Owen Lee vs. Josh Hudson

[Owen]

(OOC note - All characters used with the relevant permissions)

4th July 2022

New York City

 

Owen didn’t want to be constantly watching the progress of the school, but in the early days he wanted to make sure everything was running smoothly. Finch seemed to be doing a really good job thus far, and they now had several students signed up to the school, as well as a fair number of subscriptions to the Gym. The shelter was still empty, but that had always been the plan. To get the business side up and running and then concentrate on everything else. Although it wasn’t Owen’s intention, it didn’t stop Finch from feeling more than a little paranoid.

 

Finch: You don’t have to be looking over my shoulder all the time you know, I can do this.

 

Owen smiles as reassuringly as he can muster.

 

Owen: I know… I can see for myself how well you are doing.

 

Finch: So, am I supposed to believe that this is nothing more than you being in the area.

 

Owen: Oh no… I’m here to check things are going ok.

 

Finch: Great, thanks for the confidence boost.

 

Owen: I’m joking Finch… winding you up. I might be checking on the progress, but I’m not checking up on you. When I left, we didn’t have any students, and now we have five. I’m more than happy with that considering that there is an established school just down the road. Stop being paranoid and keep doing what you are doing and that’s more than enough for me.

 

Finch: You sure?

 

Owen: Yes, of course, I’m sure. I wouldn’t have asked you to move across America if I wasn’t sure. Of course, I wanted to help a friend, but I wasn’t doing it as a favor.

 

Finch: Well, I’m glad you’re happy.

 

Owen: Bro, we are giving back to these people. That alone makes me happy. I’m not finished yet though… not until the shelter is up and running.

 

Finch: About that?

 

Owen: Yeah.

 

Finch: I mean, it’s all well and good running a business and trying to make a profit. But dealing with people’s problems, real issues…

 

Owen: You’re not sure you can deal with that?

 

Finch shrugs

 

Finch: Guess I don’t know until I try.

 

Owen: Don’t worry, most of it will be listening. And Andy will be doing most of that

 

Andy was the psychiatrist that had helped both Owen and Shaun in the past.

 

Owen: Anyway, you know what its like being down and out bro, you’re probably more qualified than any of us to help. It’s a learning curve for us all, but we’ll get there. If you give a shit about these people, that’s all they want really.

 

Finch: I get it.

 

Owen: Good, then…

 

“Owen?”

 

Owen turns his head to face the familiar face of Jason King.

 

Owen: Yeah, what’s up Jason?

 

Jason: Someone in reception to see you, says he’s an old friend

 

Owen: Did he give a name?

 

Jason shakes his head.

 

Owen: OK… we’ll take this up again in a few Finch. Let me just deal with this.

 

Finch: No bother.

 

Owen walks out the gym area and into the reception, his eyes widening as he sees who is waiting.

 

Owen: AJ?

 

AJ Helms stands there with a less than inviting look on his face. It quickly becomes clear to Owen what this must be about.

 

AJ Helms: Wondering if I could have a word.

 

Jason seems to pick up on the animosity hanging in the air.

 

Jason: This OK Owen?

 

Owen: Yeah, I think so. Go take care of your students Jason.

 

Jason: You sure?

 

Owen: It’ll be fine.

 

Jason gives AJ another look which makes Helms smirk. Once he has gone, Owen turns back to AJ, and motions towards a door.

 

Owen: After you AJ…

 

AJ walks into an office, which had been designated for Finch. A nameplate sits proudly on the desk, something that Finch was really proud of. Without saying a word, Owen offers a seat to AJ, Owen purposely walking around to the other side, keeping as much distance as possible.

 

Owen: Can I get you a drink… think Finch has a bottle of JD in his desk.

 

AJ Helms: No thanks, this won’t take long.

 

Owen pulls out a drawer and takes the bottle, anyway, pouring himself a double into a tumbler. He had a feeling that he was going to need it. Once poured he takes a sip and then sits himself down, AJ never taking his eyes off him.

 

Owen: So, what can I do for you AJ?

 

AJ smirks, but Owen is only unnerved by it. It seemed like AJ was almost sneering at him.

 

AJ Helms: You can stop acting like you don’t know why I’m here for starters. You’re not a kid anymore Owen, so why don’t we act like grown men huh?

 

Owen: I’m guessing Jennifer?

 

AJ Helms: Bingo. See, that wasn’t so hard, was it?

 

Owen: AJ, I don’t want any trouble.

 

AJ shakes his head.

 

AJ Helms: No, me neither. If I wanted to spark you out sunshine, I would have done it already. All I want is a little chat, man to man. Make sure that we are clear on a few things. See, I heard about your little stunt, sending Rachel to talk to Mom… cute.

 

Owen: I didn’t ask Rachel to do that.

 

AJ Helms: No, but Daisy did. I’ll give you your due, you played the situation well.

 

Owen: Jen and I just want to make the most of our second chance bro. I’m not the person I was before.

 

AJ Helms: So, I’ve been told.

 

Owen: Like you said AJ, I was a kid before. I couldn’t handle my life, never mind a grown-up relationship. I hurt Jennifer, I know I did, and you have every right to be angry with me.

 

AJ Helms: Angry Owen? You misunderstand, I’m not angry.

 

Owen: You’re not?

 

AJ Helms: Don’t get me wrong… when you and Jen split up, I wanted to kick the shit out of you. When you shit all over my Dad after everything, he had done for you, I wanted to kill you. If it hadn’t had been for Dave, I would have. Jen’s a grown woman, and she can make her own decisions, I’m not going to lose my sister by nailing the man she loves to the wall.

 

Owen almost smiles hearing that she loves him, but he keeps an emotionless face.

 

AJ Helms: But when I was told that you had changed, that you were a changed person, I guess I needed to see it for myself.

 

Owen knew he was being judged, and strangely he didn’t mind. AJ and Owen had been good friends not that long ago. Them and Christian Cannon making quite the trio, the three of them even going to Ibiza together. They hadn’t said a word to each other in over a year, and it seemed that in that time AJ had grown up a little as well. He’d had to just as much as Owen… being a father did that to you. AJ looks around the office, and then back towards Owen.

 

AJ Helms: So, Jen tells me that this is a Wrestling School?

 

Owen: Yeah, and gym. And in a few weeks, we’ll have a shelter for the homeless running as well.

 

AJ Helms: Why?

 

Owen: What do you mean?

 

AJ Helms: There’s my dad’s old school, just down the road. Why build this, and build this here?

 

Owen: The memorial is just down the road as well

 

AJ Helms: Orlando’s memorial, yeah, I know. But I thought you wanted nothing to do with him.

 

Owen: I didn’t for a while. In fact, I’d go as far as to say I hated him for what he did. But you can’t hold grudges forever. I guess it took a while to understand that he was only doing what he thought was right, and in all the ways that mattered he was all the Dad I needed.

 

AJ listens intently, as if examining every word.

 

Owen: AJ, I know you probably have your doubts, and Jennifer is lucky to have a brother looking out for her like you. I didn’t expect you to welcome me back with open arms, just like I didn’t expect the SCW fans to love me like they once did. I let a LOT of people down, and I get that some will never forgive me. But I promise you AJ, that person has gone. I’ve grown up and know what is important to me, and what really doesn’t matter. Making a success of this place and giving something back, reestablishing my footing in SCW, and making Jennifer happy are my priorities, and I’ll never turn my back on those priorities again.

 

AJ Helms: Even if Orlando Cruze isn’t your father?

 

It was an obvious dig, designed to see how Owen reacted. To see if Owen would lose his cool and reveal the ‘old’ Owen that AJ wouldn’t let anywhere near his sister.

 

Owen: He might not be my biological Father AJ, but my biological father was a prick that tried to kill me. Orlando brought me up, knowing that I wasn’t his, and knowing that Mom had been raped by his brother.

 

If AJ was surprised by this information, he doesn’t show it.

 

Owen: The amount of forgiveness that must have taken… to be able to put all of that to one side and still make sure I had all the opportunities he never got as a kid. I reckon he deserves a little bit of forgiveness for one indiscretion, don’t you? Let’s face it, I was lucky he stepped up. And now, it’s my turn to do the same. I nearly lost everything bro, but I gained so much more. I’ll always be grateful for that.

 

AJ nods his head, but still doesn’t avert his gaze. For a moment there is an awkward silence until finally AJ speaks.

 

AJ Helms: I promise you Owen, you hurt Jen again, and not even Dad will stop me.

 

Owen: I won’t, you have my word.

 

AJ Helms: I can see it hasn’t been easy for you, and you’ve dealt with a fair amount of bullshit, but our family is close knit. You hurt one, you hurt all of us, you get me?

 

Owen: I get you.

 

AJ Helms: Good. Then as far as I’m concerned let’s put it behind us. I don’t know if Mom and Dad will be so forgiving, but I’ll stay out of it. But…

 

Owen: You don’t have to say it AJ, I won’t let you down again.

 

AJ Helms: OK… then how’s about you show me around this place and then you and I go get some beers and properly catch up.

 

Owen: I’d love that

 

AJ Helms: Great… led the way.

 

Owen leaves his untouched whiskey on the desk, and gets to his feet, following AJ out the room. It seemed like AJ, like many others, was willing to give him a second chance. And for Owen that was truly inspiring. Maybe they weren’t friends again, not quite yet. But at least Owen now had some belief that they could be, something he wouldn’t have thought possible less that ten minutes ago. To Owen, this was proof positive that almost anyone could come back from real adversity. Which gave him even more purpose to ensure that the shelter was a success. If he turned one person’s life around like he had for the couple back in London a couple of years ago, all of this would be worthwhile. He shuts the door behind him, a huge smile on his face.

 

4th July 2022

New York City

 

Having a few drinks with AJ, it had seemed like old times. Maybe it was the alcohol that had loosened AJ emotions, perhaps in the morning things would still be the same, and the two of them still wouldn’t be friends. But to Owen it seemed like progress, and progress was what he had been striving for since Daisy had helped him retake control in all walks of his life. He would have stayed later but now he is walking back to the hotel he was staying in near to the shelter, knowing that he was flying to Pittsburgh tomorrow morning for Breakdown. Tiredness was starting to take over, it had been a long week, but he had achieved a lot. Now though all he could think about was the comfy hotel bed. That is until he realizes that someone is walking behind him, a little too close for comfort. His senses heightened, adrenaline starting to pump, Owen doesn’t look back and instead decides to walk more quickly, the footsteps behind him speeding up as well. They seem to get closer and closer, until it seems like they are less than a meter away. Owen stops abruptly, and turns, making the person behind him react, lifting a knife. Owen catches the reflection of the blade in the streetlight and instinctively kicks out, kicking the knife away. Before the knife has even hit the floor, Owen tackles his assailant to the floor, pinning him and making it so they are unable to move.

 

Owen: What the fuck do you want?

 

Owen lowers the hood and see’s his assailant for the first time, a man… well a boy, probably no older than sixteen years old. A scar runs down from his eye and almost to his jawline, but Owen see’s the fear in his eyes, and his cowering nature. Owen loosens his forearm that he had pressed against the guy’s throat, still ready should they react.

 

Owen: I’m going to let go… be cool yeah?

 

The guy nods, and Owen gets to his feet, expecting them to run away and yet they don’t, and instead prop themselves up with their back to the wall. They had attacked the wrong person today, and they had quickly realized that. What they didn’t realize was that without Daisy’s training, the result could have been far different.

 

Owen: What’s your name?

 

Guy: Reed… I guess you’re going to call the cops.

 

Owen: Reed huh? Nah, I’m not going to call the cops.

 

Reed looks more than a little confused, especially when Owen offers his hand. Reed looks at it for a moment before taking it, Owen helping him to his feet.

 

Owen: You eaten?

 

Reed: Not for a while.

 

Owen: I know a place… can get a hot meal inside you and maybe talk?

 

Reed: Nah thanks, I’ve heard of guys like you.

 

Owen: Look, I’m not looking to sell you to the highest bidder or something. I just want to help that’s all. You look like you could do with it.

 

Reed: Sure…

 

Owen: Look bro, you just drew a knife on me, and I didn’t kick your ass. I could have already gotten you arrested, and I haven’t. All I want to do is talk and get you something to eat, I reckon I deserve that don’t you?

 

Reed: OK, but if I see any trouble

 

Owen: You’ll do what kid? I think you already know I can handle myself. I know you probably don’t trust anyone, but you can trust me. And who knows, maybe you’ll benefit from us meeting.

 

Owen can see the kid still isn’t sure, so he shrugs his shoulders.

 

Owen: OK, well I’m going this way, you can follow if you want. If not, then take care of yourself Reed.

 

Owen then turns on his heels, now walking towards the shelter as opposed to his hotel. He keeps walking for a short while, until eventually he hears those familiar footsteps behind him, a smile forming on his face.

 

TEN MINUTES LATER

 

Reed sits in the gymnasium on one of the weight benches, taking in his surroundings. Owen had been right, Reed had learned not to trust anyone, and he certainly didn’t trust what was happening right now. Granted, this didn’t look like the offices of a Child Trafficking ring, but then again this could just be a front. As Owen walks out from the back with a plate in one hand, and a mug in the other, Reed’s intrigue starts to peak.

 

Owen: Sorry Reed, my culinary skills aren’t the best.

 

Owen passes Reed the plate. Chips, egg and sausage, not the most gourmet of meals, but right now it looks like it had come from a Michelin chef to Reed, and he takes his knife and fork gratefully before tucking in. Owen then rests a mug of coffee on the bench by Reed’s side. The meal is polished off in what seems like moments, Reed then picking up the coffee and drinking it. Wiping his mouth with the back of his hand he then notices that Owen hasn’t taken his eyes away from him, not knowing that already Owen was trying to work him out.

 

Reed: So, what is this place really?

 

Owen: What does it look like?

 

Reed: A gym?

 

Owen: There you go… it’s my gym, I own it. And the wrestling school that runs from here as well.

 

Reed: You own it?

 

Owen: Yeah, all bought and paid for. Does that surprise you?

 

Reed: Yeah

 

Owen: Why? Because I’m young and black?

 

Reed: Hey, I’m not a racist.

 

Owen: I’m sure you’re not, but that’s what you were thinking isn’t it?

 

Reed: Well, you must have done something illegal to get the money to buy this place.

 

Owen: I didn’t buy it, I built it from the ground up. And no, I didn’t do anything illegal. Just goes to show doesn’t it, that you can’t judge a book by its cover.

 

Reed: I’ve just learned that if something looks to good to be true then it probably is.

 

Owen: And this place looks to good to be true?

 

Reed: I don’t know.

 

Owen: You haven’t even heard the best bit yet. Can I ask you a question?

 

Reed: You’ve given me something to eat so I guess so.

 

Owen: I’m assuming you live on the streets; how did you get there?

 

Reed: Long story

 

Owen: I’m not in a hurry.

 

Reed: Mom and Dad split up when I was two. Guy, she got with was a dick, always trying to be my Dad, telling me what to do.

 

Owen: So, can’t you live with your biological Father?

 

Reed: He died… ten years ago now.

 

Owen: I see.

 

Reed: It was just better for everyone if I disappeared. Me and my Stepdad were always arguing, I just had to get out. Didn’t realize it would be so tough though, did I?

 

He runs his finger across his scar.

 

Owen: How did you get that?

 

Reed: I wasn’t stupid, I didn’t leave home with nothing. This scar was the result of me trying to defend what I had. Unsuccessfully. After that happened, I couldn’t go home, could I?

 

Owen: I’m sure they are worried about you Reed. You might not believe it, but I’m sure it’s true.

 

Reed lowers his head, once again showing the vulnerability when he was pinned to the floor.

 

Owen: Reed?

 

He brings his gaze back to Owen.

 

Reed: I don’t know, six weeks after I left, Mom died of a cancer I didn’t even know she had. Two weeks after that, my stepdad took his own life. That’s why I’m here, doing what I must. Because I don’t have a choice, and I hate my parents for doing this to me.

 

Owen takes a breath, he was by no means a psychiatrist, and Andy could have dealt with this far better than he ever could. He didn’t want to say the wrong thing and send Reed away knowing that he probably wouldn’t last any longer than a month.

 

Owen: Reed, it sounds like you have had a really shit time of it, but I can help.

 

Reed: How, and why would you after what I was going to do to you?

 

Owen: This place isn’t just a gym, or wrestling school. Upstairs is a provision for a shelter, to help people just like you who are in real need. No strings, we can give you a bed, food… all we ask in return is help around the gym, cleaning up, maintenance, that kind of thing. Long term, we can help put you back on your feet, maybe even a job, an apartment.

 

Reed: Why though?

 

Owen: Look Reed, I’ll admit, I’ve been a bit of a dick as well. I’m trying to give back, pay something forward whatever you want to call it. This is my way, to do some good in a world that is collapsing on its own ass. Way I see it, you have nothing to lose, and surely, it’s better than getting your ass kicked by folk like me that don’t stand for that shit?

 

Reed: I guess.

 

Owen: How’s about this, I’ll show you a room, and you can stay for the night, no strings attached. If you wake up in the morning and you think staying is a good idea, we’ll talk some more, but if not… no problem. Deal?

 

Reed: OK

 

Owen: Good, then follow me… you’ll have your own room, lockable door. Your own space.

 

Reed: Err, one thing?

 

Owen: Shoot

 

Reed: Who are you?

 

Owen smiles, surprised that he hadn’t been asked that already.

 

Owen: I’m Owen Lee.

 

Reed: Reed James

 

Owen: Cool, then let’s get you settled Reed James.

 

Owen heads towards the door that leads upstairs, opening it for Reed who somewhat nervously, even now, walks up the stairs. Reed didn’t know it yet, but he had just made a decision that had saved his life, and would probably in time, change it forever. For Owen, it was the first step of the Shelter doing great things. Giving back to a life that he now knew had given him so much.

 

8th July 2022

Miami

 

Owen hadn’t really had a lot of time to talk with Reed but had left him in the capable hands of Finch, the two of them quickly hitting it off. Finch did have a way with people which would suit the role, Owen just hoped he hadn’t put Finch in over his head, whilst also hoping that helping Reed didn’t end up biting him in the backside. After appearing on yet another ‘eventful’ Breakdown that was all building towards the biggest show of the year, Owen had immediately made his way back to Miami, wanting to make sure that the guest room was ready for Shaun who would be coming back with him to Miami to visit after the next edition of Breakdown. There was still a little decorating to be done, the guest room being one he thought he could have left for a little longer, Shaun’s visit bringing the need to speed up the process. Currently stood in that very room, Owen looks around it, nodding his head in appreciation of the job the decorator had done. His thoughts are broken however by the ringing of the doorbell, Owen taking out his cellphone and bringing up the app that shows him via a camera who was outside. His eyes narrow, as he sees Maisie Phillips stood there, bold as brass, but at least having not broken in this time. Owen pauses, for a moment wondering if he could just ignore her, but then realizing that if he didn’t answer, she would probably find a way in, an action that would probably end up costing him money. So instead, and with a huge sigh, he makes his way downstairs and opens the door, Maisie greeting him with a smile.

 

Maisie: Good Morning, Owen, beautiful day don’t you think?

Owen: What do you want Maisie?

 

Maisie: Well, that’s a little rude don’t you think? Aren’t you going to invite me in?

 

Owen: I don’t think so.

 

Maisie: I could make a scene, get the neighbors talking if you want.

 

Owen: I think Shaun said all that needed to be said

 

Maisie: Hmmm, not quite. Come on, let me in. I promise to be a good girl.

 

Against his better judgment Owen steps aside, allowing Maisie to enter the house. He then picks up his mobile phone, following her through the house as he unlocks it, seeming to check his messages before putting it in his pocket. Wearing a short, flowery summer dress she looks cute, and yet Owen knew the devious nature underneath. Once in the kitchen, Maisie sits on one of the breakfast stools, whether it was on purpose or not, showing Owen her panties as she crosses her legs. There was no doubt that Maisie was an attractive woman, but the baggage that came with her made her a dangerous proposition as Shaun, and then Owen himself had found out.

 

Maisie: How’s about a drink? Alcoholic obviously.

 

Owen: You’re not staying Maisie.

 

Maisie: It’s very hot outside, I’m quite sweaty. Perhaps I should take this dress off?

 

She drops one of the straps off her shoulder, then the other, the dress hanging off but not revealing her breasts, Owen rolling his eyes,

 

Owen: One drink, and then that’s it.

 

Maisie: Oh Owen, there is no need to be shy. Or perhaps being with Jennifer you’re afraid to be with a real woman?

 

Owen ignores her, which makes Maisie chuckle. He takes the bottle of white wine that had been in there since Jennifer was there last and pours Maisie a small glass. He slides it towards her, and she picks it up, taking a sip. She then looks at Owen, licking her lips.

 

Maisie: Do I frighten you, Owen?

 

Owen takes a seat, as far away from her as he can.

 

Owen: Should I be scared?

 

Maisie: Of little old me? Haven’t you heard, I’m a little crazy?

 

Owen: What are you doing here Maisie?

 

Maisie takes another sip and then places the glass back on the table, uncrossing her legs, leaving Owen in no doubt she was doing it on purpose trying to make him feel awkward.

 

Maisie: It’s quite simple. You see Shaun thought it a good idea to try and pay me off, and I must admit that the money will come in handy. But you see Owen, it isn’t enough.

 

Owen: It isn’t?

 

Maisie: No, because that pretty little thing Angyalka has everything that I should have. Her life, that should have been mine. No amount of money will ever make up for what I lost; therefore, nothing has changed. Shaun might think money solves everything, but some things are more important, like love for instance.

 

She reaches out with her foot, running it along Owen’s leg.

 

Maisie: Last time I came here I was a little rude, now I see that I went about it the wrong way. A young man like you, you have needs, wants that Jennifer probably cannot give you.

 

Her foot rises, now at his inner thigh.

 

Maisie: If you were to help me Owen, I’m sure we could come to some arrangement to ease that frustration you must be feeling.

 

She looks directly at his groin, licking her lips

 

Maisie: Oh look, someone is happy to see me.

 

Owen gets to his feet, adjusting his shorts.

 

Owen: It’s time to go Maisie, you’ve lost it.

 

Maisie: Why? Why have I lost it Owen? Because I am willing to fulfil your every need? Or maybe it’s because I hung your sweet little doggy from that tree and got away with it. Owen, I could be really kind to you, I could give you everything, every fantasy you could possibly imagine. However, you wanted to use me, you could. Whatever you wanted.

 

She gets to her feet, walking towards Owen who stands his ground.

 

Maisie: But if you don’t do this one little thing for me Owen, bad things are going to happen. Who knows what will happen the next time Angyalka takes Dorothea out in the car? What about your sister Ruby, isn’t she studying all alone over in Italy? And Kloe, she’s travelling the world, isn’t she? Would be a real shame if she disappeared.

 

Maisie leans forwards and runs her tongue along Owen’s neck, before whispering in his ear.

 

Maisie: And what if your dream came true Owen and Jennifer became pregnant? What if I did to her what I did to Shaun’s first wife Pixie and stabbed her in the stomach? I got away with that Owen, pleaded that I was out of mind. A few months on a psych ward and then I’d be out again… cured.

 

Owen: You ARE crazy

 

Maisie: Oh Owen, you don’t know half the things I’ve done, or even a fraction of what I am capable of. Be smart Owen, do as I ask.

 

Her hand rests on his inner thigh, making its way inside his shorts, Owen reaching behind him in his pocket, holding up his mobile phone.

 

Owen: Or maybe I won’t Maisie? Maybe, I’d just give this recording to the police, proving that you ain’t cured at all.

 

Maisie’s eyes widen, and she makes a grab for the phone, Owen quickly moving it out the way.

 

Owen: Not so fast… now let’s talk about how this is really going to go?

 

Maisie takes a step back, her face nowhere near as confident as it was.

 

Maisie: You tricked me

 

Owen: No Maisie, I played you at your own game. Shaun thought you might try this, hence the money.

 

Maisie looks on stunned

 

Owen: What you are going to do is take that money, and start a new life somewhere, away from all of us. Don’t care what country, you just leave us alone. You’ll stay away from Regan, and you’ll drop this bullshit blackmail.

 

Maisie: And if I don’t?

 

Owen: Then this recording goes to the cops, it’s already saving to the cloud so whatever you do from here, Shaun has access to it. You’ll either get sent back with the other crazies, or you’ll get sent down to be Bertha’s bitch… I don’t care which.

 

Maisie: You wouldn’t do that

 

She points at his groin

 

Maisie: Look at you, you like me.

 

Owen: Maisie, I pity you… and that, well that has a mind of its own.

 

He laughs, which annoys Maisie even more.

 

Owen: Now get out, before I throw you out. And I never want to see you again, you understand?

 

Maisie’s eyes glisten, tears forming, but suddenly she lashes out, slapping Owen across the cheek. Owen brings his right hand to his face, his eyes filling with fire, his left-hand clenching, which Maisie see’s.

 

Maisie: Go on, do it. Be just like Shaun…

 

With those words the anger subsides, his fist unclenching as he takes his hand away from his cheek, realizing that the phone is still recording.

 

Owen: No Maisie, I won’t hit you. I’m nothing like Shaun, and I’m nothing like Orlando.

 

Maisie: You’re not half the man Shaun is.

 

Owen: No Maisie, I’m much more. Now get out, before I call the cops on you now.

 

Maisie realizing, she is done still finds time to finish off her wine before heading back to the front door.

 

Maisie: You’ll all pay for this…

 

Owen laughs, shaking his head and holding up the phone to remind her.

 

Owen: No Maisie, I don’t think we will.

 

Maisie leaves, kicking Owen’s motorbike as she walks up the path and then away from the house, Owen chuckling as he shuts the door behind her. He then brings up his message app, and his and Shaun’s thread, and types in two words.

 

‘It’s done’

 

With a smile he walks back into the kitchen, and pulls out a bottle of water, the scene slowly fading on Owen’s grinning face.

 

16th July 2022

Miami

 

Over a week had passed without hearing from Maisie, or any further ‘events’ occurring. Owen had half expected her to turn up at his door after Shaun had arrived, and yet everything had remained quiet. For Owen it was more than a little unnerving, but Shaun still seemed really calm with the whole thing, believing that their little ruse had done the trick. And although they had spoken about it almost as soon as Shaun had arrived, it hadn’t dominated the conversation like he thought it would. Having lunch, and showed Shaun around the neighborhood, they now found themselves in a place Owen often frequented, the bar owned by probably his best friend in Miami, Charlotte. Charlotte had made it clear she wanted more but understood that Jennifer was the only girl for him, and so had allowed herself to be ‘friend-zoned’ though she was happy with that. For Charlotte, Owen was pretty much the best guy she knew, and liked spending time with him, and even with Jennifer around. It could have been awkward, but it wasn’t, and Owen appreciated that more than Charlotte knew.

 

Shaun: This is a cool place, reminds me of the bar Orlando and I used to own in Newquay.

 

Owen: I like it, helps that the owner is a friend.

 

Shaun: So, will I get to meet her?

 

Owen: If she’s about… hang on I’ll ask Scott.

 

Scott was Charlotte’s bar manager and pretty much ran the place. Owen gets his attention and calls him over.

 

Scott: And what can I do for my favorite straight guy? Let me guess… Jack Daniels?

 

Owen: Make that two

 

Scott: And who is this?

 

Owen: It’s my Uncle

 

Shaun: Hey, I’m Shaun

 

Scott: And I’m Scott…

 

Owen laughs, seeing the look in Scotts eyes.

 

Owen: Stand down Mister, he’s married.

 

Scott: All the good straight ones are sweet pea. Anything else?

 

Owen: Is Charlotte about?

 

Scott: In the back I think, want me to get her?

 

Owen: If you could… appreciate that.

 

Scott: Anything for you Owie-Bear.

 

Owen: Cheers Scott

 

Scott walks away, and steps behind the bar, occasionally looking over

 

Owen: In case you hadn’t figured it out…

 

Shaun: Gay right?

 

Owen: Yep, as he would say ‘full-blown homo’.

 

Shaun: I wouldn’t have guessed

 

Shaun really lays the sarcasm on thick.

 

Owen: What is it with you? Any sex, any gender, everyone pines for Shaun Cruze

 

Shaun: You’ve either got it, or you don’t. I got it.

 

Owen: Shame you didn’t get the intelligence to go with it.

 

Owen looks up as Scott disappears to the back.

 

Shaun: I like it here Owen, it seems good for you. Very laid back.

 

Owen: It’s why I chose it. I wanted to get away from LA and everything that came with it.

 

Shaun: Gotta admit, I kind of envy you. It always seemed chill when I lived in Newquay with Pixie.

 

Owen: Everything that happened made me realize that I was drowning. Everyone knew me and I couldn’t get away from wrestling no matter how much I tried. Here I can walk around, and no one stops me, they barely notice me and that’s just the way I like it. I’d never go back, not now.

 

Shaun: Not even if Jennifer asked you to?

 

Owen pauses for a minute and then grins.

 

Owen: OK, so maybe not ‘never’

 

Charlotte comes out from the back, immediately clocking Owen and the two smiling at each other. She then grabs the drinks and starts walking over.

 

Shaun: This Charlotte?

 

Owen: The one and only

 

Charlotte arrives at the booth and places the drink at the table, Owen shuffling over so that she can take a seat. She kisses Owen on the cheek as she always did, and then turns to Shaun.

 

Charlotte: Scott was right, you are hotter in real life. Hi, I’m Charlotte.

 

Shaun: Hi I’m…

 

Charlotte: Shaun, I know. I’ve seen you on the television.

 

Owen: Charlottes turned into a bit of a wrestling geek since she met me.

 

Shaun: Ah ok…

 

Charlotte: Watched your movies now too…

 

Owen: Looks like you have yourself an obsessive fan Shaun.

 

Charlotte digs Owen in the ribs with her elbow. Owen wincing but laughing at the same time. Charlotte then takes one of the beermats and pulls out a pen.

 

Charlotte: Could you sign this for me?

 

Owen: Oh, my days, how embarrassing.

 

Charlotte: Shut it you.

 

Shaun picks up the beermat and gladly signs it, reveling in Owen’s embarrassment as he does.

 

Charlotte: Thank you

 

Shaun: No problem. Don’t mind him. He hates it when he realizes his uncle is more popular than he is.

 

Owen: Wrestler, Businessman, Actor, Writer, Producer… how could I ever compete?

 

Shaun: You can’t, I’m kind of a swell guy.

 

Owen rolls his eyes and looks over at Charlotte who seems too much in awe of Shaun to even realized he is there.

 

Owen: OK Charlotte, you’ve met him. You can go now.

 

Charlotte: But…

 

Shaun: Want a picture?

 

Charlotte: Can I?

 

Owen puffs out his cheeks, he’d never seen her like this. Like ever.

 

Shaun: Sure thing, Owen can take it.

 

Charlotte passes Owen her phone, and under some duress Owen waits as Shaun stands up, the two of them getting close so that Owen can take the picture. Once done, Shaun kisses Charlotte on the cheek.

 

Owen: There, now don’t you have work to do?

 

Charlotte: Yeah, I guess I do. Nice to meet you, Shaun. And thanks again.

 

Shaun: You too, and my pleasure.

 

Owen watches as Charlotte walks towards the bar, going a little giddy with Scott, before going through to the back.

 

Shaun: She’s great. I can see why you like her.

 

Owen: She likes me too… apparently only when you’re not around.

 

Shaun: Must have been difficult… her wanting to be with you and the Jennifer thing?

 

Owen: Not really. Charlotte’s amazing, and in another timeline then yeah for sure. But it was always Jennifer.

 

Shaun: Yeah, I can see that. Kinda how it was when I met Angyalka.

 

Owen: But not Pixie?

 

Shaun: That was different, not as intense. You hang onto her mate; Jennifer adores you anyone can see that. You belong together. And if it fails, least you’ve got a backup.

 

Owen: Tell you what, I’ll tell Charlotte you said that. She won’t think you’re so great then.

 

Shaun: Only joking… you and Jennifer won’t fail. Not this time. I reckon you’re both for life.

 

Owen: I think so.

 

Shaun: How long that life will last though who knows?

 

Owen: What do you mean?

 

Shaun: I mean, you’re facing Josh Hudson at Rise to Greatness, and he literally wants to kill you.

 

Instead of responding straight away, Owen takes a sip of the Jack Daniels, giving him time to ponder the statement. By the time he has, Shaun has taken a sip of his own, whilst also finding to wave at a still watching Scott.

 

Owen: Look Shaun, we both know that when you become General Manager, there was always a chance of this happening, and you having to sign off on a match you didn’t like.

 

Shaun: Owen, I….

 

Owen: No, let me talk Shaun. Hudson has a bug up his ass about me no question, and quite frankly I still don’t understand why, but that bug has gotten me a United States Champion shot, so I’m certainly not going to complain. Right now, he is one of the most hypocritical son-of-a-bitches alive, and I’ve been given the opportunity to bring him down a couple of notches and show him exactly why SCW re-signed me, even after everything I had done. He thinks I haven’t paid enough for my ‘crimes’ yet, and if that is his opinion, who am I to dispute that. It’s HIS opinion. He’s tried, oh he’s tried, to take me out on more than one occasion. If he’d not gotten involved at Taking Hold of the Flame, maybe it would have been me facing Selena, and not Adam Allocco. But thus far he’s failed. I’m still here, still alive, and on the cusp of taking the one last thing that he is desperately holding onto so that he can remain relevant. His reputation is in tatters… without that title he is nothing but a relic. Him having to come to terms with that will be even more satisfying than being the United States Champion.

 

Shaun: You’ve got to watch out for him Owen. You’ve heard what he’s been saying. He wants to punish you.

 

Owen: You think I’m not aware of that. I’m not stupid Shaun. I felt how much he wanted to break my arm. I’ve struggled as he’s put me to sleep and refused to let go. All of it has happened behind my back. When we step in that ring, I’m younger, I’m quicker and more than anything I have a chance at taking his belt because I firmly believe I am better. At Rise to Greatness, he has GOT to front up to me, and I promise you that because of Daisy’s training, I’m ready. I can look after myself Shaun, and at Rise to Greatness Josh is going to realize that too… but by then it will be too late, and I’ll be a champion again. I’m doing you a favor because if I beat him, there’s no doubt the hypocritical bastard will turn his back on this company and leave.

 

Shaun lets out a deep breath which turns into a sigh. He wanted Owen to be right, but he knew firsthand just how good Josh Hudson still was, and the lengths he would go to, to remain champion. Getting disqualified and really hurting Owen in the process was certainly within his remit, and it was that which worried Shaun, not whether Owen was good enough. He knew that he was limited in what he could however and hoped that Owen truly knew what he was facing. He knew he had to have faith, but Owen’s opponent and their lack of morality made that extremely difficult. Shaun picks up his glass though and raises it.

 

Shaun: You’ve earned this chance, Owen. Now take it.

 

Owen: Thanks. And don’t worry, I got this.

 

For a moment they just look at each other, neither sure what to say next. Owen was confident no doubt, but was he lacking judgement, Shaun hoped that wasn’t the case. In Owen’s opinion however he knew exactly what he was doing, and what he was facing and was ready to fight fire with fire, something he wouldn’t have been able to do a year ago. The moment is interrupted by Scott who walks over with a tray.

 

Scott: Shots on Charlotte?

 

Shaun: You trying to get me drunk Scott?

 

Scott blushes, which makes both Owen and Shaun laugh. The three of them taking a shot each and downing it, as the scene fades.