Fame

Fame
	Season 1, Episode 1
Air date	October 12, 2013
Written by	JamesonOTP
	Episode Guide
Previous; New York Summer	Next; Parenthood

Fame is the first episode of Season 1 of the Glee: The Next Generation spin-off, Glee: The Next Generation presents The NYADA Years. The series will follow the graduates as they leave McKinley. Since most of the students will be attending NYADA, as are the main characters of the spin-off, it was subtitled The NYADA Years.

Summary[]

NYADA freshman Jaxon Pierce, Lana Addison, Evan Marx, Miles Larson, Honey Berry, Nicole Martin, Rose Mitchell, Aldy Williams, McKenzie Kenton, Monique Ducasse, and Hallie Grace arrive at NYADA and are overwhelemed at first. A hip new teacher catches Miles' eye, but she has her eye on Jaxon...but only for his talent. India Wilson returns and ends up being Evan's new roommate, but their search for a third roommate might unravel everything when they both fall for the same applicant. Meanwhile, Miles, Lana, and Jaxon step up to show their skills in the Round Room.

Songs[]

Fame by Irene Cara. Sung by Jaxon Pierce, Lana Addison, Camryn Monahan, Evan Marx, Tyler St. Patrick, Miles Larson, India Wilson, Hallie Grace, Nicole Martin, and Johanna Whitt
King of the World from Songs for a New World. Sung by Miles Larson
Underneath by Adam Lambert. Sung by Jaxon Pierce
Twilight by Thriving Ivory. Sung by Lana Addison
I Saw Him First by Lizzie Sider. Sung by Evan Marx and India Wilson
What Is This Feeling from Wicked. Sung by Miles Larson and Hallie Grace
Back In Time by MattyB. Sung by Camryn Monahan, Tyler St. Patrick, Jaxon Pierce, Johanna Whitt, and Lana Addison
The Fame by Lady Gaga. Sung by Jaxon Pierce, Lana Addison, Evan Marx, Miles Larson, and Hallie Grace

Episode[]

Reader Discretion Is Advised. The following episode may contain adult language, adult situations, sexuality, adult dialog, violence, and/or drug and alcohol use and references.Glee: The Next Generation presents The NYADA Years has matured, a lot like its characters. We realize that our readers have matured as well and that's why we're working to change with the times and with our readers. The NYADA Years features more mature content than Glee: The Next Generation. This is in part to being a more honest depiction of adults in a college environment. We ask that if might offend you, please precede with caution. Don't worry, it's still Glee. It's just Glee if it aired on cable.

__________________________________________

Jaxon sighed as he made his bed and looked at the empty place where James used to lay during the summer. Lana stood in the doorway, her arms crossed, as she watched Jaxon.

“You miss him,” Lana said.

“I do,” Jaxon said. “I guess I just got so accustomed to him being here all summer and now he’s returned to Lima and who knows when I get to see him again.”

Lana frowned as she walked in and hugged Jaxon tightly.

“You’ll make it through,” Lana said. “It’s just a year. That’s not as bad as it sounds when you really think about it. And, you’ll also have the holidays.”

“I know,” Jaxon said. “I kept one of his t-shirts and I lay it beside my pillow so that I can inhale his scent as I go to sleep. It’s almost like he’s here.”

“Just don’t go getting one of those boyfriend pillows,” Lana said. “That crosses the line from sweet into creepy.”

“Guys, I’m going to bed,” Johanna said as she appeared in the doorframe. “See you in the morning?”

“Yeah,” Lana said. “I will give you a lift to school if you want.”

“Much appreciated,” Johanna said, smiling. “And you two behave yourselves in there.”

“If we don’t we’ll name the resulting love child after you,” Jaxon joked.

“Like I expected anything less,” Johanna said as she walked to her room.

“I like her,” Lana said.

“Like you like Camryn?” Jaxon asked. “In the three months we’ve been here, you two have fallen quite in love.”

“That we have,” Lana said. “But don’t expect us to go getting married anytime soon. You and James can enjoy the exclusivity of being the only married gay couple within our tight-knit little group.”

“Much appreciated,” Jaxon replied.

“My brother has the craziest crush on Johanna,” Lana said. “It’s weird because I can’t remember the last time he liked a girl because he claimed he was always too wrapped up in things to have time for girls. I was beginning to suspect he was gay, especially given how excited he was to attend Dalton, which is an all-boys school that is also very pro-gay. And not to mention all the man-on-man action that must have occurred there, especially considering the very bisexual threesome between India Wilson, Chuck Salvatore, and Claude whatever-the-fuck-his-last-name-was.”

“Lana, go to bed,” Jaxon said. “You’re rambling and that is never a good thing.”

“Eh, I guess you’re right,” Lana said. “After all, tomorrow is our first day at NYADA.”

“So, does Miles know about Camryn?” Jaxon asked. “I know that he spent the summer in Lima with his brother, Graham, after he returned home and I suspect that he didn’t get the memo. You know, considering how Hallie is the only other person to spend the summer in Lima and you two are no longer on speaking terms.”

“I guess that would be a no,” Lana said. “It’s not like I wasted time emailing him or anything. My summer has been pretty busy. I had to make every moment count.”

“Well, I did email him, but I figured that it wasn’t my place to tell,” Jaxon said.

“Miles and I still aren’t Facebook friends after the fight we had following my rooftop incident,” Lana explained. “I just never got around to sending him a friend request and I guess he just didn’t send one, either. So it’s not like he saw the relationship change on Facebook, either.”

“Then I suspect that the shit is gonna hit the fan when Miles meets her,” Jaxon replied. “You know how Miles gets around hot girls.”

“So, you think she’s hot?” Lana asked.

“In a platonic ‘I like dick’ kind of way,” Jaxon replied.

“I’ll take it,” Lana said. “Anyway, I just came to say goodnight so, goodnight.”

“Goodnight,” Jaxon said as he raised the covers and climbed in.

Lana nodded at him as she flipped the switch and turned his light off, walking out and making her way to her own bedroom.

____________________________________________________________

Glee: The Next Generation presents The NYADA Years

____________________________________________________________

Jaxon, Lana, Miles, Honey, and Johanna stuck together as they walked across NYADA’s open court. As the load roaring of a motorcycle approached, Miles turned to look as a flashy candy apple red CB500F came to a stop in one of the parking places. A high-heeled boot dropped down and kicked the kickstand out. The woman on the bike stood up, unzipped her motorcycle jacket, took her helmet off and shook down her long, luxurious dark brown hair.

“Damn,” Miles said, his mouth hanging open. “She’s a motorcycle mamacita.”

Honey reached over and smacked Miles’ arm hard. Miles winced, grabbing his arm as he looked at Honey.

“Eyes off, Miles,” Lana said with a smile. “She’s mine.”

Camryn slung her red leather motorcycle jacket over her shoulder as she began to walk toward the others. Miles found himself unable to look away, in awe as she strutted toward them, wearing a red tank top, black mini skirt, and black knee-high boots.

“She’s your girlfriend?” Miles asked. “As in…the girlfriend?”

“Don’t look so surprised,” Lana said. “Yes, that’s her. That’s Camryn.”

Camryn smiled as she walked over and took Lana in her arms, pressing her lips to Lana’s in front of everyone.

“Candy apple?” Lana asked as Camryn pulled away.

“Which one?” Camryn asked. “The motorcycle or my chapstick?”

“Both,” Lana replied, smiling.

“The paint job is custom,” Camryn said. “The CB500F doesn’t come in red, just pearl white and black. That little baby set me back six grand and another two hundred for the paint, but she’s worth it. 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, 67.0 mm by 66.8 mm bore and stroke, 34mm throttle induction, and she’s a six speed.”

“I don’t understand a single word you just said but it turns me on,” Lana said, biting her lower lip.

“Uh, ladies?” Johanna asked. “Not alone, just saying.”

“And yes, the chapstick is candy apple,” Camryn said. “I buy it from Avon in bulk; it’s seasonal. You have a very talented taste palette, Lana.”

“You’re wearing chapstick?” Honey asked. “But it looks like lipstick.”

“I put the chapstick on over my lipstick,” Camryn said. “It gives it a little more shine, not to mention an extra layer of protection. Plus it tastes, great, too. I always try to match the flavor to the color.”

“It’s always my favorite surprise,” Lana said.

“Why don’t we go shopping together sometime, Honey?” Camryn asked. “I can show my favorite places to buy make-up and teach you some of my secrets.”

“For the love of God, please do,” Miles said.

Camryn laughed as she pointed to Miles. “Let me guess, he’s your boyfriend?”

Honey nodded. “Yep, I guess I have no choice to admit it. Yes, Miles is my boyfriend.”

“Hi, Camryn,” Miles said, taking Camryn’s hand and kissing it.

“Okay, time for you to go,” Honey said, grabbing Miles by the ear and pulling him away.

“Ow, ow, ow, ow,” Miles said. “Let go of my ear!”

“Nope,” Honey said, leading Miles away.

____________________________________________________________

Inside NYADA, Jaxon, Lana, Johanna, Camryn, Tyler, Miles, and Honey stopped and took a look around at their surroundings, in awe at how fancy and beautiful it all was.

“This place is gorgeous,” Honey said.

“It really is, isn’t it?” India asked as she walked up to join the others, flanked by those she considered her closest friends while at McKinley: Hallie, Nicole, and Evan.

Hallie took care not to look at Lana, effectively ignoring her as they all stood there together.

“Just think, we’re on the cusp of fame,” Evan said. “NYADA has groomed some of the world’s biggest stars.”

“And stars don’t get much bigger than India Wilson,” India said.

“Oh really, we’re going there?” Lana asked.

India smiled, turning to Evan and throwing her backpack into Evan’s arms. Evan dropped a few inches forward, weighted down by his own backpack and India’s as well.

“Remember, remember, remember,” India sang as she turned sharply to face the others. “Remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember.”

“Baby, look at me and tell me what you see,” Honey sang as she fell in line behind India and strutted down the hall. “You ain't seen the best of me yet. Give me time, I'll make you forget the rest.”

“I got more to me, and you can set it free,” Jaxon sang, joining India and Honey. “I can catch the moon in my hand. Don't you know who I am? Remember my name.”

“Fame! I'm gonna live forever,” they all sang as the others joined India, Honey, and Jaxon. “I'm gonna learn how to fly, high. I feel it coming together. People will see me and cry. Fame, I'm gonna make it to heaven. Light up the sky like a flame. Fame, I'm gonna live forever. Baby, remember my name.”

“Remember, remember, remember,” Hallie sang. “Remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember.”

“Baby hold me tight ‘cause you can make it right,” Camryn sang. “You can shoot me straight to the top. Give me love, and take all I've got to give.”

“Baby, I return,” Lana sang as she took Camryn’s hand. “Too much is not enough. I can ride your heart 'til it breaks. Ooh, I've got what it takes. Remember my name.”

“Fame! I'm gonna live forever,” they all sang. “I'm gonna learn how to fly, high. I feel it coming together. People will see me and cry. Fame, I'm gonna make it to heaven. Light up the sky like a flame. Fame, I'm gonna live forever. Baby, remember my name.”

“Remember, remember, remember,” Tyler sang. “Remember, remember, remember, remember, remember, remember. Yeah, this is my life.”

“See, I had a vision with nothing but cold,” Miles rapped. “I had a story that had to be told. Been through hardships, I've lived and I've grown and those lessons were burned inside but it rolled.”

“I'm letting it go, I'm living my life,” Evan rapped. “I see it now, my name in lights. I'm on the ground, and it's not a game. I'm gonna make sure you remember my name.”

“Remember my name,” Nicole sang.

“Fame! I'm gonna live forever,” they all sang. “I'm gonna learn how to fly, high. I feel it coming together. People will see me and cry. Fame, I'm gonna make it to heaven. Light up the sky like a flame. Fame, I'm gonna live forever. Baby, remember my name.”

“Remember my name,” Johanna sang. “Remember my name.”

“I guess you guys just burst into song whenever and wherever you want where you’re from, right?” a blonde girl asked, marching over to the group of friends, her hands on hips. “Well, we may be a performing arts school here at NYADA, but unless you prove yourself, you can’t just march around halls like you own them.”

“Krystal, be nice to our new friends,” another blonde said as she walked over and draped her arm over Krystal’s shoulder.

“If you insist, Madison,” Krystal said. “But like I was saying, you can’t go singing and dancing down NYADA’s halls unless you’ve earned it. It gives the impression that you…think you’re better than others and face it, you’re not. New Directions, right?”

“Some of us,” Jaxon replied.

“Well, let’s just say that some of us don’t think New Directions earned their place here, so you’re gonna have to work extra hard to pay your dues,” Krystal said. “I mean, being handed a free ride at NYADA just for winning a silly show choir championship?”

“One that you didn’t,” India said. “I mean, my show choir lost, but with good reason. New Directions is good and their camaraderie and sense of teamwork and showmanship is something special that can’t be replicated easily.”

“And you,” Krystal said. “I know all about you, India Wilson. Billionaire British socialite who spent a year and a half overseas as a foreign exchange student in New Directions before being expelled for her acts of cruelty against her fellow students…you showed so much promise and now, look at you, being buddy-buddy with your former enemies.”

“I grew up,” India said. “And you two should try it.”

“Too bad,” Krystal said. “You would have made a great addition to NYADA’s elite, but I see you would rather be one of the misfits.”

“Better a misfit than a bitch,” India said. “Now, make yourself scare. I tire of seeing you.”

“Your money or influence gives you no importance here,” Madison said. “This isn’t Ohio. This is New York. This is the big leagues and either you’re in or you’re out.”

Madison and Krystal turned around, flipping their hair before starting to walk off.

“Oh, and one more thing,” India said. “You forgot about the Femme Fatales, the other show choir I used to be in. One thing I learned from it is how to be a fierce woman and I am not afraid to use what I learned to take both of you bimbos down a peg or two! Never cross India Wilson or her friends!”

“Excuse me,” Carmen Tibideaux said, making her way between the two groups. “I am so sorry to interrupt what I am sure was a very important conversation, or at the very least, the welcoming committee. However, it’s time for the first round of week one’s Round Room solos, so I will see you all in the Round Room in five minutes.”

“Yes, Mrs. Tibideaux,” Madison said, eyeing India.

“You are so lucky,” Krystal said, pushing past India, purposely knocking her with her shoulder.

“Oh no,” India said. “You are the lucky ones.”

____________________________________________________________

Carmen stood in the front of the Round Room, clutching her notepad, as she looked around the room, making sure everyone was settled.

“Welcome everyone to NYADA, New York’s most prestigious performing arts school,” Carmen said. “Now, before we begin, I have something that I would like to say. I have caught wind that some of you don’t think those who came here from McKinley’s show choir, New Directions, belong here. I would like to say that New Directions have been named the best show choir in the world and they have an international championship to back it up. They are just as talented, if not more, than every person they have beaten on their path to greatness so they belong here at NYADA just as much as anyone else. That being said, I would like to welcome a member of New Directions to perform his first solo at NYADA. Please put your hands together for Miles Larson.”

“Me?” Miles asked Honey, looking confused as the room was filled with applause.

“Just go!” Honey said, pushing him out of his seat.

Miles stopped for a moment, looking around at everyone in the audience before taking a deep breath and walking to the front of the Round Room, where Carmen took his hand and shook it before she walked off to take her seat.

“I’m Miles Larson and I will be singing a song from one of my favorite Broadway musicals, Songs for a New World,” Miles said.

The music began to play as Miles cleared his throat and nervously adjusted his microphone.

“Once upon a time I had tides to control,” Miles sang. “I had worlds to win and stars to ignite and they threw flowers at my feet when I walked through the town. Once upon a time, I had lives to protect. I had rules to change and wrongs to set right. And there were people at my side and there were rivers I could guide. I wanted nothing in return. Let me out of here. Give me back all my dreams. Let me out of here. Let please see the sun. Let me out of here. At least tell me what I did wrong.”

Carmen watched, paying close attention, as if she was trying to find something to critique. She made notes, scribbling on her notepad, finally setting it aside and putting her hands in her lap, as if to finally just enjoy the performance.

“I'm king of the world, chief of the sea,” Miles sang. “High in the wind—at least I used to be. And I'm king of the world, please set me free. Let me remind them of my promise, live my given destiny. Once upon a time I had fate in my hands and the confidence of a million regimes. And they said, ‘brother you're in charge. We'll follow anything you say.’ Once upon a time Father said to me, ‘child you are everything that you see in your dreams.’ And I thought, Jesus, that's the key. There are no walls surrounding me, there are no prisons in this life. Let me out of here. Give me back to the wind. Let me out of here. Let me please see my son. Let me out of here. Don't you understand who I am? I'm king of the world, chief of the sea. High in the wind—at least I try to be. And I'm king of the world. Please set me free. I had the power and the promise. Give me back my family.”

“The song is gag-inducing,” Krystal said. “But he’s got promise. Are you thinking what I’m thinking, Madison?”

“What are you thinking?” Greg Childers, Madison’s geeky best friend asked.

Krystal glared at Greg. “Shut up and mind your own business, Craig.”

“It’s Greg,” Greg corrected.

“Like I care,” Krystal said, crossing her arms.

“Why are we punished for wanting to explore?” Miles sang. “Why am I sitting in this cell? I was not challenging the system, I was working for the people. I just wanted to be better. Why are we punished for wanting to survive? Why am I locked behind these bars? Tell the children I'll return to them. Tell them …someone, let them know I will be free. I will not be defeated. I will stand like a mountain and the road will stretch before me and they'll know it's time to follow.”

“Hmm,” Madison said. “I don’t know, Krystal. Do you think he’d really be someone we’d want to recruit? He seems like a goody-two-shoe.”

“Those are the best kind,” Krystal said. “He’ll be so easy to break and once he’s broken, he’ll be begging to join us.”

“And we'll lift our eyes and raise our heads and face the sun,” Miles sang. “And tell the future, I'm king of the world, land of the free. High in the sky, the best that I can be and I'm king of the world. Watch and you'll see, nothing can stop me from tomorrow, keep me from my destiny. I'm king of the world. I'm king of the world. I'm, I'm—at least I used to be.”

As the song ended, everyone stood and applauded. Carmen did too, which surprised Miles.

“Mr. Larson,” Carmen said. “Ryan sent me the notes on your audition, saying that you were too predictable and you seemed too rooted in Broadway. And while he made it clear that you like to pander, we will not be tolerating pandering here. However, I have seen none of that today; I see a confident young performer with his eye on the prize. Broadway or not, what you have done was marvelous. I am impressed with your talent and am honored to have you here at NYADA.”

“Thank you so much,” Miles said. “I appreciate that, Mrs. Tibideaux.”

“Now, please welcome Madison Miller,” Carmen said, reading from her notes.

“Wish me luck,” Madison said to Krystal as she stood up and made her way to the front of the Round Room.

____________________________________________________________

As everyone exited the Round Room, Madison and Krystal hurried ahead to catch Miles. Miles had separated from Honey in the crowd and looked around, hoping to find her.

“Hey there,” Krystal said, slinking toward Miles.

“And you’re Krystal, right?” Miles asked.

“Krystal Graham in the flesh,” Krystal said, offering her hand to Miles for a shake.

“Madison Miller,” Madison said, extending her hand as well.

“And I’m Greg,” Greg said, appearing beside Madison.

“Get lost, Greg,” Madison ordered.

Greg nodded sadly, a look of loneliness spreading across his face as he walked away, leaving Madison, Krystal, and Miles behind to talk.

“That was kind of harsh,” Miles said.

“He’s used to it,” Krystal said. “After all, when you follow Madison around like a lap dog and pine after her hopelessly, you’re bound for rejection.”

“As are you two,” Miles said. “Whatever you’re getting at, the answer is no.”

Miles turned around and walked off, leaving Krystal and Madison looking mad as they watched him make his way through the crowd, eventually disappearing.

____________________________________________________________

Lana made her way through the living room, causing Jaxon to look away from the TV, which was playing Fame, to look at her.

“Going out again?” Jaxon asked.

“I am,” Lana said. “Camryn and I are going to a book reading at Books ‘N Beans. Dean Koontz is reading the first five chapters of his new book and then signing copies of it.”

“Seriously?” Johanna asked, looking at Lana. “Who even reads Dean Koontz?”

“I know right,” Jaxon said.

“Camryn and I do,” Lana said. “Camryn has opened me up to a new world of authors and books that I would have never read on my own. I spent all summer reading everything Christopher Rice has ever written after she recommended The Snow Garden.”

“Well James I spent the whole summer—” Jaxon began before Lana raised her hand and nterrupted him.

“I know what you two spent the whole summer doing,” Lana replied. “I walked in on it once, if you remember. I am still trying to forget the whole ‘don’t-embarrass-me-in-front-of-the-really-hot-girl’ incident.”

“Oh, the look on your face,” Jaxon said, smiling. “And the embarrassment I felt, especially since Camryn has started calling me ‘slugger.’ Anyway, back to my movie.”

“And Tyler wanted to do something with Camryn tonight, but she was already busy, so I invited him over to hang with you guys if that’s okay,” Lana added.

“You could have told me that before I started the movie,” Jaxon said. “Now he’s missed half of it.”

“You guys will figure out something to do,” Lana said. “He’s just lonely and needs more friends to do things with.”

As Lana said this, the doorbell rang, causing her to nearly jump. She looked at the door, and then back at Jaxon. “And that’s him.”

Lana opened the door and smiled at Tyler, who was carrying two boxes of pizza. Tyler smiled back and pointed to the boxes.

“I brought pizza,” Tyler said.

“Come in, Tyler,” Lana said. “You already know Jaxon and Johanna, so just make yourself at home and have fun. Enjoy the pizza.”

Tyler walked in and over to the kitchen table, sitting the boxes of pizza down. He turned toward the living room and say the TV.

“Oh, cool,” Tyler said. “Fame. I love this movie. Inspired by our little hallway musical number?”

Jaxon nodded. “I was. Have a seat, Tyler.”

Tyler smiled as he grabbed himself a slice of pizza and took a seat beside Jaxon on the sofa.

____________________________________________________________

Lana and Jaxon walked down the hall at NYADA the next day, making their way to the Round Room for the second round of solos.

“So, how was your night?” Lana asked.

“Tyler is a great guy,” Jaxon said. “But thanks for sending over an impossibly good looking guy while I am married and away from my husband. After all, it’s not like it’s torture.”

“Ooh, touchy,” Lana joked.

Jaxon held the door open for Lana as they entered the Round Room. “I’m still contemplating what your ulterior motives were.”

“Like I said, Tyler needs more friends,” Lana replied. “He’s a bit shy and right now, Camryn is his only friend and he’s been a bit lonely. He’s staying in a cheap motel, all alone.”

“Welcome to the second round of Round Room solos, where you each will be introducing yourself to your fellow students in song,” Carmen said, eying Jaxon and Lana as they took their seat. “Please welcome to the stage one of NYADA’s most promising students, Jaxon Pierce.”

“That’s you,” Lana said, pulling Jaxon up from his seat.

“Yeah, as if I didn’t know,” Jaxon said sarcastically as he stood up.

Jaxon slowly made his way to the front of the Round Room, stopping dead in his tracks as he looked beside Carmen and saw Ryan, the NYADA representative who had given him his NYADA audition—and attempted to give him much more. Jaxon looked at Ryan, who had a worried expression on his face. Jaxon stood there a moment, the entire room silent. After gathering his composure, Jaxon turned around, and made a beeline to the nearest exit, eliciting shocked murmurs from the crowd as Lana, Camryn, and Tyler jumped to their feet and chased after Jaxon.

“What’s going on?” Lana asked, as she opened the door and ran into the hall where Jaxon was standing.

“I can’t go back in there,” Jaxon said. “He’s in there.”

“Who?” Camryn asked, crossing her arms.

“Ryan, the representative from NYADA who oversaw my audition,” Jaxon replied.

“He made a move on Jaxon and tried to get Jaxon to sleep with him in exchange for putting Jaxon through to NYADA,” Lana said. “When Jaxon turned him down, he ripped him apart and then turned down Jaxon and both of his friends in return.”

“What an asshole,” Tyler said.

“Then why don’t you go in there and knock it out of the ballpark just to show that jerk that he couldn’t keep you down?” Camryn asked.

“It’s not that simple,” Jaxon said. “I felt so dirty after what he tried to get me to do.”

“It’s not like you did it,” Tyler said.

“It’s just the fact that he thought I would,” Jaxon said. “How he thought that I would be…like that.”

“And that’s why you are going to go back in there and prove him wrong,” Lana said, taking Jaxon by the wrist and leading him back into the Round Room.

Jaxon stood there, watching all the confused faces, including that of Carmen. Carmen didn’t seem too impressed as she waited patiently. Jaxon whispered something to the lead musician as Lana, Camryn, and Tyler made their way back to their seats.

“What’s wrong?” Miles asked.

“That dirt bag Ryan,” Lana said.

Jaxon took a deep breath as the music began to play, taking his place behind the microphone stand.

“Strip away the flesh and bone,” Jaxon sang, looking at Ryan. “Look beyond the lies you've known. Everybody wants to talk about a freak. No one wants to dig that deep. Let me take you underneath. Baby, better watch your step. Never mind what's on the left. You're gonna see things you might not wanna see. It's still not that easy for me. Underneath a red river of screams.. Underneath tears in my eyes. Underneath stars in my black and blue sky. And underneath, under my skin. Underneath, the depths of my sin. Look at me, now do you see?”

Ryan looked down, shifting his eyes and himself both away from Jaxon as Carmen raised her head a bit, really paying attention to Jaxon’s performance.

“Welcome to my world of truth,” Jaxon sang, looking over at his friends. “I don't wanna hide any part of me from you. I'm standing here with no apologies. Such a beautiful release, you inside of me.”

Jaxon took the microphone off the stand, walking forward as he sang.

“A red river of screams, underneath tears in my eyes,” Jaxon sang, giving himself fully into the emotion of the song. “Underneath stars in my black and blue sky. And underneath, under my skin. Underneath, the depths of my sin. Look at me, now do you see? Underneath, underneath, underneath, underneath, underneath. Welcome to my world of truth.”

As he sang, Jaxon dropped to his knees, reaching up slowly and then pulling his hand back in and toward his chest. Carmen’s eyes were locked on him tightly, not even flinching as she watched.

“A red river of screams,” Jaxon sang. “Underneath tears in my eyes. Underneath stars in my black and blue sky. And underneath, under my skin. Underneath, the depths of my sin. Look at me, now do you see? Underneath, underneath, underneath. Look at me, do you see? Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah! Look at me, do you see? Welcome to my world of truth. I don't wanna hide any part of me from you.”

As the entire room (with the exception of Krystal, who had her arms crossed and looked jealous) stood up and applauded, Carmen stood from her seat and clapped loudly.

“Jaxon, that was amazing,” Carmen said. “Ever since I saw you perform in the videos I watched, I knew you were a star. What you did today was make yourself vulnerable and open yourself and us up to your emotions. It was nothing short of powerful.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Tibideaux,” Jaxon said.

Carmen nodded at Jaxon, a slight smile appearing on her face. Beside her, Ryan stood up and walked out of the room, leaving Carmen stunned and confused at his sudden exit.

“Well, um, I guess we should continue,” Carmen said, standing up. “Up next is Lana Addison, another member of New Directions. Give her a hand, please.”

Lana stood up and took a deep breath. She felt someone firmly take her hand and looked down to see Camryn holding her hand and smiling up at her.

“I believe in you,” Camryn said.

Lana nodded, smiling as she made her way down the aisle and toward the front of the room. Jaxon patted her on the back as she passed him. As Lana stood at the front of the Round Room, she took one last look at her muse, Camryn.

“I, uh, don’t have anything fancy or poignant to say before I sing this song,” Lana said. “But, uh, as you can guess my name is Lana and I will be singing ‘Twilight’ by Thriving Ivory. I guess I could try—I recently went through a bad break-up and just recently met the love of my life, so I guess that’s why I chose this song.”

As the music began playing, Hallie shifted uncomfortably in her seat.

“I recall a long farewell and a time to choose,” Lana sang, running her hand down the length of the microphone stand. “So we part like rivers baby, yeah like rivers do. But I still talk about you though and wonder, how it is your life will unfold? Show me what it looks like outside your window at twilight. Show me what it looks like.”

As Lana sang, Hallie turned and looked back at Camryn, who was smiling warmly as she watched Lana perform. Hallie turned back around and sank down into her seat sadly.

“I recall driving home, this ain't gonna hit me till God knows when,” Lana sang, gripping the microphone tightly. “You know I feel it in my bones and I wear it on my skin. But there ain't no use in right or wrong, a heart must go where it belongs. Show me what it looks like outside your window at twilight. Is it me that you see dancing on a line? Singing I could be yours if you would be mine. Come on grow old with me and surely you'll see. And I remember thinking that girl, you must be dreaming. So hold on, hold on, before it's all gone. And I do remember thinking that your world would go on spinning without me now, so c'mon, c'mon please.”

Camryn looked up at Hallie, who was looking at Camryn out the side of her eyes. Camryn looked a bit uncomfortable, but turned her attention back to Lana.

“Show me what it looks like outside you window at twilight,” Lana sang. “Show me what it looks like outside you window at twilight, yeah. Yeah, show me what it looks like outside your window at twilight. Is it me that you see dancing on a line? Singing I could be yours if you would be mine. Show me what it looks like, show me what it looks like, show me what it looks like. Come on grow old with me and surely you'll see. I recall a long farewell and a time to choose, so we part like rivers baby, yeah like rivers do.”

As the song ended, Carmen stood up and applauded.

“Lana, I love the smoky quality of your voice,” Carmen said. “Your range is incredible and you are very charismatic. Good job, Lana.”

____________________________________________________________

As everyone piled out of the Round Room, Tyler ran ahead to catch up with Lana. Lana turned around to face Tyler, confused at why he was running after her.

“Hey, Lana,” Tyler said. “Got a second?”

“I’m not due in Songwriting 101 for five minutes, so I can spare a couple,” Lana replied. “What is it?”

“Well, it’s nothing really important,” Tyler said. “I was just wondering about your friend, Evan.”

“What about him?” Lana asked.

“Well, see, um,” Tyler began, fumbling nervously with his sleeves. “When I saw him in the halls the other day, I thought he was cute and I’ve never had a boyfriend before…”

“Oh, I see,” Lana said, smiling. “You like Evan. Well, I can help you out, but be cautious; Evan has a reputation as a heartbreaker.”

“Oh, I see,” Tyler said, sounding defeated.

“Look,” Lana said, taking Tyler’s arm. “Maybe that was too strong of a word. I’m sure that Evan just never found the right guy or girl. Maybe that guy is you. You never know. It’s worth a shot. Anyway, I’ll help you out.”

“You will?” Tyler asked. “Thanks so much. I owe you big time!”

“Free drink on my next visit to Books ‘N Beans and we have a deal,” Lana said as she pulled a section of newspaper out from between her books. “Turns out Evan is rooming with India Wilson in a giant suite that is in serious need of a new roommate. You could be that roommate.”

“That’s great,” Tyler said. “After all, I am living alone in that hotel room. It gets pretty lonely.”

“And wouldn’t Evan—and to a lesser extent, India—be great company?” Lana asked, smiling as she pointed out the classified ad.

Tyler took the ad and circled it with his pen, smiling from ear to ear. “This is just great news.”

“And if Evan chooses someone else, I’ll crack his skull,” Lana added, as if it was no big deal.

____________________________________________________________

Jaxon walked into the Songwriting 101 classroom and threw his backpack under his desk. The door opened and a young dark-haired woman walked in.

“She is hot,” Miles said to Chuck, who nodded.

“You’re lucky Honey isn’t in here to hear you say that,” Chuck replied. “Is she an upperclassman?”

“No, I’m the teacher,” the girl said. “Now, both of you can finish your conversation after my class. My name is Shayne Perez and I am your teacher for Songwriting 101.”

“You’re Shayne?” Evan asked. “No offense, but with your name, we all assumed you were a guy.”

“I can do anything a guy can do,” Shayne said with a smile. “I can assure you that, Mr. Marx.”

As Shayne passed Jaxon’s desk, she stopped and looked at him. Jaxon looked at her and then around the classroom,.

“What?” Jaxon asked.

“Jaxon Pierce, co-captain of New Directions,” Shayne said. “You led New Directions to an International Championship.”

“Yeah, but I had help,” Jaxon said.

“But you’re the only member to co-captain three years in a row,” Shayne said. “NYADA has done its research on you, Jaxon. We know all about you and your teammates. This school provides the tools for greatness, but we’re only as good as our artists.”

“Why is everyone making such a big deal about me here?” Jaxon asked.

“Because you are a big deal,” Shayne replied.

“I don’t see what’s so great about him,” Krystal said as a few scattered laughs echoed throughout the room.

“I could say the same about you,” Shayne said, looking at Krystal. “But then again, I guess that your rich daddy could buy you anything and everything, right? Did he buy your talent or did you have to work hard like the rest of us?”

“Are you suggesting I use autotune?” Krystal asked, offended. “I can sing live—”

“I’m suggesting that you never had to work hard for anything in your life,” Shayne replied. “That stops here in my class. Your daddy can’t buy you a free pass or good grades. You don’t work hard in my class, you don’t pass. Simple as that.”

Lana covered her mouth to stifle the laugh as Krystal’s mouth dropped open from shock.

“Which assures me that those of you from New Directions will pass,” Shayne continued. “You are the epitome of hard work. Now, we’re going to take out our texts books and begin studying basic musical terms. Turn to page seven, please.”

____________________________________________________________

That afternoon, Tyler took a deep breath as he stood outside India and Evan’s apartment complex. Clutching the classifieds, he stepped up on the porch, shook off his nervousness, and went inside. Tyler walked down the hallway until he finally found the right apartment number. Taking one last deep breath, he knocked on the door and was surprised as India and Evan both answered the door, standing side-by-side.

“I’m here about the apartment,” Tyler said.

India and Evan both looked at one another before they each took Tyler by the arm and led him inside.

____________________________________________________________

After Tyler had left, being chosen as the new roommate, India took a seat on the luxurious sofa beside Evan.

“He was cute,” India said.

“Hey now, back off,” Evan said. “I saw him first.”

“What does it matter who saw him first, he obviously isn’t gay,” India replied. “He flirted with me.”

“He had a rainbow flag keychain,” Evan said.

“Maybe he just likes rainbows,” India mused. “It’s quite a possibility. Besides, I saw him first.”

“I thought you said that didn’t matter,” Evan said.

“I lied,” India replied as she stood up and crossed her arms. “There is obviously only one real way to solve this, dear Evan: a sing-off.”

“Bring it on,” Evan said as he stood up and began to stare India down.

“He was working at the movies and we were standing in line,” India sang. “And I remember telling you just look at those blue eyes. So don’t act like I never said it ‘cause that moment, I won’t forget it. I saw him first. You’re out of line. Can’t you see that boy is mine?”

“Save it, stop it, don’t you get it?” Evan sang. “I saw him first, so quit being such a flirt.”

“Sweep yourself under a rug ‘cause he fits me like a glove,” India sang. “And I saw him first.”

“I wonder if you want him just because I want him too,” Evan sang. “I know that you know better. That’s just something friends don’t do. So just back off, go find another ‘cause there’s more boys and more summers.”

“I saw him first,” India sang. “You’re out of line. Can’t you see that boy is mine?”

“Save it, stop it, don’t you get it?” Evan sang. “I saw him first, so quit being such a flirt.”

“Sweep yourself under a rug ‘cause he fits me like a glove,” India sang. “And I saw him first.”

“So girl, be careful what you’re doing, what cha doing?” Evan sang.

“And I don’t know who you think you’re fooling,” India sang. “I saw him first. You’re out of line. Can’t you see that boy is mine?”

“Save it, stop it, don’t you get it?” Evan sang. “I saw him first, so quit being such a flirt.”

“Sweep yourself under a rug ‘cause he fits me like a glove,” India sang. “And I saw him first.”

“And you can’t have him!” India and Evan sang.

“I see you’re not going to relent,” India said. “Well, maybe we should just let Tyler choose. We’ll see in due time.”

“Exactly,” Evan said. “We’ll let Tyler choose.”

____________________________________________________________

The next day at school, Miles walked into Dance 101 and looked at Lana, who stood there, propped up against the ballet bar.

“What are you doing in here?” Miles asked. “I’m surprised that you’re taking Dance 101.”

“Dance 101 is a required course,” Jesse Nash, the strikingly good looking teacher said as he walked in.

“Oh,” Miles said. “I guess I didn’t realize.”

“Are you done talking or should I wait here for you to finish?” Jesse asked. “I don’t really have all day.”

Miles nodded, taking his place beside Lana, who was fighting back laughter.

“Is something funny?” Jesse asked, looking at Lana, who shook her head.

“Nope, not at all,” Lana replied.

“That’s what I thought,” Jesse said. “I guess a lot of you were expecting Cassandra July. I am clearly not Miss July. She was fired for showing up to school drunk and for paying for the services of male prostitutes, which is illegal and something she also did on school grounds. Unlike Miss July, I am tough and I am no-nonsense. You will work hard in my class and if you aren’t good enough, you will not earn a passing grade.”

“And I’m doomed,” Lana whispered.

“If you don’t have what it takes, then yes, yes you are,” Jesse said as he walked passed Lana.

As Jesse approached Honey, he stopped and looked her over. His gazed lingered a bit too long, alerting Miles who puffed up, starting to get defensive.

“You have a dancer’s body,” Jesse said to Honey. “I have a feeling this will be a breeze for you.”

Miles shook his head, biting his tongue as Jesse’s body language got a bit flirtatious. Honey smiled at the compliment, oblivious to Jesse’s obvious attraction to her.

____________________________________________________________

Miles walked into his dorm room, throwing his backpack on the sofa and making his way to the kitchen.

Just who does that Jesse guy think he is? Miles asked himself. Coming in and putting us all down? Talking about the stuff Cassie July pulled, but turning right around to perv over my barely-eighteen girlfriend. What a creep, what a jerk, what an—

Miles’ course of thought was interrupted by a knock on his door. He sighed as he made his way to the front door and opened it, surprised to see the campus housing advisor at his front door.

“Your roommate, Mr. Paulson, has had an emergency, forcing him to return home to Nevada,” the campus housing advisor said. “We’re here to collect his things and also to introduce you to your new roommate.”

Hallie walked in and waved half-heartedly at Miles.

“But she’s a girl,” Miles said flatly.

“NYADA dorms are co-ed and she was the next one on the waiting list,” the advisor said. “I’m sure this won’t be an issue due to you both being from McKinley High. I’m sure you will get along great.”

“I mean, it could have been anyone but her,” Miles said.

“Happy to see you too, Miles,” Hallie said sarcastically.

Mile sighed, feeling defeated, and made his way back to the kitchen. Hallie started bringing in her bags as the housing advisor carried the last few bags of Miles’s original roommate’s belongings out into the hall.

“Have a good day,” the advisor said as she shut the door behind her.

Miles and Hallie stood in complete silence, not looking at one another. The only sound was the ticking of the grandfather clock’s second hand. Miles sat down on the sofa, fished around his backpack, and pulled out a notebook. Flipping to a blank page, he began to write a letter. Hallie took a seat at the kitchen table with her own notebook, doing the same.

“Dearest, darlingest Momsie and Popsicle,” Miles said, scribbling on a sheet of paper.

“My dear mother,” Hallie said.

“There's been some confusion over rooming here at NYADA,” Miles continued.

“But of course, I’ll care for the twins,” Hallie said.

“But of course, I’ll rise above it,” Miles said.

“For I know that's how you'd want me to respond, yes,” they both said. “There's been some confusion, for you see my roommate is—”

“Unusually and exceedingly peculiar and altogether quite impossible to describe,” Hallie said.

“Blonde,” Miles said.

“What is this feeling, so sudden and new?” Hallie sang.

“I felt the moment I laid eyes on you,” Miles sang.

“My pulse is rushing,” Hallie said, standing up.

“My head is reeling,” Miles said, standing up and walking over to the table where Hallie stood.

“My face is flushing,” Hallie said, putting her hands down on the table, propping herself up as she leaned forward and stared Miles down.

“What is this feeling?” They both sang. “Fervid as a flame, does it have a name? Yes; loathing, unadulterated loathing!”

“For your face,” Hallie sang.

“Your voice,” Miles sang.

“Your clothing,” Hallie sang.

“What’s wrong with my clothing?” Miles asked, looking down at his clothes.

“Let's just say I loathe it all,” they both sang. “Every little trait however small, makes my very flesh begin to crawl with simple utter loathing! There's a strange exhilaration in such total detestation. It's so pure, so strong! Though I do admit, it came on fast, still I do believe that it can last. And I will be loathing, loathing you my whole life long. What is this feeling, so sudden and new? I felt the moment I laid eyes on you. My pulse is rushing, my head is reeling. Oh, what is this feeling? Does it have a name? Yes, ah, loathing! There's a strange exhilaration in such total detestation. It's so pure, so strong! Though I do admit, it came on fast, still I do believe that it can last! And I will be loathing for forever, loathing, truly deeply loathing you, my whole life long!”

As the song ended Hallie crossed her arms. “Well, guess this is gonna be quite uncomfortable.”

“We can make the best of it,” Miles suggested. “So, what do you think about Lana and Camryn?”

“What the hell do you think I think?” Hallie asked.

“You’re pissed, I guess,” Miles said.

“And how is India?” Hallie asked. “How do you like me bringing up your exes who’ve completely moved on without you?”

“It really pisses me off that Lana didn’t even bother to tell me about her,” Miles said, pretty much ignoring Hallie. “Lana and I used to be close, but now…there’s still this rift between us. Things haven’t been the same since you know, the rooftop incident.”

“Please, can we change the damn subject?” Hallie asked, whirling away from Miles, quite angry.

“I’m sorry,” Miles said, walking over and putting his hand on Hallie’s shoulder. “This all must be hard on you—”

“Of course it’s hard,” Hallie said. “Do you know how much time and how many emotions I’ve invested in a nearly two year relationship? And now it’s just fallen completely apart and thrust her into the arms of another girl.”

“You know, relationships end,” Miles said. “It’s part of life.”

“This part sucks,” Hallie said.

“So,” Miles said, trying to change the subject. “Where are the twins?”

“At the daycare,” Hallie said. “I figured my hands would be too full trying to get moved in to deal with them, so I dropped them off there. I got chosen to be your new roommate because of having the twins and this is the deluxe wing of the dorms.”

“Yeah, we do have a lot of extra space,” Miles said. “But this can’t be the kind of life you want for yourself; cooped up in a dorm room with someone you hate and your kids. Surely you want more than that; if not for yourself, for them.”

“I’m following my dreams and doing what I have to do for my children,” Hallie said. “It may not be ideal, but it works. And you know, maybe hate is a tad bit strong of a word to use.”

“Can I fix supper?” Miles asked. “I mean, you’re probably hungry and you have a lot of moving in to do. It’s the least I can do.”

Hallie smiled at Miles, nodding her head. “I would appreciate that.”

____________________________________________________________

Jaxon chewed the end of his straw as he sat at the lane inside Supernova’s. Beside him, Tyler was making disgusted faces at his old, worn-out, rented bowling shoes. Lana and Camryn couldn’t keep their hands off one another as Lana stepped up to bowl. Johanna sat off to herself, reading a book.

“Ugh, it’s driving me nuts,” Jaxon said.

“What is?” Tyler asked.

“They are so happy, lovey-dovey, and touchy-feely—and my husband is four hundred and seventy-seven miles away,” Jaxon said. “But I guess I should be happy for them. After all, Lana deserves it.”

“And so does Cam,” Tyler said. “But I understand, it’s hard being away from the ones you love—or being alone, period.”

“You’re single?” Jaxon asked.

Tyler nodded. “I’ve only had two girlfriends my whole entire life…and zero boyfriends.”

“I find that hard to believe,” Jaxon said. “I mean, look at you; you’re gorgeous. Your eyes…they remind me of my husband. He had really pretty blue eyes like yours.”

“You think I’m gorgeous and my eyes are really pretty?” Tyler asked.

“Well, yeah,” Jaxon said. “You should be more confident, Tyler.”

Tyler nodded and start to move in toward Jaxon, his lips parting. Before he could touch his lips to a stunned Jaxon, he pulled away, averting the kiss at the last minute.

“I forgot,” Tyler said, looking ashamed. “You’re married. I was gonna be confident, but guess I should try it on someone who is actually available.”

“I’m sorry if maybe I made you read more into that,” Jaxon said. “I just really miss James and I guess I maybe projected that onto you because of the eyes.”

“I’m sorry,” Tyler said, standing up. “I should go.”

“Tyler,” Jaxon said, grabbing the sleeve of Tyler’s jacket. “Don’t go. Please, stay with us. Things like that happen, alright? It’s not like you actually kissed me. So, no harm done. Okay?”

“I really want a boyfriend,” Tyler said. “I know I’m bisexual, I’ve just never really acted on it. I see certain guys, like you or Evan, and I feel this tingly feeling from my finger-tips, down to my toes, and back up to my lips. It’s hard to explain.”

“It’s called attraction and sometimes it can be electric,” Jaxon said. “So, you like Evan?”

“He’s cute,” Tyler said. “And he can really sing.”

Jaxon smiled. “Then, you know, maybe you should try to pursue him. He’s free and something tells me that he would like you, too.”

Tyler smiled. “Thanks, Jaxon.”

“Hey, what are friends for?” Jaxon asked with a smile.

As the radio announcer said the name and artist, Tyler looked at Jaxon and smiled. He stood up and grabbed Jaxon, pulling him to his feet as the song began.

“I love this song,” Tyler said.

“Me, too,” Jaxon agreed.

“I'mma take you back in time and together we can get it right and we can set the world on fire,” Tyler and Jaxon sang. “I'll hit you with the track and I'mma take you back.”

“I'mma take you back in time,” Tyler and Jaxon sang as Lana, Johanna, and Camryn joined in. “Now we're moving at the speed of light and we know how to win this fight. I'll hit you with the track and I'mma take you back.”

“I'm in black on black,” Lana rapped. “A flashlight where we at, uncovering lies, discovering I'm the girl chosen. Gotta make good with my time. I'm hoping that I can come out this whole thing alive. And it's a dangerous world for people like me, but them lights won't slow me up or keep ya girl down cause he got that goal to reach And I gotta get get my destiny.”

“We got a good thing going on but it ain't what it used to be,” Camryn and Tyler sang. “I wanna know where it all went wrong and we're gonna change history.”

“I'mma take you back in time and together we can get it right and we can set the world on fire,” Tyler, Jaxon, Lana, Camryn, and Johanna sang. “I'll hit you with the track and I'mma take you back. I'mma take you back in time. Now we're moving at the speed of light and we know how to win this fight. I'll hit you with the track and I'mma take you back.”

“And I'mma take you back, back, back,” Johanna sang.