Taking Hold of the Flame Battle Royal

[Owen]

3rd May 2022

Miami

 

It had been a long road since he had purchased the property, and a whole lot of money, but finally the house was completed, only just over a month past schedule. He stands outside the front, looking at the house and then the ocean beyond, and he does so with a huge smile on his face. Although he’d been stopping at the apartment which was nice, this was his. His own property situated right beside the ocean, and he couldn’t help but look forward to moving in and making it his own. But even more than that, he couldn’t wait to lay in bed at night and listen to the sound of the waves. It really was his idea of bliss. His trance is however broken by Kane, the builder in charge of the renovations, who steps outside the front door, and holds out a set of house keys.

 

Kane: Everything seems to be in order Owen. All yours bud.

 

Owen takes the keys and shakes the builder’s hand.

 

Owen: Cheers Kane, I really do appreciate all the long hours you guys have put in to get the place reason.

 

Kane: Always a pleasure working on a property like this Owen, and we are happy that you like it. Sorry it took a bit longer than it should

 

Owen: I changed stuff; it happens so don’t worry. In fact, …

 

Owen takes a wad of cash from out of his pocket, held together by an elastic band. He holds it out to Kane who looks at it, a little confused.

 

Kane: What’s this? You don’t own anything Owen you’ve settled the invoice.

 

Owen: Call this a bonus for you and the boys. A small token of my appreciation.

 

Kane: Thank you, but I can’t.

 

Owen: You can, and if you don’t, I’ll be insulted.

 

Kane: There must be around five thousand dollars here.

 

Owen: Spot on. Take them all out for a meal or something, or just put it behind the bar somewhere. You all deserve it.

 

Owen holds out the bundle of money again and this time Kane takes it, putting it in his inside pocket.

 

Kane: Thank you Owen, and if ever you need any more work doing…

 

Owen: I’ll give you a shout, and I’ll be sure to recommend you if anyone asks.

 

Kane nods and the two shakes hands again, Kane getting into his van and starting the engine, before driving away. As he does, across the road, Owen see’s Jennifer Helms standing there looking over.

 

Owen: Jen?

 

She smiles and walks across the road, the pair of them hugging.

 

Owen: What you doing here?

 

Jennifer: I was in the area

 

Owen: Jen, this is thousands of miles away from Los Angeles, I find it very difficult to believe that.

 

Jennifer smirks, her ruse predictably rumbled.

 

Jennifer: Alright, so…

 

Owen: Yeah, I’ve been thinking about you a lot as well.

 

Jennifer puts her bag on the floor, Owen having taken the words out of her mouth.

 

Jennifer: It’s just, I didn’t like the way we parted, and we’ve hardly shared a text with each other in the two months since. I just felt like we needed to clear the air, and if we could get things back to normal. Whatever normal is.

 

Owen leans against the skip that was full but was only due to be taken away tomorrow.

 

Owen: It’s OK Jen, I know the situation is difficult, you have no reason to explain.

 

Jennifer: Thing is Owen, I think I do.

 

Owen shrugs his shoulders

 

Owen: I get it, you don’t want to upset your parents. Truth be told, I don’t want to upset them either, well not any more than I already have. Dave was good to me when Dad died…

 

Jennifer: You called him Dad, and not Orlando.

 

Owen: Yeah, I’ve kinda got over myself with all of that.

 

Jennifer: I’m so glad

 

Owen: But we digress… when Dad died, Dave was always there for me, but I threw it back in his face. Even Regan, who let’s face it hated my guts, gave me a chance to prove myself to you, so I know precisely how they would react if they found out we were back together.

 

Jennifer: They’d hate it, that’s for sure.

 

Owen: I know, and that’s why I understand. Perhaps all this with Dad, it’s taught me to not get wound out by circumstances over which I have very little control. I don’t know, perhaps I’m finally growing up… not before time, right?

 

Jennifer: Owen…I…

 

Owen: No seriously, I’m so very happy you are here, and if you’d like to, I’d love to show you around the house, you can maybe give me some tips on how to decorate. But I’m not going to read anything into it or consider it a gesture. You’re here as a friend, and I value that. It’s all good.

 

Owen is about to invite her into the house having said his piece, but Jennifer still had more which she wanted to say.

 

Jennifer: I do think that it would be best if we stayed friends, but that’s not going to work if I don’t tell you the entire truth. I don’t want to upset my parents, you are right. Us being back together would take a lot of getting used to, and I’m not even sure they ever would. But if that was the only reason, I wouldn’t just dismiss you out of hand.

 

Owen: Oh… that’s not what you said before.

 

Jennifer: I know, but you were so convinced by that reason I didn’t see the need to hurt you anymore than you already were

 

Owen: Jen, you know you can always tell me anything.

 

Jennifer: I know, but I wasn’t sure you’d want to hear this. Or at least I wasn’t then.

 

Owen: Try me

 

Jennifer takes a hair band from her wrist and ties up her hair in a ponytail, revealing more of her face. She was beautiful, how could he have ever been such an idiot as to let her go?

 

Jennifer: I’m not sure I can trust you.

 

To say he wasn’t expecting that was an understatement, and her words cut into him like a dagger to the heart. Jennifer must read the look on his face because her eyes fill with regret.

 

Jennifer: I know I shouldn’t have said anything

 

Owen: No, it’s alright Jen.

 

Jennifer: I know you have worked so hard to change your life and be more responsible for your actions. I realize that in this moment, you probably know yourself better than you ever have. The thing is Owen, I stood by you as you turned against all your friends and family, to the point I was literally the last person you had left. Even Peyton, someone who regarded you as a little brother, saw no hope for you and walked away. And yet still I will there for you, until you disrespected Dad. Anyone who can do that has something in them, something dangerous. And what if you lose control again… what if I’m the one you take it out on next time.

 

Owen: I’d never hurt you Jennifer. Ever.

 

Jennifer: And I believe you Owen… but not totally. If we got back together there would always be that doubt in the back of my mind. And a relationship cannot be built on that lack of trust. I can’t do that to myself… not again.

 

Owen lowers his head, that old familiar feeling, guilt taking over. Some for what he’d done to her, and mostly for never really comprehending the effect it had.

 

Owen: I’m sorry Jen… truly I am.

 

Jennifer lifts his chin up with her hand and looks at him deep in the eyes.

 

Jennifer: You’ve said that more times that I can remember Owen. I know you are sorry; I knew that the first time you said it, and I have no doubts even now. But until that trust is rebuilt all we can ever be is friends. Maybe that will always be all we can be. I just didn’t want you hating Dave and Regan and blaming them for us not being together, when ultimately it is my decision, not theirs.

 

Owen: You could have done that over the phone you know? You didn’t have to fly all the way over here to tell me that.

 

He says it with a half-smile, still smarting from her words

 

Jennifer: Yeah, I did Owen, because you deserve it. And anyway, you didn’t think I would miss any housewarming, did you?

 

Owen: I haven’t planned anything… the place isn’t ready.

 

Jennifer: OK, well in that case it looks like this one is a two-person party. You going to show me around what you’ve done then or what?

 

Owen: Oh… you’re staying?

 

Jennifer: Of course, did you think I was going to fly straight back?

 

Owen: Well, I don’t know do I?

 

Jennifer: You are certainly NOT worth that Mister.

 

They both laugh, and then once again cuddle, any hope Owen having of a reconciliation having decreased still further. They part, Owen walking down towards the front door and opening it, Jennifer picking up her luggage and following him, the door closing behind them. The camera then pans around to a little way down the road, a woman stood watching them both, a mobile phone held aloft. She lowers the phone, and we see clearly for the first time the women’s face. That women being none other than Maisie Phillips, a grin forming, followed by a sneering chuckle as the scene fades.

 

12th May 2022

Los Angeles

 

Regan Street opens the door to her house, stepping into the hallway.

 

Regan: Anyone home?

 

She shouts, and doesn’t immediately receive a reply, though she hears movement upstairs.

 

Regan: David? Jennifer?

 

More noise is heard, until hurried scuffling, Jennifer appearing at the top of the stairs.

 

Jennifer: Hey Mom…

 

Regan looks at her, more than a little confused

 

Regan: And what were you up to? I hope you don’t have a boy up there.

 

Jennifer: Ha-ha, like I dare.

 

Regan: Exactly, so what were you up to?

 

Jennifer: Just tidying stuff, nothing sinister. You are wayyyy too suspicious.

 

Jennifer walks down the stairs, Regan putting her bags on the floor so they can hug. When they part, Jennifer follows her as she takes the bags into the kitchen, placing them on the counter.

 

Jennifer: Did you get any of that shampoo I like?

 

Regan triumphantly pulls a bottle from the bag passing it to Jennifer.

 

Regan: I did, and it was extortionate as well. Why you spend so much on it is beyond me?

 

Jennifer: Because it works, and it makes my hair look good.

 

Regan: Yeah well, there is no need to spend a small fortune I’m sure. But it’s your money, I guess. By the way you owe me…

 

Jennifer: I know, I’ll transfer the money in a bit. Can I at least get some breakfast first?

 

Regan: Yes, I’ll allow that… don’t forget though who I might have to start wrestling again to pay the bills

 

Jennifer: Because you and Dad are destitute right?

 

Regan laughs

 

Regan: You never know Jennifer, prices are going up, who knows where we’ll be in a few months

 

Jennifer: I’m sure you’ll be fine.

 

Regan takes some provision out the bag and puts them in the refrigerator, before turning back to her daughter.

 

Regan: Jennifer, sit with me for a minute, I want to talk to you.

 

Jennifer: Sounds ominous…

 

Jennifer motions for the milk, which Regan passes her, Jennifer pouring some over her Granola.

 

Regan: No, it’s not… not really. We don’t have the chance to talk nowadays that’s all. I just want to make sure you’re OK.

 

Jennifer: I’m fine Mom, seriously.

 

She passes her the milk back, Regan putting it on the counter and taking a seat.

 

Regan: Please Jennifer.

 

Regan pats the chair next to her, Jennifer rolling her eyes but taking a seat, bringing her breakfast with her.

 

Jennifer: So, what’s up?

 

Regan: We can talk about anything right?

 

Jennifer: Of course, Mom… I tell you everything.

 

Regan: Do you?

 

Jennifer: Yeah.

 

Regan: OK, so what’s with all the trips recently, it seems like your never at home.

 

Jennifer: Just got a lot of things on the go that’s all. Modelling job, stuff like that.

 

Regan: Are you sure?

 

Jennifer: Yes, don’t you believe me?

 

Regan: Of course, I believe you.

 

Jennifer: Then what? Why the first degree?

 

Regan: I just want to make sure that you’re not getting yourself into bother…

 

Jennifer: How? You know I’ve got my own life, why the sudden interest?

 

Regan pauses

 

Jennifer: Come on Mom, if you’ve got something to say just say it, it’s not like you normally mince your words.

 

Regan: Yeah, well usually I’m not dealing with my daughter.

 

Jennifer: So, whatever you’ve got to say, just say it.

 

Jennifer was obviously getting a little annoyed and Regan could sense that.

 

Regan: OK, are you seeing someone?

 

Jennifer: Huh?

 

Regan: Have you got a new boyfriend and you’re skulking around because you don’t want to tell us?

 

Jennifer: No… I haven’t.

 

Regan: Then where are you going for days at a time then?

 

Jennifer: I’ve told you Mom, modelling assignments. There’s nothing else to it. I promise.

 

Regan: OK…

 

Jennifer: You don’t believe me, do you?

 

Regan: Jennifer, all this is, is concern. Your last relationship didn’t end particularly well. I just want you to make good choices

 

Jennifer: And I will Mom… not every man is like Owen.

 

Regan: Yeah, and it’s a good job as well or you would never leave the house.

 

Jennifer: Not matter what you think about mine and Owen’s relationship, it was good for a long time. It’s just unfortunate what happened next, but I learned a lot. I won’t make the same mistakes again.

 

Regan: Good…

 

Jennifer: So, we OK?

 

Regan: Yes, we are.

 

Jennifer: And I’m not going to get another interrogation from Dad?

 

Regan: No, I’ll keep him informed.

 

Jennifer: Good, in that case then I’m going to take my breakfast to my room and decide what to wear

 

Regan: No worries, and Jennifer?

 

Jennifer: Yes Mom?

 

Regan: I just want what’s best for you, you know that right?

 

Jennifer: I do, but I’m a big girl now. You and Dad enjoy each other… I can’t believe I said that.

 

They both laugh, hearing the post drop through the letter box.

 

Regan: Get the post for me?

 

Jennifer: Sure

 

Jennifer walks to the front door and then brings a bundle of letters back, looking through them to make sure there is nothing for her before passing them over. Jennifer then picks up her breakfast bowl and heads out the kitchen, Regan shouting after her.

 

Regan: Love you

 

Jennifer: Love you too Mom.

 

Alone, Regan flicks through the letters, opening a couple that are nothing more than junk mail. The third one she opens, and peers inside, pulling out several photographs, each one showing Owen and Jennifer together, the last of them hugging.

 

Regan: What the…

 

She pulls out a note, reading the wording out loud

 

‘Just thought you should know… a concerned friend.’

 

Regan’s blood starts to boil, her eyes transfixed on the picture of them hugging. As her anger builds, Jennifer walks back into the room, Regan quickly covering the photos.

 

Jennifer: Forgot my spoon… what are those?

 

Regan looks her dead in the eyes, considering confronting Jennifer right here and now, but deciding on a different course of action. Lowering her voice whilst containing her anger she replies.

 

Regan: Just some mockups for the en-suite.

 

Jennifer: Ah OK… told you that you weren’t destitute. And you can’t even afford to buy my shampoos…

 

Regan forces a smile, and the moment Jennifer leaves the kitchen, that masks drops. Now she knew why Jennifer was so secretive, she must have been going to see Owen, and immediately she concludes that they were back together but keeping it from her and David. She couldn’t believe Jennifer would do that to them after everything Owen had done, but seeing as it was clear she was, Regan knew exactly who to blame. And who she needed to pay a visit.

 

15th May 2022

Los Angeles

 

Owen was back in Los Angeles, mostly to see Sebastian and Taylor who he’s not seen in what seemed like an eternity, but also with another reason in mind. He’d be contemplating something for quite a while now, and having spoken with Adam Lucas about it, he had now decided to go ahead. Sebastian was really growing up now, and had turned into a real character, and the visit had been full of laughter which was a change from the usual subject matter whenever he spoke with Taylor. Taylor had been a constant source of advice, blameless in everything that had gone on over the last year, but it was nice to not have to be dealing with Mom issues, Dad issues, or one of the multitude of problems that he had continuously carried around. Having left Taylor, promising not to leave such a gap till the next visit, he had made his way to a local beachside café, where he had met Finch, his best friend from his time in LA. Of course, Owen’s love life had dominated the early running, much to Finch’s amusement, but that dealt with, the conversation had turned a little more serious.

 

Finch: So, you’re still nowhere closer to winning Jennifer back then?

 

Owen shakes his bottle of beer, finishing off the contents and then motioning to the waitress for another.

 

Owen: No, Yes… I honestly don’t know. If she doesn’t trust me though what’s the point?

 

Finch: Well, you know my opinion bro… have a go on Charlotte, man’s got needs.

 

Owen: Have a go??? You have such a way with words bro, you really do.

 

Finch: You know what I mean though don’t you? It’s not like you are going to wait for Jennifer for the rest of your life is it?

 

Owen shrugs, which causing Finch to shake his head.

 

Finch: Oh Owen, what I am going to do with you?

 

Owen: Come on, it’s not like you are fighting them off with a stick is it?

 

Finch laughs

 

Finch: That’s a good point well made… I’ll give you that one my young padawan.

 

Owen: I am NOT your apprentice.

 

Finch: If you say so.

 

Owen kicks his shin under the table but barely connects.

 

Finch: Look, all I’m saying is it seems clear to me. Jennifer’s the love of your life, I get that. But you cannot be expected to hang around until she decides that she is ready to trust again. You gotta empty them sacks or else they gonna be dragging, you get me?

 

Owen laughs

 

Owen: Yeah, I get you.

 

Finch: You’ll feel a lot better for it, trust me. And Charlotte ain’t a bad runner-up, is she?

 

Owen: I bet she’d love being known as a runner up.

 

Finch: You don’t tell her that you crazy fool. You’re twenty-two years old, you got money, you’re not bad looking and you’re pretty much a celebrity. You got a whole sweet shop open to you… way not try a few different kinds before you commit to the Lemon Sherbets.

 

Owen: So now you’re comparing Jennifer to a Lemon Sherbet

 

Finch: Yep, but you get me, don’t you?

 

Owen nods

 

Owen: I do… just not sure that I can do that.

 

Finch says, as the waitress brings over another couple of beers, Owen thanking her, Finch going one step further and asking for her number which he almost inevitably doesn’t get. It always surprised Owen how confident Finch was for someone who invariably was sent packing by his ‘targets’

 

Finch: She must bat for the other side.

 

Owen: Or your heavy-handed approach will never work

 

Finch: No… she comes from Lesbos for sure.

 

Finch takes a sip from his beer, the smirk never leaving his face. A lot of the time Owen wasn’t sure if Finch was being serious. He’d seen Finch at his worse, and had seen another side to the confident, brash individuals he presented to the world. Sometimes he wondered if Finch was engaging in a constant act.

 

Finch: OK, so your love life is in the shitter, what about the Mommy / Daddy issues?

 

Owen: You ever heard of tact bro?

 

Finch: Can’t say I have, what’s that?

 

Owen: Doesn’t matter… yeah, I think I’m getting there.

 

Finch: By getting there do you mean you’re getting your head straight, or are you speaking to your Mom again.

 

Owen: Mom and I had a good long talk, and yeah, I think it made things better.

 

Finch: And your Dad?

 

Owen: That’s a little bit more difficult.

 

Finch: How do you mean?

 

Owen takes a sip from his beer and waits to regain Finch’s attention which has been taken by a girl in a tennis skirt walking past. He turns back to Owen who smirks

 

Owen: Back with me?

 

Finch: Proceed.

 

Owen: I still can’t believe that he never told me, and I guess I’ll never understand why. But at the end of the day, he was my Father. Other than this, he was the one who brought me up, took care of me even though I wasn’t his… he still treated me as such. I think if he was here, and I could shout at him, it would all have been sorted by now, but because I can’t it makes it a lot harder. But I guess I’m the person I am right now because of him, and I wouldn’t be as strong as I feel now if I’d not had to go through the last year. I don’t hate him anymore and that’s a far preferable situation than where I was a year ago. I just wish that he’d told me before he passed that’s all.

 

Finch: So, focusing on the positives instead of the negatives?

 

Owen: After all I’ve been through, I firmly believe it’s the only way to be. I was floundering way before all this happened, so it’s better to believe that this ‘experience’ was the catalyst that enabled me to see things for what they really were, and what I had to do to make things better. It’s kinda funny that Orlando had to strip things all the way back before he found success and happiness in both his life and career, and here I am having done the same thing. I see the irony in it all that’s for sure.

 

Finch: Orlando was a cool guy Owen, I don’t get why he didn’t tell you, but I’m sure he had good reason. But one thing is for sure, he always looked out for you, and if he can, he’ll still be looking out for you. One act doesn’t take all that away… or at least it doesn’t have to.

 

Owen’s eyes widen, his forehead furrowed

 

Owen: Dude, that was almost profound.

 

Finch: What can I say bro… I’m a modern-day prophet. You keep listening to me brother and you’ll go far.

 

Owen: I appreciate you so much Finch and all that you do for me.

 

There was an element of sarcasm for sure, in fact it was predominantly sarcasm and from the look on his face Finch is more than aware.

 

Owen: In fact, there may well be something I can do for you to pay you back for everything.

 

Finch: Hookers… hookers always pay a debt.

 

Owen laughs, pushing his beer to one side.

 

Owen: You know the wrestling school I’m starting in New York?

 

Finch: The one right near the old Icon place?

 

Owen: Yep, that’s the one. We are nearing completion and the site will soon be ready. I’ve got a couple of coaches in place, called in a couple of favors with regards to the training and such… even got Jason King on board.

 

Finch: I don’t know who that is.

 

Owen: Doesn’t matter. But Adam and I won’t be able to be there every single day, and let’s face it, neither of us have the time. What I need is for someone to run the place, maintain the building and make sure the folks that we take in at the shelter are looked after. I could find someone, but I need someone that I can trust in there. So, I was wondering…

 

Finch: You think I could do it? I mean, after what happened last time.

 

Owen: Bro, you were young then and you’d gotten desperate. You couldn’t see a way out, so you made a mistake. Let’s face it, you were great at running my diary, and telling me where to be. I don’t see how this is really any different. Balance the books, organize the school schedule and keep the shelter ticking over. Nothing to it really.

 

Finch: Yeah, nothing to it.

 

He demeanor shows that he is unsure, his reaction the same

 

Finch: I mean the business side; I reckon I could do that no problem. But the shelter, those people are going to be desperate and down on their luck. I’m not sure I can deal with that kind of shit.

 

Owen: Dude, you’ve been there. You are just about the perfect person to understand what they are thinking and give advice. Anyway, I’ve already got a councilor on board for that, my psychiatrist Andy is going to work part time, so the real heavy stuff he’ll deal with. Finch, you’ve been looking for a direction for some time, perhaps this opportunity is it.

 

Finch: And would I have to move to New York?

 

Owen nods

 

Owen: Yeah, you’d need to live close by just in case something happened. Don’t worry though, I’d sort out an apartment and such until you get on your feet. I get it’s a big deal leaving LA for you, but I reckon it would be the making of you, and a chance to stand on your own feet for once.

 

Finch: It does sound tempting…

 

Owen lifts his bottle and holds it towards Finch

 

Owen: So, what do you say? Ready to change people’s lives?

 

Finch: You know what Owen, fuck it. I gotta have better luck with the chicks from New York, right?

 

He raises his bottle and clicks it against Owen’s

 

Owen: Errmm, I wouldn’t bet on it bro.

 

They both laugh

 

Owen: Either way, it’s good to have you on board. Next down time I get, I’ll take you there and show you the lay of the land and get an apartment sorted. I’ll make sure Adam is around too. You’re going to smash this Finch; I know you are.

 

Finch: I hope so.

 

Owen can see the uncertainty, but it was a big undertaking, so he totally understands. Owen goes on to speak of the school, and the shelter, and how he hopes to reform people and rehabilitate them and how rewarding it will be to pay forward or put back in, whichever way you looked at it. And by the time he has delivered his vision, Finch feels a whole lot better about the whole thing. It WAS a big deal for them both, something far different from anything either of them had ever done, but the important thing was both friends were now looking forwards, instead of back towards the troubles of their past. Another tick in the box to where they both wanted to be.

 

28th May 2022

Miami

 

Regan Street sits outside Owen’s house, waiting for him to arrive home. She had been sat here for nearly two hours now, growing more and more frustrated. It hadn’t been difficult to find out where he lived now, being a Street, it was never difficult to find out things. But seeing the house, knowing that he was doing OK for himself nowadays, it had only made her even more determined to see him, and confront him as to what she believed was going on. She reaches into the glove compartment and pulls out an energy bar, ripping it open and taking a bite, her eyes never once leaving the front door in case she missed him. As she chews, the pupils of her eyes widen, as she hears a motorbike making its way up to the road, stopping outside the house. Those self-same eyes narrow, as the rider removes his helmet, Regan sneering as she sees Owen.

 

Regan: I’d keep that helmet on if I was you.

 

Owen hangs the helmet on the handlebars, and then with a glance around makes his way to the front door, putting his key in the lock and opening it. He then cuts off the alarm, and steps inside, and only now does Regan get out, looking up and down the street before locking the door. She pauses, composing herself, before she raises her hand and presses the doorbell. Inside, Owen swipes the Amazon Show device onto the front door camera, scowling as he sees who’s there.

 

Owen: Regan?

 

Since he and Jennifer split, Regan had never contacted Owen, and Owen had been glad of that fact. After he had disrespected Dave, he had half expected Regan to come looking for him, but it had never really happened. Whether Jennifer had some bearing on that, Owen truthfully didn’t know, but either way it was strange that she was calling on him now. Owen had no doubt however that she had been waiting outside for him and saw no point in ignoring the door. If Regan was here to finally give him a piece of her mind, then so be it. It was just another part of the process. He walks through the house and to the front door, and takes a breath before opening it, coming face to face with someone he once considered would become his Mother-In-Law. He almost chuckles as they thought enters his head but thought it best to keep a straight face.

 

Owen: Regan. It’s been a long time.

 

Regan: Yeah, it has Owen.

 

There didn’t seem to be any animosity, but with Regan you never really knew what she was thinking. You also needed to consider how quickly she could go from nought to a hundred.

 

Owen: What can I do for you? I was just on my way back out.

 

Regan: This will only take a minute, can I come in?

 

Owen would have preferred to have stayed outside, but still not sensing any ill-feeling he doesn’t see any harm.

 

Owen: Sure thing…

 

He steps to the side and Regan steps into the house, looking around the partially decorated house and nodding her head, seemingly impressed.

 

Regan: Nice

 

Owen: It will be when it’s finished. Still a few things to do. Can I get you a drink?

 

Regan: Water will be fine.

 

Owen nods and walks through the house, Regan following him into the kitchen. As Regan once again looks around the place that a lot of work had obviously gone into, Owen pulls a bottle of water from the freezer and passes it to her.

 

Regan: It really is a nice place

 

Owen: Let me show you the back garden.

 

He passes Regan, half expecting this to be the moment when she clocked him with the bottle or tackled him to the floor. But she doesn’t, and as he opens the doors to the back garden and the decking that goes all the way to the bottom, Regan takes a moment to admire the view. Finally, she turns back to Owen.

 

Regan: Seems like moving to Miami was good for you.

 

Owen: I think so yeah. I needed somewhere where I could clear my head, and this was ideal. Daisy…

 

Regan: Ah yes, Daisy.

 

For the first time Owen senses just a hint of annoyance, but Regan’s smile makes him second guess himself.

 

Owen: She helped me a lot… Rachel as well.

 

Regan: Yes, Rachel said that she had been helping you for your return. It’s been going well from what I’ve seen. She’s good at what she does, Daisy too.

 

Owen: Yeah, I’ve been doing ok.

 

Regan turns back to the ocean, Owen trying to read what was going on.

 

Owen: Look Regan, what’s this all about? I can’t believe you were in the area and just thought you’d pay me a visit. I mean, I can’t imagine that after everything that has happened, you’d go out your way to see me.

 

Regan turns her head to face him again and wears a smile that this time Owen finds unnerving.

 

Regan: Yes, thank you for reminding me.

 

She places her bag on the table, and rummages in it, pulling out a few items. She then spreads out the photographs of Owen and Jennifer on the table, before then looking up at him, staring at him dead in the eye.

 

Regan: I wanted to ask you about those Owen.

 

Although she still speaks in a calm tone, Owen knows that there could be no way that she would be happy with what they were looking at. It Owen didn’t know the story for himself, he’d be thinking the exact same way that no doubt Regan was thinking right now. Who the hell had even taken those photos, was it Regan herself?

 

…TO BE CONTINUED

 

2nd June 2022

Cleveland

 

Owen Lee is seated on a singular bench, looking out over woodland in front of him. Behind him a stream makes his way past and then in towards the forest, the rippling water setting the calming scene. Owen looks thoughtful, almost pensive as he lifts his bandaged wrist up to rest on his leg more comfortably, making no attempt to hide the injury. With the tone of his voice matching the serenity of his location, he starts to speak calmly towards the camera.

 

“So here we are, one of the biggest nights of the Supreme Championship wrestling calendar… Taking Hold of the Flame. A night when the road to Rise to Greatness really kicks in, and the entire roster makes their move to be a part of what is always a huge main event. The winner of Taking Hold of the Flame is given a shot at the World Champion, whoever that may be, and barring incident or shady booking, they get a shot at, as the name suggests, achieving greatness. All with the knowledge that no matter what, NO ONE can question their reasoning for being there. It is the ultimate opportunity, but with it comes real sacrifice. You MUST sacrifice everything in that Battle Royal or you simply don’t stand a chance. And even with that sacrifice made, your success is never guaranteed.

 

Not ever.

 

Taking Hold of the Flame is the ultimate equalizer, there are so many working parts it makes it almost impossible to prepare for. And yet, even now, there are those preparing for what could be the biggest night of their lives… but at the same time knowing that the odds are, it will all be in vain. And yet we do it. Why? Because in this company the standard is so great, everyone believes that they can be the SCW World Champion. But only the very few achieve that honor.”

 

Owen shrugs his shoulders. This was his third Taking Hold of the Flame, and only last year he had come second to Ace Marshall, making a crucial mistake at the most crucial of times. He knew how the land lay with this match, there were no promises that could be made, guaranteeing success was foolhardy, and very rarely paid dividends. If you hadn’t experienced it, then you simply didn’t have the first clue. Owen did, and he was going to make full use of that fact.

 

“Like I said, success isn’t guaranteed in this match, and yet still you will hear those that will say that there is very little doubt that they will storm through the field and come out the other side. In their heads, this is just like any other match, where their skill will always bear fruit. I mean, there will be thirty-nine others all vying for the same goal. You could be drawn number one and must endure over an hour of endurance sapping punishment. You could have five, ten… perhaps even more people targeting you, with the simple aim to eliminate you from the equation, and yet there will be no self-doubt from these individuals. They’ll be certain, they will be sure, and they will be something else… unsuccessful.

 

So, what’s the point?

 

Well, I think I already answered that question, because on this occasion the ends certainly justify the means. It should never be an easy route to World Championship Gold, no matter who you are. It should be like a trial by torture, and you should have to take an almost unbearable amount of pain to get to that goal. You can be at the very bottom of the ladder and this match can propel you into the stratosphere, a one off. You can be Konrad Raab for Pete’s sake and end up at Rise to Greatness. Sorry, that’s reaching a little too far, but you get the point.”

 

Owen grins

 

“So of course, it shouldn’t be a simple case of turning up. To jump over people that have been working all season to get their shot, it must be a test like no other, or else it would be a ridiculous concept that wouldn’t sell out arenas every time or be one of the most famous Battle Royals in the world. But still ‘turning up’ is all these people think they must do. They will sell it to you, and the weak-minded will fall in line and believe every single word that they say. It happens, year in, year out and 2022 will be no different to the ones that went before. These individuals won’t win. Because they don’t understand the simplest of logic, or at least, are too arrogant to TRY and understand. Because first off, and perhaps more than anything, you must understand that there is going to be an element of luck, and you must embrace that. Put simply, the best wrestler doesn’t necessarily win Taking Hold of the Flame. And luck isn’t just in the number that you draw and when you enter the match for the first time, even though of course that comes into the equation. But in a match like this, you must hope that you are not singled out by a group of individuals hellbent on ridding you from the ring. I mean, someone like Tsunami who’s about twenty-five feet tall, it’s probably going to take that many anyways, but someone like me, or at least someone of around my size, it's all about keeping your head on a swivel and staying out of trouble. And if you do go over those ropes, you must hope that there is some way, any way that your feet don’t touch that floor. Turning up and thinking you’re not going to have moments when it looks like it could be over… all that’s going to achieve is when those moments occur, you’ll panic and not recognize how to adapt. Adapting to every situation as and when it occurs is the only way, and if that means getting out of dodge to survive, then that is EXACTLY what you gotta do.”

 

Owen pauses for a moment, allowing that information to sink into anyone who may be listening.

 

“Another misunderstanding is that you have to be Tsunami’s size to win a match like this, when honestly that isn’t the case. Visually, it might seem harder to eliminate them, but the less mobile, the power guys, they have always struggled at Taking Hold of the Flame due to those attributes that anywhere else would give them a solid advantage. The winners tend to be those quicker, in both action and thought… another reason why Ace Marshall won it all last year. Centre of gravity is all important, and those with that attribute tend to be the people that thrive. Directly linked to this is that nominally the smaller guys are never regarded as a threat. They buzz around, and yet as the ring thins out and it comes down to single figures, the environment starts to suit them more, while the bigger guys if they are still around trying to find that second wind, ripe for the picking.”

 

He laughs but was only half joking.

 

“But by that point, the smaller guys if still there, are only just getting started, having stayed out of trouble, out of the line of sight for as long as possible. Which brings me to one of the most important attributes of all, if not THE most. That being endurance, and the ability to go all the way, for as long as it takes. Say Tsunami is indeed in this match and he gets drawn number one, and I’m sorry if it seems like I’m singling him out. Is he really wrestling for what could be ninety minutes, when history has already shown that when he wins, it’s in the early part of matches? That isn’t a coincidence and it’s not limited to just him. You have to be able to take that licking and keep on ticking. You’ve got to have the stamina first and foremost, but then couple that with courage, and determination. Of course, Tsunami gets number forty, it’s a totally different equation, but that’s what I am getting at. There are just so many variables, it’s pretty much an impossible task to be ready for everything you are going to face. That’s why you cannot focus on thirty-nine others. You cannot focus on what number you are going to be drawn, or who will be waiting in that ring when your music hits. The ONLY thing that you can focus on is yourself and using your own instincts and attributes to deal with whatever is thrown at you. It’s a tale as old as time. No matter who you are, whether you are Syren, Sarah Wolf, or Amelia Stone, no matter what your name is, or what you have accomplished. Your odds of winning right now, and here in this moment before the first two enter, are the same as everyone else’s. When that bell rings, and whenever your music hits, only then can you shorten those odds for yourself. Fail to understand those most basic of fundamentals and you may as well not even bother. It won’t be a long night for you and you’ll at least get an early night… I plan on staying up late that evening.”

 

Owen grins and gets to his feet and walks towards the stream, standing beside it for a moment before then walking along the path of the river, walking adjacent to it.

 

“Because I do understand the simplicity of it all, and how tactics and strategy tend to be thrown out the window at Taking Hold of the Flame. Of course, you can have a rough guide of how you see things going forwards, and how you are going to sail those choppy waters, but when you get that number its only logical that even the roughest drafts, or even just an outline is rendered useless. If it sounds like I’m saying Taking Hold of the Flame is all about flying by the seat of your pants, then that precisely what I am saying. It’s an environment in which I have always thrived… when no situation is taken for granted. My first Taking Hold of the Flame I finished thirteenth, when entering near the very start. End of Year Special Battle Royal, I won that, beating some huge names along the way. Taking Hold of the Flame 2021, with my head in the clouds and my mind elsewhere, I finished second, and arguably I should have won. I’m made for exactly this kind of match; the facts speak for themselves. I’ve proven it. And after this last year, I’m potentially even better equipped than I was last year, everything I’ve been through, preparing me for this moment. MY moment to do what others could not.”

 

He reaches a bridge and walks up and onto it, the camera following him until he stops and sits on the wall.

 

“I know my family’s history in this event. I realize that none of them managed to climb that mountain and take that flame, not even the Icon himself. I know what people think, I heard Josh call me ‘Cruze’ countless time in a feeble attempt to get under my skin, and perhaps six months ago, it would have been successful. Regardless of what I think of Orlando, Father or Not, I’ve come to accept that he was family regardless. I don’t like what he did, but I’ve learned to at least understand why. And you know what, that hasn’t been easy. It’s taken a lot of inner fortitude, not the fake shit Holly is selling, to be able to talk about it. Childish insults from someone who should know better…”

 

He points to a duck floating its way down the stream, paddling his feet furiously to try and reach the bank against the current.

 

“Well, it’s like water of a ducks back.”

 

He watches as the duck finally makes it and ruffles the water from its feathers. With a smile he then continues.

 

“But even at my worst, when I would have probably retaliated to his mugging in kind, I still realized what Orlando did for this business. When someone calls him a ‘hack’ or whatever it was Josh came up with, it doesn’t make me angry, it just makes me laugh. It’s just ignorance, or it’s stupidity I’ll let them pick which, but I know the truth. Just like I know what Shaun did as a wrestler, and what he now does as a General Manager. The two of them had unparalleled success in this industry, but neither of them won Taking Hold of the Flame, and let’s face it, there are not too many still around who have. After missing last year’s Rise to Greatness, imagine headlining the 2022 edition. It would be the ultimate comeback. Proof positive that I have ever intention on making good on the promises I made when I came back to Supreme Championship Wrestling. That alone would-be incentive enough, it’s everything that I want and need, even if the World Championship evaded me at the end of it all, and I had to come back and fight another day. But the added incentive has to be that I will have done something that no one else in my family could. Before then going on to possibly achieve something that only six months ago looked like nothing more than a pipe dream. And you know the most critical thing in all of this. Right now, in this moment and more than ever before, I KNOW that with all the above, the fair wind, luck and the tolerance to punishment I have, I CAN win Taking Hold of the Flame. And I can do it in a manner that doesn’t have to delve to the depths like certain ‘Champions’ I could mention. You want to doubt me, fair enough but take a ticket and join the queue, because I’m turning doubters into believers… sorry Selena.”

 

He holds up his hands in an apology, but with a smirk.

 

“And by the time I’m done, NO ONE is going to doubt me ever again.”

 

He pushes off the wall and crosses the bridge, and onto the other side of the river, now walking along a concrete path and towards a car park.

 

“But of course, it’s all words. I knew when I returned to this company, I had a heck of a lot of faith to restore, and truthfully, I still do. Only by keeping my nose clean and rebuilding my reputation can I get back to where I was, competing for the highest honors in this industry. But even then, I’ll never be able to silence every single ‘doubter’, that’s a fool’s errand. The difference is these days, I don’t feel I have to.”

 

He shrugs

 

“It’s very easy to abstain from feeding the trolls… or those not worth my time.”

 

He reaches his car, and opens the drivers side door, standing with one foot on the ledge whilst resting his good hand on the roof. He turns back to the camera, taking a breath as he prepares to deliver his final words for now.

 

“And that’s not an arrogance, or a belief that I am better than the next person and on a different level... No, it’s a realization that has come with age, that you simply cannot please everyone. There is always going to be those who refuse to see the wood for the trees so why bother? There are always going to be detractors, who make a noise to suit their own narratives and agendas. I couldn’t care less what they do or say. It simply doesn’t matter. All I care about is those that have stayed with me throughout, knowing that something wasn’t quite right and those that instead of closing rank, gave me an opportunity, a second chance to do better. Human beings make mistakes, it’s what makes us what we are. Another human trait is learning from those errors, and I’ve gone to great lengths to do exactly that. I don’t ask for applause, a well done or a pat on the back. All I ask is for understanding… and if I don’t get that, so be it. No matter what I did, for some that would never happen. But I don’t lose any sleep about it. The people who matter to me, KNOW they matter, and that’s good enough for me. Simply put, bitter old men with a superiority complex ain’t even on my agenda… unless you count throwing them at the ring at Taking Hold of the flame?”

 

He laughs, taking his shades from out the car and putting them on.

 

“But that’s my agenda for every other person that stands in my way on Sunday night. Eliminating everyone else, and being the last person standing. I’m not going to come out here and claim confidently that ‘I WILL WIN’, I’ll leave that to others. What I will do however is say quite clearly that I will do everything I possibly can to try and ensure that I do. And you know what, there isn’t a person alive that can stop me from giving my all, no matter what they think. They don’t have that control.”

 

He steps into the car and turns his head towards the camera.

 

“And who knows, maybe my all will be enough this time around. Maybe this time I get the result that sends shockwaves around the industry, just like I did when I became World Champion. That seems like a lifetime ago, too long in fact, when the reality is it was only a few years. In that time, I have changed so much, and all of it for the better. I wasn’t ready for the responsibility then, I know that. It was a tale as old as time…

 

Too much, too soon.

 

But you know what? I’m ready now. I’m ready to take on that mantle and be that man you all thought I was before. It’s the very least I owe you all. I’m ready to take that Flame, and grasp it with both hands, and once I have it, I’m never letting go, not for anything or anyone. My moment. My time….

 

… You WILL all know my name.”

 

With a grin he shuts the door and starts the engine. He then opens the window and salutes the camera. With a final wink, he then drives off into the distance, as the scene slowly fades.