My Rebel Angel (Editing)

Obscene

Mallory was watching a youtube video of the Live Aid Queen concert on the television while eating mushroom chips and drinking coffee, dismissing the noisy steps Rose was making.

"Mallory!" Rose squeaked, making Mallory almost choke on his chips. She then proceeded to sit with him on the sofa and waited for him to breathe. 

"I'm sorry, are you okay?" She asked with  concern.

"Argh... Yes, I am." Mallory put the coffee cup down on the table and paused the television, "What is it, Darling?"

"I. Got. Supporting. Lead!" She joyfully said. Her eyes were radiating with pure happiness.

Mallory smiled and hugged his best friend tightly then let go, "That's fantastic!"

"You know, I have to thank you Mallory!" Rose joyfully spoke as she held her friend's hand tight. "If it wasn't for you, I might not have gotten this amazing chance!"

Her smile faded as she remembered something. She worriedly spoke, "Umm... Mal?"

"...Yes?"

"The director said I have a kissing scene with Don at the end of the movie. Is it okay?" 

Mallory stared at her with a tinge of jealousy. He shook his head to her and encouraged her, "Don't worry, Rose. As an actress, I know you will keep it professional with Don."

"Oh, thank you, Mal!" Rose spoke with a sigh of relief.

Mallory's phone rang on the small table. He grabbed it and answered the  phone. It was the band manager.

"Hello, Mallory!" Rita greeted him. "There is something important I want to talk to you about."

"Sure, what is it?" Mallory asked.

"You know I am also responsible for making sure Don's fame is stable, and the internet is an unforgiving place for a celebrity's reputation!"

Mallory nodded skeptically, "Yeah?"

"So..." Rita paused to think for a better way to say it, "...I have told Don earlier to never inform the public you two are romantic with each other!" 

"...Pardon me?" Mallory questioned with clenched fists. Rose quietly gasped as Mallory stood up from the sofa. 

"Look, Mal. There is no malice between us, but we want to make sure Don's reputation is squeaky clean---" 

"What's wrong with our relationship?" Mallory snapped to Rita. "Do you think our relationship is dirty?"

"Oh no! No, no. You see, it's taboo in many countries in the world, Mallory! I am not saying this to split you two apart, I am just saying this to make Don safe from the harsh crowd! I just need you guys to keep it behind the curtains." 

Mallory rolled his eyes and hovered his thumb on the hang-up button, "Okay, Rita. I'll talk to Don about it."

"One more thing!" Rita exclaimed, "The new movie Don has been gathering a buzz, and we wanted to make the actress, Rosanna Redd, and Don't to be a pretend love team in real life!"

"What the fuck?" Mallory shouted, startling the caller, "This is absurd!"

"Don't get mad, Mallory! This will be temporary; people have been saying how much they look great together! This will become a thing and a certain huge boost for both their careers!"

Mallory stared at Rose, unsure of what to say. Rose silently darted her eyes on the floor, rubbing her arms awkwardly. He thought for a bit, then reluctantly replied to Rita, "Well, how can I say no?"

Rose worriedly glanced at Mallory and spoke up, "Mallory, I don't want to make you feel uncomfortable like this!"

Mallory simpered and softly reassured Rose as he lowered the phone, "It's fine. I want to help you."

He raised the phone and agreed, "Alright, Rita."

"Great! I thought you would be as stubborn as usual. Don't worry, your band's song will be in the movie too!
Toot-a-loo!"

Rita hung up. Mallory sat down tiredly as Rose stared at him guiltily. 

"Mallory, I don't think I want to do what she wants. Don is your guy," Rose sighed as she sat down.

Mallory held her hand and replied, "No, I want to get back to you. You have been a great friend, even though I was a horrible jerk before."

"Mal, I don't think..." Rose hesitated with sadness and guilt in her voice.

"You always wanted to be a famous actress, Rose. You deserve this chance."

"Did Don even agree with this?" Rose disappointedly argued. "He knows this will make you feel bad!"

"Look, I understand. I trust you two." Mallory casually said. Rose wanted to say more, but Mallory stood up and yawned. "It's time to sleep. We have busy days ahead of us, Darling."

Rose watched Mallory go to his bedroom, and then said goodnight back with a grateful smile.