Glendale AZ.
Five Years Ago
Peyton Rice didn’t know what to expect from that night. Her name was “Hailey”, it was an easy way to make some pretty good money and only work two or three nights out of the week. With her mother gone, her sister off to college, she was responsible for taking care of her father. The modeling she did was decent money, but it wasn’t going to pay for her school tuition. The waiter job at the local burger and malt diner was enough to put food on the table and pay some bills. Life was not easy for a 19-year-old that should have been enjoying the college culture and some of the best years of her life.
It was around 3:00 AM. She slowly opened the door, holding her heels, tip toeing into the house in a dinner dress, her long sandy blonde hair hanging down and nails polished red. Not wanting to make a sound. After a few minutes, Peyton made her way to the bedroom and opened went to close the door…
Voice: “You have been out late.”
Hearing her father’s voice, Peyton froze in her steps, slowly turning around to see Ray Rice sitting in the wheelchair still in his clothing from earlier. Trying to laugh it off. Peyton took a deep breath and walked out of the room smiling…
Peyton: “Hey dad…. I can explain….”
Ray: “I would ask if you were working late, but in that dress? I may have to think otherwise.”
Peyton: “We had a school function, I wanted to go but I didn’t know if I could because of your condition. I would have said something but once you went to bed, I figured I could sneak out for a few hours and come back home without you noticing.”
Ray: “Why would you do that, Pey? You know how much I want you to be involved in school? Just because I am confined to this goddamn wheelchair, doesn’t mean that I want you ending your life. Jesus, you just turned 19 a month or so ago, this was what I was afraid of, that suddenly you’re going to throw your whole life away to help me.”
Peyton: “Dad, helping you is not throwing my life away, I want to be here with you, I want to make sure that you’re taken care of and then we can decide down the road how this will work. I’m not going to abandon you, dad if that is what you think. I went out for a little while that’s all. I’m tired and just need to shower and go to bed, I have to work an earlier shift at the Diner tomorrow, Francesca needed to switch shifts.”
Ray: “Pey….”
Peyton: “Daddy…. I’m fine okay? How about we get you to bed?”
Ray gestures her to go into the room, he would be fine….
Ray: “I’m fine Pey, get some sleep. I worry about you, that’s all. I don’t; want you losing out on your youth, regretting it and then hating me for it.”
Peyton: “Dad, I could never hate you and I am just fine with my youth, okay?”
He nods….
Ray: “Okay. Goodnight pumpkin.”
Peyton: “Goodnight Chief.”
Ray: “Ha… funny.”
She smiles, leaning over and giving him a kiss on the cheeks. Peyton walks into her room, closes her door and closes her eyes as the lips begin to quiver and a few tears trickle down her cheek….
Hating herself for lying to the only person she trusts, her father.
TO BE CONTINUED
SOMETIMES THE COME BACK
CHAPTER II: SKELETONS
PROLOGUE: ENOUGH
It was a very hard-fought victory for Peyton Rice, the current TV Champion had to dig deep once again to defeat Jordan Majors but it wasn’t with a little controversy at the end where they were both attacked by Infamous after Jordan had defeated them at RTG and before Apocalypse. Peyton was at the wrong place at the wrong time but that didn’t bother her, all she wanted to do was compete, try and defeat Jordan and continue on what could be a historical TV Title run. Peyton tired of being attacked, it seemed like an everyday occurrence in the SCW if not her, someone else to the point she started to lose a little faith in the business. Peyton wasn’t just going to take the beating and let it happen, she was ready to help Jordan even if those two were at odds. Peyton came back into the ring and helped her fight them off, she showed the whole world exactly just what type of person she was and even surprised Majors. There was something else though about the match other than the attack, Damian Angel was watching, and she didn’t know why but that started to bug her a little. Her focus was the TV Title and wrestling, but it seemed to her that there was more to this than met the eye. Adam and Alistaire Allocco were both concerned. Adam especially knew just how dangerous and unpredictable Angel was. He was a little concerned and approached Peyton about it. Ali too seemed to be worried, but Peyton reassured them both that she was going to be alright….
It still didn’t change the state of the SCW.
Breakdown
Vancouver, BC.
Thirty Minutes After Show
Peyton was headed out, she needed some time alone, trying to figure out exactly what was going on. She didn’t want Alistaire or Owen to worry, it was only around 9 pm, since they were on the West Coast. Wearing jeans, ankle boots and a pull over hoodie sweater with her nails polished white and long hair hanging down, dragging her roll away, she walked past Sasha’s office and stopped, slowly turned and knocked. She heard her voice and opened the door…
Sasha: “Come in…. oh hi, Peyton.”
Peyton: “Have a minute, boss?”
Sasha: “Sure, what’s up?”
I am not the type of person that usually goes to the boss, as I walked by her door I felt some what compelled to knock on the door and talk to her and maybe it was because I had a lot on my mind, I am the type of person who doesn’t like the state of the biz right now in SCW. I wasn’t disgruntled or anything like that, I was concerned, and I think she could see it in my face….
Peyton: “Well…. I’m a little worried about what is going on around here. It seems like things are a bit out of control. The Main Event was wild, masked people are running in here and attacking others, Syren is swinging chairs and hitting my best friend! Infamous jumped Jordan and I from behind, Xander is still running loose, we saw what Sienna did, Damian is watching… whether it’s me or someone, I don’t know. I just feel like things are getting chaotic and I have nothing but the utmost respect for what you do, so it bothers me to no end that this is going on.”
Sasha: “I’m glad to hear that you are concerned, it shows how much you care. I also want to commend you for what happened tonight, you could have easily walked away and allowed Infamous to attack Jordan considering the way you two feel about each other, instead you helped her and that takes a lot of guts and class. Thank you for showing there are still good people in the business that care about wrestling and what SCW stands for. As for Owen, he’s okay and I agree with you.”
Peyton: “It was the right thing to do. Owen though? Even Mr. Evans, he was hit on the head? This has to stop! I needed to get it off my chest, I will NOT be silent ANYMORE! I just wanted to say that, I was walking by your office and felt like saying something, that is all. Forgive me if I intruded.”
Sasha: “Intruded? Not at all, I am happy you came by. I am trying here Peyton, it’s a work in progress but I assure you that Main Events like Owen and Alistaire from Apocalypse it is my hope that will become more the norm. You have a bright future ahead of yourself young lady, what you are doing with the TV Title is exactly what I thought you would do, and it has helped elevate you to that next level. I see great things for you here and as for the attacks, unfortunately that is part of the business, all I can hope to do is lessen them. As for Damian? Just keep doing what you do Peyton, next week you have Clyde Sutter, another very violent man who is here to hurt people, I can’t deny what he has done, and he deserves a shot….”
That guy can tear me in half, but I knew that being a TV Champion was never going to be easy….
Peyton: “I welcome the challenge, Sasha. I will do my best.”
Sasha: “I know you will, Peyton.”
Peyton: “I appreciate the time, I guess I needed to vent, it has been bothering me for a while now but I didn’t want to come off naïve or sensitive, the SCW has been far worse at times and I get it. There are so many talented people out there and it bothers me they don’t relay on the skills and talent they have, instead think it’s necessary to take these shortcuts. You have some enemies in the locker room, and it makes me feel like I should do something, you’ve done a great job with the product you put out.”
Sasha: “I get a lot of complaints, it’s nice for once in a awhile to hear something positive. Thank you, Peyton.”
Peyton: “You’re welcome, Sasha. Alright, I’m going back t the hotel.”
Sasha: “Not going to enjoy Vancouver?”
Peyton: “I may in the morning, right now I need some ME time, goodnight.”
Sasha: “Sounds like a plan, Goodnight.”
She smiled at me and I returned the gesture, I felt like I needed to get that off my chest and at least let her know that I was on her side. I thought she was doing a good job for the SCW and my hope was that she would see that I cared about the SCW and what was going on finally took a toll on me. I felt like I needed to do something about it, I have never felt this passionate before….
Maybe getting attacked by Infamous lit a fire under my butt.
Thirty Minutes Later
Peyton was back at the hotel. She laid in the bathtub, bubbles forming, her feet kicked up by the knob, a glass of wine in hand and a Charcuterie plate she ordered from room service. Her head rested back, green eyes closed, all she could hear the crowd cheering on, the sounds of the sport, the ring, her music, everything, it was making her drift to sleep when she heard the door open, her eyes widened, she wasn’t expecting anyone as Alistaire walked in wearing jeans, sneakers, a jacket and t-shirt. She looked both relieved and surprised still laying in the bathtub….
Peyton: “Ali? I thought we decided to have an off night. I was going to bed right after this.”
Alistaire: I was worried about you. Maybe my father worked me up a little at the arena, I don’t know and besides, when you gave me a copy of your room key, well, I thought that was an invitation.”
Peyton: “Ali, you can stay with me whenever you like, that has never been the question here and I am fine. I don’t think anyone is going to bother me here. I had a bite to eat, drinking a couple of glasses of wine, I was going to bed and that was it. I have a pretty busy weekend when I get back home because next week is the PPV.”
Alistaire: “Yeah I know.”
Peyton: “If anything Alistaire, I’m more worried about you and going into that Chamber. I saw what happened tonight, I don’t get it. I don’t understand Sienna, Syren, Bree…. Even Glory and James….”
Alistaire: “I don’t think we are supposed to.”
That was kinda funny, I giggled a little as he pulled up a chair and sat by the bathtub. In many ways I wanted to be alone tonight but at the same time, part of me was happy he came over, it showed he cared. I didn’t want to act like I wasn’t appreciative of him coming over, I was actually a bit excited and felt giddy….
Peyton: “You are walking into a very dangerous situation. I know it’s for the World Championship but after tonight? I see so many people selling their souls for that title, is that really what it’s like when you get the taste for Gold?”
Alistaire: “Obviously for some. I think for many, it becomes solely about the World Title, for me it is about the competition. Maybe we just haven’t been around long enough to be corrupted by its appeal?”
Peyton: “That makes sense, I think. It doesn’t change the fact that I am still very worried about you.”
Alistaire: “And… Damian Angel stalking you isn’t a cause for concern? Especially when you live by yourself and so close to his daughter? I have seen what that man can do and by what my father has told me, he is very worried.”
Peyton: “I think that’s so cute.”
Alistaire: “There is nothing cute about Damian Angel taking an interest in you Peyton.”
Peyton: “No… no… not that. I’m talking about you and Mr. Allocco worried about me, it shows you care.”
Alistaire: “Of course I care, I….. I….. care a lot about you Peyton.”
Peyton: “I do too Ali.”
Seeing his facial expressions and how concerned he was made me feel good, it was more that he was caring about me more than anything, the only problem I saw in all of this was that he would let that cloud his mind and suddenly walk out the Chamber not as Champion because he was too worried about me. I turned and looked him in the eyes….
Peyton: “Don’t worry about me, you have a World Title to get back, that is what’s important right now. I have a tough week ahead, I have Clyde Sutter and then Damian. I….”
Alistaire: “Sutter!? Then Damian!? No…. not going to happen!”
Peyton: “Ali….shhh… listen to me, I will be fine. I need you to worry about the Chamber, no matter what happens, I will be there at the end. I have a lot to deal with, but I have been doing that for the last 5-6 years of my life and it’s just another obstacle. I know Mr. Sutter wants to hurt me, I also know that nothing good comes out of Damian Angel. I need you to trust me here on this.”
Alistaire: “I trust you Peyton, I don’t trust them and to think that you live alone, that Damian or even that psychopath, Sutter could end up at your place….”
I needed to tell Alistaire that I made the decision to move out of the house and into Owen’s huge place. I didn’t think he would understand at first, all I could do is hoped that trust was strong enough to understand….
Peyton: “…. I’m moving out of my little Venice Beach house, there are too many memories there and I feel like I need something bigger and as I save up and wait to buy a bigger home one day, preferable either back in Arizona or somewhere in Santa Monica or the hills and be able to move my dad there, I decided to stay at Owen’s.”
Alistaire: “Wait…. What?”
Peyton: “Ali, I know how this sounds, just hear me out okay before you start jumping into conclusions.”
Alistaire: “You do see how this looks, right?”
Peyton: “Yes, I do but let me explain. I went over to his place a few weeks ago, his house is huge up in the hills, he offered me a place to stay, we are like brother and sister….”
Alistaire: “You may feel that way but what about him?”
Peyton: “Ali… he’s 19, I am turning 24. There is nothing romantical going on here, we are good friends, we have been for a long time. I am like a big sister to him and honestly, I need to get out of my house. I have too many memories of Ricky there, it’s toxic for me, I can’t help it and it’s not fair to you either. I was going to talk to you about this, I just hadn’t had the chance. I’m sorry.”
Alistaire: “Didn’t have the chance or didn’t want to?”
A little of both but now that I have, he needs to know that I am falling for him, I can’t blurt that out though, the last thing I want is to chase him away but it’s kind of tough when I’m sitting here naked in the bathtub full of bubbles trying to have a very serious conversation with him….
Peyton: “Ali, you have a right to be upset but you don’t have a right to judge me. Owen is a friend, I don’t look at him like I do you. I would never be sitting here in the bathtub having a conversation with Owen like I am you right now. I am attracted to you, I want to be with you, Ali. Owen offered me a place to stay, it gives me a chance to save up some money maybe I can start making more once I climb the ranks of the roster, I already have my plans Ali and YOU are IN them.”
Alistaire: “Why him?”
Peyton: “Ali…. He is my friend. The house is so big we probably will miss each other going in and out half the time. Besides, Owen isn’t going to stay single long, he’s a good guy who will find someone, I just need you to trust me. We have already had this test when you disappeared after Apocalypse, I gave you the benefit of the doubt because I do trust you…. Please do the same. Ali…. I really like you, I wouldn’t do anything to jeopardize what we have. If this is a deal breaker…. Than fine… I won’t do it.”
Alistaire: “You wouldn’t? For me?”
Peyton: “Yeah, I wouldn’t do it, all for you.”
And I wouldn’t, I’m not ruining my relationship with him over this. I should have talked to him first, it was impulsive and maybe I was getting used to being alone and making decisions on my own. I messed up, I would do anything to fix it….
Alistaire: “No… no… go ahead and move in.”
Peyton: “Ali, not if this is going to be an issue.”
Alistaire: “I just don’t find it right a man and woman living together unless they are married.”
Peyton: “And I agree…. But Owen and I are not a couple, okay? He knows that he’s going to be seeing a lot more of you.”
Alistaire: “Well… I will be.”
He smirks and I smile, grabbing his hand, sitting up and kissing him on the lips….
Peyton: “Seriously? It’s okay?”
Alistaire: “Yes, you are right. I need to trust this relationship.”
Peyton: “Or what?”
Alistaire: “Or what, what?”
Peyton: “Or I will……do this!”
I pulled him into the tub, I saw him place his keys and cellphone on the counter, so I knew they weren’t on him. He let out a small scream as I laughed, Ali couldn’t believe I did that as all I could do was laugh before bringing him in as we kissed….
It was the only way this night could end, and I couldn’t be happier.
SKELETONS
It had been a few days since Breakdown and Peyton was given the chance to finally get back home and start packing, she had decided to move into Owen’s place, it was big enough to have her privacy and at the same time, it would be nice to have someone around that she is friends with. Peyton was at home, already had some boxes scattered around, some items were packed. This was a big move for Peyton and after the conversation she had with Ali a few nights prior that seemed to get a little intense, he finally did calm down and see exactly where she was going with this. She needed to have Ali’s trust, to let him know that she cared about him in a different way and not that of how she sees Owen as a big brother or a friend. It was nice for Jennifer Helms to volunteer as well, her and Peyton started to become closer after Ricky Octavius death. They had a lot in common, especially when it came to their parents, siblings and how they had to work so hard at such a young age, that they grew up faster than most kids….
Jennifer had volunteered and now that she was going to be free of the Beauty Factory after the end of October, thanks to Regan, Jennifer was able to find more time to spend with others. Christian Cannon was training hard for his debut in EMERGE which happened to be against Jennifer. In the spirit of competition, so many different scenarios could happen but that is why Peyton was there, to help and in return, she would be there for the young Rice.
Peyton’s Home
Venice Beach, CA.
Last Sunday
Jennifer was packing a few things from the kitchen, she wore jeans, flip flops and a BANG! T-shirt. Her long brunette hair hung down and nails a glossy coating. Peyton was shorts, a Nintendo T-shirt, ball cap and flip flops, her long sandy blonde hair hung down and nails polished white. She was in the living room packing up some movies. Elvis was laying on the floor watching them both….
Jennifer: “Are you going to save all these AM/PM Slurpee cups? Tell me you don’t collect these?”
Peyton: “Actually I do… don’t make fun of my cups, girl.”
Jennifer: “Listen bitch, I will make fun of them if I want. Seriously though, you want to save all these plastic cups?”
Peyton: “Yeah… Ric…… I used to collect them.”
I knew she caught that, within seconds, Jennifer peaked into the room I was in and smiled holding up the cups….
Jennifer: “I will pack them all up. Hey Pey, it’s okay to hang on to memories, sometimes that is all we have left of those we loved. I look at pictures or paraphernalia that my sister bought me all the time, I even can sometimes hear her voice talking to me when I look at pictures of that day or just a moment frozen in time.”
Peyton: “I know Jenni, this whole house is a memory of Ricky but at some point, I have to let go or I will not be able to grow. I still blame myself every day and it gets worse when I am sitting here alone at night and everything, I see reminds me of him. You understand which is why I feel like I can be open with you about this.”
Jennifer: “We both lost someone we cared about and still haven’t found justice, it’s hard to get by, I have tried for four years but in time, I think time heals all wounds.”
Peyton: “You are lucky too Jenni, you have a great support system with Christian, Regan, Coach David. You are really lucky.”
Jennifer: “I am, so are you and I really think it’s cool that you are moving in with Owen.”
I laughed a little at the statement, she made it sound like we were a couple….
Peyton: “You do know that we are just friends, right?”
Jennifer: “Totally. Alistaire is super cute, I think he’s a little, I don’t know, very momma’s boyish if that makes any sense?”
Peyton: “I think that’s what makes him so unique, he has no shame in his game. He’s gentle, honest and quirky which is why it’s not fair to him that I stay here. I may not be fair to him that I am rooming with Owen, but I think this will help in their friendship and at the same time build trust and be better for us. In time I will get my own place with my dad, I need to save up and really find the right house and city. I have some time, I think making a move now is important though. Can you hand me the tape?
Jennifer: “Sure… here.”
As she hands me the roll of packing tape, I continue to talk to her while taping the box up. She reaches over and grabs the vinyl records from the cabinet and hands them over. Damn it, everything I look at reminds me of Ricky. I don’t want to eraser his memory, that is impossible for me to do but I can at least not torture myself every waking moment looking at something that reminded me of him….
Jennifer: “I shouldn’t have given you this.”
Peyton: “Not, it’s okay. I had a feeling this would happen when I decided to start packing. I’m, not going to act like some wallflower or emotional wreck, he would hate to see me that way. I just need to focus on packing and leave it at that.”
Jennifer: “Are you hungry?”
Peyton: “Famished.”
Jennifer: “Then In N’ Out it is, I’m buying. How about I go pick some up, we can chill outside in the patio, have lunch and get back to work?”
Peyton: “I can go if you want?”
Jennifer: “No, no. I won’t be long, seriously, 15-20 minutes tops. I’ll go get us some grub and I’ll be back, I feel like we need to cheat today anyway, agreed?”
Peyton: “I so agree!”
Jennifer: “Cool… I’ll be back. Hey Elvis, wanna go for a ride?”
The minute Jennifer said that Elvis sprung up, he loved going for car rides. Jennifer was a good friend and slowly becoming one of my best friends. Elvis ran out the door and she waved goodbye and closed it behind her. I continued to pack, there was really nothing more I could do. I wasn’t going to stop, IO wanted to finish what I could today, I had time to move, the house hadn’t sold, and I didn’t plan on getting up there until the end of the month anyway. Scuffling through a few things, I put the vinyl’s in a box and realize that the one on top, it was Aaron Neville….
I stopped and covered my mouth, my eyes teared up a little, I couldn’t get him out of my thoughts….
Two Years Ago
I looked into his eyes; my bare feet were on his as he led the way while we danced in the living room. He was so mesmerizing to me, it was the first night he stayed over, knowing him for so long during our training and finally after we graduated, I finally realized that I was in love with Ricky and he loved me.
Look at this face
I know the years are showing
Look at this life
I still don’t know where it’s going
My arms wrapped around his neck, that feeling I felt, I never had it before. Ricky looked at me and smirked before we kissed. All those times we were at Ante Up, hanging out with friends, did I ever think we would end up like this….
Peyton: “You lead very well, Mr. Octavius.”
Ricky: “Why thank you, Ms. Rice, I learned it watching bad 80’s movies.”
Peyton: “Is that what it was?”
Ricky: “Well, yeah, something like it. You are a very good dancer too.”
Peyton: “Uh right…..I am standing on your feet.”
Ricky: “And I am okay with that.”
I smiled at his sense of humor and kissed him gently on the lips. I somehow was a bit lost between him and the music…
I don’t know much
But I know I love you
And that may be all I need to know.
Look at these eyes
They never seen what matters
Look at these
Dreams so beaten and so battered.
We continued to kiss until our lips finally separated though I didn’t want it to stop. We continued to dance, I had never felt like this about anyone before, it was different for me, I never had the chance to spend this kind of time with someone like Ricky. We were friends first before we became lovers and it was instantaneously just how fast we hit it off…..
Ricky: “The first day I saw you…..”
Peyton: “And the Truth comes out?”
Ricky: “It looks that way. I take it you didn’t feel the same?”
Peyton: “Uh… no. I thought you were cute but kinda clumsy and goofy.”
Ricky: “Uuugghhh…. That hurts me right in the heart.”
I let out a slight giggle and laughed. Placing my hands on his chest, I felt his heart pounding, he then smirked and he placed his hand on my chest…..
Peyton: “Does it still hurt?”
Ricky: “I think it is a little better….”
Closing my eyes, I continued to dance with him, yet again getting lost in the music, laying my head on his chest this time…..
I don’t know much
But I know I love you
And that may be all I need to know.
So many questions still left unanswered
So much I’ve never broken through
And when I feel you near me, sometimes I see so clearly
That only truth I’ll never know is me and you.
….. and then he said it…..
Ricky: “I love you Pey…..”
Peyton: “…. I love you too.”
….It was the first time that he ever said that to me. It was a natural response, I did fall in love with Ricky and I couldn’t help it. It was one of those moments where the night was absolutely perfect. I felt safe in his arms, it was right, there wasn’t anything that I could find wrong with it. I was going to remember this for a very long time……
Present Time
…. And it is why living here was too much to bear. I looked down at the vinyl cover, placing it in the box. Whispering under my breath….
“I don’t know much, but I know I love you…. that may be all I need to know…..”
…. after wiping some tears, I closed the box and taped it up. Placing my hands on the box, I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. After a few moments, I was opened my eyes and looked at the door, there was someone standing there, then I heard the knock on the door and walked over, opening it I was surprised to see Warren Dowling standing in front of me.
How the hell did he know where I live?
My heart sunk into my chest after seeing him back in Arizona a few weeks ago. I gulped and took a calming breath before asking him why he was there….
Peyton: “Mr. Dowling? What… what are you doing here?”
Warren: “What have I told you all these years, cut that Mister crap, you are making me feel old though I am a little old but don’t put anymore age on my cutie.”
Peyton: “Sorry, Warren, what are you doing here?”
Warren: “It took me a bit to figure out your schedule these days as you seem to travel a lot. It took me a bit to find where you lived but I knew a few people that helped with that. Is this a bad time?”
Peyton: “Yeah….. kinda.”
Warren: “I just need a few moments of your time; five minutes is all I ask.”
Peyton: “Well, I mean… I am really busy….”
Warren: “Five minutes.”
I am such a pushover sometimes…..
Peyton: “Okay… sure, five minutes… but no smoking in the house.”
Warren: “Kids these days, can;t even fucking vape without getting a complaint because one dumbass inhaled Clorox.”
Peyton: “Warren….”
Warren: “Okay…. shit I digress.”
Stepping to the side, I allowed Warren in. He walked inside and saw the mess, turning to me a bit surprised….
Warren: “Moving?”
Peyton: “Yes.”
Warren: “Such a nice place, very you. Why?”
Peyton: “I feel like it’s time to move. Did you want a drink or something?”
Warren: “No…. no…. I just want to talk really quick.”
Peyton: “Sure… okay.”
He sat at the table, sitting across from him my heart was racing. I was trying to figure out why he was there. It bothered me that Warren just shows up at my house and to know that he found out where I lived was also troubling. Nervously, as my legs were shaking, I looked across the table at Warren….
Peyton: “So what is up?”
Warren: “It was crazy seeing you in Arizona last week… meeting your old man, I haven’t seen you in five years. I was talking to Tessa and telling her how crazy it was that we ran into you. I mean, you look great, really grown up in five years.”
Peyton: “Thank you Warren, I really appreciate the compliments but let’s be honest here, you didn’t come all the way to Venice Beach to pay me compliments.”
Warren: “Not only are you beautiful, you’re smart.”
Peyton: “How’s the business?”
Warren: “Well, we lost a lot of money in the last few years, seems like these days men don’t want to pay top dollar for beautiful women to escort them, on top of that, the pool was getting thinner and thinner, kids in college these days care more about compostable containers for the Impossible Burger topped with avocado and broccoli sprouts, they want to make a no risk honest living and it fucking sucks. Seeing you reminded me of such a profitable business that was.”
Peyton: “Wait…. You’re not in the escort business anymore? I thought you were?”
Warren: “Unfortunately after you left, no one could compare. We lost very important clients and when you just quit like that, well…. It hurt our business. So, I bought a strip club, it pays the bills but not what I was looking for.”
I didn’t understand where he was going with this….
Peyton: “Look, Warren, I am sorry that I abruptly left but wrestling called, and I had to take that opportunity. It was nothing against you or Tessa, I swear, you guys were so good to me, it was a dream come true and I had to pursue it even if it was going to hurt me financially. Luckily I saved up and was able to live off that and go to training.”
Warren: “That’s good…. That’s very good. Now how do you think it left us? It was a big void to fill and I couldn’t do it. You cost me a lot of money when I was good to you. We even gave you cash advances, let you keep the tips which I know were more than average. In the end, Peyton, you did this old man wrong and Tessa.”
This was not going anywhere I liked at the moment. I wanted to stay in control of the situation, Warren was a very understanding and reasonable man, I needed to know where this was leading and his intentions. ….
Peyton: “What do you want from me?”
Warren: “Compensation.”
Peyton: “Compensation? What do you mean, I don’t understand?”
Warren: “Simple, you pay me for lost wages, and we call it even, then I could maybe one day open up my services again or maybe even get into porn.”
Peyton: “Porn? Really, Warren?”
Warren: “Not me, I’m too old for that shit, I mean direct and produce, there is a lot of money in the pornography industry, Peyton. So, tell me, what do you say? If I am right, calculating how much on an average you made a week, in a five-year span….”
Peyton: “Five Years!? Warren, I never would have worked doing that for five years! Maybe a year tops, this is silly. I need you to leave please, I am busy here.”
Warren: “Be a shame of your old man found out, huh? I don’t think he knows, matter of fact I am pretty sure he doesn’t and bet my left nut on it.”
Peyton: “Warren, don’t do this, I looked at you as a father figure.”
He didn’t care, standing up and sighing, maybe I was able to get through to him and then again he was obviously desperate…..
Peyton: “Please don’t.”
Warren: “I respect you kid, that is why I would never try to ruin your dreams and goals, I would never try to take away what you worked so hard for. I am not the type of guy that would defame your character because I know that the only person you care about what they think of you is the old man. Think about it…. Think about and I will give you one week. Oh, and we are talking a cool 2 Million. That’s also for pain and suffering.”
Peyton: “Two?! I don’t have that kind of money, Warren, I am a wrestler, not a movie star!”
Warren: “You’re a smart kid, you figure it out. Take it easy.”
I couldn’t believe what I was hearing, how the hell did he expect me to come up with that sort of money, for that I would be robbing my father of everything I worked hard for. He left, I wanted to slam the door in his face but needed to calm down. After a few minutes of pacing, Jennifer stepped back in with our bag of food, she held it up so proud of herself. I needed to shift gears quickly and forced a smile, Jennifer though has Regan’s instinct….
Jennifer: “Okay…. What’s wrong?”
Damn it.
EPILOGUE: UNEXPECTED
Peyton was still trying to get over Ricky, moving out was definitely necessary and it would help. She was training harder, taking care of her father, trying to stay afloat as Champion, there were plenty of activities that were keeping not only busy but distracted. With Damian Angel having some sort of an eye on her worried Peyton a bit. Then there was Warren visiting her at home, which was unexpected and at the same time very nerve racking. Peyton decided to train, the match with Clyde Sutter was going to be tough, that man didn’t care about the title, all he cared about was hurting Peyton and that had her both concerned and anxious. Seeing as Damian Angel was only a few days after Clyde, it was going to be a week where Peyton would be testing herself physically. David Helms was upstairs in his office watching her train, he was a bit worried as she again would bury herself in work just to help her with anything she was having issues with…..
Ante Up Academy
Santa Barbara, CA.
The Following Day
David made his way down to the ring. Peyton ran up the ropes and landed with a roll, then she did another when he called her attention….
David: “Pey…. Hey you okay?”
Peyton: “I’m just training coach, that’s all, I have some pretty tough matches and I need to be ready.”
David: “Not if you are going to tear something….. that’s enough, you have been here over two hours and usually when you do that, there is something on your mind.”
Peyton: “I’m okay….. seriously.”
David: “It’s early, take the rest of the day, go to the beach, do something relaxing. Tomorrow is a travel day. I wish I was going with you kiddo but my quest ended last week.”
The God of Wrestling Tournament, he was great out there. I didn’t want to mention anything about it, he did and so now it was fair game. Coach Helms was right though, I was overworking myself, I couldn’t stop. I had to be ready….. I had to….. I would also never disrespect him, rolling out of the ring he handed me a towel…
Peyton: “I’m sorry about that, you were awesome out there.”
David: “It’s okay, I had a blast, probably ran Regan crazy but that was expected. I had my fun, I have no regrets whatsoever. I wanted to compete, had some of my friends and rivals there, and now I’ll do this and work on my Whiskey business with Lucas (Knight). As for you, young lady, you’re doing a great job as TV Champion, whatever happens on Breakdown, happens, it doesn’t deter from what you have accomplished.”
Peyton: “I know, I just….. I have a lot on my mind and the only way I know how to cope is by training. I’m ready for this week, I just need to stay focused.”
David: “It’s hard when you are missing an influential figure like Kelcey and I know it must be tough still dealing with Ricky. I am happy though that you found something with Alistaire, he seems to have really changed a lot.”
Peyton: “He has…. But I’m okay Coach…. Really, I am. I’m moving out of the house, too many memories, just a bunch of stuff I need to deal with and…. Well…. You know.”
David: “Anything you say to me stays between us Peyton, you know that.”
I nodded, tried to smile but instead my lips started to quiver, and I found myself holding back the tears. He could see that I was a mess, Coach Helms wasn’t a stupid man, he knew me better than most people. I could feel his hand on my shoulder, as I started to wipe the tears…
David: “Peyton? What is it?”
Peyton: “Have you ever been ashamed of something you have done in the past but at the time you saw no way around it, and it was like, too good to pass up in the situation I was in?”
David: “I have, I think we all have at one point, Peyton, why?”
Peyton: “Do you think I’m a good person, even after everything that happened with Ricky? Am I stupid? Do I live in some dream where I think people are good and all they act like is a bunch of snakes? Because I try to justify my actions and learn from my mistakes. There are instances where I look at the mirror and I don’t particularly understand who I am anymore. My father is the reason I am here, and I love this sport, you know that.”
David: “I think this is one of the reasons you are so well respected, Peyton, down to earth, you get it where many don’t. You shouldn’t be ashamed of anything you did, we all have and long as the person that I see in front of me now is that genuine article which I know you are? Then there is nothing further to discuss. The wrestling business is cutthroat, but I warned you guys all in school about this. The best advice I can give? Be yourself, do not let anyone else dictate who you are. Do you want to talk about what’s bothering you?”
I did but I didn’t. Sighing I lowered my head and covered my face, his arms embraced me which led to me crying a little more…..
Peyton: “I thought I was doing…. Doing the right thing….. for my dad…..”
There was nothing more agonizing than not mustering the courage to tell Coach Helms the truth, but I wasn’t ready for that. I had to be strong and not allow my past to come creeping up and ruin what I had going for me no matter the cost. I never meant any ill will by it, I was desperate, the only thing I wanted was for this to all go away….
The problem was, deep down inside, I knew it wasn’t.
Twenty Minutes Later
After I showered and dressed back up in some jeans, sneakers and a tee shirt, I was seriously bumming today, I put my hair up in a ponytail and grabbed my things, I noticed that I received a text from an unknown number, I opened it up and it was a message from Kelcey….
“Come over to this address when you get a chance today.”
… it read. There was a google maps link with the address already set up in it. As I walked out, I looked up at the office window where Coach Helms stood, he pointed at me and pumped a fist, I smiled and returned the gesture. Catching me in a moment of weakness, I opened up to him but didn’t tell him everything. I wasn’t ready for that yet especially to a man I looked up to as a father figure, mentor and peer. I waved back and walked out the door, stepped into my car and drove off. The Google Maps had me driving about an hour south, it wasn’t like Ante Up was close to Los Angeles anyway. It took me to the Palisades, a place I never pictured Kelcey living in. Parking, and getting out, I walked over to the door of the huge home with the circular driveway, before I could ring the doorbell, Kelcey answered. She looked very comfortable and healthier than the last time I saw her….
Kelcey: “Thank you for coming over.”
Peyton: “This is a really nice place.”
Kelcey: “Thanks, but it’s not mine.”
Peyton: “Oh?”
Now I was a bit confused, I don’t know how she ended up here, how she was able to get out of the hospital, I was completely lost in that aspect. After we hugged, she escorted me in, the house was very modern, there was a pool inside the living room, needless to say, I was quite impressed. I wanted to ask so many questions and instead I waited, maybe it wasn’t the right time…
Peyton: “Kelcey…. Why did you invite me here?”
Kelcey: “Because I think it’s time I share, you are the only person I fully trust with this information right now. I want you to be a part of this.”
Peyton: “A part of what?”
Kelcey reached some double doors, she opened them slowly and to my shock sat Scott Cannon. I then turned and saw the man who was mowing through the competition at the God of Wrestling Tournament, Alban McConnell. I kinda froze, stared right into Scott’s eyes….
Scott: “I know, this may seem really strange and probably shocking right now, but I promise that after we talk, this will all make sense.”
Peyton: “How do you fit into all of this?”
Scott: “Please, come in and sit.”
Peyton: “Kelcey?”
Kelcey: “Please, sit.”
Just then I saw her walk over to Scott, she sat on his lap. I turned toward Alban who continued to stare me down, confused I looked back at Kelcey and Scott, I never like to curse but I felt at this very moment, I needed to speak my mind….
Peyton: “Okay…. What the fuck?”
…. And from that moment I knew that I was about to be told something that I never thought was possible…..
SCENE FADES
Glendale AZ.
Five Years Ago
The warm water ran through her hair as Peyton washed and scrubbed. Her thoughts muddled with the conversation she had with her father, to know that she lied to his face about where his youngest daughter spent the night. She thought doing the right thing was earning some money that would make her life with dad comfortable. Peyton didn’t know what the job entailed, starting the night she was nervous, even vomited before she left because of nerves but as the night went on, Peyton was able to see that being an escort wasn’t so bad or so she thought…..
Maybe she was too good at the job.
Things were not as black and white at they seemed.
After showering, she stepped out, dried herself off and walked over to the bed after putting on her pajama shorts and tank top, crawling under the sheets. She seemed to be lost in her own thoughts, staring up at the ceiling, wondering what was next for her. The gorgeous Peyton reached over and shut off the lights….
Hoping the darkness would help her sleep to the next day.
After about 5 hours of sleep, Peyton wakes up and readies to head to her “real” job, a waiter at the Diner. She heads to the kitchen and grabs an Orange Juice, her dad at the table having toast….
Ray: “I’ll make you breakfast, sit.”
Peyton: “I can’t dad, I’m in a hurry, I have a couple of errands to run and then I head over to the Diner. I love you…. Gotta go!”
Ray: “Pey? At least some toast….”
She grabs half of his and shoves it in her mouth, he smirks….
Peyton: “There!”
Ray: “Fair enough. Have a good day at work, love you.”
Peyton: “Ditto!”
She steps out and leaves. Before she headed to work though there was one place she needed to stop, the Escort Agency where Warren and Tessa Dowling, both siblings ran a very reputable business that had some top clients and beautiful women. Peyton walks into the office, in a building by where she worked. There were some escorts there, Peyton in her Diner outfit checked in and reported, she turned in her “tips”. Tessa was there in a black skirt, blue blouse and peep toe pumps. Her long reddish hair hung down and nails polished red…
Tessa: “There’s our newbie. You were a hit.”
Peyton: “I… I was?”
Tessa: “Yes, Armie loved you, matter of fact he already booked for you when he comes back next month for another meeting.”
Peyton: “Really?”
Tessa: “I don’t know what you did but it was obviously a lasting impression.”
Peyton: “Wow… okay… awesome.”
Tessa: “Can you work tonight?”
Peyton: “Uh… no I can’t I have to work at the Diner….”
Before she could finish her sentence, Warren cut her off in his brown suit and no tie, yellow shirt like he was straight out of the 80’s….
Warren: “…. The Diner? You just made more money in one night than you do in a month at the Diner with tips, right?”
Peyton turns to Warren and reluctantly nods…
Peyton: “Yes, that is true sir.”
Warren: “Jesus fucking Christ, don’t call me sir, you make me feel old. Just call me Warren.”
Peyton: “Yes sir…. I mean Warren. I have committed a shift to the Diner today and I haven’t spent any time with my dad the last few days, was going to take him out for Pizza and Beer.”
Warren: “Peyton… sweetheart, why Pizza and Beer when you can take him out for Steak and a nice glass of Cognac? Right? Tell me I am wrong?”
Peyton: “Well….. no but….”
Tessa: “Warren….”
Warren: “I got this Tessa. Peyton, the guy already booked for you again, that means something, I think you were made for this business kid and if your old man is the reason behind it then let him reap the rewards, right?”
She had to think about, Peyton didn’t like not keeping her word but at the same time they were right, the money in one night was good, even the extra she made that the young Rice didn’t claim. After a moment she sighs and nods….
Warren: “That is what I am talking about! I will send you all the info later, okay?”
Peyton: “Yeah, sure…. I will think of something to tell my dad and the Diner. I have to go.”
Warren: “Again good job, I’ll see you later.”
She smiles and walks out the door. Tessa turns to Warren….
Tessa: “Don’t overwork that girl and push her out like you have done tons of others. She’s a fucking kid, Warren.”
Warren: “Relax, that girl just made almost 4 g’s in one night, none of the others do that. I know what I am doing.”
Tessa: “Uh huh.”
Meanwhile outside, Peyton gets to her car, she gets in and sits there for a bit, opening up the glove compartment and seeing a wad of cash…
And it was a stark reminder of the lengths she’ll go to help her father.
TO BE CONTINUED
THE ASSASSIN?
The Scene Opens….
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, formerly known as the Kansas City Toy and Miniature Museum, is located on the campus of the University of Missouri Kansas City. Opened in 1982, the museum today boasts the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation’s largest collections of antique toys on public display. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures educates, inspires, and delights adults and children through the museum’s collection and preservation of toys and miniatures. As the Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City featuring the collections of Mary Harris Francis and Barbara Marshall. Operating in a building on the corner of 52nd and Oak on the University of Missouri, Kansas City campus, the 7,000-square-foot museum had two full-time staff members.
Over the next thirty years with expansions in 1985 and 2004, the museum grew to 33,000 square feet. During that same period, the collection increased to over 72,000 objects. In 2012, the museum embarked on its first public capital campaign to support building and exhibit improvements.
On August 1, 2015, the museum reopened as The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures with the world’s largest fine-scale miniature collection and one of the nation’s largest antique toy collections on public display. Right now, they are featuring the Doll Gallery and the Dollhouse Detectives, two of their premiere exhibitions until 2022. Here is where we find the beautiful, Peyton Rice, the current Television Champion whop once again went to war with a very tough opponent in Jordan Majors, a woman that came to not only win the TV Title, she came to make a statement. The two made it no secret how much animosity there is between the two, both women going down to the wire and giving it everything they had, and while Peyton squeezed out a victory, both her and Jordan were victims of an attack perpetrated by Infamous. Ravyn, Christie Matthews and Alexander Crowe all came down and attacked the two women even though their main target was Jordan, it wasn’t long though before Peyton was involved in the tussle, she jumped in to help Jordan which showed her integrity and how she views the sport herself.
Many were impressed with what Peyton did, but no one should be surprised as the young woman cares about the sport and has been on the receiving end of those same attacks before. She did the right thing and now even with her actions, the ground she and Jordan stand on is less shaky but not solid. Now she faces Clyde Sutter, the man they call “The Assassin” and someone that took James Evans and Selena Frost to their limits. Peyton is very aware of just how dangerous and vicious this man is, and she is ready to continue defending her championship against anyone that wants to step up. Wearing jeans and knee high black boots, a matching suede jacket and a “Perfect 10” t-shirt, her long straight sandy blonde hair hanging down and nails polished white, the current TV Champion with the belt over her shoulder looks at the different toys and smiles before turning to the camera….
REC:
She takes a second to gather her thoughts and speaks in her cute girly voice, ready for another obstacle on the road….
“I am seriously loving this right now. When I was a little girl, I loved toys. I had all these doll houses, loved to play family, my mom and dad never thought I had enough as my sister Rhiannon and I would have like a city almost in our bedrooms. Those were the good days when life was simple, and we didn’t have to worry about being attacked from behind or someone wanting to rearrange your face. When I was a kid, I wasn’t raised worrying about good versus evil, I only was raised in good and maybe that was naïve of my parents, could be they wanted to raise two children who loved life and wanted to play with their toys. What I find interesting, when I come to places like this, everyone is smiling, there are happy people here because that is the mood toys set…..
Unfortunately, now though we live life where toys are cars, mansions, yachts and even people. I wish that life would be this simple again, but I know it isn’t. Last week I defended this Television Championship against a woman that I know has all the talent to be a World Champion one day if she trusts her talents and leaves the purse with her fat wallet full of cash at home. Jordan Majors did exactly what she said she was going to do and that was to take me to my limits and bring the fight. Jordan for the first time I felt like she trusted her instincts and almost pulled out the victory and ended my TV title reign. Jordan, you and I do not see eye to eye an truthfully speaking, I think that we are like oil and vinegar, I don’t know if we can ever mix, two peas from different pods BUT….. what happened to us last week was not right. I told you when we were going into that match, I would never condone an attack by anyone on an individual and I meant it. When Infamous came out and jumped us after the match, I didn’t think twice about it, I jumped right in and went after them, not caring who was being victimized.
I want to clear the air Jordan, I’m not turning my back on anyone, friend or foe. We are not on the same page, that part is truth, just remember that I keep my word, I do it for the integrity of the sport and my hope is that one day you do the same. That doesn’t excuse Infamous for what they have done and that is TWICE now that I have been on the receiving end of a beat down. I come here to compete, to make sure that I am the best at what I do and to make this Television Championship the most sought-after title. Jonathan Knots told me I am three defenses away from becoming the longest reigning TV Champion of all time, I don’t think about that feat right now, all I think about is the challenges ahead of me. I saw Damian Angel staring out at what I was doing, I don’t know what kind of intentions he has, why he was there, I already met him in the ring once, so I’m just as lost as everyone else. When Mr. Allocco and Alistaire come to me concerned, it’s a red flag and knowing what kind of week I have ahead of me with this Breakdown and then Damian Angel at Under Attack, I have to think about what condition I will be in after tomorrow night….
Because I am facing a man that doesn’t care about the title, he wants to break my face, that being “The Assassin” Clyde Sutter…..
Awesome.”
She raises an eyebrow, obviously both annoyed and disappointed that she must walk into this match ready to not only take a beating but try to stave off a man that is looking to hurt Peyton and send a message to management. While the TV title is the prize here, it doesn’t seem like he really cares one way or another what happens long as he is hurting Peyton. She has wrestled big men like him before who have tried to take her out and she has survived. Peyton is in for a fight, looking back at the camera, speaking….
“When is this going to stop? Why do we feel a need to act like a mongrel? Mr. Sutter, this is not the first time I have ever stepped in the ring with someone that wants to hurt me. I have been in this type of scenario before and often wonder why are you even in the sport of wrestling? This is about competition, putting your skills to the test and yet here I am again trying to see what wrestling is about and not turned into in recent years. You’re in the business of hurting people, I get it. Somehow you were associated with Glory Braddock’s wrestling School, were too violent and kicked out, the same woman that is a legend who was recently in the Main Event of Breakdown and because she didn’t want to beat up James Evans with a chair, Sienna Swann turned on her. That was before two masked people show up and jump everyone and then here comes Syren with a chair and starts blasting all she could see.
Then we have you who calls me the “Golden Girl”.
Your manager, Mason van Stanton already has a reputation of getting his way, being part of “The Fix” in many occasions for other promotions. I am proud of what I did in EMERGE, I was though not the shining light, or some chosen one, I was a competitor that went out there each and every time my name was called upon and I did my best. I don’t wrestle to hurt people or try to take away their livelihood or even scar them up and leave a “mark” so they remember me by, that sir is the work of a coward. What are you compensating for? Thing is Mr. Sutter, calling you a bully is offensive to bullies, you are far worse than that, a muscle for hire, the sport means nothing to you, instead all you’re looking for is a payday and don’t care what you must do to get it. I personally have dealt with men like you from Dylan Cent, a former SCW wrestler down in EMERGE to Casterillo and recently, the legend, Damian Angel, they all have the same purpose, using this sport for their own agenda and gain….
Well sir, I am NOT your victim.
Mr. Sutter and this goes to Mr. van Stanton as well who I am sure will have to be dealt with, I cannot say anything against what you can do in the ring, going toe to toe with James Evans was a pretty big deal, it shows that Clyde Sutter comes as advertised and is ready to do whatever it takes to make it known that he is the future of this business?
No, I refuse to believe that.
I am a fighting Champion, Mr. Sutter, I don’t care who they put in front of me, it could be all Infamous, the Beauty Factory, James Evans, Konrad Raab, Selena Frost, Regan Street…. The list goes on and on, I won’t back down. I am NEVER in a losing situation, know why? I believe that in my talent and ability alone I can beat you in that ring, I can beat anyone if I trust my instincts. I am not saying I will but I believe that I stand a chance in every match…..
And every fight.
No matter the cost to me.
Back in EMERGE Dylan Cent thought he could push me around, sure he beat me up, he sent me to the hospital, he tried everything he could to defeat me, but he never did. Damian Angel is playing games, I have already defeated him once, I will try to do so again. Casterillo is three times my size, much like you sir and I am still Television Champion. Am I nervous? Sure, if I wasn’t then I shouldn’t be competing anymore as I have lost the passion to be a wrestler. If I get hurt, that is part of the game, if you punch me in the face and break my nose?
Breaks and bones do heal, I’m not a model, it’s not like I need to be anywhere for a photo-op anytime soon. You are coming to fight, I can appreciate that, to hurt me though? That is out of line which falls right in with what is going on in the SCW….
And honestly, I am tired of it.”
Brushing her hair back, she seemed a little troubled because Peyton knows this isn’t the type of match where two people will compete for a title, it will be her trying to survive an onslaught by a man that calls himself the assassin. She is ready though, even if in the back of her mind she thinks about Damian Angel and what could happen in her match with Mason van Stanton in the mix. The gorgeous Peyton is also very worried about her boyfriend, Alistaire and her best friend Owen who was attacked with a chair last week. She paces some, Doll houses in the background as she continues to speak….
“My best friend was assaulted because he is the World Champion; my boyfriend has to watch his back, he is a target now as no one these days can just lay down a challenge!? This has cascaded out of control and now I have to worry about my safety walking into my Television Title match and you know what Mr. Sutter? I will not change a thing I do because if I did then I am cheating myself for there is nothing greater than beating the brawler, the hitman, the paid muscle then with wrestling, the same skill you chose to spit in it’s face when kicked out of wrestling school. This is NOT a free for all sir, this is not your playground to come out and do as you will, no! That is a ring, and I will come out and do what has led me to be EMERGE Champion and now Television Champion. I love this sport, I was so excited when David Helms picked me to train at Ante Up Academy, I try my best every single week to not cheat the fans, to give them what they paid for.
Clyde Sutter, you can beat me up like I owe you money, you can bruise or break my bones and I will still come back and fight until I can no longer and THAT is the ONLY way you are going to walk out as Television Champion. I will not take from the fans that look up at us for inspiration the future wrestlers who will one day take our sports, but the future of this business?
YOU ARE NOT.
It is wrestlers like Owen Cruze, Alistaire Allocco, Kelsai Adamson-Mason, Jordan Majors, Kandis and Aaron Blackbourne who will lead the way into 2020 and beyond! You can put me on the list too, this is what we were trained to do, not go into business for ourselves. Maybe you are a necessary evil, remind us that we need to keep going out there and doing our best. My father is worrying about me as we speak, there are a lot of folks concerned for my well being and I need to remind them all why this is not about the biggest dog in the fight, this is about the biggest heart. I’m not stupid, Mr. Sutter, I know exactly what you bring to the table and tomorrow night, like I have the last five months, will defend this title with everything I have….
And if you beat me for it, then sir, you’re going to earn it because I am not going down easily. I made a promise to my dad, the fans, those that know me, my mentor, Kelcey Wallace, my trainers and even Sasha, that I will carry the mantle of the SCW with respect and dignity. I will live by that sword and I will die by that sword. Bring the fight Mr. Sutter….
And I will bring my wrestling.”
She stops, grabbing the TV Title from her shoulder and placing it up in front of her by the strap. The beautiful Peyton stands there for a second, looking at the face plate of the title. She is a fighting Champion with no fear no matter the odds which in this case are against her. Her creamy green eyes like jade look into the camera, they narrow some, her focus is laser while her heart pounds nervously…
“Mr. Sutter, I hope that one day you look back at this Breakdown and see that all the tough guy stuff, the threatening and search for trying to send a message to everyone who crosses your path, that it was all for not. History will always remember the brave, they will remember those that were NOT going to be settled as victims but instead stand up and fight even if the battle looked lost. This TV Title, I have said it before, I will say it again helped me cope with the death of Ricky, it refocused and re-energized me to the point that I feel so confident right now that I now know I belong when there was a time I didn’t.
There will be matches that I get my butt handed to me, this may be one of them. In the end though, I know that I go out there and if my best isn’t good enough, then you deserve to carry this title into next Breakdown as it’s champion….
But I don’t have to be bigger, stronger or meaner than you Mr. Sutter….
I need to be smarter.
And when this is over, the TV Title won’t be the cherry on top for your sundae, it will be a missed opportunity. Beat me down, bloody up my face, do upon me whatever it is you think will win this match for when I walk out with the title?
YOU….
Mr. van Stanton
And the SCW especially those that want to attack the wrestlers who want to make the SCW the greatest promotion in the world?
Will KNOW….
That even rearranged?
Peyton Rice is NOT just another, “PRETTY” face!”
The young TV Champion holds up the title and tilts her head, smiling for a bit before she winks and slowly backs up into the toy museum…..
FADE TO BLACK
/REC
Adam: “I see it in your face, frozen, speechless at my decency and caring nature as a parent. With all these leeches out here these days, can’t be too careful, I will go bat for you whenever its needed. I am always concerned about your well being and health, there is nothing that is going to stop you and my son Ali from giving me some handsome and beautiful grand kids, I can picture it now, playing on a swing set or going paint balling and….”
Peyton: “You do know that I always gain like ten pounds anytime I spend a few days with you?”
Owen: “I did not know that. I reckon they will be thrilled.”
“Can I just start by saying that I love Canada? Seriously it’s not for some cheap pop or anything like that, I mean I really love Vancouver and especially Gastown. The people here are so nice and friendly, it will be my honor to compete in front of the fan’s tomorrow night on Breakdown. I know that I need to stick to my diet routine, but I could not turn down the Poutine, like YUM! That rhymed, totally unintentional. The shops here are so chic, the structures are a throwback, I feel like I’m in an old Victorian Village, another perk of wrestling for the SCW and all the places we get to travel. Let’s start with a huge announcement about the Elimination Chamber, where the World Championship will be defended and once again two people that mean so much to me are locked up in the confines of the monstrosity along with four of the best in the SCW and the business. Before we get to that though? Another stop on the road with the Television Championship, one that must be defended every single week on Breakdown, and this will be my eleventh defense. Last week, I wrestled Abigail Lindsay, a former World Champion in the IWC, a top female performer that has great talent and if she focused on that and less on the show, she would be a champion right now. In Oklahoma, it was a reminder of what Abigail did to me right before Rise to Greatness, she said it wasn’t personal yet did she at any time care about my well-being? No, she along with Infamous jumped me to send a message to my boyfriend, Alistaire Allocco and its actions like those I do not forget. Abigail Lindsay could have taken so many different avenues, she chose this one and it led to a showdown between the two of us last week where I came out on top and defended this championship once again. I am not the type to ever brag about anything, I don’t believe in that type of hype, I let my actions speak for them in the ring and in my real life. Abigail has no morals, she doesn’t care about anyone but herself, she will use whatever or whomever she can to get what she wants, that has always been her motives and I knew this walking into Breakdown with the thought in the back of my mind, what if?
Peyton: “You can’t call me!? You can’t at least text and tell me that you are okay, so I am not here in bed crying my eyes out wondering if you are dead in some alleyway! Was it really that hard Ali to take ten seconds out of your busy night and at least let me know you are still alive!? What is wrong with you! I was searching out in that Inner Harbor by myself until 2 am!”
Peyton Rice 