Be Careful What You Wish For
The time since the day I asked my brother to be an important part of my wedding seemed to fly by. I continued to ignore the media, avoid social media, and spent most of my time looking up wedding ideas and making phone calls to book things. I couldn't find any venue I liked that was available on the date Dom and I picked, so we made another decision – we would have the wedding here at the house. It would be the middle of summer, we have a pool... it just made sense. I know, I know... the world famous, one of the best wrestlers in the world and her movie star fiance getting married at home, in what amounts to be a really fancy pool party, doesn't exactly sound on brand. But we don't care. I want to enjoy our wedding day, not be stressing over perfect flower arrangements or if the caterer will be on time, or if the venue hung the wrong color ribbons. We both have enough stress with our jobs (once Dom starts work again anyway), we don't need the best day of our lives to add more.
The rest of the world carried on. Sienna called me about a week before Retribution, she had some news that was shocking – not only the news itself, but the fact she accepted it. Her sister Sierra is dating Jordan. I know, right?! I was stunned, too. Sienna said she wanted to tell me before it somehow went public, because she wanted me to know that she wasn't fighting Sierra over it. In fact, she told both of them she was okay with it. Maybe going back to L.A. to recover from her concussion and being around Chris more was a good thing. Sienna's temper and... just, general attitude, was calming down. I thanked her for the heads up, I didn't even bring up when she got mad at me just for tweeting Jordan, or try to say 'told you so.' I was just happy that that particular vendetta of hers was done. Of course, I then immediately told Jaina. Jaina... just laughed. It made me happy that she didn't seem to care. But then again, why would she? She has Reece, and they are just the most adorable thing ever. When we are home, they are practically inseparable. Jaina has been helping me at home while I recover, but I can tell she'd rather be next door. I'm happy for her, she deserves to have something go well.
Retribution happened. Scott, Dom, and I attended the show. Dom was in the luxury box with us but made a point to stay off camera when they showed and interviewed me. He didn't really care for the fact that they only focused on my reactions to seeing Blake get hurt in the scaffold match, but it's SCW, they have their narrative to push. In all honesty, I enjoyed watching Blake fail, even if it was due to that cretin Aries.... but when they took him away on a stretcher, I felt bad. I don't want anything to do with him whatsoever, but I don't want to see him seriously injured, either. It's weird and I can't explain it, but it's the truth. Anyway... the end of the scaffold saw Datura victorious. That made me happy. It may sound like an odd pairing but she is my friend and if she happens to be World Champion when I'm ready to claim my rematch? We'll have a good time. I admit I was more hoping to get to face Chris Cannon. Despite the way he helped me the night of the gauntlet with that pervert kid, and despite the conversation we had about Sienna and Nathaniel... I still don't trust him, and I still think he fucked up. There had to be a better way to do what he thought was best for that baby boy than the way he handled it. But, I won't get to do that, not for the title anyway, because Chris was screwed out of it, as well as the Tag Titles, thanks to Asher Hayes and Cid Turner forming this alliance with Holly Adams and she ruined everything. Hit Chris with the belt, Cid stumbled and fell on him and got a three count. It was utterly ridiculous.
See what happens when I am not holding the World Championship? It becomes a joke.
{{Friday, April 2
New Orleans}}
SCW and the World Championship weren't the only things I had to worry about. There was still the photo leak incident. Or as the trash media has taken to calling it - Bree-astGate. Disgusting. Both Dom and Lisa kept gently nudging me in the direction of making some kind of statement. For a few more weeks, I didn't want to. But I knew they were right, that I would have to eventually. A few conversations and some soul searching later, and I made the decision to do it. But, I wanted to wait until after I was mostly healed.
I ended up cleared a few days before Breakdown was scheduled to be in New Orleans, so I decided to do as Lisa had been asking and hold a press conference, the day after Breakdown. Use the fact that the show was in my hometown to draw interest. I put out a tweet, Lisa contacted some networks, or websites, or something I'm not sure.. So, here I am at just before 3 in the afternoon, downtown New Orleans at Lisa's office, where we will be broadcasting from. Dom and Scott are here. I am sitting in a makeup chair while a stylist is fussing over my hair when my phone rings. It's Sienna. The stylist steps away, either she's done, or wants to give me privacy.
“Hey babe.”
“Hi sweetie. I know you're preparing to go on air, but I just wanted you to know that we're watching, and we support you, no matter what happens after this.”
“Thanks. I hope this whole thing settles things down and the media find someone else to harass. These kinds of things usually go away by now, why won't they leave me alone?”
“Probably because no one else has done anything stupid lately.”
“Sienna!”
“Oh I didn't mean... that came out wrong...”
“I know, I'm sorry... I'm just nervous.”
“Don't be. You know what you want to say, right?”
“Of course. I've been running it through my head for days, even more so after last night.”
“Then you'll be fine.”
I sigh. “I really wish you were here. You've been so calm through all of this, even though you were targeted, too.”
“I've had other things to worry about, this isn't as big a deal for me as it is for you. Even the media has focused more on you. You've never been seen this way. It's more....”
“Sensationalism?”
“That's one word for it. But listen to me Bree. You're stronger than you think. You can handle this. Stick to the plan and everything will work out.”
I nod, even though she can't see me. It was for myself. “Okay. Thank you. You're the best.”
“I'm trying.”
We make kissy noises at each other, as we usually do to end calls. I stare at my reflection in the darkened screen of my phone. I really hope Sienna is right. I look up in the mirror and realize the stylist left cause she was done. I look camera ready. I don't know if I feel camera ready though. I make myself think back to the day I decided to go through with this, as well as the plan Sienna and I came up with last night....
{{Thursday, March 18
Kenner}}
When I heard Datura say in a promo that I was her favorite human and she wanted to have tea with me... I didn't think she meant literal tea. I thought she just wanted to meet up, catch up, that kind of thing. We'd only really seen each other in passing backstage a few times this year, as she had been in and out of SCW due to other commitments and nagging injuries. So, when I had Scott call her as was promised over twitter to set something up... imagine my surprise when she expected actual tea. I was more than willing to accommodate, provided she didn't mind coming to me, as I had traveled to Retribution and didn't feel like going anywhere else, risking the media.
Once Datura arrived, courtesy of an Uber and my giving the gate guard the okay to let her through, I showed her around the house a bit before going out to the back patio near the pool. She's in a long beige and orange dress, with brown Doc Marten boots.
“This house is very different from any place I've ever stayed. But it's.... you.”
“I'll take that as a compliment.”
“It's absolutely a compliment. I do love the pool and the greenery back here.”
“Thank you. It was pretty bare when I bought the place, we added the rose and hydrangea bushes near the fence.”
“Excellent taste. You um... don't live in this sprawling mansion alone, do you?”
I laugh. “I'd hardly call it a mansion. I lived in one of those once, this place would fit in it three times. But no... obviously Dom lives here, and so does my niece Jaina.”
“The cute reporter girl.”
“Yes. They're just not here right now. Jaina is at her boyfriend's place, and Dom is at the gym.”
“It must be hard work staying that fit.”
“Not for him.” I smirk. Datura nods.
“Clearly.”
“Well, you came for tea, so I will go make some. Feel free to walk around out here if you like.”
Datura nods, and I go inside to make the tea. Luckily for her, I actually drink tea quite a bit so I know what I'm doing making it. Minutes later, I carry a tray with everything needed for the tea outside. As I set it on the table, I see Datura near the fence, and it looks like she's talking to my pink hydrangea.
“Datura?”
She spins around, and wags a finger at me. “Oh no, dearest. If we're going to share tea in this wonderful backyard of yours, I insist you call me by my name.”
“Oh. Right. In that case, Liz, tea is ready."
She smiles, and walks around the pool back to the table and takes her seat. We pour our tea, add sugar. She adds milk to hers, I don't do that unless its chai, but I thought she might so I brought some out. Dat- pardon me, Liz, holds her mug up.
“Cheers.”
I smile and hold mine up to hers, barely touching so we don't spill the hot liquid. Liz sips hers then smiles satisfactorily.
“Mmm. Good stuff.”
“Glad you like it, it's locally sourced.” Liz smiles, I had a feeling she would like that. “I have to say thanks for coming all the way here, especially after that brutal scaffold match. You have to be almost as sore as I am.”
“I'm used to lingering aches and pains. It wasn't any special hardship to travel here.”
“Good. I'm sure coming out of that mess as the winner and number one contender made the pains slightly less irritating.” I smirk over my mug.
“That does help, yes.”
“I am so happy for you, congratulations.”
“Thank you. I had convinced myself it was another pointless endeavor.”
“I am glad you got over that and did what you had to do to take it. I am very much looking forward to you kicking Turner's ass.”
“Why, do you think I'm easier prey?” She eyes me over the rim of her mug.
“No, it's just we never did spar. Why not do more than that and fight when it counts for something?”
Liz smirks, slowly. “I like how you think.”
“I admit I was angry that Chris lost, I wanted to face him. We have.... history.”
“So I've heard.”
“But I'm sure I'll cross paths with him one way or another. I can be patient. I'm just so glad to see you in the position you deserve.”
“I appreciate that Bree, thanks. But... I now have a few questions for you.”
“Fire away.”
Liz has another sip of tea and sets the mug aside. “So. Tell me. How have you been recovering?”
“Slowly.” I sip as she nods sympathetically. “I mean, my doctor says it's healing normally, I just hate not being able to do much. I'm allowed to walk and swim for a workout. Does that sound like a workout to you?”
“Not particularly. But knowing you as I think I do, you're following orders to a T, because you want to heal one hundred percent and return at your best.”
“You do know me, that's exactly what I'm doing. I don't have to like it, though.”
“Doing the right thing is rarely fun. Not until you get to the part where it pays off.”
“It'll pay off when I'm cleared and can start kicking ass again.”
“Indeed. But.... how are you up here? ” Liz taps her temple. I tilt my head, I'm not sure what she means. “I've been a little concerned about you, since you've been MIA from socials, after the picture.”
I frown. “So you know about that...”
“Of course I do. I keep tabs on my favorite SCW human.” She smirks. I can't help but grin, despite the topic.
“Did you really mean that, or were you just trying to be cute for the camera?”
“Hey. I am always cute for the camera. But that doesn't mean I didn't mean it.” I laugh. “But seriously though... I've had a lot of respect for you since we worked together for Trios, even if we didn't win. You're a strong badass warrior. I love that.”
“Hm. I don't feel any of those things right now.”
“Understandable. But that doesn't mean you aren't. You just need to remember it.”
“I've been doing a lot of trying to forget things, while I've been holed up here at home. In fact, I wanted to apologize for taking so long to get today set up. I haven't really been up to facing people. I haven't gone anywhere except Retribution, and my doctor's office. With a bodyguard.”
“No apology needed. I get it. I truly understand what it feels like to want the earth to swallow you whole. The feeling is the same, even if I've never dealt with your specific problem. Some pervert with access to files they shouldn't have put your goods on display to the world. You're allowed to be upset about that.”
I sigh. It sounds like maybe she gets it, I know she's had struggles, but very few people know the truth. “It's not just that though, Lizzy.” She grins at the nickname. “It's even worse than it looks on the surface, because I know when that photo was taken, and-”
“I know.” I give her a squint. “I've read a few articles and I know how to read between lines. I assume the photo shoot story is true?” I just stare at her. We're friends and I respect her, but it's not easy to trust just anyone with this truth. “I've heard the rumors about this Crane guy. Even before the... gruesome incidents.” I just look away. “I'll take your silence as a yes. I won’t force you to say it.”
“Liz-”
“Your secrets are safe with me. I do not have the luxury to sit here and judge anyone for what they did in the past. I don't even care that you denied it at the time. I'm sure you had a fantastic reason for doing so. But here's the thing. Then? At least you said something.”
I sigh again, exasperated. “Not you, too.”
“What?”
“Dom and his- our, agent, want me to make some kind of statement. But I can't.”
“They're right. And you can. Because this?” Liz gestures to me, up and down. “This hiding from everyone, not leaving your house like some kind of hermit? This isn't you. It might be me.... but it's not Bree Lancaster. The Bree I know and respect and called my favorite human isn't a fucking hermit. She doesn't cower away from controversy, she creates it. She takes what's out there, and uses it to her advantage.”
“That Bree was never exposed to the world in quite this way, though. Not only was I physically exposed, but the fact the picture exists at all is proof I lied about-”
“So what?!” I blink at Liz' volume. “You lied? I am fully aware you don't like doing that, but anyone who knows you, knows you had a reason. You've never let the... what do you call them? Trash media?” I nod. “- drag you down before, don't let them do it to you now. You're known for telling the truth, right?” I nod again. “Then tell them! The media will believe anything you tell them, so give them something to work with. Otherwise they're left with their own twisted imagination and, well... I've seen what vultures will do when there’s nothing to stop them from scavenging”
“I haven't seen what they've come up with. I don't want to. I want all of this to go away.”
“Bree. Sweetie. I shouldn't have to explain this to you at this age of your life, but ignoring things doesn't make them go away. It makes them grow. Listen to Spooky Mom, okay?” I grin, despite my mood. “If your agent wants you to make a statement-”
“She actually wants me to do a press conference.”
Liz puts on a smile that would make JoJo Siwa look like she's frowning.
“Then you give them the fucking press conference of the century! Be Bree Lancaster.” Liz moves her hands in the air in a marquis gesture. “The larger-than-life take-no-shit goddess that you are, and nothing less. You're a goddamn champion. Act like one.”
I just stare at Liz for a few seconds. I feel like I want to cry, which sounds fucking stupid, but it's because I think she's right. “Maybe you're right. I've never really hidden from the vultures theories and accusations. More than once I've given interviews or made statements setting things straight. But this is different. It's so.... personal.”
“Claiming your ex husband left you because you cheated on him wasn't personal?”
I blink. "Damn, you really do keep tabs, huh?”
“I fell into a deep, deep Bree rabbit hole last night. Do you have any idea how much of the internet is devoted to you?”
“Too much.”
“I noticed. But look. The fact it's so personal is all the more reason to not let them drag you down. You're above their bullshit. You always have been. You still are.”
I smile, leaning on the table. I feel like giving her a hug, but I'm not sure she'd go for it.
“Thanks, babe. I'll think about it. I just don't know how to face a camera or a bunch of reporters about this. Its just all so humiliating.”
“I mean... they've already seen your tits. How much more exposed can you be?”
I laugh. “That's actually a good point.”
“They're very nice, by the way.”
“Liz!” I stare at her, horrified. Just what I needed, knowing the person I'm talking to has seen it.
“What? You must get used to the idea of talking to people who have seen that picture. I saw it. It's you. I am only being honest.”
“Oh my God...” I cover my face with both hands.
“Sorry. I'll stop.”
I lower my hands. “No. You're right about that, too. I have to get used to it. It's out there. I just... don't want to. Not yet. But I heard you, I will think about it.”
“Please do. No one wants to see a half-assed version of you when you return. We need you at full confidence and, yes, full ego. I want you at one hundred percent when you come back for what belongs to you.” Liz smirks again.
“Ego I can fake. I play it up enough already. The rest, I can work on.”
“Good. In time for when you're cleared?”
“That I don't know. I have another appointment next week. I'm hoping to be cleared then. I feel almost back to normal.”
“I'll cross my fingers and toes for you then.”
We went inside, I brought the tea tray in. I then showed Liz around the rest of the house she didn't see when she arrived. We talked a bit more about other random things, and then she had to leave to catch her flight home. At the door, she did indeed hug me. It had been good to see her, and hear a perspective that isn't Dom or Lisa or Sienna. Maybe I needed one from a different and some might say unlikely source to set me straight.
I'm Bree fucking Lancaster, I'm a champion. And Liz was right – I need to act like it.
{{Thursday, April 1
New Orleans}}
After seeing the doctor and getting fully cleared a few days ago, I sent everything to SCW's HR. With Breakdown happening in New Orleans this week, I expected to be given a match. Imagine my surprise and dismay that I was not. Instead, I was given a slot to speak to my hometown fans in the ring, to say whatever I wanted. It's not what I really wanted but it was better than nothing. Sienna was here, she had been cleared from her concussion too, and she told me she also had a slot and something to say. She seemed nervous about it, and just as I asked her what was going on, someone from the staff came to my locker room looking for her, she was needed in an office.
I'm watching a monitor in my locker room with Scott and Dom, when Sienna goes to the ring to speak. I watch as she talks about the title, then her sister and Jordan, then she gets interrupted by Kelcey. I groan as it looks like Kelcey wants to fight. Sienna was just cleared and she's picking on her already! And then....
“I'M PREGNANT!”
….. excuse me... WHAT?!
I jump out of my seat and hear Scott gasp. Dom grabs my arm and squeezes.
“Breezy! Did you-”
“NO! What the actual fuck?! I mean... she was about to tell me something earlier, but...”
“Seems like she'd have mentioned this sooner.”
“Who even is the-”
Before Scott can finish the question, Sienna says on camera to Kelcey, “You know who the father is.” Kelcey looks horrified.
That can only mean one thing. Chris.
Sweet baby Jesus.
I can't make myself say anything else, to anyone. This has to be a trick. Just something to get Kelcey to back off. Sienna would have told me. Right? I leave my locker room, telling the guys I am going to find her. Before I get close though, I see from down the hall an altercation – Giovanni Aries walking up as Kelcey tries to talk to Sienna. A fight breaks out, I can't tell exactly what's going on, I am too far away and there are too many bodies. Then, Chris appears and Sienna hugs him. He asks her something, I can't hear him but probably if she's okay... but I can't take my eyes off the fact Chris has his hand over Sienna's stomach. Either this is all actually true... or she lied to him, too. I'm not sure which option is worse.
After everyone clears away and I see Sienna and Chris start to walk off together, I hurry towards them. Catching up, I get their attention.
“Sienna!”
Sienna spins around and faces me, wideeyed. Chris then turns, and sighs.
“Bree. I...”
“Tell me the truth right now. Is this for real? Or were you just trying to make Kelcey leave you alone?”
“I wouldn't lie about something like this.”
“It's true, I've seen the scans.”
I look back and forth between them. Sienna seems expectant, waiting for me to say something. Chris watches her. I can't fucking believe this! I glare, I want to smack her but I won't hit a pregnant woman, so I clap my hands a few times angrily.
“Why didn't you tell me?! And him?!” I point at Chris accusingly, and I see a few heads turn from staff walking in the hallway. I don't care.
“This! This is why, listen to you. I was afraid of how you'd react. I've only known for a short time.”
“That's not an excuse, Sienna! Phones are instant.”
“I know... but you've also been dealing with your own issues and-”
“I am never too busy for you. You should have told me.” I am legitimately hurt, and my voice cracks at the end of my words.
“You're right. I should have. I'm sorry. This was a terrible way for you to hear. I've just been all over the place since I found out. I hadn't told anyone until tonight. Well, other than Chris. And Sierra.”
So that meant that Jordan probably knew before me. But, I can't let that bother me. Given my attitude towards Chris since they divorced I can understand her hesitation to tell me, even though I know she knew about how he'd helped me with the pervert staff kid and the pictures the night of the gauntlet. I look between them again. Clearly Sienna had gotten over being angry with him.
“Okay. Obviously we should have a conversation, but probably not here. I have ring time later, I need to speak to my city. Let me make my appearance, say what I need to say, and then? We are leaving, going to my house, and having that conversation. Can we do that?”
“Of course sweetie. I owe you that.”
“Fine with me. That is, if I'm invited.”
“Of course you're invited, Chris.” Sienna grins, and Chris nods.
I excuse myself to get ready for my in ring appearance. I make a mental note to not even mention Sienna, let the world think of course I knew and there's no need for me to talk about it. Besides, my speaking time should be about me, and I had a lot to say to my people.
* * * * * {{ Jaina }} * * * * *
Breakdown is almost over and Jaina has been released from her duties for the night. Just in time, too. She can't wait to get out of here. The entire day has been one thing after another and all she wants is to decompress... Aunt Bree already left, she invited Sienna and Chris Cannon back home, she told Jaina they needed to have a talk. Jaina understood, Sienna had dropped a fairly large bomb on everyone, including Aunt Bree. Jaina told her aunt not to worry about her, she was meeting up with her man after the show.
Jaina let Aunt Bree believe that she meant Reece.
Jaina walks into the lobby of the Marriott where Christian Cannon was staying. She checks her texts, looking for the room number. Finding it, she boards the elevator and presses 8. A minute or two later, she knocks on the door of room 824. A few seconds later, it opens.
“Hey you.”
“Hey.” Christian invites Jaina inside. “Thanks for letting me come over.”
“Of course. You sounded like you didn't want to go home.”
Christian closes the door while Jaina walks into the room and makes herself comfortable on the edge of the bed.
“I didn't. Aunt Bree asked Sienna and your dad over to talk.”
“Hm. Don't blame you for wanting to skip that. I'm sure it'll be a perfectly calm and serene discussion.”
Jaina laughs. “Right...”
Christian grins, then gestures towards the fridge. “Drink?”
“Sure. Thanks.”
Christian opens the fridge, grabs something, then hands Jaina a Coke. He grabs one for himself then sits next to her. “Any particular reason you wanted to meet up with me rather than your other half?”
“You get right to the point, don't you?”
“I thought you liked that.”
“I do. Usually.” Jaina grins. “But yeah, I guess you're not wrong. We... kinda had an argument earlier.”
“Oh? What about?”
“You.”
“Me?”
“Yeah. When I got back from meeting with you at the coffee shop, he'd seen our tweets making plans. So he confronted me about it.”
Christian crosses his arms. “I thought he knew we've been friends a long time.”
“He does. But he also knows about Halloween and Christmas.” For both holidays, Jaina and Christian had hooked up, he'd even stayed at Aunt Bree's with Jaina over Christmas.
“I see. That makes more sense.”
“Does it, though? I mean, early on when I told him about Christmas, I made it clear it was just a thing and not like a thing. You know?” Christian nods. “But he was acting like he didn't believe me. It was bullshit.”
“Sounds it. He ever come at you like that before?”
“Not really, no. I mean, back in December he was mad when he found out about the baby. But that was understandable. This is just me hanging out with a friend.”
“A friend he knows you've slept with.”
Jaina scowls. “Yeah... before we got serious. Am I just not supposed to talk to you at all anymore? That's bullshit!”
“Settle down Jay, I'm on your side, of course. I can see how a guy might raise an eyebrow at first, but he should take your word and know better. Not push the subject til it upsets you and you fight.”
“He said I should have asked him first, and because I didn't it looks suspicious.” Jaina rolls her eyes.
“That logic sounds suspicious. Do you have to ask him to use the loo, too?”
“Ha. No. But he did kinda throw a fit when I dyed my hair, too.”
Now Christian scowls. “Oh come on, really?”
“Yeah. I was apparently supposed to ask about that, too. His reasoning then was... he doesn't like surprises.”
“Oh fuck off.”
“That's pretty much what I said. He backtracked some and said he liked it, though.”
“That's pretty minor compared to today, it seems.”
Jaina sighs and sets aside the Coke. She'd barely had any, and didn't want it anymore. “Yeah, today was just...” She shakes her head. “We actually yelled. But it was so ridiculous. I already cut Jordan off when he asked me to, but I understood that. This though, you? It's too far. I told him he doesn't get to pick who I can be friends with or who I make plans with, and I ran home.”
“Good for you, stick up for yourself.” Jaina nods. She didn't feel very good about it, thought. The arguing reminded her of things from her childhood she'd rather forget. “What does your aunt think?”
“I didn't tell her. She has enough to worry about without my shit.”
“Hm. Yeah, maybe. But at least she's clear to be back at work.”
“Yeah, that's one less thing. But she's doing this press conference tomorrow about the pictures, which she felt pressured to do. She's in the middle of planning a wedding. She wants her title back... now Sienna's pregnant? I can't add more to her plate. This seems trivial in comparison to all of that.”
“It's not trivial if it bothers you.”
“Maybe. But she'll also over react and probably yell at him... and I really don't need all of that. I just want to let it blow over.”
“That may be best.”
Jaina smirks. “Besides, that's what I have you for. So I don't have to bother Aunt Bree with my bullshit on top of hers.”
“By all means, use me to keep Bree's stress level down. I'm more than happy to be used.”
“Oh really?” Jaina's smirk gets more mischievous.
“You know it. My methods may be more distraction than problem solving, but something tells me you're okay with that.” He grins.
“It's my preference.” Jaina leans over and kisses him. He allows it a few seconds, then pulls back.
“Um, not that I'm complaining, but we've just had a conversation about your boyfriend getting mad about our coffee.... is this a good idea?”
“He isn't here... and he's not going to know. Despite what he thinks, I am capable of making my own decisions.”
“Okay... had to ask. At least once.” Christian smirks. Jaina grins back.
“I get it. But no more questions, okay?”
Christian doesn't even give her more words, he just nods, smiling, then returns to kissing her. As far as Jaina was concerned, no one would know about this night. Not Reece, not Aunt Bree.... no one.
* * * * * {{ Bree }} * * * * *
After I said my piece in front of my city, I found Sienna and Chris waiting for me near my locker room... with Dom. It seemed like old times, which sounds weird considering it wasn't all that long ago when all of us were on the same page. But then Chris ruined that, and Sienna broke, and I had to practically force her to stay with me so I could take care of her and make sure she didn't go too far. Some might say I failed in that, but I think I succeeded. Sure she pulled more than a few stunts I wasn't happy with, but if I hadn't been around to pull her in just a little bit, things could have gotten a lot worse.
We are now at my house, just the four of us. Scott went home and Jaina had told me she was meeting with her man so to not expect her home. Just as well, its probably better if we aren't interrupted. Sienna, Chris, and I are seated at the breakfast table, while Dom is in the kitchen making coffee. I would prefer wine after the night I've had, but Sienna shouldn't have that for several reasons so coffee it is.
“Thank you for inviting us back here, Bree, this is much more comfortable for talking than backstage.”
“Of course. I knew you'd feel comfortable here, you lived here for months. Besides, I didn't think we should really discuss this with all the wandering ears.”
Chris nods in agreement. “That's probably a good call.”
“Well, I'll start off by apologizing again. I meant to tell you, I really did. There was just never a good time. With you recovering from injury, dealing with the press.... I wasn't sure how you'd react.”
“You already said that. We're past that babe, I get it. You obviously thought I wouldn't understand, because of Chris... and you were right, I do not understand! How did this even happen? Are you back together?”
Sienna and Chris give each other a look. “We're working through things.”
“A few weeks ago backstage when we spoke, it seemed like we came to an understanding of sorts, you seemed to see my side of things.” There's a mix of confusion and... hopefulness? In Chris' tone.
“Maybe I did, to a degree. I want to. I want all of this to make sense. Out of respect for my friendship with Sienna, and the one we had... I'll even tell you that I wish things were like they were before. I thought the same thing that night, after you helped me by stopping that pervert.”
“The nerve of that little asshole.” Sienna glares. I assume she heard the story from Chris as well as me.
“Anyone with sense would have done the same thing.”
I hear Dom scoff from the kitchen. We both think if Jason had walked up on it, he would have started helping the guy, instead. “Maybe. But the fact is, it was you, who saved me from further humiliation, and that goes a long way. But it's hard for me to just forget about broken trust.”
Chris starts to say something, but Sienna stops him. “Let me.” Chris nods. Sienna turns to me. “When I left here to go home, you remember I told you I wanted to be closer to Chris, I thought he could help me?” I nod. I didn't really understand that at the time, but Sienna had just been injured and I wasn't going to protest what she wanted. She was my friend and guest, not my hostage. “Well, he has. We've been talking things through. Many conversations, about everything that became complicated. Including Nathaniel. I know that's the grudge you hold against him, and I'm asking you to let it go. I understand now why it has to be this way.”
“You do?” I am very skeptical. I look up as Dom brings a tray with four mugs of coffee, with cream and sugar. We all serve ourselves as Sienna answers me.
“Yes, I do. Both you and Chris tried to hold me back from some of the more... out-there, things I tried to do. Some things you stopped. Some I got away with. But the truth is that I should have listened to you. Both of you. I went too far with a lot of things, I see that now. But...” Sienna looks down at herself and rests one hand over her stomach. “This baby? Is my second chance. Ours, I should say. Yes, what Chris did that day in the courtroom hurt, but he was only following what his heart told him was right. I followed mine, too, when I forgave him.”
She turns her head and gives Chris a smile. He glances down at her hand resting on her stomach. The skeptical voice in my head wants to ask if Chris is really invested in Sienna, or if he's only humoring all of this because of the baby. But then he puts his hand on top of hers, and smiles back at her. I know then it's real. Sienna turns back to me.
“Do you understand, now?”
“Yes... I think I do. If you've forgiven him and moved forward, then it really isn't my place to hold a grudge. If you are truly happy babe? Then I am happy for you.” I give them a smile, and it isn't even forced. Dom, who had been quiet during all of this, finally offers comment.
“Congrats, guys.”
“Thank you.” Sienna beams. There is a comfortable silence as we drink our coffee. It almost seems like things between us all might actually get back to the way it was before, or close to it. Just like I wished for the night of the gauntlet, when Chris had swooped in as my hero. Dare I even say, superman? I just had one thing to clear up.
“Sie, I need you to do me a favor now.”
“Yes?”
“Please don't ever think you're bothering me, or adding to whatever else I might have going on. I know in the past you have kept things from me, because you didn't want me to freak out, or to upset me. But you don't have to do that anymore. I can handle anything. Just please tell me the truth. Especially when it's something good. I could have used the distraction when I was laid up in bed recovering and stressing about the media, hiding from them.”
“Okay.”
“Thank you.”
Sienna slides her mug aside and leans on the table. “Speaking of the media... are you going ahead with this press conference tomorrow?”
I had told her a few days ago about the plan. “I am. It's all set up, I couldn't back out now if I wanted to, Lisa would hang me.”
“What are you going to say?”
I sigh, and turn to Dom.
“She's going to tell the truth. It's what she does, right?”
“The truth? About Crane and... all of it?”
“I don't have a choice, Sie. The reporters have already figured out the picture came from that shoot. That's why they have been all over me, despite the fact you were targeted, as well. Your picture was just in a bed. Mine? Part of a photo shoot that had already been in the news.“ I glance at Chris. I have no idea if Sienna had ever told him what happened at my photo shoot with Lancelot Crane. I don't care if she did, but I also didn't want to go into detail now just to inform him if she hadn't. It hit me that the fact I didn't care if he knew, meant that I must still trust him, after all. How about that.
“Do you remember what I suggested to you when the photo first came out? Turn the lie around?”
“I remember. I've been thinking about it... and I think you're right. That's what I'm going to do.”
“It's the right move, Bree. I know you didn't want to cover one lie with another, but after everything that man did to you, to me, to the women he killed?”
“Everyone he killed, including Ricky.” Chris speaks quietly, but the comment resounds. I saw Sienna nod. Ricky Octavius, a young man who had just been breaking into the business. He'd been involved with Peyton Rice. When he was found dead, Sienna asked me to go with her to the memorial, and I went. I'd only met him once or twice, he was nice to me. And too young to die.
“Right. Everyone. After all of that, he can take the heat for this, too.”
“They're right, cakes. I know you've been stressing over it, but this will put everything to rest. Hopefully.”
“For the media, maybe. But we still don't know who leaked the pictures in the first place. Have you been able to find anything out, Sie?”
Sienna shakes her head. “No, unfortunately. My only idea to try to get some answers, you shot down.”
I glare. “You are not going to that prison to see Crane, especially not now!”
“I won't. But that leaves me with several dead ends. Either no one knows anything, or they are too afraid to speak. I still suspect it was Crane himself, somehow.”
“I'm starting to think you're right. We'll never be able to prove it, though.”
“Does it matter?” Dom shrugs a little. He has a point, the damage has been done.
“Not really. I just want it to all go away.” A thought came to me all of a sudden, and I had to ask. “Sienna.... you don't think lying about Crane will just piss him off more, do you?”
Sienna shrugs. “Probably. But what can he do from prison? Release more pictures?”
“God, what if he took others when I didn't notice? Like of my....” I can't even say it. I shudder and shake my head.
“I doubt that, if he had those, he'd have put them out already.” I nod, calming down. “Listen, he's already torn you down as far as he can. You can only rise up from here.”
That's very similar to what Datura said when she came over for tea. I've already been exposed. It's up to me to stop hiding.
“Yes. You're right. It can't possibly get any worse, this is what I have to do.”
We finish our coffee, and I offer Sienna and Chris to stay the night. They could use what was Sienna's room here. But, they declined. Their things were at the hotel, and they were flying out early to get home, they didn't want to wake us that early. Sienna and I hug, then Chris and I shake hands. We used to hug but I'm not sure I'm there yet. He and Dom shake hands as well, then Sienna and Chris leave.
Maybe things might get back to the way they used to be, after all. I just had to get through this press conference, and put all of this nastiness behind me.
{{Friday, April 2
New Orleans}}
Remembering the conversation with Sienna last night made my nerves go away. I may not like the idea of telling a lie to cover another one, but does it really count if the person I am lying about is less than human? I don't think it does.
I know what I have to say.
I take a deep breath and get up from my chair. There is a full length mirror in this room, which is Lisa's private office at her offices downtown. I give myself a look. I'm wearing black dress pants, a white silk blouse, and a black blazer over it, paired with patent black pumps. I look like I'm going to a job interview, or a business meeting. But this is the image I need to project. Professional. Proper. Not an ounce of provocative or sexy. My hair is pulled back into a slick ponytail, but the tail itself has been styled into loose waves, just enough to still look feminine, like me. A knock at the door makes me turn. It opens as I look, it's Lisa.
“Two minutes. Are you ready?”
“No. But if we waited for me to be ready, this wouldn't happen.”
Lisa smiles sympathetically. “It'll be over soon.”
“I hope so.”
I follow her out the door to her main office, the one where she meets with clients. This office I am familiar with, I've been here many times with Dom. Lisa's desk has been moved aside and a dark wood podium now stands in the middle of the room. Behind it is Lisa's bookcase. It would make a good backdrop for TV. The podium has two microphones on it. In front of the podium? Three TV cameras, two studio lights, and a boom mic. Seeing the set up makes me nervous again... until I see Dom walk in. He comes up to me and grabs my hands.
“You look terrified.”
“I am.”
“Don't be. You can do this. Just tell the truth.”
Other than the one lie, right? I just nod though. Dom kisses my forehead and steps aside. I turn, and see that he did so because a producer has walked up.
“Miss Lancaster? All set?”
“Yes.”
“Alright. Do you have notes?”
“No.”
He nods, and gestures towards a spot about five feet away from the podium. I'm meant to walk to it once we're live. There was actually an index card with a few reminder words jotted down. Lisa didn't want me to be visibly reading from notes, it would make it look rehearsed and therefore not truthful. And that's the last thing we wanted. I take my spot, and I see cameramen appear at the cameras that are set up. I don't know if this is airing live on TV, or streaming, or just being filmed. I guess it doesn't really matter, one way or another it would be all over the internet, just like my picture.
The producer I just spoke to gets my attention from behind a camera. Behind him I see Lisa, Dom, and Scott. The producer does a countdown from three with his fingers, then snaps. A red light appears on all three cameras. The producer then waves me forward. I take a deep breath and walk up to the podium. I resist the urge to smile, as I usually do for cameras. This was not an event that required one.
Showtime.
“Good afternoon. As you may know, I am Bree Lancaster, a wrestler for Supreme Championship Wrestling. In the past I also did some modeling work, most notably for Dior. In recent weeks, that modeling stint has returned to the news, due to some photographs that were released, or leaked. The first one has already been explained, it's the second one, released a little over a month ago, that I am here to speak about today.
Firstly, I want to apologize for not releasing a statement or speaking up sooner. I was focused on recovering from a rib injury sustained in my last match with SCW, and I did not want to appear before I was fully cleared and able to speak properly. Last night I made my return to SCW TV, and today I give the media the answers they have been asking for.”
I see Dom behind the cameras and everyone, giving me a small nod of encouragement.
“The photo in question depicts a woman who looks like me, laying on a couch or chaise, her eyes closed, with her top pulled down, exposing her breasts. Many reporters have concluded that the photo was taken during the same photo shoot as a set of ads I did for Black Friday for Dior, where a story came out that one photo was taken after the photographer, Lancelot Crane, and I had sex. Both he and I denied that story, yet the media attention it created caused Dior to end their contract with me regardless.
I bring all of this up because today, I will speak the truth. Firstly, the recent photo... I will confirm is of myself. Also, yes, it was taken during that particular shoot, without my knowledge. It's well known I have never wanted to pose for photos of that nature, and I would have never agreed to do so, for any photographer, for any reason. Especially not a Dior shoot, who would not have requested such a shot. Crane did this on his own, for his own reasons. That brings me to how I was in the position for him to take such a photo in the first place. And the answer to that is... the story from over two years ago that we both denied at the time... is actually true.”
I take a pause here, trying to decide how best to word this without making myself sound too trashy or even too stupid.
“Lancelot Crane is a very skilled photographer, but he is also a very skilled manipulator. Models all around the fashion industry know him as a man with unorthodox and eccentric methods to create the shots he wanted. He employed these manipulative methods to get what he wanted from me. I was coerced into the act... not by physical force but by manipulation, with words. Crane told me it was the only way to make me to look the way he wanted for the shot, naturally, as he put it. He then threatened to call off the shoot, which would have essentially canceled the entire ad campaign for Dior... if I didn't agree to his method. Dior had previously put a lot of pressure on me to ensure that the shoot and the campaign went well. Crane played on that, his threats insinuating that if I didn't comply, he would cancel the shoot, Dior would be angry, and it would be my fault for ruining things and wasting time and money. He gave me two minutes to decide. I was under extreme pressure and felt I had no choice. In hindsight, I realize I should have walked away and told my rep from Dior what happened, and they would have backed me up. But when in a position like that, most people do not think clearly, and I did not that day. I want to make it clear that I do not blame Dior for any of this. It was Crane who manipulated me, and me who caved to it.”
Another pause for a deep breath. I realize I forgot the cameras were there, I'd been looking at Dom as I talked, it felt like I was only speaking to him. That seems to be helping, so I continue.
“When the story leaked, I was prepared to tell the truth... but Crane did not want that. He threatened me further, demanded that I deny it. Rumors of his methods had been running through the fashion industry for years and this was confirmation to the media that the rumors were true. He did not want that, he wanted to protect his reputation. He also claimed denying it would protect my reputation as well. I tried to argue with him, that I didn't care about that... and that's when I was physically threatened, attacked. He put his hand around my throat and warned me against telling the truth. I was scared into complying again.
That denial is the only time I have ever lied to the media. I have felt terrible about it ever since. Imagine my horror when it was later revealed Lancelot Crane was responsible for the deaths of not only a young man I knew, but several models over the years, including the sister of the adopted daughter of one of my wrestling colleagues. Most by strangulation.”
I catch myself running my hand over my neck. I can almost feel that choke he put on me. I force my hand down.
“I can only assume Crane himself somehow, or someone he directed from prison, is responsible for the leak. The release of this photo, while I admit was humiliating, also made me realize I needed to tell the truth, before he could do further damage, cause further embarrassment, by outing the story himself and making me look like a liar, when I have always stood for truth and honesty.
Yes, two years ago, I lied. But the truth is that I was forced, under physical threat, to do so. I wasn't happy with the prospect of having to now admit it, I wasn't proud of it. It made the photo being seen by millions of people even more humiliating, because it's existence is proof of that lie. But as I recovered from my injury and thought and prayed about how best to handle this... I came to a realization.
Truth is always the way out. I lied when I was forced to, but I am not under duress anymore. Lancelot Crane is in prison, and I will not let him continue to threaten not only myself, but my best friend Sienna Swann, who also had a photo leaked, from behind bars. I am not ashamed anymore, I didn't do anything wrong. I was a victim... one lucky enough to have survived being entangled with that man.
And that, is the complete truth. Thank you.”
I step back from the podium, and see the red lights on the cameras turn off. The second they do, I run from the staged area and Dom meets me halfway, hugging me.
“How do you feel?”
“I want to go home.”
He holds me tighter, and I rest my head on his shoulder. After a few seconds, I hear a throat clearing behind me. I raise my head and look – it's Lisa.
“Sorry to interrupt. I just wanted to tell you both real quick...” I pull away from Dom and turn to face her. She has her phone in her hand, as if she was just reading something. “I'm not sure if you were aware this was streaming live...” I shake my head. “On a few entertainment sites. Response so far is mostly positive.”
“Mostly?"
“Oh, there are always going to be people who believe nothing a celebrity says. But the vast majority are on your side, Bree. You did it.”
I sigh, leaning into Dom. He wraps his arm around me. Lisa doesn't know that some of what I said was another lie. Crane never forced me to deny the sex story. It was me who wanted it denied.
“Why don't I feel like I accomplished anything other than burying myself?”
“You'll see, once your nerves settle. Why don't you go home and relax? Let me handle the media from here. If you're needed, I'll call.”
“That's the best idea you've had all month.” I grin weakly, she knew I didn't want to do this.
I have to admit though, now that it's done? I feel unburdened. I hadn't realized how heavy the truth about that photo shoot had been hanging over me. It was just something I lived with, the fear of it one day being exposed. Now it has been, along with half my naked body, but oddly? I'm relieved. That worry, the fear, is gone. Just like the photo shoot itself, I was coerced into something I didn't want to do. But this time, it's liberating. I've always believed in the adage 'the truth shall set you free,' and in this case? It truly has. I feel I can move on from this whole mess. It's finally over.
ON CAMERA
We find Bree Lancaster seated in a gray orate armchair, the edges trimmed in dark wood. She's sitting with one leg crossed over the other, dressed in a plain navy skirt and plain white silk top. White strappy sandals complete her simple look. Bree has her hands folded into her lap. She raises one and brushes her loose hair back out of her face before speaking.
When Mr. D returned to SCW, I sought him out, like many did. He said he was here to clean things up, and I had an idea for exactly how he could do that as it pertained to me. Sure, call me selfish, but everyone who spoke to him wanted things, so that makes me no different than the rest of you. All I wanted was what I am owed... that being my World Championship rematch. I lost it because I was injured, not because I was out-wrestled. When David Helms vacated his title due to injury, he was granted a rematch once he was cleared. All I asked for was the same consideration. Mr. D didn't immediately tell me no, therefore I assume it's on the table, after this show is behind us and we see who will be carrying that championship... Cid Turner or Datura.
In the meantime, I also asked to not be kept waiting in the wings until I get that match. I need to stay in shape, I needed to get back in the ring after recovering from injury. So I asked for someone worth my time. I was given Asher Hayes... who is a worthy adversary and always worth the time and effort to kick his ass. And that's exactly what I did, I had him down for the three... but this trashy interloper prevented me from getting the count! It's no wonder Chris Cannon came out and made Adams leave the ring. All she has done since aligning herself with Asher and Cid is interfere with things that are not her business. Asher didn't take kindly to Chris' stopping her from further involvement and he got himself a second spear to the ribcage for his troubles, courtesy of Chris. I can understand how people might think I would be upset with Chris for causing me to be disqualified, but I am really not. Seeing Asher laid out again gave me the satisfaction I needed, after I'd already proved myself. Yes, it gave me an L, thanks to DQ rules, but I think we all know who the real winner was.
Me, of course.
If that interfering bitch hadn't been out there, the match would have been over before Chris Cannon had a need to walk out and stop her. The victory would have been mine. Proof that just as I said, I have not lost even a half step while I was recovering. I am just as fast, just as skilled, and just as dangerous in the ring as I have ever been.
Bree sits back, a pleased grin on her face.
And that is very bad news for my opponent tomorrow night. Gavin. Hi babe.
Bree waves wiggling her fingers.
You're next on the list opponents being given to me to keep me warm until I get my rematch. I'm not sure what was unclear about my request to Mr. D, but I have to tell you the truth, Gavin.... I do not find you worth my time.
Don't get me wrong. I am going to show up, I am going to get into the ring with you, and I am going to fight you. I don't walk away from fights, regardless if I agree with the match or not. In fact, I am more likely to beat the snot out of you for being put in my way when you're not on my level, and I'm going to tell you why.
This is an insult.
Gavin Taylor, the man who celebrated losing to Xander Valentine simply because he walked away uninjured. The man who claimed another man ran his crotch into his boot to cause a DQ. The man who then blatantly lowblowed a woman and still lost.
Bree shakes her head in disgust.
Gavin... I know what your problem is. I'm sure many people have told you the same thing, and then proceeded to cut you down or call you names. But I'm not going to do that, because those things are a matter of opinion and I deal with truth. And the truth is... that you and truth are not friends. You are so far gone into your own hype that you have forgotten what the truth is!
Listen, I'm going to tell you something personal. You should feel privileged because I don't do this for just anyone. But, it's been all over the media anyway so I feel comfortable talking to you about it. Recently I was the subject of a photo leak, and said photo called into question my honesty about a story, an allegation, from a few years ago. I won't go into details here, it's not relevant and you can use Google. Anyway, point is Gavin... if something like this had happened to you, new light shed on something you had already explained, or denied, proving you wrong? You would have doubled down. Stood your ground, evidence be damned. Because you're infallible, right? Given the emphasis I put on being truthful, whether it's easy to hear and say, or not.... you might think I would do the same. No one wants to be painted as a liar, least of all me.
But, that's not what I did. I told the truth. It could be said I was forced to, and maybe that's true. But it was still the right thing to do. Sometimes the truth is something about ourselves that we don't like. We were weak. We were fooled. We were manipulated. Or... we just plain fucked up. No one likes admitting to any kind of weakness, especially in this business. But every now and then, it's necessary. None of us are static human beings. We learn, we adapt, we grow. Being forced to admit to a lie, under duress or not, and then tell the truth... gave me a different perspective. Not only in life but in this business.
It's helped me to recognize when others are doing the same thing I did. Lying out of either self-preservation, or straight up denial.
Bree leans over, resting her arms on her knees, as if talking privately with a friend.
You, Gavin? You are lying to yourself out of denial.
Now, it may be true that Adam Allocco pulled a fast one on you, I've seen the replays. But you have to admit that you left yourself open to that kind of trickery when you claimed victory in simply surviving Xander. But to get to the truth, we have to look at that a little deeper. You had security. You were placed in a submission hold and immediately tapped. That's not survival, babe.
That's surrender.
Fast forward to last week where you faced Jordan Majors, and it seems like you took a hint from Adam, didn't you? Low blow seemed to work for him, so you decided to try it out for real. Now I know you're married so you really should know better... but that sort of maneuver isn't quite as detrimental to women as it is to men. Which you found out as Jordan escaped from your finisher attempt and dropped you with hers. I had to smile, Gavin, because you thought you found a loophole and it backfired on you.
Bree smirks.
All of this because you refuse to admit the truth about yourself, Gavin, You have given yourself all of these nicknames, I can't even remember them all, but the main one is “All-Star.” You've made claims of being the best all around athlete in the world, yet every time you get in the ring, you either run from the fight, find ways to cheat, or flat out lose. Some might think the truth about you is that you're just a hack, faking his way through the business.... but that's not what I think.
I think the truth about you Gavin, is that you're afraid.
You do have talent, you are a skilled wrestler. You've shown it in brief flashes when you aren't trying to evade attack or cheat your way to a win. But what I think... is that you do these things because you're afraid of being exposed as not the 'all star athlete' you claim to be. So rather than do everything you can to prove you are everything you say you are... you pull these stunts and tricks instead, to hide your own insecurities. You've built yourself up so much with all of your hype... the nicknames, the agent, the security, that to you? Failure is the ultimate humiliation, and you'll do anything you can to prevent it.
Let me tell you another truth, babe. There are far more humiliating things than failure.
Bree pauses for a moment, letting that hang in the air to settle in. There was no need to elaborate.
But, I am going to do you a favor, Gavin. I am going to teach you a lesson in accepting the truth that you are so afraid of. That everyone fails sometimes... even you. And when you do.. it's not the end of the world. It might be the end of the match, or the end of a particular challenge for one championship or another. But you're still you, you still own your talent. And you can pick yourself up and keep going, rather than whine and cry and throw a tantrum like a toddler.
I know, I know. Some truths are hard to hear, harder to admit, and seem impossible to accept. But it's important, Gavin. The sooner you accept this about yourself, the way you hide your insecurities with these excuses and tricks and such to avoid exposure... the sooner you will realize that there actually isn't anything to be insecure about. You got yourself a position on the roster of the greatest wrestling promotion in the world. You've held championships. You're being placed in the ring against me, the most dominant competitor in this company in the last two years! So either someone thinks you're on my level... or someone is playing a rather elaborate joke on me.
It's fifty-fifty, honestly.
Do yourself a favor and assume it's legit. Come to the ring tomorrow night to actually fight me. I am not in the mood to play games or deal with your usual bullshit. I want a fight! I need to beat someone who is actually going to challenge me, I have a reputation and a position to maintain! I can't do that if you're going to fuck around and play games and weasel your way out of a situation you don't like.
After its all over and I am standing over you victorious, I can almost picture the way you'll be looking up at me from your back. Not with disdain or hatred or even shame. You'll have realization in your eyes. You'll understand that I was right... it's not the end of the world. It's just the end of the match, and you got beat by me. You're good, but I am better. That's the most important truth I am going to reveal to you and Gavin? Once you come to understand that... once you realize that it's silly to be afraid of your own failure, because the truth is that most people eventually fail to me...
The truth shall set you free.
You won't feel the need to act like a child or a coward anymore, you'll understand that there is no shame in failing to the best that exists in this company. I am going to teach you this lesson, free of charge, on display to the world. And when it's all over, I know you will find it somewhere in your heart to thank me.
Bree smirks, you know what's coming.
You're welcome.