The Victorious and the Relentless
Episode 31: “Crazy Little Thing Called Obsession”
Everything but the Girl’s “Wrong” opens this episode over the following montages, occurring during the morning.
Kyle paces back and forth across the floor of Tristan’s apartment, a look of unmistakable grief on his face as he stares at a picture of Heath. Heath, I was so wrong to do anything to alienate you. Bralen sits in the background, looking at Kyle and fighting with his conscience to tell him the truth.
Brendon sits quietly in his home, hoping for Nathan to soon come through the door after he’s left many messages on his phone but has yet to receive any return calls. Nathan, I was so wrong to do anything to alienate you. He grabs his car keys and heads straight over to their old home in Silver Lake.
Meanwhile, upstairs Justin sits on his bed, moping over the dismal prospect of his life, knowing that in a few days he would be sent off. His mind was thinking of Enid, and how kind she had been to him. She was playfully judgmental, and not overtly stern like Nathan or Brendon. He felt a crippling stab of uncertainty whether she would return to visit him as he had been rather cruel to her yesterday over the marijuana. I was wrong to lash out at her like that. She’s the only friend I have and most likely the last one I’ll see before I’m gone…
Talon sits alone at the kitchen table, a bowl of cold porridge before him, his cup of tea having gone cold. His mind beset with thoughts of Callum, he bowed his head in shame. I was so wrong not to tell him about the other reason I came back into his life. I can’t bear his hating me over this. I need to sort this with him… let him know I meant no harm… I did it only out of my love for him. It wasn’t until Godfrey came into the room, and Talon asked about Callum that he was informed that Callum had left earlier that morning in a hurry.
TWELVE HOURS EARLIER…
After having a brief but good cry in the car, Callum eventually entered his own home to the shocked cry of his sister as she took in the ghastly image of him covered in mud and wet clothing.
Enid: What happened to you? You look as if you’ve just risen from Loch Ness.
Callum: That bitch pushed me into the Venice Beach canals.
Enid: Who?
Callum (viciously): Allison Trudeau!
Enid: That narky lesbo?
Callum: That would be the one.
Enid: Why do you tolerate her? Why not just fly her to England? I have a mate who knows people (winking) in Brixton that could handle her.
Callum: Spare me the details of your unsavory acquaintances. I wish to maintain the idea of a pure-as-snow sister.
Enid: Awww… I’d kiss you, but you smell like shit.
Callum (balling his fists): Don’t worry. She’ll pay for this. I promise you that.
Enid: Since blatant violence is out the question, why don’t you just poison her dildo?
Callum: While that’s a good idea, Love, there’s just one problem. Allison is a hardcore lesbian.
Enid: Meaning?
Callum: She probably doesn’t use them, and the one from her youth is most likely covered in decades of cobwebs.
Talon (coming into the room): Bloody hell! What happened—
Callum (fuming at the sight of Talon): I can’t talk to you right now.
Enid: What? (to Talon) Did something happen between you two?
Talon: Now’s not the time.
Enid (looking from one to the other): What’s wrong? You both were happy earlier, holding hands and making plans.
Callum (to Enid): Why don’t you get ready for tea?
Enid: You’re not dismissing me.
Callum: You’re in my bloody house, and I’ll do whatever I please.
Talon (seeing the tears in her eyes and coming over to her): It’s okay, Love. He didn’t mean it. Go on and get ready for tea. I’ll be in shortly.
Enid (eyeing Callum as he leaves): I hope you two sort this out.
Talon (once she’s out of earshot): What the hell is wrong with you? There’s no need for your callousness.
Callum: I’ll repeat to you what I told her. It’s my bloody house!
Talon: Look, I know you’re upset.
Callum: Upset? I’m absolutely livid! I was just thrown into the Venice Beach canals.
Talon (sighing): Allison.
Callum (shouting): Who else?
Talon: You shouldn’t have confronted her the way I’m sure you did.
Callum: And you shouldn’t have been colluding with her against me.
Talon: It’s not like that.
Callum: Really? Then explain to me why you came here? No, here’s a better question. How could you keep up this charade when you’ve witnessed how unbalanced this woman is? You saw what she did to me at the beach, and it’s common knowledge she pushed me into Peyton’s grave. All this time you just stood by and said nothing…much less did anything to protect my honor.
Talon (coming toward him): I didn’t—
Callum (backing away): Don’t you dare touch me.
Talon: The cut on your head is bleeding.
Callum: Don’t act concerned. You lost that right when you deceived me.
Talon: What do you want? I’m sorry about Allison. I’ll say it until I’m blue in the face.
Callum (gritting his teeth): And are you sorry about Tristano?
Talon: I told you. That was a one-off. It was a terrible mistake. You know you’re my number one.
Callum (throwing up his hands): What do you take me for? A complete idiot? In the past twenty-four hours, I’ve learned that you stalked Gavin and me, you slept with Tristan, and entered into some pact with my sworn enemy. Am I missing anything? (pause as Talon is silent) I didn’t think so, and you have the nerve to think I’m now going to take you at your word.
Talon: So we’re back to where we were this morning?
Callum: No. Early this morning my love for you was clouded by my foolishness.
Talon: And now?
Callum: Right now, I have full clarity of mind. My love for you is blocked by your betrayal. (turning to go)
Talon: Don’t do this to us, Callum. I love you.
Callum: You did this to us, Talon, with your lies. (looking up to see Enid’s face around the corner) And I’m not the only one hurt by your duplicity.
Talon: Callum, please!
Callum: I’m going to have a quick shower. We can talk later when I’m done.
He goes upstairs to shower. As the hot water pours over his body, he thinks of the betrayal. He thinks not only of Talon’s lie of omission about Allison but also of the other acts of deception, particularly Tristan. It was during that particular thought of Tristan that Callum abruptly ended his shower, toweled himself, for he realized that Talon’s betrayal had not only impacted him—and Enid to a lesser degree—but one other crucial person. He quickly dressed and rushed out the house, negligent of tea being served.
PEYTON’S HOME, BEVERLY HILLS
Brendon had hauled the boxes of Peyton’s clothing to Priscilla’s car, feeling somewhat good about helping the woman, especially as he knew in his heart he had supplied the bullets that had ended her son’s life. As if the weight of the truth of his sordid prostitution operation coming to light wasn’t enough of a burden, this guilt over Peyton’s death weighed heavy upon his heart and mind. Callum didn’t have to issue any sort of warning to me. I’m already feeling penance each time I look into those pained eyes of Priscilla. How she could go on with life after losing her son is beyond my understanding. I don’t know what I’d do if Justin were taken from me. When I came out the coma and didn’t know where he was, my life was in chaos. But now I’ve done something unforgivable. I helped to take Priscilla’s son away from her. These pressing thoughts were on his mind as he shoved the last box into her car. He was thirsty and went back inside the house, coming into the living room and finding Priscilla kissing Godfrey. He gave a dramatic cough to signal his presence at which point Priscilla pried herself from Godfrey, ostentatiously buttoning the top of her blouse.
Priscilla: Oh, Brendon, have you finished?
Brendon: Yes, everything’s in the car. Make sure the consignment shop helps you take them out. Some of them are heavy.
Priscilla: Thank you.
Brendon: No problem. Is there any bottled water? I’m a bit thirsty.
Priscilla: There’s some in the fridge. It’s in the water jug.
Brendon (turning on his heel to go to the kitchen): Thanks.
Once he was in the kitchen, he went to the refrigerator and took out the jug inside. Placing it on the counter, he reached into the cabinet for a cup, and it was at this point his eyes fell onto the cracked fragments of a DVD. His attention was drawn to an image that reminded him of someone he vaguely knew. Even though the pieces were scattered, he knew it was a porno, a dead giveaway being the men in full-fledged nudity. Where have I seen that face? I usually know all the popular porn stars. He looked at the studio label, which simply said Jizz. I know all the studios in and around Los Angeles. This must be an outside, underground studio. But what the hell is it doing in this house? He poured the water into the cup and began to gulp it down when he gagged loudly. His exclamation drew Priscilla’s attention, and she soon rushed into the kitchen.
Priscilla: What is it?
Brendon: Priscilla, this isn’t water.
Priscilla (laughing): I know, Silly. It’s—
Brendon: Vodka!
Priscilla: You should have picked the jug with the water filter. (continuing to laugh) You’ll have to pardon me but it’s just that you’re not the first person to mistake “my water” for water. Drake did the same thing earlier this week.
Brendon (his mind once clear): Drake?
Priscilla: You know him. He’s Austin’s partner.
Brendon: Oh, I know who he is!
And now I know something else about him! Brendon turned around and unthinkingly knocked over the cup, the liquid spilling onto the countertop.
Priscilla: Hey, that’s expensive water! You know the city of Beverly Hills doesn’t supply that.
Brendon (simultaneously reaching for paper towel to clean it and dexterously picking up pieces of the DVD within the paper towel) I’m so sorry, Priscilla.
Priscilla (spanking his bottom): You will be if you don’t get your hot ass out my kitchen. My liver can’t tolerate another mistake like that. (taking the paper towels from him) I’ll clean up this mess. Go in there and chat with Godfrey. I’ll bring you the water.
Brendon: But, Prisc—
Priscilla: I said go now or do you want another spanking?
Brendon (feeling defeated and turning to leave kitchen): Okay.
Priscilla (looking at his butt as he leaves the kitchen): Whew! I have two handsome men in my house. It figures that the younger one with the tighter ass isn’t interested. C’est la vie.
She cleaned up the mess, throwing the DVD fragments in the trash. She got a glass of real water and took it into the living room only to find that Brendon had left.
Priscilla: Where’d he go?
Godfrey: He seemed to be in a hurry.
Priscilla: No bother. I’m sure he wanted to give us some privacy.
Godfrey: I do admire your saucy spirit, Priscilla.
Priscilla: Give it time and you’ll find yourself admiring much more. (crossing over to him to kiss the crown of his head) Now, Mr. Bennington, unless you’re treating this lady to a first class meal at a swanky restaurant, I think you should take your leave.
They both gave hearty laughs before Godfrey took heed of Priscilla’s playful threat and offered to take her out for dinner.
TRISTAN’S APARTMENT, WEST HOLLYWOOD
After not getting much information from Bralen about Heath’s whereabouts, Kyle got into his car and sped over to Tristan’s apartment, using the police siren for his own benefit, racing through traffic on Santa Monica Boulevard and nearly causing an accident. He banged and rang the doorbell but didn’t get a response. Heath’s car was not in the drive, but Kyle was not thinking straight. After shouting Heath’s name for like the hundredth time, he forcefully threw himself against the door, the sound of breaking wood complementing his screaming Heath’s name.
Kyle: Heath! (rushing to room where he knew Heath slept and not finding him) Heath!
Bralen (coming into room): Kyle, what are you doing?
Kyle: You followed me?
Bralen: Yes, and I’m glad I did. You just broke into Tristan’s apartment.
Kyle (urgently): I need to find Heath! (rushing into restroom)
Bralen had seen Tristan’s car in the drive. He peeked into the other room, his eyes instantly falling onto a letter lying on the bedspread. He immediately snatched it, stuffing it into his pocket. He had recognized the handwriting on the envelope’s surface as Heath’s and knew it was the suicide note intended for Tristan. Kyle had just come from the back of the apartment in time for Bralen to come out of the room.
Kyle (panicking): Where is he? (pulling out cell phone)
Bralen: Kyle, what’s going on? You rushed away so fast.
Kyle: I told you. I think Heath may be in danger.
Bralen: I-I don’t understand.
Kyle (tears in his eyes): I came home and found a note from him. It sounded as if he were intending to take his own life. He said in no uncertain terms that he was going someplace where I couldn’t get to him.
Bralen: That doesn’t—
Kyle (cutting him off as he had punched numbers into his phone): Excuse me.
Bralen: Who are you calling?
Kyle: His parents in Vancouver. He’s very close with his mother. Maybe she’s heard from him. (pause) Emily, hi—it’s Kyle—how are you?—I’m fine. (pause before forcing a laugh) He told you that. I-I’m sorry. (voice begins quivering) I-I’m sure h-he’s just been busy and forgot. L-listen, I have to go. I’ll talk with you later. (quickly terminating the call, tears in his eyes, covering them with his hands)
Bralen (coming to him): What is it?
Kyle: His mother hasn’t heard from him in over a month. He told her we were getting married. She’s still under the impression we’re engaged. He forgot to call her last Sunday for her birthday.
They both exchanged solemn looks as they knew why he hadn’t been able to make that call as it had been the day of his attack at the Hawk Eye. Bralen saw how this was all taking its toll on Kyle, who looked frantic and on edge. On impulse he went to Kyle and offered him a hug that seemed to momentarily pacify him. He loved the feel of Kyle’s chin resting on his shoulder.
Bralen (patting him): It’s okay.
Kyle: This is all my fault.
Bralen: No, it’s not.
Kyle (his tears wetting Bralen’s shirt): I have to find him.
Callum (coming into the apartment, seeing the broken door): What the bloody hell happened here?
Kyle (immediately pulling away from Bralen): Callum! Have you seen Heath?
Callum: Not since earlier today. I was coming by to talk to him.
Bralen (acidly to Callum): He’s not here.
Kyle: Do you know where he might be? I need to find him.
Callum: What’s wrong? (looking from Kyle to Bralen) Has something happened? Will one of you speak?
Kyle (running hands through his hair): I think he may be in danger.
Callum: Why would you think that? He was understandably upset this morning after learning of Tristan’s duplicity.
Kyle: Tristan! What happened?
Callum: He slept with Talon last night, and Heath was practically in tears when he rang me this morning.
Bralen: Why would he do that?
Callum: Because I’m a friend, and he had no one else to turn to.
Bralen (seeing how the remark had emotionally hurt Kyle): That’s enough, Callum. (grabbing his arm and pushing out the apartment)
Callum: Take your hands off me, you brute!
Bralen: Go home.
Callum: The hell I will! In case you don’t know, I own this apartment complex. Anyway, what are you are doing here? I could have you arrested for trespassing or better yet for breaking and entering if you were the one who damaged that door. Of course with your steroid-riddled body, you probably just blew on it, and it came off its hinges.
Bralen (turning to go): I don’t have time for this. I need to see to Kyle.
Callum: So is he your next target?
Bralen: Excuse me!
Callum: I’m noticing a pattern here. You want any man that Heath’s had. I walked in on you trying to “comfort” Kyle. Had I arrived another ten minutes, I would have found you on your knees.
Bralen: You—
Callum (continuing his tirade): When will you realize that a blowjob isn’t the answer to all of life’s problems? I know your oral skills are legendary on Santa Monica Boulevard, but I’m surprised with all the traffic your mouth gets that you haven’t contracted gonorrhea of the throat.
Bralen: You son-of-a-bitch, I’d slug you right now, but I don’t hit women.
Callum: And I’d let you blow me right now, but I don’t fuck with drugged-out losers. (turning to go back into the apartment, but Bralen grasps his arm) Let go of me, Bralen. After the day I’ve had, you seriously don’t want to test me. I may not have your assisted strength, but I’ll see to it that you lose a lot more than your recent shot at Olympic fame. You’ll be left with nothing, though I suppose Brendon might employ you at his brothel.
Bralen (releasing his arm): You bastard!
Callum: But then I understand his operation is for the high-end Hollywood elite, and with you being just on the left side of trailer trash, it might prove detrimental to his profit margin.
Bralen (reactively pushing his hands into Callum’s chest, knocking him back): Don’t test me, Callum.
Callum (ignoring him and going back into apartment): Kyle, is there anything I can do?
Kyle: Just let me know if you hear from Heath. I’m going to head down to the station and see if I can recruit some buddies to put out an APB for Heath.
Bralen (coming into the apartment): I’ll go with you, Kyle.
Kyle: No, you should stay here just in case he comes back. Oh my God, I have to find him. I don’t know what I would do if he’s gone. (breaking down) This is my fault.
Bralen (visibly coming to hug Kyle, but Callum dexterously prevents him by coming up to Kyle first): No, it’s not.
Callum: Kyle, I meant what I said. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know soon. I’m leaving for England soon.
Bralen: Hallelujah!
Kyle: Thanks, Callum. (turning to go and leaves the apartment)
Callum (to Bralen, now left in the apartment): And I meant what I said to you as well. Don’t make an enemy out of me. Even with the strength of Hercules you wouldn’t be able to escape my determination to crush you like the pathetic bug you are.
AUSTIN AND DRAKE’S APARTMENT, WEST HOLLYWOOD
Drake had just finished his shower, cleansing his body of the filth from the canal. He found Austin in the bedroom as he exited the bathroom, drying his head with a towel. Mike Kirkland had offered the use of his bedroom, but Allison had beaten him to the chase. Austin, already fuming at the seams, padded the car seats with newspapers, and they silently drove back home.
Austin: How are you feeling?
Drake: My jaw still hurts.
Austin: I could kill that bastard for what he did to you. (coming over to kiss him) I love you.
Drake: I love you, too. (starts crying)
Austin: Babe, what’s wrong?
Drake: N-Nothing.
Austin: You know you can tell me anything.
Drake (sotto voce): Not everything. (aloud) I just feel terrible that you had to stick up for me back there.
Austin: And I’d do it again. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you.
Drake: Really?
Austin: What’s with this second guessing me? (leaning in to kiss him again as his hand removes towel from Drake’s torso)
Drake: What are you doing?
Austin (kissing his neck): Showing you how much you mean to me and that you never have to doubt my love for you. Lord knows I have no reason to ever doubt you for anything.
Drake (pulling away): How about we finish off that wonderful dinner I prepared?
Austin: You mean the one that those bastards barely touched, and after the hard work I put into the menu? Who doesn’t like salmon?
Drake: Vegetarians.
Austin: Yeah, well, Allison should have told me. I informed them of the menu a few days ago.
Drake: Well, it’s just more for us to eat, and you know what that means.
Austin (kissing him): A week of leftovers?
Drake only smiled amid the pain still running through his body.
CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, MORNING (SAME TIME AS OPENING EPISODE)
Enid didn’t get much sleep last night and rose early at dawn. She felt unsettled about the tension between Callum and Tristan, especially not knowing all the details. Last night she and Talon had silently had tea, each taking moments to quickly glance at each other, reading much in the other’s body language. Callum had arrived home much later after his argument with Bralen, and Enid didn’t know what to make of his angered return and his sudden announcement that they would be leaving for England tomorrow. She would have to break the news to her parents of her intention to stay in America. There’s so much to do here… so much fun to be had. She went outside to sit on the verandah, looking out over the ravine to the house on the other side, her mind at once thinking about Justin. He’s a nice bloke. I really hope I didn’t muck things up with his father. It was foolish of me to bring drugs into someone else’s home, and he shouldn’t have to take the blame for something I did. He was really upset with me. I can’t live with him hating me over this mistake.
Fifteen minutes later saw her climbing out the ravine, trespassing onto private property, and climbing up the trellis to the window of Justin’s upstairs bedroom. Prior to tapping on the glass, she looked inside and saw him sitting on his bed, moping. At the sound she made, he snapped out his trance, came over to raise the pane to allow her entrance into the room. He stepped back to look at her in all her youthful splendor, her tomboyish act of climbing to meet him only serving to accentuate her hotness. She wore a red camisole and blue jeans.
Enid: Before you say anything, I’m sorry about yesterday.
Justin: Me too. I-I overreacted.
Enid: But I got you in trouble with your dad.
Justin: No biggie. I’ve done much worse, and he knows it.
Enid (hesitantly): S-So the two of us are—
Justin: Cool? Yeah, we are.
Enid: That’s great. I really didn’t want to screw up what we have.
Justin: What we have?
Enid (embarrassed): You know what I mean.
Justin (coyly): No, I don’t. What are you talking about?
Gavin DeGraw’s “Follow Through” begins playing in the scene.
Enid (blushing): Our friendship, you silly git! (grabbing a pillow and striking his head with it) That’s what I meant!
Justin (falling back onto bed): I thought you—(being struck again) Okay! Okay! Remember what happened last time you got carried away with the pillows?
Enid (calming down): Sorry. It’s just that I really like you.
Justin (rising from bed): Yeah?
Enid: I’ve been in this country only a few days, and so far you’ve been the only nice person to me. (sourly) The ones I thought were mates abandoned me at the rave.
Justin: Where’d you meet them?
Enid: On the flight over. They had just finished backpacking throughout Europe. We chatted the entire time and when we arrived they got a text from one of their mates about this rave. I was game so I went, but little would I know—
Justin (finishing): They’d leave you for dead.
Enid: They seemed like nice people. I guess appearances are deceiving.
Justin: You can trust me.
Enid: So you’ve got nothing to hide? No faults I should know about other than evading the law and getting stuck with that (her leg tapping his to indicate the ankle monitor)
Justin (feeling the overwhelming sensation of her bare skin against his): I-I really like you, too.
Enid (smiling): Is that so?
Justin: Y-Yes.
Enid: Well, if you’re willing to forgive me over my blunder yesterday, you can’t be that bad. (giving him a quick peck on the cheek) So when—and where—are you taking me out?
Justin (nervously): About that. I-I’m going for—
Enid (cutting him off): I should tell you that I’m leaving for London tomorrow. It’s family business. (seeing Justin’s sullen reaction) Cheer up! I’ll only be gone about two weeks. My brother always goes to Gay Pride in Manchester, and I come along with him.
Justin (balking): Your brother’s a fag?
Enid: Wow! I have a homophobe for an admirer. Do you have a problem with gay people?
Justin (realizing that he’s on thin ice): Nah! I’m cool with them. My dad’s one.
Enid: What a wicked coincidence that my infant nephew has a gay father—my brother. Isn’t it splendid how the world is becoming more accepting?
Justin (hesitantly): Y-Yeah.
Enid: Although I saw something on the telly this morning about Proposition 8. So awful that your country discriminates against gays!
Justin: Could we please stop talking about gays? It freaks me out.
Enid: All right. (pause) So how long will you be gone? And where are you going?
Justin: I-I’m visiting some relatives at this military camp.
Enid: Sounds exciting. I have a cousin at Sandhurst, and you wouldn’t believe all the training he went through, but he’s now very disciplined. (pause) And how long will you be away?
Justin: Uh—a few days.
Enid: Hopefully, you’ll be off punishment by then. I really want to see more of this city and (poking him in the side) would like you for a guide.
Justin (playfully): Stop that. It tickles.
Enid (her phone ringing and answering it): I’m out walking. (hearing Justin make an effectuated cough and she puts her hand on his mouth) That? Just someone passing on the road. (suddenly feeling her head knocked aside by the force of a pillow) Bloody hell! (to Justin) Would you watch what you’re doing? (into phone) someone just knocked me down—(trying to stifle her laughter as he takes a picture of her with his digital camera, the flash temporarily blinding her) I’m fine. I’ll be home soon. (snaps phone shut, grabs a pillow and strikes Justin with it) Are you trying to get me into trouble?
Justin: You’re not walking so you’re obviously somewhere you shouldn’t be.
Enid: No shit, Sherlock! I had better go before he sends the fire brigade.
Justin: Your dad sounds strict.
Enid: That wasn’t my dad. It was my brother.
Justin: The fag?
Enid (impetuously kissing him): if you want to see more of me, you’ll need a lesson in tolerance. (turning to the window and climbing through it): Ciao bello!
The taste of her lips was still burning on his. They were so sweet and tender, yet left an everlasting effect on him. He couldn’t believe how someone so angelic could be into him. It pained him to know that this was probably the last time he’d see her. He couldn’t bring himself to tell her the truth. I wish I knew how to contact her. She had just reached the ground and was heading into the ravine when he rashly stuck his head out the window.
Justin (shouting): Enid!
Enid (turning around): What?
Justin: How do I reach you?
Enid: Silly rabbit, didn’t I tell you? I’m your neighbor. I live next door—across the ravine—with my brother. Come round when you’re freed.
From her distance, she couldn’t see the flabbergasted expression on his face. Already in a hurry to avoid her brother’s whimsical wrath, she darted into the ravine, disappearing from his sight.
NATHAN AND BRENDON’S FIRST HOME, SILVER LAKE
Brendon arrived at the house in Silver Lake, seeing Nathan’s car in the drive. Using his keys, he entered and called out for Nathan, and not getting an answer, went through the house in search of him. He saw that was he was in the back, having a swim in the pool, Brendon’s mind immediately racing back to the disturbing image of Justin trying to kill him. Feeling uneasy, he rushed outside, his loud voice startling Nathan’s calm.
Brendon: Do you think it a good idea to be swimming?
Nathan (rising from the pool, water flowing over his chiseled torso): I’ve been careful. (grabbing towel to wipe down)
Brendon: Did you get any of my messages? I’ve been calling you all night. Are you still angry at me?
Nathan (candidly): When you are going to stop telling lies to me?
Brendon: Nate, this is not how we should handle this. You staying over here with me at the other house.
Nathan: It’s a shame you couldn’t call Vittoria over to keep you company.
Brendon (sighing): Nate—
Nathan: Who else is working for you?
Brendon: Please stop. You know this is a bunch of lies.
Nathan: Is it? You told me you didn’t know this woman.
Brendon: No, I don’t… not personally.
Nathan: Is that why she’s in your cell phone call list? (seeing Brendon’s surprised reaction) Yeah, I saw it. You’ve been talking to this woman. (shouting) Don’t you know she killed Peyton and attempted to kill us?
Brendon (his mind racing for a reason): Okay, I’ll level with you. She was an extra in a few of my films. She really wanted a speaking part but clearly had no talent. That’s when she got obsessive and somehow got my phone number. I never returned her calls. I think she wanted to get back at me for ignoring her. That’s why she went after Justin.
Nathan: Justin said you told him that Vittoria worked for you. He seemed to know more than I did.
Brendon: You should know not to believe everything he says.
Nathan: I don’t know what to believe.
Brendon: Just believe me. I love you. That’s all that should count.
Nathan: What about trust, Brendon? That’s got to count for something. Did you feel you couldn’t tell me about this woman?
Brendon: Nathan, you don’t understand.
Nathan: Why didn’t you tell Kyle about her? If she was harassing her, you should have notified the authorities.
Brendon: Kyle doesn’t need to know my business.
Nathan: And apparently neither do I.
Brendon: Oh, come on, Nathan. This is silly. We shouldn’t be arguing like this.
Nathan: And you shouldn’t be lying to me like this.
Brendon: I’m not lying!
Nathan: There are too many holes in your story, Brendon, and not nearly enough facts to support what you’re saying.
Brendon: So that’s it? You believe this tabloid and just wish to throw in the towel. You talk about trust, but what about love? I love you, and there’s nothing any rag could say that would make me feel otherwise.
Nathan: Brendon, you know I love you, but right now, I need my own space to process all this.
Brendon: What’s there to process?
Nathan: I don’t trust you. (tears coming into his eyes) Do you know how much disappointment I’ve suffered because you’ve kept secrets from me?
Brendon: This is about Justin, isn’t it? He’s going away soon.
Nathan: And that’s supposed to make it better? You lied to me about him. You led me to believe he was your nephew. And with this stuff in the press, I can’t bring myself to entirely trust you.
Brendon: So where does that leave us?
Nathan: I need a breather, Brendon… from you, from Justin, from all this chaos.
Brendon (angrily): I can’t believe you’re doing this. Throwing away what we have over this garbage! (storming away but then turns around) And let’s get one thing straight, Nathan, you aren’t exactly the paragon of honesty. You led me to think that things were over between you and Callum, but that didn’t stop you from sucking face with him on the pier last week. Yeah, I saw you two so don’t lie. I kept that to myself and still loved you with all my heart. Why can’t you do the same for me? (turns and leaves, hoping he had shamed Nathan)
With his own reference to Callum, Brendon knew the time was drawing near for his confrontation with the man who had put all this into motion.
ALLISON AND CHLOE’S HOME, LOS FELIZ, MORNING
After what she had seen last night, Allison had driven home, making it there five minutes before Chloe arrived. The image of her coming out Estrella’s home had deeply grated her nerves, but Allison knew she couldn’t take this out on Chloe. She probably felt jilted over Nathan’s arrival this morning and ran straight to Estrella, who I don’t trust one bit. What spell has she cast over her? I’ll handle her, but I must be gentle with Chloe.
They had a quiet evening, dinner and wine followed by a DVD on the couch. Chloe showed no visible signs of discomfort or guilt, although Allison was ironically becoming unnerved by how quiet and content she was before they went to bed. The next morning Allison had made breakfast, and Chloe came into the kitchen, calm and smiling. She sat at the table and took a sip of orange juice.
Allison (sitting in front of her, placing Chloe’s breakfast before her): Did you sleep well?
Chloe: I slept like a baby.
Allison (mildly concerned with the expression): Chloe, is there something you want to tell me?
Chloe: No, why do you ask?
Allison: I’m sorry about yesterday and the whole ordeal with Nathan.
Chloe: It’s okay. You’re his friend, and I know he’s going through a rough patch right now. It really does help to have someone to talk to.
Allison (taking note of the look in Chloe’s eyes): Yeah, I know. (reaching her hand across the table to touch Chloe’s) Listen, honey, I was thinking that perhaps we could go to couples therapy. Would you be fine with that?
Chloe (looking into Allison’s eyes): Of course. I think it would be good for the both of us.
Allison: I’m so glad you’re open to the idea.
Chloe: Why wouldn’t I be? I want everything to work out between us, Allison.
Allison: I do, too. I promise you I’m doing everything to make sure it does. (rising to kiss her) which is why I have an important appointment to get to. Let’s do lunch.
AUSTIN AND DRAKE’S HOME, WEST HOLLYWOOD, MORNING
Darke had risen late that morning to find Austin in the living with Jeremy Dodd. Last night Austin had told him he would be spending much of the day volunteering at GLEH (Gay Lesbian Elder Housing) with Jeremy Dodd. He’s really playing it up to his senior constituency vote. I can’t blame him for being politically ambitious. It’s in his DNA. He can be a great man, and I want to do everything that a good partner should. It was then that remembered about Priscilla and the DVD. He took his cell and went into the other room, closing the door. She answered on the second ring.
Drake: Did you get rid of the DVD?
Priscilla: And good morning to you, too, Sweet Cheeks. I did. It’s broken into several pieces and in the trash.
Drake (sighing): Thanks, Priscilla. I’m so glad you destroyed it.
Priscilla: Anything for you.
Drake: So anything new with you? I spoke with Allison at the Board meeting yesterday, and she said you were dating Godfrey.
Priscilla: I’ve got him wrapped around my finger. Last night I had something else wrapped around him.
Drake: TMI!
Priscilla: What does that mean?
Drake: Too much information! I know you’re using him to get dirt on Callum, but you don’t have to use sex.
Priscilla: Then there’d be no fun. Anyway, Godfrey called me earlier this morning to tell me that Callum will be away for two weeks. He’s staying at the mansion while he’s away, and that gives me ample time to pump him for more information.
Drake: Just be careful. I definitely don’t trust Callum after what he did to me last night.
Priscilla: How dare he attack you like that! Listen, why don’t we meet up at Starbucks later, and then you can help me shop for lingerie. I want to get something lacy and frilly for Godfrey.
Drake: TMI!
Priscilla: Let’s meet around noon at the Beverly Center.
KYLE’S HOME, WEST HOLLYWOOD, MORNING
The morning sunlight filtered into Kyle’s living room through the blinds. Bralen’s eyes squinted, and he turned on his side on the couch, fully opening them to the sight of Kyle pacing the living room. Stretching and yawning from a mere two hours of sleep, Bralen rose from the couch and zombie-walked into the bathroom to splash some cold water on his face.
Bralen: Did you get any sleep last night?
Kyle (shaking his head): No, I didn’t. I-I can’t sleep, knowing he’s out there by himself… not knowing what he’s possibly done.
Bralen (coming over to him): Kyle, you need to rest. You’re not doing yourself any good.
Kyle (urgently): I need to be awake just in case he calls. You know, Bralen, you didn’t have to stay here.
Bralen: It’s fine. I wasn’t about to leave you alone last night. You’re an absolute wreck.
Kyle: Would you like some coffee? I could certainly use a cup.
Bralen: You sit down. I’ll make it. After all, it’s the least I can do.
Kyle: Thanks again for everything.
Bralen: No problem.
Kyle (following him into the kitchen): I really appreciate what you did for Heath.
Bralen (nearly dropping coffeepot as he thinks Kyle is referring to taking Heath to rehab): W-What?
Kyle: When you brought him home after his attack.
Bralen (sighing): Oh, that… I would have done that for anyone.
Kyle: You’re such a good person.
Bralen continued preparing the coffee, fighting with his consciousness to tell Kyle the truth. He looked over to see Kyle, sitting at the table, his head resting precariously in his hands. This is really tearing him up. Just a few words from me, and I could relive him. He wouldn’t be in all this pain over an uncertainty. He knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that Heath was alive and safe in Malibu. I should tell him. Bralen then looked over when he heard sniffling and saw tears coming from Kyle’s eyes.
Bralen (placing a cup of coffee before him): Here, drink this. I really think you should lie down. I’m fully awake now so I can wait here should he call.
Kyle (taking a sip): I can’t lose him, Bralen. Not when we were moving back together.
Bralen (confused): What?
Kyle (shaking his head): It’s not what you’re thinking. (holding back tears) I-I had forgiven him, fell back in love with him, and I was going to ask him to marry me.
Bralen: But he’s with Tristan!
Kyle: According to Callum, Tristan’s back to his old ways, sleeping around. That’s probably what sent Heath over the edge.
Bralen (sotto voce): What literally nearly did. (aloud) So you were going to win him back in spite of what he did to you?
Kyle: I love him, Bralen, and in a relationship it works both ways. It wasn’t like I didn’t do anything wrong. The only reason he got involved with Tristan was because I was never around anymore. I was always working and never had time for him.
Bralen: That’s not an excuse for infidelity.
Kyle: No, it isn’t, but Heath’s a very emotional person. He needs physical affirmation of love. He always loves for us to cuddle on the couch (laughing) and that’s as G-rated as I can get telling you. He’s not just sexual. He’s affectionate, always making breakfast (smiling to himself), especially those blueberry pancakes, which I’ve missed for several weeks. He always makes too many of them just like his mom. He always said he was doing it in preparation for a big family with me.
Bralen: What?
Kyle: He and I would foolishly talk about kids—usually when were both drunk on wine. He had dreams of being Angelina Jolie.
Bralen: What? Being married to Brad Pitt?
Kyle (laughing): I’m sure that thought crossed his mind as well, but he wanted to adopt many kids and give them much love. He even wanted me to donate my sperm to a surrogate for us to raise the baby. We would name it either Kyle or Kylie. How corny is that?
Bralen (forcing a laugh): Yeah, it is.
Kyle (tears coming to his eyes): I thought Heather would be a better name for a girl.
As Bralen listened, he realized just how much Kyle felt for Heath. It was a magical bond that seemed to connect them from distances apart. Despite the fear of uncertainty, Kyle was still willing to love unconditionally, even after he had been terribly wronged. Yet as Bralen saw him cry—something which heretofore he hadn’t seen Kyle do—he felt compelled to do something to calm his worries.
Bralen: Kyle, this is not your fault.
Kyle: It is. I put my career before him.
Bralen: I’m sure he knew you loved him.
Kyle: It’s funny that I didn’t start to show it until after I nearly lost him. You don’t know how scared I was when you called me and told me what happened to him. In that moment, I realized what I could have lost.
Bralen: But you didn’t lose him.
Kyle: All I ever wanted was to have someone to love me… someone to come home to, who just enjoyed being with me. I had all that in Heath. We’re soul mates. I know it. I feel it.
Bralen (reaching hand across the table to take Kyle’s): I’m here for you, Kyle. Anything you need just let me know. (feeling the warmth and squeeze of Kyle’s hand in return)
The tactile sensation of Kyle’s hand had Bralen suddenly aglow. He had emotionally connected with everything Kyle had said about his ideal partner—who had all the ideals which Bralen likewise sought, though he did not share in Kyle’s opinion that Heath was the candidate. You could do so much better, Kyle. I could help you through this ordeal and make you see that Heath is all wrong for you. It’s not like you know him like I do, especially the reason I can never forgive him. I know you wouldn’t feel the same way about him if you knew that.
Kyle (still holding Bralen’s hand): Listen, Bralen, there’s something else I really need to tell you.
The next several minutes sealed the deal for Bralen. Kyle told him that Heath had confessed in the letter to drugging him with the steroids. And yet you’re still singing his praises before me. You’re willing to still love him after knowing that he not only toyed with your life but mine as well. On some level I wish I were the recipient of these deep feelings you mistakenly have for him. I should have let the bastard jump off the cliff, but I won’t have his blood on my hands. I helped him out as best I could, but I’ll be damned if I let him get away with this crime and still have your love. He took away my dream life. The least I can do is return the favor.
Bralen (effectuating surprise): I-I don’t know how to digest this, Kyle.
Kyle: I’m only telling you this so that you understand how worried this has me. He’s clearly not himself and needs help. (suddenly rising) Which is why I’m going to do everything within my power to find him.
Bralen: And I’ll do everything I can to help you.
Hearing that, Kyle hugged him, taking Bralen’s announced intent of cooperation as a suitable sign of his forgiving Heath, but were he to have looked into Bralen’s mind, Kyle would definitely have recoiled.
ESTRELLA’S HOME, BEVERLY HILLS
Estrella was at home on the phone with one of her celebrity clients.
Estrella: Lindsay, I know it’s not what you want, but it’s court-ordered. You only have a few more weeks. (pause) Aren’t they pampering you there? (pause) Just take it easy. Do what they suggest, and I’ll see what I can do about getting you an early release. (hearing her doorbell ring) I’ve got to go. Don’t forget to tip the nurse for letting you use her cell.
Estrella snapped the phone shut and went to open the door. She immediately wished she hadn’t , for the stern face of Allison Trudeau greeted her on the other side.
Estrella (snappishly): What do you want?
Allison: You didn’t listen to me. I told you to stay away from Chloe.
Estrella: First off, I don’t take orders from you, and secondly she came here to me after you had done something to upset her.
Allison: And I bet you were all too happy to lend her a shoulder to cry on… or some other available body part.
Estrella (beginning to close the door): That’s it. I’ve had enough of your snide remarks.
Allison (sticking her foot in the doorway to prevent its closing): I’m not finished with you yet.
Estrella: Then have your damn say and leave.
Allison (coming inside): I just need you to keep your distance from Chloe. Give us time to work out our problems.
Estrella (sitting on couch, crossing her legs): Chloe and I spoke for hours on end yesterday, and from what I understand, it’s you who’s putting the distance in your relationship.
Allison (angrily): You don’t know the first thing about our relationship!
Estrella: Chloe told me everything. How your career came first, how you never wanted to carry a child, and how she feels she comes second in your life.
Allison: She would never say that to you of all people.
Estrella: We both know she’s past her breaking point, especially since she kidnapped Callum’s son. Right now she needs a lot of support and attention, and if you’re not careful, you’re going to lose her.
Allison: Is that supposed to be some threat?
Estrella (smugly): More of a certainty if you ask me. She’s a fantastic woman who deserves to be loved unconditionally and not tossed to the side when a former flame shows up on your doorstep.
Allison: What the hell are you talking about?
Estrella: She told me about Nathan Moynihan’s visit.
Allison: W-What?
Estrella: We did talk for over five hours.
Allison (aggressively approaching her): For your sake, I hope that’s all you did.
Estrella (remaining seated, knowledge of her condition): You shouldn’t worry. Nothing else happened, though I really learned much listening to her pour her heart out. She clearly has this misplaced sense of loyalty to you, and you could care less.
Allison (bending down to get into her face): You just stay the hell away from her, or don’t you remember what happed to you the last time I caught you with her.
Estrella: I’m not scared of you.
Allison: You should be. I’ve taken on that bastard Callum many times so I can easily handle a trollop like you. (she turns, leaves the house, slamming the door in her wake)
CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES
Enid made it home with Callum none the wiser that she had really slipped from the estate. She went to her room and fell asleep for nearly four hours. When she awoke, she found Talon in the sitting room, reading a book on medieval archaeology. Surreptitiously creeping upon him, she placed her fingertips to his neck, partially startling him.
Talon: What has you all flighty?
Enid (sitting in front of him): Nothing. Just wanted to check on you.
Talon: Is that so?
Enid: Where’s Callum?
Talon: I knew you would introduce him into the conversation.
Enid: I expected to walk in on you two making up.
Talon: Spit it out, Enid. What is it you want? You know I can read you like this (holding up the book).
Enid: What happened between you two?
Talon: I made a big mistake.
Enid: He’ll forgive you. He loves you.
Talon: I know that, but you know how stubborn your brother is.
Enid: What exactly did you do?
Talon: Where do I start?
Enid: That bad, eh? You want me to talk to him?
Talon: No, Love, it’s best you stay out of this.
Enid (going to hug him): But you know I can get through to him. (kissing his cheek) I convinced him to follow you to the airport, and I can likewise persuade him to forgive you.
Talon (laughing): Good luck with that.
Enid: Fancy a walk?
Talon: No thanks. Don’t get lost. These hills are very confusing.
Enid left the house, immediately hearing her brother’s voice speaking to someone around the bend of the car in the drive. She was about to interrupt him with her presence, but what she heard and consequently saw made her stiffen in her tracks.
*
Brendon had just left the house in Silver Lake and was on his way home when he passed Callum’s home and couldn’t resist the urge to confront his enemy. Putting his car into reverse, he drove back to the front of the estate and parked on the side of the narrow street. The security guard soon came up to him, but he was spared this interrogation when Callum suddenly appeared, decked out in designer shirt and short, apparently gearing up for a run.
Callum (coming over to him, sending guard away): Brendon, what a surprise seeing you. I reckon this isn’t a social call.
Brendon: I know you’re behind this tabloid scandal.
Callum (feigning ignorance): Whatever do you mean?
Brendon: You have them writing this trash!
Callum: Don’t you mean the truth? You were Vittoria’s pimp, blackmailing her into that lifestyle after witnessing her kill Rudolpho Giordano.
Brendon (incredulously): She told you that?
Callum: I didn’t exactly have to force it out her. You might say the information just fell into my hands.
Brendon: No one’s going to believe a single word from this rag. The Hollycove Tribune always publishes sensational drivel without a shred of evidence to back up their claims.
Callum: Yet this time we both know they’re telling the truth, and as for that part about lack of evidence, I do think you’re wrong there. Vittoria has been most helpful from the grave. Her tell-all diary just might get posthumous recognition.
Brendon (surprised): Diary?
Callum (smiling): I see there were some secrets she even kept from you. Of course it’s a taste of ironic justice that she’s helping me bring you down since you’re the reason both she and Peyton are dead—supplying her with the gun and bullets. T’is pity she was an incompetent cow and botched your plan to have me killed.
Brendon: I won’t let you get away with this! If I have to take care of you with my bare hands—
Callum: Save the rough play for your wayward son, Justin.
Brendon (gritting teeth): Don’t you say his name! I know you had something to do with his disappearance when I was in that coma.
Callum: Perhaps he was too occupied running his daddy’s afterhours business?
Brendon: Very funny, but I’ll be the one left laughing when I take you down.
Callum: Speaking of Justin, I should let you know that a special copy of the Hollycove Tribune was sent to Child Protective Services. I’m sure after reading it, they’ll be wondering what exactly happens at your residence. Is it Nathan who’s molesting him or has his own father been peddling him off to the patrons of his underground sex operation?
Brendon (punching Callum, knocking him to the ground): You sick son-of-a-bitch! You stay the hell away from my son. I swear I’ll make you pay for this.
The security guard came over and tackled Brendon as Callum rose from the ground, dusting himself off. Brendon’s hands were forced behind his back as Callum came up to him, face to face, his penetrating eyes staring into the angry face of his restrained enemy.
Callum: You’re the third Outrunner to strike me within a day.
Brendon (trying to break free): It’s good to know the members were well-trained under my leadership.
Callum: Which will be coming to an end along with everything else that means anything to you. (gesturing to guard to release him) Now get the hell off my property!
Brendon: This isn’t over, Callum. (turning to go) Not by a longshot!
Callum: Of course not, Brendon. It’s just beginning.
He watched Brendon leave the property before turning around to see the petrified image of his sister, standing behind the car, staring at him in disbelief.
Callum (coming over): I’m sorry you had to witness that. You must have formed a horribly biased opinion about Americans, having seen two of them openly attack me.
Though she knew her brother most likely provoked these reactions from people, it was not the violence per se that had shocked her but rather the identity of the man who had inflicted it. She recognized him from the other morning when she was hidden under Justin’s bed when he had found marijuana in the room. It was in the present moment that Enid fully realized her predicament. The man was Justin’s father, who clearly had just waged war with her brother. She immediately knew her current situation bore an uncanny resemblance to the heroine of a Shakespearean tragedy. Fortunately for her, their imminent trip to England would postpone the bloody fifth act.
*
Enrique Iglesia’s “Addicted” closes out this episode over the following montages:
Rodrigo has placed the briefcase of money beside the door. He places all of Callum’s autographed books into his backpack, and he takes an autographed photo of Callum, which he brings to his lips. Heath sits in his room at rehab, a picture of Tristan from his wallet sitting in his lap. He stares at it, realizing he will do whatever it takes to win him back. Bralen makes it home to Santa Monica, his mind still on the events of the day, particularly the conflicting emotions within him about his burgeoning sense of admirable love for Kyle along with his unforgiving anger toward Heath. He had just driven Heath’s car from the clinic in Malibu and parked it into his garage. He covered the vehicle with a huge mask and pressed the button for the garage to close shut, blocking out another part of Heath from public view. Bralen would no longer take any chance of Kyle finding out about Heath.
TO BE CONTINUED…
