Post by Avery Miles III on Jul 1, 2016 6:39:08 GMT -5
046 * Learning to Breathe
Scene 001 - Taylor’s Former Home - Indio, CA - FLASHBACK Fall 2009
*After leaving the airport, Avery hails another cab and asks to be taken back to Indio for the thirty minute drive. Sulking in the backseat, Avery’s eyes remain fairly closed as he tried his best and came up short. Something that he would have to deal with as a recurring theme in his life. After a long, quiet drive… the driver enters Indio’s city limits. Instead of heading home, Avery gives the address of the house that Taylor lived in. As they pull up, the once grand home of her family stood eerily still with a For Sale sign out front. Avery thanked the driver and paid his fare, offering up another generous tip. Heading up the driveway and towards the home, so many memories rushed through his mind.*
Avery: I’m sorry Taylor. I tried. I tried to get there in time. To stop you. To save you.
*He makes his way to the porch. The home has been completely emptied as it stands to be auctioned off if no sale is made within thirty days. Remembering a trick to getting inside, Avery is able to enter the home and heads upstairs into the room that was Taylor’s. The room, now empty, was Pandora’s Box of memories for Avery. Sitting directly in the middle of the room, he closes his eyes. The house that was once a home sits quietly. Marks where furniture rubbed against the walls. Avery sits there for fifteen minutes in complete silence as memories run through his head. The first time he met her; their first kiss; bonding over music; the 4th of July fireworks in the park. It was all there hours earlier, and poof, it was gone. A noise is hard downstairs as footsteps are heard coming up to the second floor*
Zoe: Ave? Ave- are you here?
Avery: In here.
Zoe: I looked all over for you. Your mom said you went out for a ride, but your bike is still in the garage. What are you doing here?
Avery: She is gone, Zoe. She’s gone.
*Zoe has a seat next to Avery. Grabbing his head, she pulls it into him. Without saying, she knows that the two of them were dating. It was never explicitly discussed but Zoe knew it. Her time dating the bad boys of the school were over, and she was going to focus on building something with Avery. Things would get easier for Avery; the two of them would be inseparable until her untimely passing*
Scene 002 - Private Bungalow - Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos - June 29th, 2016
*Avery and Taylor finished enjoying breakfast as she still wore the beautiful sundress and he remains in a plain white t-shirt and shorts. Avery and Taylor had a day full ahead of exploring, training, and enjoying what the island had to offer; but he also wanted some time to just enjoy being the two of them. It had been a few months as they got reaquainted, and they love had returns almost immediately. Their connection was undeniable, but they took it slow and decided to finally give things a go again. With Brooklyn normally around, Avery wanted to make sure that the both of them were taken care of first and foremost. Things had been hard on him, but much harder on the two girls. This was the first real moment when Avery and Taylor could just be ‘them’. Taking her by hand, he leads Taylor out to the deck, having a seat. Holding her dress, she positions herself in front of him with her back to him. Together, they enjoy the picturesque view as he wraps his arms around her.*
Avery: I never want to let you go, Tay. This is perfect. You. You are perfect.
*Taylor looks back over her head, a soft smile on her face. She takes one of his hands in hers and squeezes.*
Taylor: You never have to Ave. I promise. Nothing is going to take me away again.
He sighs softly.
Avery: We never really had a chance to catch us, and discuss things. There is something I wanted to tell you all along, but we haven’t had the time.
He leans his head forward, affectionately laying it against hers.
Avery: You remember the day that you had to fly out with your grandmother?
She cuddles into him, holding his body close to hers.
Taylor: I wish I didn’t.
Avery: Well, there is more about that day then you know. I had my sixteenth birthday party and got some pretty good money too. Well after you and your grandmother drove off I couldn’t take it. A million things ran through my head. Maybe my parents would take you in? So you could finish school in Indio. I decided to call a cab and use all of my money to try to catch you at the airport… but I… I was too late.
She turns in his arms, putting a hand on either side of his face. Her eyes get a little glassy.
Taylor: Oh Avery.
She pulls his head forward, resting her forehead against his.
Taylor: I had no idea. You didn’t say anything in your letters or phone calls
Avery: I couldn’t. It would’ve made things harder. I did my best to let you heal. To let you deal with things.
She sighs.
Taylor: I ran away once. Took the bus even. I thought you and Zoe would be so surprised.
She shakes her head
Taylor: But you were together. Holding hands, and she kissed you. I went back home. I wanted you to be happy. Things got so messed up Avery. But it doesn’t matter anymore because we’re here now. Nothing is going to keep us apart now.
He cannot believe that things were so close, and yet so far. But she was right. They were here together. Right now.
Avery: I care for her, Taylor. And I don’t regret marrying her. I had to make the best of the situation that I had. I thought that I would never see you again. And I thought that you had moved on. I only thought it was not right of me to remain longing for you. But here we are. Now. The two of us. And nothing is going to change that. To change us.
Taylor: Never. I loved Zoe. She was the closest thing I ever had to a sister and when I stood up for you both at your wedding and said I was happy for you I wasn’t lying. I wish you could have had the happy ever after Avery. You know that. It hurt me when she died.
A tear escapes her eye and runs down her cheek
Taylor: I will celebrate everything she was. I know that if heaven exists, she’s looking down at us and smiling. We’re not going to change and no matter what, we are stronger than any other couple I know. We’ve fought through so much to be together.
Avery: I will fight for us, no matter what it takes. And no matter what, I am going to be the father that Brooklyn needs as well.
He smiles, kissing Taylor over and over again, as he nuzzles into her.
Taylor pulls back
Taylor: I’m breaking this... whatever this has been. I don’t want to say bad luck. It's not enough but I am not going to be like the others. I’m not leaving you in any form. You believe me right?
He breathes in, realizing how much has changed in the last year of his life.
Avery: I do, Tay. I really hope so.
He lowers his head, thinking of all of the pain he endured while realizing how well things have turned out as of late.
Taylor: Pardon my language but NO ONE knows shit about how hard you have had it and how you’ve fought to be here.
She kisses him deeply
Avery smiles; Taylor finally coming into her own and being fully comfortable with herself and their relationship.
Avery: I love you, Taylor.
Taylor: I have always loved you Avery. Only you.
He wraps his arms around her as the two of them sit and just enjoy their morning.
Scene 003 - Wrightfully Fit - Saltmills Plaza, Turks and Caicos - June 29th, 2016
*After a long workout session, Avery and Taylor both grab a couple bottles of water and cool off sitting just outside of the fitness center. She has been building her body to competition condition, managing to keep up pretty well with Avery. The two of them enjoy people watching while relaxing after an intense session of cardio and weightlifting. Doing much better than expected, she is a fast learner and may be able to work inside of the ring sooner than later. Their last full day in The Turks, they both look to get as much work in as possible during the day to enjoy the last evening before flying back out to Vegas on Friday. They have a nice dinner planned as well as enjoying some time together. This vacation was exactly what the both of them needed; a chance to reenergize and a chance for them two of them to enjoy time as a couple.*
Taylor: I don’t think that this day can get any better.
Avery: Just wait until what I have planned for dinner.
Taylor: Don’t mention food right now… I am SO hungry.
Avery: Well we just have a bit more working out to get done, and then we can shower and grab dinner.
Taylor: You all ready for this weekend? You’ve got a full plate-
Avery: Yeah, I know. And I actually need to shoot a video. You want-
Taylor: Me record it? Sure!
*She quickly grabs the phone out of his hands and eagerly hits the Record Button*
Avery: Alright, well. That was quick!
*She peeks over the phone and smiles at him*
Avery: In two days I am set to have two huge matches; my first title defense on a Pay Per View for the Marquee Championship and what is looking to be a two-on-one tag team match. Plus, Monday I face the one person that I simply cannot stand back in Indy; Persephone. A lot on my plate, yeah. But if I do things, I do them right. And to the best of my ability. Win or lose, I fight like hell to keep what I have and to make a name for myself. I fought in other companies and had some success, but NGW is my home. This is my comfort zone. And to get to open the show defending the Marquee Championship… it is where I thrive. I know that Candy is a talented wrestler, and she will absolutely bring it. I was exactly in her position; losing an opportunity for this title before and getting a second shot. That opportunity and shot came against my brother in arms, Levi. Unfortunately he is no longer around and I am now the face of this division. For Candy, it won’t be more of the same unfortunately. I have been stronger and better than I ever have; and more determined.
*Avery grabs the bottle of water and takes a swig*
Avery: I am not going to guarantee a win against Candy, nor am I going to downplay her skill. She very well could lead this division and be a great face for it. Right now, the stars are not aligned for her. This division needs stability, and it needs a clear cut champion. Levi was supposed to be that, and it was not his time. I rose to the challenge, and I was able to overcome my brother. He was happy for me, as I was happy for him. Gone are the days of trading this belt. Gone are the days of it not being defended successfully. As of right now, I have tied a handful of champions with one successful title defense; and that is the most in this title’s history. Yet another change in title will make it worthless; metal scrap with a leather strap. By Monday, I will have held this title for one month, the fourth longest reign in this title’s history. One month. Thirty days. That puts things into perspective. I appreciate Candy’s positive attitude and her drive to be a champion; unfortunately it is just not her time.
*Taylor tilts her head off-camera towards Avery*
Taylor: She is super cute though!
*Avery smiles, his dimples quite obvious*
Avery: Don’t get me wrong, Candy is a great girl, she just won’t be able to get it done against me. It is nothing against her, but she couldn’t get the job done before. I know that I am the poster boy for second chances… sometimes even third, fourth, or fifth.. Chances.
*Avery leans up against the wall for a second, taking in the breeze as Taylor pans the camera showing the amazing plaza of little shops and people enjoying the island*
Avery: Thank you, Candy. I appreciate your congratulations; I fought a long time to get to where I am. And I know that you can get here, as well. Just keep fighting. Put in the work. Put in the time. And the effort. You can do it, I believe in you. The respect, it goes both ways. I respect the hell out of you, and I would be honored one day to tag with you inside of the ring.
*He nods and looks off camera for a second, before back into the camera*
Avery: I can respect what you’ve said. Not wanting to get into a rut, or having to do this little dance again. I’ve been there. Fighting myself after losses. I fought so hard for the Five Lakes Championship, and never brought it home. My biggest regret of my life. But, it wasn’t meant to be. It wasn’t my time yet. I am just now hitting my stride. You are still new to this game, and I have faith in you that anyone else in this division would fall at your feet. But right now, it is just not your time. It is not the right time. It is time for me to lead by example. Lead with gold in my hand.
*He looks down at the ground, and does not maintain contact with the camera*
Avery: You’ve had to dig deep and get through some rough times in your past. I can only image.
*Avery looks up to the camera, and meets eye contact with Taylor, sharing a similar background as Candy*
Avery: I would never want that lifestyle for anyone, but I am glad that it has made you stronger. You are hungry for this title. To be a champion. I truly get it. And I would love you, Taylor, and myself to hang out. Get to know each other. I am sure more friends would never hurt. If anything, it helps to develop a strong bond. That can only add to our little rivalry.
*He looks back into the camera, and smirks*
Avery: Oh yes, I am calling it now. As long as you are in for the long haul, I am sure that this is NOT the last time that we face off. For now, we head up the Marquee Division… but in due time, I only see much bigger and better things. Come Saturday night, we will open the show with a bang. We show everyone how Vegas does it big! Setting the bar for the rest of the show, it will be a huge night indeed. Bring everything that you have Candy… because in the end, I want to beat you at your very best.
*He nods to Taylor as she stops the recording. Seeing the fire in her boyfriend’s eyes, she jumps forward and wraps her arms around him ready to continue training. She sees what he can do inside of the ring, and she wants to be able to do the same things as quickly as possible. They may not be the “Power Couple” but they both sure as natural athletes*
Scene 004 - McCarran International Airport - Las Vegas, Nevada - July 1st, 2016
*Flying back into Vegas, Taylor and Avery land and make their way into the terminal. Turning his cell phone back on, he is bombarded with messages and has a voicemail. Dialing it up on his phone, he listens to the voicemail*
--Mr. Miles, this is Office Hughes from the Indio Police Department. We have a lead on the investigation into the hit and run accident involving your wife. Please contact me directly here in the office.--
*Avery turns ghost white as Taylor grabs her bag, and looks at him*
Taylor: Is everything okay, Ave?
Avery: They have information about Zoe’s accident…
*Taylor is speechless as Avery just holds the phone to his side*
Avery Miles III
Scene 001 - Taylor’s Former Home - Indio, CA - FLASHBACK Fall 2009
*After leaving the airport, Avery hails another cab and asks to be taken back to Indio for the thirty minute drive. Sulking in the backseat, Avery’s eyes remain fairly closed as he tried his best and came up short. Something that he would have to deal with as a recurring theme in his life. After a long, quiet drive… the driver enters Indio’s city limits. Instead of heading home, Avery gives the address of the house that Taylor lived in. As they pull up, the once grand home of her family stood eerily still with a For Sale sign out front. Avery thanked the driver and paid his fare, offering up another generous tip. Heading up the driveway and towards the home, so many memories rushed through his mind.*
Avery: I’m sorry Taylor. I tried. I tried to get there in time. To stop you. To save you.
*He makes his way to the porch. The home has been completely emptied as it stands to be auctioned off if no sale is made within thirty days. Remembering a trick to getting inside, Avery is able to enter the home and heads upstairs into the room that was Taylor’s. The room, now empty, was Pandora’s Box of memories for Avery. Sitting directly in the middle of the room, he closes his eyes. The house that was once a home sits quietly. Marks where furniture rubbed against the walls. Avery sits there for fifteen minutes in complete silence as memories run through his head. The first time he met her; their first kiss; bonding over music; the 4th of July fireworks in the park. It was all there hours earlier, and poof, it was gone. A noise is hard downstairs as footsteps are heard coming up to the second floor*
Zoe: Ave? Ave- are you here?
Avery: In here.
Zoe: I looked all over for you. Your mom said you went out for a ride, but your bike is still in the garage. What are you doing here?
Avery: She is gone, Zoe. She’s gone.
*Zoe has a seat next to Avery. Grabbing his head, she pulls it into him. Without saying, she knows that the two of them were dating. It was never explicitly discussed but Zoe knew it. Her time dating the bad boys of the school were over, and she was going to focus on building something with Avery. Things would get easier for Avery; the two of them would be inseparable until her untimely passing*
Scene 002 - Private Bungalow - Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos - June 29th, 2016
*Avery and Taylor finished enjoying breakfast as she still wore the beautiful sundress and he remains in a plain white t-shirt and shorts. Avery and Taylor had a day full ahead of exploring, training, and enjoying what the island had to offer; but he also wanted some time to just enjoy being the two of them. It had been a few months as they got reaquainted, and they love had returns almost immediately. Their connection was undeniable, but they took it slow and decided to finally give things a go again. With Brooklyn normally around, Avery wanted to make sure that the both of them were taken care of first and foremost. Things had been hard on him, but much harder on the two girls. This was the first real moment when Avery and Taylor could just be ‘them’. Taking her by hand, he leads Taylor out to the deck, having a seat. Holding her dress, she positions herself in front of him with her back to him. Together, they enjoy the picturesque view as he wraps his arms around her.*
Avery: I never want to let you go, Tay. This is perfect. You. You are perfect.
*Taylor looks back over her head, a soft smile on her face. She takes one of his hands in hers and squeezes.*
Taylor: You never have to Ave. I promise. Nothing is going to take me away again.
He sighs softly.
Avery: We never really had a chance to catch us, and discuss things. There is something I wanted to tell you all along, but we haven’t had the time.
He leans his head forward, affectionately laying it against hers.
Avery: You remember the day that you had to fly out with your grandmother?
She cuddles into him, holding his body close to hers.
Taylor: I wish I didn’t.
Avery: Well, there is more about that day then you know. I had my sixteenth birthday party and got some pretty good money too. Well after you and your grandmother drove off I couldn’t take it. A million things ran through my head. Maybe my parents would take you in? So you could finish school in Indio. I decided to call a cab and use all of my money to try to catch you at the airport… but I… I was too late.
She turns in his arms, putting a hand on either side of his face. Her eyes get a little glassy.
Taylor: Oh Avery.
She pulls his head forward, resting her forehead against his.
Taylor: I had no idea. You didn’t say anything in your letters or phone calls
Avery: I couldn’t. It would’ve made things harder. I did my best to let you heal. To let you deal with things.
She sighs.
Taylor: I ran away once. Took the bus even. I thought you and Zoe would be so surprised.
She shakes her head
Taylor: But you were together. Holding hands, and she kissed you. I went back home. I wanted you to be happy. Things got so messed up Avery. But it doesn’t matter anymore because we’re here now. Nothing is going to keep us apart now.
He cannot believe that things were so close, and yet so far. But she was right. They were here together. Right now.
Avery: I care for her, Taylor. And I don’t regret marrying her. I had to make the best of the situation that I had. I thought that I would never see you again. And I thought that you had moved on. I only thought it was not right of me to remain longing for you. But here we are. Now. The two of us. And nothing is going to change that. To change us.
Taylor: Never. I loved Zoe. She was the closest thing I ever had to a sister and when I stood up for you both at your wedding and said I was happy for you I wasn’t lying. I wish you could have had the happy ever after Avery. You know that. It hurt me when she died.
A tear escapes her eye and runs down her cheek
Taylor: I will celebrate everything she was. I know that if heaven exists, she’s looking down at us and smiling. We’re not going to change and no matter what, we are stronger than any other couple I know. We’ve fought through so much to be together.
Avery: I will fight for us, no matter what it takes. And no matter what, I am going to be the father that Brooklyn needs as well.
He smiles, kissing Taylor over and over again, as he nuzzles into her.
Taylor pulls back
Taylor: I’m breaking this... whatever this has been. I don’t want to say bad luck. It's not enough but I am not going to be like the others. I’m not leaving you in any form. You believe me right?
He breathes in, realizing how much has changed in the last year of his life.
Avery: I do, Tay. I really hope so.
He lowers his head, thinking of all of the pain he endured while realizing how well things have turned out as of late.
Taylor: Pardon my language but NO ONE knows shit about how hard you have had it and how you’ve fought to be here.
She kisses him deeply
Avery smiles; Taylor finally coming into her own and being fully comfortable with herself and their relationship.
Avery: I love you, Taylor.
Taylor: I have always loved you Avery. Only you.
He wraps his arms around her as the two of them sit and just enjoy their morning.
Scene 003 - Wrightfully Fit - Saltmills Plaza, Turks and Caicos - June 29th, 2016
*After a long workout session, Avery and Taylor both grab a couple bottles of water and cool off sitting just outside of the fitness center. She has been building her body to competition condition, managing to keep up pretty well with Avery. The two of them enjoy people watching while relaxing after an intense session of cardio and weightlifting. Doing much better than expected, she is a fast learner and may be able to work inside of the ring sooner than later. Their last full day in The Turks, they both look to get as much work in as possible during the day to enjoy the last evening before flying back out to Vegas on Friday. They have a nice dinner planned as well as enjoying some time together. This vacation was exactly what the both of them needed; a chance to reenergize and a chance for them two of them to enjoy time as a couple.*
Taylor: I don’t think that this day can get any better.
Avery: Just wait until what I have planned for dinner.
Taylor: Don’t mention food right now… I am SO hungry.
Avery: Well we just have a bit more working out to get done, and then we can shower and grab dinner.
Taylor: You all ready for this weekend? You’ve got a full plate-
Avery: Yeah, I know. And I actually need to shoot a video. You want-
Taylor: Me record it? Sure!
*She quickly grabs the phone out of his hands and eagerly hits the Record Button*
Avery: Alright, well. That was quick!
*She peeks over the phone and smiles at him*
Avery: In two days I am set to have two huge matches; my first title defense on a Pay Per View for the Marquee Championship and what is looking to be a two-on-one tag team match. Plus, Monday I face the one person that I simply cannot stand back in Indy; Persephone. A lot on my plate, yeah. But if I do things, I do them right. And to the best of my ability. Win or lose, I fight like hell to keep what I have and to make a name for myself. I fought in other companies and had some success, but NGW is my home. This is my comfort zone. And to get to open the show defending the Marquee Championship… it is where I thrive. I know that Candy is a talented wrestler, and she will absolutely bring it. I was exactly in her position; losing an opportunity for this title before and getting a second shot. That opportunity and shot came against my brother in arms, Levi. Unfortunately he is no longer around and I am now the face of this division. For Candy, it won’t be more of the same unfortunately. I have been stronger and better than I ever have; and more determined.
*Avery grabs the bottle of water and takes a swig*
Avery: I am not going to guarantee a win against Candy, nor am I going to downplay her skill. She very well could lead this division and be a great face for it. Right now, the stars are not aligned for her. This division needs stability, and it needs a clear cut champion. Levi was supposed to be that, and it was not his time. I rose to the challenge, and I was able to overcome my brother. He was happy for me, as I was happy for him. Gone are the days of trading this belt. Gone are the days of it not being defended successfully. As of right now, I have tied a handful of champions with one successful title defense; and that is the most in this title’s history. Yet another change in title will make it worthless; metal scrap with a leather strap. By Monday, I will have held this title for one month, the fourth longest reign in this title’s history. One month. Thirty days. That puts things into perspective. I appreciate Candy’s positive attitude and her drive to be a champion; unfortunately it is just not her time.
*Taylor tilts her head off-camera towards Avery*
Taylor: She is super cute though!
*Avery smiles, his dimples quite obvious*
Avery: Don’t get me wrong, Candy is a great girl, she just won’t be able to get it done against me. It is nothing against her, but she couldn’t get the job done before. I know that I am the poster boy for second chances… sometimes even third, fourth, or fifth.. Chances.
*Avery leans up against the wall for a second, taking in the breeze as Taylor pans the camera showing the amazing plaza of little shops and people enjoying the island*
Avery: Thank you, Candy. I appreciate your congratulations; I fought a long time to get to where I am. And I know that you can get here, as well. Just keep fighting. Put in the work. Put in the time. And the effort. You can do it, I believe in you. The respect, it goes both ways. I respect the hell out of you, and I would be honored one day to tag with you inside of the ring.
*He nods and looks off camera for a second, before back into the camera*
Avery: I can respect what you’ve said. Not wanting to get into a rut, or having to do this little dance again. I’ve been there. Fighting myself after losses. I fought so hard for the Five Lakes Championship, and never brought it home. My biggest regret of my life. But, it wasn’t meant to be. It wasn’t my time yet. I am just now hitting my stride. You are still new to this game, and I have faith in you that anyone else in this division would fall at your feet. But right now, it is just not your time. It is not the right time. It is time for me to lead by example. Lead with gold in my hand.
*He looks down at the ground, and does not maintain contact with the camera*
Avery: You’ve had to dig deep and get through some rough times in your past. I can only image.
*Avery looks up to the camera, and meets eye contact with Taylor, sharing a similar background as Candy*
Avery: I would never want that lifestyle for anyone, but I am glad that it has made you stronger. You are hungry for this title. To be a champion. I truly get it. And I would love you, Taylor, and myself to hang out. Get to know each other. I am sure more friends would never hurt. If anything, it helps to develop a strong bond. That can only add to our little rivalry.
*He looks back into the camera, and smirks*
Avery: Oh yes, I am calling it now. As long as you are in for the long haul, I am sure that this is NOT the last time that we face off. For now, we head up the Marquee Division… but in due time, I only see much bigger and better things. Come Saturday night, we will open the show with a bang. We show everyone how Vegas does it big! Setting the bar for the rest of the show, it will be a huge night indeed. Bring everything that you have Candy… because in the end, I want to beat you at your very best.
*He nods to Taylor as she stops the recording. Seeing the fire in her boyfriend’s eyes, she jumps forward and wraps her arms around him ready to continue training. She sees what he can do inside of the ring, and she wants to be able to do the same things as quickly as possible. They may not be the “Power Couple” but they both sure as natural athletes*
Scene 004 - McCarran International Airport - Las Vegas, Nevada - July 1st, 2016
*Flying back into Vegas, Taylor and Avery land and make their way into the terminal. Turning his cell phone back on, he is bombarded with messages and has a voicemail. Dialing it up on his phone, he listens to the voicemail*
--Mr. Miles, this is Office Hughes from the Indio Police Department. We have a lead on the investigation into the hit and run accident involving your wife. Please contact me directly here in the office.--
*Avery turns ghost white as Taylor grabs her bag, and looks at him*
Taylor: Is everything okay, Ave?
Avery: They have information about Zoe’s accident…
*Taylor is speechless as Avery just holds the phone to his side*
Avery Miles III