what do twins mean for the order of succession? Will the male assume immediate heir status?”

Ignis smiled, “It remains to be seen, I believe we need to gauge the children’s personal aptitudes as they grow as well as take into account their preferences.”

He selected another raised hand, an unfamiliar shock of green hair.

“Andromeda Publishing,Why now? Does Prince Noctis expect to take the throne soon? Is the stress negatively affecting his relationship with the Prince Consort?”

Ignis resisted the urge to roll his eyes, “The King is perfectly healthy and Prince Noctis has no intention of requesting his father abdicate anytime soon. It was intially planned to be a mere consideration but the couple found children they were very enamored with and decided it was a good time to bring them into their lives. They are very happy together and enjoying this new step.”

A familiar voice cut across the rising questions, ranging from names to almost offensive queries about if the children were really Noctis’ and he’d cheated on Prompto or vice versa.

“Ay, Ignis! Ahre they cute at least?”

Ignis never thought he’d be grateful to hear that ridiculous accent, but considering it was helping turn an ugly tide...

“Dino, I have study photos of past rulers over every decade and I would say they surpass Prince Noctis himself. They are charming.”

“Well then let’s seeum!”

Nyx touched his earpiece, having returned as honorary guard to the new little Prince and Princess for the week, he was overseeing the transition from press room to photo shoot. Lunafreya was seated with Noctis while Prompto took some pictures of his own and Nyx felt himself smiling at the sight.

Noctis was dressed perfectly in all black, his outfit relaxed for royalty with a simple silver trimmed jacket, the Lucian crest scrolling down one arm, and perfectly pressed slacks. Prompto was wearing black as well, his trimmed in gold and a bit more elaborate with bands crossing his chest and connecting to his waistfastening on his floor length jacket. The flared cut should’ve looked silly but on Prompto it just looked elegant. The Lucian crest was picked out in gold on the back and he had paired it with slacks and his combat boots. Their children were dressed in matching outfits, a tiny black shirt and shorts for Azreal, and a little black dress on Illyria, a faint chocobo pattern in gold at the edges of each. Nyx had the feeling neither child owned anything else so muted.

Lunafreya was holding the boy on her knee as he watched Prompto move around, smiling a little when his father did. She was a gem too Nyx, in her own silver and white tea dress, the light chocobo pattern present at the hemline of her skirt a subtle nod to her close relationship with the line of Lucis. Nyx himself had his old Kingsglaive uniform on, modified to include the crest of Tenebrae on the arms. Together, they were more than photo ready and he told Ignis as much on the com. The advisors voice came over the line a moment later, “Better tell them to take their places.” The shoot went well, with Dino being invited to stay a few minutes extra to take a few more relaxed shots of the group since he had been so helpful keeping things moving. As a thank you he sent them a photo book that evening as Noctis was putting the children down for the night. The photos were perfect and as he looked them over, Prompto decided he might have to pay Dino for a framed print of the one that he was planning on using as a full color spread. Noctis and Prompto were smiling at each other, caught in a moment of their own, their children cuddled between them looking adorable as they examined a stuffed Cactaur Dino had brought as a surprise (to the jealous glares of other reporters) and Lunafreya and Nyx standing behind the couch they were seated on, looking down at them fondly. Ignis and Gladio visible at either end of the couch, calm, steady book-ends. Prompto felt a warm glow in himself. Family. His family. He flipped to the next photo they’d been sent and laughed. Regis, his eyes glinting as he’d managed to stop in for a few shots,his lap full of grandchild and Noctis leaning over the couch looking chagrined at whatever ridiculous joke he’d been told. He closed the book and set it on the small dresser, turning to help Noctis. Illyria smacked her lips at him, babbling happily and he caught her little hand, kissing it as Noctis wiggled her toes, making her squirm and smile, a little laugh leaving her. Azreal pushed himself up, reaching for Noctis hand and promptly attempting to eat his fingers, making his parent’s laugh. They’d swapped the separate cribs for a larger sleeping bed, still with high sides, and so far the two little ones had been happy with the change. “Maaaaaa” Azreal told them, making Illyria follow it up with her thoughts, “Beh, mm.” Prompto laughed again, “Sounds like you two will be giving interviews of your own soon.” Noctis rolled his eyes and nudged his husband, “They’re already trending all over the place... #CuterthanNoct and #PromsFreckledDarlings have a disgusting number of hits just from a few pictures.” Prompto shrugged and looked at the little ones curling together sleepily. “You’re just jealous.” “Jealous they’ve been getting all your attention maybe.” Prompto turned to his husband, prepared to say something snarky, but Noctis’ hand on his cheek, soft and warm, stopped him. “They’ll probably sleep pretty hard tonight...they had a long day.” Noctis smiled, leaning in for a kiss. Prompto tilted his chin, eyes closing as he sighed a little, only to stumble and open them to the sight of blue shards in the air and, conscious of his sleeping children, tore off after Noctis. In the hallway he heard the other man yell, “I call first shower!” He rolled his eyes, “Or we could just take a bath you dork!”

[junker-town]

A conversation with Myron Rolle on the fight against Covid-19

Former NFL player Myron Rolle is now a neuroscience resident. | Instagram/@myronlrolle, SB Nation Illustration

SB Nation caught up with the former Tennessee Titans DB, who’s a third-year neurosurgical resident at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Former Florida State and Tennessee Titans defensive back Myron Rolle is witnessing firsthand the fight against Covid-19. As a neurosurgery resident at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, his hospital has been on the frontlines of the coronavirus that’s been ravaging the United States and countries around the world.

Rolle first made headlines in college when he awarded a Rhodes Scholarship during his junior season at FSU. Instead of playing his senior year, he accepted the scholarship, and studied at Oxford University in 2009. After a year in London, Rolle entered the 2010 NFL Draft.

He was drafted in the sixth round by the Titans, where he spent one year on the practice squad before being released. The Steelers signed him to a futures contract, and he was cut again before the 2012 season. He retired without having played in a single NFL game, and enrolled in medical school at FSU in 2013. He graduated in 2017, and is now a doctor.

Currently in his third year of his neurosurgery residency, SB Nation spoke exclusively to Rolle about what his experience has been like working as a medical doctor in the middle of a pandemic, as well as the NFL’s response to the outbreak.

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

SB NATION: At Mass General, your hospital has been in the heart of the Covid-19 outbreak in Boston, which has over 1,000 confirmed cases. What has that experience been like?

MYRON ROLLE: The hospital has adjusted itself in response to Covid-19, the influx of patients. So walking into the hospital, you immediately realize that you’re playing a different ballgame. You have to wear a mask, I get hand sanitizer as soon as I walk in, and there’s more sanitizing stations around the hospital. There’s also this app that we’re using now to sort of define your symptoms before you even get to work, and if you don’t have any symptoms, you have to show it to the security guards in front to make sure that you’re not bringing in an infection that you may have gotten off the street or from home, so that’s different.

Our operating room is certainly different. We don’t operate as much — it’s pretty much selective cases or emergent cases. The neurosurgical staff has been sort of staggered so that all of us aren’t here and all of us aren’t exposed at the same time.

And then there’s a surge clinic with a hospital within a hospital here at Mass General, which also has recruited non-medical personnel to help manage staff — basically help triage some of these patients who are coming off the street with Covid-19. This surge clinic is accepting and welcoming to people who just want to fight the fight against Covid-19, so it has been definitely a whirlwind.

SBN: What has your hospital’s supplies of personal protective equipment been like?

MR: Here at Mass General, we’re one of the largest hospitals in the New England area and perhaps even the country. We’re Harvard affiliated, so we have a lot of resources just at baseline. I think the hospitals that are being stressed and strained and tested the most would be the smaller ones who are out in the suburbs of major cities.

Nevertheless, our masks are being dispersed around the hospital in a centralized location. For instance, if I was going into the operating room, instead of having the face masks and shields right in front of me, they would be in a centralized location so that they’re better allocated for the people that really need them. And we’ve even been asked at one point to reuse our masks if possible.

SBN: Covid-19 is more dangerous for those over the age of 65, or with pre-existing conditions. What would be your message to young people who perhaps aren’t taking this coronavirus seriously?

MR: I’d say that that’s an irresponsible ideology because you’re still capable of not only contracting the disease, but being an asymptomatic carrier and affecting somebody who doesn’t have the built-up immune system that you have. It’s not just about your convenience, or about your lifestyle at this point; it’s really about the team. It’s about everyone here.

We all have to play our part, including those younger individuals in our community who have a robust immune system and don’t have any of these conditions, who hopefully have a long and fruitful life. This is a time where you need to look beyond yourself and step up and do your active part.

View this post on Instagram

Coming off a 24hr shift. Our hospital has enacted a mandatory “mask on” at all times policy. Future already told us to keep our “mask on” and give out prescription pills when indicated lol. For real though..stay safe, everyone. Do your part. #2% #RepTheSetGottaRepTheSet #FlattenTheCurve

A post shared by Myron Rolle, MD MSc (@myronlrolle) on Mar 22, 2020 at 5:16am PDT

SBN: Switching gears to the NFL for a bit, the league has committed to a 16-game schedule. Is it realistic at this point to see a full season happening as scheduled?

MR: I may be biased because I’m in a hotbed city and state — Boston is going to see a surge even more so than we see now in the next coming weeks. So I may be in a bubble and not speaking with complete objectivity here, but I think that’s ambitious to say that you’ll have a 16-game season and start either on time or just a little bit delayed.

I think we’re going to be going through this for some time. It’s going to take time for us to figure out how to best fix this, manage it, what’s the best vaccine, the therapy, the cure — if we can find one.

Yes, I understand that football and sports in America have been a way for us to get away from some of our most daunting moments. It’s a way for us to bring the country together. We saw it happen with 9/11, with the baseball season was right around the corner and people rallied around sports.

But at this point, I think the health of our country — the progress and the prosperity of our country — relies on these epidemiologists, nurses, doctors, pharmacists who are on the frontlines and trying to make a difference and trying to thwart this pandemic.

Once we get past this phase, we can resume our daily life, including sports like football that we love so much.

SBN: Do you think playing NFL games without fans might be a potential solution to having some semblance of a regular season?

MR: It’s certainly possible, but think about the proximity of these athletes in a communal setting. The locker room, on a bus, in a hotel, they are amongst each other and they can be a nidus for infection if one of these players ends up having Covid-19. Then it spreads and everybody gets knocked out.

It’s best to just be patient right now. Allow some of these amazing scientific minds of women and men around the country and around the world to do their job and do their work.

SBN: The NFL is having the draft on April 23 as scheduled, while following the CDC’s guidelines with respect to large gatherings and social distancing. Do you agree with this decision?

MR: I think that’s certainly reasonable to do a draft virtually. I know a lot of these players have been waiting their whole life to be drafted. I remember myself, I had wanted to be drafted into the NFL for forever and I had to wait until the third day to do it. So I get it, it can be a dream that comes true for a lot of players.

But you have to be smart while doing it. You have to adhere to what the medical professionals and the politicians and the leaders on this fight are saying. And if you can fit within that paradigm, certainly I can see a draft happening.

SBN: What advice would you give to prospects having to deal with the pre-draft process under these unique circumstances?

MR: My advice would be to continue to keep your mind sharp, if you can’t get outside and get some physical work in. Because when this is all done, there’s not going to be a team that looks back on Covid-19 that says, ‘Well I’m going to cut you some slack because you weren’t able to catch the ball or keep your mind sharp in the game.’ They’re going to expect you to hit the ground running.

So whatever it is you can do, [do it], whether it’s getting on the phone with your former coach and going over plays and schemes. Having [them] draw up certain different plays or personnel and you have to think through it like you were a coach — put your mind there.

Be creative, be smart with it, but keep yourself ready because this is not going to be used as an excuse if you are not sharp when everything gets started again. It will get started again — believe that. You have to keep that in mind: There’s going to be an end. I’m optimistic that there will be, [I] just don’t know when. But when it does happen, you have to be on it.

SBN: How has your career in football helped prepare you for one in medicine, and in dealing with a pandemic like this?

MR: Football helped me tremendously, and that’s why I want the sport to stay because it’s so valuable. It’s helped me be a better physician today, certainly. I’ve learned discipline. I’ve learned focus, teamwork, communication. I’ve learned how to overcome adversity, how to prepare. I learned how to win and how to lose graciously. All these things have translated into my life as a physician. In the operating room, it is high stakes, it’s a life-or-death situation in some instances.

A team comes out with five wide receivers, no fullback, quarterback is in shotgun and we didn’t gameplan for that? We didn’t see that at all on tape, this is a brand-new formation they’re showing us? You have to think, ‘how are we gonna match up here, are we just going to fold?’ Or ‘do we have to step forward and meet the challenge?’

Covid-19, in my opinion is something, like that. It’s a personnel that we haven’t seen yet. It’s a novel disease that is different, it’s highly infectious, and it’s just running rampant around the country and around the world. How do we adjust to this? We can’t fold — we have to step forward and meet the challenge.

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Now that football’s done, the call is to be a great pediatric neurosurgeon one day, God spare life. But an equally important call is to stand as a representation for young black boys and black girls to see themselves in this journey - achieving more, dreaming bigger and reaching higher. Sometimes it just takes a little push to get the next generation going. And if we’re able to provide that, then that makes life worth the living! They’re up next!! #2% #BlackHistoryMonth ✊ ✊ #Harvard #TheMGHNeurosurgery

A post shared by Myron Rolle, MD MSc (@myronlrolle) on Feb 5, 2020 at 6:39am PST

SBN: As a medical professional, what would be your message to the general public in the wake of this pandemic?

MR: I think going back to when we talked about younger people just having a participatory and active role in stopping this spread. If you have a high infectious rate and just a surge or patients that are incredibly sick to the point that they need hospital care, you put stress on the healthcare system.

Our country hasn’t had its back against the wall like this in a long time with a pandemic that’s hitting so many sectors or our daily life. I’d say that this is a more serious issue than some may have thought, but it’s one that we can get over, and we need to get over it together.

As a team, it’s focusing on lifestyle behavior modifications, proper hygiene, physical and social distancing, and remaining home so that the spread becomes flattened. And that allows some of the wonderful minds that we have working on the frontlines get time to fix this — and not only fix it — but prevent it from happening in the future.

[thereen]

Dream Journal: The Invisible Train, Ru Paul, and the Dream Girl

I've decided this is a thing I'm gonna do now. I love telling stories, and my dreams are so random. Forgive me if things are fuzzy.

It was a cold and snowy winter. The hills were curved and pure white, as if seeking warmth under their blankets of snow. I don't know how I was so warm in my burgundy shorts and this really cool (literally) shirt that my dear friend Jessica, a very talented artist I must say, made me: a sleeveless bordering on sheer t-shirt dyed midnight blue with a burgundy-dyed patch in the middle inscribed with the word "do." When she was making these shirts, Jessica asked me to pick a two letter word to put on it. I chose "do" because I wanted it to be a reminder to not give up on dreams, but also to put them into action; to DO everything I dream of doing.

For those of you who do not know me well, and for those of you who do, too, I grew up surrounded by women: my mother of course, Grandma, who was like a second mother to us while Mom went to college and worked styling hair, our two caretakers who were two sisters from Mexico that had been working with my grandparents since before we were even born, my aunts and their friends, who were always at my grandparents' or babysat us, and my five beautiful sisters. One, my sister from my father's first marriage, moved away when I was very little, which made me so sad, but I still have very vivid memories of her with me during my early childhood. We reconnected again when I was 18 and I met my first brother-in-law and my first nephew and nieces. I digress, though.

The reason for that whole spiel was to explain an aspect of this dreamy winter outing: I was the only male in a huge group of women. I didn't think anything of it though, because of my upbringing I'm actually more comfortable around women than men. There was a lodge, but no skiers, a pond, but it had not quite frozen over, and a railroad that hugged each hill. Have I ever mentioned I love hugs? Anyway.

A domineering yet kind woman was our guide, much like a camp counselor. She would lead us everywhere we needed to be and was not pleased if anyone didn't listen to her or strayed from the group. I, ever the daydreamer, would often admire the setting, gazing at the ground completely covered by snow, something I'm still not very used to, and watching the sun peeking through the thick clouds. The birds in the sky sang a beautiful song and soared through the air as I wondered how they were so comfortable with cold air rushing all around them, but then when I thought about it, I remembered I was wearing summer clothing and felt no coldness. The wind would blew, and I felt like a bird, one still learning to fly.

Our guide yelled at me and told me to join the group, and I did as the girls laughed, not in a mean way, but more like they thought it was funny that my daydreaming was interrupted and I was quite startled. We were told to stand on the railroad so we could get to our next destination. "Take a seat and buckle in," said our guide. We were very confused, but she insisted. Everyone looked at one another, wondering if this was some kind of joke or if we were missing something. I decided to pretend to sit, just to appease the guide, thinking this was going to be really tough on my glutes. Just as I thought that, I settled into a very comfortable seat. I was stunned by what was happening as was everyone around me. Everyone buckled in and the walls appeared, followed by the floor, then the ceiling. My smile was so wide, I could feel it. Tears welled up in my eyes as I thought to myself, "Magic. It's real."

Off we went, over, around, and even through the hills. The ride seemed to take forever, but I didn't mind it one bit. Not only was the scenery of this winter wonderland beautiful, but I was sitting in a train that appeared out of thin air. When does this ever happen? I needed to soak it in as much as possible.

We arrived at the lodge, which was packed with families. Children were playing in the snow while adults conversed and sipped on coffee. Maybe it was hot chocolate though. That's what I drink most of the time so I can look trendy and cool at a coffee shop, having never really been a coffee drinker unless I really need to wake up, in which case I'll have a white chocolate mocha since it reminds me of hot chocolate.

We all joined the line of people trying to get into the lodge. Through the windows I could see a bakery. Bakers worked diligently getting those pies out and setting them on tables. Apparently, dessert was on the house. Dessert was also the only thing on the menu. I could see creme brulee topped with fresh berries, strawberry shortcake, lemon meringue pie, strawberry cheesecake, tiramisu, an assortment of cakes with LOTS of frosting, donuts, cookies...I could go on and on. When we got inside there was no room to sit, so we sat on the floor. I suddenly began to feel very shy. My introverted self started showing his face and I suddenly had a hard time looking people in the eye. I looked around instead, admiring the very detailed wooden architecture of the inside of the lodge. Suddenly I heard a huge commotion and people were smiling and excited about something. A rather large group of people walked into the room where we sat, surrounding one person. Phones came out, Snapchat and Instagram were on everyone's screens. Emerging from the center of this group came Ru Paul. I smiled as well thinking, "wow, I just saw a post by Butch Walker with Ru Paul!" Ru was not in drag, but was wearing a really nice suit and his head glistened, reflecting the lights suspended from the high ceilings of the lodge. He was looking around, walking up to people and speaking to them. I noticed that whoever he spoke to got very excited and was directed to get into a line outside. Then Ru came up to me. "Hi! What's your name," he asked as he extended his hand to shake mine. "Rene," I said. "Beautiful name! Very French! Are you French," he asked. I replied, "About nineteen percent according to my Ancestry DNA test." Ru laughed and asked about my other percentages and we talked about it for a bit. I thought it was very nice of him to take interest. Then he said, "You have very expressive eyes. Do you mind if we glam them up and put makeup on your face? We want to take pictures." I didn't even hesitate. "Sure," I said with a smile, hiding how nervous I was, but also how excited I was. Ru directed me to the line the people selected were going to, and I joined it. I was the only guy once again. Then a really pretty girl complimented my shirt. I went into a daze looking at her. You would almost expect "Dream Weaver" by Gary Wright to start playing like it did for Wayne when he saw Cassandra in "Wayne's World." I came to, blushed, and thanked her. She asked where I got the shirt and I told her the story of how it came to be, nervous as I am around any girl I find attractive. "You're shaking," she said with a giggle. "Are you ok?" I blushed again and said "Yes. It's just cold and I'm wearing summer clothes." She laughed again and said, "Yeah I had been watching you for a while and was wondering if you were cold." As you may recall, I was feeling no cold at all, but I wasn't going to be an idiot and admit she was making me sh-sh-shake. But also, this girl had been looking at... me?? "Calm down and be cool, Reen," I thought to myself. I extended my hand. "I'm Rene, my friends call me Reenie. Reen for short." She extended her hand, "I'm..."

I woke up. 😣

I hope you enjoyed my first Dream Journal entry. Have a great Fourth of July!

[audiofixationnews]

#OverloadMonday: Cardi B, The Weeknd + More Deliver New Music

Here's some overload for your Monday blues. Check out what went down this past week, March 26th to April 1st.

Singles

After dropping a surprise track with XXXTentacion and a tribute joint for Biggie, Joey Bada$$ just keeps the new music coming. Now he’s released a remix of YBN Nahmir’s “Bounce Out With That.” Listen above, and check out Joey Bada$$ on IDK’s “Lil Arrogant” with Russ.

I’ll just add another highlight because… well, I just can.

Apple | TIDAL | Spotify

After she announced the release date of her debut album, scroll down, Cardi B has dropped single. “Be Careful,” serves as her third single off her album and shows a different side of Cardi. If you liked Queen Cardi singing on Ozuna’s “La Modelo,” then here you go. She balances rapping and singing over a soft beat in “Be Careful.” Listen above and stay plugged for more updates.

For weekly releases, Chris Rivers and GodBodyWati are keeping their Wednesday series afloat.

A$AP Rocky has now linked up with BlocBoy JB in his newest single, “Bad Company.”

After a week of straight new releases, A Boogie dropped his first single of his upcoming sophomore album. Check out “Nonchalant” featuring Alkaline, as well as his other new releases.

Ne-Yo drops another single from his upcoming Good Man. This past week he released “Push Back,” which features Bebe Rexha and Stefflon Don.

Future season is fast approaching as he delivers his newest joint “Absolutely Going Crazy.”

N.O.R.E. dropped some new music, a remix to his “Uno Más,” featuring Pharrell, Miguel, Wiz Khalifa and J Alvarez.

We also got new music from Thutmose, Young Buck x Twanee, Sam Smith x Logic, and Lil Durk x Ty Dolla $ign x PND.

Big Shaq recruits Busta Rhymes for a full studio version of “Mans Not Hot."

Forever M.C. returns with a new joint, “School,” featuring Lupe Fiasco, Talib Kweli, Rozewood, and Hus Kingpin.

Ty Dolla $ign recruited Gucci Mane and Quavo for his latest single, “Pineapple." What’s better than Hip Hop Beef? R&B Beef that is! Eric Bellinger takes shots - more like a whole cannon ball - at Tory Lanez in “Yikes.”

We also heard some new music from Blu and Nottz, “Yesterday,” who also have a new-ish project on the way.

Rich The Kid went after Lil Uzi Vert in “Dead Friends:” Spotify, Apple.

And while we just entered April, Wiz Khalifa is already celebrating “4.20” with a freestyle.

Visuals

SZA, baby - yass! The TDE leading lady has dropped yet another visual treatment off her debut album CTRL. Watch it above, and stay plugged for a very special CTRL feature.

While prepping for a joint release with Chris Brown (Angels & Demons), Joyner Lucas is still on his solo tip. He certainly doesn’t shy away from controversy, with his recent release of “Frozen” that head on confronts the issue of texting and driving and driving under the influence. While the video is a bit disturbing, it’s the hard truth that aids to the song’s message. Check out the visual for “Frozen,” and listen to the song via Spotify. 

“Framed” is Eminem’s next single to highlight from Revival, following suit from “River,” “Walk on Water,” and “Nowhere Fast.” With this new visual treatment, Em drops a horror-filled trailer with him escaping an asylum. There’s much more so check it out, and stay plugged for the full video.

Trae Tha Truth reverts back to Tha Truth Pt. 3 to release his latest video. Dedicated to his late friend Money Clip D, Trae watches home videos and visits his grave in the emotional visual treatment for “Can’t Get Close.” 

We got new videos from Tyler, The Creator, Shy Glizzy, Trill Sammy x Slim Jxmmi, and Thutmose.

A Tribe Called Quest have released their final music video, “The Space Program.” It features cameos from Erykah Badu, Alicia Keys, Pharrell, Vince Staples, Talib Kweli, Common, Questlove, and plenty more. Directed by Warren Fu, the visual serves as a tribute to Phife Dawg. Exclusively on Apple Music, check it out if you can.

YG can be found on new videos with Belly and Arin Ray.

With Joyride on the way, Tinashe releases her debut album’s first visual treatment for “Me So Bad,” which features Ty Dolla $ign and French Montana. 2 Chainz linked up with YG and Offset to release a new video for his “Proud” joint that stars each of their very own mothers.

We also got new visuals from Snoop Dogg x Charlie Wilson, Preme x Lil Wayne, Maxo Kream, and Phora.

Projects

Apple | Spotify | TIDAL

The Weeknd dropped a surprise EP, My Dear Melancholy. The 6-track project is reminiscent of early-Weeknd (“Gone,” “House of Balloons”) that has everybody gong crazy right now. Rumored to drop more projects in the next few weeks, check out My Dear Melancholy. Also check out two videos he’s just realized via Spotify: “Try Me” and “Call Out My Name."

Chief Keef released the fifth installment of his The Leek tape series. The 17-track project is featureless, following the fourth installment that dropped earlier this month: Apple | TIDAL | Spotify.

Birdman has released the Cash Money Before Anythang soundtrack. The 18-track album features the likes of Snoop Dogg, Jacquees, Gucci Mane, Migos, Young Thug and plenty more: Apple + Spotify.

Rich the Kid has finally dropped his debut album, The World Is Yours. The 14-track album features the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Offset, Swae Lee, Trippie Red and more. Check it out: Apple, Spotify, & TIDAL. 

Styles P recently announced an upcoming project, Nickel Bag. He took to Instagram to unveil the artwork and official tracklist. The five-track EP features Dyce Payne, Flowboy Vegas, and Whispers. Just a couple days after, Styles P drops the project and man… you just gotta hear it: Apple, DatPiff & TIDAL.

Coming Soon...

Queen Cardi has finally revealed details on her debut album. About damn time! She took to Instagram to share the cover of her upcoming Invasion of Privacy, which is set to release April 6th. It was also announced that she has signed to Quality Control’s management division, joining her Migos and Lil Yachty.

Also set to release this Friday, April 6th, is Kali Uchis (Isolation), Khary (Captain), and Flatbush Zombies (Vacation in Hell).

Blu and Nottz are back at it! The dynamic duo have a joint album on the way. The collab is a joining of their ’13 EP Gods in the Spirit and their ‘16 Titans in the Flesh. As a full-length album, it will all be remastered as well as the tracklist restructured. Gods in the Spirit, Titans in the Flesh is set to release April 13th and is available for pre-order.

Weeks after announcing her debut album, Joyride, Tinashe has now revealed more details. Coming in at 13 tracks, the album will feature the likes of Offset, Ty Dolla $ign, French Montana, Little Dragon and Future. Hear it on April 13th.

Consisting of Gucci Mane, Lil Yachty and Migos, the Glacier Boyz have a joint project on the way. Gucci Mane took to Instagram to announce the release date: “Ice Ice Baby #GlacierBoyz April 13.” Shortly after, Gucci should be releasing his solo album, The Evil Genius.

Ne-Yo’s upcoming album, Good Man, is set to release June 8th. With some singles already dropped - scroll up for one - the album will feature the likes of 2 Chainz, Stefflon Don, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Romeo Santos, Eric Bellinger, and Bebe Rexha.

Linkin Park member, Mike Shinoda, recently announced that he is gearing up for a solo debut release June 15th. Post Traumatic will consist of 16 tracks, and he shared one - “Crossing A Line.:”

“It’s a journey out of grief and darkness, not into grief and darkness. If people have been through something similar, I hope they feel less alone. If they haven’t been through this, I hope they feel grateful.”

Post Traumatic is available for pre-order/pre-save.

Check This

After becoming a Kennedy Center honoree, LL Cool J now launches a new radio station on SiriusXM that’s dedicated to classic Hip Hop. Here’s what he had to say while celebrating the show’s launch: "If you wanna be a fly on the wall in the world of classic Hip Hop, SiriusXM’s ‘Rock the Bells Radio’ is for you. It’s where fans can come and be immersed in the music, the culture, the energy and the history of classic Hip Hop. We’re gonna have great artists, legendary artists, lyricists, superstars, sex symbols. This is the place to be if you want uncut, raw, pure, classic Hip Hop, but there’s one catch, it's strictly for OGs."“Strictly for OGs” comes to no surprise, as LL has in the past talked down about this new era of Hip Hop artists. If you have SiriusXM, catch LL Cool J on channel 43.

“The Roc’s in the building”

Jay-Z sat down with David Letterman and discussed the art of rapping as well as praised Eminem and Snoop Dogg. In a preview of Letterman’s “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction” Netflix series, Hov’s interview clearly focuses more on Hip Hop but also spans other topics such as President Cheetos, Kanye West, and Jay-Z family. The episode is set to release on Netflix April 7th, but catch the preview above. 

Following his latest album, Heartbreak On a Full Moon, Chris Brown has announced that he will be heading out on a 27-city tour along with 6LACK, H.E.R., and Rich the Kid (select dates). Check out the full date list.

Afropunk Festival has announced their lineup and they pulled together an impressive list. The two-day festival will take place in Brooklyn, August 25th, and 26th. It will host the likes of Badu, Miguel, Tyler, The Creator, Jaden & Willow Smith and plenty more, You can check out the full line up above, and get your tickets over at Afropunk’s website. Get more details here.

Stay plugged

That sums up this past week in Hip Hop. Come back next week for more.