#macdesi break up already

[angus-macintosh-gyver]

Hmm I wonder how much the Mac/Desi toxicity level is going to rise today with the next episode. I mean last week we rose to controlling, stalking and physical abuse.

I wonder what's next?

[thecarrieonokay]

Season 6: Monica Macer’s TVLine Interview: My Ramblings

If you haven’t already read it, here’s the link: https://tvline.com/2021/04/30/macgyver-recap-season-5-series-finale-season-6-spoilers-mac-riley-desi/ 

Also, for those not already familiar with my particular brand of speech: Swearing included.

Episode 3 people!! WE ONLY HAD TO WAIT 3 MORE FUCKING EPISODES!!! *sigh*

To be honest, I always kinda figured that the writers were planning a ‘first kiss’ in the 100th episode (by my count that would have been 6x06 but feel free to correct me if I’m wrong!). To find out it could have been sooner than that… I mean, FUCK!! That would be really fast in my humble opinion. But, for the record, it’s not always a straight line from ‘first kiss’ > ‘full-blown relationship’. I kinda thought that there would be a bit of Macriley angst before that was fully settled… because, as we all know, MAC + THERAPY is the priority ship. They’ve all got emotional trauma/ shit to sort out. And Mac and Desi need a positive resolution. AND MAC NEEDS A MOMENT!! 

It’s blatantly obvious to fans of Mac and Riley that they belong together. In ep 3 it might have become obvious to Mac too… but I suspect that for Riley, it might have been harder to see. Prioritising protecting her heart and keeping her family’s functioning dynamic intact, Riley might have kept Mac at arms length for a while moving forward. Hence, a gap between ‘first kiss/ brief moment of passion’ and ‘we belong together’. 

That would be my prediction, anyhow. 

Of course, her loyalty to Mac would never waver and I LOVE the idea that Riley would go undercover in a Manchurian Candidate-style storyline. After all, Riley is the only one who has an idea exactly how violated Mac would be feeling. AND at Matty’s request, no less (because of course she knows Riley would risk everything to help keep Mac safe). 

Plus, WHAT an opportunity for a ‘dark Mac’ story arc.

Seriously though, this interview makes it sound like season 6 would have kicked off with a fucking BANG. They weren’t going to waste any time bringing back Evan and tumbling the fragile dominoes that are Mac and Desi’s relationship. The moment Evan was mentioned in 5x12, I could see how his being alive would be a slightly more ‘healthy’ device to break up MacDesi without causing enough trauma to split up the whole team. I honestly didn’t think they would do it though… it seemed too obvious somehow. But, hey. I’m happy to be wrong. And this angle would’ve given Desi a fully fledged arc that gave real meat to her backstory. 

As for the other elements, I think the treasure hunt is the one I’m most sorry to be missing out on. Sofia was a great addition. As a character she allowed Russ to expose his more un-trusting and flawed facets. She gave him depth. AND the idea of ‘the boys’ going on a treasure hunt is EPIC. I mean, let’s face it, ALL of our guys harbor a secret/ not so secret desire to be Indiana Jones, right? I can’t be the only one picturing Mac with that hat and whip… ?!

AND Bozer’s parents weren’t just a one-off. We were going to see more of them. HELL YES we were. This indicates to me that MM was putting an end to the previous era’s disastrous record of leaving promising story threads dangling in the wind.

If there’s one overarching thing this interview reveals it’s this: The trail was set. The foundation was all laid. Season 6 would’ve been Monica and her team’s first real opportunity to tell a FULL story. No shoehorning structure into old arcs. No trying to piece together a coherent picture from fractured puzzle pieces. Just a full season with a plan and the episode count to see it through. And I don’t know about you all, but I feel fucking CHEATED out of that. Season 5 was a PL era web of leftover threads that needed to be carefully untangled. It took all nine MM episodes to do it but we got there. AND THERE IS SO MUCH POTENTIAL FOR MORE!! 

No matter what happens with the #SaveMacgyver campaign (I see you all, I love you and respect you all, you total HEROES!!), I’m glad for this interview. I don’t feel ‘spoiled’. And that’s simply because I respect what Monica did here-- She made sure that the fans knew she cared. She gave us what little closure she could. And she confirmed that everyone was blindsided by the news (as we all suspected) and in a way that’s the greatest ‘fuck you’ to CBS that she is capable of making. Because, yeah: FUCK CBS. No matter how you spin it, the execs did MacGyver dirty. It’s unprofessional at best and cruel at worst. This basically confirms my suspicions about the network and my expectations about their reluctance to relinquish the rights to a valuable property. Because of this, I am managing my expectations for the future VERY carefully (I’m not being negative. I just don’t like being burned or blindsided). But this interview has definitely spurned my desire for a season 6 like nothing else could. 

So. In conclusion: Fuck CBS, Mac dressed as Indiana Jones would be hot as hell and ALL HAIL MONICA MACER!!

[just-a-fangirl13]

Why s5 *might* be the season MacRiley happens

Okay so...Hear me out! I'm not crazy I promise!!

Firstly, after 5x03 (and probably 5x04) it may seem very unlikely that MacRiley could ever happen. But I thought of a few reasons why they might actually happen by the end of s5 after all.... (it gets a lil long winded and kinda complicated but just stick with me till the end!)

1. All the MacRiley moments including the ones in 5x03.

[this Mac smile could not be an accident or something that slipped through both production and post-production right?! that in itself is a whole reason!]

Every Macriley moment we have ever had- whether it's the hugs, Riley saving Mac, Mac saving Riley, the ultimate show of loyalty when Riley went after Mac during Codex or even just the looks exchanged between the two- to any outsider it would seem pretty obvious that they are dating or at least in love. Keep in mind the writers would have written each of those scenes and Lucas and Tristan have acted them out with a specific build up in mind aka MacRiley.(think about the date episode: Riley just got dumped but was still thinking about how Mac might be hungry. She didnt have to do that. She could have just shown up at his place..) I mean how can they write two people so perfectly in sync and so perfect for each other and not have them end up together? It would just be a waste of all that tension and slow burn. (not to mention all the hugs and glances)

2. They know we exist. 

The MacRiley fam is very active on twitter with the writers and while they were writing 5x01 they knew we were around. They know we are a huge group. They would not want to risk pissing 90% of the fandom off by not making MacRiley endgame.

[P.S.yes 5x03 was a bait and switch but if you were paying attention you would have noticed that neither Lucas not Tristan live tweeted or hyped up the episode. They knew we would probably hate it so they didnt publicise it too much! so in the future if you have doubts about the episode being a MacRiley one just check their stories or posts on twitter/intstagram]

3. Yes 5x03 happened. 

I really think it was an episode they HAD to write. Ok so after 4x13 they had 7 more episodes planned and were filming 4x20 (aka the finale) when the pandemic struck. So they have these 6 episodes but no finale for it. [Idk if anyone else has noticed but in 5x01 there were clearly some parts cut out. For example the conversation between Desi and Riley towards the end seemed a bit jilted. Riley asking Desi to forgive her but Desi replied with yeah we are cool (still no apology ofc) I feel like something happened during that which ended up getting cut out so it could fit with the final story.]

This makes me think that they have rewritten a few bits to tie into the new finale episode. In 5x03 when Mac asked Desi to come fishing with him which was clearly something very personal to him she was like no do better.. then we see Mac's disappointed expression. She could have easily said okay but maybe not for our first date? Or its not really my thing? Or just about anything else rather than laughing in his face like that. Eventhough MD is together they still arent compatible. Mac’s final words in 5x03 was him being desperate. I truly think he is so broken and lost that Desi is the only safe thing left, the only thing he feels like he can fix right now. Once he finds himself again and heals...then it's going to hit him like a pile of bricks!!

4. But Riley doesn't have feelings anymore...WELL doesnt she? 

When it comes to Mac, Riley is always in denial. We saw it in s4 when she tells Bozer not to make her say it. I think s5 will show her finally accepting it. Finally accepting that she is in love with her best friend and that it definitely isnt Codex adrenaline because she caught the feels when Codex wasnt even around. While Mac's arc would include realising he and Desi are never going to work and that he is unhappy and that RILEY is the one for him.

[why else would they give Riley feelings for Mac? Something has to come of it.]

5. The slow burn rule.[this point is a lil complicated] 

Now season 5 is rumoured to have 13 episodes. So here’s what I think: If MacGyver follows the pattern that most shows do when it comes to slow burns, then technically MacRIley should have happened at the end of season 4. But since the season got cut short and they didnt get to air/finish their final episode the writers had to improvise. 

From what I know, 4x19 which is 5x04 for us is the episode where Mac meets Desi’s parents and 4x20 was supposed to be the finale that was left unfinished.(they are definitely moving the timeline ahead if a pre finale episode is suddenly a mid season one.) There might have been a 4x21 or 4x22 but I haven't heard anything about those....EVER.

So what I think they have decided to do instead is extend the MD storyline a bit longer just so they dont end up scrapping all their s4 episodes where they would be together and write a new finale that ties everything together, aka MacRiley.

If you think about episode counts, s4 and s5 together would have 26 episodes which is a how long a normal season runs. Basically what im trying to say is if we follow the ‘slow burns end by s4’ and take season 5 as an extension of 4 then MacRiley should get together in the season 5 finale or maybe the episode just before. (IM REALLY TRYING TO GET SOME LOGIC INTO THIS)

This would be a typical TV thing too where the couple finds out about each other’s feelings while the main arc of the show is also at its peak, which perfectly sets up a future season where fans are hyped but still has a satisfying ending.

6. So what about MacDesi?

So far the macgyver writers have given us characters we love. Think of every character on the show apart from maybe Desi... Mac, Riley, Bozer, Jack, Matty, Leanna, Samantha, Russ and even Murdoc. WE LOVE EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM. So then why is Desi such a strange character? I think shes purposely been written as an opposite to Mac or even Riley (I get she’s supposed to kinda replace Jack but Jack is really irreplaceable). 

It's not necessarily a bad thing its just not a great thing to do or have great execution. People have said things like Desi is a badass and shouldnt have to apologise or say I love you back to her boyfriend because she is a strong woman...I'm sorry but your opinion of who a strong woman is, is EXTREMELY skewed. A strong woman is someone who can make mistakes and when she does, she is ‘strong’ enough to own up to it, she is loyal and fierce and also caring while being a badass who can take down bad guys. And for GODS SAKE, RILEY DAVIS IS A STRONG WOMAN...people have called her mushy and feminine on twitter and I'm just very confused by that.....

Anyways before I go off on a rant, it seems like Desi is intentionally being written this way. Every opportunity they get to redeem her and make her more relatable or just a better person they just dont take it. While Rileys character arc is one of the best I've ever seen. Either its intentional or they’ve forgotten how to write characters...which is worrisome but ill give them the benefit of the doubt.

The writers also know we dont like Desi. The amount of times we've tagged them in the toxic posts or pointed out problematic things we can be sure they've seen at least half of those. So theres no way they dont know. RIGHT?

So why then is MD still a thing you may ask??

Well for one they cant break them up again off screen because of those unreleased s4 episodes. (not to mention the other parts of the audience who arent as invested in mac’s love life would probably be very confused.)

Secondly Mac has to be the one to pull the plug, not Desi. 4x13 made it seem like Desi was the annoyed one not Mac. He apologised to her which meant he wanted to fix things. 

Thirdly, they are opening the chpt one last time before they permanently close it. MD is going to be a stark contrast to macriley(it already is in every way possible). Every issue Mac and Desi had can be used to show how amazing macriley really is as two people who arent even dating yet.

Fourthly, MD being together is a sort of commentary on Macs mental health as well. We can see how happy he is with Riley but around Desi he becomes some one else. If the writers are doing this on purpose or subconsciously still remains to be seen.

And Yes keeping MD around for a few more episodes seems like a necessary risk right now but I have a feeling its going to be worth it later.

[I know we have had like 4 desi entered episodes already but I really think 5x04 will be the last of it since 5x05 is the Jack episode and 5x06 is Mac+Riley+Bozer episode with no mention of Desi at all!]

The writers know we are a dedicated bunch and they know that once MD breaks up for the last time the entire fandom will be waiting and watching. That's when the show will be at its peak. That will be the perfect moment to bring in MacRiley’s arc to a new start!

Congrats if you stuck with me through this whole thing! if you agree/disgaree with any of these or have other reasons why they could be endgame in s5 let me know!!

[macgyverseries]

rebutting and debunking frequently used arguments against macriley

I made this 10-page google doc rant a while ago, but I never ended up posting it. Today, however, I woke up and chose violence. So here it is: my thoughts on frequently used arguments against macriley.

I took some quotes and arguments that people put online (reddit, tumblr..), and I debunked them all :p I feel like I always see the same arguments all the time, and I’m honestly getting a little tired of hearing them. I’m here to settle this once and for all.

and yes, i did manage to cut down the google doc by 3 pages :D (but it's still long af so rip my brain)

1.”Mac and Riley are siblings because Jack is their father”

I can (mostly) get behind the argument that Mac and Riley shouldn’t be in a romantic relationship because of their super strong friendship. Some people really value that sole platonicness, and I get that.

But the argument that I can’t get behind is that: Mac and Riley are siblings because Jack is their father figure”

If you google the definition of “father,” the first result that comes up is: “a man in relation to his children.”

Now, Jack was definitely the father figure to Riley, and I would consider her his child. He raised her. He helped shape her ideals and upbringing.

Mac only met Jack when he left MIT. So it was pretty much after Mac was raised (by Bozer’s parents haha), that Jack really came into his life. Mac already became his own person. (also, I always saw Mac and Jack as more of a bromance)

So because Riley and Mac met Jack at different periods of their lives, and they were raised differently, I wouldn’t say that they were siblings who were raised by the same father.

2. “The show writers left the impression that there was a huge age gap between them”

I understand this a little. I do think Riley was introduced as pretty young and idk naive? Because she was literally in highschool, and then she went to prison, and then she got released into the wild. Personally, when I started watching the show, I googled the whole cast. So I started the show knowing that they were the same age.

And also, the more I got to know Riley, the more that I thought that Riley was more mature and had an old soul herself. I think it was because she was just a dynamic and round character, who is well-developed.

But, I get first impressions. I feel like once you get stuck on an impression, it’s hard to go away from that.

Also, Jack would’ve totally shipped macriley, and you can’t change my mind.

3. "Riley isn't ready for a relationship"

I honestly think that this argument should be more geared towards Mac. He needs to figure himself out and go to therapy ffs. However, this person targeted Riley (the literal queen), so I shall defend her:

I understand wanting Riley to take some time off, and figure herself out before going straight into another relationship with someone. But here’s the thing. Throughout the first few seasons Riley’s character was very well established, and she didn’t have any partners during that time. She has proven that she is a strong, well-rounded, independent woman (with or without a partner). So i think it is valid to say that she isn’t just some girl who only has boy toys. She is much more than that.

My next point is that Riley has made it clear that she wants a lasting relationship with someone who will support her. When talking with Mac in 4.04, we see her express her interest in a stable, healthy relationship. It’s not wrong to go out and look for that potential partner. This applies to everyone (not just fictional characters): It’s going to take a few relationships and self-discovery, to find a good relationship, and people shouldn’t be shamed for searching for that.

Riley has only ever had two major boyfriends that I remember. First was Billy; she took that relationship very seriously. She really did seem happy with him. It was a shame that he cheated on her. Second was Aubrey. She also took that relationship very seriously. She had been living with him for six months (and they even had the cutest date nights!) So I wouldn't say that Riley only has boy toys. She has meaningful relationships.

Lastly, I think this was written when season four started airing, but it’s been over a year (and a pandemic) since Riley has dated. I think enough time has passed.

*4. I had to split this one up because, oh boy, there is a lot to unpack here.

4a. “If that was the direction they’d chosen to take with that relationship from square one… My issue with it is that Mac and Riley were presented to us as friends/ found siblings for three years. There were NO romantic vibes to speak of between them..”

I actually felt the same way about macriley. The thought of them being together in season one, made me want to throw up. I don’t think the writers intended on having macriley, and I was perfectly fine with that.

I know that people look for different things when they ship. Some really like having instant gratification with the spicy, hot, sexy parts of a relationship, like macdesi (which is why I was fine with the idea of shipping macdesi in the past).

I always wanted to see macriley do more: have hot, flirtatious banters/interactions. it can be hard to ship people who seem to be missing that part of the love equation. So i agree. It's definitely strange. And I understand if you genuinely have a hard time seeing the romantic potential of macriley, when the writers have only dragged out and shown us the platonic potential of them.

Also, the reason why it is difficult to see macriley as romantic, was because they ALWAYS PRIORITIZED AND WERE DRIVEN on their friendship. A partner should be friends first, and then makeout buddies second.

But just because people start off as friends, doesn’t mean that they still don’t have that potential to be lovers. Because guess what?! Feelings change. It’s now canon that Riley has feelings for Mac, and Mac always had feelings for Riley (but never acted on it).

I'm sorry, but you like a boomer when you say “bAcK iN mY dAy, tHeY dIdN’t HaVe fEeLiNgS fOr EaCh oThEr.” like okaAAAyyYYyYY????? We are not “back in your day” anymore. We are in the present. We are in today. And today, macriley is real :)

4b. “There’s the incredibly tired trope where long-term coworkers suddenly catch feelings for each other out of nowhere”

Personally, I will never get tired of the friends to lovers trope. I think the fact that Mac and Riley had such a strong friendship and foundation is what makes them perfect. Again, I know that some people just like instant gratification, but I love when a couple can take their time to have depth, emotion, and realness in their relationship.

Obviously I am biased because I have so much love for this trope, it's my favorite trope, but I don't see why you would use the “it’s overused” as reasoning to hate a ship. Just because a trope is used a lot, doesn’t mean it is bad (that’s probably why it is so good lmao). I can understand getting tired of it, and growing a dislike towards a trope. For example, I have grown an extreme dislike towards the love triangle.

A bit of a tangent: But the difference between overusing love triangles and overusing friends to lovers, is that love triangles aren’t just commonly used tropes. They are cliches. They cause unwanted drama and unnecessary hurt to one character. Whereas friends to lovers doesn’t involve as much drama and pain for a character. It is more of just angst between two people. And we know that they will get together eventually with a happy ending. So it was never really problematic.

And even then, the great thing about overusing or utilizing tropes, is that they can act as a guide. It allows the show writers and cast to make it personal, make it their own, adding their own special flair to it

I just don’t see the “this trope is used a lot” as a valid reasoning for disliking a ship .It just seems like this commenter doesn’t like the friends to lovers trope for the sake of not liking it.

I could be very wrong in my assumption of this person’s thoughts on friends to lovers, maybe there is a deeper reasoning as to why they don’t like it, but the tone that i interpreted when i read this section, was that they don’t have a real reason to dislike it, it’s more of just because.

4c.“then there's the fact that Riley had a mostly single Mac in her life for 3-4 years and she never even considered him romantically until he was with someone else”

First: Riley didn’t CHOOSE to fall in love. You may recall that “emotions aren’t a science. You can’t control them.”

Second: Mac was broken up with Desi when she caught feelings for him. Plus, the moment Riley saw that Mac and Desi were getting happy together, she moved out and gave them space. She sacrificed her own feelings for his happiness, despite the fact that her heart was breaking.

4d. “and finally, Mac not only still doesn't seem to even have Riley on his radar in that way but he literally told another woman that he loves her just last week. Neither of them look particularly good here if they get together now.”

I'm assuming that this was written when 4.12 first aired. I'm also assuming that this comment was more directed towards the idea of Mac and Riley getting together immediately at the end of the season, rather than later down the road. I always saw of macriley as more of endgame material. That i would see them get together sometime in the future. So I agree. Macriley getting together during that time period, would be too rushed and unsatisfying.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

So those were most of the supposed arguments that I saw for people who were against macriley, but I also wanted to provide some really good examples of people who were very respectable, and actually had valid reasoning for disliking them.

1. they just don’t like shipping in general

Ships can be annoying af. Seeing people ONLY focus on the ships is sometimes tiring. I, myself, even feel a little guilty making this post, because I need to chill and mind my own business lmaooo. I really should let people do whatever they want to do with their lives, and not get caught up in the ships, but here I am :p

Anyways, I know that there is a lot of unnecessary drama that comes with shipping, and it's tiring to see people constantly go on and on about romance, when there are other perfect things about the show.

2. No matter how hard they try, they just feel it.

This is literally so dumb (and a little hypocritical/self-contradictory), but if you have a gut feeling, and you just can’t get yourself to ship it, I get it. If you truly and genuinely believe that they are best platonic friends, I can't change your opinion. And I have respect for you (if you say it in a kind manner).

Here is a nice example of a person who expressed their opinion in a nice way, with no BS.

So the moral of the story: I can't control your deepest thoughts. I can't control your gut feelings. And that’s okay. But the moment that you start backing up your thoughts and insights with BS reasoning, is the moment that I lose respect for you.

[cozyforjate]

MacGyver 5x03-Review

MacRiley fam, this will be my last MacGyver review. Thanks for the support and the great feedback on my reviews so far. You guys are awesome! But i’m taking a looong break from this show. I’ll be watching the Jack episode and if we get a Bozer, Matty or Riley centric i’ll tune in to watch. But my passion and excitement for this show is mostly over now.

I have so many things to say about 5x03 but if i start to express all my feelings i’m afraid i might break Tumblr. LOL 

This probably wouldn’t feel like a proper review coz i’m gonna focus on the RETCON that the writers pulled out of their asses to keep MacDesi together.

Ok so for people who are not familiar with the word “retcon”; it means changing an aspect of a fictional work by introducing a piece of new information, typically used to facilitate a dramatic plot shift or account for an inconsistency.

The writers usually pull a retcon, when one aspect of an already canon plot isn’t working well. You can call it a “fix-it” method.

In terms of MacDesi, they retconned some moments from season 4 that defined this relationship. I think the new showrunner and the writers team realized that MacDesi has become quite “toxic” during season 4. But because the additional episodes kept them together, they needed to at least fix this relationship.

From their POV it’s understandable to a degree. But from a viewers POV it’s total BS. Because what we watched in season 4, can’t be changed.

We remember the unhealthy dynamic between them, we remember the lack of trust between them, we remember how incompatible they were, we remember how they couldn’t communicate with each other, we remember Mac not letting her in emotionally, not opening up to her at all, we remember how much they BOTH hurt each other, we remember Mac’s own words on their relationship.

Most importantly we still remember 4x12. How quickly Desi turned her back on him, how she brought his mothers and aunts names into their ugly fight, how Mac said he’d say anything to get her off his back, we remember how she and Russ left Mac no choice but to improvise a plan to save lives, we remember Riley risking everything to protect him and be there for him. WE REMEMBER.

So when you dismiss all of that and re-write MacDesi as if they’re this great couple, it’s not going to work for people. And when you tease MacRiley the whole week with promos, exclusive pictures, articles, SM promotion; promising progress between Mac and Riley only to walk over everything that made them special, you get a lot of NEGATIVE reaction from the fans. With good reason.

* * *

Episode started with Mac and Riley on a picnic mission. The scene was amazing in every sense. The colors, lighting, the conversation between them, the almost kiss, the way Mac held Riley and they lied down for a while, the smug smile on his face and the looks he gave to Riley were all awesome! The car chase was super fun too!

But then everything went down the toilet. Coz in the next scene Mac was complaining to Bozer about how Desi wasn’t spending time with him and avoiding his date attempts. In this scene they retconned Bozer too. For the first time, Bozer encouraged Mac to go ask Desi out and fix their relationship.

Normally Bozer would never do such a thing. Why? Bcoz he’s been against a romantic relationship between them ever since Desi first showed up in 3x14. Bozer thought it was a bad idea from the start, called them Mesi (messy), he didn’t think it was a good idea to bring Desi back on the team in 4x01, coz MD break up was NUCLEAR. So up until 5x03 Bozer was never on Team MacDesi. Lets also remember this exchange between them:

In 4x12 when Bozer was trying to save Mac and Riley’s lives, he turns to Desi... 

Bozer: Desi, back me up here.

Desi: Sometimes we need to sacrifice the things we love for the greater good.

So after 4x12, one would only expect that his thoughts on MD would get stronger. But guess what? Bozer is now supporting MD. Just like that. I don’t buy it writers, sorry.

Back to the scene… Mac wants to go on a date with Desi. And he is so desperate about it. We had to witness one of the most awkward scenes between them. Not only that but we had to sit through Riley throwing smiles at MD, saying her feelings for Mac was just Codex adrenaline. Riley, who couldn’t watch any interaction between MD, is now totally cool with them!

And lets just say that Riley was pretending she’s over Mac, that she lied to Bozer bcoz she’s trying to move on. We already watched her having feelings for Mac, hiding those feelings and pining for him. Her one-sided love can’t drive the plot anymore. 

Besides she didn’t need to give her blessings to MD. It was an overkill. I really hated the scene where she says “Don’t screw up this time” to Mac…That was totally out of character for Riley.  

Riley who reminded Desi that Russ & her were gonna nuke them,

Riley who said she went after Mac coz she trusted him &asked Desi "Why didn't you?",

Riley who risked it all to protect Mac, tells Mac not to screw it up with Desi.

By saying those words, Riley makes it known that Mac was the one screwing up his rl with Desi. Desi had no fault. Once again the writers used my favorite character to prop my least favorite character. Shame on you!

***

I’m not gonna talk about every MacDesi scene in this episode. But let me just say that the writers turned Mac into a desperate, begging, lovesick puppy. He asked Desi for a date like 5 times, apologized twice. Kissed her out of the blue. Bcoz lets face it, that scene was so unnecessary. Nobody was onto them, the police car was passing by slowly and if the police were really suspicious, why would they look at the couple kissing instead of checking who’s in the car? So stupid. Oh and while they were kissing for minutes with great lighting and all, General Ma escaped. Mac acting this stupid, is not something we are used to see. But what you gonna do? I guess love is not only blind but also destroyes brain cells in the process.

Anyway, Mac literally begging Desi to go on a date with him was agonizing to watch. Every time he offers a new dating idea, Desi’s answer is NAH. Back in the picnic scene she made it sound like she wanted to date Mac, but of course she needs to make him suffer first!

I only like to point out the scene where Mac –finally- opened up to Desi about the fishing trip he and his father went together. This story is obviously precious to him. He called it a happy memory. Clearly he misses his father, still mourning for his loss. So he shared his happy memory and asked if she would like to go fishing with him. Desi’s answer? “Not gonna go fishing with you as our first date!” You can read the dissapointment on his face. And my heart breaks for Mac but this kind of treatment is something he’s asking for.

He is desperate to get Desi back. The fact that they are the worst match ever, doesn’t change sh*t. Mac wants Desi and he loves Desi for god knows why.

***

Btw- the whole “lets blame only Mac for Codex and ignore Desi’s wrongdoings” plot is disgusting. Yes, Mac suffocating Desi and Russ to escape Phoenix with Scarlett was wrong. Yes he hurt her, yes in a sense he betrayed her. AND HE APOLOGIZED. But what about Desi? What about her betrayel? 

First they made Riley apologize to Desi for following Mac and now they made Mac apologize… But no apologies from Desi. The writers are obviously worshipping Desi and they’re ready to sacrifice every character to make her look “perfect”. I’m sorry but i’m not here to watch the Desi show, or more MacDesi nonsense.

***

Mac said Desi is the woman he loves… but not only that, she is also the woman who guided him back. And the RETCON is really strong with this scene.

Lets remember…

In 4x08 Mac loses his father, at the end of the episode Desi wants to go with Mac but Mac stops her, telling he’d see her tomorrow.

In 4x09 Desi says he can share his burden with her, Mac’s not interested, he says what he needs is to stop Codex.

In 4x10 Mac makes apocalypse kits for Riley and Desi. Desi’s so happy she got a crossbow and didn’t think those kits were a bad sign. But Riley notices that Mac is not in a good place, he needed help and support. Riley shares her concerns about Mac with Desi. She probably thinks it’s not up to her to be the one doing that when Desi is the girlfriend. So after her conversation with Riley, Desi makes soup and gives Mac a compass. Saying he’s not lost (he clearly was tho). She askes if everything’s ok, he looks different but Mac says, he’s just tired.

In 4x12 Mac is lying in bed, lost in his own mind, he gets up, leaves the compass on her side of the nightstand… On the run he ignores Desi’s calls.

Then things get really ugly for MacDesi. Desi says “You are so drunk on somescrewed-up cocktail of your mom, your aunt, Codex science...”… She says “You're compromised”…  Mac was just trying to get Scarlett on their side to stop Codex but Desi couldn’t see it. She thought Mac was losing it!

And then Desi sides with Russ and turns her back on Mac. Russ dismisses Mac from the Codex mission. Mac's forced to improvise. Bcoz he wants to stop Codex without bloodshed.

So as you can see they completely re-wrote the events of 4x12 to fix MD.

Desi says: “I had front-row seats to the war that raged in you last year, and I can't do that again. Lose you.”

She was ready to sacrifice him for the greater good. But yeah, sure! Why not.

Mac says: “Des, I know it looked like I was lost, but you were there the whole time, guiding me back home.”

THE WHOLE TIME.

In 3 times she “tried” to be there for him, Mac didn't let her in emotionally but lets just say that she brought him back to his senses.

Lets just say that the compass he left on her side of the nightstand represents that it guided him back. (btw lets also ignore that the compass Mac gave Desi back was a different one. Who knows, maybe he threw it in the garbage during the pandemic and bought a new one)

Lets just forget who really brought him back. Lets just ignore what Riley did for Mac. How she saved him, how she was the one who risked everything for Mac. How she was the one there by his side when they were facing a missile.

Only if we forget and retcon history we can all buy MacDesi. 

But i can’t… I can’t forget, i’m not ok with a retconned half-ass love story that they want to sell with MD. I can’t sit through the episodes and keep watching the “flawless Desi” show.

This show isn’t entertaining to me anymore. I can’t recognize Mac, i’m pissed that my fav characters are being used as tools to prop Desi.

One last thing before i say my final goodbyes:

The lighting in this episode was so weird. In almost every scene, heavy light effects distracted me. Usually they use it when they show you a flashback, a dream or a hallucination to seperate the real-time scenes from others. But this episode had them from the start to the end. So i don’t know what to make of this.

Some of the dialogues had subtexts…

Leland to Russ: Now, I know you don't care about much in this world, but even the best of us can be blinded by those we love.

General Ma to Mac: I was blinded by him (Leland) once. I-I won't be blinded again.

Mac: Many things blind us. Anger, betrayal, even love. But sometimes, a little blindness can work to your advantage. You can create a fog that will cause the world around you to disappear.

Normally i would dive deep into the subtextland. But i don’t think the writers were trying to give some deep message or anything. 

I do believe that Mac is totally blinded by his “idea” of love… But i’m done waiting for him to open his eyes. The Mac i watched in this episode is not My Mac.

Writers made their choice. They made Mac's feelings crystal clear. He's all about Desi. At this point, Desi breaking up with him would mean nothing to me. Just like Riley still having feelings for Mac means nothing anymore.

Official accounts tweeting “There’s more to come for MacRiley” means nothing to me anymore.

Noone wants a rebound plot but unfortunately it's the only possibility they left to MacRiley. My ship is tainted forever. 

And as a Riley stan, i don’t want this Mac with my girl. She deserves better.

[aidenslair]

Do you think the writers have any plans to make MacRiley happen eventually? If they throw everything out the window it’ll get the show cancelled for sure.

1- Sure the writers and the entire crew fucked up pretty bad with the whole baiting thing in 5x03. And yes, they were all wrong with what they did and I’m still angry at them for it. But you have to understand that getting Mac and Desi back together was a must. Before the season everyone knew the first half of the season was gonna be macdesi heavy, what really knocked everyone off was the way we were baited. If you see next episode, it’s about Mac meeting Desi’s parents, for that to happen Mac and Desi have to be together, hence the reason it happened in 5x03. The way they did it? Terrible. But that’s a different discussion.  2- If macdesi was canon and this was the endgame, it would have been much more of a deal. it’s not over yet. the writers, not any of the crews accounts have said a word about macdesi since 5x03, they’ve barely even liked any macdesi content. some of them said macriley will happen, we just have to “wait”. the writers account have been liking a lot more macriley content lately. To some it’s another “baiting”, but i’m gonna take one last chance at this and say we’re still in for the “unexpected link” (yea, i also think that’s something to get them together as well). 

3- about the unexpected link, i think it’s bound to happen sometime soon. first of all, something between mac and desi has to happen. they need to break up ASAP, that’s the first major step towards macriley progress. second of all, we don’t know how long the season is gonna be, and from all the spoilers we were given, one is happening next episode (desi’s parents), another is the quarantine episode (russ’s love interest), that leaves two. bozer’s parents and the ““unexpected link”. if they spoiled it like that already, it’s probably already been written and planned out already. all we can do now is wait. 

[sabikitsune]

Why ‘Mesi’ is Not Good

(Not MacDesi friendly. Not really Desi supportive either.)

1 – That introduction. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, sneaking up on someone that you have never met, when they are naked, is *at best* sexual harassment. Would “Derek” be able to do this to “Amanda”?

2 – She was so bitchy when she first met them. It makes sense that they wouldn’t be BFF’s immediately, but she basically say’s she won’t be friends and not to slow her down. (At least she got better about that).

3 – We find out that between season 3 and 4 Desi and Mac actually did go out and found that they did not work together. That’s normal, but when Mac askes for help she get really bitter and starts pointing out horrible “flaws” in a very high-school manner. Also, in the flash back scene, we see her getting annoyed at Mac when he’s excited about something she considers trivial.

4 – They spend most of the first part of season 4 bitching at each other. (I could be remembering wrong, but Mac doesn’t start it often. He’ll retaliate but he rarely goes on the offensive.) They then inexplicably get back together.

5 – {Bridging season 4 and 5} Mac seems to go over to Codex when the others won’t listen to his plan and Desi clearly believes he’s turned traitor. In season 5 Desi is holding this over Mac, making him apologize for everything and withholding forgiveness and affection [Signs of emotional abuse now.]

6 – When Jack “dies” (I’m still pretending this didn’t happen) Desi and Bozer have a conversation about Mac handling it and Desi even says he’ll eventually break down but rather than talking to him attempts to get him drunk to deal with it. When Mac does break down he seeks privacy, and when he does talk it’s to Riley indicating that he doesn’t trust Desi with this.

7 – During the quarantine episode, Desi wants him talking to her all the time away from the others. [Isolating behavior, another sign of abuse.]

8 – Snake episode. Mac didn’t trust Desi enough to tell her what he was really doing (not a good sign). And Desi didn’t believe what he said, which is iffy [Did he act out of normal and give a reason to disbelieve or is she looking for things to punish him for?]. Rather than actually asking she stalks him to catch him out on his lie (Stalking being yet another sign of abuse)

At it’s absolute best this is a toxic relationship, where one side is all take, which could eventually develop into physical and even sexual abuse (see point 1). At worst this is already an abusive relationship.

This is actually kind of sad from the writers because Desi could have been such a great character. Disregarding that horrible introduction that character had a lot of potential, especially as female and (incidentally) a ‘minority’ character. Like another person said, it’s almost like the writer’s want people to dislike Desi.

[tomorrowsjustadreamaway]

do you think macdesi will finally end?

For sure. No way are they endgame. Too much toxicity there. I’m trying not to get all preachy, but as someone who has been through emotional abuse in a relationship and knows others that have, Desi’s behavior borders on it toward Mac. I’m sure since it’s MacGyver they won’t touch on that, but it’s true. I know people get all defensive about her, but I’m just backing it up with facts. A lot of people are in denial, well, that’s on you. But their relationship has an expiration date. Mac hasn’t been himself or happy since they got back together. Remember him getting his dad’s jacket back? Oh that’s right, he hasn’t worn it since.

He’s changed, and that all seemed to happen after he and Desi got back together. Coincidence? I think not. Sure, the Codex arc has some to do with it, but when he was there with Riley? He was fine.

Mac dodged Desi’s calls and gave the compass back (yes, it was on her nightstand, when previously it had been on his) at the beginning of episode 12. Mac was already done when that episode started. But then for Desi to throw all his heartache in his face, not to mention the mistrust she had for him and that she was willing to sacrifice his life? Remember when Mac talked about sacrificing? He meant relationships. Not their LIFE. There is a difference. And also, he was playing a part. Desi was not.

She was the one to immediately say “I knew it!” when Russ played back that clip. NO TRUST. She said he was compromised, but she was the one compromised during the interrogation. Then has the audacity to yell at him?? I can’t.

Also, as he passed her in the hallway while breaking out Scarlett, the whole “We both know it’s too late for that now,” comment? Not just about his actions, but them. It was a double entendre about their relationship. That, I firmly believe.

Point blank: they had decided they only work in bad, adrenaline-based situations. And now they’ve proven that isn’t true.

I see people pointing out Mac’s comment about them never getting out of their sleeping bags at Yosemite when he’s fixing the tire. Um-- hello? Again, they’re ALL about the physical. That’s it. Like, that’s literally it. Which is why their relationship is set up to fail. Mac can’t be his star-gazing, science loving nerd when they go camping because Desi will make fun of him. Or yawn (like at the museum). Like everything else. He talks to keep his hands steady - something confirmed in 4x04. I think he was trying to lighten the mood, but notice they never talk about emotions.

I do think they care about each other, but it’s more of a familiarity than in love, for sure. Desi never even said it back, and Mac... well, he’s admitted to saying things just to get her off his back now. And at that moment, they were in an argument. When she asked for confirmation, he didn’t respond. Maybe he does loves her in some way, I don’t know. They do care, but they aren’t IN LOVE. And that last scene, Mac is tense and annoyed. Not because he is about to speak, but with her. I think Desi thinks they’re fine and can move on like always, but I get the feeling Mac is done. There was no reciprocation of hugs or anything on his end in the last couple of episodes. He finally corrects her, when she gets one of three things she’s using to ‘prove’ that she knows him.

I know there’s a scene clipped for episode 17 of him lying and Desi following him. I still suspect it’s a flashback to a last mission before the Phoenix disbanded, because his hair is a little more old style and he has the leather jacket on, which again, we haven’t seen him in since he got it back. I speculate they got together before the group fell apart, as they were ‘holding on to something familiar,’ as Mac said, especially since Riley is in a clip following that one with them. And if it’s not, then they’re still having trust issues, clearly.

Everyone knows I ship Macriley. I could go on all day why it’s healthier, she’s more suitable for Mac, etc than MacDesi. But truth be told, anyone would be better than Desi for Mac at this point. Hell, even Nikki, despite everything, liked Mac. I’m not so convinced that Desi does. She cares about him, but how she literally puts down everything about him, I’m not so convinced that she actually likes him as a person. Actions are louder than words, and so far Desi hasn’t done anything convincing. Hell, he can’t even drink what he wants; last episode she basically said that, by stating she would order their drinks. Let him drink his damn spritzer if he wants! He’s been through ENOUGH.

I hope that in later episodes they’ll stop using her as a romantic plot device (which is literally what they have condensed her to), and give her something outside of Mac. History... anything. I like Levy and I keep wanting to see redemption in Desi, but they just keep ramming her character into the ground, and it’s almost at the point where there’s no turning back.

[matt-mercer-wannabe]

I’m happy that Mac and Riley are staying just friends but I know it won’t last and at this point it’s just annoying. Like if you’re gonna make MacRiley endgame just cut the love triangle angst and break up MacDesi already and put me out of my misery because I can’t stand it. Like if they really are gonna keep them as just besties that’s awesome and exactly what I want, but if they aren’t can they get this over with cuz I really hate love triangles, the drama is killing me.

Also Mac, please please please have a sit-down with Desi and actually talk, pretty please.

[justkurotingz]

package deal (macriley)

omg i absolutely did not expect that ending for the finale. i cannot wait for the next season and for macdesi to break up already *sneezing face* HUGE SPOILER ALERT FOR 4x13 (legit the storyline but it’s somewhat changed)

taglist from the gc: @zahra-0110​ @canary-warrior​ @tilltheworldendsx3​ @moodypetrichorlove​ @multi-fandomshipper101​ <33

idk what’s up with the weird formatting haha

word count: 2.5K words

“so, mac, riley, how are you two liking your new home?” “oh jeez.” riley let out a shaky breath after recognizing the mysterious voice. “it’s gwen.” she said before mac could ask and opened the door, revealing gwen standing in front of them with a smile.

“it’s great, really.” mac’s answer was genuine and gwen smirked. “everything going good in paradise?” “gwen, you know we’re not together.” a blush rose on riley and mac’s cheeks and she simply smirked. “for now.” 

“anyways.” she cleared her throat and then glanced at mac. “i need you for a while angus.” “what about riles?” gwen paused, glancing back at riley. “this is something you need to do alone.”

“i told you we’re a package deal. i’m not leaving her.” mac stepped forward, almost as if he was protecting riley and she rolled her eyes, although hesitant as well. “mac it’ll just be for a little while.” “listen to your girlfriend angus. come on, don’t you trust me?” gwen noted that both of them let the girlfriend thing go.

“fine. just... stay safe ok?” he looked into riley’s eyes and she nodded. “i’ll be fine. go do what you have to do. i’ll see you later.” “yeah.” mac gave her a small smile and then stepped out the door to follow gwen outside unsure of what he was following her into.

riley let out a breath, closing the door behind her and sinking down beside it, hands in her hair. she didn’t trust anyone here, not yet. but gwen wouldn’t harm mac, right? she thought, getting up to lock the door and change. 

but as the hours dwindled by, she collapsed on the couch, pulling a pillow close to her and holding it tight. what were they doing to mac? was he ever going to come back? and then the emotions she pushed deep down surfaced.

what had she done? betrayed all her friends to go undercover to take down  maniacs that want to kill off a quarter of the earth’s population with her best friend who she had secret feelings for even though he had a girlfriend, and now he was gone with the leader of the maniacs to do god knows what. 

“he’s going to come back. he’s going to come back.” riley chanted, brushing the few tears from her face. but she could only hope that mac was safe.

“i’ll take it from here.” roman growled as soon as mac and gwen made their way down the steps. “no, you won’t.” gwen stared him down. “leland wants you to get your team ready.” they had a silent staring contest and gwen surrendered. 

“so... i will meet you soon. tomorrow’s the big day.” she brushed off his jacket and mac frowned at her. “it’s a surprise.” she smiled. “you’ll be fine.” with that roman led mac off, leaving gwen to watch their disappearing figures.

roman led him to a greenhouse of sorts. and it was then mac learned the true history of codex. “codex dates back to the 14th century?” he stammered and leland smiled softly, still snipping at his plants. “i know, hard to believe.”

time flew by with leland, and mac didn’t even realize how much time he had spent watching the old man cut plants and listening to him speak about codex. but he gave no hints to the plan for tomorrow.

“the painting...” it was a volcano, blocking out the sun. gears turned in mac’s mind, but he couldn’t think of anything codex had access to that related to volcanoes. was that their plan for tomorrow? to have another pompeii?

riley followed the man up to a tech room, observing everything. people were talking to themselves, obviously about whatever was happening tomorrow. “so what’s the plan?” she asked the man next to her, and he shook his head. “all in good time.” but she heard nuclear more than once in there whispers. 

this was taking too long, riley decided. she needed air, and where the hell was mac? “i’ll just be a minute.” she informed the man and walked outside, hands on her knees as she breathed deeply. she needed to find mac, now. he’d know exactly what was happening and what to do. retracing her steps she found her apartment, and then, stairs on the side that led underground. 

there was a man, walking along the side of a greenhouse. “who- who are you? where’s mac?” she asked. “he’ll be fine, you’ll see.” shaken, riley continued on her way, and found another staircase leading up- to the main tech room?

gwen was talking to mac and they had just split up when riley spotted them. “mac!” she cried, rushing over to his outstretched arms and wrapping her arms tightly around him. “you- you were gone for so long i got worried something happened.” she said in a rush and mac hugged her back tightly. “i know, i got  carried away with leland, i’m sorry riles. don’t worry, i missed you too.” he joked and riley sighed, melting into his arms.

making eye contact with gwen on stage, riley blushed and stepped away from mac as gwen raised her eyebrows at the two. the plan was to head to a rendezvous point, with teams going in pairs to attract less attention. “you ready?” mac glanced at riley in the passenger seat and she nodded. “we just have to focus on keeping our covers. hey, mac?”

“yeah?” “i heard the tech assistants talking about nuclear power earlier.” mac sighed heavily, looking at riley. “i know what codex’s plan is. leland was talking about volcanoes earlier. they’re going to use a nuke to activate a volcano.”

“you can do that?” riley sounded horrified and mac nodded. “unfortunately- whoa!” the van skidded over the road and mac groaned. “we got a flat.” riley hopped out the passenger side, grabbing the spare tire from the back.

“can you hand me that?” “yeah.” riley handed him the tire and tried to ignore the flutters inside her stomach when mac’s hands brushed hers. “tire’s done, let’s go.” mac reached down to help riley up and she smiled at him. “we’re going to be late, let’s not attract attention.”

“sounds like a plan.” they headed to the rendezvous point, with mac driving extra fast. but there was something wrong, at the warehouse there was no nuke. “you’re late.” scarlett commented and riley glanced at her. “what’s the plan?” “we don’t have details yet.” 

“i’m gonna go get some air.” mac nodded and riley stepped outside, sighing deeply. she glanced at the soft blue sky, clouds masking a familiar helicopter. a cobra attack helicopter...

“mac!” she yelled, rushing back inside. “what is it?” his crystal blue eyes searched hers, hands at her waist to steady her. “there’s a cobra attack helicopter outside!” “what?” scarlett and mac said in unison and she nodded.

“it’s a trap! everybody take cover!” mac yelled, grabbing sheets of metal, and pulling riley closer to him. “come on!” riley rolled into the little space and mac quickly followed, covering them both with the sheet.

“mac i-” “there’s no time.” somehow, his arms found there way around her body, one hand tangled in her hair. “i love you riles.” he whispered, locking his lips with hers. riley opened her mouth to say something and that’s when the explosion set the warehouse on fire. 

riley screamed, holding onto mac tighter, but they were still alive. “come on, we got to get out of here.” but the metal was too hot, so they dropped their fire shield and ran past the flames, coughing and gasping they second they stumbled through the door.

“mac!” someone screamed, running over to him. desi? mac glanced up, disoriented and spotted desi and bozer. “riles- is riles ok?” he coughed, shrugging away from desi’s arms and she backed away. 

mac looked back to where bozer was supporting riley, helping her walk over to desi and mac. “where did you two come from?” riley gasped. “the flat tire? that was us, i slipped a tracker in the car.” bozer explained. “i was planning to come get you two solo but desi wanted to come along.” she wouldn’t meet mac’s eyes and mac realized that was fine by him.

“codex has a nuke. i think they’re going to activate a volcano.” “whoa.” desi’s eyes were wide and bozer helped riley over to the suv. “we have eyes on codex, a truck just pulled out. big enough to store a nuke.” desi handed the tablet over and mac took it without looking at her.

“we got to follow it.” desi slid into the driver’s seat, mac next to her even though he didn’t look too pleased about it. bozer and riley climbed in the back, leaning forward to talk to mac.

“are you guys alright?” “yeah, gwen just tried to blow us up.” riley groaned and mac frowned. “it wasn’t her. there’s no way she’d just kill her entire team.” “mac, i get it, she’s your only surviving family member and she reminds you of your mom, but she’s still... gwen.” bozer said and desi nodded. “you got to clear your head mac. we know about you two going undercover, i’m not saying what you did with me and russ was right but... i understand.” she said finally.

riley glanced at mac from the backseat. she unconsciously bit her lip, unsure what to make of the kiss. she’d be hurting desi, who was like a sister to her, but she wouldn’t lie to herself, she loved mac too.

after mac’s fight with roman in the truck, he explained codex’s plan to the group. “it’s a reset switch for the earth.” “let’s go stop them.” but “let’s go stop them” translated into mac dying in order to create a chain reaction that stops the nuke.

“you deserve the world. and the world deserves you.” with that gwen let mac go, ready to make the sacrifice herself, but the others didn’t know that. tears streaming down riley’s face as she walked behind desi and bozer to safety, she glanced back at the dam.

the explosion threw her to the ground, but she didn’t even feel the pain. “mac!” she screamed, sitting up and sobbing so hard she couldn’t breathe. that couldn’t be the end, it just couldn’t be the end. “mac!” she screamed again, wrapping her arms around herself as her body shook with a second wave of sobs. 

“come on riley, we got to get back.” desi’s voice wavered as she pulled her friend up, but riley’s legs gave way. she wanted nothing more than to fall at desi’s feet and tell her about the kiss, but she knew she’d only be hurting desi.

mac was gone. mac was gone. and she didn’t even tell him that she loved him back. mac died all alone, even though she promised him he would never be alone. “i promised him.” she whispered, sinking down to her feet and remembering that day in germany after mac’s confession. she promised him he’d never be alone, but when he needed her the most, she failed him.

she sat there, hunched over and sobbing for hours. or maybe it was just a few minutes, riley lost all track of time as she cried. “come on riley.” bozer’s voice broke and after a few seconds of silence, matty's voice came over the comms.

“get out of there.” matty was definitely crying, but russ hadn’t said a word. “come on, we’re going home.” riley, nodded, standing. “give me- can you just give me a second?” boze and desi exchanged glances. “we’ll be in the car.” they started walking away and riley let out a long shuddering sigh.

what was she going to do without mac? riley couldn’t see herself without mac besides her. her thoughts were interrupted by gasps and coughs, which sounded awfully like mac when they escaped the warehouse earlier.

riley straightened up, blinking quickly to convince herself she was imagining, but a voice called out from the wreckage. “riles?” desi and bozer turned immediately and riley ran like hell towards the figure emerging from the ruins. “mac!” she jumped into his arms and he held her close, inhaling her scent. 

“i’m so sorry riles. i’m so sorry.” he whispered and riley broke down, wrapping her arms tightly around his neck as she sobbed into his chest. “i thought you left me.” he tightened her hold around her, kissing her shoulder. “i promised you’d never be alone. i’m here riles, i’m ok.”

she stepped back, still shaking, and wiped her eyes as boze and desi caught up to them. riley turned away as desi hugged mac tightly, fawning over him. she felt mac’s eyes on her but forced herself not to look up, because she knew what would happen.

“oh thank god.” matty’s voice made desi break away and boze hugged mac. “man, we all thought you-” his voice broke and mac grinned. “i don’t die that easily. let’s go home.” desi wrapped her arm around his waist, guiding him back to the car, and riley followed after them, taking a deep breath to steady herself, unsure what the future held.

but she certainly didn’t expect mac at her door at 2 in the morning. “mac?” she peered through the door, and opened it slightly. “what are you doing here? where’s desi? what happened?” she asked and mac smiled tiredly at her.

“i got chinese.” she let him in and closed the door behind him as he set the takeout on the table, opening the food and handing her her favorite takeout. “i broke up with desi.” he admitted and riley immediately set the food down, going around her counter to hold him tightly.

“i just told her i fell out of love but she knew. she handled it pretty well, warned me not to hurt you.” riley chuckled softly, her hands in mac’s hair. he broke away, eating quickly. “i’m ok riles, i just... wanted to be with you. it’s too soon to start a new relationship but-” riley leaned over and pressed her lips against mac’s. “she’s my friend too, we can wait.” she whispered and mac smiled.

“i meant it riles. i love you.” “i love you too mac. we’ll figure it out as we go.” he threw the boxes in the trash and led riley to the couch, sitting down and pulling her next to him. 

after a second she relaxed into him, head on his lap and mac gently played with her hair as she spoke. “let’s go to bed mac.” she scooched up his body and mac wrapped his arms around her, pulling a blanket over the two of them.

for the first time in mac’s life, he slept soundly throughout the entire night, dreaming of his best friend.

[secretlibraryoj]

Fan fiction asks: 13, 14 and 15 x

What is your favourite fanfic trope?

Oooh, this is a hard question. I think I have a lot of favourites which change depending on how I am feeling. I would almost always read fluffy fics; (established) relationships (my ships); baby fics (like your’s: Little Bird); Fix-it fics (see: Endgame); and last but not least ACCURATE medical fics (i.e. a character is realistically injured, and their team mate patches them up - this is probably the most “whumpy” I get).  

Note on AUs... it really depends what type of AU it is, I do like them but I’m fussy. 

What kind of plotline are you always here for?

I think I am pretty flexible with plotlines as long as they are well written. I have some favourite authors that I follow and everything they write is amazing. I think this is to do with how well written it is, but the plot has to be clear and not confused otherwise I get confused as the reader and then reading isn’t as much fun. 

oh, and I just looked up plotlines in writing on Google and out of the list of main plotlines, I think I like: discovery, someone realises something about themselves or others and it helps them grow.

But as I said, I don’t really mind what the actual plotline is. I do like it when I see friendship, found family, honesty, romance (not essential), caring/kindness, love (all types) woven in throughout the plot. 

What can an author do to make you love them?

write. I love to read so all an author has to do to keep me (as the reader) happy is to write/update. (but I would never pressure anyone into writing, if you need to take a break, take one or multiple!) 

In terms of writing: keep the characters as they are in canon i.e in character and not out of character, I can’t tell you how much it annoys me when a competent, adult character is baby-ifed or made to seem that they can’t do basic items like taking care of themselves or/and doing the job that they have spent their whole adult life training for. (I’m stopping now, before this becomes a full blown rant). 

for more specific fandom things: 

- MacGyver fics: MacDesi, competent/BAMF Mac; Found family (with caveats); 

- MCU fics: Team Iron man, fix-its, Pepperony, BAMF Tony and Pepper 

(I am trying not to make this a list of requests, as I don’t want to push anyone into writing stuff. However, if you would like more details or talk headcanons/tropes with me, please come and chat! My inbox is always open!)

Saying all of that: I love most of the authors I read already :D

thank you for the questions @sky-larking, you are definitely one of the my favourite ever authors and I love everything you do already!!! I am very lucky and blessed to have you as a friend! 

[cozyforjate]

So i've been thinking about #MacGyver (what a shocker!) and the possible obstacles that #MacRiley might face in season 5. Here's my lazy Sunday ramblings: 

Obstacle 1- Riley

Riley is in love with Mac. That much is obvious. But she still needs to deal with her feelings. The risk of losing her best friend must be a scary thing. And i can see Riley "trying" to bury those feelings.

Also, Riley being in love with Mac doesn't mean the moment he breaks up with Desi she'd be ready for a relationship with him. Don't forget, Riley strongly believes that Phoenix and relationships shouldn't be mixed. 

Obstacle 2- Mac

Mac knows he feels "something" for Riley but he hasn't explored those feelings yet. Falling for your best friend is always complicated so perhaps he's scared of going there! 

Mac also doesn't know anything about Riley's feelings. From his perspective Riley only sees him as a friend. And i doubt Riley would confess to him anytime soon. 

And most importantly, Mac is an emotional mess. Before he steps into another relationship, he needs to heal first. He might act like he's good and everything is fine but that would be a lie.

  Obstacle 3 - MacDesi 

IMO MD wouldn't be one of the tough obstables on MacRiley's way. Bcoz it's already doomed from the start. Theirs is a relationship with no emotional depth and perhaps that's what kept them together so far. When people don't want to face their emotional issues, physical relationships can be a good escape. But for how long? Mac craves for a deeper bond. Same can be said for Desi too. So the real problem with MD is, they can't give each other what they need & want. 

Writers can drag this rl out (for a few more episodes) for the sake of creating drama&tension but eventually it'll end. It's inevitable at this point.

Conclusion: MacRiley still have a long way to go... But since i'm a sucker for emotional journeys that help characters grow and build lasting relationships, i'm ready!

[just-a-fangirl13]

MacGyver s5 theories..Time jump? MacRiley? Trust issues and more

OKAY! So we finally got our first (3) SNEAK-PEEKS at 5x01 and I have soo many thoughts.

Here are the links incase you missed it: https://just-a-fangirl13.tumblr.com/post/636474561109639168/the-new-sneak-peeks-for-macgyver-5-01-are-out

Firstly let’s talk about the elephant in the room...The TIME JUMP....? 

MacGyver writers really like their time jumps. From season 3 to season 4 we lost about 18 months, and in that span of time the Phoenix shut down, Mac and Desi dated, lived together, had a pet? and a “nuclear breakup” and then proceeded to live their lives, Riley also started seeing someone then moved in and had been living with him (Aubrey) for about 6 months and of course Bozer directed his own movie. So clearly a lot happened.

This 10 month jump might not be as eventful (or can it be?!) since it seems that the writers have included the pandemic into the storyline. Now if the characters were quarantined like we were I have tons of questions..

IS THE PANDEMIC OVER IN THEIR WORLD? WAS IT A DIFFERENT KIND OF PANDEMIC OR COVID? WHAT ARE THE REPERCUSSIONS?

DID THEY STILL GO ON MISSIONS? or were they literally just doing nothing like the rest of us? *I wonder if Mac burnt down the house....hehhehe*

DID RILEY MOVE OUT? or was she stuck quarantining with Mac and Desi?

DID MAC AND DESI BREAK UP? I cannot imagine them quarantining together for 10 months and maintaining their sanity. 10 months is a long time for MacDesi and if they survived it... It is possible them breaking up this second time around (for MacRiley to happen) just got a whole lot more complicated.

So there are 2 possibilities because we know Mac and Riley have to happen at some point RIGHT?!! *I WILL LOSE IT IF THEY DONT*

1. Mac and Desi broke up a few months in and this press release photo has more going on then meets the eye. At face value it seems like Mac and Desi might still be dating but I doubt that very much. Why? ill talk about that in a minute. Also if they broke up a few months (into the 10) that would leave sufficient time for Mac to get his head back in the game and if he and Riley happened then she wouldn't look like a rebound. (OH GOD PLEASE BE THIS!!)

2. Mac and Desi haven't broken up but knowing their track record they haven't exactly had a smooth 10 months. Now this would mean that when they do break up eventually, (there is a certain chance they may not at all and MacDesi might be endgame...NOOO) we will actually see it happen but I dont know why the writers would want to risk pulling the show down by anchoring Mac and Desi in this chaotic relationship not a lot of us are even fans of and slowing down the whole timeline of things. This is the theory I am not a big fan of but I guess we will know in the next 48 hours.

Okay now that we have the relationships out of the way lets talk about the plot.

We know Codex isn't done yet. LeLand is still out there and they seem to be the main focus this season. Again we dont know much about this and only time will tell. 

The team does seem to be back and going on their usual missions but you have to remember there are around 4-6 episode from the original season 4 that never aired (due to covid). Plus the show runner changed so it will now be an alternation between the old s4 episodes that are definitely more Codex focused and the usual missions that might somehow tie into the big picture (even if they dont im not complaining!) This will give them time to develop the other plot lines and hopefully give us some happy moments too! (can we not kill anymore of Mac’s blood relatives? oh wait THEY ARE ALL ALREADY DEAD!!)

Another HUGE THING that I am very happy that the writers decided to tackle in terms of inter personal drama is trust issues.

As we all know when Mac kinda-sort-of went rogue towards the end of season 4, Riley was the only one who had complete faith in him while Matty and Bozer knew there was clearly more going on....BUT Russ and Desi didn't stop for even a second to consider that Mac might be doing the right thing. 

Now you have to know this. Russ and Desi are not only new to the team but the world is very black and white for them. (Desi more than Russ actually) While Russ did some very gray area things he always thinks like a soldier just like Desi. For them people are mostly good or bad. You cant do (kinda) bad things for good reasons.

As we saw in the sneak peek where Russ doubts Mac and Mac gives Russ a piece of his mind about not trusting him, there is definitely a lot of conflict going on. (I expect Mac to have the same issue with Desi because if I remember clearly unlike Russ, Desi never apologised to Mac about holding him at gunpoint. How pronounced that issue is and if Mac and Desi break up because of it..only time will tell.) 

I have to say though Mac telling Russ off was pretty amazing. It seems like he’s finally talking his mind and not taking shit from people. I cant wait to see more of sassy Mac!!! (wonder what brought that out...hmmmmmmmhmmm)

The events of season 4 are definitely going to influence a lot of what happens in season 5 and I cant wait!! Less than 48 hours to go!!!!!!

P.S. One more quick thing. Everyone has been saying that since MacGyver now has a LA unit Jack might be back since George Eads wanted to be closer to LA but all the shooting for MacGyver happened in Atlanta so that problem might have been resolved (I dont know how likely or unlikely that is its just something that came to my attention).

Also our favourite psychopath aka Murdoc could show up in S5 too since David Dastmalchian the actor who portrays Murdoc is also in LA right now (or at least he was till the 29th of Nov) along with Meredith Eaton for whom travelling to Atlanta is dangerous because she has several health issues. (I am happy they haven't written her out completely just because of COVID) We shall just have to wait and watch!

[cozyforjate]

MacGyver 4x13

So, lets talk about MacGyver season finale.  Now did i like it? Yes. It was a solid episode with great action. 

Was it the best episode of the season? Unfortunately no.

Its hard not to have big expectations from season finales. Especially when you have a season long arc you want it to end in a satisfactory way. Now i'm one of those who LOVED the Codex arc from the very beginning. But i didn’t really feel satisfied in the end. IMO we needed to spend more time inside the Codex world.  

I wanted to have more of Scarlett. But she had like 2 scenes and she died in one of them. Such a shame.

I'm soo dissapointed that Auntie Gwen died. And she died exactly the way James did. Poor Mac, he just cant have a break, can he? 

The only consolation for me is that Codex isnt done. Bcoz lets face it, you cant take down an organization that's been around for centuries by just stopping one nuke. Leland is still out there and hopefully we'll see him again. I think he was pretty scary and cool btw.  

While the heavily promoted showdown between Mac&Riley vs Russ&Desi was great and very well acted, it didnt live up to the expectations. They built up great tension, they created a believable conflict but then it all got resolved in 5 minutes. Russ was like "sorry for the gun in your face thing" and Mac's like "Whats a gun in the face between friends?". Resolved.

I understand where Russ’s coming from just like i understand were Mac’s coming from. But i guess i wanted to see them working on building the trust, working on the friendship. But maybe we will get that when the show comes back with new episodes. We’ll see...

MacDesi: 

When it comes to MacDesi, nothing really makes sense. I feel like this season the writers forgot their own writing and tried to retcon the story a few times.They did it again in the finale. 

We had a Desi, calling Mac compromised, telling "i knew it" the minute she realized Mac's gone rogue, saying "sometimes you just have to sacrifice the things you love" with a straight face, saying "Mac has to be stopped"... But in  this episode suddenly Desi was talking about how she TRUSTED Mac. 

Its always Mac's fault. Mac has to be the one who always need to apologize and take the blame. Even Russ said sorry, but not Desi. Never her.

And what was their last scene all about?

"I know you better than you think "

Of course she knows him! She knew Mac couldnt be compromised. She knew, that Mac always did everything for a reason. She knew he didnt have an evil bone in his body. 

Oh wait, that was Riley. Sorry.

Knowing someone doesn't mean knowing superficial things about them. It means knowing their heart, knowing their soul. And when you really, truly know someone, you trust them. You believe in them. 

One thing i'm glad about MacDesi scenes was that all the emotion (be it anger or concern) it came from Desi and not Mac really. All scenes were initiated by Desi. And Mac just let her. I dont know how long the writers are intending to keep this relationship going. One more episode, 2 more, 3? 

But i got a feeling that Mac now realizes this relationship can't last. He is truly sorry for hurting her. He cares about her. But they lack fundamental things such as trust, understanding, equality and compatibility.  

MacRiley:

So we didnt get big scenes with MacRiley in this episode. But i loved the ones we got nonetheless. So im gonna talk about each and every one of them!

What i love with MacRiley is that they're always in snyc. Riley says something, Mac comes up with an idea. Mac presents an idea, Riley improves it. They sense danger at the same time and take action like they planned it all along. They're the king and queen of improvising. Best team ever. And we need more of that in season 5!

Onto the scenes:

Loved how Riley sensed that Mac’s focus seemed a bit shaken and brought him back to his senses. "I need you to clear your head" "Yeah you're absolutely right"...  

Loved how Mac repeated that they were a "package deal". I guess he really enjoys it. We feel you Mac. We love it too!

Loved how he didnt want to be seperated with Riley but had to. And i loved how he ran to Riley to see if she's ok after the talk with Leland. 

Loved the scene in car. Mac turned to look at Riley when he said he jammed his phone under the ramp before he fell out of the truck. Riley smiled at him already tracking the signal.... Always in sync!

We got one “Riles” wohoo... Call me crazy but i love how Mac always thanks Riley even when its the smallest things like handing her tablet to him. This time he thanked her twice tho, when he took the tablet and when he returned it. LOOOL 

When the bomb went off and Mac wasn’t out yet, Riley quickly checked Desi. And it kinda broke my heart coz Russ and Desi were there and she felt like she had to hide her feelings. But the minute she saw Mac, she couldn’t stop herself and ran to him. That’s my girl. Loved how Mac rested his back on Riley's leg. Riley probably wanted to hug him but again Desi and Russ were there so all she could do was pat his shoulder.   

Russ giving MacRiley their badges back! LOOOL I bet he cut the badges into tiny pieces himself. And when Riley and Mac realized whats in the envelopes? They had the exact same reaction. Somebody please gif it side by side. 

[cozyforjate]

MacGyver 4x7

I was totally prepared for an episode that would break my MacRiley heart, but guess what? It was actually pretty entertaining and the last scene with Mac and Riley was sooo good, its already in my top 10 best MacRiley scenes list.

The episode was fun, colorful and action packed which was cool.

IMHO it was an episode designed to show the viewers why MacDesi won’t work in the long run. They’re attracted to each other, they like each other but they are definitely not meant to be a couple. Bcoz they’re not compatible. Mac sums it up the best: They are only really good when things are really bad. Which is i guess unhealthy for a couple?

This episode also showed us why Riley can’t be happy with a ‘normal’ guy in the long run. Like she says, she loves what she does. She can enjoy normal life activities (like Mac enjoys his animations or museum visits) but she also loves the rush and adrenaline. She is the perfect balance if you ask me. She also needs someone she can be honest with. No lies, no hiding... ( i’m looking @ you Mac)

Mac and Riley are the definition of compatible. And i think this season will prove why these 2 are meant to be. Dont get me wrong i’m not expecting MacRiley to happen right away but they’re making the groundwork for it. If MacGyver gets renewed for another season, i believe thats when MacRiley will become canon. 

[tomorrowsjustadreamaway]

So what are your thoughts on the dating episode? I'm not sure if macdesi broke up or not. It has a lot of ambiguity. It was clear there relationship is only adrenaline based. Macs speech said he didn't want it but why then at the end say they didn't have to be normal??

I thought it was a pretty entertaining episode. Lots of action, and some great lines too! They did leave it a little open at the end, but I think given all of the times they cemented that Macdesi only exists out of adrenaline and loneliness, they pretty much put the nail in the coffin for that relationship. With Mac’s speech and the little comment from one of the Impractical Jokers about it being better than being home alone on a Friday night? Just laying it on thick that this isn’t going to work out for them. The fact that Mac took his knife and Desi her phone speaks volumes of the lack of faith and trust they have in this working out. Not to mention the lying. I really don’t believe there’s any coming back from that.

Honestly, I think a lot of it may be he backtracked a little because he didn’t want to upset her. She’s admitted to not having many friends, and I think this was just his way of saying they’ll see what happens. But Mac already made it very clear (several times) that they’re basically done. They both seemed pretty miserable on the date. If I were Desi and was given that speech, I wouldn’t want to try and salvage a romance there. And maybe that’s what they’re going for-- allowing Desi the opportunity to break it off this time. That way, if Macriley does happen, there may not be as much animosity in that sense. I don’t think she’ll be too thrilled that Riley is staying with Mac.

I loved the Macriley scene at the end; they just get each other. Her bringing him food... the hug. It was so sweet. And Tristin had said they would have each others backs, even if it hurts others. Right now Mac has Riley’s, and the grief coming for Mac, I imagine she’ll have his too. And being in close quarters might make him realize what a normal, effortless relationship could be like.