feel alright?

Joe Keery attending Family Business Beer Co.’s Grand Opening in Long Pine - September 10, 2022

Shawn laughed as Joe pinched his side but he smirked as he easily lifted him up slightly, setting him up on the counter. “There. I think I like you were you are much better now,” he teased as he stood between his boyfriend’s legs but kept his arms around his waist. “Boyfriend…” Shawn said with a smile, as if trying the word out in his mind. “Yeah, I like that,” he said as he gently moved Joe’s blonde hair from his eyes. It was going to suck when Joe left for filming, but Shawn knew they could make the most of the time that they had. He laughed as Joe mentioned impromptu dinners. “I guess I gotta learn how to cook to keep you around now, huh?” Shawn said, a teasing lilt in his voice. 

As the oven beeped, Shawn laughed as he saw an ear perk up from the couch. They sat on the couch together under one of the many throw blankets-Shawn was something of a homebody-trying to keep their pizza from the puppy’s reach. “That’s cheating!” Shawn laughed as the puppy curled up in Joe’s lap and looked up at him, tilting his head. “How can you say no to that face?” he demanded. They curled up closer to one another after dinner and Shawn didn’t think he was ever going to tire of the other man’s head on his shoulder. “You want to stay the night?” he asked, fingers trialing Joe’s thigh.

Joe does startle a bit when Shawn hauls him up onto the counter – the benefit of being the taller one, apparently – but he laughs all the same, pushing stray hair away from his forehead. “Yeah, it has a nice ring to it,” Joe comments smoothly, leaning in to bump noses with Shawn briefly, “And don’t worry, I can cook! Kind of. At least... I think I can.” And, stupidly enough, he remembers that idiot man offering to show him how to cook, which is ridiculous but also a very tempting offer to take him up on. “But you know, I wouldn’t mind if you cooked for me. We’ll go halfsies. That’s always the best way.”

I’ve had all my furniture and other things sitting at my new place for days, my official move in day was supposed to be a few days ago but things got kind of crazy and with me having to travel to Venice everything got pushed back so now, after a long weekend and an even longer plane ride i’m finally in my new home staring at boxes that probably won’t be unpacked for another week, unpacking is the worst thing about moving to a new place, that and trying to figure out the best places to eat, what’s your favorite or least favorite thing about moving?

@mountmeadow·

Hey, kid! Glad to see you made it even with a little detour. Missed your face, glad to have you with the rest of this big, happy family. You went to Venice? Green with envy over here, Sadie. How did that go? Jet lag sucks so let me be a bad influence and say take it easy – the boxes aren’t going anywhere. Unpacking is the worst but I think with a little bit of help, we could get you unpacked in a few days. Between me, David, Jamie, Winona, the other Joe and Maya, we’ve got your back. My least favorite thing is definitely having to unpack everything but there’s nothing like having a clean slate to start a new chapter, as dorky as that sounds. If you need some recs on where to go for food though, I got you. 

Shawn had to laugh-these two were going to gang up on him and he could feel it. “They sure are,” he chuckled. He poured them both a glass of white wine after he put the pizza into the oven. He expected to turn around and find Joe on the couch, but gave a soft gasp as he was pulled flush against the other male. He smiled as he took a step away from the stove. Shawn was an inch or two taller then the other male, but he had to smile as he pressed his forehead against Joe’s with a soft chuckle. “Many more impromptu dinners around here,” he hummed as he rubbed circles in the other man’s waist with his thumb.

Shawn knew that Joe had mentioned he wanted to talk, but well-he supposed that this was the talk that they were supposed to have. “I really like you…so yes. Us being a thing sounds amazing, actually.” The words that Misha had let slip out reverberated in his head ‘He adores you’. It did feel good to be adored by someone, if this was what this was. Shawn decided it was high time that he stopped overthinking everything and simply relished the moment for what it was-someone who, for the time being, wanted to be in a relationship with him. He gently nudged Joe’s nose with his own as he went in for another kiss. He had a strong feeling he was going to enjoy doing that. 

It’s funny, really, how easy it is to be with Shawn. It feels natural – has felt natural since the start of all this – and being here with him in his apartment overlooking Rose Bay feels right. It doesn’t feel awkward or silly like some of the past relationships he’s had, far from the clunky beginnings of many Tinder dates since his breakup with Maika. There’s something to be said about that. “I do like an impromptu dinner with a handsome guy and an even more handsome dog,” Joe teases, bumping noses with Shawn before pulling back slightly to get a good look at him. He’s certain girls fawn over this man like nothing else and yet here they are, like this, in maybe one of the most unexpected situations he’s ever encountered.

i’ll be sure to let her know you appreciate the inclusion. it’s definitely be a good time, i think. plus, having almost everyone in the same spot at once and it’s not a premiere? what a treat. okay, okay, if you think it’ll keep him young then who are we to not help promote the best, healthiest and hip life possible? how fair of you, i’m sure he’ll love to hear that. but hey, they deserve the slack, even if it’s just to nudge david a bit. when he asks, this was all your plan and not at all mine. i’m excited to see what you’ve been up to, i’m sure it’s gonna be great, as usual. everyone deserves to be lazy every now and then, that’s all i want to do after unpacking what feels like a lifetime of boxes. 

It really is a treat, right? Now I can harass everyone without having to get on a plane or hope I’m not interrupting photo ops or press interviews. You guys better realize with Halloween coming up, I’m going to be trying to scare the shit out of you every chance I get. Exactly! We have to keep David in his prime. Plus with Mama Noni here in town, we gotta make sure he’s on his A game. I’ll take the fall for it if it all goes south. Thanks! I’m pretty excited to get this stuff out because I want people to know me as something other than that one guy from Stranger Things with the cool hair – no offense to Steve. You need a lazy buddy? My couch is always open for popcorn, Netflix and gossip. 

Shawn chuckled as he and Joe kept moving toward his house, nearly tripping over where the puppy was as he wound around their legs. “Dude,” Shawn laughed. “One of us is going to fall in and pull everyone else into the water.” He then thought about what Joe said. “Maybe it started out as a summer thing?” he suggested with a shrug. “It’s no secret that I thought you were hot, honestly…but it turned out to be a lot more when we got back and I thought about you even when you weren’t with me.” Buddy eagerly led them up the stairs to the apartment. “But yeah-talking is good.”

The door opened and Shawn was glad his apartment was, at least, clean. Buddy hopped up onto the couch and turned a circle. He then looked at Joe, as if expecting him to sit with him. Shawn laughed as he unclipped his leash and walked into the kitchen to see what he could offer the man to drink. “You want red or white?” he asked. Those were his two wine options. “And you said you were okay with pizza, right?” he asked. He laughed as Buddy looked up. That was one of the only words he knew. He put the pizza into the oven.

Joe skirts around Buddy, trying not to trip, laughing softly. “Hey, he’s just keeping us on our toes, that’s all. I mean, that’s what puppies are for, right?” Then he nods at what Shawn is saying before shrugging a shoulder lightly. “I’m not really a hook up and dash kind of guy honestly but I also go into most things without any expectations. You just never know and dating is like, so hard these days.” Joe follows Buddy and Shawn up the steps, smiling fondly as he watches them ascend and then enter the front door. 

I’m glad you think so. That would have been a good idea but nope, he’s an all black cat. Missed the perfect opportunity there. It’s called Genshin Impact. It’s on more than mobile devices and is a full fledged game compared to ones like were you match together items. I’ve invested a lot of time into the game and have been playing it every single day so far haha. It is! Once you get to a certain rank, you can play co-op with others so boss fights are easier. Nice to meet you too! I would definitely appreciate it! I know down the line I’ll release another album. That was my whole plan, I love cooking and baking for others. I would definitely do so for you, I’d make you anything you’d like.

I mean, hey, that’s still pretty fitting! Oh yeah, I think I’ve heard of that, it got pretty popular there for a while. Like I said, I’m not much of a gamer but I’d probably play if I could play with friends. The most I do right now is my daily Wordle. It sounds like I’d need a little bit of practice but maybe I’ll try it out when I have some downtime. Take your time – there’s never any rush when it comes to the creative process. That’s kind of how I’ve been, just sort of doing my thing as I go. That’s amazing and totally winning some hearts for sure. What’s your favorite thing to make?

i should have seen it coming, honestly. looks like now i will forever liken you to a little british old lady with a sick purse and hat collection. maya already volunteered you and jamie to move my couch for me, just an fyi. didn’t know joe was in town, and we’ll have to let david get settled, and then we can have a mini reunion, maybe a little halloween shindig, how’s that? when do we get to hear said music? you know i’m impatient. you better find some time to yourself, keery, don’t get all overworked just before holiday season comes around. 

Hey, I kind of like that. I think I can get on board with being seen as the Queen because she kicks ass and she’s going to outlive us all, I think. Aw, that’s so sweet of her – tell her I said thanks for that. A Halloween party would be bad ass, wouldn’t it? Forget David getting settled, we have to keep him on his toes to stay young and fresh like the rest of us. I heard Sadie and Winona moved in too but I’ll cut them some slack because I like them more than David. Kidding, kidding. I’m working on my album now so soon! I just released a new single last week but I can give you a sneak peek. I won’t, I promise! I might be busy but you know I always find time to melt into my couch.

Moved here a few days ago and I’m pretty sure I’ve solely been running on coffee since. What is sleep? I don’t know. I’m one of those people who have to get all the boxes out of the way and everything unpacked or it’ll drive me insane. Thankfully, I have three little helpers in the form of my sons. Sure, they’re all under ten but they’re angels and offered. Everything is basically done now so I’m going to need someone to tell me the best place in town to get some nice treats for myself… and the kids, too, I guess. I’m Tom, by the way. In a little band called McFly and sometimes I write books about dinosaurs. @mountmeadow·

Dude, are you okay? You hearing colors yet? I wish I was like that – I moved here a while ago and I still have shit I haven’t even bothered to look at. My guest room is more like storage. Aw, now that’s awesome! They sound like good kids and that’s three extra sets of hands you’ve got on your side. Nice treats? Rosie’s, for sure. That place has it all if you’re looking for sweet stuff or pretty much anywhere on the pier too! Hey, Tom, it’s nice to meet you – I’m Joe. McFly is the shit! Huge honor to meet you, man. I gotta know about the dinosaur books too though because I didn’t know this!

Joe! oh - wow, i’ve never heard that one before. good one, you really got me there bud. a taurus you say? means you’re a little bit flashy, a little needy, but one of the most reliable people out there. think that sums you up rather well. the queen is a taurus, too! no no no, i’ve got pizza, wine, and love to give, you’ve got the muscle to come over and move my couch. this face has been keeping busy the past month or two with cons and the sorts, happy to settle in for a little bit. what have you been up to? 

I had to test out my dad jokes on some poor, unsuspecting victim. Sorry in advance for the rest of the dad jokes that I haven’t told yet. I’d say that hits the nail on the head. No way! Me and the Queen are zodiac twins? I love that. Alright, fine, but once you’re all moved and your couch is in its rightful place, I’m throwing you a little party. We can grab Jamie and Maya and Joseph and David and drag them over here to celebrate. I hear ya, I’ve been pretty busy myself working on music and getting ready to do some filming on a new show. Sounds like we both need a hard reset.

Shawn looked back as the other man stopped and went to stand in front of him. It was hard to be this vulnerable, but he wanted it. He softly looped his arms around Joe’s waist, pressing his forehead against his softly. “I honestly…I don’t think I can get enough of you,” Shawn blushed. “The trip with you was amazing but I was kind of afraid the feeling would end when we got back in town and it didn’t.” He chuckled quietly. “If it makes you feel any better, you’re welcome any time into my place that’s got a beach view and a puppy,” he smiled. He looked down as Buddy bumped his head against Joe’s leg. “You also may have to deal with this guy that is crazy about you, though,” Shawn teased.

They had spent many nights just like this-almost every night-on the camping trip. But, it felt different this time. Shawn couldn’t quite put his finger on it but it was probably because they were home. He took another deep breath before gently planting a kiss on his lips. It was slow but Shawn also wanted to give him a chance to pull away if he wanted to. It was slower than the frantic and passionate sessions that had occurred on the trip, but maybe it was exactly where he should be.

Maybe Joe doesn’t expect it but he very nearly jumps at the touch, Shawn’s arms circling his waist, foreheads pressed. It’s far from the rushed moments they’ve shared before now but Joe doesn’t mind the change of pace. If anything, this is exactly what he wants. He listens to Shawn talk and nods along minutely, wrapping his own arms around his companion. “Yeah, I guess I kind of thought that way too. Like a summer fling sort of thing which sounds so... high school, I guess, so I’m glad it’s not... that. I really do like you.” And then Joe can’t help but laugh at the next part, casting his eyes down toward the puppy. “Beach view, puppy, and an attractive guy? Sold.”

I’m definitely enjoying myself here and so is my cat Zorro, we’ve both settled in quite nicely. Though Zorro had more fun climbing in the boxes as I was unpacking everything. He wasn’t helpful at all haha. Besides all that, I’ve been really addicted into a mobile game I found the other day. I’ve been playing it whenever I’m not working. Don’t know if that’s a good or bad thing haha. I just love me a good open world game where I can explore around and play different characters. It makes the game so much more fun. Anyway, I’m Somi. I’m an idol and have one album called XOXO which have some great tracks if I do say so myself. I also love cooking and baking for friends whenever I get the chance. It’s nice to meet you all! @mountmeadow​

What a cool name for a cat! Is he black and white? I’m just getting this visual of a tuxedo cat when I think of the name Zorro. Cool, what game is it? I don’t really do a whole lot of that kind of stuff but it sounds interesting. Is it a game you can play with other people? I’d definitely be up for trying it out. Nice to meet you, Somi. I’ll have to check it out! Gotta love supporting a fellow musician. You’re going to win the hearts of everyone around here then because I think I can safely say everyone loves good food. I’m Joe and if you bake me something, I’ll literally do anything you ask. 

hi, hello! i’m grace, i’m a libra, and i am not strong enough to move a couch but the movers placed it in the completely wrong spot so you see my dilemma, yeah? can you carry about 75% of the weight of a full sized couch? if so, you’re in luck - and so am i - i’ll pay you a whole pizza, or a bottle of wine, or both if you want, and all of my gratitude in the world, if you come help. 

@mountmeadow·

Grace! You’ve decided to grace us with your presence, huh? Okay, that was bad but I earned my right to make dad jokes after adopting half the cast. I’m a Taurus and I have no idea what that really means but either way, happy to help with your couch dilemma. And if all three of those things are included in the package? Totally here to help but I’ll buy the pizza and wine as a welcome to town gift and you take care of the gratitude. How’ve you been? Missed your face.

Having a break is great expect we haven’t really taken a break. But we filmed a bunch of Run BTS. So that’s exciting to come out! But for now I”m enjoying being in the states, it’s so strange from living in Korea. I still have my apartment but I plan on making Mount Meadow my full time residency! So hi. I”m Namjoon or RM if you know BTS. Who’s around and wants to help me unpack? I literally sent everything from back home to here…it’s a lot send help. I will pay you in Cookies and food. @mountmeadow·

Shawn laughed softly. Watching Joe interacting with his puppy made him happy. “I just adopted him when we got back,” he explained, watching Buddy searching for the ball. “I didn’t want to adopt him and then dip on him for a week,” he said. He looked back down and grabbed the dog’s leash as he came back to them. He put the ball back into his back pocket. “Yeah, I live just in those apartments over there,” Shawn explained. “But uh-did you want to maybe hang out or something? We can go out to eat or something but I am totally down for frozen pizza and some wine as well,” he said with a smile.

He was honestly glad to see Joe. It was hard to focus on anything other than the boy standing next to him, even with his puppy wrapping himself around Shawn’s legs. “How have you been?” Shawn wanted to know. He and Joe had a great time on vacation together but hadn’t really seen one another once they had got back a few days ago. Shawn wasn’t angry, of course-he had his own feeling to work with. “I’ve missed you,” he said, the only sound being the waves behind the two of them.

“That totally makes sense especially if he’s not like, housebroken yet. That would’ve been a huge mess to come back to!” Joe watches the puppy toddle back to Shawn and grins in a fond sort of way. Having a dog sounds like something he’d like for the company but with his busy schedule, he’s not sure he can swing it. He follows Shawn’s eyes to the apartments overlooking the beach and makes a dramatic, exasperated sound. “Man, I’m missing out. I live up in the mountains which isn’t bad but a beach view sounds really great.” Then, at the offer to hang out, Joe nods with excitement, wearing a wide smile. “Yeah, I don’t have any plans so I’m down for whatever. If you’re cool with it, we can go back to your place. Seems like the closest thing.”

 so like.. I have a general question!! but is poor Steve ever going to get a break from always getting hurt? i mean in the sense of literal and also emotionally. i feel like I go emo every time Steve gets rejected by Nancy or he gets hurt in some way. they just love teasing that whole thing all the time or something. anyways, how are you doing?  @keeryz·