Five Years Ago
Glendale, AZ.
Slipping her feet with the red polished nails, the pair of black stockings went well with the matching dinner dress she wore. Her long sandy blonde hair hung down over her shoulder, she felt “Pretty” after applying the red lipstick which complimented her outfit and nails. The young 18-year-old didn’t get glamour like this very often but on her first night of the job, she had to impress. The nerves at times were too much to handle, the thoughts of backing up continued to clutter her mind to the point it was almost self-convincing.
And then all she had to do was think about her father.
Her name was Peyton Rice, a student at the University of Arizona. She wanted to major in Sports Medicine, after her mother left them and her older sister went off to college and barely kept contact, it has been almost two years since the accident that paralyzed, Ray Rice, her father and the Fire Marshall and decorated fire fighter when a freak accident cost him the use of his legs. Mounting Medical Bills, his pension and Disability were simply not enough to cover. Peyton was working at a local diner as a waitress on roller skates, in the off time she did some modeling, the pay was decent, but it was enough to cover some bills and her school tuition which was on the verge of her dropping out only after her first year as a freshman. There was the dream of becoming of Professional Wrestler, though that seemed more farfetched than anything. Peyton needed to make ends meet and this was the only way she could after meeting an interesting couple at a local modeling shoot who were looking for beautiful girls.
It sounded like it would be safe, just drop the act and be someone else arm candy for one night, what could possibly go wrong?
Peyton was fully dresses, she posed a few times in the mirror and headed out. Her father was asleep on the couch, she didn’t want him to know what she was doing, slowly sneaking out and not letting a sound out.
She walked outside where the waited a limousine for the young Rice. Feeling a little intimidated, she looked around before finally walking up to the chauffer where he opened the door for her, she stepped in and a gentleman in a black tux sat there, he looked to be in his late thirties, a handsome man that made Peyton wonder why he needed a paid escort but it was not her place to ask, she was being paid well for it.
Peyton smiled, he liked what he saw…
Man: “You are beautiful, Tessa never mentioned just how beautiful you really are.”
All she could do was smile and blush. Peyton felt uncomfortable but turning and looking back at her house, she knew that this was the right thing to do even if at times it didn’t feel this way….
Anything for her father.
SOMETIMES THEY COME BACK
CHAPTER 1
PROLOGUE: HI “DAD”
Peyton Rice has always thought positive of the wrestling business, few times has there been an incident that has made her question the integrity of the SCW and some of the stars who wrestle for it and even though she has seen more and more superstars use the promotion for their own agenda, one thing for sure that we have seen is an influx of young talent that is willing to take the climb up the mountain to the very top, Owen Cruze, Alistaire Allocco, Kandis and Aaron Blackbourne aside from Peyton Rice are some names that have done so, arguably so has Jordan Majors, Peyton’s next opponent and after she came down to the ring and attacked Abigail Lindsay, it wasn’t exactly something Peyton was thrilled with for many reasons.
Peyton Rice doesn’t like opportunists no matter what the reasoning.
She wasn’t very happy with what happened after another impressive victory and her tenth defense, a title Peyton has owned and ran away with really building up her portfolio and showing that she is a threat to be reckoned with. After last Breakdown, Peyton was not in the best of moods, she was excited though for Alistaire and Owen, both walking into the Elimination Chamber for the World Championship though knowing Syren and Sienna Swann would also be involved along with the unpredictable James Evans and the hungry Glory Braddock especially with the way things ended at the show, there was some cause for concern.
Breakdown
Oklahoma City, OK.
After The Show
Peyton had packed up her things and was ready to leave. She was wearing jeans, a long sleeve white blouse and wedge Sandals, her long straight hair hung down, nails polished white and looked perfectly beautiful as always. She grabbed the TV Title and hoisted it on her shoulder, planning to leave, grabbing her roll away, the gorgeous Arizona native was about to walk out the door when suddenly she was startled by Mr. Adam Allocco….
Peyton: “Sheesh! Mr. Allocco! You startled me.”
Adam: “All the ladies say that about me. Are you okay?”
Peyton: “Yeah, why?”
Adam: “I saw your facial expression out there when Jordan Majors ran out and attacked Abigail Lindsay, that was pretty intense, if looks could kill, she would be dead….”
Peyton: “Thank you for the concern Mr. Allocco but I am fine.”
Adam: “Call me Adam please, or dad.”
Peyton: “Dad?”
Adam: “Much better…. So as I was saying, I am just checking up on my favorite future daughter-in-law and making sure that she is okay. You do know that if here is anything you need to talk about, you can come to daddy, right?”
Her facial expressions freeze, she literally doesn’t know what to say next….
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: “…. Mr. Allocco….”
Adam: “Dad, please…. cal me dad.”
Peyton: “Uh….. dad? I am okay, I swear in all that s good in this world which I know doesn’t seem like much these days, I am good, I promise. I was just ready to look for Ali, I could really use a quiet night back at the hotel….”
Adam: “Oh this is perfect, I will send up some champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, whip cream…”
Peyton: “Mr… uh dad… no, it’s cool. Nothing is happening, I rather a foot massage or a back massage….”
Adam: “Ali has gentle hands, Pey, I on the other hand taught him everything he knows. Give me your foot.”
She arches her eyebrow…..
Peyton: “Huh?”
Adam: “Give me your foot.”
Peyton reluctantly starts to slip her foot out of her sandal and lifts her leg, she was in fear of offending him. Adam Allocco is ready to slowly start to massage it, as odd and uncomfortable as it looks, he seems like he actually does know wat he is doing, ready to place his warmed-up hands to massage but that doesn’t last as Alistaire walks into the picture….
Alistaire: “Dad? Are you are you trying to massage my girlfriend’s foot!?”
Adam quickly pries his hands back, Peyton slips her foot which was half way out, back into the sandal and tries to play it cool. Adam turns as Ali is there with his arms crossed….
Adam: “Hey son, just showing my lovely daughter in law here how we Allocco’s massage, a preview of what she can expect from you tonight…. Hint hint.”
Alistaire: “Really dad? Are you okay?”
Peyton: “Yeah, I’m fine.”
Alistaire: “Ready to go back to the hotel room?”
Peyton: “I would love too.”
She smiles at Adam and walks off down the hallway., Alistaire and Adam stare each down for a moment….
Alistaire: “That’s my girlfriend now.”
Adam: “I know, good job son….”
He asks for a fist pump, Alistaire shakes his head and walks off….
Adam: “Are you really leaving me hanging?”
Thirty Minutes Later
They reached the hotel room, Peyton already kicked off her sandals and has a glass of wine she is sipping while sitting on the couch. Alistaire sits next to her, she raised her legs and rest them knee down on his lap. He looks over and she is seductively staring at him….
Peyton: “I’m sorry about your dad. I didn’t want him massaging me, but I didn’t want to say no, I don’t want to ruin the relationship I have with you and even him. He is a funny guy, a bit odd….”
Alistaire: “My father is a nut. He was though genuinely worried about your state of mind, he saw that you were not pleased with how the match turned out and the aftermath, he was concerned bit sometimes your beauty throws him off, he is like that with all gorgeous woman, his concentration shifts. I am sorry for his behavior….”
Peyton: “Nah… he means well, just not something that I am used to. I just hope he doesn’t think that I’m going to let him massage me, that was a moment of weakness there.”
Alistaire: “Nah… not after tonight.”
She wiggles her feet and smiles….
Peyton: “But you can.”
Alistaire smirks and nods, he starts caressing Peyton’s feet while they continue to converse. She is enjoying the massage and also appreciates the concern the Allocco’s had over her state of mind, she was upset, you could see it written all over her face…..
Peyton: “You two are right though, I was upset about our match. I don’t like Jordan Majors; she seems fake to me. There are times when I watch what she has done, who she has pinned and beaten, it is all pretty impressive but at the end of the day, this is about more than just showing off your money or stealing someone else spotlight. She could have waited to confront Abigail. I don’t like people using my match time to push their own agenda, not right.”
Alistaire: “I know what you mean, sometimes I don’t even know if I belong in a place like this, like SCW. I sure now that you don’t.”
Peyton: “I think there you are wrong; we DO belong in the SCW even if at times we are looking straight in the face of adversity. I get it. We though are the type that this company needs, people that want to wrestle, compete and win or lose, take this company to the next level. For me, that is most important. You and I, Owen…. There are others…. We need to stick to our guns.”
Alistaire: “I agree…. But then there is the Elimination Chamber….”
Peyton: “Which you won the first time you competed in one, Ali, the World Title. That gives you an edge over everyone else. I have all the confidence in the world that you are going to walk out as world champion which is crazy that you and Owen are in that match and could risk injury which thinking about it drives me mad. That thing is dangerous.”
He continues to massage her, she stops and rolls her eyes some, felling good and comfortable with her glass of wine…
Alistaire: “Peyton, worry about your TV Title defenses, take care of your own business, you will be fine, I will walk into that Chamber and give it my best, Owen will too. That is about the best I can say.”
Peyton: “Okay, I know but I can still worry, we are together now, remember?”
Alistaire: “I remember.”
Peyton: “Which is why I want you to come with me to Arizona for Thanksgiving.”
Alistaire: “Wait… what?”
Peyton: “Yeah, you and da… Jesus…”
Alistaire: “I’m sure Jesus is busy.”
Peyton: “No… no I meant you and Mr. Allocco…. He wanted me to call him dad… and I almost did.”
His eyes widen, she just giggles before sipping more wine. Somehow that really didn’t surprise Alistaire, his father was a nut like that, but the last thing he wanted was for him to chase Peyton away….
Alistaire: “Peyton, I am afraid my dad may …. I don’t know turn you off from me and….”
Peyton: “Ali, do you trust me? I mean with everything and that includes my friendship with Owen?”
Alistaire: “I do now, yes.”
Peyton: “And I trust you. I will never do anything to intentionally hurt you and I hope you would do the same for me.”
Alistaire: “I wouldn’t.”
Peyton: “Then trust me here. I am with you; I would be elsewhere if I didn’t want to be. Your dad is one crazy guy, but I know that he means well. Tonight, he was just trying to be cordial and yeah, maybe I shouldn’t have let him touch my foot but it’s better than him slapping my ass.”
Alistaire: “He slapped your bottom!?”
He did but Peyton caught herself and quickly shook her head….
Peyton: “No… no Ali. I was just bringing that up as an example. In truth, everything that he has done is harmless, he is actually a funny guy now, back then he wasn’t too funny messing with Mr. Goddard, but I let that one go. I just hope that when it comes to you and me, we can weather these little nuances. After you lost the world title and disappeared that night, it made me realize how much I cared for you. That told me a lot.”
Alistaire: “Me too…. Me too…. And again, I needed that time away to figure things out.”
Peyton: “I know you did.”
Alistaire: “Just don’t let anything change who you are. I could see that Jordan brings out the worst in you and we are not really used to that. Dad and I were concerned and wanted to make sure that you didn’t do something that later you’d regret.”
She did think about punching Jordan right in the mouth but refrained from it instead. She takes a deep breath and smiles…..
Peyton: “The only thing I regret is not letting you massage me sooner.”
Alistaire: “Like my dad said, I learned from the best.”
Peyton: “Did he really teach you how to massage?”
Alistaire: “No…. well…. I taught myself… YouTube.”
Peyton starts to laugh….
Peyton: “You are too cute.”
Alistaire: “And so are you.”
The both smile at each other when Peyton pulls her legs back, sits up and kisses Alistaire gently and passionately. After a few seconds she pulls away, running her fingers through his hair….
Peyton: “You make me smile again…. Thank you.”
Alistaire: “No, thank you…. You’re like my reward for doing things right.”
Peyton: “To the victor goes the spoils.”
They both lean in and kiss again, this time a little heavier, as she straddles her legs around his waist. Who knows where this will lead tonight but it doesn’t matter, she respects his beliefs and he know his limits. All they both know is that right now, they are perfect for each other….
And she couldn’t ask for anything more.
SOMETIMES THEY COME BACK
Wrestling so much didn’t always give Peyton a chance to see her father. After Ricky’s death, the beautiful young Rice was not around as much, she was always trying to keep busy, wrestling and training. When she had some down time, she was wondering about Kelcey Wallace and not able to see her as she found out from Chris Cannon and Sienna Swann that her mentor had gone missing. Respecting the wishes of the couple, she didn’t want to start any trouble outside of the SCW, always thinking about Kelcey first, she stayed quiet about the situation and decided it was best if she simply played along. Peyton loved to spend time with her father, her schedule didn’t always allow for her to fly out to Arizona. She decided that maybe she should have her father move to Southern California though she knew that her dad would probably be against it, he loved Glendale. After Apocalypse, she had taken some time off, did a few things and didn’t really get a chance to see her dad so she decided to take a few days and drive out to Arizona after the last Breakdown and some house shows, she was struggling living alone in Venice Beach, the memories were too much at times and Peyton found herself sulking in a nice bottle of red wine. It wouldn’t hurt to try and see if Ray Rice would go for it.
She had a few days to spend before heading home.
Glendale, AZ.
10.12.19
Peyton enjoyed her time with dad, wearing jeans, flip flops and an Arizona Wildcat t-shirt with a matching hat, her long hair coming from the back of the hat with her nails polished white. Ray sits in his wheelchair, wearing jeans, boots and a Harley Davidson t-shirt with a ballcap. They are at his favorite Burger place, Tommy’s enjoying lunch. She takes a sip of her boysenberry shake, looking over at her father.
Peyton: “You do know that I always gain like ten pounds anytime I spend a few days with you?”
Ray: “Best burgers, Mexican food, shakes, whatever your hearts desire in Arizona, why wouldn’t you gain weight, I would be disappointed if you didn’t, then I would think I wasn’t doing something right. When was the last time you drank a boysenberry shake?”
Peyton: “Last time I was here, that’s why I am saying dad. You are like a really bad influence on my diet.”
Ray: “That’s what dad’s are for, to make sure their kids are well fed. How is the wrestling going?”
Peyton: “Good, I am doing alright. Have the TV Title still, don’t know how much longer that will be but I will take it with stride either way. I think I have built up my stock some, they don’t look at me as another face in the crowd anymore, been on a mission since Ricky’s death and haven’t looked back.”
Ray: “I’m proud of you and he is too.”
Peyton: “I know. IT’s still so weird that he is not here. I expect him to come knocking at my door and standing there with that smile, wondering what I am up to. I really messed up with that one dad and there is nothing I can do to change it which really upsets me. I don’t know really; I don’t know what to do sometimes. Ali has been a big help though.”
Ray: “How is that kid. Seems like you two hit it off.”
Peyton: “We did, we’re dating now. Next time I come out I want to bring him with me, Thanksgiving if that is okay?”
Ray: “Sure, though he has huge shoes to fill.”
The gorgeous Peyton tilts her head….
Peyton: “Really? Dad don’t put hint through the ringer, he is a really good guy and the last thing I want is for you to be scaring him. I don’t want to come over and see you cleaning the shotgun or something.”
Ray: “Me? I would never do that Pey, I wouldn’t try to intimidate the guy so that he doesn’t screw up with my daughter and hurt her feelings, I would NEVER do anything in that nature.”
Peyton: “Dad… seriously. He is not Ricky; they are two totally different people. It is not fair to Ali to do that. Ricky was more outgoing, laid back, he loved to have fun and connected with others, there was absolutely nothing that Ricky could do wrong except at times communicate. He gave up too easily, he let me have my way too much, he…..”
She was starting to get upset, Ray could see that Peyton was blaming herself again for what happened to him. Ray reached over and grabbed her hand as it took her a second to compose herself….
Peyton: “Sorry….”
Ray: “Don’t be but stop blaming yourself.”
Peyton: “I can’t dad. Ali on the other hand fills hat void for me, he gives me what I need, companionship, he is smart, charming and good looking. The one thing that I love about Ali? Is the innocence. He isn’t tainted, he has morals and while sometimes they seem to be a little overwhelming, he is slowly starting to come out of that shell. I enjoy spending time with him dad, he’s fun in a not so Ricky sort of way.”
Ray: “I am not trying to compare the kid to Ricky….”
Peyton: “You so totally are.”
Ray: “…. Okay maybe but that’s only because I want what is best for you. It took me awhile to accept you wrestling, that was a hard one, I worry all the time about injury, after that one time in EMERGE….”
Peyton: “Dad…. That was ONE time. Mika is crazy, I was piledriven, it happens. I was fine the next day, I know you worry about me, but I keep telling you that I am able to defend myself, I can do whatever in the ring and I will be careful. Besides, someone needs to win the bread around here.”
Ray: “Oh really?”
Peyton starts to giggle, nodding her head, sipping on her milkshake as he laughs, before taking a bite of his burger. The two always had a very close relationship and everything Peyton does is for her father. She has had few lapses in memory when it came to her actions, was a bit weak during all that went on with Ricky. She starts to eat her food, looking across at her father smile was all she needed to be reminded why she puts her body through the ringer every week of her life…..
Peyton: “Yeah, really.”
Ray: “well, you will be glad to know, I have not received any more gifts from Sienna in recent months, I think after Ricky’s death, she figured it would be best. Did you talk to her?”
Peyton: “Only when it came to Kelcey, I kept everything cordial and professional, I think that is why she respected my wishes. I may not like what Sienna is doing right now so to speak but what I can say is that her and I have always had a respect for each other. I am glad she stopped doing this, it was starting to really upset me but long as you’re happy dad then that is all I care about.”
Ray: “well, damn, I was just about to say the same thing.”
Peyton: “I know you do.”
Ray: “How’s Kelcey?”
She shrugs her shoulders….
Peyton: “I don’t; know, nothing has really changed.”
Ray: “She’s going to be okay, Peyton.”
Peyton: “I know she will dad, just wish it was now. Anyway, are you really going to eat that cheeseburger those chili fries and the tamale?”
He smirks…..
Ray: “Damn right I am and…..”
Before he could finish, a woman with reddish hair walks up, wearing jeans, a halter top and black peep toe pumps wither nails polished red, she looks strangely at Peyton before smiling and pointing to her….
Woman: “Hai….. wait… Peyton!?”
Peyton: “Uhhh…. Oh my Gosh, Tessa!”
Peyton quickly stands up, the two women hug…..
Tessa: “And this handsome young man?”
Peyton: “This is my father, Ray… Ray this is Tessa.”
Ray: “Hello Tessa, you are….”
Peyton quickly cuts in….
Peyton: “Tessa was my guidance counselor at the University of Arizona, she totally helped me out with everything……”
Tessa: “Yeah…. Guidance counselor. Of course, she was one of my favorite students, it is so good to see you.”
Peyton: “I know, right? Small world. What are you doing here?”
Tessa: “Picking up some lunch, busy these days. Warren is here too.”
Peyton: “Really?”
Tessa: “Yeah….. Warren…. Look who it is!?”
The man known as Warren comes into view, a man in his mid-50’s, he is wearing a button up shirt, jeans and shoes, he smiles and gives Peyton a hug…..
Warren: “There she is, the best.”
Peyton: “Long time no see Mr. Dowling.”
Warren: “Shit, call me Warren, stop.”
Tessa nudges him some, realizing he is in front of her father. He then sees and extends his hand to Ray….
Warren: “How are you doing, I’m Warren.”
Ray: “Hey Warren, I’m Ray, Peyton’s dad.”
Warren: “So good to meet you sir. Your daughter is a special young lady.”
Ray: “I would like to believe so, yes. And you….”
Again, Peyton quickly cuts in, not letting Warren answer any questions….
Peyton: “Mr. Dowling was my…. English Literature teacher.”
Ray: “And that is why she is so eloquent with words, it is so nice to meet some teachers from Peyton’s education, you are welcomed to sit with us and have lunch.”
Tessa: “Oh no, we have so much to do and are heading out anyway, it was so good to meet you.”
Ray: “Likewise.”
Tessa smiles and then starts to walk out; Warren again shakes the hand of Ray Rice on his way out the door….
Peyton: “Dad…. I will be right back.”
Ray: “Sure pumpkin.”
Peyton runs outside to the parking lot; Tessa turns around and smirks….
Tessa: “You didn’t tell me your father was so handsome. Then again, looking at you I see why.”
Peyton: “Thank you for not saying anything.”
Tessa: “I take it he never knew?”
Peyton: “No, he didn’t. No way.”
Warren: “Peyton…. Wow, you look stunning, been a while, ever since you ran out on us…. To pursue… wrestling? How is that going for you?”
Peyton: “Warren, I didn’t run out, I left for something better….”
Warren: “Better? For you? Sure, we had customers asking specifically for you up to two years after you left and because you weren’t there, they went with another escort service. We lost a little money because of you….. wrestling huh? I’ll be sure to tune in.”
He smiles and walks away; Tessa stands there looking at Peyton and then back inside to her father….
Tessa: “I almost called you….”
Peyton: “I know. Thank you for playing along.”
Tessa: “Of course. See you around beautiful.”
Peyton: “Yeah…. Bye.”
Peyton felt somewhat uncomfortable, she wasn’t not expecting that confrontation, luckily though, they had played along, and she didn’t have to worry about them trying to expose her to Ray. She sighed some relief and walked back inside, smiled at her dad and continued their lunch….
Ray: “They seemed like nice people, that Tessa gal, is she with that warren guy?”
Peyton: “No dad…. Warren is her older brother.”
Ray: “So, she is single?”
Peyton: “Dad!?”
He started to laugh as Peyton giggled. Inside the car, still in the parking lot, Tessa glances over at Warren who sighs….
Tessa: “She hasn’t been with us for almost five years, Warren, let it go.”
Warren: “You know how badly we struggled when she abruptly quit.”
Tessa: “She was a kid, going after her dreams. That is all. Give her a break.”
Warren: “What about our dreams? Are they not fucking important?”
Tessa: “What are you saying?”
He starts the car….
Warren: “I’m saying, I’m looking to get paid for lost wages, Tess.”
Tessa shakes her head and turns, looking inside the restaurant at Peyton and her father Ray. Maybe there is another way to skin a cat…..
And it starts with her father.
A Few Days Later
Hollywood, CA.
10.14.19
Peyton had driven back home with Elvis, Kelcey’s dog but she promised to stop by Owen’s new house in the Hollywood Hills and see it again, he was excited to give her the grand tour now that it was furnished. All she could think about was the freak confrontation with two of her former employers, it was an awkward and uncomfortable situation, she didn’t know what to say, lied basically in front of her father and now they know where she is. Peyton couldn’t worry about that now, she worked with them at a time she needed to support her family, mom had left, sister was gallivanting, it was a time where she was with her father and that was it. She arrived at Owen’s, stepped out of the car wearing jean shorts, a pullover sleeveless yellow blouse, wedge sandals with her nails polished white and long sandy blonde hair in a ponytail. Elvis jumped out with her as she headed to the door out of her Audi A6, she rang the doorbell impressed with how large the house was. He opened the door in shorts, sneakers and a Dodgers Jersey…
Peyton: “Hey you! I did NOT know that you bought a house so close to some other wrestlers after I looked it up, you are aware that Sienna lives like five minutes from you and Laura lives right up the road? The Helms family at the crest about 15 minutes in Laurel Canyon, you are like in the thick of things here buddy boy.”
Owen: “I did not know that. I reckon they will be thrilled.”
Peyton: “You might even see her and Chris jogging up the main road, they do that on the weekends, lucky you.”
Owen: “Ha Ha…. I didn’t even check. Anyway, welcome to my humble abode, Pey, I hope that you do enjoy your stay here and I want you to see this house now fully furnished, it is AWESOME!”
Peyton: “It looked awesome from the outside, I will say it again though, this is way too big a house for you bro.”
Owen: “Oh trust me, I know. Come in.”
As Peyton walks in, she is in awe of great it looked with all the furniture. From the entry way to the five bedrooms, Peyton sees that this is how World Champions live, while TV Champions live in 70-year-old beach houses that don’t even have central air conditioning. Impressed by it, she walks around and sees all the amenities, including outside at the large pool and jacuzzi, his fire pit that was on. The two looks around some before she sits at the bar, he pours her a lemonade and Iced Tea combo….
Peyton: “Thanks, so now you are big money, World Champion, living in a mansion and you are not even old enough to drink. I am so proud of you Owen. You made it dude….. you frigging made it!”
Owen: “With your help but I have a long way to go which is why I asked you here, it wasn’t just about the house, this time furnished or the modeling of the O-Cru clothing brand which thanks by the way, it means so much to me that you are helping me out. It was about something else.”
Peyton: “Something else? Why am I getting the feeling now you are just using my friendship here?”
Owen: “W… wow, really!?”
Peyton: “No… no…. I was kidding, chill out.”
Owen: “Okay, I was about to say…..”
Peyton: “Seriously, I was happy you called so I could come up here and see you, hang out for a bit, had a few nice days in Arizona, spending time with my dad.”
She takes a sip of her lemonade, always feeling comfortable around Owen. Peyton enjoyed hanging out with Owen, she could be herself around him. Alistaire was starting to open up more to her which really meant a lot to Peyton. Their relationship was blossoming. Owen and her were best friends, some thought there was something going on, that was never the case…..
Owen: “How was it?”
Peyton: “It was cool, I love hanging out with my dad. Things have chilled out some since Ricky’s death, doesn’t seem like Sienna has been buying my dad things though she has really done enough.”
Owen: “I….. I want to hate her.”
Peyton: “Owen, I know that she makes it really hard to like Sienna but I have seen a good side of Sienna and in many ways, it makes me sad to know that deep down inside, I don’t know what happened to her, ever since your future father in law piledrove her, she changed. You shouldn’t hate anyone Owen, I know it’s not easy.”
Owen: “I know Pey, I know. She’s just so fake.”
Peyton: “Then she will be exposed, you concentrate on being World Champion.”
Owen: “That is worrying about her too Pey.”
Peyton: “I know….. and so, do you, right?”
After a moment he smiles and nods, knowing that Peyton is right. It’s not hard hating someone for obvious reasons, it’s easier to despise them but even Peyton has learned not to deal with it. She wants to help Owen who is immature at times, only nineteen years old, he has grown up fast, yet Peyton finds a way to ground him….
Owen: “Yeah, I do. So, everything is okay with your dad?”
Peyton: “Yeah everything is really good, he is healthy, in great spirits and just overall very supportive of me. I don’t think that he will ever change when it comes to worrying about me but that is what fathers are supposed to do, right? Parents are always like that.”
Owen: “Yeah, if my dad was here, he would be the same way.”
Peyton realized that maybe she shouldn’t have talked like that about her dad, forgetting that Owen’s is gone, and it is a huge void to be filled when Orlando has not been around. She sighs, tilting her head and smiling….
Peyton: “That was really insensitive of me, I’m sorry.”
Owen: “No… no not at all. Don’t even sweat it, seriously. I have two moms, trust me, that’s enough.”
Peyton: “Yeah… I guess so…”
He starts to laugh, she giggles some. Brushing her hair back, Peyton sips her drink, the late afternoon sun starts to disappear over the mountain causing it to cool a little…..
Owen: “Fire pit?”
Peyton: “That would be awesome.”
As the two moves over to the fire pit, he grabs a blanket and hands it to Peyton, that both sit on the couch facing the pit, she snuggles next to him putting a smile on his face. Elvis hopped next to Peyton and laid down next to her too….
Peyton: “Happy trio here.”
Owen: “I see that, he’s attached to you now.”
Peyton: “He is, still Kelcey’s dog though.”
Owen: “Any news on that?”
Peyton: “Not really, I wish there was, but nothing yet, it’s a little disheartening. I miss her Owen.”
He starts to rub her back….
Owen: “I miss her too.”
He could tell that Peyton really didn’t want to talk about, changing the subject quickly….
Owen: “Oh… so why I asked you here…..”
Peyton: “Ah yeah well, we were a little sidetracked, so what did you want to say to me? You did bring me up here for a reason, right?”
Owen: “Yeah, definitely. Okay, so I was thinking, I have this huge house, I live by myself, you are going to model my clothes which I still think is really awesome of you to do so knowing that people are going to say things….”
Peyton: “MY relationship with Alistaire is strong Owen, I think I have proven to him already that he is my boyfriend, and you are my best friend. Whatever Bree wants to tell Jaina, that is up to her. I am also pretty sure she is going to want Jordan Majors to gun for me to and take what I have this week, we’ll see. I get it, I’m not always the most popular person but I think that has a lot to do more with who they are and less of who I am as a woman.”
Owen: “That is one hundred percent accurate. I want to stay friends with Jaina, but I don’t know if Bree is going to go for that or even allow it. I wonder sometimes, I think this has a lot to do with our relationship with Kelcey and her friendship with Sienna.”
Peyton: “Unfortunately I agree. Long as we know, and we are true to ourselves? Then we have nothing to worry about, Owen.”
Owen: “No we don’t which is why I asked you to come here, it has been rough since Ricky died and you mentioned all the memories that were back at your house in Venice Beach. I totally get it when it comes to that, it was like that with me too and dad’s place.”
She lowers her head and nods, then resting it on his shoulder, Owen felt her pain, he loved having Peyton around because she was one of the few people that understood him. He rested his head on top of hers, smelling the sweet scent of raspberry vanilla from her hair…..
Peyton: “Yeah, it’s tough sometimes, O-Cru. The memories are pretty strong there. I try to ignore it but it’s hard, I wish that it wasn’t but there really is nothing I can do about it. Much as I want to, there really isn’t. I deal with it though, sweetie, you don’t have to worry about me.”
Owen: “I do worry about you, that’s the problem. I don’t want you going through that, it’s not fair to you or him. I doubt that he would want you going through all of that.”
Peyton: “You are probably right, but still, I’ll deal with it for now.”
Owen: “Move in with me, be my roommate.”
Peyton’s eyes widen, she sits up and turns to him a bit surprised….
Peyton: “Are you being serious right now?”
Owen: “As a heart attack. Seriously, I could use someone around here to be a roomie. This house is frigging huge, too much space. Honestly, I know it will sound really incriminating to people in the SCW, but I don’t care about that, long as you and Ali are okay, that is all I care about. I don’t want you staying there Peyton, this place is beautiful, and It deserves someone as beautiful as you to be living in it. Take whatever room you want, it has two master bedrooms, all you need is here and yes, Elvis too.”
Peyton: “Owen….. I don’t know what to say.”
Owen: “Say YES, that’s it. Seriously, I would love the company.”
Peyton: “I…. “
All she could do was hug him, there were no words, just the gesture alone was enough for Peyton to feel how much Owen cared about her which was so welcoming. There wasn’t any sexual tension, it was like they were literally brother and sister or even like a normal friendship, just very open and extremely close. This was the perfect getaway because he was right, those memories were hard, they were really tough to deal with and for Peyton Rice nothing was worse than coming home and thinking about Ricky. She held him tight, not letting go….
Not giving an answer…..
For she already knew what it was going to be.
EPILOGUE: ELVIS HAS LEFT THE BUILDING
Venice Beach, CA.
Later That Night
Peyton loved her time with Owen and after her father had turned her down, asking her to go back to Glendale, Peyton was a bit taken back by the offer that Owen gave her. The idea of being his roommate in that big house was actually pretty cool. The problem would be how Alistaire felt about it. She hadn’t talked to him much since Apocalypse, after he disappeared. She pulled into the driveway and parked, after getting out of the car, her and Elvis entered through the garage. Elvis ran into the living room barking, she just shook her head and started making her way into the kitchen after leaving her suitcase by the stairs of her small home. She reached into the refrigerator and took out a bottle of sparkling water, she opened it and walked into the living room….
Peyton: “Elvis, why are you bar…..”
The bottle of sparkling water drops to the hardwood floor, spilling slowly out on the floor. Her green eyes widened when she sees a woman sitting on her couch with Elvis laying next to her, legs crossed wearing jeans, wedge sandals and a navy-blue blouse, her nails a glossy color and long sandy blonde hair hanging down….
Peyton: “K…. Kelcey?”
She doesn’t say anything, instead pets her dog, Elvis and slowly stands up, it took some power to do so but she did. The two stare at each other for a moment, Peyton doesn’t know what to say until Kelcey extends her arms and the young rice quickly runs into her embrace…..
Peyton: “Please tell me this is real….”
It took a second but Kelcey finally responded …..
Kelcey: “It’s real.”
Peyton didn’t say another word, instead she was lost in the moment, Kelcey’s embrace was what she had been missing for a very long time. Finally, she was in the arms of her mentor, she was awake, had gone missing for some time. Peyton though felt like Kelcey was a bit cold, that something was taken from her while she was in a coma. Maybe Kelcey was finally catching up with everything that had been happening to her while she was still in a coma, the gorgeous Rice didn’t know, it was full speculation. And then Kelcey spoke again….
Kelcey: “It looks like I have a lot of catching up to do.”
Peyton: “Yes…. You do.”
And that alone right there was comforting, Kelcey entrusting Peyton, she was he first person to go see when she was able to walk though Peyton could feel that Kelcey’s body was still weak. Peyton held her hand and sat down, she didn’t know where to start….
But she needed to somewhere.
Twenty Minutes Later
Kelcey was still not at full strength, Peyton handed her a nice cup of Chamomile Tea. Sitting next to her, Peyton looked extremely concerned and yet Kelcey did look a lot better than she had before, there was a different demeanor to her though and the young Rice couldn’t blame her considering, there were things I am sure that Kelcey didn’t know while she was in a coma….
Peyton: “How did you get here?”
Kelcey: “Someone drove me, it took a lot of convincing to let me see you. I missed you love.”
Peyton: “I missed you so much, I can’t believe that you are here.”
Kelcey: “I’m not staying long, I needed to see you, catch up a little, tell me what has been going on. I know about my son, I will deal with it in due time. For now, though, how you have been?”
Peyton: “I’m okay, surviving.”
Kelcey: “I watched Breakdown last week and the PPV. You are Television Champion, I’m proud of you.”
Peyton: “Owen is World Champion.”
Kelcey: “I am proud of him too, but I can’t talk to him right now, it’s too dangerous and he can get very emotional and say something that could jeopardize me or even him. Do not tell Owen I came, please?”
Peyton: “He misses you.”
Kelcey: “In due time Peyton, right now I must get my ducks in a row and figure out what the hell has been happening while I was in a coma. Seems like a lot. I’ll catch up on what I can watch, see how Chris (Cannon) and Sienna (Swann) have been behaving in my absence.”
She sips her tea, Peyton could see that Kelcey seems empty, really lost in translation and a woman that is trying to find her place back in this world. Peyton knows exactly where she belongs, with her. Trying to make her feel comfortable, Peyton smiles and rubs Kelcey’s back….
Peyton: “I never left your side.”
Kelcey: “I know, I was told. It is why I came to you first. I feel like I can trust you, Peyton and it wasn’t fair that you didn’t know what was going on. I believe Chris and Sienna had spoken about my disappearance.”
Peyton: “What happened.”
Kelcey: “I didn’t disappear, I was simply transferred somewhere else without their knowledge. When I am ready, I will come back.”
Peyton: “I saw the Twitter account, a new profile picture, I wanted to say something but didn’t.”
Kelcey: “That was done while I was asleep. It’s fine, I won’t be posting anything for a while. I need to get back.”
Peyton: “I can take you or stay here tonight, please?”
Kelcey: “I can’t. I will say this though, I did see you with Alistaire Allocco, what was going on with that?”
Peyton: “We are dating now.”
Kelcey looked surprised, her eyebrow arched some, it was news to her which she looked away for a moment and sipped her tea….
Kelcey: “I guess you gave up on Ricky and Dillinger?”
Peyton: “Dilly….. yeah. Ricky….”
Kelcey: “I always liked him, maybe one day, you two were meant for each other and….”
The Perfect Ten looks over and saw tears starting to stream down Peyton’s face. Kelcey was unaware of what had happened to Ricky Octavius. Kelcey grabs her hand after putting down her cup of tea, inquiring as to why Peyton is so upset….
Kelcey: “What happened? Did you two have a nasty falling out?”
Peyton shook her head, trying to stop crying, taking a deep breath, composing herself, finally able to turn toward Kelcey and tell her the truth….
Peyton: “He’s dead.”
Kelcey’s eyes widen….
Peyton: “He was murdered, and no one knows who did it.”
Kelcey: “I…. I am so sorry…..”
Peyton: “And the worst part was I needed you so bad and you were in a coma, I talked to you every night, praying and pleading to God that you’d wake up….”
A single tear trickle down Kelcey’s cheek….
Peyton: “I have been fighting so many different vices since, trying my best to stay afloat and…..”
Kelcey brings her in a crushing embrace….
Kelcey: “Never again….. I promise you…. Never again.”
Peyton: “You don’t understand how happy and sad I am that you are here, because now you have to see what has been going on since you had Nathaniel.”
Kelcey: “I never named him Nathaniel.”
Peyton looks up at Kelcey as she bites down on her jaw, she can feel her body tense up before slowly standing up, petting Elvis and heading toward the back door….
Peyton: “Kelcey… please don’t go.”
Kelcey: “I have to, I don’t want you to see me like this. There is going to come a time when they will all pay for what they have done. I will do it the right way Peyton just like you will in SCW and in life. I’m not going anywhere, I just need time to be back to the woman I was once. When that time comes, you have my word, I will stand by your side to the bitter end. Take care of Elvis, he’s yours now.”
Peyton: “Kelcey…. Please….”
Kelcey: “I’ll be in touch, promise you this stays between us.”
Peyton: “But I….”
Kelcey: “Promise me!”
It startled Peyton a little when Kelcey had her sudden outburst. She quickly nodded as Kelcey half smiled, hugged her again as the frosty blue eyes of Kelcey narrowed, kissing Peyton on the cheek and walking out. Peyton had no more words, just feelings of guilt and confusion. Her mentor and friend were awake, she was back but what exactly did she mean when the time comes?
Only Time will tell….
…. And only Kelcey Wallace will know.
SCENE FADES
Five Years Ago
Glendale, AZ.
The beginning of the night didn’t seem so bad for Peyton Rice, it was a beautiful Gala to honor some lawyers, doctors and Executives who have worked hard in the state of Arizona to provide affordable Healthcare, legal counseling and representation and business that had provided thousands of new jobs. Peyton sat with her legs crossed, looking a lot older than what she was, they never knew her age, thinking she was 21.
The clapping began, she smiled and followed along with her “Date”, Armie Salinger, a very intelligent business man and executive for an Aeronautical company. He was a perfect gentleman that night, Peyton started to feel more comfortable. She was served a little champagne, her heart started to race, knowing she was underage and didn’t want to get anyone in trouble. A hesitation came over her, she didn’t know what to do, grab the glass, toast and drink or politely refuse and continue on the date.
Armie: “Is something wrong?”
She quickly responded, not wanting to give up anything….
Peyton: “No, no of course not. I am very amazed by this party and its production.”
Armie: “Intimidated I see, don’t be. I understand these types of Galas can be a bit overwhelming for a young lady like yourself but trust me, you are fitting right in. You are stunningly beautiful, extremely polite, well-mannered and simply a joy to talk to, why again am I wondering why you do this?”
Peyton: “I have my reasons but Mr. Salinger, this is your night, sir.”
Armie: “Call me Armie, please, you have put twenty years on calling me Mr. Salinger.”
Peyton: “My deepest apologies.”
He started to laugh some, wanting Peyton to loosen up which she caught on to. The gorgeous Wildcat smiled and as he raised his champagne, she followed suit, toasted and drank. It wasn’t too long before they were served dinner….
One Hour Later
Armie led the way, they danced to the tunes of classical, all the way to the Foxtrot. Peyton was enjoying herself and the three thousand dollars she made tonight seemed like it was all well worth it. The Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria property was the most luxurious hotel in Phoenix. Peyton had a few glasses of champagne, she saw the time had escaped her. Ready to call it a night, Armie grabbed her hand and took her out after the music died down, they both walked out on the property to the fountain and sat by the water….
Peyton: “I hope you enjoyed tonight.”
Armie: “I did, and I don’t want it to end…..”
Peyton: “Hailey.”
Armie: “Yes, Hailey. How much more to go upstairs to my room for a night cap?”
Peyton: “I…. Armie, I’m not a prostitute, I’m an escort. I….”
Armie: “Two Thousand?”
Peyton: “I…. I’m not a….”
Armie: “Three Thousand more? Making double what I paid for? May I ask, why do you do this? Such a smart and young beautiful woman like yourself?”
Peyton: “Well…. I…..”
All she could do is think about her father. Was the betrayal of her own morality worth it to make ends meet was the real question? She grabbed his hand and closed her eyes….
Making the final decision…..
Coming to terms that it was.
SORRY, I’M NOT “BUYING” IT
The Scene Opens…
Lively Gastown is known for its whistling Steam Clock and mix of souvenir shops, indie art galleries and decor stores in Victorian buildings. A trendy food and drink scene include chic cocktail lounges and restaurants serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to local seafood. Hip eateries also dot the neighboring Downtown Eastside area, while the up-and-coming Railtown district is home to edgy fashion studios. Gastown is one of Vancouver’s most vibrant and unique areas. As the first downtown core of the city, the neighborhood has transitioned into a center of innovation and truly memorable experiences, for locals and tourists alike, while maintaining a strong connection to its history. Containing something for everyone, Gastown offers a diverse mix of retail and dining options housed within authentic heritage architecture, alongside a vibrant creative and tech scene. This stylish neighborhood covers twelve city blocks and the market area is home to approximately 108,128 residents, making it one of the most densely populated areas in the Lower Mainland.
Here is where we find the gorgeous Television Champion, Peyton Rice who has been on a roll since winning the TV Title back in June when she defeated Katie Steward. For Peyton, it has been a long road, so many things have been happening in her life she has to deal with, some she’s simply brushed under the rug, others Peyton has had to take it on full steam and not look back. This is no difference as she takes on Jordan Majors, a woman she has already defeated once but this time the TV Title is on the line, she is coming back from injury and came out after Peyton won and went after Abigail Lindsay. Peyton didn’t take too kindly to it, she felt like Jordan, while probably justified should get Abigail on her own terms, the stare alone was enough for both women to remember what happened in the past, the night at Tabula Rasa during an eight-person tag match where Jordan paid off The Network to attack Peyton and the rest of her teammates…..
That never sat well with her and she would be reminded every time she crosses past Majors who seems to want some kind of comeuppance. Peyton has been focused on the TV title since beating a Hall of Fame legend and has even tied Kennedy Street’s record for second longest reigning, she doesn’t care about little rewards like so, but it shows just how determined she is to continue defending the belt. Peyton’s relationship with Alistaire Allocco has blossomed even further and now the two are a couple. The distraction though has not affected Peyton’s performance and after the announcement of the Elimination Chamber, she is once against invested by those in the match. Wearing jeans, sneakers, a designer zip up hoodie and baseball cap with her hair hanging out from the flap, the TV Title over her shoulder and nails polished white, the young Rice can feel a few raindrops hitting while walking on the street as the camera begins to record…
REC:
Peyton looks up as her eyes are hiding behind the blue lens of her glasses, she smirks and speaks in her sexy, yet girlie voice….
“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?
What if she caught me?
What if I failed to defeat her and allow this title fall into her hands?
What if I started to believe my own hype and somehow screwed it all up?
There were a lot of “What If’s” going into that match and I didn’t need to do that to myself but as I see the talent rising, the challenges becoming tougher and tougher, I Need to really look at who I am and where I want to be. I think you all know where that lies as Television Champion. I never cared about breaking records though I did in EMERGE. I never worried about being the best, I figured in time my career would be defined by how hard I put my work in and benefit from it. This TV Title was the first where I finally started reaping the rewards and it’s a rush that was the deciding factor to who won last week, Abigail Lindsay came to fight, but she also came to play…..
I on the other hand came to wrestle and prove myself. When I defeated her, it was like a huge weight lifted off my shoulders, she was someone, probably the one person that I couldn’t lose to, not after what she did….
And then came the aftermath from the match when Jordan Majors ran out and attacked Abigail from behind. Was it justified? Did she have a right to do that after what happened to Jordan like a month ago? This was obviously stemming from RTG XVI and everything after that, alright, cool I get it, but I have one problem with it….
It was while I was still in the ring after a hard-fought match and that doesn’t fly with me.”
Peyton, holding the TV Title over her shoulder is a proud young lady and Champion. She likes things done by the rules, never cheating herself out of a victory or even a loss by taking shortcuts or even attacking someone. Peyton would rather look them in the face and let them know that she is there to win. When Jordan came out, it was already a well-known fact that Peyton didn’t like her. Then attacked Abigail while she was still in the ring celebrating her victory, didn’t float well either. Knowing that she had a TV Title defense against Jordan Majors was the icing on the cake. She welcomed it…..
“I remember when I first started, I didn’t know what to expect from the Wrestling business, on my first night in a local promotion, I was attacked, beaten up pretty bad and it made me wonder what the heck I stepped into. It happened again at Tabula Rasa when I was part of an eight-person tag team match where we were attacked by the Network because Jordan Majors thought it would be cute and give her the advantage. I was attacked again by Infamous after Jordan tried to buy me out of the match we were scheduled to have shortly after I won this title, I believe it was my first defense after defeating Katie Steward. Now she gets another shot and this time she is claiming to leave the money at home…..
Right.
Look, I always try to find the redeeming quality in someone. I give people the benefit of the doubt when others don’t. I even will go as far to befriend them, just look at Alistaire Allocco, I am dating him now and when I first started talking to him, did anyone think he was the guy that caught me with our first conversation? No, they thought he was the guy who hung around Ace Marshall and Cassidy Carter. Like Abigail, I know her sisters, Brittany Lohan trained me, I can see how dedicated they are to the sport, why not Abi?
Choices.
I’m not the morality police, I will never try to be a parent or throw my ways on you. Personally, I rather you live life like you want and whatever consequences and rewards come with it. As for me, personally? I am not the type that kicks someone while they are down, no matter what they did to me. Take Abigail for example last week, di I try to attack her like she and Infamous did to me? No, I beat her one on one, that is how you show people superiority, never stooping down to their level, then you leave them with no excuses. See, Jordan you had to jump her from behind and while your reasoning is legit, Infamous and Abi tried to take you out of the game and even put you on the shelf for a long time, that sucks and it is wrong, for any wrestler to endure. I will never condone or endorse anyone who is out there to end careers ant take food off another wrestler’s table, no way. At the same time Jordan, that is EXACTLY what you did to me and my partners a few months back, you laughed, thought it was cute and funny, to just blow away money like that for your own greed and manipulative ego, that is what people do when they are so miserable and all they can do to feel better about themselves is watch others suffer….
So how does it feel for the shoe to be on the other foot?
I’m not saying it is right, sucks to be injured, I don’t wish it on anyone, not in any way but maybe now you can get a better understanding of my feelings toward you and I can see that you still didn’t learn much from that incident back in September anyway. Why Jordan? Why pick the time when Abigail was already beaten and I was celebrating in the ring after one of my hardest fought victories top make your presence felt, huh? This is what opportunists do, are you telling me that under that colored tongue, pink hair and various facial expressions that the heart of a fighter doesn’t exist? Rather have people always see you as some girl who inherited a ton of money and used it for nothing but yourself? I see it a few times, don’t get me wrong where you’re willing to spend a little cash on something nice and charitable, yet it’s the inconsistencies Jordan, that is what I have a problem with most and honestly, look me right in the face and tell me that last week was coincidence?
No, the shot was picked for many reasons and I was one of them because let’s face the facts here Jordan, you despise me on all kinds of levels. I can’t be bought, I will never think or act anything like you and while maybe the Infamous attacks helped on what I can only guess is seeing things from another perspective, the whole fight fire with fire things doesn’t work, if anything it makes things even more difficult for you in the end and someone always ends up getting hurt.
Do they deserve it?
Some may say the same thing about you.”
The beautiful Television Champion walks a little more to the Gastown Whistling Steam Clock. She smirks and will be taking a picture of it later when she meets up with Alistaire. Right now, she is laser focused on one thing, that is defeating Jordan Majors and moving on to the next challenge, this would be the second time Jordan challenges for the TV Title. Peyton know just how dangerous and skilled she is, a win over her would be huge and actually put her ahead of Kennedy Street for second longest TV Title Reign. Peyton looks into the camera and speaks….
“Jordan, you tweeted that you were ready for this match and leaving the stack of money home and bringing the fight, right? That is the ONLY way you are taking this TV title from my waist. It won’t be the money, the riches, the fame, the proposals, there is nothing you can give me that would make me change my mind. This title is prestigious, and it has become the launching pad in my career here in the SCW. I know how hungry you are, I can see it. I also know just how much you want to prove to me that you can beat me in the ring, well Jordan, you’ve had two chances prior, the first the Network was paid off to take my team out, the second was trying to buy the title off me…..
The third?
Will it be a Charm? Will it be the night that Jordan Majors wins some gold in the SCW? Rise To Greatness was your coming out party, anytime someone can score a pinfall over a Hall of Famer like Ravyn Taylor and Christie Matthews deserves the spotlight. I can’t deny what you have done recently, I respect it, what I don’t get though is knowing that they jumped you, all you think about is giving it back to them the same way, well it was on my time and that alone is one reason I am asking, pleading and begging, the Jordan Majors I saw against Infamous?
THAT is the Jordan Majors I WANT, that is the Jordan Majors I NEED to challenge me for the TV Title, not for me, oh no…. it’s about the belt and what it calls to be worn. This belt is almost like an ironman or ironwoman championship, every week you need to lace up the boots, tighten the straps and walk down that aisle for every challenger which awaits. I have done it ten times, this is my eleventh and if it is my last, then I hope you beast me the only way you can, by outwrestling me on this given night in front of all the fans here in Vancouver. I will never underestimate you Jordan, you have proven that your talent alone can beat anyone at any time, I can respect and appreciate it. In the Grand scale of things though, this is still personal, you haven’t said some really nice things about me, the company you keep like Bree Lancaster obviously isn’t a fan, she wants to create friction between Owen and myself with her family, which is all make believe. Isn’t that part of your downfall though Jordan?
The company you keep?
Look at Abi, look at what she did to you after you basically threw yourself at her and she couldn’t reciprocate the emotions back. It hurts, I know, so deal with it like a woman should, beat her in the ring by being BETTER than her, not CHEATING her BETTER. No matter what happens tomorrow night, you will get my best, I hope that I get yours Jordan. After going through four of the toughest months of my life, I am finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I keep scratching, clawing and doing whatever it takes inside the ring with what my talent provides to get there. I’m not the biggest, strongest but I am sure the fastest and most determined.
This TV Title is the prize, this is your second chance at it and long as I am Champion, I plan on making it your last for a long time. I’m apologizing now that I don’t believe a word you say, trust is earn3ed, it’s not given, integrity is shown not spoken, I will have to see it to believe it Jordan because frankly my dear….
I’m not “BUYING” it.”
She cracks her infectious smile, brushing her hair back, green eyes glaring into the camera, ready to take on another competitor and this time one she is very well-aware of. These last four months have been both trying and rewarding, and this can only continue long as Peyton stays on her path and allows nothing to change that. She knows what it is like to compete hurt emotionally, it can be a huge driving force and Jordan has that on her side, what Peyton has though never wavered…. Heart. She turns and speaks to the camera….
“Bring it Jordan, bring it all, you’ll need every ounce. Right now, I am at the top of my game, I welcome this, and I hope that you keep true to this word, I won’t hold my breath though. Last week you still showed your colors, this week I will show mine….
For when this is all over? The check will bounce.
No money or fame will change that Peyton Rice holding this TV Title?
Is not just another “Pretty Face”.”
Cracking a smile, Peyton glances over at the TV Title before hoisting it high above her head, the proud Champion stands by the Steam Clock as it begins to whistle…..
“Time’s Up.”
Peyton winks and slowly walks away….
FADE TO BLACK
/REC
Peyton Rice 