Post by Xavier Cross on Sept 14, 2017 8:52:24 GMT
{Ringing filled the air, we see a straight shot of Xavier Cross staggering down a hallway, the view changes from that perspective to a first person view, his hands held out, the vision becoming blurred and doubled.}
Xavier Cross: "S...Shit..."
{Cross staggers to his left, as his shoulder slams into the wall. The view gets lower as he begins sinking down, clutching his head, he lets out a grunt of pain. Footsteps are head behind him, as a hand reaches up under his arm lifting him up.}
Male Voice: "Again?"
{The view is still the first person, as Cross blinks softly as he begins to black out. We hear the same voice speaking on a phone.}
Male Voice: "The ambulance is on its way buddy...just hang on..."
{We fade to black, and reopen at a doctor's office a few days later. Cross's eyes looked slightly glazed over. He taps his hands on his knees, growing bored with each passing second. The door slowly opens.}
Dr. Dorian: "Mr. Cross? A pleasure to meet you, I just got off the phone with Doctor Sloan..."
Xavier Cross: "So is my brain turning to mush or what?"
Dr. Dorian: "Well, here's the thing, your brain right now is still healthy, however, the damage you've done is permanent, and what you keep doing is only going to make things worse..."
Xavier Cross: "So what are you saying, retire?"
Dr. Dorian: "Yes, in my medical opinion, your best option is to retire, however..."
Xavier Cross: "My health hasn't deteriorated to a state where you can't not clear me for competition."
Dr. Dorian: "That...is a double negative, but also, yes. Medically you are fit as a fiddle in the aspect of you aren't a seizure risk, you will have these intense migraines, and you will be disorientated....however you need to look long term."
Xavier Cross; "I have a few life insurance policies, my money has been invested wisely, I have a great pair of godparents picked out. My in-laws and my parents are both alive...Look, man, I love my kids, but I got nothing to lose Doc..."
Dr. Dorian: "...are you saying..."
Xavier Cross: "I don't plan on killing myself Doc if that's what you're implying. I'm not trying to go to the nuthouse no...but...I have too much left unsaid and undone to walk away just yet...."
Dr. Dorian: "Then I suggest you start, how do you people say, work a safer style?"
Xavier Cross: "You do a lot of wrestling related stuff."
Dr. Dorian: "Yeah, I have dumbass kids coming in every weekend beat up because they try to bronco buster each other..."
Xavier Cross: "Interesting choice of words...So write my scripts and send me on my way."
Dr. Dorian: "...You've done this song and dance a lot eh? Well, I am writing you a pain prescription, no refills thanks to the little note on your chart here. Narcotics history. I also am going to write you a referral.I think it's in your best interest to head to a specialist in Boston."
Xavier Cross: "Boston?"
{Cross takes the script from the young, handsome, well groomed dark haired doctor, who tilts his head looking at Cross before drifting off into some state of daydreaming. Xavier looks at him for a moment, before slipping off into a daydream of his own}
-Inside Xavier Cross's Mind-
{The skies are a dark red, twisting like a brewing storm. Lightning fills the horizon in bolts of bright gold. Xavier is standing on top of a hill, a patch of beautiful green grass and a perfectly round apple tree sit atop it. He is wearing a suit, which is torn to shreds, a crown of barbwire sits on his head as droplets of blood run down his face. Looking around, Cross reaches up for an apple, a shiny golden apple. He reaches up, but the branches get higher and higher. He leaps into the air, his fingers barely grasping the metallic, smooth skin as they're carried just out of his reach. The sound of horses galloping in the distance. First, in his vision, a man wearing a dark cloak, blowing in the wind with each charge his horse takes. His face covered in a bone mask, metal spikes protruding out of it. In his right hand, a long scythe, made of ivory and steel. To his right, a man a crown of gold and bone wrapped around his head, hair flowing in the wind. A large battle axe strapped to his back, around his horse were ropes tied to heads of men he had taken. To the left, riding a white horse, leather armor clad his body, a helm covered his face, two horns one long, shining and strong the other broken, tattered. A sword raised high in the air. The massive army behind them letting out roars of cheers. Cross looks up, blinking slightly as they approach. His face looks like someone who had been asleep for a long time.}
-Reality-
Xavier Cross: "Whoa...that was really dark..."
Dr. Dorian: "Snap into a slim jim!"
Xavier Cross: "What?"
Dr. Dorian: "Here is your prescription, have a great day."
{The Doctor quickly exits, as Xavier stands there for a moment, trying to digest what he had just seen. It was a day dream...but it felt...real.}
{We open back up in an office, Xavier Cross is holding a crystal glass of bourbon, pouring it into two smaller glasses. He hands one to a man in a suit, his cousin, lawyer, and agent, Chris Cross. The two look at each other as Cross moves over to a window staring out into the distance as Chris begins to talk.}
Chris Cross: "Well, the good news is, since you started this whole Council thing, your revenue is up ten-fold. But more so, that cartoon show you wrote for when you were in Japan. They aired in, and it's being well received. Demons and Kings and stuff. I hear it's the Japanese Game of Thrones."
Xavier Cross: "That's good to hear. I'm supposing they'll want more?"
Chris Cross: "Apparently the way their show scheduling works, they'll want to wait a few months before beginning production on Season Two. The Charity is running great, in fact, we hit our best year, which is gonna look fantastic come tax season."
Xavier Cross: "Great, great. Make sure we're funneling any aid we can to help after these Tsunamis."
Chris Cross: "You mean Hurricanes?"
Xavier Cross: "Blizzards, firestorms...whatever. I'm no weatherman. Just make sure we're doing good, and the world is seeing we're doing good..."
Chris Cross: "Also, the final note is the investments you've made the last few years. They're almost ripe, we can sell now for a huge profit, or we can sit on it."
Xavier Cross: "You pointed me to the broker, and had the leads in the technology industry, or whatever new sexting app they're inventing. I don't care what it is, I care that I'm making money."
Chris Cross: "Considering you could be paying Imperial to be wrestling right now and not lose much of your net worth..."
Xavier Cross: "You know here to divide and send it Chris, I'll change this world one way or another..."
Chris Cross: "How can you talk about changing the world, when you're on the verge of having a brain bleed and dying anywhere."
{Cross drops his glass and he turns charging down Chris, pushing him against the bookshelf.}
Chris Cross: "Whoa...Whoa...Whoa, what the hell is your problem?!"
{Cross can hear the crying of an infant, he turns his head towards it but nothing is there, it's just the two men. He can hear the soft voice in the wind of his dead wife...shaking his head the ringing comes back. It's loud as he staggers back letting go of Chris who looks visibly shaken.}
Chris Cross: "What the hell man, was this about Cari? The brain bleed thing...look, man, I'm sorry...I...I slipped, but what about Mandi? Aren't you in love."
{Xavier looks up at Chris for a moment, before picking up Chris's glass, knocking back the drink.}
Xavier Cross: "I'm doing what needs to be done."
{Setting the glass down, Xavier excuses himself out of the room and the building. He stands there for a moment, the cold September day. Throwing a peacoat on, he looks off into the distance, digging for his keys and something else. Grabbing his keys, and a bottle of pills. Cross looks around for a moment, before quickly opening and popping a handful into his mouth. It had begun again.}
{The scene opens on a small lot where television shows are filmed. Cross closes the door on his car, stepping out. He adjusts his tie for a moment, before taking a deep breath. Rubbing his tired eyes, he blinks slowly the pills doing their job. As he goes to open the door he glances up quickly, a small man, in a simple suit smiles at him opening the door for him.}
Jeffrey Hans: "Mr. Cross! We've been expecting you..please, come in."
{Cross glances at the man for a moment, as he steps forward into the offices. Seeing various posters on the wall of hit television shows, as well as a case of awards. Nodding his head, Cross is a bit impressive at the accolades, being lead into a back corner office, a man sits at a desk. His eyes covered by glasses, head down, wild black and white hair a mess as he taps a pen on a piece of paper lost in thought.}
Jeffrey Hans: "...Mister Martin?"
Xavier Cross: "Martin? Like..."
Mr. Martin: "No...no, I did not write a song of Ice and Fire...However, I am going to make you a massive amount of money as soon as you sign this contract."
Xavier Cross: "I have plenty of money...and I don't sign things all...willy nilly.."
Mr. Martin: "Money isn't the objective hmm..Well being a professional wrestler can only get you so far, how about I make you a superstar? In all facets, not just entertainment and athletics, but the world wide."
Xavier Cross: "See, now this is something I can get on board with, being the hot shot actor in Hollywood, Tom Hanks skills, with Zac Efron's looks..."
Mr. Martin: "Or...we set a standard, of Xavier Cross, looks with Xavier Cross's talents..."
Xavier Cross: "Mister Martin, you have a way with words...I can't tell if you're trying to convince me or fuck me?"
Mr. Martin: "If you sign that line, and give it you're all....It may just be both."
Xavier Cross: "You drive a hard bargin...so let me see what you are offering here..."
{Lifting the contract up, Xavier skims it already scratching his chin a bit.}
Xavier Cross: "My agent has already looked this over, so I know it's a fair offer. But are you sure you want to work with Imperial? I know this will be the first venture of many, so these film and television projects are gonna ride on how I perform..."
{Cross sets the contract down and begins to sign his name.}
Xavier Cross: "So what hot shot actor is gonna be my co-star?"
{He finishes signing his name, looking up.}
Mr. Martin: "Oh, it'll be a first timer, like yourself...you know him very well, I'm not a wrestling fan but I've been told you have a history..."
{Cross raises a brow, his stomach instantly regretting what he just signed.}
Xavier Cross: "Do they have a name?"
Mr. Martin: "Oh...yeah, Spike Kane..."
{The look on Cross's face when Mister Martin finishes his sentence is a look that not even the greatest of wordsmiths could describe...}
{The car door slams shut, as Cross tosses the keys at a valet, he is aggressively typing on his phone, tweeting at IWF management after seeing the card.}
Xavier Cross: "Let's see if I can get these bastards riled up, thin skinned cunts..."
{He smirks a bit, as his phone begins ringing. Looking down, he laughs a bit before answering.}
Xavier Cross: "Oh hello Chris, I'm glad you looked over that contract..I'm so excited for this project...except one small detail..."
{Cross holds the phone away from him from a moment in the hotel lobby before he screams into it.}
Xavier Cross: "WHY DIDNT YOU TELL ME ABOUT SPIKE!?!?"
{He clicks the hang-up button on the phone and begins rubbing the bridge of his nose. Looking up, he sees the beautiful and smiling Mandi Matthews running towards him. She leaps into his arms, wrapping her legs around his waist.}
Mandi Matthews: "What's wrong sweet cheeks?"
Xavier Cross: "Well, well...nothing I can't handle...what has you in such a good mood..."
Mandi Matthews: "Well, we haven't celebrated winning our little game the other night..."
{She leans in ready to kiss him, but Cross turns his head smirking a bit.}
Xavier Cross: "Steven is still thriving...we can't be happy until he's gone, my love...His pride, losing you is as bad as losing a title...He'll have to make a good run, maybe a month or two before he finally gives up. The pattern is there, I've seen it his entire career..."
{Mandi pouts a bit, as Cross sets her on her feet.}
Xavier Cross: "I expect he might fight even harder, I mean you are more precious than any title..."
{She leans her head on his shoulder as he puts his arm around her.}
Mandi Matthews: "He...He never felt that way..."
Xavier Cross: "I detest the man Steve has become, or maybe he always was this way...but we both can't deny he loved you or at least lusted after you, Mandi..."
{He strokes her chin before kissing her forehead.}
Xavier Cross: "Losing you is something he never expected, I suspect soon we will break Mr. Bates, and Steve Awesome will be....no more..."
{Cross begins laughing manically, as Mandi cuddles into his chest. Many of the hotel guests are staring at them now, as a small man with a thin mustache wearing the hotel's uniform walks up to them.}
Hotel Worker: "Excuse Sir...we ask to avoid diabolical laughter in the hallway..."
Xavier Cross: "S...Shit..."
{Cross staggers to his left, as his shoulder slams into the wall. The view gets lower as he begins sinking down, clutching his head, he lets out a grunt of pain. Footsteps are head behind him, as a hand reaches up under his arm lifting him up.}
Male Voice: "Again?"
{The view is still the first person, as Cross blinks softly as he begins to black out. We hear the same voice speaking on a phone.}
Male Voice: "The ambulance is on its way buddy...just hang on..."
{We fade to black, and reopen at a doctor's office a few days later. Cross's eyes looked slightly glazed over. He taps his hands on his knees, growing bored with each passing second. The door slowly opens.}
Dr. Dorian: "Mr. Cross? A pleasure to meet you, I just got off the phone with Doctor Sloan..."
Xavier Cross: "So is my brain turning to mush or what?"
Dr. Dorian: "Well, here's the thing, your brain right now is still healthy, however, the damage you've done is permanent, and what you keep doing is only going to make things worse..."
Xavier Cross: "So what are you saying, retire?"
Dr. Dorian: "Yes, in my medical opinion, your best option is to retire, however..."
Xavier Cross: "My health hasn't deteriorated to a state where you can't not clear me for competition."
Dr. Dorian: "That...is a double negative, but also, yes. Medically you are fit as a fiddle in the aspect of you aren't a seizure risk, you will have these intense migraines, and you will be disorientated....however you need to look long term."
Xavier Cross; "I have a few life insurance policies, my money has been invested wisely, I have a great pair of godparents picked out. My in-laws and my parents are both alive...Look, man, I love my kids, but I got nothing to lose Doc..."
Dr. Dorian: "...are you saying..."
Xavier Cross: "I don't plan on killing myself Doc if that's what you're implying. I'm not trying to go to the nuthouse no...but...I have too much left unsaid and undone to walk away just yet...."
Dr. Dorian: "Then I suggest you start, how do you people say, work a safer style?"
Xavier Cross: "You do a lot of wrestling related stuff."
Dr. Dorian: "Yeah, I have dumbass kids coming in every weekend beat up because they try to bronco buster each other..."
Xavier Cross: "Interesting choice of words...So write my scripts and send me on my way."
Dr. Dorian: "...You've done this song and dance a lot eh? Well, I am writing you a pain prescription, no refills thanks to the little note on your chart here. Narcotics history. I also am going to write you a referral.I think it's in your best interest to head to a specialist in Boston."
Xavier Cross: "Boston?"
{Cross takes the script from the young, handsome, well groomed dark haired doctor, who tilts his head looking at Cross before drifting off into some state of daydreaming. Xavier looks at him for a moment, before slipping off into a daydream of his own}
-Inside Xavier Cross's Mind-
{The skies are a dark red, twisting like a brewing storm. Lightning fills the horizon in bolts of bright gold. Xavier is standing on top of a hill, a patch of beautiful green grass and a perfectly round apple tree sit atop it. He is wearing a suit, which is torn to shreds, a crown of barbwire sits on his head as droplets of blood run down his face. Looking around, Cross reaches up for an apple, a shiny golden apple. He reaches up, but the branches get higher and higher. He leaps into the air, his fingers barely grasping the metallic, smooth skin as they're carried just out of his reach. The sound of horses galloping in the distance. First, in his vision, a man wearing a dark cloak, blowing in the wind with each charge his horse takes. His face covered in a bone mask, metal spikes protruding out of it. In his right hand, a long scythe, made of ivory and steel. To his right, a man a crown of gold and bone wrapped around his head, hair flowing in the wind. A large battle axe strapped to his back, around his horse were ropes tied to heads of men he had taken. To the left, riding a white horse, leather armor clad his body, a helm covered his face, two horns one long, shining and strong the other broken, tattered. A sword raised high in the air. The massive army behind them letting out roars of cheers. Cross looks up, blinking slightly as they approach. His face looks like someone who had been asleep for a long time.}
-Reality-
Xavier Cross: "Whoa...that was really dark..."
Dr. Dorian: "Snap into a slim jim!"
Xavier Cross: "What?"
Dr. Dorian: "Here is your prescription, have a great day."
{The Doctor quickly exits, as Xavier stands there for a moment, trying to digest what he had just seen. It was a day dream...but it felt...real.}
*****
Let's talk about Ryan Shane shall we, the first word that comes to mind when I think of Ryan Shane...Boring.
I mean the kid has accomplished a lot, but it seems like the closest he'll ever come to the top is when he eventually gets tired of being himself, locked away in mediocrity when the Homeless Shelter of Howlett realizes they put their faith in the wrong guy. Poor kid will probably drink far too much, pop a few of those good pain killers, and brother brother faces down in a hotel pool in some midwestern town. But that's the best case scenario for us, literally, if Ryan Shane were to kill himself, the world would be a better place.
I mean, does it get more white bread that his square head, or two dollar haircut? Or we can talk about how deep Roberto Verona's cock was down his throat when he held that precious Man of Steel title, so tight he held that to his chest he rebuked any challenges for it from my men, my brothers The Council. But that's fine because the Heir to the Throne is a coward. Simple, but he's no idiot.
I'm sure that beautiful woman that is in your corner Ryan, Ms. Howlett...If she's smart as I think she is, she should be telling you to abandon Jacobsen. To hurt him. This is your chance brother brother, this is the moment you need because simply put.
You cannot beat Andrew Jacobsen.
You know the saying, 'she isn't in my league.'
Son, you ain't even playing the same sport as him...
You know Andrew is the most trusting man in the business, and you can speak about honor, you can speak about integrity, but what really matters to you Ryan, losing to Jacobsen in a fair match. Or ripping to shreds the most recognizable male athlete and current world champion. You know, in this business when you rip people to shreds, it tends to prove your point. No one would ever be able to call you boring again Ryan. People will know you're willing to do anything to get to the top. That's what it takes Ryan, it takes you finally growing some balls and doing something interesting. Don't do what myself and the world expect you to do, and make Andrew carry a good match.
Take a page out of my partner's book, shatter his wrist, Trent Helms will tell you how well that will work out. Guarantee yourself a first class flight to becoming immortal Ryan. Because at the end of the day kid, you're still the same overrated piece of shit that lost clean to Mike Machado.
Oh yeah, I went that far back. Back when all you wanted was Amber Lynn and a spot in the heir to the throne. But here you are big, tough guy. You got a new dumb cunt tugging at your cock string and all of a sudden you're on the world's luckiest winning streak...Every dog has its day, but god, I can't wait for Andrew...or I guess even Spike to end this stupid little dream of yours.
The House will be Rebuilt! If you are not doing what it takes to win, Spike is having an identity crisis right now, he's in no state of mind to beat Andrew. But if you were to...aid him a bit, Spike might at least have a chance to hurt Andrew a little more for you.
We are far from one hundred percent as competitors. But you know, even at fifty, forty, thirty-five percent. Andrew Jacobsen is gonna compete. Don't be an idiot Ryan, you can't beat him...Unless you do what you have to do, and that happens at Sacrifice little lamb.
******
Let's talk about Ryan Shane shall we, the first word that comes to mind when I think of Ryan Shane...Boring.
I mean the kid has accomplished a lot, but it seems like the closest he'll ever come to the top is when he eventually gets tired of being himself, locked away in mediocrity when the Homeless Shelter of Howlett realizes they put their faith in the wrong guy. Poor kid will probably drink far too much, pop a few of those good pain killers, and brother brother faces down in a hotel pool in some midwestern town. But that's the best case scenario for us, literally, if Ryan Shane were to kill himself, the world would be a better place.
I mean, does it get more white bread that his square head, or two dollar haircut? Or we can talk about how deep Roberto Verona's cock was down his throat when he held that precious Man of Steel title, so tight he held that to his chest he rebuked any challenges for it from my men, my brothers The Council. But that's fine because the Heir to the Throne is a coward. Simple, but he's no idiot.
I'm sure that beautiful woman that is in your corner Ryan, Ms. Howlett...If she's smart as I think she is, she should be telling you to abandon Jacobsen. To hurt him. This is your chance brother brother, this is the moment you need because simply put.
You cannot beat Andrew Jacobsen.
You know the saying, 'she isn't in my league.'
Son, you ain't even playing the same sport as him...
You know Andrew is the most trusting man in the business, and you can speak about honor, you can speak about integrity, but what really matters to you Ryan, losing to Jacobsen in a fair match. Or ripping to shreds the most recognizable male athlete and current world champion. You know, in this business when you rip people to shreds, it tends to prove your point. No one would ever be able to call you boring again Ryan. People will know you're willing to do anything to get to the top. That's what it takes Ryan, it takes you finally growing some balls and doing something interesting. Don't do what myself and the world expect you to do, and make Andrew carry a good match.
Take a page out of my partner's book, shatter his wrist, Trent Helms will tell you how well that will work out. Guarantee yourself a first class flight to becoming immortal Ryan. Because at the end of the day kid, you're still the same overrated piece of shit that lost clean to Mike Machado.
Oh yeah, I went that far back. Back when all you wanted was Amber Lynn and a spot in the heir to the throne. But here you are big, tough guy. You got a new dumb cunt tugging at your cock string and all of a sudden you're on the world's luckiest winning streak...Every dog has its day, but god, I can't wait for Andrew...or I guess even Spike to end this stupid little dream of yours.
The House will be Rebuilt! If you are not doing what it takes to win, Spike is having an identity crisis right now, he's in no state of mind to beat Andrew. But if you were to...aid him a bit, Spike might at least have a chance to hurt Andrew a little more for you.
We are far from one hundred percent as competitors. But you know, even at fifty, forty, thirty-five percent. Andrew Jacobsen is gonna compete. Don't be an idiot Ryan, you can't beat him...Unless you do what you have to do, and that happens at Sacrifice little lamb.
******
{We open back up in an office, Xavier Cross is holding a crystal glass of bourbon, pouring it into two smaller glasses. He hands one to a man in a suit, his cousin, lawyer, and agent, Chris Cross. The two look at each other as Cross moves over to a window staring out into the distance as Chris begins to talk.}
Chris Cross: "Well, the good news is, since you started this whole Council thing, your revenue is up ten-fold. But more so, that cartoon show you wrote for when you were in Japan. They aired in, and it's being well received. Demons and Kings and stuff. I hear it's the Japanese Game of Thrones."
Xavier Cross: "That's good to hear. I'm supposing they'll want more?"
Chris Cross: "Apparently the way their show scheduling works, they'll want to wait a few months before beginning production on Season Two. The Charity is running great, in fact, we hit our best year, which is gonna look fantastic come tax season."
Xavier Cross: "Great, great. Make sure we're funneling any aid we can to help after these Tsunamis."
Chris Cross: "You mean Hurricanes?"
Xavier Cross: "Blizzards, firestorms...whatever. I'm no weatherman. Just make sure we're doing good, and the world is seeing we're doing good..."
Chris Cross: "Also, the final note is the investments you've made the last few years. They're almost ripe, we can sell now for a huge profit, or we can sit on it."
Xavier Cross: "You pointed me to the broker, and had the leads in the technology industry, or whatever new sexting app they're inventing. I don't care what it is, I care that I'm making money."
Chris Cross: "Considering you could be paying Imperial to be wrestling right now and not lose much of your net worth..."
Xavier Cross: "You know here to divide and send it Chris, I'll change this world one way or another..."
Chris Cross: "How can you talk about changing the world, when you're on the verge of having a brain bleed and dying anywhere."
{Cross drops his glass and he turns charging down Chris, pushing him against the bookshelf.}
Chris Cross: "Whoa...Whoa...Whoa, what the hell is your problem?!"
{Cross can hear the crying of an infant, he turns his head towards it but nothing is there, it's just the two men. He can hear the soft voice in the wind of his dead wife...shaking his head the ringing comes back. It's loud as he staggers back letting go of Chris who looks visibly shaken.}
Chris Cross: "What the hell man, was this about Cari? The brain bleed thing...look, man, I'm sorry...I...I slipped, but what about Mandi? Aren't you in love."
{Xavier looks up at Chris for a moment, before picking up Chris's glass, knocking back the drink.}
Xavier Cross: "I'm doing what needs to be done."
{Setting the glass down, Xavier excuses himself out of the room and the building. He stands there for a moment, the cold September day. Throwing a peacoat on, he looks off into the distance, digging for his keys and something else. Grabbing his keys, and a bottle of pills. Cross looks around for a moment, before quickly opening and popping a handful into his mouth. It had begun again.}
******
Imperial Management strikes again. I know it isn't your fault kid, I know that you got bigger fish to fry, but yet they want to entertain the masses. I know you will do what you have to do to, well, do what you do the best kid....Compete....
I hope you don't mind the advice I give to Ryan, but at this point Andrew you have become this unstoppable juggernaut...but we both know how they feel about it. Seeing you on top. You know they don't respect you, and I think that is some part of your charm kid. The fact you go out each night, and no matter who they put against you, Andrew you always give a hundred percent. To prove you are just the best in the world at what you do.
I respect that....
But, we know this is gonna be a shit show, the idea that Steve and I could work together now, is impossible. I mean, I am the bigger man, I'm just trying to move on and be happy....But Steve, he's lost his damn mind...Help me, Andrew, please, I know when this first started it looked like the worst. But I promise you...
I'm Mario! Not Bowser....
Just, try not to hate me too much Jacobsen...I'm just a guy, in love with a girl, who has a sociopath for an ex-boyfriend. I'm not the bad guy...I know, I haven't been the best example, but can you blame a man for wanting a man to make his family complete again. You've seen how I tried...
In Japan, with Zelda...
With Natalie...
My heart hasn't beaten right since Cari died Andrew, but Mandi...maybe it's something about girls with I's for last letters in first names....But you know what he's like Andrew, he's a shit friend, a simple user who throws away any who try to stand by him. What he's done to Mandi all these years, could you imagine being in love with him....I mean you saw what he did to your mother Andrew. That isn't to condone what I've done, stealing another man's love...is wrong, I acknowledge that...
But brother, I am happy...Doesn't that mean anything?
Xavier Cross is not your enemy, Mandi Matthews is not your enemy. The Council is not your enemies Andrew.....Of course Kole, well he's...He is everyone's enemy, but I promise he's...lovable....okay that is a lie, he's an agent of Chaos, nothing more or less, but he doesn't cheat, he destroys...every hero needs a villian...and you are the greatest hero of them all...I don't care if The King of Mediocrity Nighthawk is back, you are still the greatest Hero Imperial has....
I know Jacobsen, you got Spike to look out for, and The Homeless Shelter of Howlett...and, of course, we have the egos of the suits of Imperial looking down on us, with their sensitive egos, god forbid if you say anything....
I don't give a shit about my favor or standing, titles, accomplishments they mean nothing to me. You know what brings me joy, seeing you do what you do every week. You are proof you don't need to suck a cock to get to the top, you can fight, train, and work hard every day to be the best.
I don't give a fuck about what Roberto Verona and his good of psychopaths think of me, or what I do. I'm going to be here for a very....very long time...Which simply put, means I'm gonna do a lot of things you're gonna disagree with Andrew, which means I'm gonna piss you off, and push you away. But you have to know, no matter what happens.
I love you.
In fact, I feel so bad...I feel guilty that this match couldn't be what it could be. I mean, Steve Awesome vs Andrew Jacobsen without the NCW brass weighing it down with bullshit, Xavier Cross vs. Andrew Jacobsen. Ryan Shane being carried by this kind of talent. This is the kind of match that could be remembered for all time, but it will be spoiled by the bad feelings between my partner and me.
For that, I am sorry, sorry that someone who is as talented and prestigious as yourself is being thrown in this match just because it's an easy draw for the crowd. It seems the management doesn't respect you even still Andrew. But no matter what you always pull it off...
God, I respect the hell outta you kid, never change.
There will be a time you will come for my head, my blood, to end this madness. Today is not that day Andrew because I am seeing clear, this isn't a match I'm going into win, or to prove a point. This match is to prove I'm willing to do anything to move past this little lovers spat and be happy with my life. My apologies if Steven does not have the same compassion. So let's see how this shit show will play out, shall we Andrew.
******
Imperial Management strikes again. I know it isn't your fault kid, I know that you got bigger fish to fry, but yet they want to entertain the masses. I know you will do what you have to do to, well, do what you do the best kid....Compete....
I hope you don't mind the advice I give to Ryan, but at this point Andrew you have become this unstoppable juggernaut...but we both know how they feel about it. Seeing you on top. You know they don't respect you, and I think that is some part of your charm kid. The fact you go out each night, and no matter who they put against you, Andrew you always give a hundred percent. To prove you are just the best in the world at what you do.
I respect that....
But, we know this is gonna be a shit show, the idea that Steve and I could work together now, is impossible. I mean, I am the bigger man, I'm just trying to move on and be happy....But Steve, he's lost his damn mind...Help me, Andrew, please, I know when this first started it looked like the worst. But I promise you...
I'm Mario! Not Bowser....
Just, try not to hate me too much Jacobsen...I'm just a guy, in love with a girl, who has a sociopath for an ex-boyfriend. I'm not the bad guy...I know, I haven't been the best example, but can you blame a man for wanting a man to make his family complete again. You've seen how I tried...
In Japan, with Zelda...
With Natalie...
My heart hasn't beaten right since Cari died Andrew, but Mandi...maybe it's something about girls with I's for last letters in first names....But you know what he's like Andrew, he's a shit friend, a simple user who throws away any who try to stand by him. What he's done to Mandi all these years, could you imagine being in love with him....I mean you saw what he did to your mother Andrew. That isn't to condone what I've done, stealing another man's love...is wrong, I acknowledge that...
But brother, I am happy...Doesn't that mean anything?
Xavier Cross is not your enemy, Mandi Matthews is not your enemy. The Council is not your enemies Andrew.....Of course Kole, well he's...He is everyone's enemy, but I promise he's...lovable....okay that is a lie, he's an agent of Chaos, nothing more or less, but he doesn't cheat, he destroys...every hero needs a villian...and you are the greatest hero of them all...I don't care if The King of Mediocrity Nighthawk is back, you are still the greatest Hero Imperial has....
I know Jacobsen, you got Spike to look out for, and The Homeless Shelter of Howlett...and, of course, we have the egos of the suits of Imperial looking down on us, with their sensitive egos, god forbid if you say anything....
I don't give a shit about my favor or standing, titles, accomplishments they mean nothing to me. You know what brings me joy, seeing you do what you do every week. You are proof you don't need to suck a cock to get to the top, you can fight, train, and work hard every day to be the best.
I don't give a fuck about what Roberto Verona and his good of psychopaths think of me, or what I do. I'm going to be here for a very....very long time...Which simply put, means I'm gonna do a lot of things you're gonna disagree with Andrew, which means I'm gonna piss you off, and push you away. But you have to know, no matter what happens.
I love you.
In fact, I feel so bad...I feel guilty that this match couldn't be what it could be. I mean, Steve Awesome vs Andrew Jacobsen without the NCW brass weighing it down with bullshit, Xavier Cross vs. Andrew Jacobsen. Ryan Shane being carried by this kind of talent. This is the kind of match that could be remembered for all time, but it will be spoiled by the bad feelings between my partner and me.
For that, I am sorry, sorry that someone who is as talented and prestigious as yourself is being thrown in this match just because it's an easy draw for the crowd. It seems the management doesn't respect you even still Andrew. But no matter what you always pull it off...
God, I respect the hell outta you kid, never change.
There will be a time you will come for my head, my blood, to end this madness. Today is not that day Andrew because I am seeing clear, this isn't a match I'm going into win, or to prove a point. This match is to prove I'm willing to do anything to move past this little lovers spat and be happy with my life. My apologies if Steven does not have the same compassion. So let's see how this shit show will play out, shall we Andrew.
******
{The scene opens on a small lot where television shows are filmed. Cross closes the door on his car, stepping out. He adjusts his tie for a moment, before taking a deep breath. Rubbing his tired eyes, he blinks slowly the pills doing their job. As he goes to open the door he glances up quickly, a small man, in a simple suit smiles at him opening the door for him.}
Jeffrey Hans: "Mr. Cross! We've been expecting you..please, come in."
{Cross glances at the man for a moment, as he steps forward into the offices. Seeing various posters on the wall of hit television shows, as well as a case of awards. Nodding his head, Cross is a bit impressive at the accolades, being lead into a back corner office, a man sits at a desk. His eyes covered by glasses, head down, wild black and white hair a mess as he taps a pen on a piece of paper lost in thought.}
Jeffrey Hans: "...Mister Martin?"
Xavier Cross: "Martin? Like..."
Mr. Martin: "No...no, I did not write a song of Ice and Fire...However, I am going to make you a massive amount of money as soon as you sign this contract."
Xavier Cross: "I have plenty of money...and I don't sign things all...willy nilly.."
Mr. Martin: "Money isn't the objective hmm..Well being a professional wrestler can only get you so far, how about I make you a superstar? In all facets, not just entertainment and athletics, but the world wide."
Xavier Cross: "See, now this is something I can get on board with, being the hot shot actor in Hollywood, Tom Hanks skills, with Zac Efron's looks..."
Mr. Martin: "Or...we set a standard, of Xavier Cross, looks with Xavier Cross's talents..."
Xavier Cross: "Mister Martin, you have a way with words...I can't tell if you're trying to convince me or fuck me?"
Mr. Martin: "If you sign that line, and give it you're all....It may just be both."
Xavier Cross: "You drive a hard bargin...so let me see what you are offering here..."
{Lifting the contract up, Xavier skims it already scratching his chin a bit.}
Xavier Cross: "My agent has already looked this over, so I know it's a fair offer. But are you sure you want to work with Imperial? I know this will be the first venture of many, so these film and television projects are gonna ride on how I perform..."
{Cross sets the contract down and begins to sign his name.}
Xavier Cross: "So what hot shot actor is gonna be my co-star?"
{He finishes signing his name, looking up.}
Mr. Martin: "Oh, it'll be a first timer, like yourself...you know him very well, I'm not a wrestling fan but I've been told you have a history..."
{Cross raises a brow, his stomach instantly regretting what he just signed.}
Xavier Cross: "Do they have a name?"
Mr. Martin: "Oh...yeah, Spike Kane..."
{The look on Cross's face when Mister Martin finishes his sentence is a look that not even the greatest of wordsmiths could describe...}
*******
Bromance rides again...
Y'know Steven, if this was a month ago, I'd be so excited going into this match. The idea of teaming up with my best friend, ahem, the former best friend now? Going into a tag match against the World Champ and his partner, the World Chump. This match could sell out any arena, anywhere. But unfortunately, we have these dire circumstances at hand.
After playing my little game last week, I doubt you'll want to work together Steve. But maybe it's time for you to move on, accept the fact that Mandi is happy, Lauren is happy. We are a big, happy family Steve. There isn't any reason for you to get in the way of that...
Y'know, I've been having big plans, big ideas for the future. Steve, it would be a lot easier for everyone if you just got on board. I know you will always love Mandi, but if you really love her, you'd let her go brother brother. She wants to be with me, she's happy to be with me. Lauren is your daughter, I respect that, but it's probably for the best going forward if you never try to contact her.
She has a new father, a better father. One that will be there for her. Read her bedtime stories every night, to show her the world isn't full of deadbeat assholes like Steven Bates. Plus, I mean, maybe it's just me but Mandi and Lauren...Cross just, it has a good ring to it, doesn't it?
Of course, you could make this difficult Steven, but I have a team of lawyers already looking into how to keep you away, legally that is. Adoption is a serious thing, as are restraining orders. I'm beginning to think you are not mentally fit to be around Mandi or Lauren for any amount of time.
So just do the right thing, go take some time away, get your head straight brother. Come back, and support us. I will always love you man, but Mandi belongs to me now, Lauren is my daughter now. You had everything Steve, but you blew it....
You blew it...
*******
Bromance rides again...
Y'know Steven, if this was a month ago, I'd be so excited going into this match. The idea of teaming up with my best friend, ahem, the former best friend now? Going into a tag match against the World Champ and his partner, the World Chump. This match could sell out any arena, anywhere. But unfortunately, we have these dire circumstances at hand.
After playing my little game last week, I doubt you'll want to work together Steve. But maybe it's time for you to move on, accept the fact that Mandi is happy, Lauren is happy. We are a big, happy family Steve. There isn't any reason for you to get in the way of that...
Y'know, I've been having big plans, big ideas for the future. Steve, it would be a lot easier for everyone if you just got on board. I know you will always love Mandi, but if you really love her, you'd let her go brother brother. She wants to be with me, she's happy to be with me. Lauren is your daughter, I respect that, but it's probably for the best going forward if you never try to contact her.
She has a new father, a better father. One that will be there for her. Read her bedtime stories every night, to show her the world isn't full of deadbeat assholes like Steven Bates. Plus, I mean, maybe it's just me but Mandi and Lauren...Cross just, it has a good ring to it, doesn't it?
Of course, you could make this difficult Steven, but I have a team of lawyers already looking into how to keep you away, legally that is. Adoption is a serious thing, as are restraining orders. I'm beginning to think you are not mentally fit to be around Mandi or Lauren for any amount of time.
So just do the right thing, go take some time away, get your head straight brother. Come back, and support us. I will always love you man, but Mandi belongs to me now, Lauren is my daughter now. You had everything Steve, but you blew it....
You blew it...
*******
{The car door slams shut, as Cross tosses the keys at a valet, he is aggressively typing on his phone, tweeting at IWF management after seeing the card.}
Xavier Cross: "Let's see if I can get these bastards riled up, thin skinned cunts..."
{He smirks a bit, as his phone begins ringing. Looking down, he laughs a bit before answering.}
Xavier Cross: "Oh hello Chris, I'm glad you looked over that contract..I'm so excited for this project...except one small detail..."
{Cross holds the phone away from him from a moment in the hotel lobby before he screams into it.}
Xavier Cross: "WHY DIDNT YOU TELL ME ABOUT SPIKE!?!?"
{He clicks the hang-up button on the phone and begins rubbing the bridge of his nose. Looking up, he sees the beautiful and smiling Mandi Matthews running towards him. She leaps into his arms, wrapping her legs around his waist.}
Mandi Matthews: "What's wrong sweet cheeks?"
Xavier Cross: "Well, well...nothing I can't handle...what has you in such a good mood..."
Mandi Matthews: "Well, we haven't celebrated winning our little game the other night..."
{She leans in ready to kiss him, but Cross turns his head smirking a bit.}
Xavier Cross: "Steven is still thriving...we can't be happy until he's gone, my love...His pride, losing you is as bad as losing a title...He'll have to make a good run, maybe a month or two before he finally gives up. The pattern is there, I've seen it his entire career..."
{Mandi pouts a bit, as Cross sets her on her feet.}
Xavier Cross: "I expect he might fight even harder, I mean you are more precious than any title..."
{She leans her head on his shoulder as he puts his arm around her.}
Mandi Matthews: "He...He never felt that way..."
Xavier Cross: "I detest the man Steve has become, or maybe he always was this way...but we both can't deny he loved you or at least lusted after you, Mandi..."
{He strokes her chin before kissing her forehead.}
Xavier Cross: "Losing you is something he never expected, I suspect soon we will break Mr. Bates, and Steve Awesome will be....no more..."
{Cross begins laughing manically, as Mandi cuddles into his chest. Many of the hotel guests are staring at them now, as a small man with a thin mustache wearing the hotel's uniform walks up to them.}
Hotel Worker: "Excuse Sir...we ask to avoid diabolical laughter in the hallway..."
Well howdy there pardner.