The Victorious and the Relentless

Episode 43: “Explosive Confrontations”

Cast of New Characters (for this episode)

Mike Kirkland: late 20’s, gorgeous stud, blue eyes, dark hair, determined, artistic demeanor, Los Angeles Outrunners Secretary

Derek Fisher: early 30’s, dark hair and eyes, average height, manly with strong libido, nurse at Shady Palms Rehabilitation Center

Smashing Pumpkins’ “Disarm” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhOs-zBeRHs) opens this episode over an innovative montage of three scenes, all in various settings and times, all depicting harrowing fates of several characters:

Rodrigo feverishly rakes his left hand through his hair while his right hand holds the gun by his side, his heart racing as perspiration soaks through his clothing. The time had come. There was already one casualty, and he knew Callum would appreciate that. One less pest to bother him! There’s no turning back now. He looks down to the floor, seeing Kyle lying on it, knocked out cold with Chloe, whimpering, tied up next to him, Rodrigo’s lackey tightening the cord around her wrists.

Fiercely knocked to the ground by the man in flight, Enid rises and places her hand against her aching head to massage her temple. She rushes up the steps to the house, finding the door thrown open. She enters and immediately screams as her vision takes in the sight of Justin, holding his father, who has been shot and is bleeding profusely.

A trickle of blood oozes from the wound on Heath’s head as he raises it from the ground, dirt and rubble all around him. He waits a few minutes for his vision to come back to him, the impact of the disaster having knocked him unconscious. He tries to pick himself up and winces in mild pain. All he hears around him are screams.

SEVENTY-TWO HOURS EARLIER… KYLE’S HOME, WEST HOLLYWOOD, EVENING

Bralen had spent most of the day rethinking his strategy as he had blown it with Kyle that morning. Maybe I did come on too strong with the breakfast and buying the new photo album, but he’s always drawn to that album, and I know why. Heath’s still on his mind. I should probably get an update on him and see how he’s coming along at Shady Palms. I’ll ring Nurse Carmen and then try to put back the pieces with Kyle. Bralen did just that, getting his update and then driving over to Kyle’s, catching him just as he had arrived home and was about to go inside.

Kyle (sighing): Bralen, I’m not really up for—

Bralen: Kyle, I know I’m the last person you want to see, but I really need to talk with you.

Kyle (twisting the key in the lock): Bralen, I just want to take a shower and call it a night. I’m really tired. (pushing into the house)

Bralen (following him inside): This won’t take long. I-I wanted to say I’m really sorry about this morning.

Kyle (putting his stuff down on table): I’m sorry for the way I reacted. I’m sure I sounded quite harsh.

Bralen: I shouldn’t have touched your stuff.

Kyle (taking a deep sigh): No, you shouldn’t have.

Bralen: And I promise to never make you breakfast again. No more blueberry flaxmeal muffins. I promise. (seeing Kyle burst out laughing) I-I can’t help it. It’s the healthy vegetarian in me.

Kyle: Well, you know I’m a meat eater. I’m sure that’s a bigger offense in your eyes than moving my album.

Bralen (slowly crosses to him, puppy-eyed): Can you forgive me for being such a dick?

Kyle: Sure.

Bralen (throwing arms around him): Thanks, Kyle. You don’t know how much this means to me. I wouldn’t have been able to live with myself if you hated me.

Kyle: I don’t hate you, Bralen. I just want you—us—to take things slow.

Bralen: Okay.

Kyle (backing away from him): Well, I’m going to have a shower. You’re welcome to stay for dinner afterwards, but I’m afraid there’s not much here for a vegetarian.

Bralen (playfully): Discrimination! (over Kyle’s laughter) How about I order us some Chinese?

Kyle: Sounds good to me. (turns to go into back room) Anything with chicken for me.

Bralen: Yeah, yeah, I know.

He turned away, a smile creeping on his face. I’ve repaired things with Kyle, and we’re back on track. We’ll have a quiet evening together… that should set things right. I won’t come on too strong tonight. At that moment, the doorbell rang. Bralen opened it, an expression of surprise at once seizing him.

Bralen: Lindsay Slocumb! Is that really you?

Lindsay: Y-Yes. And you’re—

Bralen: Bralen Jones. Let me just say I’m a big fan of yours. I’ve followed your career for the past decade. You were phenomenal in Cruel Girls.

Lindsay: Thanks.

Bralen: And I loved you in the remake of Strange Saturday. You had such great chemistry with Judy Forrester.

Lindsay: Thanks again. You’re full of such nice remarks. All I can say is that I really wanted you to represent our country in Beijing. I never believed that baloney about steroids.

Bralen: Th-Thanks. So what brings you by? Are you with Publishers Clearing House to award me with a million dollars?

Lindsay: Not exactly. I’m here courtesy of Heath.

Bralen (shocked): Heath! You know him?

Lindsay: Yeah, it’s a long story. Is Kyle here by any chance?

Bralen (swallowing over lump in his throat): Uh, no, he isn’t.

Lindsay: Damn! I really wanted to give this to him. (pulling out envelope from her handbag) It’s from Heath. (her cell phone rings, looks at caller display) Could you hold for a minute? (answers phone) Amanda, what is it? Hun, I told you I’m on my way. I’m actually right down the street. I’ll be there in ten. (snaps phone shut)

Bralen: So you two are back together?

Lindsay: Not a word of this to the tabloids!

Bralen: My lips are sealed. (looks at envelope) Would you like me to take that for Kyle? He’ll be home later tonight.

Lindsay (hesitantly): Uh, sure. I’ve got to get to Amanda otherwise she’ll bite my head off. (hands him envelope) So I guess I’ll see you at the Berate Prop 8 event in a few days.

Bralen: I plan on being there. Thanks for your support.

Lindsay: Hey, we’re all in this together. Anyway, I should run. (turns to go)

Bralen (sighing as he closes the door): Whew!

Kyle (coming into room, towel wrapped around his middle): Who was that?

Bralen (spinning around, hiding envelope behind his back): Mormon missionaries!

Kyle (incredulously): In West Hollywood?

Bralen: They’re getting desperate! You know they’re major supporters of Proposition 8.

Kyle: I hope you told them where to stuff it.

Bralen (slipping envelope in his back pocket): I did.

Kyle: Was it at least a cute missionary?

Bralen: Not really my type. (sotto voce) Although for once I was interested in the message they brought.

Kyle: So what are we having for dinner? I’m guessing you didn’t have to order because of the unexpected guest.

Bralen: I’m right on it.

Kyle went back into the room to put on a shirt. Bralen sighed, wiped the sweat from his brow, and rushed to the kitchen to get the delivery menu from Kyle’s favorite Chinese restaurant. He had been so shaken by Lindsay’s visit that he mistakenly ordered two chicken teriyaki dinners.

CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, EVENING

Godfrey had just sat down with a steaming cup of tea, looking forward to relaxing when the doorbell rang. To his amazement, it was Priscilla, who barged right inside, wearing the angriest of expressions with no trace of her usual comic warmth.

Priscilla: Where the hell is Callum?

Godfrey (stunted by her brusqueness): H-He’s not here. Are you all right, Priscilla?

Priscilla: I will be once I tear into him!

Godfrey: Has he done something to upset you?

Priscilla (looking at him with irate eyes): What hasn’t he done to upset me? (sits down in chair, sees tea) I need a drink.

Godfrey: I’ll get you some tea.

Priscilla: I want a real drink. (eyeing him down)

Godfrey (sighing): As you wish. (crosses to bar, pours her a glass of bourbon, hands to her) Care to tell me what has you so distressed?

Priscilla (taking glass, downs it in one gulp, hands it back to him): What do you think? He took my baby from me. (gesturing to empty glass) Refill it.

Godfrey (obediently pours more bourbon): Priscilla, Vittoria Morelli was responsible for Peyton’s death. I saw it myself. (handing her the glass)

Priscilla (angrily knocks glass from his hand for it to shatter on the floor): Stop defending him! I won’t rest until Callum is brought to justice. I have nothing because of that bastard. (breaks down crying)

At that moment, Inga came into the room, carrying Edward and expecting to see Callum. She was surprised to find Godfrey and Priscilla, and a mess of broken glass and wetness on the floor. She was just about to turn away when Priscilla asked her to stay once her eyes softened at the sight of the baby. Inga looked to Godfrey, who silently gestured for her to stay in the room.

Priscilla: May I? (being handed the child) It’s been so long since I’ve held a baby.

Godfrey excused himself to get something with which to clean the mess Priscilla made. She lovingly held the baby and made the silliest of sounds as most adults tend to do when wanting to impress babies. Edward smiled back at her, and for once in a long time, Priscilla felt warmth descend upon her. She held him close to her bosom, rocking him back and forth to sleep as Inga looked on in amazement. After ten minutes, the mess had been cleaned up and Godfrey noticed how much calmer Priscilla was now that she was with the baby. Of course he knew the real bond between them.

Priscilla (looking up at Godfrey): He has dimples just like my—(fights back tears)

Inga: Perhaps I should take him.

Priscilla: No, I’m fine. (violently shifts her head when she hears Callum’s voice from the foyer)

Callum: The nerve of these American—(cutting short as he enters, sees Priscilla with Edward) What the bloody hell are you doing here? And what are you doing with my son? (crosses over to take him)

Priscilla: How an angel like him could be yours is beyond my understanding.

Callum (cradling baby): I just hope he’s not drunk off your alcoholic breath.

Priscilla (rising): You impudent scoundrel! How dare you!

Callum: Inga, would you take him to the nursery? (hands him to her, they leave as he turns back to Priscilla) I see you didn’t bring RuCrawl, your little tranny sidekick.

Priscilla: Taylor has a business to run. My business is here with you! (reaching into her purse to withdraw DVD) Allison gave this to me. (noting Callum’s reaction) Care to explain it?

Callum: My word, Priscilla! It’s just sex. Surely you’re familiar with that. (leaning around to look at Godfrey) Am I right, Godfrey?

Priscilla (to Godfrey): Don’t you say one word. (to Callum) You were blackmailing my son with this. There’s no other reason.

Callum: Priscilla, you know porn can be educational. I imagine you could start a whole series on cougars. And just what do you plan to do with that anyway? The police already know about it. This is just your pathetic way of trying to pin Peyton’s death on me. When will you get it through your booze-induced brain that I didn’t kill your son? Vittoria did. End of!

Priscilla (slapping him): For as long as I live, I’ll never believe you had no part in his death.

Godfrey (rushing to them, separating Priscilla from Callum): Perhaps you should go.

Callum (feeling the sting in his cheeks): No, she’s not leaving until I give her a piece of my mind. (looks directly into her eyes) If you looked at that video, you would see how your son took advantage of me when I lost my husband.

Priscilla: My Peyton would never—

Callum: Your Peyton knew it was in his genes to be that way. With a mother like you, he had no recourse but to love alcohol and take up a salacious lifestyle of sex. In fact, his last words to me were that he didn’t want to be remembered as a drunk and man-whore.

Priscilla (pulling herself away from Godfrey): You told me he didn’t say anything. (rushes over to him)

Callum: I lied. But that isn’t exactly news to you.

Priscilla (grasping his wrists, tears in her eyes): What else did he say?

Callum (tauntingly): Wouldn’t you like to know? Will you let go of me?

Priscilla: I need to know what my baby—(suddenly collapses onto floor)

Godfrey (rushing over to her, looks up to Callum): Are you happy now? I think you’ve said enough.

Callum: I’m tempted to agree with you. I trust you can handle her. Some brandy should do the trick. I’m sure her lips are thirsting for it.

Godfrey: You needn’t continue with your tirade about her. Don’t you have more important matters?

Callum: Right you are. I have to be with Talon. (silently leaves the room)

SHADY PALMS REHABILITATION CENTER, MALIBU, EVENING

Heath had a quick dinner after Lindsay had left with his letter to Kyle. He rushed to Dr. Shoai’s office, hoping to reach him before he had left for the day. He caught him just as he rounded the corner, knocking into him.

Dr. Shoai: Slow down, Heath.

Heath: I wanted to catch you before you left. I know you won’t be back for a few days.

Dr. Shoai: What’s so important?

Heath: I wanted to get your opinion about when I could look forward to leaving Shady Palms.

Dr. Shoai: That’s really up to you, Heath. Remember you signed yourself into the facility out of fear you might harm yourself.

Heath: I’m not like that anymore. I wouldn’t do that now.

Dr. Shoai: I know. I’ve watched your improvement these past weeks. You’ve worked really hard to understand your problems and work through them. I see no signs of suicidal tendencies, but should you leave Shady Palms, I would strongly suggest follow-up counseling.

Heath (nodding his head): So I could leave when I want to?

Dr. Shoai: Do you feel ready to go?

Heath (hesitantly looking him in the eye): N-No, Doc. I have more work to do with myself. I just wanted to—

Dr. Shoai: Make sure this wasn’t some kind of prison? (sees Heath smile) We’re not holding you here against your will.

Heath: Thanks, Doc. Enjoy your time away.

Heath then left him and walked down the hall, turning left at the end, heading toward the corridor on which his room was located. He passed by Trey’s room, seeing that the door was ajar. It was at this juncture that Heath bent down to tie his shoe laces, and as he rose, he saw Derek exiting Trey’s room. Heath resisted the urge to roll his eyes. He started to move and clumsily tripped over himself, knocking into Derek. They both fell to the floor.

Derek: Watch where you’re going!

Heath: Sorry.

Derek: You weren’t following me?

Heath: N-No. I didn’t see you come out of Trey’s room, zipping up your pants.

Derek: Very funny. Isn’t it your bedtime? (turns to leave)

Heath noticed something on the floor and called out to Derek, who ignored him and kept walking, turning the corner as Heath bent down to up the little bag. His eyes nearly bulged once they registered what the white substance inside it was. Though he had never tried the substance, Heath knew some acquaintances who abused it occasionally. The door closed behind him. The sound of Trey’s voice startled him.

Trey: Heath, what are you doing out here?

Heath (spinning around): I-I came to apologize for my and Lindsay’s behavior earlier this evening.

Trey: Don’t worry about it. I’ve already forgot about it. (starts leaving down the hallway)

Heath: Trey?

Trey (turning around): Yeah?

Heath (sincerely): Is everything all right? Are you okay?

Trey: Yeah, I’m fine. Never felt better. (pause) Look, I have to get to group now. See you later.

He turned and walked away, leaving Heath’s mind in a swirl of questions as he gingerly pulled out the little bag which he had shoved into his back pocket. What is crystal meth doing here and what has Trey and Derek to do with it? The more Heath thought of it, the more reasons he came up with for leaving Shady Palms. He finally decided to go back to his room where he fell asleep.

OUTRAGE CLUB, WEST HOLLYWOOD, EVENING

The trio of Justin, Enid, and Iain met the blaring strobe lights and smoke of club OUTRAGE with pulsing flows of adrenaline coursing through their veins as they fled from Chloe. They had rushed past the bouncer, Enid having thrown him a wad of money as they pushed into the throng of happy-goers who were dancing to the loud, booming beats coming from the sound system. Enid stopped briefly to take in the scenery, the bar situated in the middle of the floor, several handsome bartenders—the majority of them shirtless—fast at task dispensing drinks to their youthful, plastic clientele.

She looked around the perimeter of the first floor, her eyes aglow with the spectacle of six cages strategically placed about the walls, drop-dead gorgeous go-go dancers encased within them, shaking their asses and showing the patrons what they wanted to see—for a price.

Enid: It’s wall-to-wall totty in here.

Justin (jerking her arm): C’mon! She followed us inside!

Chloe was speaking with the bouncer, who had followed her inside, presumably to check their ID’s as she assuredly alerted him to the fact Justin was underage. They looked to be approaching them, and Justin pulled Enid aside as Iain had taken the lead, trying to hide them among the large group, yet they all heard Chloe shouting for them over the loud music. When Justin turned his head, his eyes briefly caught with Chloe’s, and he bolted ahead, knocking aside people, their drinks spilling onto other people.

His hand firmly gripping Enid, it was now Justin’s time to take in the atmosphere, his eyes taking in the sight of gay revelry before him, several scantily clad boys indulging in merriment, many openly kissing one another. Justin’s legs were suddenly petrified at the egregious spectacle. Iain knocked into his immobile frame as they both fell to the floor as the opening of Cobra Starship’s “I Kissed A Boy” begins playing in the background.

Enid helped them both up, each looking out for their unwanted pursuer. She pushed the boys into the nearest corner and ducked to the floor just as Chloe came from their left. Without thinking, Iain grasped Jusitn’s head and pulled him in for a kiss, their liplock preventing either of their faces from being seen by Chloe. Justin naturally tried to resist and pull away as Iain’s mouth heatedly pressed against his. It was with the intrusion of Iain’s tongue that Justin vehemently attempted to shove him away, but Iain held a firm latch onto the back of his head, the forced kiss continuing a few more seconds until Chloe and the bouncer passed them. It was at that point Justin shoved Iain, and before a heated argument could commence, Enid had intervened, urgently taking them both by the hand and rushing them upstairs to the top level.

The crowd was thicker there, the area badly in need of air conditioning as the body heat factor was overwhelming, all three of them feeling the sweat of the partygoers on their skin as they navigated through the massive throng to an isolated lounge area in the back.

Enid (sitting down, sighing): I think we lost them.

Justin (to Iain): Dude, don’t you ever try that shit again!

Iain (testily): She was right behind us. What else could I have done?

Justin (getting in his face): I’m not like that! I’m not a fag!

Enid: Oy, watch your language! Iain was only looking out for you.

Justin: I bet! Did you see what he did to me?

Enid: Yeah, I did. So what? It was an innocent snog, but I have to admit it was hot.

Justin (disbelievingly): What?

Enid: Come on, I’m sure you get turned on when two girls kiss. Why shouldn’t I with two blokes?

Iain (to Justin): Yeah, it didn’t mean anything to me. Just look at it as something for her benefit as well.

Justin: I don’t know about this. We should go.

Enid: I want to stay. This place is awesome. (looking at a cage with two go-go dancers, both of them kissing passionately inside it)

Iain (coming up to her): I see you are really into it.

Enid: Like I said earlier, it’s wall-to-wall totty in here. Sadly, none of it’s interested in me.

Justin: Let’s just go. I don’t really like it in here.

Iain: You will once I get a few drinks in you. (suddenly realizing the weight of his words) Don’t take that the wrong way.

Enid (seeing Justin’s angry reaction, takes his hand): Calm down, will you. Iain’s practically harmless. We’ll go if you want but not after I chat up that bloke over there. (pointing to the corner where a lone go-go dancer had descended from his cage)

Iain: Are you mad? He’s much older than you, and besides have you forgot this is a gay club?

Enid: I have good gaydar, and everything’s telling me he’s straight.

Iain: I’m not for us getting kicked out. Don’t do anything foolish, Enid.

Justin (to her): Yeah, let’s just go.

Enid (wickedly smiling): Show me another kiss and then we can go. I might as well get my rocks off.

Iain: You’re kidding, right?

Justin: There’s no way I’m—(suddenly cut off by Enid giving him a passionate kiss)

Enid: That’s how much I enjoyed watching you two.

Justin (in a daze): Whoa! That was hot.

Enid: Now kiss him.

Justin (hesitantly): I-I don’t—(feels Iain take his head into his hands and relay a second quick kiss)

Iain: Now, was that so bad?

Justin (reactively punching Iain, who falls to the floor): Don’t ever touch me again, you fucking freak!

Enid (horrified by violent display): Justin!

The spectacle had drawn the attention of half the floor in spite of the music continuing to play loudly. One guy came over to help Iain from the floor while others simply stared at Justin, their looks feeling akin to the worst sunburn he had ever felt. It was if their eyes were boring into him. Knowing he was the odd man out in this setting, he imagined what they must think of him, attacking one of their own. Paranoia slowly crept into his mind. Had they seen him kiss me? For that matter, had they seen the first one he forced on me? Do they think I’m gay like them? He looked into their accusing eyes and into the pained eyes of Enid. He felt sick to his stomach and surrendered himself to his first impulse. He bolted away, aggressively pushing through a group of dancers on his way to the stairs. In his fevered haste to leave, he hadn’t heard Enid’s pleas for him to come back.

SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD, WEST HOLLYWOOD, EVENING

Allison hurriedly left Austin’s as she was late for dinner with Chloe at the sushi bar on Santa Monica Boulevard. On the quick drive over, she got a call from Brendon, asking her where was Chloe, his voice sounding very pressing. She duly informed him that Chloe was at the city’s newest sushi bar at which point she heard a sharp click as he ended the call. She wondered what that was about, especially minutes later when she found herself alone at the restaurant, waiting for Chloe, who was not answering her phone. What did Brendon want from her? Maybe she’s with him. She started to dial Brendon’s number.

Brendon: We just pulled up outside. Where’s Chloe?

Allison (coming outside): I thought she might be with you. What’s going on?

Brendon: She called me half an hour ago. She apparently ran into Justin and made him talk to me on her cell, but then she said she had to go.

Allison (looking at Nathan, who got out of the driver’s seat): You don’t think she’s in trouble?

Nathan: She’s not answering her phone.

Allison: I know. I’ve been trying to reach her. Where was she when she called you, Brendon?

Brendon: She didn’t say.

Allison (gesturing to front of restaurant): We were supposed to meet here for dinner.

Nathan (withdrawing his phone): I’m calling Kyle. He’ll know what to do.

Allison was so happy to see Nathan just as her worry for Chloe had seized her. The fact that he was now taking matters into his own hands was a comforting sight along with seeing him together with Brendon. Are they back on? It’s just like Nathan to come to someone’s help the second they’re alarmed. Brendon looks really concerned about Justin. Nathan had just dialed Kyle’s number when Allison looked in the distance to see Chloe rushing to them.

Allison: Chloe!

Nathan (into phone): Kyle, I’ll call you back.

Brendon (rushing to her): Where’s Justin?

Chloe: He got away. OUTRAGE was so packed that I really couldn’t see where I was going.

Nathan (incredulously): You followed him into a club?

Chloe: They were too fast for me.

Allison: They?

Chloe: He and his friends.

Brendon: Friends? Who were they?

Chloe: I don’t know. Some weird-looking boy and a girl… the usual club types. I’m so sorry for losing him.

Allison (wrapping arm around her): It’s okay, honey.

Brendon (shoving hand into his pocket): No, it’s not. He’s out there on the run. (withdrawing card and shoving it in Chloe’s face) Was he with her?

Chloe (taking student ID): Yes, he was. That’s the girl he was with. Wait a minute, I know her from somewhere.

Allison (glancing over Chloe’s shoulder): That’s Callum’s sister! I wouldn’t forget her face.

Brendon: You know her?

Allison: I treated her for a drug overdose several weeks ago. (to Chloe) That’s where you remember her… from the hospital cafeteria when I knocked Callum over the table. (sees Chloe nod)

Brendon (worriedly): She does drugs? (feeling Nathan take card from him)

Nathan (looking at the university name): This is impossible.

Chloe: What is?

Nathan: This is someone else. Callum’s sister goes to school in Oxford.

Brendon: Callum is behind this! I knew it all along. And now that I know his sister’s into drugs…

Nathan: No, you’re wrong. Callum wouldn’t lie to me.

Allison: Wake up, Nathan! Callum is a liar, and the quicker you accept that, the better. (turning to Brendon) Now I think you need to call Kyle and tell him what we know now.

CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, EVENING

Callum had a relaxing bath and a hot cup of tea. Priscilla had greatly unnerved him, and it wasn’t just her accusations about his involvement in Peyton’s death. I nearly had a heart attack when I saw her with Edward. How dare Godfrey let her get close to him! She can never know that he’s her grandson. It’s bad enough that grinch Eleanor has decided to want custody of him. These hags need to shrivel up and die. He was just about to go downstairs when there came a knock at his bedroom door. It was Talon.

Talon (through the door): I have a surprise for you.

Callum (opening door): You know how much I hate surprises. (unleashes exclamation as puppy comes into the room, licking his bare legs) What the bloody hell is that?

Talon: It’s a puppy.

Callum: I can see that! What is it doing in my house? I own no pets.

Talon: You do now. It’s a gift from Enid. (bends to floor to pick it up) Say hi to Callum.

Callum (sees its anatomy): It’s a female.

Talon: Then I guess it’s off to the puppy pound as there’s only room for one bitch in this house. (playfully struck by Callum) Owww!

Callum: You say it’s from Enid? So you’ve seen her today?

Talon: We had lunch.

Callum: I’ve been trying to reach her. She’s not returning my calls. I should have known she’d jump at the chance to see you. You two always had a special connection. Did you tell her she’s in trouble?

Talon: She knows it.

Callum: She’s been accused of lodging a runaway. Is this true? (sees Talon’s expression, which gives it away) Talon!

Talon: She knows the consequences. (going over to hug him) Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it. (puppy squeals as it’s pressed between them)

Callum (ruffling its furry head): Just like you’ll care for this dog. (taking it into his arms) My word! She’s heavy. Which breed is she?

Talon: French bulldog. What shall we name her?

Callum: Well, she’s French and a bitch. How about Allison?

Talon: As in Dr. Allison Trudeau?

Callum: I can certainly make out the resemblance. I think the name suits her well.

Talon (kissing him): You’re incorrigible.

Callum: Care to tell me how Enid came to have this puppy in her dormitory? She’s supposed to be learning, not taking in strays! That boy’s father is on a war path with me, and she’s only made it worse.

As if the universe were reading Callum’s mind at that moment, his phone rang. The caller display revealed it was Justin. Callum excused himself from the room, telling Talon it was an important call from London.

Callum: You’ve got some nerve ringing me!

Justin: It’s time to pay up. I gave you Nathan, and now I need your help.

Callum: Where’s my sister?

Justin: I-I don’t know.

Callum: And where are you?

Justin: I’m outside in your backyard.

Callum: Don’t move. I’m on my way!

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WAREHOUSE, EVENING

Shiny Toy Guns’ “You Are the One” plays over the following two scenes as pure darkness steals over Los Angeles. Rodrigo sits in the warehouse, feverishly working at the table in the corner, his chair positioned so that he looks directly at Tristan, who’s still chained to the wall. On the table Rodrigo has placed a framed photo of Callum at which he stares as he finishes his diabolical task. I’m doing this for you… for us…. so that we can be together without anyone bothering you. These people don’t deserve to live after the way they’ve treated you. Now that I have inside access to the event venue, I can take them all out in one fell swoop. You’ll be so proud of me, and then no one can come between us. His concentration was broken by Tristan, whose burst lip should have been a warning to him not to get into another argument with Rodrigo.

Tristan: You’ll never get through with this. You’re crazy.

Rodrigo: About Callum, yes, I am! And no one’s going to stop me, least of all you.

Tristan: Just let me go!

Rodrigo: Why is it the same old song with you?

Tristan: I’ll help you get Callum. Honest!

Rodrigo: I don’t need your help. (gesturing to bomb) I’ve got all the assistance I need. (sotto voce) And just the right amount of backup!

Tristan didn’t know that it was the second bomb that Rodrigo assembled… the one intended to kill him.

BRALEN’S HOME, SANTA MONICA, EVENING

Bralen sits in his car, staring at his Blackberry, an image of a sleeping Kyle on the small screen. He had taken it that morning before Kyle kicked him out. He just made it home after his evening with Kyle, having thought it wise not to stay over. Now that things are back on track between us, I shouldn’t press the issue. That was a close call earlier tonight with Lindsay. Thank God Kyle hadn’t walked in otherwise she would have given him the letter. What’s Heath doing writing Kyle anyway? He said he didn’t want any communication. Bralen took out the letter, read through it, a flurry of emotions running through him. He looked back at the image of Kyle sleeping in the bed where they had made love. In one quick gesture, he tore the letter in half. If I were a smoker, I’d have burned it. There’s no way you’re getting back with Kyle. You had your chance with him and blew it just like you did my chance for the Olympics.

TRISTAN’S APARTMENT, WEST HOLLYWOOD, NEXT MORNING

The next morning Kyle rose early and was in his car on the way to Tristan’s apartment when his cell rang. It was Brendon, who had informed him of last night’s events. Both Nathan and Allison were added encouragement for him to get to the bottom of Justin’s disappearance.

Kyle (into phone): An officer’s being sent over to the school dorm this morning. Don’t worry. If Callum’s sister is really harboring him—

Brendon: She is! This only proves Callum is behind this.

Kyle: I know you and Allison are quick to jump on the whole Callum conspiracy, but let’s wait until we have all the facts.

Brendon (shouting): What more facts do you need? Justin’s gone missing. I find Enid Sutcliffe’s ID on the roof outside his bedroom, and then Chloe sees them at a club in WeHo.

Kyle: I somehow doubt Justin was taken there kicking and screaming.

Brendon: Don’t make light of this.

Kyle: Sorry, Brendon, but I have to go now. I’ll be in touch. (happily disconnects call)

He had pulled up outside Tristan’s apartment complex. Vincenzo Bersani had called him last night, expressing his continued concern about Tristan’s ongoing disappearance. As the call came shortly before Kyle went to bed, he had a nightmare that Tristan had run away with Heath and they were somewhere together, happy at the expense of Kyle’s grief. That’s partly why I need to find out about Tristan. I remember before his sudden disappearance that he left me a message on my voicemail that it was important I call him back. Had that been about Heath? Something about his disappearance isn’t right! The sooner I get to the bottom of this, the better. Five minutes later saw him inside the apartment, interrogating Vincenzo, a steaming cup of cappuccino before him.

Kyle: But you’ve heard from him?

Vincenzo (handing him the phone): Only a text message.

Kyle (reading it): And the last time you saw him?

Vincenzo: The day of the funeral.

Kyle: Seamus’ memorial? He never showed up. (holding up phone) He says he’s with a friend. Do you know who it is?

Vincenzo (shaking his head): No, I don’t know many of Tristano’s friends. I’m new to LA.

Kyle: Was he with anyone on the day of the funeral? His car’s still outside so whoever he’s with had to come by and pick him up.

Vincenzo: Well, there was this one guy. He came by to visit Tristano. He was—uh—you know, in the bedroom with him. They were—uh—

Kyle: I get it. What did he look like?

Vincenzo (shrugging): Like any other man in LA.

Kyle: A lot of good that does me. Was he muscular or skinny? Tall or short? Black, White, Hispanic? (sees Vincenzo nod at last one) So he was Hispanic. (sotto voce) That really narrows it down.

Vincenzo: He was tall, dark hair. (shakes head)The rest is—how you say—“fuzzy.”

Kyle: Did Tristan say his name?

Vincenzo (shrugging): Hugo, I think… no, Marco. I-I don’t know.

Kyle (drumming pencil against notepad): What about his luggage? Is any of it gone?

Vincenzo rose to go into Tristan’s room just as Kyle’s phone rang. It was the station. They needed him immediately. He told Vincenzo to get back with him as soon as he finished with Tristan’s room. Rushing out the apartment, he passed by Tristan’s car. His cop instincts told him to have a quick look. He peeked into the windows. Everything appeared as it should, and there was a flat. He knelt down and sucked in his breath as he saw that the tire had been slashed. Now that’s interesting. The team that was sent over to take prints from Chloe’s car reported back that her tires were slashed. I wonder if there’s any connection between her attack and Tristan’s sudden disappearance. My gut’s telling me there is. Receiving another urgent page from headquarters, Kyle darted to his car and headed there.

SHADY PALMS REHABILITATION CENTER, MALIBU, MORNING

Heath tossed and turned in bed all night, his mind completely restless over what he had discovered. When there was a knock on his room door early in the morning, he thought it was Derek coming for his lost fix of meth. He was surprised to see it was Estrella, who barged right into the room, an expression of frustration and concern on her face.

Estrella: We need to talk.

Heath (holding door open): I have nothing to say to you. No, wait. I do. Get the hell out!

Estrella (sitting in chair, crossing her legs): I’m not going anywhere.

Heath: How did you get here anyway?

Estrella: I have connections everywhere, Heath. If I wanted, I could get into the White House.

Heath: Don’t you mean Whore House?

Estrella: I’ll let that one pass and cut right to the chase. Where’s Tristan?

Heath: Excuse me.

Estrella (rising and going over to him): You heard me. Where is he?

Heath: I’ve been here for several weeks. I don’t know where is. (reads desperation in her face) Oh, I get it now. You’re worried he’s grown tired of you… that he’s gone off to someone else. I’m flattered you think he would come first to me, but I wouldn’t take him back anyway. I will give him kudos for throwing you to the curb.

Estrella: You listen here, you—

Heath: No, you listen! I’m not taking shit from Tristan, and I sure as hell ain’t taking any from you. I haven’t seen or heard from him in weeks. He’s your problem now.

Estrella: You don’t get it. He’s been gone for four days now.

Heath (his eyes sweep over her): He must have had good reason for leaving.

Estrella (getting in his face): You just can’t get over him being with me.

Heath: I’m over him. And I suggest you do the same. Of course your way of getting over one man is getting under another one.

Estrella (slapping him): Don’t you ever! Tristan values me more than you’ll ever know. Does it sicken you to know I can give him something you can’t?

Heath (rubbing his stinging cheek): What? Herpes?

Estrella: No, a son… or a daughter. I’m guessing he wants a boy.

Heath (disbelievingly shaking his head): No way. You’re pregnant?

Estrella: Yes, I am. Tristan and I will be connected forever.

Heath (sits down on bed): N-No.

Estrella (observing the toll the news has on him): I’ll have the pregnancy test results framed for you. (her eyes taking in the image of Heath’s walled drawing) Your room could do with better art. Anyway, I can see you don’t know where he is.

Heath (fighting back tears): Just go!

Estrella (standing in doorway): Now you get well soon! I want you all smiles at the baby shower. On second thought, your invitation might just get lost in the mail.

She turned to leave just as tears spill over Heath’s cheeks. He rose to close the door, sliding his back down its wooden surface until he’s crouched on the floor, his head falling into his cupped hands.

AUSTIN’S HOME, WEST HOLLYWOOD, MORNING

Mike: How could you do this to me? Replacing me with Amanda Royston?

Austin: Mike, it’s a strategic move. She’s a big name record-producing DJ. This’ll be good for the event.

Mike: But you know how I need these gigs to pay down my grad student loans.

Austin (nonchalantly): There’ll be other opportunities, Mike. (seriously) I need for this to be a success.

Mike (testily): Are you implying that it wouldn’t be that way with me?

Austin: Calm down. That’s not what I’m saying.

Mike: It sure sounds like it. (pause) How’s this for an idea? What about having two turntables in separate areas of the venue?

Austin: I don’t know about that. I don’t want to encroach on Amanda’s creative space.

Mike: Come on, Austin. Give me a break.

Austin: Mike, let’s just drop it. I’ve made my decision.

Mike: What if I talk to Jeremy Dodd?

Austin: I wouldn’t do that. He put me in charge. I don’t want him thinking things aren’t in order.

Mike: But I was slated to do this since its concept! And now you replace me all because Lindsay Slocumb wants more publicity for her girlfriend.

Austin: This isn’t about Lindsay.

Mike: You’re right. It’s about you and your need to control.

Austin: Pardon me?

Mike: You seriously have a control complex, Austin. Right now it’s with this event. Prior to that, it was your campaign to win the club presidency at all costs. You’re once again not taking others’ emotions into consideration.

Austin: How dare you speak to me that way! I gave you your first break as a model!

Mike: Yeah, posing in men’s underwear for your company!

Austin: Don’t sound so ungrateful. You needed a job, and in this economy, you can’t be too choosy. Look, Mike, I’ve been through a hell of a lot in the past few weeks, certainly more than what’s on your plate, and I don’t have time for your whining. My decision’s been made about the DJ for the event. As for your continued employment with my company, you can leave anytime you want. Any West Hollywood guy would kill for that exposure.

Mike: I’m not just another West Hollywood guy! Austin, I understand you’re going through a lot with what happened to Drake and all, but you can’t continue stepping on people’s toes no matter how good your intentions. You may gain some friends, but you’re surely alienating others.

Austin: I don’t need a lecture from you.

Mike: If not from me, you certainly got one from Steven Fraser. (noting Austin’s puzzled expression) I see you haven’t read the West Hollywood Heat. You’re upsetting him with your public plea for boycotting businesses like La Hiena.

Austin: Well, the heat must be catching on if it’s in the news.

Mike: La Hiena has been an institution here in West Hollywood long before you arrived in town.

Austin: Well, the owner made a donation to Prop 8 campaign. Would you want to dine at an establishment that doesn’t respect your rights as a human?

Mike: I’ve never been disrespected there. Besides that’s just one person’s belief.

Austin: By supporting that proposition, he’s essentially spitting in the face of every gay patron that’s lining his pockets with money!

Mike: This isn’t just about the Steven Frasers of California. What about the innocent people that work under them? If he’s put out of business, what happens to his employees? Are you going to feel happy for the single parents out of work?

Austin (agitated): Mike, I-I really don’t have time for this now. I need to start packing some clothing. (seeing his confusion) I’m staying in the Ocean Park Hotel. I need to be as close to the venue as possible. It’s going to be successful and go off without a hitch.

Mike: Austin, just listen to me—

Austin (firmly guiding him to the door): It was nice of you to stop by. Perhaps we can talk more about this after the event.

Mike reluctantly left, and Austin forced himself to block out what Mike had said. Nothing can take priority over this event and its cause. I know he means well, but he’s young and doesn’t know the way of the world. Austin then went over to the coffee table to pick up that morning’s copy of the West Hollywood Heat. He couldn’t resist reading the article about the effect his activism was currently having on the campaign against Proposition 8.

IAIN’S ROOM, USC DORMITORY, MORNING

Travis’ “Why Does It Always Rain on Me?” opens this scene as Iain sits at his desk, his head in his hand with his mind in deep thought. Enid paces back and forth in the background, neither of them having got much sleep. She chose to stay in Iain’s room since Justin would likely return there. She pulls forth her phone to dial Justin’s number for the umpteenth time, seconds passing before she snaps it shut.

Enid: Where is he? (pause) Iain, do you hear me?

Iain: How can I not when I’ve a headache the size of France?

Enid: This is your fault. Why’d you have to do that to him?

Iain: You encouraged it. You were winding him up.

Enid: No, I wasn’t.

Iain (imitating her voice): I get so aroused when two blokes kiss.

Enid: I never said that.

Iain: Close enough! There’s no way you’re placing full blame on me.

Enid: Whose idea was it to go to OUTRAGE? You should have known he would be uncomfortable there.

Iain: Yeah, I got that when he decked me.

Enid (sitting on bed): Justin, where are you?

Iain: Possibly at a homophobe convention. (sees Enid’s worried face) I’m sure he’s fine.

Enid: Where did he sleep last night?

Iain: He does have family here.

Enid: He wouldn’t go to his father.

Iain: Well, his dad’s looking for him. Who was that woman following us through the club?

Enid: I don’t know, but she knew his father. She called him, remember?

Iain: Enid, I don’t know about this. I hate you’re embroiled in it. Perhaps you should move back home.

At that moment, there was a knock on the door. Without thinking, Enid rushed to it and threw it open.

Enid: Justin—(quickly shutting her mouth) Callum!

Callum: You were expecting someone else? (pushing past her) Hello, Iain. (turns back to Enid) Did you know there’s a cop downstairs trying to search your room?

Enid: What?

Iain: What are they looking for?

Callum: Used textbooks, marijuana, or perhaps Justin Roberts! (pause) I know everything, Enid.

Iain: Uncle Talon told you.

Callum: As did the boy’s father. Enid, what were you thinking taking him in? I know you always threw a few pence into the beggars’ cups, but that’s where social welfare ends in this country, Love.

Iain: I tried to warn her.

Enid: Shut your gob, Iain. He wouldn’t have run away if it weren’t for you.

Callum: What do you mean by that?

Iain (throwing her a warning glance): I-It’s nothing.

Enid: Callum, you have to help me find him.

Callum: Why? What’s your interest in him?

Enid: He’s just a mate, and I’m concerned for him.

Callum: It had better not be anymore than that or I’ll personally drag you back to Mum and Dad through air or sea. (getting in her face) I won’t have you causing me any trouble. (hears Iain unleash a whistle) And that goes for you, too. Your uncle’s already a handful.

Iain: I should go. I have class in ten minutes. (to Enid) Close the door behind you. It’ll lock on its own.

Enid (once he’s gone): Callum, you needn’t be so forward!

Callum: I meant every word I said, little girl. From henceforth, you stay away from Justin Roberts.

Enid: But—

Callum (elevating his voice): Am I making myself clear? Or do I need to ring Dad and let him know what his precious little girl is really up to in America?

Enid: All right, I get it. (takes a deep breath) But please find him.

Callum: I already have. He’s back at the mansion. (ostentatiously stretches out wrist to look at his watch) I consulted your class schedules, and you have Roman Civilization in five minutes. I’ll personally escort you there and attend lecture with you. (winks at her before pushing her out the room)

CALLUM’S HOME, HOLLYCOVE ESTATES, EARLY AFTERNOON

During his lunch break, Nathan got into his car and drove the short distance to Callum’s home. There were too many questions he needed answers to, especially the ones regarding Brendon’s accusations. Besides, I need to apologize to him for flaking out on him last night. We were supposed to have dinner, but I got caught up in this situation with Brendon and Justin. He made it to the mansion, and Godfrey opened the door.

Godfrey: Mr. Moynihan.

Nathan (coming inside): I’m here to see Callum.

Talon (suddenly coming into room): I’ll handle it from here, Godfrey. (receives a challenging expression from the butler)

Godfrey (to Nathan): Let me know if there’s anything you need. (leaves the room)

Talon (goes over to the bar): Callum’s not here. (pours himself a drink) Do you want one?

Nathan: No thanks. What are you doing here giving orders to Godfrey? Last time I checked Callum solely had that power.

Talon: Things have changed. Oh, where are my manners? I never formally introduced myself aside from that incident the other day. I’m Tal—

Nathan (cutting him off): I know who you are. Callum’s disgruntled ex.

Talon: I’m a bit more than that to Callum.

Nathan: As am I.

Talon: Pardon my being blunt, but whatever you two had is now over.

Nathan: I’ll wait to hear that from Callum.

Talon: You’re hearing it from me! Or have my actions not made my intentions clear?

Nathan: You mean that punch you gave me? I’m sorry to say that barely registered.

Talon: Moynihan, isn’t it? What is it about you Irishmen and your stubbornness to accept defeat?

Nathan: Don’t try any of that nationalist garbage with me. This is personal. (balling his fists) If my Irish mother hadn’t brought me up to be a gentleman, I’d give you a memorable American welcome.

Talon: You know they say violence begets violence so please accept my apology. It’s just that seeing you with Callum—the way I did—makes my blood boil.

Nathan: There was nothing wrong with what we were doing. I can assure you we equally wanted it. In fact it was you who hurt him when you forced the door open onto him.

Talon: Yeah, and I caught you with your kit off!

Nathan: That should have told you we were in the middle of something important. He was pleading for you to go away. That doesn’t sound like someone welcoming back the love of his life.

Talon: The only sound I want to hear is that of your leaving. You’ve more than overstayed your welcome.

Nathan: Callum said I was always welcome here.

Talon (aggressively gets in his face): You stay away from Callum or else I’ll leave you worse off than you were the other day.

Nathan: I don’t respond well to threats. (turns to leave) Just who the hell do you think you are?

Talon (right as Nathan reaches the doorway and is about to go): I’m the man who was making love to Callum an hour after you left.

Nathan (turning around): What did you say?

Talon: It was the most incredible reunion we ever had. You should have seen how much he wanted it. I daresay you were just the foreplay to the main event he had with me. I’m not one for boasting, but you should see the scratches on my back.

Nathan (coming over to him): You should know I lied.

Talon: About what?

Nathan: This! (punches him, Talon flies back several feet to land on floor) Welcome to America! (goes to door, throws it open) That’s how it’s done here. (he leaves)

SAN FERNANDO WAREHOUSE, EARLY EVENING

Tristan didn’t know which day or what time it was. He had a splitting headache but was thankful Rodrigo had left. Unfortunately one of the thugs filled in for him, and it was the one who had instigated the sexual assault on him. Tristan kept thinking about what they had done to Heath. Oh my God, what he must have gone through. No wonder he possibly skipped town. These creeps are serious trouble, and Rodrigo’s deadly. He’s planning on killing Nathan and Lord knows how many other people. I have to stop him. I may lose my life but at least I’ll save that of my unborn child.

Tristan spent the next minutes thinking of a strategy. The gun was either in the goon’s hand or lap, and it was pointed at Tristan’s back as he was led to the bathroom. He stood before the toilet, relieving himself, the splash of urine against water echoing in the little chamber. The thug stood behind him, idly waiting for him to finish, but as the sound died away, he saw that Tristan remained standing. As the room was stuffy and smelly, the thug grew impatient.

Thug (moving over to him): Hey, what’s the holdup?

Tristan (turning around to face him): Dude, give me a few minutes. I’m horny.

His eyes fell on Tristan’s meaty cock, Tristan’s right hand at task and jerking it to full erection. The thug’s eyes bulged in their sockets, and he nearly dropped the gun.

Thug (running tongue over his lips): I can help you.

Tristan (effecting dreamy eyes): I never got the chance to repay you for the other day. That was so hot!

Thug: Thanks. I want to try my luck on yours again. It was so big I couldn’t take it all.

Tristan: How about I try taking yours? (sees the lump in his cotton shorts)

Thug (shoves down his shorts, shifting the gun into his other hand as Tristan drops to his knees): Then come suck it!

Green Day’s “Know Your Enemy” begins playing as Tristan takes the already-erect piece into his mouth and sucks on it for a few minutes, watching as the thug began “ooing” and “ahhing.” Tristan had to force his mind to think of someone else, and then he suddenly bit down with as much strength as he could muster. A blood-curdling, high-pitched scream replaced the moans, and the gun slipped from the thug’s hands and hit the floor. Tristan lunged for it and picked it up as the thug continued writhing in pain. Darting from the room, Tristan quickly grabbed his cell phone which Rodrigo had left on the table in the room where he had been held captive. He then pushed into the door through which Rodrigo and his lackeys had always come and gone. He was plunged into darkness, but his feet bumped into stairs which he feverishly climbed until he reached the top. He pushed through that door and at last came into a hallway that while not being totally dark allowed him to see a window at its farthest end.

He rushed to it and tried opening it, but it wouldn’t budge. He kicked his shoes into the panes, shattering them as the remaining light of day came inside. He stepped out onto the fire escape and for a few seconds delighted in breathing fresh air. He then climbed down the steps until he reached the ground at which point he pulled out the phone. He was about to dial 911 when it suddenly rang, the caller display showing the number he recognized as Estrella’s. He answered it, his pupils dilating as he heard her voice.

Estrella: Tristan, they’ve got me! He says he’s going to kill me if you don’t stop. (sudden silence)

Tristan (shouting into phone): Estrella! (runs hand through his hair as he hears a voice he’d come to know so well)

Rodrigo (through phone): Hello, Tristano. You thought you had me, right? It’s a good thing I’m a voyeur and had hidden cameras set up there. That wasn’t nice what you did to Gustavo. How’d you like for me to do that to your girl?

Tristan: You leave her alone!

Rodrigo: I’m afraid I can’t do that now! You’ve put her into an impossible situation.

Estrella: Tristan! Help me!

Rodrigo: You call the cops, she dies. Now here’s what you’re going to do.

As Tristan listened, he could only think… how many more people will this psychopath hurt?

AUSTIN’S HOME, WEST HOLLYWOOD, EVENING

Austin had packed all his clothing. He would be staying at the Ocean Park Hotel that was a few blocks from the S.S. Camaraderie on the Will Rogers Pier. He was leaving the house with renewed spirits that Proposition 8 would be defeated as he read in the paper how his boycott campaign was gaining momentum. As the door closed behind him, the house telephone began ringing. Austin was putting the suitcase in the back of his car as it continued ringing. He was pulling out the drive when the answering machine’s greeting came on.

The message left went as follows: Hi, Austin. It’s Kim, Drake’s youngest, estranged sister. I’m not sure if you remember me. We’ve only met once. Mom would kill me for calling you, but I wanted to let you know that Drake opened his eyes briefly today. Without thinking, Dad point-blank asked him why he would do something like that to himself. (her voice cracks here and she pauses) H-He slipped back into unconsciousness after he said “Rodrigo.” Do you know what he meant by that? Was that the name of the person who saved him or—(message ends here as it’s gone beyond the one-minute allocation)

Neither Kim nor Austin knew that Rodrigo was the reason Drake was in his present state, and by the time Austin found out, it would be too late.

TO BE CONTINUED…