Bree Lancaster & Alistaire Allocco vs. Shaun Cruze & Syren

[Kemal Yilmaz]

4 RP limit for tag

3500 word limit

Deadline: 11:59:59 pm ET FRIDAY, July 31, 2026

[Shaun2025]

INNER THOUGHTS – POST BREAKDOWN

I honestly can’t be bothered with this anymore. Every week I’m told that an individual is ‘done’ with me, and then they just drag me back into the same predicaments. When I came back, I knew I would be dealing with my fair share of bullshit, but this, this was something else and it was starting to derail everything I wanted from my return. I’d wanted to pay my dues and work my way to the top, but I’d spent most of my time dealing with that ignorant runt Polly Playtime. With her on the back burner, my past had come back to haunt me in the shape of an Allocco. All the time wondering if the SCW booking staff had a clue. Right now, I was ruffling feathers, but if this continued, I was going to do something about it, and no one needed to deal with the version of Shaun Cruze that this company seemed to need. The rinse and repeat of people wanting to take over SCW had to stop, and if the board didn’t have the balls to do anything, I would. I wasn’t quite there yet, but after Rise to Greatness, I wanted to see change. Or else, I would bring it about the only way I knew how. Not just climbing a ladder but ripping it from underneath those that thought they knew best.

PREVIOUSLY – OFF CAMERA

(As was always the case, the euphoria of a turning point in his life didn’t last long, his promise to himself to live life regardless, overpowered by the need to understand why Drew would do this to him of all people. Shaun knew this feeling, this spiral into depression but was refusing to allow himself to fold, this meant each day could either be one of the most beautiful, or a journey into the darkest parts of his soul. He wanted to fight; to find Drew for himself, he wanted his money back…but Kai had made it clear he should leave it. That was his life, and unfortunately a hundred Grace’s wasn’t going to permanently change that. The one person who could was Dorothea, the time spent with her always golden, each time Shaun wishing that his time could be longer. He felt like that now, dropping her back at Angyalka’s, at the house they used to own together. Angyalka invites him in for coffee, and like always they end up chatting. Funny how she was so easy to talk to now, now that the marriage had failed. After a while, and with Dorothea upstairs getting ready for bed, the subject turns to EMERGE, and once again Shaun must admit his failings. Angyalka listens to every word, not conveying the guilt she felt for persuading him to go for it. When Shaun is finished, she can only sympathize… and then apologize.)

Angyalka: I’m so sorry Shaun

Shaun: You’ve got nothing to be sorry about.

Angyalka: I told you to go for it

Shaun: No, you advised that I should. I made the decision. You don’t have to feel bad, or sorry for me. In fact, I’d hate it if you did that.

Angyalka: But what are you going to do now?

(Shaun shrugs his shoulders, though it was a question he had asked himself more than once.)

Shaun: I don’t know. I guess I’m just waiting to see how this all plays out and then I’ll decide. I just want you to know that I won’t let you and Dorothea suffer, I’ll still pay my way some way or another. Perhaps it’s time for me to go and get a proper job or something, billions of people do it so why shouldn’t I? I’m just glad we settled before all of this because otherwise you would have got nothing. I just can’t help but think that this is the universe punishing me in some way for what I did to you. It’s like it’s all snowballed from that mistake, and I’ve gone from having everything to pretty much nothing. It’s a good job; I have that little girl or else…

Angyalka: Don’t say it, I don’t want to hear it. We may not be married but I am always here for you, you know that right?

Shaun: Yeah, and thanks. I know I can talk to you, Owen and Grace.

Angyalka: Grace?

(Shaun immediately captures the suspicion… or could it have been jealousy.)

Shaun: Oh, it’s nothing like that. Just someone who was a fan back in the day that’s good to talk to. Need to get my head straight before I even think about anything like a relationship… but I can always use a friend.

Angyalka: What you do is up to you now Shaun, you don’t have to explain yourself to me. But make sure whatever you do, it’s with Dorothea in mind. I don’t want her to suffer again.

Shaun: I’m not interested in romance… I’m not very good at it, so I think I’m going to stay clear.

Angyalka: I don’t know Shaun, we had a lot of good years. People change though, don’t they?

(Again, the softness in her voice caught him off guard, maybe tinged with a hint of regret. Shaun had wondered that often, whether he regretted the decisions he had made in the past, and how he and Angyalka could have maybe gotten over it if he’d spoken to her before betraying her trust. He’d tried to kid himself that he’d made the decision for them, but he now knew that his reasoning had only been selfish. Was Angyalka showing him a potential way back. They were close on the sofa and he leans in closer, praying that she reciprocates… and not surprised in the slightest when she doesn’t and in fact pulls further away.)

Angyalka: What are you doing?

Shaun: I’m sorry… I…

Angyalka: Just because we’re talking again, doesn’t mean that I have forgotten what you did to me, or that I will forget.

Shaun: I know. Fuck. Sorry.

(Angyalka sighs, no longer angry but instead feeling sorry for him.)

Angyalka: It’s OK… but don’t ever do that again alright? I can be friends with you, but I could never trust you now. You burnt that bridge. I’m happy for us to be a co-parent, but that’s all. You understand that right?

(The firmness was in her voice again, and Shaun more than understood way. Once again, Shaun had fucked up and he knew it.)

Shaun: I do… I’m going to get going. Sorry

(Shaun gets to his feet and heads towards the front door, just as Dorothea is coming down the stairs.)

Dorothea: Are you going Daddy… I thought we could watch a film together.

Shaun: Maybe next time yeah sweetheart, Daddy’s tired after running after you all day.

Dorothea: OK. See you soon.

(She gives him a massive hug and heads into the living room, switching on the TV. Shaun opens the door, Angyalka puts a hand on his shoulder.)

Angyalka: Shaun?

Shaun: Yeah

Angyalka: You’re going to be ok, aren’t you?

(It was the million-dollar question, but Shaun does as he always did. And lied.)

Shaun: Of course, you know me. I always bounce back

(Angyalka nods)

Angyalka: Well, take care… and let me know if there are any developments.

Shaun: I will. Have a good evening.

(Shaun leaves and shuts the door, heading down the driveway a little until he turns, watching through the window as Angyalka settles down with their daughter for the night. That was a scene he was once part of, and yet like an idiot he threw it all away. And all THIS was the consequences of that action. Consequences he had to live with… as well as everything else.)

PREVIOUSLY – OFF CAMERA

(Shaun had been asked to come into the precinct, a place he believed he was spending way too much time. On the way there, he had been distracted, wondering if true to his word, Kai, or at least one of his minions, was watching his every move. Numerous times he had suspected a car following him, and as he pulls into the car park, he finds himself wondering if even now, he was being watched. Every move he made, one that could be critical and once again place his family in danger. Those thoughts rumbled around his mind as he sat in the reception area, waiting for the Police Chief to fetch him. Thankfully it is no more than five minutes until he is called, the wait making him increasingly anxious as the time passed.)

Chief Wilson: Follow me please Shaun so we can talk somewhere a little more private

(Shaun does as he is told, getting to his feet without a word and following the Chief into an interrogation room which doesn’t help the anxiety. Chief Wilson offers him a seat, Shaun sitting the opposite side of a table.)

Chief Wilson: Thank you for coming in Shaun, I didn’t think this was something that should be done over the telephone.

Shaun: No problem

Chief Wilson: We have received the results of the DNA taken from the body found at the bottom of the ravine.

(Shaun knew what was coming but does his best to reign ignorance.)

Shaun: And?

Chief Wilson: It isn’t Drew Bryant. In fact, it was the body of a homeless individual we had on our database. Various misdemeanors but nothing of real note.

Shaun: So, is Drew still missing?

Chief Wilson: Yes, I’m afraid so. In fact, we don’t believe that this had anything to do with your case at all and just some poor unfortunate in the wrong place at the wrong time.

(The Chief was doing his best to try and show the precinct were interested, but it was obvious that this wouldn’t be investigated any further, and that suited Shaun considering his interaction with Kai not too long ago.)

Shaun: Fair enough… I guess that’s it then

Chief Wilson: The case is still open, but considering this is no longer a murder investigation…

Shaun: It’s not going to be given priority?

Chief Wilson: I’m afraid not. Like I say, the case will remain open indefinitely and should we get any further leads…

Shaun: Is there really any point?

(This comment surprises the chief to the point he wonders if he had heard correctly.)

Chief Wilson: Excuse me?

Shaun: Is there any point, it’s only wasting police time when they could be catching murderers.

Chief Wilson: I’d say there is about $20 million dollars’ worth of points, wouldn’t you?

Shaun: Money doesn’t make you happy Chief; I’m a prime example of that. I just want to move on with my life, and I’m not going to do that if I’m chasing apparent ghosts. I’d rather just leave it be.

Chief Wilson: But you were so determined…

(He pauses, as a thought jumps into his head.)

Chief Wilson: Hold on, Shaun, I’m going to ask you a question and I want you to tell me the truth.

Shaun: OK

Chief Wilson: Is someone putting pressure on you to drop this?

(Shaun sighs, knowing that there was no getting away from this predicament.)

Shaun: Even if there was, they don’t exist, do they? And I’d pay all the money in the world to make sure my family was safe. The money’s gone, but I still have my daughter. I want it to stay that way.

Chief Wilson: We can protect your family?

Shaun: From the invisible man…No Chief you can’t. I just want it over.

(He pauses.)

Shaun: Do what you must, but I want nothing more to do with it.

(As far as Shaun was concerned the conversation was over, and although Chief Wilson didn’t like Shaun’s decision, he certainly understood it. It was a lot of money to lose, but Shaun was willing to do that if his family was safe, and Wilson respected that. Shaun holds out his hand, the general feeling of acceptance obvious. The Chief takes it and the two shake.)

Shaun: Thank you for your help…

Chief Wilson: I’m sorry we couldn’t get you your money back.

(Shaun nods, leaving the office, Wilson watching him go. No sooner than Shaun is out the precinct door, than Chief Wilson picks up the phone and dials a number. He waits for a few moments and places the phone on handsfree as someone answers.)

??? : Chief, long time no speak, what can I do for you?

Chief Wilson: Chris… I need to ask you a favor. Well, I need you to do something ‘off the books for me.

Chris: Yeah, what’s up?

Chief Wilson: You’ve done a lot of work for the Cruze boys right?

Chris: For sure… in fact when I started in the Investigative game, they kept the company afloat.

Chief Wilson: Well, one of them is in trouble… lost a lot of money to someone he trusted but has now given up. He’s too prideful to ask for help though.

Chris: That must be Shaun then?

Chief Wilson: Yeah.

Chris: Figures

Chief Wilson: Do you know Drew Bryant?

Chris: Barely… met him a few times at some of Shaun’s parties.

Chief Wilson: Well, I need you to find him… but no one can know you are looking.

Chris: Ok…

Chief Wilson: Let’s just say that there’s been more information leaving the precinct of late than I’d like, and someone must be feeding that. Find Drew, let me know where he is and then I’ll take it from there. But you only talk to me… got it?

Chris: Sure, I’ll get on it right now

Chief Wilson: Good man and remember, no one can know you are looking, so don’t leave a trail

Chris: Incognito… got it. I’ll find him, don’t worry.

Chief Wilson: I know you will.

(The line goes dead, Wilson biting his bottom lip, staring out at the precinct and his officers milling around. The door was shut, he knew no one would have heard the conversation, but right now he couldn’t trust anyone. He knew that if this Kai did exist, and the more he spoke with Shaun, he was certain he did, to stay invisible like he did, with nothing sticking to him he had to have help within the precinct. If it got out that he had done this and enlisted Chris Clay, then that put Shaun’s family in danger, and that man had already lost so much.)

PREVIOUSLY – OFF CAMERA
TWO WEEKS LATER

(The sun beats down from the cloudless skies, sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. A beach bar is seen, a pathway winding down towards the ocean where two sunbeds are set up, a parasol shading the two individuals laid there. The woman reaches over and picks up her drink, sipping on the straw as the man throws his legs around and buries his feet in the sand. The woman raises his sunglasses and looks at him, a smile on her face.)

Drew: Didn’t I tell you I would give you the world Beth?

Beth: You did… I don’t know where you got the money for this, but I don’t care. This is beautiful

Drew: The Maldives is amazing this time of year.

Beth: And a sea view as well from the apartment, you thought of everything.

Drew: Play your cards right and I might buy us a place here.

Beth: And what do I have to do for that?

(She winks at him with a wry smile, knowing exactly what he would want.)

Drew: I’m sure you can think of something.

Beth: I can think of lots of things

(Drew picks up his drink and sighs, this place as far removed as it could be from those, he was used to. His feeling is broken by something, or as it turns out, someone, blocking out some of his sun. As he turns, he faces Kai, dressed appropriately in just cut off jeans and a tee-shirt.)

Drew: Kai, I wasn’t expecting to see you here.

Kai: I’m sure you weren’t.

(Drew turns back to Beth.)

Drew: Can you give us a moment… perhaps go and get us another of those pina coladas?

(Beth knew not to ask questions if she wasn’t going to like the answers. She knew that he could only have managed this doing something dodgy, so she gets to her feet and does as she is told, Kai taking her place on the sunbed.)

Kai: Enjoying the benefits of your spoils huh?

Drew: Hey, I worked hard for this, I deserve it.

Kai: We worked hard for this Drew… never forget that.

Drew: OK, we worked hard. So, what are you doing here anyway?

Kai: Just an update really

Drew: There is such a thing as a telephone you know? You didn’t have to come all the way out here.

Kai: Why not… and anyway, I’d like to know where my share of the money is, because it’s not in my bank account.

Drew: Don’t worry, you’ll get it.

Kai: Good, because I’d hate to think that Shaun would find out that I was far from the mastermind in all of this, and the reality is you didn’t owe me a dime until now

Drew: No, we wouldn’t want him to know that. You’ll get your money Kai; I’ll make sure it gets sorted today

Kai: Good, because I’m not going home until I see it in there.

(As far as Shaun was concerned, Drew had only done this because he was desperate to pay Kai back, but that wasn’t the truth. The reality was that Drew had employed Kai, and not the other way around, and fleecing Shaun of his money was ALL Drew’s idea. Shaun didn’t know how far Drew had gone to make this happen, and how much further he had been willing to go if he’d not go what he wanted.)

Drew: So, you said something about an update?

Kai: Cruze spoke with Chief Wilson and told him to drop the case, and as far as my boys in the precinct are concerned, that seems to be what is happening. They aren’t looking for me anymore, and they sure as hell aren’t looking for you.

Drew: And how did you manage that?

Kai: I made it clear that if Cruze didn’t drop it, his family would be in danger.

(To start with Drew looks shocked, but it becomes clear that he is only mocking the situation.)

Drew: Good… fucking Angyalka’s voice always grated on me, and that whiney little kid of his… Dorothea. Spoilt little shit. Just keep your eye on it for me… it’s not like Shaun to give up so easily. But then again, it’s obvious he still loves his ex-wife… perhaps the threat will be enough.

Kai: You didn’t see him, Drew. Cruze is broken, and he’s given up. He doesn’t care about the money, if they are safe.

Drew: And they will be… if he doesn’t get ideas about his station.

Kai: One more thing…

Drew: OK, but be quick, Beth will be back soon.

Kai: How did you pull a broad like that?

Drew: Amazing what twenty mill in the bank can do…

(Kai laughs)

Kai: True. I just want to know what you want me to do if Cruze isn’t true to his word

(Drew sees Beth coming back with the drinks and as such gets to his feet, imploring Kai to do the same.)

Drew: You don’t do anything ok… until you’ve consulted with me. The last thing we need is for you to make another mistake like what got you sent down last time. And you can be damn sure that I’m not going to let you drag me down with you. If you get wind of anything… ANYTHING. I want to know before you attempt anything, am I clear?

Kai: Absolutely

Drew: Good… and for that, I’ll make sure you get a little extra when the money is sent over.

Kai: Cheers, appreciate it.

(Kai walks away as Beth returns, Beth and Drew engaging in conversation. The picture pans, however, to the ocean and a boat bobbing on the water. On that boat is a man, binoculars obscuring his face. He pulls down the binoculars, and we see him for the first time. The man is smiling, as he nods his head.)

Chris Clay: Gotcha

(Scene fades.)

[Syren]

I actually managed to notice there was a show this week that was I booked on all on my own this time without anyone reminding me. How proud are you all? I'm so grown up!

Enjoy.



The Syren Song: Verse 435
"Somebody's got to do it"

[Shaun2025]

PRESENT DAY – OFF CAMERA

(The two of them hadn’t had chance to chat before, but now Shaun and Bekah are taking the opportunity to digest Taking Hold of the Flame and everything that had happened. For Shaun, he knew he should have been elated but was far from it. For Bekah it was her first foray, and she had done well for someone in her first televised match. Both weren’t entirely sure what the future would hold, but it was Bekah who seemed the most excited as they sat having coffee.)

Bekah: I think the best part for me was the noise the fans made. I mean, the moment they realized who I was, the roof came off. I really appreciated that.

Shaun: The fans have always been behind our family, even when we were at our worst.

Bekah: And working in that ring with you… it was beyond my wildest dreams. I honestly can’t wait to do it again.

Shaun: Any news on that by the way… a full-time contract?

Bekah: Nothing yet.

(Even making that statement she doesn’t seem disappointed.)

Bekah: I mean, I think I was fortunate enough that Owen managed to pull a few strings and even get me in the match, so I must be grateful right?

Shaun: The kids got some pull with the SCW board that’s for sure.

Bekah: I don’t think I’m even ready to go full-time anyway, I’m still learning my way after all. But it would be nice if they did offer… I don’t think I’d say no regardless.

(Shaun takes a sip of his coffee, making sure his words are right before he says them.)

Shaun: Look at it this way, you’ve appeared in one of the biggest wrestling matches in the world. And you have all the time to do good on that. And even if SCW don’t come knocking, I don’t think you are going to be short of offers after a performance like that. In fact, the way the General Manager of SCW feels about our family, it might be worth considering playing your trade somewhere else, because he’s certainly got a bee in his bonnet about me.

Bekah: I have to say, I have noticed that.

Shaun: Frank’s got a skewed perception on how a wrestling company should be run. He thinks that people like me, like Syren, are hogging the spotlight and keeping the younger talent from breaking through. He doesn’t realize that if they are good enough, they will break through regardless, and people like David Stryker for instance are doing exactly that without handouts. He doesn’t see it, and people like Polly don’t see it… he is the one holding them back, not us. By not allowing them to find their own way. Plus, he still hasn’t forgiven me for kicking him to the curb when he tried to force his bullshit on me. He doesn’t realize that people like me that have bled SCW for longer than he’s been around are of benefit to these people he is trying to ‘help’. And I’ve never said anything different.

(Bekah is listening to every word and taking it all in. She knew she could learn a lot from Shaun, just like she had from Owen at Next Level.)

Bekah: So, what’s next?

Shaun: Well, not winning Taking Hold of the Flame was a setback, but by coming second, I showed that unlike the belief of some, I still belong here. I guess now I take care of Allocco, another one who has a bug up his ass, and then after Rise to Greatness, I go after the World Championship. I didn’t think I was ready before, but I KNOW I am now. I just need to make sure Frank isn’t allowed to ignore me, and that part might be easier said than done.

Bekah: I mean, you could fight fire with fire

Shaun: What do you mean?

(She pauses, not wanting to talk out of turn.)

Bekah: Well, I know you don’t want handouts, but your situation is made more difficult by the balance of numbers. Frank has those numbers, and you don’t because the whole roster isn’t ever going to stand up to him because they don’t want to lose their jobs.

Shaun: I don’t blame them; they probably need the money.

Bekah: So, build a group of your own… individuals with a common ideology. Align yourself with similarly minded people. I wouldn’t be surprised if Syren, or any others in the ‘old guard’…

Shaun: Be careful with the old

Bekah: You know what I mean. You always said you regretted not bringing an end to chaos when you were General Manager, but you were bound by rules. Getting your hands dirty, putting things right, making an Impact, that is what you do best.

Shaun: And if that doesn’t work?

Bekah: Hey, I’ve been here a minute, but I’ve watched this industry all my life. If it doesn’t work, you get on the phone and you call the people you trust the most. The Kelcey Wallace’s, The David Helms, AJ Helms. You call people that you know will have your back.

Shaun: And if that fails?

(Bekah laughs.)

Bekah: Then Shaun, you go for the nuclear option, the one person you know would be here in a heartbeat if you asked. You call Owen and tell him that SCW needs him. You need him, to help bring order to the World you both built.

(Now it is Shaun’s turn to laugh.)

Shaun: I’m sure Jen would love that.

Bekah: You don’t know if you don’t try. Owen says he’s done sure, but what if he isn’t?

(Shaun hesitates, not sure what he thought or what to say. The last time a group formed for the right reasons was the Perfect Pack, a group that did make a difference. Would a group like that bring balance to Supreme Championship Wrestling. It had put a thought in his mind, maybe this was his story after Rise to Greatness. Maybe it wasn’t about titles at all. Maybe THIS was their legacy to make.)

RECORDING – ON CAMERA

“I’ve spoken about it before, but when you’ve been in this business this long, there isn’t much that surprises you. I knew when I came back, there would be those that would immediately claim that I was stopping the younger talent from progressing. I knew that there would be those that would take me on, to try and get some relevancy off their name. Believe it or not, I also knew that I wouldn’t storm my way through the field and it would take time to reclaim my place at the top. So no, none of that was a surprise. One thing that I couldn’t have predicted, however. Something that without a shadow of a doubt I would never have risked money on is the fact that Syren and I would be sitting on the same side of the fence. Syren has had her battles with the Cruze family, probably even more than the Allocco’s. Syren could quite legitimately say that no matter what the Cruze, she has had their number, except perhaps Owen. Previously, if her and I had been teaming up just a week before Rise to Greatness, there would have been a chance in hell I’d have trusted her to do the right thing, and yet here we are. Syren and I, going to war on more than one occasion this year already, and I trust her more than 99% of this roster. I don’t think that can be stated enough, nigh on two decades at each other’s throats and now we understand each other perfectly. Both of us have been faced with the same allegations, both of us fighting something that threatens to undermine everything that Olek and others fought to build. THAT surprises me more than I can explain... and that alone is bad news for those that oppose us. What we are facing are individuals that believe that they can speak a lie into truth, simply by saying it. What we are fighting is the latest in the long line of egomaniacs who claim to know best and what is right for Supreme Championship Wrestling. What we go up against are those that win at any cost and throw honor out the windows whenever it suits. What Syren and I face this week are two individuals that once stood for honor and integrity and yet now side with that which they once despised.

Now THAT isn’t a surprise

See, I’m not going to pretend I’ve been an angel all my life and ‘fought the good fight’ my entire career. I’ve been the asshole, Syren has been the asshole, but do you know something, at least we owned it. We didn’t hide behind a mask of doing what’s right for SCW, we admitted that everything we did, we did for ourselves. We were never frauds, hiding behind someone who they believe is going to be the power in SCW before long. How many times have these power struggles been a feature of SCW? How many times has an egomaniac stepped up with an apparent army to take control. And more importantly, what is still standing?

Supreme Championship Wrestling.

I’m not going to feed anyone a line and claim that I came back to save SCW from Franks Mob and restore some kind of apparent order. I’m not even going to say I even want to be in this position. What I will say however is that I was dragged into this charade, by individuals that, in truth, should really know better. Individuals that claim that I no longer belong on this roster. See, I readily admit, I’m not the youngest on this roster, but the truth is I never was, even when I first came to this place. I’ll not even claim that I am the greatest wrestler that ever lived, because I don’t have God given talent like some, I had to work at it. Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t get to be spoken in the same breath as Messi because he was born with talent like Messi was, he got there through sheer hard work and determination and never took the short cuts. Frank’s roster doesn’t have that work ethic… they look at Frank and see a guy who can make things happen, or who promises them that they are the epitome of what the group stands for. I’m not even going to use the word he uses for Bree because it makes me cringe every time. Frank has blown smoke up every one of their asses, and they have bought into it, and yet me and Syren, you know, the guys who told Frank to fuck off with his preferential treatment are the ones who shouldn’t be here. That’s not the worst part though. I kind of get it with the likes of Polly and Dawn who obviously need that leg up, but our World Champion? How’s about our opponents this weekend, two of the most talented individuals on the roster, do they really need that helping hand? The answer is of course no, both would find success regardless, and yet they made that choice because it was easy. THAT Ladies and Gentlemen is the example that they give to our younger generation, that you don’t need to use the talent, you just need a sugar daddy. That isn’t right. THAT is what Syren and I are fighting against.

With that said, I don’t know what type of team Bree and Alistaire are going to be, and I’m certainly not going to claim that they can’t co-exist. Both are former World Champions, both are recognizable as two of SCW’s greatest to ever compete, but you know what, so are me and Syren. You can spill some shit about how that isn’t the case, but you both know that it is true, what you are both hoping is that we have lost a step somewhere along the way, and we are not as great as we once were. I won’t speak for Syren, I’ll let her do her own talking when the time is right. But as for myself, coming off the back of Taking Hold of the Flame I may not be at the standard as the version of Shaun Cruze that held the World Championship over a decade ago, but I am not as far away as the two of you may believe. This ‘return’ wasn’t to take a place on the roster that I didn’t merit, and it wasn’t to keep some of the newer talent down. My return was to answer one question… was the Cruze family finished with SCW? Was our legacy complete? I thought the answer was yes. I thought this might turn out to be the grand finale… but then it became very clear that already people had forgotten who the fuck we were. Orlando Cruze – Five-time World Champion and a host of other achievements. Owen Cruze – the youngest two-time World Champion of all time able to retire in his early twenty due to his achievements. There is an irony that I am the least decorated of our family, and yet I am also a former World Champion AND Hall of Famer. That Hall of Fame wasn’t because of what I won, it was because of what I did for this company. Living, breathing and bleeding this company till I couldn’t anymore. So, when I was dragged into this turf war, for my opponents it was the worst thing that could have happened. I love this company… for all its faults. There is a reason it’s been the standard bearer for years, and that’s because it doesn’t need to change. Syren and I, we have earned out place ten times over, and if you want to take our place stop fucking moaning about it and fight. Don’t go running to Daddy when things go awry, or when he’s giving his attention to others. Fight and SHOW that you are better than us. Put us down… or shut the fuck up.

But you can’t, can you?

Bree, more than anyone I think it is your involvement that has disappointed me. I’m sure you couldn’t give a crap what I think, I’m certain you won’t listen to everything I have to say, but you more than anyone should know that this only ever ends one way. Yeah, he’s calling you the ‘Cla… no, still can’t do it, yes, he’s pandering to your overinflated ego perfectly to get what he wants, but there is only one possible outcome here and that is either Frank does one when he realized he ain’t going to win, or you cease to be of use to him and he get’s one of his other minions to turn on you. I agree with you on one point; he did need that big star to pull it all together. And that’s why when it came to the first choice, he came to me. You, Bree, are nothing more than sloppy seconds. But that’s nothing new to you, is it? It’s something you have become accustomed to. Even as a World Champion, you were always playing second fiddle to the Regan Streets, Selena Frosts and Syren’s of the world. Now, you finally have the lead role you think you were born for. Now, you have an entire group looking up to you. I ask you one question though Bree, how do you think Dawn REALLY feels about that? You’ve heard Polly… she’s only the main character in her mind. And how World Champion, how does she feel when YOU are claiming to be the one pulling it all together. She’s the WORLD Champion dipshit; she bows to NO ONE. What Frank hasn’t foreseen Bree, is that he has brought forth a ticking time bomb, he’s putting too many egos in one place, a mistake made thousands of times before. Your ego was what he targeted, and now by joining him, YOU have placed your legacy at risk. You know as well as I do, this won’t go on forever, I could give countless examples, and what happens then, when you count the cost of this critical mistake. Like I said, this is disappointing, not because you took the short cut like all the others, but because you are SO much better than this. One of the top ten female wrestlers to ever compete in this company resigned to being nothing more than a fucking figurehead for Delatossers little quest. I pity you Bree, truly I do. I pity what you have become. Oh, and as for your gift of class, you know where you can stick that right?

YOU’RE welcome.

Not going to lie Alistaire, when I saw the card for this go-home show, I had to raise a smile. There is a certain predictability that we would be put together in a warm-up, before we face each other on the big stage. Again, I am not surprised that you came back from your career-threatening injury as almost a carbon copy of your father. I’m not surprised that when you came back, you made an immediate bee line for the first Cruze that you saw, such is the obsession your family has with mine. It was also no surprise that the first time you opened your mouth, it was with absolute raw sewage about how YOU are the guy who epitomizes Delatossers vision. YOU, the guy with the dodgy knee that only a few months ago had finished you for good. I mean, let’s not dwell on the blatant disrespect for YOUR World Champion, or that Bree has done more with her career than you could ever dream of. Forget that already, your cast in one of the bigger non-title matches on the Rise to Greatness card has done nothing to deserve it. Instead, just like Bree, I’m going to focus on what the fuck happened to you whilst you were gone. The Alistaire that was friends with my nephew Owen, who didn’t pander to this family-feud.

Let me enlighten you

You sold out, and you became the one person you never wanted to be, your father. You let bitterness take control while you were injured, and you gave in to the Allocco gene that has been a worry all your life. I remember something you once said to Owen, that you would never be your father. Well, here we are, Adam would be proud, because you stand before me as his absolute carbon copy. And I can’t blame Frank for that like I can Bree, that choice is all on you. But I’ll say this before I move on… this obsession didn’t do your father any favors, because when he faced us, his mind was NEVER clear. Listening to you recently, neither is yours, and you are facing the exact person best placed to take advantage of that. Pay attention at Breakdown, because it will only be the precursor to what happens at Rise to Greatness.

Normally, at this point I would mention how pointless this match truly is, but you know what, this time I think the booking staff played a blinder. Not for me or Syren, we see this match for what it is, but I would hate for you both to walk into the biggest event of the year, believing what you do now about the two of us. I can accept it from the ignorant like Polly, but the two of you are better than that. I know the two individuals who wouldn’t hang onto Delatossers apron strings are still in there, I for one don’t want my Rise to Greatness to be a bust because my opponent had fallen so far up his own backside, he couldn’t comprehend the shit storm that was coming. So, when you stand the opposite side of the ring at Breakdown, I want you to look into mine and Syren’s eyes and ask yourself the question… am I looking at two individuals past their prime. Or, as I know to be the truth, am I looking at two individuals ready to write the next glorious chapter in their stories? If you two are still the competitors I believe you are, then you’ll find that question quite easy to answer. But if Frank is the one pulling the strings, then you’ll be totally oblivious. Guess which version has a chance to walk away the victors. Then, at Rise to Greatness, it’s just me and you Alistaire. Two of the very best to ever do this. If, as I believe that respect has gone, I only have one option. To beat that respect back into you. And starting at Breakdown, and finishing at Rise to Greatness, that is EXACTLY what I am going to do.”

(Scene fades.)

[Syren]

Second for the week.

Enjoy.



The Syren Song: Verse 436
"That’s not how proof—"

[HardyGirl]

{{Saturday, May 9th
Kenner, LA
MSY Louis Armstrong International Airport}}

 
 
My plane landed over an hour ago. But waking Heath up, getting our bags off, going through the private gate, and finally getting to the private garage where my car is parked took forever. I am relieved to finally getting to my car. There is an important phone call I need to make, and I can’t let anyone overhear it, not even airport staff who you would think could be trusted. Dom has fans everywhere and all it would take is one tip-off to ruin my plan. Luckily for me, Dom had changed his mind at the last second about sending me the signed waiver, and just signed it right there and gave it back to me before we left. When I told this to Ed, he knew exactly how to move forward, for Heath’s best interests, and mine.
 
With Heath strapped into the back and now inside my car, Josh is driving while I get on the phone.
 
“Hi, Ed. We’re back.”
“Good to hear. Your son is with you?”
“Yes, he’s in the back seat. I waited til I got in the car to call you.”
“Good thinking… wait, you’re not driving, are you?” There is a Louisiana law against using cell phones while driving.
“No, Josh is.”
“Perfect. Now Bree… I have this filing drafted into the court’s e-file system, are you sure that you want to go through with this?”
I scoff. “Are you seriously asking me this right now? You know I want custody and you know why!”
“Yes, but there is a big difference between filing for custody, and filing a petition for an Ex Parte Emergency Custody order. It’s going to be seen as hostile.”
“Honestly, if he is one bit surprised then he never really knew me at all.”
“Damn right!” Josh chimes in. I give him a grin.
“I heard that.”
“Ed says he heard you.”
“Good!” Both men chuckle.
“Very well, just doing my due diligence. Once I click this, you can’t change your mind.”
“I won’t. Send it.” I hear a faint click in the background.
“There. Sent.”
I take a deep breath. Dom is going to be furious. But Lisa? Lisa is going to be apoplectic.
“Fabulous. How long should it take to be signed?”
“Well, the system just sent the Duty Judge an alert. I don’t know who that is today, but they typically respond in less than an hour, unless they need to research. I can’t see that being the case here, we sent good evidence. I’ll text you as soon as I hear back.”
“Thanks, Ed. You’re the best.”
 
As I put my phone down, Josh steers the car onto the Interstate. I’m surprised we got out of the airport maze this fast.
“How long?”
“About an hour. Maybe before we get home.”
“And then your phone blows up. Am I right?”
“Probably. But I don’t have to answer it.”
“Just turn it off.”
I smile as I raise my phone up again. “Great idea. I’ll just text Amy that we’re on the way first.”
We had to pick up our girls, of course.
 
 

* * * * * *

 
 
Thankfully, traffic wasn’t very heavy crossing the river and we park at home twenty minutes later. It helps that Josh views speed limits as suggestions.
After getting Heath out of his car seat, we simply walk next door and I knock. Buying the house next door to my brother and Amy’s was probably one of the smartest things I’ve ever done. Wyatt answers the door.
“Heya sis.” He opens the door wider for us. “Josh.” The men nod a greeting at each other. Then Wyatt sees Heath standing behind me and next to Josh. He smiles at him and waves. “Hey there buddy.”
“Hi Uncle Wyatt.” Heath speaks soft, like he does when he’s tired. Poor guy has been through a lot in the last day.
“Amy’s in the kitchen with the girls, Jalyn very politely asked for breakfast, so of course Amy had to be fancy and do French toast.” Wyatt explains as we walk in.
“That’s fancy?”
“It is when she uses cookie cutters to make the bread into hearts.”
“Valid.” I take Heath’s hand. “Come on, your sisters are in the kitchen.”
Heath pulls his hand out of mine and runs down the hall to the kitchen.
 
“Amy, incoming!” I call down the hallway. Not that she couldn’t hear his shoes on the wood floor. I walk into the kitchen behind Heath just as Amy bends down to catch him for a hug.
“Hey bubba.” She’s taken to calling him that since Zara was born. Not that Jalyn isn’t his sister too, but it’s different. Speaking of Zara she squeals from the high chair when she sees me.
“Mommmaaaaa!” The girl is nearly a year old now and says several words. I go over to her and ruffle her fine brown hair.
“Hey babygirl.” I lean over and kiss her forehead. Behind me I hear two small feet hit the floor. I look and see Jalyn has slid down from her seat at the island and attached herself to Josh’s leg. I hadn’t realized he walked in behind me. Amy’s kitchen isn’t very big so we make a crowd.
 
Amy stands, picking Heath up with her, and sits him on the island top. I fake gasp.
“What? I was never allowed to sit up there!” Heath laughs.
“I’m special.”
“You certainly are.”
 
Amy goes back to the stove for a moment to finish the toast, and sets plates for the kids, seating Heath and Jalyn at the island.
“You guys want some? I made regular ones for me and Wyatt, there’s plenty.”
“Sure.”
“Don’t have to ask me twice.” Amy smirks at Josh as she hands him a ready-made plate. She hands me one next.
“Thank you. Might as well have something fun before shit hits the fan.”
Amy gives me a look. “Bree. What did you do?”
“Nothing I’m not well within my rights to do.”
“That leaves a lot on the table.”
Josh sits at the island with his plate next to Jalyn. Zara’s high chair is at the end of it, nearby.
“Bree should probably explain, not in here. I’ll keep an eye on the gang here,” Josh offers.
Amy glances at Heath, getting the hint. “Okay. My office?”
I nod, and follow her.
 
Once in Amy’s office, she closes the door, then turns to face me. I haven’t sat down. I was too anxious with my phone off so I turned it back on just as we parked the car, and I’m just waiting for it to go off.
“What did you do?”
“I filed for custody.”
“Bree!” I can’t tell if she’s proud or horrified.
“I gave him those papers last night. He didn’t seem like he was going to fight me on it.”
“Okay… then what shit are we waiting on to hit the fan?”
As if on cue… my phone dings with a notification from Ed. I glance at it; the judge signed.  Amy crosses her arms. “Don’t let me hear this on TV.”
“I… also filed for an emergency custody order, as soon as my plane landed.”
“You mean as soon as Heath was back in Louisiana.”
“Yes, exactly.” My phone suddenly explodes with about four different notification sounds. “And this—” I shook my phone “—is everyone finding out about it, because the judge just signed it.”
Amy just stares at me for a few seconds, stunned, slowly shaking her head.
“I don’t even know what to think. Did Ed do this?” I nod. “Listen, you know I always have your back, but… are you sure this is the play you want to make?”
“I better be, I can’t change it now.” Amy glares. “Yes, I am sure. Ed asked me the same thing before he filed it this morning. You did see the video on the news, right?”
“Yes, I did. But—”
“But what? What else was I supposed to do? Just shrug it off and appear to not care that my son’s father put him in danger? Scared him? How would that make me look?”
“Please tell me this isn’t just about your public image…”
“I admit it’s part of it. But to be honest with you, Amy… it’s because it scared me. That video… he looked and sounded like that fucking character. He’s still taking “Connor” off the set with him. It made me wonder how often things like that happen when Heath is with him that no one sees. This is why I left him. If Josh never existed, I would have still left Dom over this. I can’t let my son stay exposed to something even I couldn’t handle.”
Amy sighs and softens her look at me. “Now that… is the truth. Does Josh know?”
“Of course he does. We discussed it on the plane last night.” My phone continues to buzz and ding obnoxiously as we talk. I sigh hard, unable to ignore it anymore. “Ugh, let me just see…--” Amy nods and I unlock my screen. I have three texts from Dom, two from Lisa (I am shocked she still has my number), one from Ed…. And a missed call from an unknown number.
“The usual suspects?”
“Yeah… I should probably tend to this.”
“Of course. Use the office, I’ll go check on the kids. Including your husband.” Amy grins.
“Thanks.”
 
Amy walks out and closes the door behind her. I open Ed’s text first. I had already read the one where he said the judge signed off, this one is new.
[“I’ve been contacted by his lawyer already. Just so you’re aware. If he contacts you, do no speak to him.”]
No, shit, Ed. I reply that I won’t, then open Dom’s texts next.
[“Are you fucking kidding me Bree??”]
[“So much for being civil, I guess.”]
[“My lawyer advised me to not speak to you directly after this text. Contact him if you need to get to me.”] Followed by a phone number. I recognize it as the number the missed call is from. I should have known. This is what I expected from him. The last text thread to open is Lisa. She has some fucking audacity.
[“Bree, this is Lisa. I don’t think you fully understand the ramifications of what you’re doing here. Both of you are public figures, neither of you need this kind of publicity. You should have tried to work this out privately.”]
I laugh. Out loud. Is she really trying to run her spin game on me? Then I read the next one.
[“You can petition to withdraw this. Blame your lawyer, or your anger, whatever. But this cannot stand. Dominic has filming starting in two weeks, he cannot deal with your legal stunts right now! The studio is going to lose their shit when he has to take off for this. You know this won’t stay out of the media. Is that what you really wanted, to ruin everything he’s worked for? Over a small altercation?? You must have been just waiting for something you could exploit to take him down like the media has been trying to do for years!”]
I read this one over and over again. It doesn’t sound like the calm, calculated Lisa I knew. I know its text but it reads almost panicked. It doesn’t sit right with me, but I can’t put my finger on why. Not that it matters. I have no intentions of going back and forth with her. This is the one I reply to first.
[“I do not care about any of that, Lisa. None of it is my problem or any of my concern. I care about my son. I am not your client and haven’t been for over two years. You have no reason to contact me. This is me telling you in writing, do not contact me again. Dom has my lawyer’s number.”]
I glare after I hit send, and debate blocking her. But, if I do that, I won’t have proof if she tries to contact me after I told her not to. So I don’t. I watch the screen… and after a few seconds the little green check pops up. She’s seen it. Good.
 
I take a deep breath and leave Amy’s office. Listening for a moment, I determine that everyone is in the living room so I go that way. Josh sits up straighter as soon as I walk in.
“Everything okay?”
“Not really. But it’s nothing I didn’t expect.” I hand him my phone so he can read the texts. Like me, he gets to Lisa’s last. He suddenly bursts into laughter. I shake my head, confused.
“Well shit, that’s a twist I didn’t see coming.”
“What? She’s always been a bitch.”
“Come on, love. Look at this again. Its so obvious.” He hands me my phone, the text still open. I read it over again.
“It doesn’t sound like her, but other than that I don’t know what you find so funny.”
“Babe… she’s fucking him.”
“Oh my God, Josh! That’s ridic—” I start to say as I look back at the text. But then the way it reads so weird, panicked, clicks. “Oh my God!”
 
I think I’m going to be sick.
 
 

* * * * * *

* * * * * *

 
 
 
 
You want to know what I find really amusing?
 
No, it’s not Syren pretending she’s still relevant, although that is quite hilarious in it’s own right.
 
But right now I’m talking about the one and only CHBK, Mr. Alex Desoubrais himself! I find it absolutely hysterical that he decided to show his face again and take power back after I arrived and called out his little pet. I don’t know what kind of terms he and Syren are on publicly right now, I try not to pay attention to the drama of people I don’t care about… but as long as I’ve been a part of this company, it’s been known – well known – that they have some kind of connection, friendship, I don’t even know what to call it… outside of business. I have personally been a victim of that man pulling so many strings for her over and over and over that it’s been the unraveling, bit by bit, of SCW!
 
Let’s take a look at the facts, the truth, shall we? CHBK gets hurt, Mr. Delatosso steps up to keep this company running. He sees problems that need addressing. He realizes that some problems can’t be fixed with the tools, the assets, he already had at his disposal. So he calls me. The premiere asset, the Classet… to come back, come in and remind everyone… the locker room and the SCW Faithful alike… what this company can really be when people of the highest caliber talent and class are at the top, instead the dredges of yesteryear and the bottom-feeders from third rate wrestling promotions and schools that turned up here, looking for their big break.
 
It might seem like some of them got that, but I am here to break the bad news… you occupy a space that isn’t meant for you, and by doing so, the standard that SCW was always known for has been degraded.
 
Franky knew what SCW needed, so he picked up the phone and called one of the few people proven to bring honor and prestige and class to SCW – myself of course. The standard needs to be re-established, and I am starting by targeting the biggest albatross hanging from the letters SCW – Syren.
 
And then – only then – does dear old Alex decide he’d better show his face. Why now, do you ask? That’s so easy, my four-year-old could answer it.
 
He knows, and Syren knows, that I am one of the few who always saw through Syren’s garbage, and who CHBK could never push around or manipulate. I do not let anyone pull my strings. So when I walked back into SCW and made it my business to finally put Syren out to pasture… well, that was something he had to handle personally. Take back control.
 
Try to stop me?
 
Don’t make me laugh.
 
Rise to Greatness will be the last gasping breath of the so-called legacy of Syren, and at Breakdown this week, you will all hear the death rattle.
 
Alistair Allocco and I have never been friends, or even on good terms. But we are both smart, and we both see the same thing. That something must be done and we are the ones who must do it. If that means we have to work together for a glass of wine to further that along, so be it.
 
Pay close attention, babes. You are witnessing the ending of an era, and the beginning of a new one. After Rise to Greatness is over and the dust settles, you will begin to see that I have been telling you the truth all along, and you will finally thank me for it.