after views [David Dobrick]

Chapter One

October 2022

David's pov: [Vernon hills, Chicago.]

I walk quickly down the sidewalk letting the street lights aluminate my path. There is a light breeze and you can feel the crisp air coming around the corner threatening the winter months. I look down at my cracked watch face. It's late. Briskly turning the corner I can see my destination. A small corner store that has been there as long as I can remember. The lights flicker in the street, it's always open.

Pulling the glass door open the smell of mildew and spiriment gum stings my nose. Smells familiar and welcoming because ive been here a thousand times before.

I go to the back and grab a six pack of beer. Sliding it onto the counter, I searched around in my pocket for some cash. Throwing some crumpled money onto the counter I take the beer and leave.

I dont usually drink, but it's been rough since YouTube changed their policies. I have nothing to post since all my content isnt allowed on the app any longer. I remember hearing the news like it was yesterday...

Flash back - January 2020

"Natalie!" I yell in a panic. She is my childhood friend that moved in when I was in need of an assistant.

I continued,"Why is YouTube not allowing me to post, can you check the wifi?"

With a blank expression Natalie emerges from her room holding her laptop seconds later. She plops down next to me not saying a word and shows me the email she has up on the screen. It says,

Dear David Dobrick,

        Although it might shock most, YouTube has changed posting policies drastically. Listening to our audiences concerns I am devastated to say your account will be shut down.

When YouTube was developed it was for all ages to enjoy personal experiences and appropriate content. Your channel however, does not provide that kind of content.

As of today all accounts that display:

● Copywrite material such as songs that do not belong to you.
● Foul language/ drug language.
● Harm to others such as stunts or accidents.
● Drinking/smoking/ intoxication on video.
● Harrasment/ bullying/ or peer pressure.

Will not be tolerated. Thus meaning your account will be deleted since you cover all 5 bullet points.

We are terribly sorry for this devistating news. We wish you the best in the future.

Sincerely,
YouTube Team

After reading the email with tears in both of our eyes I shut the computer and pull Natalie into a hug. What would we do now.

End flashback - back to October 2022

David's pov: [leaving convince store]

I sigh when I realize I'm already back at my parents front door.

I had to move back here since everyones channels in the Vlog Squad got shut down for being affiliated with such content. We had no jobs then and ran out of money fast. This then lead us to split up like we have never met before. I havent spoken to any of them in what feels like forever.
What hurts most of all is not talking to Jason anymore. He was the most effected by the situation with his family on the line. I wanted nothing more than for him to finally make it. I cant help him anymore. I'm such a bad friend.

I slump on the couch and opened a beer. What had my life come to? I stared at the blank screen of the TV taking small sips from my drink. My phone vibrates. Probably just another person asking what I was going to do with my life again.

I look down and read the screen...

It was Jason.