Post by Charles "Dead Eye" James II on Dec 15, 2015 2:45:48 GMT -5
{Scene Opens: Dead Eye’s Long Beach, CA House: Tuesday, 6:30PM}
Karin unlocks the door to Charles’ Long Beach home and walks in. She leaves the keys in the door as she’s juggling bags. She sits the two bags on the island in the kitchen, and then returns to the door to retrieve her keys. She walks back over to the island and begins going through the bags. She pulls out some milk and eggs, placing them in the fridge. She reaches into her purse and pulls out a Peanut Butter Twix and sits it on the island countertop. She doesn’t remove the contents of the other bag. She then makes her way into the living room and looks around curiously.
Karin:
Bae? U home?
Karin looks around, thinking the house is quiet. She decides to continue into the bedroom. A smile crosses her face as she see’s Charles laying on the bed, his eyes closed as the ceiling fan makes the only noise in the entire house at the moment. Karin slips her shoes off and walks over to the bed, climbing in quietly as she crawls up to Charles, kissing him on the forehead.
Karin:
Hey bae, are you up? I brought a few groceries.
He blinks his eyes a little, squinting as he begins to wake up. He stretches his arms out and motions for her to take her favorite place on his chest.
Charles:
I'm up now. Best way to wake up if ya ask me...you didn't have to pick up anything. I could have gone to the store, but thanks, bae. What time is it, anyway?
Karin:
I couldn’t wait for you to go to the store, you didn’t even have any milk left. I know your mind has been all over, so I don’t mind picking up essentials. Especially when I’m here using a lot of them up too.
She glances over at the clock on his nightstand.
Karin:
It’s quarter til seven. I should have let you sleep, you looked so cute and peaceful.
His cheeks warm a little at the compliment.
Charles:
Oh, it's okay. I was just getting in a lil power nap. Tryna work on this rest thing you be preachin at me. So, what you been up to since you left here yesterday?
Karin traces her fingernail along Charles’ arm.
Karin:
I’ve been busy actually. I went to visit my dad, it's been awhile. It felt like the right time, with all of these changes going on in my life, I just needed to let him know. I just wish he could respond, you know?
She pauses for a moment.
Karin:
And, I shot a video to promote my match with Cory. I might have rented a Chevy just to flatten its tires, so I kinda have to replace those.
She laughs quietly, not wanting to be too loud since he’s just waking up. He smiles at her and returns a small laugh.
Charles:
So, you gonna flatten the “Silver back,” huh, bae? I’ma have to watch that later.
He lets out a deep sigh. She gives him a look, knowing those sighs aren't ever for no reason.
Charles:
I had quite the adventure this morning.
He rubs his goatee, not enjoying remembering the events of the first part of his day.
Charles:
I’ll tell you about it in a second. That nap kinda has my bladder full, but you okay? You coulda called me. I'd have gone with you. I know it was tough just telling me what happened with your dad…
Karin:
I knew you were having your bestie day with Carmen, I wasn’t going to interrupt that. Now that I think about it, Carmen’s around and you had an adventure, I’m guessing by the goatee rubbing it wasn’t a good one.
Without warning, Karin decides to mess with him. She rolls over, and straddles him, bouncing up and down on his stomach since he said he had a full bladder. He tries to sit up but finds it impossible as she pushes him back down every time he tries to sit up.
Charles:
You wanna play rough? Okay!
As she continues to pounce, he stretches his arms out and begins to tickle her ribs. Karin begins laughing uncontrollably and slides off and falls off the bed in her attempt to escape. Once she hits the floor with a thud, there’s no noise from her.
Charles:
Bae? Bae?
He panics and sits up, crawling his way to the edge of the bed. He drops his arms to the floor still halfway on the bed.
Charles:
Bae, you aight?
Without warning, she grabs his arm and pulls him off the bed and onto the floor with her, bringing the covers with him as he falls. She begins laughing and playfully pounces on him again.
Karin:
Gotcha! I win!
Charles:
You win this one, but ultimately, I win cuz I got you. Now, can you let me up before I end up being like one of those Sims and peeing on the floor?
He tries to laugh but finds it quite uncomfortable. She can tell he’s serious now and scoots off of him, standing up and picking the blanket up with her. She begins making the bed up.
Karin:
Go do your thing. I’d feel pretty bad if I made you pee all over the place, and that’s something I definitely wouldn’t be cleaning up for you.
Charles:
It would be ya fault...but yeah, I'm gonna go handle that. Don't miss me too much.
He playfully sticks his tongue out at her as he walks out of the room. He returns a couple minutes later with a glass of chocolate milk with ice in it.
Charles:
Guess it was a good thing you bought that milk, huh? So, you -are- good, right? You kinda ducked that question with your little horsey game.
Karin:
Yeah, I’m good, promise. I cried a little bit, but I’m a cryer.
She laughs and looks at the glass of milk in his hands.
Karin:
Gonna be a good boyfriend and share some of that with me?
He pretends to think for a moment.
Charles:
I guess I can do that...if you're not afraid of catching cooties.
He laughs thinking back to grade school logic...or lack thereof. Karin rolls her eyes and takes the glass from him. She takes a small drink before handing it back to him.
Karin:
Okay, you make the best chocolate milk...its so cold, I love it. But anyway, tell me about this adventure you had. What did I miss out on?
He rubs his face a bit and takes a deep breath.
Charles:
So, we were getting ready to leave to go spar at the gym, right? Then somebody started pounding on my door like they was the po-po. I opened the door, and there was Darryl messed up with a bottle of beer in one hand and a weed plant in the other.
He pauses to catch his breath as the story started off with him talking at an odd, fast pace, completely different from his normal, drawn-out tone.
Charles:
Before I could warn him Carm was here, he'd already pushed his way past me and started assuming that something was going on between the two of us and how he couldn't blame her cuz I'm rich and strong...he was so messed up, he called me beautiful.
He shakes his head, still stunned at what had happened.
Karin:
How'd Carmen react? Did he hit you or anything?!
Charles:
No, none of that. She kinda freaked-out at first. I don't think I've ever seen her scared before, but she hid behind me at first. Anyway, we tried to almost have like an intervention with him if you wanna call it that, but he wouldn't listen. It's so hard to see somebody in pain like that and not be able to help them.
She rubs his arms as the worried look he had on his face at the time of all those events returned like he was reliving that moment.
Karin:
What else happened?
Charles:
He went off again and I tried to stop him from leaving, but I couldn't. It was like he was possessed. He tore out of here and even wrecked into Ms. Johnson’s car. That was just...crazy.
Karin:
I know he did not mess up Ms.Johnson’s car, she’s like the sweetest woman ever. Seriously though, be careful.
She moves her hand from his arms to his cheek, rubbing it gently.
Karin:
I’m not the type to tell you who to associate with and who not to, but when stuff like THAT happens? You really need to evaluate everything. Not only could that have gotten a lot worse, you could have gotten physically hurt, you could have ended up on the news for some craziness, and as your manager, that isn’t a good look. As your girlfriend, I worry about you. But I know how you are with your friends, and I’m not telling you to give up on him, just be careful...you can only help someone so many times before they realize they actually need the help.
He smiles at her.
Charles:
You are just so amazing. And I know...you just looking out for me. I've tried hard for the past week to talk to him, and he's not hearing any of it. He thinks he's fine...I don't know what else I can do. I won't give up on him, but I know I really can't be around him til he's ready to get himself right. I talked to Perry about it. If that doesn't do anything, I don't know if anything will.
His expression turns to sad as he feels like he let his friend down.
Karin:
Why don’t we do something to get your mind off all of that? You do so much for others, I always tell you that...and look at you, it has you in a mood. Do I need to jump on you again?
Charles:
You wouldn't have that advantage on me this time...neither element of surprise or me having to pee. Try it, and you'll get the tickling of a lifetime!
He gives her a fake stern face but cannot quite keep the serious look without breaking a smile.
Karin:
You can’t even keep a straight face, I win again! No contest bae!
Karin lets out a cackle and then picks the glass of chocolate milk back up and holds it towards him.
Karin:
You better drink your milk before the ice melts.
He takes the glass and takes a big gulp.
Charles:
Well, it's not fair. You cheat every time because you're just so cute and nice that I can't even pretend to be mad at you. So, it's no contest because you have that unfair advantage. I'm feeling kinda weird about this dinner thing, though.
He drinks the rest of the milk. Karin takes the glass from him and sits it on the nightstand.
Karin:
What’s up? You sounded excited about the dinner earlier when you told me? Wait...is Darryl going to show up there too or something?
She couldn’t help make the joke, but she notices Charles isn’t laughing.
Karin:
Seriously, what’s up?
Charles:
No, it's nothing like that. I am excited. Tomorrow is Sierra’s birthday, but they wanted us there, so they moved the dinner thing to tonight since I have an early flight Thursday. They didn't want to keep me too late...it's just kinda weird. They know we're coming, but Derek called me twice to RSVP. I ain't ever had him do that before.
Charles again rubs at his goatee in-thought as Karin sits up, taking in everything he just said.
Karin:
Yeah, that’s...different. Why don’t you send him a text and then come into the kitchen with me? I got you a surprise today. Maybe it’ll help get your mind off the adventure from earlier and the weirdness of Derek. God, I sound mean...I don’t think Derek is weird, that’s not what I meant.
Charles laughs at Karin’s defense of what she had just said.
Charles:
I know what you meant, bae. That was cute how defensive you just got...but you do a good job of taking my mind off of things by just being here. And a surprise? What we waiting for? Maybe I should fix you a lil chocolate milk, too. You looked a lil salty when I finished it.
Like he often does when he cracks a joke at her expense, Charles darts out of the bedroom, with Karin giving chase. They stop at the kitchen and Charles catches a smack to the back of his arm as Karin laughs.
Karin:
You run away like I can’t catch you.
She laughs again, and reaches into the bag. She pulls out a shirt and pair of wrestling trunks, both with the Puro sponsorship logo on them, tossing them at him with a smile on her face.
Karin:
You already had the one shirt, but I went out of my way to pick up the wrestling gear and a new shirt. You’ve been working so hard lately, and I just want to show you stuff like this as a reminder of where you’re going. I’m so freakin proud of you too.
He turns red a little again. He tries to play it off and clears his throat before talking again.
Charles:
Well, thank you, but these compliments are making me about as red as your nose was when we went ice skating.
He laughs, reminded of calling her Rudolph much to her chagrin.
Charles:
Well, I couldn't do all of it without what you've done for me in less than a month. I know I do what I do in the ring, but you deserve hella credit, too. I mean, this sponsorship, interviews, the action figure, even the house in Indiana. All of that was possible because of your hard work. This is a team effort...and I'm glad you're aboard. Gawd, that sounded corny as hell.
Karin:
Well, we can be corny together. Your hard work is what made it possible for me to get you the sponsorship and the action figure. Crazy thinking we’re a team in and out of the ring now….
She looks off, pondering before reaching for the candy bar she bought for him and tossing it at him.
Karin:
There, that’s the last surprise of the day so don’t expect anymore. You better text Derek anyways, because if we’re going I have to do something with this mess on my head!
Charles:
I'll let him know. You getting ready here...or nah?
He pulls out his phone and texts his sister's boyfriend and looks at Karin.
Karin:
Yeah, I have enough clothes here to go out to dinner everyday for at least a week. I have to get some more stuff at your other property. I need to have me all up in all of your homes, because I know you’re probably gonna buy one in every state, with this whole Billionaire Style thing.
He laughs.
Charles:
No, I think I'm good on houses for now...unless I find a good deal in Hawaii! But, for real, if you want, maybe we can take you for a lil clothes shopping tomorrow?
Karin:
I would like that...except I’m saving up. I’m actually investing in...my mom’s future. She has always wanted to open up her own restaurant, so any extra money I can sit aside from what I’m making, I’m doing that. I figure I’m living my dream right now, why not help her live hers?
She flashes a genuine smile, thinking of her mother and how strong their bond is. He walks over and embraces her with a warm hug.
Charles:
I don't know how I got so lucky. You are the epitome of selflessness. I gotchu if you wanna do some shopping. That's good that you wanna do that for your mom. Does she know, or is this a future surprise?
Karin:
You know surprises are my thing. She has no idea. What I’m basically gonna do is, when I get enough money to get her up and running for a month, I’m gonna give her the check...let her pick out a name, get a fancy sign made up, rent out a building and get it rolling for her. She has NO IDEA, so you better not spoil it! Got it? Or do I have to zip your lips myself?
Karin squeezes her index and thumb together and runs them along Charles’ lips playfully in a zipping motion.
Charles:
Well, if you wanna make me close my lips all you gotsta do is kiss em...but that's why I asked was if she knew. I ain't tryna ruin that for you. I tried to surprise my mom with a house, but she wouldn't take it. One reason we're in this one right now. That's very thoughtful of you to do that for her. You know I'd offer to help...and I know you wanna do this one on your own. I dig that. So, do you have any idea when you'll know about Indy or not? Again, no pressure… just wondering.
Karin:
Can we sit down for this?
Charles seems a little confused, but doesn’t have time to question as Karin has grasped his hand and moved them over to the couch. She sits him down and then sits right next to him, pressing her body against his. She looks over in his eyes, as he brushes her again curly hair out of hers.
Karin:
I...did make a decision. I know you want to be around, or you want me trained by the best, but...I don’t think I could leave my mom for that long at a time, not right now. I think I should look for a trainer up here in Cali. I know Marcus is great, and trust me, if it were just me, I’d be there no question, but I just don’t think I can right now.
She nervously takes his hand and begins rubbing it, her palm is slightly sweaty from the nerves. She had been trying to avoid this topic for a few days now. He takes his other hand and brushes her hair a little with his hand, and he looks her in the eye after taking in a breath.
Charles:
I'm sorry if I made you worried about this. Of course, I was hoping you'd have chosen to come to Indiana with me...why wouldn't I want to be with you so much? But it's not about me and I don't want you to feel like this is gonna be a problem for me or for us. When I told you that I would support your decision either way, I meant it. Remember what I keep saying. You're really important to me, and I want you to be happy. I know you and your mom are close and that was asking a lot of you. I'm not upset in any kind of way. I hope you know that I really mean that.
Now, it's his turn to wonder because he feels like he put her on the spot with having her make a decision like that. Karin leans in, planting a kiss on his lips, it was all the reassurance she needed.
Karin:
I’m so relieved to know you aren’t upset. I didn’t think you would take it personal, and I was hoping you wouldn’t, but, sometimes this feels too good to be true. I’m waiting for the moment where I wake up and it was all a dream. Pinch me please so I know this isn’t a dream.
He lightly pinches her on the arm, which causes her to jump, say “ow,” and slap him on the arm. He grins.
Charles:
Now, that ain't even right. You told me to pinch you, and then you hit me when I did. That's cooooold bloooooded! Listen, though, I'm not gonna take that personally. I told you it was your decision to make. It's your career and your living arrangements that we're talking about. It would be selfish as hell for me to be mad about that. We'll get you a good trainer here. Hell, I was trained here and turned out just fine. I love what we have, and I don't want it to be affected or changed by anything. So, we good?
Karin:
We’re definitely good. I feel so much better now that we got it out and talked about it. There’s one less thing to worry about tonight when we’re out to dinner, assuming he texted you back.
Karin stands up, and starts heading towards the bedroom to grab her clothes.
Karin:
I’m gonna clean up and change. If plans change, just bang on the bathroom door like the police. I promise the adventure won’t be as bad this time.
Charles:
Hey, before you go to the bathroom, can you come see right quick?
She gives him a questioning look but walks over. He picks her up off the ground and hugs and kisses her. She kicks her feet playfully before he puts her down.
Charles:
That's all I wanted...just wanted my arms and lips on you before you take two hours to get ready.
She slaps him on the arm and gives him a mean mug look before she heads to the bathroom.
{Scene closed.}
Karin unlocks the door to Charles’ Long Beach home and walks in. She leaves the keys in the door as she’s juggling bags. She sits the two bags on the island in the kitchen, and then returns to the door to retrieve her keys. She walks back over to the island and begins going through the bags. She pulls out some milk and eggs, placing them in the fridge. She reaches into her purse and pulls out a Peanut Butter Twix and sits it on the island countertop. She doesn’t remove the contents of the other bag. She then makes her way into the living room and looks around curiously.
Karin:
Bae? U home?
Karin looks around, thinking the house is quiet. She decides to continue into the bedroom. A smile crosses her face as she see’s Charles laying on the bed, his eyes closed as the ceiling fan makes the only noise in the entire house at the moment. Karin slips her shoes off and walks over to the bed, climbing in quietly as she crawls up to Charles, kissing him on the forehead.
Karin:
Hey bae, are you up? I brought a few groceries.
He blinks his eyes a little, squinting as he begins to wake up. He stretches his arms out and motions for her to take her favorite place on his chest.
Charles:
I'm up now. Best way to wake up if ya ask me...you didn't have to pick up anything. I could have gone to the store, but thanks, bae. What time is it, anyway?
Karin:
I couldn’t wait for you to go to the store, you didn’t even have any milk left. I know your mind has been all over, so I don’t mind picking up essentials. Especially when I’m here using a lot of them up too.
She glances over at the clock on his nightstand.
Karin:
It’s quarter til seven. I should have let you sleep, you looked so cute and peaceful.
His cheeks warm a little at the compliment.
Charles:
Oh, it's okay. I was just getting in a lil power nap. Tryna work on this rest thing you be preachin at me. So, what you been up to since you left here yesterday?
Karin traces her fingernail along Charles’ arm.
Karin:
I’ve been busy actually. I went to visit my dad, it's been awhile. It felt like the right time, with all of these changes going on in my life, I just needed to let him know. I just wish he could respond, you know?
She pauses for a moment.
Karin:
And, I shot a video to promote my match with Cory. I might have rented a Chevy just to flatten its tires, so I kinda have to replace those.
She laughs quietly, not wanting to be too loud since he’s just waking up. He smiles at her and returns a small laugh.
Charles:
So, you gonna flatten the “Silver back,” huh, bae? I’ma have to watch that later.
He lets out a deep sigh. She gives him a look, knowing those sighs aren't ever for no reason.
Charles:
I had quite the adventure this morning.
He rubs his goatee, not enjoying remembering the events of the first part of his day.
Charles:
I’ll tell you about it in a second. That nap kinda has my bladder full, but you okay? You coulda called me. I'd have gone with you. I know it was tough just telling me what happened with your dad…
Karin:
I knew you were having your bestie day with Carmen, I wasn’t going to interrupt that. Now that I think about it, Carmen’s around and you had an adventure, I’m guessing by the goatee rubbing it wasn’t a good one.
Without warning, Karin decides to mess with him. She rolls over, and straddles him, bouncing up and down on his stomach since he said he had a full bladder. He tries to sit up but finds it impossible as she pushes him back down every time he tries to sit up.
Charles:
You wanna play rough? Okay!
As she continues to pounce, he stretches his arms out and begins to tickle her ribs. Karin begins laughing uncontrollably and slides off and falls off the bed in her attempt to escape. Once she hits the floor with a thud, there’s no noise from her.
Charles:
Bae? Bae?
He panics and sits up, crawling his way to the edge of the bed. He drops his arms to the floor still halfway on the bed.
Charles:
Bae, you aight?
Without warning, she grabs his arm and pulls him off the bed and onto the floor with her, bringing the covers with him as he falls. She begins laughing and playfully pounces on him again.
Karin:
Gotcha! I win!
Charles:
You win this one, but ultimately, I win cuz I got you. Now, can you let me up before I end up being like one of those Sims and peeing on the floor?
He tries to laugh but finds it quite uncomfortable. She can tell he’s serious now and scoots off of him, standing up and picking the blanket up with her. She begins making the bed up.
Karin:
Go do your thing. I’d feel pretty bad if I made you pee all over the place, and that’s something I definitely wouldn’t be cleaning up for you.
Charles:
It would be ya fault...but yeah, I'm gonna go handle that. Don't miss me too much.
He playfully sticks his tongue out at her as he walks out of the room. He returns a couple minutes later with a glass of chocolate milk with ice in it.
Charles:
Guess it was a good thing you bought that milk, huh? So, you -are- good, right? You kinda ducked that question with your little horsey game.
Karin:
Yeah, I’m good, promise. I cried a little bit, but I’m a cryer.
She laughs and looks at the glass of milk in his hands.
Karin:
Gonna be a good boyfriend and share some of that with me?
He pretends to think for a moment.
Charles:
I guess I can do that...if you're not afraid of catching cooties.
He laughs thinking back to grade school logic...or lack thereof. Karin rolls her eyes and takes the glass from him. She takes a small drink before handing it back to him.
Karin:
Okay, you make the best chocolate milk...its so cold, I love it. But anyway, tell me about this adventure you had. What did I miss out on?
He rubs his face a bit and takes a deep breath.
Charles:
So, we were getting ready to leave to go spar at the gym, right? Then somebody started pounding on my door like they was the po-po. I opened the door, and there was Darryl messed up with a bottle of beer in one hand and a weed plant in the other.
He pauses to catch his breath as the story started off with him talking at an odd, fast pace, completely different from his normal, drawn-out tone.
Charles:
Before I could warn him Carm was here, he'd already pushed his way past me and started assuming that something was going on between the two of us and how he couldn't blame her cuz I'm rich and strong...he was so messed up, he called me beautiful.
He shakes his head, still stunned at what had happened.
Karin:
How'd Carmen react? Did he hit you or anything?!
Charles:
No, none of that. She kinda freaked-out at first. I don't think I've ever seen her scared before, but she hid behind me at first. Anyway, we tried to almost have like an intervention with him if you wanna call it that, but he wouldn't listen. It's so hard to see somebody in pain like that and not be able to help them.
She rubs his arms as the worried look he had on his face at the time of all those events returned like he was reliving that moment.
Karin:
What else happened?
Charles:
He went off again and I tried to stop him from leaving, but I couldn't. It was like he was possessed. He tore out of here and even wrecked into Ms. Johnson’s car. That was just...crazy.
Karin:
I know he did not mess up Ms.Johnson’s car, she’s like the sweetest woman ever. Seriously though, be careful.
She moves her hand from his arms to his cheek, rubbing it gently.
Karin:
I’m not the type to tell you who to associate with and who not to, but when stuff like THAT happens? You really need to evaluate everything. Not only could that have gotten a lot worse, you could have gotten physically hurt, you could have ended up on the news for some craziness, and as your manager, that isn’t a good look. As your girlfriend, I worry about you. But I know how you are with your friends, and I’m not telling you to give up on him, just be careful...you can only help someone so many times before they realize they actually need the help.
He smiles at her.
Charles:
You are just so amazing. And I know...you just looking out for me. I've tried hard for the past week to talk to him, and he's not hearing any of it. He thinks he's fine...I don't know what else I can do. I won't give up on him, but I know I really can't be around him til he's ready to get himself right. I talked to Perry about it. If that doesn't do anything, I don't know if anything will.
His expression turns to sad as he feels like he let his friend down.
Karin:
Why don’t we do something to get your mind off all of that? You do so much for others, I always tell you that...and look at you, it has you in a mood. Do I need to jump on you again?
Charles:
You wouldn't have that advantage on me this time...neither element of surprise or me having to pee. Try it, and you'll get the tickling of a lifetime!
He gives her a fake stern face but cannot quite keep the serious look without breaking a smile.
Karin:
You can’t even keep a straight face, I win again! No contest bae!
Karin lets out a cackle and then picks the glass of chocolate milk back up and holds it towards him.
Karin:
You better drink your milk before the ice melts.
He takes the glass and takes a big gulp.
Charles:
Well, it's not fair. You cheat every time because you're just so cute and nice that I can't even pretend to be mad at you. So, it's no contest because you have that unfair advantage. I'm feeling kinda weird about this dinner thing, though.
He drinks the rest of the milk. Karin takes the glass from him and sits it on the nightstand.
Karin:
What’s up? You sounded excited about the dinner earlier when you told me? Wait...is Darryl going to show up there too or something?
She couldn’t help make the joke, but she notices Charles isn’t laughing.
Karin:
Seriously, what’s up?
Charles:
No, it's nothing like that. I am excited. Tomorrow is Sierra’s birthday, but they wanted us there, so they moved the dinner thing to tonight since I have an early flight Thursday. They didn't want to keep me too late...it's just kinda weird. They know we're coming, but Derek called me twice to RSVP. I ain't ever had him do that before.
Charles again rubs at his goatee in-thought as Karin sits up, taking in everything he just said.
Karin:
Yeah, that’s...different. Why don’t you send him a text and then come into the kitchen with me? I got you a surprise today. Maybe it’ll help get your mind off the adventure from earlier and the weirdness of Derek. God, I sound mean...I don’t think Derek is weird, that’s not what I meant.
Charles laughs at Karin’s defense of what she had just said.
Charles:
I know what you meant, bae. That was cute how defensive you just got...but you do a good job of taking my mind off of things by just being here. And a surprise? What we waiting for? Maybe I should fix you a lil chocolate milk, too. You looked a lil salty when I finished it.
Like he often does when he cracks a joke at her expense, Charles darts out of the bedroom, with Karin giving chase. They stop at the kitchen and Charles catches a smack to the back of his arm as Karin laughs.
Karin:
You run away like I can’t catch you.
She laughs again, and reaches into the bag. She pulls out a shirt and pair of wrestling trunks, both with the Puro sponsorship logo on them, tossing them at him with a smile on her face.
Karin:
You already had the one shirt, but I went out of my way to pick up the wrestling gear and a new shirt. You’ve been working so hard lately, and I just want to show you stuff like this as a reminder of where you’re going. I’m so freakin proud of you too.
He turns red a little again. He tries to play it off and clears his throat before talking again.
Charles:
Well, thank you, but these compliments are making me about as red as your nose was when we went ice skating.
He laughs, reminded of calling her Rudolph much to her chagrin.
Charles:
Well, I couldn't do all of it without what you've done for me in less than a month. I know I do what I do in the ring, but you deserve hella credit, too. I mean, this sponsorship, interviews, the action figure, even the house in Indiana. All of that was possible because of your hard work. This is a team effort...and I'm glad you're aboard. Gawd, that sounded corny as hell.
Karin:
Well, we can be corny together. Your hard work is what made it possible for me to get you the sponsorship and the action figure. Crazy thinking we’re a team in and out of the ring now….
She looks off, pondering before reaching for the candy bar she bought for him and tossing it at him.
Karin:
There, that’s the last surprise of the day so don’t expect anymore. You better text Derek anyways, because if we’re going I have to do something with this mess on my head!
Charles:
I'll let him know. You getting ready here...or nah?
He pulls out his phone and texts his sister's boyfriend and looks at Karin.
Karin:
Yeah, I have enough clothes here to go out to dinner everyday for at least a week. I have to get some more stuff at your other property. I need to have me all up in all of your homes, because I know you’re probably gonna buy one in every state, with this whole Billionaire Style thing.
He laughs.
Charles:
No, I think I'm good on houses for now...unless I find a good deal in Hawaii! But, for real, if you want, maybe we can take you for a lil clothes shopping tomorrow?
Karin:
I would like that...except I’m saving up. I’m actually investing in...my mom’s future. She has always wanted to open up her own restaurant, so any extra money I can sit aside from what I’m making, I’m doing that. I figure I’m living my dream right now, why not help her live hers?
She flashes a genuine smile, thinking of her mother and how strong their bond is. He walks over and embraces her with a warm hug.
Charles:
I don't know how I got so lucky. You are the epitome of selflessness. I gotchu if you wanna do some shopping. That's good that you wanna do that for your mom. Does she know, or is this a future surprise?
Karin:
You know surprises are my thing. She has no idea. What I’m basically gonna do is, when I get enough money to get her up and running for a month, I’m gonna give her the check...let her pick out a name, get a fancy sign made up, rent out a building and get it rolling for her. She has NO IDEA, so you better not spoil it! Got it? Or do I have to zip your lips myself?
Karin squeezes her index and thumb together and runs them along Charles’ lips playfully in a zipping motion.
Charles:
Well, if you wanna make me close my lips all you gotsta do is kiss em...but that's why I asked was if she knew. I ain't tryna ruin that for you. I tried to surprise my mom with a house, but she wouldn't take it. One reason we're in this one right now. That's very thoughtful of you to do that for her. You know I'd offer to help...and I know you wanna do this one on your own. I dig that. So, do you have any idea when you'll know about Indy or not? Again, no pressure… just wondering.
Karin:
Can we sit down for this?
Charles seems a little confused, but doesn’t have time to question as Karin has grasped his hand and moved them over to the couch. She sits him down and then sits right next to him, pressing her body against his. She looks over in his eyes, as he brushes her again curly hair out of hers.
Karin:
I...did make a decision. I know you want to be around, or you want me trained by the best, but...I don’t think I could leave my mom for that long at a time, not right now. I think I should look for a trainer up here in Cali. I know Marcus is great, and trust me, if it were just me, I’d be there no question, but I just don’t think I can right now.
She nervously takes his hand and begins rubbing it, her palm is slightly sweaty from the nerves. She had been trying to avoid this topic for a few days now. He takes his other hand and brushes her hair a little with his hand, and he looks her in the eye after taking in a breath.
Charles:
I'm sorry if I made you worried about this. Of course, I was hoping you'd have chosen to come to Indiana with me...why wouldn't I want to be with you so much? But it's not about me and I don't want you to feel like this is gonna be a problem for me or for us. When I told you that I would support your decision either way, I meant it. Remember what I keep saying. You're really important to me, and I want you to be happy. I know you and your mom are close and that was asking a lot of you. I'm not upset in any kind of way. I hope you know that I really mean that.
Now, it's his turn to wonder because he feels like he put her on the spot with having her make a decision like that. Karin leans in, planting a kiss on his lips, it was all the reassurance she needed.
Karin:
I’m so relieved to know you aren’t upset. I didn’t think you would take it personal, and I was hoping you wouldn’t, but, sometimes this feels too good to be true. I’m waiting for the moment where I wake up and it was all a dream. Pinch me please so I know this isn’t a dream.
He lightly pinches her on the arm, which causes her to jump, say “ow,” and slap him on the arm. He grins.
Charles:
Now, that ain't even right. You told me to pinch you, and then you hit me when I did. That's cooooold bloooooded! Listen, though, I'm not gonna take that personally. I told you it was your decision to make. It's your career and your living arrangements that we're talking about. It would be selfish as hell for me to be mad about that. We'll get you a good trainer here. Hell, I was trained here and turned out just fine. I love what we have, and I don't want it to be affected or changed by anything. So, we good?
Karin:
We’re definitely good. I feel so much better now that we got it out and talked about it. There’s one less thing to worry about tonight when we’re out to dinner, assuming he texted you back.
Karin stands up, and starts heading towards the bedroom to grab her clothes.
Karin:
I’m gonna clean up and change. If plans change, just bang on the bathroom door like the police. I promise the adventure won’t be as bad this time.
Charles:
Hey, before you go to the bathroom, can you come see right quick?
She gives him a questioning look but walks over. He picks her up off the ground and hugs and kisses her. She kicks her feet playfully before he puts her down.
Charles:
That's all I wanted...just wanted my arms and lips on you before you take two hours to get ready.
She slaps him on the arm and gives him a mean mug look before she heads to the bathroom.
{Scene closed.}