The Victorious and the Relentless
Episode 33: “Payback Is a Bitch”
Cast of New Characters (for this episode)
Lindsay: lively personality, redhead, mid-20’s, celebrity, brown eyes, rebellious
The haunting sound of Keane’s “She Has No Time” opens this episode as Chloe drives recklessly away from her home. Feeling crushed and inundated with mixed feelings of doubt and confusion, not knowing what to make of the scene she had witnessed. All she knew was that Allison had transgressed a boundary that even she would never do. Yes, she caught me with Estrella, but that’s different. I’m secure in my sexuality. I wouldn’t cross and certainly not kiss a friend who I knew was emotionally attached to someone else. How could you do this to me, to us, Allison? I was always there for you, yet you never could find a moment to be there for me… and now I see where your true feelings lie… who you would rather be with. These thoughts ran through Chloe’s mind as her foot pushed harder into the accelerator. She was lucky not to get into an accident let alone be pulled over by a police officer.
Her car magically found its way onto a familiar street in Beverly Hills, one which she had visited frequently when feelings of despair led her away from home. Turning off the engine, she cried once more, amazed that her eyes could still produce tears. She angrily struck the wheel, the sound of the horn nearly making an elderly couple jump out their skin as they walked the sidewalk. Soon she found the strength to open the door, step out onto the street, cross it, and bang her fists on Estrella’s door.
Estrella (opening it): Okay! Okay! (seeing the red-eyed woman before her) Chloe?
Chloe: You were right about her.
Estrella (confused): What?
Chloe: Allison. (weeping)
All it took was for Chloe to utter that name, and Estrella kindly allowed her entrance, cradling her fragile body convulsing with emotion. Feeling secure in her embrace, Chloe’s head pressed against Estrella’s bosom, her nose at once inhaling the exotic and no doubt expensive fragrance she wore.
Estrella: Here, sit down on the couch. I’ll get you some tea.
Chloe: No, just stay with me. (begging) Please.
Estrella (cradling her head): I’ll be here as long as you like.
Chloe pulled herself away from Estrella’s body to look her directly in her eyes, reading the warmth and compassion in them. Estrella instinctively knew what was coming next, but was nonetheless taken aback when the woman feverishly placed her mouth upon hers. Estrella knew it was simply a reaction to whatever argument had happened between her and Allison, yet she couldn’t find the willingness to push Chloe away. Both their emotions were raw, Chloe’s due to Allison’s duplicity and Estrella’s out of her inability to reach Tristan and alert him to the new development in their lives.
The kiss became more intense as Chloe’s lips and tongue took to seizing total control of Estrella whose own libido was markedly aroused. Upon separating their mouths, each looked briefly into the other’s eyes, knowing that they were to go beyond the point of no return.
Estrella: Are you sure about this?
Chloe (grasping Estrella’s head and pulling it forward): Yes. (passionately kisses her)
The affirmative expression given, Estrella’s hands took to task, pulling Chloe’s shirt over her head before both bodies moved in synch toward the couch. The soft cushions felt inviting to Chloe’s back as she lay upon it, Estrella’s sensual frame soon gliding upon her, supple breasts exposed and ready for titillation. Chloe’s mouth hungrily latched on the nipple, her clever tongue running the circumference of it before her lips pursed around it, pulling in for suction. Estrella felt a flood of pleasure rush through her, at once wondering if she would receive the same reaction in several months’ time should she opt for nursing. Her mouth released a moan that was cut off by Chloe giving her another kiss, her hands cradling Estrella’s stunning face.
Estrella’s hands had moved elsewhere… to a familiar realm of her body where she desired to increase her gratification. Her fingertips seemingly on fire, she grinded herself further into Chloe who continued kissing her mouth and caressing her breasts. It took only a second for Chloe to realize what Estrella was doing and soon her own hand journeyed to find companionship with Estrella’s eventful digits. Their fingers crossed paths, eventually delighting in this carnal dalliance that threatened to send Estrella over the brink of total ecstasy. It was with granting Estrella this first orgasm of the afternoon that Chloe felt a sense of retribution had at last been served.
ALLISON AND CHLOE’S HOME, LOS FELIZ, SATURDAY AFTERNOON
Allison had managed to get Nathan onto the couch before she took her cell phone and tried to call Chloe. It immediately went to voicemail. She knew Chloe wouldn’t answer it and was attempted to hop into her car and go in search of her, but she didn’t want to leave Nathan alone. What if he wakes and tries to drive home? He may get into an accident. Oh, what a mess this is! At that moment, she heard heavy footsteps on the porch outside and was surprised to see Austin, who peeked inside.
Allison: What the hell do you want?
Austin: Is that any way to talk to your new president? (suddenly seeing Nathan sprawled on the couch) Nathan was not at the election this morning. I guess he got the party started all on his own.
Allison: If you came to gloat, you can—
Austin: Look, Allison, it’s time to bury the hatchet. I won this election fair and square.
Allison: I’ll never believe that.
Austin: Suit yourself. I’m not in the habit of stealing votes like you Liberals’ presidential nominee did with Michigan and Florida primary votes. Anyway, I was merely extending an olive branch and came to inform you of my plans as the newly appointed LAOR leader.
Allison: Whatever you’ve got to say, I don’t want to hear it. (Nathan groans on couch, shifts his body, and falls on the floor, prompting Allison to go to him)
Austin: I should have known better. You’re set in your ways. I’m going to banish Callum from the club, but if you’re not careful, I’ll start campaigning to have you removed.
Allison (managing to put Nathan in a chair): You wouldn’t dare!
Austin: Try me! Everyone knows you can’t hold your temper around Callum. All I need to do is have you two duke it out in front of Jeremy Dodd and the Emeritus Council.
Allison: You really have them fooled.
Austin (ignoring her): Or I could I just put Chloe in front of Callum’s baby and watch her go crazy.
Allison (gesturing to slap him): You bastard!
Austin (grabbing her wrist before she strikes him): I’m not Callum. (squeezing her wrist)
Alison (crying in pain): Let go of me!
Austin (ignoring her plea): You’re not running the show, Allison. I am, and it’s time you realize it.
Allison (mildly shouting): I said let me go!
It was at that moment Austin felt a slight tap on his shoulder. Taken aback, he turned his head only to have his face smacked down by a fist, belonging to Nathan, who had silently risen from the chair. Austin fell to the floor just as Nathan came over to Allison.
Nathan: A-Are you okay?
Allison (rubbing her wrist): I’ll be all right.
Austin (rising from the floor): Didn’t know you had it in you, Moynihan.
Nathan: I think you should go.
Austin (getting in his face): And I think you need to sober up. Once you do, you’ll realize what a big mistake you’ve just made.
Allison: Get the hell out my house!
Austin (staring at them both): Big changes are ahead. You should both be mindful of that.
With that said, he solemnly turned, forcefully pushed the front door open, and made his grand exit. Nathan rushed over to Allison, impetuously hugged her, his hand cradling her head to his brawny chest. This time Allison couldn’t resist his inviting warmth of friendship, for her eyes now filled with tears over the mess which her life had become from her struggles with Nathan and Chloe to an impending battle with Austin.
BRENDON AND NATHAN’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, SATURDAY LATE AFTERNOON
Brendon made it home, still enraged over his defeat earlier that day. Austin acted all civil upon the definitive announcement of his victory after the recount. It was a bunch of bull. I’m sure he’ll come round eventually to gloat, and when he does I’ll have a surprise for him. I wonder if our new president knows he’s married to a porn star. I just need to find the info on it. One he got to the computer, Brendon began malevolently searching for the Jizz studio that had produced Drake’s sex video, eventually finding success after about fifteen minutes of sifting through Google responses. He was interrupted by Justin’s entrance into his room, prompting him to quickly switch off the monitor in an ironic switch of child discovering parent viewing online porn.
Justin: Dad?
Brendon (spinning around): Yes, Justin. (noticing Justin’s face and rising) What is it?
Justin: C-Can I talk with you about something?
Brendon (urgently coming over to him): You’re not in any trouble, are you?
Justin: No, it’s about my mom.
Brendon (sighing): You miss her. (coming to hug him) You’re not alone. I miss her, too. You still have me.
Justin: I want to see her.
Brendon (exhaling): I don’t know if we’ll have time before school starts to visit her grave in Minnesota.
Justin: I don’t mean her. (pause) I mean my real mother.
Brendon (confused): What are you talking?
Justin: I know the truth. Eileen was your sister.
Brendon: B-But how—
Justin: Nathan told me.
Brendon (angrily): He what! When?
Justin: He came by early this morning. He told me everything.
Brendon: That wasn’t for him to do.
Justin (seeing his father totally infuriated): It’s okay. I just want to see her.
Brendon (angrily moving to the room’s exit): We’ll have to talk about this later. I need to—
Justin (following him into the living room): No, I want to talk about this now.
Caught off guard by his son’s adamant tone, Brendon wasn’t prepared for the additional sound of shattering glass that was quickly followed by Justin’s simultaneous cry and fall to the floor. It happened in a split second. Brendon saw the brick lying next to the frightened boy’s body. He looked outside through the jagged glass to see the retreating figure of Rodrigo.
KYLE’S HOME, WEST HOLLYWOOD, SUNDAY MORNING
Portishead’s “Over” opens the scene as Kyle rises from bed, his face a total mess, his hair unkempt. A half-empty bottle of vodka sits on the stand next to the bed, nearly provoking him to take a drink before he goes into the bathroom, the sound of the shower soon flowing through the house. He had dreamt of Heath again, just as he had done for the past two weeks. His splitting headache only made matters worse. As the warm water pelted against him, he thought back to the last time he and Heath had made love in there. I had been so disgusted with myself then, but I did make him feel good in that moment. Had he sensed my discomfort then? If only I had been there more for him! Maybe he wouldn’t have…
As he didn’t know where Heath was or what he had done, this great uncertainty gripped him as he leaned his head against the wall. His legs gave way to his weight, and he fell into the corner, hoping for the water to overtake him, washing away the tears that sprang to his eyes at each infinitesimal thought of his lover from the way Heath’s eyebrows furrowed to the little crinkle in his nose. He wanted to shout Heath’s name at the top of his lungs and hear his gentle voice respond from the other room. He wanted nothing more than to walk out and smell the scent of blueberry pancakes cooking, enter the kitchen, and find his breakfast already prepared, a smile on the chef’s face. Through some unknown reserve of strength, he managed to get out the shower, clothe, and trudge into the kitchen to make some coffee.
In spite of it being late summer, the place felt cold. It was Heath. He always brought a feeling of warmth to our home. Where are you? I need you so much. In reaching for the pot, he accidentally knocked it over, burning himself. His loud cry coincided with a knock on the door followed shortly by Bralen’s entrance.
Kyle (surprised): Bralen, how’d you—
Bralen: The door was unlocked.
Kyle: I don’t know where my head is. I thought I locked it last night. Heath would have a fit over that.
Bralen (looking at him): I heard you. What happened?
Kyle: I burned myself.
Bralen: It looks pretty bad. I’ll get something for it. (heading to the bathroom)
Kyle: What brings you by?
Bralen (coming back into the room with ointment and gauze): I brought you some breakfast. (sitting next to him on the couch and applying the ointment to Kyle’s hand)
Kyle (jerking back from the touch of Bralen’s skin upon his): Uh, Bralen, I can do it myself.
Bralen (persistently): It’ll be easier if you let me.
It had been ages since he had felt the sensation of another man, and he knew that Bralen was good for stress relief as evidenced from their interaction on the couch the other day. That was wrong of me. I couldn’t go through with it, knowing my heart belongs to Heath, but if I’m honest with myself, I could jump Bralen’s bones right now. I know he wouldn’t mind.
Bralen: There. All done. (noticing Kyle in a daze) Kyle? (snapping his fingers) Wake up. Are you there?
Kyle: Sorry. I blacked out for a moment.
Bralen: Probably low blood sugar. Have you had anything to eat?
Kyle: No, I haven’t.
Bralen (shoving a paper bag at him): There you go. They were out of donuts. I know how much you cops love them.
Kyle: That’s a silly stereotype. Don’t know how it started—(cutting himself off as he pulls out a blueberry muffin)
Bralen (noticing Kyle’s reserve): Kyle? What’s wrong?
Kyle: N-Nothing. Heath used to make blueberry muffins if he knew I would be in a hurry.
Bralen: I didn’t mean to upset you.
Kyle: It’s okay. You didn’t know.
Bralen: Have you heard from him?
Kyle (sighing): No, I haven’t. I don’t know what to do. No one’s heard from him. I stay up late at night, hoping he’ll show up. I just need a sign from him. (rising) I need some coffee.
Bralen: I’ll get it. You sit and take a bite of that expensive muffin. I’m sure it’s not as good as those Heath makes, but—
It was at that moment that Kyle saw the ring lying on the tabletop. He picked it up, read the inside inscription, and tears prematurely sprang to his eyes. It was indeed a sign from Heath, and Kyle could barely contain his emotion, having interrupted Bralen.
Bralen: What is it, Kyle?
Kyle (holding up ring): It’s Heath’s ring. It wasn’t here earlier. He must be nearby. He’s come home!
Bralen: Uh, Kyle, I jut found it in the couch cushions. I thought it was one of yours.
Kyle felt as if he had been hit by a ton of bricks. In that split second, he had felt a burst of hope that Heath had found his way back to him. Heath wouldn’t have taken off that ring unless he meant the end of us. Could this really be the end? Had Kyle looked up just that second, he would have seen the sly facade on Bralen’s face which read: This is the end of you and Heath and the beginning of you and me.
CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, SUNDAY MORNING
Priscilla had at last managed to get that elusive key from Godfrey, having seized it when he had fallen asleep from too much drinking. Adorned in a frilly black negligee, she immediately stole upstairs to Callum’s bedroom, gingerly putting the key in the lock and entering, half-expecting to see bats emerge from the ceiling and evil elves going to task to protect their master’s inner sanctum. Instead, what she found was an ornate bedroom. She loved the four poster bed and the white Chantilly lace of the canopy. At first glance, there appeared to be nothing incriminating. This did little to diminish Priscilla’s growing curiosity as she crept farther into the room.
Over two months of living here and he’s not unpacked much. He’s certainly not like my Peyton! She walked over to a walk-in closet where she found some boxes. She rummaged through them, finding trinkets. She then went over to the closet, pushing the door. There were several pictures scattered atop the vanity, ones of Tristan, Heath, Kyle. The one that caught her eye was a photo of Callum with Nathan, the image encased in a Waterford crystal frame. It wasn’t just the way Callum had chosen to encase the photo but rather the image itself that upset Priscilla. A shirtless Nathan, his well-defined abs and chest in full display, stood next to Callum with the expanse of a park in the background. It had been a while since she had seen Nathan’s partial nudity, the last time being at last year’s LAOR beach party when he had played Frisbee and volleyball in the sand. I must give Callum credit. He’s going after someone I can never have with his hands all over Nathan like he’s a piece of meat. Fine ass piece of meat, I’ll admit, but it’s Brendon’s! There’s really nothing in here. I should probably head back downstairs.
She quickly left the closet, making sure to leave no evidence of her presence, although she was very tempted to steal the photo of a bare-chested Nathan for those lonely nights when a sexual urge may sweep over her. I wonder if Godfrey looked that good in his youth. He at least has the passion of a stallion thanks to Viagra. Exiting the room, she made certain to lock the door and had made it only a few feet before she was startled by the unexpected presence of Godfrey, clad in a white tanktop and black boxers and dark socks, in the hallway.
Godfrey: What are you doing up here? (seeing her quickly slip the key from his vision)
Priscilla: I—I just wanted to freshen up.
Godfrey: But your room is downstairs.
Priscilla: I—I thought you were sleeping.
Godfrey: Is that why you took the key from me?
Priscilla (feigning ignorance): What key?
Godfrey (candidly): The one on your person. (coming to her) Hand it over.
Priscilla: I don’t know what you’re talking about, but you’re more than welcome to search me. (winking)
Godfrey (reaching onto her, pulling her closer to him): You minx! (rubbing his mouth upon her necks as she unleashes a giddy laugh) Where is it? (his lips brushing over the top of her buxom breasts)
Priscilla: I guess you’ll have to go on a scavenger hunt.
Godfrey: But I’ve already found the treasure.
Priscilla: And have been plundering it for the past two weeks. (pulling his face deeper into her breasts as she kisses his forehead) Why don’t we take this downstairs? I can already feel you getting excited again. (shrieking as she feels the sting of her buttocks, the reaction to Godfrey playfully spanking it)
Godfrey: You’re being a naughty girl.
Priscilla (teasingly pushing him away and rushing to the stairs): You’ll have to catch me if you want to find any booty on me. (starts descending the stairs)
Godfrey: Oh, you’ve got plenty! (starts rushing down the stairs)
Priscilla squealed with laughter as she made it to the ground floor, the key falling to the floor, a metallic thud echoing throughout the foyer. Delighted that he wasn’t entirely upset with her for her duplicity in getting the key, Priscilla decided to play along with the sex game she started. He’s still under the influence of alcohol and Madame Ashland. With a little more time, I’ll have him eating out the palm of my hand… and perhaps another body part. She saw him reach down to pick up the key, and in that instant, she loosened the sash of her lingerie, Godfrey gripped in a moment of erotic hunger as his eyes feasted on her exposed breasts.
Godfrey: You vixen!
Priscilla: Am I to be punished for this?
Godfrey (rushing up to her): You bet. (once more burying his face in her breasts)
Priscilla (still feeling the hardness of his erection): Let’s get you out of these. (her hands reaching round to tug down his boxers, his buttocks now exposed)
She felt her neck nibbled on and soon lost herself in the titillating sensation of it, closing her eyes as a moment of ecstasy overtook her. With Godfrey having his back to the front door, neither saw it open, yet both heard the high-pitched sound of a young woman screaming in the doorway. Priscilla opened her eyes in time to see Callum come to the rescue of the shocked youth. Godfrey turned around and nearly keeled from shock at the open-mouthed expressions of both Callum and Enid. Priscilla pulled the negligee closer to her body, consciously thinking: Well, now I know what it must have felt like for Adam and Eve.
NATHAN AND BRENDON’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, SUNDAY MORNING
Brendon had brought Justin breakfast in bed. The boy had been shaken over the attack and had been given a sedative to make him sleep soundly. Brendon had not called the police, not wanting to draw any unnecessary attention to himself. I’ve got to figure out what to do about Rodrigo. That punk means trouble. He didn’t have much time to think about it, for the doorbell rang, and upon opening it, there stood the culprit in the flesh.
Brendon: You’ve got some nerve showing up here after what you’ve done.
Rodrigo: You’re one to talk. Consider yourself lucky. That was my Plan B.
Brendon: You nearly killed my son, you bastard!
Rodrigo: I know it was you who torched my place.
Brendon: I don’t know what you’re talking about, but if you don’t leave right now, I’ll have you prosecuted for trespassing.
Rodrigo: I’m not afraid of the cops. Just what did you think you were gonna gain from it? I obviously wasn’t home when it happened.
Brendon (pulling out his cell phone): I always make good on my word.
Rodrigo (snatching phone away, throwing it to the ground): As do I. You better watch yo’ back.
Brendon: Is that a threat?
Rodrigo: Consider it advice. (stepping onto the cell phone)
Brendon (gesturing to strike Rodrigo but withdraws his hand when he sees a car pulling into the drive): Just get the fuck off my property!
Austin (having gotten out the car and approached them): What’s going on here? Another pity party for you, Brendon? Your defeat has you a bit down? (glancing over at Rodrigo) I suppose you would need a support system with the crushing blow you were dealt at the polls.
Brendon: Rodrigo was just about to leave.
Austin (to Rodrigo): Where is Callum?
Rodrigo (scoffing): How the hell should I know?
Austin: He’s your boss. As president of Los Angeles Outrunners, I need to know the status of a celebrity for our fundraiser. Your boss was given that assignment.
Brendon: What’s wrong, Austin? Things already not going well for you?
Austin (to Rodrigo): Give your boss a message from me. He’s out of this club effective immediately.
Rodrigo: You can’t do that!
Austin: I’m cleaning shop, Rodrigo. It’s part of the job. Get rid of all the garbage. (to Brendon) And you’ll be next on the list. Allison and Nathan are no longer on the Board.
Brendon: Since when?
Austin: Since they attacked me yesterday.
Rodrigo (answering his ringing cell phone): Hello. Mr. Sutcliffe! (seeing the reactions of the two men) I’ll be right there. (snaps phone shut and runs away)
Austin (once Rodrigo is gone): Looks like your neighbor may be back in town.
Brendon: So now I’ve got two assholes to deal with.
Austin (getting in his face): Believe me, I’m not the asshole you want to fuck with.
Brendon: Nice play on words. Is there some reason for your visit?
Austin: I need the LAOR President’s Book. I was told you had it.
Brendon: I’d rather burn it than hand it over to you.
Austin: Fine by me. I’ll make my own rules. I can run this club better than you in my sleep.
Brendon: The only reasonable thing I’ve heard you say so far is your intent to remove Callum.
Austin: As well as you, Allison, and Nathan.
Brendon: None of us are going anywhere.
Austin: Well, I’m sure you’ll be off to prison soon.
Brendon: I see that you haven’t read that those allegations against me were completely unfounded. Someone has come forth as the real—
Austin: How much did you have to shelf out for that?
Brendon (getting in his face): You thought I was as good as gone, but as I said, I’m not going anywhere, and if I have my way, it’s you that’ll be going—on a one way ticket to hell! Now get the fuck off my property before I have you arrested for trespassing.
Austin: Your threats don’t bother me, Brendon. You just need to cool down. Call over one of your hooker boys and chill. (turning to go) Just bring the President’s Book to the potluck on Thursday. That’s the official victory celebration.
His back to Brendon, Austin heard the front door slam shut.
CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, SAME TIME
Rodrigo (rushing up to Callum): What is it, Mr. Sutcliffe? You sounded very distressed on the phone.
Callum: I need you to handle someone for me.
Rodrigo: Who? That lesbian bitch? I’ve been dying to get her for you.
Callum: I’m well aware of that, but right now I want you to cater to another equally annoying female.
Rodrigo: Who?
At that moment, Priscilla came into the foyer, a robe draped around her, a glass of bourbon in her hand.
Priscilla (noticing Rodrigo, her eyes feverishly lapping up his muscled body): Who’s this handsome—?
Callum: This is Rodrigo Caldozar. He’s come to escort you to your car.
Priscilla: Pardon me?
Callum: That’s a subtle way of my telling you to get the hell out my home!
Priscilla: How dare you talk to me that way!
Callum: And how dare you and Godfrey set up production of On Golden Porn in my home! My poor sister may need therapy after what she saw.
Priscilla: It was two consenting adults who were—
Rodrigo (having received the nod from Callum, moves to gently take Priscilla by the shoulder): Come on, Ma’am, let’s go…
Priscilla (starting to protest): Take your hands off me!
Callum: Why don’t you put your hands on him? (taking Priscilla’s hand and placing it on Rodrigo’s protuberant bicep)
Priscilla (momentarily forgetting her unyieldingness): Ooh, such strength! (her available hand sliding down his brawny frame to rest lingeringly on his crotch, feeling the stiffness of his package) And you’re gifted. How’s about we make a deal? I allow you to take me to my car, and then we could have some fun in the backseat. (winking)
Rodrigo (a smile creeping on his face, resisting laughter): Ma’am, I’m—
Callum: Priscilla, he’s gay.
Priscilla: Really? (frowning at Rodrigo as he affirmatively nods) All the good ones are taken. Such a fine Latin ass (spanking it) shouldn’t be wasted… have you ever done private home pole dancing?
Rodrigo (guiding her out the door, her hand firmly planted on his buttock): For the right price, maybe…
Ten minutes later found Rodrigo coming back into the mansion, pulling up his boxers over his reddened buttocks with visible handprints. Callum was sitting on the settee in the foyer, finishing Priscilla’s glass of bourbon.
Callum: Thank you, Rodrigo.
Rodrigo: Anytime, Mr. Sutcliffe.
Callum: Would you like a drink? I’m sure you could use one after dealing with that woman.
Rodrigo (sitting down in chair): No thanks. I’m good. How are you?
Callum: I’m fine.
Rodrigo: And your trip?
Callum: It went well. Manchester Pride was exciting as always… had loads of fun.
Rodrigo (awkwardly): I-I missed you.
Callum: I thought you would have enjoyed my time away… having a break from me and the chaos that follows me.
Rodrigo: I don’t mind that. It’s my job to take care of that chaos. Look after you and your interests.
Callum (laughing): My interests? Rodrigo, I have accountants and lawyers to see to that.
Rodrigo: Yeah, but are they going to handle Brendon Roberts for you like I could? (pause) Like I will!
Callum: What’s happened now? What has he done?
Rodrigo: For starters, I’m sure he had both my apartment and the Hollycove Tribune burned down.
Callum (shocked): What?
Rodrigo: The bastard threatened me.
Callum: Looks like he’s making good on his promise. Pardon me for that… (running his hands through his hair) I’m really sorry to hear about this, Rodrigo. Do you need a place to stay? You know I’ve got plenty of room here. Besides, my private “bodyguard” should live on the estate
Rodrigo had been using the ransom money for motels in Riverside and was planning on similarly spending it for temporary shelter now that he was homeless, but he couldn’t resist an opportunity to live under the same roof as Callum.
Rodrigo (smiling): Oh, Mr. Sutcliffe, that’s so nice of you. I—I don’t know how to thank you.
Callum: Don’t mention it, though I’m not sure how you feel about living next door to an alleged arsonist.
Rodrigo: It’s okay. This’ll give me—us—the chance to “turn up the heat” under him.
Callum (sighing): So the diary?
Rodrigo: Gus thinks it was burned in the fire. I’m really sorry, Mr. Sutcliffe.
Callum: I’m sure Brendon thinks he’s one-upped me.
Rodrigo: There’s more.
Callum: Like what?
Rodrigo: He’s managed to get a scapegoat, someone to publicly take the fall for his prostitution ring.
Callum: What! I’m gone for two weeks and everything goes to rubbish in my absence. What else could go wrong?
Rodrigo: Austin Monroe was elected president. He’s pledged to cast you out the club.
Callum: Let him try, and he’ll live to regret it.
ALLISON AND CHLOE’S HOME, LOS FELIZ, SUNDAY MORNING
Missy Higgins’ “Where I Stood” softly plays in the background as Allison rises from the couch, weary and tired from sleeping there all night. She had tried contacting Chloe on her phone several times, being continuously greeted with her voicemail until even it no longer accepted her apologies. Her mind racked with thoughts of what she had done yesterday, she trudged into the kitchen to make some coffee. As she took a sip, she thought about Nathan and how he had come to her rescue from Austin.
He was so gallant even in his drunken stupor. I couldn’t have asked for anyone better in my life outside of Chloe… oh what have we done? No, what have I done? This is all my fault. The blame rests solely with me. I should have been stronger… firmer about this… fought back harder to avoid this very thing happening. Chloe deserves someone who wouldn’t do anything to undermine her trust. I need to get to her, make her realize the mistake I made. No, that might only make matters worse. It’s best I give her space for now. She won’t be able to trust me until I’m able to trust myself.
Her inner monologue now making her see light, Allison rushed over to pick up the phone and listened to the dial tone several seconds, debating with herself before her fingers finally made the decision. Moments later, she heard a familiar, deep masculine voice in her ear.
Allison: Kian, it’s Allison. I’m so sorry to bother you on a Sunday morning.
Dr. Shoai: It’s okay. I don’t mind if it’s a colleague. What is it?
Allison: I’d rather not get into it over the phone. I really need to see you.
Dr. Shoai: Allison, I—
Allison: What’s your schedule like today?
Dr. Shoai: Allison, I’m in Santa Barbara at a conference. I’ll be back in the office on Wednesday after I finish my field work at Shady Palms in Malibu. Is this an urgent matter?
Allison (hesitantly): N-No, I wanted to see you about—
Dr. Shoai: Chloe? Have you two made up?
Allison: Uh, we’ve—(pause) come to an understanding. (tears coming to her eyes) Uh, Kian, I need to go. (presses button to end call, sits down on the couch, bowing her head into her cupped hands)
I guess I’m in this alone with no one else to turn to. If Allison were honest with herself, she knew the person to whom she wished to turn was Nathan, but she would not risk making matters worse.
SHADY PALMS REHABILITATION CENTER, MALIBU, SUNDAY MORNING
The past two weeks had drained Heath of all energy as he primarily kept to himself in his room with the exception of mealtimes and even recently his appetite had started to leave him. Feeling listless at the prospect of another eight weeks there, he knew it was the best thing for him if only he applied himself. I’m here because of Bralen, and he’s counting on me to pull through. For Christ’s sake, he saved my life after I practically destroyed his sporting career. He’s a good, honest guy who’s looking out for me. I owe it to him.
Though these thoughts initially compelled Heath to think optimistically about the day before him, it soon took on a gloomy nature when he realized Kyle’s ring was missing from his finger. He was in the habit of looking at it each morning as he washed his hands, a subtle reminder that there was indeed someone out there who still genuinely loved him. Yet Heath knew he had to work hard before even thinking of assimilating himself back into Kyle’s life. This particular morning he had risen feeling groggier than ever, and the warm shower did little to stir him.
He opted to have his breakfast outside under the palm trees, trekking across the grass, his plate full of fresh fruit and a boiled egg. He felt terrible about losing the ring. Kyle would be so disappointed in me but not anymore than I am with myself. I miss him, but I also miss Tristan. Sitting down at a secluded table, he pulled out the wallet-sized photo of Tristan and glanced at it, tears coming to his eyes. He was soon startled when a vivacious, spunky redhead sat down before him. Heath had befriended her during a group therapy session a week ago, and in spite of her unbecoming bluntness, he secretly delighted in the idea of a celebrity taking to him.
Lindsay: What’s got you down?
Heath: Nothing.
Lindsay: Doesn’t look like nothing to me. You look like shit. If you want, I can get you some extra Prozac. Nurse Carmen owes me big time.
Heath: It’s fine. I—I just don’t know what to do anymore.
Lindsay: Just take your meds, see the shrink when he comes by, and go to group therapy. That’s all. Look, I know the drill here. It’s my fourth time.
Heath: Actually, it’s your fifth according to the tabloids.
Lindsay: Don’t believe everything you read. (taking a grape from his plate and plopping it in her mouth) But really, what has you in the dumps?
Heath (shrugging): I said nothing.
Lindsay: Dude, you could be living it up here. (leaning toward him) I can get one of the kitchen staff to slip a “lil’ something” in the orange juice. (winking) You know what I’m saying.
Heath: (breaking into a grin): Undercover mimosas at rehab! Only in LA!
Lindsay (playfully jabbing him in the ribs): See, I finally made you smile. Come to think of it, you remind me of Matt Damon when you smile like that.
Heath: I’m sure if he heard that, he’d take offense.
Lindsay: Nah, he’s a cool guy… worked with him on a film two months ago. So you gonna level with me?
Heath: I—I can’t find my ring.
Lindsay: Where was the last place you saw it?
Heath: On my finger.
Lindsay: Wiseass! When was this?
Heath: Last night. I slept with it on.
Lindsay: Did you look in your bed?
Heath: I did! It’s not there.
Lindsay: So you think the tooth fairy stole it? (noting Heath’s smile) The economy does suck, you know.
Heath: Too bad it wasn’t the blowjob fairy. (laughing at himself)
Lindsay (leaning into him again): I can probably get you one of those, too.
Heath: Do you secretly run this place?
Lindsay (laughing): My money does. (pause) So what’s so important about this ring? Just buy a replacement when you get out.
Heath: It’s my wedding ring.
Lindsay: I didn’t know you were married. (suddenly seeing the photo of Tristan in Heath’s hand and taking it from him to look at it) Damn! He’s a total hottie! Is this your husband?
Heath (hesitantly nodding his head): Y-Yeah.
Lindsay: Now I see why you’re anxious to get out of here. A guy this good-looking might stray.
Heath (sotto voce): H-He already has.
Lindsay (playfully): Lucky for you, I get out next week. I could keep tabs on him for you.
Heath: I thought you weren’t into guys anymore.
Lindsay: And I told you not to believe everything you read. (sensing Heath’s anxiety) Look, I know it’s hard to be away from your loved ones this long, but hang in there. You’ll come out of here being stronger for your hubby. He’ll love you all the more for that. (looking at the photo again) I could swear I know him from somewhere.
Heath: Nah! He just has Hollywood looks.
Heath couldn’t bring himself to tell her that not only was Tristan not really his husband but that he had also moonlighted as a paparazzo. Tristan had been part of that massive throng that had chased her down Robertson Boulevard when she had that infamous car accident. What’s another little white lie when I’ve already told so many?
ALLISON AND CHLOE’S HOME, LOS FELIZ, MONDAY AFTERNOON
Driving back home from his lunch break in Silver Lake, Nathan drove through neighboring Los Feliz, passing by Allison’s home when he saw Chloe coming out the front door. She was pulling a suitcase down the porch steps. Nathan immediately parked his car and rushed over to her.
Nathan (coming upon her): Chloe, what’s going on? Are you moving?
Chloe (coldly): What brings you here? Coming by for a quickie with Allison?
Nathan: About that… I—I’m really sorry. It never should have happened. I was really drunk.
Chloe: That’s what they all say. (moving to her car)
Nathan: Chloe, wait!
Chloe: I don’t have time for your lies. (putting key into lock) I need to get away.
Nathan: Please don’t run out on Allison.
Chloe (turning around and reactively slapping him): Don’t you dare tell me what to do after what you and she— (putting her hands to her face as she starts to break down)
Nathan: I deserved that, but Allison is not the one to blame.
Chloe: And you didn’t think for a second that she possibly enjoyed it? (starting to walk away from Nathan, the car, and the suitcase but swiftly turns back, anger in her eyes) In that moment, my worst fears were confirmed. All along I knew at the back of my head there was something not quite right about her relationship with you. At times I thought it was just my own insecurities, but now I know—
Nathan: Chloe, please let me explain…
Chloe (shouting): What’s there to explain? I caught you two kissing in my own home!
Nathan: What more can I tell you? It was a mistake. I had had too much to drink… all this mess with Brendon lying to me and—
Chloe: That’s your excuse?
Nathan: Chloe, please try to understand. (moving toward her) I had just found out that the woman who attacked us in the park… who attacked you and Allison… (taking a deep breath) who killed both Peyton and our unborn child..
Chloe: What about her? (sarcastically) Is she also to blame for Allison’s betrayal?
Nathan: She was working for Brendon.
Chloe: What?
Nathan: Brendon knew her but kept that secret from me. I confronted him about it, we had a big fallout, and I started drinking.
Chloe: And how does Allison fit into this? Oh, let me guess—
Nathan: Chloe, I wish you wouldn’t react this way. I’m telling you the truth. There’s nothing between Allison and me. All I’m asking is that you forgive—
Chloe: I can’t do that right now. (crying as she opens the car’s back door and throws in the suitcase) I-I hope you never have to go through something like this. (opens the front door and gets inside) Bye, Nathan. (starts car and speeds out the drive)
She has every right to be upset with me. I can’t believe this has happened. Everything in my life is such a mess right now. At that precise moment, Nathan’s thoughts were interrupted by his cell phone ringing, the caller being none other than Brendon.
Brendon (upon Nathan answering it): What the hell were you thinking?
Nathan: Pardon me?
Brendon: Why did you tell Justin about Eileen?
Nathan: Brendon, I’m really sorry about that. We were arguing and it just slipped out.
Brendon: Is that the truth? Or is this your way of getting back at me?
Nathan: What?
Brendon: I get that you’re upset with me, but for you to intentionally try to undermine my relationship with my son—
Nathan: Is that the garbage he’s feeding you? I came over there to expressly talk with you. I would never try to chip away at your relationship with your son. I know how important family is to you.
Brendon (softening): Look, Nathan, I’m tired of arguing. I need to see you. I really want us to work this out and get back to the way we were.
Nathan (taking a deep breath): Brendon, I-I don’t know about that.
Brendon: Please find time to drop by. I love you.
Nathan (hesitantly): I—I—I have to go. (terminates the phone call as a tear comes to his eye, he soon crosses the street to his car and drives away)
CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, MONDAY AFTERNOON
Godfrey stands in the doorway of the sitting room as Callum throws down the newspaper, swearing aloud to himself, his eyes burning into the headline that read a man named Nicolai Cosgrove came forward to clear Brendon’s name and confess being behind the alleged Hollywood prostitution ring. Waiting for Callum’s display of anger to subside, Godfrey dramatically clears his throat before entering the room.
Callum: Has Enid left?
Godfrey: I safely saw her into the car. She knows to ring you as soon as she arrives at the campus.
Callum: One can only hope this orientation session alerts her of her naïveté. She should be at Oxford instead of attending university here in Los Angeles.
Godfrey: Would you like your tea now?
Callum: No. (looking him squarely in the eye) I would like some answers from you.
Godfrey (head shamefully bowed): I’m very ashamed of myself for disgracing my position in your home. I offered my apology to Ms. Sutcliffe, and she accepted it.
Callum: Enid is rather gracious and forgiving. It’s one of her admirable qualities… and also one of her biggest weaknesses.
Godfrey: I would understand your wanting my resignation. (reaching into his liveried outfit to withdraw a cream-colored envelope and hands it over to Callum) I took the liberty of contacting an agency in Britain this morning.
Callum (accepting envelope and laughing to himself): It was just sex, Godfrey! If Parliament were as penitently honorable as you with your indiscretions, I reckon there’d be no one to run the government. (ostentatiously ripping the envelope) You’re not going anywhere. Gavin’s ghost would haunt me if I sacked you. You’re family.
Godfrey (head still bowed): You may still wish me banished. I may have compromised your mission.
Callum: How so?
Godfrey: Mrs. Ashland managed to steal the key to your bedroom. I suspect she was inside it.
Callum (angrily rising from chair): What?
Godfrey: I don’t think she had enough time to find anything. You didn’t notice anything out of order?
Callum: I’m not sure. I haven’t even unpacked… been so busy with Enid. (rushing out the room and up the stairs) If that dipsomaniacal shrew took anything, I swear I’ll drown her in a bath of booze.
Storming into his bedroom, he went in search of anything out of place, his mind fevered with fretfulness over what she may have unearthed. His mission was soon cut short by his cell phone ringing, and though he was hesitant at first to answer it due to the identity of the caller, he soon found his anxieties momentarily allayed with the promise he was given.
BRENDON AND NATHAN’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, MONDAY AFTERNOON
Justin had tried every tactic possible to get his father to sit down and civilly talk with him. Ever since he had found out that Justin knew the truth of his maternity, Brendon seemed to avoid entering into conversation with him. On this particular afternoon, he had managed to corner Brendon in his room.
Justin: Why can’t we talk about it?
Brendon: Because I said so!
Justin: I have a right to see her, you know. You can’t keep me away from her.
Brendon: Justin, we can talk about this later.
Justin: You’ve been saying that for the last two days.
Brendon: In case you forgot, I nearly lost you to a brick being thrown into my home. I’ve got your safety to be concerned about. (pushing past him out the room) Just give it a rest.
Justin angrily slammed the door behind his father. How could he do this to me? He’s lied to me my entire life, and now that he’s given a chance to redeem himself, he won’t do the right thing. This is so unfair. I have no one else to help me. And then a thought came to his mind. His cell phone privileges had been restored to him. It’s not something I want to do, but something I now have to do. He had left his phone downstairs on the kitchen table. As he opened the door, he heard his father’s voice echoing. He was talking on the phone, and upon eavesdropping, he knew Nathan was on the other end.
Having waited for their conversation to end, Justin walked into the kitchen, seized his phone, and dialed Callum’s number.
Callum (through the phone): What do you want? I told you to lose this number.
Justin: I need your help.
Callum: What’s wrong now? Daddy Dearest wants you to take over the family business?
Justin: I wouldn’t bother you if it weren’t important.
Callum: Look, I’m very busy at the moment, and I don’t have time—
Justin: Please! I need to find my mother.
Callum: She’s dead.
Justin: No, she’s not. That was my aunt. She passed herself off as my mother with my father’s blessing. They both lied to me.
Callum: Why don’t you ask Brendon? Surely he knows where she is.
Justin: He keeps avoiding it. He’s very upset that I know about it.
Callum (his voice indicating a tinge of interest): Is that so?
Justin: Please help me.
Callum: Justin, you’ve caused me nothing but trouble. Why the hell should I help you out?
Justin knew that he was entering into a pact with the devil, but even Lucifer would desire something of great magnitude in exchange for his services. He needed leverage, something that would make Callum without delay consent to an arrangement. It was at that moment he thought back to his father’s recent phone conversation and knew that he could kill two birds with one stone.
Justin: Because I’m the only person who can permanently break up Nathan and Brendon! If you do this for me, I guarantee you Nathan will be all yours.
TO BE CONTINUED…
