The Victorious and the Relentless

Episode 37: “Bereft and Begrudged”

Cast of New Characters (for this episode)

Samantha Lane Michener: mid-30’s, Midwestern conservative, average height and weight, brown hair and eyes, Drake’s ex-wife

Hole’s “Miss World” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miAZ8jErMDk ) opens this episode as Chloe sits in her car, crying herself into frenzy at the steering wheel. A pall of misery and rejection had descended upon her once her own personal high had dissipated. Estrella was not returning her calls, and the lone time she had been able to get her, she had the pathetic excuse about her current workload. Since moving out of Allison’s home, Chloe had stayed over at her sister’s in Brentwood.

She now thought she knew the horrid reason Estrella had been avoiding her. She had gone over to her house and saw Tristan pull his car into the drive and soon enter her home, Estrella giving him a great big hug before the door closed on them. Chloe waited outside for another hour until impatience overtook her and she went to the doorstep, hesitant to knock or ring the doorbell. Still desiring to know what was possibly going on between them, she stepped onto the grass, crossed over a few feet, and stole a quick glance through the window where her eyes took in the tableau of Estrella and Tristan on the couch, her hands caressing his cheek. Though she couldn’t hear them, she read much in Estrella’s body language. She was in sexual heat, and there was no other woman in the room.

The image, now burned into Chloe’s mind, reminded her of Allison’s duplicity with Nathan, Chloe noting the irony that both her partners had men on the side—which for a lesbian was a real stab in the back. She ran from the window and bumped into a youthful, ravishing woman on the footpath leading to the front door. Is she next on Estrella’s list? How could this happen to me again? Am I really that unlucky in love? First, Allison and now Estrella! I wish I had some pills, any kind as long as they numb the pain. I don’t know who to turn to… certainly not Allison. She would only say I told you so about Estrella. Dr. Kian Shoai always said his door was open should I need his help. I don’t know, though. He’s a close colleague of Allison’s, but surely he has integrity and professional ethics. Chloe turned on the ignition of her car and drove to his office, unaware of what she would find there.

INTERSTATE 5 HIGHWAY, CALIFORNIA, EVENING

Kyle and Bralen had been on the highway for over two hours, either silence or the radio being their steady companion. Bralen was at the wheel, and Kyle reclined in the passenger seat. Neither had said much to the other as there was much on their minds. Bralen was just relieved that Kyle had agreed to the spontaneous trip as he didn’t want to risk him finding out the truth about Heath so soon. Especially since everything is moving along so well between us. I know he feels something for me. This trip is just what he needs to realize we’re good for each other. I just have to keep him occupied, away from contact with anyone from Los Angeles. Hopefully, Tristan will keep quiet. How did he of all people find out about Heath? Bralen looked over to see Kyle withdraw his cell phone, open it, and read a text message that elicited a surprised exclamation from him, Bralen’s heart nearly stopping as he assumed it was from Tristan about Heath.

Bralen (garnering courage to ask): What is it?

Kyle: I just got a text from Nathan. His father just died.

Bralen (now feeling alarmed that Kyle may want to return to Los Angeles): Oh no!

Kyle: I know. I’m going to call him. (dials the number) Hi, Nate, I got your message. I’m sorry to hear about your dad. I’m on the road right now to Tahoe. Call me if you or Siobhan need anything. You’re both in my thoughts. Bye.

Bralen (inwardly breathing a sigh of relief): Was that his voicemail?

Kyle: Yeah, he’s not picking up. I’ll call him when we get to the cabin.

Bralen nervously shifted his weight. Damn it! What if Tristan had told someone else about Heath, and it’s now gone through the group? Bralen was now finding it increasingly difficult to hide his growing apprehension.

HOLLYWOOD HOSPITAL, EVENING

Callum (gently pulling himself from hugging Nathan): Oh, Nathan, I’m really sorry about this. Let me know if there’s anything I can do.

Nathan (tears in his eyes): Thank you for being here with me.

Callum (looking him in the eyes): You know I wouldn’t be anywhere else.

Nathan (trying to crack a smile): Liar! You’re only here because of Edward. You should be with him.

Callum: He has Inga.

Nathan: But you’re his father. You should spend as much time with him as possible. I wish I had with mine.

Callum (feeling shamed): All right, but you call me if you need anything. (gestures to kiss him but refrains from doing so, seeing Siobhan out the corner of his eye) Bye.

Siobhan (coming over to Nathan, who immediately hugs her): I don’t understand. (tears flowing over her cheeks) H-He was fine when we left him.

Nathan (cradling her head to his chest): I know. (feeling her tears wet his shirt before she releases a wail) It’s okay.

Siobhan: How can I go on living without him?

Nathan: Don’t worry, Ma. You’ve got me. (pause) Have you called Sinead?

Siobhan: N-No. (further breaking down) She’ll be devastated. You know how close she was with your father.

Nathan (simultaneously hugging and rocking her): I’ll call her. (kissing the crown of her head) I’ll take care of everything.

Siobhan (separating herself from him, sniffling): I love you, Nathan. A mother couldn’t have asked for a better son. (turning around when she hears her name called, a weak smile comes to her face as she sees Allison)

Allison (coming around the corner and immediately hugging her): Siobhan, I just heard. I’m so sorry. If you need anything, anything at all…

Nathan: Thanks, Allison.

Allison (seeing him and going over to hug him): I’m so sorry. Seamus was a good man. He was like a father to me. (suddenly feeling him emotionally break down in her arms) It’s okay. (patting his back as his chin rests on her shoulder) I’m here for you.

Nathan (whispering): Chloe.

Allison: What? (turning around in time to see Chloe, staring at them briefly, totally misunderstanding the situation before she bolts away)

ST. ANNE’S HOSPICE, RIVERSIDE and HOLLYWOOD HOSPITAL, EVENING

Rodrigo felt terribly hollow inside as if his life force had been ripped from him. He had argued and fought with the hospice staff to not remove his mother’s body—to allow him more time to be with her. They had rightful cause for alarm when they found him snuggled next to her dead body in the bed, over an hour since her passing. Now outside the facility with the night breeze cooling him, Rodrigo collected himself and made an important call, Callum picking up on the second ring.

Rodrigo (solemnly): I just wanted you to know my mother has passed away.

Callum: Rodrigo, I’m so sorry to hear this. If there’s anything I can do please let me know at once.

Rodrigo: Thank you, Mr. Sutcliffe. (suddenly hearing Nathan’s voice in the background)

Nathan: Callum, I told you to go home. You should be with Edward. I can handle everything here.

Callum (into phone): Pardon me, Rodrigo. (lowers phone down by side, talks to Nathan) I had to see how you were holding up.

Nathan: Thanks for your concern. I’ll be fine. Don’t worry about me.

Callum: Well, you call me if you need anything. (picks up phone) Rodrigo? (hearing silence then the dial tone) Rodrigo?

So he couldn’t be with me in my darkest hour yet he was willing to be with Nathan, who’s playing with his affections. He can’t see that Nathan is wrong for him. I’ve already lost one person I love, and I’ll be damned if I lose you, Callum, especially to Nathan. It’s time to permanently take care of him.

SHADY PALMS REHABILITATION CENTER, MALIBU, MORNING

Heath stared at the drawing he had made during an art therapy session with Dr. Shoai. Though he wasn’t artistically inclined, he was proud of the finished product. It was an image of a fruit tree with plentiful bounty, its boughs weighed down with plump orbs of natural goodness, characterized by the light colors of yellow, orange, red, and green. The blue sky in the background contributed to the overall tranquility of the picture. The grass surrounding the tree was of the purest green, indicating the richness of the soil. Heath looked at it, a tear coming to his eyes. Dr. Shoai had instructed him to sit and meditatively think of his relationship with Kyle and to draw the first thing that came to his mind. Heath hadn’t known what to make of the assignment, but once he let his imagination take hold, he found himself immersed in the task, enjoying the creation that flowed from his hands.

Dr. Shoai promised him there would be more art therapy. Heath did feel peace of mind as he pinned the colored drawing on the wall in his room. He wanted to greet it each time he entered and left. He glanced at his watch. It was almost time for breakfast. He left the room, went to nurses’ station to take his medication, and one of them quietly handed him an envelope that contained a greeting card from Lindsay. This brought a smile to his face, but he didn’t have time to dwell on Lindsay’s nice gesture, for at that moment as he was walking down the hallway, he heard strange sounds.

Mousse T.’s club classic “Horny” begins playing in the background of the scene as Heath starts thinking it’s possibly the old pipes, but as he reaches the far end of the corridor, the banging noise rhythmically increased and slowed as if it were on some timer. Heath saw a closet in the corner and soon realized it was the origin of the sound. Fearing that it was a child or one of the patients that managed to get lost, he yanked open the door, his eyes bulging at the spectacle before him as light flew into the darkened closet.

There inside was Trey and a male nurse engaged in hidden sexual activity, the nurse’s body bent forward, his ass visibly connected to Trey’s pelvis. As the door had flown open, Heath caught sight of the last thrusts Trey had thrown into the nurse, who had on some mouthpiece, his biting into a ball, the action presumably maintaining some sense of noise control. Trey had his hands on the nurse’s neck and shoulders for leverage. Trey’s shirt was off, his well-proportioned chest in display, his jeans curled around his ankles. The nurse’s scrubs were pulled down as well. Heath just stood there in paralytic shock.

Trey (angrily): Do you mind?

Heath: I-I’m sorry.

Male Nurse (taking off the mouthpiece and grasping the doorknob, pulling the door to): Just fuck off! We’ll be done soon. (slams the door shut)

Heath just stood there in the hall, the image burned in his mind. For some unknown reason, a wave of anxiety washed over him, compelling him to cry. Not wanting his emotional breakdown to draw attention to the closet where the forbidden sexual act was taking place, Heath ran away to the safety of his own room.

NATHAN AND BRENDON’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, MORNING

The morning came with the news that Brendon had eagerly awaited: that he had been cleared of the charges, Nicolai Cosgrove had been arraigned, pleading guilty. Now I can work on getting Nathan back. He doesn’t know it, but he really needs me, especially during this difficult time for him. I’m sure Siobhan is beside herself with grief. They’ll both need all the support they can get. He heard footsteps stampeding down the stairs.

Brendon (to Justin): Slow down! I now you’re excited about your freedom… and to a lesser extent the meeting today with your new teachers at the academy.

Justin (slowing down as he enters the kitchen): It’s a bummer that summer is almost gone. I hate that school starts back next week.

Brendon: Just so you know, I’m expecting greater responsibility out of you, young man.

Justin: I know. You already laid it out for me, the chores, curfew, all that stuff. (pouring cereal into a bowl) I’m just glad to have that thing off my leg. I promise not to let you down.

Brendon: One more thing… I’d like for you to pay Nathan a visit.

Justin (scooping a spoonful of cereal into his mouth): Aight! I’ll drop by his office after—

Brendon: He’s not coming into work today. He lost his father last night. I want you to express your condolences to him. It would mean a lot to him… and to me.

Justin (nearly choking on his cereal): O-Okay.

I’ll make certain that’s the very last thing I do today.

HOLLYWOOD HOSPITAL, AUSTIN’S ROOM, MORNING

Austin woke early that morning, didn’t care to eat the garbage they passed off as food, and opted to visit Drake’s room. It had been so painful to see him hooked up to a machine. Thank God Allison got to him when she did. He may be hanging on by a thread, but if I’m there by his side, I know he’ll feel me and know that I need him. He’ll come back to me. Not bothering to call the nurse, he got out bed and into his wheelchair and found way to Drake’s room a few doors down. As he entered, he found a surprise awaiting him in the form of a woman leaning over Drake, caressing him.

Austin (disbelievingly): Samantha? What are you doing here?

Samantha (turning around to see Austin): I heard about Drake. I came at once.

Austin: He doesn’t need you. He has me.

Samantha: I knew something like this would happen if he stayed with you. I tried to warn him.

Austin: Why don’t you just leave?

Samantha: I have every right to be here. He’s my husband.

Austin: The hell he is!

Samantha: Well, he’s more of a husband to me than he is to you, especially in the eyes of the law and the church.

Austin: Don’t you dare throw that in my face, Samantha.

Samantha (throwing her hands out to Drake’s body): Will you look at him? He’s hooked up to tubes. He may not make it! (moving over to Austin) You did this to him!

Austin: I didn’t—

Samantha: He tried to kill himself, Austin! That’s a sin! Why would he do something like that? Did he have second thoughts about his sexuality? I knew he wasn’t happy with you… with this lifestyle you forced upon him.

Austin: Samantha, here is neither the time nor the place for you to dredge up the past. I’m sorry you still feel—after all this time—that I’m responsible for the end of your marriage, but I won’t entertain that delusion. (wheeling over) Right now, Drake needs me.

Samantha (getting in his way): I don’t think so. You’ve caused enough damage already. I’m having him moved to a different facility.

Austin: You can’t do that!

Samantha: You’re too late. I already have with the help of Helen and Tom.

Austin: His parents?

Samantha: They are his next of kin.

Austin: But I’m his husband!

Samantha: In name only. You don’t have the right to make this life-changing decision for Drake, but his parents do.

Austin: His parents never cared for him.

Samantha: But I did. I do. I loved him with all my heart. We had plans to start a family and then you came along and convinced him he didn’t belong with me or any other woman for that matter. Well, now I’m taking him away to somewhere he can heal away from you.

Austin: You can’t do this! I’ll call my attorneys.

Samantha: Go ahead. They’ll tell you the same thing. You don’t have a leg to stand on.

Austin: I’ll fight you, Helen, and Tom on this! (wheeling to the door)

Samantha: You should save your energy so you can get out that wheelchair.

She heard the door close behind Austin. On the other side he fought back tears. He got back as fast as he could to his room to make good on his promise to her.

NATHAN AND BRENDON’S HOME, SILVER LAKE, MIDMORNING

Brendon had called Siobhan to express his condolences. He knew she was staying with Nathan in Silver Lake, and was inwardly thrilled when she insisted he come over. When she opened the door, she looked weary and weather-beaten, the exact opposite of her normal appearance.

Siobhan (immediately hugging him): I’m so glad you came.

Brendon: I dropped everything. There’s nowhere else I should be. (pause) Where’s Nathan?

Siobhan: He’s sleeping. Neither of us got much rest.

Brendon: I-I’m really sorry about this, Siobhan. I must sound like a broken record, but if there’s anything—

Siobhan: You’re only speaking your heart.

Brendon (hugging her again): I wish you didn’t have to go through this.

Siobhan: It would have happened sooner or later. You know Seamus. Against doctor’s orders, he started back drinking. He even had a martini on the flight here. First class seats we had. This time around he was a big spender… guess he knew he’d be going out in style. (puts her hand to her mouth to stop weeping)

Brendon: I know it’s too early to ask, but have you thought about services?

Siobhan: It’s not early at all. That’s all Nattie and I was talking about last night. Seamus wanted to be buried back in Ireland. (noting Brendon’s reaction) Even in death, the man still costs me.

Brendon: Don’t you worry. I’ll take care of it. No expenses spared. Seamus wouldn’t have it any other way.

Siobhan: That’s kind of you, Brendon, but you should run it by Nathan. He’s the one in charge now. The man of the family. (breaks down crying, Brendon comes to comfort her)

Brendon: There. There. I’m doing this for Seamus. Nathan will just have to understand.

Siobhan: I don’t know what it is between you two, but I wish you would—

Brendon (lovingly squeezing her): I’m working on it. You know how much I love your son. He means everything to me.

Siobhan: You know it was difficult for me at first to accept you in his life. I-I still don’t know what to think of his choice—well, you know being brought up in the church and all. I’m from a different time.

Brendon: Just know that I love your son more than words can say.

Siobhan (patting his shoulder): I know that. I just hope he knows it. I think he’s—

Brendon (seeing worry in her eyes): What is it, Siobhan? Is Nathan okay? Has he taken ill?

Siobhan: It’s just this new person in his life. I-I don’t like him. I have a bad feeling about him.

Brendon: You mean Callum? (seeing her nod) He means trouble, and Nathan’s too stubborn to see it.

Siobhan: Moynihan stubbornness. He gets that from his father. You say this lad is trouble? Then that really worries me. He came by earlier this morning. Nathan was still sleeping so I sent him home.

Brendon: You did the right thing. (nothing continued look of concern in her face) Don’t worry about him. I’ll take care of Callum. I promise you.

Nathan (coming into room, his voice startling them both): And just how do you plan on doing that?

Siobhan: Nattie. (turning to him) Would you like some eggs?

Nathan: No, Ma. What I would like is a word alone with Brendon. Do you think you could do that?

Siobhan: Yes. I need to make some calls. I’ll be in the other room.

Nathan (as she passes by him): And please close the door behind you. (upon hearing it close, confident that his mother can’t eavesdrop) What are you doing here?

Moloko’s “I’m Sorry” begins playing in the background.

Brendon: I came to offer my condolences to your mother.

Nathan: Good. Now you can go! And you can stop using my mother to get to me.

Brendon: Nate, that’s not what I’m doing. I sincerely want to be there for you and Siobhan. I want to help with the memorial.

Nathan: How dare you—

Brendon: How dare I what?

Nathan: You come here trying to ingratiate yourself back into my life, using my father’s death when it was your son who damn near took me away from my dad and loved ones.

Brendon: I thought we were passed that. The charges were dropped. Justin was punished.

Nathan (livid): House arrest! You think that’s justifiable punishment for what he did. (shouting) He tried to kill me, and you covered it up. (seeing Brendon’s shocked reaction) Yeah, I know.

Brendon: Nathan, let me—

Nathan: Let you what? Think of another lie to tell me?

Brendon (coming towards him): Nathan, please.

Nathan (backing away): Stay away from me. Better yet stay away from my family. I don’t want you anywhere near my father’s memorial service. In fact, I don’t you want you near my mother.

Brendon: Nathan, come on!

Nathan: I’m serious, Brendon. Dead serious! Now get the hell away from me.

Brendon: Nathan, please.

Nathan (goes over to door, opens it): And don’t blame this on Callum! This is all your fault. You and Justin both need a lesson in taking responsibility for your actions. Now leave! (Brendon reluctantly leaves, Nathan slamming the door behind him. Seconds later, the side door opens, Siobhan peeking her head inside) Not a word from you, Ma! (he starts walking back to his bedroom) But I will have those eggs now!

CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, MIDDAY

Callum: Rodrigo, I’ll take care of everything.

Rodrigo: Mr. Sutcliffe—

Callum: I won’t take no for an answer. I’m fully aware of your financial situation. Please have all your mother’s medical bills forwarded to my accountant. And as for the—

Rodrigo: Mr. Sutcliffe, really, it’s not necessary. I can handle this. You’ve already done enough for me.

Callum: Have you made arrangements?

Rodrigo: Mama would have wanted a simple burial. That’s what I intend to give her.

Callum: Well, you let me know if it gets too overwhelming for you.

Rodrigo: Thank you, Mr. Sutcliffe.

Callum: Please call me Callum. I think we’re at that point.

Oh yeah, we’re definitely at that stage in our relationship. You’re such a giving person, wanting to help me out. I knew you were a very special man when I first read your words in your books. Mama knew it as well. I only wish she got the chance to meet you. It’s shameful you never met my family. You were at the hospital to be near Nathan when he lost his father. Nathan! He’s always on your mind. That perve should be rotting away in prison. He shouldn’t be anywhere near you. He’ll be joining his father soon.

ALLISON’S OFFICE, HOLLYWOOD HOSPITAL, EARLY AFTERNOON

Allison felt terrible all over her body. She badly needed rest, not having got much sleep the past week with Chloe moving out, Austin’s poisoning, Drake’s suicide attempt, and Seamus’ death. She didn’t know what to make of any of these incidents. She was tempted to call Nathan but knew that now was not the time. She intended to visit him and Siobhan later that night. All this death and near-death occurrences made her think of the state of her life. I really should live my life to the fullest. I had such high hopes, but I put them aside for… what? My career? Financial stability? Maybe Chloe was right. I could have died from that bullet wound, and Chloe nearly died. I nearly lost her, the one woman who loved me unconditionally. Yes, she may have been unfaithful, but she wasn’t herself at the time. She had lost all hope of having children. And now it seems I’ve lost all hope of getting her back into my life. Or have I? There came a knock at her door. It was someone bringing her news that would ultimately cause Austin further pain.

ESTRELLA’S HOME, BEVERLY HILLS, EARLY EVENING

Chloe pulled her car up to Estrella’s home. She would wait for her to come home. She had been driving around all day, running away from her pressing thoughts about her love life and where she stood with the women in her life. When she saw Nathan in Allison’s arms—totally misunderstanding the situation—she had to leave and get away. Tears naturally came to her eyes, but she soon felt all cried out. It’s imperative I get a clear understanding of my place in Estrella’s life. After last night, I know where I fit into Allison’s life. I refuse to drift along. I want to drop anchor and start a life with someone who’ll appreciate the person I am and what I can contribute to the relationship. I’m aware that Estrella is just as busy professionally as Allison, but there’s something special between us that’s obviously missing when I’m around Allison.

Seeing Estrella’s Mercedes pull into the drive, Chloe got out and rushed over to her before she was able to get inside the house. Ben Folds Five’s “Brick” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axpuVLQ_m4w) begins playing softly in the background.

Chloe: Estrella?

Estrella (turning around, surprised): Oh, Chloe, how are you?

Chloe: Could we talk for a moment?

Estrella: I’m really busy. I have a ton of work I brought home.

Chloe (pleadingly): It won’t take long. I really need to speak with you about us.

Estrella (pushing inside the house, throwing briefcase on furniture): What about us?

Chloe (hesitantly): Well, I need to know where we—I—stand.

Estrella: I don’t follow. (goes over to the bar and pulls out a bottle of seltzer) Would you like something?

Chloe: No thanks. (crossing over to her, placing her hand on Estrella’s) Estrella, you do know how I feel about you. I haven’t been able to get you out my mind ever since we—

Estrella: That’s very flattering, Chloe, but you do know we can’t be together.

Chloe: Why not? I’m no longer with Allison, and… and you’re not seeing anyone, are you?

Estrella (taking a sip of water before taking Chloe’s hand): Chloe, you know you’re a wonderful person. You’re going to make some woman very happy.

Chloe: But what about you? Us?

Estrella: We’re friends, Chloe.

Chloe: Friends don’t sleep with each other like we’ve done.

Estrella: I promised you I would be there for you. Nothing has to change in that regard.

Chloe (tears in her eyes): You’re not in love with me?

Estrella (pause): Chloe, it just wouldn’t work out between us. I-I’m at a very special point in my life.

Chloe: So am I. We can spend it together.

Estrella: No, we can’t. (sighing) I’m so sorry that you feel this way.

Chloe: Excuse me?

Estrella: I mean… I didn’t know you had these feelings.

Chloe: How could you not? I’ve come to you at every chance I got. We connect on so many levels. Just look at all the hours we’ve spent talking, enjoying each other’s company. (moving in closer to her, face to face) You can’t tell me you don’t feel anything.

Estrella (looking her in the eye): Chloe, you’ve got it all wrong. I do feel much for you, but what you’re asking for is impossible.

Chloe (reaching out to caress her cheek): Why? Don’t you—(moving in to kiss her, their lips touching)

Estrella (bathing in the moment a few seconds before pulling away): Chloe, I can’t do this. It’s not right.

Chloe: What’s not right? (pause) What’s wrong? Is there someone else? Is that what you’re—

Estrella: Don’t be foolish. There’s no one else.

Chloe: So what’s going on between you and Tristan? He was here the other day. I-I saw you two together.

Estrella: What are you talking about?

Chloe: I saw you two through the window. You tried to kiss him.

Estrella (angrily): You were spying on me!

Chloe: It wasn’t like that at all. I just wanted to know—

Estrella (going over to the door and opening it): I’d like for you to leave.

Chloe: What? Why?

Estrella: I don’t respond so well to invasion of my privacy.

Chloe: I meant no harm. I needed to know why you weren’t returning my calls.

Estrella: So you’ve been stalking me?

Chloe: No! How could you say that?

Estrella: Please just go.

Chloe (reluctantly moving to the door, stopping in front of it): Are you in love with him?

Estrella: That’s none of your business.

Chloe: You should know he’s not right for you. I didn’t know he was into women, but I’ve seen how he operates. He’ll break your heart.

Estrella: You don’t know anything about him or the relationship between him and me.

Chloe: He’ll never fully love you the way you should be loved.

Estrella (fighting back tears): Please just go. Now! (Chloe leaves, Estrella closes the door behind her, the slamming sound an indicator for both to unleash the well of emotions in them)

Estrella went to the couch, stung by Chloe’s words of truth. She placed her hand to her abdomen, hoping to feel the life within her, life that was part hers and part Tristan’s. It was something of his that would indeed return her feelings. Chloe, on the other side of the door, was sitting on the steps, crying. She would be there another hour before leaving.

CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, LATE AFTERNOON

Callum and Godfrey were sitting in Callum’s study with the door locked. Godfrey was enjoying a glass of bourbon while Callum had a glass of cognac, which he drank as he stared out the window at the expanse of the ravine leading to Brendon and Nathan’s home.

Godfrey: There is still the matter of Siobhan Moynihan.

Callum (taking a sip): I know. She’s the one who put this whole mess into action.

Godfrey: Do you think she knows that?

Callum: Her husband didn’t even know me, and she’s too much of a simpleton. She’s completely in the dark.

Godfrey: And Nathan?

Callum: Do you think he’d have anything to do with me if he knew? He knows nothing and that’s how it must stay. (looking at concern in Godfrey’s face) What is it now?

Godfrey: I’m not comfortable with this. There are two people who could ruin this if you’re not careful.

Callum: Don’t worry about Enid. She has university. That’ll keep her occupied. Besides, she has her own place. Of course it would be better if she were back in England along with Talon, the only other person who poses a threat.

Godfrey: Are you sure he’ll stay in London?

Callum: Don’t worry about Talon. There’s no way he’s coming back into my life.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, BEVERLY HILLS, NIGHT

Talon peeled away a $20 note to tip the bellboy for bringing his luggage to his room. He crossed to the window to look at the nighttime vista, all the lights of the city before him. It felt good to be back in Los Angeles, his heart filled with joy at the prospect of reuniting with Callum. Though his body yearned for him, it also signaled hunger to him. He would order room service, rest, and make his plan of action. He had requested a newspaper, which he would read while he ate. He sat on the bed and fell back, the softness of the mattress a welcome feeling to his tired body. He reached over for the phone to dial room service, ordering Chilean sea bass. Before replacing the receiver in its cradle, he dialed another number.

Talon: How’s my favorite nephew? (pause) I’m back in LA and hoping you could give me a tour of your campus. (pause) Oh, you did. In that case, perhaps another time. I’m not ready to be seen, especially by Enid Sutcliffe, who’ll run straight to Callum with the news of my arrival.

HOLLYWOOD HOSPITAL, EVENING

Priscilla had been with Austin most of the afternoon. The strong-acting sedative that had been mixed into his beverage had finally taken effect. She and Allison were worried that it would have to be administered intravenously as he wouldn’t calm down. And rightfully so! His life has been turned upside down. I feel so sorry for him. Neither he nor Drake deserved any of this, and now poor Austin may never get the closure he needs to move on with his life. I may never get it. I, too, was so close to Drake. At the simplest thought of him, Priscilla broke out in tears. She hadn’t been prepared for what happened earlier that day. When she arrived to visit, Drake’s body had been removed. She immediately scouted out Allison.

Allison: He’s been relocated to a different facility.

Priscilla: Where?

Allison: I don’t know.

Priscilla: How could this happen?

Allison: His family ordered it. Austin doesn’t have power of attorney.

Priscilla: But he’s Drake’s husband.

Allison (somberly): Drake’s family’s attorneys were here today. Austin had a field day with them, but the family’s determined to get Drake back to Chicago.

Priscilla: So you’re saying that there’s nothing he can do?

Allison: Let’s just be thankful they’re not prematurely pulling the plug on him. But this just goes to show you that the battle for full and equal gay rights rages on.

Priscilla: I need to see Austin. Where is he?

Allison: He’s in his room, probably on the phone with his attorney.

Priscilla rushed to his room, finding him in tears. She immediately went to him, granting him a maternal embrace which she hoped would calm his troubled heart. He laid his head against her bosom and cried his heart out, Priscilla all the while gently patting him.

Priscilla: It’s okay. Everything’s going to be all right. (tears coming to her eyes as she hated lying to him)

Austin: I need to be with him. I don’t how—(choking on his words)

Priscilla: It’s okay. (cooing in his ear) He knows you love him.

Austin: I never said it enough.

Priscilla: You two have a strong relationship, a sturdy marriage. You’ll pull through this.

Austin: Some marriage it is. I have no say in the welfare of my partner.

Priscilla (wiping tears from her eyes): Something must be done about this injustice.

Austin (pulling away from her, looking at her through teary eyes): That’s what I intend to do. (taking the handkerchief given to him, wiping his eyes)But I’m not the only one fighting the system. There are thousands of gay couples who endure this discrimination. It’s time someone takes a stand.

It was at this moment that Austin became a different person, dedicating himself to the fight for equality not just to politically secure the admiration of a specific demographic but rather because it was in his heart the right thing to do. The No on Proposition 8 benefit loomed heavily on his mind. I promise you, Drake, I will make this a success. I shall tirelessly fight the bigotry that’s keeping us apart. I only pray that you are alive and well to celebrate the victory with me.

CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, NIGHT

Rodrigo had finished having an early dinner with Callum. He told him that he was to bury his mother in two days. Callum promised he would be there, and that made Rodrigo feel somewhat happy amid the anguish of last night. His muscles were tired. All he wanted to do was have a hot bath and lie down. The water relaxed him, nearly erasing the pain he felt. He thought of his blessings as he rose from the bath and wrapped himself in a towel. At least I still have Callum. He’s been so supportive and tonight was so special with the two of us having dinner together, even though I don’t like that English cuisine he’s fond of. This is just the beginning of our new life together. The mirror was entirely fogged. When he wiped it down with the towel, he jumped back, the shock of what he saw nearly making his heart jump through his chest. There—in the mirror’s image—behind him stood Cora Caldozar, his mother draped in black, her eyes cold and blank. He stole a quick glance behind him, duly noting no one but himself in the bathroom. Flyleaf’s “I’m So Sick” begins playing in the background.

Cora: You didn’t fulfill my last request, Rodrigo.

Rodrigo: I tried, Mama. Callum was—

Cora: With Nathan! You let someone else stop you from following through with my last request!

Rodrigo: But Mama—

Cora: My soul cannot pass on until you do what you must. You know what that is.

Rodrigo (solemnly): Yes, Mama.

Cora: Then do it. Don’t let anyone come between you and your destiny. And don’t keep my soul from heaven.

Rodrigo: Yes, Mama.

He walked outside the bathroom and quickly changed into new clothing. He walked over to the chest of drawers and withdrew his backpack, which was heavier than normal. Earlier that day he had met with one of his contacts in South Los Angeles. It was a newer model, equipped with a silencer. He looked outside the window, seeing that nightfall had come to southern California… and he mused that death would soon come to Nathan Moynihan.

NATHAN AND BRENDON’S HOME, SILVER LAKE, NIGHT

Allison hated leaving the hospital with so much on her mind. She liked keeping her work and personal life separate, but there was no way she could erase the events of the day from her mind. Her heart went out to Drake and Austin. She couldn’t believe the 180 Austin had pulled, but she knew firsthand how the near-death of a loved one makes you reassess your life. At least he has Priscilla. I can trust her to give him a good dose of motherly love and healing comedy, even though none of this is a laughing matter. There’s too much pain going around and in spite of my own personal problems, I now must be strong for Nathan and Siobhan.

Allison had just parked her car outside Nathan’s home in Silver Lake and didn’t even have to ring the doorbell as Siobhan had opened the door for her the minute her foot touched the porch.

Allison: Do you have ESP? You always knew when I was outside the door.

Siobhan: It’s a gift, I suppose. I always felt your warm presence, Allison. (hugging her) Now come inside.

Allison: Where’s Nathan?

Siobhan: He’s on his cell phone out in the backyard by the pool. (noting the look of worry coming over Allison’s face as she recalls Nathan’s near-drowning) Is something wrong, dear?

Allison: N-No. I just need some—

Siobhan: Tea! I just put the kettle on.

Allison: I’m more a coffee girl.

Siobhan: Ah, you’ve changed on me, Allison. (her hand lovingly brushing aside a strand of Allison’s hair) I remember when you’d come over to visit Nathan, but Sinead would always make you sit with her for tea with the dolls. You always humored her.

Allison (nostalgically smiling): I think I only sat with her because you made those delicious cucumber sandwiches. It’s funny that I remember them after all this time.

Siobhan (laughing): That’s because I used real butter. Would you like some now?

Allison: Oh, Siobhan, I’m much too old for that.

Siobhan: That’s poppycock. Let’s go into the kitchen and make some until Nathan finishes his call.

They journeyed to the kitchen, which looked out onto the side of the house that was unusually plunged in darkness. Siobhan was so immersed in conversation with Allison that she hadn’t realized the side light was off, having been purposely broken.

*

Rodrigo had crept onto the property, shrouding himself in the darkness that matched the clothing he wore. He was just a few feet from the kitchen window, looking through it to see Allison talking with an elderly woman. Where is Nathan? He was growing antsy and wanted to get the job done so that he could return to Callum and start their new life together. He had tried to fight off a wave of nervousness that shot through him, manifesting itself in a desire to pee. He quickly unzipped and urinated on the flowers. Feeling a sense of relief, he turned his attention back to the window, his eyes now aglow as Nathan had walked into the kitchen, hugging Allison. Now that I think of it, I could take them both out. Callum would be thankful to be rid of her. I have enough bullets. He raised the gun to the windowpane, pointing it in the direction of Nathan as his finger slowly curled around the trigger.

It was at that moment Siobhan suddenly turned from Nathan and Allison and looked directly out the window at him, her eyes seemingly boring into him. A wave of panic seized him. His hand holding the gun began to fidget erratically. A split second later found Siobhan unleashing a scream.

TO BE CONTINUED…