Post by Charles "Dead Eye" James II on Dec 23, 2015 3:18:49 GMT -5
{Scene Resumes: Palm Restaurant Parking Lot: Los Angeles, CA: Monday, 12/14/15: 8:30PM}
The scene resumes as Charles and Karin are getting ready to exit the car and enter the restaurant, where they are to celebrate Charles’s sister Sierra's birthday.
Karin:
Okay, bae, you ready?
Karin looks at her own reflection in the mirror, making sure her makeup and hair meet her own approval. She purses her lips together and then turns to Charles, who is smiling. She immediately smacks him in the arm, laughing.
Karin:
Why do you have to laugh at me? I don’t wanna go in there looking like bobo the clown.
This makes Charles laugh again, earning him another smack.
Charles:
I’ma tell ya mama on you if you keep hittin me like that. *He smiles.* I'm as ready as I'm gonna be, I guess. I'm still kinda buggin on Derek right nah, tho.
The all-too-familiar deep thought look comes across his face. Before he can get too lost in his thoughts, he feels Karin’s warm hand on his cheek, snapping him back to reality.
Karin:
I don’t like seein’ that look, Charles. You have so much to look forward too, to smile about, besides, you’re too handsome to be looking like that. Fix that face.
Karin reaches her thumb and index finger on each side of his mouth and stretches it out, forcing him to smile as she begins laughing. Before he can protest, she leans in and plants a kiss on him, pulling away slowly and staring into his eyes.
Karin:
Did that make it all better?
Charles:
You know it does. I just can't shake the feeling that something’s up, but I hope I'm wrong. I like Derek. He's good people, he works, and he takes good care of Sierra. I've never seen her so happy...feels familiar. Problem is, before they got together, Derek used to hang with some shady, wannabe thug type cats. He was never really into their nonsense, but the way he been trippy got me worried. They bet not have him on no stuff. I ain't having that.
He takes a deep breath, realizing he was on the verge of getting upset just thinking of that possibility. Karin begins speaking again, in a comforting tone, trying to help him relax.
Karin:
Well let’s get in there and see what's up then. I’m a pretty good judge of character, if he lies about anything, I’ll pick up on it. I know you worry, but Sierra is a big girl too, I bet she’s already one step ahead of everything.
Charles:
I shouldn't get caught up in all that, but you know me well enough to know that I overthink everything, as much as I'm trying to get a grip on that. I'll keep my head in making sure Sierra enjoys this lil birthday party...and I'll just keep my mind on you, too. So, I guess we should go in before Ms. Sandra thinks something happened to us on the way here.
He lets out a much more relaxed breath as the two get out of the car. They join hands as they walk into the five-star restaurant.
Hostess:
Good evening, and welcome to the Palms. Do you have a reservation, sir?
Charles:
Yes, we have a room reserved.
Hostess:
The birthday party...right this way, please.
Karin squeezes Charles’ hand tightly as their fingers are interlocked. She leans her head in closely as they continue following the hostess, whispering to him.
Karin:
Why didn’t you tell me this place was so...uppity?
Charles:
Uppity?
Karin:
Fancy...expensive.
Charles:
I'm sorry. It slipped my mind with all those negative thoughts in my head. It'll be fine, babe. Just stick close to me and um… drink with your pinky in the air. *smiles* This may be a fancy spot, but we still with all my hood fam.
The hostess points out the big VIP room as they reach the door. Charles tightens his grip slightly still a little anxious. It seems everyone else is already there with a bigger group than the normal birthday celebration. He curiously looks around the room. Karin looks up at him and smiles, whispering quietly.
Karin:
Wow, big crowd. Are you okay? You seem flustered.
Charles:
I'm a little better. I dunno if it'd be the same if you weren't here, though.
As he looks around the room, he sees his mom waving the two over.
Charles:
I guess that means we sitting by Ms. Sandra, then.
They make their way across the crowded room, and over to Ms.Sandra. Karin leans in to give a hug to the seated woman.
Karin:
It is SO good to see you again Ms.Sandra, how are you?
Sandra:
It's good to see you too, dear.
Charles:
Hey, ma.
Sandra:
Boy, I know you ain't boutsta sit down without giving ya mama a hug?! I know I taught ya nappy-headed tail better than that!
He goes over and hugs his mother and gives her a kiss on the cheek. Charles and Karin sit down.
Charles:
What's up with y'all women in my life playin a nigga all the time?
Charles is instantly greeted with a backhand to his stomach under the table as Karin leans in and whispers.
Karin:
Charles! Don’t talk like that around your mother!
KJ clears her throat.
Karin:
This is incredible. So many people gathering together for a birth. I tell you Ms.Sandra, if my family did this for a birthday in my family, I don’t think I would know what to do. I love how close this family is.
Sandra:
Well, honey, when you grow up hard like we did, you haveta be close, baby. It's just how we is.
Charles:
Ma, she right though. They got so many more people than usual. What's going on?
Charles starts to get anxious again, and he rubs the back of his neck. Karin can sense the anxiety building in her boyfriend, and she places her hand in his lap under the table and rubs his thigh gently. He takes a more soothing breath and smiles at Karin.
Sandra:
Boy, I don't know. If you ask me, it's too damn uppity in here.
Charles:
Karin said the same thing.
He kind of chuckles as a server comes to get their drink order.
Server:
Hi, what are you having?
Charles:
Let me get a glass of your best red.
Server:
And you, miss?
Karin:
I’ll have a glass of water please, no lemon.
Karin looks around the room again, still surprised by all of the people.
Karin:
I wish I could be as cool as you and say I want a glass of the finest red too. Why can’t I be 21 yet? I’m close enough.
Charles:
Ain't nothing about being cool. I'm just tryna relax a lil bit...plus, I was expecting *her* to say something about me being uppity right now. What we eating anyway?
Sandra:
Some kind of fancy grilled chicken dish is one option or a steak of some kind. We're probably gonna have to stop somewhere after this. You those “fancy little plates” and all that.
Charles:
Ma, be nice. I'm sure you put a lot of money in this.
Sandra:
CJ, I know you ain't telling ya own mama what to do?
Charles:
You think I'm crazy? I know dang well you'd smack me right up in this restaurant… I was just making a polite suggestion.
The server returns with their drinks.
Server:
Our options for this evening are Chicken Martini and New York strip. What would you care for?
Charles:
I'll take the strip, medium, please.
Server:
And you miss?
Karin:
I’ll take the chicken martini, please.
Karin offers a smile with her request and turns towards Sandra.
Karin:
So, Ms.Sandra, what do you think about Charles moving halfway across the world from us?
She laughs at her over-exaggeration, before taking a small sip of her water.
Sandra:
Of course, I'd love for my son to be closer, but he's a grown man with a good job...two now. I think the bigger question is how you feel about it?
Karin:
Honestly, it’s a little tough. I know I’ve only known him for a short time, but our lives have become so intertwined, with business, and personally. I would never ask him to stay in California for me, but I miss him sometimes.
Karin looks at Charles and smiles, but behind the smile he can tell she had been wanting to get that out.
Karin:
I do know I’m super proud of him though. There’s not a wrestler out there with a faster rising stock than Charles’.
Charles feels his cheeks warm as he takes a sip of his wine. He clears his throat.
Charles:
Well, you don't have to feel like you have to ask me to stay in Cali. I like being near you, so I do plan on spending a lot of off days here up til right before the weekends, especially wrestling two nights in a row now. *turns his head toward Karin* You do know I don't like being at the other house without you, right? And that I miss you like crazy?
Karin:
If this were further into us, I would have expected you to invite me to move in, but we both know we aren’t at that stage yet. It stinks, but we’re young, all we have is time, right?
Sandra:
You two are young, but that time sure does fly. I wish I had more time with Charles’ father. He was the best man I’ve ever met.
Karin:
And Charles is the greatest guy I’ve met. I called him selfless and his eyes shot out of his head. It seems like your husband was more than just a great partner, he must have been an amazing father too.
Karin smiles towards Ms.Sandra, and then turns her smile to Charles.
Sandra:
You're right about that. That man...Oh, that man! He was such a great father and husband. He didn't get shown much but tough love as a child, so he made sure Charles, Sierra, and…*deep swallow* Reggie knew they we're loved.
Bringing up Reggie, his deceased younger brother, drops a single tear from the corner of Charles’ eye as he squeezes Karin’s hand slightly.
Sandra:
And girl, when that man touched me…
Charles:
MA! C’mon, man! You can't be talking like that in front of me. I'll be right back. I need to hit the bathroom right quick.
As Charles makes his way to the bathroom, Karin looks around at everyone in the room. She recognizes a few from Thanksgiving, but most are new faces to her. She takes a drink of her water, but doesn’t speak up to anyone else. Not out of anything other than not knowing them. She glances around a few times, looking to see if Charles is on his way back. A minute later, Charles walks back into the room just as the serving staff is starting to hand out the food for the group.
Sandra:
You got most, C?
Charles:
No, I had to duck out on some people tryna get me to invest in some kinda crazy scheme. Not for me. I prefer clean money.
The food arrives for the three, and Charles cuts into his steak, happy with the doneness.
Charles:
That chicken looks pretty good, baby.
Karin:
Wanna try a bite?
Without waiting for a response, she’s already got the first bite onto her fork and held out towards his mouth.
Karin:
Now you can tell me how my own food tastes before I even try it.
She laughs as Charles takes the bite from the fork.
Charles:
Mmhmm, it's pretty good. That sauce, though. That's legit as f...can be. Do you want a bite of this steak?
Karin:
I would love a bite of that steak, it looks amazing.
Karin excitedly takes the bite from his fork as he feeds it to her, closing her mouth and smirking as she chews and then swallows.
Karin:
That’s legit as fudge.
Karin can’t hold back a laugh at her own cheesy choice of words, half mocking what Charles just said. He sticks his tongue at her.
Charles:
You got jokes. I'm just tryna make sure I ain't getting passed slaps up in here…
A fork tapping a wine glass can be heard a few times before Derek stands up from his seat.
Derek:
I just want to first thank everybody for coming out tonight. I know this isn't our usual style, but I just wanted the best for Sierra’s birthday, so I appreciate y'all coming out for this.
After delivering his little opening, he tenses up a little.
Derek:
Sierra, I remember that Valentine’s Day when we met. Two people set us up on a blind date that we both ended up laughing and saying that we both didn't want to show up, but I'm so glad we did. You've literally turned my life around so far, and I don't want anything less than more of that. I know a lot of people say that the person they're with is their best friend and the best thing that ever happened to them...well, I really mean it when I say it.
He takes a deep breath and Charles whispers to Karin.
Charles:
Is this negro doing what I think he's doing?
Karin shushes him. Much like everyone else in the room —the women especially— her focus is on what's happening in front of them.
Derek:
What I'm trying to say without losing what's in my heart to say is that I'd be honored if….
He takes a box out of his pocket and gets on a knee as a collective gasp and a few ‘awwws’ are heard in the room.
Derek:
...you would be my best friend, best thing, and wife…
Tears stream from the twenty-four year old as she hugs him, repeating “yes” several times. He slips the ring on her left ring finger, and the couple embrace in a kiss. Some claps and whistles come from different parts of the room. Charles peers at Karin out of the corner of his eyes.
Charles:
Well, now I know why he was buggin so much.
Karin:
I feel like I’m about to cry. That was so sweet.
Karin tightens her grip on Charles’ hand and wipes the corner of her eye with her other hand.
Karin:
Is this even real life? Did I really just see your sister get engaged?
Charles:
Yeah...that just happened. I don't even know what to say, myself. It's funny though cuz she always told me she was gonna beat me to the altar. She was right about something for once. You aight, ma?
Sandra:
Yeah, *wipes her eyes* I'm okay, CJ. Just seeing your sister so happy warms my old heart. I wish your father were here to see this.
He rubs her shoulder.
Charles:
He's watching from the best seat in the house, ma. Trust, I know he didn't miss that.
Sandra:
I know, son. Now, you know you giving her away, right?
Charles:
Wait, what?!
Sandra:
Boy, don't you raise your voice at me!
Charles:
Sorry, ma. You just caught me off guard. That's crazy...giving my sister away. We should go congratulate them.
Karin:
I definitely want to congratulate them. Come on Charles!
The three get up to congratulate the newly-engaged couple as the scene fades out.
{Scene closed.}
The scene resumes as Charles and Karin are getting ready to exit the car and enter the restaurant, where they are to celebrate Charles’s sister Sierra's birthday.
Karin:
Okay, bae, you ready?
Karin looks at her own reflection in the mirror, making sure her makeup and hair meet her own approval. She purses her lips together and then turns to Charles, who is smiling. She immediately smacks him in the arm, laughing.
Karin:
Why do you have to laugh at me? I don’t wanna go in there looking like bobo the clown.
This makes Charles laugh again, earning him another smack.
Charles:
I’ma tell ya mama on you if you keep hittin me like that. *He smiles.* I'm as ready as I'm gonna be, I guess. I'm still kinda buggin on Derek right nah, tho.
The all-too-familiar deep thought look comes across his face. Before he can get too lost in his thoughts, he feels Karin’s warm hand on his cheek, snapping him back to reality.
Karin:
I don’t like seein’ that look, Charles. You have so much to look forward too, to smile about, besides, you’re too handsome to be looking like that. Fix that face.
Karin reaches her thumb and index finger on each side of his mouth and stretches it out, forcing him to smile as she begins laughing. Before he can protest, she leans in and plants a kiss on him, pulling away slowly and staring into his eyes.
Karin:
Did that make it all better?
Charles:
You know it does. I just can't shake the feeling that something’s up, but I hope I'm wrong. I like Derek. He's good people, he works, and he takes good care of Sierra. I've never seen her so happy...feels familiar. Problem is, before they got together, Derek used to hang with some shady, wannabe thug type cats. He was never really into their nonsense, but the way he been trippy got me worried. They bet not have him on no stuff. I ain't having that.
He takes a deep breath, realizing he was on the verge of getting upset just thinking of that possibility. Karin begins speaking again, in a comforting tone, trying to help him relax.
Karin:
Well let’s get in there and see what's up then. I’m a pretty good judge of character, if he lies about anything, I’ll pick up on it. I know you worry, but Sierra is a big girl too, I bet she’s already one step ahead of everything.
Charles:
I shouldn't get caught up in all that, but you know me well enough to know that I overthink everything, as much as I'm trying to get a grip on that. I'll keep my head in making sure Sierra enjoys this lil birthday party...and I'll just keep my mind on you, too. So, I guess we should go in before Ms. Sandra thinks something happened to us on the way here.
He lets out a much more relaxed breath as the two get out of the car. They join hands as they walk into the five-star restaurant.
Hostess:
Good evening, and welcome to the Palms. Do you have a reservation, sir?
Charles:
Yes, we have a room reserved.
Hostess:
The birthday party...right this way, please.
Karin squeezes Charles’ hand tightly as their fingers are interlocked. She leans her head in closely as they continue following the hostess, whispering to him.
Karin:
Why didn’t you tell me this place was so...uppity?
Charles:
Uppity?
Karin:
Fancy...expensive.
Charles:
I'm sorry. It slipped my mind with all those negative thoughts in my head. It'll be fine, babe. Just stick close to me and um… drink with your pinky in the air. *smiles* This may be a fancy spot, but we still with all my hood fam.
The hostess points out the big VIP room as they reach the door. Charles tightens his grip slightly still a little anxious. It seems everyone else is already there with a bigger group than the normal birthday celebration. He curiously looks around the room. Karin looks up at him and smiles, whispering quietly.
Karin:
Wow, big crowd. Are you okay? You seem flustered.
Charles:
I'm a little better. I dunno if it'd be the same if you weren't here, though.
As he looks around the room, he sees his mom waving the two over.
Charles:
I guess that means we sitting by Ms. Sandra, then.
They make their way across the crowded room, and over to Ms.Sandra. Karin leans in to give a hug to the seated woman.
Karin:
It is SO good to see you again Ms.Sandra, how are you?
Sandra:
It's good to see you too, dear.
Charles:
Hey, ma.
Sandra:
Boy, I know you ain't boutsta sit down without giving ya mama a hug?! I know I taught ya nappy-headed tail better than that!
He goes over and hugs his mother and gives her a kiss on the cheek. Charles and Karin sit down.
Charles:
What's up with y'all women in my life playin a nigga all the time?
Charles is instantly greeted with a backhand to his stomach under the table as Karin leans in and whispers.
Karin:
Charles! Don’t talk like that around your mother!
KJ clears her throat.
Karin:
This is incredible. So many people gathering together for a birth. I tell you Ms.Sandra, if my family did this for a birthday in my family, I don’t think I would know what to do. I love how close this family is.
Sandra:
Well, honey, when you grow up hard like we did, you haveta be close, baby. It's just how we is.
Charles:
Ma, she right though. They got so many more people than usual. What's going on?
Charles starts to get anxious again, and he rubs the back of his neck. Karin can sense the anxiety building in her boyfriend, and she places her hand in his lap under the table and rubs his thigh gently. He takes a more soothing breath and smiles at Karin.
Sandra:
Boy, I don't know. If you ask me, it's too damn uppity in here.
Charles:
Karin said the same thing.
He kind of chuckles as a server comes to get their drink order.
Server:
Hi, what are you having?
Charles:
Let me get a glass of your best red.
Server:
And you, miss?
Karin:
I’ll have a glass of water please, no lemon.
Karin looks around the room again, still surprised by all of the people.
Karin:
I wish I could be as cool as you and say I want a glass of the finest red too. Why can’t I be 21 yet? I’m close enough.
Charles:
Ain't nothing about being cool. I'm just tryna relax a lil bit...plus, I was expecting *her* to say something about me being uppity right now. What we eating anyway?
Sandra:
Some kind of fancy grilled chicken dish is one option or a steak of some kind. We're probably gonna have to stop somewhere after this. You those “fancy little plates” and all that.
Charles:
Ma, be nice. I'm sure you put a lot of money in this.
Sandra:
CJ, I know you ain't telling ya own mama what to do?
Charles:
You think I'm crazy? I know dang well you'd smack me right up in this restaurant… I was just making a polite suggestion.
The server returns with their drinks.
Server:
Our options for this evening are Chicken Martini and New York strip. What would you care for?
Charles:
I'll take the strip, medium, please.
Server:
And you miss?
Karin:
I’ll take the chicken martini, please.
Karin offers a smile with her request and turns towards Sandra.
Karin:
So, Ms.Sandra, what do you think about Charles moving halfway across the world from us?
She laughs at her over-exaggeration, before taking a small sip of her water.
Sandra:
Of course, I'd love for my son to be closer, but he's a grown man with a good job...two now. I think the bigger question is how you feel about it?
Karin:
Honestly, it’s a little tough. I know I’ve only known him for a short time, but our lives have become so intertwined, with business, and personally. I would never ask him to stay in California for me, but I miss him sometimes.
Karin looks at Charles and smiles, but behind the smile he can tell she had been wanting to get that out.
Karin:
I do know I’m super proud of him though. There’s not a wrestler out there with a faster rising stock than Charles’.
Charles feels his cheeks warm as he takes a sip of his wine. He clears his throat.
Charles:
Well, you don't have to feel like you have to ask me to stay in Cali. I like being near you, so I do plan on spending a lot of off days here up til right before the weekends, especially wrestling two nights in a row now. *turns his head toward Karin* You do know I don't like being at the other house without you, right? And that I miss you like crazy?
Karin:
If this were further into us, I would have expected you to invite me to move in, but we both know we aren’t at that stage yet. It stinks, but we’re young, all we have is time, right?
Sandra:
You two are young, but that time sure does fly. I wish I had more time with Charles’ father. He was the best man I’ve ever met.
Karin:
And Charles is the greatest guy I’ve met. I called him selfless and his eyes shot out of his head. It seems like your husband was more than just a great partner, he must have been an amazing father too.
Karin smiles towards Ms.Sandra, and then turns her smile to Charles.
Sandra:
You're right about that. That man...Oh, that man! He was such a great father and husband. He didn't get shown much but tough love as a child, so he made sure Charles, Sierra, and…*deep swallow* Reggie knew they we're loved.
Bringing up Reggie, his deceased younger brother, drops a single tear from the corner of Charles’ eye as he squeezes Karin’s hand slightly.
Sandra:
And girl, when that man touched me…
Charles:
MA! C’mon, man! You can't be talking like that in front of me. I'll be right back. I need to hit the bathroom right quick.
As Charles makes his way to the bathroom, Karin looks around at everyone in the room. She recognizes a few from Thanksgiving, but most are new faces to her. She takes a drink of her water, but doesn’t speak up to anyone else. Not out of anything other than not knowing them. She glances around a few times, looking to see if Charles is on his way back. A minute later, Charles walks back into the room just as the serving staff is starting to hand out the food for the group.
Sandra:
You got most, C?
Charles:
No, I had to duck out on some people tryna get me to invest in some kinda crazy scheme. Not for me. I prefer clean money.
The food arrives for the three, and Charles cuts into his steak, happy with the doneness.
Charles:
That chicken looks pretty good, baby.
Karin:
Wanna try a bite?
Without waiting for a response, she’s already got the first bite onto her fork and held out towards his mouth.
Karin:
Now you can tell me how my own food tastes before I even try it.
She laughs as Charles takes the bite from the fork.
Charles:
Mmhmm, it's pretty good. That sauce, though. That's legit as f...can be. Do you want a bite of this steak?
Karin:
I would love a bite of that steak, it looks amazing.
Karin excitedly takes the bite from his fork as he feeds it to her, closing her mouth and smirking as she chews and then swallows.
Karin:
That’s legit as fudge.
Karin can’t hold back a laugh at her own cheesy choice of words, half mocking what Charles just said. He sticks his tongue at her.
Charles:
You got jokes. I'm just tryna make sure I ain't getting passed slaps up in here…
A fork tapping a wine glass can be heard a few times before Derek stands up from his seat.
Derek:
I just want to first thank everybody for coming out tonight. I know this isn't our usual style, but I just wanted the best for Sierra’s birthday, so I appreciate y'all coming out for this.
After delivering his little opening, he tenses up a little.
Derek:
Sierra, I remember that Valentine’s Day when we met. Two people set us up on a blind date that we both ended up laughing and saying that we both didn't want to show up, but I'm so glad we did. You've literally turned my life around so far, and I don't want anything less than more of that. I know a lot of people say that the person they're with is their best friend and the best thing that ever happened to them...well, I really mean it when I say it.
He takes a deep breath and Charles whispers to Karin.
Charles:
Is this negro doing what I think he's doing?
Karin shushes him. Much like everyone else in the room —the women especially— her focus is on what's happening in front of them.
Derek:
What I'm trying to say without losing what's in my heart to say is that I'd be honored if….
He takes a box out of his pocket and gets on a knee as a collective gasp and a few ‘awwws’ are heard in the room.
Derek:
...you would be my best friend, best thing, and wife…
Tears stream from the twenty-four year old as she hugs him, repeating “yes” several times. He slips the ring on her left ring finger, and the couple embrace in a kiss. Some claps and whistles come from different parts of the room. Charles peers at Karin out of the corner of his eyes.
Charles:
Well, now I know why he was buggin so much.
Karin:
I feel like I’m about to cry. That was so sweet.
Karin tightens her grip on Charles’ hand and wipes the corner of her eye with her other hand.
Karin:
Is this even real life? Did I really just see your sister get engaged?
Charles:
Yeah...that just happened. I don't even know what to say, myself. It's funny though cuz she always told me she was gonna beat me to the altar. She was right about something for once. You aight, ma?
Sandra:
Yeah, *wipes her eyes* I'm okay, CJ. Just seeing your sister so happy warms my old heart. I wish your father were here to see this.
He rubs her shoulder.
Charles:
He's watching from the best seat in the house, ma. Trust, I know he didn't miss that.
Sandra:
I know, son. Now, you know you giving her away, right?
Charles:
Wait, what?!
Sandra:
Boy, don't you raise your voice at me!
Charles:
Sorry, ma. You just caught me off guard. That's crazy...giving my sister away. We should go congratulate them.
Karin:
I definitely want to congratulate them. Come on Charles!
The three get up to congratulate the newly-engaged couple as the scene fades out.
{Scene closed.}