OWEN #88

Diary Entry – February 16th, 2021

Give up on the Cruze legacy. Be my own man. Do everything that I hadn’t been doing since the beginning.

Still, even now… the day after, I can hear his voice, clear as a bell.

Telling me, without knowing, that he wanted me to change.

The battles I had fought, the odds I had gone up against. Could it really have been that it was all for nothing. For a Legacy that Dad wanted to die with him and no one else.

What was I supposed to do now? What was I supposed to stand for?

How could I be my own man, when I don’t have the first clue who that person is supposed to be? This wasn’t going to come easy for me. I’d been striving for one thing since my training begun seven years ago.

What was I supposed to do next?

February 27th, 2021
Los Angeles

Owen had done a lot of soul searching since watching the video of his Father. Many people had asked him questions about the content, but Owen had refused to reveal what was on the DVD, it being personal to him. It was his Mom that had been most insistent, but what Owen was going to do about it, he wanted it to be his decision. However, even if his career seemed to be up in the air, one thing that wasn’t was his relationship with Jennifer. If he had any doubts about them living together, they had quickly been cast aside. Jennifer was brilliant, and she was the one sure thing he had in his life.

Jennifer: Owen, I’m going to fix myself a drink, you want one?

Jennifer peers out the kitchen window, holding up a bottle of lemonade.

Owen: I’m good, going to come in soon… shall we take Buck out?

Jennifer: Sounds like a plan

Owen laughs, imagining them as an old married couple. It seemed like they were already halfway there. Owen’s attention is drawn to the back gate, and he is surprised to see Shaun walk through it. When Shaun see’s Owen he removes his shades and walks over, the two-fist bumping.

Owen: This is a surprise, what you doing here?

Shaun: Thought I’d drop in on my favorite Nephew, see how he was doing.

Owen: I’m good… shouldn’t it be the other way round?

Shaun: Ah don’t be daft, look at me. Fighting fit.

Owen: Good… so what you doing here then? Let me guess, Mom sent you?

Shaun takes a seat on the bench next to him, taking a moment to look over Los Angeles.

Shaun: She’s worried about you kid.

Owen: She doesn’t have to be, I’m a big boy now. Can make my own choices and everything.

Shaun: I know Owen, but it can’t have been easy.

Owen: What, seeing my Dad again? No, it wasn’t, but I’m glad it happened. It certainly gave me plenty to think about.

Shaun: Yeah?

Owen knew what Shaun was doing, and he shuts it down immediately.

Owen: I’m sorry, but I’m not telling you Shaun. I’m not telling anyone.

Shaun holds up his hand.

Shaun: OK, OK… I get it. But, let me just say this.

Owen: Go on

Shaun: If you ever do want to talk about it, I’m here. Don’t let it fester and it become a bigger deal than it is.

Owen wanted to laugh… if only Shaun knew.

Owen: I will, but I don’t think I’ll need to. Dad was clear in what he wanted for me. I just need to put it into practice.

Shaun: That’s it then, I’ll tell Kloe not to worry.

Owen: You do that.

Shaun could sense the slight annoyance in Owen’s voice, confirmed when Owen changes the subject swiftly.

Owen: So, was that all you came round for?

Shaun: No actually, there’s something else I want to run past you.

Owen: Sounds ominous…

“Oh, hey Shaun I didn’t hear you arrive.”

Shaun turns over his shoulder, and gets to his feet as he see’s Jennifer, kissing her on the cheek. He then bends down to fuss Buck who has come out with her.

Jennifer: So, to what do we owe the pleasure?

Owen: He’s spying for Mom…

Owen laughs, Jennifer pushing his shoulder.

Jennifer: Ah, the mysterious DVD huh?

Shaun: No, I’m not… not at all. But I am glad you are here Jennifer because this concerns you as well.

Jennifer: Sounds like I best sit down then.

Jennifer sit’s down next to Owen, taking a hold of his hand.

Shaun: Well, you know how you and I were talking about going into SCW as a tag team once your contract ran down with EMERGE?

Jennifer nods her understanding.

Shaun: I’ve been giving it some thought…

Owen: Dangerous

Shaun: …and all that’s been going on of late, I just can’t ignore it anymore. SCW was my home for so many years, and I can’t just sit back and let what is happening, happen any longer. Look Jen, I’m still open to do the whole tag team thing when the time comes, that’s hasn’t changed. But…

Owen: I’m not sure I like where this is going.

Shaun: Owen, please…

Owen: You’re coming, back aren’t you? And you’re going after Giovanni?

Shaun: Owen…

Jennifer looks at Owen, the look of disappointment etched on his face, and then back to Shaun, who looks down at the floor, nodding his head.

Owen: Unbelievable… someone else who believes I’m not capable of taking care of my own business.

Shaun: It’s not like that Owen, and you know it isn’t. You’ve heard him Owen, on social media, baiting me whenever he has had the opportunity to. He knows full well I’m not going to back down, I never have. But he’s not going to stop either, not until I do something about it.

Owen: What, you mean like Blake did?

Shaun: I’m not Blake.

Owen: No, you’re not… Blake has been competing consistently for years now, and you’ve been out the ring for months. Can’t you see Shaun, it doesn’t matter what you do to him, he’ll still be there like the proverbial bad smell. The ONLY person that can end this is Sasha, and she won’t. Her answer to everything is that I asked for this, I asked for him not to get fired. Well, I was wrong… so why can’t she get rid of him now?

He holds up his hand and rubs his index and middle finger on his thumb.

Owen: The money… his shock tactics draws fans. And no matter what you do, he’ll only leave when he chooses to.

Shaun: So, I should ignore him like you’ve decided to?

Owen’s eyes narrow, that sentence obviously hitting home.

Owen: No, you should stay out of his way. Just like Blake should, just like the Perfect Pack should have. He’s Teflon Shaun, nothing sticks, and no matter how good you are, whether you beat him or not, you’ll have no more success that anyone else has in getting rid of him. You can’t stop him Shaun… I’m sorry but you can’t.

Owen’s voice is raised ever so slightly, and Shaun waits for a moment to allow him to calm down. Owen seems to sense this, and when he speaks his tone is quieter, though still contains the same edge.

Owen: Do you think Dad would have wanted this for us Shaun? Seriously? Do you think he would have wanted us to watch as all our friends and family were hurt, time and time again? Assholes like Giovanni will always go that little bit further, take those liberties that we would never, and that’s why after facing, and beating him three times he continues with his bullshit.

Owen holds up both hands.

Owen: Look Shaun, I can’t stop you from doing this, but if you came here looking for me to give you blessing, then it ain’t happening. I’ve gotten you hurt once already with my bad decisions this year, I ain’t going to let it happen again. Challenge Giovanni, get up in his grill, do what you like Shaun. But if you get hurt like Blake, Kelcey, Aaron or Peyton, that’s on you… not me.

Shaun listens intently, not recognizing Owen in this moment.

Owen: You’re the one that can explain to Angyalka and the kids why you took this risk when you had literally NO reason to, other than Giovanni hurting your feelings on social media. You’re just falling into the same trap as everyone else, and I thought you were better than that.

Shaun shakes his head and gets to his feet.

Shaun: I’ll go, you obviously don’t understand.

Owen: That’s the thing Shaun, I do understand, I understand perfectly because I’ve been where you are, being trolled by that jackass every single time I breathe. I’ve had Giovanni question me, and who I am, time and time again. But I’ve stepped into that ring three times, and beaten him three times, and like I said earlier, NOTHING has ever changed, and all that has happened is time and time again, people I have loved to have gotten hurt and his actions have gotten even more controversial. If you gotta do this for you, whatever… go for it. But you don’t do this in my name, I don’t need anyone fighting my battles.

Jennifer bites her bottom lip, Shaun opening his mouth to say something but then stopping, fearing that he would only make the situation worse.

Shaun: I’m gonna go… see you Jen, Owen.

He turns to leave, Owen shouting, Shaun looking over his shoulder.

Owen: Don’t do this Shaun, it only ends one way.

Shaun turns fully around, nodding his head.

Shaun: You’re right, it does… with Giovanni Aries finished.

Shaun opens the back gate and walks though it, Owen taking a deep sigh. He doesn’t say a word, and looks down at the floor, shaking his head.

Jennifer: Owen? What are you thinking?

Owen looks up, and their eyes meet.

Owen: He’s going to get hurt Jen, I know it. This is Aries plan, to bring Shaun out to get at me. He knows he can’t go after the Pack anymore, so he’s focusing on Shaun, and Shaun is taking the bait.

Jennifer: This is Shaun though Owen. He’s been in the ring with people much worse that Giovanni.

Owen: No Jen, no he hasn’t. Giovanni is a totally different animal. He doesn’t care if he wins, or loses the match, because in the end he always wins, one way or another. He’s not afraid to use Angyalka, or Dorothea, or even Jacob. He’ll ruin Shaun, and all to get at me. It’s just a stupid idea Jen… what’s worse is Shaun can’t even see it.

Jennifer: So, what are you going to do? You can’t just stand there and let it happen.

Owen shakes his head.

Owen: No, I can’t… and that’s the worst thing about Shaun’s decision.

Jennifer: What do you mean?

Owen: The fact that I can’t just stand back and let it happen. If Shaun’s going to get hurt, I need to do something about it, but if I do something about it, then Giovanni once again becomes a part of my business. My career stagnating yet again because my Uncle can’t let a tweet go. Shaun does this Jen, and I’m right back where I started with Giovanni two years ago and I can’t go there. I just can’t.

He sighs again, Buck sensing that something is up and resting his head on Owen’s knee, as Jennifer puts her arm around him.

Owen: Worse thing is though Jen, I don’t think I’m going to have any choice. What else can I do but stand by him?

Jennifer didn’t know the answer to that question but could see how much it was troubling her boyfriend. Over the past few weeks, he’d seemed to have found his direction, his focus, but now once again he seemed to be questioning everything. In Jennifer’s eyes, there was no doubt Shaun was going to do this regardless, but if Owen was right and he was to be drawn back in, what was that going to do to him mentality, after he had only just gotten away last time? She didn’t have the answers, what she didn’t know was that Owen didn’t have them either. He just knew that once again it looked like he was going into battle with the Wonderland.

Diary Entry – February 27th, 2021

Why… why would he do this?

The family, the businesses, his name forever stamped in SCW’s history, why would you risk all that?

I knew why of course. Giovanni knew exactly what he was doing, and as always had known what buttons to press.

Shaun was more than capable of beating Giovanni of course. I knew that. But what he wasn’t prepared for was everything else. It was a risk he simply didn’t have to take.

But was going to anyway by the sounds of it.

All I can do is hope either Giovanni backs off, or Shaun gives up on this idea. Truth is, I don’t think either of those things are going to happen.

March 10th, 2021
Los Angeles

Things had quietened down a little, at least for a short while, but then Shaun made true on his desire to return to SCW and take down the leader of the Wonderland with a singular tweet. April the 1st, Shaun had challenged Gio… in New Orleans, and although SCW hadn’t commented, Owen knew that they would book the match. Owen however had tried to put it to the back of his mind, with Kandis announced for Retribution. They had faced off several times during 2020 in tag team competition, and Kandis had come out on time pretty much every time. After his lost to Cid, this was the perfect opportunity to get back to winning ways, whilst at the same time knowing Kandis would be looking to strike a blow where she couldn’t with Peyton and Aaron. It set the stage nicely for what would be a very interesting PPV, as all eyes started to turn towards Taking Hold of the Flame. And with their being no Breakdown this week, it allowed Owen to call in on his Mother, and see how her and his Sister were getting on. Of course, he’d had updates over the phone, but Owen wanted to see for himself before it was time to head to Dallas. A clear mind was what he needed to be able to put away Kandis, and he wasn’t going to have that with Becca still acting up. Thankfully, when he arrived at his Moms, it was Becca who answered the door, and who immediately through her arms around him, giving him a huge hug. She then grabs his head and takes him, almost dragging him into the living room where Kloe was already sat.

Kloe: Oh, Hi Owen, I was just about to start some lunch. You’re welcome to stay and eat with us.

Owen: Nah it’s all good, already eaten. Only came round to make sure all was OK?

Kloe: Yeah, it’s all going well isn’t it Becca?

Becca nods enthusiastically, and somewhat like a child.

Owen: You sure?

Kloe: Of course, it’s been nice having Becca to talk to actually while Ruby has been at school

Owen turns to Becca and then back to Kloe, looking more than a little confused.

Owen: I don’t get it, I half expected coming around here and you saying that you’d had enough and yet here you are playing happy families like the Walton’s or something. You’re covering up, you’ve gotta be. Where’s Ruby, I can always tell when she is lying.

Kloe: Owen, seriously, it’s been fine. Becca’s been attending all her meetings, and she’s been helping me around the house, and Ruby is loving having a big Sister to talk to. And help her with her homework. First few days were a big difficult whilst Becca re-adjusted but once she got used to my rules, it all fell into place.

Owen turns to Becca, still scowling.

Owen: And you’re happy as well?

Becca: Yes. Your Mom listens to me and doesn’t raise her voice when she responds. She talks to me like an adult, instead of like a little kid.

Owen knew that was a dig at Sallie, as well as a dig at him as well.

Kloe: Becca knows that she has made mistakes Owen, but she wants to put them right. That’s half the battle isn’t it?

Owen tilts his head, still not really understanding the scene in front of him. Of course, he should be happy, but he just didn’t get how Kloe could have achieved what he couldn’t so easily.

Kloe: Becca, why don’t you go and start the lunch, and let me have a chat with Owen huh?

Becca: OK… but no leaving without saying goodbye Owen ok?

Owen: I won’t

Owen watches her suspiciously as she leaves the run, before turning back to Kloe.

Owen: This where you tell me the truth right?

Kloe: I already have Owen. I just thought it might be easily to talk without her being sat there. She really is trying Owen; she’s trying to do better. She knows what a burden she has been on you recently, and she wants to get her life back on track before it’s too late. But more than anything, she just needed someone to listen to her, someone perhaps not directly involved.

Owen: And I didn’t?

Kloe: Not saying that at all Owen. I think for someone like Becca, the worst feeling of all was that she was being judged by and compared with you. You must remember Owen, she didn’t have a Father growing up like you did, Sallie took care of that. She see’s you as the golden child, Ruby as well. I think she just needed to feel like she belonged, and that she was every bit a Cruze as you are. I’ve tried to give her that and although it’s early days she seems to be thriving. It’s baby steps, but I reckon with time she’ll get there, and that’s all you ever wanted right?

Owen nods, it was. He realizes he has no right to be shocked, and instead should be thankful.

Kloe: She’s welcome to stay for as long as she needs to get herself sorted, so stop worrying. This was good for her; and you made the right choice bringing her here.

Owen: OK

Kloe: Seriously, stop worrying. She’s got this.

Owen nods again, he still wasn’t certain he’d had one too many false dawns with Becca, but maybe this was what she had needed all along. Time would tell.

Kloe: So, have you given any further thought to O-Cru? Been on the phone to the buyers this morning, they are still really interested.

Owen: I still don’t Mom. I mean, I’m not sure I want to go through the hassle of employing staff, and them perhaps not being up to scratch. I liked being able to leave it with you and Pixie… how do I know if I can trust someone new?

Kloe: You don’t Owen, that’s the risk you would have to take. Look at it this way, you built this to honor your Dad, right? Well, the money you’d get, you can still do that, and perhaps do something in his memory that does interest you. The clothes, they are still going to be out there, they are not suddenly going to go away. You can be proud of what you achieved and move on without the hassle of it all. Just like I intend doing.

Owen: And it’s as simple as that?

Kloe: Yes, all you gotta do is give me the go ahead and I’ll make the call. You won’t have to do a thing but check the money lands in your account. Wouldn’t it be nice to have one less thing to worry about?

Owen: I can’t deny that.

Kloe: Owen, if fashion were one of your passions in life, I wouldn’t have even asked you. But it’s not is it? It’s not even close. Now’s precisely the right time to get out. My advice… take it.

Owen: OK, do it… I trust you.

Kloe smiles, placing her hand on his knee and squeezing.

Kloe: It’s the right choice Owen…

Both their heads turn, as a knock is heard at the front door. They then hear Becca shouting.

Becca: I’ll get it.

Kloe smiles, Owen laughing as she seems to have her well trained, but then a squeal pierces through the house, Owen immediately jumping to his feet.

“THOUGHT YOU COULD HIDE FROM US HUH!!!”

Owen runs out the front door, a man holding Becca by the wrist and dragging her across the driveway, Owen catching up and spinning the guy around.

Owen: Let her go.

“And who the fuck are you short stuff?”

Owen: I’m her brother, and I’m not going to tell you again. Let her go.

“Ah, the brother. Sallie told me all about you. You’re the meddling little shit huh?

Becca: Owen, it’s OK, I’ll go with him.

Owen: No way. This Sallie’s boyfriend I take it?

Becca nods, Owen turning back to him.

Owen: Last chance dickhead, or I call the police.

“And say what? She belongs with her Mom… I’m just taking her back home.”

Owen pushes him square in the chest, making him take a couple of steps back, loosening his grip just enough for Becca to escape.

Owen: She’s not going anywhere with you.

“I’m gonna enjoy this.”

He lunges forwards, but way too slow, Owen anticipating the shot and ducking underneath it.

Owen: You don’t want to do this, walk away.

The guy seems frustrated, and swings again, but again Owen see’s it coming a mile off, and sidesteps the shot, landing a right hook of his own that staggers the man backwards, resting him against the car. He comes forwards again, but Owen tackles him to the floor, and starts throwing right hands into the guys face.

Kloe: OWEN, NO!!!

But Owen isn’t listening, and doesn’t even see two passing patrol cars stop, and two officers get out. Owen’s anger, and his frustrations of the past months having totally taken over, as the man does his best to cover up. Suddenly, Owen is lifted under his arms and dragged away by one of the officers, but he escapes and spins around, lifting his hand ready to strike. His eyes widen, as he notices it’s the officer, and thankfully he manages to stop himself and lower his fist, as the other officer grabs him and takes him down, his arm behind his back. His head turns, Sallie’s boyfriend sat with his back to the car smirking, his eye bloodied.

Officer: Come on Son, you’re coming with us

Kloe: No, that’s not fair officer, he was only…

Officer: He’ll have plenty of time to explain himself at the station.

The second officer picks Sallie’s boyfriend up and bundles him in the back of his car, whilst Owen is placed in the second.

Kloe: Officer this isn’t right, he was only protecting us.

Officer: We’ll get to the bottom of it, don’t worry.

Owen lowers his head in the back of the car, barely able to look at the crowd that has gathered to watch. The first car drives off, and then the car containing Owen follows, Kloe putting her arm around Becca and wiping away a tear. With the cars around the corner, Kloe pulls her phone out of her jeans and dials a number, waiting for an answer which comes quickly.

Kloe: Shaun, it’s Kloe…

March 10th, 2021
Los Angeles Police Department

Owen sheepishly looks at the floor, as the two officers opposite him seem to be enjoying themselves. It had become apparent that one of them knew who Owen was, and neither of them seemed willing to believe Owen’s story, instead repeating what they had seen.

Officer: Owen, when we pulled up, it certainly didn’t look like Mr. Thomas was the aggressor. In fact, it looked to us like you had lost it.

Owen: And wouldn’t you, lose it I mean, if he’d beaten up your Sister.

Officer 2: That’s purely speculation at this point

Owen: No, it’s not… he beat up my Sister and was dragging her down the driveway when I got in his way. She shouldn’t be with Sallie…

Officer: Her Mother you mean?

Owen: In name only. She’s never been a Mother… my Mom…

Officer: Kloe?

Owen: Yeah, has been looking out for her, and has done more in the last two weeks than Sallie did in twenty-five years. I wasn’t going to let her go back to get another black eye, or worse.

Officer 2: Ok, so let’s say this is the truth…

Owen: It is

Officer: Then why not call us when it very first happened? I mean, if your as protective as you claim, surely that would have been the best course of action.

Owen shrugs his shoulders.

Owen: Becca didn’t want me to. Regardless of how shit she is, Becca still loves her Mom.

Officer 2: And yet you don’t want her to be with her?

Owen: No, because if she is, then she’ll only have the crap beat out of her again. I’ve told you this, many times. Can I go now?

Officer: See, we’d love to let you out of here, thing is I’ve a few more questions. Like why you raised your hand to an officer of the law.

Owen: I didn’t know it was an officer.

Officer 2: I see, so it could just as easily been your Mother, or your Sister?

Owen: Yeah, it could have… I’d have stopped then as well.

Officer: You see Owen, this is where I’m not so sure. I mean, it’s not like this is the first time in recent months you’ve been arrested for fighting is it? Weren’t you part of a mass brawl in a restaurant not too long ago? I’m concerned that you’re more than a little out of control.

Owen: This is ridiculous… I was defending my Sister from a guy who was manhandling her down the driveway. Ask anyone who saw it and they will tell you. I’m only still here because you two know exactly who I am and want to prove a point. Well OK, point proven… now let me go or charge me. But if you are going to charge me, I want a lawyer.

A smug grin forms on the face of the first officer, knowing he has Owen wound up. He is just about to say something when a knock at the door distracts them, and a third officer puts his head around the door.

Officer 3: Got a minute?

One of the officers gets to his feet and walks over, his face dropping as something is whispered in his ear. He shakes the back of his head, and walks back over to the table, sitting down.

Officer: Well, it seems like it’s your lucky day Owen. Several witnesses have confirmed your story, and that you were confronted first on your Mothers property. So, we are going to let you go.

Owen: Finally…

Officer: But a word of warning Owen, you should calm that temper of yours, it’s going to get you into a lot of trouble

Owen: I think I’ll be fine… we done?

Officer: Yeah, we’re done. For now.

Owen smiles sarcastically and makes his way out the office, turning the corner and rolling his eyes. Stood waiting for him is Shaun, disappointment etched on his face.

Owen: Don’t say it.

Shaun holds up his hands.

Shaun: Just wondered if you needed a lift home kid, that’s all.

Owen: Guess it beats walking.

He walks past Shaun who follows, out into the car park.

Shaun: Hold up Owen, what was going on back there?

Owen: Two coppers thinking they were going to get a famous arrest. No big deal

Shaun: No, I mean at your Moms. See said you lost it big time.

Owen: Well, she’s wrong… the dickhead deserved it

Shaun: Yeah maybe, but Owen you can’t be acting like that. You know what it would look like if you got a record. Thank God the neighbor likes you and was willing to make a statement or you could have been in real trouble.

Owen: You what?

Shaun: Owen, no one saw how it started except Becca and Kloe. It would have been their word against his. I had to pay…

Owen stops him right there, figuring out what Shaun had done.

Owen: What? You mean you paid someone to lie?

Shaun: What else could I go Owen? I told Orlando I’d look out for you always.

Owen: Yeah, what maybe I don’t need fucking looking after?

Shaun: From where I’m standing, I’d say you do.

Owen: You’re wrong ok… I don’t need you, or anyone holding my hand and making my decisions for me. That shithead was going to hurt my Sister, and I took care of it. If you ask me, he got off lightly, because I didn’t want to stop. And what happened to what you were saying the other day. This guy was just as much a prick as Shane was.

Shaun: Owen, Shane tried to kill me?

Owen: Yeah, well who’s to say this guy wouldn’t have done the same thing to Becca huh? It’s NOT all black and white, and it’s not just your opinion that counts. And I’m sick of being the one fucked over when all I’m trying to do is what’s right for my family.

He turns away, Shaun grabbing his shoulder.

Shaun: Owen…

Owen shrugs him off.

Owen: I’m going to walk… thanks for ‘helping’

Shaun cannot miss the sarcasm in Owen’s voice, but persists anyway.

Shaun: Owen, get in the car, we’ll talk about it at home.

Owen: How many times Shaun, you are NOT in charge of my life, and you have no right telling me what to do. I’m walking… leave me alone.

Shaun opens his mouth to speak, but Owen is already walking away from him and towards the exit. Shaun watches, hoping that Owen will look back, but he never does and disappears round the corner and out of sight. Shaun walks over to the car and opens door, with one more glance towards the exit, more in hope than anything else. He stands there for a few moments, before getting in the car

Shaun: Fuck…

13th March 2021
Dallas

Scene opens, with Owen Cruze sat on a sofa, a recording device poised in front of him. The device is already on, capturing these early moments, showing a troubled individual, struggling to come to terms with everything going on. It had been a rough couple of weeks, both professionally and personally, rough even by Owen’s standards, and his face was showing the rigors of those events. Truth was that his promos were always well rehearsed. He preferred to know what he was going to say, before he said it. But this was going to be different, he had no script and no idea what was going to happen, or the trouble he may cause by what he might say. Finally, his eyes turn to the camera, and in a much quieter tone than usual, he starts to speak.

/RECORDING

“I’ve not been myself the past few weeks, there’s something troubling him, I’m worried about his mental health. These are just a few things I’ve heard recently, people’s thoughts and opinions that have been scattered around the internet. People Even approaching me and saying the same. Some of them, not all I accept, amateur psychologists that think they know me better than I know myself. ‘Owen would never walk away from a handshake’, err, I think you’ll find I didn’t. ‘Owen would never not care about Peyton’. What the actual fuck? Not being able to do something about it, and not caring it’s happened are two entirely different things. Who was one of the first people to call Peyton to check she was ok? Me as it happens, so screw anyone who thinks I don’t care. And as for the handshake, am I supposed to be happy I lost to Cid? Am I supposed to simply shrug it off and move onto the next one, knowing that in the back of Sasha’s mind and using SashaLogic, that loss pushed me back in the queue that little bit further? Newsflash… I was about to plant Cid’s head through the mat with the Cruze Stomp, but I made the mistake that I thought he was finished, and he caught me with a schoolboy.”

He lowers his head for a moment, letting out a sigh.

“And it pissed me off that I fell for it.”

Owen shakes his head, confirming the fact.

“After everything I had said about focus, I let my guard down to the very simplest of counters. I was so annoyed, so apologies to anyone if the first thought on my mind wasn’t shaking the guy’s hand. I’m still annoyed now, as you can probably tell, that once again, when given the opportunity to face a true Hall of Famer and make a statement, I failed to get it done. Oh yeah, I performed alright, many will say that I had the better of the match and had Cid on the ropes, but when all is said and done, who scored the pin? Who’s fighting for the World Title at Retribution. And who has been pushed to the midcard, in a throwaway match that no one else will care about, barring the competitors. That will be me people, so yeah… sorry if I’m not walking around with a shit eating grin on my face, when of late it seems my career is heading down the shitter, and the only person I can beat right now is an arrogant dumbass like Gavin Taylor.”

He takes a breath and calms himself before continuing.

“Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not mad at people for thinking these things. People pays their money, and they are entitled to their opinions. No guys, I get it… you’ve every right to worry what is going on in my head and be concerned when it looks like I don’t care. When I heard what had happened to Peyton, it sickened me, but it didn’t surprise me. And this is my point, and why the Perfect Pack had to go. We weren’t going to change a damn thing in a wrestling ring. We couldn’t stop the likes of Sienna, Gio and now Minerva, when they are willing to go into a person’s house and ‘assault’ an individual. That’s not wrestling, nothing like it. But for me the critical part wasn’t what happened to Pey Pey, it was the consequences. Peyton had her career stolen from her, multiple injuries that required surgery. But was Minerva fired on the spot? No. Was Minerva arrested, when she openly admitted what she had done? Not a chance. The consequences of Minerva’s actions? She’s escorted off the premises like some kind of celebrity.

Did you see the smug grin on her face as she left? Did she look like she gave a flying fuck? So how can I, or anyone else fight that bullshit, when the management of this company doesn’t have the balls to do it themselves? ‘But you asked me not to fire Gio’… Screw you Sasha. You’re the head honcho of a multi-million-pound company, and you listen to a then twenty year old? No Sasha, this is ALL on you, and I’m just a convenient excuse for you to fall back on. It’s a joke, and to be honest a betrayal after I gave you the keys to the kingdom, that you use ME as a reason for your obvious incompetence. You have turned the most prominent wrestling company in the world into a haven for degenerates and assholes. And that IS my fault, for believing that you could do better if given the chance. You’re not your Father Sasha, not even close, and you never will be.

But I’m supposed to keep quiet, aren’t I? Because I’m a good guy… and must keep toeing that company line. You give these people the spotlight Sasha, YOU enable them… what did you think they were going to do with it A song and dance? And yet I’m the one to blame? It’s apparently all MY fault that Giovanni and Minerva get away with their bullshit? EVERY SINGLE TIME. But I put a foot out of line, or defend my friends… I get arrested, without a single word from you? After all I have sacrificed for this company. No, all that my FAMILY has sacrificed. Fuck that Sasha… you’re to blame for the SCW’s situation right now, and you’re to blame for this ‘apparent’ newfound attitude of mine, which in itself is bullshit. There’s no change, just a realization. SCW made the same mistake with AJ Helms, and now you are doing the same thing with me. Pathetic.”

Owen shakes his head, not quite believing that he was having to say these things about a company he truly loved. A company he STILL loved, after everything.

“So, is it really any surprise if I come off a little bitter with my current situation? Look at the Retribution card, and you’ll see quite clearly more of what I mean, the way SCW rewards those that refuse to play by the rules. Holly Adams, her greatest achievement being a full-time social media troll… given the chance to be the number one contender for the Adrenaline Championship. Shilo Valiant, after all the stunts he pulled with Aaron, an Adrenaline title shot. Gavin Taylor, somehow allowed, after everything his A.S.S have been up to, and having been handed his ass by me, the chance to become United States Champion. The US champion himself, not twelve-eighteen months ago, injuring fans who had paid good money to watch WRESTLING. And the big one, the Scaffold Scramble… chance to become the number one contender to the most prestigious championship in the world… and Ricky James, who has outright insulted SCW at every single turn could win that shot. It’s a joke, it must be. Whilst at the same time I’m shunted away from prestigious matches, away from matches that means something, into ANOTHER match with someone else who has a grudge against me and my friends. Kandis. You’re telling me that any sane person cannot see that all the above isn’t seriously messed up? The only saving grace on the card… the main event, and the fact that Aaron is finally getting his opportunity. However belated that may be.”

He rolls his eyes in apparent disappointment.

“See Kandis, and I’m speaking to you directly now, I know what I’m supposed to say. I listened as you tried to drive a wedge between me and Aaron when you faced him. I heard you claim that I’d turned my back on him and Peyton, the kind of reaching comments I expected from someone like you. And how did that pan out for you Kandis? Fell on deaf ears right? That’s what bullshit does. I know I’m supposed to sit here and tell you how I’m going to make you pay for what you have done to Peyton over the years, and that it was sickening to see you openly applaud and condone what Minerva did, but in all honesty what’s that going to achieve? It’s not like you are going to slap yourself on the wrists, call yourself a bad girl, and promise never to do it again is it? Anyway, you got Tommy to do that for you. I know you’d probably like to talk about the tag division, and how much you achieved over the past two years by comparison, and I’m sure you’d love me to refer to all the times the Connection beat me and whoever my partner was at the time. But you see Kandis, none of that will be relevant here. You and Tommy had a cohesion rarely ever seen in SCW. You two were a ‘team’ in every single sense of the word, so it was no surprise that you were successful, and may well be again soon. But Kandis. I’m going to level with you, I’m gonna be honest… this whole match, I’m a bit none-plussed with the whole thing, because once again all it does is give you the spotlight that you crave so badly. A spotlight it seems you cannot live without and will desperately do ANYTHING to keep it on you. Because in a company of ego driven attention seekers Kandis, you are the biggest one of them all. I must give you credit, sharing it with Tommy for so long, it must have burned you up inside. Then again, there were always going to be a couple of ‘attributes’ that Tommy could never compete with, right? Once again, absolutely nothing to do with this industry.”

He leans forwards on the sofa, clasping his hands in front of him.

“I’m going to tell you something now Kandis that I don’t think you have realized, or it doesn’t seem so. From the first time I witnessed you do your ‘thing’ in EMERGE, all the way up to present day. This company, that you work for… it’s called Supreme Championship WRESTLING. I grant you; it might not seem like it with Sasha at the helm, but that is who we are, a wrestling company. We aren’t Pornhub, or Rudetube. The videos we see on Supremecw.com don’t have titles like ‘Stepsis blackmails stepbro with awesome handjob’ or ‘If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a dogging surprise’. Yeah, we have some beautiful girls on our roster, some of them yes, they look like supermodels. But every single one of them are wrestlers first, anything else second, and there is no way in hell that you possibly expect me to believe that you feel the same with the way you act. We get countless pictures of your over-inflated backside and Thirsty Thursday. Shameless sexting with Tommy in front of the world that really should be kept to yourself. These are not the actions of someone who gives a shit about wrestling, or the company that they work for. But I know these are not idiotic actions, you’re not stupid, far from it. I know that behind the selfies is actually a very intelligent woman that knows EXACTLY what she is doing. You parade around on social media, giving, at least a proportion, of the fans exactly what they want… but without an 18+ rating. And you do it to keep all eyes on you, and to hide your faults. That being that you have no class, no shame… and very little substance. And when you get called out on it, you have the audacity to protest about it, whilst posting a provocative picture of you ‘training’.”

Owen shrugs his shoulders dismissively.

“And I know what you’re thinking Kandis, you’re thinking why should I care? Why should I care what you do? And to a point, you’d be right, I don’t care… not about you anyway. You’ll retort with, how do you know the titles of porn clips, thinking you’re being witty… I’m twenty-one by the way Kandis, not fifteen. And you’ll say, why does it bother me, when it has no effect, other than those horrific images burned into my retinas? And it’s a perfectly logically question to ask, it is. The problem is Kandis, you’re taking up a spot for people far more talented, and who care ONLY about this business. YOU are stopping someone from coming to Breakdown and making themselves know, as a WRESTLER. Whilst you prepare for a career as an adult movie star, that must be what you are doing surely? There are girls waiting for the opportunity you’ve been given. Girls that COULD well be the next SCW World Champion, following in the footsteps of women who became successful in this industry off the back of a talent for the business. And NOT for showing their tits and ass on social media. But I can stop following you right? If I don’t like it, press the old unfollow button and get on with my life? And yes, I could do precisely that. But then I wouldn’t be able to follow just how far you will degrade yourself to be a superstar. What’s next Kandis? The Tommy and Kandis sex tape… it wouldn’t surprise me if it has already been done.”

Owen stands, and walks across the room, pouring himself a drink as he continues to talk, though we don’t see the bottle.

“So, I guess with all that said, Retribution is likely to be a cakewalk, right? That’s what I’ve made it sound like so far that’s for sure. But you see, that’s where you realize that all the above isn’t the saddest part of this little tale? Yes, Kandis might look like someone you see on a street corner in some of the undesirable part of any City and yes, it might look to most like she doesn’t care about the business one bit. But the thing is Kandis, I know more than most that all the ability is there. Oh, don’t get me wrong, you might not be able to wrestle as good as some in SCW, but when it comes to striking, or using your legs to dismantle an individual, there are very few women, and indeed men in the company that hit as hard as you do. It’s not like you were dragged along by Tommy in your tag team reigns… you were every bit a part of being champions as he was, and considering what he has done in this company, that cannot be called anything but impressive. I don’t like the way you act; I don’t like the way you speak, but as a fighter, I have no choice but to respect you, it would be idiotic if I didn’t. I know this match is a million miles away from a walkover, it’s gonna be tough, just as tough as Cid and we all know what happened there.

But…

To hit something Kandis, you need to catch it first. To strike something, your gonna need the opportunity. And Kandis, you are facing one of, if not THE fastest person on this roster, who can finish a match from anyplace, and anywhere, at anytime. Back foot, front foot, you’ll never be safe. You fire off one of those bombs, and I’ll be waiting for it, waiting to put you away. You see, I may not have liked it at the time, but Cid did me a favor. He made me realize that the Cruze Stomp, it has its limitations, and can be countered by someone skilled enough. He made me see that it was no good me evolving, if my finishers didn’t evolve with me. So, whilst you’ve been on social media, showing off the two orbiting planets, I’ve been working on something new. A surprise for you if you give me that one chance. Oh, the Cruze Stomp will still be there, there’s always a place for that, who can forget the double stomp at Rise to Greatness, but THIS Kandis, is going to be spectacular. And you’ll have the honour of being the first to be put away… and maybe I’ll stick that on social media huh? Give you that spotlight you will have certainly earned. After all, seems like your used to laying on your back.”

He winks before stepping away from the table, glass in hand and takes a sip, as the camera now see’s the bottle of Jack Daniels, his Father’s favorite drink. Owen’s eyes narrow, and he licks his lips.

“Kandis, not going to lie to you, not matter how ‘meh’ I might think this match is, however ill-thought out, or pointless it may be. Now that it is booked, I have to win it. Truth be told, I can’t let what happened with Cid become a common theme, mistakes like that must be a thing of the past. I’m twenty-one now, any excuses about being a kid are long gone, and it’s time for me to grow up, to stop shouting about it from the rafters, and just do. To say you are the start, that would be wrong, you are just a continuation of what has been coming. Owen Cruze not fighting wars or dealing with pathetic individuals on a weekly basis. Owen Cruze not putting others in danger because people are jealous of me, or want to put me down The ideology is simple, stop SCW from falling down the shitter by being what this company needs. Not a hero, nor a villain… just simply the best goddamn wrestler on the planet. You want, pardon the pun, Retribution for what you perceive Peyton and even Aaron have done to you, forget it. This isn’t about them, it’s about you and me and who’s better?”

He salutes the camera, a grin snaking across his face.

“And when the PPV ends, and the final bell is rung here in Dallas, I’m going to make damn sure that there is little doubt… that person…is, and always will be… me.”

/ENDRECORDING

SCENE FADES

March 15, 2021 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #87

February 11th, 2021
Los Angeles

Owen steps onto the ward, and over to the receptionist’s desk. Truth was, Owen was as nervous as he had felt in years, not quite sure what it was that would be waiting for him. He and Shaun had a fantastic relationship, there was little doubting that, and yet still, all of this had been Owen’s fault. If it weren’t for him, Shaun wouldn’t find himself in hospital right now. Owen blamed himself, not Finch, himself for allowing this to happen, and he was sure that Shaun would feel the same. The receptionist looks up from her desk, smiling at Owen.

Receptionist: Good evening, how can I help?

Owen: I’m here to see Shaun Cruze…

Receptionist: Are you family?

Owen: Yes, he’s my Uncle. I’m Owen Cruze

Receptionist: OK, well the Police are with him now, but if you would like to take a seat?

Owen: Sure…

Owen looks for a free chair and sits himself on it, rubbing his eyes. He’d not gotten much sleep over night since the news and it was starting to catch up with him. His thoughts start to wander, that familiar fear starting to flow through his veins as he tries to come to terms what could have happened if Angyalka hadn’t found him in time. Thankfully, he doesn’t have that long with his thoughts, as after a couple of minutes a couple of plain clothed detectives, only recognizable by their badges walk past the reception. The nurse gets to her feet.

Receptionist: Owen, you can go see him now… first room on the left.

Owen gets to his feet, nodding a thank you to the Nurse before heading in the direction he was told, stopping just before the window to the room. Eventually, having plucked up enough courage he walks past the window and into the room, Shaun greeting him with a smile, Angyalka not quite as happy to see him.

Angyalka: You’ve got a nerve…

Shaun: Angy, please…

Angyalka huffs and picks up her bag.

Angyalka: I’m going to the cafeteria, you want anything?

Shaun: Nah, I’m good thanks.

Angyalka: OK

She turns back to Owen.

Angyalka: He’s tired… not too long.

Owen nods, Angyalka walking past him and down the corridor, Owen taking a seat next to Shaun.

Shaun: Don’t worry about her, she’ll come round. She’s just being overprotective.

Owen: I don’t blame her; she has every right to hate me.

Shaun: She doesn’t hate you Owen, she was scared that’s all.

Owen squeezes the back of his neck, sheepishly looking at his Uncle.

Owen: I’m sorry Shaun.

Shaun: Hey, now stop that. You have nothing to be sorry for. I put myself in that position, in fact in hindsight it’s my fault for underestimating how far he was willing to go. But none of this is on you Owen, or Finch. OK? I promised your Dad I’d look out for you no matter what, and that is exactly what I was doing. And honestly Owen, I’d do the same again.

Owen: But you could have died.

Shaun: ‘Could’ being the operative word. But I didn’t, though did I? I’m still here.

Owen: How can you be so calm?

Shaun laughs, motioning towards a glass of water which Owen gladly passes him.

Shaun: Because it’s over. And that’s all you wanted right?

Owen: Yeah of course, but I didn’t want you getting hurt.

Shaun laughs again, before having a sip of the water and passing it back to Owen with a nod of thanks.

Shaun: Sometimes Owen, in life people are going to get hurt. And no matter what the situation, I would rather that be me than you. It’s over, and now all we gotta do is let the police do their job, and we can forget Shane Denning ever existed.

Owen places the glass back on the cabinet.

Owen: What did you tell them?

Shaun sighs

Shaun: I had no choice Owen, I had to tell them the truth. I told them how Finch used to work for Marshall, and how he owed money, so you got involved. I couldn’t keep Finch’s name out of it… sorry.

Owen: No, I understand

Shaun: I told them that Shane got wind of your involvement, and blackmailed you, due to the history he has with me.

Shaun bites his bottom lip, this being the part he hadn’t really wanted Owen to know, even if he needed to.

Shaun: I then told them what Pixie told me, how he used to ‘do’ things to her when she was a kid, and how he had pretty much confirmed that he still did it to others now.

Owen faces fills with shock, as he realizes what Shaun is saying.

Owen: God, poor Pixie…

Shaun: And I told him how Marshall and Shane broke into my house and tied me to a chair, before Marshall stuck a needle in my vein with the sole intention of shutting me up for good. And then how they must have carried me to the sofa to make it look like I’d taken an overdose. A story that thankfully most didn’t believe.

Owen: No, they didn’t Shaun… no one could believe it, even Sienna commented.

Shaun: It could have been my word against his, but Shane isn’t as intelligent as he thinks he is.

Owen: What do you mean?

Shaun: Benefits of having cameras around the house Owen, and why I advised you to install the same. Angyalka just gave the officers the DVD… Shane and Marshall are bang to rights. Breaking and Entry, Attempted Murder… they are both going down for quite a while.

Owen leans back in his chair, Shaun noticing the look on his face

Shaun: What’s the matter? This is good news Owen.

Owen: I know it is, of course it is.

Shaun: But?

Owen: I kinda feel sorry for Marshall. He wasn’t really given any choice but to work or Denning.

Shaun scoffs, wincing a little at the sharp pain in his stomach.

Shaun: Owen, you need to realize that not everyone has good in them. He chose the path he was on, he decided to stick the needle in my arm knowing that he was probably about to kill me. No matter what hold Denning had over him, Marshall could have refused. He wants to thank his lucky stars that Angyalka found me and its not a Murder charge he’s facing. I’ve done some shitty things in my life, but this was next level.

Owen: I guess

Shaun: No Owen, if there is anything you should take from this, it’s that some people are just fucked up, and they don’t deserve our sympathy. Whatever they get, they had coming to them the minute they decided to break into my house. What if Angyalka had been there with Jacob and Dorothea?

Shaun see’s the look of horror on Owen’s face

Shaun: And that’s not on you either. Bad people, their choices… fuck em, let them rot.

Owen: You really mean that?

Owen didn’t very often hear Shaun talk this way.

Shaun: Damn right I do… and your Dad would have said the same, not matter how saintly you believe he was.

Owen: I don’t think Dad was a Saint.

Shaun: Good because he wasn’t. None of us are, not even you. It’s OK to get pissed off if someone treats you like shit Owen. And it’s OK to retaliate with some of the same if required. You’ll get that… and then maybe you’ll understand why AJ went the way he did. He didn’t become an asshole overnight Owen, he just got sick of being turned over by people he believed were doing right by him.

Owen knew that he was talking about SCW, and the truth was even Owen had started to have his doubts about Sasha and her management of the company. It wasn’t a conversation for now however, and anyway he had something else on his mind.

Owen: What’s going to happen to Finch?

Shaun shrugs, a little surprised by the change back to previous subject

Shaun: Honestly, I don’t know. But I don’t think he’ll have too much to worry about. Reckon Denning has been on their radar for a while so they will be just happy to get him off the streets. My guess Finch will just get a slap on the wrists and told to sort his life out, which to be fair that’s exactly what he needs to do. And not keep dragging you into shit like this.

Owen: I know, and I reckon he will. He just needs a chance that’s all.

Shaun: Alright, he used to do admin for you right?

Owen: Yeah, he was pretty good at it too.

Shaun: OK, once I’m back on my feet and in the office, he can come round, and we’ll have a chat. I’ll get him doing something useful, and then it’s one less thing for you to worry about. Cool?

Owen: You sure?

Shaun: Yeah… I’m sure I can find him something to do.

Owen: Thanks Shaun… seriously you don’t need to do that.

Shaun: No, but I CAN. And anyway, he’ll be doing me a favor, I’m terrible at organizing myself.

Owen nods an agreement and they both laugh.

Owen: What about you though?

Shaun: What about me?

Owen: People are going to talk… say you’re an addict and stuff like that. Will you be making a statement?

Shaun shakes his head.

Shaun: Nah, I don’t think so. It will come out soon enough what happens when the Internet gets hold of it, I honestly don’t think I can be bothered justifying myself to people that really should know me better. If people start slandering me, then maybe I’ll act, but for now I think its just best that we let all of this blow over and get on with our lives.

Angyalka steps back into the room carrying her coffee and a sandwich, her eyes flitting from Shaun, then to Owen and back

Owen: Don’t worry, I’m just going. I really am sorry this happened Angyalka.

Angyalka’s face softens, a slight smile forming.

Angyalka: I know, and I’m sorry about before. I can’t lose him, he’s my everything… just be more careful in future who you deal with OK?

Owen: I will… I’ve got plans for a quiet life from here on in. Me, Jen and Buck… cozy nights in all the way.

Shaun: They are some of the best times Owen, believe me. Keep thinking like that, and you won’t go far wrong…

He reaches out and grabs Angyalka’s hand.

Shaun: All it takes is a good woman kiddo. The rest can take care of itself.

Owen nods

Owen: Thanks Shaun… for everything

Shaun: Anytime…

Angyalka: Err… no Mister.

Owen smiles again before heading out the door and down the corridor, feeling a little better than he had before. He still blamed himself, but Shaun obviously didn’t. Back in the room, Angyalka sits down, next to Shaun, squeezing his hand tightly.

Angyalka: You think he’s going to be ok?

Shaun: What do you mean?

Angyalka: He’s been through so much, and he’s not yet twenty-one… do you not worry about him?

Shaun smiles, and cups her hand in both of his.

Shaun: That kid is stronger than he knows Angy, stronger than Orlando or I ever was. All he needs to do is figure out who he is for himself, and the world will be his. You’ll see.

Angyalka smiles, nodding her agreement, persuaded by Shaun’s words.

Shaun: Now, when are these Doctor’s going to let me out of here?

Angyalka rolls her eyes, as the scene fades

Diary Entry – February 12th, 2021

Today Shaun got the news we all wanted to hear. That both Shane and Marshall had been charged with Attempted Murder amongst other charges.

Don’t know what happens from here, or when any case will be heard… or even if it needed to be. Just happy that Finch wasn’t dragged down with them.

Told Finch about Shaun’s job offer, and he seemed really excited, and so he should be. It’s an amazing opportunity that he needed to grasp with both hands and turn his life around, and thankfully it seemed like the penny had finally dropped and he was going to do exactly that.

Shaun’s coming home tomorrow, and the Doctor’s are happy that there will be no lasting damage.

Thank God that it’s all over.

Now, just the small issue of sorting Becca out, hopefully with the help of Mom. And then the bigger issue, getting Becca to stick to her promise of staying clean.

February 14th, 2021
Los Angeles

As it was Valentine’s Day, Owen had a special night in planned for him and Jennifer. Although it was his twenty-first birthday tomorrow, he’d not really given it much thought what with occurrences recently, and then arranging his special surprise for Jen. Before all of that however, he had been summoned to his Mom’s house, which wasn’t a bad thing, even if he didn’t really have time. He had a favor to ask, and he wasn’t totally sure how Kloe was going to respond. Having arrived at the house and gone to let himself in with the key he had recently been given, he scowls, the door already unlocked. He lets himself in and then he stands in the hallway, shouting out through the house.

Owen: MOM!!!

Owen hears a shuffling from the direction of the kitchen and makes his way there, entering just as his Mom comes in from the back garden.

Kloe: I thought I heard the door…

Owen: You really should be more careful Mom; door wasn’t even locked.

Kloe: It’s fine, you worry too much.

Owen: Yeah, pretty certain Shaun said that too.

Kloe pulls a face, accepting defeat.

Kloe: Fair point, I’ll make sure I keep it locked in future. Drink?

Owen: Please… you got a beer?

Once again Kloe pulls a face.

Kloe: You’re not twenty-one yet?

Owen: Mom, I was kidding, I hate beer it tastes horrible. Coke will be fine.

Kloe smiles and opens the fridge, pulling out a can and sliding it across the work surface. Owen opens the can and takes a sip, before sitting down on the chair, Kloe sitting opposite

Owen: So, what’s up? You said you wanted to talk about O-Cru… no problem is there?

Kloe: No… no problem at all. Well, I guess it depends how you look at it.

Owen: What do you mean?

Kloe: Look, I know you don’t like business speak…

Owen: It’s not that I don’t like it, it’s more I don’t understand it. Nor want to understand it.

Kloe: Exactly, that’s why I’m going to come straight out and say it. Pixie and I are selling up the business.

Owen: What? Why?

Kloe: Few reasons really. One, I just don’t have the energy for it anymore…

Kloe sees the look on Owen’s face and quickly moves to pacify him.

Kloe: Oh, no… I’m fine Owen, the Doctors are more than happy with the transplant. I mean, I used to see design as a hobby you know, something that I enjoyed. But over time, especially after my illness it’s been more of a chore. I’m not getting any younger Owen, but I’ve made more than enough money to be able to live my life without the stresses of a Fashion House. Plus, Pixie has decided that she would like to go out on her own.

Owen: You two fell out?

Kloe: Not at all Owen, in fact all of this was very amicable, both of us were thinking we wanted out, it works out well. For me and for her. Then, as luck would have it, a few days ago we received a very generous offer for our portfolio, and we have decided to accept.

Owen: OK, I get what you are saying but what’s that got to do with O-Cru?

Kloe: Well Owen, this isn’t something that you have to decide straight away, but you have a choice. Either you can employ a new team to work for you, and of course I’d do whatever I could to assist with the transition. I even have a few ideas on who you could contact…

Owen: Or?

Kloe: Our buyers have made a secondary offer, that includes the O-Cru brand as well. And if you decided to go in that direction it would make you a very wealthy young man. With a healthy profit for a brand that has only been in existence for just over a year. They would of course be buying the name as well so when deciding, you need to think about that.

Owen: You know it was never about the money Mom.

Kloe: Yeah, I know… but, and I don’t mean this disrespectfully, you don’t know the first thing about business. Maybe it’s time for you to get out and have one less thing to worry about

What Owen had to worry about had come up a couple of times in the last few days. Shaun had said the exact same thing about Finch.

Owen: So, when do I need to decide for?

Kloe: They need an answer within the next couple of weeks. I know the reasons you did this Owen, but you’ve accomplished what you wanted to. I’d advise you take the offer… you never really wanted any part of the industry anyway.

Owen: OK, I’ll give it some thought.

Kloe: Good… it’s a good offer. I promise. Now, the real reason you are here.

Owen scowls, confused, as Kloe turns and opens a kitchen drawer, pulling out what looks like a package. She places it on the surface in front of her, looking back towards Owen.

Owen: Real reason?

Kloe: Oh, we needed to discuss O-Cru, but we could have done that over the phone. I needed a reason to get you here.

Owen: You could have just asked?

Owen knew he was being hypocritical, seeing as he wasn’t here for the O-Cru conversation either.

Kloe: I could… but anyway the real reason is this.

She slides it over towards Owen, who still looks confused.

Owen: What’s this?

Kloe sighs, her eyes ever so slightly glistening.

Kloe: I’ve been dreading this for the past couple of months.

Owen: Can’t be that bad surely?

He picks up the package and shakes it to see if it gives him a clue as to the contents.

Kloe: Your Dad… he always had this feeling that he was going to die young. When we were together, I always used to say to him that he was obsessed. He always used to make sure his Life Insurances were up to date, he wanted to know that if something happened to him, those that he loved would be ok. We had hundreds of conversations about it, and they always ended with me telling him he was silly, and he’d live to be a hundred. Turns out, it was just about the only argument we ever had where he was right.

Owen: OK…

Kloe: But his biggest fear wasn’t dying… he wasn’t scared of death. Used to annoy me in fact how blasé he was about it. No, his biggest fear was not being around when his children became adults. Not being able to tell them how he felt about them, and how much he loved them.

Owen: I knew he did…

Kloe: Yeah, of course you do. We all do. But he wanted to tell you so, face to face.

She takes a sip of water, clearly troubled.

Kloe: One evening, we were out at a restaurant, and he passed me that package. He told me that under no circumstances could the package be opened by anyone but you, and it had to be on your twenty-first birthday.

Owen once again looks at the package in his hand, still confused.

Kloe: It’s a video message Owen, from your Dad… just for you.

Owen holds it out in front of him, his eyes widened.

Owen: Wow…

Kloe: I know babe, I know it’s all a little overwhelming, but he didn’t want you forgetting him on your big day.

Owen: Like I would

Kloe: I know, but that was your Father wasn’t it? Never really understood what he meant to people, what he meant to you. Will you be OK? Watching it I mean… I don’t mind.

Owen: No, it’s fine. I think it is something I’d like to do alone

Kloe: Fair enough, but if you change your mind, I’m here.

Owen: I know… thanks Mom.

Kloe: Anything for you Owen, you know that.

Owen took that as his cue, there wasn’t going to be any better time to ask that was for sure.

Owen: Mom, I don’t ask for a lot, do I?

Mom: Honestly, I wish you needed me more than you do. Wish you were still my little boy.

Kloe laughs, Owen taking another sip from his coke.

Owen: Well, as it happens, I do really need a favor.

Kloe: If I can help you Owen, I will.

Owen: It’s not really me that needs the help. Not really. It’s Becca.

Kloe: Oh?

Owen: A few days back, she got roughed up by Sallie’s new boyfriend. Not sure how true it is, only got Becca’s word on it, but apparently, he was beating up Sallie, and Becca intervened. And got a black eye for her troubles. I can’t look after her Mom, what with travelled with SCW and everything else, I can’t give her the time. Plus, Jen and I are just starting out, I know she’d get in the way.

Kloe: So… you’d like her to stay with me?

Owen: I know it’s a big ask Mom, but you got to know Becca well when you were with my Dad. She’ll listen to you…

Kloe: Yeah OK, no worries, she can stay.

Owen takes a deep breath, not quite having completed the story.

Owen: That’s fantastic Mom, truly it is. But I must tell you one final thing. She’s using again. It’s the only reason she got in Sallie’s boyfriend’s way. As well as giving her a roof, I’m going to need you to make sure she attends her meetings. I’ve promised her if she gets clean, I’ll sort her out a flat, a job… whatever she needs. And this time she seems determined to see it through. I can’t let her go back to live with Sallie… I just can’t no matter how many times she throws it back in my face. Dad wouldn’t have wanted it, and neither do I… for my sins.

Kloe: I get it, and I’ll keep an eye on her for you. Like you say, we’ve always had a good relationship. It will be nice to get to know her again.

Owen: Yeah, well the minute she gets too much…

Kloe: I’ll tell you; don’t you worry about that.

Owen: Thanks Mom

Kloe: No problem, I think it would have been what Orlando would have wanted me to do.

Owen: Yeah, I do too. Anyway, I gotta go… got a big night planned with Jen

Kloe: Well you have fun… make sure you give that offer some thought

Owen: I will

With that Owen gets to his feet and kisses his Mom on the cheek before heading to the door and then out the house. He was glad Becca would be looked after, another thing off his mind. But now all he could think about was the DVD, and what it might say. Thankfully, he didn’t have long till he would find out.

February 15th, 2021
Los Angeles

Owen sits in his Cinema room, staring up at the currently blank screen. He’d been like this now for ten-minutes, controller in his hand but not able to press play.

Owen: Come on Owen, this is a good thing.

He looks down at the controller and puffs out his cheeks, finally pressing the X, his Xbox console whirring into life, before long the image of his Father appears on screen, larger than he was in real life, a grin on his face.

Orlando: Hey kiddo… SURPRISE!!!

It was so cheesy, and Owen cannot help but grin, though his eyes are already glistening.

Orlando: If you’re watching this now, then I guess I didn’t make it to your twenty-first birthday. HA, that’s one in the eye for your Mom. She always said I was being morbid, stupid even. But turns out I was right. First time for everything. How did it happen? Hope it was spectacular… anyway, I digress.

Orlando reaches off screen and brings back a glass with a shot already in it, and a bottle of Jack Daniels. He lifts the glass towards Owen…

Orlando: Happy Birthday Kiddo

He then downs the contents of the glass, before pouring himself another.

Orlando: So, twenty-one huh? Would have loved to have seen that, but I guess it wasn’t to be. Did you make it as a wrestler? Yeah, course you did… Shaun would have seen to that. Stubborn as a mule my brother. Damn… you know something Owen, I had this all rehearsed, knew exactly what I was going to say, but now I’m here, thinking about all of this and I’m not here with you. Well, I hope you’re not mourning your old Dad too much. And I hope your Mom was able to move on as well. She puts up with an awful lot from me, and she’d deserve to be happy. Look at me now, I’m rambling… this isn’t supposed to be a promo. I just really wish I were there Owen to say it to your face.

On screen, Orlando wipes his right eye, and at almost the same time, Owen does the same.

Owen: Yeah, me too Dad.

It all becomes a little too much, and Owen pauses the footage for a moment, closing his eyes and sighing deeply. Ready to continue he starts it up again.

Orlando: I guess, what I’m trying to say is, I know I made a good career, became the Icon and all that which came with it. But in truth, all I ever wanted was for you, Becca and Ruby to be happy. That was it really. I’m sure your Mom has told you; I had some rough times in my life and wrestling, that was a way of my trying to ensure that the same didn’t happen to the three of you. Of course, I loved being one of the best in the business for a while, but it wasn’t about that. It was about making a future for my family. A secure future so that they didn’t have to go through some of the things I did. I didn’t really care about you continuing a legacy, though I know it didn’t seem that way. If you’re a wrestler now, great. If you’re doing something else, then that’s great too. If it seemed like at the time, I was pushing you into something you didn’t want to do, I’m sorry. Like I said, if you are happy, that was always all that mattered.

He takes another sip from the whiskey.

Orlando: Because Owen, honestly… I never wanted you to be like me, just as I never wanted Shaun to continue this ‘legacy’. That was Shaun’s idea, and not mine. To me, a person should always be their own man. I know it sounds a big arrogant, but there could only ever be one Orlando Cruze, and that’s a good thing. Just like it’s a good thing there would only be one John Smith of its kind. I didn’t ask Shaun to do that, just as I hope that you’re not trying too either. No one wants another Orlando, especially me. They want Owen Cruze. And Orlando Cruze wasn’t perfect, far from it… and neither does Owen Cruze have to be. Now, I might be saying this to you now, and you could be well on your way to being the greatest wrestler that ever lived. I don’t know, unless wherever I am, you really can see what’s going on down there. A little bit like TiVo. Catching all the best bits. Maybe you’re still studying to be something great. A Doctor, or a Physicist, you were certainly intelligent enough.

Owen chuckles to himself, like that was ever going to happen.

Orlando: Either way, I hope… no I pray that whatever you are doing, you are doing it for yourself, and not in my memory. If I were there, I’d be telling you the same, don’t do it because of who your Dad was, do it because of where YOU want to be. Never be afraid to make mistakes. Never be scared to take the more difficult option or explore new avenues. And if you’ve got a girlfriend, cherish them. If you got started early and you’ve got kids (you’re an idiot).

Orlando shakes his head, pulling a face, Owen grinning, though now realizing that tears are streaming down his face.

Orlando: Love that family than you could ever love yourself and do whatever it takes to keep them safe. WHATEVER it takes. But more than anything Owen, be your OWN man. Be YOU.

Owen wipes away the tears with his sleeve, trying to compose himself but failing miserably. When Giovanni had given Owen the illusion that his Dad was there, Owen always knew in the back of his mind that it wasn’t real and the advice he was given just part of Giovanni’s game. This WAS real though; this was his Father telling him to forget the Cruze Legacy and be his own person. And up to this point, it had never been about that.

Orlando: Now, I’m sure you’ve got something better to do that hear your Father rattle on from beyond the grave, parties and the like, chasing girls… I used to love doing that, great days.

Owen feels his heart sink, even though he had dreaded listened, he now dreaded it ending a whole lot more.

Orlando: All I have left to say is take care of yourself Owen, know that no matter what I will always be proud of you, and take care of Becca, Ruby and your Mother for me. Stay strong and never give up, no matter the odds. Happy Birthday Owen…

He raises the glass again, finishing off his drink and then giving his trademark smile.

Orlando: I love you kiddo… and I always will. Goodbye Son.

The film starts to fade, and Owen quickly pauses it, before rewinding it and stopping it once again on the smile. Tears continue to flow, but Owen stares into the eyes of his Father.

Owen: I love you too Dad… I miss you so, so much.

A tear falls down his face as the scene starts to fade.

March 13, 2021 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #86

25th January 2021
Los Angeles

Marshall had rung Owen directly, and told Shaun where he had to go. Owen was glad when they had told him where to go, a bar on the outskirts of LA that Shaun knew well. It was a public place, so that at least meant Owen felt a little better, that is until the day had approached, and now Owen wasn’t so sure. Walking up to Shaun’s house, Owen wasn’t even sure Shaun would be there, publicity now at its highest for To Hell and Cat. When he knocked on the door and it was Shaun that answered, Owen sighed with relief. He had to get what he had to say off his chest.

Shaun: Owen, come in… I was just on my way out. Need to fetch my suit from the dry cleaners for the premiere.

Owen: Do you have five minutes?

Shaun looks at his watch and nods

Shaun: Yeah… gotta be five minutes though, already running late.

Owen steps into the house, looking around.

Owen: Angy not in?

Shaun: Nah, she’s gone to see her parents for the week… she’s meeting me in London night before the main event.

Owen nods, happy that they could talk freely. Shaun walks into the kitchen area, turning to face his Nephew.

Shaun: Drink?

Owen holds up his hand, shaking his head at the same time.

Owen: No, I’m good thanks.

Shaun: Not be long till you can legally drink the good stuff.

Owen laughs.

Owen: I’m not going to turn into a raging alcoholic just because I’m twenty-one.

Shaun: That’s a shame, was looking forwards to having a new drinking buddy

Shaun opens the fridge door, and pulls out a bottle of water, unscrewing the cap and sitting down at the breakfast table.

Shaun: So, what can I do for you?

Owen sits down opposite him.

Owen: It’s about tomorrow…

Shaun smirks, he thought it might be.

Shaun: Ah, I see. What about it?

Owen: I’ve been thinking…

Shaun: Now, what have I told you about that?

Owen: I’m serious… I’ve given it some thought, and I don’t want you to go.

Shaun takes a sip from the bottle, his eyes never leaving Owen’s.

Shaun: Look Owen…

Owen: No… look, I’m going to go to the police and tell them everything. Finch is ok with it. There’s no point putting you in danger.

Shaun places the bottle on the table.

Shaun: Owen, I deal with people like Marshall all the time. He’s all bark and no bite. Plus, he ain’t going to hurt me… not after what I found out from Pixie.

Owen looks at him questionably, Shaun only smirking.

Shaun: It’s better you don’t know Owen, but we’ve got some leverage with Shane Denning. Once he realizes that we have him by the bollocks, he won’t have a choice but to back down.

Owen: You sure it will be that simple?

Shaun: It’s either that or be ruined and go to jail most likely. He’s just a guy wanting to play gangster and be like his Father, that’s all. Don’t worry, I got this.

Owen puffs out his cheeks, still far from being convinced.

Owen: I dunno Shaun…

Shaun: Look Owen, if you honestly don’t want me to go, I won’t. But there honestly isn’t anything to be concerned about. I promised your Dad I’d always look out for you no matter what so let me deal with it… ok?

Owen sighs deeply but nods his head.

Owen: OK, if you’re sure?

Shaun: I’m sure Owen. After tomorrow we won’t have to deal with Shane Denning again, you’ll see. Now, if that’s all, I really gotta go.

Owen: Yeah, that’s all… sorry for taking up your time.

Both get to their feet, Shaun squeezing Owen’s shoulder.

Shaun: Anytime you need me kid, I’m there. Good or bad, we can sort anything.

Shaun grabs his car keys, and follows Owen to the door, locking it behind them.

Owen: Good luck with the premiere Shaun, I’m sure it will go well.

Shaun: Fingers crossed kid… see you later.

Shaun gets into his car and starts the engine, Owen waving as he heads down the drive. He still felt uneasy, but Shaun’s confidence had helped. He really hoped that whatever ammunition he had, it worked. Or who knows what Shane would do next?

26th January 2021
Los Angeles

Shaun enters the bar and looks around, not even sure what Shane Denning looked like. It quickly became apparently that Shane knew him however, as a man stands from inside a booth and beckons Shaun over. With a nod to the waitress behind the bar, he heads over and sits himself down, Shane holding out his hand.

Denning: Shaun… it’s good to finally meet you

Shaun: Likewise, I see you came alone as well?

Denning: Well, it’s only a chat, right? No need for any unpleasantries if we can help it.

The waitress appears and puts a glass of Jack Daniels down in front of Shaun.

Shaun: Thanks Clarice

Shane smirks as the waitress walks away.

Denning: Ah, a regular here?

Shaun: Not really, once thought about buying the place. Didn’t pan out though.

Denning: I see… well I’m glad I chose it then if it makes you comfortable.

Shaun: Indeed

Shaun holds up the whiskey.

Shaun: Cheers

Shaun takes a sip, before placing the glass back down.

Shaun: So, shall we get on with it then. What is it going to take to get you to leave my Nephew alone?

Denning: Ah, straight to it. I like a man who doesn’t mess around with small talk.

Shaun: I’d like to get this over with as quickly as possible so we can all move on with our lives.

Denning: Yes, Young Owen has certainly got himself into a little bit of a mess, hasn’t he? I mean his loyalty to Finch is naïve, but commendable. But without this loyalty, he wouldn’t be in this pickle, and you having to sort out his mess. You can imagine my delight when the name ‘Cruze’ came up in my conversations with my associate Marshall, considering what happened with my precious little Sister. Must have come as quite a surprise to Pixie when Dad left all his inheritance to me. And all because of her relationship with you… funny world isn’t it? Mind you, seeing as Pixie pretty much murdered dear old Dad, it’s no real surprise.

Denning takes a sip from his glass, of what looked like Vodka, a sneer never leaving his face.

Shaun: I’m not Owen mate, you’re not going to wind me up.

Denning: Oh, I know Shaun… I know all about your famous little temper and the great lengths you have gone to, to suppress it. I mean, and so you should, considering you nearly strangled the life out of a pregnant woman. Best to keep those kinds of emotions under check. How is Pixie anyway?

Shaun looks him dead in the eye and simply smiles.

Shaun: She’s good, very good in fact

Denning: Really? Then perhaps I should text her, see if we can get together. I hear I have a Niece and Nephews I should get to know?

He was pressing all the buttons and trying to get a reaction, but Shaun was more than prepared.

Shaun: It’s not going to work Shane, so how’s about you stop all the preening and posturing and tell me what you want?

Denning empties the contents of his glass, and motions for another. He doesn’t say another word until another double is pour, Shane not even thanking the waitress.

Denning: What do I want? You know something Shaun, I’ve asked myself that question lots over the last few days once our meeting was arranged. I mean, I could pull a monetary figure out the air and we both know that wouldn’t bother you. This whole thing was caused by people not paying their debts Shaun, so that debt being settled seems the obvious option does it not?

Shaun shrugs his shoulders, allowing Denning to continue.

Denning: I have a way Shaun, but I am going to need YOU to help me.

Shaun: Me… how?

Denning leans forwards making sure that no one can hear.

Denning: I’m sitting on an absolute fortune Shaun, and I need you to ‘clean’ that fortune for me. Or should I say I need Impact Media to clean it for me.

Shaun: Money laundering… seriously?

Denning: Deadly serious Shaun. Impact Media must make what…

Shaun: Enough

Denning: Exactly… no one is going to notice if a few thousand goes to expenses here and there. Before you knew it, my money would be legit, and you, Owen and Finch would be off the hook. And you being such a Golden Boy, no one is ever going to look at you. It’s the perfect solution, and only you and I need to know.

Shaun: You’re kidding right? This is a wind up?

Denning: Not at all. You do this for me, and everything else goes away. Simple. Plus, you’d get quite a substantial cut for your troubles.

Denning takes another drink, still looking at Shaun as if he is trying to read him. Shaun lifts his glass to his lips, but before he drinks, he says a single word.

Shaun: No…

Denning: Excuse me?

Shaun clasps his glass in both hands.

Shaun: I won’t clean your money, I’m not a criminal, nor will I potentially drag down the reputation of Impact Media.

Denning: Oh, I’m sorry did I not make myself clear. I’m not asking.

Shaun: Don’t threaten me Shane, I’m not a kid.

Denning: I’m not threatening you Shaun, not even Owen. I think there is a lot more fun to be had with Angyalka, or Dorothea… or perhaps even Pixie? I don’t think you understand Shaun, you WILL do as I ask, or there will be repercussions. And whatever blood is spilt will be on your hands, not mine. This is your ONLY way out. I suggest that you take it.

Shaun finishes off his whiskey, the waitress not even waiting to come over and pour another, but this time getting a thanks off Shaun. Denning waits, though it Is obvious that his patients are being tested severely by Shaun’s hesitation. Finally, Shaun speaks.

Shaun: Do you know what I see when I look at you?

Denning: This will be good… enlighten me

Shaun: I see someone who believes he has it all figured out, someone who knows exactly what buttons to press to get what he wants. Someone who wants to be like his Father so badly.

Denning: Thank you, very perceptive.

Shaun: Thing is, you don’t have everything figured out… because although you don’t know me, I know all about YOU and your dirty little secret.

Denning: What are you talking about?

This time it is Shaun’s turn to lean slightly forwards.

Shaun: I know exactly the kind of person you are. The kind of person that put his dirty little hands all over his younger Sister and took advantage of her.

Denning’s eyes widen, Shaun seeing the shock in them.

Shaun: A fucking paedophile… and if you don’t back the fuck off, Pixie is more than willing to tell the Police exactly what you are. She’s done being ashamed by what you did to her.

Denning: As if they would believe her, it would be her word against mine. And the cops would just see it as her lashing out because of the inheritance.

Shaun: In isolation, perhaps… but what if Pixie’s friends around that time testified as well. Seems you couldn’t keep your grubby little paws off them either. Wouldn’t surprise me if you’re still a fucking nonce now.

Denning sits back in the booth, the shock now replaced by fear.

Denning: You wouldn’t dare…

Shaun: Wouldn’t I? Then you really don’t know me very well. Back off, or we ruin you. That’s the choice Shane. I hear that folks love your kind in Prison. Believe me, that’s where your headed if you don’t leave my family alone.

Shaun downs the whiskey in one, wiping the moisture from the back of his hand as he stands.

Shaun: That’s the choice Shane… I don’t want to hear from you again, do you understand? I do, and we tell the cops everything… including this little attempt at extortion.

Shaun goes to walk away, but Denning grabs his wrist, pulling him back. Shaun snatches it away and turns, stopping himself from raising his fist

Denning: You really want to play this game Shaun?

Shaun laughs, looking Denning right in the eye.

Shaun: I ain’t playing… I just won. Goodbye Shane.

Shaun walks away, nodding to the waitress again as he leaves. Denning’s eyes watching him as he goes and never stopping till he walks out the door. Denning picks up his Vodka, and downs the liquid, his eyes narrowing and his cheeks reddening, his teeth clinching together.

Denning: No Shaun, I never lose.

1st February 2021
Los Angeles

Owen had just gotten off the phone to Shaun, who had told him that the meeting had gone well. There was nothing to suggest that Shaun was lying, the tone in his voice seemed confident, however only time would tell if Denning would now leave them alone, whatever it was that Shaun had said. Having run a few errands, Owen walks around the back and into the rear garden, pausing for just a moment to take in the view before shouting their dog

Owen: BUCK!!! Come here boy!!!

The puppy comes running out of the back door and straight to Owen, rolling onto his back. Owen tickles his stomach, as Jennifer appears at the door.

Owen: Hey Jen, he been good?

Jennifer: He has, done a couple of number ones in the garden.

Owen: Beats him doing it in the house.

Jennifer: Hmmm, about the house… you have a visitor.

Immediately Owen’s heart drops. It couldn’t be Marshall could it, or even Shane?

Owen: Visitor?

Jennifer: Yeah, your sister

Owen: Becca?

He’d not heard from her since she’d gone back to live with Sallie. Jennifer nods, Owen getting up from his kneeled position.

Owen: What’s she doing here?

Jennifer: I think you’d better come in.

Owen strokes Buck on more time before walking back into the house, both Jennifer and Buck following. He heads into the living area where Becca is sat on the sofa. As she turns her head he gasps, one side of her face both cut AND bruised.

Owen: What the hell happened to you?

Jennifer: Think you’d better sit-down Owen.

He sits down next to Becca and takes a hold of her hand.

Jennifer: Tell him what you told me Becca.

Becca pauses, obviously unsure.

Owen: Becs? It’s OK, who did this to you? Was it Sallie?

Becca shakes and then lowers her head.

Owen: Then who?

Becca turns to face him, Owen putting his hand on the side of her face, Becca wincing a little.

Becca: I can’t Owen, I can’t say.

Owen: Becs, you turn up at my house, your face half caved in, you’re damn straight you are going to tell me, or I’m going round to your Moms house and finding out for myself. Now tell me NOW… who the fuck did this to you?

Becca looks at Jennifer who simply nods.

Becca: It was Mom’s new boyfriend.

Owen scowls, his face like thunder

Owen: New boyfriend? What happened?

Becca: He came home drunk; he does that a lot. This time him and Mom got into an argument, started getting bad. I was high at the time…

Owen: Fucks sake Becca…

Becca: …and I told him to stop, to leave mom alone.

Owen: And so, he did that?

Becca nods.

Owen sighs, trying to keep a lid on his temper and failing miserably.

Owen: This needs sorting…

Owen stands, Jennifer putting a hand on his chest and shaking his head.

Jennifer: Sit down Owen, you know what’s going to happen if you go over there.

Owen: Yeah, I do

Jennifer: And that’s not who you are. Becca’s here, she’s safe… and she’s not going back, there are you?

Becca: No

Owen: And where have I heard that before. Becca, we had this sorted… you were getting treatment. One word from Sallie and you went with her. Plus, you made me look like a right dick with the clinic.

Becca: I’m sorry… it’s him, he makes her different.

Owen: How?

Becca: For a while, things were good… back to normal even, but then he came onto the scene and once again it was like she didn’t care about me, or what I did.

Owen: Becca, you’re an adult, you make your own choices, you can’t keep blaming your Mom. You’re intelligent, you could do anything, and you have got to get out of this vicious circle you find yourself in. Get a job, and get out from underneath Sallie’s clutches, or else she’s only going to drag you down with her.

Becca: I know you’re right, of course I do. But I’m worried what he’s going to do to her if I’m not there.

Owen rubs his eyes, and then runs his hands through his hair, Jennifer sitting beside him. He’s obviously running through it all, yet another person’s problems being dumped on him.

Owen: So, what do you want me to do Becca? Take you in so you can throw it back in my face again?

Jennifer: Owen, please?

Owen: No Jen, I’m sick of people taking advantage of me just because I’m a good guy. I tried to help her, to help Finch, and look where it got me.

He turns back to Becca.

Owen: Sorry Becs, but your nearly 25 years old, and if you can’t see that Sallie is only dragging you down, like she does everyone, like she nearly did Dad, I can’t help you anymore. I know you’re my Sister, but if all you are going to keep doing is running back to her then I’m done.

Owen points to her face

Owen: And if that isn’t evidence enough that you need to get out from under her shit, I don’t know what is.

Owen gets to his feet.

Owen: I hope you figure it out Bec’s… truly.

He walks out the room, leaving both women with a sense of shock. Jennifer reaches for her purse and pulls out some money, holding it out to Becca.

Jennifer: Let me talk to him. He’s going through a lot now. Get yourself a motel for the night, and I’ll get him to ring you in the morning. Just promise me you won’t go back home OK.

Becca nods, a tear running down her cheek.

Jennifer: He won’t turn his back on you, I promise. Take the money.

Becca takes the money and gets to her feet, the two of them heading towards the door, Jennifer opening it for her.

Jennifer: Don’t go home.

Jennifer watches as she walks down the driveway, turning back into the house and seeing Owen.

Owen: You know she’ll probably spend that on drugs, right?

Jennifer: I don’t think so.

Owen shakes his head, almost scoffing and starts to walk away.

Jennifer: Owen?

Owen: Not now Jen…

He walks into the cinema room shutting the door behind him, leaving Jen in the corridor. She didn’t understand why he was acting this way, but she was certainly going to find out. Before Owen found himself living with even more regret

2nd February 2021
Los Angeles

Owen had come to bed long after Jennifer, but she had still been awake. She’d wanted to talk about Becca there and then but had resisted the temptation, but still hadn’t managed much sleep. At around six she had slid out of bed, taking care not to wake Owen, and gone downstairs to prepare breakfast and it didn’t take long for the aroma of freshly cooked bacon to make its way upstairs. Owen had done away with the Vegan lifestyle, at least for now, and much to his Mom’s chagrin. But in this moment Jennifer was glad, as Bacon had always been his weakness. Owen steps into the kitchen, and kisses Jennifer on the cheek

Owen: Hey, morning

Jennifer: Morning… sit down, be ready in a minute.

Owen takes a seat, his face a little sheepish.

Owen: Look Jen, about last night…

Jennifer: Just let me serve up Owen and then we’ll talk.

Owen nods, taking a sip of his orange juice as Jennifer turns and slides a plate in front of him.

Owen: Looks good

Jennifer: Of course, …

She takes a seat, passing Owen a knife and fork, Owen going straight for the Bacon.

Jennifer: So, you were saying?

Owen chews his mouthful before speaking.

Owen: I’m sorry. I know I came across a little thoughtless, but I’m so sick of cleaning up other people’s mess.

Jennifer: I get that.

Owen: Every time I go down this road, it ends up with me bearing the brunt. And I’m sorry Jen but I’m sick of it. She’s an adult, and she’s acting like a kid. Ruby has got more sense and she’s only eighteen. I try to help her, and she steals from me, then throws my help back in my face and runs back to Sallie. Maybe she deserved…

Owen stops himself.

Owen: No… sorry, no one deserves that. But she put herself in that situation you know? I didn’t.

Jennifer had been listening intently, put at this point she puts down her utensils.

Jennifer: Look Owen, I get it. It’s tiring looking after others. The weight placed on your shoulders, and you’re not even twenty-one yet, it’s huge. But don’t you see? That’s who you are? That’s who your Dad was. And there is no getting away from the fact that older or not, she’s your sister… and she needs your help.

Owen sighs, going back to his breakfast but Jennifer taking his hand.

Jennifer: Let her stay here. A couple of weeks to get her head straight. I’ll help her if you want, so you don’t have to. I’ll keep an eye on her for you, how’s about that?

Owen: But it’s not up to you is it? You shouldn’t have to.

Jennifer: I don’t mind, it’s family.

Owen shakes his head

Owen: No, that’s not fair… OK, she can stay, but not here.

Jennifer looks at him quizzically.

Owen: Her and Mom have a good relationship, Mom’s still working from home and I think she’d like the company. But Jen, she’s gotta go straight… I can’t have any of that shit near me. So, she goes to the clinic… no question. That’s the deal. First time she steps out of line, she’s gone… for good.

Jennifer: OK… you call Kloe then and if she agrees I’ll let Becca know.

Owen: Yeah, and make sure she knows the terms. I’m not messing. She fucks this up and she’s no longer my Sister. She can’t use Dad against me anymore.

Jennifer nods, seeing the intent in his eyes. She would make it clear that this was Becca’s last chance, and if she did mess it up, she would get rid of her herself.

Jennifer: OK cool… now eat your breakfast, it’s getting cold.

Owen: Well, I’m trying to, but this beautiful girl keeps interrupting.

He smiles, the intensity in his eyes gone and replaced by love… for the delicious bacon he was tucking into. Jennifer grins, glad that she had turned him around, at least for now, as the scene fades.

10th February 2021
Los Angeles

Shaun pulls up at his house and kills the engine, stepping outside into the cool night air. He’d braved the shopping mall to find Owen the perfect birthday present but had come up short. Nothing stressed Shaun more than shopping, and that was why usually he left Angyalka to it, but Angyalka was off visiting friends, so Shaun had been left to fend for himself… unsuccessfully. Not that it was of any real surprise to him, as what do you buy for the kid that could buy anything himself. It wasn’t all doom on gloom however as he had brought himself a brand-new Armani Suit that was in the sale and as he gets it out the car, a smile forms on his face. A smile that remains all the way to the front door, and still as he steps inside, the house dark. He flicks the switch and curses, as the lights don’t come on.

Shaun: Fuck…

Assuming a fuse must have tripped he makes his way over to the lobby hole under the stairs, and opens the door, picking up a torch and shining it at the fuse box, scowling as the electricity seems to be switched off. He hears a noise behind him but doesn’t have time to turn as something impacts with the back of his head, Shaun slumping to the ground.

TEN MINUTES LATER

Shaun’s eyes open, taking a moment to adjust, his brain suitably scrambled rebooting. He goes to reach to the back of his head, but quickly realizes that he can’t, then figuring out he is tied to a chair. As he eyes refocus, a figure forms in front of him…

“Evening Shaun… good to have you back with us.”

As the figure becomes clearer, it confirms the voice that he had recognized. That of Shane Denning.

Shaun: What the hell…

Denning just smirks as from behind Shaun steps Marshall, who had probably done the tying. Although Denning smirks, Marshall doesn’t and seems uncertain with the whole situation. Shaun doesn’t have time to focus on that, however.

Shaun: What’s this all about Shane?

Denning: I’m surprised you must ask Shaun. See, I’m not a man who takes kindly to someone refusing a business deal. I care even less threats on my reputation.

Shaun: So, this is all to teach me a lesson? Come on Denning you’re gonna have to do better than this. Scare tactics? What are you going to do huh? Rough me up until I agree with your little plan?

Denning: Oh no Shaun, this isn’t about our little deal, you made it very clear you will have no part in that.

Shaun: So, what then?

Denning: Well Shaun, you made it very clear that you are never going to listen to reason. I gave you, and indeed Owen, a perfectly reasonable way out of this mess, and you threw it back in my face. But due to your arrogance, you couldn’t just leave it, there could you? You then had to threaten me… threaten to reveal my little secret.

Shaun looks over at Marshall, Denning catching him looking.

Denning: Oh, don’t you worry Shaun, Marshall knows all about it. He also knows that keeping his mouth shut keeps him alive. Something that you should have learned, then you potentially wouldn’t have been in your predicament.

Shaun: So, you’re happy working for a child molester?

Marshall looks down at the floor, Shaun turning back to Denning.

Shaun: Fucking untie me now Denning, or God help me…

Denning: I hope he does help you Shaun, truly I do. We could have been very good business partner, but now I’m afraid the time for talking is over. Marshall?

Marshall reaches into his pocket and pulls out a syringe, Shaun’s eyes widening.

Shaun: What the fuck?

Denning: Ah, so now you realize I’m not joking here.

Shaun: You’re going to drug me? Then what?

Denning: Oh Shaun, I’m not going to just drug you? There is enough Heroin in that syringe to take down an elephant. You my friend are going to overdose, and WE are going to make it look like you did it to yourself. Your reputation, your credibility and your LIFE, all up in smoke. Shutting you up once and for all. At the same time, taking my little ‘addiction’ to the grave.

Marshall steps forwards, Shaun starting to struggle.

Shaun: You don’t have to do this… I’ve got a family, Denning for fucks sake please.

Denning: Hmmm, not such a big man now huh? Only now you are starting to realize the error of your ways. And don’t worry Shaun, I’ve not forgotten about my darling little sister. I’ll shut her up as well, one way or another. Now enough talk, get it done.

Denning turns to Marshall, who exposes the needle, feeling for a vein. He brings the needle down, put pauses, looking into Shaun’s eyes.

Shaun: Don’t do this. You do this and your life is over. Can you live with the guilt?

He pauses, the needle hovering over Shaun’s vein,

Denning: Do it…

Marshall’s hand starts to shake.

Shaun: Walk away Marshall. You don’t have to do this

Denning: It’s either him or you Marshall, make your choice.

Marshall looks Shaun dead in the eyes, the sorrow in them evident,

Marshall: I’m sorry…

The needle enters the vein, the contents of the syringe injected into his system as a smile forms on Denning’s face.

Denning: Good, Good

Marshall steps away, dropping the syringe, Shaun looking directly at Denning.

Shaun: They’ll catch you…

Denning: No Shaun… no they won’t.

Shaun: I’ll see…

Shaun’s eyes start to close as his consciousness fades, till finally his head slumps forwards.

Marshall: What have we done?

Denning grins

Denning: What we had to… and now just like that, your debt is paid. You know what to do, make it look good and you will be rewarded handsomely.

Denning looks back at Shaun, as Marshall started to untie his arms and legs

Denning: Goodbye Shaun

Denning leaves the room, leaving Marshall to take care of the rest.

TWENTY MINUTES LATER

Angyalka arrives back home, her night ended abruptly by her friend’s children suddenly having a violent vomiting outburst. Truthfully she was happy to be home, as she was very protective of her daughter, and hated it when she got sick.

Angyalka: OK, let’s see what Daddy has been up to Dorothea? Maybe he’ll be able to read you a story, what do you think?

Dorothea nods enthusiastically. Recently due to work commitments Shaun had been out the country so hadn’t been around and there was no doubt Dorothea was a Daddy’s girl. With Dorothea on her hip, Angyalka steps into the house.

Angyalka: Shaun, you in?

She scowls at the lack of answer, and shouts up the stairs.

Angyalka: SHAUN!!! We’re home.

Still no answer, Angyalka walks into the kitchen.

Angyalka: Where is he Dorothea?

She heads into the living area, her eyes widening as she see’s Shaun slumped in the sofa chair, his arm strapped above the elbow and a syringe laying at his feet. Angyalka screams at the top of her voice, a scream that pierces through the house and causes Dorothea to start crying.

Angyalka: O, ISTENHEM, NEM!!!

She pulls out her mobile and quickly dials 911 whilst at the same time comforting Dorothea. When the line cuts in, she tries to compose herself, to try and get out the words.

Angyalka: Medics please… come quickly. I think my husband has taken an overdose.

24th February 2021
Minneapolis

“If there is something that truly narks me, it’s disrespect.”

Owen Cruze appears on screen, sat on a single chair and his feet crossed in front of him.

“I mean, I should be used to it by now I guess, such as its the norm around here. But some people are just so blatant you find yourself wondering how the hell they can look at themselves in the morning. I get it, even now three years into my SCW tenure I’m still one of the youngest competitors on the roster. To some, I’m still seen as the ‘naïve little kid’ with ‘so much to learn’. And maybe in a way, they are right. After all, could it not be said that I was naïve to think that having won the World Championship, people wouldn’t be up in arms that this should happen, so much so my very first title defence it being in a Chamber? Isn’t it agreeable to suggest that I was naïve in believing in thinking that I could take down the Wonderland, thinking that ‘beating’ him would just mean that he would go away? And the big one, how can I defend myself if people make these claims when it didn’t even cross my mind that having created the Perfect Pact, my friends wouldn’t get hurt, one by one? It wasn’t just naïve to believe that though, it was stupid, some might even say egotistical for me to think that in some way this was all going to end with the Pack being the heroes of the piece, and the Wonderland and its associates vanquished from the company forever. Thing is, I didn’t just think we could do this, I FIRMLY believed we would. Only now am I realizing that was never the case, and it was always a fool’s errand.

But it shouldn’t matter right? After all, three years in the business, competing in the biggest company of them all. I’m allowed a few mistakes, right? No, I’m not… I’ve never been allowed to make the mistakes that others have gotten away with. Since Day One I wasn’t allowed the time to develop like some. Straight away I had to hit the ground running, and act like a seasoned veteran. I didn’t get the chance to ‘bed in’ to my surroundings, and with ever mistake, every defeat, the noise just got that little bit louder. He’ll never be as good as Orlando. He’s not in Shaun’s league. Just imagine that for a second, do me that favor. Just imagine, maybe ten matches into your career and your being compared with two of the greatest wrestlers that ever lived, multi-time World Champions. Honestly, is there anyone listening who can tell me that’s fair? And you wonder why AJ Helms got pissed off because he endured the same? But my point is, this isn’t a blame game here, that’s not what annoys me. I’m not blaming anyone for drawing those comparisons. The ONLY person I blame for that happening is myself. I drew attention to the Cruze Legacy. I endorsed those comparisons to be made. I wanted that Legacy so bad, to honor my dead Father’s name, and perhaps it’s not that bad an ideology. But it got me noticed for the wrong reasons. I made enemies of entirely the wrong people. And it got to be about anything but the wrestling. I lost my way, and only now do I see that. Only now do I look in the mirror and see the naivety that everyone else saw clearly. Not only that, but I never truly got how that legacy was formed… but I’ll come back to that later.”

Owen sticks out his bottom lip and shrugs his shoulders.

“Now, it might sound like I’m pouring scorn on everything I have achieved thus far in SCW. If you think I’m not proud of the fact I am the second youngest SCW World Champion to have ever held that honor, then you would be wrong. If you think I look back over my victories, and the extremely talented people that I defeated, and I don’t do so with some pride, once again you’d be mistaken. What I am saying is that for all the accolades, everything that I have achieved, where would I be right now if I’d not wasted so much time fighting battles that were not mine to undertake? Where would I be right now if the SCW management stopped pandering to these people and instead of allowing them to get away with their bullshit, instead terminated their contracts with immediate effect. A week ago, was my three-year anniversary in this place, and I reckon two thirds of that time has been wasted on pointless, unwinnable situations that I was unable to walk away from. That’s why I left the Perfect Pack, and why now I concentrate only winning matches. Because I refuse to look back over my career and it been nothing more than a waste. And yet now, having for the first time prioritized my career and the WRESTLING AND after everything I have done for this company, AND how much I continued to fight for those initials, for that lost cause, I still find myself being disrespected, not now for my wrestling, but instead for the apparent lack of respect I have shown Kelcey, Peyton, Aaron and Alistaire, walking away from them, and concentrating on myself is apparently to some ‘selfish’. Never mind the fact I made it clear that I wasn’t going to allow them to get hurt anymore on a charade of a war. Forget the fact that I made it clear that I will always have their backs. And let’s all disregard that THEY totally understand my decision. No, people turn on me in an instant because I refuse to get involved with Giovanni Aries any more than I must. There are people that blame ME for the fact Kelcey, and Peyton are no longer around, and it looks like Giovanni and the Wonderland have won. If anyone is to blame, it’s management for allowing this all to fester for so long. In one foul swoop this could all be over. A couple of contract terminations and we wouldn’t have to deal with his bullshit anymore. My only wish? I’d not scored the pin that gave SCW control to the current management in the first place. Just goes to show doesn’t it? People begged for Olek to leave, and these are the same people begging him to come back. And I agree, because believe me with him at the helm, I wouldn’t be sat here having to deal with this shit weekly.”

Owen turns his attention to the floor, clearly troubled by what he was having to say. He still loved the SCW, and always would, but right now it was being led down a dark place and no one at the top seemed willing to stop it.

“And if that disrespect is coming all the way down from management. If they don’t care about doing the right thing, why should anyone else? Why should Peyton run the risk of being crushed under a chamber? Why should I have to play Gio’s drug induced games just because management won’t do what is right? When should Regan Helms risk her fucking life to stop a dickhead like Xander Valentine? In short, why should it be the roster taking all these risks to clean up a SCW that shouldn’t need it? We shouldn’t. The roster should only have to think about one thing. Being the best and Competition. Giovanni’s antics, that’s not on us, and it should never have been. And worst still… it’s the fanbase being screwed over.”

He looks back to the camera, a smile forming on his face.

“And that’s why Cid, and I’ll be honest with you bro, I had the biggest of smiles on my face when you won the Tag League a few weeks back with Asher. Don’t get me wrong, some of Asher’s comments towards me were a little near the knuckle, but I’ll put that down to the spirit of competition. But if there is a team that throughout the tag league stood for nothing but that very competition it’s the two of you. Seeing you win, and then Chris Cannon following that up in the Gauntlet, it showed that, being the best does matter to some, and it’s not all about the extra-curriculars which you successfully ignored. Hearing you when we faced off, I appreciated so much that you showed me the respect I have earned in the last three years. You made it clear that you beating us wouldn’t be a walkover, and that’s exactly the way it’s supposed to be. When you won, you didn’t need to brag, you’d done what you needed to do. And if you’d have lost, I know you would have congratulated Aaron and I, because you would have acknowledged your defeat to a better team. You wouldn’t be like Gavin Taylor who having been handed his ass, has made out me beating him doesn’t matter. It SHOULD matter… and this is the Number One Contender to the United States title we are talking about, the second most prestigious title in the industry. And you do this Cid, you act this way because you are old school, a throwback to the way this business USED to be.

See, this was another epiphany I had, whilst I was figuring out the state of SCW and realizing that I could never go to the lengths it would take to get rid of the Wonderland or drag myself down to their level. See Cid, when my Dad made his name and became the Icon, it wasn’t by letting himself get distracted by the likes of Giovanni Aries or taking the weight of a company on his shoulders. From EFW, through the UCWF and to the ULW, my Dad only intention was proving himself better than the individual stood opposite him in the ring. It didn’t matter if that person was a fan favorite, or someone that hated the company he worked for; it was all about proving himself as the best. He took legends of that time and beat them. Replacing them. It was only when he HAD replaced them, and proven himself as the Icon, that his legacy was built. And even then, he wasn’t perfect Cid, far from it in fact. But that is the way he is remembered, and deservedly so. He’s not really remembered from taking on Desolation or standing in the way of Johnny Kingdom’s dominance. He’s remembered as one of the best wrestlers that ever lived. The G.O.A.T. And THAT Cid is what I finally understand. I don’t want to be remembered as someone that got his ass kicked by the Wonderland but at least gave as good as he got. And I don’t want to be remembered as the guy that won the World title once, and never did another goddamn thing because he was chasing this fallacy that he could make a difference where the bad apples were concerned. I DO want to be forever remembered as someone small in stature, but with the heart of a Lion, that took on and beat LEGENDARY names, week in, week out. You Cid were elevated to that status way before you and Asher claimed the tag league. The fans, the company, it was lifted the moment you returned. I saw that reaction when your music hit. And that’s why just like with Gavin Taylor a few weeks back, I cannot fail, I have no choice but to beat you. I MUST continue moving forwards. Continuing this family legacy, I finally, belatedly, understand. Whereas last time you needed to win our tag match to still win the tag league and get your chance against Suited and Booted, this time the roles are reversed, and it will be YOU who plays spoiler. This time it is you stopping ME from getting where I want to be. You want it sure, I can hear that in your every word. But I assure you, categorically… I want it more”

Owen sits forward in his chair, his elbows resting on his legs.

“And more than anyone bro, it is you that should understand this evolution, because you’ve been through it, several times. Thing is dude, you played more parts than Bob Di Niro in SCW and that is in no way a bad thing. To get your current status, to be held in the regard you are, you’ve HAD to evolve, and that’s why if there is one mistake you shouldn’t make when we step into the ring tomorrow night, it’s believing that you are stepping through those strands to face the same Owen Cruze you went up against just over a month ago. I don’t have to worry about Giovanni, he’s irrelevant to me now and he needs to get that message. I don’t have to concern myself with backing up my tag partner or worrying about what is going on in the back. ALL I must focus on Cid is YOU. All I have trained for this week, is ways to take you down, and win. I’m not concerned that you are a Hall of Famer, and there is certainly no inferiority complex. I know I can beat you bro, one on one I believe I am better, and I’m going to bust a gut to prove exactly that. The DRIVE is back, the DETERMINATION has returned and more than anything I’m excited to be heading into that ring to face one of the all-time greats. But I’m not going to be overawed. I’m not going to wilt under the bright lights. No way Cid, I’m going to be the brightest light of them all.”

Owen pauses, saluting the camera.

“The way it was always supposed to be.”

Scene fades.

February 24, 2021 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #85

December 19th 2020
Los Angeles

Owen had been wandering aimlessly around a shopping mall, wondering what else to buy Jennifer for Christmas. Fact was he had spent too much already, but that didn’t stop him for thinking it still wasn’t enough. Owen wanted to spoil her, because even though he had gotten better, he still wasn’t convinced he was good enough for her. He looked at her, and how she effortlessly looked amazing, and he couldn’t help but wonder why she was with him. She was moving in with him, the next step of their lives together, and although some had their misgivings, both he and Jenni knew it was the right time. But still, Owen couldn’t help but question himself, though at least he was now able to hide it from her. Deciding that he was fighting a losing battle, and there was still almost a week till Christmas, Owen decides to call it a day, heading out to the car lot. As he walks, he doesn’t notice the car behind him, slowly following him until finally it pulls up beside him and stops. The window comes down, and only now does Owen break from his trance, Marshall peering out from the driver’s seat.

Marshall: Get in…

Owen: Yeah, good one.

Marshall: Just… get in Owen.

The edge in Marshall’s voice wasn’t there, and it wasn’t like he was telling Owen to get in the car, he was almost pleading. Marshall see’s the look on Owen’s face however, the distrust in his eyes, and he sighs.

Marshall: Please?

Owen steps around the car, and gets in the passenger seat, half expecting a couple of goons in the back seat, but there being none. Once Owen closes the door, Marshall starts to drive, Owen wondering where he was being taken, all manner of thoughts running through his head. Merely seconds later though Marshall pulls into a parking space and kill the engine. He sits there for a moment, with his hands on the steering wheel before finally turning to Owen.

Marshall: Have you spoken to Shaun yet?

Owen is taken aback by Marshall’s forwardness. Marshall talking with none of the cockiness that Owen knew him for.

Owen: No, not yet

Owen notices Marshall gripping the steering wheel that little more tightly, the knuckles of his hands going white.

Owen: I will…

Marshall holds up his hand, stopping Owen before he speaks, turning his head and looking away for a moment but still speaking.

Marshall: Why?

Owen: Why what?

Marshall turns his head back to face Owen, his eyes narrowed.

Marshall: Why haven’t you spoken with Shaun yet?

Now there is a menacing tone behind his words, and only one hand remains on the wheel, the other clenched on his lap.

Owen: I’ve not seen him. He’s been all over the country promoting his companies’ new film and hasn’t been at home so that I could talk to him. Its not really the kind of thing you can ask by text.

Marshall: I hope you’re not stalling for time?

Owen holds up his hands.

Owen: I’m not, I promise you. If he’s gonna agree to this, I must explain…properly. I know my Uncle, and if I don’t do this right, he’ll go off the deep end. And I don’t think either of us need that to happen.

Even though threats had been made towards Owen if Shaun didn’t agree with Shane, Owen also knew that Marshall’s head would be on the line as well. Shane didn’t seem like someone who didn’t make good on his threats either, probably the reason Marshall didn’t quite seem the same person that Owen had met a couple of months back. Marshall looks forwards thoughtfully, Owen wondering what was going through his mind right now.

Marshall: So when?

Owen: When?

Marshall: Fuck me Owen, you’re not very bright, are you?

Owen shrugs

Marshall: When will you speak to Shaun?

Owen: The next time I’ll see him with be the twenty-sixth. The families having a bit of a get together after Christmas.

Marshall: How nice… and you’ll speak to him then?

Owen: Yeah, I will.

Marshall: Then I guess that will have to do. Don’t fuck this up Owen, for both our sakes.

Owen: I know what’s at stake, that’s why it must be done right.

Marshall nods, Owen moving to get out the car, but Marshall grabbing his shoulder.

Marshall: Owen, I need to hear from you before New Year’s, if not…

Owen: Yeah, I know… you will.

Marshall: He’ll only have so much patience, understand?

Owen nods, opening the car door and stepping back outside with his shopping. Without another word, Marshall starts the engine and reverses, almost hitting Owen in the process. He then drives out the lot and away, Owen biting his bottom lip and heading over to his car. As he places the presents in the boot, only one thing on his mind. Even if Shaun did agree to this, what was Owen asking him to walk into. He shakes his head, trying to erase the thought from his mind.

December 26th, 2020
Los Angeles

Owen had spent Christmas with his Moms, both Taylor and Kloe, still wondering how the heck they had gotten to be such good friends. Having played with Sebastian for a while, he had then also spent some time with Jennifer alone at the house where they had exchanged gifts and made a promise to each other that Jenni would move in permanently in the New Year. Now however, he was at Shaun’s spending time with him, Angyalka and Dorothea… the rest of the family coming around later for drinks, as well as a few friends that Shaun considering his closest.

Shaun: Can I get you another drink, perhaps something a bit stronger than orange juice? I got some Jaeger…

Owen grins, Shaun still teased him about the taste he got for that drink whilst on holiday with Christian and AJ, a holiday that seemed almost a lifetime ago.

Owen: Nah, the juice is good. Gotta drive in a bit, cops are looking out for drink drivers this time of year.

Shaun: You’re so goddamn sensible do you know that?

Angyalka: And so, he should be, certainly doesn’t get that from his Uncle

She grins and kisses Shaun on the cheek, Dorothea pulling at Shaun tee-shirt, wanting him to play.

Owen: She’s growing up now.

Shaun: Yeah, and a little too fast for my liking.

Angyalka laughs.

Angyalka: Shaun would like Dorothea to stay a little girl forever I think and never grow up.

Shaun: Damn straight… God knows how I’m going to deal with it when she starts having boyfriends.

Owen: Be like that scene from Bad Boys.

Shaun nods his head.

Shaun: Yeah, I reckon if I ground her now, until she reaches twenty five, I might be able to cope. Is that bad?

Owen: Don’t think so… I mean, I got the talk when I started seeing Jen. From Regan and Dave

Shaun: Bet you were more scared by Regan.

Owen: Yeah, damn right. But I think once Dorothea finds the right one, someone who you know will look out for her forever, you let go of the reins a little. I know Dave and Regan leave us to it now, but they still had their doubts about us moving in together. I guess it’s always there, that’s what being a parent is all about.

Angyalka: So, when is the big day?

Owen: What, moving in… first couple of weeks in the New Year we’ve said.

Angyalka: You excited?

Owen: Yeah, I mean we pretty much live together now, it just makes it official. Be nice having someone around every day… it’s a big house to be rattling around in alone.

A phone starts to ring, Shaun first looking at it and then Angyalka picking up hers.

Angyalka: It’s my Mother… I’ll take it in the other room so you guys can chat. Come on Dorothea, got someone who wants to talk with you.

As they leave, Shaun turns to Owen.

Shaun: Can I tell you a secret?

Owen: Well, I actually wanted to ask you something.

Shaun: Me first… Angyalka and I are trying for another baby

Owen’s first thoughts are ‘shit’ and then he immediately feels guilty, but not before Shaun picks up on it.

Shaun: You don’t seem happy for us.

Owen holds up his hands apologetically.

Owen: Sorry Shaun, of course I am.

Shaun smiles, putting it down to surprise.

Shaun: Yeah, I know she has Jacob as a half-brother, but we’d like her to have someone here to play with.

Owen: No, that’s great Shaun… good luck to you both. So, you won’t be coming back to wrestling then?

Shaun: Who knows… I mean, with a part-time contract it might still work, but we’ll have to wait and see. I mean, we might not get lucky this time… I’m getting on.

Owen: Don’t be daft.

Shaun: Nah, it’s true. But whatever happens, happens. I’ve got plenty to keep me busy, so if I don’t get to do the big comeback so be it. And to be honest with you Owen, another kid is a lot more important than SCW right now.

Owen: Yeah, I can see that.

Shaun takes a sip of his Jack Daniels, nodding at Owen.

Shaun: So, what did you want to ask?

How could he ask Shaun to do this now, knowing that he was trying to be a Father again? He couldn’t put him in that situation.

Owen: It’s nothing, it doesn’t matter.

Shaun: Come on Owen, it obviously does matter. You don’t ever come to me for advice unless something is wrong.

Owen nods towards the bottle of Jack Daniels.

Owen: I think I will have one of those.

Shaun looks at him wide-eyed, but does indeed pour him a double, handing it too him. Owen takes a deep breath, and drinks some of the liquid, pulling a face as the warmth makes its way to his stomach.

Shaun: Now, I am concerned. I never thought I would see the day that Owen Cruze had a glass of JD in his hand.

Owen: Yeah, bet Dad’s looking down with a grin.

Shaun: Or shouting at me because you ain’t old enough… come on Owen, whatever it is, we can sort it.

If Owen could have chosen a sentence that Shaun would use it was that. Shaun always believed that he could ‘sort it’ by one means or another and to be fair he usually did. He didn’t want to tell Shaun anymore, but knew Shaun wouldn’t give him any choice.

Owen: I’ve been having a few ‘issues’ recently with a guy that knows Finch

Shaun: What have I told you about Finch…

Owen gives him a look, Shaun nodding.

Shaun: Sorry… carry on.

Owen: Basically, and I know you’ll think I’m an idiot, but Finch owed this guy some money, and I bailed him out.

Shaun: Owen…

Again, Shaun has to stop himself, and allows his Nephew to continue.

Owen: Anyway, as you’ve probably already figured out, the minute he realized who I was, he wanted more. And honestly, I thought I could handle it, and that’s why I didn’t tell anyone when I knew it was Marshall who broke into my house. But then he kidnapped Finch and said what would happen if I didn’t agree to meet with his boss. That I was the way he was going to pay off HIS debt. So I did… I met with him.

Shaun: This ‘Marshalls’ boss?

Owen: Yeah…

Shaun: Good… then you know who he is, we’ll get Chris to do some digging on him, get him to back off from you.

Owen: That’s the thing Shaun, he only wants me, to get to you.

Shaun: Me? Who does this guy think he is? You know his name?

Owen nods, knowing that once the name was out there, there was no going back.

Shaun: So, who is it?

Owen: Shane Denning.

Shane had never once been mentioned in any conversation Owen had been a part of, but straight away he knew Shaun knew the name. After a moment, and another sip of the JD, Owen once again joining in, Shaun speaks.

Shaun: That’s a name I’ve not heard in a long time.

Owen: You knew Pixie had a brother?

Shaun: Yeah, I know all about Shane, though I would have preferred to forget.

Shaun pours himself another measure, offering Owen more but Owen declining and putting the glass down with most of the whiskey still in it. Shaun looks over his shoulder, checking that the door to the bedroom where Angyalka was is closed.

Shaun: For a long time after Pixie’s Father died, I never knew Shane existed. In fact, I think we’d been married a couple of months when I came across some documents that had been filed when her Dad passed away. Basically, everything was left to Shane, and Pixie got nothing… her Dad having updated his will about five days before he died. It came as a huge shock to Pixie, because Robert, that’s her Dad, and Shane hadn’t spoken in years. Then out the blue, Shane turned up at our house in Newquay, made a shit ton of allegations, saying that Pixie and I had killed their Father by being together, and promised that one day we would pay, saying that Robert had left Shane everything because Pixie had effectively broken his heart. Then he left, and I’ve not heard that name since… until now. Of course, it was all bullshit, it was Roberts way of life that did for him. I don’t like talking ill of the dead, but he was an asshole pure and simple. By all account though, according to Pixie, Shane was even worse.

Owen listened intently, it all fit with what Shane had said. Owen’s involvement with Finch turning out to be a happy coincidence, reviving a long-standing feud. Owen finds himself cursing Finch, his issues what had led to this moment, dragging both Owen, and Shaun into his mess.

Owen: I’m sorry Shaun if I hadn’t helped Finch…

Shaun: You were helping a mate, I get it. I’d be there for Kels, Ivy and Dave so I understand. What does he want?

Owen: He says he wants to meet with you, and if he doesn’t get what he wants…

Shaun: Let me guess, he threatened Jen?

Owen doesn’t have to react; Shaun knows the answer.

Shaun: And I’m guessing I have to go alone?

Owen nods, lowering his head.

Owen: He says he just wants to talk, but I don’t think…

Shaun: That’s all he wants? I reckon that’s a given Owen. I’d say it’s obvious I’m walking into a trap.

Owen: I’m sorry Shaun, if you don’t want to go, I’ll totally understand. We could go to the cops, tell them everything and let them deal with it. I’ll get a bodyguard for Jen; I’ve been worried since the attack in Johannesburg anyway. I’ll get even more security for the house. You don’t have to do this.

Shaun: No, I don’t. We could do all those things, and everything ‘might’ be ok. But I’ve dealt with people like this before Owen. Doesn’t matter what they do, they always find a way… Robert would have still been after us if his heart hadn’t packed up. I’ll meet with him; I’ll have Chris nearby just in case. It’ll be alright kiddo… I’ll sort this.

Angyalka: You’ll sort what?

Shaun looks over his shoulder, Angyalka just closing the bedroom door, holding Dorothea in her arms. Quick as a flash Shaun answers

Shaun: Owen’s getting screwed over with his new SCW contract. Said I’d have a word with Sasha for him, gotta speak to her anyways see if I can broker a deal for Impact Media

Angyalka: I see… thought they would give you whatever you wanted, you being the future?

Owen: It’s only a few little things…

Shaun: Yeah, you know what I’m like babe… interfering.

Angyalka: Indeed, I do, anyways… what time is Jennifer arriving Owen?

Owen: In about ten minutes actually

Angyalka: Good, and no more talking shop.

Shaun: No worries

Owen looks at Shaun, who lifts Dorothea onto the sofa and tickles her, Dorothea laughing. Owen couldn’t help but be worried, that maybe this time, this was something Shaun wouldn’t ‘sort’.

Owen: I just gotta make a call… two minutes

Owen stands, Shaun nodding at him reassuringly, before he heads out into the garden, dialing a number, waiting for a few moments till he gets an answer, the volume loud enough for us to pick up

“Owen, I hope you have good news?”

Owen: He’ll do it, he’ll meet with Shane.

“Good, then it looks like Uncle Shaun has saved both our necks. I’ll be in touch.”

The line goes dead, Owen putting his phone back in his pocket, turning as Jennifer walks up the pathway towards him.

Jennifer: Hey babe, you ok? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.

She kisses him on the lips, Owen forcing a smile as they part.

Owen: I’m fine… come on, let’s get you inside.

Owen takes her hand, and leads her back into Shaun’s house, Angyalka greeting Jen with a hug. Shaun catches Owen’s eye and looks at him questionably, Owen nodding, confirming it was done. Whilst the only thing in his head being, what happens next?

January 9th 2021
New York

It had been a couple of weeks now, and there had still been no contact from Marshall or Shane Denning. Shaun couldn’t wait around however, he had a film to promote, To Hell and Cat premiering in just under three weeks. Due to that promotion, Shaun found himself in New York, and had taken the chance to meet up with his ex-wife Pixie, her and Kloe having an office there. They sit in a restaurant, having ordered their food, Pixie looking stunning as always.

Shaun: You look good.

Pixie: Don’t act so surprised Shaun, I always look good

Shaun: That you do. How’s my boy and the twins?

Pixie: Oh my… they are all turning into such characters.

Shaun: Well, once I’ve done with the promo, I’d love to come and see them.

Pixie: They’d love that. So, you going to tell me why we are here?

Shaun: What do you mean? Can’t a couple of exes who are still friends meet for a catch up?

Pixie: Of course they can, but we both know how important this film is to you. Taking time out for little old me doesn’t make sense… unless there is something else?

When they were married, she had always been very perceptive about the way Shaun was acting. It seemed even in separation that hadn’t changed.

Shaun: Still can’t get anything by you right?

Pixie: Always been transparent Shaun… so come on then, spill.

Shaun scratches the back of his head.

Shaun: Your Brother has surfaced.

The smile on Pixie’s face immediately disappears, replaced by fear.

Pixie: Shit…how?

Shaun: Fate apparently. Owen got himself into a bit of a mess helping his friend. Long story short, Shane is involved. And now he wants to meet with me.

Pixie: You can’t… you know how dangerous he is Shaun.

Shaun: Yeah, I do. But he’s threatened Owen, Jennifer… how long before he starts going after family. Sebastian, The Twins and Jacob?

Pixie: Oh God, why is he doing this now?

Shaun: He’s an opportunist, always has been. He’s had this situation drop into his lap, and it was too much or him to resist. That’s why I’ve got to meet with him Pixie, before the situation gets a whole lot worse.

He looks her deep in the eyes

Shaun: If I get the crap beaten out of me for what he perceives we did to your Father, then so be it. Rather that, then anyone else get hurt.

Pixie: You REALLY think he will stop there? What if he goes too far?

Shaun shrugs his shoulders.

Shaun: I dunno Pixie… but I gotta try.

Pixie nods, understanding the situation even if she didn’t like it.

Pixie: So, what’s the plan?

Shaun: Still waiting on Shane making the call. I’m guessing he’s gonna want to meet alone, but I’ll have Chris nearby just in case.

Pixie: Chris Clay?

Shaun: Yeah, he’s been trying to dig up some stuff on Shane but come up empty handed. I thought that if I had at least some leverage, I might just get out of there in one piece. But there’s nothing, guess he learned from your Father when it came to covering tracks. To all intents of purposes, he’s every bit the legitimate businessman, just like your Dad always seemed to be.

Pixie: Yeah, they are both good at covering up who they really are.

Pixie lowers her head, as if having said something that she didn’t really want to.

Shaun: Pix?

Pixie: Shaun, you think you understand, but you don’t. Shane is evil and will do anything to get what he wants.

She pauses and takes a deep breath.

Pixie: Even going as far as to violate his little Sister when he couldn’t get a girlfriend of his own.

Shaun: WHAT???

Pixie puffs out her cheeks, this obviously difficult for her.

Pixie: When I was about twelve, he’d be eighteen, he used to sneak into my room at night. Started off as if it were a game at first, but soon it got a lot worse.

Shaun: Don’t be telling me that he…

Pixie: Don’t say the words Shaun, but yes… he did.

Shaun: Is that way your Dad kicked him out?

Pixie nods her head, a single tear falling down her cheek.

Pixie: That’s why it hurt so much when he changed the will. I couldn’t care less about the money, but it was like in the end, Dad was taking that monsters side.

Shaun: Why didn’t you tell me this before?

Pixie gives a wry smile.

Pixie: Because what would you have done Shaun? Killed him?

Shaun: Maybe

Pixie: And what would that have changed huh?

She pauses again.

Pixie: I would still have been the girl who was knocked up by her brother.

Shaun sits there, his mouth open in shock, trying to comprehend it all but failing miserably. His eyes start to well up, Shaun quickly wiping the tears away.

Shaun: I’m so sorry Pixie…

Pixie: Don’t be, I had an abortion and learned to live with it somehow.

She picks up her glass, taking a sip of wine.

Pixie: I guess you have your leverage huh? And I’m telling you now, I don’t think I was the only one. It wouldn’t surprise me if he’s still the same. Far from a respectable businessman.

Shaun: I don’t know what to say…

Pixie: Don’t say anything Shaun, if you can use this to nail the bastard in some way and get him out of my life forever, do it. I’m ok…

Shaun nods his head, reaching out and taking her hand.

Shaun: I will, I’m going to get him out of ALL our lives. That fucker is gonna burn for this.

Pixie squeezes his hand, the closeness still there between the two of them.

Pixie: Just be careful Shaun… please.

Shaun: I will.

On cue, their food arrives, and then continue to chat during their meal, this topic of conversation never being spoken of again. Shaun hadn’t been sure before, but now it wasn’t a case of him meeting with Shane at his request. Shaun was meeting with him to finish this… once and for all.

January 9th 2021
Los Angeles

David Helms lifts the final box out of his car, Jennifer’s stuff that she had never taken with her when she moved out. He places it on the driveway, Owen coming out the house having taken the others in already.

Owen: Christ, why do women have so much stuff?

David: That’s not the half of it kid, wait till her stuff arrives from London.

Owen rolls his eyes, David laughing as he shuts the boot of the car.

Owen: Dave, I just wanna say I appreciate this.

David: What, moving a few boxes? Least I could do

Owen: No, I mean letting Jenni move in. I know how you feel about her so…

David places a hand on his shoulder.

David: Owen, Regan and I wouldn’t be parents if we didn’t think the both of you were a little young. But I gotta admit, you both have good heads on your shoulders, and you can see how much you love each other. Just remember though, you take good care of my girl or…

Owen: Yeah, I know. She’ll always be my number one priority.

David: That’s all I need to hear kid. You keep doing that, and there will be no problem.

David squeezes Owen’s shoulder as Jennifer steps out the house.

Jennifer: Reading him the riot act again Dad?

David and Owen both grin

David: Nah, just some friendly advice that’s all. Now, I’d best get my errands run or Regan will have my guts.

Jennifer: See Owen, this is your life from here on in, you sure you want to sign up to this?

Owen: If we get it half as right as your parents, we’ll be doing ok.

Jennifer pretends to be sick as David laughs.

David: See Jen, that’s why I like this kid. Anyways enjoy, you know where we are if you need us.

Owen: Cheers Dave, and thanks again.

David winks at the two of them before getting in his car and driving away, Owen picking up the final box and following Jennifer into the house, Jennifer closing the door behind them. Owen walks with the box to the bottom of the stairs, placing it there to take up later.

Jennifer: So, what do you want to do, sort stuff out or get something to eat.

Owen: I reckon get something to eat, get some takeout and veg in front of the television, but first I gotta surprise for you.

Jennifer: You have?

Owen looks at his smart watch as a ping notifies him to a message.

Owen: Yeah, in fact he’s here now.

Jennifer scowls, then turns her head towards the door as the doorbell rings. She then looks back towards Owen who smiles.

Owen: Answer it then, it’s your house too.

Jennifer opens the door, to find Kloe stood there with a Large Poodle puppy in her arms. Jennifer is still confused, as Kloe holds out her arms, Jennifer taking the puppy from her.

Jennifer: What’s going on?

Kloe brings her hands up in delight as the puppy licks a confused Jennifer’s face.

Owen: He’s yours, I bought him for you as a moving in present. You like?

The dog continues to lick her face, and indeed a few tears.

Jennifer: Aww Owen, I love him.

Kloe: This is soooo cute.

Owen: Thanks for holding onto him this morning Mom.

Kloe: No trouble at all… I’ll let you all get settled, and I’ll come back later if that’s ok?

Jennifer: Sure, we’re getting takeaway, you’re welcome to join us.

Kloe: First night in your new home Jennifer, I wouldn’t dream of it. I’ll leave it till the morning and let you love birds have some peace.

Owen: Thanks Mum

Kloe gives the dog a stroke, and then heads off down the pathway, Owen shutting the door as Jennifer puts the puppy on the floor, and then gets down on her knees petting him as he sniffs his new surroundings.

Jennifer: He likes it here.

Owen: More like he likes your attention… seems I’ve got a rival.

Jennifer: Aww, he’s beautiful. What made you buy him?

Owen: Well, if you stay in EMERGE and only compete once every three week, you’re going to be here alone a lot. I mean, I know Peyton’s around, and AJ and your parents are just down the road, but I’ll feel better knowing you got company. All you gotta do now is give him a name.

Jennifer: He doesn’t have a name yet?

Owen: Nope… so what do you think?

Jennifer holds the puppy either side of his face, kissing him on the end of his nose.

Jennifer: I’m going to call him Buck.

Owen nods his head in agreement.

Owen: Buck… yeah, I like that.

Jennifer gets to her feet, heading towards the kitchen, the dog already in love following her.

Jennifer: Come on Buck, let’s show you the garden. It’s huge, you’ll love it.

As Buck dutifully follows, so does Owen, watching as they leave the kitchen into the rear garden, Jennifer throwing a ball which Buck chases instinctively. Owen leans against the door frame, watching, and the single most important person in his life looking at her happiest. It would be a while until he could fully relax, but in this moment, he felt like there was at least hope. And wasn’t hope all anyone wanted.

3rd February 2021
Kansas City

Owen sits on the balcony of his hotel room, peering down at Kansas City situated below. The evening chill has started, and as such he is wearing a ‘Legends Never Die’ hoodie, with the hood up and over his head, jeans and a pair of Nike trainers. He turns his head, to face whatever recording device he is using, and quietly, and confidently starts to speak.

“The end of an era…”

Owen forces a smile, though in his head he isn’t feeling particularly jovial.

“I mean, usually if I sneeze, it’s guaranteed a reaction on social media. But the reaction to this one… well, it was even more ridiculous that usual. I mean of course, the tweet was designed to be vague in its delivery. Last Grasp of Reality had to be the reveal, and as such I was never going to give it all away. But from people claiming that I was going ‘bad’, others wondering if I was about to join the ‘Wonderland’, and then those that believed that I was about to retire at the grand old age of twenty, nearly twenty-one. It just showed that the ‘reality’ of the situation is this. There are not many in this world that actually KNOW me… and there are even less that feel that they have faith in what I do.”

Owen lowers his head, looking at his feet.

“And who can blame them?”

Owen looks back up at the camera.

“I mean the knowing me, that’s a conscious decision as I am by comparison to some a private person. But why should people have faith in me, when you look at the things that have happened over the past year or so. I mean off the top of my head, I didn’t stop Shilo when he was stalking Aaron. I couldn’t stop Peyton from almost dying when Gio tried to bringing the Chamber down on her. When Kelcey got smashed in the face with a mirror, I was a few steps behind… and as for the car crash… again, I was nowhere. I mean, there have been some kind comments, that I can’t fight every fire, and be everywhere, but it was my discussion with Blake that really resonated with me and brought it home and made me realize that something had to give. Kelcey and Peyton, they were only involved in this bullshit with Gio, because of ME, they were only hurt because of ME. I’ve been asked a million times why I’ve turned my back on the Perfect Pack since the PPV, and justifiably, because I know people are disappointed in me. I don’t blame them. But the fact is, I cannot stand by whilst those that I love are being hurt because of my actions. And the only way I stop that from happening week on week, is by standing alone. So Gio, listen up… you don’t want the Pack, you never did. You wanted ME. And I’m not interested in your bullshit anymore so leave them the fuck alone. And if you think you’ve won dipshit, think again, someone else will rise, I guarantee it. To Aaron, Peyton and even Alistaire… I hope in time you forgive me, and our friendship remains intact. You need me, EVER, I promise I will be there. And I hope you understand why I had to do this. And finally, Kelcey…”

Owen pauses, genuinely emotional

“Thank you, for continuing to steer me in the right way and looking out for me when I needed it. If Dad could, I’m sure he would thank you himself. Honestly, you don’t need this bullshit any more than I do. This isn’t the business my Dad helped built you know it isn’t. Go enjoy your life, be happy… and forget all about Sienna Swann.”

Owen takes the deepest of breathes, puffing out his cheeks and pointing at the camera

“And to you, the fans… I hope somehow you forgive me too.”

He lowers his head, nodding whilst biting his bottom lip. With a sigh, he looks back towards the camera, his eyes narrowing.

“Gavin Taylor… ‘Uncle’ Gavin.”

Owen now shakes his head as he continues.

“First of all, congratulations on your victory at Last Grasp of Reality. I mean, winning a shot at the United States Champion is kinda a big deal, and there is no getting away from that. Fact is, if you beat Xander Valentine after what he did to Regan at the PPV, there is very little doubt that you will deserve all the plaudits that will come your way. It could even be said that in a career as storied as yours, this would be the biggest victory of your life. Period.”

Owen nods his agreement, it couldn’t be denied that Gavin had performed admirably, and for once without the usual ‘methods’ he employed to get it done.

“Perhaps even more impressively, at Last Gasp of Reality you didn’t cheat your way to the shot, in fact it was YOU who almost got beaten by the usual crap that tends to end important matches around here. You got this shot, by focusing on ONLY your wrestling ability and if I didn’t know you better, then perhaps people could be forgiven for believing that you have turned a corner.

But let’s face it Gavin, we’ve seen this time, and time, and yeah, time again. Whatever the company, Gavin Taylor simply cannot help himself, like a chameleon changing his look whenever the need suits. Good guy, Bad guy, something in between. That’s Gavin Taylor in a nutshell… never willing to actually stick at something. Never able to be that which whatever company employed he needed to be. Never being the person that people like I needed him to be. Someone with all the talent in the world, but too egotistical to actually pass that knowledge on.

The most damning point I could make Gavin, I could quite literally take my promo against the Golden Boys, and specifically Adam Allocco and it would fit perfectly. You could do SO much more for SCW, if you simply stopped thinking about yourself. If for at least a sustained period of time you stopped being such an arrogant prick. You call yourself the man of a thousand nicknames? Well you need them, because you probably have a thousand personalities too, most of them as odious as the next. Maybe you truly are bi-polar, I dunno… maybe you are wrestling’s version of Kevin from the movie Split? The TRUTH is, your entire career has been a wasted opportunity. Through NEWA, IWC, UWA, and EMERGE. Finally landing at the pinnacle, SCW, you’ve NEVER made good on your promises, always, in your words, on the cusp of greatness. Well Gavin, now for the first time… against Xander Valentine you get the chance to prove that what you have said all along was true. Problem is fella, you’re not able to think about Xander just yet, because you’ve got to beat me first. And as people have found out of late, that ain’t easy to do.

See, I may not have the brutality of Xander in my locker, I may not be able to fight fire with fire, like Blake did with Giovanni… and look how that panned out. But Gavin, I CAN put you away in a heartbeat. With my back to the ropes, apparently beaten, I can rebound and stop you in an instant. ONE chance, ONE that’s all I need Gavin, even against a wrestling ‘technician’ such as yourself. And with someone as careless as you Gavin, that mistake I need WILL inevitably come. The same mistakes I assure you Xander will be salivating at.

And here’s the thing Gavin, this is way your attitude to this business costs you far more than being a likeable guy. You probably don’t care when people say you’re NOT the best that you claim, or you’re not a ‘real’ athlete, and I’m not here to waste my time telling you any different. I know your worth here, I don’t need you spouting it every five minutes. Someone who is TRULY great doesn’t have to say it every time they speak. And you showed how capable you CAN be at the PPV, if you forget about the other stuff.

No, what it does cost you, is the potential to evolve. To get better. Can you REALLY say that Gavin Taylor version 2021 is any different to the 2015 version? Categorically NO, because in essence you are still doing the exact same things, and saying the exact same things. Do you hit harder, are you faster, stronger that the Gavin I watched compete in the companies I mentioned earlier? FACT is Gavin, if you were everything you say you are, you would have accolades as long as your arm, far surpassing anything that the Supreme as to offer. And yet Gavin, Bree Lancaster is World Champion, the BEST this company has to offer, whether you or I like it or not. The difference being Gavin, she says the same things as you… but she’s been backing it up for years. Dad was telling you the same things as I am a decade ago, and that says everything about you.”

Owen gets to his feet, the camera following him, now obviously not automatic, someone else the other side filming him. He stands, with his hands on the guardrail looking over the city.

“Do you know what this match represents for me Gavin? It represents a chance for me to step away from all the crap I have had to endure over the past eighteen months. Giovanni will never destroy this company, there are so many individuals who will always stand in his way. If he chooses to get in my face again, I’ll deal with him, like I have three times already, in the ring and by proving I am better than him. This match however, it’s an opportunity for me to get back to basics, to get back to doing what brought me into the SCW nearly three years ago. Whereby I take on, and try to defeat some of the most talented wrestling superstars on the planet. I look back, and unlike you, I see the mistakes I’ve made. Attending that warehouse with Aries, being lured into a trap and arrested thanks to Sierra. Gavin that isn’t wrestling. That’s not what those that came before us built. I bought into Gio’s crap about trinkets, I fought him tooth and nail to prove him wrong, but no one can do that. But that’s what wrestling IS Gavin. It’s about the trinkets, it’s about the Championships and accolades. Like you profess to being, it’s about being the BEST in the world. And unlike what that dickhead thinks, there is NOTHING wrong with that. He wants to talk about Lizards and reptiles, fuck him. Let him live in his fantasy world. Me, I’ll set about doing what was important to me as an eighteen year old kid, way out of my depth. Being better. And that Gavin Taylor, that starts with you.”

Owen turns so that he is leaning against the guardrail the city behind him

“See the thing is Gavin, you are now the Number One contender to the United States title, so even before becoming a champion that makes you a target. Anyone that faces you is going to want to beat you, knowing that if by some miracle you beat Xander, a victory over you could mean that they are the next in line. And it just so happens, the United States title, it’s on my little bucket list of things I need to do to erase the memory of the Wonderland from my brain. I beat you, and you beat Xander… well, I’m hoping that for the first time in forever two plus two does actually equal four here in SCW, instead of the three and a half that usually occurs to those that don’t shout and scream every five minutes and a weak management that doesn’t do what’s right. Beating you Gavin isn’t a throwaway, far from it. Beating you ‘Unc’ is one step further away from the constant let downs I’ve endured, and one step closer to being who I want to be. The best damn wrestler that the Cruze name EVER produced.”

For the first time in his promo he smiles, and even manages a chuckle.

“Ambitious huh, considering the comparison. Orlando Cruze, eleven major titles in an illustrious career, and many, many other accolades. Shaun Cruze, one behind with ten including six tag team title reigns. And here is little old me, with a world title and a tag title to my name. Thing is Gavin, I’ve got all the time in the world. Maybe two more decades in me… and I’ve already done what you could not, and been the SCW World Champion. Maybe I won’t be as good as Dad. Maybe I won’t equal Shaun’s success. But you know something Gavin, no matter how great you are, I know I can beat you. No matter what you achieved at Last Grasp of Reality, I know my speed and courage can be too much for you to handle. And no matter if you do somehow get past Xander and achieve the dream… I KNOW I can smash that dream into a thousand pieces, by giving you questions I don’t think you’re prepared or indeed ready, to answer.”

Owen smiles again, nodding whilst grasping the rail a little more tightly. He then pushes away, and stands in the frame of the doors

“Gavin, when we face off on the first regular edition of Thursday Night Breakdown, there are gonna be a lot of eyes trained on you. Was it a fluke? Did Gavin Taylor get lucky, or can he beat someone who has been a mainstay of the main event picture for the last year? But it won’t just be the fans Gavin, there is no doubt that Xander Valentine will be looking at you too… and maybe closer than you think. My advice to you bro, I know he’s a ‘monster’ we’ve all seen what he is willing to do, and that management isn’t willing or able to stop him, but you need to concentrate on me, and me alone. Because I don’t care if you are the ‘All-star’, it doesn’t matter to me if you are the ‘Franchise Player’ or a ‘real world Jedi’. NONE of it matters Gavin because I’ve beaten the Prince of the Wonderland, I’ve defeated the Snow Queen. You could be a KING one day, but the situation still wouldn’t change. That situation being, Thursday night, I’m going to give the number one contender to the United States title the wakeup call of a lifetime and remind the SCW who the hell I am. For the first time in months Gavin, I’m focused on only one thing. And tomorrow night that ‘thing’, is Cruze Stomping your ego inflated head right through the canvas.”

Owen salutes the camera, his face stoic and showing very little emotion as the scene cuts to black

February 3, 2021 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #84

28th November 2020
Los Angeles

“Hello Owen… took your time.”

Marshall’s voice rocks Owen, who takes a moment, not sure what to say. He switches the phone onto speaker and lays it on the table, pacing the living room.

Marshall: What’s wrong? Expecting someone else?

Owen sits himself down on the sofa, his hands steepled in front of his face, thinking.

Marshall: Owen, I’d hate to think that you were ignoring me.

Owen: I’m here…

Finally, Owen musters the courage to speak, sensing the changing in the tone of Marshall’s voice.

Marshall: Ah, there he is… pleasant chat with Rachel?

Owen’s eyes widen, but he isn’t really that shocked.

Owen: Not really, she’s worried about her son.

Marshall: Who Finch? I can’t imagine why. He’s never been anything but a burden to her.

That wasn’t true, it was only in recent times that Finch had gone off the rails, and initially it had looked like he was going to be the big basketball star he had always dreamed of being.

Owen: Look Marshall, I know you’ve got him, so how’s about we stop messing around and you tell me where he is huh?

Marshall chuckles, and at the end of his laugh there is a clear audible sigh.

Marshall: Owen, Owen, Owen…

Owen cannot mistake the condescending tone in Marshall’s voice.

Owen: You don’t scare me Marshall…

Marshall: I don’t need you to fear me Owen, I know all about you and the family you come from.

Owen: Then you’ll know that I have friends… friends much bigger than some street ‘thug’.

Marshall: And I guess by that you mean your Uncle Shaun, or Chris Clay… or maybe even your stepmothers Father Broderick Chase, the hot shot lawyer?

Owen opens his mouth to speak, but the words aren’t there.

Marshall: Oh yeah, I know all about them… I got ‘friends’ too. See that’s your problem Owen, you never see the ‘bigger’ picture, and that failing has put you in quite a dire situation.

Owen: What are you talking about?

Marshall: OK Owen, let me bring you up to speed. See, this life, I didn’t choose it for myself. When I was little, I had all the dreams that you had. I lived in LA, where dreams come true right? I believed I was going to go out there and make a name for myself, be someone, but like so many I ended up turning to this life to get by.

Owen: That was your choice.

Marshall: Was it though Owen? When you are starving on the streets, is it really a choice that you do whatever you can so that you don’t starve to death? Nah, I didn’t choose this path, I was forced into it. But before long I realized that, I was pretty good at it. People respected me. I earned the right to hold my head high in LA, just the way I wanted to be. And having made my name, I ‘could’ have made a choice to walk away with enough money to get myself straight, but I chose not to.

Owen: What’s this got to do with Finch?

Marshall: Patience Owen, I was just coming to that…

Marshall pauses, perhaps taking a drink or something, or perhaps even enjoying having Owen exactly where he wanted him, hanging on his every word.

Marshall: See, Finch had a choice to make as well. His debt paid in full, he could have walked away from all of this and got on with his life. Yours and my ‘business’ was none of his, and yet Finch, with some illogical sense of loyalty towards you, believed that he could talk to me, and make me see reason, and leave you alone. But not only that, he thought he could threaten ME with the cops and make ME stand down. Owen, that was a poor choice on his part. A poor choice, because same as you, he didn’t see the bigger picture, and why I couldn’t let someone like you just walk away.

Owen: You keep talking about this bigger picture, but to me it’s seems pretty clear. You’re just like anyone else, trying to make as much money as you can without actually doing anything to earn it except threaten people or steal. What’s to stop me from now going to the Police huh? How do you know I’m not recording this call?

Owen hears Marshall chuckle again which raises his anger somewhat.

Marshall: Because Owen, unlike Finch, although you still don’t understand what game you are playing, you’re not as stupid as he is. You realize that right now, you don’t have the first clue where Finch is, and that any rash act could be detrimental to his safety.

Owen: You wouldn’t hurt him… I can’t believe that even you could murder someone in cold blood.

Marshall: True, I’ve never had to go that far, but you see Owen, therefore I talk of the ‘bigger picture’. There is always a hierarchy Owen, always. Even in what you do, there are Champions, and those that are not, correct?

Owen: Yeah… but what’s that got to do with anything.

Marshall: Finch answered to me Owen… who do you think I answer to?

The penny drops with Owen, the bigger picture that Finch was speaking about was someone higher up who was pulling the string.

Marshall: Yes, now you get it don’t you Owen? You’re starting to understand the seriousness of yours, and indeed Finch’s situation. The moment Finch disrespected me, he disrespected someone he should never, ever cross. And now Owen, it is not an understatement for me to inform you that his life, is well and truly in your hands. Right now, he’s ok… staying that way depends on what you decide to do next.

Owen knew that there was a small chance that this was all bullshit, but there was a certainty in Marshall’s words that chilled him to the bone. He knew that right now, he had no option but to take his words as truth and play along and at least find out what it was that they wanted with him.

Owen: OK, I’m listening.

Marshall: Good because listening might just keep Finch alive.

Owen: What do I need to do?

Marshall: Over the course of the next few days, a car will come to your house to pick you up. You should get in that car. You’ll be taken to where you need to be, there you will get your answers. Do not go to the cops Owen, because we WILL know if you do. Tell anyone about this arrangement and… well I’m sure I don’t need to tell you what the consequences may be. Do as you are told Owen, and no one gets hurt… you have my word on that. And regardless of what you think of me, my word means something.

Owen: OK

Marshall: Get in the car Owen… and don’t get cute.

The phone goes dead, Owen staring at it for a few moments before picking it up and placing it in his back pocket. A million and on thoughts racing through his mind. Could he tell Rachel of this conversation and leave her to deal with it? Could he go to the police anyway and call Marshall’s bluff? He knew that he couldn’t do either, and that for now at least he had to play along and follow Marshall’s rules, and if it did all turn out to be an elaborate plan, then at least he would know. But it also knew that if Marshall was telling the truth, he could be about to be driven into a shit storm, or perhaps even worse.

2nd December 2020
Los Angeles

Over the course of the next few days, and with a car never showing up, Owen had started to allow himself the belief that this had been nothing more than scare tactics on Marshall’s part. Yesterday, Owen had even rang Finch’s phone again, in the hope that Marshall would pick up, but although Owen had left it ringing, no one had answered. Although part of him had been relieved that it was probably a trick, Owen still didn’t know where Finch was, and a visit from the police yesterday, obviously informed by Rachel, had done nothing to calm his nerves. If Marshall were indeed watching his every move, he’d have seen them arrive, and maybe that was why the car had never came. Fact was, with the Last Laugh just around the corner, his preparation for that event couldn’t have been any worse. Thankfully, Jenni had been a constant, and although she had asked him several times what was wrong, he’d managed, or at least he believed he had, to assure her that everything was ok. She’d even mentioned Marshall, and Owen had managed to get through explaining Rachel’s visit, without giving too much away. Jenni had seemed happy with Owen’s explanation, and that Rachel had been to the police, but would Marshall be satisfied that Owen hadn’t told them something. Those thoughts running through his head constantly had taken him back several months, when sleep was never an option, and he’d found himself downstairs on the last two nights, his XBOX keeping him at least sane.

Jennifer: So, Mom isn’t best pleased I’m moving in with you.

Jennifer breaks him from his daydream, Owen staring blankly at the coffee in his cup

Owen: What? Sorry Jenni, miles away.

Jennifer: Mom gave me the lecture, told me I was too young blah, blah.

Owen: I thought she’d gotten over us seeing each other?

Jennifer: Oh she has, in fact she has even come round to you being a nice guy…

Owen: So, she doesn’t want to kill me anymore?

Jennifer: No, I think she has realized that we are good for each other.

Owen: Well, that’s something.

Jennifer: Dad’s cynical, but he’ll allow me to live my life. But Mom? She thinks it’s way too soon.

Owen: She’s only looking out for you Jen.

Jennifer: Oh, I know she is Owen, and I love her for that. But I’m a big girl now, I can make my own decisions. And right now, I can’t think of a better one than moving in with you.

Owen: Yeah, but it would be a whole lot easier if we did it with her permission rather than against her wishes.

Jenni screws her face up in disbelief.

Jennifer: Did you really just say that?

Owen: It’s true, we both know what she can be like. Maybe we should…

Jennifer: If you know what is good for you Owen Cruze, do not say what I think you are about to.

Owen: Just for a short…

Jennifer: NO Owen… I love my Mom, I love that she cares about me, but I will not have her running my life. No way. We are doing this… unless of course you are having second thoughts?

Owen: No… No of course not.

Jennifer: Then let me deal with Mom. And anyways, if needs be, you can just sing a song with her. Worked for us last time.

Owen laughs, Jenni taking a hold of his hand.

Jennifer: It’ll be OK, I promise. You sure you’re alright, I mean you’ve been pretty quiet last few days.

Owen: Yeah, I’m fine. Just the hospital is dragging its heels with Mom, I just want to get her home and settled.

Jennifer: And that’s all it is?

Owen: Well, other than the usual SCW bullshit… yeah. But yeah, once she’s home and she starts settling back into her life, I’ll feel a lot better.

He didn’t feel good lying to Jennifer, but now wasn’t the time to confide in her about Marshall. This was a problem he had to bear alone, at least for the time being.

Jennifer: OK, well don’t forget… no secrets. If you have a problem, it’s my problem as well.

Owen: Yeah, I know…

They both hear a knock at the door, and then the front door open, someone shutting it behind them. For a moment, Owen thinks it is Marshall having totally chosen the wrong time to show his face, but it is with relief that he hears a voice calling out.

“Anyone home?”

Owen smiles, getting to his feet.

Owen: In here Shaun

Shaun walks into the living area, seeing Jennifer and holding up his hands.

Shaun: Sorry kiddo, didn’t realize you had company.

Owen: It’s all good, Jen and I are just hanging out.

Shaun: Ah ok, I was just at a bit of a loose end, wondered if you wanted to get some Christmas shopping done?

Owen turns to Jen, who nods her head.

Jennifer: Yeah, that’s cool. You boys do that, I’ll go see what AJ is up to.

Shaun: You sure? You’re welcome to come with us.

Jennifer: Nah, shopping trips with boys is no fun. Anyway, how can Owen get me my special present if I’m tagging along?

Shaun: That is very true…

Owen: OK, I’ll just get ready… five minutes?

Shaun nods his head, taking a seat opposite Jennifer, as Owen runs upstairs.

Shaun: So… I noticed that you haven’t signed your contract yet for EMERGE, holding out for more money?

Jennifer: No, not at all Shaun, the offer you have made me was more than generous.

Shaun: But?

Jennifer: But I’ve never really felt that I’ve had the respect of EMERGE, not like Willow and Peyton got.

Shaun: I assure you, that isn’t the case.

Jennifer: Perhaps not, but it’s the way I was feeling those last couple of months. I just think that now is the right time for a change of scenery.

Shaun: SCW been sniffing around huh?

Jennifer: Not just SCW, a few others. I just don’t think I’ll ever truly get that respect whilst my Mom and Dad are part of the management you know?

Shaun: Yeah, I get that… but SCW? How does Regan feel about that?

Jennifer: Well, she isn’t impressed that’s for sure. With everything going on right now, she doesn’t think I would be safe.

Shaun: She might have a point Jennifer… Xander Valentine is not someone to be messed with.

Jennifer: I know… and I get it. But no disrespect to EMERGE, but SCW is the number one. And I believe I could be successful there if I was given the chance.

Shaun: They would certainly be lucky to have you…

Owen runs back down the stairs, catching the last part of the conversation.

Owen: Who would?

Shaun: Jennifer and I were just talking about her future.

Owen: Oh… SCW?

Shaun: Yeah

Jennifer: Owen isn’t sure either.

Owen: It’s just not a great place at the moment Jen.

Jennifer: I can handle myself Owen.

Owen: I know you can, but it’s not just about that.

Shaun can sense a potential argument so interjects.

Shaun: I can see both sides. On one hand, Jennifer wants to prove herself, and there is no better place than SCW to do exactly that. However, because of who you are Jennifer, there will be a lot of people target you, simply because of that fact. I’m sorry to use Xander as the example, but you are Regan’s daughter, that would be like a red rag to a bull. Truth is, I hate what the SCW has become. I’ve got a lot of respect for Sasha, but I don’t think she’s big enough to handle what needs to be done.

Owen nods his agreement.

Owen: I’d have to agree… Xander, Gio, there is even an argument that Sienna shouldn’t still be there.

Shaun: There is no doubt you are good enough Jennifer, but sometimes skill isn’t enough. I’ve said it to Owen a few times now Jennifer, doing the right thing isn’t going to defeat the likes of Giovanni. You must have that ‘edge’.

Owen: Like you…

Shaun shrugs his shoulder as Owen points at him, Jennifer looking at Shaun questionably.

Shaun: Owen believes I retired too early, and I still have something to give.

Owen: Shaun, I know you do… you showed that in your last match. That itch never goes, you know it doesn’t. Look at Dave, and all he has done. The SCW needs people like you, like Dave, Lucas and Kelcey. People willing, like us to take a stand. People that have done it all before. Dealt with people like Xander Valentine before.

Shaun: I’ve got enough on my plate Owen, and this is a big year for Impact Media.

Owen: And yet Blake manages to do both. You’re 32 next year Shaun… 32. You could still make a massive difference. And yet you let all that ability go to waste under a smart suit.

Jennifer listens as Owen speaks. She’d never realized that he was so passionate about this.

Shaun: I don’t have the time Owen.

Owen: Then come back part-time, even that would be better than nothing. Come back as Jennifer’s manager or something, keep her safe and help her to bed into the way SCW works. Just do something Shaun, because right now SCW needs you… and all you can do is sit on your ass and do nothing but watch the money come in. I know you; it was never about the money.

Owen stops himself, realizing that he had started to rant, Shaun surprised by the intensity behind his words.

Shaun: I can’t Owen…

Jennifer: You could… what about if you were my tag partner?

Shaun: Huh?

Owen: Huh?

Jennifer: Think about it… Owen, you and Mom are worried that people will target me, and with Shaun around I’ll have someone always in my corner.

Shaun: Yeah, except Regan and I have a ‘colorful’ history, I might not be the right person.

Jennifer: You did the movie… she’s fine with you. And SCW get’s a legend back in the fold, another addition to the numbers that care about the company. As far as I can see, everyone wins.

Shaun and Owen look at each other, Owen shrugging his shoulders, Shaun then turning to Jennifer.

Shaun: And you’d be OK in the tag division?

Jennifer: In the beginning… Yes.

Shaun brings his hand up to his chin, rubbing it thoughtfully.

Shaun: I’d have to speak to Angyalka, and to Olek… Blake as well. But, it could work…

Owen: It could?

Shaun nods his head.

Shaun: Maybe… Maybe, but no promises ok? After ‘To Hell and Cat’ has been released, I’ll give it some serious thought. You think you can hang on till then Jennifer?

Jennifer: If I’m getting the Impact Player as a tag team partner, I can wait.

Shaun: I ain’t been the Impact Player for a long time Jen, there’s every chance you’ll be carrying me.

Owen: Oh, give over Shaun… you know you’re never out the gym. You are in the best condition of your life.

Shaun: Like I said guys, it takes a certain kind of person to exist in the SCW, I’m not sure I’m that person anymore.

Owen: Only one way to find out Uncle Shaun.

Shaun: Yeah… there is that.

Owen ties the laces of his trainers and looks over at Jennifer with a smile. He felt much better Jen joining the company if she had Shaun by her side, but he knew that wouldn’t matter if Regan didn’t agree. There was a long way to go until Shaun made his return, and a lot of people that would need to be convinced. But it was a possibility, and that gave Owen more hope for the future, at least his future where SCW was concerned.

Diary Entry – 2nd December 2020

I meant it, every single word

Shaun was exactly what the SCW needed right now, and if it meant he was also looking after Jennifer, that was one less thing to worry about.

Thing is, this could all be sorted, if Sasha just did what was right, but it seemed like that would never happen, and this battle for what was right would go on forever

Truth is, I don’t know if I can fight that long. Knowing that because of this war, my friends and family were getting hurt.

3rd December 2020
Los Angeles

Throughout the shopping trip, Owen and Shaun had never mentioned the wrestling business again. And although Owen’s thoughts occasionally drifted to everything else he had going on, in the main the afternoon had been fun, and Owen had enjoyed hanging out with his Uncle. When he returned home, there was no sign that a car had been to fetch him, and still there was no contact from Marshall, so slowly Owen was started to believe that maybe Marshall had changed his mind. Waking the day after, Owen had made himself a full English breakfast, and wolfed it down, and he’d even spent an hour or so in his home gym. He felt like his mood had lifted, that is until the doorbell rang, and Owen opened the door to a man who looked every bit like a driver, a black car with tinted windows at the end of the driveway.

Owen: Err, hello…

“Don’t play stupid Mr. Cruze… you know the drill.”

There was a definite impatience in the mans voice.

Owen: Can I just get my phone?

“Nah, you won’t be needing that.”

Owen: I’d prefer it…

“Please Sir, just get in the car.”

Owen looks back at his phone that is just on the side, and then steps through the doorway, locking it behind him. The driver walks behind him, before opening the rear door, Owen getting inside, Marshall already sat in the back.

Marshall: Owen, good to see you. Hope you didn’t start to believe I wasn’t coming?

Owen: Well, yeah I did

Marshall: My apologies…

He pulls a hood from the side of him, throwing it over to Owen.

Marshall: If you could put that on

Owen: Is this necessary?

Marshall: Afraid so… now please

Owen shakes his head and puts on the hood, his anxiety stepping up a notch.

Marshall: Now, quiet please… we shall be at our destination soon enough.

Owen cannot see, but Marshall nods to the driver, the car engine started and Owen feeling it pull away from his driveway.

TWENTY MINUTES LATER

The car comes to a stop, and Owen hears the doors open, and then an arm grabs his

Marshall: This way Owen.

Owen is led in silence, over what he believes to be a gravel path, to a door which he is led inside. He then walks a few what he believes to be corridors, until he enters another room, and is sat down. Once sat down, the hood is ripped away, Owen blinking as his vision comes back. He is sat in a darkened room, and from what he can make out, a shadowy figure stood in the corner, another closer.

“I’m sorry for all the secrecy Owen, but I’m sure you will understand my need for privacy.”

The voice wasn’t that of Marshall, but an Englishman. From the shadows, the owner of the voice steps into the light, sitting himself down opposite Owen.

Owen: Where’s Finch?

The man smiles, holding up his hand.

“I assure you; Finch is perfectly fine. Which considering his actions of late, he can consider himself quite fortunate. Not many would have been as patient as Marshall in recovering his debt. And I thank you personally for ensuring the debt was paid.”

The man pulls out a carton of cigarettes and lights one, purposely blowing the smoke in Owen’s face, grinning as Owen inhales it, making him cough.

Owen: What am I doing here? Who the hell are you?

“Ah yes, how rude of me. I know all about you, but you know nothing about me. Let’s resolve that shall we and answer some of your questions. Let’s start with why you are here?”

The man leans forwards, a coldness towards Owen in his eyes.

“You may not agree with what I do, but first and foremost I am a businessman.”

Owen: You’re a criminal

The man pauses for a moment, biting his bottom lip.

“I’m going to let that one go, you don’t know who I am just yet, but you will learn that I tend not to appreciate condescending tones. I AM a businessman, and I am in the business of making money. When I place my trust in an individual, I expect them to make me money too… and when they don’t, I make it my business to ask questions”.

Owen: Finch paid up… he owes you nothing.

“I’m not talking about Finch; I’m talking about Marshall. See, Marshall hasn’t been making money, his little enterprises have failed to come to fruition, that is until he mentioned that you were Finch’s friend, and there may be an ‘opportunity’ to recoup some of the money that Marshall had frittered away. I believe this is what Marshall called the ‘bigger picture’. Between you and me Owen, I don’t believe Marshall has what it takes, but bringing you to me… I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt a little longer. And the fact it is YOU… well, that’s nothing more than a happy coincidence.”

Owen: So, this is all about money?

“It was Owen, that is exactly what it WAS all about. But now, it’s MUCH more than that.”

Owen scowls, the man making very little sense. If it wasn’t about money, why was he here?

“Yes Owen, I know all about you, and your family. I knew the minute Marshall mentioned your name who you were. My name Owen, is Shane Denning…”

Immediately Owen recognizes the name, it being Pixie’s surname, Shaun’s ex-wife.

Owen: Denning?

Denning: Yes, that’s right Shaun… Pixie’s big brother.

Owen: She doesn’t have a brother.

Denning laughs, shaking his head

Denning: Not one that she would have speak of. I concede that. But I assure you, I came from the same loins as she did. My Father, Robert Denning.

Still Owen wasn’t getting it. He knew there was something that had gone on before he married Pixie, but it wasn’t something that they ever talked about.

Denning: You don’t recall the name?

Owen: No, should I?

Denning: Probably not, I’ve no doubt that my Father was wiped from existence after what my dear Sister, and your Uncle did.

Owen: But what’s that got to do with me?

Denning: Allow me to elaborate. They killed my Father.

Owen: What… never.

Denning: Oh, they didn’t take a knife to his back, at least not literally. He died of a heart attack because your Uncle turned his daughter against him. He died, believing that his daughter no longer loved him. But that’s not the point, the point is, it was left to me to continue running the family business. And my Sister, had nothing more to do with me. Imagine my surprise when fate brought the Cruze family back into my life. I want an explanation for my Father’s death… and YOU are going to get Shaun to give it to me.

Owen: And how am I supposed to do that?

Denning: That’s simple Owen, you are going to get Shaun to meet with me. It’s as simple as that. You do this one thing for me, and you and Finch are taken home right now, and we never see each other again.

Owen: You must be crazy; I’m not sending Shaun into an obvious trap.

Denning: Owen, I only want to talk with him, nothing more. You have my word.

Owen: And I guess your word is your bond, right?

Denning: It is… you are nothing without your word.

Owen: And what if I don’t?

Denning: Then I guess Rachel finds her son at the bottom of the river

If Marshall had made that threat, Owen would have shrugged it off, but he knew Denning was serious.

Denning: I do need to explain however… should you agree to this and Shaun not meet me. Well, I’m sure you understand the consequences. For both you and Finch… and maybe that delightful Helms girl that you are dating right now. So, what do you say?

Owen runs his hands through his hair, looking down at the floor between his feet. The only thing he could think of was to buy himself some time, and at least get him and Finch out of this place. Shaun knew people, perhaps he could do something now Owen knew the facts.

Owen: OK… I’ll speak to Shaun.

Denning: Good boy… be persuasive Owen. Or else. And don’t keep me waiting too long.

Denning nods, the hood thrown back over his head, and Owen once more plunged into darkness.

Denning: Get them out of here… and no mess ups.

Owen is lifted to his feet, and once more led through a building till he is thrown into the back of a car, the engine once again starting.

FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER

After traveling in silence again, the car stops, Owen then almost dragged from the car, and led once again. He is then told to sit down, the hood being removed and Owen blinded by the surge of light. When his sight is back to normal, he realizes he is in a playground that he recognizes as not being far from his home, and by his side sat on a bench is Finch, his face bruised. In front of them is Marshall, and a few of his gang.

Marshall: I guess I should thank you Owen. Thought I was done for… good job you were Finch butt buddy huh?

Finch: Owen, I…

Marshall punches Finch full in the face, busting Finch’s lip.

Marshall: Quiet bitch!!!

It takes every inch of Owen’s resolve to not go for Marshall, Marshall almost taunting him to do so.

Marshall: Make that meeting Owen, or else Finch here will be getting much worse than a bust lip.

Marshall and his gang walk off laughing, Owen turning to Finch.

Owen: You OK… your Mom was really worried about you.

Finch: I’m OK

Owen: What you going to tell her? She knows you were dealing, I had to tell her.

Finch: Then I’ll just have to tell her a buyer did this, and I’ve been laying low for a while and face the music

Owen: Will she buy that?

Finch: She’ll have to… what you going to do?

Owen pauses, there wasn’t much else he could do.

Owen: I guess I have no choice but to tell Shaun what is going on, after that though… who knows? Just hope he’s got a plan… if not, we gotta be careful bro.

Finch: I’m sorry Owen, for getting you into all this.

Owen: Let’s leave the apologies until all this is over huh? Come on, let’s get you home.

Owen gets to his feet, Finch gingerly doing the same, before they head off in the direction of Finch’s house. Truth was, the last SCW PPV of the year was the last thing on his mind right now, but somehow he needed to find his focus for that event, whilst still knowing that all of this was lurking in the background. And worried that what happened next could turn out to be all his fault.

23rd January 2021
Denver

/RECORDING

“Sometimes, the ‘reality’ of the situation is, you were just not good enough.”

Owen Cruze speaks from in front of a camera in a SCW recording booth, a ‘Legend’s Never Die’ tee-shirt paired with ripped jeans, and Nike trainers. His hands are clasped in front of him, his thumb rubbing the back of his right hand.

“And before I address the elephant in the room, that was the case on Breakdown ten days ago. Truth is, I should be happy that every word I said was correct, Cid and Asher HAVE been one of the standout teams in this tournament. And they deserve that semi-final with Bree and Sienna, no question. Fact is, on that night they were better, they wanted the victory more. And no excuses, yes, we were already eliminated, but Aaron and I gave EVERYTHING to try and claim that victory. Bree and Sienna might not agree of course, but we couldn’t have done anymore.”

Owen lowers his head for a moment and unclasps his hands from each other.

“So, congratulations to both teams for making their way to the semi-finals, and good luck whichever of you advance to face the winners of the other block, whether that be Regan and Selena, or Cookie and Jordan. There is no doubt, that all four of you deserve that position, and it’s going to be interesting to see which of you wins the whole thing and goes on to face Chris and Lucas for the SCW Tag Team Championships, and who after all this emerges SCW Tag Team Champions… undisputed.”

Owen rubs the back of his neck, aching after his latest and last training session before Last Grasp of Reality. There is no doubt that he seems less jovial than usual, not a flicker of a smile evident on his face.

“That said, anyone could be forgiven for thinking my tweet at the conclusion of Breakdown was nothing more than sour grapes. The ramblings of a bad loser. Those that know me of course would never think such a thing, but there is no doubt that single post of social media certainly brought a reaction. Some positive, obviously some negative, but all drawing the wrong conclusions as to my point. Yes, I am done, no question. Yes, it will be the end of an era at Last Grasp of Reality, that is one hundred percent true. But retiring from SCW. Leaving the company that gave me my chance, a company that I love. Well, that ain’t happening is it?”

Owen shrugs his shoulders, he’d expected a reaction, especially from the leader of the Wonderland. What he hadn’t expected was Giovanni to get it so obviously wrong.

“I guess you all can imagine same as I did, Giovanni claiming his victory over one of the people that he believes is everything that is wrong with SCW. Thinking that his mission would be made that easier with me out the way. No Gio, DONE doesn’t mean OVER. DONE doesn’t mean I walk out of SCW to pastures new. No, you’ve all got it so very wrong, but I assure you, you will all find out what DONE means at Last Grasp of Reality.”

Owen looks off camera for a moment, taking a deep breath. Truth was he wasn’t sure that what he was about to do was the right thing. He wasn’t even sure it would make the difference. All he knew that it was the only way he could carry on.

“Which brings us to the finale, at least for Aaron and me, of the tag league and a match that could be seen by many as a dead rubber. On the face of it, there isn’t a great deal to be gained from victory. Both teams’ tournaments are effectively over, and potentially the Golden Boys will see this as a case of ‘going through the motions’, or ‘what’s the point?’ But you see, and I’m sure Adam this is the one time that you and I will agree. When a Cruze faces an Allocco there is ALWAYS a point.”

Finally, Owen can bring a smile to his face, and he even finds time for a chuckle.

“Bison, I don’t know if you are aware bro, but Mr. Allocco has always had a bug up his ass when it comes to the Cruze family. Whether it was my Dad Orlando, or my Uncle Shaun, whenever Adam stepped into the ring with either of them, it was always with sarcasm, and condescending words for everything that they had achieved. He could never respect them for their abilities, and what they brought to the SCW, and indeed the industry overall. He ALWAYS attempted to bring the Cruze family name down, because he believed that it was the Cruze family that had stopped him from achieving as much as he could.

Now of course, it’s nothing but the bitter ramblings of a jealous man who couldn’t get over himself, but that disrespect did fade when my Dad died, or Shaun left the SCW. No, even when I stepped into this company for the first time, wide-eyed and overawed by some of these huge names I was sharing a ring with. Even then, when I faced his son for the SCW World Championship, his words were scolding towards me. Thankfully, Alistaire and I became good friends off the back of that match and remain so. But his Father, your tag team partner, the hatred for the Cruze family. The total and utter resentment, it remained whenever the name crossed his lips. When I overcame Alistaire and became one of the youngest SCW World Champions of all time, Adam didn’t congratulate his son for being an amazing champion and doing the company proud. No Adam instead concentrated on the fact that once again, a Cruze had brought the Allocco name down and dragged it into the mud. When the fact is, our match went down as one of the stand outs of 2019… both our reputations enhanced. Room for BOTH families at the top table.

Thing is Bison, that is not the way Adam thinks. He has never wanted to share the spotlight with anyone or wanted anyone else to claim the accolades for victories. Tell me Bison, how many times has he congratulated you on a job well done? How often has HE been the one to help YOU in the face of a shit storm of his doing? Oh, of course Adam will say that he brought you to the big leagues of SCW and claim credit for it. When Alistaire was World Champion, it wasn’t because of how talented he was, and how much of an asset he was to the company, it was ONLY because he had shot from Adam balls all those years ago. Forget how hard Alistaire worked to be great. Forget the countless hours that he put in. According to his own Father, Alistaire was only any good because Adam got his end away… probably for the one and only time.

But you only must look at his nickname, ‘Wrestling’s Enlightenment’… that is the size of the ego that he has, where he believes that HE is the one with all the answers. No better than Giovanni Aries and his ‘Wonderland’. The only problem is the answers as far as Adam is concerned will only ever serve to benefit him. Imagine that, all that experience and know how, that would be so useful for the superstars of today, going to waste because he cannot help but be a son of a bitch. You’re not stupid Bison, you know damn well how he see’s you, your nothing more than the hired muscle that will inevitably be cast aside the minute Adam tires of having you around. He didn’t even take the time to train you properly because that would have taken effort, something Adam hasn’t believed in for years. After all why do that, when a short cut is much, much easier? And here’s the thing Bison, that for me is the reason that the Golden Boys, an actual tag TEAM that existed prior to this tag league even starting, who should have been amongst the favourites. That is why you have struggled to have any impact. It’s not because you ARE an actual team. The reality of it is you are Adam Allocco and the ‘other’ one. And that’s sad Bison, because I reckon you could be so much more… without the egotistical douchebag holding you back.”

Owen reaches to his left, picking up a glass of water and having a sip, before holding the glass in both hands.

“And as I address you now directly Adam, I can almost hear you bleating from here about the lack of respect from nothing more than a child. And that’s the thing isn’t it, you always perceived that the Cruze family showed you disrespect at every turn, when the truth is this ‘grudge’ between our families was caused by only yourself. Alistaire saw through that, he saw that there was nothing but the competitive spirit that we should all have as members of the biggest wrestling company in the world, but you never managed to achieve that utopia, so blinded were you by your jealousy of my Dad, Shaun…and then inconceivably myself. My one and only indiscretion towards you, having a five-letter surname that rhymes with Snooze. And snoozing, that seems apt right now, because Adam it’s time for you to change the record. You WERE a big deal; you could STILL make a lasting impression on the future superstars of this company thanks to the memories that the Allocco name brings. And yet Adam, you find yourself with no one listening. Your banal, repetitive commentary about the state of wrestling nowadays doing nothing to safeguard the future… ironic seeing as you were part of a generation of wrestlers that built this present for us. Can’t you see Adam, people like Kelsai, Peyton and yeah, even a dumb Cruze family member, we want to be the best we can be. We want to respect those that went before us, like Shawn Winters, Hurse and yeah, you Adam. But when all that comes out of your mouth is Grade A bullshit, what do you expect people to have. Stand around and let it pour all over them. Or look elsewhere for the inspiration that ANY young wrestler needs. I’m twenty years old Adam, twenty-one in a few weeks, and to an outside, I know more about this business than a forty-three-year-old, Renaissance Man with twenty-four years in the industry. If that sounds ridiculous Adam, that’s because put quite simply it is. Someone with more experience than I’ve had years on this planet… and yet every time you speak, you sound more and more like a fucking child.

And that is why Adam, yes… this match means something. In fact, right now in this moment, it means everything. Because I still remember your comments when my Father died. How sick, and yet how unsurprising it was that you would have one final dig towards him, just because you couldn’t understand how he could be so loved. You may have had more talent back then; you may have even been the better wrestler between you both. And yet, my Father was still a multi-time World Champion, and he is still remembered around the wrestling world. The way you are acting right now, can you guarantee the same? But don’t worry, because Sunday night you are going to one more opportunity to figure it out. Because the fans want Aaron and I to kick your ass, every young person we inspire wants us to kick your ass… shit, I’d hazard a guess that Alistaire wants us to kick your ass. And ultimately, it’s nothing to do with your wrestling ability, because that’s unquestionable Adam. It’s everything to do with the fact you are a bona fide prick. The bottom line for you, if you don’t have anything productive to say, just walk away from SCW and leave it to those that do… end of.”

Owen places the glass down, resting his hands on the arms of the chair.

“And so finally before I go, as this tag league comes to its conclusion, we may have not won, but I hope that Aaron and myself have at least made a mark. I hope that in taking it to people with far more experience, and in some cases legitimate tag teams, we have built ourselves a reputation that going forwards will perhaps keep us in the tag team picture. We’ve given our all, in every single match, and we have entertained, which is far more than some can say, and I hope we have made our fans, and our friends proud. The truth is, after Sunday, who knows what will happen, or what direction our paths will take. Maybe the SCW has different, separate plans for me and my brother from another. We will have to wait and see. But one way or another, Sunday night WILL be the end of an era…”

He salutes the camera, with his trademark grin evident.

“Because, and ending as light heartedly as possible… at Last Grasp of Reality, in the words of the Lion Kings Timon…”

Owen winks, the smirk never leaving his face.

“IT STARTS.”

/ENDRECORDING

Scene fades.

January 24, 2021 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #83

27th November 2020
Los Angeles

Owen sits in the hospital, his hands clasped, and his head bowed. He’d spent way too many hours in these places, and although he knew that in comparison this was a fairly simple procedure, he also knew of the risks involved. Jennifer rubs his back, knowing what he was going through right now and doing her best to keep his anxiety to a minimum.

Jennifer: It’s going to be ok you know? Your Mom is tough.

Owen lifts his head to look at her.

Owen: Yeah, I know. I went over the procedure when I was going to donate. I know that to the Doctors this is an everyday occurrence that they could probably do with their eyes closed. Doesn’t stop me having that niggling doubt in the back of my mind. Calamity Cruze right?

It was a name that had been given to him by his enemies, and one that he hated though he had to concede the way his life had gone had some truth.

Jennifer: Now come on, you know that’s a load of crap. The Cruze Curse as you put it doesn’t exist.

Owen: So just a hell of a lot of bad luck?

Jennifer: No, not that either. Things happen, and sometimes we might not like them, but they happen anyway. This is different Owen, it’s a good thing and its making Kloe better.

Owen forces a smile; he knew what she was doing.

Owen: I know Jen, seriously I do. I’ll just feel a lot better when she comes out of surgery and the kidney hasn’t rejected her body. Till then… I’m glad you’re here.

Jennifer: Where else would I be, but by the side of my man huh?

Now Owen does smile properly… he always loved it when Jenni called him that.

Owen: Yeah, well I hope you know how much I appreciate it

Jen laughs, putting her arm around his shoulders

Jennifer: Well Mister, Christmas is coming up… I’m sure you can show me.

Owen nods his head, though he knew she wasn’t being serious. Of course he would spoil her, but she wasn’t materialistic like that at all.

Jennifer: But, it’s not just your Mom is it?

Owen: What do you mean?

Jennifer: You’ve been like it since you came back from the overseas tour, a little bit off.

Owen: Have I?

He knew he had

Jennifer: Yeah, and to start with I put it down to that weirdo that attacked you in Johannesburg, and that would be understandable. But this isn’t like you… your quiet, and withdrawn… is it SCW?

Owen usually wouldn’t want to talk about it, but he was glad of the conversation and it took his mind away from other things.

Owen: I mean, I’d be lying if I weren’t pissed off with the way things ending with the World Championship Series. It’s nothing I didn’t really expect, after all Sienna and Giovanni were never going to let me get near Bree. And even the PPV announcement doesn’t really make any difference to the overall picture. It’s not like Kelcey and I winning will make them go away is it?

Jennifer: No, but it will be a start

Owen: That’s the thing, it should HAVE to be a start. Management should have dealt with this situation months ago. But just because Giovanni and Sienna bring in ratings, they can do whatever they want.

Jennifer nods, listening to him intently.

Owen: It’s just the more I fight, the more dangerous both become. Peyton already nearly got seriously injured, Kelcey too. But no matter what I do, that won’t stop them. Only Sasha can do that, and she sits in her ivory tower, occasionally giving them a token punishment. It’s bullshit Jen… total bullshit.

Jennifer: I know Owen, I understand the frustration… but why is it getting to you now? It’s not like this is the first time, it’s been happening for years. Your Dad was dealing with it, Shaun and my Dad did. Giovanni and Sierra are just the latest in a long line.

Owen: I know, it’s just on top of everything el…

He stops himself, but it is too late

Jennifer: Everything else?

Owen: It doesn’t matter

Jennifer: Well it obviously does, what aren’t you telling me Owen?

Owen looks away, biting his bottom lip and knowing there was no way he was getting out of this.

Jennifer: Owen?

Owen: Long story short, Finch…
Jennifer rolls her eyes at the mere mention of his name

Jennifer: Owen, what have I told you about that guy, he’s bad news.

Owen: Yeah, I know Jen… but he’s my friend. Just hear me out.

Jennifer wanted to shout at Owen right now, but sits back with her back to the wall

Owen: You know the girl he was going out with, Lauren?

Jennifer: The bitchy one?

Owen: That’s her. Anyway, it turns out her brother is some gang leader in LA… small time, nothing major… drugs, that kind of shit.

Jennifer: I’m not sure I want to hear anymore.

Owen: You asked

Jennifer: Yeah, and now I’m regretting it. Carry on…

Owen: Finch did a bit of work for him because Lauren asked him to. Finch being so love struck as he was went along with it. But when Lauren and he split up, it turned out Finch owed him money… money Finch didn’t have.

Jennifer: So, let me guess. You bailed him out.

Owen: Well yeah, what choice did I have?

Jennifer wanted to tell Owen that he had a million and one choices, most of them not getting involved, but she understand all about friendship so didn’t blurt out her first thoughts.

Jennifer: OK, so this guy has… hold on.

Owen’s eyes widen, as he realizes that Jen is putting it all together.

Jennifer: The guy that came around the house the other day… Marshall wasn’t it? Was that him?

Owen nods his head, feeling like right now he was nothing more than a schoolboy again, Jennifer giving him that admonishing look that his teacher always gave him.

Jennifer: I knew that guy was creepy when I saw him. But, if you’ve given him the money, what’s the problem?

Owen: Yeah, we was perfectly happy letting Finch off the hook, but I guess he saw a bigger pay day when he realized who I was.

Jennifer: So, what does he want? More money?

Owen: I don’t know Jen, he’s basically got me hanging on tenterhooks waiting to see what he does next.

Jennifer: Next?

Owen can almost see the cogs whirring in her head. Jennifer wasn’t stupid, probably wise beyond her years, and Owen knew she’d eventually reach the conclusion.

Jennifer: The break in…

There is was

Jennifer: That was him wasn’t it? He was sending you a message.

Owen: Looks like it, and when he came round the house he made it pretty clear that it was him as well.

Jennifer: Well, that’s it then, he’s given you no choice

Owen: What do you mean?

Jennifer: You’ve got to go to the police and tell them what’s been going on.

Owen: I can’t

Jennifer: What do you mean you can’t, you HAVE to.

Owen: I know, that’s the sensible thing to do, of course it is.

Jennifer: So there you go

Owen: But I couldn’t do that, without grassing up Finch as well. And he’s just getting his life back together.

Jennifer sighs, shaking her head but still looking directly at Owen.

Owen: Look Finch is going to go and talk to Marshall, says he’s a good guy really and he can talk him down.

Jennifer: Yeah, he sounds like a good guy

Owen: Let’s just see what Finch can do… if he can’t sort it, Finch has already said he’ll go to the police and turn them both in.

Jennifer: That’s the very least he can do…

Owen: Come on Jen, you know what he’s like

Jennifer: Yeah, I do. And I know that he’s not a good friend Owen. After this is over, you should ditch him, or else this same old scenario is going to keep coming up. And the only person who will be dragged down is you…

“Mr. Cruze?”

Owen turns to face the Doctor, Jennifer whispering in his ear

Jennifer: We are not done…

Doctor: Sorry to interrupt.

Owen: No, it’s fine… is the surgery done?

Doctor: Yes, the transplant has been completed and it went without a hitch. All good

Owen: That’s brilliant news Doctor, so now what happens?

Doctor: They will both be taken to extensive care where they will get some rest, and so that we can keep an eye on them, probably for 24 – 48 hours dependent on how they go. Then they will stay in hospital for 5 – 10 days… in all depends on the patient really. Some are up and walking the day after, others a little later. She will of course then be given advice on her medications, and will see the team weekly, or every other week so that we can keep an eye on any potential rejection.

Owen: OK, can I see her?

Doctor: Of course, just wait a little while longer for them to be taken up and settled, and then I will make sure a nurse comes and fetches you. In the meantime, you can go get something to eat… a coffee. They will find you.

Owen: OK, thank you.

Owen holds out his hand, the Doctor taking it and they shake.

Doctor: Try not to worry Mr. Cruze, complications are very rare in this kind of surgery.

Owen: I will, thank you for everything

Doctor: My pleasure.

Owen turns back towards Jennifer, the biggest smile on his face. All from earlier was forgotten, as she throws her arms around him.

Jennifer: There, told you it was nothing to worry about

Owen: You did

Jennifer: Always listen to Jennifer. Jennifer knows best. You remember that, and our relationship will remain solid

Owen laughs, kissing Jennifer on the cheek

Owen: Don’t worry, I know who wears the trousers here

Jennifer: And that Owen Cruze, is why I love you.

Owen: Coffee?

Jennifer: In the hospital cafeteria as well. You take me to all the best places

Owen: Dick…

He says it under his breath, but Jennifer still hears

Jennifer: What was that?

Owen grins at her

Owen: Nothing my dear

She hadn’t forgotten the conversation, but now didn’t seem like the time to bring it back up. Owen was happy his Mom was ok, and if he was happy, so was she. Jennifer links arms with Owen, grinning from ear to ear, as they walk down the corridor, the scene slowly fading.

Diary Entry – 27th of November 2020

Mom’s OK Thank God

She was a little groggy when I saw her, but that was to be expected.

I can’t wait to see her back on her feet and getting back to work where she is the happiest, doing what she does best.

Don’t know what I would have done if I had lost her, but I guess in given my Mom a chance, I should also give Claire the same. If she hadn’t come through for Mom, who knows what would have happened, or how long the wait would have been.

Jen revealed how much she really doesn’t like Finch, but I can’t give up on him. No one knows what he did for me growing up when I moved to LA, they only see that he is take, take, take, but that isn’t the case. I don’t think Jen is the kind of girl who would make me choose, at least I hope she isn’t.

I just hope I can find a way to show Jen that Finch isn’t all that bad… maybe getting Marshall off my back will persuade her.

28th November 2020
Los Angeles

Owen had called the hospital to make sure his Mom was ok, and satisfied that she had a comfortable night, he was going run a few errands before he was going to head over to the hospital to see her. Jennifer had gone round to her parents, leaving Owen alone to sort out a few things ahead of what would be a free week in SCW. There was also the small matter of Jennifer moving in next Tuesday, the next stage of their life together.

This new format suited Owen, no shows before and after the PPV’s, as it gave him time to get things done, and prepare properly for his huge match at the Last Laugh. He wanted to win so badly, to beat Sienna and Giovanni, by the side of his mentor Kelcey Wallace, and he was going to ensure he was mentally and physically prepared to get it done. To him, this was even more important than if he had been facing Bree for the World title. And so, the gym would be one of his last stops of the morning. Currently however, Owen had lost his car keys, and so therefore wasn’t going anywhere.

Owen: Where the hell have they gone?

Owen moves a cushion that he knows he threw on the sofa earlier, rolling his eyes as he sees his keys, picking them up. Just as he picks up his sports bag, the doorbell rings, Owen scowling, and then a look of concern forming on his face. Since the incident with the fan, he wasn’t ever quite sure who would turn up at the house… or if it would even be Marshall. However, he pulls up the outside camera on his phone, the scowl returning when he see’s who it is. He then heads to the door and opens it.

Owen: Mrs. Styles, how you been? I was just on my way out.

Rachel: I’ve told you before, call me Rachel… and I’ve been better.

Rachel was Finch’s Mom, and by the look on her face, it looked like Finch was causing her trouble again. He certainly wasn’t going to be able to leave her in this state.

Owen: Come in…

Owen steps to the side as she walks into hallway.

Owen: What’s going on?

Rachel: Has Finch been round here recently?

Owen: Not since last Sunday… why?

Rachel: He’s not been home for a few days, but he isn’t answering his phone which isn’t like him. Before he left home last, he said he was going to run an errand for you… so I wondered if you had any idea where he had gone?

Owen took great pride in being able to hide what he was thinking, but his feelings had let him down this time, Rachel catching the look on his face

Rachel: You do, don’t you? You know where he is. I’ll kill him. What’s he done?

Owen rubs his eyes, puffing out his cheeks.

Owen: Shit… you’d best come and sit down.

Rachel follows him into the living room, Owen taking the chair whilst she sits on the sofa.

Owen: You remember Lauren, right?

Rachel: Yeah, lovely girl… Finch was besotted with her

Owen starts to tell Rachel his opinion of Rachel, but stops himself, and instead continues

Owen: Lauren had a brother, Marshall… and Finch started doing some work for him.

Rachel: Yeah, Finch told me about that. He was distributing flyers or something, good money as well.

Owen shakes his head, lowering his eyes.

Owen: Rachel, I don’t know how to tell you this… Finch was dealing drugs for Marshall

Rachel: NO… he can’t have been. Finch was done with that.

Owen: I thought so too

Rachel: No, he promised me. He wouldn’t do that.

Owen: I’m afraid he did, and he ended up owing Marshall money in the process. Marshall started threatening him and his family… you guys, so he came to me for help.

Rachel: Help?

Owen: I paid of his debt with Marshall, but knowing who I was, Marshall turned his attention to me, and started making the same threats towards me, even breaking into this place.

Rachel: He sounds a right piece of work

Owen: I dunno, I’ve only met him twice. But Finch seemed to think he could get through to him, and get him to back off. Last time I saw Finch, that’s what he was going to do. Go and chat with Marshall, and if he couldn’t get through to him, he was going to go to the police.

It is that statement that Rachel listens to wide-eyed, bringing her hand up to her face.

Owen: I’m sorry Rachel… I know what you must be thinking

Rachel: HOW… how do you know what I am thinking? Ever since he started hanging around with you, he’s constantly been in trouble. He was going to be a basketball star; he was made for life…

It seemed like she was blaming him, and he wasn’t going to take that

Owen: With the greatest of respect, that wasn’t my fault, and neither is this.

Rachel: So why didn’t you both just go to the police huh? Just another chance for you to play hero.

Owen: Now look…

Rachel: NO…YOU LOOK!!!

Owen is taken back by the tone in her voice, and he bites his tongue not wanting to antagonize her any further.

Owen: He asked me to help, so I did. I was being a friend. He thought if he went to the police straight away, that would be it for him, he’d never get to play basketball. He thought it was worth a shot

Rachel: Going to the police straight away would have been being a friend. Now because of you, who knows what has happened?

Owen stands to comfort her, but as he does, she slaps him full across the cheek, stopping him in his tracks

Rachel: NO OWEN!!! I’ll never forgive you for this… ever. If something has happened to him if he’s…

She stops herself short, not able to bring herself to say the words, before then getting to her feet, pushing past Owen who is still holding his cheek

Owen: Where are you going?

Rachel: To the police… like YOU should have done.

Owen: Rachel, please…

Rachel walks out the room, Owen trying to grab her shoulder, but she shrugs him off, Owen half expecting another slap which thankfully never comes. She then storms out the front door, slamming it behind her. Owen walks to the front window and watches her walk down the driveway without looking back even once, before disappearing down the street. Owen immediately pulls out his mobile phone, putting it on speak as he dials Finch’s number.

Owen: Come on Finch… pick up.

The line connects with a click, then a momentary pause, for just a second Owen’s hopes growing.

“Hello Owen… took your time.”

Owen’s eyes widen, and he almost drops the phone, the voice not Finch’s… but Marshall’s.

12th January 2021
Tacoma, WA

/RECORDING

“Family…”

Owen Cruze peers from behind a camera, dressed casually in a O-Cru tee-shirt and ripped jeans, Nike trainers completing the outfit.

“It’s funny isn’t it, how sometimes it takes the words of another to make you realize the importance behind that singular word. CID, you are a bona fide SCW legend, but I’m going to be honest with you bro, when I saw your team, the name, and your involvement with Asher Hayes I ‘thought’ I knew what we were in for. I thought AC Unit would be all about the laughs. I thought they would party, win a few matches, but not really care about the result, it not mattering in the grand scheme of things. And yet here you and Asher are… ONE result from at least taking it to a semi-final with Bree and Sienna having taken them all the way to a hard-fought draw. You and Asher haven’t just shocked our tag league block bro, you’ve stunned it… and left several far more established tag teams in your wake. And regardless of what happens on Wednesday you’ve done it without any bullshit. And yeah, I must admit to feeling a little guilty that it could be Aaron and I that end up taking your dream away, because you’ve earned your moment. But CID, Asher… so have the Perfect Pack.

See, barring our opening contest against Bree and Sienna, we have also taken out every single team we have faced, and done it with the backdrop of the Wonderland, and indeed Shilo Valiant forever in our faces. If it hadn’t had been for one understandable moment of anger from Kelcey, which might I add we don’t hold against her, the situation going into our battle could have been a lot different. See, although not mathematically certain, Bree and Sienna were always unlikely to lose regardless of what happened with Avery last week. But again, not because of us being beaten, Aaron and I find ourselves eliminated. BUT, without that disqualification, this match could have been our crowning glory, and WE would have been on the cusp of the glory you crave. It wasn’t to be, and perhaps AC Unit will win tomorrow night and none of that will matter. But as I stated before when we faced Polly and Holly, unlike some, Aaron and I were never ONLY focused on the titles. Some things are more important, family is more important. And CID, it’s refreshing to hear someone else say it.

Because that’s something I never really understood about Bree and Sienna. I mean don’t get me wrong, Bree has done some questionable things no doubt about it, but I never got why she stood by Sienna throughout everything. I honestly respected Bree for her loyalty to Sienna, however misguided it seemed, but I never realized, at least from Bree’s side, that it ran much deeper than that. See, Aaron and I… Kelcey, Peyton and Alistaire we ARE a family, and without that bond we wouldn’t be stood here today, the Wonderland would have buried us individually a long time ago. And that’s what Bree considers Sienna… she’s her family. And as such, she will never turn her back, regardless. And that’s why regardless of whether we top this group or not… this match was always going to matter.

I heard it mentioned, as did everyone… about how easy it would be for us to take the loss and ensure that the two of you at least got the semi-final you have probably earned. But truthfully, that was never really an option, not for a group that prides itself on never taking the short cuts that others use as a matter of course, as if it is in some way the norm. Much like Bree, I will NEVER purposely let Aaron down, or anyone else I consider my ‘family’. This COMPANY is my family, it’s all I know, and I would never bring the integrity of SCW down with my actions, just so that my enemies were denied what they have obviously earned as well. If this semi-final does indeed come to pass, and Bree and Sienna faced Asher and CID one more time, then that’s the way it was supposed to be. But guys, believe me… I know you want it badly; I’ve seen it many times over the course of the tournament. But to claim that near flawless record, you are going to have to go toe to toe with the most exciting, most creative team on this roster. Because guys, no matter how well you have done thus far, you have not faced anyone like us.”

Owen takes a long deep breath.

“Family…”

A smirk forms on just one side of his face, a wry smile brought on by what he is thinking.

“Asher, much like CID, you’ve always been someone who has never taken himself seriously and as such, perhaps the success that your talents deserve have never really been achieved. By that, I mean yes, you have won many titles here in the SCW, but the main one, the World Championship has always alluded you when perhaps it shouldn’t. But of late, that’s all changed. The exuberance of youth has left you, and just like CID, you’ve figured out like many do, the clocks ticking. Whereas before you spoke of others light heartedly, and nearly always chose to take the piss, now you speak of desire, of determination. A NEED to win every single match, changing piece by piece this ‘opinion’ people have of you, and your career. Asher, I respect the hell out of that, and yeah it might mean nothing to you coming from a ‘kid’ like me, but I just want to make it clear, this path, these goals… they suit you. A lot more than the dickhead that you used to be.

And Asher, there’s no doubt… this ‘new’ you, it’s put far more established wrestlers than I, such as Adam Allocco, Gio and yeah, Bree and Sienna well and truly on the back foot. Just the same as CID, no one really expected you both to go full bore at this competition, even more so in the early rounds. I’ve said it before, when people don’t care about the competition, the desire isn’t there. They don’t have the determination to go to the next level, the depth within yourself you need to go to ensure you don’t lose. People assumed, as did I, that you and CID didn’t care enough to go to those places. Maybe that’s why you got that draw with Bree and Sienna, maybe they took you lightly too? Thing is though, Aaron and I, we have the benefit of watching this tournament play out. We know full well how much it would mean for you to take your place, and we are ready for you to do everything you can to claim it. Thing is though AC Unit… are you both ready for US? Or was Asher’s comment on Twitter the first signs of desperation that THIS will be your biggest challenge thus far.”

Owen takes his mobile phone out of his pocket, bringing up the app and showing the camera the screen.

‘Asher Hayes
Replying to @owen_cruze

This fuckin guy’

Owen takes the phone and put it back in the pocket of his jeans, tilting his head to one side.

“There’s two ways of looking at a comment like that. One, it could be Asher’s way of saying now here is a stand up kinda fella, looking to do the right thing regardless of the consequences. Or two, it could mean that you Asher believe I am full of shit, When you failed to elaborate, you did nothing to end my confusion. Could the fact you are so close to the grand prize, the mask is slipping, and you are reverting to ‘type’? And if so, seeing how CID’s opinion of us is so high, is this the first signs of dissention in the AC Units ranks?”

Owen starts to laugh, holding up his hands.

“Of course, I’m not serious… I hope you appreciated my ‘Syren’ levels of reaching there, pretty good I thought if just as ridiculous. My point however was clear as day, you’re not going to be able to surprise us on Wednesday. We know that you both are fixated ONLY on the tag titles and know you must beat us to at least clear the first hurdle and have a chance of qualification. We know that as this tournament has progressed the two of you have gelled more and more as a team, just like any team would with the many years’ experience that the two of you have. It’s all there, one victory away… and all you gotta do is take it. Thing is though, for all your kind words about Aaron and I, there is one thing you have failed to understand. One thing that drives me, much more than tag team championships, or indeed any belt on offer in this company.

You came close CID, I thought you were going to be the first to get it, but in the end you fell just a little short. I’m not ‘prideful’ like Gio puts it. I’m not ‘selfish’ like Sienna labels me. I may be a month short of my twenty first birthday, and yeah…some might still see me as a kid, more fool them. But MY goal has always been the same. To live up to the legacy of my name. To stand up for that which I feel is right. To be the MAN my Father would have wanted me to be and NEVER let that legacy down. EVERY defeat I experience, it’s never about the actual loss… it happens. And regardless of our groups ‘ironic’ name that we have never taken seriously. I’m not perfect, nor have I once said I am. It’s always because I feel I’ve let HIM down. I’ve let the Cruze legacy down. That’s why Giovanni focused on my Father, because he is my greatest strength… and letting him down is my main weakness. And THAT is the biggest driver of them all. Continuing that legacy, the way I have thus far, the way YOU say I have, will ALWAYS be my greatest achievement.”

Owen turns away from the camera for a moment. On the 15th of February Owen would turn twenty-one, a moment he spoke about often with his Father, the year he would become a man. In many ways, he felt that had happened a long time ago, he’d had to grow up ahead of his years, he’d been given no choice. But those experiences had made him wiser beyond his years. The pain never went away that he wasn’t here, but with time it was getting easier for him to handle.

“So, believe me when I say this guys, ultimately you might look at us as playing ‘spoiler’, I’m certain that Bree and Sienna will be looking on with great interest. Not really wanting to have to face you again and rather have their path cleared, supporting Aaron and I… who would have thought it, they must feel dirty right? But really, denying you… that’s not a factor of why Aaron and I must win, there are far more important reasons in play. I’ll take no pleasure from denying you something that you have worked so hard to achieve, none. We’ll do everything in our power to win, for us and for every single reason I have previously mentioned. But I assure you, should you be victorious, I will be the first to shake your hand, and with none of the dramatics this company has unfortunately become known for. Guys, win or lose, we WILL put on a show, that’s guaranteed, worthy of this company, and those three initials we are all proud to wrestle for. The way it is supposed to be, histrionics well and truly put to one side.”

Having said that, he wasn’t naïve and knew that with everything else going on, there was every chance it may not turn out that way. Just because they wanted to put on a show, didn’t mean that was the way it would pan out. This match may not have had the same edge as those previous, but it didn’t mean it was any less important that they won it and claimed the statement victory.

“Because if there is one thing that Aaron and I will never be, it is naïve. We know that stepping into that ring on Wednesday, you are going to have your fair share of fans cheering you on. We may be used to the lions share of the support in most arenas, but we know that won’t be the case this time. We know that it would be easy for you both to put together a case as to why your victory is assured. Experience, know how, momentum, strength… all of these things point to another important, perhaps the most important AC Unit victory, but you know something guys, I can put together quite a case for us as well. For all your experience, Aaron and I are no longer ‘rookies’. For all your know how, we have been trained by the very best in the world. When it comes to momentum, we been on quite a winning streak as well. And as for your strength… it doesn’t matter how strong you are, if you can’t utilize that by catching your opponents.”

Owen shrugs his shoulders, nodding his head as he emphasizes his point.

“There is a reason that Aaron and I pick up these victories, and that is because we very rarely make a mistake. Our only loss in this tag league wasn’t of our doing, we weren’t ‘beaten’ per say, and that is because I know exactly what Aaron is going to do next, at any given time, and he the same with me. We are also by far, the quickest team on the tag roster, our ability to hit you from anywhere, and anything means that you will not be able to take your eyes off us for a single solitary second. And don’t get me wrong, the two of you are a million miles away from ‘past it’. But with our speed of thought, coupled with our speed of action, can you say with any certainty that the two of you are going to be able to keep up. Maybe you will, maybe you won’t, but that uncertainty, that question that will undoubtedly be rattling around in your brains, CID you almost said as much yourself, perhaps it will be YOU TWO that this time is taken out of their comfort zone, that advantage you have used so well, now ours. YOU TWO who will see first-hand the PRESENT ‘conscience’ for this company. YOU TWO who, if we perform at our best, will for the first time in this tournament taste the sourness of defeat. And I hope that you’ll both be just as eager to shake our hands, should that be the way it all concludes.”

Owen leans forwards, his hands clasped in front of him.

“The thing is, whether you have joined us in elimination, or you carry on forwards to face Bree and Sienna once again, it changes nothing in the grand scheme with regards to our future. As I said last week, 2021 IS going to be a ‘Perfect’ year and the year that WE, Kelcey, Aaron, Peyton and I bring balance to Supreme Championship Wrestling. And win or lose, I promise you this guys… by the time that bell rings, you will be in total agreement to our claims. All the hard work that you’ve been through, now in the hands of the new establishment. And that with me around, as I intend to be be for a long, long time. The Cruze legend…”

He points to the sky and then salutes the camera, accompanying it with a wink

“Will never, EVER die.”

/ENDRECORDING

SCENE FADES

January 12, 2021 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #82

Diary Entry – 19th November 2020

Felt fucking awful…

That’s the only way I could describe what happened on Wednesday night in Miami. I had it, I had Ravyn Taylor and was about to get my shot. And then… Sienna fucking Swann happened

It was so quick; I couldn’t do anything about it. A Kiss from an Angel and the referee had no choice. My shot was gone… and Ravyn Taylor would face Bree Lancaster at the Last Laugh, and I’d be potentially doing nothing.

Of course, the night wasn’t a total bust. Aaron and I did defeat the Wonderland earlier in the night and put two points on the board. But although I felt incredibly selfish, I couldn’t get excited about the win, and all I could think about was what I had lost

And once again… not because of someone being better, but because of the lengths they will go to, to stop me.

Lengths I would never go to.

Maybe THAT was the problem.

22nd November 2020
Los Angeles

Since Miami, Owen had to admit, he’d not been the best person to be around. With everything already mounting up, Marshall still sculking in the background sending him the occasional text, plus his Mom’s operation coming up… on top of everything that had happened at Breakdown, Owen couldn’t help but feel sorry for himself, even though it wasn’t his usual nature. He wished he could have left on a plane to Toronto with Jennifer, who would be competing on EMERGE, BUT Jennifer had told him to stay home with his Mom, both of them in the end agreeing that was for the best. But with her not around, the house felt incredibly empty again. Now that Peyton and Jennifer were on good terms again, Owen had thought about asking her to come back, but Peyton was figuring out her own stuff now. She was changing, and that transformation had to occur on her own terms. With Christy Matthews and Xander Valentine in her headlights, being with Chris and Kelcey was the right thing, and Owen had accepted that. It didn’t make the loneliness any easier to bear however, and he is glad when the doorbell rings, Owen putting his controller down, and shutting off his new Xbox Series X… which looked amazing on the giant cinema screen, and heading for the door. As he reaches it, he opens the door, Finch stood on the doorway

Finch: Bro, wasn’t sure you’d be in… weren’t you supposed to be going Toronto soon?

Owen: Yeah, change of plan… Mom’s operation is at the end of this week so… hanging around in case she needs me.

Finch: Fair enough

Owen: You wanna come in?

Finch: If I’m not interrupting anything?

Finch gives a wry grin, Owen not mistaking the implication

Owen: Nah, Jen has left for Toronto… I was just playing Xbox.

Finch: You got the new one?

Owen: Yeah, you wanna check it out?

Finch: Sure

Finch steps into the house, Owen glad to see his friend. Most of his other friends were in the wrestling business, so seeing Finch always made a refreshing change, even if he did have a bad habit for finding trouble. Finch follows Owen into the cinema room, the two of them taking a seat, Owen passing him the controller.

Owen: Have a look…

Finch unpauses the game and immediately his eyes widen.

Finch: Graphics are amazing.

Owen: Yeah, and this only an optimized game, just amazing in a year or so what they are going to be doing. Can’t wait to get my hands-on FIFA 21. So, how have you been anyway?

Finch is only half listening but can just about carry the conversation as he plays Call of Duty.

Finch: I’m good man… I took your advice and sent out some feelers to some teams. I mean, I’m not dead hopeful but it’s a start.

Owen: Dude, someone will take a chance on you. You’re good, you just gotta prove to people that you are on the right path now. Which you are right?

Finch pauses the game now and turns to his friend.

Finch: Yeah, I’ve learned my lesson bro. Finally, right?

Owen shrugs, a smirk on his face

Finch: I had a good long talk with Mom, and I realized how much she had been stressed with the way my life has been going. She’s really been struggling, and it gave me the shot I needed to do something about it. Everyone, including you, have given me so many chances and I’ve been a dick not taking them. Well, I’m not going to make the same mistakes again.

Owen: That’s good… knew we’d get through that thick skull eventually.

Finch: Yeah, I want to make Mom proud… you too if I’m honest bro. Time to grow up right?

Owen: Right…

Owen couldn’t help but feel that if Finch had come to this revelation sooner, Owen wouldn’t be in this mess with Marshall, constantly looking over his shoulder. He wasn’t going to drop that on Finch though, not when it looked like he was doing so well.

Finch: So what about you?

Owen: What about me?

Finch: Actually, watched Breakdown last week…

Owen: You did?

Finch: Yeah, nothing else was on

Owen pushes him with his hand

Owen: Dick

Finch: No seriously, it was pretty shitty what happened to you. Can they get away with it?

Owen nods his head, biting his bottom lip.

Owen: Yes, they can… and they always will. I mean everyone saw what happened out there. If it hadn’t been for Sienna Swann, I would have won that match, no doubt in my mind. But she gets me disqualified just because of this hatred she had for me because I sided with Kelcey. The bitch just can’t get over herself, and now to compound that, it looks like she is working with Giovanni. And Sasha just week after week lets them get away with it.

Owen gives a deep sigh. He’d not really spoken of his frustrations to anyone, not wanting to come across like a sore loser.

Owen: I dunno man, I mean I fought so hard to give Sasha the reigns of the company, because she was without a doubt the best choice and I still believe that. But she needs to be stronger bro, stand up to Sienna and the Wonderland before it’s too late. And before someone gets seriously hurt.

Finch had very rarely seen Owen this angry, but this was months and months of frustration bubbling over, that has begun last year at Under Attack, and was still happening even last week.

Finch: Can’t you talk to her… Sasha I mean?

Owen: I could, but I don’t think it would make the slightest bit of difference. I don’t think she is mentally strong enough to do what needs to be done

Finch: And what’s that?

Owen: The Wonderland nearly killed Peyton and Kandis by fucking around with the Chamber. They should have been fired on the spot. Sienna is obviously a timebomb, and needs help… proper help, not the shit Bree is doing right now. Even Katya wasn’t standing for this shit when she was in charge. Fucking Katya… that just about says it all. There is no doubt who SCW needs right now, and that’s Olek… but he’s too busy playing around with his girlfriend to apparently care.

Owen rubs his forehead with the palm of his hand, pressing hard to try and relieve the tension.

Finch: You OK man?

Owen looks up at Finch and puffs out his cheeks

Owen: Sorry man, didn’t mean to burden you with my shit. You’ve got enough on.

Finch: Bro, I’m always here for you. It’s not just one way like it has been of late

Owen: I appreciate that… cheers

Finch: Never seen you like this before, questioning SCW. It’s not like you.

Owen: I… just don’t know if I can do this anymore.

Finch reaches into the mini fridge by there side and pulls out a couple of drinks

Finch: There’s something else isn’t there? It’s not just SCW… is it your Mom?

Owen: No, I mean, of course I’m worried about the operation. But she should be ok.

Finch: Then what is it Owen? I might be able to help.

Owen: You can’t

Finch: Why? Look, I want to help you

Owen: YOU’RE THE REASON I’M IN THIS MESS!!!

The sudden outburst takes Finch by surprise, and there is a momentary silence, Owen rubbing his eyes and taking another breath.

Owen: I’m sorry… I didn’t mean that

Finch shrugs it off, scowling. He opens one of the bottles and passes it to Owen, the pair clinking the bottles together

Finch: What’s going on bro?

Owen leans back in the chair, taking a sip from the bottle.

Owen: Marshall…

Finch scowls even more, not expecting that one bit.

Finch: Marshall? We sorted that; we paid the money. He’s not coming for me anymore, you’ve no reason to worry.

Owen: No, he’s not coming for you anymore… he’s turned his attention to me

Finch: What? Why?

Owen: Why do you think?

Finch: Money?

Owen: Maybe… I don’t know. But he’s made it clear that he has me in his back pocket, even going as far as to trash the house as a ‘message’

Finch: He broke in… No, that’s not his style.

Owen: Bro, he told me he’d paid someone to do it. And if I don’t play along, then he says he’ll start hurting people

Finch: He seriously said that…

Owen: Yep, he was stood in my living room when he did.

Finch shakes his head, not quite believing what he was hearing and knowing that it was all his fault.

Finch: Owen, I’m so sorry.

Owen: I’ll sort it Finch, don’t worry. But you can see why I’m a little on edge right now right? I’ll get through it, I always do… just a day in the life of ‘Calamity Cruze’.

Finch: Look Owen, this is my fault. You’ve got enough on your plate with everything else. I’ll go and talk to Marshall.

Owen: No…

Finch: He’s a reasonable guy Owen, he’ll see sense I promise

Owen: At what cost though, you being on the payroll again?

Finch: That’s not going to happen Owen, I promised. He’ll listen, and if he doesn’t, I’ll go to the cops myself and tell them everything.

Owen: I can’t let you do that

Finch: You can’t stop me Owen. You’ve done so much for me, now let me do something for you. Like I said, you don’t need this right now… I’ll sort this.

Owen: I don’t like it Finch

Finch: Well tough, I’m doing this. I said I was going to make up for all the shit I’ve put you through and I meant it.

Owen looks at his friend, and see’s a determination he hadn’t seen for a few years now, when Finch was the one with the world at his feet and Owen was only dreaming of following in his Father’s footsteps. Owen nods, forcing a smile

Owen: OK, thanks Finch, but be careful ok?

Finch: I will Owen. Marshall’s not a bad guy, he’ll listen to me.

Owen: Alright

They clink their bottles together again, Finch once again picking up the controller.

Finch: Now how’s about you show me what else this console can do?

Owen smirks, picking up a controller of his own, realizing that already Finch had achieved what he had set out to do, and make Owen proud. He seemed intent on turning his life around, and that was all Owen wanted for his friend. But with it comes the realization, that maybe he needed to take his own advice, and realize that sometimes taking matters into your own hands was the only way of achieving anything.

Diary Entry – 22nd November 2020

Saw Finch today… and saw a change in him. A determination to once again succeed that he had once had as a teenager. It was good to see and hear him speak that way… one less thing to worry about

Mom’s operation has apparently been delayed a day. Sign of the times, I guess.

Her Sister is coming over to stay as of tomorrow, and Mom wants me to meet her. What am I supposed to say to an Aunt who I have never before? ‘Hey, thanks for giving Mom a kidney’.

All I can think of is Finn, the last time I met a long lost relative. And I couldn’t help, after listening to Mom’s stories, but be concerned of Aunt Claire’s true motives

Ruby liked her… but I was reserving judgement for now.

And she would have to work hard to gain my trust that was for sure.

23rd November 2020
Los Angeles

Owen pulls up outside the house, looking up towards Kloe’s door, another car he didn’t recognize in the driveway, which was probably Claire’s, Kloe’s sister. He’d just been on the phone, wishing Jennifer luck in her match tonight, Jennifer wishing him the same with this meeting that Owen was feeling quite anxious about.

Owen: Well, here goes…

He steps out the car and walks up the driveway, realizing that the car is a rental. Before he even gets to the doorstep, the door opens, Ruby standing in the doorway

Ruby: Soooo glad you’ve turned up

Owen: Why, is she that bad?

Ruby: No, she’s cool… but her and Mom just won’t stop reminiscing. I mean it’s nice and all but… give it a rest. Maybe the celebrity of the family will make them change the subject

Owen: Oh great…

He turns to head back to the car, but Ruby grabs his arm.

Ruby: Not so fast brother… if I’ve got to take it so have you.

She pretty much drags him into the house, shutting the door and even locking it behind him.

Owen: Slight overkill don’t you think?

Ruby: Come on

Owen throws his car keys on the side, and then follows Ruby into the living area.

Kloe: Ah, here he is…

Owen first sets his eyes on his Mother, smiling before turning to the woman who is sat adjacent to her on the sofa. As she gets to her feet, Owen is surprised by how much she looks like Kloe, even though he knows he shouldn’t be.

Claire: Owen, it’s so nice to meet you at last

She holds out her arms for a hug, but Owen just holds out his hand

Claire: Oh… OK

She takes his hand, and they shake, Claire retaking her seat obviously surprised by Owen’s coldness, Owen taking the chair. Ruby sensing the atmosphere heads to the kitchen to get Owen a drink. Kloe gives Owen a look, almost pleading for him to be nice. Owen hadn’t known how he was going to react when he saw her, and this was all natural.

Claire: Kloe has told me so much about you Owen, She’s so proud of you.

Owen: Why are you here?

His words are said with such feeling, for a moment Claire is taken aback. Kloe however doesn’t take quite as long to respond

Kloe: OWEN!!! That is rude. Claire, you don’t have to answer that.

Ruby walks in, and before anyone see’s her walks straight back out again. Owen however hasn’t taken his eyes off Claire, waiting for an answer

Claire: No, it’s ok Kloe. He’s protective of his Mother, that’s a good thing.

Kloe: Maybe, but he has no right speaking to you like that. Owen, say sorry.

Owen turns his head to look at his Mother with a very visible sneer. He then turns back to Claire.

Owen: I’m sorry

There is very little feeling behind the words, but Claire doesn’t react. Instead, she reaches for Kloe’s hand, taking it.

Claire: I know you are quite young Owen, but do you have any regrets?

Owen: Of course, who doesn’t?

Claire: Very true. My biggest regret Owen is everything that happened when I wasn’t much older than yourself. I was a child, and I acted like one when I could have done so much better. In doing so it cost me my relationship with my Mom and Dad, as well as my Sister who I adored.

Kloe: You don’t have to do this again Claire.

Kloe had obviously asked the very same questions when Claire had come back into her life

Claire: No, he’s right to ask. I was a bitch to you, to Mom and Dad. I needed to grow up, and thankfully I did.

Owen: So why didn’t you seek Mom out earlier?

Claire lowers her head, looking at the floor.

Claire: I don’t know Owen. Shame, Embarrassment. A whole multitude of things rolled into one. And as time went by, it got harder and harder. So much so when Mom and Dad died, I couldn’t even bring myself to attend the funeral.

Realizing the volume in the room has decreased, Ruby walks in with Owen’s drink and passes it to him, sitting on the chair arm.

Claire: When Ruby called me out the blue, it was a mixture of emotions. Happy that Ruby had reached out to me, and I had a chance to build bridges with my Sister. But, regret that I hadn’t got in contact earlier, knowing that I could help. And when Ruby told me that you had offered your kidney…

Owen looks up at Ruby who pulls a face, knowing how private her brother was.

Claire: I knew precisely what I had to do. I had to put all those years of shame and regret away and be a big Sister to your Mother.

Owen listens intently, trying to read her like he had read so many of the SCW superstars in his time. She seemed genuine, sincere even, but Owen still had these niggling doubts.

Owen: So, you’re telling me that there is no ulterior motive?

Claire: None

Owen: So, the fact Mom is wealthy didn’t make it worth a kidney

Kloe: Owen, that is…

Claire holds up her hand, and still smiles at Owen.

Claire: Owen, I’m not going to lie, I know all about your Mother wealth, her successful businesses, but I’m not interested. I have several Florists back where I live, and I do very well for myself thank you. Your Mothers money doesn’t interest me, only her wellbeing. And it would be amazing if you could put all your obvious preconceptions to one side and be glad that you Mom had her Sister back in her life, right when she needed her most. Just as I am happy that I can help and pay back some of the heartache I have caused her and hopefully rebuild our relationship.

Owen still watches her, just looking for a glimmer of a lie. But all he can find in her eyes is guilt.

Claire: I’m not an ogre, and I don’t want her money Owen, I just want my Sister back. And to get to see my wonderful Niece and Nephew and not just on the television.

She smiles at Ruby, their relationship already starting to build it seems, and then at Owen. She’d been watching him… was that to learn about him, or further evidence of her regret.

Claire: I promise Owen, that’s all.

Ruby puts her hand on his shoulder, squeezing it. Kloe, who had been quiet apart from the occasional admonishment looking at him hopefully.

Owen: OK, I’m sorry

Ruby squeezes his shoulder harder, and the relief on Kloe’s face shows.

Claire: Owen, you have nothing to be sorry for. Kloe tells me that since your Father died, you have been protective of her and rightfully so. I only wish I could have met Orlando, he seems like quite a man

Owen nods his head

Owen: He was… the best.

Kloe: Owen and Orlando are pretty much one and the same Claire.

Owen: I wish

Kloe: You are… except he was a little bigger

Ruby: ‘Little’ bigger?

Kloe: OK, a lot bigger

Owen: Alright, Alright… so I’m a short arse and take after neither of my parents. Guessing I was the product of the milk man. So, Claire, are you married… kids?

Claire: Yes, I’m married to Andrew, and I have a son, Connor… he’s 27 and a daughter Isobel, she’s 21. Connor is an accountant, and Isobel runs one of my shops.

Owen: Wow… more cousins.

Claire: Yes, and Connor has a son… Joshua… and he’s a fan of yours and cannot wait to meet you, especially now he knows you are related. He’s been telling all his friends at school.

Ruby: And just like that, all the attention is on my celebrity brother. Kill me now.

Owen nudges her, Ruby falling off the arm of the chair and to the floor, Owen bursting out laughing.

Ruby: Oh you just didn’t…

Owen: I think you’ll find I did Sis

Ruby: You know what happens now don’t you?

Owen: Yep. You attack me, I pin you down and tickle you till you beg for mercy.

Ruby: Nope…

Ruby gets to her feet and steals Owen’s baseball cap from of his head, and runs out the room, Owen getting to his feet and chasing after her.

Owen: You’re dead Ruby… DEAD!!

As Owen disappears out the room, stomping up the stairs and into his Sisters room, laughter filling the house, Kloe turns to Claire.

Kloe: I’m sorry about that… the third degree I mean

Claire: Don’t be. I didn’t expect any less.

Kloe: I know I said he was protective, but there was no need for him to be rude.

Claire: I can see he’s a good kid Kloe.

Kloe: He is, and I’m thankful for that considering what he’s been through in his young life already. Not many would still be able to be as levelheaded as he is, never mind having achieved so much. I have so many memories of him, Ruby as well. And they have done that despite me, not because of me

Claire: You sell yourself short Kloe.

Kloe: No, I don’t. I wasn’t always a good Mother to him; I wasn’t always there. And I often wonder if he resents me because of that

Claire: Kloe, he ADORES you. Anyone can see that.

Kloe: Well, I hope so. Because I don’t know what I would do without them both. If this procedure doesn’t go well…

Claire: It WILL go well Kloe.

Kloe: Yeah, well if it doesn’t who knows what happens next?

Claire: It will go well, and we are going to get you better. So, you can make many more memories with your children, and hopefully with me as well.

Kloe takes Claire’s hand again

Kloe: I’d like that

Claire smiles

Claire: So would I

At that moment Owen comes back into the room, repositioning his hat on his head, a smug look on his face

Kloe: What did you do?

Owen just chuckles to himself, sitting himself down in the chair resting his hands on the arms

Kloe: Owen?

Owen: I MIGHT have tickled her so much, a little pee came out.

Kloe: Owen!!!

Owen: She took my hat… those are the consequences

Claire: You and Ruby are just like my two were at your age

Owen: Connor won all the time as well right?

Owen doesn’t see Ruby walk behind him, a glass of water in her hand

Claire: Well, not ALL the time Owen

Ruby pours the water over Owen’s head, Owen not moving as the glass is emptied, and water drips from his cap. Behind him, he immediately recognizes Ruby’s laughter, but all he can do is shake his head, removing his cap.

Owen: Unbelievable…

5th January 2021 – Detroit

It’s early evening, and Owen stands by the side of a giant Christmas tree that has still not been taken down. All around him, and in fact for many blocks, the streets are still lined with twinkling lights, illuminating downtown Detroit spectacularly. Even though Owen stands next to the tree, a camera pointing at him, held by an unknown person, no one seems to pay him any attention. Eventually Owen looks up at the huge tree, a smile forming on his face, as he turns back to the camera.

/RECORDING

“In just over a months’ time, it will be three years. Three years since I began this journey. During that time, I have become a World Champion, Tag Team Champion as well as won the prestigious End of Year Battle Royal. I have taken on, and beaten some of the best in the business, scored pinfalls against names synonymous with Supreme Championship Wrestling, and yet still the questions about my abilities remain. Can he claim the ladder again? Is he as good as the hype machine is telling us? And you know what, the reason I am questioned, is fully justifiable. When it’s come down to the big moments, the Elimination Chamber, Clarity, and yes… last year when I lost to Ravyn, I cannot dispute that I have failed. But it has NEVER been down to a lack of ability, because I am as good as ANYONE in this company, I’ve shown it time and time again. No, it’s always been down to the actions of individuals such as my two opponents at the Last Laugh PPV, if you can call them opponents after that facade. These people who always feel the need to put their big fat noses in my business and ruin any moments that I have worked hard for. Their actions, meaning that I had to watch Ravyn take MY shot at Bree Lancaster. MY shot.”

Owen shakes his head, clearly still smarting over his defeat at the hands of Ravyn, a match he had won, until Sienna had intervened.

“And so, you start asking yourself, why? Why do they feel the need to constantly be this thorn in my side? I mean, I’m constantly told by these people I am ‘nothing’. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve been told I’m only here because of my surname. Or that I’m only getting these opportunities because I am Sasha’s ‘Golden Boy’ So, if I am that irrelevant, why bother? Surely the likelihood would be that I’d blow any chance any way so why waste your energies? If I’m Sasha’s Golden Boy, why wasn’t the result immediately overturned? As it should have been.

The answer to these questions is simple.

You only have to look into the mindset of these people to understand that it is a hatred for me personally, jealousy, and mostly, and more importantly… these people are forever talking out of their backsides and coming out with an unbelievable amount of bullshit. And let’s take that ‘jealousy’ as a starting point, shall we? Because we all know that right now Sienna has spat out her coffee, and Giovanni is plotting his latest attempt at SCW domination via the means of his oh so brutal GIF’s. After everything, the pair of them have achieved, how could they POSSIBLY be jealous of little old me? But you see Sienna, Giovanni… it’s jealousy that has brought us to this point. Nothing else. But not being jealous of ME, not directly anyway.”

Owen shrugs his shoulders, as a child and his parents walk past

“Look Mummy… a giant Christmas Tree.”

The Mother looks in the direction of the tree, and for a moment clocks Owen, then the camera, but pays both little heed, instead saying something to her daughter in response and ushering away.

“Because since the very first moment you stepped into this company Sienna, you weren’t driven by the World Championship, you were driven to be better than Kelcey, even going as far as to want what she had. It’s driven you quite literally to the edge, to a place that makes you now totally unrecognizable from that girl that introduced me to the SCW which her ‘dubious’ training techniques. That jealousy had caused you to go on this relentless charge, attempting to destroy Kelcey. Poking and prodding every single show to get a reaction. Tell me Sienna, would we be in this same situation, if seeing all this, I hadn’t decided to stand beside my mentor, and instead had turned a blind eye? Would you be getting this crazed about me getting a title shot, if I weren’t Kelcey’s friend? Tell me that you weren’t ‘jealous’ that there was an outpouring of emotion whilst Kelcey was in a coma. Tell me that everything you every did for Kelcey, for the Children, wasn’t some pointless charade to try and make you look better than the Perfect Ten. And you know something Sienna, perhaps it would have worked, if you weren’t so transparent. You might hate me Sienna, but I have never hated you… not even now. To be honest you’d probably prefer it if I did. Because the only thing I feel for you right now is pity… pity at the person you have become, a million miles away from the person that started here. And pity because you are not getting the help that you so obviously need.

But how is Giovanni Aries jealous? It’s true, Giovanni seems like a man with very little feeling right? A man who will trample on anyone if he gets what he wants. Here is a man, who will drag up someone’s dead Father to get an advantage, a man who gets away with literally everything, and who should have been fired a long time ago. See, we see the smile on Giovanni’s face, we hear the cackling throughout the speakers, and outwardly, Giovanni looks like he is having the time of his life, and is getting his way, repeatedly. Sasha and the SCW management pandering to him, as if he is irreplaceable to this company. But you don’t have everything you want to do you Gio? And that’s why even after the three times I have sent you scurrying back down the rabbit hole, you are still lurking around like a bad smell. The one thing you want, is the one thing you will never have. And that Giovanni, is people hanging on your every word, and the Wonderland being the mainstream around here. Look at his targets, Selena, Aaron, Kelcey, myself… people that the SCW universe listen and react to weekly. Giovanni, you’re jealous of that ‘reach’ and that’s why you attack me and others… in a vain attempt to make the Wonderland relevant… not just my words, you’ve said it yourself bro. But you will NEVER have what we have, simply because you don’t care… not even for Cain and Alice, your loyal foot soldiers who you would throw in the trash in a heartbeat if it meant you got your way. You’ve become nothing more than a clown Gio, a dangerous clown I accept, willing to hurt others to get what he wants… but a clown nonetheless.”

Owen starts walking away from the tree, and down an illuminated street the camera backing from him as he walks

“And you see Giovanni, this is the reason why this little ‘alliance’ of yours came as very little surprise to me. In fact, it’s a wonder it didn’t happen earlier because it hasn’t gone great for the two of you of late has it? Because let’s face it Sienna, in your eyes at least, you are the most ‘put upon’ wrestler on this roster. You have this impression that Sasha has held you back, and you know something, perhaps you are right, maybe she has. But if she has, there is a very good reason for that, and that is the way you have conducted yourself over the past few months. Tell me Sienna, tell me an employer that having been struck by an employee, wouldn’t have fired that person on the spot? You now tell me Giovanni, an employer that would have watched you threaten to KILL two of its roster members with a steel cage, but still allowed them to draw a pay cheque. You can talk about as many chances as you want that you believe I’ve had, knock yourselves out, I’ve a much different opinion. But the fact is, NEITHER of you should still be here, period. You should be kissing someone’s feet that you still compete for the biggest and best wrestling organization in the world, but you won’t of course because you believe your actions are justified. Piss off… seriously. The only thing justified would be the two of you out of work. In fact, it would have been 100% the right thing for Sasha to do.”

Owen arrives at the end of the street, and crosses over to the other side. He then walk through the gates of a park which is also brightly lit, before stepping up onto a park bench, sitting on the back his feet resting on the bench itself.

“Therefore, when I hear the terms ‘strange bedfellows’ or people are strangely weirded out that the pair of you would take advantage of the others ‘attributes’ I can only chuckle. Because as far as I am concerned, the two of you are a match made in hell. Two ‘crazies’ intent on world domination… a bit like Pinky and the Brain, I’ll let you figure out which is which. And if you get offended by the word ‘crazy’ what else am I meant to think when you Sienna have obviously had something knocked loose of late, so much so I can imagine your face when Bree and I dared to say a civil word to each other. I bet you were FUMING. Just because we dared to share our common disdain for Infamous… Ooo, I bet your blood boiled. And Giovanni… well his overuse of ‘substances’ clearly pickled his brain a long time ago for him to construct this alternative reality with Lizard Kings etc. Nah, this isn’t any great shocker, in fact, I’d go as far as to say the two of you are made for each other.”

Owen slides down so he is sat properly on the bench, and a lot more comfortable than he was before.

“But, you and Sienna, you’re not the only ones living in a fictional make-believe world. The pair of you are not as unique as you would have us believe. And that brings me nicely to our opponents this week as I step into the ring for the first time in a month… Polly Playtime and Holly Adams.”

Owen shakes his head dismissively.

“Now, it’s not going to come as any real surprise that I don’t care much for the two of you, and I’m pretty certain that the feeling is mutual. It’s also not any real secret to hear that I believe the two of you are everything that is wrong with SCW right now, a place where everyone seems to have this ‘self-entitlement’, and this belief that the company in some way owes them something. I know that the management of this company is far from perfect, but I also know that people like you make their job so much more difficult and acting the way you do… well it disrespects every single person that has had a hand in making SCW the ‘elite’ when it comes to our industry. But at least with the two of you, and especially you Holly, we knew from the very beginning EXACTLY what it was we were getting.

And what do I mean by that?

Well, from day one Holly, the first time you made your ‘triumphant’ return to the industry, you cemented your character by the way you trolled social media. If you weren’t taking the piss out of some of the most respected people in our sport, you were making pointed references of how dominant you were going to be once you made your debut. How NO-ONE would stand in your way, and your success was assured. Also, it’s no surprise that we are STILL waiting for you to back those words up. Whilst you were bigging yourself up to the likes of Adam Allocco, who predictably responded in kind, so you know what the rest of the locker room was thinking? The same as the whole of social media. That you were nothing but hot air, another ‘gum-flapper’ who didn’t know when to shut the hell up. Another self-obsessed egotist that wouldn’t ever rely on wrestling talent to make her name.”

Owen shrugs his shoulders

“I mean, and this goes to the both of you, tell me I’m wrong. I’m certain you both will have plenty to say. But the thing is, the facts speak for themselves. Neither of you have blazed a trail in this tag league, your elimination already assured. The singles division hasn’t been put on stand-by because of these dominant performances you promised. Perhaps if you’d focused on that, instead of being ‘twitter famous’, posting irrelevancies every min, or every hour, of every day, then perhaps this company would have been happy to give you a spotlight. Maybe we would have actually seen this ‘talent’ that you promised so many times.”

Owen narrows his eyes, smirking

“Instead of you becoming yet another of Syren’s underlings…

See, here’s the thing. Where Ravyn is concerned, I get it. Ravyn is understated, she prefers to fly under the radar and let Syren do her thing. I might not understand it, Ravyn for me the most talented of the two, but I get why Ravyn doesn’t need a spotlight following her twenty-four hours a day. But and I’m only telling it as I see it, maybe the two of you have had a falling out or something, I don’t pretend to understand the personal lives of that circle, or even have a need to, but for someone like you, who obviously craves every single camera panned in your direction, why would you belittle yourself as to be a part of this ‘Blondtorage’ bullshit? My opinion, the answer to that question is obvious. Just like many of your ‘ilk’ you are unable to stand alone. You know that you will NEVER get the success you crave, without riding the coattails of the most successful female wrestler in SCW history. You think Blondtorage is your baby… think again… because anything to do with Syren, she owns. Thing is though, your little group, just like Infamous is boring, it’s cliché and its nothing that MILLIONS of people just like you haven’t done before. But then again Holly, that sums you up perfectly. Because you are everything that you say you hate. BORING!!! Because the one time you took it to me, decided that I should be your next target, what was it you did? Insult my Father, my Uncle… maybe my ill-fated title reign? No, you pulled me up for messaging Mom on Twitter… simply because I already was on that app, reading your thousandth tweet of the day and shaking my head in disgust. Yep Holly… that told me. Cried myself to sleep for days.”

Owen rolls his eyes and gets back to his feet, straightening his jacket.

“Of course, I didn’t, it was next level ‘reaching’ so I apologize for the misinformation, just like I should now apologize to Polly Playtime. Not gonna lie, I’d not even heard of you until you replaced a legend in Jay Gold, benefitting from all his hard work… but, like everyone I was more than willing to give you the benefit of the doubt. My apology therefore SHOULD have been for the simple fact I’ve focused on Holly, and not really mentioned you till now. Thing is, indirectly I have… because you are cut from the same cloth.

I mean, it’s like someone has taken a hair from Sienna’s brush or something, and set up a production line of clones, but as yet, not been able to get anywhere close to the original. Bitchy, disrespectful, and self-entitled… but unlike Sienna, having one-character trait that Sienna thankfully doesn’t possess. This apparent obsession to sign for a WRESTLING company and do anything but WRESTLE. And not only that, at least in your case. Even going as far as to sign up with one of the most ridiculous names I have EVER heard.

Tell me, how do you expect to be taken seriously with a name like ‘Playtime’ huh? But that’s the thing… you don’t care do you Polly? And that’s the ‘takeaway’ from this promo guys, the biggest issue with SCW right now that Sasha MUST solve. Too many people around those corridors only give a shit about themselves. Very few would care if SCW closed its doors tomorrow, and that is the attitude that has no place in our company. When you have an individual who’s only intention is to wind people up on Twitter and very little else. Or another who is here to play and have fun at the expense of others… when there are bona fide threats to this company’s existence and people like Giovanni Aries existing on our roster, THAT is a huge problem. Just as big a problem as Aries himself.

But Holly, Polly… Cuthbert, dibble and Grub, you’re not going to bother with that are you? Too busy having a manicure, or playing video games, right? Thing is, you got lucky… because the Perfect Pack DOES care, it’s ALL we care about. So don’t worry girls, regardless of the outcome on Breakdown, we’ll ensure you still have a platform to work in the biggest company of them all. We’ll give you a reason to stay at least partially relevant… no thanks necessary. In fact, yeah… you’re welcome. Trademark Bree Lancaster.”

Owen sighs, placing his hands in his jacket pockets and stepping forwards towards the camera as a few flakes of snow start to fall. Owen takes a moment looking up at the heavens and smiling, before bringing his eyes back to the camera.

“Look… because Aaron and I face facts and don’t live in the same world some of you do the scenario we find ourselves in is simple. We need to beat you, the Golden Boys and AC Unit, whilst still then rely on Jamarcus and Jake to beat Bree and Sienna. There is no doubt that over the course of this competition Bree and Sienna have proven themselves a worthy team to win our block, as have AC Unit, so our chances of pulling this off are unlikely. All that WE can do, is try and win our three matches and make sure that should they slip up, we can take advantage, and that is why right here, right now, I can guarantee that there will be NO let up from the Perfect Pack.

Even if we cannot win our block, we need to show that once this league is over, Aaron and I are contenders either way, and thus, losing to the two of you simply cannot be an option. We need to show Sienna and Giovanni that the Perfect Pack hasn’t been weakened by their little games and on the contrary, we have grown stronger and even more resilient than we were before, and that 2021 is going to be OUR year. And the year where all the bullshit games come to an end. And with it the threat of the Wonderland and any who align with them.”

The camera pans in still further so it just shows his head

“So, laugh it up girls, let’s have the whole Holly / Polly experience for the umpteenth time and maybe we’ll even get a ‘clever’ name like ‘Gloryhole’ or ‘Ashtray’ did. Snooze and Blackbore has quite the ring to it don’t you think? Thing is, we won’t care. You won’t get the ‘rise’ that you crave so badly. Both of you should look into my eyes. And tell me if you think I’m joking when I say that no matter how you perform on Breakdown, even if you get your oversized heads from your now oversized asses for five minutes… Aaron and I will be better. Consider carefully if I’m this ‘kid’ you think I am, and if I am going to let you take the piss out of me, without there being consequences. And understand that in 2021, Owen Cruze and the Perfect Pack have DONE playing games with the likes of you and done ‘playing nice’ with those that are not here for the betterment of this company, and as such will NEVER deserve our respect.”

A smirk snakes over his face, which he couples up with a wink

“And then you can retreat to your comfort blanket, Twitter.Com, and explain to your followers how you failed… again. The apparently ‘impossible’ … made clearly possible, by Aaron Blackbourne and Owen Cruze. Proud, card carrying members of the true character of Supreme Championship Wrestling.”

/END

Owen salutes, before walking off camera, which focusses on the Christmas Tree and up to the star sitting above, before the scene fades.

January 5, 2021 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #81

Diary Entry – 14th November 2020

Why do I get myself into this crap?

I promised myself I was going to focus on myself, but it seems like other people’s problems always find me, no matter what I do.

Nothing can convince me that Marshall is done. All I can do is wait for the inevitable and deal with it then.

Waiting is something I am at least good at. I’ve waited long enough for this title opportunity. I must focus on that.

15th of November 2020
Los Angeles

Owen brings the car to a halt on the street, stepping out as Jennifer gets out the passenger side. He makes his way to the boot of the car, and opens it, pulling out several bags, and then shutting the boot.

Owen: You know when I said we were going out for lunch; I didn’t actually mean that would include a shopping trip

Jennifer: Owen, you know the pressure on a girl in Los Angeles to constantly look good. And anyway, I need to fill that walk-in wardrobe that you have ready for me when I move in.

Owen: Yeah, well by the time you’ve finished, you are going to need two.

Jennifer: Correct…

She kisses him on the cheek

Jennifer: One for clothes, and one for shoes.

Owen: Unbelievable

Jennifer: I know, and that’s why you love me

Owen: Can’t deny that one, obsessed even.

Jennifer: I can’t blame you Owen, I am quite the catch.

Owen puts on his headband to keep his hair out of his eyes and heads up the driveway towards the door. Holding the bags in one hand, he struggles to get the key in the door, turning to Jennifer when he finally does

Owen: It’s OK, I got it.

Jennifer: Err, you’re like the man and everything… and anyway, I’ve just had my nails done. You know this.

Owen smirks and shakes his head, opening the door and putting the bags in the hallway. Owen then starts to rummage in the bags, looking for something in particular as Jennifer walks into a separate part of the house.

Owen: Hey Jen, where is that O-Cru tee-shirt? I want to send a picture to Mom to show her it’s being sold…

Jennifer: OWEN!!!

Owen jumps from the shout, and quickly heads to where the commotion came from, before stopping next to Jennifer, his eyes wide.

Owen: FUCK…

What he sees is pure carnage, drawers open, tables and the sofa tipped over, items strewn across the floor. He then looks over at the doors, which had been smashed, Owen picking up a baseball bat.

Owen: Stay here…

Jennifer: What?

Owen: They might still be here

Owen looks around the house, going upstairs into each room. Whoever had broken in, had gone through each room, and really done a number on it, even the bathrooms had been turned over. Finally, and satisfied that there is no intruder still here, he walks back down the stairs, and to Jennifer who is still looking around the room.

Owen: Whoever it was has gone… what a mess.

Jennifer: Why would anyone do something like this?

Owen had already turned his thoughts to Marshall, and could this be him, or a coincidence.

Owen: I dunno Jen… I’ll call the police.

Owen pulls out his mobile phone and dials 911, surveying the damage and shaking his head, the phone on speaker.

“911 what is your Emergency?”

Owen: Police please… I’ve had a break in.

THIRTY MINUTES LATER

It hadn’t taken long at all for the police to arrive, a couple of officers (Hoggard and Lafferty) very quickly on the scene, and after asking a couple of questions, being very concise in their detail. Having checked every room, they had made their way back to the living area where Owen and Jennifer were sat, Owen still in a state of disbelief.

Hoggard: If you don’t mind Sir, we have a few more questions?

Owen: Sure, but call me Owen please.

Hoggard: Of course, Owen. You’re alarm system, we have checked and it seems that several wires had been cut, so whoever this was, knew what they were doing.

Owen: Doesn’t it go off anyway if that happens?

Lafferty: It depends on the model… I’m afraid your alarm system is, excuse me for saying, a little outdated.

Owen: Yeah, one of those things I was getting to… but never actually did.

Hoggard: We understand Sir, sorry Owen. A lot of people don’t realize the importance until it’s too late

Lafferty: And you don’t think anything was taken?

Owen: No, I’ve looked around and there is nothing obvious. Just everything wrecked that’s all, could it be kids just messing around?

Hoggard: Could be? Or it might be that they were looking for something in particular? Do you have anything on the property of real value, other than the things we can see?

Owen: I don’t understand

Lafferty: Diamonds… that kind of thing?

Owen: Bro, I’m twenty years old…

Hoggard: You are, and you have a house like this?

Owen: I was left some money in my Father’s inheritance.

Hoggard: I see… and is there anyone who you think would do something like this. Any enemies, people that you have had an argument with of late?

Part of Owen wants to bring up Marshall, believing that this was his handiwork, a threat maybe? But he couldn’t do that, without then bringing up what happened yesterday, bringing Finch into the equation.

Owen: I’m a professional wrestler, we both are… we have arguments all the time. But this isn’t how things are handled. It wouldn’t be any of them.

Hoggard: OK… well I think that’s enough for now. If you just allow forensics to do their things and collect any fingerprints if they can, and then you can set about putting the place to rights.

Owen: Thank you, and thank you for coming by so promptly

Lafferty: No problem at all Sir. One more thing though?

Owen: Of course.

Lafferty: Get yourself a new security system, and have it monitored so that you are constantly covered. Just because you live in one of the safer areas of LA doesn’t mean you won’t be a target for the criminal element and the more you do to protect yourself the better.

Owen: I will… thank you officer.

Lafferty: We’ll see ourselves out

Both officers say something to the forensics team before leaving.

Jennifer: You OK?

Owen: Yeah, I’m alright… just a bit shaken up that’s all.

Jennifer: I can imagine

Owen: Look Jen, if this has made you change your mind about moving it, it’s all cool you know?

Jennifer: What do you mean?

Owen: I mean, what if you would have been here when they turned up?

Jennifer: Then I would have kicked their ass and sent them packing. And anyway, like you said, it was probably only kids.

Owen: Yeah…

Jennifer turns his face to her

Jennifer: Do you know something Owen?

Owen: No, of course not… like I said. Just a bit all over the place right now that’s all. What with what happened in South Africa and now this… maybe Calamity Cruze is a thing

Jennifer: You don’t really believe that surely?

He didn’t, but he was happy that Jennifer had turned her attention to that, and not what he knew

Owen: No, I don’t… bad things happen to everyone, I know that.

Jennifer: Well, don’t worry Owen. I still want to move in, and I can’t wait to live with you once the EMERGE season is over. Anyway, it will be good someone living in the house whilst you are over America with SCW.

Owen: I don’t know, I don’t like the thought of you being alone here.

Jennifer: Oh, come on Owen, I’m a big girl, and our friends are pretty much just around the corner from us if ever I needed anyone. And anyway, I’m pretty sure that now you’ve been told to install a security system you’ll only buy the best. I’ll be fine, I promise. And it’s not like you are away ALL the time with SCW’s new schedule anyway.

Owen: OK… as long as you are sure?

Jennifer: There is one thing that would make me feel a whole lot safer.

The smirk on her face makes Owen roll his eyes, knowing that she was up to something.

Owen: Oh yeah, what’s that?

Jennifer: I mean, I’d feel safe, but there is no doubt that occasionally I’d get a little lonely.

Owen: Stopping hamming it up Jennifer Helms… what do you want?

Jennifer: Well, don’t you think it would be perfect if we bought ourselves a dog?

Owen: A dog?

Jennifer: Yeah, something that I could cuddle up to and feel all safe and warm when my man wasn’t here.

Owen: Are you serious?

Jennifer: Are you considering it?

Owen: I mean, it would be a weight off my mind knowing you weren’t alone, and I do love dogs.

Jennifer: A Poodle, not one of the small ones… a big one.

Owen: Yeah, and what would you call it?

Jennifer: Buck

Owen: It seems to me like you have already given this a whole lot of thought?

Jennifer grins

Jennifer: Maybe just a little… since you asked me to move in pretty much

Owen laughs, but seeing the look on her face he can’t resist

Owen: Yeah, OK… we can get a dog

Jennifer: YES!! Look at us, we’ll be like a family. A proper grown up relationship

Owen: And that’s what you want?

Jennifer: It will be perfect.

Owen: OK then… finish off the season in EMERGE, tell your folks, buy a dog.

Jennifer: Get married, have babies.

Owen looks at her, and the shock on his face must be obvious

Jennifer: Ha-ha, look at your face… I’m joking Owen. A Dog will be fine… for now

She smirks again, and kisses him, getting to her feet

Jennifer: Coffee?

Owen: Please, I’ll just see how long these guys are going to be then we’ll start tidying up

Jennifer: Deal

Jennifer walks out of the living area and into the kitchen, Owen getting to his feet and looking around the room, wondering where he could start. If this were Marshall, he had made a mess, simply to prove that he could and with no other reason. He wanted to tell Jennifer, but he couldn’t, and hoped to have it all sorted by the time she moved in, the big question though was how could it, without implicating Finch in at least some wrong doing and also telling them that he was the one to have paid him off. It was a mess no doubt, and a mess that would only get worse if he didn’t do something about it. But what?

Diary Entry – 15th of November 2020

Sitting here writing in this diary, listening for every single noise the house makes. Cursing myself every single time.

With Jennifer laid beside me asleep, this should be the perfect moment, and yet I find myself worrying what if someone comes back. What if Jennifer gets hurt? I’d never forgive myself.

Once again… I’m scared.

Fear was quickly becoming my enemy, even more so than Gio and Sienna. It’s consuming me, I can tell. But I don’t know how to stop it.

16th of November 2020
Los Angeles

Owen sits downstairs at the breakfast table, a coffee sat in front of him and a bowl of cornflakes, as he swipes through the news on his phone. Jennifer pads into the room, wearing one of Owen’s tee-shirts, which Owen found to be one of the greatest things in the world. The tee shirt hung just below her backside, occasionally giving him a glimpse, a fact Jennifer knew all so well

Jennifer: How long you been up?

Owen: Couple of hours, couldn’t sleep

Jennifer: No real surprise

She gives him a kiss, walking over to the coffee machine

Owen: Just made fresh

Jennifer: Nice one

Even first thing in the morning, Jennifer looked amazing, and Owen cannot help but thank his lucky stars that they had found each other. Not many people could say that had a model as a girlfriend, but he could. And he was incredibly proud of that fact.

Owen: You’re beautiful, do you know that?

Jennifer turns, a smile on her face

Jennifer: Well yeah, of course.

Owen: No, seriously… even now, no makeup hair all over the place… just wow.

Jennifer: Guess it’s not all down to me… got to give some credit to the genes.

Owen: Yes, thank you Genes… and thank my luck for us getting together.

Jennifer pours herself a coffee, and sits down at the table with Owen

Owen: Cereal?

Jennifer: Maybe later… what’s the plans for today?

Owen: Well, I got a text last night from Mom…

Jennifer: Which one?

Jennifer laughs, she still found it funny that Owen still called Taylor Mom, even though he no longer had to. Owen saw her just as much is Mom though after all she had done for him.

Owen: The one that birthed me

Jennifer: Ah, Kloe…OK. What did she want?

Owen: To see me… probably to run through some O-Cru stuff, not attended any meetings for a while.

Jennifer: OK, then what?

Owen: Nothing… rest of the day is open, why you got something in mind?

Jennifer: Thought we could go for a drive, find somewhere to have a picnic. See if we can get you out of your head for five minutes ahead of Wednesday.

With everything going on, he’s almost forgotten about Wednesday… a huge night.

Owen: Oh yeah… Wednesday. Facing the Wonderland AND Ravyn on the same night. Lucky me.

Jennifer: Exactly, I guess that you would be leaving tomorrow, so thought it might be nice to relax, chill out just me and you?

Owen: Babe, that sounds amazing

Jennifer: Cool, then it’s settled. And don’t worry about tomorrow either, I’ll be here to let the security company in. That way you can leave for Miami first thing and be ready and refreshed for Wednesday.

Owen: I don’t think you can be ‘ready’ for double duty, it’s just a case of trying to get through it

Jennifer: If anyone can do it Owen, it’s you.

She smiles at him, and he smiles back.

“OK Owen, that’s all sorted for you…”

Jennifer is surprised by the man walking into the kitchen, not knowing anyone was here

Owen: Cheers bro, and thanks for coming so early.

He hands the guy a wad of notes

“Not a problem.”

He smiles as Jennifer, who tries to cover up her legs more with the tee-shirt as he leaves

Jennifer: You could have told me someone was here, I would have put some underwear on.

Owen laughs

Owen: And where would the fun have been in that? He came to fix the windows for me.

Jennifer: Ah ok… what time you seeing your Mom?

Owen: About nine ish

Jennifer: OK, I’ll make sure I’m ready…

Jennifer is about to say something else when the doorbell rings.

Jennifer: Maybe it’s the Police… they might have arrested someone.

Owen gets to his feet and walks to the door, opening it and immediately his heart sinking.

Marshall: Hey Owen, how’s it going?

To compound the issue, Jennifer appears behind him

Jennifer: Who is it babe?

Marshall looks around Owen, taking in Jennifer’s legs, not quite going as far as to lick his lips. Owen steps to the side to block his view.

Owen: It’s a friend of Finch’s Jen, I’ll sort it, you go get your shower.

Jennifer: OK…

Thankfully without question she makes her way upstairs, Marshall trying to look but Owen not letting him. Once she is out of sight, Marshall barges past Owen and into the house. Owen shuts the door, not wanting to make a scene that would arose Jennifer’s suspicions. He speaks softly, almost in a whisper

Owen: What you doing here Marshall?

Marshall: Sorry, couldn’t hear you… it’s like you don’t want me to be here

Owen: I don’t

Marshall: Well, that’s a nice welcome for one of your best buddies’ friends.

Marshall rudely walks into the house and into the living area, looking around.

Marshall: Nice house you got here kiddo… Daddies inheritance went a long way it seems

Owen: Like you haven’t seen the place before…

Marshall smirks, winking at Owen knowingly without saying a word. He sits himself down on the sofa and puts his feet up on the coffee table showing no respect for the house at all.

Marshall: So, who’s the chick? Your Sister?

Owen: It’s my girlfriend

Marshall laughs

Marshall: Give over, someone like you pulled a girl like that? Bro, she’s either after your money, or you’re packing downstairs if you catch my drift. Either way, you should introduce us properly next time, so we can get acquainted… a girl like that deserves a proper man.

Owen: That right? Someone like you perhaps?

Marshall: Now you mention it bro, yes.

Owen: I’m sorry Marshall, I don’t think back alley drug dealers are her type.

Owen knows he shouldn’t have responded like that but can’t help himself. The arrogance of Marshall exuding from him, and annoying Owen to his core.

Marshall: You know, you have a smart mouth. You’re a funny guy… but you’re not a very intelligent one.

Owen: Why’s that?

Marshall: Because yesterday Owen, that was merely a taster of what I could do to you, if you don’t do as I ask.

Owen: So it was you?

Marshall: The little party round yours… depends on how you look at it Owen. See, I’m not stupid enough to put myself at risk like you did, coming along with Finch like a good little friend. I don’t have friends, I have acquaintances, guys that basically go as I tell them, when I tell them to. I mean, look around you… you wouldn’t know anything had happened here yesterday, but the point is it COULD have, and none of it would have gotten back to me. So, Owen, I want to make one thing perfectly clear here. I am NO back-alley drug dealer, you are in no way in control here, I am. And if you think that forensics team you had around here yesterday is going to find MY fingerprints, you are mistaken.

It was clear that Marshall was unlike the stereotypical ‘thug’ that Owen had associated with the less ‘fortunate’ part of Los Angeles. Marshall was clearly well spoken, very intelligent, and didn’t even sound like he came from Los Angeles. It was becoming more and more clear than Owen had gotten himself into something he couldn’t handle and was getting deeper and deeper with every moment.

Owen: OK, so what do you want?

Marshall holds up a single finger

Marshall: You see Owen, that’s the thing bro. I’m not quite sure what I want with you just yet. This is why I needed to meet you, to understand what made you tick. What you held dear…

He looks towards the stairs, a grin on his face.

Owen: You touch her and…

Marshall: No… don’t go there Owen, you were doing so well. I have no intention of hurting you, or indeed your girlfriend… none of your family members in fact. After all, if it hadn’t been for you, I’d be ten thousand down. I’m a fair man Owen, and those that do as they are told, they are looked after. Owen, I want to look after you… who you gotta do is play ball.

Owen: So, tell me what you want? How can I play ball if you want to tell me why you are here?

Marshall brings his feet off the table, and leans forwards, his arms resting on his legs

Marshall: Don’t worry Owen, before too long, I’ll have figured out how you can be most useful to me. Until then, no doing something irrational like telling anyone about this conversation. I AM fair man Owen, but I am also a decisive one. And you try to go against me, and it won’t be you that will get hurt, not physically anyway. I’ll just make you watch as those that you love do. Starting with the beauty upstairs right now, butt naked in the shower.

Marshall gets to his feet, tapping Owen on the cheek, Owen knocking his hand away, which again only serves to make Marshall smile

Marshall: I’ll be in touch… seems I got some thinking to do huh, as do you? Say Goodbye to your girlfriend for me won’t you?

Marshall grins again, before heading to the door, and without looking back, leaving the house. Owen breaths a sigh of relief, though he knew it was only a momentary stay of execution. He walks upstairs, and as he does; Jennifer comes out the bathroom, a robe around her.

Jennifer: Your friend gone?

Owen: Yeah, just going to get dressed and head out to Moms.

Jennifer: What did he want?

Owen: Finch gave me some money to give to him… borrowed it to buy the new Xbox or something

Jennifer: Ah OK… I didn’t like the look of him, he gave me the creeps

Owen: Marshall’s alright once you get to know him… but yeah, he certainly gives off that vibe.

Jennifer: Anyway, here I am… naked under this robe. You don’t have to be at your Mom’s right this minute do you?

Owen stops for a moment; not sure he had heard right. Jennifer stands in front of Owen, Owen covering her body as she opens the robe.

Jennifer: You have five minutes, right?

Owen laughs, Marshall forgotten in an instance, in fact he’d forgotten everything else except for what was stood in front of him

Owen: Jennifer… I’ll give you ten

Jennifer: Lucky me…

The two of them disappear into the bedroom, as the scene fades.

16th of November 2020
Los Angeles

The walk wasn’t far from Owen’s to Kloe’s house, but it was far enough for him to clear his mind. Of course, Jennifer had made him forget about everything for a while, in her own wonderful way, but by the time he had hit the shower and got dressed, Marshall and what Owen was going to do about him had once again resurfaced in his head. He wanted so badly to go and see Shaun, or Taylor, or even speak to Kloe when he arrived, but he didn’t see the point in worrying them until he knew what it was Marshall was after. If it was money, then paying him off seemed the best option, if it was something else, he would need to deal with it when the time came. As he walks up the driveway and opens the back gate, Kloe is in the garden, tending to a flower that Owen had no clue what it was. As she sees him, she greets him with a huge hug, taking Owen’s breath. When she releases him from what was as strong as any bear hug, she is wearing a huge smile.

Owen: Gonna be honest Mom, you’re unnerving me a little here.

Kloe: What, can’t you old Mom be happy every now and again?

Owen: Of course, but you are looking after flowers Mom, it’s not that much of a deal

Kloe: No, but my Son has come to see me, the Sun is still shining in the sky…

Owen: I swear, if you start singing and dancing, I’m out of here.

Kloe: Come inside Owen, I’ve got something to show you.

Kloe takes off her gardening gloves, and makes her way over the patio and into the kitchen. Owen follows her, still more than a little intrigued as to what is going on.

Kloe: Can I get you a drink? You still doing the Vegan thing?

Owen: Yeah, just about

Kloe: Struggling?

Owen: Honestly, yeah, I am. I won’t deny I don’t feel better, but proper milk, cheese… not sure how much longer I can do it.

Kloe: That’s a shame… but to be fair by the time I’d been doing this as long as you have, I didn’t miss those things at all. Maybe, it’s just not for you… it isn’t for everyone.

Owen scowls, even more confused now.

Owen: Now, you are worrying me. No Vegan Preaching, no running through all the benefits of the Vegan lifestyle?

Kloe: I don’t want you to be unhappy though Owen… no Mother wants that for her son. You didn’t mention that you were missing meat… so why not just be a Vegetarian? Oh, I don’t know… it’s up to you though Kiddo. Do what makes you happy. However, I do only have Almond Milk if you want a coffee? Or juice?

Owen: Juice will be fine Mom

Kloe pulls a carton of juice and passes it to Owen, then giving him a glass. Owen watches her as she goes about her business in the kitchen.

Owen: So, are you going to tell me what is going on before I self-combust with anticipation. Has it got anything to do with O-Cru?

Kloe: No, it doesn’t… however since you are here, I was speaking with Pixie on the phone the other day and we think it might be a good idea to bring in another designer.

Owen: Yeah, how come?

Kloe: Just, forward thinking really… share the workload, get a different point of view during the design process. With me working from home more and more, they could work from out of the New York office and take some of the strain from Pixie who’s pretty much been keeping the whole thing afloat over the past few months. It just makes sense really.

Owen: OK…

Kloe: They won’t just be working on O-Cru, they will be working for Pixie and I on other projects as well, so don’t worry it won’t come out of your profits.

Owen: I think we both know that I’m not too bothered about that

Kloe: I know, but business is business… and especially seeing as I am going to be on the shelf for a while.

Owen: Huh, what do you mean?

Kloe: You had better sit down.

Owen does indeed take a seat, Kloe pausing

Owen: Mom, you’re scaring me now.

Kloe: OK, here goes. Can you remember me telling you that I had an estranged Sister?

Owen: Yeah… Claire was it?

Kloe: Yeah, that’s right… she stole money from your Grandma and Grandfather and was sent from the house when she was roughly around twenty, I think it was and I’d not heard from her since…

She takes a piece of paper from the side, a letter, and pushes it in front of Owen.

Kloe: Then, a couple of weeks ago, I received this.

Owen starts to read the letter, that is from Kloe’s Sister Claire, talking about Kloe’s illness, and that she wanted to make amends, and donating a kidney would hopefully go some way to making things better between them. It also went on to talk about how she would love to meet Ruby, and Owen, but by then Owen wasn’t really taking it all in

Owen: Hold on, how did she know?

Kloe smiles.

Kloe: Well Owen, it turns out that you’re not my only interfering child, and Ruby has some of the same traits your Father had. Ruby researched Claire and found out where she was living and wrote to her, telling her that I was ill and needed a donor.

Owen: Well the sneaky little madam

Kloe: Yeah, my words were a little more choice than that. Anyway, I gave Claire a call, and we met up…

Owen: You did… when?

Kloe: Whilst you were in Sydney

Owen: And you didn’t tell me what was going on?

Kloe: You had enough on your plate Owen, and I didn’t want you getting hopeful before I’d met with her. She’d stolen from my parents, I had to know if she’d changed or not. And I think she has, she’s grown up… and after all, now Mom and Dad are dead, well… we are Sister’s after all. Anyway, Claire offered to take the tests and see if she was compatible, and it turns out that yes, she is.

Owen: And?

Kloe pauses, and half looks like she is going to cry.

Kloe: We are booked in for two weeks’ time… the 26th of November.

Owen: Wow… that’s close. I mean of course, that’s great. But…

Kloe: I know, it’s a shock. It’s a lot to take in and totally unexpected. Thing is Owen, it means I don’t have to wait three years for a suitable donor to come up, I don’t have to continue with the dialysis, and I’ll be more like my old self again. And even better, I don’t have to ruin my son’s life in the process and take him away from something that he loves. Claire is the perfect solution… and she isn’t giving up anything to do this. Except a kidney of course.

Owen: And you’re sure you can trust her?

Kloe: Tell you what, why don’t you meet her Owen? I’m sure that if you did, you feel more at ease. Even after everything that has happened in the past, she’s my sister and she wants to help… she CAN help.

Owen: I know… yeah, that’s a good idea. I think it will help.

Kloe: She’s going to be a part of your and Ruby’s lives going forwards. You’ll love her, I know you will. This is good news Owen. In fact no, it’s the best news. I’ll give her a call and sort something out.

Kloe picks up the letter and stores it once again in the kitchen drawer. Owen couldn’t help but feel happy for her, but still felt more than a little uneasy with how quick everything had happened. He hoped he felt better after meeting Claire, as Kloe believed he would.

Kloe: So, how you feeling anyway? After South Africa…

Owen: Yeah, I’m ok… shook me up a little but you got to move on, haven’t you?

Kloe: At least they got the guy, he won’t be coming near you again

Owen: Yeah…

He didn’t want to go over his theory that he wasn’t a crazed stalker at all, and just one of Gio’s paid off help.

Kloe: Anything else I should know about?

Owen: Well, actually… I’ve got some good news too. But you can’t say anything. Promise?

Kloe: Ooooo, this sounds promising.

Owen: Well, it’s you that got me thinking

Kloe: Me?

Owen: Honestly Mom, you have to stay quiet… not even Taylor

Kloe: OK, Jesus, you getting me back for earlier?

Owen: Jenni and I are moving in together… and we are getting a Dog called Buck apparently

Kloe squeals at the top of her voice, Owen wincing as his eardrums nearly burst.

Kloe: I knew the two of you were made for each other.

Owen: Calm down Mum, she’s only moving in, we’re not getting married.

Kloe: No, but it’s the next step… I’m so happy for you both. I love her.

Owen: Yeah, so do I.

Kloe: Aww, my little boy, all grown up.

The door to the kitchen opens, Ruby, Owen’s sister stepping inside.

Ruby: What’s going on, I heard squealing from the bottom of the driveway

Kloe: Owen and Jenni are moving in together… isn’t that great?

Ruby: How did you manage to persuade her to do that?

Owen: Careful you… anyway, I hear you’ve been doing some stellar interfering.

Ruby: Oh, Aunty Claire… I know right, are you proud?

Owen grabs his sister and puts an arm around here.

Owen: Very, couldn’t have done better myself.

Ruby playfully pushes him away, the two of them realizing that Kloe is looking at them, her head tilted

Ruby: Mom?

Owen: What’s wrong?

Kloe: Nothing’s wrong… it’s just you two. I wish Orlando was around to see just how great his kids were growing up.

Ruby: He’s watching Mom, I know he is.

Kloe: I think he’s watching over us all… come here.

She holds out her arms, and although Ruby and Owen both pull a face, they both then smile and join in the group hug. Owen not even realizing that in this moment, with two of the people he loved most in this world, Marshall couldn’t have been further from his mind. The biggest mistake that he could possibly make.

18th of November 2020
Miami
/RECORDING

The camera focuses on some video footage, showing Owen Cruze battling in the elimination chamber, his first world title defense, before transitioning to the Clarity PPV where he was supposed to win it back but didn’t, screwed over by Syren when she had already been eliminated. We then cut to Owen holding aloft the World Tag Team Titles, with Blake Mason, the look of pride on Owen’s face obviously. The footage then gets darker, as his battles with the Wonderland are shown, the moment he was made to believe he had seen his Father, Giovanni Aries cackling in the background. We then see Owen beating Matt Hodges, the victory that got him in the series, and then the C-Section on Blake Mason, that brought him to this moment. The camera then pans out, showing Owen Cruze sat next to the screen as it freezes on his face, and the delight that he had moved on… one step closer.

“It’s been quite a road since November last year. I remember going into Clarity, with all the determination to win back the World Championship. I remember leaving that PPV, at possibly my lowest ebb having failed miserably. I can say without any doubt that it is probably the worst feeling I had felt in my career, knowing that loss would send me to the back of the queue. And although I hated it, knowing that was the way the business worked, and it was right that I would have to work to get back to the top. Little did I know that it would take a year to even be back in the equation, and even now, it is far from certain I will face Bree at Last Laugh. And yet, almost every week, this agenda is pushed that ‘Owen Cruze gets all the opportunities’, ‘Owen Cruze’ gets everything that he want’s’, ‘Owen Cruze is Sasha’s golden boy’ and yet… here I am, FINALLY getting a chance to take that last step and get my shot, Sasha’s ‘golden boy’ doesn’t just get a one on one opportunity like you do Ravyn. One of Sasha’s biggest pains in her ass, doesn’t have to compete earlier in the night, against arguably one of her greatest enemies. You Ravyn don’t have to first walk into a ring, knowing that the people you face want to end your career, or in this case, at the very least ensure I cannot move on to the PPV as the Number One Contender. But of course, that’s all overlooked, because I don’t bitch and whine about it on every single show and I get on with it. I don’t make excuses about anything that happens to me, including some crazed fan, I take it on the chin and fight even harder to make sure that no matter what, I still somehow take the victory. Chambers, mind fucks, constant attacks on me, and my family name, I’ve taken everything that’s been thrown at me, without a single demand on this company. NOT ONE… apologies, except for a match with Sienna and Chris at Rise to Greatness. And do you know why Ravyn? Do you know why I take all this bullshit that people tend to pass over because it doesn’t suit the story they are trying to sell? I do it because even now, I understand how lucky I am to be here. And how fortunate I am to have a contract to wrestle for one of the greatest companies in the world, in front of the single most loyal wrestling fans anywhere. And finally, the need to be challenged, because there is no doubt in my mind, this week here in Miami, is possibly one of the biggest challenges of my career.”

Owen pauses for a moment, the image on screen leaving us uncertain as to whether there is a hint of a grin, or a sneer. Fact was, he had firmly believed that once he beat Blake Mason, the tag match would be rescheduled because of how obvious it was that the Wonderland would be doing everything in their power to take Owen out. He thought that on this occasion Sasha would do the right thing and at least give him a fair opportunity. He was wrong. No matter how strongly he felt though, he knew he couldn’t show it without being just as bad as those that complained every week.

“And Ravyn, as I said to Gio and the Wonderland, it’s not difficult to hear the thoughts already coming from your camp. I mean, let’s not try and pretty it up in anyway Ravyn, we both know that you firmly believe I couldn’t have beaten you anyway, even at 100%. So, there is no way you are going to even entertain a scenario where Aaron and I not only beat the Wonderland and put two more points on the board, and then I go on, and somehow do enough to then put you away, in the same night. I’m guessing that is a thought process that you are not even thinking about right Ravyn? Because that’s precisely the way Dark Fantasy always works. They don’t consider the fact that they can lose, and then when they do, they pull something from their book of excuses, making it clear the defeat doesn’t even matter. And to Dark Fantasy it doesn’t matter, because STILL there is someone that panders to you, just because you and Syren are two of the biggest stars in this company. But what makes it all the worse is, at least from my experiences with you and Syren, you refuse to treat me as an equal. You come out and you promo as if you are talking to a child, in that patronizing, condescending way that ALL Dark Fantasy have mastered. I KNOW what you and Syren think about me Ravyn. ‘Not ready’, ‘naïve’, ‘capable but not at your level’, I’ve heard it a million and one times, it would be so frustrating if it weren’t so laughable. You’re big on facts, aren’t you? You even asked the question yourself? What did YOU do to get here? Why did YOU get this chance? Forget about the barbs, forget about me for just a second. What have YOU done of late to get this chance? Ah, but of course… that’s not relevant, because Ravyn Taylor is a name. Ravyn Taylor has done things we can only dream of. Ravyn Taylor deserves to be in any title contendership when it is announced. That is the kind of self-entitlement I am dealing with here.

You say it was December 2015 when you last held the title, five whole years and yes, for someone of your ability, that is a heck of a long time. When I heard you say that, it surprised me, but then I gave my head a shake and instead of listening to your biased commentary, I got back to the real reason why you are never mentioned in the same breath at the SCW World Championship. The reason for it is simple. The reason for it is Syren. And your outright refusal to take the spotlight from her. I’ve said it before to you, your loyalty cannot be questioned, and some would applaud you for it. But you cannot in the next breath bemoan your opportunities, and claim that people have held you down, when the fact of the matter is, the main conspirator, the true culprit in the piece, is you. And your apparent peace with the fact you will always play second fiddle wherever Dark Fantasy is concerned. And that Ravyn is the true shame of all of this, because my Father said it, Shaun said, and I’ve said it. I know Syren has won a record-breaking amount of World Titles but would she have won them without you. I know she is seen as the true power of Dark Fantasy. But the truth is, the most dangerous and most talented of any of your group, is YOU. You cannot complain about your lack of opportunities, when it is your submissiveness that has caused you to be overlooked. Thing is, one day you are going to look back at a career that could have been so much more, and yes you had been a little more selfish. Tell me I’m wrong, tell me that you loyalty hasn’t held you back, and I’ll tell you that you are a liar. Don’t patronize me like a child, saying I’m not ready when I was champion of this company just ONE year ago. Especially when you seem content with just playing the part of Syren’s sidekick. There whenever she needs you, and to hell with what you COULD achieve.”

Owen shrugs his shoulders, not caring less.

“And that’s the thing Ravyn, that’s your biggest mistake, but it certainly isn’t your only one. See, when people talk about Dark Fantasy, I accept they are mostly talking about Syren, but they talk about one of the most calculating groups on the planet. Led by CHBK, they very rarely make mistakes… well I call bullshit on that one. I’ve already spoken of your patronizing nature towards me, which has cost you and Syren on the last two times we have met. I’ve also spoken about the fact you see to be contend with simply ‘existing’ to serve Syren in whatever she needs. But the one thing I haven’t mentioned, and this mistake is once again specific to me… and that’s this apparent ‘obsession’ that you have with comparing me to my Uncle, in spite of everything that he achieved around here. The first time you said it, I made it pretty clear, the second, third and forth times I decided to ignore, but tell my Ravyn, and honestly I am interested in your answer, do you still believe that I am cut from the same cloth as Shaun? Do you still believe I share the same characteristics as he does? You know what I think? I think you do, because something else that you seem poor at, is listening to what you are being told.

My Uncle was a Superstar Ravyn, he won all but one championship and had he continued his career he would have pretty much certainly become a supreme champion. Down the line, I don’t believe there is any question that he will be inducted into the SCW Hall of Fame, and rightfully so. Yeah, Shaun made mistakes, and he’ll admit to them as well. He made some questionable decisions during his career which cost him, and he always held his hands up to them. One thing Shaun also had, was a bug up his ass when it came to you and Syren. Shaun seemed to be in awe of what the two of you were. He seemed to downgrade his chances whenever he stepped into the ring with either of you. In fact, listening back to some of his promos against you both… even though he nearly beat Dark Fantasy ON HIS OWN, it always sounded like Shaun was beaten before he even stepped into the ring. It wasn’t like him at all, and you didn’t see it with anyone else, but his words, and his mannerisms made it pretty clear, he didn’t think he could win.”

Owen’s eyes narrow, as he looks directly down the camera lens

“I am NOT my Uncle.

Honestly Ravyn, I couldn’t give a toss about your reputation, or the why’s or why nots of what could possible happen tonight. Seriously, if I was worried about what was going to happen, then I would have gone mental because there are so many permutations. With everything going on, the last thing I need to concern myself with is your ‘win at any costs’ attitude, because that’s a given anyway. And all I can really do, is take every moment as it comes. From the first bell against the Wonderland, all the way to the final moments of Breakdown, in what will surely be the main event, I can’t plan. I can’t say I’m going to do this, or I’m going to do that, because if I did, I wouldn’t be telling the truth. The FACT is Ravyn, it could have been you, Tommy or Glory… my situation would still have been the same. The question would remain, regardless. That question being Owen… you ARE facing the Wonderland. You ARE facing the group who has tried to stop you for the last twelve months. So how the hell are you going to defeat them… and then just moments later beat someone with the credibility of Ravyn Taylor? And therein lies my point. You, Glory or Tommy, the answer to that question would have always been the same.”

Owen shrugs his shoulders

“I simply don’t know.”

He leans forwards, the camera moving backwards slightly and refocusing.

“Because I don’t know what state I’m going to be in after contending with the Wonderland, and no doubt Giovanni’s involvement. I can only guess at their intentions, or indeed how far they are going to go, so I even have to understand that if I don’t have my head on a swivel, I may not even make it to you Ravyn. But if I do make it, and I still am able to put one foot in front of the other, I will hang in there, and I will wait for that one moment, that one mistake that allows me to put you away. I will use the courage I was born with, the never say die attitude I inherited from my Father, and I will find a way. I’ll adapt, I’ll persevere, and I’ll do it because the greater the challenge, the bigger the reward. Because just like after Clarity, I simply do not know when my chance will come again.”

He holds up a single finger

“One moment… one C-Section, one Cruze Missile, that is all it will take, and if I still have the feeling in my limbs to execute, and if I still have the energy to climb that turnbuckle, then regardless of what the Wonderland have done to me, I will STILL have a chance. I won’t be 100% that’s a guarantee, and I’ll make no excuses for that. But you know something Ravyn, your sheer stubbornness to see me as a threat, history has shown us that, and the complacency you’ll most certainly have, seeing me already having been through the mire, an attitude that wasn’t there with Glory and Tommy, ALWAYS gives me a chance. And if I succeed Ravyn, then what’s next? If even after all that, you STILL can’t put me away and book your place at the Last Laugh, what will that then say about you? What will it say about this little PR stunt from Syren? It will all have been for nothing; and it will confirm what I said at the turn of the year. That being, Dark Fantasy, for all their obvious abilities and strengths and the good they could do this company if they chose to, are now known for little more than complaints, self-entitlement and generally being assholes for no real apparent reason, other than self-indulgence. Your once so easy to come by ‘dominance’… the biggest fantasy of them all.”

Owen flicks his hair out of his eyes, a smile forming on his face.

“Ravyn, in closing, I’m not going to pretend that the situation is ideal, or one that would have been of my own choosing. The odds ARE against me, I know this, but I know that I have a knack of digging deep when required, and when my back is against the wall, that is when I fight my hardest. IF the Wonderland leaves ANYTHING in the tank, anything at all. Even if I’m running on mere fumes, I will do everything I can, to ensure those ‘fumes’ were enough, to declare ME as the number one contender to the Interim SCW World Championship. There is no divided loyalties like there were in your triple threat qualifier, by the time our match comes, I will be fully focused on you. If Syren, or CHBK decide to get involved and cost me, I’ll take great pleasure in knowing I was right about you… again… and you, as ALWAYS were unable to get it done without help. Last week, you benefitted from two people’s mutual hatred for each other, but this week Ravyn, I don’t hate you… fact is I couldn’t care less what you do anymore outside the ring, only what happens inside. My only intention is to buzz around that ring like an annoying little fly, too quick for even Ravyn to handle. And not play you, the experienced strategist, at your OWN game. Nah, that will never work. I’m going to drag you kicking and screaming into mine. High risk, High reward… seize this moment I’ve been given to overcome the toughest night of my life. Carpe Diem.”

Owen narrows his eyes, shaking his head

“So quote all you like Ravyn, it won’t change a goddamn thing. This is MY time.”

Owen salutes the camera, a huge smile forming on his face

“ONE…STEP… CLOSER.”

He winks, and then walks off camera, as the scene fades.

November 18, 2020 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #80

Diary Entry – 12th of November 2020

After everything that happened yesterday, being back in the arena should have been a release. That release however didn’t come until the match began, and I was able to concentrate on winning.

Even walking down, the ramp, it didn’t feel the same. Knowing that anyone of those fans could be another nutcase wanting to take a pop.

But in the ring that changed… once I got going, I felt good, ready to take this opportunity with both hands, and so I did.

I had to get over this, I knew more than most how something like this can fester and I wasn’t going to let it derail me from my goals. I had enough on my plate with the Wonderland

If I was going to get that World Championship opportunity, as well as keep up the pressure on Sienna and Bree in the Tag Series, I had to remain laser focused no matter what was going on.

That’s right Bree… no excuses

One step closer… to you.

14th of November 2020
Los Angeles

Owen wakes, the doorbell going off again and again, Owen swinging his legs out of the bed, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. He looks at his watch and sighs as he sees the time ‘0730’. He’d only got back from the Southern Hemisphere part of the tour early this morning and had planned to stay in bed until at least lunchtime, however it seemed like someone else had different ideas. He pulls on a tee-shirt, and pads through the house, opening the door as the bell rings for what seemed like the thousandth time, puffing out his cheeks as he sees his Uncle Shaun at the front door.

Shaun: Oh, I’m sorry kiddo, did I wake you?

Owen: Dude, its seven thirty, what do you think?

Shaun: You’re normally up, out and had breakfast by now

Owen nods his head, agreeing with the statement

Owen: Yeah, but normally I haven’t got off a plane from South Africa about four hours ago.

Shaun: You did, I thought…

Owen: Just come in Shaun, I need a coffee, you want one?

Shaun nods and enters the house, closing it behind him and following Owen into the kitchen as he is flicking the switch on the kettle.

Shaun: No Jennifer?

Owen: Nah, she understands that I needed my sleep. Meeting her for lunch later though.

Owen pulls out two mugs, and spoons in some instant coffee.

Owen: I’m having black, you need milk? Not sure I…

Shaun: No, it’s cool… blacks good. Any news on when she will be moving in?

Owen: She’s going to get Invasion out the way first, the once the season is over we are going to talk to her folks.

Shaun: I’m sure Dave and Regan will be fine with it. I think you and Jenni have more than showed you are the real deal.

Owen: Yeah I know… but I didn’t think there would be too many issues us getting together in the first place and look how that turned out. AJ is only just coming round to it, and Christian still doesn’t like it. Did you see at the party… looks like he and Jaina got together.?

Shaun: Can’t say I did, was too concerned about Kelcey. Does it bother you?

Owen: Not in the slightest… I’ve always said I want Jaina to be happy, and if that’s with Christian then cool. I’m just not sure Christian is right for her that’s all… I mean, first Peyton, now Jay.

Shaun: But you don’t feel like you can say anything because of who it is?

Owen: Yeah, I mean it feels like Christian and I are on a knife edge anyway and this would no doubt push him over the edge. Maybe that’s what he wants, I dunno. But it’s none of my business what they do. I’m not going to let it come between me and Christian like he did with Peyton and Jen… no matter how much he might try.

Shaun: I think that’s sensible kiddo. Christian is a good person, I’m just not sure he’s found his path yet. Certainly, that seems to be the case with how he’s acting in EMERGE. Maybe the break will settle him down, and like you say… maybe Jaina is the one.

Owen: Hope so…

Owen pours the water from the kettle into the two mugs, and then puts some cold water in both to top them up, just like his Mom used to do it. He then slides a mug over to Shaun, whilst taking a sip from his, closing his eyes and enjoying the moment

Owen: Ah, that’s better… now, I’m sure you didn’t come over here at this ungodly hour to talk about relationships.

Shaun holds his mug in both hands and takes a drink, putting the mug back down on the counter.

Shaun: You don’t have to hide it from me you know?

Owen: Hide what?

Shaun: This shit that happened in Johannesburg… it’s shaken you up more than you are letting on.

Owen: Let me guess, you’ve been going all amateur Psychologist again?

Shaun: No, I haven’t, I didn’t have to. It was written all over your face.

Owen: What do you mean?

Shaun: Kid, I know the crowd was bias towards Sienna, but you knew that was going to be the case. I understand you not wanting to make it any worse by getting under their skin. I get all that. But when you step through that curtain, something happens… you claim all the energy from fans, and you use it. Ever since Philly, and them getting on your case, positive or negative it’s the reactions that’s have driven you. In Johannesburg you were stunted, the energy wasn’t there, and you were lucky.

Owen: Lucky?

Shaun: Yeah, that you pulled yourself together before Blake took advantage. Next time, you might not get that opportunity.

Owen dismissively waves hand.

Owen: It’s nothing… really

Shaun: Bullshit Owen, it got to you and you know it did. I’ve never seen you look that anxious on your way to the ring, not even the first time you stepped through the curtain. Can I be honest with you?

Owen: Like you won’t if I say no?

Shaun: You looked scared Owen. As if the last place you wanted to be was amongst that many people.

Owen takes another sip of his coffee, and only now looks directly at Shaun

Owen: I was… I was petrified that it would happen again.

It gave Shaun no pleasure to be right. Right now, he wished he were barking up the wrong tree, but it was clear that he wasn’t.

Shaun: Owen, what happened in South Africa… that’s not what the SCW fanbase is like. Even Sienna was disgusted with this guys actions, Bree as well.

Owen: Yeah, if they were being sincere.

Shaun: Oh, I’m sure there was a part of them loving it, but no one wants to see that happen to someone. I’m sure both Bree and Sienna would rather rip your head off by themselves, more than someone else get the pleasure

Owen: That’s true enough…

Shaun: All you can do Owen is trust in the security to ensure it won’t happen again, and anyway its not like you go South Africa every week is it?

Owen: Yeah but…

Owen stops himself

Owen: Doesn’t matter

Shaun: No go on, what’s on your mind? Better you get it out in the open kid, you know that.

Owen: What if this wasn’t a crazed Sienna fan taking exception to me?

Shaun: What do you mean?

Owen: What if this is Gio

Shaun: Aries? No, it can’t be.

Owen: Why not, it’s exactly the kind of thing he would do.

Shaun: I mean, he’s showed what he is capable of, it’s not that unbelievable. But why use Sienna’s fans as a tool.

Owen: I don’t know, maybe Sienna is in on it as well. She knows that Sasha is watching every move she makes. What if she’s using Gio as a means to an end? A mutual agreement between the two?

Shaun: Honestly, Owen, I think you are looking too deeply into it. It’s shaken you up, and you’re not thinking straight

Owen: Really… this is a woman who’s so clearly lost the plot, and a guy who conjured up an illusion showing my Dad to try and put me out for good. You really think they are not capable?

Shaun shrugs his shoulders

Owen: Exactly, they could have done this, and South Africa was the perfect place for it to happen. Just a random guy… I don’t think so Shaun.

Shaun: OK, so what you going to do, it’s not like you have any evidence.

Owen: That’s the thing Shaun, there is nothing I can do. Until Sasha finally decides that they have crossed the line and should be punished, suspended or fired, this kind of shit is going to keep happening to me, repeatedly. Them continuously taking advantage of the situations, and the fact I continue to toe the company line.

Shaun: So, what you saying?

Owen takes another drink, licking his lips as he then rinses out the cup.

Owen: Maybe it’s time that we stopped being on the defensive all the time, and instead took matters into our own hands. Perhaps instead of waiting for Sasha to do the right thing, the ‘Pack’ should do it for her, and get rid of the Wonderland once and for all.

Shaun: Owen, I get the sentiment, and I agree 100% that they need to be stopped. But kid, this kind of talk, it isn’t you. In fact, it’s exactly the kind of thing that Bree or Sienna would say.

Owen: Well maybe that’s the reason I was the one attacked at a signing and they weren’t. Maybe it’s time for me to show that I’m not someone that should be messed with either.

Shaun puts a hand on his nephews’ shoulder, hearing the pain in his voice.

Shaun: We’ve all been there Owen but fighting fire with fire… it’s a road you don’t want to go down believe me. Your Dad and I lost hope for a while during our careers, and I regret those times, even though they brought me a World Title, it wasn’t the same as if I have claimed it by staying true to my beliefs. And I know your Dad felt the same way, it was the reason he could never really get behind what the Monarchy were doing.”

Shaun squeezes Owen’s shoulder

“You start looking for trouble Owen and it will change you; I promise you that. Losing who you are, is the worst feeling in the world, and I don’t want that for you. Not ever. And neither would your Father if he were still here.”

Owen rubs his eyes again, the initial caffeine rush starting to subside, and his fatigue kicking back in.

Owen: I know, you’re right of course you are. But it’s so frustrating being on the end of this bullshit time and time again. When will it stop?

Shaun: Honestly?

Owen: Yes

Shaun: It never does kid.

Owen: Oh great…

Shaun: You’ll always be a target and if it isn’t Sienna, or Gio… there will always be someone else that will find a reason why you shouldn’t be around. It could be to prove themselves against you, it could be because they don’t want you to take their place, or it might be them wanting to destroy the future, like Gio. Or, like Sienna, they might just not like you very much. But the more you grow, and the more people you stop in their tracks, the less people will be inclined to test you… but yeah, there will always be someone or something. That’s the path that as a Cruze, we have chosen, through good or bad. Thing is Owen, unlike your Father and I, I know you can handle it. And you will… with people around you every step of the way. And there is no shame in showing fear Owen… fear keeps you focused.

Owen: Use it yeah?

Shaun: Exactly.

Shaun hopes he has helped, and finishes off his coffee.

Shaun: Now, you fancy breakfast, Angy is putting together a full English, sure I can find you some pretend sausages

Owen: Nah, it’s OK… I’m gonna go back to bed for a couple of hours

Shaun: OK no worries. I’ll leave you to your pit then, but don’t forget what I said.

Owen: I won’t… thanks.

Shaun grins and heads to the door, showing himself out as Owen stands in the kitchen. He didn’t know if he felt any better, time would tell, but what he did know was that he wasn’t getting back to sleep now. He picks up the instant coffee, and starts spooning in the granules, as the scene fades.

14th of November 2020
Los Angeles

Owen couldn’t lie, right now he was feeling that same anxious feeling that he had felt back in South Africa. Finch was being as brazen as ever, saying that it would be ok and all this guy wanted was his money, but Owen was more than aware that he was putting himself in unnecessary danger…

Owen: Look man, you sure we must do it like this. I mean, doesn’t he have PayPal or something?

Owen clutches the sports bag close to him, as they turn into an alleyway.

Finch: Yeah sorry, he only operates face to face. But like I said, he only wants the money. Two minutes and we will be out of there.

As he walks along the alleyway, it only serves to compound his anxiety, feeling that all eyes are on them as they walk

Owen: I don’t like this Finch.

Finch: Bro, seriously… we are good. These are all Marshall’s guys; this is his alley. And anyway, we are here now.

And Owen was glad of it. Finch steps up to a side door and knocks on it, waiting for a while until it opens.

Finch: Hey, Conrad… long time.

Conrad: What you doing here Finch?

Finch: I come to pay the boss… we cool?

Conrad looks at Owen, and then shouts over his shoulder.

Conrad: Hey Marsh, some dudes here to see you

“Who is it?”

Conrad: Finch and some other dude… got money

“Let ‘em in.”

Conrad steps to the side, and Finch walks in first, Owen following behind. The door shuts, and for a moment they are in darkness, until another door opens into a side room, Finch again leading the way. Already Owen finds himself curses Lauren for leading Finch down this path. He would never have associated with this kinds of people otherwise.

Conrad: Take a seat… and don’t touch anythin’ Finch. You too.

Conrad looks at Owen threateningly. Owen had no intention of touching anything, especially as he had already clocked some used syringes nearby. Conrad closes the door, leaving them both alone.

Owen: How the hell did you get into this shit?

Finch: I know bro, but now isn’t the time for a lecture is it. Soon be over.

Owen: Yeah, well you are paying me back double… danger money.

Finch: Seriously, we are safe… Marshall is a cool guy if you stay on the right side of him. He’ll be our best friend once he see’s what we have brought him, you’ll see.

Owen puffs out his cheeks, not believing a word that he says. He continues to look around the room, his eyes widening at a gun placed on a table nearby, his anxiety shooting through the roof. He doesn’t have time to react however, as the door opens again, a guy, maybe 6’4 and muscular stepping into the room. Finch gets to his feet and the pair share a fist bump

Marshall: Finch my boy… how’s you?

Finch: I’m good Marshall…

Marshall: And who’s the friend? Boyfriend?

Marshall laughs, Finch joining in though his laugh was obviously fake

Finch: Nah, nothing like that, this is my boy… Owen

Marshall: Owen, cool… thought I told you to always come here alone

For the first time, there was a hint of menace in his words. Only a hint, but enough to concern Owen.

Finch: He’s cool Marshall, in fact… we’ve a present for you

Marshall: OK, let’s see it.

Finch turns to Owen and nods his head, Owen holding out the sports bag as Marshall takes a seat.

Marshall: Open it…

He looks at Owen, who immediately feels like he is being tested, as if this was to show that just like everyone else in Marshall’s gang, he was submissive just the same as they were. Although he didn’t want to, he had no intention of stirring up anymore trouble, so he unzips the back and opens it, Marshall nodding his appreciation.

Marshall: And it’s all there Finch?

Finch: Nah man, wouldn’t dream of it.

Marshall reaches forwards and picks up the bag, smelling the notes inside with a huge smile on his face. He then places it by the side of him.

Marshall: Good, I’m glad that got sorted out. Last thing I wanted was any unpleasantness between us.

Finch: Me neither… so we cool now?

Marshall: Yeah, we cool bro… one question though?

Finch: Yeah?

Marshall: How the fuck did you get your hands on 10K? I mean, Lauren tells me you are pretty much broke so what did you do, rob a bank or something?

Finch: No…

He instinctively looks at Owen, Finch picking up on it straight away.

Marshall: Ah, so that why you are here, you’ve lent him the money to get me off his back. That’s a good friend you got there Finch.

Finch: I know…

Marshall: Thing is Finch, this raises another question. See, I look at your friend here… Owen isn’t it?

Owen nods, even inch of his being now wanting to get out of here as soon as possible. Even Finch now didn’t seem as blasé as he did before, which was heightening Owen’s concern.

Marshall: I look at you bro, and I see the fancy clothes, the sweet trainers, and it makes me wonder how YOU can afford to lend someone ten grand, and apparently do it without a second thought. I mean, is Daddy rich or something?

Owen: My Dad’s dead

Marshall: Ah, I see… so this is part of pops inheritance then?

Owen: No, I got my own money.

Marshall rubs his chin, clearly enjoying this game.

Marshall: I see… so what do you do Owen?

Owen: That’s none of your business

Marshall’s eyes change, though the smirk remains. Finch had seen that look a hundred times before, and immediately wishes Owen hadn’t said anything and stuck to the plan. Marshall starts to laugh, but it doesn’t ease the tension any, Owen getting to his feet.

Owen: I’m done here, you have your money. Now please, leave Finch alone

Marshall: I like this guy Finch, he’s got courage in his bones, unlike you.

Owen: Come on Finch

Marshall: It’s a shame you must leave actually Owen… Owen Cruze isn’t it?

Owen’s eyes widen, Finch’s shoulders slumping, Owen then turning back to face Finch.

Marshall: Oh come on, give me a little more credit than that. I recognized you the minute you walked through the door. Owen Cruze, famous wrestler… member of the Cruze family. Isn’t you Uncle a film producer now or something?

Owen doesn’t say anything

Marshall: Just because I live in a back alley, doesn’t mean I’m under a rock or something. Do you think when I got involved with Finch, I didn’t find out everything I could about him, including who his friends were.”

Owen: You knew I’d bail him out, didn’t you?

Marshall: Of course, I did, in fact I counted on it. If not, I would have dealt with Finch way before now.

He turns back to Finch

Marshall: You really thought I was giving you time just because you stuck it up my Sister? Bro, I was just waiting for Golden boy here to come through. And come through he did.

Marshall gets to his feet, Owen taking that as their cue to leave. He nods to Finch who also gets to his feet, Marshall however stepping in front of the door, picking up the gun from the table as he passes. Owen realizes that even if he could take down Marshall which by the size of him was unlikely, and even more so as he was holding a weapon, his gang were in the house and then the alley beyond, there would be no getting away. Marshall lifts the gun, and pulls the trigger, a flame coming from the barrel as he lights a cigarette, smirking, knowing that they had both thought

Marshall: Cheers for bringing me my money Finch, you can now go about your sorry little life, and stay the fuck away from my Sister, you hear me?

Finch: Yes

Marshall: And as for you Owen… well, it was really good to meet you bro.

Marshall holds out his fist, Owen looking at it for a moment before holding out his, the to bumping together. Marshall steps aside, and opens the door for them both, Finch and Owen both making for the front door, neither of them saying a word until they have left the alley behind. They find a local park, and Owen takes a seat, his heart beating hard in his chest.

Finch: See, I told you… easy

Owen takes a moment, even closing his eyes, fearing that he was about to have some kind of panic attack. After about thirty seconds, he stats to regain control of his breathing, and looks up at Finch.

Owen: Easy? You think that was fucking easy

Finch: Yeah, he has is money, he’s happy. He’ll leave us alone now.

Owen: He might leave you alone Finch, but I’m not stupid. Did you see the look in his eyes when he revealed that he knew who I was? He may as well have had dollar signs instead of pupils.

Finch: Nah, Marshall is a man of his word.

Owen puffs out his cheeks, clearly getting frustrated.

Owen: Are you really that stupid Finch? Can you not see what just happened?

Finch: No, I’m not stupid… he played me, he knew you would lend me the money, so what? You’ll get it back.

Owen: Yeah, he knew I would lend you the money, and he also knew that I wouldn’t let you go alone once I know the shit you were in.

Owen pauses for a moment, allowing it to sink in, before the realization forms over Finch’s face.

Finch: He wanted to meet you…

Owen: There you go… finally you get it. It wouldn’t surprise me if Lauren was in on this all along.

Finch sits down, his shoulders slumping.

Finch: She probably never even liked me… FUCK!!

Owen rubs his eyes, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Finch: I’m sorry bro… really.

Owen looks up and see’s the remorse in Finch’s eyes and immediately softens.

Owen: It’s OK man, look there is no point going on about it. What’s done is done. Who knows, we might be worrying about nothing.

He didn’t believe that and was trying to make Finch feel better about the situation.

Owen: Like you said, he has his money, you’re in the clear. So the most important thing is you, getting your life back on track.

Finch: But how?

Owen: Finch, you play Basketball, and you are brilliant. Surely, there is a team out there willing to take a risk on you.

Finch: But the minute they find out about the drugs…

Owen: You’re clean now though… you are clean right?

Finch: Of course

Owen: Then show them that… offer to take tests every week, I don’t know. All I do know is you need to get back on track, and just like wrestling is all I have, Basketball is what you do. Get back in the game Finch, it’s not too late.

Finch nods his head, listening to every word Owen says, and although Owen was saying the words, his mind was elsewhere. What had he actually gotten himself into, he had a feeling he was about to find out? And right now, it was the last thing that he needed.

17th of November 2020
Miami
0730 AM

Owen stands on the South Point Park Pier in Miami, looking out over the water, occasionally looking over his shoulder as one of the many fishermen reel in their catch. Slowly he turns to face the camera

“Ah, the Wonderland…”

Surprisingly a smirk forms over his face, as he leans with both arms behind him against the barrier.

“The force in SCW that rules with an iron fist, making every single one of her quiver in fear of what they are going to do next. Every week is a hardship, as they go from person to person, changing the landscape of Supreme Championship Wrestling as they do. Never changing, always plotting. Forever dominant.”

A shout of ‘Yes’ comes from his left, a young boy fishing with his Father having caught perhaps his first ever fish judging by his excitement. His Father’s praise only adding to the moment, a moment that no doubt the little boy will remember forever. Owen only pauses for a moment however, before going back to his rhetoric.

“Piss off.”

The smirk still remains, but with it is a dismissive shake of the head.

“See that is what they ‘want’ you to believe, but the truth is they are about as far removed from that description as they could possibly be. Now don’t get me wrong, individually there is no doubt that Cain and Alice are more than capable tag team wrestlers, but let’s face it, when was the last time you saw any member of the Wonderland go out there and simply wrestle? If we were judging on simply ‘wrestling’ then maybe Aaron and I would treat this with a little less disdain. But the thing is, the Wonderland are not wrestlers. The Wonderland are not here to win championships, or gain accolades, they have made that perfectly clear. No, the Wonderland are here quite simply to bring the company to its knees, to be this ‘Future’ where we all live ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’ and under the heel of Giovanni Aries, a world he claims would be far better than the one we all currently exist it. And you know something, maybe more people would listen to what he had to say, if his methods weren’t so archaic, so damaging to any weak minded enough to fall under his spell. The FACT of the matter is quite simple… Giovanni Aries, and the Wonderland is the single greatest piece of propaganda the SCW has EVER seen. Because NOTHING that they will have you believe is true.

Let’s take ‘Changing the Landscape’ for starters… what have any of them done that actually counted? Gio throwing the title in the trash, yeah good one. Cheap shots every week that they believe weaken us, and yet strengthen our resolve. And this air of dominance, like they believe that they have us constantly on the back foot. Christ, it’s so pathetic, it’s actually laughable. That’s right Wonderland, still after everything I laugh at you. Laugh that you Gio think Cain and Alice will forever be behind your twisted manifesto. Laugh because you think some kind of ‘alliance’ with Sienna Swann is going to serve you well. Laugh because the Wonderland goes from person to person, never weakening them, and always making them stronger. You don’t believe me, let’s look at the people that you have gone after. Selena Frost… FAILED. Regan Street…FAILED. A young boy starting out his career, a ROOKIE that you tried to turn to your will. That’s me by the way in case you’re struggling… FAILED. Perfect Pack… FAILED. Kelcey Wallace…FAILED. You see the pattern here right Wonderland? Gio, you are the Clown Prince, and Cain, Alice, you are merely the court jesters. And no matter how much you say it, this ‘Lizard King’ mentality you try to push, no one is buying it, not even Sienna, who only see’s you as a tool to get to Kelcey and the rest of us. Imagine that Wonderland… being reduced to bit part players and used as mere Minions. That’s a dominant force right there.”

Owen turns to the side and starts walking up the peer, as the camera backs way, staying in front as he continues to speak.

“Cain, Alice… I’m not going to try and pretend how Giovanni got you to buy into his madness. Perhaps it’s a lifetime supply of whatever his hallucinogenic is of choice, because I cannot understand how someone would follow him willingly. But surely you see that his failure, is YOUR failure as well? Every time you assist in his little smoke and mirrors, every time you are hiding under the ring, ready to participate in his next ‘evil’ plan, you set yourself up once again for yet another beat down, as your LOYAL leader skulks away to safety. And maybe your OK with that, maybe its fine to take a bullet for him, after all, I’m sure he’s promised you a seat at the head of this ‘brave new world’ right? But the thing is, this brave new world he has promised, it will NEVER see its fruition, and do you want to know why? I’ll tell you why? People like myself, Aaron, Peyton and Alistaire when he returns, we won’t allow it to happen. Kelcey, won’t allow the SCW, or indeed Olek to be intimidated by your games. EVERY SINGLE TIME you knock us down, we WILL get up, because just like you have been programmed by Gio, we are programmed to defend this company with everything we have. Each time you have failed guys, you have always come back, and your loyalty to Gio, however stupid, it has to be commended considering the amount of times you have both been left on your back, because of HIM. But you see, something has changed now… the Perfect Pack have done with your games, and we have changed out tact. If we want to get rid of the Wonderland for good, winning these individual battles time and time again isn’t going to be enough. We are not running from the Wonderland any longer… and Cain, Alice… Aries WILL meet his comeuppance, maybe sooner than you think, and when he does, where will that leave the two of you huh? I won’t speak for Aaron, he’ll have plenty to say shortly, but you need to be aware of one thing. The moment you set your crosshairs on Olek you crossed the line. The Perfect Pack have now done being hunted, we are now the HUNTERS. And Wonderland, we have you firmly in our sights.”

Owen walks down some steps and onto the beach, walking away from the pier.

“Once again, the Wonderland will be associated with nothing else but failure. The way it was meant to be from the very first second Giovanni Aries introduced us to his bullshit. But this week isn’t about that, the Wonderlands demise will wait for a later time. No, this week, the failure I speak about is YOUR failure in the tag league. A failure that has seen you, Cain, Alice pick up a single point thus far, that coming from a double disqualification due to Matt Hodges not being able to come to terms with me beating him, fairly I might add, when it came down to just the two of us. Surely a group as dominant as the Wonderland, should have ploughed through this tournament without any great problem, and yet the two have managed to mess it up every single time you have stepped into the ring. Let’s look at the Wonderland story thus far shall we? September the 30th, facing Jay Gold and Holly Adams… you’re all still squirming from whatever failure you all experienced, so you don’t even show. Cracking show of dominance right off the bat. October the 7th, the A/C Unit… you no show again, turning up at the end of our match with some generic cheap shots. Wonderland total thus far… une points.”

He laughs at his poor French accent but carries on regardless

“I’ve already spoken about your first point in the series, so we move onto the 11th just this past week, and the Golden Boys, surely a chance to do something, anything to have an effect on this league. But nope, oh at least this time you turn up. This time you at least show willing. But end up submitting at the hands of the Welcome to Oblivion. No shame in that though Alice, many have. But again… not really the dominance you were looking for right? Bet Giovanni was oh so proud of your efforts.”

Owen reaches a pathway that will lead him back up towards the streets, but he stops, resting against a wall.

“So one point, from four matches. Three difficult ones still to come. You could end up quite literally with no wins on the board, and for an ACTUAL tag team, not one that has been put together simply for this series, surely even the Wonderland that I know doesn’t give a crap about accolades, it would still be more than a little embarrassing for you all. We ALL know, that you’ll turn up tomorrow, because Gio will demand it. We ALL know that you’re both not looking to add two points to the board, but instead damage Aaron and me, and potentially ruin my chances of a shot at Bree Lancaster by injuring me ahead of my second match with Ravyn. After all the Wonderland is nothing if it isn’t predictable. But the thing is guys, we are not going to just stand by and let you. I’m not going to go into this match half arsed, just because I face Ravyn later in the night. Because, and I feel like I am repeating myself, but I have to, because Giovanni and the Wonderland has never understood. Somethings ARE more important than the World Championship. I don’t act out the part of Gollum and his precious like some do. Right now, another nail in the coffin of the Wonderland would protect the future of this company, and that is far more important. Once that is done, THEN my mindset will change but not until. So if you truly believe you’re going to get me at 50%, you’re wrong. Because I’m going to bust a gut to win BOTH.”

He nods his head, pausing for a moment as he composes his final thoughts.

“And you know what, I think I can hear the laughing from here, wherever in the world you are right now. Gio, Cain, Abel… and yeah, even Ravyn thinking to themselves ‘Who the hell does this kid think he is?’ The answer to that is simple, I am Owen Cruze, a member of Kelcey Wallace’s Perfect Pack, and a proud card bearing member of the SCW Roster. Aaron and I come into this match not having been pinned throughout by former world champions and Hall of Famers. Sienna and Bree lead the way, and can say exactly the same thing, and that is the reason that right now WE are both the stand out teams in the competition, and one of us will probably go forwards to face whoever is the Tag Champions when this league concludes. I’m not going to pretend that this is going to be easy, defeating the Wonderland, and then Ravyn Taylor in one night. I’m not even going to predict that it WILL happen, because after all, not many do actually get the better of Ravyn… Glory and Tommy certainly didn’t. But no matter how loud the laughter, not matter how many dismissive comments you can all muster, the FACT of the matter is this. I CAN win both matches putting two more points on the board for the Perfect Pack, and beat Ravyn, moving on to face Bree at the Last Laugh. I CAN do all of that, because my history has shown many times that just like my Father and Uncle, I DEFY odds, every time I step into a wrestling ring. I WILL give it my all to ensure it happens…”

He smirks, looking up the pathway before concluding this promo

“And the thing is Cain, Alice… I FIRMLY believe that Aaron and I will once again have our hands held high, another victory on the board. Not because of any lack of ability. And not because you don’t want this, because actually I think the two of you do, even if Gio can’t be bothered. No, Aaron and I will win, because of what you stand for, and who you are. And no matter how good a team you might be, Aaron and I… are just better. And tomorrow night? We will prove it once again.”

Owen turns, and walks up the pathway and away from the camera, as the scene slowly fades

November 17, 2020 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #79

Diary Entry – 28th of October 2020

Another match, another win and Aaron and I go on, keeping the pressure up on Bree and Sienna who currently lead, but only must slip up once more to let us in.

Truth, I can see it happening because Sienna’s actions get darker, and darker by the day.

Is there an alliance between her and Giovanni? I certainly hope not, because if there is, it spells bad news for the SCW, as well as bad new for Bree, unless her morals are indeed as low as they would need to be to still align with them knowing what she ‘should’ know

Honestly, thought they would implode eventually, but did NOT see this coming, no matter how much Sienna has lost the plot.

30th of October 2020
Los Angeles

Owen pulls up outside Taylor’s home, stepping outside and walking up to the house, and opening the door. As Owen was due to go on the southern hemisphere part of the SCW tour, he would not be around for a few weeks, so had asked to take Sebastian to the beach for the morning before meeting Jennifer this afternoon, excusing himself from the SCW house shows to do so. Jennifer was due a trip of her own, to Leeds where she would be appearing on the penultimate EMERGE of the year, and Owen was hoping that with that meeting she would have an answer to the question he had posed her about moving in. He stands in the hallway of the house which stands pretty silent considering there is a toddler in the house. That silence however doesn’t last long, as Taylor comes in from the kitchen, Sebastian clocking his older brother.

Sebastian: Owen…

Owen: Hey little man, you ready for the beach?

Sebastian responds with a nod

Taylor: Is it ok if he has his breakfast first before you fill him full of Ice Cream

Owen: Of course… there’s something I wanted to talk to you about anyway

Taylor: That sounds intriguing…

She bends down to Sebastian

Taylor: Table you… breakfast or not beach

Sebastian heads to the table, Owen helping him up onto the seat as Taylor passes him some muesli.

Taylor: All of it, or no ice cream ok?

Sebastian nods, Taylor then turning to Owen

Taylor: So, what’s up kiddo? Anymore trials and tribulations you need me to resolve?

Owen: No, I think I’m all good thank you. Unless you can petrol bomb the Wonderland

Taylor: It just so happens…

They both laughs, Taylor holding up her hand

Taylor: No seriously, what do you want to talk about?

Owen sits up onto a breakfast chair, leaning against the counter.

Owen: It’s just, this ‘world series’ match has been announced for Breakdown in Johannesburg, and I’m facing Blake…

Taylor smirks

Taylor: Yeah, I saw that

Owen: I’m just not sure I’m comfortable with it that’s all… after what happened between the two of you.

Taylor: I see

Owen: I mean, I know you must hate him and all, but…

Taylor holds up a single index finger

Taylor: Let me just stop you there Owen. What Blake did was messed up, no disputing that whatsoever, but it is not like I didn’t know about his obsession with Kelcey. I mean, it is not like he doesn’t make it obvious, so I think at the back of my mind, I always knew that what happened, could happen. Thing is Owen, I don’t HATE him, so don’t feel like you have to either. It doesn’t have to be for anything else but the opportunity, and you don’t have to defend my honor, I’m perfectly capable of doing that myself. Truth is, he was pretty much dealing with the exact same thing, knowing that no one will ever. match up to your Father. Your Dad will always be the love of my life kid… and to be fair to Blake, that must have been a lot to live up to. So, I’d love to put all the blame at his door, but it wasn’t all his fault…

She gives that wry grin that Owen is all too familiar with.

Taylor: Perhaps 95 percent his fault

She chuckles to herself, checking back at Sebastian to make sure he is still eating.

Taylor: You know as well as anyone what happens if you make something personal Owen. You can get sloppy and make mistakes because you are just looking to make that point. Stay laser focused, and get it done… that’s the best way to put Blake in his place, and I promise you that if you manage to do that, I’ll afford myself a little smile as an ‘up yours’ to him and what he did. Agreed?

Owen nods, but also confirms verbally.

Owen: Agreed

Taylor: Good. Do what you have been doing, and make sure everything else is nothing more than white noise. And remind Blake that you are not the same kid he beat at Rise to Greatness… but I am pretty certain you were going to do that anyway.

Owen: Kelcey told me the same thing, doesn’t mean I don’t worry about it though

Taylor: I think Kelcey is more than ready for what she has gotten herself into. Not sure Sienna and Giovanni can say the same thing though. If she needs you though Owen, she will say so. You just concentrate on Blake and winning that opportunity, because if you don’t then I’m going to have to come back and kick some respect into Bree. Copying what I used to do so much better years ago.

Owen: Yep… years ago

Owen smirks, Sebastian finishing off the last of his muesli.

Owen: OK, you ready kiddo?

Sebastian nods his head, Taylor helping him put his rucksack on.

Taylor: OK you… do as your brother says OK, and don’t let go of his hand.

Owen: We will be fine Mom… I’ll take good care of him

Taylor: I know you will… he couldn’t wish for a better big brother.

Owen: Wow, you go steady Mom, you’ll have people thinking you have a heart

Taylor clips him around the ear, Owen trying to duck but not quick enough

Taylor: You NEVER say that out loud again, you hear me?

She grins, putting an orange in Sebastian’s backpack

Taylor: Now get out of here… I got a busy morning of doing nothing planned.

Owen: What’s new…

Owen quickly grabs Sebastian’s hand and scurries for the door, Taylor throwing a sponge at him that hits the door as it closes, grinning as she hears both Owen and Sebastian chuckling as they leave, then walking into the living room as Owen straps Sebastian into the car seat. Looking at them both and realizing just how much the two of them were a part of Orlando that was still here, a single tear trickling down her cheek.

30th of October 2020
Los Angeles

Owen had just dropped Sebastian back home after what had been a fun morning at the beach. Sebastian was getting more and more character with every single day, and Owen enjoyed the time spent with his brother, even though it made him feel guilty for not spending more time with Ruby his sister, who was currently living at College doing her art degree. There was also Becca, who had not spoken to him since she left the Rehab Clinic and went back to live with Sallie. Therefore, spending moments and making memories with Sebastian was paramount to him, especially as he would be leaving for Sydney in a couple of days. As he pulls up to the house and into the driveway however, his thought process is interrupted at the sight of Jenni sat on the steps to the house, her mobile phone in her hand. She gets to her feet as Owen gets out the car, shutting the door behind him.

Owen: Hey…

Jennifer: I’ve been trying to call you… phones off?

Owen: Yeah sorry, been at the beach with Seb and ran out of juice. Sorry.

Jennifer: It’s fine babe, you’re here now.

Owen walks up to the door and puts the key in the lock, opening it and then following Jennifer inside.

Owen: You all set? For EMERGE I mean?

Jennifer: As much as I can be with the current situation… never thought I would be dealing with Cindy Todd

Owen: You ARE EMERGE Champion Jen, I’d say it was pretty obvious she’d target you once Tommy was taken out.

Jennifer: I know, I could just do without it that’s all.

Owen is about to say ‘couldn’t we all’ he having his fair share of issues right now that there was no end in sight. But he doesn’t, and instead walks into the kitchen, taking out a couple of bottles of coke and opening them, before passing Jennifer one.

Jennifer: At least I know I will end the year as EMERGE Champion, and maybe the Ultimate Champion as well. Then…

Owen: Then?

Jennifer: I don’t know… maybe I will sign up for next year, maybe I won’t. We will see.

Jennifer had been having a problem with the apparent lack of respect she had been getting compared to Willow Wilkes and Peyton.

Owen: Jen, you win that Ultimate…

Jennifer: And what if I don’t… it will be the same old questions. And I am not sure I can take another year of that. I will only make a mess of it…

Owen: Jen come on; this isn’t you. You’ve achieved so much in your two years in EMERGE, and you might not see it, but the management of EMERGE…

Jennifer: My Mom and Dad you mean?

Owen: No, everyone else… Dani for instance, they know your worth. And you will prove it again in Toronto, I know you will, and I’ll be there

Jennifer: And then there is Peyton… I well and truly stuffed that up. It just seems to be one thing after another at the minute. You are just about the one thing I’m getting right… wonder how long that is going to last?

Jennifer sighs, obviously troubled.

Owen: Now, you’re being daft, you’re perfect… I am the one more likely to mess things up.

Jennifer: I’m not perfect Owen, no one is.

Owen takes a sip from the bottle, his eyes never leaving Jennifer who was staring through the window and to the outside, lost in her thoughts.

Owen: You’re starting to sound like me

He laughs, Jennifer looking at him questionably

Owen: I mean, I’m the one who’s supposed to be lacking confidence around here, not sure if I’m able to do the things that some people seem to think I am capable of with my eyes shut. And do you know why that is?

Jennifer shrugs her shoulders

Owen: Our last names, it’s as simple as that. The expectation on us to be like our parents is off the charts, and neither of us have a total handle on that yet, no matter what we think. It’s even worse for you, I’m only living in the shadow of an Icon, with you it’s Supreme Champions and Hall of Famers… Mom and Dad. We’ve just got to do the best we can with what we have Jen, even if it means making a shit ton of mistakes along the way. I’m twenty, you’re nineteen… there are people fucking up our age all over the world… we are no different.

Jennifer nods, understand what he was saying, closing her eyes as Owen comes in for a kiss. In that moment, none of it matters, as she wraps her arms around him, the two embracing each other until finally they part.

Jennifer: We are a right pair, aren’t we?

Owen: I know… but thankfully we are both pretty good at building the other back up. I guess that is what a relationship is right?

Jennifer nods, and they sits up on a chair at the breakfast table.

Owen: We have a lot to thank Peyton for you know, if it wasn’t for her, we wouldn’t be together and would probably still been gushing over one another.

Jennifer: I know, and I feel bad for the way we are now. I still don’t like what she did, but I shouldn’t have overreacted. I mean…

Owen: We all make mistakes? Exactly right and she knows she made a big one. But it is never too late Jen, you know exactly what Peyton is like, and I know she’ll be feeling just as crap as you do. All it needs is one of you to make that move, and for the two of you to sit down and talk. And I am sure it won’t be too long before you’re both ganging up on me again for old times’ sake.

Jennifer laughs

Jennifer: You think so?

Owen: Yeah, I do. Though I have to admit, I have enjoyed the peace and quiet.

Jennifer nods her head in agreement, and pushes Owen with her hand, even now not knowing how she would even approach Peyton, never mind speak calmly to her. That was for another time however, because she knew that Owen was waiting on another conversation to occur.

Jennifer: I know what you are thinking right now you know?

Owen: Do you now? OK, what am I thinking Jennifer Helms?

Jennifer: You are wondering if I’ve come to a decision about moving in

Owen: I certainly was not

Jennifer: Yes, you were Owen, don’t you lie to me Mister

Owen smirks, the question had crossed his mind the moment he had seen her sat on his doorstep.

Owen: And, if on the off chance that you were correct, and that question HAD crossed my mind, what would the answer be?

Jennifer lowers her head

Jennifer: I’m sorry Owen…

Owen’s heart drops, until Jennifer smiles

Jennifer: But you are going to have to put up with my moaning a whole lot more. I WILL move in with you Owen. I can’t wait.

Owen throws his arms around her, hugging her once again tightly

Owen: That is the best news I’ve heard in ages Jen.

Jennifer: Of course, we will have to tell Mom and Dad, I’m not having another massive blow up like last time

Owen: Of course, whatever you want

Jennifer: And if I’m moving in, I’ll want to change a few things, nothing major… just a few touches

Owen: Yep, no problem there either.

Jennifer: And Owen?

Owen: Yeah…

Jennifer: You are going to have to start picking up your towels off the floor after you’ve had a shower because dude, that drives me crazy

Owen: Now hold on one-minute Jennifer…

He bursts out laughing, kissing her on the cheek

Owen: Anything, the house will be just as much yours as mine

Jennifer: OK then, let’s do this… roomie.

They hug again, like the excitable young couple than they obviously are. Truth was, Owen wasn’t sure she was going to say yes, and now that she had, there was still a hint of disbelief. What he didn’t know however, was that Jennifer could not believe her luck that he had asked her. One thing that was for certain however, THIS was one thing that NEITHER wanted to mess up.

Diary Entry – 2nd of November 2020

SOOOO happy than Jen agreed to move in.

Of course, we still have the issue of her parents, but I am sure that by now it will be OK. Even AJ was talking to me with some normality now, and if anything, it should make it even more clear how much I love their daughter.

Knowing that she will be around after EMERGE finishes at the end of this month… it’s going to be brilliant and will make the house seem a lot less lonely than it currently is since Becca and Peyton left.

It really feels like our relationship has stepped up another level. And I cannot be any happier about it than I am.

Mom will be so pleased LOL

2nd of November 2020
Los Angeles

The call had come totally out the blue and had been more than a little unexpected. Owen hadn’t heard from Finch, his one-time best friend, for months after they had an altercation over the girl he had been seeing. This girl had promised that she would split their friendship down the middle, and had succeeded in doing exactly that, the moment Owen had spoken against her. Lauren, the name of this girl, had sent many texts after that day, to wind Owen up, but he had refused to give her the satisfaction of a reply. Finch calling him however certainly put a smile on his face and made him wonder if he had the willpower to not respond now, he had this in his back pocket. No matter, when Finch had asked to meet Owen, Owen had of course agreed. Half because his friend seemed concerned about something, and secondly because he was intrigued as to if they had split up. And when he arrives at the café that was one of their favorite coffee house back at the day, Finch is already sat down, having bought them both a coffee and he seems to be nervously biting his nails.

Finch: Hey man, thanks for coming

Owen: Not a problem bro, thanks for the coffee.

Finch: You still Vegan right? Got it with Almond Milk, that ok?

Owen: Yeah, still doing it, at least for now anyway

Finch: Rather you then me…

Owen simply nods and takes a sip of his drink. He wanted Finch to drive the conversation, and it was obviously Finch had something to say, but wasn’t sure how to breach it. Although he wasn’t proud of it however, Owen wasn’t going to make it easy for him.

Finch: So, how you been? You still going out with that Helms chick?

Owen: If you mean Jenni, yeah, I am. In fact, she’s moving in with me.

Finch: Good work man, good work. Punching way above your league there

Owen sighs, suddenly not wanting to play this game anymore. Even when they were friends, Finch had this annoying quality that Owen could just about bear. Now they were not on good terms, that annoyance was multiplied tenfold.

Owen: So, people tell me… and yet here we are. How’s about you and Lauren, you still love young dream?

Finch doesn’t fail to hear the sarcasm in Owen’s voice, and to be fair Owen didn’t care if he did or not.

Finch: No, we broke up… well, she broke up with me.

Owen keeps as straight a face as he possibly can. Even if he hadn’t like her, Finch obviously did, and would be cut up about it no doubt. He couldn’t however stop himself from asking the question that entered his head.

Owen: So what happened then? Could you not afford to bank roll her any longer?

Finch lowers his head, clearly embarrassed.

Finch: Something like that… turns out you were right about her all along.

Owen bites his tongue, and pauses, not wanting ‘I told you so’ to be the next words that left his mouth. Instead, he takes another sip of his coffee, trying his best to keep the smug look from his face.

Finch: So go on then, say it. We both know you are thinking it.

Owen: What’s that?

Finch: Oh, come on Cruze, don’t patronize me, we both know what you are thinking right now.

Owen: Look man, you know my thoughts about her, but you loved her… that ain’t my style.

Finch: Well, you are a better man than me, but we knew that already.

Owen: That we did…

Finch forces a smile, but Owen doesn’t smile back

Owen: So, why am I here Finch? I don’t need an apology, I’m just glad that she’s out of your life. No hard feelings ok bro let’s just get back to how we was.

Finch nods, but it is obvious there is something else.

Owen: But that’s not it, is it?

Finch takes the deepest of breaths, and for the first time Owen feels a twinge of concern deep down in his gut

Owen: Finch, what’s going on?

Finch squeezes the top of his nose with his forefinger and thumb, clearly troubled

Owen: Finch?

Finch: I’m in some serious shit bro

Owen’s first reaction was ‘of course you are’ but he doesn’t say it. Knowing Finch never did things in halves, if he said he was in shit, it was bad.

Owen: What do you mean?

Finch: Lauren’s brother… he is a dealer in downtown LA

Owen wants to interject now, but doesn’t, fearing that he wouldn’t get the whole story if he did.

Finch: We got talking, and he asked if I wanted to help him get rid of some gear for him in some of the nightclubs. I didn’t want to Owen, I swear I didn’t, but Lauren…

Owen: Persuaded you, right?

Finch: Yeah, something like that. Anyway, basically one of the guys I was selling to didn’t pay me, so I ended up owing Marshall… that’s her brother

Owen: I kinda guessed

Finch: But I didn’t have that kind of cash straight away so he said I could pay in instalments till I was clear

Owen: Well, that was good of him, considering he’d put you in danger anyway

Finch: Yeah, it was bro, he didn’t have to… and if I hadn’t been seeing his little Sister he probably wouldn’t have. But now I’m NOT seeing her…

Owen: He wants payment straight away.

Finch nods, the shame etched over his face

Owen: For Gods sake Finch, how else did you think this was going to end?

Finch: I know, I know… but like you said, I was a lovesick bitch, and I would have done anything for her.

Owen: Apparently so… so that is why I am here then, to be the Bank of Owen and get you out of the shit

Finch: Believe me bro, if I could ask anyone else I would. But I don’t know anyone else who can get his hands on that amount of cash. And it would only be a loan I promise you… I’d pay back every cent.

Owen shakes his head, partly not believing what he was hearing, but then realizing that this was Finch they were talking about, and this was par for the course. Of course, it wasn’t usually at this kind of level, but Finch had always been someone who could find trouble quite easily.

Owen: OK, so say I agree to bail you out, how much are we talking?

Finch: 10K

Owen’s eyes widen

Owen: Fuck me, what were you selling?

Finch: I know, I know… please Owen…

Owen holds up his hand, stopping Finch as he speaks

Owen: Dude, I’ll lend you the money, just stop. I just can’t believe you got yourself into this crap, you have to sort yourself out bro you really do.

Finch: I know, and I will. This is the last time I promise you. I will make it up to you I swear.

Owen sighs, coming to the realization of how much things had changed between the two of them over the past few years. Not seeming like that long ago it looks like Finch had the career in sports ahead of him.

Owen: Look, I am leaving in a few hours for Sydney for the Southern Hemisphere leg of the tour. The minute I get back, we’ll sort this out.

Finch: Cool, thanks bro

Owen: Just, try to stay out of trouble till then… OK?

Owen stands, taking another sip of his coffee before pushing it to the side.

Finch: I will… and good luck on the tour.

Owen: Thanks Man, I will see you soon.

Owen starts to walk away from the Café knowing that in helping Finch, he was probably enabling his friend to continue messing up, knowing that Owen would always bail him out. But Owen had heard about some of the gangs in LA, and that they didn’t mess around, and thus couldn’t bring himself to leave him to the wolves. But this was the last time he promises himself, next time he was on his own.

11th of November 2020
Johannesburg

Whenever the SCW went on tour, the amount of responsibilities to the brand ramped up. Being in cities and indeed countries that they didn’t usual perform in, the SCW Board wanted to make sure that their imprint was left, and so therefore appearances and signings were of the norm. It was not to the levels of the Rise to Greatness fan fests, but it ran it close, the fans just as excited to see the superstars of SCW. And although man wouldn’t ever admit to it, whenever these things happen, Owen and the rest of the Perfect Pack where usually the ones that most wanted to see, their stock having gone through the roof of late and their reputations as the future of the company.

The roster split had therefore made sure that in Johannesburg, the entire ‘Pack’ was in attendance, safety in numbers considering the Wonderland and Sienna Swann were there two, Sienna in her hometown just as popular as the they were if not more. Thankfully, Sienna was appearing somewhere else with Bree, Owen knowing that if she was here, she would be comparing queue sizes, or something else just as trivial, or knowing her current mindset, attacking Kelcey.

As Owen signs a Breakdown program, Aaron takes a selfie with one of the fans. However instead of sitting down, he instead walks behind Owen, tapping him on the shoulder

Aaron: Bro, I am gonna get a coke or something, water isn’t doing anything for me. You need anything?

Owen: Yeah man, I could go a coke… and ask if they have any snacks or something, I’m wasting away here.

Aaron: Sure thing…

Owen watches as he walks away, before turning back to the front, as a woman in a ‘Legends Never Die’ tee shirt takes her place at the front of the queue, pushing a program across the table.

Owen: Hey, who shall I sign it to?

Woman: Dorothy please… it is not for my son or anything, it’s for me

Owen laughs, as he signs the program ‘With Love, Owen’

Owen: I can see that, thanks for the support. You from around here?

Dorothy: Yes I am… I’ve got the full set now

Owen scowls, not sure what she means

Owen: Full set?

Dorothy: Yes, of all the Cruze boys. It’s been ages since I met Shaun, when I saw the tour announced I was praying you were on this leg… and here you are.

Owen: Yep, here I am… so you met my Dad as well?

Dorothy: Yes, and he was a lovely man… just like he was on screen.

Owen: Well, you seem pretty lovely yourself Dorothy…

Dorothy blushes, even though she was old enough by some way to be his Mother.

Dorothy: You Cruze boys all have a way with the Ladies don’t you?

Owen: I wish. You coming to the show tonight?

Dorothy: Yes, make sure you beat Blake Mason, won’t you? Awful what he did to Orlando’s wife, ditching her like that.

Owen laughs, he was sure Taylor would love being called Orlando’s wife.

Owen: OK, well enjoy, and nice to meet you.

Dorothy: You too Owen

The woman makes her way along the line of the queue, an unkempt man stepping in her place, Owen immediately placing the Sienna Swann tee-shirt.

Owen: Nice shirt bro, fan of the hometown girl huh?

Man: I’m her biggest fan Cruze…

There was a certain edge in his voice that makes Owen feel a little nervous.

Owen: That good, I’m sure she appreciates your support. But are you sure you’re in the right queue? I mean, I don’t think she’d like you fraternizing with the ‘enemy’

Owen tries to make light of the situation, but the man’s demeanor only seems to get even more intense.

Man: No, I’m in the right queue. I want to know who you think you are, constantly putting yourself in Sienna’s business, and claiming all the title shot SHE should get.

Owen: Look, bro… this isn’t the time or place

Man: NO, whatever Owen Cruze asks for, Owen Cruze gets, while the best wrestler on the roster is treated like garbage

Owen looks up at a member of the security, trying to catch his eye.

Man: You need to pay Cruze, you need to pay for all that you have done to Sienna…

Owen: Look mate…

Man: And I’m going to make you pay.

The man reaches in his coat, and pulls out a knife, lunging forwards at Owen who has instinctively pushes his chair back. Thankfully, the security team as seen what is going on, and tackle the man to the ground, before then dragging him away. Owen sits there in shock, surrounded by the screaming of some of the fans who witnessed everything, Aaron returning to absolute bedlam. The event organizer comes over to Owen, Aaron still confused as to what is happened

Organizer: Mr. Cruze… I am so, so sorry that just happened

Aaron: WHAT just happened

Owen: A Sienna ‘fan’ just went for me bro, no big deal

Organizer: I have no idea how he could have got a knife inside Owen. I don’t know what to say.

Aaron: A knife? Jesus Christ Owen you ok?

Owen: Yeah, I’m fine… it’s over. Let’s just get back to it.

Organizer: You sure?

Owen: Show must go on right?

Organizer: OK, it won’t happen again… sorry.

Owen holds up his hand, Aaron passing him an already opened bottle.

Aaron: Turns out her fans are just as bad as she is

Owen: Yeah…

Aaron: You sure you’re ok man, I can hold the fort if you want to take a break?

Owen: Nah, they came to see US, and that’s precisely what they are going to get.

He motions to the next person to step forwards, and he’s glad it’s a kid with his Mom, the kid about ten years old

Owen: Hey kiddo, hope that didn’t scare you any? Just a silly man, that’s all

The boy nods

Owen: What’s your name?

Boy: Andrew

Owen: Cool

Owen starts to sign the program, and although the child doesn’t notice, the Mother, and indeed Aaron see just how much his hand is shaking as he tries to write, almost unable to complete the sentence. He pushes the program back with a forced smile

Owen: Cheers Kid

Owen then gets to his feet as they walk away.

Owen: Think I will take a break man… ten minutes ok?

Aaron: Take as long as you need bro.

Aaron watches as he friend walks away, all eyes on Owen as he walks through a curtain and into the back. Owen goes straight to the toilets, and stands next to the sink, splashing water in his face before looking directly into the mirror and taking the deepest of breaths, his eyes closed, knowing what he will see if he opens them. He turns, drying his hands and never once looking at a mirror, before heading towards the door and out the bathroom… leaving FEAR behind, without once having the courage to face it.

11th of November 2020
Johannesburg

Almost immediately after the signing ending, Owen had made his way back to the hotel. Aaron and the other members of the Perfect Pact had wanted to talk to him about what had happened, but Owen wasn’t in the mood to deal with it right now. So, he’d taken a shower and then left his hotel with his sports bag over his shoulder, deciding that a walk to clear his head was the best course of action. He knew that with only a few hours till showtime he couldn’t still feel this way, because he was seriously shook up by the altercation and felt a vulnerability he hadn’t felt since facing Giovanni. After half hour of walking around the area, he finds himself outside the TicketPro Arena, with the fans already starting to form queues. Some of them look over and point, recognizing him. Other say hey, others ask if he is ok, the news of the earlier attack having broken on SupremeCW.Com, but none of them really bother him too much, as if sensing that now wasn’t really the time. He sits himself down, and pulls out his mobile phone, switching to the forward-facing camera. And aware that several people are idly standing around, and probably listening he starts to speak.

/RECORDING

“I’ve never been one to go for fear as a concept when it comes to our industry. Oh don’t get me wrong, I came close with Giovanni… that fella nearly had me, and I can admit that without any remorse whatsoever. But although Giovanni almost broke me and yeah, almost left me fearing for my future within SCW, he didn’t. And so therefore all he achieved was to strengthen my resolve. When it comes to the business, I fear no man, or woman. I fear no defeat, just as I don’t fear the responsibly that comes with success. Because when you HAVE stared that emotion in the face, and I’m not talking about Giovanni now and his faux smoke and mirrors kind… I’m talking the kind whereby you are scared that your life could legitimately be coming to an end, you realize that this industry is nothing to be afraid of. Not Giovanni Aries. Not Xander Valentine. No one.”

He takes a deep breath, obviously still emotional.

“My opponent this week in this beautiful city… I mean seriously, it’s ironic for us that the locals call it the ‘City of Gold’, but I digress. My opponent knows a fair amount about fear, or at least that’s the way it seems. You only have to look down his social media feed, or indeed watch him questioning his involvement in this World Title Series, to easily come to the conclusion that right now, Blake Mason is fearful that his career is over, and he had nothing left to give. He’s got Sasha, the leader of SCW, TELLING HIM OUTRIGHT that he belongs, that he belongs in this series on merit. He’s got everyone around him, telling him that it wasn’t that long ago he held a SCW Championship, two if you count the tag championship we held together. There are people on the roster who have NEVER felt that experience, never been able to call themselves a champion and hold a belt up high, but you Blake… two titles in a year, and still you won’t allow it to define you. STILL it isn’t enough, so much so you question your position. Fearful, that you have become a nobody. Blake, you God’s sake will you man up and instead of flip flopping from characteristic to characteristic just do the thing that Bree asked you to be. Be what my Mom Taylor asked you to be. Be what Kelcey… yes Kelcey told you to be MANY years ago. Be YOURSELF, stop being what you think others WANT you to be, and ultimately BE HAPPY. Because whether you think so or not bro, you DESERVE to be happy, and to stop being a weak-willed son of a bitch. You’ve never had courage in your convictions Blake, not when you were being an asshole, or when you were being the good guy, because simply put man, you are neither so stop trying to be. You are Blake Mason, perhaps something in between, and that should be enough. And it’s about time you figured that out, because let’s face it, I’m not the first Cruze to say precisely that… am I?”

Owen shrugs his shoulders, looking up at the people listening and finally finding a smirk

“Dad said it, Shaun said it… I know Mom said whilst she was a Cruze, and I’m pretty sure Sebastian would say it if he could. You’re not a saint, we all know that. But you’re not a prick either, just a guy who’s done some shitty things in his life. And yet, it is those shitty things that follow you around, like an albatross around your neck. Like these aberrations won’t allow you finally get rid of the monkey on your back. You could, seriously, you could do it quite easily, and yet you decide not to. It’s as if you either believe its what you deserve, OR you really can’t be bothered to put the effort into making that change. And so, what we get, the people that really do give a shit about, is this constant rollercoaster of emotions, where we simply do not know which version of Blake Mason we are going to get. You said on Twitter that everyone wants to remind you who you are, or has a perception, but Blake NO ONE knows who the real you is, because you never settle, or let them. How many times have you told us that you know what needs to be done Blake? How many times have you said that ‘it begins’…? I’ve lost count mate… seriously. No one knows if you are the guy that sat me down when I was going to take part in the Elimination Chamber and cared enough to ensure that it wouldn’t change me. OR if in fact you are the guy that screwed over my Mom, and of course viciously dropped me on my head.”

The last sentence is said with more ‘edge’ that the rest, a little more feeling behind it. Owen seems to recognize this and holds up his hands apologetically.

“I’m sorry Blake, but you did. And the fact is bro, it would be VERY easy for me to make this match personal. Revenge for what you did to her, even though I’m pretty sure you’d prefer that revenge to come from me than her.”

The smile gets a little wider as he settles into the promo. This happened a lot, not matter what mood he was in, wrestling seems to be his leveler, and what brought balance.

“But what would be the use in that? Dragging Moms and your business all over the airwaves for the sake of proving a point? I don’t think so. Revenge just makes you lose focus. Revenge, all that will bring is mistakes. I’ve been told that many times over the course of my career, by many individuals. But there is one person that said to me, that holds more relevance in this instance. And that person was you Blake. The person that will go to war for those that he loves, EVERY SINGLE TIME. I’m not going to turn this into something it’s not, like people we know very well would. And I certainly don’t want you coming into this match with any other desire than to win. Because Blake, when it comes to the SCW roster, you seem to be one of those who is always ready with an excuse. In fact, I speak a lot about evolution, about learning from your mistakes and moving on. Blake, you are probably one of the biggest examples of never being able to do this. Never learning from all that you have done in your life, so therefore making those errors and causing those issues time and time again. This match Blake, I want NO excuses at the end, win or lose. Because this match is far from personal for me bro, … this match is going to be cathartic. And not for the reasons you’re probably thinking right now bro. See, I still remember being at that event to watch Ricky Octavius, God rest his soul, when you dragged me from the crowd and assaulted me. It’s not exactly something that you easily forget.”

He rubs his forehead, remembering the impact as his head hit the steel before he’d ever set foot inside a wrestling ring, still a child.

“But that was a long, long time ago Blake, you’ve flip flopped about a million times since then, and this match isn’t about revenge for me either. No, there are two reasons that I am happy that this match has come around and give me even more desire to win. One, to show you just how far I have come since that confrontation at Rise to Greatness, and two… move one step closer to that World title currently held by Bree. A title I believe that I am now more than ready to hold.”

Around him, some of the fans are nodding, and the crowd has gotten larger since he last looked, word obviously getting around what was going on.

“Because Rise to Greatness Blake, that WAS 100% about revenge for me and to your credit, it was a match that you gave me and agreed to. By then, you had realized the error of your ways, and were trying to make amends, and so therefore gave me my opportunity on one of the biggest stages of them all. I know, I’ve listened to my promo for that event recently, and I tried to make it clear that this was just about beating you, and proving I was better. But you only have to look into my eyes at the time to see the truth. Christ, I wanted to hurt you, I wanted you to feel what I had felt just over a year before. Thing is though Blake, looking back… was it really an opportunity at all, or where you just giving me a chance to get a few shots in and make you feel good about yourself? What do I mean by that? Allow me to explain. At that time, I was what… five months into my career. I’d gotten a few victories yeah, but I’d also had my ass handed to me on many occasions. You on the other hand had many years’ experience over me, you HAD to believe that beating the rookie was a pretty sure thing, so surely, looking back, giving me that match wasn’t that big a deal? And let’s face it Blake, IN the match itself, that was how it came to pass. Of course, I got those shots in, and yes, I didn’t indeed have my moments no doubt. But I have said since, in those early days, my matches with you, and indeed Regan were the ones that defined me more than any other. It was those matches that made me realize just how far I had to go. At Rise to Greatness Blake, I was seriously overmatched, no doubt about it, but I still got what I needed from it. Tonight, in Johannesburg is about showing you, and indeed anyone else who STILL even now doubts me, that is no longer the case.”

Someone close by says ‘Yeah’ which makes Owen chuckle. The fans being around him was helping him to forget about what happened earlier. Whoever that was, wasn’t a wrestling fan, these people were… good people. The guy was a psycho, pure and simple.

“Thing is though Blake, I don’t need a tweet for me to have a perception of who you are. I don’t require a thinly veiled threat of ‘what you need to do’ and ‘beginnings’. Because where it matters most, in that ring, I know precisely who you are and how good you can be. There is absolutely no denying the fact that when it comes to in ring ability, your up there with the best of them, and that’s not me blowing smoke up your ass for the sake of it. That’s the truth. The thing is Blake, the thing that has been holding you back is confidence. And thus, if you can’t believe in yourself, how can anyone else? But I do Blake, I’ve always believed in you. I believed in you as Rise to Greatness, and I believed in you as my tag partner when we shocked the world and claimed the tag titles. You don’t believe you should be in this series… that’s fine, but I do. And I’m not going to fall into any trap whereby I start believing your words and taking them as gospel.

YOUR problem though Blake, is for all your new beginnings, I’ve been travelling this path for a while now, with my only intention getting back into the World title picture and earning that opportunity. Even when I was dealing with Giovanni, the world title and being world champion once again was always in the grand plan. I’ve not been this close to that opportunity for a while now, but I AM confident Blake, confident that no matter which version of yourself you bring, I can still get it done and move onto next week in Miami to face whoever comes through in London… Ravyn, Tommy or Glory. Whereas you struggle with who you are, I know EXACTLY who I am and what I can do. And I know 100% that I belong in this world series, and that I can win it as well. That’s not guaranteeing that I will, there are those that will call those comment arrogances. Of course, that’s bullshit, because unlike those people, I don’t consider that title my right. I willing to work Blake, and tonight I will work harder than ever before to ensure I make no mistakes and capitalize on yours. Because for all your tools Blake, I have shown that if you give me one chance, just one… I’ll take it, and it will all be over, regardless of the momentum of the match at that time. And that doesn’t just make me good Blake, it makes me dangerous, that even off the ropes, even when I seem down and out, it could be finished in a heartbeat. That is what you face this time Blake, nothing like the wide-eyed kid you defeated at Rise to Greatness. Not a seasoned veteran like yourself granted, but a lion with pure hunger and desire to succeed that will come at you with everything and from anywhere. Are YOU ready for that bro? I guess we will see.”

Owen holds out the phone in front of him as he stands

“I hope you find what your looking for Blake, truly I do. I’ve no issue with you at all, none whatsoever, but that epiphany you are promising is going to have to wait for another week I’m afraid. This is MY moment, MY opportunity, MY time to shine… and I’m going to take it. For me…”

He turns the camera again, this time panning around the fans who have massed. Some are immediately embarrassed, other love their moment as the camera focused on them. And off camera, Owen says his final words

“And for them… and anyone else who helped put me right here… three steps away from once again being SCW World Champion. See you soon Blake.”

/ENDRECORDING

Owen shuts down his phone, putting it in his back pocket and almost immediately the braver, or indeed brazen of the watching fans step up, asking for selfies. He stays around, knowing it’s his duty, but somehow it feels different. A feeling of being constantly on edge, his relaxed nature from during the promo just moments before already gone. As he smiles through the anxiousness, all he can think of is this morning, and that any one of these people could look to do the same as that guy did so easily. And wonder, with real regret, if he would ever feel safe amongst them again.

November 10, 2020 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #78

Diary Entry – 19th of October 2020

If there were two things that I would take from Under Attack, it would be that firstly, I showed that without any doubt I am not just an ‘aerial’ wrestler, and I can be just as technical as anyone. A roll up might not be the most spectacular way to gain a victory, but when it was someone like Matt Hodges that had fallen prey to it, then it was certainly special.

The second thing was that no matter how much I believed my issues with the Wonderland was over, I was wrong. They may not have been targeting me personally any longer, but they were going after anything that was good about SCW. And that meant I had to step up once again and defend what was right. And so I would, with everything I had, because it seemed the Wonderland no longer had a filter, and if Sasha wasn’t going to do what was right, and kick him out the door, I would.

20th of October 2020
Los Angeles

Owen and Jennifer are in the gym, both training for what was to come in their imminent future. Although they didn’t train very often, it was always fun when they did, their styles actually very similar. They are tied up, Jennifer the stronger but she transitions out of the moves and whips Owen into the ropes, ducking to try and flip Owen and almost succeeding, Owen landing on his feet. He turns, just as Jennifer fires off a super kick, just holding it back before it connects with his jaw. Owen takes a couple of steps backwards, his eyes widened but a smirk on his face.

Owen: Whoa, where did that come from?

Jennifer laughs, shrugging her shoulders.

Jennifer: Dude, you nearly walked straight into it.

Owen: True enough…

Jennifer walks over to him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Jennifer: You ok, you wouldn’t normally make a mistake like that?

Owen: You do yourself an injustice Jen, it was a heck of a counter

Jennifer squeezes his shoulder

Jennifer: Owen…?

Owen rolls his eyes, dropping to the mat and rolling out to the ring, Jennifer following him as he picks up two bottles of water, throwing one to her, before sitting on the ring apron.

Owen: Look, you gotta promise not to get mad ok?

Jennifer: Me, I don’t get mad, I’m a Helms slash Street… oh yeah, good point.

She grins, trying to make light of the situation and encourage Owen to speak.

Jennifer: Come on, spit it out.

Owen pauses for a moment, before starting to speak.

Owen: I’ve just been thinking lately…

Jennifer: Careful Cruze, what have we said about that?

Owen: Jen… do you want to know or what?

Jennifer: Yes… sorry

She slaps her wrist, scolding herself but grinning

Owen: I’ve been thinking about you and me…

Jennifer: Oh…

Jennifer hadn’t expected a relationship discussion, it didn’t seem to be something that had been on Owen’s mind. But realizing this was serious, she sits next to him on the ring apron, nudging him with her shoulder.

Jennifer: So, what’s going on? You’re happy aren’t you?

Owen looks down at the floor, clearly embarrassed.

Jennifer: Owen, you’re scaring me now

Owen looks back at her, biting his bottom lip

Owen: Jen, I couldn’t be happier. Seriously, I loved Jaina, I won’t lie… but it was nothing like my feelings for you. I was young, she was my first proper girlfriend, but you… it feels real Jen, really real.

Jennifer: OK… and I feel the same, so what’s wrong?

Owen: Do you though?

Jennifer: Huh?

Owen: Do you feel the same?

Jennifer: Of course I do.

Owen: Then why are you so upset with Peyton, to the point that the two of you that are like sisters won’t even speak to one another any longer? So she made a mistake, and she admits it… but the way you have reacted, it just seems like too much.

Jennifer: It’s not about Christian if that’s what you are thinking Owen. You’ve just said it yourself, we were like sisters, and we did everything together. I just thought she would have a little more self-respect and to be honest more respect for me, then to do it with him right in front of my face.

Owen: You know she has been going through a rough time Jen, you know how much she has been struggling, missing Ricky.

Jennifer: Haven’t we all?

Owen: Of course we have… but Peyton has taken it personally, she blames herself for his death, and still even now she hasn’t gotten over it. She’s been floundering… still is. And right now the one person she needs won’t even talk to her.

Jennifer: And whose fault is that?

Owen sighs

Jennifer: You think it’s mine don’t you? You think I should just forgive her, and things get back to how they were before?

Owen puffs out his cheeks, but doesn’t say a word

Jennifer: Well, that’s just great isn’t it? My own boyfriend doesn’t support me. Who knows, maybe she will sleep with you next if you play your cards right…

Even before she finishes the sentence, she knows that she has said the wrong thing, Owen pushing himself off the apron with a shake of his head. Jennifer quickly grabs his hand and spins him around to face her, looking him deep in the eyes

Jennifer: I’m sorry, that was out of order.

Owen: It’s ok…

Jennifer: No, it’s not… I know how difficult this is for you, being stuck in the middle. But I can’t help the way I’m feeling Owen, I feel like she has betrayed me. You understand that right?

Owen: I do Jen, I understand both sides. I just wish the two of you would sit down and just talk about it. I’m sure you could both figure it out.

Jennifer: Maybe…

The tone of her voice tells him that she doesn’t think so. Although she could never hate Peyton, right in this moment it felt like she had damaged the friendship for however. By betraying an unwritten rule. And although Owen doesn’t want to ask the question, it has left his lips before he can stop it, immediately fearful for the answer.

Owen: Jen, do you still love Christian?

Just like this conversation, she hadn’t expected that question, and because of that, there is a momentary hesitation, a hesitation that Owen takes as his answer

Owen: Great…

Again, he goes to walk away, but Jennifer stops him, kissing him on the lips for what seems like an eternity, and Owen unable to resist. When they finally part, she looks him deep in the eyes, with as much emotion as she can muster.

Jennifer: No, I don’t love Christian. I love you doofus.

They hug, Jennifer holding him tightly. Truth was, she loved Owen just as much as her loved her, the things they had both been through making their bond that much stronger.

Owen: Can I ask you a question? I’ve been thinking…

Jennifer opens her mouth to say it again, but an eyebrow raise from Owen stops her in her tracks.

Owen reaches into his sports bag that is laid by the side of the ring, and rummages in his jean pocket, pulling something out that Jennifer cannot see.

Owen: Now that Peyton has moved out, I’m rattling around in that big house on my own, and let’s face it you are around most of the time anyway…

Owen opens up his hand, and resting in the palm is a key.

Owen: It was something Mom said, we have been going out for ages now, and I want to prove to you just how much you mean to me. We are both too young to get engaged or any of that stuff… and I’m pretty sure your parents wouldn’t allow it anyway. But, how would you like to move in?

Jennifer: …

Jennifer is speechless. Like Owen said, the two of them were both so young, she’d not even given this any thought.

Owen: I mean, I know Dave and Regan might not like this either, but you got your own place in London for EMERGE, this really isn’t any different. We could have a right laugh Jen, you and me living together. Heck, because it’s you, I wouldn’t even make you pay any rent.

This puts a glimmer of a smile on Jennifer’s face, but she is still in shock. As she doesn’t answer, Owen’s face starts to get more and more disheartened.

Owen: It’s OK, you don’t like the idea

Jennifer puts her hands on his cheek

Jennifer: Will you stop making assumptions? You’ve just dropped this on me out of nowhere, but I’m certainly not discounting it. You’re right, maybe it is time for us to move to the next stage together, and moving in would certainly achieve that. But it needs a little thought Owen… you get that right? And I need to talk to Mom and Dad of course… but I’m not saying no.

Owen: Yeah, OK… guess it was a bit of a shock.

Jennifer laughs, and hugs him once again. For however confident Owen was inside the ring, outside of it was a different story.

Jennifer: No more of a shock than you dying your hair green Owen

They part, Owen smiles, and shakes his head

Owen: Green hair, don’t care Jennifer.

Jennifer: Yeah, well you can start wearing a cap when you are out in public with me

Owen scowls, but when she smiles, that smile that melts his heart every single time, he realizes that she is joking. He hoped that she came to the conclusion that moving in was a good idea, but it wasn’t the end of the world. More important was her and Peyton making up, because he believed both would be happier if they did. That maybe a long way off, but he never thought that he and AJ would be OK again, and the two of them were almost back to normal, now AJ had realized how much he cared about his sister. Perhaps that one day, Peyton and Jennifer would work through it too… and Owen hoped that day came soon.

Diary Entry – 20th of October 2020

I needed to stop doing this…

With Jaina, I was always so unsure of myself and why she would be with me, and on several occasions I had almost ruined the relationship for that exact reason

Flash forwards to Jennifer, quite possibly the best thing in my life right now, and I was doing exactly the same thing

I had no reason to be jealous of Christian… except for the fact that the guy was now a man mountain. And I knew that Jennifer only had eyes for me. But still those same insecurities rose to the surface. Threatening to cost me another relationship if Jennifer ever tired of it.

I wish I could just bottle the way I feel when I walk to the ring, or enter an arena. I wish I could find the confidence I had when I wrestle, and bring it to my personal life. Maybe it was just the way I was… but being a Cruze, and with all my Fathers and Shaun’s self-confidence, surely some of that should have rubbed off on me?

I just wish I could find it

And start believing in myself AWAY from the ring as well.

24th October 2020
Los Angeles

Nearly a week had passed since the PPV, and Owen found himself desperate to get back into the ring again. The card had been announced, but Owen already knew prior that he would be in tag action again with Aaron, against Jake Starr and ‘Partner’ whoever that was. It was another chance to refocus on the Tag Titles, although they were still hoping that Bree and Sienna would slip up and give them an opportunity to tie up the league. Although Owen didn’t think they would, there was always a chance with Sienna’s current mindset. With this being the post-PPV week off however, Owen had done pretty much nothing but relax, and was currently spending down time with Shaun, Angyalka and Dorothea. Shaun had just taken delivery of the promotional pieces for To Hell and Cat, and had wasted no time giving Owen a tour of the website that had been created, a sub-page to the new Impact Media site that had gone up two weeks previously. There was little doubt that right now Shaun was enjoying his life, the smile etched on his face for what seemed permanent.

Owen: Can’t stop smiling can you?

Shaun had been bouncing Dorothea on his knee, the little girl giggling with every bounce.

Shaun: Huh?

Owen: Your face… I’ve not seen the smile leave it since I got here.

Shaun: Well, I got plenty to smile about kid, and anyway, it beats being pissed off all the time which was one my standard setting.

That was very true. Shaun had gone through some tough times, times when he had believed his life was over and stuff that he didn’t think he could come back from. Owen sometimes forgot that the death of his Father had been just as bad for Shaun as it had him, though Shaun had managed to get his life together much quicker.

Owen: Nah, it’s good to see. I’m glad things are going well

Shaun allows Dorothea to slide of his knee, and she runs into another part of the house looking for her Mum, shouting at the top of her voice.

Shaun: Certainly got her Mother’s lungs that’s for sure. Anyway, way I see it, you’ve got plenty to smile about too. Successful career, business… and a model girlfriend. You should be grinning too.

Owen: Yeah, I know…

Shaun: So why haven’t you?

Owen: I don’t know… just seems like my standard setting is pessimistic. At least when I’m not in the ring.

Although Shaun had been watching Dorothea as she looks for Angyalka, his attention is drawn fully to Owen when he makes that statement

Shaun: You too huh?

Owen: What do you mean?

Shaun: You got the Cruze family trait… never believe your good enough right? And yet, when you get between those ropes, you feel invincible?

Owen: Yeah

Shaun: Yep, that’s how it was for me, Orlando as well for that matter

Owen: So what changed? I mean, you’re about the most confident person I know.

Shaun scoffs at that comment

Shaun: Hardly bro… but in answer to your question, if I was going to say the one thing that made a difference and made me realize that I did indeed have some self-worth, it was Angyalka. Never under-estimate the love of a good woman. You find that, and you start believing you can move mountains.

Owen: That makes sense actually

Shaun: Of course it does… modern day Confucius me

Owen: No… I mean, I do feel more confident about this with Jennifer by my side. I dunno, I just feel ‘anxious’ if she isn’t there.

Shaun: Then I rest my case, but when you step into the ring…

Owen: If feels safe, and that I know how I need to act. Does that make sense?

Shaun nods his head in agreement

Shaun: Funny isn’t it, how stepping into the ring to face someone like a Xander Valentine, or just recently a Matt Hodges is far less unnerving than winding down a window and asking a perfect stranger for directions?

Owen: That’s exactly it

Shaun: Dude, you’re the well-known professional wrestler… how do you think they feel?

Owen: So how did you overcome it?

Shaun: I’m afraid I can’t help you there kid, because I don’t know. I think, one day I just thought, you know something fuck it. I ain’t going to be scared anymore. I just said to myself that no matter what challenges I faced, I wasn’t going to be afraid of failing. Just like when stepping into a ring, and knowing that you can lose, but instead of letting it beat you, you instead learn from it, and turn it into a positive.

He holds up his finger

Shaun: It’s like with the anger… you gotta learn to channel it. Use it to your advantage, and if you do the confidence will come. Believe me, without it, I’d have never gotten Impact Media off the ground. But even then, I still needed Angyalka to tell me that I could do it.

“My ears burning?”

Angyalka walks into the room, carrying Dorothea who had obviously found her.

Shaun: Nah, I was just telling Owen how without you, I wouldn’t have dared attempt some of the business ventures I have recently.

Angyalka: Oh yeah, this guy he used to worry about every little thing. Will I win this match? Will this film be a success? Can I be a producer rather than an actor? He’d still be considering it all if it wasn’t for me.

Shaun: She isn’t lying… you know what they say Owen, behind every great man…

Angyalka: Is an even better woman

Shaun laughs, as Angyalka sits down next to him, Dorothea making a grab for Shaun’s nose which makes Owen laugh too.

Shaun: Look kid, I think you need to just take a step back, and stop putting so much pressure on yourself. Instead of looking at what you don’t have, focus on what you do. You’re twenty years old and have all those things I mentioned early… at twenty I didn’t have the first clue what I was going to do. You more you live, the more confident you will become, and I’ve got a hunch that Jennifer is going to grow into a strong woman like my Angy.

Angyalka: Aww… isn’t he cute, my Norse God

She leans over and kisses him on the cheek.

Shaun: Hang onto her with everything you have, treat her like an absolute princess every single day, and I promise you, she will steer you in the right direction and you won’t go far wrong. You’re well on your way to being a fine man Owen, stay on your current path and that is one thing that is certain. And the confidence that you can do ANYTHING will come with that. You’ll see.

Owen: And if it all goes tits up, I’ll always have a job at Impact Media right?

Shaun laughs, nodding his head

Shaun: Sure thing bro… you could always mop the floors with that hair. Jennifer didn’t choose that I take it?

Owen: She hates it

Shaun: I’m not surprised…

Owen: Oh I’m sorry… I only gotta call up Google to show you some of your hair ‘styles’

Angyalka bursts out laughing, Shaun scratching the back of his neck

Shaun: Touché kid… touché.

Shaun was right, some Owen knew that he still had so much to learn, and yes, sometimes even forgot how young he actually was. He knew people his age that just like Shaun said, didn’t have the first clue what they were going to do with their lives, and here Owen was, his life mapped out, at least to a point. He had to start reminding himself just how lucky he actually was.

Owen: Breakdown is just down the road this week, you coming?

Shaun: Kid, I wouldn’t miss it for the world, I reckon the whole family is coming

Owen: Great… hope I don’t fall on my ass

Shaun: Owen… I doubt that very much. You’ll be brilliant, as always.

He looks over to Angyalka, who smiles at him reassuringly. He knew that how he felt right now, the nerves jangling, not wanting to lose in front of family and friends, would disappear the moment ‘Legends Never Die’ hit over the PA system, and confidence would flow through him, his adrenaline surging through the match and to the final bell. He wanted to feel like that ALL the time… but how? Like Shaun said, by not being afraid to fail. But that was easier said than done.

28th of October 2020
Los Angeles

Owen sits in his garden, and in particular his hammock, looking over Los Angeles. For once, he wasn’t having to travel, as Breakdown was taking place in his hometown. Flights and travelling was one of the worst things about his profession, the newness of it all having worn off a long time ago. Being in the cities was fantastic, he loved seeing difference places and different cultures, but the travelling he could do without. So he was enjoying this moment, and felt truly relaxed knowing that tomorrow morning he would take up in his own bed. Now however he had work to do, and swings his legs around to face the camera he had set up earlier.

“Under Attack has been a pretty career defining event for me, and none more so that this PPV just gone. Facing Matt Hodges was a huge challenge for me, as I made clear in my promo, and the truth is I didn’t know with any certainty whether I was going to win or not. It’s not like I was going to come out and say that Matt Hodges was a waste of space, as that would have been pointless. Matt had been on a tear ever since he had returned, and he’d wanted out match for a long, long time. I knew he was focused and he needed this probably more than even I did, and even though he was dangerous at the best of times, at Under Attack, he was going to be even more so. I knew how much he wanted to beat me, he’d made it clear before the four way of his disappointment it wasn’t just me and him. So winning, and indeed winning the way I did… it’s proven categorically that I was never a ‘flash in the pan’. I can still beat the very best this company has to offer. It’s showed that I have no intention of ‘stagnating’ any longer. And more importantly, it has showed that if I can beat someone like Matt Hodges the way I did, with a roll up of all things, I can win a match from anywhere, either on the offensive, or on the back foot. Matt, I just have one final thing to say to you bro, and that’s thank you. Thank you for bringing back that focus, and thank you for making me realize that when you needed to make a point, it was me that you looked to. Me that you believed would make your biggest statement to SCW. In the coming weeks I may have to thank you again, for being the ‘turning point’ for me looking forwards.”

Owen stands, and walks over to the fence that separates his property from the sprawling hills.

“Looking forwards… chance would be a fine thing wouldn’t it? Giovanni, where the hell do you get off continuing to do this? I mean in the beginning it was quite laughable the way you acted, continuing with this façade that you could turn me to the poster boy of the Wonderland. Then when you realized you couldn’t do this, that your Emperor out of Star Wars routine wasn’t going to work, you set out to destroy me, using the memory of my Father to try and mentally take me apart, and yet again failed in your pointless little quest. You try to come off as if all this is cold, and calculated. You try to show this as a master plan… but the fact is Giovanni, however much you intended for me to lose my mind, it is you who has finally lost the plot, whatever you have been on of late having warped your mind. You and your cohorts could have killed Peyton. You could have had a death on your hands and for what? A bullshit crusade against a made up Lizard King. Dude, just like Sienna, you have absolutely no place being in this company, you’re even crazier than Sienna is, and that’s saying something. You shouldn’t be in a ring Giovanni, not for a single second, because someone is going to get seriously hurt. The only place you should be, is inside a padded cell. And that’s why I’m not going to play your games Giovanni, because this isn’t funny anymore, you’re not some clown having your fun, you are a liability to this company and Sasha needs to do the right thing and fire you, and end your connection with this company. Because Sasha, if he does hurt someone, or worse, the blood isn’t just on his hands, it’s on yours as well. SCW is supposed to stand on the moral high ground of this industry Sasha… YOU are letting these people drag our reputation into the dirt.”

Owen shakes his head, and although he was angry, he was doing his best not to show it. The list was growing, of people Giovanna had hurt in this process of his, and each time, the consequences were getting potentially more and more severe.

“Though I don’t want to feel this way, it really bugs me that in the pit of my stomach I find myself wondering if actually, Sasha was the right person to carry this company forwards, when she will allow people to get away with this crap. Even Katya seems to have more courage in her convictions right now, and wouldn’t stand for this.”

Owen turns, sitting down on one of the fence posts.

“And it’s that ‘chaos’ that seems to be a theme, at a time when I personally am finally getting my act together. I mean, let’s face it, we all knew that the tag team tournament was going to be unpredictable, and so it has turned out, but now it seems Aaron and I are supposed to go into a match not even knowing who 50% of our opponents are going to be. I mean, it’s bad enough facing Jake Starr at the best of times, because after all, when it comes to him you are never quite sure what you are going to get. Shaun in fact used to call Jake a chameleon, because he tended to suit his alignment to any given situation, and that fact has never changed throughout his career. Good guy, bad guy, something in between, I think it’s fair to say Jake you’ve covered it all. So, all in all, it makes this match probably even more difficult than it was to face Hodges and Subaru, or whatever his name was, and even more difficult that facing Bree and Sienna, because at least there we could prepare. But not knowing who Jake’s partner is, on top of not knowing if this will be the match that Jake decides to trip the switch and be an asshole again, it COULD make it concerning…”

He smirks at the camera, shaking his head.

“But in reality… it’s not that big a deal.”

He brings his hands together, resting a clenched fist into the palm of his left hand.

“And I guess, that might sound a little arrogant, I mean who knows who Jake’s partner could be? He’s been in this company for years, and there is no doubt he has his contacts so it could literally be anyone, from Chairee, all the way up to a multitude of hall of famers. So I can imagine those that react to my sneezes, or a simple statement with a banal response… getting up in arms at the ego of this young upstart. But of course, as always, that is an exaggeration of the truth, as is most things that are said about me of late. Fact is, it doesn’t matter who we face because Aaron and I have faith in our abilities, and our connection to beat whoever we face. We know that with every single match that we team, we are getting stronger, and understanding what the other is going to do, before they do it, on more and more occasions. Unless Jake’s partner is someone he has teamed with before in the past, they are not going to have that, they are not going to have that experience of each other. And then when you consider Aaron and I are two of the quickest wrestlers on this roster, and Jake is 44 now, and starting to slow down, oh, don’t pretend you’re not Jake, it happens to everyone. Of course we have faith in ourselves to get the job done, and put another two points on the board, keeping the pressure on Sienna and Bree. And you shouldn’t take offence to that Jake, because we would feel the same whoever our opponents are.

But that’s not to say that we are not realistic Jake and John Doe… because we realize that we COULD lose. This tag tournament has already shown that literally anything can happen, and probably will, so talent and ability might be taken out of the equation. I mean, you Jake may have made aerial offense your specialty, a specialty that I have taken to the next level, but that’s not going to matter if Giovanni is going to be sniffing around my ass like a dog on heat. You might be technically more proficient that most, but Aaron is obviously more creatively technical that you ever were, but that isn’t going to matter if Sienna decides to go after Kelcey again, and we get robbed like we were in our opening contest. And of course, if your partner has anything like your 24 years’ worth of experience, there is always the possibility that you will find a way to get it done, because let’s face it, you’ve made a career Jake of doing exactly that, getting it done. So although I accept we COULD be beaten, and you are an absolute legend in this company Jake, I don’t think we will.”

He gets up onto his feet, placing his hands in his pockets.

“Jake, what is happening here is my career is all falling into place. The momentum behind me, Aaron and Peyton, all starting to build. Our confidence and our experience is growing at every turn, and I personally refuse to be derailed this week, in my home town of Los Angeles. You have no doubt experienced some reactions in your time Jake, both positive, and negative, but none of it will compare to that which will happen this evening. The place is going to be full of family, and friends and a multitude of other acquaintances, all paying good money to watch me perform and put another two points on the board. With our already built momentum, and that most bias of fans, do you really believe that you can rock up to the Staples Center and spoil the party, and at the same time make your first impact on this Tag League? No Jake, we won’t let you, I can’t allow that to happen. Because tonight Jake and ‘partner’ you are going to personally find out that the ‘future’ of SCW is brighter than you ever imagined, when Aaron and I light up the tag league once more. And then…”

A huge smirk forms on his face.

“GO AC UNIT!!!”

Owen chuckles to himself, as the scene fades.

October 28, 2020 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #77

Diary Entry – 8th of October

Two points on the board, and a pin over Matt Hodges… could have been an amazing night if it weren’t for the way it ended.

Things were getting out of control now, and it was becoming more and more obvious that Bree could not control Sienna. Not that it was Bree’s fault, because no one could control her, not now she had lost it and was out of control.

The problem was, people were enabling her to get away with this, and if it wasn’t for her, Kelcey wouldn’t have fallen foul to the Wonderland, who once again decided to get in my business. Obviously, three times was not enough, but then again, I already knew that. Only one thing could get rid of the Wonderland, and indeed Sienna, and that was management doing the right thing and growing a set, and for just once thinking about people’s health, rather than the almighty dollar.

I never thought I would think this, but SCW was letting it’s fans down, and also it’s roster that wanted to do the right thing down. And if things were allowed to continue the way they were, someone was going to get seriously hurt, perhaps even Sienna. And no matter how I felt about her, that wasn’t right. I still maintain that Sienna needs help, and she isn’t going to get that help with the constant reminder of everything she had lost.

Liverpool, England – 13th of October

Having watched Jenni at the EMERGE show last night, a night that hadn’t ended particularly well for her, Owen had taken advantage of SCW deciding not to air Breakdown’s heading into PPV week, and the two of them had stopped over in Liverpool in a nice hotel, Owen feeling like treating her. She had gone through a lot recently with Owen, and he felt like she deserved it with everything else going on. The tensions between her and Peyton had reached its highest peak, and due to that Peyton had moved out. And although at the moment he and Peyton were OK, he wasn’t sure how long that would last. Though Jenni would never admit it, her’s and Peyton’s friendship had been important to her, and Owen knew she was feeling down about it all. He did have an ulterior motive though, a visit to Anfield stadium, home of Liverpool football club. It was a lesser known fact about Owen that he had been to quite a few matches with his Uncle Shaun when he lived in England, and had always loved the atmosphere inside the stadium, a sport that Americans called ‘Soccer’. Although he had never been on a tour he had always wanted to, and this opportunity had been too much of a lure to pass. He had been inside the dressing rooms, stood where Jurgen Klopp did his post-match interviews with the press, and had also got to meet a couple of the former legends. Now, the tour had taken them to pitch side, Jennifer for the first time showing some emotion as they walked up the steps and saw the pitch for the first time.

Jennifer: Wow

Owen: I know right… remember the first time Shaun brought me here, could not believe how big it was in comparison to what you saw on the television.

Jennifer: You will have to take me to a match one day… I mean I’m not promising I’ll enjoy it, but I’ve not seen you smile so much as you have today in a long time.

Owen just nods, Jennifer biting her lip, hoping he hadn’t picked up on her obvious attempt at starting a conversation. Even though he hadn’t been in an actual mood, Owen hadn’t been as attentive as he usually was, and Jennifer knew something was still troubling him and as always was thinking more about him than herself. She’d had her problems with Peyton over the last month which had led to her moving out, but she didn’t believe that was what was wrong with Owen. She knew he’d gone to see his Mom and had surmised it was something to do with that, but Owen hadn’t opened up to her as yet.

Tour Guide: And this is the dugout, where Jurgen and his team plotted our Premier League Championship last year. And that seat in particular is Jurgen’s, though he doesn’t sit in it that much, your much more likely to see him prowling his technical area. Anyway, if you want to take a look around, you can sit in the seat if you want to for photos, I’ll pick it up again in about ten minutes and if you have any questions please ask.

Owen is the closest to the seat and takes the opportunity to sit down and sample the view. Again, Jennifer is happy to see him smile, and is quick to take his picture. He doesn’t linger for too long however as other people are wanting to do the same, so Owen gets up and walks up the steps to behind the dugout, taking a seat, Jennifer joining him.

Jennifer: Having a good time?

Owen: It’s great… can remember when as a kid I wanted to be a footballer

Jennifer: Soccer player?

Owen laughs

Owen: Yeah, it used to really annoy Dad when I used to say I wanted to play for Liverpool. He tried to play with me in the back garden but he was useless. Was much more fun when Shaun used to come around.

Jennifer: Sound like good times

Owen: They were… it’s nice being back at the stadium, reckon I’ll try and make some matches this season.

Jennifer: Well, like I said, I’ll come to one with you… might only be one though

Owen: Men in shorts, you will be all over it

Jennifer laughs, taking his hand.

Jennifer: Owen?

Owen: Yeah

Jennifer: Are you sure you’re OK?

Owen: Of course, what makes you say that?

Jennifer: You just seem a little bit distant that’s all. I thought it last night at the show, but I thought being here would perk you up. And although it’s nice to see you smile, it’s obvious there is something on your mind. I thought being here, you’d be a bit more, I dunno, excited.

Owen: I am, honestly… I am glad I got to come promise.

Jennifer: I sense a ‘but’.

Owen sighs, looking over towards the ‘Kop’ iconic amongst football fans around the world.

Jennifer: What happened with your Mom Owen?

No getting away from it now, Jennifer was just about as perceptive as they come.

Owen: She outright refuses to let me donate my kidney even though I want to. She’d rather ‘die’ apparently, her words.

Jennifer pauses before replying, knowing that she needed to choose her words carefully.

Jennifer: Owen, it is her choice, you know, that right?

Owen: I do, of course I do, but she does not understand that I just can’t let her die, I can’t lose her like I lost my Dad.

Jennifer: And is that definitely going to happen?

Owen: No, but…

Jennifer: Then you have just got to let it play out Owen. Who knows, maybe in time she’ll change her mind, but right now you’ve just got to let it go, you can’t let something like this come between the two of you. Not with the bond you both have.

Owen clasps his hands in front of him, lowering his head to look at the floor.

Jennifer: Owen, what’s wrong?

Owen: It might be too late for that

All Jennifer could think of was what he had done, but it was obvious to her that the last thing he needed right now was judgement being passed on him. She doesn’t have to say anymore though, as Owen starts to explain.

Owen: When she said I couldn’t help her, I just lost it Jen. I couldn’t understand how she would rather leave me alone than let me fix this. She called after me, but I just stormed out the house, honestly can’t remember what I said to her, the red mist had descended and I wasn’t thinking straight.

Jennifer: I’m sure she will understand Owen

Owen: That’s not it though, I was just so frustrated. I couldn’t help it

Jennifer: What did you do?

Owen: I just needed a release, to get rid of all the emotions that had bubbled up inside me over the past six months. I picked up a rock, and raised it over my head…

He pauses, Jennifer leaning forwards, wondering what came next

Owen: I just wanted so badly to break something Jen… so I put the rock through my windscreen, shattered it into tiny little pieces.

Jennifer: You didn’t…

Owen: Oh, I assure you I did Jen, I have received the invoice from the repair place this morning. I couldn’t help myself, something had to give.

Jennifer: I get it Owen, you were angry. It’s not like you hurt someone though, you shouldn’t dwell on it. We all get angry sometimes.

Owen: That’s not the worst bit though

He looks at her sheepishly.

Jennifer: There’s more?

Owen nods, putting his hood up as he suddenly feels the cold October air, the adrenaline caused by the stadium tour now starting to disperse, replaced by other, more negative emotions. Emotions he had been carrying now for a long time.

Jennifer: Owen, it’s OK, you can tell me. I won’t think any less of you.

Owen: Mom saw it all Jen, she saw all that anger materialize. One of the few people I would never want to see me like that saw the whole sorry show. And do you know what I did when I noticed her stood in the window?

Jennifer shrugs, dreading the answer.

Owen: I smirked… my Mom, stood there wondering what the hell she had raised and I smiled at her. I’m such a jackass Jen, what the hell is wrong with me?

Jennifer: Nothing Owen, there is nothing wrong with you at all. You’re just a guy who has had a lot of shit thrown at him in a short space of time, and is figuring it all out. And you will figure it out Owen, I know you will. And your Mom will forgive you… she loves you. It’s the reason she won’t allow you to sacrifice yourself like this.

Owen turns to face her

Owen: I just wanted to help her Jen so badly. After everything she has done for me, I wanted to give something back

Jennifer: I know you did, but the simple fact is you cannot fix everyone. There comes a time when you must concentrate on what’s going on in your head, before you lose yourself in the process. If your Mom’s needs you, I’m certain she will ask. Till then you’ve just got to get on with it Owen.

To anyone listening, it may have sounded harsh, but in reality, it was exactly what Owen needed to hear. He HAD been focusing on helping others, rather than taking care of himself, and how he was feeling right now was all those bottled up emotions coming out. It was not just what was happening with his Mom, there were lots of other little reasons that had built to this point.

Owen: Quite the philosopher when you want to be aren’t you Jennifer Laree Helms?

Jennifer: I get a lot of practice where my boyfriend is concerned

Owen: Yeah? He sounds like an exceptional stand up guy

Jennifer shrugs

Jennifer: Honestly, he’s a bit of a douche

Owen pretends to sulk, bringing a smile to Jennifer’s face

Jennifer: But you know something, he’s one of the most considerate, caring men I know, and I love him. He may be a douche sometimes, but he’s MY douche, and I wouldn’t swap him for the world

Owen: Aww…

Jennifer: Oh, you thought I was talking about you?

Owen pushes her, Jennifer bursting out laughing

Tour Guide: OK guys, if everyone has taken their photos, if you would like to follow me. Next stop, the players executive boxes…

Both get to their feet, Owen kissing Jennifer on the cheek

Owen: Thanks Jen

Jennifer: For what?

Owen: Just for being you

Jennifer: Yeah, I am quite the catch…

She flicks her hair out of her face, looking every bit the model, and no doubt with not only Owen’s eyes on her.

Jennifer: Seriously though, you’re welcome. I’m always here for you, no matter what.

Owen: I know.

They kiss again, before they take each-others hand, before following the crowd. Owen did feel better, no doubt about it. Yet there was still a nagging doubt in the back of his mind. What if this wasn’t just anger, what if he’d inherited an unwanted ‘Cruze’ trait? He was going to make a sustained effort to ensure however that Jennifer didn’t get wind of it.

Los Angeles – 15th of October

Usually Owen would find himself coming off the back of a Breakdown now, hoping that he hadn’t sustained any injuries that would affect him at the PPV. But due to the new SCW scheduling, ever since he and Aaron had beaten Matt Hodges and Subarashi last week, he had been able to focus on Jennifer, and then fully on Under Attack. He wouldn’t even leave for the event until late tomorrow, which allowed him time after training to relax. And he needed to as well, because although he had spent some quality time with Jennifer, he still felt like a coiled-up spring, ready to pop at any time. The only thing that seemed to be working for him was Amazon Prime, and the latest series of ‘The Boys’ that he was currently binge watching. As he lays, with his feet up on the sofa, the doorbell rings, and for a moment he considers ignoring it. Only when he hears the side gate open, does he spin his legs around, so they touch the floor, just as Andy appears at the window.

Owen: It’s open…

Owen rubs his eyes, looking over at the TV. He may, or may not have fallen to sleep, he wasn’t sure, but he gets to his feet and greets his psychiatrist as he pulls open the doors.

Andy: Sorry Owen, did I wake you?

Owen: Honestly don’t know mate… maybe.

Andy nods apologetically

Andy: I’m sorry, should have called but I was in the area…

Owen holds up his hands, stretching his eyes

Owen: Nah your good bro, probably shouldn’t be lazing around here all day anyway. Do you want a drink?

Andy shakes his head, holding up his hands

Andy: I’d best not, I’ve had three expressos’ already this morning, feeling just a little too wired right now. I actually need to ask a favor of you if that’s ok?

Owen: Sounds ominous, shall we sit in the kitchen, I really could do a coffee

Andy: Sure, lead the way

Owen walks through the house, Andy following behind him till they reach the kitchen. Owen pulls out a chair for Andy to sit, and then moves over to the coffee machine, pouring himself a mug of coffee that Jenni had prepared before she left this morning. He takes sip, nodding at the bearable temperature, before taking a seat next to Andy, placing his mug on a coaster.

Owen: So, what can I do for you?

Andy: Well, you know how I do some work for the children’s homes in the area?

Owen: Yeah, I should, you never shut up about it.

Andy laughs, he knew he was quite vocal when it came to his work for the kids.

Andy: It is a good cause… anyway, I’ve organized a sponsored bike ride along the coast of California…

Owen: Jeez, that’s a long way

Andy: About 840 miles to be precise, give or take.

Owen: Wow, well I hope you ain’t expecting me to participate?

Andy laughs, perhaps even more heartily than before.

Andy: Dude, I have seen you on a bike, there ain’t no way you’d be making that.

Owen: You are not kidding, just the thought of it gives me a sore ass.

Owen takes another sip of the coffee, enjoying the aroma that was already starting to wake him up. Jenni made her coffee really strong, just the way he liked it.

Andy: Nah, I’m not looking for you to ride it, I was just wondering if you’d sponsor me, you being my favorite client and all.

Owen: I bet you said that to Shaun as well didn’t you?

Andy: Not been yet… he is next on my list.

Owen: OK, well put me down for 10k…

Andy: What… you sure?

Owen: Yeah, of course. Like you say, it’s for a good cause, and the way I see it, seeing you walk like you’ve shit yourself for a few days makes it worth it anyway

Andy: That’s generous, thank you

Owen: Not a problem bud, in fact, since you are here, perhaps you could throw me some free advice?

Andy: You got it kid, what’s up?

Owen takes a deep breath, and proceeds to tell him about the whole incident with Kloe, and how he ended up smashing his car windscreen, and felt so out of control. Andy, as he always does, listens intently, making sure that he misses nothing and trying to get the true picture. He continues to listen, until finally Owen stops, and returns once again to his coffee, looking at the bottom of the mug with annoyance as he finishes off his drink, but stands and goes back to the machine, pouring himself another. Andy waits, digesting all the information as Owen remains over by the machine, leaning against the counter.

Andy: And let me guess, you think all your issues are resurfacing… and you are more like your Uncle Shaun than you would like?

Owen cradles the cup in both hands, nodding his head

Owen: I saw what happened with Shaun, the path that took him towards his lowest ebb. I do not want to go there and end up hurting someone I love, because I was too proud to get help. Truth is, even if you’d not come around, I was going to make an appointment.

Andy: You are really worried about this aren’t you?

Owen: Yeah, shouldn’t I be?

Andy smiles, getting to his feet and walking around the breakfast bar, standing in front of Owen.

Andy: Kid, everyone gets angry from time to time and throws something out of frustration. Breaking stuff feels good, I know I have done it… I doubt there are many people that haven’t. Shaun was different, he had a real problem that he could not control by himself, I don’t see that in you at all.

Owen: But the window?

Andy: YOUR window, not your Moms. YOUR property. Kid, I think you were more in control than you realize, and smiling after, I’ve no doubt that’s because it felt pretty good. I can give you a few exercises, but I reckon now your life is levelling out, so will your frustration. My advice?

Owen: Sure

Andy: Give yourself a break kid. Seriously, you can’t be a goody two shoes twenty-four seven. Sometimes we get angry, it is human nature… and it certainly doesn’t mean that you are a lunatic. You are a lot more levelheaded that some of the patients I’ve got that have been through the same deal as you have, be proud of that kid.

As Owen digests that information, Shaun appears in the doorway, taking them both by surprise

Shaun: I shouted… side door was open, thought you had intruders or something.

Andy: My bad…

Owen: What you doing here anyways, were your ears burning or something?

Shaun: Huh?

Owen: We were just talking about you

Shaun: Really?

Andy: Yeah, Owen was just a little worried he was getting to be like you. I told him he could never be as big a jackass as you, all sorted

Shaun smirks, but is still confused

Owen: I’ve been feeling pretty angry of late…

Shaun: Oh, your talking about the ‘incident’

Owen nods

Shaun: Kloe told me… dude, seriously, I don’t blame you. Kloe doesn’t think any less of you for it though. And you should go and see her, she things she has done something wrong

Owen: That is ridiculous

Shaun holds up his hands in defence

Shaun: Don’t shoot the messenger bro, go see her, it’s all good I promise. And with regards to that frustration kid, bottle it, and use it… to good effect. That’s what I did.

Owen: What do you mean?

Andy: He means channel it

Owen: Into wrestling… and end up like Sienna, no thank you.

Shaun: No, not just wrestling… control it, instead of letting it control you. Let it energize you to go further than you ever thought you could. Use it, to give you the courage to chase your dreams. Would I have turned actor, or formed Impact Media without having gone through my issues? I don’t think I would.

Andy: What he is trying to get over in a ham-fisted way is turn that frustration, into adrenaline and you won’t believe how far it can take you. It is a thin line Owen granted, and don’t let it boil over into entirely something else, but if you can control it like Shaun learned, it can be quite a powerful tool. You’re a good kid, you know the difference between right and wrong, you’ll be fine.

Shaun: Agreed… you are not me kid, or your Dad for that matter, and that is a good thing. You’re better than the both of us

Owen had always doted on his Uncle, and wasn’t used to seeing him be so self-depreciating. But the chat had made him feel better about the situation, and given him the inspiration to go and see his Mom.

Andy: Anyway Shaun, you’ve saved me a trip

Shaun: I have?

Andy: Yeah, I’m doing a sponsored bike ride down the coast of California in aid of the Children’s Homes, you fancy sponsoring me?

Shaun: Did Owen?

Andy: He did yes, and he was very generous.

Shaun: How much?

Andy: 50K

He looks at Owen who contains his smirk, not wanting to give the game away

Shaun: Really?

Andy simply nods

Shaun: Fair enough, then I will match it, chance to see…

Andy: Me walking like I’ve shit myself, yeah, I know Owen here said exactly the same. If there is one thing that doesn’t improve over the generations, it’s the Cruze sense of humor. Anyways, now I have fleeced you both, I’ll be off. And Owen, in all seriousness if ever you want to chat, door is always open. Shaun? Not so much. I’ll see myself out.

Andy laughs, and leaves the kitchen, Shaun turning to Owen

Shaun: You good?

Owen: I think so

Shaun: Cool, one question though?

Owen: Sure

Shaun: Did you really sponsor him for 50K?

For a moment, Owen is going to relent, and maybe one day he would tell Shaun the truth, once the Children had the money, he knew Shaun would see the funny side.

Owen: Of course. Coffee?

Shaun: Never thought you would ask.

Owen turns back to the machine, a smirk on his face, now knowing exactly what he needed to do.

Diary Entry – 15th of October

I am so glad I had the chat with Andy and Shaun this morning

It had allowed me to get things into perspective and made me realize that everything HAD gotten on top of me, and it was bound to boil over eventually. Thankfully, there was no real harm, except to my bank balance that has taken a twofold hit over the past week or so.

More than anything though, I know I now have to make a fresh start. And stop talking about the past, and finally look to the future again. The way it was in the beginning when I started out on this journey

I’ve taken a detour no doubt, but now I am back on the right track

With just one more apology to make.

Los Angeles – 16th of October

Owen walks up the driveway to his Mom’s house with some trepidation. The courage he had gained from his conversations yesterday had waned, and although when he’d text, his Mom Kloe was all for him coming round, it didn’t mean to say that he wasn’t about to receive a mouthful. He knew he had done wrong, and had to take his medicine, but that didn’t make it any easier to do. Before he even knocks on the door, it opens, Kloe stood in the doorway. She looked a lot better than she had been doing, less drawn and less tired.

Kloe: Owen, I’m so happy to see you

Owen: Are you?

Kloe: Of course, don’t be silly. Come in.

Owen knew she was making a concerted effort, not wanting to scare him off, but he enters the house anyway, stepping into the hallway.

Kloe: Go through, we are in the living room.

Immediately Owen picks up on ‘we’ which suggested someone else was waiting for him on the other side of the door. With even more trepidation than before, he steps into the living room, and as he does, realizes his fear was more than justified.

Owen: Mom?

Sat on the sofa with a cup of something in her hand was Taylor, Owen turning to Kloe who motions for him to sit. Owen sits in his usual chair, the chair he saw as reserved for him whenever he came around. Kloe takes a seat next to Taylor.

Owen: What’s going on guys? I mean, what are you doing here?

He looks directly at Taylor, who has not taken her eyes off of Owen since he walked in.

Kloe: Owen, I want you to understand what no one is angry with you, nor do we think any less of you. What happened last week…

Owen: Mom…

Kloe: No Owen, let me finish. What happened was a shock, and I am not going to lie, I didn’t like seeing you like that…

Owen lowers his head, knowing what was about to come

Kloe: But we understand Owen, we can see now that the frustrations were building inside you and we are both sorry that we did not do more to intervene. I guess because you are so resourceful, and so self-sufficient these days, we did not think you needed us interfering in your life.

Owen: You both have nothing to apologize for, it was me that was being a dick.

Kloe: No Owen, I could have handled it better.

Taylor: WE could have handled it better.

Kloe: I am not saying that I have changed my mind, or that I ever will, and I will not let you sacrifice yourself for me. But I certainly do not want there to be any anger between us. There has been too much of that in our family. I want you to understand my point of view, the same as I do yours. Not accepting your help isn’t a death sentence, I’ve still got time on my side. But that doesn’t mean that I don’t appreciate you, or what you are willing to do. In fact, it makes me realize even more what your Father, Taylor and I did, raising such an unselfish young man as what you have become. You being precisely that is all I’ll ever need from you and Ruby, because it proves that I got at least two things right in my life.

Owen: I understand

Kloe: Do you though?

Owen: Yeah, I get it… finally. I guess not having a kid of my own, I didn’t really understand. But I do now Mom, and I will back off I promise. But if you ever change your mind…

Kloe: I know Owen. I know. But the Doctor’s seem quite confident that they will find a donor, and the dialysis really is not that bad.

Owen: You have started that already, I wanted to come with you.

Kloe smiles, shaking her head

Kloe: Owen, it’s fine, I am a big girl, I’m perfectly capable. And anyway, Taylor went with me, it gave us the perfect opportunity to talk about you

Owen: Oh great…

Taylor: Yes, and it is the reason I am here now.

Owen: What?

Kloe: To give you the kick up the arse you sorely need.

Owen: Brilliant, so I’ve got the ‘Mom’ tag team on my case now. Reckon I preferred dealing with the Wonderland. So, come on then, what’s the deal?

He looks over at Kloe, and then at Taylor who starts to speak.

Taylor: I want to ask you a question Owen, and I need you to answer truthfully and not take it the wrong way

Owen: Alright…

Taylor: When is it going to be enough?

Owen sits there for a moment, scowling. Confused and not understanding what she was asking.

Owen: What do you mean?

Taylor: OK, let me put it another way. When will you have helped enough people in the world, for you to finally start thinking about yourself?

He remains scowling and looks away from Taylor for a short while and over towards the window as he digests it all. He then looks first at Kloe, and then back to Taylor as he replies

Owen: So, hold on, let me get this straight… I’m being pulled up for caring about others before myself?

Kloe shakes her head

Kloe: No Owen, that’s not what we are saying. You are only caring about others, INSTEAD of yourself.

Owen holds up his hands

Owen: I don’t get it. Growing up all I was ever told is how you must look out for others less fortunate than yourself. You are telling me now that’s wrong?

Taylor: No, not at all. Look at it this way… when was the last time you did something for YOU. The house maybe?

Owen: Don’t be daft, I’m sure there is tons of stuff

Taylor: OK, so tell me… but I reckon you’ll struggle. Even O-Cru you did in your Father’s memory, and not to make a profit

Owen: I mean, I cannot think of nothing right now, you’ve put me on the spot

Taylor: And yet, right off the top of my head…

She ticks off each example using her fingers

Taylor: I can mention the tee-shirts for the American Heart Association, the family in London, the tennis player, the sacrifice you were willing to make for Kloe and not forgetting you acting like Kelcey needs you by her side when she’s more than capable of kicking your ass if she wanted to. Need I go on?

Owen puffs out his cheeks in disbelief

Kloe: I know, it sounds like we are being harsh with you, and making it seem like all these things are situations that you shouldn’t have gotten involved in, but it’s not as simple as that. Don’t get me wrong, knowing you the way I do, you won’t consider it a waste of your life if you can point to everything you did to help others, and I’m sure there will be many, many people that would agree with you. But you are OUR son, Taylor and I, we want to see YOU succeed, and not just others off the back of your kindness. It’s time for you to focus on your own life, instead of only concentrating on others. It is time for you to start building YOUR future… yours and Jennifer’s future.

She stops short at what else she was thinking, Taylor throwing her a look knowing exactly what it was she was about to say. She loved Jennifer and although she would never say it out loud, wished that she and Owen would commit to each other and get engaged. She just wanted to see him settled, and as far as she was concerned, Jennifer was the perfect girl for him.

Taylor: We are not saying change Owen, we are proud of the man you are becoming. We just think everything needs to be more balanced, before you find yourself living with regrets with things you could have done, if you weren’t thinking about everyone else but yourself.

Owen: I think I understand

Kloe: Good, and maybe if you stopped concerning yourself with others so much, you will not find yourself getting so stressed when you cannot help. Just think about it yeah?

Owen: I will, and I appreciate you both looking out for me… even if it is hella weird the two of you getting on so well.

Kloe: It is a lot easier when we have a vested interest in our son

Taylor: True story Kloe, now that’s sorted… how’s about you drive us into town seeing as you are here?

Owen: Sorry, no can do… I got ‘me’ stuff to do.

He smirks, Taylor giving him that oh so familiar look, Kloe getting to her feet.

Kloe: We weren’t asking sunshine… scoot.

Owen gets to his feet, pulling his car keys out of his jeans pocket and heading for the door. He was glad of the talk, and felt ready now to face the future, by focusing more on the stuff that was closer to home, and a little less on everything else. There was of course the irony that he had been focusing on his Mom, but now was not the time or place for that, now everything had settled down. He had more pressing matters, HIS future, and as far as he was concerned that HAD to include Jennifer Helms. Maybe he had cottoned on to his Mother’s hint after all.

Atlanta, GA – 17th October 2020

Centennial Olympic Park located in downtown Atlanta was built for the 1996 Olympic Games. Previously it was mostly abandoned industrial buildings, a wasteland of little use till it was transformed as a lasting legacy for the City. It is in this Park, right in from of the water feature, occasionally firing waterspouts into the air, that Owen Cruze is stood, watching the display, whilst wearing an Atlanta Falcon’s Matt Ryan Football jersey. As the camera pans in on him, he turns, nodding his welcome to whoever would watch this promo for Under Attack. He then looks down at his jersey and starts to speak.

/RECORDING

“It’s not been the best of times recently for the Falcons has it? I mean, only last week they lost to the Panthers, the week before Green Bay and this week they got rid of their Head Coach due to their poor performances on the field. They currently lie bottom of the NFC South, without a win to their name, staring down the barrel of what is going to be a tough season.

Now, I’m not going to say I know what has gone wrong for the Falcons, I’m not the biggest Football fan, I prefer my ‘Soccer’, and there are many people a lot more qualified than I am to cast judgement. But this is a team that since 2010 has appeared in no less than five playoffs, winning the NFC South on three occasions and appearing in two super bowls. It is not the greatest record in the NFL, but it certainly better than a lot of teams. So, could it be that this year, the Falcons are being weighed down by that expectation. The weight of expectation from the Atlanta fans too much for the current roster to bear?”

He smirks

“It could be exactly that, it could simply be that the mentality isn’t right, and nothing to do with them not being good enough. And you know something, I reckon I know a thing or two about expectation.”

Owen puts his hands in his jean pockets as he continues

“Because from the very first day I stepped foot in this company Mr. Hodges, and I address you directly from here, there was a certain expectation placed on my shoulders. I remember the headlines well, ‘A New Cruze Era’, ‘The Icon’s son signs for SCW’. Being Orlando Cruze’s son meant that I did not have six months to settle into the business, earning my dues as I went. Every time I lost, the critique for my performances were that little bit harsher than others ‘rookies’ around me. The Cruze name hung over me, wherever I went, no matter who I faced, I was expected to go out there and not only perform well, no, that was not enough, I HAD to win. Of course, I mention my Dad, but it didn’t help that my Uncle was Shaun either, someone who is surely destined for the SCW Hall of Fame. You remember him right Matt, the guy you left to the wolves but STILL fail to acknowledge?”

Owen grins

“But in those early months, my fight wasn’t just with my opponents… my bigger fight, and what defined me just as much was that expectation, and the constant battle with it.  But then Matt, there was the other side of the coin, as there always seems to two sides to any story when it comes to our industry. A different tact, that was just as difficult to overcome. These people expected nothing from me except failure. They believed I would just be a flash in the pan, gone inside a year, not able to cope with the rigors of our industry. You all probably remember the comments such as, ‘he’ll never achieve what his Father achieved’, or ‘he’ll never be as good as his Uncle’. And of course, who can forget ‘SCW only signed him because of who his Father was.’ I honestly don’t know why people insisted on trying to destroy an eighteen-year-old kid who just wanted to wrestle and make his folks proud. But they did. They still do. They went out of their way to try and make sure I never got anywhere. They did everything they could to try and turn my name, and my families name, to shit and ruin our reputation. This were the kinds of people that never gave me a chance, simply because of who I was. And to this day Matt, they still don’t. They still regale in my failures, and scoff at my successes… trying to build this picture that everything I have ever done was handed to me on the silver platter. Maybe you think that too?”

Although Owen speaks about a difficult subject for him, he works hard to keep his emotions in check and his voice calm

“But fight I did, never once letting these comments drag me down. Some cower away from the internet Matt, for fear of being trolled on social media, but I insist on reading every single word. Intimidation, roasts, and the occasional GIF, I have had them all thrown at me, quietly keeping my counsel, as every single time these people dig themselves yet another hole for the sake of notoriety. Why don’t I respond to the various tweets I receive? Why don’t I bite, and give them what they want, like my Uncle Shaun did on so many occasions and regrets those altercations to this day? It’s simple Matt, there is no point. Nothing I will ever do, will ever change these people’s minds. I sneeze, and I’ve done it wrong, that’s the truth. And honestly, even if I did bite, I would never win those arguments… and it is not because I am wrong, far from it. It is simply because these people, they believe their ‘opinion’ is more important than ‘fact’. Their twisted rhetoric, their ‘truth’.”

A kid and his Mum walk past, the kid obviously recognizing Owen, so Owen gives him a wave, before turning back to the camera.

“Where was I? Oh yes, I mean there is no greater example of this in play, than the recent comments in promo’s that I have listened to. Even after everything I have achieved, winning Battle Royals, being the Iron Man at Taking Hold of the Flame, Male Wrestler of the Year 2019, and of course one of the youngest World Champion of ALL TIME. Still, with all of that behind me, there are people that are still not convinced about what I offer to this business. Just these past few weeks I have been told that I peaked too soon, and that winning the World Championship came too early for me. You personally haven’t gone down that road, and I thank you for that. But no longer was I being spoken of as someone with potential, now everything had changed direction and the World title was as good as it was going to get, and I would never reach that level again. Just imagine that for a second Matt, TWENTY YEARS OLD… TWENTY. Not three years in an industry and being told that’s it for me, I may as well give it up. Honestly, I am all for constructive criticism… I mean, tell me I go to the well one too many times or something, and take too many risks, but DONE…please. They should be looking at it as I won the World Title at nineteen, and I have only just gotten started. What am I going to achieve when I hit my peak? But Matt, I still listen, and I continue to learn. And I do that because sometimes, in amongst all the drivel, you find one golden nugget. A comment, or statement obviously designed to hurt you, or to bring you down, but instead gives you food for thought. This happened to me just recently Matt, as I put myself through the wringer once again in the hope that someone would say something relevant. And then, there it was… it didn’t come with a blinding light, or angels singing hallelujah, but it WAS certainly a revelation. When this person quite rightly said that I had stagnated.”

Owen walks himself over to a bench, sitting down and now looking directly at the water feature which is behind the camera

“And they were right Matt, I can’t argue. In 2020, I cannot say that I am in a better position that I was to end 2019, because if I did, I would be no better than the other boldfaced liars that reside in SCW. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that I’m not a better wrestler, or indeed or more experienced one from what has happened to me this year, but I ended 2019 ‘close’ to the World title scene, and right now, in this very moment, I consider myself in EXACTLY the same place, not quite ‘there’. Yeah, I’ve had my fair share of main events, and yes, the big matches keep heading my way. But that World title, any singles title for that matter, I have gotten nowhere near a sniff. So thank you, you know who you are, thank you for putting that out there, because it made me have a look at myself, the bigger picture. And it made me realize why and how this has happened.

See, you know my biggest problem Matt? It is that I care. I am not one of these people like you that can stand idly by whilst some bullshit is going on. If I see someone hurting someone else, or hurting this company, of which I am proud to be a part of, I feel the need to do something about it. And that is why over the course of the last ten months, I have found myself in a constant battle to try and make things right. Whether it’s been the Beauty Factory, a TRIOS partner who didn’t give a damn, or yeah, the Wonderland, I’ve always been there, front and center, trying to do what is right by people, even if my help wasn’t wanted, or indeed needed. Throughout this year, I have constantly allowed outside interferences to distract me, taking my eye off the ball. I have done the same as many that I have pulled up for it, I’ve forgotten that I’m a wrestler, and that nothing else should matter. I have gotten involved in other people’s issues, people like my dear Kelcey who I owe so much, but still doesn’t need me to hold her hand, more than capable of taking care of business for herself. The main reason I said I was here in the beginning, to be the best wrestler in the world, and continue my Father’s legacy, surpassing what even HE achieved. Forgotten. Because I couldn’t put other people’s issues, THEIR issues, to one side. Not understand that you don’t have to be a part of that issue, for a person to know that you have their back if required.”

He steeples his hands in front of his face, looking down at the floor for a moment before bringing his eyes up to the camera

“But no more… because that revelation Matt, has come at a REALLY bad time for you”

He takes a deep breath, for the first time showing a glimmer of emotion, desire etched in his eyes.

“See, I get in now, clear as day. How you conduct yourself away from the ring, it has no bearing on me whatsoever, and I should not care less. Whether you need to feign injury, or not to get a victory, that really does not need to be my concern. I can listen, and laugh, at your many digs towards me and my friends, but none of it matters. You can even leave my Uncle hanging, on the cusp of history, but it has very little bearing on me. What you are, what I think, we have spoken about it so much, too much… it’s been tiring, and it’s a relief to finally get away from it. Don’t you feel relieved as well Matt, that you are finally getting the Owen Cruze that you heard about before you made your triumphant return, and started this victory tour that you just won’t shut up about. Nah, there is no need to talk about any of that, because all I want to talk about now is Matt Hodges, the wrestler… and what YOU can do for ME bro.”

Owen leans forwards, clasping his hand in front of him

“Because when it comes down to it, yes, you did indeed give the former, and maybe Interim World Champion Bree Lancaster almost too much for her to handle. You Matt, have been taking out the names around here, as if ticking off on a list, even defeating three in one match, me included. You are without a doubt, one of the most gifted technical wrestlers on this roster, and you use all your sixteen years of experience to good effect every time you step into the ring. You are a strategist, someone always looking out for that one moment, the ultimate opportunist, ready to steal a victory from the jaws of defeat as I found out in the four way.”

He nods

“Let’s face it, what you do Matt… you do well. World Class.”

His eyes narrow, another smirk former on his face

“And without a doubt my, if you would pardon the pun, perfect opponent.”

He stares down the lens in silence for just a moment, before sitting back

“I don’t need someone who’s on some fool’s errand to destroy me, for some fictitious Wonderland. I don’t need to walk into Under Attack to preserve someone’s honor of fight another person’s battles. What I need at the PPV is someone who has done it all, said it all, and is a legitimate contender to the World title. Someone who has stepped into the ring with the best of late and beaten them all. You Matt Hodges came to SCW with one goal, to ensure that no one would ever forget your name again and climb to the top one more time and become World Champion, like some kind of fairy tale comeback story. And you are almost there, a victory at Under Attack, and maybe that prize will be yours, only the SCW Board can answer that. But the thing is Matt, I need something from this match too, and it is the reason why I am glad you are so highly thought of right now and so talented. It is time for me to drop the bullshit, and it is time for me to get back to what I was doing so well. Convincing EVERYONE, that I am what my fans and those that support me say I am. Brass tacks Matt, I need to prove to the SCW that you are NOT the only WORLD CLASS talent round here. And perhaps in this moment more importantly, I need to prove it to YOU.”

Owen stands

“And I will Matt. I promise you, that you are going to see a focus that has been missing from my game for a long time. The distractions in my life and career… gone. You are going to see the determination that you saw in both my Fathers, and my Uncles eyes, when they were at the top of their game.

You are not going to see a boy, playing at being a professional wrestler as many seem to insist. You are going to be facing a man, ready to be the very best, and laser focused on TWO things. ONE, giving these fans what they have paid to see, without the crap, electrifying and entertaining audiences all over the world and TWO, once again, in the very near future, becoming the SCW World Champion.

And you may scoff, you may even throw a GIF or two, but it will not change a thing. The only way to shut someone like you up, is by beating them, conclusively. And bro, that is exactly what I intend doing. I assure you Matt, I’m going to be coming at you from all angles, and at such speed, you won’t even see me coming and it is very difficult to get technical, and ground that which you cannot catch. And if you ain’t catching me dude, you ain’t beating me. And if you ain’t beating me, then perhaps by the time Under Attack ends, it will be YOU answering the critics.”

He looks up at the sky, taking the deepest of breaths.

“And finally…”

He hesitates

“Tuesday is the anniversary of my Father’s death. It probably doesn’t even register with you, you won’t care, but it will be four years, four years that it has taken me to come to terms with my loss. But you know something, I ain’t a religious man, but I reckon he will be with me, watching as proud as can be. And I cannot think of any better way than honoring the 20th of October, a date that will live with me forever, than beating you in front of the eyes of the world, ending this state of merely ‘existing’ and riding that wave back to the very top of the mountain. And congratulations Matt because it is you who will be the first to bear witness to this new era.”

Owen salutes the camera, and in turn everyone who is listening

“Because legends never die, not really. They live on in those that they leave behind. And my Father, the Icon, and everything he was… lives on in ME.”

Owen winks, and walks off camera, as the scene fades

/END RECORDING

October 17, 2020 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #76

Diary Entry – 1st October 2020

Well, Breakdown did not go QUITE as expected

Facts are facts, Bree and Sienna won the match, and so therefore are two points better off than we are. However, that is not as critical as it could have been.

Sienna showed categorically that she is not in her right made, and whether Bree chooses to believe it or not, eventually she will be dragged down by Sienna. Especially now Kelcey has gotten involved

That’s what at less made the result digestible, Kelcey doing what anyone else would have done in her position.

Of course, the threats ensued, to anyone and everyone as expected, but it would be Kelcey that Sienna would have to answer to… no one else.

As I clearly stated, Sienna needs help, and it looked like she was going to get it, but not in the way she could have if she had realized that all along, she was wrong. Now she had to face a healthy, and fully focused Kelcey Wallace. The true Perfect 10. And if I knew Kelcey as well I think I do, that would be the defining moment in Sienna’s career.

Because after everything she had said and done, how could she possibly ever hold her head high ever again without stepping away from the spotlight that she obsesses over?

Her endgame was coming, I can feel it… and although I should, I find it really difficult to feel sorry for her. When she brought all of it on herself.

2nd of October 2020
Bowling Green, KY

Jennifer had flown out to be with Owen during this round of shows, and as it turned out Owen was glad of the company. Of course, he spent a lot of time with Aaron, as they were still in the infancy of their tag team and figuring out what team they were going to be, but there was no question that Owen missed Jennifer when he was on the road. Although things had been awkward of late between Peyton and Jennifer, thankfully it hadn’t affected their relationship which was still going from strength to strength, and although he had plenty on his mind, he always had time for her. More and more she was becoming the rock he could lean on no matter the situation, and he was glad to have her in his life. She was like him in many ways and did not really go for the party life that many of their age did. She was happy walking through parks, hand in hand with her man, which is exactly what they were doing right now. Unbeknown to Owen however, Jennifer had picked up that something was not quite right with him this morning, and he wasn’t his usual self.

Jenni: Love this…

Owen seems to snap from wherever he was, turning his head toward Jennifer

Owen: Huh?

Jenni: Walking through the park, not a care in the world

Owen: Oh yeah, right… it’s nice.

Jenni: Well, at least one of us doesn’t have a care in the world

Owen has already gone back to that place in his head, and doesn’t hear her obvious comment. Jennifer isn’t letting this go however, the one thing that she held dear more than anything was their trust in each other, and that they could tell one another anything.

Jenni: Owen, let’s sit

She motions towards a bench, and they both sit down.

Jenni: So come on then, what’s going on?

Owen seems genuinely shocked by the question, not realizing he was being so transparent.

Owen: What do you mean?

Jenni: You have hardly said a word since we left the hotel Owen, something is obviously troubling you.

Owen: Nah, I’m good… just tired

Jenni: Not surprised, you were up most of the night. You’re not having those dreams, again are you?

He wasn’t, in fact he had not had ‘that’ dream now for several months.

Owen: No…

Jenni: Then come on, what is it? I am sure it’s nothing we can’t deal with.

Owen: Honestly, it’s OK.

Jennifer hides her reaction well, because inside all she wanted to do was shake him. Owen had become good at helping other people when they needed it, but still didn’t have the ability to be able to help himself or allow himself to be helped when he needed it. Instead of shouting at him though she takes his hand in hers, and looks deep into his eyes

Jenni: Owen, tell me. Is it your Mom?

Owen sighs. The truth was he hadn’t wanted to tell anyone his decision, not wanting them to have any bearing on what he was going to do. He wanted to speak to his Mom first, so that they could both get it straight in their heads before telling the wider world. Jennifer however wasn’t giving him any choice, and he certainly didn’t want an argument, not with the person he needed more than most.

Owen: You gotta promise now to say anything to anyone babe.

Jenni: You know I won’t Owen

Owen: I mean it Jen; I can’t have this out in the open until I’m ready.

Jenni: You can trust me

Owen nods, he knew deep down that he could trust her, and yet he still had to ask the question. He looks away from her for just a moment, before bringing his eyes back to her, composing himself with the deepest of breaths before he says the words he never thought he would say.

Owen: I’m done Jen… with wrestling I mean. I’m going to quit SCW as soon as they will release me.

Jennifer shows very little emotion, realizing that this was a big deal for Owen and that he had obviously thought on this for a long time. She knew that it was a consideration, and that Kloe wasn’t very well and needed a kidney transplant that Owen could probably provide, but she certainly didn’t think it would come to this, and not this quickly.

Jenni: So, is this because of your Mom?

Owen nods

Owen: I cannot just sit here and watch her suffer knowing that I can help her Jen. I know what I am sacrificing, and I know there are going to be those, probably even you, that think I am crazy. But this is my Mom, she has looked out for me all my life and especially when Dad died. This is my chance to give something back.

Jenni: I don’t think you are crazy Owen, far from it in fact. Of course, you want to help her, I’d be the same in your position, but that doesn’t mean you should have to throw away everything you have worked so hard for. Surely there is another way, I mean there is a waiting list for these kinds of things isn’t there?

Owen: There is, but that could be two, maybe three years down the line. And have you seen what dialysis is like, it’s horrible, I don’t want her to go through all that. I can help her NOW; within a couple of months she could be back on her feet and back at work as if nothing happened.

Jenni: Perhaps, but what about you?

Owen: I’d be the same. I mean, some Doctors would say that I didn’t have to quit, and that I could keep competing. But after surgery like that, it would always be in the back of my mind. I’d rather just walk away and leave it at that… it’s not like I haven’t got plenty of other things to keep me busy

Jenni: Like?

Owen: O-Cru for one, my family… and my girlfriend is cool too, but pretty high maintenance.

He smirks, pushing Jennifer with his hand and trying to soften the mood.

Jenni: I am NOT high maintenance Owen… I don’t suffer fools gladly, there is a difference. You know who my Mom is right?

That was true, the apple certainly didn’t fall far from that tree.

Jenni: But what about Kelcey… Aaron, Peyton and Alistaire? The four of you have really started making a difference. I mean, I know Peyton and I don’t see eye to eye right now, but what you are doing in SCW is amazing.

Owen: And I know, I am letting them down.

He lowers his head, biting his bottom lip

Owen: But they will understand, as will SCW. I promised myself to never be like my Dad, and always make sure I put family first no matter what. Not doing so cost Dad his marriage, I’m not going to lose Mom just because I was too selfish to walk away.

Jenni: It’s not being selfish Owen

Owen: OK, so maybe not selfish… but if I can help, surely, I should?

He looks at Jennifer, and she knew he was dying for her to agree with him and give him her blessing. This situation was exactly the reason why Owen hadn’t wanted to tell anyone, so he didn’t give anyone the opportunity to change his mind.

Jenni: I know what you want me to say, and I totally understand the way you are feeling, truly I do. But I just cannot accept that everything you have worked for, everything that you have been through, you are going to be able to just leave it all behind. I mean, look at Shaun, how long it took him to finally get used to the fact that he would never compete again. Just imagine that for a minute Owen, never again hearing the roar of the crowd, or 20,000 fans chanting your name. I honestly believe that if you do this, eventually you are going to come to resent Kloe for having to do this, to turn your back on something that you love so much. Yeah, in a few months when Kloe has your kidney, she will be ok no question, and that will be great. But tell me Owen, what place will you be in, knowing that it is all over?

Owen looks away again, Jennifer squeezing his hand

Jenni: I think we both know the answer to that don’t we?

Owen rubs his eyes, more than understand Jennifer’s logic and that she was probably right. But right now, Owen wasn’t thinking about himself, all he could think about was his Mom, and her suffering… he didn’t believe he should matter.

Owen: I’ll deal with it Jen, just like I’ve dealt with everything else.

Jenni: And Owen, if you decide to go ahead with this, I promise you that I will be stood right beside you, throughout it all.

Owen nods, once again looking deeply into her eyes that were showing true compassion to his plight.

Jenni: But I will say one final thing if you let me?

Owen: Of course

Jenni: After everything you have done of late for people, don’t you think it’s about time that instead of thinking about others, you thought about yourself. This is a big deal Owen, possibly one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and I don’t want you living a life of regrets.

Again Owen nods

Jenni: And Owen, I don’t think that is what Kloe would want for you either.

For just a moment they sit in silence, Jennifer not sure what else to say, and Owen not wanting to say the wrong thing in response. Although he was scared that telling people would change his mind, even after this conversation, Owen was still certain that he was doing the right thing. His whole life, he had lived it the way he believed his Father would want him too, and although he knew Orlando wouldn’t approve of this, Owen knew it was still the right thing to do. Jennifer knew she hadn’t changed his mind, but having done all that she can, she wasn’t going to allow it to ruin her trip. She said she was going to be there for him to help, and she meant it, and right now that help meant only one thing. She squeezes his hand again, forcing him to look at her before kissing him on the cheek

Jenni: We need Ice-Cream…

Owen smirks

Owen: Agreed.

They get to their feet, Jennifer taking his hand again as they head down the pathway. Knowing that very soon, the two of them would have to deal with the consequences of Owen’s actions. And knowing that without wrestling in his life, Owen may never be the same person again.

Diary Entry – 2nd of October 2020

Spoke with Jen today. Didn’t want to but she knew something was wrong so I was left with no choice

She obviously doesn’t want me to go ahead with the surgery, but understands that I have to do this and she promised to stand by me, which is something. She seems to believe that I have a choice, but how can I have a choice when it’s my Mom’s life we are talking about. Wouldn’t any child do the same thing as I was going to for their parents?

Wrestling is important to me, of course it is. I have worked hard to get to my position, to my standing. But none of it is important as my family.

I promised myself I would never make the same mistakes as my Father, I promised the business would never take precedence over my family, and it wasn’t going to happen on this occasion either

Once Mom is better and the transplant is done, I know that I will have very little regrets, if any.

She is the only thing that matters.

Wrestling will have to go on without me.

Decision made

5th of October 2020
Los Angeles

Once back in LA, Owen had immediately called him Mom up and told her he was coming round. To her credit, Jennifer had not brought up the situation again, and they had enjoyed the rest of their time together, Jennifer loving being backstage at the SCW shows and catching up with her parents. But the minute they were back in LA, he didn’t want Kloe to get wind of his decision before he’d spoken to her. He knew she would be obstructive, but he’d made his mind up, and it wasn’t going to change even if he had to remove the kidney himself. Once he got there, they had both caught up with what each had been up to. Kloe had been working from home on some projects for O-Cru whilst Pixie was in New York and she promised to show some of the latest designs once they had lunch. But the two of them both knew why Owen had requested to come round so urgently, so once the small talk had dried up, it was Kloe who made the first move, Owen glad of that, no knowing how to breach the subject

Kloe: So, I’m guessing I know why you needed to come around here so urgently, and it certainly isn’t because you wanted to see your old Mom.

Owen: I always want to see you Mom, you know that. And stop with the old… you look amazing considering your lengthy years.

Kloe gives him a swift clip around the ear which catches him off guard

Owen: Oww

Kloe: Don’t be cheeky then. You might be a big time wrestler now, but your Mother can still kick your ass, remember that.

Owen: You probably could

Kloe: I definitely could sweetheart. Now what’s up, as if I didn’t know.

Owen takes a deep breath, cradling a cup of coffee with both hands.

Owen: This kidney transplant…

Even as he says the words, Kloe rolls her eyes. Even though she knew exactly what he was going to say, she still found it incredulous that they were still talking about it.

Kloe: Yes…

Owen: I’ve gone over and over it in my head Mom, and I always come back to the same answer. I can do this for you, I WANT to do this for you… so that is what I am going to do. I’ve made my mind up Mom, I’ve going to donate a kidney, and so you don’t worry about me getting hurt afterwards I’m going to quit wrestling and focus on other things. Shaun and I were talking about the potential of a scholarship in Dad’s name, for guys that don’t get the opportunities that I did so I’ll be more than busy. And I’ll still be a part of wrestling, so I won’t miss it.

Kloe sits herself down, crossing her legs.

Kloe: Looks like you have it all figured out kiddo.

Owen: I want to help you Mom, to get back on your feet and live your life the way you want to. I don’t want you to have to wait for years, knowing that I’m more likely to be a match than anyone else.

Kloe: And what about everyone else that you would be letting down Owen. Your fans, your friends, SCW? Not to mention your Father

Owen: Dad?

Kloe: You think he would let you do this? At twenty years old, sacrifice yourself like this? Have you given any thought to what he would think about this?

Owen: Of course, I have Mom, I’ve thought about nothing else for the past month or so. But at the end of the day, it is always comes down to one thing. You’re my Mom… and nothing else matters, not really. He isn’t here, but you still are… and if I can do something to keep it that way, then I am going to.

Kloe pauses to take a sip of her tea, realizing that Owen was starting to get frustrated. It really was an amazing gesture, and Kloe was proud, and unbelievably thankful that he would go so far as to do this for her. But as his Mother, she believed it was her duty to protect him, and if she allowed him to do this, she wasn’t protecting him in her mind, she was using him.

Kloe: Ok, so let’s say hypothetically we did this, and it doesn’t work. In fact forget that, let’s say it does work, the transplant takes and I carry on my life. You are honestly going to tell me to my face right now that you could watch wrestling from afar, knowing that there was so much you still had to achieve.

Owen: I’ve been World Champion Mom…

Kloe: Yes, you have, and it was an amazing accomplishment no doubt. But we both know that being World Champion was never what it was all about. You were charged with carrying on the Cruze name, to taking it to heights your Father always knew you could. Do you think you have accomplished that Owen?

Owen: No, but…

Kloe: Then why do you think I would let you throw it all away, when there are still alternatives for me. I am not on my last legs, and you are not a last resort that I have to cling to for dear life. I have many options Owen, and more importantly I still have time. And whilst I do still have time Owen, I’m sorry, but there is no way I am going to let you do this for me. I love the fact that you would give up everything for me Owen, honestly, I’m so proud of you and your Dad would be too. But that doesn’t make it the right thing, not this time Owen. So thank you, but this isn’t happening.

Owen leans back on the chair, shaking his head

Owen: Why do you have to be so stubborn? I’m doing this for you because I love you

Kloe: I know you are, but you are blinkered by your love, and you are NOT thinking straight.

Owen: I have never been so clear on something in my life…

Kloe: Then it’s a good thing that I’m here and able to stop this. Have you spoken to anyone that actually thinks this is a good idea?

Owen: No, but…

Kloe cuts him off again

Kloe: Shaun? Taylor? Jennifer… do any of them believe that you throwing away your entire career for this is worth it?

Owen: No, but they understand.

Kloe: Yes Owen, they do… they understand because they love you, as do I? They know where you are coming from and I do as well. But Owen, the fact of the matter is this. If I let you go ahead with this, and throw away everything you loved… truly, I don’t want to live with that guilt. I’d rather die, happy that you didn’t have to make that sacrifice

Owen: That’s stupid

Kloe: No Owen that’s not stupid, that’s being a parent. And one day kiddo you’ll understand

Owen: Don’t patronize me

Kloe: I’m not

Owen: You are, you’re treating me like a child, who’s incapable of making his own decisions

Owen gets to his feet, pushing out the chair aggressively

Kloe: Owen, please… sit down, let’s talk about this

Owen: TALK!!! I’ve done nothing but talk to you, but you’re not listening. Can’t you see, I lost Dad… and I refuse to lose you

Kloe: I’m not going anywhere Owen

Owen: Can’t you see Mom, this is just like Dad, refusing help and look what happened to him. I lost him before I could help… I could have helped…

A tear falls down his face, dropping to the kitchen floor. Kloe stands, and tries to put a hand on his cheek, but he recoils away

Owen: NO… I can’t deal with this

Kloe: Owen please

Owen storms out the kitchen and to the front door, opening it and then slamming it behind him. The anger in him continues to build inside him making him more and more furious. Inside, his mind rages

‘Why can’t she see this is for the best?’

‘Why won’t she let me help?’

‘Why does everyone believe this is wrong?’

He picks up a boulder from the rockery, and lifts it high above his head, and before he knows it he bring it down onto his car windscreen, shattering the glass. He stands next to the car, his shoulders rising and falling as he surveys the damage, not caring one bit, and not seeing Kloe watching from the window, her hand over her open mouth not able to comprehend what she had just witnessed. He turns, and see’s her there and yet does not show a single ounce of regret for what has just happened. They stay in that moment, with their eyes locked, before finally Owen sneers, and shakes his head. He then turns, heading away from the car and down the street, as the scene fades.

6th of October 2020
Philadelphia

Still reeling from yesterday, Owen caught a flight into Philadelphia, knowing that the next round of the tag league was on the agenda, and a must win match for he and Aaron. Although last week had put a smile on his face, Sienna Swann dropped in a heartbeat by Kelcey, there was no doubt her actions had placed them in a bit of a predicament. With their opponents having already enjoyed a victory, it meant that Owen and Aaron would have to be as the groups name suggested, and be ‘Perfect’ for the rest of the league and hope that others slipped up along the way. It certainly didn’t help that the team up next for them was someone who Aaron and Owen knew very well, teaming with an unknown element. It wasn’t going to be easy that was for sure, in fact when Owen had seen the league, there was an easy match at any point, some however more difficult that others. But although it would be difficult to now progress, Owen had faith in their partnerships ability to find a way. Now, similar to the last time her was here, Owen finds himself stood in front of the ‘Rocky’ statue, as several tourists take photos around him, of the statue of course. And regardless of them, he starts to speak

/RECORDING

“Hey Philly, you remember me?”

He grins, as he thinks back, to one of the most eye-opening moments of his career.

“I remember you guys… very well in fact. It was the moment this city gave me a moment of, pardon the pun, Clarity. As to the ways of the wrestling industry. I stood in front of this very statue, about to face Syren, James and Sienna for the World Championship, and I did so, or at least I believed, with the city of Philadelphia firmly behind me. I remember sitting in the locker room, the unbelievable noise coming from the arena, and I thought… ”

He laughs again

“Yeah, I thought that I was going to be dragged and kicking back towards the SCW World Championship, to become the youngest Two-time World Champion this company had ever had. I stood behind the curtain, primed to walk into the arena, MY arena. But as my music hit, and I walked through that curtain, I received the biggest goddamn shock of my life. I was booed from every corner of the arena, negativity rained down on my young shoulders, and I was ill equipped to deal with it. I have lost some big matches in my life, Under Attack in the Chamber probably one of the biggest. But that moment, here in Philadelphia was absolutely one of the most sobering moments of my life. Did their reactions affect me during the match… I can’t answer that now, but it certainly could have. But you know something Philly, I cannot argue with your reaction towards me, because I deserved it. I’d become guilty of something I never thought I would be guilty of. Someone that my Father, and my Uncle warned me of on more than one occasion. I had started taking your appreciation, and your support for granted. I thought that by heading to the ring to face Syren, Sienna and James, I was bound to be the one you all got behind. I learned a huge lesson that night, that it’s not just the fans that you cannot take for granted. They pay their money, and they shout for who the hell they want, even more so here in Philadelphia. But I also learned you cannot take the business for granted either, because no matter how good a guy you try to be. Not matter how much you try to play by the rules, this business always has the potential to chew you up and spit you out. That happened to me the moment I won the World Championship… a defense in a chamber. A rematch at Clarity in a four-way elimination. THIS is the way the business must work, because unfortunately whoever shouts the loudest, gets the opportunities… and that is a fact. And that night at Clarity, you taught me that, so thank you Philly. Because you saved me a lot of sleepless nights in the process, knowing that no matter what you do, or accomplish there will ALWAYS be someone laying in wait to take it from you. No matter who you think has your back, you cannot always be one hundred percent. And sometimes, it can be your fault that you get screwed over, because you took it all for granted… you basically ASKED to be treated that way. Isn’t that right Matthew?”

Owen looks up once again at the statue, squeezing his knuckles in the palm of his hand as he does.

“Do you know what annoys me most about you Matt? You have the exact same disease as Syren, and any other of the legendary individuals we have rocking around the place. When Syren says she is the ‘best female wrestler in the world’ or you come out here claiming to be ‘world class’ there isn’t a single person alive that would realistically disagree with you. I mean, in your case, you only have to look at the evidence since you have returned. You’ve got the ‘W’s coming out of your ears, and you’ve beaten some pretty big names in the process. But just like Syren, you have to go and ruin in all by being a total and utter jackass in the process. And I’m not talking about the fact you ‘stole’ the victory at Apocalypse, I’m big enough and daft enough to realize that ultimately I allowed you to take the pin on Ace, because I took my eye off the ball. But no harm no foul, it happens, and I’ll learn from it. But then to hear you spouting off about being the next in line for a title shot, when it was clear from the beginning that our match wasn’t a contendership, it just goes to show how desperate for that validation you have become. So much so, the tag team league is nothing more than a distraction from the real prize you obsess over, David Helms World Championship. But look at it realistically Matt, and objectively. Glory Braddock stole a march using the TRIOS contract, nothing to be done about that, but honesty what have you done since you have been back, that justifies your shot over Bree? One lucky four-way victory? How does that put you ahead of Bree, Syren, Tommy, Sienna, Aaron and a multitude of others, yeah me included… that have busted their balls for the past God knows how many months, for you to think you can swan in and overtake us all. It is bullshit Matt, and just like I spoke of before, you are taking your name for granted, making it seem that you are worthy of something on name alone. Seriously bro, put you in skimpy lycra with your tits hanging out and we have Syren Mark Two.

Even your partner has seen it Matt, even Subarashi knows that your heart is not in this competition and you would rather be somewhere else. In fact, he said himself, tag team competition is about teamwork, and honor… two things it seems you know very little about Matt. Subarashi, I actually feel a little bit sorry for you, because it’s obvious that you are reveling in this opportunity, looking forward so badly to becoming the a SCW Tag Team Champion and having your name added to legendary tag teams such as Dark Fantasy, The Next Level and Blake Mason and Owen Cruze…”

Owen laughs, shaking his head at the same time.

“But it can’t ever happen, no matter how much you believe you can ‘carry’ the team to great things. The other thing about tag team wrestling is both competitors HAVE to be on the same page. BOTH individuals HAVE to be striving for the exact same goals. You know as well as I do, anyone that disrespects you as much as he did before your last match doesn’t give a crap about you. The difference is, your opponents last time were not able to take advantage on that difference of opinion. Aaron and I can. Because Bro, there was one thing a tag team must have that you failed to mention, and that is togetherness, and I know you’ll claim that comes under team work, but I’m not talking what goes on in the ring. What I am talking about is that desire to have someone else’s back, no matter the consequence, something you simply do not have. That is only born from experiences outside the ring, and yeah, a great deal of friendship to even understand. Together is not the word I would use to describe the pair of you. Fractured, would be much, much better. I mean, are you ever going to share a beer with each other? Shit can Hodges even stand to share a locker room with you, I doubt it. And that is where I must accept, I was wrong about Bree and Sienna. Oh, I still believe that will implode, no doubt. But Bree cares an awful lot about Sienna. She got her out of a shitty situation last week, and no doubt would do it every single time. They have that ‘togetherness’ at least for now, which you obviously do not. The thing is though, the two of you are fully aware of it, and yet do not intend to do anything about it. Matt, you have even got the ‘masked whatever’ YOUR words, saying that he would have to carry a ‘legend’ like you. Seems disrespect goes both ways where the two of you are concerned. THIS time I don’t have to try and drive a wedge between you both like I did Bree and Sienna, because this time it seems it already exists.”

Another glance at the statue bring him to the point of being here again, a totally different set of circumstances to the last time.

“And it’s funny isn’t it Matt, how you try to then justify your abilities as a tag team wrestler, and your lack of tag team championship, and then speak of carrying James Exeter and David Grenier, without mention of the man who took you to the cusp of said titles, only for you to high tail it and run to the hills, leaving him to the wolves. It’s funny how the only ‘evidence’ you ever use is the stuff that twists it all into your ’World Class’ narrative, leaving out your obvious indiscretions. And that is what I mean Subarashi, that is all you are going to hear, even if you did win the Tag Team Championship, it would have nothing to do with you. He disparages you; he threatens you, and for what? As always to justify his own existence, as if he is some kind of tutor to us all, and we could all learn a thing or two from him. And the thing is, yeah, we could learn a thing or two, no doubt. With all his experience and know how, there is no doubt he is a font of knowledge. But right now, the only thing that I could possibly learn from him is how to be an asshole and look an obviously gift horse in the mouth. Because if you cannot get on the page, and rid of the wedge that obviously exists, I don’t care how good you are as individuals, you will never make a ‘World Class’ tag team. And Matt, you know this don’t you? That is why you spent such a long time dumbing down your partner, so that if it came down to it, it would not be you that would be held to blame. Yet another example of the oh so great Matt Hodges lording it over whoever he can, to make himself feel high and mighty. When in fact, he is climbing the exact same ladder has everyone else. All of us looking UP at David Helms, as HE looks down on us all.”

Owen walk away from the statue and to the steps, sitting himself down.

“Now let me now bring some sense to proceedings.

Yeah, I will admit… guys this IS an underdog story, just like Rocky Balboa and that is why I am sat here once more. But do not get it wrong, do not jump to conclusions, the underdogs here are not Aaron and I, no way. Subarashi, Matt… that tag falls firmly on your shoulders. Because no matter what you have achieved in the past Matt AS AN INDIVIDUAL, and no matter what you Subarashi will achieve in the future, AS AN INDIVIDUAL. Yours is a tag team doomed to failure unless somehow you can both get on the same page, and I don’t think you especially Hodges, are capable of doing that, and at the same time treating your partner as an equal.

Nothing that has gone on prior to this will matter when we step into the ring, because this is TAG TEAM WRESTLING, and Aaron and I are a bona fide TAG TEAM. And it that fact alone that will make the difference this Wednesday night on Breakdown. We lose this and let’s face it, two defeats in and the tag league has probably gone for us already. Two losses and no points, the two of you being on four, those are odds that even WE will find difficult to overcome. But when we have everything to lose, and our backs are against the wall, that’s when TOGETHERNESS matters. We do not want this league to be over for us on Wednesday night. We do not want to see our tag team championship hopes go up in flames before they even really begun. And it is that fear, that will drive us forwards on Breakdown, that fear that will put two points on the board and keep us alive for another week. Say what you want, it matters not, we stopped listening to arrogant asshole months ago. The fact is we were robbed last week against two of the best in the business right now, and we REFUSE to lose two in a row, especially when the stakes are so high.”

He winks at the camera, before getting to his feet

“The ‘Pack’ strikes back in Philadelphia…”

Owen does his customary salute, before putting his hands in his pockets

“And not even your ‘WORLD CLASS’ best will stop us this time.”

With a nod he walks away from the camera, as the scene slowly fades.

October 6, 2020 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment

OWEN #75

Diary Entry – 13th of September 2020

So, Apocalypse didn’t turn out the way I intended, no harm, no foul.

Fact was, it had proven nothing to me other than once again Matt Hodges was every bit the threat, I thought he was. Of course, Bree did her usual pandering after the match, claiming I had tried to break her legs (I wish ha-ha) but there was little doubt that nothing had been decided. We’d go again, I had no doubt whatsoever and next time I’d make sure to do better.

At least the night ended well, with Dave getting over the line again and retaining the World title against Glory Braddock. He was proving that there was plenty of life in him yet, and I hope that he hung onto that title for as long as possible, because facing him for it would be a dream come true.

Fact was though, right now I wasn’t near the front of the queue, and to get there, fate would have to take a hand.

In this moment though, I had a feel fate had me off in a different direction.

14th September 2020
Los Angeles

Owen had tried to remain calm on the plane back to Los Angeles. Almost immediately after the show had ended Owen had boarded a plan to get back, wanting as soon as possible to start looking for his Sister. Of course, the time he returned home, it was too late to do anything, and so Owen had gone to bed. That didn’t mean however that he had gotten up early, and trawled the streets, searching the place he knew that homeless people tended to dwell. At nine o’clock he had returned home and found Shaun waiting for him at the house.

Shaun: Nothing?

Owen takes his jacket off and throws it on the sofa, pulling up the arms on his top.

Owen: No, really thought she’d be down there but no one has seen her. Not even sure they would tell me anyway even if they did.

Shaun: Yeah, they are surprisingly close knit down there.

Owen: You’d already been?

Shaun nods confirmation

Shaun: Couple of times, seemed like the best place to start.

Owen: I thought so… can’t believe she’s done one. I really thought she wanted to get better

Owen sits down on the sofa, Shaun sitting down next to him and putting a home on his shoulder.

Shaun: We’ll find her kid don’t worry. Even if she isn’t answering her phone, I’m sure Chris can do something if we need him. He can find anything for the right price

Shaun was talking about Chris Clay, the wrestler turned private detective that has done a fair bit of work for the family. Shaun was right, Chris had never let them down, but Owen found himself hoping it didn’t come to that. He could believe someone could just disappear like that.

Shaun: Anyway, you need to get yourself some breakfast if you are as I expect going to be out looking all day?

Owen: Probably

Shaun: Scrambled eggs, do you? You’re not on that Vegan experiment anymore are you?

Owen nods, but it is obvious his mind is elsewhere.

Shaun stands and heads into the kitchen, leaving Owen to stare out the window aimlessly

TEN MINUTES LATER

Shaun returns with the eggs for Owen, and a few rounds of toast, placing them on the table in front of him. Owen had switched on the TV to distract himself, even if for a little while. On the screen is a rerun of Apocalypse, and he is watching his own match from last night. Shaun sits down and joins him, taking a piece of toast as he watched Owen’s face, Owen screwing up his face whenever he notices a mistake, or something he could have done better.

Shaun: You looked good out there Owen, don’t be too harsh on yourself, you weren’t the one on the end of the pin

Owen pressing pause on the remote, and pulls the eggs towards him, nodding his thanks.

Owen: You sound like Bree… doesn’t matter who got pinned, I didn’t win. That’s all people will remember. And I can’t eat this bro, I’m Vegan remember?

Shaun: Shit, I forgot… why didn’t you say something? Didn’t think you were listening

Owen: Sorry… thanks anyway, I’ll get something from the Vegan Café on the corner don’t worry. I’ll eat I promise.

Shaun: OK, you’d better…

Owen pulls out his phone again and tries Becca, shaking his head again when he gets no answer. He slides his phone across the table and clasps his hands in front of his face.

Owen: Where the hell are you Becca?

TWO HOURS LATER

Shaun had driven Owen to the clinic, the Manager of the place obviously apologetic for what had happened and eager to help them find her. Owen had checked her room, looking for clues as to where she had gone, but he wasn’t a detective, far from it. Once they had left the clinic, they had taken the short drive back to the house in silence, Owen not wanting to speak, and Shaun not sure what he could say, knowing how troubled his nephew was. As they pull into the driveway however, Shaun couldn’t bear the silence any longer, and says the only thing that enters his head.

Shaun: Kid, I know you love your Sister, but if she doesn’t want to be found…

Owen looks at Shaun, and for a moment Shaun expects a mouthful, but instead Owen gets out the car and stands facing the sunshine. His shoulders raise and fall as he takes a deep breath, before turning back to Shaun.

Owen: I know what Becca is like Shaun. Over the years she has become one of the most selfish people I know, and considering the industry I work in, that’s quite a statement.

Shaun: Owen…

Owen: No, let me finish Shaun

Shaun holds up his hands, not wanting an argument.

Owen: Thing is, it doesn’t matter what she is like. She is my Sister… and her and Ruby are just about the last living link I have to Dad. If anything happened to either of them, I’d feel like I’d failed him. The clinic was my last hope Shaun, if I can’t keep her in there, I don’t know what to do.

Shaun: Nothing hurts you as much as family Owen

Owen: Isn’t that the truth… I MUST find her, before she gets herself into some real trouble

Shaun: Do you want me to call Chris?

Owen looks down the road aimlessly, before his head states to nod

Owen: Yeah… I’ve got to find her, before it’s too late.

Owen puts the key in the lock, and opens the door stepping inside, leaving Shaun to make the phone call

TEN MINUTES LATER

Shaun joins Owen in the kitchen, Owen pushing a glass of orange juice in Shaun’s direction.

Shaun: Chris is catching the first flight from New York; he’ll be here tomorrow.

Owen nods. To be fair he would have preferred him here sooner, but New York wasn’t five minutes away, so he understood. Chris had always been based in New York and loved the city.

Owen: OK, thank you.

Shaun: Is there anywhere else you want to check? I mean, I know it might sound daft, but have you checked with Sallie to see if she knows anything?

Owen: No way would she go back to Sallie, that would be her worst nightmare.

Shaun: But still?

Owen laughs, shrugging his shoulders

Owen: I tried man, she won’t talk to me either

Shaun: Don’t you think that’s a bit suss?

Owen: Not really, she hates me with a passion. NO, Becca wouldn’t do that to me, I know she wouldn’t.

Shaun wasn’t so sure but doesn’t push the matter any further. In fact, he is glad when Owen changes the subject, not realizing that Owen does it for his own sanity.

Owen: Do you remember Adam Lucas?

The name is a real blast from the past for Shaun, and he nods his head.

Shaun: Yeah, I do. He was the kid that got the Icon scholarship, wasn’t he?

Owen: Yeah, that’s him.

Shaun: We had to kick him out because of drugs if I remember right…

Owen: Yeah, he got injured and took them to try and get through a match.

Shaun: Of course, never did quite sit right with me that one. He was talented, was a real shame we had to let him go but we couldn’t have that kind of reputation. Why do you ask anyway?

Owen: I bumped into him recently that’s all.

Shaun: Really, he OK?

Owen: Yeah, more than OK, he’s working for EAW over in New Jersey, making quite a name for himself. He looks fit and well.

Shaun: I’m glad he managed to turn it around, could have gone either way after ICON. Show’s the measure of a man that he could come back from that.

Owen: That’s what I thought, but it also got me thinking…

Shaun: What have I told you about thinking Owen. Let others think for you, because otherwise it never goes well.

Shaun smirks, and Owen does as well, Shaun glad to see it.

Shaun: Seriously though, what’s on your mind?

Owen: Well, I know it didn’t end well for Adam at ICON, but if it hadn’t had been for the scholarship, he wouldn’t have even gotten the chance. His parents would never have been able to pay, and he would have gone undiscovered.

Shaun: So, what you saying?

Owen: What if… I created a scholarship for guys just like Adam, who can’t pay the fees some of these places charge? I’ve got links to lots of wrestling schools all over the World. It could really help some kids, just like Dad did.

Shaun nods his head

Shaun: Sounds like an amazing idea… and you’d fund this?

Owen: Yeah, that’s right. Really put something back into the business

Shaun: And how would you find these kids?

Owen: I dunno, I’ve literally only recently though about this. But you agree, it’s a good idea?

Shaun: It’s your money kid, you do with it what you want. And if you need any help setting it up, I’d be glad to help.

Owen: Good, because I’m going to need Dad’s name if you’ll let me?

Shaun owned the rights to the Orlando Cruze name, but Owen already knew the answer

Shaun: Of course, Owen, whatever you need

Owen nods his thanks, feeling just a small moment of joy, at least he does until his phone rings, Owen snatching it up and looking at the display

Owen: It’s the clinic…

He quickly presses the call accept button, and places the phone to his ear

Owen: Yes hello, this is Owen.

Owen listens to what he is being told, until suddenly his face drops, and his eyes close.

Owen: You sure?

Owen bites his bottom lip, shaking his head.

Owen: Well, thank you for letting me know. Bye.

Owen slides the phone along the kitchen top, obviously troubled by the phone call. Shaun sits there waiting, on tenterhooks, until final Owen looks at him directly.

Owen: Well, it looks like you were right?

Shaun shrugs his shoulders

Shaun: Right?

Owen: Sallie just called the clinic; Becca is her and she won’t be going back. And because Sallie is her Mother, there is nothing the clinic can do about it.

Owen squeezes his temples with his thumb and middle finger.

Shaun: I’m sorry Owen, I guess it’s out your hands now

For a moment Owen hesitates, before once again looking at Shaun

Owen: Becca isn’t staying there Shaun… not a chance. One way or another she is going to go back to that clinic and get better… if it’s the last thing I do.

Shaun is about to say something but realized now is not the time. Owen was normally one of the calmest individuals Shaun knew. It was a trait that Shaun admired in his Nephew, especially after everything he had been through. But Shaun couldn’t see any calm in Owen’s eyes now, all he saw was a trait he didn’t associate with Owen, that being anger. And after having his own issues with that emotion, that concerned Shaun… a lot.

Diary Entry – 14th of September 2020

NO WAY is she going to get away with this. Not a chance.

I’m sick and tired of people thinking that because I’m a ‘nice guy’ I won’t ever fight back

Sallie is threatening the safety of my family, and as such, she needs to be stopped. And if I must get Chris to dig up whatever dirt he can on her, that is EXACTLY what I am going to do.

First though… where does she live?

16th of September 2020
New York

It had taken Chris roughly five minutes to found out where Sallie lived. It was an apartment in New York City, ironically not far away from the building that housed Kloe and Pixie’s New York offices. Chris had offered to go by himself, but Owen had been insistent on going with him. The post PPV break gave him that opportunity, and he was going to take it. And had already promised himself that if he had to drag Becca away, he would.

As he and Chris leave the elevator, Chris pulls Owen to one side

Chris: Owen, I’ve got no problem you coming along. I understand how important this is to you, but you are not going to achieve anything by going in all guns blazing ok? Leave it to me.

Owen nods, but Chris is far from satisfied

Chris: Owen, I mean it, we can’t spook her and lose her to the wind ok?

Owen: I get it Chris… can we just get my Sister?

Chris: Sure, it’s down here.

Owen follows Chris down the corridor, hoping that every door is their destination. Finally, Chris stops and turns to face apartment 231.

Chris: This is it… stay calm

Owen nods, and to be fair to him, right now he was calm. He was about to see his Sister and that was all that mattered. Chris turns to the doors and knocks, and the two of them both hear scuffling.

“Who is it?”

Chris: It’s the police ma’am, we are acting on the disappearance of your daughter from a clinic in Los Angeles.

“I phoned the clinic and told them she is safe.”

Chris: Yes, I know Ma’am, but if you could just open so that we can confirm.

They both hear the locks being opened, and then the door opens ever so slightly, Sallie’s face peering through the opening.

Sallie: Can I see identification?

Chris reaches in his coat pocket, the movement enough to reveal Owen stood behind. Sallie immediately goes to shut the door, but Owen steps out and kicks it, stopping it from opening and sending Sallie backwards.

Chris: OWEN!!!

Owen steps into the room, and immediately looks around, unable to see Becca, Sallie grabs him, but he pushes her away

Sallie: GET OUT!!!

Chris: Owen, please

Owen looks in the bathroom, and then both bedrooms, unable to find his Sister

Owen: Where the hell is she? Where is Becca?

Suddenly Sallie is calm, and with a smirk she turns to Owen

Sallie: Do you think I’m stupid Owen? She isn’t here.

Owen lunges forwards, but Chris steps between him and Sallie, pushing Owen away

Chris: Kid no, this is what she wants

Owen pushes forwards, intent on getting to Sallie, but again Chris pushes him back

Chris: Owen…BACK OFF

Chris sticks up his finger, warning Owen that is enough.

Chris: We good?

Owen nods his head, and stands down, knowing he has already done more harm than good. Chris turns to Sallie, who feeling safe now, makes her way over to the sofa and sits down, lighting up a cigarette.

Chris: Where’s the girl Sallie?

Sallie: That girl Mr. Clay…

Chris’s eyes raise as he realizes she knows him

Sallie: Oh yes, I know all about you. Wolfe told me plenty about you. But as I was saying, that ‘girl’ is my daughter, and you have NO right bursting in here. I could have you arrested, but you already know that right

Chris flashes Owen a look, Owen realizing that was his fault

Chris: I’m sure there is no need for that. We just want to talk, that’s all.

Sallie: Then take a seat Mr. Clay, what can I do for you?

Chris looks over at Owen again, as if warning him not to do anything else rash. He then takes a seat.

Chris: So, where is Becca?

Sallie: Not that it is either of your business, Becca is staying with a friend right now until I can get my affairs in order.

Chris raises his eyebrows questionably

Sallie: Oh, you didn’t know? I thought you knew everything Mr. Clay

Chris doesn’t rise to the barb

Chris: Why don’t you indulge me?

Sallie: Becca and I are going to live in Europe, Italy to be precise. A lovely little place just outside Milan.

Owen: NO, you can’t.

Sallie: I assure you Owen that I can, I think you’ll find it is my name on Becca’s birth certificate and not yours.

Chris holds up his hand, knowing that Owen is losing his cool again.

Chris: Why Europe?

Sallie: Again, I’m surprised in you Mr. Clay. If you had done your homework, I’m sure you would have come to the same conclusion as I. This country has brought me nothing but trouble and heartache, and the Cruze family… Becca and I are best away from them all. This is a fresh start for us both… an opportunity to breathe again.

Owen: You can’t do this… Becca is ill, she needs help.

Sallie: Ahhh, there it is, the Cruze arrogance I have come to loath. Always wanting to help others, right?

Owen: I’ve done a damn sight better job than you, you didn’t even believe she had a problem.

Sallie sighs, and surprisingly nods her head

Sallie: That, I will give you. But it wasn’t that I didn’t believe, it was more I buried my head and ignored it. I know I can’t do that Owen, and I accept I’ve not been the greatest of Mothers to Becca recently, but I want to do better.

Owen scowls, taken aback by that comment. He doesn’t know whether to believe her or not, and comes to the only conclusion he can, knowing her like he does.

Owen: That’s a load of crap Sallie, even when you were with Dad, you only cared about yourself. You nearly killed him…

Chris: Owen, this isn’t…

Owen: Screw you Chris, she sucks the life out of people, and she’ll do the same to Becca if I let her.

For a moment Sallie seems shocked, but then a sly look forms over her face, followed by a smirk

Sallie: That’s the thing Owen, you can’t do a damn thing about it. This is over, and if I have my own way you will NEVER see Becca again.

Chris puts a hand on Owen’s shoulder, knowing that he is about to react. He squeezes it tightly, Owen using every bit of his self-control not to lunge forwards, knowing the consequences if he did.

Sallie: Now, I am quite busy, so if you could both leave.

Owen bites his bottom lip, Chris leading him towards the door, Owen’s eyes never leaving Sallie’s. He stops in the doorway, Chris trying to push him through but Owen resisting.

Owen: This isn’t over…

Sallie just sneers at him

Sallie: I’ll be sure to say goodbye to Becca for you Owen… it truly IS the least I could do.

They both steps through the doorway, Chris shutting the doorway and Owen immediately punching the wall in total and utter frustration. Chris was glad the shot wasn’t at him, Owen holding out his hand, looking at his already reddened and probably bruising knuckles.

Chris: Come on Owen, it’s over.

Owen looks over at the door, the number 231 now etched onto his brain. As far as he was concerned it was a million miles away from over. And it didn’t matter where in the world Becca was, he WOULD find her, no matter the cost. He couldn’t accept that deep down Sallie cared, and he knew that if he could just talk to Becca, things could be so different. But even feeling that, he knew this battle was over, and it was a battle he had lost emphatically. And although it was a cliché, he knew the ‘war’ had only just begun.

21st of September 2020
London

Although everything that was going on with Becca was always in the back of his mind, and dominating his thoughts, the one bright light in his life right now was Jennifer Helms and their relationship which had gone from strength to strength. With AJ at least now acknowledging the fact they were together and not opposing it like he once did, the last obstacle had been overcome. Unfortunately, it seemed like Christian still wasn’t totally over the situation, but Owen wasn’t going to push him on that, he had to find his own way. However, Owen was glad to escape America and find himself in London, to support Jenni as she attempted to retain the EMERGE Championship. She had been doing amazing things in that company but didn’t feel like she was getting the respect she deserves and was hoping that tonight against Melissa Killgraves could prove that. Unfortunately, however, unlike Owen it wasn’t a holiday, and being Champion, she had to make a lot of appearance throughout the day. This left Owen at a bit of a loose end, but whenever he was in London and not with Jenni, there was only one place he wanted to be. And pulling up outside the house, his mood instantly changes. He has only just stepped out the car when the door to the house opens, Kimberley stepping and walking down the path, opening the gate for him

Kim: Owen, what a surprise.

Owen: Ah you know me, always turning up like a bad penny.

Kim: Not at all, we are always happy to see our guardian angel.

Owen lowers his head

Kim: Oh, and now I’ve embarrassed you

Owen: No, not at all… thanks though

Kim: You changed everything for us Owen, you shouldn’t be embarrassed by that. Come, Charlie and Tommy are in the garden.

Owen locks the car and follow Kim up to the house, then through it and to the back.

Kim: Look who’s here…

Tommy is the first to look up, and immediately stops what he is doing with his Dad and gets to his feet, running over to Owen.

Tommy: OWEN!!!!

Owen scoops him up into his arms and cuddles him

Owen: I’ve missed you big man, how you been?

Tommy: Better… look, me and Daddy are making potatoes.

Charlie: Planting them Tommy

Charlie laughs and holds out his hand, Owen shaking it

Charlie: Good to see you Owen… what you doing in London?

Owen: Jennifer is competing at the O2 so come over to support her

Charlie: The two of you still loves young dream?

Owen: I hope so

Kim: You two make such a cute couple. Any wedding bells?

Owen laughs, again feeling more than a little embarrassed.

Owen: Nooo, both way to young for that. Happy the way we are thank you very much

Kim smiles

Kim: Can I get you a drink? Tea, Coffee, Juice?

Owen: I’m fine thank you

Charlie: Shall we sit?

Owen nods, and the three of them sit at a garden table, set underneath a gazebo. Tommy climbs up onto Owen’s knee and perches himself.

Owen: So, how was Disney?

Tommy’s eyes light up.

Tommy: I saw Mickey, and Donald, and Iron Man, and Thor, and…

Kim: OK Tommy, breathe.

Charlie: As you can see, he really enjoyed it. We truly can’t thank you enough Owen.

Owen: Seeing the look on the kids face, that’s all the thanks I need bro. It’s my pleasure.

Kim: Tommy… why don’t you go and fetch that present for Owen?

For a second Tommy looks confused, and then understands, sliding off Owen’s knee

Tommy: Wait right here

As he runs off, Owen turns to Kim and Charlie

Owen: You really didn’t have to buy me anything

Charlie: Tommy insisted

Owen: So how has he been?

Kim: Oh, Owen it’s wonderful. We finally have our mischievous little boy back and we love it.

Owen: So, the Doctors are happy with his progress?

Kim: Yes very. They could not be happier.

Owen: Good, I bet that’s a weight off your mind.

Charlie: Yes, it does… it feels like we have been neglecting this little one. Now we can focus on both.

Charlie puts his hand on Kimberley stomach lovingly, and the pair share a moment which is abruptly interrupted by Tommy almost clattering into the table

Kim: Careful Tommy

Tommy: Sowwie…

He puts a box on the table

Tommy: Open it, open it

Owen smirks, and picks up the box, tearing at the wrapping. As he removes the paper, he realizes what he is holding, a Captain America figure.

Owen: Wow, the Captain… my favorite.

Charlie: He’s yours too isn’t he Tommy?

Tommy nods his head vigorously

Tommy: It’s you Owen

Owen: Me?

Tommy: Yeah… because you’re a hero too, just like Captain America

Owen: I…

Tommy: Captain America saves people… and you save people too. You saved me

Tommy throws his arms around Owen giving him a cuddle, and Owen finds himself holding the boy tight, blinking away tears. As they part, Owen quickly wipes his eyes

Owen: Thank you Tommy, that’s the best present ever

Tommy: Really, Really

Owen: Really, Really

Charlie: Hey Tommy, why don’t you finish off those potatoes huh? Can show Owen what you’ve done when your finished

Tommy: OK

Owen watches Tommy as he runs away, wiping his eyes again, Kim passing him a tissue.

Kim: There you go, you ok?

Owen: Yeah, just a shock that’s all.

Charlie: As far as you are concerned, you’re his very own Captain, a hero. And he’s right

Owen: Come on, I’m no hero.

Kim: No, seriously Owen. You put our family back together when it seemed broken forever. Who knows how long Tommy would have been waiting for his operation if you’d not paid for private healthcare in America, or if it would have been too late? We could have lost him Owen, and yet here he is growing potatoes in our back garden and without a care in the world. You’re not just Tommy’s hero, you are OUR hero and we will never forget what you did for us.

Again, Owen feels himself starting to go, his eyes starting to well up. He wipes them again, shaking his head

Owen: Christ, what’s wrong with me today? My emotions all over the place

Charlie: It’s been an emotional time Owen, for all of us.

It had, there was little doubting that. For Charlie and his family there was the word that Tommy wouldn’t make it. And although Owen had shared that concern, he’d also had Giovanni and his Sister to worry about. All of this was bottling up, and had to come out eventually, and to a point it had when he had defeated the Wonderland. Now it looked like Charlie and his family was another chapter he could close. Another happy ending that he wasn’t sure his Sister was going to get. And certainly not by staying with Sallie.

Kim: Do you have plans, or would you like to stop for dinner?

Owen looks at his watch, he had a couple of hours to spare before meeting Jennifer, but doesn’t have chance to answer anyway

Tommy: Owen… come look what I made

Owen gets to his feet with a smile, turning to Kim

Owen: I’d love to if it’s no trouble

Kim nods as Owen walks over to see what Tommy was so proud of, a mound of earth that would one day be a crop of potatoes, as the scene slowly fades

Diary Entry – 21st of September 2020

Jen won her match and was still the EMERGE champion. So proud of her right now and what she had become, it was only a matter of time before she went onto bigger and better things. EMERGE was one heck of a company no doubt, but it would be long till the bright lights of SCW called her, just like they did for Peyton. There was no doubt she was good enough to succeed, but in the current climate was SCW any better than what was happening in EMERGE… not really. But would the lure of the biggest wrestling company on the planet be too much to resist.

With Jen winning, and what had happened earlier at Charlies, it had made me realize something. Something that somewhere along the line I had forgotten. That being that good things DO happen to good people, and it wasn’t a total shit show 100% of the time.

Yeah, I had a few issues with Becca, but on the whole life was good for me, and I needed to remember that always.

The last thing I wanted was to go to that dark place I felt calling when looking into the eyes of Sallie. I didn’t want to be anything like that person. And the only why I could stop that happening was by constantly remembering the good in the world. The good that people did for each other every single day.

Christ, I sounded like Kelsai.

29th September 2020
Louisville

Owen stands on a ridge, overlooking the valley below which reaches miles into the distance. About twenty or so meters to his left, there lies a tunnel, and coming from it train tracks. He stands there for a few moments, taking in the scenery, before sitting down on the grass, his legs up and his arms wrapped around them. With a nod he begins to speak.

/RECORDING

“Funny isn’t it, how the truth can be distorted over time. I mean, there is no question, Matt Hodges won the four way at Apocalypse, and there can be no dispute. But can be disputed is the ‘way’ he won it, or should I say ‘stole’ it. Of course, to me it does not matter. I mean after all, that is precisely the kind of man I said it was, so at least I can say I was proven right. But being proven right is not what we as wrestlers deal in. We deal in victories, and now because of that victory, rightly or wrongly, Matt Hodges finds himself further up the ladder, and ‘perhaps’ the next in line for a title shot. We move on”

Owen shrugs his shoulders

“See the fact is, it shouldn’t have even been a question for me. It might be a surprise to some, but the first challenger to Dave should not have been Glory Braddock, who is shown several times that she has no clue what being a champion is all about. It should not be someone like Matt Hodges who has the morals of an alley cat. No, regardless of the TRIOS contracts, and regardless of who won our little four way, Bree Lancaster should have got her rematch. She should not have had to jump through hoops, or face me, Matt or Ace to ‘prove’ herself. Bree Lancaster was United States Champion, she was World Champion, and she, in the main, competed with a great deal of respect for her opponents, she certainly did Aaron that is for sure. It should not have even been a debate, and yet once again things got complicated. Once again, everything got backed into a corner, instead of the most obvious path being chosen. It happened to me, it’s happened to Bree and I have very little doubt it will happen to Dave down the line. Because no matter how much I love this company. No matter how much I care about those three initials S-C-W. Something is wrong between these walls, if a champion does not get their rightful opportunity to win the title back, before anyone else jumps the queue. The TRIOS contract should earn you whatever shot you want yes… but it should be on the company’s terms and not theirs. Especially when it makes a mess out of everything that people have worked for.”

Owen lowers his head. He hated speaking about the SCW in these terms, but it wasn’t the company he was talking about. He fought hard to ensure that Sasha gained control, scoring the pinfall that gave her the keys to the kingdom. But it had not turned out the way he expected. There was still so many people running around and getting the opportunities their actions did not deserve, people that shouldn’t even have the honor of competing for the most established wrestling organization in the world.

“And there is a certain amount of irony that the person I busted my balls to ensure didn’t take control, is the one who finally does the right thing and gives the former champion their rematch, and Dave another opportunity to prove he is the champion that this company needs. So, Katya… I applaud you…”

Owen nods his head and does indeed clap

“For ‘very nearly’ doing the right thing.”

Owen lowers his legs, so they are straight on the grass, his hands resting by his side.

“The ‘right’ thing… again something else that can very easily distorted. It shouldn’t be, I mean the right thing should always be the most moralistic option, the one that does the greater good. But unfortunately, what is the right thing for others, does not always suit the most selfish needs of some. I mean, I am sure when Xander Valentine attacked fans at ringside, he believed that it was the ‘right thing’ to enable him to get under Selena’s skin. When Giovanni decided to use my Father against me, I’m sure it was the ‘right thing’ to do, so that he could destroy what he saw as the future of this company. But the right course of action should hardly ever hurt others. No matter what YOU believe as a person, you cannot force your beliefs on others, especially not by physicality. And that’s why Katya, although I applaud you for what you did for Bree, giving her the rematch was the right thing to do. But allowing Sienna Swann anywhere near this company in her current state is nowhere near the correct to do for this company. Because she, just like Xander should have been kicked to the curb, or at the very least suspended until she got the help she obviously needed. Because she is not just a danger to others, she is a danger to herself.

Now, I know what that sounds like. After all, the whole world knows what I think of Sienna Swann, and no doubt what she thinks about me. I meant what I said on Breakdown, she’s had her second, third and fourth chances, so there comes a time when you have to accept that she isn’t going to change, and now it seems that on top of everything else she has become unhinged. It’s obvious to me she isn’t in her right mind, so how the hell has she been cleared to compete after what she did to Sasha, unless there is someone behind the scenes helping her out? It’s very difficult to feel for someone who has hurt me, and those I love, without a single shred of remorse, and even now does not have the common decency to give those that deserve it an apology.

Let’s face it, this match, it doesn’t matter whether you win, or lose, or even if we fight to a draw, it will still be someone else’s fault if it doesn’t go Sienna Swann’s way. You’ll always find someone else to blame Sienna, because it’s just one of those thing hard wired into your DNA. Time and time again, it’s been the same rhetoric, twisted to suit your needs, and you latest venture. Owen Cruze is the devil incarnate, everything that has gone wrong for you, it’s all down to me. Seriously, all I can do to that is laugh Sienna, this is literally no response. No because you have put me in my place, not at all far from it. But how else am I supposed to response to one of the most ridiculous statements made on SCW programming. Everything that has happened to Peyton. My fault. Everything that has happened to Aaron. That’s me too. Everything that Kelcey went through, that’s on me. Christ, I really wish I had that kind of influence, just imagine what I could do. Well, newsflash Sienna, Kelcey has her baby back, she’s happy, and hun, you’re obvious not, so if you are giving me the credit for possibly the best thing to come out of 2020, then thanks very much.”

Owen shakes his head dismissively, but still finds time to laugh before he continues.

I mean, to be fair to YOU Bree, there is no doubt your friendship is being tested, and yeah, I thought you Sienna would have turned on you by now, I think we all did. But you see Bree, you should listen to Katya. Right now, the only thing Sienna is going to do is drag you down with her. She IS taking your friendship for granted, knowing that you will always have her back. And I get that, loyalty is a big thing, and you are being a true friend, and I honestly cannot fault that. You ARE loyal to those you love, and I’ve never claimed otherwise. The thing is Bree, are you helping by enabling her actions? No, you are not… all you are doing is giving her an excuse. She’ll never learn, I mean even the other day she was on social media cranking up this visual of Aaron and I laid out, and Kelcey out on top of us. She is obsessed with Kelcey, but then again you both are, so maybe that’s why you understand her so much. All she wants to do is turn it into yet another melodrama when it’s not about that, or at least it shouldn’t be. We shouldn’t have to be talking about people’s safety, we should be talking about the Tag League, and the SCW Tag Team Championships. And yet, we have to concern ourselves with what heinous act Sienna is going to perform next, knowing that she will never be taken to task, when right now, she should not be anywhere near this company. And guys, I’m not the only one who thinks that, because people have been suspended for far, far less than what Sienna did last Wednesday. Like I said in the beginning, not what you know, or what you do, but WHO you know.”

Owen gets to his feet, and walks the twenty meters to the tunnel, before he clambers up the side, before sitting on the ridge that is placed above the opening, his legs dangling down.

“And that’s the thing Bree, she’s taking you down already. I mean, what I SHOULD be talking about is how Bree Lancaster and Sienna Swann are undoubtably two of the highest profile wrestlers over the past couple of years, who have redefined the level of competition you have to reach to stand any chance in this company. I’ll admit, when I looked over the teams in mine and Aaron’s group, of course it was your two’s name that jumped out from the screen, and you were probably instilled as favorites to top our group right there and then. I’m not going to go over everything that the pair of you have achieved here in SCW, it would take too long, and anyway the pair of you talk about it plenty, so we don’t have to.”

He smirks

“What I should be talking about, is the obvious bond the two of you have to each other, and the level of togetherness that every tag team should have, that mental ability to read the mind of what the other is going to do, and then react accordingly, and a total and utter desire and determination to not let the other down, and put yourself in the firing line if necessary to protect your partner. And I’ve no doubt Bree, you would do that for Sienna, every single time. But can you 100% guarantee to me right now that she would do the same? Do you not think she would be distracted by Jordan, Kelcey, or even Chris, And anyways, has she not ALREADY let you down, your association meaning that she had dragged YOUR name into the dirt as well? You cannot tell me the kind of person you are this hasn’t crossed your mind? Or maybe it really hasn’t, maybe you are truly that blinkered when it comes to the Iron Angel.”

Again, Owen shrugs his shoulders

“My points folks are simple, and the fact of the matter is this. It does not matter what Sienna has done in the past, her abilities are not in question, nor should they be having brought her many accolades. What matters is what is happening now, whereby all that talent, all that history, that REPUTATION is being flushed down the toilet… and for what? Things not going the way SHE wanted. Causing perhaps one of the most single-minded people in the SCW to lose her shit. And that kind of unpredictability, that is going to cost your team at some point. It might not be on Wednesday, but I assure you it will happen, because if there is one guarantee in all of this, it’s that if Sienna goes down, she WILL take you down with her Bree, and everything you have, and hope to accomplish. And before any of the peanut gallery jump on your high horse, I’m not saying desert her, not at all, that would be counterproductive. Your friendship means more to you both than that, I get it, and my feelings simply do not matter. And after all, she IS a human being. No, what I’m saying is get her what she needs, because right now, this company, and this proximity to the one person that triggers her most, it ain’t helping. And honestly, I cannot imagine what she will do next if this is left to fester. Who knows what she is capable of huh? She forced Jordan to stand up for herself and turned on her in an instant. And even now after beating her twice, she still isn’t happy and wants more. What if it was family next Bree? What if it was Jaina?”

Owen leans forwards a little, looking down at the near forty-foot drop to the tracks below, pulling a face before edging slightly backwards

“But of course, I guess you are all wondering, why the hell should I be bothered? It shouldn’t be any of my business, nor my concern what you Sienna are up to, or what will happen the next time you snap. I mean, I could be forgiven for having a good old laugh at your situation after what you have done to me and my friends over the last couple of years, but I’d like to think I am better than that even if others are not. And of course, you’ll pull out the old ‘holier than thou’ routine, as you always do, and confirm your hatred for all things ‘Perfect Pack’, and probably regale us with how thankful you are that it is Aaron and I first up to receive your ‘ire’, the full force of Storm Sienna, of which we should all be fearful… according to ONLY you of course.

But you see Sienna, like I told Bree, and like I’ll tell you, in this moment, you are weaker than you have ever been. Your mentality, and your temper is so frayed, you do not have a single shred of focus on winning, and only care about everyone else feeling as shitty as you do. And if you lack focus in this company, a laser focus that you were once known for, you are going to eventually come unstuck. And Aaron and I are precisely the right kind of people to take advantage of that because we only need ONE moment Sienna. Just like the one moment we needed against the WORLD CHAMPION and his brother. One moment for everything I have said previously to come true, and you Sienna, to be responsible for Bree losing her chance at the tag titles. Is she that bothered considering her rematch for the World Championship, I dunno, nor do I care? Because whilst you are telling the world how much you hate Kelcey and all of those associated with her, it’s only white noise to Aaron and me. All we care about are two things… the points and being one step closer to the SCW Tag Team Championships. And I have the ‘perfect’ partner with which to achieve our goals.

Because answer me this, if it came down to it and you had the opportunity to injure me and put me out for months, but lose this match in the process, would you take it? If your shaking your head right now, I don’t believe you, because the two of you have been obsessed with me since the very first time I dared question your motives, back when I was still a teenager finding my way. Even if I wasn’t facing either of you, my name still managed to find its way onto your lips. And why? Because I was the person everyone was talking about, and not the pair of you. Or at least, they were talking about my wrestling ability, whereas with the pair of you, it was only about your latest shock tactic to gain superiority. You say I have not reached the levels I reached when I was World Champion, well I firmly disagree with that. Name me one other twenty year old that has remained in the main event scene for the last two years and done what I’ve done? Name me the person who was the Male Superstar of the Year in 2019. I’ll wait…”

He pauses for just a second

“Like you said Sienna… FACT’S. They speak for themselves. My FACT’S are truth… and not the twisted logic you serve up weekly like raw sewage spilling from your evil little mouth.”

His eyes narrow a little, leaving no doubt that sentence was said with real meaning.

“Bree, there is little doubt the only reason you agreed to this, was the promise of your rematch, and Sienna, we know from your little tweets that you’re not in the slightest bit happy, and the World Championship is where you see your future. You have said it yourself, no mention of being tag team champion this week, and yet setting an example, or being WORLD Champion, you cannot stop flapping your gums about that. Imagine that for a minute, two people who pride themselves on being at the top of this industry, with all the skills, experience, and know how in the world, that Aaron and I simply cannot match… well the last two anyway. And yet, winning the Tag Championships is clearly playing second fiddle to nothing more than a grudge. If the wrestling public had to put a dream tag team together for some kind of fantasy wrestling game, the two of you would no doubt be picked more than most, and yet it doesn’t seem to matter to either of you. I truly believe you see this tournament as if it is in some way beneath you, when there are many former World Champions in this tournament who are in the same position, but without the same disrespect for those belts. But that pretty much sums the both of you up doesn’t it? Disrespect is what the pair of you thrive on… because there’s little doubt, you’ll claim Aaron and I have only teamed three times, so what chance do we really have?”

Owen tilts his head to one side, and smirking he gets to his feet, and after a few seconds an express train comes charging out from the tunnel, hurtling down the track. Owen watches, as one by one the carriages appear, until finally the last one emerges, and the noise slowly quietens down.

“The thing is, just like an express train that take a while to get going, Aaron and I now have the momentum that is only growing with every match. And just like that train, once that momentum is at it is peak, it’s going to take a heck of a lot, something huge even, to stop it. And who knows, maybe the tag team of Bree Lancaster and Sienna Swann are big enough to precisely do that, and it’s entirely possible that is the way it will go down tomorrow night. But whilst ever the two of you persist on wanting to teach me this non-existent ‘lesson’, or still see me as this ‘gangly teenager’ after everything I have, and WILL achieve, and refuse to see me, or indeed Aaron as a threat to you and you position, then there will always be an opportunity to get a victory over two of unquestionably the biggest names in our industry today. So, you know the childish insults, shove them where the sun never shines, please don’t waste your time or mine. And instead, how’s about you tell US how you are going to beat one of the most exciting combos in SCW today, and one of the most courageous, revolutionary tag teams in the World.”

He pauses, turning his head to watch the train as it disappears around the corner and out of sight.

“Because make no bones about it, we may be placed in a difficult group, and we could well be going up against the favorites to top said group in our opening match, potentially the worst start imaginable. But those kinds of odds, it’s what Aaron and I live for. It’s what we thrive on and it’s why we exist. Put in laymen’s terms Ladies, we are not in this Tag League to simply compete…

… We are in it to WIN. And when you two lose, remember… Sienna Swann will ALWAYS find someone else to blame”

He salutes the camera, nodding his head with a smile.

“Here’s hoping Bree for your sake, that person isn’t you.”