Character Q&A: Lauryn James

May 8, 2025

Lauryn insisted we meet at a charming bookstore cafe nestled on a quiet corner in Manhattan. It wasn’t far from Langston University, where her husband, Asher Truesdale, was wrapping up another intense day of PhD studies.

“I wanted to meet here because it’s close to LU,” Lauryn explained, her smile softening as she adjusted her baby girl in her arms. “Asher’s coming after class. We’re going to grab dinner together.”

We settled into a cozy corner near the back of the café, the sound of clinking mugs and low chatter filling the background. Lauryn’s baby, Eres, was peacefully asleep against her shoulder, her small hands curled gently in the crook of her mother’s arm. With only an hour to chat before Asher joined us, Lauryn and I got right into our conversation about marriage, the possibility of more children, and the exciting new project her father had been working on.

The warmth of the moment felt easy, natural… a reflection of Lauryn’s journey. She was once closed off, guarded by pain, but now, in this space, she radiated a calm confidence. As our time together ticked on, I couldn’t help but marvel at how much she had changed since the early days of Wrath.

Character Q&A: Zoe Greene (neé Stewart)

April 24, 2025

Zoe Greene (née Stewart) was always one of my most grounded characters, and when I asked to meet her for her Q&A, she insisted we sit down in her baby boy’s nursery. Located in the sprawling estate she and Bryant now call home in Long Island, Zoe welcomed me into one of the newly renovated rooms, where she and Bryant have made so many memories with their son already.

The nursery is cozy, with soft dove-gray walls (a compromise with Bryant, who wanted everything blue), and gentle string lights add a warm glow to the space. A plush rug underfoot contrasts the polished wood floors, and the crib is flanked by shelves of carefully chosen baby books and stuffed animals. The soft hum of a baby monitor can be heard in the background as her baby sleeps soundly. Zoe and I relax on the couch, her eyes occasionally drifting toward the crib, a picture of calm and contentment.

Zoe smiles as she sips her tea. “I never thought I’d be a mom,” she admits, glancing back at her son. “But now? I couldn’t imagine life without him.”

Character Q&A: Bryant Greene

April 10, 2025

The pristine office sparkles effortlessly, as if it was born to do so. Bryant Greene, the multi-billionaire and a different man than he once was, insisted I meet him in his high-rise in Manhattan for an interview. Perched on the top floor, his corner office offers sweeping views of the city’s skyline, where New York’s tallest buildings glitter beneath the late afternoon sun. Despite it being nearing midday, activity buzzes across the floor, never slowing down.

“We’re still very much involved with developing Greene Gardens,” Bryant informs me, settling into his high-back leather office chair. “Though many residents are calling it home, there’s still a lot more work to do. Work I’m looking forward to tackling every day.”

Since he was already in the mood to discuss Greene Gardens, that’s where we start for his very first Q&A with me.

Character Q&A: Jeremiah Rhames

March 27, 2025

It’s a typical busy day at the Buy The Block Back (BTBB) headquarters in the heart of Brownsville, Brooklyn. The offices are abuzz with activity—workshops in session, a couple of community meetings taking place, and the scent of fresh coffee permeates the air. Jeremiah Rhames, the man behind the BTBB initiative, sits at his desk in his personal office. The room is modest but comfortable, filled with workbooks, photos of the neighborhood, and his framed vision for the future.

“A lot has happened since Loveless,” he commented as he leaned back in his chair. “A lot of good.”

And I couldn’t wait to explore all that good with one of my favorite MMCs.

Character Q&A: Joi Friday

March 13, 2025

It’s a chilly afternoon in the heart of Manhattan, but the air feels warm inside the charming chocolatier shop. Located in a cozy corner near the edge of the bustling shopping district, the shop offers a variety of decadent hot chocolates in every flavor imaginable—perfect for a cold day. The room is softly lit, with dark wood paneling and shelves lined with gleaming jars of rich cocoa powders, exotic spices, and decadent truffles. The gentle hum of jazz music plays in the background, and the scent of melting chocolate is intoxicating.

Joi Friday, dressed in a stylish yet casual outfit—an oversized sweater, designer jeans, and boots—sits at a small table, taking a break from the shopping spree she’s just completed.

“This was Jeremiah’s idea,” she insists when my eyes drop to the bags. “He said I’ve been working really hard and deserve to treat myself.”

Several shopping bags lie at her feet, some brimming with luxury items, others containing purchases she’s made with more thought, now that she’s learned to better balance her life. She sips on a dark chocolate hot cocoa, her eyes reflecting a sense of quiet contentment. Her thoughts seem to be with her husband, Jeremiah, as she catches her breath for a moment before diving back into retail therapy.

“Shopping used to be my therapy,” she says, smiling softly as she looks around the cozy space, her voice carrying a newfound sense of peace. “But since marrying Jeremiah, I’ve realized that I’ve learned how to spend in ways that truly benefit me. It’s not just about the things I can buy—it’s about the value I place on my time, my experiences, and the love in my life.”

Character Q&A: Jayce Martin & Summer McKoy (Couples’ Edition)

February 27, 2025

It’s a crisp morning, just a few months before Summer and Jayce’s wedding. They’re having brunch at an upscale cafe in the heart of New York City, just off Fifth Avenue. The restaurant has an elegant feel, with marble floors and walls decorated with fresh flower arrangements. Natural light pours in from the large windows, illuminating the table set with beautiful, mismatched china.

There are plates of warm croissants, fresh fruit, eggs benedict, and an assortment of cheeses. A bottle of rosé champagne is chilled in an ice bucket on the table, along with mimosas for a refreshing touch. Summer, always a fan of indulgence, smiles as she sips her drink while Jayce looks on, his hand resting comfortably on her knee.

“This is one of our favorite places to visit,” Summer noted, turning to smile at Jayce.

“And the most expensive,” Jayce joked, Summer reacting by playfully pinching his arm.

“But…” Jayce leaned in just a little to leave a kiss on Summer’s lips. “… she’s worth every penny and more. Ain’t that right, baby?”

Summer beamed with pride. “Yes, I am.”

Their relaxed smiles and soft laughter fill the space with an easy warmth, reflecting the love they’ve built together.

Character Q&A: Luke Lockett & Juliette Hart (Couples’ Edition)

February 20, 2025

It’s Valentine’s night, and the cozy, low-lit ambiance of NoHo Cigar Lounge sets the perfect backdrop for a night of intimate conversation. The rich, smooth scent of cigars mingles with the faint sound of jazz playing softly in the background. Over at the bar, the dim lighting glints off the high-end liquor bottles, while the quiet hum of the city outside blends with the warmth of the room. Seated in one of the brown leather quilted armchairs, Luke leans in toward Juliette, his hand wrapped comfortably around her waist as he whispers something in her ear that makes her smile. Her eyes reflect the flickering candlelight from a nearby table as these two show how far they’ve come from their college rivalry days.

“I love coming here,” Juliette voiced right after taking a sip of her whiskey. “Especially since we’ve reconnected. It’s our little spot, you know? Feels like home now.”

Character Q&A: Mykal Jones

January 30, 2025

Mykal and I sat in the modern, open-plan headquarters of The Ellis Daily, with large windows framing the city skyline. The hustle of journalists typing away at their desks and the occasional ringing of phones fills the background, but Mykal has carved out some quiet space in Desmond’s office. It’s a bright, welcoming atmosphere, with the scent of fresh coffee lingering in the air. Desmond’s office is minimalist, but there’s a certain warmth to it, especially with a large desk scattered with personal touches—a photo of Mykal and Desmond from their trip to Hawaii, a few framed mementos of their accomplishments, and the first edition of The Ellis Daily proudly sitting on his shelf.

Mykal looks relaxed, comfortable in the environment Desmond has built with his new venture. There’s a baby step away from the whirlwind pace that comes with running a major newspaper, yet her presence here as an editor feels both intentional and right.

“Sometimes life just takes you where you’re supposed to be, and you just have to trust it,” Mykal says with a smile as she sits back, reflecting on everything that led her here.

Character Q&A: Cadence Nice-Knight

January 16, 2025

Character Q&A: Eva Gordon

January 2, 2025

It’s a chilly evening in Rochester, New York, and Eva Gordon, wife to basketball star Jaleel Gordon, sits comfortably in the kitchen of their family home. The sounds of the winter wind outside are muffled by the warmth of the house. As she sips her herbal tea, Eva watches her newborn daughter, safely asleep in the nursery, from the video monitor. Her eyes are soft with contentment, and there’s a quiet glow to her. She’s a mother now, and life has transformed in the most unexpected ways.

Eva’s calm demeanor suggests that she’s found peace in her busy life, which now revolves around family and balancing her flourishing yoga studio and juice bar with the demands of being a mother of two. As she settles into the conversation, she smiles warmly, a little bit tired but grateful for everything life has gifted her.

“Girl,” she said, “I can’t remember the last time I had a full night’s rest but these kids make me so happy.”

As I settled into my seat, I started our conversation from there.

Character Q&A: Clarke Ali

December 19, 2024

We find ourselves in Clarke’s cozy, sunlit apartment in New York City. The faint scent of red wine and the sounds of the bustling city below seep through the windows. Clarke, with her effortless style and sharp wit, has settled into a comfortable chair across from me, a glass of wine in hand. As we settle in, she reflects on her life now with Yusuf, their journey together, and what the future holds.

Clarke, wearing a fitted sweater and high-waisted jeans, grins at me as she takes a sip of her wine. “You’re lucky I’m sipping this wine instead of running after some of the crazy ideas you’re about to throw at me.”

With a warm laugh, I start the conversation.

Character Q&A: Maven Young

December 5, 2024

In the heart of a cozy New York City studio, the hum of a freshly mixed track fills the air as Maven Young, award-winning songwriter, takes a break from her work to chat about life. The room is filled with the familiar scent of coffee and the soft glow of studio lights. Maven, now happily married to Kai Avery, sits back in a plush chair, her smile as radiant as the music she creates. From breaking up to rekindling their romance, Maven and Kai’s journey has been one for the books. As the couple settles into married life, we catch up with Maven on what’s been happening since she said “I do.”

“So, let’s get to it,” Maven said, her voice both warm and assertive, with a playful glint in her eye. “Ask away.”

Character Q&A: Rayelle Bell

November 21, 2024

In the heart of Miami, Florida, I found myself sitting in Rayelle’s pole dancing studio, a space that was as empowering as it was graceful. The soft hum of music filled the air as she moved around, tidying up between classes, effortlessly managing her business. The studio was a reflection of her—a blend of strength, femininity, and confidence.

Rayelle was dressed casually in workout gear, her long hair pulled back into a neat bun, exuding the same confidence and allure that had captured Mello’s attention. As she took a seat across from me, her eyes bright with energy, it was clear that she was more than just Mello’s wife—she was a woman who had built a life on her own terms.

Character Q&A: Xander Cox

November 7, 2024

On a sunny afternoon in Brooklyn, New York, I found myself in the bustling firehouse where Xander Cox worked as a firefighter. The space was alive with energy, filled with the sounds of laughter and camaraderie among the crew. The walls were adorned with memorabilia and photographs, showcasing the proud history of the firehouse and the brave men and women who served there.

Xander stood by the kitchen area, wearing his uniform, looking both relaxed and ready for action. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the faint scent of smoke from a recent call. As the crew wrapped up their duties, Xander’s warm smile hinted at his excitement to talk about his budding relationship with Rylee. A relationship that will be explored soon.

As we settled into the inviting break room, surrounded by the spirit of teamwork and resilience, I could feel the anticipation in the air. This was not just a conversation about work; it was about the hopeful new chapter in Xander’s life with Rylee.

Character Q&A: Dallas Roque

October 17, 2024

On a vibrant evening in Oakland, California, I found myself in the bustling locker room of the East Bay Coliseum where the Oakland Flames had just secured a hard-fought victory. The atmosphere was charged with energy, remnants of the game still lingering in the air. Players were celebrating their win, laughter and shouts echoing off the walls, but Dallas Roque was taking a moment to unwind.

Dallas, still clad in his team gear, sat on a wooden bench, a towel draped over his shoulders, his expression a blend of exhaustion and exhilaration. The locker room was adorned with Flames memorabilia, the scent of sweat and victory palpable. It was the perfect setting to discuss his recent marriage to Ayanna and the journey that had led him to this moment.

As I settled in across from him, he flashed a warm smile, clearly still riding the high of the game. “Ready to talk about my favorite subject?” he quipped, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. It was clear that this was not just a conversation about basketball, but about the new chapter in his life as a husband.

Character Q&A: Ayanna Dale-Roque

October 3, 2024

On a bright afternoon in Oakland, California, I found myself in the stunning kitchen of Ayanna Dale’s sprawling mansion nestled in the hills. The space exuded elegance with its tasteful decor, soft lighting, and breathtaking views of the city skyline beyond the large windows. As I took a seat at the beautifully set kitchen table, Ayanna smiled warmly, a hint of nostalgia in her eyes.

“This is the table where Dallas asked me to marry him,” she said, her voice filled with fondness. “Well, when he presented the ring and told me to wear it to let him know it was a yes.”

The moment felt charged with history, a symbol of the love and commitment they had built together. Ayanna, dressed in a laid-back yet stylish outfit, radiated a sense of warmth and openness. As we settled in, the atmosphere was relaxed yet intimate, inviting a candid exploration of her journey as a newlywed and the emotions that come with it.

With the gentle hum of life outside and the comfort of their home surrounding us, it was the perfect setting to delve into the complexities of love, commitment, and the joy of a new chapter in her life.

Character Q&A: Simeon King

September 19, 2024

On a crisp morning in Oakland, California, I found myself in the heart of Simeon King’s high-end office at King Sports Management (KSM). The office, located in a sleek high-rise, boasted expansive windows with a stunning view of the city skyline. The space was tastefully decorated with modern, high-end furnishings, and the air was filled with the scent of fresh coffee.

Simeon, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit with a neatly groomed beard, sat comfortably in a stylish leather chair behind his polished mahogany desk. The room was a testament to his success and high standards, with minimalist art adorning the walls and a state-of-the-art sound system softly playing instrumental jazz in the background.

“I’m glad you came by,” Simeon said, taking a sip of his coffee. “This interview is for Dallas, correct?”

I clarified that the focus of the interview was more on him than on Dallas, piquing Simeon’s curiosity.

With a hint of surprise and intrigue in his eyes, Simeon adjusted to the new direction of the conversation. As we began to explore topics from his past, it became clear that Simeon had not anticipated this shift. His reflections on Eryn Peters, his first love, revealed a nostalgic side that was both endearing and enlightening, offering a glimpse into a story filled with emotional depth and unresolved connections.

The unexpected focus on his past hinted at a compelling backstory soon to be revealed in his upcoming story, Sloth.

Character Q&A: Rylee Daniels

September 5, 2024

On a bright afternoon in her Brooklyn Heights brownstone, Rylee Daniels welcomed me into her stylish kitchen. The space exuded a modern elegance with its black marble countertops and a full stainless steel package, reflecting the light beautifully. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, perfectly complementing the gentle sounds of her children playing in the living room, just out of earshot.

Rylee was effortlessly chic, wearing her braids pulled up into a neat bun at the crown of her head. Dressed in a relaxed yet sophisticated outfit, she looked every bit the poised and thoughtful woman she’s become. As we sipped our coffee, the conversation naturally turned towards her past, her feelings about moving on, and the complex emotions that accompany new beginnings.

Rylee was candid, offering a window into her heart while maintaining a graceful composure.

Character Q&A: Eryn Peters

August 22, 2024

On a sunny afternoon in a chic coffee house, Eryn Peters settled into a plush armchair upholstered in soft velvet. The ambiance was sophisticated yet relaxed, with elegant wooden tables holding mugs of coffee adorned with intricate designs that seemed to float on the surface of the lattes and cappuccinos. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the subtle notes of jazz playing softly in the background.

Eryn wore a fashionable, laid-back outfit that perfectly balanced comfort with style: a flowing, light blouse tucked into high-waisted, wide-leg trousers, paired with block-heeled mules that clicked softly against the wooden floor as she moved. Her long hair was styled sleek and straight, cascading down her back in a glossy finish.

“I’m gonna keep it real with you, B,” Eryn began with a smile, her eyes glinting with a mix of warmth and defiance, “the only reason I agreed to this Q&A was because of this beautiful coffee house. I never turn down coffee, especially when it comes with such a dope presentation.”

The scene was as serene as it was stylish, perfectly reflecting Eryn’s poised yet complex personality. Getting her to agree to sit down and chat wasn’t easy. Mentioning Simeon, however, seemed to trigger a strong reaction from Eryn, which was intriguing given her impending reunion with him, though she wasn’t aware of it. As she sipped her coffee, the conversation shifted to her past and her emotions, leaving a lingering sense of intrigue about her story.

Character Q&A: Jordan Gabriel

August 8, 2024

On a serene afternoon at the Crestview Asylum, a haven more like a resort than a traditional asylum, the sun shone warmly over perfectly manicured gardens. The asylum, designed to blend in with its natural surroundings, featured elegant stone pathways, lush greenery, and tranquil water features, creating a calming and serene environment.

Jordan Gabriel relaxed comfortably in an armchair on the expansive, sun-drenched terrace that overlooked a beautifully landscaped garden. The chair, upholstered in a soothing light beige fabric, was positioned under a large, artfully designed pergola that provided a gentle shade. Jordan’s attire was casual yet refined—a soft, cotton button-down shirt in a subtle pastel hue, paired with neatly pressed slacks and loafers that spoke of understated sophistication.

Character Q&A: Romello “Mello” St. Claire

July 18, 2024

On a sunny afternoon in Miami, Florida, I watched as Mello settled comfortably in a plush outdoor armchair, positioned under the shade of a large umbrella near the poolside. At his insistence, we sat in the backyard of his sprawling oasis in the heart of Miami.

“I would’ve gone bigger, but my wife is modest. ” Mello chuckled over the rim of his iced tea. “Anything she wants though, she’s got it.”

Dressed in casual yet impeccably tailored attire—a linen shirt paired with tailored shorts and crisp Jordans on his feet—his demeanor was confident yet approachable, reflecting the blend of New York grit and Miami cool that now defined his character.

What he called modest was sincerely beautiful from every angle. Their Mediterranean-style home featured stucco walls, arched windows, and terracotta roof tiles, making the backyard feel like its own private retreat. The entire ambiance was relaxed yet sophisticated, a testament to Rayelle’s impeccable taste.

With the low hum of R&B playing from hidden speakers, the mood was set, and Mello was more than forthcoming with his answers to my questions.