The Victorious and the Relentless

Episode 27: “Under Pressure”

Kyle Minogue’s “On a Night like This” opens this episode as Lord Gavin Armitage crosses to the Jacuzzi in his hotel penthouse, his husband Callum Sutcliffe already luxuriating in the water. He smelled the scented oils and saw the layer of rose petals that were scattered upon the water’s surface, floating all around Callum whom he had just married in an elaborate ceremony in Brussels nearly a full day before. They had just arrived in Sydney on their honeymoon, the interminable flight having done little to zap either of sexual energy.

He looked at Callum with the hungriest of eyes as he got into the water and came over to him, kissing his lips with the sweetest passion. Callum felt Gavin’s hands move from the top of his shoulders, down the outline of his back and over his sides until they submerged under the water to rest around the firmness of his buttocks.

Gavin: You’re officially mine now.

Callum (kissing him): I’ve always been yours.

Gavin (his lips pulling from Callum’s): You make me so happy. I love you so much. (kissing his lips) So have you thought about taking my name?

Callum: Why don’t you just “take” me right now?

It was then that Gavin came at him with fiercest desire, feeling his warm mouth upon his skin, Gavin’s tongue and teeth working in unison to seemingly titillate and pleasure every part of Callum’s body. Feeling him nip at his neck, Callum ran his fingers through Gavin’s hair as the man’s mouth found its way to his nipple, his teeth now tugging on it, prompting a short shriek to escape Callum’s lips. Pulling their mouths apart, Callum looked once more into his husband’s eyes before lowering his body entirely below the water’s surface, the crown of his head disappearing beneath a sea of bobbing rose petals.

Gavin: What are you—ohhhh!

His question was cut short by the unmistakable warmth of his husband’s mouth wrapping around his cock and ardently sucking on it. You’re mad, but oh how I love you, Callum Sutcliffe Armitage! You’re absolutely unbelievable. Gavin then saw Callum’s hand burst from the surface to touch his exposed chest, his fingertips running down the muscular surface of Gavin’s abs.

Gavin (laughing): You’re eventually going to have to come up for air!

Callum (his head and body breaking the surface, shaking his body as water drops go everywhere): How did you like that?

Gavin (laughing): I can’t wait to go snorkeling with you tomorrow.

Callum (playfully hitting him): I was expecting something else.

Gavin (his hands back at task to roaming over Callum’s body): Like what? Like---this—

Callum released a moan as he felt Gavin enter him, pulling his body closer. Their mouths connected as their eyes locked, sweeping them into a world where it was only the two of them. Callum’s arms looped around Gavin’s neck, and they lovingly embraced as Callum felt his husband deliver him a zealous thrust of excitement before feeling the change in temperature as his body was risen from the water, Gavin still holding him as he carried him to the bed.

Lying him down on the bed, not once mindful of what the water from their bodies would do to the priceless linen of the bedspread, Gavin got on top of Callum, whose hands cradled his head when they shared another soft kiss.

Gavin: I love you.

Callum: I love you, too.

Feeling more comfortable on top of the softness of the bed, Callum again felt his husband enter him. Mild pain registered but was soon allayed when Gavin’s soft lips kissed him. Both Gavin’s hands interlaced with Callum’s, stretching out as far as they both could, and Callum felt the weight of Gavin pinning him into the bed as the man’s lower body muscles took charge as they worked to drive his passion further into Callum.

Gavin (noticing Callum exhaling deeply and the beginning of tears in his eyes): Are you okay? Am I too—

Callum: N-No. I-I’m just so—

Gavin (planting his mouth upon Callum’s, kissing him): I love you so much. I don’t ever want us apart.

Callum freed his arms from Gavin’s so that he could wrap them around his husband’s body. He looked deeply into Gavin’s eyes and saw sincere love in them. He couldn’t hold back his emotions any further and began full fledged crying. What have I done? Not more than a day has passed since I was in this very position with Talon, looking down into my eyes. I broke his heart going through with the ceremony, but I love them both equally.

Gavin (taking notice): I’m hurting you. (pulling away and lying onto his side): Either that or you’re playing the virgin bride, which I know you’re not (winking). I know it’s been a while since we—

Callum (through tears): Take me now.

I have to move on! I’ve made my decision, and it would be wrong to Gavin not to give him what he deserves, and that’s all my love and devotion. I have to put Talon behind me. What we shared was magical, but it can’t happen again.

Gavin: Are you sure? You’re—

Callum: Yes, I’m sure. I’m just overly emotional. I want to be with you as much as you—(suddenly feeling Gavin’s mouth back upon his, the passion fully ignited)

He felt Gavin’s body once more resume its mission, and he gave himself over entirely to his husband, their honeymoon launched by this passionate union. When Gavin’s groans had reached their fevered pitch and Callum could likewise feel his body reaching its zenith, they both surrendered to their orgasms, Gavin’s head falling onto Callum’s chest, his body completely spent as Callum’s hand lovingly cradled it, his fingertips perched into Gavin’s hair.

Gavin (panting): I love you.

Callum: I love you, Ta—(catching himself) too… I love you, too.

Gavin raised his head from Callum’s chest to give him another kiss. Callum closed his eyes, wanting to be lost in the moment forever, but as he opened them when the lips pulled away, he saw the face of Talon.

The shock of the dream stirred him awake, catapulting him from the bed to go in search of Talon. He looked at the clock. It was past midnight, and Talon was not in his room. He consequently checked Edward’s room, finding the baby sound asleep but still no sign of Talon. He did however find Godfrey outside on the verandah, enjoying a cigar.

Callum (coming outside): What on earth are you doing up so late?

Godfrey: I was just taking a breather. Mrs. Ashland just left.

Callum: What the—

Godfrey: That woman is quite the talker.

Callum: Why didn’t you just send her on her way with our cheapest bottle of booze? You needn’t have spent all this time talking to her.

Godfrey: The woman is mourning. I thought she could use my company.

Callum: That’s why I suggested the alcohol.

Godfrey: You make her out to be some town drunk. She’s rather a respectable woman, well-versed, traveled, and cultured. Did you know she was once an understudy to Ethel Merman?

Callum: She told me Debby Reynolds. Oh well, no matter! Peyton foolishly left Edward a sizable portion of his estate, and I believe she’s starting to suspect something.

Godfrey: So should I cancel our date to the opera?

Callum: Pardon?

Godfrey: She invited me to accompany her to the opera. She’s got season tickets.

Callum: Perhaps you shouldn’t go. (pause) On second thought, you may be able to uncover what she knows or think she knows. This might be beneficial.

Godfrey: Am I to take it that you’re pimping me out to Mrs. Ashland?

Callum: That’s more Brendon’s M.O. You’re just going out with a lady in her prime. Just keep your ears open.

Godfrey: As you wish, my Lord.

Callum (sitting down beside him): I do expect you to have some fun. You hardly ever leave the house.

Godfrey: What has you up at this hour?

Callum: I had another unsettling dream about Gavin.

Godfrey: You miss him very much, and it certainly isn’t helping that Mr. Prescott lives under your roof in the room next to yours.

Callum: Gavin is probably turning in his grave over the present living arrangements.

Godfrey: How are you going to handle Mr. Prescott? He’s undoubtedly getting too close to the truth.

Callum (rising): Leave Talon to me. He’s got much explaining to do. Good night, Godfrey.

TRISTAN’S APARTMENT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, EVENING

Kyle made it over to Tristan’s apartment as soon as he could, tempted to use his police siren device on the car, but he made it there in less than ten minutes. The door was open, and he pushed inside to find Heath, lying on the floor, surrounded by blood and broken glass. Rushing to him, he took Heath into his arms against Heath’s mindful pleas about his coming into contact with the blood.

Kyle: I don’t care about that. What happened?

Heath (crying into Kyle’s chest): I-I—

Kyle (not waiting for an answer): Come on. Let’s get you cleaned up.

He took him into the bathroom and washed the wounds, Heath immediately thinking back to the last time this similar incident occurred. Of course then afterwards we had made love, and Kyle had marriage on his mind. After dressing the wound, Kyle had Heath lie on the couch as he swept up the glass, placing it in the bin before sitting down next to him on the couch. Heath leaned his head against Kyle’s shoulder, and they watched television together for an hour before Heath fell asleep. Kyle didn’t dare move, not wanting to awaken him so he stayed in the same position for the next several hours. It wasn’t until after one in the morning when Kyle heard the key turn in the lock and saw Tristan enter the apartment.

Tristan (seeing the spectacle of Heath lying next to Kyle on the couch before him): What the fuck are you doing here?

Kyle: Would you quiet down? Can’t you see he’s sleeping?

Tristan: I’ll be as loud as I want. This is my damn apartment.

Kyle: Fair enough.

Tristan: So why are you here?

Kyle: Doing what you’re supposed to be doing. (gesturing to Heath’s sleeping figure) Being here for him!

Tristan: What are you talking about?

Kyle: Don’t you ever see anything outside your world? Look at him! Can’t you see he’s been hurt?

Tristan: What?

Kyle (realizing he’s possibly betrayed Heath’s confidence): Where have you been?

Tristan: That’s none of your damn business.

Kyle: It is when you claim to love this man (gesturing to Heath) right here!

Tristan: I never said—

Kyle: You never said what? That you loved him? (laughing) That’s because you’re incapable of it.

Tristan: I want you out of here right now.

Kyle: This has been nothing but a contest to you with Heath as some prize to show off. Well, he has feelings, too.

Tristan (shouting): I said get the fuck out of here!

Heath (awakening): What’s going on?

Kyle (cradling him): Tristan’s made it home. Do you want to stay here?

Tristan (angered by the question): What the—(grabbing Kyle’s arm and yanking him away from Heath) it’s you that’s leaving now!

Kyle (noticing Heath’s frightened face): You call me if anything goes wrong. (gesturing to the ring on his finger)

Tristan (successfully managing to get him out the door): Now what the hell was that about?

Heath: He came by to check on me.

Tristan: I bet he did. Is there something you’re not telling me?

Heath: Like what? H-He didn’t say anything, did he?

Tristan: Should he have? Why was he here?

Heath: I told you.

Tristan: Don’t lie to me. What the hell is going on between you two?

Heath: Nothing.

Tristan: Bullshit! Why is he always here? Every time I turn around, he’s here, holding you. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure it out.

Heath (teary-eyed): Tristan, I promise you—

Tristan (cutting him off): I’ve been really good to you, Heath, letting you stay here in my place after Kyle kicked you out. And now that he wants you back, you’re fucking him behind my—no make that in front of—

Heath (cutting him off, tears flowing): That’s not true, Tristan. You don’t understand.

Tristan: Oh, I get it all right. You won’t let me within an inch of you, but you’re all too happy to cuddle next to him. I’m supposed to be the better fuck… as least that’s what you used to tell me.

Heath: Do you really want to know what’s happened? I-I—(pause) I can’t do this. (turns away, runs into the safety of the bedroom, and locks the door behind him)

HOLLYWOOD HOSPITAL, EARLY MORNING, APPROXIMATELY 3 A.M.

Talon had left the charity function with Tristan, who had offered to take him on a moonlit tour of the of the recently gentrified part of downtown Los Angeles, showing him the vibrant life of the LA Live District, where they eventually ended up in a sports bar, having a few drinks. They both bonded over Tristan’s native language, speaking in it, and Talon knew he was venturing into new territory when Tristan suggested they go back to his apartment in West Hollywood. Talon was spared the agony of an internal battle with himself when he received an important call that sent him to Hollywood Hospital. He apologized to Tristan and took a cab there.

Half an hour later, he was speaking with a nurse before entering the hospital room where a ravishing young beauty lay in bed. She looked so peaceful, sleeping soundly. He came closer to her, kissing her forehead, and she mumbled a few words before opening her eyes.

Enid: Talon! (slowly moving her arms to hold him) You came.

Talon: The phone call nearly scared me to death. What the bloody hell are you doing here?

Enid: Well, you did call me.

Talon: That was under a different circumstance. I certainly didn’t expect you to come here and get drugged out at a rave. What were you thinking?

Enid (at a loss for words): I-I—

Talon: The nurse told me they found traces of ecstasy, marijuana, and other drugs in your system.

Enid: You’re not going to tell Mum, are you?

Talon: Enid, you could have died!

Enid: But I didn’t, although I thought I had. You would believe the stuff I saw, who I thought I—

Talon (cutting her off): It’s time for you to start practicing some responsibility, Enid. You’re practically an adult.

Enid: Not in this bloody country. Did you know you have to be 21 to drink here?

Talon (sighing): Shouldn’t you be at home, having your head in a book? And just how did you get here?

Enid: Now you’re sounding like Mum with all these questions. You promise you won’t tell her?

Talon (affectionately putting his hand to her forehead, brushing back her hair): I very well can’t give her a heart attack with this news. But I’m serious about this, Enid. You’re a strong-minded, sophisticated young girl and not some smackhead.

Enid: So you’re not telling her?

Talon (sighing): No, I won’t.

Enid: Good. That settles that. I need to ask another favor. May I crash at your hotel room?

Talon (hesitantly): Well, I—uh—

Enid: Look, I know it’s a posh place and all, but I promise I’ll be on my best behavior. I won’t break anything.

Talon: Don’t you think you should call—

Enid: I will but not now. I just can’t deal with the pressure of all the questions I’ll be asked.

Talon: You know you’re eventually going to have to—(rising). Listen, you get some rest. I’ll be back shortly.

Enid: Thanks, Talon.

Talon (bending over to kiss her forehead): You owe me big time.

CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES

Twenty minutes later saw Talon getting out a cab and coming into the mansion, going straight to Callum’s bedroom and finding it empty. Thinking he was with Edward, he went to the nursery and likewise didn’t find Callum there. Where is he? Surely he’s not up at this hour. I’ll just go to my room, change into something else, and leave him a note. It was when Talon went into his own room that he finally found Callum, sitting in the dark. It startled him when he switched on the lights.

Talon: What the—(coming into the room) What were you doing in the dark? Callum, there’s something important I should tell you.

Callum (rising and confronting him): Damn right there is! (shoving the passport at him) What the hell is this?

Talon: It appears to be my passport.

Callum: Don’t act clueless with me! Wasn’t it enough you came to Brussels with the intent of ruining my wedding? But now I find that you followed us to Sydney on our honeymoon!

Talon (taking the passport): Don’t you know it’s impolite to go through people’s personal belongings?

Callum: And don’t you know it’s likewise ill-mannered to stalk people?

Talon: Stalk? Callum, I—

Callum: You what? You wouldn’t use such a harsh word.

Talon: I care very much for you, and I honestly never trusted Gavin.

Callum: Don’t you dare throw the word “trust” into this.

Talon: You can trust me. I love you and always have.

Callum: Let’s not confuse love with obsession.

Talon: I can’t believe you’re reacting this way. So what if I followed you two to Australia? Nothing happened.

Callum: Well, if you were really observant, you would have seen that he made me very happy. Of course you wouldn’t have seen that from the hotel penthouse unless you could walk on air.

Talon: All I ever wanted was to be the one for you. I would have been there for you when times got rough… when you needed a harbor in the tempest.

Callum (recoiling): Don’t you dare say that? A harbor in the tempest! I know that you were in Greece the day Gavin was lost at sea.

Talon: So now you’re blaming an act of nature on me? (laughing) You’re giving me far too much credit.

Callum: I’m not putting anything past you, Talon.

Talon: How could you say something so hurtful?

Callum (tears coming to his eyes): It’s really rather easy when the other person no longer matters.

Talon: What? (sitting down in the nearest chair) I really don’t understand you, Callum. One moment you’re kissing me and asking me to move in with you, and the next you’re treating me—

Callum: As you should be treated… like the liar you are!

Talon (fiercely rising from the chair): I’m the liar? What does that make you? The pious spouse? Let’s not forget who you were in bed with the morning of your wedding. I’m sure you failed to tell your husband about that during the honeymoon.

Callum: You never could accept the fact that I chose the better man!

Talon: For your bank account… not for your heart!

Callum: I would expect such a callous remark from Eleanor, my wench of a mother-in-law, and not from the man who unconditionally loves me. I want you out of this house now.

Talon (swallowing the lump in his throat): You’re right about one thing. I did love you unconditionally. I reckon that makes me a bigger fool than you were when you exchanged vows with him. (turning on his heel to move toward door). I’ll be gone by close of day. By the way, I also forgot to inform you that your little sister overdosed on ecstasy at a rave in downtown Los Angeles. She’s currently in hospital.

With that said, Talon looked at the priceless expression on Callum’s face before leaving the room, making sure to slam the door in his wake.

NATHAN AND BRENDON’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, EARLY MORNING, 2 A.M.

Brendon: What the hell were you thinking, Justin?

Justin: I just wanted to have a little fun on my birthday—(ostentatiously looking at his watch) which was yesterday so you’ve officially missed yet another one.

Brendon (ignoring the jab): You can also forget about any freedom since you’re grounded indefinitely.

Justin: You can drop the act, Brendon. I know you and Nathan are sending me off.

Brendon: And you should know that Nathan is against it.

Justin (directing an evil eye at Nathan): He’s just trying to score brownie points.

Brendon (shouting): Room! Now! (to Nathan after Justin has reluctantly left for his room upstairs) I’m so sorry that you’re in the middle of this.

Nathan (wrapping arms around Brendon and kissing him): It’s right where I want to be.

Brendon: I love you, but I know you didn’t ask for all this stress.

Nathan: Bren, this is what parenting is about. Believe me. I’m the expert with kids. I deal with them nine months out of the year.

Brendon: I’m so blessed to have you in my life. I felt for sure you would have left me forever over this mess with Justin.

Nathan (kissing him again): I’m with you for the long haul…through good times and bad. I’ll stand by you.

And then the morning came—and Nathan would soon find himself challenged to stand by those words.

DRAKE AND AUSTIN’S HOME, WEST HOLLYWOOD, SATURDAY MORNING

Drake just came out the shower, towel wrapped around his torso, his chest in full display. He was lured to the kitchen by the inviting aroma of breakfast, which Austin had prepared. He came into the dining area and sat at the table before a plate of Belgian waffles and eggs Hollandaise for him.

Drake: Why did you do this? I thought we were running with the club this morning. Breakfast will be cold when we get back.

Austin: I suppose it’s good we’re not running this morning. We’re celebrating, Babe.

Drake: Let me guess. This has something to do with your campaign.

Austin: Absolutely!

Drake: Well, it can’t be about Jeremy and the elder vote since you told me that last night.

Austin: It’s even better than that. Brendon Roberts just committed career suicide.

Drake: What?

Austin (laying the morning tabloid before him): Read here, Drake. It appears Brendon was harboring a really big secret. Isn’t it funny how those things can come back and bite you in the ass?

Drake felt sick to his stomach, and his facial expression bore these symptoms. Austin had assumed it was due to what Drake was reading about Brendon, but Drake hadn’t even gone beyond the first sentence. His mind was thinking of Austin’s last statement, and his heart and soul were praying his own secret would never be discovered.

HOLLYWOOD HOSPITAL, SATURDAY MORNING

Chloe had waited all night for Allison to come home but she never did. She tried her cell and left several messages before falling asleep. When she awoke at midnight, she had seen where Allison had called her back, leaving a message saying that there was an emergency at the hospital that demanded her full attention. From that moment until sunrise, Chloe slept soundly, rising with the thought of go to the hospital to surprise Allison, but instead finding her fast asleep on the couch in her office. Chloe sat next to Allison and softly nudged her.

Allison (opening her eyes): Chloe?

Chloe (bending down to kiss her): Good morning. I heard you had a pretty busy night.

Allison (yawning): A few kids overdosed on drugs at a rave. I don’t know what the world is coming to.

Chloe: You look awful.

Allison: And I feel it. (stretching) Where’s the coffee, Hun?

Chloe: I thought we would go somewhere for breakfast.

Allison (groaning): I don’t know about that. I’m having lunch with Priscilla, and I need to check on my patients this morning. Why don’t we have breakfast here?

Chloe (disconsolately): Here? At the hospital?

Allison: Surely, you can find something edible in the cafeteria. (noticing Chloe’s hesitance) I’ve worked here how many years, and I’m still alive, having eaten here several times.

Chloe: Maybe you have a cast-iron stomach.

Allison (laughing): I love you. You do know that?

Chloe: Why wouldn’t I? I’m the one who—

Allison (placing her finger to Chloe’s lips): You don’t have to say anything. You know I’ve forgiven you.

Chloe: Well, we’re both dealing with our demons. How was your appointment with the therapist?

Allison (hesitantly): W-Why don’t we talk about that over breakfast? You mind eating in here?

Chloe (sighing and then kissing her): Okay. I’ll be back in a few.

Chloe left the office and went toe the cafeteria where she ran into the one person she didn’t need to.

MEANWHILE IN SAME LOCATION…

Callum gave his sister the silent treatment when he got to the hospital. She was stunned to see him, instantly knowing that Talon had betrayed her. Callum seemed very upset and signed all the necessary discharge papers, and as they were leaving the room, she told him she was hungry.

Callum (guiding her to the cafeteria): You obviously have an irrepressible death wish. The food here will accomplish what your drugs failed to do.

Enid: You needn’t be so—

Callum: If you say “Callous Callum,” I’ll kill you.

Enid (cracking a smile): It’s a suitable nickname for you. By the way, where is Talon? I owe him a piece of my mind.

Callum: I haven’t any idea where he is, and I honestly don’t care.

Enid: Sounds like trouble in paradise! (noticing Callum’s distraction) Hello? I’m talking to you. What the hell—(seeing Callum’s attention drawn to two women talking)

Enid read too much into her brother’s fierce determination to stare at the women, foolishly thinking that perhaps he had converted to heterosexuality.

MEANWHILE ACROSS THE ROOM

Estrella had risen earlier that morning to come to the hospital to confirm what the home test had told her, desperately hoping that she was part of that mythical 1% error of pregnancy tests, but such was not her luck. Upon getting the confirmation from the doctor and being briefed on proper prenatal care, Estrella listened to the hunger of her stomach and had gone to the cafeteria, where she ran into Chloe of all people.

Chloe: Estrella, what are you doing here?

Estrella: I came here for a checkup. (pause) And you?

Chloe: I came to visit Allison. She works here, remember?

Estrella (awkwardly): Oh, that’s right. So she finally called you back?

Chloe: Yes, she did. Thanks for calming me down on the phone yesterday. (her hand ventures out to pat Estrella but she withdraws it when a loud voice is heard)

Callum (coming over): Well, if it isn’t the IndiHO girls! (to Estrella) Does She-Ra know you two are together?

Chloe: I assume you’re talking about Allison. And for the record, Callum, this is none of your business. Your insults really give me headaches.

Callum: Then perhaps you should take two “baby aspirins” and call their parents in the morning.

Estrella (trying to cover up her inclination to laugh with a cough): Callum, that’s very insensitive.

Callum (to Estrella): Are you still trying to cough up that fur ball she gave you last weekend?

Chloe: You really are a bitter man. I guess Allison was partially right about you.

Callum: So you condone her violence? (sotto voce) Which doesn’t surprise me coming from a kidnapper.

Chloe: No, I don’t. What she did to you at the funeral was wrong, and she’s working through her anger issues. I would appreciate your not instigating her.

Callum: As long as she stays out my way.

Estrella’s phone rang, and she excused herself, putting as much distance between her and Callum, for the caller was Brendon. She answered it once she was out of earshot.

Brendon (curtly): I need you over here right now.

Estrella: What’s wrong?

Brendon: They know about the operation.

Estrella: Who?

Brendon: The media. Have you looked at that rag The Hollycove Tribune?

Estrella: What do you want me to do about it?

Brendon: Represent me in my libel suit against them.

Estrella (hesitantly): Brendon, I don’t know about getting involved in this.

Brendon: Estrella, you’re already involved. Or have you forgotten that you were a frequent patron? The name Tristano Bersani comes to mind. I’m sure your law firm would be interested in learning how much money you spent for his services.

Estrella (feeling cornered): Okay. Okay. I’ll be there shortly.

She snapped the phone shut and rushed for the exit, passing by Callum and Chloe without saying goodbye to them, though overhearing part of their conversation.

Chloe: I just want you to leave her alone. She’s trying really hard to—

Callum (coming face to face with her): I don’t take orders from basketcases like you. I’ll steer clear of your troll and you do the same regarding my son.

At that moment, Allison came into the cafeteria, having waited far too long for Chloe to return. Looking across the room and seeing Callum threateningly advance upon Chloe, she rushed over to them and pushed him away, his body rolling over the top of a nearby table. Seeing this violent spectacle, Enid darted over to help her brother from the floor.

Enid (to Allison): What the bloody hell is wrong with you?

Callum (to Enid): You saw her attack me without any provocation on my part?

Allison (defensively): I saw you try to harm Chloe.

Chloe: Allison, he was not attacking me.

Callum (to Allison): You were seeing things, Allison. Must be a symptom of brain fever. No, wait, that’s impossible as it would require you to have one.

Allison (advancing upon him): Get the hell out of here!

Enid (confronting Allison): You lay one finger on my brother again, and I’ll—

Allison: Your brother! (to Callum) There’s more of your kind. (looking directly at Enid) No, wait. I remember you from last night. You were one of the kids that overdosed on drugs. I treated you.

Callum: More likely violated her. (to Enid) Rather than her laying one finger on me, she most likely laid a few inside—

Allison slapped him hard.

Enid (grabbing Callum’s arm and pulling him aside): You had that one coming, Big Brother. Why are you smiling?

Callum looked over to see Chloe’s emotional reaction to yet another of Allison’s uncontrollable assaults, knowing it had once more taken its toll upon the psychologically fragile woman. Callum also didn’t know that one of the other spectators had been Dr. Shoai, who was silently eating his breakfast in the far corner of the cafeteria.

NATHAN AND BRENDON’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, LATER THAT MORNING

Nathan opened the door, allowing Kyle into the house. He saw media vans once again camped outside his property, reminded once more of the injustice done to him as the result of an evil lie. He knew in his heart that another lie was being told, this time targeted at his partner. A copy of the Hollycove Tribune tabloid was lying on the kitchen table. Such garbage! How could they claim that Brendon was running a high-end brothel for the Hollywood elite? It’s a good thing Brendon’s upstairs resting. First, the mess with Justin and the rave and now this! I just hope neither of them is looking out the window right now.

Nathan (to Kyle): Would you like some coffee?

Kyle: No, I’m fine. I just came by to check on—

Nathan (cutting him off): Brendon or Justin?

Kyle: Well, the situation with Justin will clear up in a few days when he’s shipped off. I actually needed to see Brendon. Is he here?

Nathan: He’s upstairs in the bedroom.

Kyle moves toward the stairs, and Nathan sits down in a chair, his head falling into his hands. Well, at least Kyle is right about one thing. Justin won’t be a problem much longer.

MEANWHILE… OUTSIDE IN THE BACKYARD

Justin knew the parameters of the little electronic device on his ankle, knowing that it sounded off once he crossed the front fence. He had never tried the backyard as a speedy exit, mainly because of the ravine. Running too fast through it would be dangerous. He saw the media circus outside and knew the front yard was off limits. He ventured out into the backyard, overhearing Kyle and Nathan talking in the foyer and was surprised to see an intruder climbing onto the property from the ravine. Justin initially thought it was a reporter, but from his distance he could tell it was a female, and she wasn’t carrying any camera equipment. His eyes were fooling him. It was the girl from last night… the one who had passed out at the rave! What the hell is she doing here? Am I still high on weed?

He whistled loudly to draw her attention. Upon getting it, she attempted to come over to him, stopping just short of a rock garden that separated the ravine from the beginning of the property. He knew that the ankle device would sound off if he went that far, yet there she was beckoning for him to come. Moving a few more yards, he stopped in his tracks, and she soon realized she would have to go to him. Garbage’s “Bad Boyfriend” begins playing in the background as she seductively moves closer.

Enid (panting when she reaches him): Why the hell must I come to you? I had to hike through the—

Justin (cutting her off): You actually talk that way?

Enid: You mean with an accent?

Justin: I didn’t hear it last night.

Enid: How could you over all that loud music? You kept calling me Anita when my name is Enid. Anyway, why couldn’t you have met me halfway?

Justin (gesturing to ankle device): Can’t go beyond the backyard or it’ll sound off.

Enid: That’s too bad. I thought we could hang out together.

Justin: There’s always my bedroom.

Enid (flirtatiously): I much prefer mine. I just saw it for the first time, and it’s huge.

Justin: Just now seeing it for the first time? You just moved into the neighborhood?

Enid (distracted by the mp3 player suspended around his neck): Yes. Whatcha listening to? (yanks the digital player from him and plugs the earphones into her ears)

Justin: Hey! Give that back!

Enid (seductively winking as she moves away): Come and get it… if you dare.

She rushes past the rock garden and beyond the threshold at which point Justin knows he cannot pass. Unexpectedly, he rushes after her, the sound assuredly going off as he hurriedly grabs her arm and yanks her back into the safety area, the force a little too much as both their bodies fall to the ground, hers atop his. Justin could feel the damp ground—the sprinklers had turned off before he came outside—wetting the back of his shirt, but he didn’t mind it, for he was captivated by her hazel eyes as her face was practically against his. Her breasts brushed against his chest as she pushed her lips against his, her tongue forcing its way into her mouth. The kiss was brief and sweet, Justin fighting the urge of an oncoming erection.

Enid: Happy Belated Birthday! (pause) Oh, I see you have a present for me.

Holy shit! She felt it, but she’s not freaking out. I’ve heard about these Eurobabes and their comfort with sexuality. She’s so hot! Enid pried herself from him, rising from the ground and standing tall as a breeze came in from the ravine, her hair flowing with the wind. She looked like a beautiful heroine from some sweeping romantic epic. Her hand reached out to help Justin up from the ground.

Enid: Sorry for being a tease (raising her eyebrows) but I don’t really know you that well… other than your questionable taste in music like Groove Armada.

Justin: Hey! They rock!

Enid: I know. I heard them live in Glastonbury a few weeks ago.

Justin: Really? Wow, that’s cool. I was supposed to go there, but I couldn’t make it.

Enid (skeptically): Is that so?

Justin (sensing her doubt): Yeah, some prick promised me he would take me there. In fact, he’s one of your kind.

Enid (mildly offended): My kind?

Justin: Brits!

Enid (laughing): You speak of us as if we’re a different species. The only things that separate us from you Americans are a pond, culture, and a historical lead in intellect. But between the two of us, you Yanks kiss better.

Justin: So where do you live?

Enid: What’s it to you? It’s not as if you can come visit me. Why do you have that thing on your ankle?

Justin: I—uh—sent the police on a wild goose chase.

Enid: Isn’t Los Angeles known for those wild car chases with the police?

Justin (winking): Yeah, that’s exactly what happened with me.

He couldn’t tell her the real reason for his house arrest—the lie that nearly sent Nathan to prison. Let her think I stole a car. She’ll think I’m a cool rebel of society. It was then that Justin heard his name being shouted by Nathan.

Justin: Quick! You better leave! I’ll get in a shitload of trouble if you’re caught here with me.

Nathan (coming in the distance): Justin!

Justin (to Enid): Hurry!

Enid darted in the direction of the ravine, hiding behind some overgrowth just as Nathan came into view. She could overhear their conversation.

Nathan: What are you doing out here? Didn’t you hear what Brendon told you? Come on, let get back inside now.

Enid peeked around and saw the back of a handsome, tall man guiding Justin back toward the house. Justin briefly turned around and saw her blow him a kiss before she disappeared into the ravine.

THE ALCOVE RESTAURANT, LOS FELIZ, LUNCHTIME

Allison, Priscilla, and Bralen are having lunch, all eating various salads for their meal.

Priscilla: So how are you feeling, Bralen?

Bralen: I’m fine. Just been busy lately.

Priscilla: With what? You’re not still training, are you?

Allison (realizing Priscilla’s gaffe): Priscilla, I’m sure he’s tied down with the pilates studios. All those rich Malibu housewives with a lot of time on their hands.

Bralen: Well, I’m actually sort of seeing someone.

Allison: Anyone I know?

Priscilla: I hope he’s not taken (winking at him) because if he is, then I know his identity.

Bralen: It’s not Drake! Gosh, Priscilla, must you always think the worst of me?

Priscilla: Actually, I think the nastiest of you.

Bralen: What’s this I heard of Drake spending the night with you?

Allison (dropping her fork): Priscilla! Surely you’re not trying to convert him!

Priscilla: Oh no! He was just being kind to an old broad. We stayed up much the night, talking about Peyton and Callum.

Allison and Bralen (in unison): Ugh!

Priscilla: I share your sentiments about Callum. Drake told me all about him.

Bralen: I don’t trust him one bit, and everyone knows where Allison stands with him.

Allison (to them both): I had another run-in with him this morning. (to Priscilla) It’s best you stay away from him.

Priscilla: No can do! That bastard is up to something. Somehow Callum got Peyton to leave all his money to Edward, Callum’s son.

Bralen: What the—

Priscilla (cutting him off): My thoughts exactly! I know that Callum is a blackmailer, and he’s hiding something big, and I’m going to find out what it is.

Bralen: How do you plan on doing that?

Priscilla (ostentatiously pushing up her breasts into her bra): Well, this fiery siren has an evening date at the opera with Callum’s butler.

Allison: Oh, Priscilla! I don’t think that’s a good idea… to use him that way.

Priscilla: Allison, the hired help are always privy to the juicy dish on their employers. I’m sure Godfrey knows more than he lets on, and I intend to find out what he knows.

Allison: Aside from his association with Callum, he seems like a nice man. I’d hate to see his feelings get hurt if he genuinely takes a liking to you.

Priscilla (to them both): Well, the sex should be compensation enough!

BRENDON’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, SAME TIME

Brendon had just had an unsettling conversation with Kyle, who he had seen to the door. He deeply exhaled and ran his hand through his hair. Where the hell is Estrella? She should have been here by now. He called her cell again, and at that moment the doorbell rang. This must be her. He was wrong. It was Austin Monroe, Brendon resisting the urge to slam the door in his face.

Brendon: What the hell do you want?

Austin: I heard the news.

Brendon: I’m sure you came to gloat.

Austin (coming into the house): Just a little. I mean you’ve practically handed me the election.

Brendon: You should know I’m suing the pants off this tabloid.

Austin (cattily): Effective choice of words.

Brendon: It’s all lies.

Austin (coming face to face with him): Come on, Brendon, you know better than to bullshit a bullshitter. There was talk among some of my models that you were into some dodgy stuff. Of course they know better than to cross onto your side.

Brendon: Let’s get one thing straight, Austin. You don’t know anything.

Austin: I know that the current Board will have to address these “allegations.” I’m sure the Emeritus Council is wondering how to spin this. It really doesn’t look good for a gay athletic club to be affiliated with the leader of a high-class prostitution ring, especially with this new proposition 8 on the November ballot.

Brendon: Well, that prop—much like your campaign—will fail.

Austin: Somehow I see victory for myself at the expense of your imprisonment on these charges.

Brendon (coming face to face with him): I suggest you back off, Austin. I could make your life a living hell.

Austin: Or a piece of heaven if I fork over a few grand. I should thank whoever tipped the media to this story. He or she is an unwitting ally.

Brendon: Get the hell out of my house!

Austin simply smiled to himself, turned away, and headed for the door, quietly closing it behind him, leaving Brendon to wallow in the thoughts of his disconcerting remarks.

TRISTAN’S APARTMENT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, EVENING

Rihanna’s “Unfaithful” closes out this episode as Heath sits in bed, having felt sick all day since his early morning argument with Tristan. He had stayed shut in his room, not wanting to have another encounter with him. I can’t tell him the truth. He just wouldn’t understand… like Kyle does. How I fucked up things between us! What have I done? I do love them both but for entirely different reasons. My feelings for one drive the other away. It’s not fair to either of them. I have to tell Tristan the truth!

Heath got out the bed, unlocked the door, and was about to leave the room when he heard voices. Pulling the door slightly ajar and looking through the crack, he found from his vantage point he couldn’t see anyone, but Tristan was definitely in the other room with another man. He initially thought it was Callum as the man spoke with an English accent, but upon listening further he determined it was someone else.

Tristan: Would you like a glass of wine?

Talon: Mate, after the day I’ve had, I could drink the entire bottle.

Heath saw Tristan materialize, coming from the living room and walking into the kitchen alcove. He saw him pull out a bottle of red wine, grasp the corkscrew, and put his handsome arm muscles to work unscrewing it. At that moment Tristan happened to look up and saw Heath peeking out the door. Their eyes briefly locked, Tristan’s having a wicked glare in them that matched the devious smile that suddenly came over his face as he grasped the bottle and two glasses and moved out of Heath’s sight.

Tristan: Hey, Talon, why don’t you put your stuff in my room?

Talon: Again, Tristan, I really appreciate this. It’s just until I work things out—

Tristan: Don’t mention it. (putting down bottle and glasses) Here, let me help you.

Heath saw Tristan take a suitcase into Vittoria’s room. What the hell is going on? He then saw the other man for the first time, his fit body coming into view, marked by the strawberry blond hair atop his head. Heath also saw that he wore glasses. Not really Tristan’s type! They both went into the room, Tristan coming out a few seconds later to get the wine and glasses.

Tristan (returning to the bedroom and closing the door behind him): I thought we could drink in here.

Heath couldn’t fight back the tears that came to his eyes. He cried in silence, not wanting to release even the smallest whimper. I can’t believe he’s doing this to me. No, I can! He thinks I’m cheating on him with Kyle. If he only knew the truth, then everything would be right. No, it wouldn’t. What about the test results? What if I have… ? He wouldn’t want to have anything to do with me. But I can’t let him make the mistake of being with someone else all because of my silence. I have to tell him everything right now!

Heath opened the door and walked across the living room to Vittoria’s room. Upon getting closer to it, he found that Tristan hadn’t fully closed the door. He was not going to be a peeping Tom again, but what he heard through the crack of the door was just as shocking as if he had seen them having sex.

Talon: Are you sure you really want me to go back to Italy with you?

TO BE CONTINUED…