Owen Cruze vs. The Holly Adams Brand Should Be Featured Every Show (Clamidiya)
#1
2 RP Limit for singles

Deadline: 11:59:59 pm ET MONDAY, September 26, 2022
[Image: MKl96W9.png]

[Image: bcywcYD.jpg]
I love AJ Allmendinger.
#2
+++ Kathy’s Bar and Grill – Los Angeles 1st September 2022 +++
 
Owen approaches the bar with some trepidation, a by-product of his total unawareness of what was about to happen. The conversation with Peyton had been short, nothing more than a willingness to talk and where to be and when. Nothing more, nothing less. For Owen, the fact that she was willing to even talk to him was progress, because many months previous that wouldn’t have been the case. But the tone of her voice, the total lack of emotion had led him to believe that this would probably be the closing part of this chapter, and that Peyton would never want to speak to him again. Truth was, if Jennifer hadn’t have encouraged him, he probably wouldn’t have even got this far. But as he opens the door and steps outside, he didn’t know what would happen once he caught sight of her. He didn’t have long to wait.
 
Peyton Rice: Owen, on time as always, I see.
 
He was, right on time, almost right down to the second. It was something Peyton had always teased him on, just how notoriously punctual he was. She was dressed casually, her hair tied up in a high ponytail away from her face. Owen had always known that she was stunning, but had never thought of her in that way, a fact that many had teased him over.
 
Owen: Peyton… it’s good to see you.
 
Peyton: Shall we take our seats?
 
No ‘Good to see you too’, and certainly not any indication of a hug didn’t set his mind at rest. She was being polite, but then again when was she ever not. In fact, the only harsh words she had ever said to Owen was those closing statements when she made it clear she wanted nothing to do with the person that he had become. She had once been like a big sister to him, but over time she had become nothing more than a stranger. As the waitress leads them to their seats, and then takes their drinks order, Owen tries to read her mannerisms, tries to figure out what she is thinking, but he recognizes very quickly that it was a thankless task. Peyton would no doubt say what she was thinking in time, Owen would have to wait. With their order completed, Peyton takes a sip from the water the waitress had left, Owen taking the opportunity to speak.
 
Owen: Peyton, I…
 
Holding up a hand, Owen stops in his tracks. Truth was, Owen was glad of that, because even has his lips had started to move, he had realized that he didn’t know what to say. Even though he had rehearsed it many times, his mind had become blank in the moment.
 
Peyton: I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude, but I think I should be the one to speak first.
 
Owen: Sure, go ahead.
 
Peyton: I don’t want to sit here, and you think that a simple apology is going to make everything ok. We’re not talking about a silly argument here. You turned your back on me, and everyone else that had stood by you when Orlando died… a sorry isn’t going to cut it.
 
Owen: I know
 
Peyton continues, as if she hadn’t heard Owen though indeed, she had. She had also rehearsed how this was going to go, but her words were flowing a lot easier, as they had been on her chest for a long time, and she was anxious to let them go.
 
Peyton: You disrespected the SCW, you disrespected your family, including Orlando, and you disrespected me, someone who treated you like the little brother she never had. When you started listening to Giovanni Aries, you threw all that away, I hope you understand that.
 
Owen: I didn’t Peyton, but I do now.
 
He felt like a scolded child, and perhaps that was what he needed, to ridden himself from the only regret he had left to rectify.
 
Peyton: When you called, I nearly didn’t answer. But the more I thought about it, the more I knew that I, just like you do, needed closure. I’ve seen you in SCW Owen, I watched you talk about this whole redemption, and I want to believe you, truly I do.
 
Owen: You can believe me Peyton.
 
Peyton: I rid myself of all that drama, and I’ve never been as happy as I am right now. I refuse to let anyone hurt me again… especially you.
 
The waitress arrives with the drinks, a gin and lemonade for Peyton, and a rum and coke for Owen. Owen is happy for the interruption, and the waitress going on to write down their food order, because it gives Owen chance to think about how he was going to reply. As the waitress takes away the menus, both ordering the Steak, if cooked a little differently, once again their eyes meet, Owen taking up the conversation.
 
Owen: Over the course of the last eighteen months Peyton, since I turned my back on the Perfect Pack, on you, and turned away from everyone who had ever loved me, I’ve done a heck of a lot of soul searching. It’s not easy, falling as far into the abyss as I did, and finding the fortitude to come back. And I’m not looking for anyone to feel sorry for me, especially you, I’m just trying to explain just how low I was after Taking Hold of the Flame last year. I was done with family, I was done with friends, and I was done with wrestling… forever. Then, Daisy came along, and she put me back together. Everyone had turned their back on me, including you, and I was so damn angry. She made me see sense… I wouldn’t be here now if it wasn’t for her. And that’s not me being over dramatic, it’s the truth. Slowly but surely, she brought me back from the brink, and the Owen you knew started to come back. She made me love again, not just family, but the business as well. I made a point of putting everything right. Every wrong I undertook, I put it all back together. Until I was ready to make good on the two biggest mistakes of my life. Jennifer… and you.
 
He lowers his head, Peyton looking like she is about to say something but Owen quickly continuing.
 
Owen: And now, I’ve got my career back in track. I’ve got Jennifer back the only thing I don’t have, is you. I know sorry isn’t going to be enough Peyton and I know how much I hurt you. I just want the opportunity to prove to you that yes, I made a mistake. But right now, I am stronger than I have ever been because of it, and no matter what it takes, I will make you have faith in me again. I know it isn’t going to be easy… but nothing worth doing ever is.
 
Peyton takes a sip from her gin, having listened intently to Owen, recognizing that there was something fundamentally different about him.
 
Peyton: I can see it Owen, I can that you have changed for the better, but I’ve changed too. I accept your apology, and I thank you for it, truly I do.
 
Owen: Thank you.
 
Peyton: But we ARE different people now, in a different time, and no matter how much we may want them to, things can never go back to how they were. I’m so happy Jennifer could, and I’m ecstatic that the of you are getting married… I’d better get an invite. But that closeness we had, you being my little brother, we can’t go back there again. I’ll always be your friend Owen, but we led different lives now, and it has to stay that way.
 
She reads the disappointment on his face and knowing he’s hurting she moves to clarify this must be the way it is.
 
Peyton: I hope you understand… I can’t go back. I just can’t.
 
Owen hadn’t known what to expect, this could have gone far different, and a drink could have been thrown over him by now. And although he was disappointed, Peyton had said she had forgiven him, and ultimately that was better than nothing. She’s found a life for herself now, away from a business that had hurt her so badly, and Owen suddenly feels a pang of guilt for wanting to deny her that. If this was the relationship they would have going forwards, the occasional phone call or text, then that was better than nothing. A final chapter he could put to bed. And he should accept that with grateful arms.
 
Peyton: I totally understand Peyton… thank you.
 
Peyton smiles, and in that moment, it is like old times, but it is just a moment, and it quickly disappears. On cue, their food arrives, and their conversation is relegated to idle chit chat, what they had both been up to, that kind of thing. Only when Owen has finished, and the bill is paid and only their drinks need finishing, does Peyton ask another question.
 
Peyton: Can I ask you a personal question?
 
Owen: Sure.
 
Peyton: What do you want out of life?
 
Owen: What do you mean?
 
Peyton: Well, you say your last eighteen months has been about redemption, getting back to where you were. So where does Owen Cruze go from here. I know you’ve got Jennifer, and I can imagine getting married to her is the priority… you’re still punching there by the way
 
Owen: I know
 
Peyton: But you’ve lived so long in your father’s legacy, how are you going to make one of your own?
 
It wasn’t a question that Owen had really considered, such had been his concentration on getting back to where he was before. Now the mistakes of the past had been rectified, it was time to look forwards, something he’d never really had the chance to till now.
 
Owen: That’s a heck of a question.
 
Peyton: So, give me a heck of an answer.
 
Owen: I guess, I want to be the best competitor I can be, able to beat people like Josh Hudson when the chances come up… beat anyone in fact who is put in front of me.
 
Peyton: OK, so forget Owen the wrestler, what about Owen the man? You’re twenty-two years old now, what kind of man does Owen want to be?
 
Owen: I want to be known as someone who helped people to achieve their dreams, no matter where they came from. Show them the values of honor and integrity and give them the knowledge to not make the same mistakes I did and listen to the wrong people. Whether it be with the wrestling school, or the shelter, I just want to give a chance, an opportunity to people that have no one else to turn to.
 
He pauses for a moment, hesitating on his next words but knowing that they are exactly what he wants to say.
 
Owen: I just want people to say do you know what… he was just like his Dad.
 
Even though all of this was about stepping out on his own, finally he had realized that there were some comparisons with Orlando that he would love to be made. Orlando for most his life was there for others, and that was exactly want Owen wanted to be, and so much more. When he finally passed away, he wanted his legacy, his own legacy to be remembered in the same way, and his life devoted to doing good. It might not have been the ideals of a normal twenty-two-year-old, but Owen didn’t want normal. He wanted greatness.
 
Peyton: That’s one heck of a thing to aspire to, and you know what? I reckon you’re going to get there.
 
Owen: I hope so
 
Peyton gets to her feet, Owen doing the same and as Owen hoped she gives him a hug, the final mark of her forgiveness. As they part, she smiles.
 
Peyton: If ever you do need to talk Owen… need a phone call or a text, I’m here. I may not be your big sister, but I’ll always be there as a friend.
 
Owen: Thanks Peyton, but you know what?
 
Peyton: Yeah?
 
Owen: I reckon I’ve got it from here.
 
She leans forwards and kisses him on the cheek.
 
Peyton: You know what… I reckon you have.
 
And with that she leaves the bar, Owen sitting himself back down with only the remnants of the rum and coke for company.
 
Waitress: Same again?
 
Owen looks at the glass, and then at the waitress
 
Owen: Care to join me
 
Waitress: Sure, what we drinking to?
 
Owen smiles, a smile which widens as he answers
 
Owen: The rest of my life… a better life
 
The waitress walks off to fetch their drinks, as Owen looks out the window, watching Peyton as she disappears around the corner.
 
+++ ‘Level Up’ Wrestling School – New York 4th September 2022 +++
 
To say that his conversation with Peyton had been thought provoking was an understatement. In fact, ever since that meeting, he had done nothing but think, about what he was going to do next. He hadn’t won the United States Championship at Rise to Greatness, but he had showed that he had found his feet once more in SCW, and barring the narrowest of margins, he would once again be a champion. But now he was in a place where he could be happy, his redemption complete, he didn’t want to stagnate. He always wanted to maintain a positive attitude from this point and be forever looking forwards. That wasn’t just in his wrestling career, but in ‘real life’ as well. Thus, he had given the wrestling school a lot of thought, come up with some ideas that he believed would make the place even better, and uphold his comments to Peyton, where he wanted to help as many people as humanly possible to find their way. With an extended break from SCW authorized, a break that no doubt Josh Hudson would take credit for, Owen was looking to set in place a chain of events that would make ‘Level Up’ stand out from the rest, especially Tommy and Kandis’ place just down the road. A trip to New York was in order, and he finds himself in the office sat with Finch, who for some reason looks more than a little apprehensive.
 
Owen: What’s up with you, you seem on edge?
 
Finch: There’s something about a surprise visit from you that does that to me
 
Owen: So, what you saying? I need to announce myself whenever I make the trip
 
Finch: That would be fantastic
 
Owen: OK, I’ll do that
 
Finch: Brilliant
 
Owen: I was joking Finch… just stop being a worrier. It’s OK honestly, I just wanted to run some ideas past you.
 
Finch: It’s just after what happened last time, how I screwed you out of money. I wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t trust me.
 
Owen: That’s all water under the bridge bro… I trust you, or you wouldn’t be working here. Simple as that.
 
Finch seems to calm down a little which is a good thing, considering what Owen had been considering for the last few days.
 
Finch: So, what can I do for you?
 
Owen pauses, he needed to put this across in the right way and was mindful how it could sound if he didn’t.
 
Owen: Since we opened, there’s no doubt that the shelter has been a huge success. After Reed came in, others have followed, and it’s good to see people turning their lives around and earning an honest wage. Other than the little altercation, the potential drama has been kept to a minimum and I firmly believe that when these guys leave, they are going to be able to live good honest lives… with our help of course.
 
Finch: Andy’s good at his job… he knows how to talk to people and make them see the positives. I’m speaking to a few career advisors to see if we can broker a deal with them to get them back out in the big wide world… when they are ready of course.
 
Owen: That’s a good idea… might be worth seeing if we can get in touch with Housing Associations, places that own accommodation. Get them a job and somewhere to live… give them the means.
 
Finch: I’d do some research.
 
Owen: Cool
 
Owen had plans to extend the Shelter into the premises next door, but he’d not told anyone about that yet. His focus now was more on the school and making it more efficient than it currently was.
 
Finch: That it? I can’t believe you came all the way here to tell me that.
 
Owen: No, that’s not it… it’s about the school.
 
Finch: I knew it, you think I’m doing a bad job.
 
Owen: No, not at all. I think you’re doing a brilliant job, exactly what you have been tasked to do.
 
Finch: Why do I sense a but?
 
Owen stifles a smile, professionalism aside, it was funny seeing Finch so paranoid.
 
Owen: I just think we could be doing more, as a school I mean. I don’t think we are fulfilling our potential.
 
Finch ponders that comment, it still sounded like a slight to him, but he was willing to listen, Owen was his employer after all.
 
Owen: Let’s look at it this way, you probably don’t have the numbers to hand, but how often do you think the school is being used?
 
Finch puffs out his cheeks
 
Owen: Just an estimate… 35-40% maybe?
 
Finch: Probably yeah.
 
Owen: That’s a massive space, not in use and costing us money. Literally, the lights are on and no one’s home.
 
Finch: Yeah, but what can we do about that? We’ve only got so many students. I’ve tried to get more
 
Owen: I know, but there isn’t an infinite amount of people wanting to join, and even if there were, Tommy’s place down the road is still one heck of an organization, even if we don’t like them.
 
Finch: So, what can we do?
 
Owen: I’m glad you asked.
 
Owen reaches down into his hold all, and pulls out several flyers, sliding them across and towards Finch who picks one up.
 
Finch: Boxing?
 
Owen: Yeah… but not just boxing.
 
He looks down at the flyers, Finch doing the same.
 
Owen: What if… we totally revamped the place, and made it not just about the wrestling? What if we brought in specialist trainers, in a whole raft of combat sports and taught them all? Already, if we started this tomorrow, Jason King was an MMA star in England before he came to America. Willow can cover the wrestling; Andy has got the psychology of it all sorted. Boxing, Karate… we bring in the best trainers around the world, and we could teach it all. We can give kids a purpose, a way to get off the streets and learn something worthwhile, whilst at the same time teaching them integrity and respect. Like we do with the Shelter, we can help these people become grounded human beings, capable of making the right choices. Instead of being Level Up Wrestling School, we would be Level Up Combat Sports.
 
Finch: Don’t you think that’s a little ambitious?
 
Owen: No, I don’t. For years Combat Sports have helped people to rebuild their lives and taught them the difference between right and wrong. We’re already doing it, Reed being the perfect example, but what if this place was full of dawn to dusk, with kids from all over New York learning a skill that could hold them in good stead for the rest of their lives. Never mind New York, we could have places all over America, Europe even Asia. All helping people to reach their potential. Giving them a chance, they may never have got without us.
 
Owen pauses, looking to gauge Finch’s reaction. He doesn’t have long to wait.
 
Finch: Honestly Owen, that sounds like a lot of hard work.
 
Owen nods his head, he knew this. He knew he was asking a lot, and yeah, perhaps ‘places all around the world’ was getting ahead of himself. But if the last eighteen months had taught him anything, it was that nothing was impossible. A persons only failing was if they didn’t try.
 
Owen: Yeah, I accept that, but nothing that’s worth doing is easy. I won’t do this if you’re not on-board Finch, because at the end of the day, it’s you who will be organizing all of this. But I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t think you could do it. Forget about worldwide domination for now… do you think you could handle this place with the added workload?
 
Finch: I’d give it my best shot. I can promise you that.
 
Owen could see that he wasn’t certain, and he understood why. This was a massive undertaking, and while Owen was wrestling around the world, the responsibility would be on Finch. Business decisions, finding the training staff, that would be all on him, and it was a lot to take on. With that in mind, Owen comes up with another idea, an idea that he hoped would appease Finch and give him the support he would need.
 
Owen: What if I found you an assistant?
 
Finch immediately seems happier, and Owen knew exactly the reason why.
 
Owen: I mean someone to help you Finch, not someone for you to get in their underwear.
 
Finch: Owen… you insult me. But it would help having someone to look at around here. I mean Willow’s beaut, but she’s married to Jason and she’s way too scary for me.
 
Owen: I’m serious, if it would give you more confidence to get this done, I’ll find someone for you.
 
Finch: Like a PA?
 
Owen: No, not a PA, more like an Assistant Manager, someone that you can rely on. Someone with who you could share the load.
 
Finch chuckles, Owen immediately realizing what he had said, and the double entendre that Finch had made.
 
Owen: Finch please, this is a big deal to me.
 
Finch: I know, I’m sorry. If you can do that, that would be great. Hold on, I’d be someone’s boss?
 
Owen: That’s right
 
Finch: I’d have someone to blame if it all went to shit?
 
Owen: No Finch… that’s not how it works. And I’m hoping it doesn’t all ‘go to shit’.
 
Finch feigns disappointment, before a smile forms on his face.
 
Finch: Way, I see it bro, if this is what you want to do, then I’m going to need all the help I can get. But if you’re chosen person is nice looking and doesn’t have a dick, you won’t hear me complaining.
 
Owen: I’ll see what I can do. So, you’re in?
 
Finch: If you’re hell bent on Combat Sports world domination then yeah why not, I’m game. And if you decide to open a branch in the Maldives, then I’m putting myself forward for a transfer.
 
Owen: Let’s make New York work first huh? Then we’ll see.
 
A knock is heard at the door, Jason King opening it and poking his head inside.
 
Jason: Willow and I are off now fellas… anniversary.
 
Owen: Can, I just borrow you both… five minutes tops. Bit of an announcement.
 
Jason: Yeah OK… nothing bad, I hope?
 
Owen: Not at all bro… only good things from here on in.
 
Jason looks back through the door, motioning Willow over who after a few moments’ steps into the office, not sure what to make of the situation.
 
Owen: Right then, things are going to change around here
 
Jason and Willow both look at each other, with the same trepidation that Finch had earlier. And it is in that moment that the scene fades.
 
+++ Day after Breakdown – San Francisco 9th September 2022 +++
 
Owen walks into the arena where SCW had played on last night. Owen hadn’t been on television, but he had been in the back watching, the official line being advertised that Owen was dealing with personal problems which certainly wasn’t the case. With the roster now having left, and gone home to their families, Owen had made his way to the arena from the hotel, finding his way to the makeshift office where he had arranged to meet with a SCW representative, time he had requested. The last time he had met with one of those, it had been to beg for his job back. This time he had a much different request. He walks into the office and finds one of the administrative staff tidying away things from last night.
 
Owen: Hey… hmmm, Stephanie, isn’t it?
 
Stephanie: That’s right yes. I thought you were on extended leave.
 
Owen: Yeah, long story that one. I’m supposed to be meeting with Oliver to talk through some things.
 
Stephanie: Oh. I believe he left this morning. Do you want to take a seat and I’ll see what’s going on?
 
Owen: Sure… if he’s not around don’t worry about it. It’ll keep.
 
Stephanie: No problem, two minutes.
 
Stephanie walks out into the corridor, the door shutting behind her. Owen picks up a magazine, and no sooner has he flicked through a couple of pages, the door opens and his Uncle, and General Manager of SCW, Shaun Cruze walks in.
 
Owen: Oh sorry, I’m waiting for Stephanie, she’s gone to find Oliver?
 
Shaun: Oliver’s gone home Owen, family matters. Seems like there is a lot of it going around.
 
It was an obvious quip to the company line that had explained Owen’s absence.
 
Owen: No worries, I’ll talk to him next week.
 
Shaun: It’s fine, I told Oliver I’d deal with his appointments.
 
Owen bites his lip, this was a situation that he hadn’t anticipated, and the topic of his conversation made it even more awkward. Owen gets to his feet.
 
Owen: It’s OK, it can wait, I won’t take up any of your time.
 
Shaun: It’s fine Owen… sit down. I thought we were past all of this.
 
With a sigh, Owen sits down, Shaun steepling his hands in front of him.
 
Shaun: So, you ready for next week? Samuel Davis
 
Owen: Yeah, I’m ready. And you didn’t have to lie for me, you could have just said I wasn’t competing, you didn’t have to put it down to personal problems.
 
Shaun: Executive decision in the heat of the moment Owen
 
Owen: Yeah, well I don’t Josh Hudson believing he’d put me on the shelf when he hadn’t.
 
Shaun: Nobody thinks that, not even Josh.
 
Owen: He shouldn’t either, seeing as it was a million miles away from the cakewalk, he believed it would be. He’s right though, I learned a few things… I’ll make sure I make use of that lesson the next time we face.
 
Shaun: I’m sure you will… so what can we do for you?
 
Owen: I’ve been doing a lot of thinking since Rise to Greatness and engaged in a lot of thought-provoking conversations. I got it wrong, winning the United States Championship wasn’t my redemption… just being at Rise to Greatness achieved that. To compete at the highest level, with those fans once again chanting my name… in that moment I got back to where I was before I lost it. Call it redemption, equilibrium, call it what you want. The moment that bell ring and Josh Hudson beat me, that was the moment that I stopped looking back, and concentrated on ONLY looking forwards.
 
Shaun: I’m glad, you can learn from your past and evolved for sure, but you can’t get hung up on it. You must let go eventually. But what’s that got to do with SCW? You’re not thinking about calling it quits, are you? Because I think that would be a serious mistake.
 
Owen: No, I’m not quitting Shaun, far from it in fact. If anything, I’m more determined than I ever was to make my career a success. Not gonna lie, I’ve seen what Adam is doing in EAW, and it crossed my mind about starting afresh there. But this is my home, and I’m never going to walk away again unless I’m physically unable to compete. I lost eight months of my career thanks to one bad decision, and now I’m back where I was, it’s time to start going beyond that. Plus, with all these people coming back right now, SCW is the place to be. Kudos on that by the way.
 
Shaun: Thank you… it’s been quite the ride for sure.
 
Owen looks away for a moment, looking at the décor of the office but not really paying attention to it. He continues to speak, whilst looking everywhere but directly at his Uncle.
 
Owen: Anyway, I digress. It’s taken a long time for me to accept my story, my truth. By the same token, I am finally understanding who I am, and the person I want to be.
 
Shaun: That’s good.
 
Owen: The fact of the matter is, there is no point running away, no point ignoring who I am. I can get people to call me Owen Lee, but it doesn’t change a thing. My name is Owen Cruze, and it’s time that I embraced that statement instead of belittling it.
 
Owen turns back to Shaun, who is listening intently to every word.
 
Owen: So, with immediate effect, I don’t want to be known as Owen Lee. I’m Owen Cruze, and I’m proud of who I am and where I come from.
 
Shaun smiles
 
Shaun: I think we can do that Owen, no problem. And about time too.
 
Owen: Sorry… I might be fast on my feet, but the brain sometimes takes a while to catch up. I understand now, Dad did what he had to, to protect me, not to hurt me. Now, it’s up to me to do what I must and make up for lost time. Four years in this business, and I still don’t have an identity, I need to find out who I am.
 
Shaun: Who you are from here on in Owen, you decide that. If you want to take back your rightful name, I’m sure everyone will support you.
 
Owen: At the risk of sounding selfish… it’s not about them anymore Shaun. It’s not about you, or Daisy or anyone else for that matter. It’s gotta be about me. I find that out, and everything else will fall into place.
 
Shaun: Doesn’t sound selfish at all Owen. I was once in that exact same place. Damn Orlando for casting such a huge shadow, right?
 
Owen nods his head, agreeing with the sentiment.
 
Owen: For the first time Shaun, I don’t feel bound by it. I don’t feel bound by anything. I just want to be the best I can be, both personally and professionally, and I reckon I’ve taken the first steps towards achieving that.
 
Shaun: So, what can I do to help?
 
Owen didn’t know if he was asking that question as the SCW General Manager, or if he was asking it as an Uncle, and a friend. It didn’t really matter either way, as the answer was still the same.
 
Owen: Nothing. No disrespect to you, but if I’m going to do this, I don’t want, nor need a helping hand. Eighteen months ago, I was preaching about wanting to stand on my own feet and do this alone and what happened. Giovanni Aries… I was still even then looking for guidance. I’ll forever be grateful to Daisy, but again, when I returned it was with her by my side. It doesn’t matter if I reach the top or not, not really, as long as whatever level I do achieve, I do it under my own steam, and it was the best I could be.
 
Shaun: That’s a good philosophy.
 
Owen: Again, took my time getting one… but got there in the end. Just make me one promise.
 
Shaun: If I can
 
Owen: Don’t ever give me a leg up that I haven’t earned. In fact, be tougher on me than is necessary. Because when, sorry if, I do get there, I want it to mean everything.
 
Shaun: You’ll only get the opportunities you deserve; you have my word.
 
Satisfied, Owen gets to his feet, holding out his hand, which Shaun takes, the two of them sharing a handshake.
 
Owen: Thank you Shaun, for everything. I’ll see you next week in Miami.
 
Shaun: Hometown hero huh? Knock em dead.
 
And with that Owen leaves the office, Shaun watching him go, not afraid to admit bursting with pride. For a time, it looked like Owen was lost, his career and his reputation in tatters. It could have been the end, but Owen showed the fighting spirit that both Orlando and Shaun had been known for, spirit that had gotten them through plenty of situations of their own. Owen didn’t know it yet, but when he looked back on his career, he would realize that it was right here that he won the most important battle of all. In Shaun’s opinion, the rest… was inevitable.
 
Scene fades.
[Image: 270041540-258425806375597-7033161467703002046-n.png]
#3
+++ Ciao Bella Pizzeria – New York 12th September 2022 +++
 
After speaking with Finch, Jason and Willow, everyone seemed to be up for the wrestling school revamp that would hopefully bring in a wider range of studies, and greater opportunity to give the youth of New York a starting point. Jason seemed eager to once again be a part of the MMA scene, and Willow being Willow didn’t care, if she was with Jason. Finch still had some misgivings however, and Owen knew that he needed to nip them in the bud. Owen didn’t advertise for an assistant manager, because he already had someone in mind, someone who already lived in New York, and who he knew was looking for employment. Sat in the Pizzeria, he was a lot calmer than he had been meeting Peyton not so long ago, most because who he was meeting, was someone who had never turned there back on him and probably never would. She was perfect for the job, and he hoped that she wouldn’t take much in the way of persuading.
 
???: Owen Cruze… you don’t get any prettier bro.
 
Owen turns around, and he was already smirking having recognized the voice. He gets to his feet and faces Chloe Willis, one of his best friends from school here in New York, and someone who he had known most of his life. Chloe had been studying both Business and Art at University in the City and had passed both with honors this year. Chloe was the perfect candidate and was also someone who Owen knew wouldn’t take any crap from Finch. Owen pulls out a seat and she sits, Owen then motioning towards the Waitress who immediately brought over a bottle of wine for them to share. With Owen satisfied as to the wine’s quality, they finally settle down to talk. Chloe, as usual driving the conversation.
 
Chloe: Well, isn’t this nice. Knew that if I met you for lunch, it wouldn’t be at the nearest McDonalds.
 
Owen: Nothing wrong with McDonalds but seeing as we’ve not seen each other for a while, I’d make it a little more special.
 
Chloe: Ever the Gentlemen Cruzey
 
Owen: I try… I took the liberty of ordering you the Hawaiian.
 
Chloe: You remembered… how cute, always said you’d make a good husband.
 
Owen: I guess we are going to find out.
 
Chloe raises her eyebrows, a look of total shock on her face
 
Chloe: You didn’t?
 
Owen: Oh, I did, and the really surprising thing is she said yes.
 
Chloe: Wow. Kloe said you’d grown up, but Owen Cruze getting married. That’s… unbelievable.
 
Owen: Thanks… hold on, you spoke with Mum?
 
Chloe: Yeah, she was in the city for some reason, she didn’t say why.
 
Owen: No, didn’t tell me either.
 
Chloe: Seriously though Owen, congratulations. I know Jennifer is a special girl and you deserve to be happy after, well, everything.
 
Owen: Don’t worry, I find it difficult to believe as well. Considering where I was only a year ago, I wouldn’t have thought it possible never mind anyone else. But enough about me, what about you? How’s the job search going?
 
Chloe scrunches up her nose.
 
Chloe: Not great… I knew it would be difficult to find employment that used my Art degree, but I didn’t realize it would be quite THIS difficult you know. Something will happen for me though; I know it will. I’m too damn good to be unemployed for long…
 
Owen laughs, Chloe feigning annoyance before then breaking out into a smile of her own.
 
Chloe: And if nothing turns up, then there is always prostitution… I’m sure men would queue miles to get a piece of this
 
Owen: I don’t think a couple of bucks an hour is going to keep a roof over your head.
 
Chloe: Oi cheeky. It will turn around it always does. Remember when I had nowhere to stay, and Dave Helms bailed me out with the flat above the wrestling school.
 
Owen: Course I remember, I was the one that sorted it.
 
Chloe: Oh yeah, so you did.
 
They both chuckle again, though Chloe had legitimately forgotten that fact.
 
Chloe: One break, that’s all I need. I just need to make sure I don’t run out of cash first. Worst comes to the worst, I’ll go back to waitressing.
 
At the totally wrong moment, the waitress brings over their Pizza’s.
 
Chloe: Sorry… no offence.
 
Waitress: None taken… do you need anything else?
 
Owen: No thank you
 
Waitress: Enjoy your food.
 
Chloe tears off a slice and bites into her, swallowing before she continues.
 
Chloe: I didn’t work this hard for me to give up on the dream, to become an Artist, and I’m in the best place to achieve that dream. We can’t all be one of the best wrestlers in the World and a multi-millionaire, can we?
 
Owen: Nope, you don’t have my looks and charm for starters.
 
Chloe: Charm Cruzey? That’s not the nerdy little kid I remember.
 
Owen: You’re right there… he left the building a long time ago. He had to.
 
Chloe: Yeah, well don’t tell anyone but you’re kinda my example. That if you keep at it, there isn’t a single thing that you cannot achieve. One day, I’ll have my own exhibition in the heart of New York, you’ll see.
 
Owen: I know you will Chloe. I’ve always believed it.
 
He now picks up a slice of his sweet chili chicken pizza, and takes a bite, waiting till his mouth is empty and taking a sip of his wine before he speaks again.
 
Owen: But what if, until that happened, we made use of that other degree you earned?
 
He takes another bite of the pizza as Chloe regards him questionably. Owen enjoys holding her attention, but it is Chloe who speaks next
 
Chloe: The Business degree… I only took that for shits and giggles because I had spare time on my hands.
 
Owen: I know, but the fact is you passed, and so therefore you know what you’re talking about right?
 
Chloe: Well, you’d have thought so, wouldn’t you?
 
There was an element of sarcasm in her voice but contained within was also intrigue.
 
Chloe: So, come on then, enough of the riddles, what you talking about?
 
Owen: You know the wrestling school I opened near the Memorial?
 
Chloe: Yeah, walked past it the other day but you were closed.
 
Owen: Exactly my point. I believe that we have been limiting ourselves by only teaching wrestling. Let’s face facts, young kids of today don’t necessarily believe that ‘wrestling’ is the coolest of sports. Yeah, they want to fight but it’s Mixed Martial Arts that’s in fashion. Everyone wants to be the next Conor MacGregor, or the next Anderson Silva. Some want to be Usyk or Tyson Fury. I may be amazing, but not everyone wants to be the next me.
 
Chloe: There can’t be anyone who wants to be the next you. That’s REALLY scraping the barrel. But all that said… what does that have to do with my Business Degree?
 
Owen: I’m glad you asked… the guy running it now, Finch, you must have heard me talk about him.
 
Chloe: Yeah, the guy who replaced me as BFF in Los Angeles.
 
Owen: Yeah, that’s him… he’s been running things, and he’s been doing an amazing job. But where this is going, I need someone with a bit more know-how, someone who can think logically where he may not. First person I thought of, was you. I want you to be his Assistant, and together I want you to take care of the whole revamp, plus help grow the shelter into the premises that I’m looking to buy next door. It won’t be what you could probably earned elsewhere, but the benefit of working for me is no notice required. You get your break as an Artist; you’d be free to pursue that straight away. This way, you’d don’t skint yourself in the process.
 
Chloe: And I’ll have a say? I won’t just some really pretty but glorified PA to Finch.
 
Owen: Definitely
 
Chloe: Can I think about it?
 
This comment surprises Owen because he thought she would jump at the chance.
 
Owen: Err… yeah, I guess so.
 
Chloe bursts out laughing, Owen realizing the joke but just a little too late.
 
Chloe: You’re such a dummy do you know that? I’m in… when do I start?
 
Owen: Well, there’s no time like the present. How’s about we finish up here and then head over to the place? You can meet Finch and he can show you around.
 
Chloe: Sounds like a plan
 
Owen: One thing though… about Finch?
 
Chloe: Here we go… is he like a mass murderer or something?
 
Owen: No, but he does like the ladies, especially the pretty ones.
 
Chloe grins, picking up another piece of pizza.
 
Chloe: Well, he’s going to love me then, isn’t he?
 
Owen chuckles to himself, the truth being he was a little concerned, and only half joking about Finch. But Chloe knew how to take care of herself, she always had, and she’s kept him in line. The next stage complete, he could now set about buying the premises next door, which would then enable them to expand the shelter, and into phase two. Something that he hadn’t shared with anyone yet.
 
+++ Owen’s House – Miami 17th September 2022 +++
 
Feeling the roar of the crowd, his now hometown crowd, was something he had looked forward to for a while. After events at Rise to Greatness, it was important to get back in the ring, but he had needed the extended break just to work on a few things before his return, things that had cost him against Josh Hudson. Shaun telling people it was down to personal problems hadn’t been ideal and was a fabricated lie. But Owen hadn’t made a big deal of it, even though every other person in SCW seemed to have come over and ask him if he was ok. Of course, winning made it special, but what was perhaps more special was the fact he had slept in his own bed that night. The icing on the cake, Jennifer haven’t made the trip and lying with him. Now, a couple of days after Breakdown, she was still there, and as Owen makes his way into the kitchen, the smell of bacon hits him like an arrow. He is soon distracted however by Jennifer wearing one his tee-shirts… only his tee-shirt. He walks up behind her and cuddles her, before kissing her on the neck and sitting down at the table.
 
Owen: That’s a sight for sore eyes let me tell you
 
Jennifer smiles at him, and places some bacon on a plate, adding tomatoes, mushrooms, and scrambled eggs. She then brings it over and places it in front of Owen, and then takes a seat of her own.
 
Owen: Thanks, you not having any?
 
Jennifer: Nah, the juice is fine… eat up before it gets cold.
 
Owen had to admit he was ravenous and polishes off the breakfast no trouble. Throughout him eating, Jennifer never takes her eyes off him, and by the end Owen is questioning what is going on. As he finishes off, and takes a sip of orange juice, he cannot help but ask the question.
 
Owen: Is something wrong?
 
Jennifer: No, not at all.
 
Owen: Then why are you staring at me?
 
Jennifer: I don’t know… you just… it’s different that’s all.
 
Owen: Bad different?
 
Jennifer: No… don’t think that. Just, and don’t take this the wrong way, you’re not a boy anymore are you?
 
Owen: I’m twenty-two so I should hope not.
 
Jennifer: I’m messing this up… what I mean is, you carry yourself differently, more confident in yourself. It’s like you know what you want, and you’re going to get it. It’s really attractive that’s all, seeing you with so much clarity.
 
Owen: I’m not the finished product Jen, but I’m getting there.
 
Jennifer nods, and for the first time in a while diverts her attention from him, and to the sea view from the window. Now it is Owen’s turn to watch her for a moment, and he gets to his feet, holding out his hand.
 
Owen: Come with me
 
Jennifer takes his hand and Owen leads her through the patio doors and to the decking outside, the waves lapping underneath them. Owen leans against the barrier, and for a moment they are both transfixed by the ocean, until finally Owen speaks.
 
Owen: You know something Jen, even when I was at my lowest, after I was in conflict with Olek, with Shaun… even in that mindset when I couldn’t care less about anything, my only regret was you. When Daisy took me to one side and asked me the one thing I wish I could have back, it wasn’t wrestling, in fact I was done with the industry. No, it was only you. Throughout all the pain and suffering, both physical and mental, you being in my life was what kept me going. Even now, with us back together. Every single thing I am doing, the wrestling, the shelter, the school, it’s all so that I can make you proud, and give something back for all the suffering that I caused.
 
Jennifer: You don’t have to do that
 
Owen: Maybe, maybe not, but I want to. I want to be a good person. I want to give you the life I always promised you, that you always dreamed of.
 
Jennifer puts a hand on his cheek lovingly.
 
Jennifer: And you are.
 
Owen: Do you mean that?
 
Jennifer: Yes I do… remember we are looking to the future now, not the past.
 
Owen: Exactly, I feel like I’ve been running away from things all my life. Dad’s legacy, the Cruze name, Peyton, you… I made such a big deal about that I wasn’t ever scared of any challenge, but that was bullshit, because I was petrified Jen. I was petrified that I wasn’t going to be the man everyone expected me to be… whilst at the same time not realizing that I was still a kid, still making kid mistakes. But, I’m not running away anymore Jennifer, not from any of it. The responsibility, the belief in me… I’m using it, to become not the man everyone expected me to be, but the man I want to be. The man you love.
 
He pauses for a moment, before looking directly into her beautiful eyes.
 
Owen: This right here, is my home Jen. I’ve never felt happier than I do here, where I have space to grow. And I want it to be your home too, so what do you say? Will you move to Miami and build this perfect life with me… together.
 
Jennifer turns back to the ocean, and for a moment Owen believes it to be hesitation, but it isn’t. She turns back to him, and nods her head.
 
Jennifer: I’d love to.
 
They embrace, and then share a kiss. NOW Owen believed that he was back where he was before the breakdown. Back where he was before it all went wrong. He’d made mistakes, but he’d learned from them, and although he couldn’t promise that there wouldn’t be more, what he did know that with Jennifer by his side he would come through it all. This was it. The New Beginning. Who was Owen Cruze? Everyone was about to find out.
 
+++ ‘Level Up’ Wrestling School – New York 24th September 2022 +++
 
Owen sits on the apron of the ring where many of the students had been training only hours before. Finch was helping him film this promo by taking on camera duties, and he was currently waiting for Owen to give him his cue. Owen looks around the place with pride, in his head already envisioning the evolution of the school, a smile forming on his face. He turns back to Finch, and he nods his head, Finch pressing record
 
/RECORDING
 
“You know what, I could probably bring my promo from Breakdown, and narrate it word for word right now, and it would still suit my current situation. Brainwashed minion… check. Someone who has advanced their career under the Haus of Nirvana… check. Someone who doesn’t seem able to win matches under their own steam… check. This is the situation you are in, whatever name you currently go by. Whereby right now, you cannot control your own life. And you know what hun, I more than most can understand that. I know right, imagine having something in common with little old me. After all, it would be remiss of me to not note the fact that I was once brainwashed by the exact same individual. Which means that I am more than able to advise you on your current situation. See, just like Samuel, you were given an opportunity to work under Giovanni’s and Holly’s banner which helped along the way for that cost whatever it may be nowadays. I cannot deny, Holly and Giovanni have elevated you, and Samuel over and above the station your found yourselves at not too long ago. I listen to you love, and I understand how it feels, to be riding the crest of the current wave, a wave that even led you to a championship belt, or at least half of one. There is no point me arguing with your choices, because you HAVE benefitted, no question. But you know something Clamidiya, I’m going to call you that because I’m not getting into Holly’s bullshit, you might be enjoying your moment right now, that fifteen minutes of fame, but I promise you that it won’t be worth it. When it comes down to the nitty gritty of all of this, the money for the subscription means nothing. Giovanni and Holly will only keep you around for a long as you are useful. The minute you overstay your welcome, they will destroy you. They will tag you as a failure, a disappointment to the brand, just like Giovanni tried to imply I was a disappointment to my father. The difference between you and Samuel and myself though love is quite simple. I’m my own person, I have mental strength the likes of which you couldn’t possibly understand. I never needed Giovanni, just like I’d never need the Nirvana he’s been preaching for years in different guises. You need his preaching’s, and Holly’s branding because in your opinion, without them you amount to absolutely nothing… zero. Tell me something Clamidiya, do you feel like you have grown under the Haus? Do you feel that if you were no longer a part of this charade, say you cancelled your subscription and instead put it towards, I dunno, developing a personality of your own? Would you still be able to exist at this level, or would you once again be relegated to a bit part? Personally, I reckon you’d be ok. There isn’t anyone who’s ever signed for SCW that doesn’t have some worth or isn’t a talented individual or one way or another. But that’s not the point is it? It doesn’t matter what I think, it’s what is going on in your head. And the fact is, it’s crystal clear that you believe you need them, when the truth of the matter is NO ONE needs their preaching’s. No one ever did.”
 
Owen pushes himself off the ring. If there was anyone that he knew most in this company, it was Giovanni Aries, and in his various guises he had always been the same, out for himself. When he’d been found wanting, and unable to achieve his goals, he’d then turned to minions and people to do his bidding. It was a tale as old as time. Owen hoped that these last couple of matches weren’t pointing towards another war with him, because there was nothing to gain from once again fighting that battle. If he never faced Aries again it would be too soon, not out of any element of cowardice, but because of how exhausting it had been in the past.
 
“And that’s why in many ways Clamidiya, we couldn’t be anymore different, and I’m insanely happy that is now the case. When I was taking advice from Giovanni, I believed I needed it, when the reality is I should have taken control of my career a lifetime ago and listened to only one person. Myself. And before you travel down that route, that isn’t arrogance. I’m not saying that every decision I make from here on in won’t be a mistake. I’m not saying that I know everything, and my methods are the tried and tested route to success. Look at it this way, when you won that championship, who took the credit? When you lose a match, who’s fault is it? That’s how one sided the Haus of Nirvana is, they only take the positives, and not the negatives. Me, I either live, or die by my sword. If I lose, or I win, it’s all on me. You know what confidence is hun? I know I’m good enough to achieve success in this company under my own steam. I know I can take on and defeating the very best this company has to offer. Josh Hudson, United States Champion, arguable the best technician in the world, got past me by a hair’s breadth, the narrowest of margins. He beat me, because he was better than me, it really is as simple as that. You win hun, how many times was it because you were better? You lose, how many times was that because you were left to your own devices. This industry, it’s almost as much mental as it is physical, and if you aren’t allowed your own mind, how can you know what to do when it all goes to shit? If you’ve got to look over to your ‘mentors’ for advice during a match, what happens when you come up against someone who knows what to do instantly? Don’t take my word for it, you only must look back to Miami, was I wrestling Davies, or was I wrestling the Haus? There’s no script to work from, wrestling is all about being proactive and reactive, no matter the situation. Truth time Clamidiya, you still the same scared little girl because Giovanni took you under his wing… and how much have you paid into Holly’s trust fund thus far? Do you get a discount being their star pupil? Of course, you don’t. because although you won’t admit it, they are in it only for themselves. And when you lose to me at Apocalypse, it won’t be your fault, it will be theirs, because of a total lack of preparation on their part for what you are about to be put through. The people you have put your faith in, are just as stupid as you are for placing yourself under their wing. I’ll admit it, they prey on the weak, and when Giovanni turned my head, that was indeed my lowest point, and I fell for their smoke and mirrors. Fact is, I don’t really care what happens to you, you’re not my friend, nor will you ever be. I have no feelings at all for what might happen to you once this all goes wrong. The only way I could possibly respect you, is if you saw sense, and through their crap, but of course that’s never going to happen, so engrained are you in their ‘Cult’. This is no different to the Lizard Kingdom, nothing has changed except the package. You know what, I was wrong, I do have feelings about this situation. I feel SORRY for you, sorry that there is a certain inevitability that this will all end in tears. And a certainty that those tears won’t be Holly’s of Giovanni’s… because they will be too busy counting their coin.”
 
He was telling the truth, he did feel sorry for anyone who felt that they were that insignificant that they had to basically sell themselves to the devil, instead of simply looking within themselves for that change.
 
“But the thing is, none of this truly matters. Like I told Samuel, and I’ll say it to you as well, I’m not going to take you lightly like so many others have done, knowing that in all actuality I won’t just be facing you, and that many other obstacles will be placed in my way. Samuel, Giovanni, Holly… or anyone else from the whole list of ‘characters’, any of them could be called upon to assist. Make no bones about it, you’re my primary focus, but my head will most certainly be on a swivel. To some, I’ve no doubt that this would be seen as a throwaway match. It certainly isn’t one of the more ‘anticipated’ confrontations, I think that’s clear. But like Amy Chastaine warned, I most certainly won’t be ‘sleeping’ on you, I’m going to make damn sure this isn’t the upset it could potentially be. Fact is, since I returned to the company, my pay per view records hasn’t been exactly faultless, and so therefore I will be looking to do something about that. I won’t lie to you Clamidiya, Rise to Greatness hurt. It hurt like a bitch. It was a moment that I firmly believed I was going to become United States Champion, and it was cruelly ripped from my grasp. These events haven’t exactly been kind to me, but I’m certainly not going to be paying a subscription or looking for anyone to help, when I know full well that I can get through any malaise by myself, without the need for someone else to claim credit for my success. I call it a malaise, but I lost ONE match, a match that I stand here before you right now knowing I should have won. Those are the lessons you get from this industry Clamidiya, and you get nothing from the banal meanderings of a progressively bitter man. I feel stronger by experiencing that defeat, if you stripped back the Haus, and looked at yourself are you anything more than you were before? Only you know the answer to that hun… worst of all, I think I know exactly how you would reply. From experience, I know you only recognize the truth when it’s too late. When you look over that precipice and into the abyss of your broken life. And if that sounds dramatic, then that’s because it’s supposed to.
 
So, when I deliver that Heart Punch, and for just a moment the blood stops pumping around your body and you feel that incapacitation, I want you to only be thinking about one thing. When I Cruze Stomp your head through that canvas, or take your head off with the Cruze Missile, I want you to see the clarity for yourself that the Haus of Nirvana has untruthfully promised you. When I am only a blur, and you are struggling to keep up, or if you do get some shots in, but still cannot find it within yourself to put me away, remember something. That being you were the one who chose to throw your self-worth out the window for a short cut to the… well middle of the road. You were the one who tired of following the age-old adage of WORKING to be better, every single time you step between those strands. They tried to recruit me, but I endured, and now I have dedicated my life to ensuring that the talent of tomorrow stays out of the likes of your clutches, not by preaching, but by teaching. Not by bullying, but by leading by example. You’ll say that Holly Adams IS the example… I say that only proves my point. That point being that no matter how good you are, or the skills you may well possess, you’ll forever be cast as a bit part in the pantomime that is the Holly Adam’s show. Perhaps that is enough for you. Maybe that is all you aspire to, to be a part of something. But hun, I’m aiming much higher than that, I’m aiming for the top. And whether that be the United States Championship, or the pinnacle of our industry, the SCW World Championship, I’m treating every match as a part of that process. It doesn’t matter if its Xander, Josh Hudson, or if it’s you Clamidiya, every match will lead me to where I want to be. And that’s the worst news I could give you. If you haven’t listened to a single thing, the please make sure you take this in. I’ll fight you as hard as I would Xander Valentine. You get that? I’d treat you in the same way as the World Champion, even though I hold you on nothing like the same pedestal. And you know what, I believe I can beat you both. I KNOW I can beat you both. But more importantly I KNOW words mean nothing, and I must prove it by actions…”
 
He pauses, and winks at the camera
 
“And at Apocalypse, I promise you this. Prove it… I most definitely will.”
 
/ENDRECORDING
 
Finch lowers the camera, puffing out his cheeks, taking the footage back to the beginning so it could be sent into the SCW media team.
 
Finch: She’s not going to know what’s hit her bro.
 
Owen: That’s the plan… it all starts here.
 
Finch: What does?
 
Owen: I’m a wrestler Finch, the School, the Shelter, they are just a piece of the puzzle. If I’m not successful as a wrestler as well, it will take the shine off everything else.
 
Finch: So, what would a success be?
 
Owen: That’s simple… winning the World Championship again. Or becoming a Supreme Champion and winning the lot. There would be no better example to the students than that.
 
Finch: And you reckon you can do that?
 
Owen: No Finch, I don’t…
 
Finch gives him a quizzical look, but Owen hadn’t finished.
 
Owen: I KNOW I can
 
Finch nods his head, seeing a belief that Owen had been lacking in the past, but which now he had in spades. Owen knew it wouldn’t be immediate, he wouldn’t get another chance for a while, but he was willing to wait, and if it took. He’d won the World Championship once, but that reign had been all too brief. This time however, he would be ready to carry that weight. It started with Samuel, it would continue with Clamidiya and then. No one knew. But more than anything, Owen was excited to see what happened next, and if his redemption truly was complete. And with Under Attack just around the corner, he was ready to put on a show.
[Image: 270041540-258425806375597-7033161467703002046-n.png]


Forum Jump:


Users browsing this thread: 1 Guest(s)