Post by Milisandre Crowthorne on Nov 17, 2017 17:39:07 GMT -5
November 6th 2017
Milisandre sat on her bed in her room in the Lacklanland Manor. She was alone since her boyfriend, Bruce, was off checking and double checking all of the security procedures. He was making sure that the Manor would be a veritable Fort Knox to keep Sarah, Kenzi, Mil, and any others who were visiting safe. Especially after what had happened to Sarah a week ago.
So there Mil sat, legs crossed in front of her, as she stared off vacantly. Her mind raced as she thought of what was coming tomorrow. She was going to come clean with Sarah about what was really going on between her and Kenzi. She was about to shatter everything she held dear. With a sigh she climbs off of her bed and starts to take down all of the decorations she had put up.
Moving back into her crummy apartment in Salem was gonna suck. She came to Lacklanland with nothing but a duffle bag filled with clothes for a two week stay. That was back in the middle of August. She had been back to her place once since she came to stay with Kenzi and Sarah. The #CoolKids had gone to Portland to cheer on one of their own, Angelica Vaughn. They had all gotten into Portland early in the day and had plenty of time to kill. So Sarah rented a car for her and Bruce to make the hour or so trip down to Salem.
Her mother had said she had to tell Mil something. Mil also used the time to introduce them to Bruce. After the meeting and lunch they swung by Mil’s apartment to pick up some more things. She needed some of her Lovecraft books, which there were a lot of, and some more clothes. Her and Bruce officially consummated their relationship in that crummy apartment and Mil couldn’t have been happier.
She had gathered quite a lot of stuff in the two and a half months she had been in the company of Sarah and Kenzi. More books, art supplies to help her fight her typical boredom, her pet Giant Snail Gary, the bust of Cthulhu she made her first couple of weeks here. She picked it up and smiled remembering the shopping trip the three of them, along with Bruce and a few other security members, had to get decorations and stuff for this very room. A few tears wound paths down her face as she was brought back to the fact that it was all about to be taken away.
All because she somehow had developed feelings for Sarah. More than feelings, she loved her. And not just in a close friend type of way. Mil knew full well that if Sarah and Kenzi weren’t together that she would have tried everything in her power to make Sarah hers. But that wasn’t meant to be. She met the pair together, weeks before they were married. The three of them became fast friends, almost as if they had all known each other their entire lives. She was happy having friends that close. Hell, Sarah and Kenzi were like sisters to her from the day they met. She couldn’t stand people hugging her, especially people she wasn’t related to or dating. Yet that first hug from Sarah at her first LAW event felt almost natural, despite the fact her awkwardness still took hold. She hadn’t even debuted officially yet, she was just hanging out backstage to get to feel of the place and people.
Yet Sarah and Kenzi made her feel welcome. They made her a part of the group that seemed to form around them. The awkward, usually outcast, weird girl was made a part of something without asking or, to be honest, even wanting to. But that felt natural, right. The three of them, The Red Queen, The Hollywood Star, and the Outcast. Three women from wildly different backgrounds, who held completely different beliefs, closer than any bond of blood.
That had all come crashing down at LAW 71.
Mil had voiced the feelings that had literally caught her off guard. Sure, after getting to know Sarah she had loved her. But it started out as a friendly affection. A sisterly love. But she couldn’t deny that there was a crush there. But that’s all it had been to her, some stupid silly crush on one of her hot friends. She had had a million of those and never once thought anything of it.
Then the shopping trip to get Sarah her first few pairs of jeans for their trip to Florida to help Kenzi with some relief efforts that the Church of Scientology were doing. Mil thought nothing of it. She was used to shopping with her other female friends she had growing up. Mainly them trying to find something in their size and then making sure it looked good on them. Mil usually sat or stood around waiting for them to show it off and get an outside opinion.
But that’s not how Sarah worked.
Sarah grabbed a few pairs and then drug Mil along with her into the fitting rooms. It was an intimate setting due to their size. So Mil did her best to avoid looking at Sarah while she pulled off her skirt and pulled up the first pair of jeans. A pair that would show off her shapely butt, honed with years of squats. Of course, since the jeans would hug her in all the right places, skin tight more than likely, Sarah asked Mil for some help getting them on.
Mil had no choice but to get hands on with the task. In the end she had to grab ahold of Sarah’s ass to help squeeze it into the jeans. Sarah turned this way and that trying to get a good look in the mirror. She eventually turned to Mil and asked her for her opinion. Mil quickly glanced at her ass before finding something, anything, else to look at. She mumbled that it looked good and Sarah was satisfied.
They had flown to Florida that night to fight off some jet lag before the long day of helping others. Always staying in the best rooms available in the highest end hotels they group spent their night relaxing and mentally preparing for the work. That night was the first intense dream about Sarah. Mil didn’t remember much of the dream, just moments and scenes really. But she wasn’t prepared for that. She had to spend the entire day around Sarah, in those skin tight jeans she bought. It was gonna be a long day.
She made it through almost the whole day without having any kind of thoughts about Sarah. She avoided her to the best of her ability. Until it was time to leave. Then she got an eyeful of Sarah bent over getting into the car. She froze as more of her dream flooded back into her mind. It took the voice of Bruce to bring her back to the present. She was embarrassed and kissed her boyfriend, pouring every ounce of love and affection she had for him into it.
That helped. It helped when she was away from Sarah. As much as it hurt she spent time away from her best friends. She sacrificed the one thing she has desired her entire life, an honest to god best friend. She spent more time alone with Bruce. She couldn’t avoid the dress shopping trip they had to make for her first official date with Bruce. She figured she could handle that cause they wouldn't be like, alone alone. They would have some of Sarah’s handmaidens there to help.
Well, that's what she had thought. She soon found herself alone with Sarah and ordered to strip down, practically naked. She handled it with only one minor slip that she was able to play off. SInce then, and especially after LAW 71, she had spent all of her time here, at the manor. All the while Kenzi and Sarah were either in New York or out in LA with Roxy and Sativa.
She stayed here, her new home, with her boyfriend and her snail. It sucked when Bruce had to do is normal security stuff and she was alone in her room. She had been drinking more than usual, which says a lot since she normally drank like a fish everyday. Alcoholic isn’t something she would call herself, but she was one. She never got mean or angry when drinking. Just usually more shy and reserved, unless around her friends. Then she could literally be the life of a party.
She wiped the two tears away and grabbed a remote. She turned and pointed it at an advanced stereo system, courtesy of Sarah, and started to play some music while she packed. Hoping the music would drown out her sorrow and growing feelings of dread. While she was putting books a box “Don’t Leave” by Snakehips comes over the speakers. She makes it about halfway through the song before she breaks out into tears. As the song comes to an end there is a light knock on her door. She quickly wipes the tears away from her face the best she can before the door opens slowly and a familiar voice enters before the speaker.
“Lu?” Bruce slowly enters the room and then stops when he sees Mil. She turns and looks at him, eye red from crying, standing over a half full box of books. “What are you doing?”
Everything came crashing down onto Mil. She dropped the book she was holding and sprinted towards her boyfriend. She leapt at him, as she always did, for him to catch her so she could wrap her arms around his neck. He caught her without fail, like always. She wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face into his shoulder, bawling. “Babe, what’s wrong? Were you packing?”
She can’t say anything for a few moments as she just weeps into his shoulder, holding him close, possibly for the last time. She eventually pulls her head back and he sets her down and she grabs his massive hands in her slender ones. “You know I love you babe. I love you more than anyone that wasn't family to me. I can’t imagine my life without you. So I have to tell you something now.” She takes a deep breath before speaking again, not letting him get a word in yet. “I know I wanted to talk to you and Sarah together tomorrow, since what I have to say affects you both. But I can’t wait that long. I have to tell you. And I have to because I love you so much.”
Mil looks down at their feet. Dread almost choking her as she looks back up into his face. “I love Sarah. I love her to the point that if both of us were single I would do everything in my power to make her mine. Had Kenzi not been around when I signed upf ro LAW and met Sarah her and I would probably be a couple. But I have held those feelings back. I didn’t want them, babe. It started as some stupid crush and it's slowly became what it is now. I would never do anything to break up Sarah and Kenzi, they are too perfect for each other. And I would never want us to not be together. I love you Bruce Litchfield. I would never willingly do anything to hurt you or end our relationship. But I had to tell you, and I had to do it before I told Sarah. I couldn’t handle both of you hating me at the same time on the same day.”
Her eyes welled up with tears as she confessed. She closed her eyes and let them fall as she lowered her head, facing the floor. She braced for Bruce to pull his hands away from hers. She prepared for the the pain of him yelling and leaving. She was ready to lose the man she was prepared to spend the rest of her life with.
What she wasn’t prepared for was what he did. He let go of one of her hands and gently grabbed her chin, tilting her head up to face him. She reluctantly opened her eyes and was shocked to see him smiling. Genuinely smiling at her. “Of course you love her Lu, we all do. We would all do whatever we could for her no matter the cost.” Mil starts to shake her head, thinking he doesn’t understand but he holds it still. He leans down and kisses her. She looks at him in confusion as she straightens up.
“I know you wouldn’t do anything, Lu. You might not realize it but I know just how much you love me. Not only can I see it in your eyes or your face when I catch you staring at me, but Her Highness tells me anytime I am around her that you aren’t. She is so happy that she introduced us and that we hit it off.” A wide grin slowly creeps onto his face. “Plus, I think I basically heard you say you want to marry me?”
“OHMYGOD!!” Mil throws her arms around Bruce and buries her face into his chest. “I guess you could say that. I honestly can’t see my future without you in it. So, like, I yeah. I guess I want to marry you. But, like, I don’t want to rush or anything. Ya know?” She looks up at him with that typical Mil shy smile.
“Whenever you are ready for each step, Lu. I’m willing to wait for you. Her Highness really is a great matchmaker.”
“Shit, I still have to tell Sarah tomorrow. You think she will freak out? I was packing in case, like, you both hated me after or something. Like, I wanted to be ready to move back to Oregon as soon as possible if things went bad.”
“I doubt she would hate you or even want to kick you out. Despite the issues you and The Duchess are having Her Highness thinks of the three of you as similar to the Three Musketeers. Speaking of those issues, I assume it's over your feelings for Her Highness?”
Mil frowns thinking about the rift that had grown between her and Kenzi. “Yeah, at LAW 71 Kenz was upset that I wasn’t able to help her from the attack sooner and she was yelling and got in my face and it sort of, like, just came out. I never meant to tell anyone, really. I figured if I kept it in and smothered it, the feelings would go away.” She sighs and leans into Bruce for support. “You know how I get when I’m nervous and put on the spot like that.”
“Yeah, I understand. Hopefully after you explain things to Her Highness, she can help work things out between you and The Duchess.” He wraps his arms around her and gently runs a hand up and down her back.
“I hope so. So, like, want to help me unpack the like box and a half I got done? Then we can, like, cuddle and watch movies for the rest of the day?” She looked up at him with a hopeful look in her eyes.
“Yup. All done for the day, so the rest of it belongs to you and you alone.” He smiles down at her and she yelps with joy. She turns and pulls him along to the boxes, a wide smile on her face. She was halfway done with it. She just had to tell Sarah tomorrow. But for tonight, she planned on showing Bruce that she truly did love him and want to spend the rest of her life with him.
November 7th 2017
Mil paced around her room. Today was the day she was going to tell Sarah. Today was the day she would tell her best friend that she loved her. And more than just a friendly kind of love. She was nervous, the pacing made that evident, but she was prepared. Telling Bruce, and his reaction, the day before helped a lot. He has known Sarah basically her entire life. So when he told her that she was worrying too much, she listened.
But that was yesterday, when she was still on the ‘high’ of knowing he still loved and wanted to be with her. Now, with the prospect of actually having to tell her looming over her, Mil was worried all over again. Bruce was out doing his security thing, preparing for Sarah’s return to Lacklanland. Mil looked at her hands, she had chewed off all of her nails already today. Despite the reassurances she had from Bruce when they got up she still couldn’t stay still. She just wanted it to be over with and move on. She wanted the air clear so she could have her friends back. She missed hanging out with Sarah and Kenzi. Hell, she has had to all but ostracize herself from the rest of the #CoolKids. The only time she has seen them recently, aside from her birthday party, has been at LAW shows and Hit Girls games.
But all of that was gonna end today. She would, hopefully, get her friends back and can stop being lonely. Sure she had Bruce with her a lot, and she loved every moment she got to spend with him, but she wanted her other friends too. She honestly was broken up the most about Kenzi. The woman who, after knowing Mil for less than a month, asked her to help plan her wedding to Sarah. The woman who was like a sister to her currently wanted to hurt her.
Kenzi has so much as said that she wants to bash Mil’s face in and break her. Mil hates seeing the anger and rage in Kenzi’s eyes when they look at each other. Kenzi all but accused her of letting the incident in Cincinnati because of the song she sang at karaoke. She chose that song simply because she thought her friend would appreciate her singing a song that was kinda based around the religion she was devoted to. Mil never planned for the words to strike a nerve with Kenzi. Mil wanted to point out that had Kenzi not gotten in her face after she was done singing that Bruce wouldn’t have been distracted and could have prevented the entire situation.
But Mil wasn’t one to try and place blame. Things happened and she was sure Kenzi somehow blamed her. But today was going to make that right. She stopped her pacing to check on Gary, her Giant African Land Snail. Sarah had her mini rabbit, Angie loved cats, and then there was Mil. The weird pet for the weirdest member of the #CoolKids. The weird member that most of the others accepted without question.
There was a gentle knock on her door and she jumped slightly and turned. The door slowly opened and Bruce poked his head in. “How you doin Lu?” he slowly made his way into her room as she visibly relaxed at the sight of him. They both went to the couch and embraced in a hug. Bruce sat down and Mil climbed onto his lap and curled up.
“I just want Sarah to get here so I can get this over with. So things can go back to the way they were before.” She wraps an arm around him, hugging him. He, in turn, wraps both of his arms around her.
“I know I told you not to worry, but I also know you will till it's over and done wtih.”
“Yeah, just wish she would hurry up and get here. You have any word on when she should be here?”
“Just that Her Highness should be here sometime in the early afternoon.”
“UGH!” Mil groans with frustration. “That is still hours away at best!”
“You need something to take your mind off of this wait.”
“Oh yeah?” She looked up at him with a devilish grin on her face. “Well, I have an idea for that...” She used her index finger to trace a pattern across his chest as she smiled up at him.
Later that day
Mil sat on her couch with Bruce. She absently ran a brush through her wet hair. “Shouldn’t Sarah have been here by now babe?” Mil looked at her phone to check the time, showing it to Bruce.
“Yes...” Bruce’s brow furrowed with displeasure.
“I’ll check with Kenzi.” Mil took a deep breath and sent a message off to Kenzi. There was a bit of a delay before her phone went off with a reply. She seemed to deflate as she went back and forth with Kenzi. “So, like, you should be getting a call fro...” She was cut off by Bruce’s phone ringing. He answered it and went into official security mode.
“Yes Duchess. No, Her Highness hasn’t shown up yet. No Duchess, I have not heard from Her Highness at all today. Yes Duchess I will. Oh, and Duchess, Mil told me, so I know what is going on. Yes, things are alright here at the manor. Yes I will look into it right away.” Bruce stands up and looks over at Mil. “Come on Lu, no one knows where Her Highness is right now.”
“Oh shit...” Mil hops to her feet and follows Bruce out of her room and to the main security area. Bruce had her stand back, out of the way, as he went to work. This was the first time Mil got to see the main hub for the security and what they actually did. The number of cameras on the property was overwhelming to her. There was a couple of guys off to one side furiously typing away on computers, combing through news stories for any mention of Sarah.
Mil imagined this is what security for the President or someone major like that was like. Despite the fact that Sarah was practically the second coming for the people of Lacklanland she never saw her friend like that. To her Sarah was just her super rich friend. She wasn’t someone that seemed like she would be that important to this many people. Her phone went off with a notification at almost the exact moment that one of the guys at the computers called for Bruce.
“Oh fuck...” Mil uttered under her breath as she looked at her phone. It was a news report about that sick fuck who assaulted Sarah escaping. She sent off a tweet with a copy of the report. She then shoved her phone into one of her back pockets and crossed her arms in worry. Her eyes never leaving Bruce as he went about trying to figure things out. His anger slowly and steadily rising as no one could give him answers. Mil was in awe of Bruce, and slightly terrified. Just yesterday she was worried that he would be angry with her. Now, seeing his anger in action, she was glad she was never going to be on the receiving end of it. He was scary.
Mil took her phone out of her pocket and sat down in a chair offered by one of the many security personnel. She sat and watched as they went about the business. Cutting through the constant buzz of voices and noise comes the ringing of a phone. One of the guys answered it. He speaks to whoever is on the phone for a moment before getting Bruce’s attention and handing the phone over to him while glancing over at Mil.
She raises a brow as Bruce turns to face her while talking on the phone. After a few moments of heated conversation Bruce throws the phone receiver at the wall shattering it and drawing looks from everyone in the room. He walks over to Mil and takes her out of the room. “What the fuck is going on babe? What the fuck was that phone call about?”
“That was the Cincinnati Police Lu. They have the Duchess in protective custody.”
“That’s good, I’m glad Kenzi is safe. Any word on Sarah?”
“No, not yet. They did have some other questions though.”
“Okay, like what?”
“They wanted to know your whereabouts for last night and today.”
“WHAT!?! They honestly think I had something to do with this? Jesus, how deluded is Kenzi?!”
“It wasn’t the Duchess’ idea. She simply told them that you were going to be meeting with her today and they just wanted to check all their bases Lu. I vouched for you and told them there is video proof that you haven’t left the manor since we got back Monday morning. We just have to go to send them a copy of the footage to appease them.”
Mil gave huffed chuckle as some tears slipped down her face. “Why does everyone but you think I’m some kind of horrible person that will hurt people like that?” She leans against the wall and starts to slide down it. Bruce grabs her shoulders and lifts her back up to standing.
“They are just making sure Lu. You are in the clear, kinda helps that you are dating, and sort of engaged to, one of Her Highness’ top security guys. Don’t worry Lu, I won’t let you go to jail.” He leans down and kisses the top of her head. “Now I need to get back in there and make sure things are working right to find Her Highness. You are more than welcome to sit in there or you can go back to our room.”
“I’ll probably go back to our room babe. I’m exhausted and want to relax. Will you be able to come sleep with me later?”
“Yes I’ll make sure I make it. Want me to wake you up if you are asleep?”
“If I am yes. I doubt I will be. To, like, worried and stuff to sleep without you. I’ll probably tweet or text with people while trying to watch a movie or something. Love you babe. FInd Sarah.” Mil goes up onto her tiptoes as Bruce leans down for a kiss.
“I will, don’t worry. You need me to walk you back, or can you find it on your own?” He gives her a playful smirk and a little nudge.
“As much as I would love you to, I’ll be fine. I’ve learned my way around finally. Plus I don’t want to take time away from you trying to find her.”
“Alright Lu, I’ll be there as soon as I can. I love you.” He watchesd as she trudged her way down the hall. Before she turned the corner she looked back at him and gave a weak smile and blew him a kiss.
Mil made her way back to their room and shut herself inside. She turned on some movie, she really didn’t pay any attention to which one, and sat on her bed. She needed to vent so she did the one thing she knew. She went to Twitter. Luckily her friend Mosh was also on and they had a conversation. Along with the Circle News all but accusing her again of having something to do with Sarah’s disappearance. Mosh asked but it was just to confirm what they already knew. She felt a little better after ‘talking’ with Mosh over Twitter. She sat her phone down and tried to watch the movie she had started. Eventually exhaustion won out and she fell asleep.
November 8th 2017
Mil was woken up by her phone going off. She blindly groped for it before being blinded by it when she turned on the screen. It was from Kenzi. There had been a wreck with that psycho earlier in the morning. There was someone else in the vehicle with him. Mil sat up as her heart dropped into her stomach. Kenzi confirmed that it was Sarah in the accident also. Tears welled up in Mil’s eyes as she read the news. Her best friend was severely injured. Then her jaw literally dropped open at what Kenzi asked next. She asked if Mil would come to the Hospital in Cincinnati. Her response was immediate, she said her and Bruce would be there ASAP.
She looked over at Bruce and smiled, his arm was still draped across her lap as he slept. She had hardly ever seen him sleep this late. He must have been up late. She barely remembers him waking her up for her to crawl under the covers with him. She didn’t want to wake him but he had to know. She gently nudged him and he awoke almost instantly. “They found her babe. She was being held by Jacob and there was a wreck. Kenzi is with her now at the hospital and wants us there.”
“Then get dressed, let’s go.” He sprang into action. He was out of bed in the blink of an eye and getting dressed. Mil stared in awe for a few moments before also getting dressed. They grabbed the bags they had ready for going to LAW events and what not and headed out to the airport.
Later
Mil all but ran into the Hospital entrance. She was at the desk before Bruce was even clear of the doors. “My friend was brought in earlier. She was in a bad wreck. Is she in a room yet?”
“What is the name, ma’am?”
“Sarah Grey-Lacklan.”
“She is still in surgery now. You can wait in the waiting room.”
“Her wife is here, Kenzi Grey-Lacklan, do you know where she is? SHe is the one who told me.”
“She is in a private waiting room. I will give you the info. One moment.” Mil tapped her foot with impatience as Bruce tried to calm her. The receptionist handed over a piece of paper with the room number and floor written on it. Mil took Bruce’s hand and was off like a lightning bolt.
When they finally got to the room the door was just slightly ajar. Mil carefully knocked and opened it enough to stick her head in. “Kenz?” She spotted her estranged friend in tears. Mil’s heart broke as she carefully entered the room, not knowing how Kenzi would react. Kenzi looked up and saw Mil. WIthout saying a word the two women moved towards each other and embraced in a hug. It was like there had never really been any issues between them. They were close as ever again. The issues just seemed to vanish. They stood there, embracing for a long time.
They eventually separated and they, along with Bruce, sat to discuss things. Kenzi did they best should could to explain things to Mil. Mil and Bruce listened intently. After what seemed like forever a doctor came in to give them an update on Sarah. Kenzi seemed to still be in a kind of stupor but Mil and Bruce paid attention as the doctor relayed what he could. The surgery was a success and Sarah would be physically alright. But they think that Jacob had been feeding her some kind of drug to keep her docile enough to handle. That in addition to the accident had put her into a sort of catatonic state. She had moments of lucidity here and there but that was it. They basically had no idea what the cause was or how to correct it, if they even could.
Bruce inquired about her care. They were told that she would need almost constant supervision. She would need help getting around and eating along with other basic needs. Kenzi took it in stride. She said that as soon as the doctors cleared Sarah she wanted to take her to LA. To the boat they had gotten. The doctors said that she should be alright to move tomorrow, in a medical transport. So it was decided that was what was going to happen. Kenzi would take care of Sarah as best she could and she would obviously have the best in home care they could afford. And that was quite a lot.
November 9th 2017
Mil paces around a hotel room. Her hands balled into fists and a snarl distorts her face. She is virtually radiating anger and hate. She pauses in her route and takes a deep breath. “I know this isn’t probably the best time for this. I’m too angry, too heated. But I need to vent. I need to find an outlet for this rage before it eats me up. So, like, what better way than to unleash it at those I have to face in couple of weeks at Night of Glory. So, like, ladies, don’t really take any of this personal. Or, like, do if you want. Because right now, I don’t give a fuck about three of you. So strap in, cause this is about to get bumpy.”
Mil tilts her head from side to side, cracking her neck. The snarl on her face replaced by a devilish grin. “Where the fuck do I even start with this cluster fuck of a match? You know what, fuck it, I’ll give the ‘champion’ her fair due.” Mil raises her hands and does her (in)famous air quotes.
“I use the term champion in the loosest terms possible, Etsuko. You’ve had, what, one defense since you won the title. And that defense was almost six months ago. That is not a champion to me. What have you really done since you won the belt and defended it once? Show up and half ass your way through matches losing more than winning. That is, when you are actually scheduled to appear and work. In the four months I’ve been employed in LAW you have had three matches. ONE of them you have won. In that same time I’ve beaten the self proclaimed number one contender, three times. I’ve won more matches than you have been in recently.” Mil shakes her head.
“How are you a champion? I don’t really want to go down the route of you giving favors for not being booked or actually having to defend your title more than once. But, I mean, if the shoe fits... ” Mil shrugs her shoulders, leaving the implication hanging in the air. “Out of everyone in this match. Out of all of us contenders and you as ‘champion’ you are the only one I don’t see winning this thing. You are a joke Etsuko, and not even a good one. I do have a question for you, one I hope you will answer when you put out your promotional work for this match. The question is, how does it feel knowing your days as Breakout Champion are numbered? You know the date you will lose that belt. November Twenty-sixth twenty seventeen. Two hundred and seventeen days as a farce of a champion. I don’t know about any of the other ladies in this match, but I do know that if I walk out of Night of Glory as Breakout Champion I will defend that belt more than you have in less time. I will not cower backstage and clutch onto my belt for fear of losing it to someone better than me.”
“I will welcome the chance for any bitch in the back who thinks she has the fortitude to take that belt from me to try. I will be the example of a champion that people will look to. When it's all said and done, and LAW has run it's course the history books will look back at the Breakout Title reign of Milisandre Crowthorne as the one shining example of a true champion in LAW. A long reign like you, or Orchid, or Queen safespace herself AJS have is not the true sign or measure of a champion. Defending that belt is. Who cares if you hold a belt for six month if you only defend it once or twice? All that shows is that you are scared and feel the need to be protected. Being lumped into that category with AJS isn’t something to be proud of. Step up when someone comes out and shines. But that belt on the line and show why you are champion. I would rather have a three month title reign with half a dozen defenses than a six month reign with one defense.” Mil looks right into the camera and winks.
“That’s enough for now about the so-called champion. How about the self proclaimed number one contender Maria Salvatore. Or is it Spencer now? You know what, it doesn’t really matter what your name is. Salvatore or Spencer, it makes no difference. Your name doesn’t change the fact that, despite the fact that you claim to be the number one contender, I have three wins over you. I made you tap in my debut, you couldn’t focus enough in that four way match at Queen of the RIng. And when you and your temporary friend Nova teamed up to take on the #CoolKids you turned tail and RAN.” Mil rolls her eyes.
“Some title contender. Running when things get a little tough. What have you done in the last few months anyway Maria? Beat a couple of nobodies and got one win over the most pathetic champion in wrestling history? I’ve done far more than that. I’ve beaten a ten year veteran in this business. I went to war with the first ever LAW Champion. So please, I beg of you Maria, enlighten me as to how you feel like you belong in this match.” Mil looks into the camera, waiting.
“Yeah that’s what I thpught. All you have is one win over the champ. Nothing else besides basically screaming at the top of your lungs that you deserve a shot. How many wins do you have over the other contenders in this match? Oh yeah, that’s right. None. You had three separate chances to beat me and failed. You had two chances to beat Kenzi and failed. You could have shown some backbone and taken a loss with Nova but you showed your true colors and left her to the wolves. You need to sit your scrawny ass back down and do something worthwhile before you think you even deserve to be in the ring with me or anyone else in this match again. ”
Mil sighs and starts pacing again. “That brings me to the one person who is just lucky to be in this match, Nova. Heya bitch, how you doin? Enjoying the fact that you lucked your way into this thing? The ONLY reason you are in this match is because you got lucky against me. That’s it. How does it feel to be almost an afterthought for title contention? That your only claim in this match is your win over me? One of the most overlooked members of the roster.” Mil stops and holds up her hands to signal a pause.
“But wait, how can I be overlooked when I was the first one mentioned for this match and most deserving of the chance? Simple really, ever since I won that four way match at Queen of the Ring I’ve basically been an afterthought, at best, to everyone else in this match. Champion included. Nevermind the impact I’ve made since I arrive in LAW. Never mind my outstanding ‘breakout’ performances. We can just forget about little old Mil cause she doesn’t yell and scream. She doesn’t stamp her foot and make scenes so we can ignore her beyond giving Nova a reason to be put in this match and not a random with vague promises of some kind of reward for winning.”
“So, that, Nova is how I am over looked. No one besides Kenzi, and maybe you, believes I deserve this. No one considers me a threat or even a real contender. So what does that say about you? Your two biggest claims to fame are a win over me and a win over Roxy. Fine, good for you. Go challenge Rox for her Chaos title after Kate has her chance. You might even be able to leapfrog over Tolson who still thinks she has a right to a rematch despite doing fuck all since losing the title to Rox. Hell, you and Maria could have had a match to name the next number one contender and then this could have been a three way match. What it should have been from the beginning. Even though I would debate that fact till I was blue in the face.”
Mil rolls her eyes and starts with her pacing again. “Yet here we are, five women competing for a title only two of them, at best, deserve. Despite what you probably think, Nova, but to me you are the second biggest threat in this match. So take that compliment and do with it what you will. Because honestly, I can’t wait to go one up on you in our match count. But I know that you will even try to play that off. That you beat me one on one yet my win over you came from a tag match that your partner bailed on. That’s not my fault you two couldn’t work together. You want to place blame for that do it with the front office or Maria. Kenzi and I did what you two should have done. Hell, going into that match you two made more sense in working together since Kenzi and I were at the start of our little issue.”
Mil stops her pacing and crosses her arms in front of her. She looks into the camera almost reluctantly. Giving off a vibe of discomfort. Almost as if, despite her anger and rage, her awkwardness is trying to fight and shine through. “That just leaves you Kenzi. One of my best friends. One of the two women I’ve ever considered close enough to be a sister. For a while you wanted to throttle me and choke or beat the life out of me. But, in light of recent events, we have had a sort of reconnecting. Something I have wanted since LAW Seventy-one. I don’t like the circumstances of it but I will take it. I know there are probably a few things still that need to be settled. And, like, that’s totally understandable.”
“I think I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again here for the world to witness. We are friends again, and on the path back to being as close as sisters. But from beginning to ending bell we aren’t friends. We are competitors challenging for the same thing. We are Amazons, Gladiators, fighting for fame, glory, and gold. Only one of us can walk away from this match as Champion. If it isn’t me, then I damn sure hope it's you. But don’t think for one second that I will roll over and just let you take that title. I don’t expect you to do that for me either. We agreed, before all the shit that has happened lately, that if it came down to this we would give it our all against each other. I don’t WANT to fight you. I HAVE to. I have to show that I am just as deserving, if not more so, as you. That is the burden on me and me alone.”
She sighs almost dejectedly. “I can promise you that I won’t go out of my way to hurt you, Kenzi. Something I will NOT extend to the other three cunts in this match. But I will not make it easy for you either. You are the biggest threat to me in this match. You are the true challenge. You and I are the only two who deserve to be challenging the pretend champion for the Breakout TItle. Let’s give the crowd, the front office, and the world the show they deserve. Before and after the match we can be friends. But for however long it takes either of us to win that title, we are enemies. Take any of the last issues and frustrations you have with me out on me. I will take everything you can dish out. You, like everyone else, saw what it took Kate to do to beat me. And even then I never asked for that match to end, it was the official who did. I fought tooth and nail to prove that I am just as good as anyone else on this roster. I took everything Kate Steele could dish out and still never gave up.”
“You deserve no less than that Kenzi. You deserve me at my absolute best. And that is what you and the others will get. I’ve been doing most of my matches by the seat of my pants. But not now. Now I’m focused. Now I have motivation to win. It’s almost the same motivation you have. You have to prove to Sarah, the woman we both love, that you can do it. That you can be a champion on your own. But the difference between us is that you have been champion before. You and Sarah were Empire Tag Team Champions. You are a former LAW Chaos Champion. I haven’t had those chances yet. This is my first. I plan on showing everyone that I deserve that belt more than anyone else. I’ve had the best ‘breakout’ start in LAW. That I embody not only what this title is about but what a champion truly is. If that means going through my best friend to do it, then so be it.”
Mil takes a steadying breath and then looks directly into the camera. “We all have issues with one another. We all have reasons that we feel we deserve this chance and this title. But none of you deserve it more than me. None. YOu all act like you know me. That you can poke fun of my nervous habits and the way I talk when doing something I don’t like to do. But none of you are without your own personal issues. None of you. So I say to all four of you...”
Mil spreads her arms open wide. “Let you without sin cast the the first stone!” She leans her head back as the scene fades.
November 12th 2017
Mil slowly and sleepily makes her way into the main living area on the Red Queen. Kenzi is already there with Sarah and Bruce. Mil weakly grins at them and then sits down next to Bruce. “So Kenzi, like, what was it you wanted to tell me?”
Kenzi looks up at Mil and chuckles slightly. “Oh. Well, before they took Sarah in for surgery she was talking to me. She was going in and out of it.” She looks over at Sarah, a look of longing for the old vibrant Sarah. “She was kind of delirious. But she was still focused on having that talk with you. She,” Kenzi chuckles slightly looking over at Mil, “She thought you were in love with me.”
Mil’s jaw drops open and she chuckles. “What? Oh my God. Nothing against you Kenz, you are very beautiful but that is hilarious.”
“None taken Mili.”
“Ever observant Sarah, always able to see everything except what was right in front of her.” Mil looks at Kenzi and takes a deep breath. “Kenz, do you, like, care if I tell her now? I still want to try and make this right.”
Kenzi looks from Sarah to Mil. “I think that would be alright.”
Mil smiles and kneels down in front of Sarah. She gently takes her best friends hands in hers. The action drawing Sarah’s gaze onto Mil’s face. Mil takes a breath and licks her lips. “Hey Sarah. I know we never got to have our talk. I should have done it sooner, I realize that now. I know you can hear me but, like, I’m not sure how much you remember.” Tears start to well up in Mil’s eyes. “I know you saw, and didn’t understand, the issues Kenzi and I were having. I know you thought it was over the Breakout title. Kenzi even just told me you thought I was in love with her.”
Mil chuckles causing the tears to roll down her face. “But you have it all backwards. I do love Kenzi, but I love her like a sister. The issue between her and I was that I love you.” Mil bites her lip, trying to gather some strength to continue. “I love you like I love Bruce. I would never have done anything to come between you and Kenz. I could never do that to anyone, let alone my two best friends.” Mil glanced over at Kenzi, speaking as much to her as she was to Sarah.
“You introduced to me Bruce. A man I never would have thought I had a chance with. Yet you knew, somehow, that he and I would work out. I confessed this to him the day before we were supposed to talk. He holds no ill will towards either of us. He understands. I even confessed to him the depths of my love for him. I will tell you both.” Mil once again looks to Kenzi. “I think we sort of got engaged then. I admitted to him, as I am to both of you now, that I can’t imagine my life without him in it. SO thank you, Sarah Grey-Lacklan, for giving me the best gift anyone ever could. I love you, I always will, but I will keep those feelings buried. I will be here as your best friend, forever.”
Mil brings Sarah’s hands to her lips and kisses them. “I hope Kenzi and I can work this issue out. Because I have missed being with my best friends. I pledge to you both now, that I will help out in anyway I can. I will always be there for my two best friends.”
Mil sets Sarah’s hands back into her lap and wipes the tears from her eyes. As she turns to sit back down with Bruce she comes face to face with Kenzi who wraps her in a hug. Mil returned the hug and the two friends stood there, embracing as friends once again. “We still have this match to worry about Mili.”
“I know Kenz, and as long as you or I win it will be a great match. IF you win I will be the first one there to congratulate you. No ill will after the match. We leave all our issues in that ring. Deal?”
“Deal.” The two hold the embrace for a few more moments, neither noticing the small smile that has crept onto Sarah’s face.
[/font]
Milisandre sat on her bed in her room in the Lacklanland Manor. She was alone since her boyfriend, Bruce, was off checking and double checking all of the security procedures. He was making sure that the Manor would be a veritable Fort Knox to keep Sarah, Kenzi, Mil, and any others who were visiting safe. Especially after what had happened to Sarah a week ago.
So there Mil sat, legs crossed in front of her, as she stared off vacantly. Her mind raced as she thought of what was coming tomorrow. She was going to come clean with Sarah about what was really going on between her and Kenzi. She was about to shatter everything she held dear. With a sigh she climbs off of her bed and starts to take down all of the decorations she had put up.
Moving back into her crummy apartment in Salem was gonna suck. She came to Lacklanland with nothing but a duffle bag filled with clothes for a two week stay. That was back in the middle of August. She had been back to her place once since she came to stay with Kenzi and Sarah. The #CoolKids had gone to Portland to cheer on one of their own, Angelica Vaughn. They had all gotten into Portland early in the day and had plenty of time to kill. So Sarah rented a car for her and Bruce to make the hour or so trip down to Salem.
Her mother had said she had to tell Mil something. Mil also used the time to introduce them to Bruce. After the meeting and lunch they swung by Mil’s apartment to pick up some more things. She needed some of her Lovecraft books, which there were a lot of, and some more clothes. Her and Bruce officially consummated their relationship in that crummy apartment and Mil couldn’t have been happier.
She had gathered quite a lot of stuff in the two and a half months she had been in the company of Sarah and Kenzi. More books, art supplies to help her fight her typical boredom, her pet Giant Snail Gary, the bust of Cthulhu she made her first couple of weeks here. She picked it up and smiled remembering the shopping trip the three of them, along with Bruce and a few other security members, had to get decorations and stuff for this very room. A few tears wound paths down her face as she was brought back to the fact that it was all about to be taken away.
All because she somehow had developed feelings for Sarah. More than feelings, she loved her. And not just in a close friend type of way. Mil knew full well that if Sarah and Kenzi weren’t together that she would have tried everything in her power to make Sarah hers. But that wasn’t meant to be. She met the pair together, weeks before they were married. The three of them became fast friends, almost as if they had all known each other their entire lives. She was happy having friends that close. Hell, Sarah and Kenzi were like sisters to her from the day they met. She couldn’t stand people hugging her, especially people she wasn’t related to or dating. Yet that first hug from Sarah at her first LAW event felt almost natural, despite the fact her awkwardness still took hold. She hadn’t even debuted officially yet, she was just hanging out backstage to get to feel of the place and people.
Yet Sarah and Kenzi made her feel welcome. They made her a part of the group that seemed to form around them. The awkward, usually outcast, weird girl was made a part of something without asking or, to be honest, even wanting to. But that felt natural, right. The three of them, The Red Queen, The Hollywood Star, and the Outcast. Three women from wildly different backgrounds, who held completely different beliefs, closer than any bond of blood.
That had all come crashing down at LAW 71.
Mil had voiced the feelings that had literally caught her off guard. Sure, after getting to know Sarah she had loved her. But it started out as a friendly affection. A sisterly love. But she couldn’t deny that there was a crush there. But that’s all it had been to her, some stupid silly crush on one of her hot friends. She had had a million of those and never once thought anything of it.
Then the shopping trip to get Sarah her first few pairs of jeans for their trip to Florida to help Kenzi with some relief efforts that the Church of Scientology were doing. Mil thought nothing of it. She was used to shopping with her other female friends she had growing up. Mainly them trying to find something in their size and then making sure it looked good on them. Mil usually sat or stood around waiting for them to show it off and get an outside opinion.
But that’s not how Sarah worked.
Sarah grabbed a few pairs and then drug Mil along with her into the fitting rooms. It was an intimate setting due to their size. So Mil did her best to avoid looking at Sarah while she pulled off her skirt and pulled up the first pair of jeans. A pair that would show off her shapely butt, honed with years of squats. Of course, since the jeans would hug her in all the right places, skin tight more than likely, Sarah asked Mil for some help getting them on.
Mil had no choice but to get hands on with the task. In the end she had to grab ahold of Sarah’s ass to help squeeze it into the jeans. Sarah turned this way and that trying to get a good look in the mirror. She eventually turned to Mil and asked her for her opinion. Mil quickly glanced at her ass before finding something, anything, else to look at. She mumbled that it looked good and Sarah was satisfied.
They had flown to Florida that night to fight off some jet lag before the long day of helping others. Always staying in the best rooms available in the highest end hotels they group spent their night relaxing and mentally preparing for the work. That night was the first intense dream about Sarah. Mil didn’t remember much of the dream, just moments and scenes really. But she wasn’t prepared for that. She had to spend the entire day around Sarah, in those skin tight jeans she bought. It was gonna be a long day.
She made it through almost the whole day without having any kind of thoughts about Sarah. She avoided her to the best of her ability. Until it was time to leave. Then she got an eyeful of Sarah bent over getting into the car. She froze as more of her dream flooded back into her mind. It took the voice of Bruce to bring her back to the present. She was embarrassed and kissed her boyfriend, pouring every ounce of love and affection she had for him into it.
That helped. It helped when she was away from Sarah. As much as it hurt she spent time away from her best friends. She sacrificed the one thing she has desired her entire life, an honest to god best friend. She spent more time alone with Bruce. She couldn’t avoid the dress shopping trip they had to make for her first official date with Bruce. She figured she could handle that cause they wouldn't be like, alone alone. They would have some of Sarah’s handmaidens there to help.
Well, that's what she had thought. She soon found herself alone with Sarah and ordered to strip down, practically naked. She handled it with only one minor slip that she was able to play off. SInce then, and especially after LAW 71, she had spent all of her time here, at the manor. All the while Kenzi and Sarah were either in New York or out in LA with Roxy and Sativa.
She stayed here, her new home, with her boyfriend and her snail. It sucked when Bruce had to do is normal security stuff and she was alone in her room. She had been drinking more than usual, which says a lot since she normally drank like a fish everyday. Alcoholic isn’t something she would call herself, but she was one. She never got mean or angry when drinking. Just usually more shy and reserved, unless around her friends. Then she could literally be the life of a party.
She wiped the two tears away and grabbed a remote. She turned and pointed it at an advanced stereo system, courtesy of Sarah, and started to play some music while she packed. Hoping the music would drown out her sorrow and growing feelings of dread. While she was putting books a box “Don’t Leave” by Snakehips comes over the speakers. She makes it about halfway through the song before she breaks out into tears. As the song comes to an end there is a light knock on her door. She quickly wipes the tears away from her face the best she can before the door opens slowly and a familiar voice enters before the speaker.
“Lu?” Bruce slowly enters the room and then stops when he sees Mil. She turns and looks at him, eye red from crying, standing over a half full box of books. “What are you doing?”
Everything came crashing down onto Mil. She dropped the book she was holding and sprinted towards her boyfriend. She leapt at him, as she always did, for him to catch her so she could wrap her arms around his neck. He caught her without fail, like always. She wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face into his shoulder, bawling. “Babe, what’s wrong? Were you packing?”
She can’t say anything for a few moments as she just weeps into his shoulder, holding him close, possibly for the last time. She eventually pulls her head back and he sets her down and she grabs his massive hands in her slender ones. “You know I love you babe. I love you more than anyone that wasn't family to me. I can’t imagine my life without you. So I have to tell you something now.” She takes a deep breath before speaking again, not letting him get a word in yet. “I know I wanted to talk to you and Sarah together tomorrow, since what I have to say affects you both. But I can’t wait that long. I have to tell you. And I have to because I love you so much.”
Mil looks down at their feet. Dread almost choking her as she looks back up into his face. “I love Sarah. I love her to the point that if both of us were single I would do everything in my power to make her mine. Had Kenzi not been around when I signed upf ro LAW and met Sarah her and I would probably be a couple. But I have held those feelings back. I didn’t want them, babe. It started as some stupid crush and it's slowly became what it is now. I would never do anything to break up Sarah and Kenzi, they are too perfect for each other. And I would never want us to not be together. I love you Bruce Litchfield. I would never willingly do anything to hurt you or end our relationship. But I had to tell you, and I had to do it before I told Sarah. I couldn’t handle both of you hating me at the same time on the same day.”
Her eyes welled up with tears as she confessed. She closed her eyes and let them fall as she lowered her head, facing the floor. She braced for Bruce to pull his hands away from hers. She prepared for the the pain of him yelling and leaving. She was ready to lose the man she was prepared to spend the rest of her life with.
What she wasn’t prepared for was what he did. He let go of one of her hands and gently grabbed her chin, tilting her head up to face him. She reluctantly opened her eyes and was shocked to see him smiling. Genuinely smiling at her. “Of course you love her Lu, we all do. We would all do whatever we could for her no matter the cost.” Mil starts to shake her head, thinking he doesn’t understand but he holds it still. He leans down and kisses her. She looks at him in confusion as she straightens up.
“I know you wouldn’t do anything, Lu. You might not realize it but I know just how much you love me. Not only can I see it in your eyes or your face when I catch you staring at me, but Her Highness tells me anytime I am around her that you aren’t. She is so happy that she introduced us and that we hit it off.” A wide grin slowly creeps onto his face. “Plus, I think I basically heard you say you want to marry me?”
“OHMYGOD!!” Mil throws her arms around Bruce and buries her face into his chest. “I guess you could say that. I honestly can’t see my future without you in it. So, like, I yeah. I guess I want to marry you. But, like, I don’t want to rush or anything. Ya know?” She looks up at him with that typical Mil shy smile.
“Whenever you are ready for each step, Lu. I’m willing to wait for you. Her Highness really is a great matchmaker.”
“Shit, I still have to tell Sarah tomorrow. You think she will freak out? I was packing in case, like, you both hated me after or something. Like, I wanted to be ready to move back to Oregon as soon as possible if things went bad.”
“I doubt she would hate you or even want to kick you out. Despite the issues you and The Duchess are having Her Highness thinks of the three of you as similar to the Three Musketeers. Speaking of those issues, I assume it's over your feelings for Her Highness?”
Mil frowns thinking about the rift that had grown between her and Kenzi. “Yeah, at LAW 71 Kenz was upset that I wasn’t able to help her from the attack sooner and she was yelling and got in my face and it sort of, like, just came out. I never meant to tell anyone, really. I figured if I kept it in and smothered it, the feelings would go away.” She sighs and leans into Bruce for support. “You know how I get when I’m nervous and put on the spot like that.”
“Yeah, I understand. Hopefully after you explain things to Her Highness, she can help work things out between you and The Duchess.” He wraps his arms around her and gently runs a hand up and down her back.
“I hope so. So, like, want to help me unpack the like box and a half I got done? Then we can, like, cuddle and watch movies for the rest of the day?” She looked up at him with a hopeful look in her eyes.
“Yup. All done for the day, so the rest of it belongs to you and you alone.” He smiles down at her and she yelps with joy. She turns and pulls him along to the boxes, a wide smile on her face. She was halfway done with it. She just had to tell Sarah tomorrow. But for tonight, she planned on showing Bruce that she truly did love him and want to spend the rest of her life with him.
November 7th 2017
Mil paced around her room. Today was the day she was going to tell Sarah. Today was the day she would tell her best friend that she loved her. And more than just a friendly kind of love. She was nervous, the pacing made that evident, but she was prepared. Telling Bruce, and his reaction, the day before helped a lot. He has known Sarah basically her entire life. So when he told her that she was worrying too much, she listened.
But that was yesterday, when she was still on the ‘high’ of knowing he still loved and wanted to be with her. Now, with the prospect of actually having to tell her looming over her, Mil was worried all over again. Bruce was out doing his security thing, preparing for Sarah’s return to Lacklanland. Mil looked at her hands, she had chewed off all of her nails already today. Despite the reassurances she had from Bruce when they got up she still couldn’t stay still. She just wanted it to be over with and move on. She wanted the air clear so she could have her friends back. She missed hanging out with Sarah and Kenzi. Hell, she has had to all but ostracize herself from the rest of the #CoolKids. The only time she has seen them recently, aside from her birthday party, has been at LAW shows and Hit Girls games.
But all of that was gonna end today. She would, hopefully, get her friends back and can stop being lonely. Sure she had Bruce with her a lot, and she loved every moment she got to spend with him, but she wanted her other friends too. She honestly was broken up the most about Kenzi. The woman who, after knowing Mil for less than a month, asked her to help plan her wedding to Sarah. The woman who was like a sister to her currently wanted to hurt her.
Kenzi has so much as said that she wants to bash Mil’s face in and break her. Mil hates seeing the anger and rage in Kenzi’s eyes when they look at each other. Kenzi all but accused her of letting the incident in Cincinnati because of the song she sang at karaoke. She chose that song simply because she thought her friend would appreciate her singing a song that was kinda based around the religion she was devoted to. Mil never planned for the words to strike a nerve with Kenzi. Mil wanted to point out that had Kenzi not gotten in her face after she was done singing that Bruce wouldn’t have been distracted and could have prevented the entire situation.
But Mil wasn’t one to try and place blame. Things happened and she was sure Kenzi somehow blamed her. But today was going to make that right. She stopped her pacing to check on Gary, her Giant African Land Snail. Sarah had her mini rabbit, Angie loved cats, and then there was Mil. The weird pet for the weirdest member of the #CoolKids. The weird member that most of the others accepted without question.
There was a gentle knock on her door and she jumped slightly and turned. The door slowly opened and Bruce poked his head in. “How you doin Lu?” he slowly made his way into her room as she visibly relaxed at the sight of him. They both went to the couch and embraced in a hug. Bruce sat down and Mil climbed onto his lap and curled up.
“I just want Sarah to get here so I can get this over with. So things can go back to the way they were before.” She wraps an arm around him, hugging him. He, in turn, wraps both of his arms around her.
“I know I told you not to worry, but I also know you will till it's over and done wtih.”
“Yeah, just wish she would hurry up and get here. You have any word on when she should be here?”
“Just that Her Highness should be here sometime in the early afternoon.”
“UGH!” Mil groans with frustration. “That is still hours away at best!”
“You need something to take your mind off of this wait.”
“Oh yeah?” She looked up at him with a devilish grin on her face. “Well, I have an idea for that...” She used her index finger to trace a pattern across his chest as she smiled up at him.
Later that day
Mil sat on her couch with Bruce. She absently ran a brush through her wet hair. “Shouldn’t Sarah have been here by now babe?” Mil looked at her phone to check the time, showing it to Bruce.
“Yes...” Bruce’s brow furrowed with displeasure.
“I’ll check with Kenzi.” Mil took a deep breath and sent a message off to Kenzi. There was a bit of a delay before her phone went off with a reply. She seemed to deflate as she went back and forth with Kenzi. “So, like, you should be getting a call fro...” She was cut off by Bruce’s phone ringing. He answered it and went into official security mode.
“Yes Duchess. No, Her Highness hasn’t shown up yet. No Duchess, I have not heard from Her Highness at all today. Yes Duchess I will. Oh, and Duchess, Mil told me, so I know what is going on. Yes, things are alright here at the manor. Yes I will look into it right away.” Bruce stands up and looks over at Mil. “Come on Lu, no one knows where Her Highness is right now.”
“Oh shit...” Mil hops to her feet and follows Bruce out of her room and to the main security area. Bruce had her stand back, out of the way, as he went to work. This was the first time Mil got to see the main hub for the security and what they actually did. The number of cameras on the property was overwhelming to her. There was a couple of guys off to one side furiously typing away on computers, combing through news stories for any mention of Sarah.
Mil imagined this is what security for the President or someone major like that was like. Despite the fact that Sarah was practically the second coming for the people of Lacklanland she never saw her friend like that. To her Sarah was just her super rich friend. She wasn’t someone that seemed like she would be that important to this many people. Her phone went off with a notification at almost the exact moment that one of the guys at the computers called for Bruce.
“Oh fuck...” Mil uttered under her breath as she looked at her phone. It was a news report about that sick fuck who assaulted Sarah escaping. She sent off a tweet with a copy of the report. She then shoved her phone into one of her back pockets and crossed her arms in worry. Her eyes never leaving Bruce as he went about trying to figure things out. His anger slowly and steadily rising as no one could give him answers. Mil was in awe of Bruce, and slightly terrified. Just yesterday she was worried that he would be angry with her. Now, seeing his anger in action, she was glad she was never going to be on the receiving end of it. He was scary.
Mil took her phone out of her pocket and sat down in a chair offered by one of the many security personnel. She sat and watched as they went about the business. Cutting through the constant buzz of voices and noise comes the ringing of a phone. One of the guys answered it. He speaks to whoever is on the phone for a moment before getting Bruce’s attention and handing the phone over to him while glancing over at Mil.
She raises a brow as Bruce turns to face her while talking on the phone. After a few moments of heated conversation Bruce throws the phone receiver at the wall shattering it and drawing looks from everyone in the room. He walks over to Mil and takes her out of the room. “What the fuck is going on babe? What the fuck was that phone call about?”
“That was the Cincinnati Police Lu. They have the Duchess in protective custody.”
“That’s good, I’m glad Kenzi is safe. Any word on Sarah?”
“No, not yet. They did have some other questions though.”
“Okay, like what?”
“They wanted to know your whereabouts for last night and today.”
“WHAT!?! They honestly think I had something to do with this? Jesus, how deluded is Kenzi?!”
“It wasn’t the Duchess’ idea. She simply told them that you were going to be meeting with her today and they just wanted to check all their bases Lu. I vouched for you and told them there is video proof that you haven’t left the manor since we got back Monday morning. We just have to go to send them a copy of the footage to appease them.”
Mil gave huffed chuckle as some tears slipped down her face. “Why does everyone but you think I’m some kind of horrible person that will hurt people like that?” She leans against the wall and starts to slide down it. Bruce grabs her shoulders and lifts her back up to standing.
“They are just making sure Lu. You are in the clear, kinda helps that you are dating, and sort of engaged to, one of Her Highness’ top security guys. Don’t worry Lu, I won’t let you go to jail.” He leans down and kisses the top of her head. “Now I need to get back in there and make sure things are working right to find Her Highness. You are more than welcome to sit in there or you can go back to our room.”
“I’ll probably go back to our room babe. I’m exhausted and want to relax. Will you be able to come sleep with me later?”
“Yes I’ll make sure I make it. Want me to wake you up if you are asleep?”
“If I am yes. I doubt I will be. To, like, worried and stuff to sleep without you. I’ll probably tweet or text with people while trying to watch a movie or something. Love you babe. FInd Sarah.” Mil goes up onto her tiptoes as Bruce leans down for a kiss.
“I will, don’t worry. You need me to walk you back, or can you find it on your own?” He gives her a playful smirk and a little nudge.
“As much as I would love you to, I’ll be fine. I’ve learned my way around finally. Plus I don’t want to take time away from you trying to find her.”
“Alright Lu, I’ll be there as soon as I can. I love you.” He watchesd as she trudged her way down the hall. Before she turned the corner she looked back at him and gave a weak smile and blew him a kiss.
Mil made her way back to their room and shut herself inside. She turned on some movie, she really didn’t pay any attention to which one, and sat on her bed. She needed to vent so she did the one thing she knew. She went to Twitter. Luckily her friend Mosh was also on and they had a conversation. Along with the Circle News all but accusing her again of having something to do with Sarah’s disappearance. Mosh asked but it was just to confirm what they already knew. She felt a little better after ‘talking’ with Mosh over Twitter. She sat her phone down and tried to watch the movie she had started. Eventually exhaustion won out and she fell asleep.
November 8th 2017
Mil was woken up by her phone going off. She blindly groped for it before being blinded by it when she turned on the screen. It was from Kenzi. There had been a wreck with that psycho earlier in the morning. There was someone else in the vehicle with him. Mil sat up as her heart dropped into her stomach. Kenzi confirmed that it was Sarah in the accident also. Tears welled up in Mil’s eyes as she read the news. Her best friend was severely injured. Then her jaw literally dropped open at what Kenzi asked next. She asked if Mil would come to the Hospital in Cincinnati. Her response was immediate, she said her and Bruce would be there ASAP.
She looked over at Bruce and smiled, his arm was still draped across her lap as he slept. She had hardly ever seen him sleep this late. He must have been up late. She barely remembers him waking her up for her to crawl under the covers with him. She didn’t want to wake him but he had to know. She gently nudged him and he awoke almost instantly. “They found her babe. She was being held by Jacob and there was a wreck. Kenzi is with her now at the hospital and wants us there.”
“Then get dressed, let’s go.” He sprang into action. He was out of bed in the blink of an eye and getting dressed. Mil stared in awe for a few moments before also getting dressed. They grabbed the bags they had ready for going to LAW events and what not and headed out to the airport.
Later
Mil all but ran into the Hospital entrance. She was at the desk before Bruce was even clear of the doors. “My friend was brought in earlier. She was in a bad wreck. Is she in a room yet?”
“What is the name, ma’am?”
“Sarah Grey-Lacklan.”
“She is still in surgery now. You can wait in the waiting room.”
“Her wife is here, Kenzi Grey-Lacklan, do you know where she is? SHe is the one who told me.”
“She is in a private waiting room. I will give you the info. One moment.” Mil tapped her foot with impatience as Bruce tried to calm her. The receptionist handed over a piece of paper with the room number and floor written on it. Mil took Bruce’s hand and was off like a lightning bolt.
When they finally got to the room the door was just slightly ajar. Mil carefully knocked and opened it enough to stick her head in. “Kenz?” She spotted her estranged friend in tears. Mil’s heart broke as she carefully entered the room, not knowing how Kenzi would react. Kenzi looked up and saw Mil. WIthout saying a word the two women moved towards each other and embraced in a hug. It was like there had never really been any issues between them. They were close as ever again. The issues just seemed to vanish. They stood there, embracing for a long time.
They eventually separated and they, along with Bruce, sat to discuss things. Kenzi did they best should could to explain things to Mil. Mil and Bruce listened intently. After what seemed like forever a doctor came in to give them an update on Sarah. Kenzi seemed to still be in a kind of stupor but Mil and Bruce paid attention as the doctor relayed what he could. The surgery was a success and Sarah would be physically alright. But they think that Jacob had been feeding her some kind of drug to keep her docile enough to handle. That in addition to the accident had put her into a sort of catatonic state. She had moments of lucidity here and there but that was it. They basically had no idea what the cause was or how to correct it, if they even could.
Bruce inquired about her care. They were told that she would need almost constant supervision. She would need help getting around and eating along with other basic needs. Kenzi took it in stride. She said that as soon as the doctors cleared Sarah she wanted to take her to LA. To the boat they had gotten. The doctors said that she should be alright to move tomorrow, in a medical transport. So it was decided that was what was going to happen. Kenzi would take care of Sarah as best she could and she would obviously have the best in home care they could afford. And that was quite a lot.
November 9th 2017
Mil paces around a hotel room. Her hands balled into fists and a snarl distorts her face. She is virtually radiating anger and hate. She pauses in her route and takes a deep breath. “I know this isn’t probably the best time for this. I’m too angry, too heated. But I need to vent. I need to find an outlet for this rage before it eats me up. So, like, what better way than to unleash it at those I have to face in couple of weeks at Night of Glory. So, like, ladies, don’t really take any of this personal. Or, like, do if you want. Because right now, I don’t give a fuck about three of you. So strap in, cause this is about to get bumpy.”
Mil tilts her head from side to side, cracking her neck. The snarl on her face replaced by a devilish grin. “Where the fuck do I even start with this cluster fuck of a match? You know what, fuck it, I’ll give the ‘champion’ her fair due.” Mil raises her hands and does her (in)famous air quotes.
“I use the term champion in the loosest terms possible, Etsuko. You’ve had, what, one defense since you won the title. And that defense was almost six months ago. That is not a champion to me. What have you really done since you won the belt and defended it once? Show up and half ass your way through matches losing more than winning. That is, when you are actually scheduled to appear and work. In the four months I’ve been employed in LAW you have had three matches. ONE of them you have won. In that same time I’ve beaten the self proclaimed number one contender, three times. I’ve won more matches than you have been in recently.” Mil shakes her head.
“How are you a champion? I don’t really want to go down the route of you giving favors for not being booked or actually having to defend your title more than once. But, I mean, if the shoe fits... ” Mil shrugs her shoulders, leaving the implication hanging in the air. “Out of everyone in this match. Out of all of us contenders and you as ‘champion’ you are the only one I don’t see winning this thing. You are a joke Etsuko, and not even a good one. I do have a question for you, one I hope you will answer when you put out your promotional work for this match. The question is, how does it feel knowing your days as Breakout Champion are numbered? You know the date you will lose that belt. November Twenty-sixth twenty seventeen. Two hundred and seventeen days as a farce of a champion. I don’t know about any of the other ladies in this match, but I do know that if I walk out of Night of Glory as Breakout Champion I will defend that belt more than you have in less time. I will not cower backstage and clutch onto my belt for fear of losing it to someone better than me.”
“I will welcome the chance for any bitch in the back who thinks she has the fortitude to take that belt from me to try. I will be the example of a champion that people will look to. When it's all said and done, and LAW has run it's course the history books will look back at the Breakout Title reign of Milisandre Crowthorne as the one shining example of a true champion in LAW. A long reign like you, or Orchid, or Queen safespace herself AJS have is not the true sign or measure of a champion. Defending that belt is. Who cares if you hold a belt for six month if you only defend it once or twice? All that shows is that you are scared and feel the need to be protected. Being lumped into that category with AJS isn’t something to be proud of. Step up when someone comes out and shines. But that belt on the line and show why you are champion. I would rather have a three month title reign with half a dozen defenses than a six month reign with one defense.” Mil looks right into the camera and winks.
“That’s enough for now about the so-called champion. How about the self proclaimed number one contender Maria Salvatore. Or is it Spencer now? You know what, it doesn’t really matter what your name is. Salvatore or Spencer, it makes no difference. Your name doesn’t change the fact that, despite the fact that you claim to be the number one contender, I have three wins over you. I made you tap in my debut, you couldn’t focus enough in that four way match at Queen of the RIng. And when you and your temporary friend Nova teamed up to take on the #CoolKids you turned tail and RAN.” Mil rolls her eyes.
“Some title contender. Running when things get a little tough. What have you done in the last few months anyway Maria? Beat a couple of nobodies and got one win over the most pathetic champion in wrestling history? I’ve done far more than that. I’ve beaten a ten year veteran in this business. I went to war with the first ever LAW Champion. So please, I beg of you Maria, enlighten me as to how you feel like you belong in this match.” Mil looks into the camera, waiting.
“Yeah that’s what I thpught. All you have is one win over the champ. Nothing else besides basically screaming at the top of your lungs that you deserve a shot. How many wins do you have over the other contenders in this match? Oh yeah, that’s right. None. You had three separate chances to beat me and failed. You had two chances to beat Kenzi and failed. You could have shown some backbone and taken a loss with Nova but you showed your true colors and left her to the wolves. You need to sit your scrawny ass back down and do something worthwhile before you think you even deserve to be in the ring with me or anyone else in this match again. ”
Mil sighs and starts pacing again. “That brings me to the one person who is just lucky to be in this match, Nova. Heya bitch, how you doin? Enjoying the fact that you lucked your way into this thing? The ONLY reason you are in this match is because you got lucky against me. That’s it. How does it feel to be almost an afterthought for title contention? That your only claim in this match is your win over me? One of the most overlooked members of the roster.” Mil stops and holds up her hands to signal a pause.
“But wait, how can I be overlooked when I was the first one mentioned for this match and most deserving of the chance? Simple really, ever since I won that four way match at Queen of the Ring I’ve basically been an afterthought, at best, to everyone else in this match. Champion included. Nevermind the impact I’ve made since I arrive in LAW. Never mind my outstanding ‘breakout’ performances. We can just forget about little old Mil cause she doesn’t yell and scream. She doesn’t stamp her foot and make scenes so we can ignore her beyond giving Nova a reason to be put in this match and not a random with vague promises of some kind of reward for winning.”
“So, that, Nova is how I am over looked. No one besides Kenzi, and maybe you, believes I deserve this. No one considers me a threat or even a real contender. So what does that say about you? Your two biggest claims to fame are a win over me and a win over Roxy. Fine, good for you. Go challenge Rox for her Chaos title after Kate has her chance. You might even be able to leapfrog over Tolson who still thinks she has a right to a rematch despite doing fuck all since losing the title to Rox. Hell, you and Maria could have had a match to name the next number one contender and then this could have been a three way match. What it should have been from the beginning. Even though I would debate that fact till I was blue in the face.”
Mil rolls her eyes and starts with her pacing again. “Yet here we are, five women competing for a title only two of them, at best, deserve. Despite what you probably think, Nova, but to me you are the second biggest threat in this match. So take that compliment and do with it what you will. Because honestly, I can’t wait to go one up on you in our match count. But I know that you will even try to play that off. That you beat me one on one yet my win over you came from a tag match that your partner bailed on. That’s not my fault you two couldn’t work together. You want to place blame for that do it with the front office or Maria. Kenzi and I did what you two should have done. Hell, going into that match you two made more sense in working together since Kenzi and I were at the start of our little issue.”
Mil stops her pacing and crosses her arms in front of her. She looks into the camera almost reluctantly. Giving off a vibe of discomfort. Almost as if, despite her anger and rage, her awkwardness is trying to fight and shine through. “That just leaves you Kenzi. One of my best friends. One of the two women I’ve ever considered close enough to be a sister. For a while you wanted to throttle me and choke or beat the life out of me. But, in light of recent events, we have had a sort of reconnecting. Something I have wanted since LAW Seventy-one. I don’t like the circumstances of it but I will take it. I know there are probably a few things still that need to be settled. And, like, that’s totally understandable.”
“I think I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again here for the world to witness. We are friends again, and on the path back to being as close as sisters. But from beginning to ending bell we aren’t friends. We are competitors challenging for the same thing. We are Amazons, Gladiators, fighting for fame, glory, and gold. Only one of us can walk away from this match as Champion. If it isn’t me, then I damn sure hope it's you. But don’t think for one second that I will roll over and just let you take that title. I don’t expect you to do that for me either. We agreed, before all the shit that has happened lately, that if it came down to this we would give it our all against each other. I don’t WANT to fight you. I HAVE to. I have to show that I am just as deserving, if not more so, as you. That is the burden on me and me alone.”
She sighs almost dejectedly. “I can promise you that I won’t go out of my way to hurt you, Kenzi. Something I will NOT extend to the other three cunts in this match. But I will not make it easy for you either. You are the biggest threat to me in this match. You are the true challenge. You and I are the only two who deserve to be challenging the pretend champion for the Breakout TItle. Let’s give the crowd, the front office, and the world the show they deserve. Before and after the match we can be friends. But for however long it takes either of us to win that title, we are enemies. Take any of the last issues and frustrations you have with me out on me. I will take everything you can dish out. You, like everyone else, saw what it took Kate to do to beat me. And even then I never asked for that match to end, it was the official who did. I fought tooth and nail to prove that I am just as good as anyone else on this roster. I took everything Kate Steele could dish out and still never gave up.”
“You deserve no less than that Kenzi. You deserve me at my absolute best. And that is what you and the others will get. I’ve been doing most of my matches by the seat of my pants. But not now. Now I’m focused. Now I have motivation to win. It’s almost the same motivation you have. You have to prove to Sarah, the woman we both love, that you can do it. That you can be a champion on your own. But the difference between us is that you have been champion before. You and Sarah were Empire Tag Team Champions. You are a former LAW Chaos Champion. I haven’t had those chances yet. This is my first. I plan on showing everyone that I deserve that belt more than anyone else. I’ve had the best ‘breakout’ start in LAW. That I embody not only what this title is about but what a champion truly is. If that means going through my best friend to do it, then so be it.”
Mil takes a steadying breath and then looks directly into the camera. “We all have issues with one another. We all have reasons that we feel we deserve this chance and this title. But none of you deserve it more than me. None. YOu all act like you know me. That you can poke fun of my nervous habits and the way I talk when doing something I don’t like to do. But none of you are without your own personal issues. None of you. So I say to all four of you...”
Mil spreads her arms open wide. “Let you without sin cast the the first stone!” She leans her head back as the scene fades.
November 12th 2017
Mil slowly and sleepily makes her way into the main living area on the Red Queen. Kenzi is already there with Sarah and Bruce. Mil weakly grins at them and then sits down next to Bruce. “So Kenzi, like, what was it you wanted to tell me?”
Kenzi looks up at Mil and chuckles slightly. “Oh. Well, before they took Sarah in for surgery she was talking to me. She was going in and out of it.” She looks over at Sarah, a look of longing for the old vibrant Sarah. “She was kind of delirious. But she was still focused on having that talk with you. She,” Kenzi chuckles slightly looking over at Mil, “She thought you were in love with me.”
Mil’s jaw drops open and she chuckles. “What? Oh my God. Nothing against you Kenz, you are very beautiful but that is hilarious.”
“None taken Mili.”
“Ever observant Sarah, always able to see everything except what was right in front of her.” Mil looks at Kenzi and takes a deep breath. “Kenz, do you, like, care if I tell her now? I still want to try and make this right.”
Kenzi looks from Sarah to Mil. “I think that would be alright.”
Mil smiles and kneels down in front of Sarah. She gently takes her best friends hands in hers. The action drawing Sarah’s gaze onto Mil’s face. Mil takes a breath and licks her lips. “Hey Sarah. I know we never got to have our talk. I should have done it sooner, I realize that now. I know you can hear me but, like, I’m not sure how much you remember.” Tears start to well up in Mil’s eyes. “I know you saw, and didn’t understand, the issues Kenzi and I were having. I know you thought it was over the Breakout title. Kenzi even just told me you thought I was in love with her.”
Mil chuckles causing the tears to roll down her face. “But you have it all backwards. I do love Kenzi, but I love her like a sister. The issue between her and I was that I love you.” Mil bites her lip, trying to gather some strength to continue. “I love you like I love Bruce. I would never have done anything to come between you and Kenz. I could never do that to anyone, let alone my two best friends.” Mil glanced over at Kenzi, speaking as much to her as she was to Sarah.
“You introduced to me Bruce. A man I never would have thought I had a chance with. Yet you knew, somehow, that he and I would work out. I confessed this to him the day before we were supposed to talk. He holds no ill will towards either of us. He understands. I even confessed to him the depths of my love for him. I will tell you both.” Mil once again looks to Kenzi. “I think we sort of got engaged then. I admitted to him, as I am to both of you now, that I can’t imagine my life without him in it. SO thank you, Sarah Grey-Lacklan, for giving me the best gift anyone ever could. I love you, I always will, but I will keep those feelings buried. I will be here as your best friend, forever.”
Mil brings Sarah’s hands to her lips and kisses them. “I hope Kenzi and I can work this issue out. Because I have missed being with my best friends. I pledge to you both now, that I will help out in anyway I can. I will always be there for my two best friends.”
Mil sets Sarah’s hands back into her lap and wipes the tears from her eyes. As she turns to sit back down with Bruce she comes face to face with Kenzi who wraps her in a hug. Mil returned the hug and the two friends stood there, embracing as friends once again. “We still have this match to worry about Mili.”
“I know Kenz, and as long as you or I win it will be a great match. IF you win I will be the first one there to congratulate you. No ill will after the match. We leave all our issues in that ring. Deal?”
“Deal.” The two hold the embrace for a few more moments, neither noticing the small smile that has crept onto Sarah’s face.
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