Breakdown 11-11-20
Dom and I had gone with Sienna to her house in Hollywood Hills the weekend before Breakdown. The show was in Los Angeles and she wanted to stay at her house, and there was no reason to wait to leave. There had been some excitement when Sienna went to see Chris and his dog bit her, but other than that it's been fine.
Monday, Dom and I had our interview on Daily Pop with E!, with a woman named Morgan Stewart. She was fabulous. Congratulated us both backstage and on air, and she loved my ring. The interview itself was mostly fine... Dom refused to comment about David Helms at all, so Morgan changed the subject to his work. While a few people in the industry knew Dom had decided to take a break, the news hadn't been made public yet, but Dom decided to tell the world. He gave the real reasoning too, he wanted to focus on us since all the work he'd been doing since we've been together put a lot of strain on us. We kept quiet about how we almost broke up earlier this year, though. Morgan guessed that he'd be ready to return to the cameras after the wedding, and we laughed. I mean... probably. We just haven't decided when that will be, and we said so. I made a plug for Breakdown since it was in Los Angeles, and that was the segment.
After our appearance, Morgan asked to have another look at my ring, she loves it. Can't say I blame her. We also filled her in on a few more details about David and why Dom didn't want to talk about him on camera, all off the record of course. She wished us well in dealing with our families and congratulated us again before we left. All in all it was one of the less awkward interviews we've done. With that now behind us and no obligations left for Dom in the foreseeable future, it was time to focus on SCW, and keeping Sienna in some semblance of a state of sanity.
{{Friday, October 30th
Kenner}}
Sienna and I went into Breakdown looking to make a statement against the A/C Unit..... God that is such a stupid team name... anyway, Asher Hayes and Cid Turner. We didn't quite do that in the manner I hoped. Both Sienna and Asher had the bright idea to bring weapons into the ring and both teams were DQ'd. That was considered a draw as far as the tournament is concerned, so we got one point instead of two if we had won. So it wasn't a total loss, but not what I wanted. I am pretty annoyed at Sienna for grabbing that chair, if she had just let Asher do his thing then they would have got DQ'd and we would have two points. So now we can't technically run the block even if we never lose, because we won't have full points. But I am not planning on having words with Sienna over it, we can't do anything about it so picking a fight would pointless. Pun intended. I need to do everything I can to keep her in as good of a mood as I can. There is that stupid Halloween party of Kelcey's this weekend, on Blake's yacht of all places. I didn't even try to get out of it this time, every year I have said I didn't want to go and every year Sienna talked me into it. I decided not to waste my time this year, we're just going.
But, that is after I deal with a minor crisis. While Dom and I were in Los Angeles doing interviews and me working Breakdown, Hurricane Zeta slammed into Louisiana, the eye passing right over the New Orleans area. During Breakdown I was constantly checking the news. The storm had passed by the time Breakdown was over. I had several texts from Reece. When I got back to my hotel, I called him. He had good news and bad news. Good being that both my house and his house were fine. Bad news being that my car was not. My other neighbor has a large oak in their front yard and a giant limb broke off and fell on my car. Barely missed Jaina's Jeep. I lost my shit for a few seconds, until I realized I can afford to buy another one. I also have a tree limb in my pool from the oak in my backyard, but that's not as big a deal as destroying my car. Reece said he would send me pictures in the morning, but I told him don't bother, I would fly home for the day to see about it.
So, I am at home. Dom and Jaina stayed at Sienna's, since I was only going to be gone for the day. Reece had made some calls for me while I was in the air, firstly to a tree removal service. I thought there was no way I was going to get one to come out the day after the storm, but apparently his name still has some pull, and when he said it was actually for me, well.... they were waiting for me when I got home. Dom and I had taken his car to the airport and left it parked there, so I was using it for the day. Luckily we had done that, cause otherwise his car would be smushed, too. My Mercedes is totaled. The tree limb fell across the back into the backseat, damn near cut the car in half. I had called my insurance agent from the air and he arrived right after I got home, while the tree people were assessing their job. The agent took a bunch of pictures, declared it a total loss due to an Act of God (I wanted to laugh but I didn't) and said I would have a check in the mail in a week or so. The tree people took care of that limb first, and I was able to pry open the passenger door to get stuff out of the glove box and front seat area. The only thing that was in the backseat was one of Donatella's beds, I could easily replace that. I then called a tow truck. I will obviously need a new car, but it will have to wait until after the international tour SCW is running next week. We are actually leaving for Australia the day after the Halloween party.
I go into the backyard to watch the tree people try to figure out the pool mess. I offered them drinks, my house came with a built in generator so while almost everyone in this area is without power, I have limited power, enough to have kept my fridge from turning off. I could have run the AC too but it was a cool day so I didn't need to. They accepted the drinks, then politely asked me to stay back. I didn't have a problem with that. I was sitting in a patio chair in front of the window to the den, far away from the pool, when I heard a knock on my back gate. I look up, and Reece waves at me. I get up and let open the gate.
“Hey there, how's it going over here?”
“Don't know if you saw, but my car is gone.”
“I saw them tow it off. Sucks.”
“Yeah, it's pretty inconvenient. But it was four years old, probably time for a new one anyway.”
“That's a pretty positive way to look at it.”
“I gotta take my victories where I can.”
Reece smirks. “That is your M.O.”
I laugh. “Usually. Anyway, I thought I'd sit here and watch these guys a while. I have to get back to the airport to fly back in about an hour though.”
“Yeah, I hear there's a big party you have to be ready for.”
I roll my eyes. “Yeah, let me show you how excited I am.” I point at my face and give him a deadpan look. He laughs.
“It can't be that bad,”
“Oh yes it can. It's hosted by a woman I have hated for years and takes place on my ex-husband's yacht.”
“Yikes. So... why are you going?”
“Sienna.”
Reece nods. “Gotcha.”
“I also plan to have my own fun.” I had an idea for my ad Dom's costumes that would turn some heads, and greatly annoy Blake.
“Might as well make the most out of it you can, right?”
“Exactly!” I smile. Reece starts to say something, but the tree people started making a lot of noise with a chainsaw. After about a minute they were done, and I saw a large hunk of tree being pulled away with a chain.
“So... did you come home alone?”
“I did. Looking for Jaina?”
“Yeah.... just wanted to say hi if she was here.”
“Oh. No, she stayed with Dom at Sienna's.”
“Oh okay.” A few seconds of silence. I think he was waiting for me to explain why, but there was no real reason. She just didn't need to be here. “Listen, I wanted to tell you that she told me what's been going on with her, why she was pretty much avoiding me.”
I blink in shock. It was all I could do to stop myself from screaming 'what?!' She didn't tell me she told him! I take a breath, to make sure I say the right thing. “Oh really?”
“Yeah, she did. We had dinner together at my place when she was here by herself a few days, and we had a good talk.”
“I see. And how do you feel about everything?”
“I understand it, and I'm okay with her decision. The last thing I want to do is put her in a position where she feels forced into something she isn't comfortable with.” I literally cannot believe what I'm hearing. I must have had a confused look on my face. “What? Not what you expected?”
“Honestly? No. I am very surprised you're not upset at all.”
“Well, I'm not chipper about it. I do wish she had told me sooner, but there's nothing to be really mad about. She wants to step back, take things a little slower. I respect that.”
Oh. Oh. Jaina didn't tell him about the abortion. She made something up about their kinda-sorta relationship. Thank goodness I hadn't said something about the pregnancy! Time to backpeddle.
“Right... and you're a good man for that. I just thought that you were really into her and you'd be more upset about things.”
Reece grins. “You're not wrong, I am into her. And she didn't call it off. Just slowed things down. I can work with that. I have to keep reminding myself that she's actually younger than she comes across. And she explained to me the whole mess with her ex, the girl she was engaged to. I can understand how she'd be hesitant about going too quickly.”
“That is a big thing, too. I admit I warned her about that back then, and I said something this time, too. Not that I don't approve....” He gives me a look. “Okay, I didn't at first, but I was wrong, okay? I do approve in general. I just don't want things to go badly for her again, and rushing usually ends badly. I'm actually pulling for things to work out with you.”
“You had a strange way of showing it. I distinctly recall you threatening me in my own kitchen.” Reece grins. I smirk.
“Yeah, well... I had to make sure you could stand up to being involved with this family. You passed.”
Reece laughs. “Good to know. Thanks for the vote of confidence though, I appreciate it.”
“Of course. I-”
I was just about to say I think Jaina will ease into things, when a loud THUD shook the ground. Reece and both looked towards my pool. The tree people had pulled he large limb out with their truck and a chain. The thud was the sound of it hitting the ground between the pool and the concrete fence. I start to clap my hands, and Reece joins in, giving a small applause. One of the workers gives us a bow. I laugh.
“Finally.”
“You know, you can go if you need to. I can hang around and supervise.”
“That would be fabulous. Are you sure you don't mind?”
“Not at all. I'll text you updates.”
“Thank you. I-”
I am cut off again, this time by the sound of two chainsaws starting at the same time.
We went inside, and I told Reece to have the tree people call me when they were done so I could give them my card over the phone to pay. Reece then went home. Me? I ran upstairs and dug in the back of my closet for a certain garment bag. I needed it for my costume idea. Having to come back home and deal with hurricane damage at least had the perk of giving me a fabulous idea.
{{Saturday, October 31st
Los Angeles}}
“Are you sure this is a good idea, cakes?”
Dom gives me a skeptical look as he finishes getting dressed for the Halloween party. We are in the guest room Sienna gave us getting ready. I am dressed and ready to go, other than slipping my heels on. Dom is fixing his tie. My costume idea? A bride and groom, of course! Dom is in the suit he wore to the Deep Cover premiere. And me? I'm wearing a wedding dress.
“Of course it is! Half the people there are those who either talked shit openly, talked shit behind my back and Scott heard and told me, or agreed with the shit talkers about you and me being together. What better way to rub it in?”
“I think you're assuming Dave and Jason will be there and you want to get under their skin, and no one else's.”
“No, Amy already told me Jason isn't going. And it doesn't matter if David is there or not, because Regan will be, so either way he will know what we did.”
There is also the small detail of the fact that this isn't just any wedding dress. No... I am wearing my own wedding dress, from almost three years ago when Blake and I got married at the courthouse. Scott had been working on it for a bridal show and when I asked him for a dress with a week's notice, he finished this one for me. And that's what I told Dom about how I got a dress at the last minute... except I left out the part about me having worn it before. He didn't need to know that. But, if I was going to a party on Blake's property, I might as well have my own fun with it, right?
“Yeah, I guess so. I just wonder if we should be poking the bear.”
“By doing what? Dressing as our future selves? That's a stretch baby.”
Dom shrugs. “Yeah, I guess so.” He turns away from the mirror, and looks me up and down, smiling. “You do look gorgeous. You could wear that for the real thing and-”
“Oh no. No no no. Scott would have my head. He's already working on something much more couture and extravagant than this. This isn't even actually finished to his design, it was a rush job for me.” That was the truth at least.
“I should have known. Well... how do I look?” He holds his arms out to his sides.
“Ravishing.”
“That's a good word. I like that.”
I smile as I side my heels on. It was almost time to go. Tonight was going to be something else.
We arrive at the dock just before seven, when the yacht was set to leave. I stood back as Sienna talked to Regan for a moment, while Dom and Jaina went ahead onto the boat. I was wary of leaving Sienna alone, even though she and Regan used to be very good friends and I don't think Regan would have let her do something silly. But still... I wanted to stick by her as much as I could.
When they were done, she, Xio, and I walk up to board. As we approach the dock where Dom and Jaina are waiting, Sienna has this look on her face, the one that tells me she has something plotted. I lean in close to her so Xio won't hear.
“What are you up to, Sie?”
“Who, me? Nothing.”
“Don't lie to me babe.”
She hesitates a second, then comes clean. “Fine. I am meeting with Kelcey. She wants to talk, and I am going to give her the chance.”
“Sie.”
“It'll be fine.”
“Sienna!”
“Okay fine. Just keep your eye on the bitch, you'll know it when you see it.”
I take a deep breath. If that was all I was going to get out of her, I would take it.
We step onto the yacht, and for a moment I forget who it belongs to and look around, impressed. But then I see Blake and Kelcey across the deck, and I remember. Jaina grabs my arm.
“You ok? You look ill all of a sudden.”
“Do I? Must be the water motion.”
Kelcey sees us arrive and walks over. Fucking great.
“Hi ladies, and gent. Glad you came.”
Dom speaks first. “Thanks.”
“Hi. I'm not glad I'm here yet, but I'm sure I will be by the end of the night.”
Kelcey looks like she isn't sure how to take my comment. I was just being honest.
“Come on, Kels. You knew I was coming.” Sienna smirks.
“I did. And we will speak later. I have other guests to greet. Enjoy the party, bar is in the middle, you'll see it as you go around there.”
“Thank you, I think I'll head there now.”
We walk away, leaving Kelcey to greet the people coming up behind us. I see Jaina looking all around, as if looking for someone. Then, she smiles.
“Aunt Bree, I see a friend I planned on catching up with, I'm gonna go meet him.”
“Friend, what friend?” If it was Jordan or Owen she would have said so.
“Christian.”
I look in the direction she's looking, and see the young man, Chris Cannon's son.
“I didn't know you were friends with Christian.”
“Sure, we hung out a few times when I was with Owen, and stayed friends after we broke up.”
“Of course, I should have thought of that. Actually, do you mind if I speak to him first?”
“Of course not.”
“Thanks sweetie, I won't be more than a few minutes. Then he's all yours.”
Jaina smiles. “Okay.”
Sienna walks towards Christian. Jaina finds a seat at a nearby table, to wait for Sienna to be done with Christian. Xiomara disappeared, I didn't see where she went. So Dom and I walk around the main deck one time, then stop at the bar to get a drink. I see Blake through the crowd, he's talking to Kelsai Adamson and his brother Victor. He looks up as I'm looking and sees me. His eyes flick up and down my dress, then he glares. I smirk, then turn away to grab my drink. Mission already accomplished. The yacht has left the dock and now he has to deal with it all night. We leave the bar, and then I see Wyatt and Amy near the rail, a good ways down from where Jaina met Christian. I tap Dom's arm.
“Baby, I see my brother and Amy, let's go say hi.”
“Sure.”
Dom and I walk across the deck and Amy smiles when she sees me. Wyatt though frowns a bit. I'm not sure why.
“Hey Bree, Dom. I didn't expect to see you here.”
“I didn't even protest this time, Sienna would have dragged me along anyway.”
“I came for support. And drinks.” Dom grins.
“Both valid reasons. Love the costumes, by the way. Dressing as the future?”
“Exactly!”
“Bree's idea. I would have just worn all black like last year if it was up to me.”
“Well I think it's fitting.”
“It's certainly a statement.” Wyatt sounds accusatory.
“That's kinda the point.”
“Can I talk to you for a minute over here?” Wyatt points off to the side.
“Um... okay? Baby, do you mind?”
“Not at all.”
“Don't worry, I'll keep Mr. Movie Star here out of trouble. I actually had a question.” Amy grins.
“Okay."
Wyatt takes my hand and we walk a few steps away from Amy and Dom, who are already talking. I hear her asking about the E! Interview.
“What is this ab-”
“What the hell do you think you're doing with that dress?!”
I feel my eyes go wide. It was just that moment when I remembered that Wyatt had shown up at almost the last minute at the courthouse the day Blake and I got married. We had still been fighting, moreso me and Amy, but I asked him to be there, because he's my brother. I didn't think he was going to show, but he did. I later found out he and Amy had a massive fight about it.
“Well, it was laying around, and I figured I may as well get some use out of it. Be a shame to only ever wear it once.”
“Bree.” There was that stern tone of voice. My brother was not buying my shit.
“Okay fine. I wanted to get under the skin of a few people by showing up dressed as a bride and groom. And this? Well... fringe benefit?”
“That particular dress is only going to irritate one person, and you know it.”
“Of course I know it, it's the point.”
“You're playing with fire here. Bree. It's bad enough your best friend attacked him and now you-”
“Look. Sienna has her ways, and I have mine. I know what I'm doing, okay?”
Wyatt sighs heavily. Amy and Blake were on good terms again and I feel like maybe Wyatt thinks he's being put in the middle because he's figured out my little mindgame.
“Alright. Don't come whining to me when things go to shit.”
“I would never. Can you do me a favor though? Don't tell anyone what this dress is. I didn't tell Dom.” Wyatt sighs again, shaking his head. He starts to walk off. “Please?”
He turns back and shakes his head at me again. “Yeah, yeah... fine.”
“Thank you.”
Wyatt rejoins Amy.
Dom finishes his conversation with her and meets me.
“What did he want?”
Goddammit. I have to lie.... I didn't thik this through very well.
“Oh, just asking me about Jaina. He thinks I'll be more truthful with him than Amy for some reason.”
“They don't know about the.... do they?”
“No. They do know she's been seeing Reece. I told him the same thing I told Amy, she was in her head a bit about if she wanted it to be a serious thing or not. But otherwise she's fine.”
“You're getting a little too good at this lying thing for my liking.”
That actually hurt a little. If he only knew. “I don't like it. I'm doing it for Jaina, she asked me not to tell them. So I'm not.”
“I know. It's just not you.”
“I know. It won't become a habit, I promise.” I say as I'm wearing a dress that he has no idea what it is. It's better that way, though. As much as I hate lying to him.
I turn and lean against the rail, the breeze from the water rustling the skirt of my dress, and see across the deck Jaina and Christian. Sienna is nowhere to be seen. Jaina and Christian are sitting on a bench that's against the rail, pretty close to each other. They look a lot cozier than makes me comfortable. I'm not sure I like this development, if it's what it looks like. On one side, it would probably make Owen Cruze mad, and that would be fun. But on the other, Jaina just recently told Reece she wanted to slow things down with him, but now she's gonna mess with another guy? I decide I should investigate. I ask Dom to get us fresh drinks while I go say hi to Jaina's friend. He goes, and I walk across the deck. Both Jaina and Christian stand up when they see me coming. Jaina is in regular clothes, Christian is dressed in a gray suit, he has some title belt on the bench next to him, I think from Emerge. I put on a smile.
“Christian, hi babe. Long time since I've seen you.”
“Hi Bree, good to see you.” He seems nervous.
“I won't interrupt your conversation for long, I just wanted to come say hi, and tell you something. I want you to know that even though I am very upset with your father for the way he's treated Sienna... I don't hold that against you. You've always been respectful to Sienna and polite with me. And I'm glad you and Jaina remained friends.”
“Thanks. I didn't think you would hold Dad's actions against me, you've always seemed to me to be a fair person.”
“I try to be. Are you guys having fun?”
Jaina nods. “Yeah, we're staying away from the crowd. I saw you talking to Mom and Dad. Dad looked upset.”
“Oh. That. He doesn't like my costume.”
Jaina frowns. “It's a wedding dress.”
I lean over and whisper into her ear. “Yes, it's the one I wore when I married Blake.”
I stand up straight and Jaina looks at me wide eyed, then laughs. “That's brilliant.”
“I thought so. But shhh.” Jaina does the 'zipped lip' gesture over her mouth.
“Do I even want to know?”
“No.”
“No.” Jaina and I spoke at the same time.
“Well alright then.” All three of us laugh.
“I said I wouldn't bother you long, so I'll let you get back to your conversation. Have fun, babes.”
“Oh, we plan to.” Christian smirks. I look back and forth between them. Their expressions don't tell me much. Hmm.
“Excellent. I'll see you later, Jay.”
Jaina gives me a nod and a smile. They sit back down and I walk off, looking for Dom.
I find Dom near the bar, having just been served the drinks I asked him to get for us. It's some kind of green punch that tastes like tequila is in it. It's yummy. We move away from the bar to make room for others but stay close by, there's a post and I lean on it. Across the deck I catch sight of Blake again. He sees me once more and glares again, shaking his head. I turn my head acting as if I didn't see him. I see Jordan walking by, she gives me a glance. I watch her, wondering if she will come speak to me but she keeps going. She seemed to be in a hurry. Either that or she didn't want anyone here to know we'd talked and regained some civility. Probably for the best with Sienna roaming around. My thoughts are broken up by Dom.
“I'll be right back, gonna go find the restroom on this thing.”
“Okay. I might walk around a bit though.”
Dom nods and walks off. I sip my drink and watch the crowd. I see Sienna and Xio, they're chatting as they walk with a purpose. Maybe Sienna is going to meet Kelcey now, as I don't see her anywhere. I also see Peyton Rice with a rather good looking young man I don't recognize. Regan passes by with her sister Mikaela. I even see that young girl Amy trained who works in GCW now, D'Nae Moore. I met her a few times at the gym, I like her attitude. She passes by too and gives me a wave. I smile and wave back. I then see Amy talking to Asher Hayes. Okay, that's a little strange, but whatever. I finish my drink and toss the plastic cup into a nearby trashcan. When I look up... I see Blake walking towards me, that glare still on his face. Oh, this ought to be good. He stops right in front of me, and looks me up and down.
“Are you going to speak, or just stare at me all night?”
“What the fuck do you think you're doing?”
“I'm at a party I was invited to. You're not being a very gracious host.”
“You know what I mean, Bree! You have some fucking nerve showing up here dressed in that! I know you know that this is supposed to be the one day a year where everyone puts their differences aside and you couldn't even be mature enough to do that!”
I smirk. “What? I am recently engaged and we thought it would be fun to come dressed as a bride and groom. Scott didn't have time to make me another one. You could have at least congratulated me.”
“Yeah, that's not happening.”
“So much for putting differences aside.”
Blake shakes his head. “It's not that, Bree, it's that I'm not gonna say something I don't mean.”
“That's an improvement for you.”
“See, this is exactly what I mean! There was a time when all I wanted for you was happiness. Dom is the best person for you, you click in ways you and I never did. I hated the fact I felt I had no choice but to do what I did, I didn't want to hurt you. But now? This? You're unrecognizable. I no longer give a damn. You're so far in bed with Sienna that you can't see anything else, she's already attacked me once, no matter what she did to me you wouldn't care. I get it, you hate me, that's fine. I see no reason why I should care about what's going on with you. Whatever positive feelings I might have had left towards you are gone, especially as long as you continue to endorse a raving lunatic!”
I put my hand up and point my finger in his face. “First of all! Sienna is not a lunatic!” Blake pushes my hand out of his face. I make a show of wiping it off on my dress. “She is simply pushing back against the things that have been done to her, against the people she feels have done her wrong. You of all people should relate to that.”
Blake shakes his head. “Sad thing is... I do relate to that. I've been where Sienna is. You were there, remember? But I knew when enough was enough.”
I cross my arms. “Oh really? Was that before or after you tried to break Chris' neck?” He glares at me. “But you know what? Be that way. You're a hypocrite. You confront me about how tonight is supposed to be about putting differences aside and yet you throw all this shit in my face. And here I was, about to go out of my way to tell you that I've seen you and Kelcey talking backstage, in your luxury boxes... I am actually hoping things work out for you. After everything the both of you have pulled, you deserve each other.”
“Oh don't act like you give a damn about Kelcey all of a sudden, do not bring her into this! You might have to hold Sienna back in front of the cameras but I have no doubt that behind the scenes you're just egging her on!”
I shrug. “I won't bother trying to refute that, you'll believe what you want no matter what I say. You always have. This is exactly why Katya has a target on you.”
“Katya... it hasn't been easy dealing with her garbage, maybe she's right. Maybe I don't belong in SCW anymore. You may get what you want, me out of your work life, if things don't change.”
I laugh. “I've already told you I don't care if you stay or go. The fact you think I do is amusing. I will say though that I thought you would be motivated by being included in the contendership series. Don't you want to win it so you can have a chance at taking something else away from me?” Blake starts to say something, but I keep talking. “That was the point of me wearing this dress, by the way. To remind you that you are not the upstanding, honorable man you're pretending to be. You might have all of these other people fooled, maybe even Kelcey. But I know you, Blake. You get angry, you want to murder everything in sight, but when things get too hard? You run. I was hoping maybe you'd grown past that and would see this through to the end.”
He glares, and steps closer to me. “I don't-” He stops himself, and rubs his hand over his face. I think maybe I finally broke him. He steps back and takes a deep breath. “No. You know what? This is exactly what I didn't want! What I really want, deep down, is my friend back. I don't want to be driven to a position to take something away from you, I didn't want any part of this championship series. I don't want to fight you. It hurts accepting this is the way things are. I know, I made this bed, but you are embracing this anger and hate of me inside you, and it's exhausting to deal with every time we exchange more than five words. And I'll tell you this right now, I would rather walk away refusing to cross another line, than to stay and do the one thing I swore I would never do.... let the monster out again.”
I take a step forward this time, my arms still crossed. “You know what was exhausting for me? Trying to act like I wasn't angry at you. Once I realized it's okay to admit it and accept that, everything got so much easier. For you? It wouldn't be so exhausting if you just finally accepted who you are. You've always fought against it. And that's what allll of this about you not wanting to fight me is, isn't it? I think you do want to fight me, you just worry about what people would think about you if you do. I've accepted who I am, I did that a long time ago. I don't know why you can't. If you really do want your friend back... maybe you should think about that. Because if you can't accept yourself, you'll never be able to accept that this...” I gesture to myself, dress and all. “.... is who your 'friend' is.” Blake looks me up and down, glaring at the dress. “You fought against yourself so hard that you left me rather than accept the way we both are. But it's fine... I am over it. Because honestly, I probably couldn't have lived with a pretender for much longer, anyway.”
He looks back up and me, and scoffs. “That's rich, coning from a woman who's going to marry an actor.”
“He only pretends when he's getting paid for it.”
Blake and I are still glaring at each other when I sense a person walk up next to me. I look and it's Dom. He doesn't look pleased.
"Is there a problem here?”
“Blake doesn't like my costume.” I see Blake roll his eyes. For a moment I was worried he would blurt out what my dress really is, but he doesn't.
“That's just too bad, you need to get over it.”
“You have no idea how over it I am.”
“You know what, man? I never had a problem with you before, because for the most part you've left Bree alone after you decided you were done with her. But after the airport incident … yeah, she told me about that... and now this? I'm starting to lose my patience.”
Blake takes a step back and puts his hands up in defense. “I have no problem with you either, Bree will tell you I've repeatedly told her I think you're good for her, not that you likely care about my opinion. I do want to tell you though, you have no idea what you're getting yourself into. I wish you luck, sincerely. You're gonna need it.”
“Are we done here? Don't you have a flame to flutter back to?”
Blake glares at me again, gritting his teeth I assume to keep himself from saying something. He then spins and walks off.
I exhale hard as I face Dom. “I need another drink.”
“What the fuck was his problem? And don't tell me it's your costume.”
“Well, it started about my dress. But in typical Mason fashion he turned it into the usual shit. Don't worry about it.”
“I am gonna worry about if he's gonna start shit every time you speak. I'm tired of seeing him upset you.”
“I handled it though, I don't think he's going to bother me anymore.”
“Good. He'd better not.” Dom looks in the direction Blake went, glaring. I look too, and see him talking to Kelcey. Ha! I knew it. Moth to a flame, as usual.
“Can we go get another drink now?”
“Absolutely.”
Dom and I head back to the bar. While waiting for our drinks, I look over to where Jaina has been sitting and talking with Christian. They're both smiling as they talk. At least she's having a good time.
* * * * * {{Jaina}} * * * * *
After Bree left from speaking to Jaina and Christian a few minutes, the two friends continued to catch up.
“That was a bit strange.”
“Not really. Aunt Bree tends to hover, she's kinda protective of me.”
“I can see that. Has she always been that way with you?”
“Not always. When I was little she seemed like more of an older sister than an aunt, she's only ten years older than me. She really only started being that way when my mom got bad with the drinking. She took care of me and my little brother a lot when Mom couldn't.”
“That explains it then, why you are so close.”
“Part of it, yeah. I guess she came over here to see what exactly we were doing.”
“We're talking....”
“Yeah, but she jumps to conclusions a lot. I decided to come at the last minute, I guess she's suspicious.”
“I'm glad you did decide to come.” Christian smiled.
“I almost didn't, until I remembered you asked to meet and catch up. I really only came for you.”
Christian smiled. “So things are going better for you, then? You seemed to be having a hard time.”
“I was. Just different things. I moved to Aunt Bree's, my parents weren't too happy about it, but they couldn't really stop me, you know?”
“Right, you're an adult.”
“Exactly. Although even Aunt Bree forgets that sometimes, but at least she's trying. I was a little sick for a bit, then Sienna came stay with us.... it's been kinda crazy. But it's getting better.”
“I can imagine living under the same roof as Sienna is interesting. She's certainly one of a kind.”
Jaina cringed a little. “Right. It's dumb but I keep forgetting you know her pretty well.”
“Yeah, I do. She and I had our moments but we are on good terms.”
“Good. She has her ways like everyone else but she's always nice to me.”
“Glad to hear it. You said you were ill?” Jaina wasn't sure why Christian changed the subject all of a sudden but she went with it.
“Oh, yeah.... just like a stomach flu or something. Made doing TV interesting for a few shows. But it's all gone now.”
“Wouldn't have guessed seeing you, I've seen you on a few times. You always look great. And doing a great job, too.”
Jaina smiled. “Thanks. I've watched a few of your matches, speaking of. You always look great too. Especially with that belt.”
Christian put his hand on the belt a moment. “Oh you think so?”
“Well yeah, couldn't you tell by the way I click like on pretty much all the pictures you Tweet?”
“I did notice that. So it's like that, is it?”
Jaina smiled. “Maybe. You click that heart on a good bit of mine, too. Don't act like it's one-sided.”
“It's definitely not one-sided. I have to ask though... since when?”
“What, that I thought you looked good?” Christian nodded. “I mean, always. I just didn't say anything cause I met you through Owen.”
“Fair enough, I suppose. What if... I told you I always thought the same about you, and never said anything for the same reason?”
Jaina grinned. “I'd ask if it matters anymore? I know you weren't happy when he hooked up with Jenni.”
“No, I wasn't. I told him it was fine because I figured they were going to do it anyway, but it's really not fine.”
“Let me guess, some kind of 'bro code' thing?” Jaina smirked.
“Yeah, exactly. It's not the done thing, you know?”
“I guess. I mean something like that wouldn't bother me. But I'm not a guy.”
“You're certainly not.” Christian gave Jaina an appraising look. She grinned.
“You know, if it really bothers you that much, maybe you should get him back.”
“Oh yeah? How would I do that?” Jaina smiled bigger, and gave him a pointed look. Christian smirked. “I think I follow you, and if so, I like the way you think. Should we find somewhere more private to talk?”
Just then, Jaina heard her aunt's voice raised. She looked across the deck and saw Bree and Blake standing face to face, arguing.
“Oh gods.... perfect timing. I have no interest in seeing that display.” She pointed. Christian looked, and shook his head.
“Yeah, not my idea of party entertainment either.”
“I wish they'd just leave each other alone.”
“I wish he'd just leave, end of.”
“You're literally sitting on his boat.”
“I'm here for Kelcey. Well, and you.” Christian grinned again.
“Nice save.” Jaina saw Dom approach Bree and Blake, and Blake walk off shortly after. “Oh good, no one's going overboard. So anyway, about that going somewhere more private?” Jaina grinned.
“Right.” Christian stood up, grabbed his title belt, and reached his hand out to Jaina. “Follow me?”
She stood up, and took his hand. “Of course.”
They both smiled as Christian led Jaina to a staircase that leads below deck. Once down, Jaina looked around, impressed.
“This is amazing! It looks like a living room in a house.”
“It pretty much is a house. Some people live on these, you know. Keep them docked at marinas.”
“That would be so cool.”
Christian then led Jaina to a door. Once through, she saw it was a bedroom.
“How did you know this was here?”
“I came early to help Kelcey set up, and went exploring when I was done.” He closed the door. “Now... about this revenge plot of yours....”
“It's not really for me, I don't care who Owen is with. But if it would make you feel better, I'm willing to help.” Jaina smiled mischievously.
“Willing, yeah?”
Christian brushed a loose strand of hair off Jaina's face, then kissed her. She leaned into it. A few seconds later, he pulled back and looked at her.
“Hang on. Before this goes any further, you should know this would be just fun, I'm not trying to start up anything serious.”
“Good. Neither am I. I've had enough serious lately to last me a while. I could go for fun.”
Christian grinned, then reached down for the knot her shirt was tied into. He grabbed an end and pulled, watching as it came untied and fell off. Jaina looked up at him and grinned.
* * * * * {{ Bree }} * * * * *
I hadn't been looking at Jaina and Christian more than a few seconds before they both stood up, grabbed each other's hands, and Christian let her to the stairs that lead below deck. Oh shit. Oh this could be bad. I thought they were just friends! I grab Dom's arm and point.
“Baby, look! What do you think that's about?”
We watch as the two disappear down the stairs. “I think that... is none of our business.”
“Are you kidding me? Do you know what Scott told me he heard about that boy? He's been messing with Peyton Rice, Jaina can't stand her!”
“Since when do you deal in gossip?”
“Since it could negatively affect my niece.”
“So what do you want to do? Run down there and stop them?” Dom looks at me as if that's the silliest thing ever. And, well, it is.
“Of course not. I just... maybe they're just trying to talk more quietly.” I didn't believe that even as it came out of my mouth. I know all about sneaking off somewhere at one of these parties.
“Maybe. Don't worry about it, she's all grown up, remember?”
“Yeah, yeah....” I make myself turn away from the stairs and back to the rest of the party. But, I also made a mental note to ask Jaina about it later. Probably tomorrow. If this is what it looks like, it could be bad news for Reece and his hopes.
After some drinks and dancing later, Blake went to a stage near the DJ and made a statement, that he wanted to say something. Sienna and I exchanged a look. I noticed Kelcey looking a bit green near the rail, but she eventually joined Blake on the stage. Dom was behind us at the bar, Sienna, Xio, and I stood by waiting to hear what Blake had to say. I had an idea in the back of my mind but knowing Blake it was going to be dissapointing. He didn't get the chance to say anything though, because Kelcey passed out. He caught her and brought her below deck. I noticed the yacht starting to turn around. I looked at Sienna, the look on her face was blank. I didn't really care about Kelcey, other than the fact I hoped I hadn't just watched someone die.... all I could think about was one thing.
What did Sienna do?
When we got back to shore I found out what she did. I know she's said in the past that she wanted Kelcey dead but I don't think she has the heart to actually murder someone. So I assume that all the white powder was, was something that made Kelcey sick. I had to believe that. I had to.
After we got back to Sienna's, I was very aware of Dom in the room as I got undressed, taking that damnable dress off. I decided to burn it when I got home. It seemed like such a great idea to wear it and annoy Blake, but then Wyatt had to ask me about it, and Dom had to ask me what Wyatt wanted.... which led to me having to lie to Dom. I don't like how that feels. I can't tell him the truth about this dress, I know he wouldn't understand. But I promise myself that I am never going to lie to him again. I can't go into a marriage that way. I won't.
ON CAMERA
In the sitting area of a luxurious hotel suite, we find Bree Lancaster seated on an ornate couch. Brown velvet with wood trim. Bree herself is dressed in white jeans and a red long-sleeved top. Draped over the back of the couch next to her is the SCW World Championship belt.
Before I say anything else, I have to say how much I've enjoyed visiting this city, and this country! Sienna has told me so many beautiful things about her home, but finally seeing it myself is something else. Everything has been fabulous and everyone has been just so welcoming. I should have known though that City of Gold would treat the woman who holds the highest Gold in SCW in high regard.
Bree smirks a bit.
And speaking of that gold, the World Championship... I want all five of you in the contendership series to know, I am watching. Granted, I can't watch the triple threat in London until I see the recording of Breakdown, but here in Johannesburg, Owen Cruze against Blake Mason? Oh, you can bet all the gold you have I'll be paying attention to that.
But that doesn't mean I am not focused on the Tag League. I absolutely am. Sienna and I have a goal, to run this block and go on to become Tag Team Champions. As to that... I have a bone to pick about our last match. We fought Asher Hayes and Cid Turner the very best we could, we did everything right, we were kicking ass! The result on the books won't show you that though, it shows a double DQ and split points, rather than one team getting two, we both got one. And watching the match back, I can see how people might think that's fair, given both Sienna and Asher had a weapon in the ring. And Asher clearly brought that toolbox into the ring before Sienna got in with the chair. But to really understand what happened, you have to rewind a little bit... to the point where Cid struck Demitra in the jaw! It's very clear that he saw who hit him, and when he came to, he should have DQ'd them right away, rather than allowing the chance for anyone to try to use those weapons! If he had done his job properly, Sienna and I would have gotten two points and be leading this block legitimately. I mean, we still are, we didn't lose.... but we don't have the full points to show for it. This is just one more example of the disrespect Sienna and I have to deal with on a weekly basis.
But it's fine. We will persevere, and we will overcome it all and be the last ones standing at the end.
Bree smirks again and leans forward a bit, her arms resting on her knees.
And now we are set to face Matt Hodges and Subarashi. Assuming Hodges decides to show up, given what happened last week in Sydney. It seems like half the teams in this thing have imploded in one way or another... injury, disagreements, ego. Hodges and the so-called Demon Slayer seem to be the latest casualties. I mean, everyone should have seen it coming from the start. Hodges didn't want to team with the man in the first place. He obviously has a short temper and it was only a matter of time before last week happened.
Everyone saw what Hodges did to Subarashi, rumors are he's now injured. I don't deal in rumors though, I deal in truth, and the truth is we just don't know if the Demon Slayer is going to be cleared or not. I have to assume he will be, and prepare accordingly.
Subarashi... if that is your real name.... hi babe. I have no real issue with you, we haven't crossed paths. I admit I was amused by the way you put all of your attention on Jason Helms, assuming he was possessed by a demon. I can understand the confusion, but I could have told you that no, there was no demon. That's just the way Jason is. The only demons he has are mental ones, which I really don't want to get into right now, because honestly? I'm starting to get sick of talking about anyone named Helms.
I don't want you to worry about me though babe, there are no demons here. Sienna is an angel and me? I've already slayed my own demons.
Speaking of rumors I am not going to put any stock in, announcers have also suggested that maybe it's Hodges that won't show up, after his temper tantrum. I however, am going to assume that Hodges does show up.
I think it eats at him inside that he has yet to pin me, in either time we've been in the ring together. Oh, but I've pinned him, and he knows it. You all remember Fatal Fortunes, right? Yet he keeps coming out to the ring, bleating about how he's beaten all these people and he should be getting a shot at the World Title... my title. Not only does he have no claim, since he hasn't beat me.... but he wasn't even included in the contendership series!
Bree laughs.
Apparently I am right and Matt Hodges does not deserve a shot an my championship just because he thinks he does. Sure, he won at Apocalypse, but that was after Ace was already half-beat thanks to both me and Owen's offense. At Under Attack? Owen Cruze was victorious. Perhaps that's why he is in the series and not poor Matty.
Bree raises one hand and waves, wiggling her fingers.
Matt. Hi babe. I really hope that you do decide to come to the ring for our match, despite the animosity you have for your partner. After the way you dropped him on his head, I doubt he'll be cleared to compete. It sure looked like you had an idea after Sharper suggested you find a new partner. Care to share with the rest of the class?
It's okay. You don't have to. Because it doesn't matter who shows up to fight at your side, Matty. It won't change the outcome. It's proven that you can't beat me. Not one on one in thirty minutes, not in a four way.... and soon? Sienna and I will prove that you can't beat me in a tag match, either.
Face it, babe. I am simply better than you. I am younger, faster, healthier, and my specialty is picking apart the exact body part that you can't seem to keep in good condition. And Sienna? She's every bit as good as I am, and no matter who you have at your side, how talented you or this mystery person is... you won't be able to stand up to us. Let's face it, babe. You've been fighting with dead weight this whole time, teaming with someone you didn't want to work with to begin with. Meanwhile Sienna and I are best friends, we've been a team for the duration of this tournament so far. We have chemistry. We know each other up one side and down the other. You'll either have a somewhat injured partner you don't want, or someone you chose to replace him but you've had very little time to work with to prepare for us.
The odds just aren't in your favor, babe.
Bree smirks once again.
At Breakdown, the only demons that will be slayed are the two of you.... Matt Hodges, and whoever decides to show up with him. Courtesy of your true SCW World Champion and South Africa's First Daughter... the Ambitchous Angels.
Bree blows a kiss at the camera before the shot clicks to black.