Post by Charles "Dead Eye" James II on Nov 25, 2015 16:05:47 GMT -5
{Scene Opens: Dead Eye’s House: Long Beach, CA}
The scene opens up as Dead Eye is preparing to interview Karin Jasper to see if she will become the person to replace Bryan Brown as his manager. The young lady declared herself as a fellow foody, so Dead Eye is opening the oven to check on the steak enchiladas he is cooking as somewhat of an ice breaker to this business lunch/interview. Satisfied with what he sees, he drops the oven temp to “Warm” and then checks the pot with his Spanish rice. As he turns the temperature to “low,” his cell rings.
Dead Eye:
Hey, ma. What's up?
Sandra:
Hey, Charlie. I just wanted to see if you need any help cooking anything today.
Dead Eye:
I got e’rething taken care of, ma. I don't want you to worry about anything ‘cept gettin y’all grub on tomorrow, ya dig?
Sandra:
I know, but I feel bad that you're taking everything under your wings. I know you put in a lot of time keeping yourself ready to wrestle.
Dead Eye:
I appreciate ya concern, mama, but let me handle this. You been doing it for so long for us. It's the least I could do. I don’t wanna cut you short, but I gotta get ready. I’ve got someone coming over to interview to be my new manager.
Sandra:
I don’t know why you can’t work things out with BB. He been managing you for a long time, Charlie.
Dead Eye:
He hatin’ cuz Miles is doin’ bigger things with me than he could. Anyway, this girl is Karin...she said she delivered the flowers at pop’s funeral.
Sandra:
Oh, I remember her!
The door bell rings.
Sandra:
Didn't I tell you to get her number? She looked like a nice girl.
Dead Eye looks through the peep hole and opens the door. Dead Eye motions Karin in but puts a finger up like to say “give me a second”.
Dead Eye:
I know ma, but I told you...I didn’t think that a funeral was an appropriate time for something like that. Anyway, she's here, so I'll see y'all tomorrow. Love ya.
Sandra:
I love you, too, Charlie. Make sure you tell her thank you for the beautiful flowers.
Dead Eye:
All right. I will. Chuuch.
Dead Eye hangs up the phone.
Dead Eye:
I’m sorry about that. That was ma moms. You know how that goes.
Karin smiles in acknowledgement as she looks around the place, curiously. Since he requested a ‘no fake policy’, the young woman showed up in what she would wear everyday. She wore a white crop top with ‘90’s Baby’ written across it in graffiti style lettering. She matched it with a classy black skirt, and completed the outfit with a pair of black and white converse sneakers.
Karin:
It’s okay, trust me, I know. If I ever ignored a call from my mom over anyone else, she’d flip on me.
Karin inhales the scent of the steak and rice, unable to hide her excitement.
Karin:
Okay, either you can seriously throw down in the kitchen or you hired someone to come prep this food. Smells amazing.
The curly haired interviewee doesn’t want to help herself to a seat, so she walks right up to Dead Eye, staring at him in a confident manner, trying to show she would be best for the job.
Dead Eye:
If you want, you can have a seat at the table right there, but lemme get the lil’ pleasantries out the way. I'm sure you are wondering how to address me...you can call me Charles, CJ, Charlie, DE...take ya pick.
Karin:
CJ? That’s funny, most of my friends call me KJ. I think I’ll call you Charles though. For a potential boss, that sounds the most professional.
She extends her hand out, and although she had said on Twitter she was cancelling her nail appointment, she obviously had a change of plans. Her nails were manicured, polished in a bright white polish, complimenting her skin tone.
Dead Eye extends his hand out, taking notice of the nails.
Dead Eye:
Well, I see you decided to get ya nails did after all. That's good. It tells me that you can adjust on the fly. You get a bonus point.
Looking at her hair, Dead Eye laughs for a second, reminded of Carmen’s tweet calling her the “curly haired girl”. Before she can ask what he’s laughing about, Dead Eye speaks again.
Dead Eye:
Yeah, so have a seat. I have Coke, Sprite, some Krissy, or water...or Rosay, if that’s ya thing.
Karin can’t hold back her quiet laughter.
Karin:
Well, considering I’m only 20, you might not want to pour that Rosay in my glass. Water would be fine, thank you.
She pulls her chair out, but before sitting, kicks off her converse, picking them up and walking to the door, leaving them there. She walks back to the table, running her pink socks across the carpet, smiling.
Karin:
You said keep it real, I have to be comfy if I’m about to answer these questions. Hope you don’t mind.
Finally, she sits down at the table. Dead Eye comes back from the kitchen with a bottle of Voss and a bottle of Johnny Appleseed for himself.
Dead Eye:
I prefer you to be relaxed. You Gucci. My apologies. I didn't do a background check on ya or anything. Didn't realize you we're twenty...not that it's a problem for the job. Anyway, are you hungry?
She picks up the bottle of expensive Voss water, twirling it around her manicured hand.
Karin:
Hmmm, whats a fancy word to describe my hunger? Famished. I’m freaking famished.
Karin laughs as she sits the water down, eyeing Dead Eye as he goes to pull the steak out.
Karin:
So, Charles, do I get to ask questions today too? Because I’d like to know how old you are. You act like twenty is a baby or something, but you don’t look much older.
Dead Eye laughs.
Dead Eye:
Touché. That's not what I meant at all. I started fighting MMA when I was 20, so I don't consider that being a “baby”. I just meant that in terms of not realizing you weren’t of “legal drinking age” yet...and of course, ask whatever you want. This is a two-way skreet here. And to answer your question, I'm 25.
Dead Eye comes back into the dining room with the two plates, setting Karin’s down first, then resuming his place. He takes a moment to say ‘grace’ to himself and looks back up and see’s she also was saying grace.
Dead Eye:
Before I forget, I realized I didn't answer you earlier. This is all me. I did some culinary arts in college. I love cooking...just don't get the opportunity to cook for others often enough.
Karin:
Well, I guess it's time to see if it's as good as it smells.
Karin cuts a small, tender piece and puts it in her mouth, closing her eyes to savor the flavor. She takes the time to chew it up, and then shakes her head.
Karin:
Yo...I’ve never had better steak in my life. I’m not even fronting, this is good. If you cook like this all the time, you can have me over for dinner whenever.
She chuckles as she takes another bite.
Dead Eye:
I appreciate that. That helps me feel good about tomorrow. So, you said that “maybe” I might have made you start watching wrestling. So, what makes you want to be my manager?
Dead Eye cuts himself a piece of an enchilada and digs in.
Karin finishes her bite before answering.
Karin:
Okay, well when I met you at your father’s service, there was something about you. I knew you wrestled, because you told me...even though I doubt you remember our conversation. So, at work a few people were talking about you. I decided to check out your match, and you were amazing. Yo, I was so happy, like ‘I know him!’, even though I barely did. You even had me going back and youtubing old matches of yours.
She pauses.
Karin:
My face feels hot, this is embarrassing.
She smiles, sitting her fork down, glaring up at him.
Karin:
Besides the fact that even though I’m a new fan of wrestling, even I can see you have a bright future. I’d like to be a part of that. Make my mom proud, you know?
Dead Eye:
I can feel that. I’m all about makin’ mama proud, one-hunnit. No need to be embarrassed, boo. Wait...I got a piece of steak in my tooth or summin?
Karin:
Nope, no steak there...I’m thinkin’ that was just an excuse to flash that smile. Am I right?
Karin takes another bite, raising an eyebrow, but before he can answer, she swallows the food and fires off another question.
Karin:
We’re getting sidetracked, my bad. I think it's the food. Always blame the food.
She lowers her eyes.
Karin:
I guess I should sell myself. I think I’m perfect for the job because when I set my mind to something, I do it. I don’t make any excuses. Not only that, but this is really all I’ve got. The flowers job is cool, but it's not what I feel I’m destined to do. My mom can’t afford to send me to college and I don’t feel like being thousands of dollars in debt by the time I’m 24. My motivation is more than just financially driven, but knowing I could possibly make a living by traveling with you? That sounds pretty cool. Not to mention I’d love to buy my mom a house one day. Dang, it does sound all financial, doesn’t it? I swear it isn’t!
Dead Eye:
Naw, I get it. If anybody gets it, it’s me. That's why I worked my ass off to get the grades I did to get as much scholarships I could and why I didn't flip burgers like most in college. I like the fact that you're looking toward ya future and wanna do good by ya people, but if you want this job, I need two things. First, I’ve gotten some flack for bein’ real and speakin’ my mind about where I belong in this biz and the lames that's gettin’ the spot I should have. So, I can't have another manager comin’ at me sideways about my “new attitude “. What you think about that?
Karin:
If I were your manager, not only would I support your new attitude, I’d actually encourage it. If you work hard to get to the top, but feel you’re being held back, why bite your tongue? It would be one thing if you were expecting things to be handed to you, but if you’re actually busting your butt? Preach it my brother.
Karin laughs, but she was serious in what she said.
Karin:
Shoot, I’d be right there next to you shouting down the haters. I’d hold you down.
Dead Eye nods, takes another bite, and takes a swig of his hard cider. He gets up and grabs another out of the refrigerator.
Dead Eye:
Good. Now, the inexperience with the biz don't bother me too much given what I've learned about you so far. I don't think there's anything about this business I can't teach you. My time in Japan made me learn every aspect of it from setup to booking, financial, whatever. So, the second thing I need from you if you want to be MY manager is drop the nice girl thing. I need you to be hard and real, ya feel me?
Karin:
I’d be willing to do whatever I have to do.
She picks up the Voss water, and takes a small drink, sitting it back down.
Karin:
I think the only thing right now that I couldn’t commit to would be to physically be there for you. I can’t fight, like, at all. But I’m down to learn that too. You want me to step up and show everyone what I can do? I got you. The nice girl thing isn’t an act, but trust me, if someone were to come at you or me? You would see a different Karin. I’m hoping that’s what you’re looking for?
She digs her pink socks into the carpet nervously under the table, although Dead Eye can’t see it. Dead Eye nods again.
Dead Eye:
Well, like I said, I'd be willing to teach you about any aspects you'd like to know...and just to give a little background, I took up karate when I was in grade school. I did MMA like I said, which is what makes me what I am in the ring. Whatever of that you wanna learn, I’m game. I could make you a future champ if that becomes a dream. For now, I think I need to know how you plan to rep me.
Dead Eye finishes his plate, goes into the kitchen, and washes said plate. He returns to the table, having given Karin plenty of time to think. She sits her fork down, leaving just a little bit of food on her plate.
Karin:
It’s all about branding. A big part of that, in today’s society is social media. I mean, think about it. Who doesn’t have a phone on ‘em 24/7? Social media gives you direct contact with your fans, and your haters...and hey, any publicity is good publicity. I’d also do whatever I could to get you on air at radio stations, in commercials, tv show appearances..sky is the limit, and with me, I’d work just as hard as you would. If that meant 2 hours of sleep a night, then that’s what it is. I’d hold you down like you were my own brother, boo thang, or whatever else you equate to real representation. Now I feel like I’m talking in circles, but you get it...right?
Dead Eye:
No, you Gucci. I dig that you’d hold me down like that. That's the kind of people I try to surround myself with. Like I said, I can't stand fake people...and I sure as hell don't dig flaky people. Before I forget...why you think I'd forget the convo we had at da funeral?
Dead Eye takes a sip from his bottle and returns an eyebrow raise.
Karin:
Because you’re a famous wrestler and I’m a girl delivering flowers.
She laughs, standing up and walking over to the sink. She empties her bite or two of steak into the trash, and then takes it upon herself to wash her own plate, placing it next to his after its clean. She returns to the table, grabbing her chair and scooting it up closer to Dead Eye’s, trying to show her confidence even though she’s still very much nervous considering he hasn’t offered her the job. She sits back down in the chair.
Karin:
So, is this the part where you thank me for the compliments on your cooking but let me down easy as far as the job goes? Even if it is, I’d love to come back for dinner one day...if you can fit me in your busy schedule, that would be even busier by the way if I were your manager.
Dead Eye takes a moment to pretend to think, even though he knows what decision he’s made. He slowly takes a sip of his drink.
Dead Eye:
Well…
Dead Eye sighs.
Dead Eye:
I think that…
…
This is the point where I offer you the position and accept your offer to have you over for dinner again...and about that day...so many people were walking on eggshells and just were zombies. It was refreshing for someone to see if I was okay instead of just asking about the match I had just had. So no, I didn't forget that. Besides, my moms was so wrapped up in trying to make me get your number that there was no way I could forget.
Dead Eye takes a sip and tries to shrug off a chuckle, realizing that Karin probably put two and two together about what Dead Eye and Sandra we're talking about on the phone when he let her into his house.
Karin does her best to keep a straight face even though inside she’s ecstatic that she was just offered the job.
Karin:
First, I accept your offer, I can’t wait to start.
She takes a moment, allowing it all to sink in. She places her hands together in a prayer, staring at her freshly manicured nails and pondering what the future could hold for her and her family now.
Karin:
Second, on Twitter you said I looked familiar, but acted like you didn’t remember me or our convo. What was up with that?
Dead Eye does his best to keep a straight face and not give away the familiar feeling of having a woman put him on-blast.
Dead Eye:
When we met, you we're in your work uniform. That profile picture… well...damn. And that's not saying anything negative about the way you looked that day. It’s just different when people pose for a picture that they use for their profile, ya know? That, and I honestly just figured that was just an everyday conversation at work that didn't leave the same impression on you.
Dead Eye coughs. He didn't intend for that last sentence to come out...it just did and now he feels like he kind of said too much. Karin though, decides to give him a pass on it, just smiling.
Karin:
Well, I’ll be sure to send your mother a thank you card for the kind words. You can tell her you have my number now, even though I’m sure you’ll have to clarify that it's for business purposes only...right?
Karin slowly stands up, now exuding confidence as she looks down at the carpet, and then back over to Dead Eye who is still seated.
Karin:
I should probably get going. Lunch felt more like dinner, but it was amazing. Thanks for the food...and the job. I’m assuming we’ll get it in writing later this week?
Dead Eye takes the opportunity to get up and grab her shoes for her.
Dead Eye:
My pleasure. I look forward to seeing where this goes. We'll definitely get the legal stuff taken care of after the holiday. Just come up with some figure you think would be sufficient for your pay so we can knock that off the to-do list. And I'm sure my moms would appreciate the gesture. Speaking of her, I'll get myself into trouble with her if I don't ask if you have plans for tomorrow. My mom, sister, and her boyfriend are coming here since I'm cooking Thanksgiving lunch…
Her cheeks turn a rosy shade as she grabs her shoes, sitting them down. She then grabs his arm for balance, digging her nails gently into them as she maneuvers her feet into her shoes, one by one.
Karin:
I have dinner with my mom and some of my family that’s coming over, but I could stop by and meet your family after? I mean, they should meet your new manager, right?
Dead Eye:
It's up to you. I don't want you to feel pressured or obligated, you know? If that's cool with you, then it's cool with me. They'll be here most of the day since Derek and I usually end up watching football while the ladies go wild with the early Black Friday shopping.
Dead Eye looks at his left arm, where there is a bit of an indention in his skin from Karin’s nails.
Dead Eye:
Damn, you had a good grip on a nigga arm, huh? That mark's bout as red as ya face…
Karin:
I didn’t want to fall! And my face was only red because I ate too much and...hush it!
She laughs, more like a giggle and grabs the doorknob, slightly turning it, pulling the door open just a crack. She turns her head back towards him.
Karin:
I’ll be by tomorrow for sure. No pressure, I want more of that cooking.
She flashes a smile as she slowly pulls the door open a little more. Dead Eye sees her hinting at leaving and has to force himself out of instinct. In a different circumstance, he would have touched her cheek and made an attempt at kissing her. Instead, he takes a step to the right and extends his hand, albeit awkward looking. She shakes his hand again, laughing at the obvious awkwardness of the moment before letting his hand go.
Dead Eye:
Then, I shall see you tomorrow. I’ll make sure to set a few plates aside, so you can bring some home, too. Don't forget to think about what you want pay-wise. If you think of it tomorrow, let me know. Here, I'll walk you to your car.
Karin:
I think you’re the one who has to dictate my pay. Don’t be bashful, you’re my boss.
She pokes her head outside, and upon realizing just how much time has gone by, she nods.
Karin:
I’d like the escort to my car. I’m not trained to defend myself yet, and who knows who might be out there in this big, bad, rich neighborhood.
She laughs and grabs his arm, not giving him a chance to back away. Dead Eye does his best to maintain a straight face as he plays escort down the short driveway. Karin clicks her button to unlock the door as Dead Eye proceeds to show the respect his mom taught him by opening the door for her as he keeps a grasp on her arm as she takes her seat.
Dead Eye:
Well, I guess I should let you head back home…
Karin:
I think I need my arm back if I’m going to drive…
Dead Eye almost reluctantly let's go of her arm. Now, it is him with a reddish shade to his cheeks. He clears his throat.
Dead Eye:
Yeah, that might help...heh. Ma b.
As Dead Eye takes a step away from her car, she closes her door, rolling down her window. She starts the car and sticks her head out of the window.
Karin:
I’ll prove that you made the right decision in hiring me. Trust me, together, no one can stop us now. Text me if you need anything.
With that, Karin peels out of the neighborhood, showing off a little, giggling as she does. She couldn’t be happier with how the interview and getting to know Dead Eye, Charles, went.
Dead Eye stands in the driveway for a minute before he snaps himself out of somewhat of a trance at the ringing of his phone. Of course, his mom was calling.
Dead Eye:
Hey, ma…
{Scene closed.}
The scene opens up as Dead Eye is preparing to interview Karin Jasper to see if she will become the person to replace Bryan Brown as his manager. The young lady declared herself as a fellow foody, so Dead Eye is opening the oven to check on the steak enchiladas he is cooking as somewhat of an ice breaker to this business lunch/interview. Satisfied with what he sees, he drops the oven temp to “Warm” and then checks the pot with his Spanish rice. As he turns the temperature to “low,” his cell rings.
Dead Eye:
Hey, ma. What's up?
Sandra:
Hey, Charlie. I just wanted to see if you need any help cooking anything today.
Dead Eye:
I got e’rething taken care of, ma. I don't want you to worry about anything ‘cept gettin y’all grub on tomorrow, ya dig?
Sandra:
I know, but I feel bad that you're taking everything under your wings. I know you put in a lot of time keeping yourself ready to wrestle.
Dead Eye:
I appreciate ya concern, mama, but let me handle this. You been doing it for so long for us. It's the least I could do. I don’t wanna cut you short, but I gotta get ready. I’ve got someone coming over to interview to be my new manager.
Sandra:
I don’t know why you can’t work things out with BB. He been managing you for a long time, Charlie.
Dead Eye:
He hatin’ cuz Miles is doin’ bigger things with me than he could. Anyway, this girl is Karin...she said she delivered the flowers at pop’s funeral.
Sandra:
Oh, I remember her!
The door bell rings.
Sandra:
Didn't I tell you to get her number? She looked like a nice girl.
Dead Eye looks through the peep hole and opens the door. Dead Eye motions Karin in but puts a finger up like to say “give me a second”.
Dead Eye:
I know ma, but I told you...I didn’t think that a funeral was an appropriate time for something like that. Anyway, she's here, so I'll see y'all tomorrow. Love ya.
Sandra:
I love you, too, Charlie. Make sure you tell her thank you for the beautiful flowers.
Dead Eye:
All right. I will. Chuuch.
Dead Eye hangs up the phone.
Dead Eye:
I’m sorry about that. That was ma moms. You know how that goes.
Karin smiles in acknowledgement as she looks around the place, curiously. Since he requested a ‘no fake policy’, the young woman showed up in what she would wear everyday. She wore a white crop top with ‘90’s Baby’ written across it in graffiti style lettering. She matched it with a classy black skirt, and completed the outfit with a pair of black and white converse sneakers.
Karin:
It’s okay, trust me, I know. If I ever ignored a call from my mom over anyone else, she’d flip on me.
Karin inhales the scent of the steak and rice, unable to hide her excitement.
Karin:
Okay, either you can seriously throw down in the kitchen or you hired someone to come prep this food. Smells amazing.
The curly haired interviewee doesn’t want to help herself to a seat, so she walks right up to Dead Eye, staring at him in a confident manner, trying to show she would be best for the job.
Dead Eye:
If you want, you can have a seat at the table right there, but lemme get the lil’ pleasantries out the way. I'm sure you are wondering how to address me...you can call me Charles, CJ, Charlie, DE...take ya pick.
Karin:
CJ? That’s funny, most of my friends call me KJ. I think I’ll call you Charles though. For a potential boss, that sounds the most professional.
She extends her hand out, and although she had said on Twitter she was cancelling her nail appointment, she obviously had a change of plans. Her nails were manicured, polished in a bright white polish, complimenting her skin tone.
Dead Eye extends his hand out, taking notice of the nails.
Dead Eye:
Well, I see you decided to get ya nails did after all. That's good. It tells me that you can adjust on the fly. You get a bonus point.
Looking at her hair, Dead Eye laughs for a second, reminded of Carmen’s tweet calling her the “curly haired girl”. Before she can ask what he’s laughing about, Dead Eye speaks again.
Dead Eye:
Yeah, so have a seat. I have Coke, Sprite, some Krissy, or water...or Rosay, if that’s ya thing.
Karin can’t hold back her quiet laughter.
Karin:
Well, considering I’m only 20, you might not want to pour that Rosay in my glass. Water would be fine, thank you.
She pulls her chair out, but before sitting, kicks off her converse, picking them up and walking to the door, leaving them there. She walks back to the table, running her pink socks across the carpet, smiling.
Karin:
You said keep it real, I have to be comfy if I’m about to answer these questions. Hope you don’t mind.
Finally, she sits down at the table. Dead Eye comes back from the kitchen with a bottle of Voss and a bottle of Johnny Appleseed for himself.
Dead Eye:
I prefer you to be relaxed. You Gucci. My apologies. I didn't do a background check on ya or anything. Didn't realize you we're twenty...not that it's a problem for the job. Anyway, are you hungry?
She picks up the bottle of expensive Voss water, twirling it around her manicured hand.
Karin:
Hmmm, whats a fancy word to describe my hunger? Famished. I’m freaking famished.
Karin laughs as she sits the water down, eyeing Dead Eye as he goes to pull the steak out.
Karin:
So, Charles, do I get to ask questions today too? Because I’d like to know how old you are. You act like twenty is a baby or something, but you don’t look much older.
Dead Eye laughs.
Dead Eye:
Touché. That's not what I meant at all. I started fighting MMA when I was 20, so I don't consider that being a “baby”. I just meant that in terms of not realizing you weren’t of “legal drinking age” yet...and of course, ask whatever you want. This is a two-way skreet here. And to answer your question, I'm 25.
Dead Eye comes back into the dining room with the two plates, setting Karin’s down first, then resuming his place. He takes a moment to say ‘grace’ to himself and looks back up and see’s she also was saying grace.
Dead Eye:
Before I forget, I realized I didn't answer you earlier. This is all me. I did some culinary arts in college. I love cooking...just don't get the opportunity to cook for others often enough.
Karin:
Well, I guess it's time to see if it's as good as it smells.
Karin cuts a small, tender piece and puts it in her mouth, closing her eyes to savor the flavor. She takes the time to chew it up, and then shakes her head.
Karin:
Yo...I’ve never had better steak in my life. I’m not even fronting, this is good. If you cook like this all the time, you can have me over for dinner whenever.
She chuckles as she takes another bite.
Dead Eye:
I appreciate that. That helps me feel good about tomorrow. So, you said that “maybe” I might have made you start watching wrestling. So, what makes you want to be my manager?
Dead Eye cuts himself a piece of an enchilada and digs in.
Karin finishes her bite before answering.
Karin:
Okay, well when I met you at your father’s service, there was something about you. I knew you wrestled, because you told me...even though I doubt you remember our conversation. So, at work a few people were talking about you. I decided to check out your match, and you were amazing. Yo, I was so happy, like ‘I know him!’, even though I barely did. You even had me going back and youtubing old matches of yours.
She pauses.
Karin:
My face feels hot, this is embarrassing.
She smiles, sitting her fork down, glaring up at him.
Karin:
Besides the fact that even though I’m a new fan of wrestling, even I can see you have a bright future. I’d like to be a part of that. Make my mom proud, you know?
Dead Eye:
I can feel that. I’m all about makin’ mama proud, one-hunnit. No need to be embarrassed, boo. Wait...I got a piece of steak in my tooth or summin?
Karin:
Nope, no steak there...I’m thinkin’ that was just an excuse to flash that smile. Am I right?
Karin takes another bite, raising an eyebrow, but before he can answer, she swallows the food and fires off another question.
Karin:
We’re getting sidetracked, my bad. I think it's the food. Always blame the food.
She lowers her eyes.
Karin:
I guess I should sell myself. I think I’m perfect for the job because when I set my mind to something, I do it. I don’t make any excuses. Not only that, but this is really all I’ve got. The flowers job is cool, but it's not what I feel I’m destined to do. My mom can’t afford to send me to college and I don’t feel like being thousands of dollars in debt by the time I’m 24. My motivation is more than just financially driven, but knowing I could possibly make a living by traveling with you? That sounds pretty cool. Not to mention I’d love to buy my mom a house one day. Dang, it does sound all financial, doesn’t it? I swear it isn’t!
Dead Eye:
Naw, I get it. If anybody gets it, it’s me. That's why I worked my ass off to get the grades I did to get as much scholarships I could and why I didn't flip burgers like most in college. I like the fact that you're looking toward ya future and wanna do good by ya people, but if you want this job, I need two things. First, I’ve gotten some flack for bein’ real and speakin’ my mind about where I belong in this biz and the lames that's gettin’ the spot I should have. So, I can't have another manager comin’ at me sideways about my “new attitude “. What you think about that?
Karin:
If I were your manager, not only would I support your new attitude, I’d actually encourage it. If you work hard to get to the top, but feel you’re being held back, why bite your tongue? It would be one thing if you were expecting things to be handed to you, but if you’re actually busting your butt? Preach it my brother.
Karin laughs, but she was serious in what she said.
Karin:
Shoot, I’d be right there next to you shouting down the haters. I’d hold you down.
Dead Eye nods, takes another bite, and takes a swig of his hard cider. He gets up and grabs another out of the refrigerator.
Dead Eye:
Good. Now, the inexperience with the biz don't bother me too much given what I've learned about you so far. I don't think there's anything about this business I can't teach you. My time in Japan made me learn every aspect of it from setup to booking, financial, whatever. So, the second thing I need from you if you want to be MY manager is drop the nice girl thing. I need you to be hard and real, ya feel me?
Karin:
I’d be willing to do whatever I have to do.
She picks up the Voss water, and takes a small drink, sitting it back down.
Karin:
I think the only thing right now that I couldn’t commit to would be to physically be there for you. I can’t fight, like, at all. But I’m down to learn that too. You want me to step up and show everyone what I can do? I got you. The nice girl thing isn’t an act, but trust me, if someone were to come at you or me? You would see a different Karin. I’m hoping that’s what you’re looking for?
She digs her pink socks into the carpet nervously under the table, although Dead Eye can’t see it. Dead Eye nods again.
Dead Eye:
Well, like I said, I'd be willing to teach you about any aspects you'd like to know...and just to give a little background, I took up karate when I was in grade school. I did MMA like I said, which is what makes me what I am in the ring. Whatever of that you wanna learn, I’m game. I could make you a future champ if that becomes a dream. For now, I think I need to know how you plan to rep me.
Dead Eye finishes his plate, goes into the kitchen, and washes said plate. He returns to the table, having given Karin plenty of time to think. She sits her fork down, leaving just a little bit of food on her plate.
Karin:
It’s all about branding. A big part of that, in today’s society is social media. I mean, think about it. Who doesn’t have a phone on ‘em 24/7? Social media gives you direct contact with your fans, and your haters...and hey, any publicity is good publicity. I’d also do whatever I could to get you on air at radio stations, in commercials, tv show appearances..sky is the limit, and with me, I’d work just as hard as you would. If that meant 2 hours of sleep a night, then that’s what it is. I’d hold you down like you were my own brother, boo thang, or whatever else you equate to real representation. Now I feel like I’m talking in circles, but you get it...right?
Dead Eye:
No, you Gucci. I dig that you’d hold me down like that. That's the kind of people I try to surround myself with. Like I said, I can't stand fake people...and I sure as hell don't dig flaky people. Before I forget...why you think I'd forget the convo we had at da funeral?
Dead Eye takes a sip from his bottle and returns an eyebrow raise.
Karin:
Because you’re a famous wrestler and I’m a girl delivering flowers.
She laughs, standing up and walking over to the sink. She empties her bite or two of steak into the trash, and then takes it upon herself to wash her own plate, placing it next to his after its clean. She returns to the table, grabbing her chair and scooting it up closer to Dead Eye’s, trying to show her confidence even though she’s still very much nervous considering he hasn’t offered her the job. She sits back down in the chair.
Karin:
So, is this the part where you thank me for the compliments on your cooking but let me down easy as far as the job goes? Even if it is, I’d love to come back for dinner one day...if you can fit me in your busy schedule, that would be even busier by the way if I were your manager.
Dead Eye takes a moment to pretend to think, even though he knows what decision he’s made. He slowly takes a sip of his drink.
Dead Eye:
Well…
Dead Eye sighs.
Dead Eye:
I think that…
…
This is the point where I offer you the position and accept your offer to have you over for dinner again...and about that day...so many people were walking on eggshells and just were zombies. It was refreshing for someone to see if I was okay instead of just asking about the match I had just had. So no, I didn't forget that. Besides, my moms was so wrapped up in trying to make me get your number that there was no way I could forget.
Dead Eye takes a sip and tries to shrug off a chuckle, realizing that Karin probably put two and two together about what Dead Eye and Sandra we're talking about on the phone when he let her into his house.
Karin does her best to keep a straight face even though inside she’s ecstatic that she was just offered the job.
Karin:
First, I accept your offer, I can’t wait to start.
She takes a moment, allowing it all to sink in. She places her hands together in a prayer, staring at her freshly manicured nails and pondering what the future could hold for her and her family now.
Karin:
Second, on Twitter you said I looked familiar, but acted like you didn’t remember me or our convo. What was up with that?
Dead Eye does his best to keep a straight face and not give away the familiar feeling of having a woman put him on-blast.
Dead Eye:
When we met, you we're in your work uniform. That profile picture… well...damn. And that's not saying anything negative about the way you looked that day. It’s just different when people pose for a picture that they use for their profile, ya know? That, and I honestly just figured that was just an everyday conversation at work that didn't leave the same impression on you.
Dead Eye coughs. He didn't intend for that last sentence to come out...it just did and now he feels like he kind of said too much. Karin though, decides to give him a pass on it, just smiling.
Karin:
Well, I’ll be sure to send your mother a thank you card for the kind words. You can tell her you have my number now, even though I’m sure you’ll have to clarify that it's for business purposes only...right?
Karin slowly stands up, now exuding confidence as she looks down at the carpet, and then back over to Dead Eye who is still seated.
Karin:
I should probably get going. Lunch felt more like dinner, but it was amazing. Thanks for the food...and the job. I’m assuming we’ll get it in writing later this week?
Dead Eye takes the opportunity to get up and grab her shoes for her.
Dead Eye:
My pleasure. I look forward to seeing where this goes. We'll definitely get the legal stuff taken care of after the holiday. Just come up with some figure you think would be sufficient for your pay so we can knock that off the to-do list. And I'm sure my moms would appreciate the gesture. Speaking of her, I'll get myself into trouble with her if I don't ask if you have plans for tomorrow. My mom, sister, and her boyfriend are coming here since I'm cooking Thanksgiving lunch…
Her cheeks turn a rosy shade as she grabs her shoes, sitting them down. She then grabs his arm for balance, digging her nails gently into them as she maneuvers her feet into her shoes, one by one.
Karin:
I have dinner with my mom and some of my family that’s coming over, but I could stop by and meet your family after? I mean, they should meet your new manager, right?
Dead Eye:
It's up to you. I don't want you to feel pressured or obligated, you know? If that's cool with you, then it's cool with me. They'll be here most of the day since Derek and I usually end up watching football while the ladies go wild with the early Black Friday shopping.
Dead Eye looks at his left arm, where there is a bit of an indention in his skin from Karin’s nails.
Dead Eye:
Damn, you had a good grip on a nigga arm, huh? That mark's bout as red as ya face…
Karin:
I didn’t want to fall! And my face was only red because I ate too much and...hush it!
She laughs, more like a giggle and grabs the doorknob, slightly turning it, pulling the door open just a crack. She turns her head back towards him.
Karin:
I’ll be by tomorrow for sure. No pressure, I want more of that cooking.
She flashes a smile as she slowly pulls the door open a little more. Dead Eye sees her hinting at leaving and has to force himself out of instinct. In a different circumstance, he would have touched her cheek and made an attempt at kissing her. Instead, he takes a step to the right and extends his hand, albeit awkward looking. She shakes his hand again, laughing at the obvious awkwardness of the moment before letting his hand go.
Dead Eye:
Then, I shall see you tomorrow. I’ll make sure to set a few plates aside, so you can bring some home, too. Don't forget to think about what you want pay-wise. If you think of it tomorrow, let me know. Here, I'll walk you to your car.
Karin:
I think you’re the one who has to dictate my pay. Don’t be bashful, you’re my boss.
She pokes her head outside, and upon realizing just how much time has gone by, she nods.
Karin:
I’d like the escort to my car. I’m not trained to defend myself yet, and who knows who might be out there in this big, bad, rich neighborhood.
She laughs and grabs his arm, not giving him a chance to back away. Dead Eye does his best to maintain a straight face as he plays escort down the short driveway. Karin clicks her button to unlock the door as Dead Eye proceeds to show the respect his mom taught him by opening the door for her as he keeps a grasp on her arm as she takes her seat.
Dead Eye:
Well, I guess I should let you head back home…
Karin:
I think I need my arm back if I’m going to drive…
Dead Eye almost reluctantly let's go of her arm. Now, it is him with a reddish shade to his cheeks. He clears his throat.
Dead Eye:
Yeah, that might help...heh. Ma b.
As Dead Eye takes a step away from her car, she closes her door, rolling down her window. She starts the car and sticks her head out of the window.
Karin:
I’ll prove that you made the right decision in hiring me. Trust me, together, no one can stop us now. Text me if you need anything.
With that, Karin peels out of the neighborhood, showing off a little, giggling as she does. She couldn’t be happier with how the interview and getting to know Dead Eye, Charles, went.
Dead Eye stands in the driveway for a minute before he snaps himself out of somewhat of a trance at the ringing of his phone. Of course, his mom was calling.
Dead Eye:
Hey, ma…
{Scene closed.}