Post by C.J. Gates on May 21, 2011 20:17:54 GMT -4
"Mayhem is upon us.
"And whether you think of that as the event or as the definition of damage and violence, it doesn't matter, because both of them will be in effect. Of course, in some cases, it will be abound more than in others.
"Though the question on the mind of everyone as of late has been whether or not C.J. Gates can pull out the victory over Sally Talfourd. And really, that question can not truly be answered. Of course, I am looking for a win, I am hunting for the victory so that I can showcase my true self, but I also know that the win won't come easy. That to have my arm raised by the referee, I have to bust my ass.
"And I've never backed down from a challenge.
"Which is why I never backed down from Sally Talfourd. Sure, people told me not to waste my time, but I wasn't going to let them dictate the choices of my career. After all, how else do you get better, than to push yourself to the limit. Than to challenge yourself time after time.
"And that is where I find myself this week, with a big task in front of me, because not only am I going one on one with Sally Talfourd, but I am going one on one with her on a Pay-Per-View, and as most people know, Pay-Per-View Sally only has one Achilles heel, only one thing that is considered her kryptonite.
"Level One.
"Now, I am not Level One and I'll go on record saying that I won't be Level One anytime soon. But that isn't stopping me. That isn't making my balk at the idea of possibly leaving Australia with a win. That isn't changing the thought in my head that I have a very good chance at beating Sally Talfourd.
"Much to her dismay.
"Then again, she is living in this world where she is unbeatable. Where she is some sort of immortal goddess that is merely going through the motions. Thinking that she can't be touched, merely satisfying her own needs and urges to wrestle.
"But that's not how this is going to end. Even if I can't pull out a victory, I am definitely going to make sure that Sally, and everyone watching, realizes that this woman can be beat. I am going to make sure that I take down some of her ego with me.
"Though that's a bit of a what if. What if I lose.
"Right now, I'm thinking about the possibility of winning and if she wishes to continue to live in her shell of ignorance, than so be it. It won't be too hard to knock her out of it and bring her back to reality.
"After all, that is what Mayhem does, isn't it? It makes you see things clearly, and for what they really are. It makes you understand that immortality does not exist. It makes you see that everyone has a weakness that extends farther than a single enemy.
"And that includes you, Sally."
(The scene opens up inside of a hotel room where C.J. Gates can be seen pacing between the bed and the glass doors that lead onto the small balcony. The room is smaller than the usual rooms he is seen in, but that fits his Pay-Per-View regiment. Gates is wearing a pair of black pants, a black T-shirt and his cowboy hat rests on the round table that stands between two chairs in the corner. Every time he walks passed the glass doors, he takes a quick look outside, nervously. On his next pass he moves in toward the doors and draws the curtains over it. He lets out a sigh of relief before taking a seat on the end of his bed and running his hands through his hair. As he does, his cell phone begins to ring and he pulls it out of his pocket, looking at the caller ID before answering.)
C.J. Gates: B.J.! How's it going bro?
B.J. Gates: Good, good. Bit of a clerical error at dad's company, so I've been keeping myself busy by helping out there for the past little while.
C.J. Gates: Anything serious?
B.J. Gates: Naw, just some files put in the wrong places. Dad figures it was a temp who just stopped giving a fuck.
C.J. Gates: I guess that's why they call them temps.
B.J. Gates: Very true. Anyways, just thought I'd call and give you a little brother to brother pep talk. Saw your bit earlier and you're really holding nothing back are you?
C.J. Gates: Why would I? I've got to get rid of this thorn in my side one way or another.
(B.J. starts to hum.)
C.J. Gates: What the hell, man?
B.J. Gates: Sorry. When you said "thorn in my side", I got a song stuck in my head. Catchy tune. Anyways, I think the real question is, do you think she'll listen to you?
C.J. Gates: Sally? Oh, I know she won't. That's the sort of person she is. If things don't go her way, she wants nothing to do with them, and I can safely say that I didn't say anything that went her way.
B.J. Gates: You sure about that?
C.J. Gates: Well, I'm not going to give a one hundred percent guarantee, but she hasn't exactly listened to anything I've said yet, so why would she start now?
B.J. Gates: Maybe she's trying to throw you off?
C.J. Gates: Thanks Captain Obvious. I kind of figured that. The thing is, I'm not sure I really care.
B.J. Gates: What do you mean?
C.J. Gates: I mean, it's one of those situations. They don't want to listen and it's all good for them living in their bubble of ignorance, until they get into the ring and I hit them with a dose of reality that makes them realize they've been drinking the wrong Kool Aid.
B.J. Gates: What is this, a cult?
C.J. Gates: You never were the smart one, were you?
B.J. Gates: Once...back in grade one.
C.J. Gates: Back when finger painting was the toughest job. Well, what I mean is that whatever she's decided to follow, it isn't the right path. And usually, if that is the case, it comes in the form of a false leader or something. I mean, I'm not trying to say it's cult...
B.J. Gates: Good, because I think you're reaching on that one, buddy.
C.J. Gates: Well...yeah...I probably am. But still, do you get what I'm trying to say?
B.J. Gates: Kind of. Whatever she's doing, and whoever she's listening to, it's not really working.
C.J. Gates: If you want to dumb it down like that, yeah. And to top it all off, she's already balked at the whole idea of giving away some of my secrets. Or at least the one she said she had.
(B.J. chuckles.)
B.J. Gates: Ooo she's got some dirt on you!
C.J. Gates: Shut up. You know what I mean. She told everyone that she knew something about me and then...poof, nothing. She kept teasing it, but nothing even came out of it.
B.J. Gates: Yeah, I know. I kind of wondered about that.
C.J. Gates: Who knows? Maybe it's a sign that she's realizing her mistakes.
(There's a pause as both end of the phone are silent.)
C.J. Gates: Naw, that can't be it. I mean, I'd love for that to be the reason, that she finally realized that telling whatever it was she was going to tell would have only hurt herself in the long run, but I highly doubt that is the case.
B.J. Gates: Wait, are you saying that you want her to go back to her former self?
(There is a bit of hesitation as C.J. thinks it over.)
C.J. Gates: No, that's not it. Truthfully, if she stayed the way she is right now I wouldn't care. It's more...well, I guess I'd just like for her to realize that I'm not a bum and that I have something to offer, you know?
B.J. Gates: I guess I do.
C.J. Gates: It's one of those things that will always bug me until it's sorted out. After all, how would you feel if someone constantly ripped you down after everything you did. I mean, I won three matches in a row, all in the main event, highlight of the night quality matches, and I still get admonished for it each and every time.
B.J. Gates: Good point. Though I still think you should just not care about what she has to say about all of that and just go do your thing.
C.J. Gates: Easier said than done, B.J. Not like I can just stop caring about someone dragging my name through the mud.
B.J. Gates: I do.
C.J. Gates: Well, that's because there's nothing to really praise or insult about you.
B.J. Gates: Exactly.
(C.J. Gates chuckles.)
B.J. Gates: Hey, wait!
C.J. Gates: Besides, it's not that I'm hurt by it because I have a pretty thick skin for stuff like that. It's more...for once, I wouldn't mind if my opponent would pay attention, do their homework and realize that they aren't in for a cake walk.
B.J. Gates: Well, I could tell them that if you want.
C.J. Gates: Something tells me they won't listen to you if they haven't listened to me. But thanks anyways.
B.J. Gates: I do what I can. After all, what are brothers for?
(C.J. Gates shakes his head.)
C.J. Gates: Oh, hey while I have you, let me ask you a question.
B.J. Gates: Shoot.
C.J. Gates: Has anyone called the house looking for me? Maybe asking you questions about me?
B.J. Gates: Um, no, I don't think so. Or at least, nothing that I've heard about. But you know our family. It sometimes takes awhile for things to circulate.
C.J. Gates: True.
B.J. Gates: Why do you ask?
C.J. Gates: Well, I'm kind of being followed.
B.J. Gates: Oh man, don't tell that one to mom or she'd have a cow.
C.J. Gates: I know. Nothing bad has happened I've just seen this guy. It started happening after an odd interview for what turned out to be a fictitious magazine, a phone call from an unknown individual to Rico and then the front desk clerk at the hotel said someone asked about me.
B.J. Gates: Damn, this is serious, huh?
C.J. Gates: I'm sure it's nothing but you never can be too sure. There are a lot of crazy people in the world these days.
B.J. Gates: Too true. And this is the last thing you need with your big match at Mayhem just around the corner.
C.J. Gates: Tell me about it. Not exactly stoked about any of this really. But the whole mysterious person thing won't be a big deal come match time. I mean, once I get to the arena on Sunday, I'll be one hundred percent focused on Sally. You know that.
B.J. Gates: I know. Just, until then, it's got to be messing with your normal routine.
C.J. Gates: Definitely is. Though I'm hoping that whoever it is realizes that and maybe backs off.
(B.J. laughs.)
B.J. Gates: Good luck with that. They find those type of moments to be more bothersome.
C.J. Gates: Thanks for the support, brother.
B.J. Gates: Well, that's why I called after all. To give you my support. Since we couldn't make it to Australia, figured this was the next best thing.
C.J. Gates: Well, thank you. And please, don't mention the stalker to mom. She'd be torn up.
B.J. Gates: That's an understatement man. She'd swim out to Australia. Or at least, she'd try to.
C.J. Gates: No doubt about that, either. She's one crazy--
B.J. Gates: Hey now, that's still mom that you're talking about.
C.J. Gates: But it's true, isn't it?
B.J. Gates: Yeah, alright, it is. One second.
(There's silence and the sound of muffled speech coming from the other end of the phone before B.J. returns.)
B.J. Gates: Alright, Ceej, I've got to get back to dad's office. Knock 'em dead this weekend, man. Show them all what you're capable of.
C.J. Gates: Oh, I plan to. Take care, Beej.
(Gates hangs up the phone and puts it back in his pocket as the scene fades to black.)
"Maybe B.J. is right.
"Maybe I need to put everything out of my mind to be able to succeed this week. Maybe I need to focus on one thing and one thing only. The match. The feeling that will course through my body the moment I walk out onto that ramp, and the moment I feel the heat of those lights beaming down on me.
"Forget everything that Sally has done and said, forget that she has tried to kill me and tried to defame me. Just picture her as any other opponent that anyone would face. Just another match against another person.
"Maybe.
"Unfortunately, it's not that easy. It's never that easy. The only closure one gets in times like these, is with an actual fight. An actual match. And perhaps, an actual victory to go with it. But we will all have to wait to figure that one out. We will have to wait until the bell rings and our match starts.
"And who knows, maybe my mind will still be racing with all of the things that have happened over the months, all of the accusations thrown my way, and all of the insults hurled at me...but I won't let them get to me when I'm inside of that ring. I refuse to. Because inside of that ring is where the personal vendettas are not welcome. Inside of that ring is when professionalism takes center stage.
"At least in my mind. Though I know not everyone can share my point of view. I know that some people need to let little grudges and petty differences take control. Thing is, Sally, I don't hold grudges. Sure, I might be upset with the way someone speaks about me, but I don't hold a grudge, because grudges cause people to overlook certain aspects, causes them not to think clearly.
"Which could be where you are, and it could explained all your flip-flopping and indecisive ranting.
"That is, if you're looking for a way out."
(The scene opens up in the hotel lobby where C.J. Gates can be seen walking from the elevator to the front door. He seems focused, barely noticing anyone around him. As he gets closer to the doors leading out to the street, he is stopped by a man stepping directly in front of him. Gates stops just in time and takes a step back.)
Man: Mr. Gates?
(Gates finally gets a good look at the man, clad in his fedora, trenchcoat and suit. Almost immediately his eyes go wide.)
C.J. Gates: It's you! You're the one that has been following me.
Man: Yes. My name is Preston Webber.
C.J. Gates: What do you want with me?
(The man pulls out his credentials and shows them to Gates.)
Webber: I'm a private investigator that was hired to look for a specific someone. I was hoping that you would be able to provide some assistance.
C.J. Gates: So that's why you were following me?
Webber: I had to make sure I could trust you, and that you were the right person for the job.
C.J. Gates: Still, you could have said something. I was freaking out thinking I was going to get murdered.
Webber: I'm sorry about that, but if I was found out, I wouldn't be doing my job now would I?
(Webber flashes a smile as Gates shrugs and raises an eyebrow.)
C.J. Gates: So how can I help you?
Webber: Well, I was wondering if you could answer a few questions for me, maybe provide some insight into the whereabouts of this individual.
C.J. Gates: Oh, sure, yeah. Fire away.
Webber: Not here. I have an office space rented out that I would rather use, if that's alright with you.
C.J. Gates: Uh, sure.
(Webber nods and turns around.)
C.J. Gates: By the way, who is the individual?
Webber: I'll tell you when we get there.
(Webber leads Gates out the doors as the scene fades to black.)
"If history is any indication, than this match is anyone's for the taking.
"November twenty-fifth. The hundredth episode of Overdrive. That was the first look everyone had at you and I in the ring, Sally. It came in the form of a tag team match, with Blade and myself picking up the victory over you and Branden Harvey. I'm sure that's not exactly something you enjoy remembering, but back then, you were in lighter spirits, and you even gave Blade and I credit for the job we did at pulling at the victory.
"December second, the very next week, was when you and I first went toe to toe inside of that ring, one on one. And if my memory serves me right, we shook hands before and after the match. We made that match out to be a battle of respect, between two individuals who could honestly look at one another and say that they respected what they did. Though, in some ways, it feels like it was long before December that it happened.
"December ninth we teamed up to take on four others in what turned out to be a no contest. At Survive and Conquer in January, you and I once again teamed up to help each other in the match. We worked as a team up until the final stages when I let you leave the cage first so you could win. I let you leave and made sure you got out safe so you could be fresh for the final three.
"What a mistake that turned out to be.
"Fast forward to February twenty fourth when we once again teamed up in a match that you claimed I cost you. In a match that you assumed I purposely lost just to hurt you. Which wasn't the case, Sally, as I'm sure you have pieced together yourself. I wouldn't sabotage a match just to get back at someone.
"Our March tenth handicapped match didn't go as planned, that's for sure. Even with Lester Only as the ref we weren't able to beat you, though I attribute that more to my partner than to myself, and am sure that had it been one on one, things would have been different then. But we'll never know, now will we.
"And of course, how could I forget about two of the past three weeks, where you and I stood on opposite sides of the ring. And much like the first time we fought one another, I came out on the winning side on both of those occasions. And really, when you look at those three tag team matches that I have won over you, what is the constant again? What is the one thing being maintained in each one?
"C.J. Gates.
"Though at least this means there is one thing we should be able to agree on. We can agree that there is no love lost between the two of us. And really, given the past matches between us, no one could say that either one of us has the advantage at Mayhem. Sure, they could give the edge to you because of what you have been able to do, but I think that would be jumping the gun a bit on their part.
"I think that would be a gross underestimation of what I am able to bring to the table, don't you? And I only pose that question because you should know what my in ring talent is like. You SHOULD know that I actually am capable of winning a match when I want to.
"Just like the past tells us.
"I've been successful, and I have also had my down moments. But really, Sally, which person hasn't? Which wrestler can safely say that they went through their entire careers without facing one moment that they didn't enjoy, that they felt down on? Even Lester can agree that his losses to you were his own down moments.
"And who knows. Maybe I'll be able to give you your own down moment. After all, you never know where the chips will fall in this match at Mayhem. The next chapter in our tale.
"And I'm sure that it won't disappoint."
(The scene opens up outside of a set of large, wooden double doors where Preston Webber can be seen wearing his grey suit, his fedora and trench coat elsewhere at the moment. Beside him is another man, wearing a slick, black suit with a red tie adding a pop of color. In his hand he is holding a manila folder. Webber makes a move to open the door, but the second man grabs his arm.)
Man: So he knows why he's here, right?
Webber: He thinks he's here to help us with the investigation by answering a few questions for us.
Man: Alright. I just wanted to know before we went in there.
(Webber nods before opening the door into a large conference room. Save for the large table in the middle of the room and the dozen or so chairs that surround it, the room is empty. Sitting in one of the chairs is C.J. Gates, looking impatient at first, but as the door opens, his look seems to change to one of anxious anticipation.)
Webber: Hello again, Mr. Gates. This is my associate, Stefan Brooks.
(Webber prods Brooks with an elbow, prompting him to show his credentials, much like Webber did earlier. Gates nods his head and the two men take seats opposite him.)
C.J. Gates: This won't take long will it? I've got some important stuff to attend to before this weekend is up. Not saying this isn't important, just that I've got prior engagements and everything.
(Brooks and Webber exchange a look, each sporting a slight smirk.)
Webber: Well, as long as things roll on smoothly, we shouldn't be too long. But, that all depends, you know?
C.J. Gates: Of course. Anything I can do to help, I'd be more than happy to.
Brooks: Glad to here that.
(Brooks opens the file and props it against the edge of the table.)
Webber: What Stefan and I do, is we provide our services to interested parties that, for the most part, and trying their best to hunt down missing people. And three months ago, we were contacted by one particular group that were trying to find someone.
C.J. Gates: Do I know the individual that you are looking for?
Brooks: We're getting to that. It took us a little while to follow up some leads, but the more we hunted and the more we found out, the more your name kept popping up.
Webber: So naturally, we wanted to follow that up as well. But I must say, Mr. Gates, you weren't easy to track down.
C.J. Gates: Well, I'm always on the move with my job.
Brooks: But even when you were back around the area of your office, we always seemed to miss you. Of course, it didn't help that you don't have an assistant.
C.J. Gates: Yeah, figured one wouldn't be worth it. Any important calls go to my cell phone.
Webber: As we expected. Now, I'm sure you understand why I was tailing you. Without a number to reach you at, we needed to make sure you were going to be able to help us.
C.J. Gates: I guess that makes sense.
Brooks: Of course it makes sense.
(Brooks shakes his head while Webber only chuckles.)
C.J. Gates: So, who is it?
Brooks: No need to rush us, we'll get there, don't worry.
(Gates nods apologetically.)
Webber: First off, we were wondering about your whereabouts on the evening of January thirtieth of this year.
C.J. Gates: January thirtieth?
Brooks: You heard the man.
C.J. Gates: I was having the night of my life. The APW was in Las Vegas for the Survive and Conquer Pay-Per-View. I was around until the bitter end of that event, being one of the final ones left standing in the match. After I had caught my breath and had some patch work done, it was late into the night.
Brooks: Can anyone vouch for that?
C.J. Gates: Tons of people can. My boss could, a few of my fellow workers could. I bet a few of the tens of thousands of fans cheering me on could vouch for that.
(Brooks scribbles something down on a piece of paper.)
Webber: And you have any numbers of those that can vouch for you?
C.J. Gates: Of course I do.
(Gates pulls out his phone and looks through his contacts until he finds the numbers and writes them down on the piece of paper that Webber has slid in front of him.)
Webber: Thank you. I hope you understand that we will have to follow this up. For completion's sake.
C.J. Gates: I'll let them know that they are supposed to be expecting a call. Why is that night so important?
Webber: That was the last night that he was seen by eye witnesses. Now, from what we understand, you are a close friend of the man in question...
(On cue, Brooks pulls out a photo from the folder and places it on the desk, sliding it across the table.)
Webber: Vincent James.
(The photo shows the smiling face of a bald headed giant, wearing a peaceful look on his face as he is seen standing beside an attractive brunette.)
C.J. Gates: Shit, you guys are looking for Vinnie? Of course he and I were close, we grew up together.
Brooks: So then you would know all about him.
C.J. Gates: Of course. There wasn't much he and I didn't share. He kind of got a bit quieter once he met his wife and had a child, but I just assumed that was part of a new chapter of life.
(Webber continues as if Gates hadn't even spoken.)
Webber: When was the last time you spoke to Mr. James?
C.J. Gates: Months ago. Late December, early January. He had mentioned that he was moving, and didn't have much time to talk.
Webber: And that's the last time?
C.J. Gates: Yes.
Brooks: You're sure?
C.J. Gates: Of course I'm sure.
Brooks: So then how would that explain these calls?
(Brooks now pulls out a copy of cell phone records, that shows the calls Gates had made. A select few are highlighted.)
C.J. Gates: Well, yeah, I tried to call him because I hadn't heard from him, but I never got through. Just kept ringing and ringing.
Webber: It never went to voice mail?
C.J. Gates: Nope. Though to be fair, he rarely used that. Then again, he rarely left his phone unanswered so I don't know how much help that will be.
Webber: You say he was acting weird?
C.J. Gates: Yep. Kind of like he was being forced to pick up the pace or something. Like someone was forcing him. I just assumed that was his wife. He's really missing?
Webber: According to his family.
C.J. Gates: His parents?
Webber: His wife. Says she hasn't seen or heard from him since January, and noted that you were one of the last people to talk to him. To you remember what he had to say?
C.J. Gates: I have no clue, it was so long ago. He probably wished me luck in my match, maybe told me to send my love to my family...
Webber: Your family?
C.J. Gates: I said we grew up together. My parents were kind of like his substitute parents or something, the ones he answered to when he wasn't at home.
Webber: Sure, of course.
Brooks: I'm not buying it.
C.J. Gates: Excuse me?
(Brooks slides the folder onto the table top and slides his chair back. At this moment, Webber gets up from the table and walks into the far corner, pulling out a cell phone. )
Brooks: I don't buy it. I think he had something to do with it.
C.J. Gates: I swear, I didn't. Honestly.
Brooks: So you were the last one to talk to him, you know everything about him, and then the man goes missing. And you want us to believe that it's not you or any parties your involved with.
C.J. Gates: I swear that I had nothing to do with it. I'd even take a polygraph about it. He's like a brother to me, I would never do anything to hurt him or his family in any way.
Webber: His alibi for that night checks out.
(Brooks shakes his head and takes his seat again, while Webber stands behind his chair.)
C.J. Gates: I thought I was just being brought in to help answer some questions. It's feeling an awful lot like I'm a suspect.
Brooks: You're damn right...
(Webber places a hand on Brooks' shoulder.)
Webber: Everyone's a suspect. We have to follow up on every lead and every possible avenue if we want to make sure our job is done thoroughly.
(Gates nods his head.)
C.J. Gates: Are we done here? I kind of have places to be.
(Brooks and Webber exchange a look and Webber nods.)
Webber: I guess we are. We might have more questions but we'll call you with them if you'll leave your number.
C.J. Gates: Of course. Anything to help find Vinnie.
Webber: Thank you for your understanding.
(Gates rises from his chair, takes one last look at the photo staring up at him from the table, and shakes his head. He walks toward the doors where Webber meets him, leaving Brooks to stew in his seat. Gates opens the door, exits and turns back around.)
C.J. Gates: It's so unlike him, though. He's usually always around, always happy and energetic.
Webber: Maybe he's having second thoughts about his marriage and just took off.
C.J. Gates: Maybe, but that still seems unlike him. Seems like he just vanished. Quite the mystery.
Webber: On the same page as a pair of unknown initials, wouldn't you say?
(Gates is stunned as Webber smiles wide before closing the door. Gates moves forward and grabs the handle to open it to no avail. He knocks on the door but there is no answer. After a few moments he turns and walks away, pausing briefly to look back over his shoulder.)
C.J. Gates: What the fuck...
(He shakes his head and slowly makes his way down the hall as the scene fades to black.)
(The scene begins to open up outside on the balcony of a hotel room. C.J. Gates' hotel room, to be exact. We see the North Dakota Cowboy leaning against the railing, looking out over the scene below, wearing a pair of jeans and a black T-shirt. He has his hands clasped together and looks quite content before standing up straight and scanning the details below. The scene seems quite peaceful and serene, and Gates nods his head.)
C.J. Gates: Do you hear that?
(Gates closes his eyes and holds up his arms.)
C.J. Gates: That sound. It's what Lester Only bought, what Ryan Ruckus wishes he had, and what you, Sally Talfourd, threw away in the blink of an eye. It's the sound of the fans screaming and cheering, helping to drive their favorites to victory. They cheer because they are excited, because they know what is about to happen, what it is time for. They cheer because they know that the show is about to begin and in due time they will be able to watch C.J. Gates in action.
Unfortunately, it's going to be at your expense, Sally. But that's really your own fault. You could have had them on your side, backing you at every corner, chanting your name en masse. But you decided to give them the old heave ho once things went south that one night. Once you didn't get that one win, you decided to tell them all off...tragic, really.
But let's move on from all of that, because I doubt you're looking to be harped at again, after I already did a good deal of that earlier. And I also assume that you don't need to have your inequalities pointed out, since you are probably well aware of all the bad habits you've picked up in this recent...slide.
Which is what it's been.
You can try and live in the past, and try and hang on to the memory of being the APW Wold champion, but you're only kidding yourself. You're only diluting your own personality by doing so. And you can compare the two of us in our rises to where we are currently, but it doesn't really matter to me. Sure, six months after you debuted you were the champion of this federation, and six months after I debuted, I was fighting in whatever match I could get my hand on. But that's what happens when you aren't gifted a title shot. That's what happens when you don't debut prior to a tournament that awards the winner with a guaranteed title shot.
Now, I'm not saying that there was anything fishy about all of that, because I'm not in the game of hunting down conspiracy theories. I'll leave that to the other hopefuls that want to tear you down a few pegs. What I mean, though, is that I am completely certain that had we debuted at the same time, and both been involved in that tournament, who knows what could have happened. Who knows what possibilities could have come from all of that. But we didn't. So instead, I had to carve my own path in this federation. Sure, I could have been like Pence Weatherlight was toward the end of his time here, and begged each and every person who would listen for a title shot, but that's not my style.
I like to earn the rewards I am given.
I like to be given opportunities because of what I have been capable of doing. And yes, I understand that you did just that when you won Test For The Best. I had to forge on and get my foot in the door. I had to make sure that I was not just going to fade into the sunset like a dozen or so others have since I entered the fray. And I didn't. If anything, I began to rise quickly since those first few weeks. I began to create my star in APW, even if you won't agree to that. But you know what the kicker is, Sally?
At Survive and Conquer I officially came out. I officially tapped into the promise that everyone knew I had, and I began to become noticed. If people didn't hear about C.J. Gates before that night, than they certainly did after that night. And ever since then, I have continued to climb the ladder of success, continued to reach toward the heights, challenging myself at every rung. But you? You did the exact opposite. Ever since Survive and Conquer, you've spiraled out of control. You've tumbled down the hill like Jill and now you're trying to climb back up. I guess you could say that now we have met, going in two different directions.
You could...but I wouldn't.
If you were to ask me, I'd say that you are farther down that you think you are. You are below me at this point in time. I know you don't see it, but it's true, and not only because you've left a sour taste in my mouth ever since to verbally slapped me. No, I say this, because you've become a sort of...cancer to APW. You've become a growth that a lot of people would like to see removed forever. A nuissance that the fans are officially done with.
(Gates smirks and shakes his head.)
C.J. Gates: I'm not trying to go all evil doer on you or anything, I'm just speaking how it is. I'll be honest with you, Sally, there have been a lot of people who keep telling me that you can't be beat. That when it comes to Pay-Per-Views, Sally Talfourd is unbeatable. And while I've seen that from afar, and while I've seen that only Level One seems to beat you, I don't buy what they're selling. Though what makes this an even better story, is that each and every one of those that warned me, also wished me luck.
Funny, right?
Each and every one of them has told me that they are wishing against you, hoping that you get what is coming to you. Each one has tried to give me tips from their time in the ring with you, and each one has given me confidence. The funny part is that these are people you used to call your friends. People that you used to consider your colleagues, your co-workers. All having turned their back on you. Maybe it's as simple as all of them realizing that this is my time, that this is when I rise up to the level of a champion. Or maybe they just hate you with every fiber of their being.
Tough choices, I know. But it's an interesting twist. Because while you sit around and contemplate about how I am nothing, and how I will never amount to anything, you seem to be the only one that thinks that way. You seem to be the only one that believes that. If anything, it's obvious that everyone sees you as nothing, and sees you as never being able to amount to anything again. Do I?
I don't agree that you will never amount to anything again, but I do admit that their perception of you as being nothing is quite right. At least right now. But who knows, you could always rewrite that chapter of your career this week in our match. You could always make them believe that you are more than what they think you are, and that you haven't begun the slide into obscurity that it looks like you have. You could...but I don't think you will. I just don't think it's in the cards.
And here's why.
You don't have that drive, that attitude, that desire to finish. No, no, I'm not making a sexually referenced joke here, Sally, I'm talking about how you're still balking at the idea of bringing up these reasons. You keep speaking about that as if they're some sort of code, as if I should have an idea of what you're talking about. Even though I have said, time after time, that I have no idea why you've chosen to hunt me down, let alone seek revenge on me, you still persist. Which is why I don't think you have it in you to change people's perceptions of you. You don't have it in you to make a clear cut case that you aren't a waste of a roster spot.
Which, if I can be frank, you aren't exactly doing a good job proving with your choice of words. With your hypocrisy. With your affinity to show your teeth and show yourself to be the true bitch of the business.
(Gates now smiles and nods, walk back from the balcony and into the room, closing the door behind him.)
C.J. Gates: Every woman watching this match, watching the build up to our meeting, is shaking there heads right now. They are cursing your name. Because not only have they all been able to, for the most part, break out of this cliche that women have no business in the wrestling ring with men, you're throwing them right back into it. I never mentioned once that you had no business, that you were a female and therefore incapable of doing anything inside of that ring. Never. Because unlike some others, I am a believer that, man or woman, everyone is dangerous every time they step into that ring. Even in our match, I'm still giving you credit, still giving you the benefit of the doubt that you are capable of bringing it when you want to. That even though I beat you in those tag matches, I still expect a hell of a fight.
But now you want to teach me a lesson because I'm getting an easy road in life? Because I have it easy in this business because I'm a man? Bullshit, Sally, and you know it. No one has it easy. Everyone has to work time after time to get ahead in life. You want to complain about how you have to put your body on the line each and every time you step into the ring? So do I. You want to complain about having to risk it all whenever you want a win? So do I. And we could keep going like that forever because nothing will separate the two of us. Even outside of it, it's the same story. People seem to think that because of my rich parents, everything I wanted I was handed. Far from it. I had to work for it each and every time. Just like wrestling. And anything you have to do in that ring, I do as well. Unfortunately, you just want to play the wounded damsel in distress role so that people will take pity on you. You just want to get the easy sympathy vote for having two X chromosomes.
Well, that's not how it works. If anything, it's attitudes like that that give women a bad name and make them feel like they have to work harder. It's people like you who make women out to be some sort of charity case, needing help at every opportunity. But you and I both know that isn't true.
(Gates grabs the back of a chair and takes a deep breath before straightening up.)
C.J. Gates: You were the APW World champion for months. How is that a payoff that doesn't match the struggle? How is winning the top prize in the federation not worth all the risks that you took to get there. Sure, you had to fight men to get there, but it's no different than fighting women. If anything you got it easy because you didn't have to fight women, if you're deducing that all women have to fight tooth and nail to get a win in this business. But if that title wasn't enough, what are you looking for as a payoff? Are you looking for all the men to wait on you hand and foot like servants? Are you looking for a cushy office with an ocean view and wireless internet? I figured as the World champion you could have made your own schedule, made things easier. And I think you actually might have, since your involvement in matches seemed pretty...non existent leading up to both Survive and Conquer and Rasslemania.
But I'm probably just overlooking something. Because I'm a man and my mind isn't as developed as yours is, right? I'm...misremembering because I can't wrap my head around the suffering that female wrestlers are going through.
Though maybe that's just you, because when I was wrestling in the CWC tournament Valerie Belmont didn't seem to share the same sentiments. And back when I was in Wrestling Unplugged, Laura Seton didn't share those same opinions on the matter. So yeah maybe it is just you, Sally. Maybe it is only you who thinks that you are owed something for all your pain and suffering in a business where pain and suffering happen each and every week. In a business where sex can get you a hell of a lot more than being a man can. Right? Flipping the script on you there, but you have to admit, if you were to flash a little leg, bat your eyelashes and thrust your chest forward, I'm sure you'd be able to get your own way.
Which wouldn't work for me. Hell, getting my own way hasn't happened since I got here, Sally. Do you remember back a few months when I was throwing temper tantrums because I wasn't being treated the way I felt my Survive and Conquer finish dictated? Remember that? And what happened in that case? Oh, that's right.
Nothing.
I took a risk, and it didn't pay off in that case. But I take risks each and every time I'm inside of that ring, so I know that there is a margin for failure. And I'm willing to accept that failure, which you seem hesitant or incapable of doing. And the hypocrisy of it all, is that you rant on about how women are being held back, and then boom, in a split second you turn around and start talking about how you're not held back and how you're further along than most of the men. How I should feel glad to be in the ring against you. It just doesn't add up to your earlier feminist movement. But maybe that's just me.
As for your little request?
(Gates shakes his head and walks away from the chair, across the room closer to the door before turning around.)
C.J. Gates: You can forget about that ever happening. I was never going to get on my knees and beg before, and I definitely won't do it after. Because honestly, I won't have to. You can call this my cocky side coming out, but I have a good feeling that even if I am unable to pick up the win that you claim is so coveted, I know that I will still open your eyes. I know that I will still be able to plant the seed in your mind, about how I actually have worth in this world as more than just a nine to five desk jockey. I have no intentions on spending the Overdrive after Mayhem begging for you to lie to the world yet again. To be honest, if you couldn't tell us all yet, I am beginning to think that there is no real reason for you to have even started this little war.
That's all I'm trying to prove. And if along the way, I manage to prove that I am indeed better than you, than so be it. Just another note to add to a great night. Just another memory to add to a great evening of wrestling. But never did I hint at being better than every other Megastar, and I definitely never said I was better than the fans. But that's just more of your rumor spreading attitude, Sally, trying to paint me as the villain so that you can save some sort of face in this match. So that you can come away with your head held high. But it takes more than rumors and lies to do that. It takes hard work, dedication, focus, and determination. Ideally all of those attributes would be put toward the match at hand. Have you been doing that? Focusing on this match that is coming up between us? Nope. Or at least, it doesn't seem like it to me.
You're still viewing this as a cake walk. As a bit of a warm up before you latch yourself back onto Lester Only so that you can try and regain the only thing that made you feel...happy. Is that safe to say? That when you were holding onto that title, you felt you had a purpose. And maybe that is all this match boils down to. You've lost your way and need to find that niche that made you so successful. Doesn't explain why you felt obligated to single me out from the bunch, to put me back in my place when really it should be you that is put back into place.
And you say that I am only entertainment?
(Gates chuckles and shakes his head.)
C.J.Gates: Please, Sally, you and I both know that I am more than just entertainment. That I am more than just a talentless hack. Nobody that is a mere sideshow gets by in this business on that alone. They need to have talent. They need to be an athlete. They need to be able to go out there and put on a great match each and every week they step into that ring. And I do just that. Yes, I pride myself on sending the fans home happy, at giving them something to cheer about, but all of that happens with my moves and my actions in the ring. All of that happens with the high risks I constantly take. But you? You should be considered entertainment for the mere slander you're throwing me way. After all, a lot of people consider the Enquirer to be nothing more than entertainment, and that thing is filled with lies and misrepresentations.
Much like you are feeding my fans. Yeah, they hate you. A lot of people hate you Sally. Yet you still hang on to them. You still talk to them like they will suddenly become you, turn right around and change their outlook on life. You keep mentioning them, as if you're trying to pull them into your way of thinking. They don't care, Sally. They gave up caring when you blamed them. Or have you already forgotten all about that? Have you already put that out of your mind because you regret ever having done it?
Because that's what it looks like to me.
Ant to be honest, they don't care about anything you do or want to do. At this point, I'm sure that the fans only want to see you lose and to see you shut up for good. They want your voice to stop berating them. And I'm not saying that you have to disappear and leave the federation, I just mean you should stop pandering to the fans. Stop forcing them to feel like they are doing something wrong by booing you and making you out to be the bad girl. Because it's not their fault. It's yours.
But enough about that, because it's a topic that is being hammered to death. Let's change gears.
Do you think I'm actually worried about being remembered? Do you think I'm panicked that I am not going to be enshrined as an immortal God because of the way that I act, the way that I carry myself, and the way that I wrestle? No, I'm not Sally. Because I'm not like you. I'm not the sort of person that drives themselves crazy trying to figure out if they will be remembered. I'm not the sort of person that has to be constantly reminded by the fans that they are going to be inducted into the hall of fame. I just go out and do what I do. I put on a good match and make sure they go home happy. That's it. I don't need your congratulations or your acceptance. I don't need you to be satisfied with the way that I wrestle, and I definitely don't need you to accept the way that I perform inside of that ring.
You've done nothing but lie since the moment you set yourself in this mind frame. And who knows? Maybe you've been pulling the strings in your favor since the moment you stepped into APW. After all, you mentioned it yourself, you only came here to follow someone that you absolutely despised. And how are we to know that you weren't invited here? Because that seems like something that you would do. That seems like the sort of levels you would stoop to just to make sure you got what you wanted.
Which, I guess, means that when you actually work on it yourself, you can't do anything. That when it's all left to Sally and Sally only, success is not in the cards. But that is only speculation, and I am willing to admit that. I am willing to admit that it is not the truth, just speculation about how things look to me right now.
Now let's get back to the truth, shall we?
(Gates leans against the unit holding the small television and folds his arms over his chest.)
C.J. Gates: Let's get back to the truth where we all remember that I am a top talent. That I don't quit until he has nothing left to give. That I give it my all each and every time I am in that ring for the fans and for APW as a whole. And really, Sally, that is one thing that you can not take away from me. That is one thing that you can't argue about.
My heart.
Because unlike some of the people who flutter in here, I am APW, I live APW and I bleed APW. There is definitely nothing to dispute there. Since day one, I have done everything not only for myself lik e you, but also for the federation as a whole. I helped rebuild the tag team division to it's successful height, giving it enough recognition to bring in a whole slew of tag teams in the past week. I helped etch APW's name on the map with my involvement in the Ascension tournament.
And this week I will give APW another moment to be proud of. I will make sure that the APW faithful know who truly has their back when I fight you in their honor. Like I've said before, the fans drive us. The fans are the one thing that push us to become better inside and outside of that ring. At least, that's the case for me and I'm sure there are many more that will agree.
It all comes down to this match, this week, at this Pay-Per-View, Sally. The night that I rewrite your legend and show that your ability to win big matches when it matters most was started by men who were upset that they lost to a woman. Something you will never catch me doing. If I am to lose this week, then so be it, I was beaten by the better person.
But I'm not planning to lose.
Not in the slightest. Because I also have a bit of an affinity for winning Pay-Per-View matches, with the only ones I lost happening because of my partner, not me. So, Sally, I'd say that you're in for quite the fight this week, whether you like it or not. I'd even go as far as to say that after this match, you'll realize that I am not just some midcard hopeful trying to dance his way into the spotlight.
You will realize that I belong.
(He smirks slightly and stands up straight off of the unit. He nods slightly before walking back to the sliding glass doors, looking back out at the view spread out below him, as the scene fades to black.)
"And whether you think of that as the event or as the definition of damage and violence, it doesn't matter, because both of them will be in effect. Of course, in some cases, it will be abound more than in others.
"Though the question on the mind of everyone as of late has been whether or not C.J. Gates can pull out the victory over Sally Talfourd. And really, that question can not truly be answered. Of course, I am looking for a win, I am hunting for the victory so that I can showcase my true self, but I also know that the win won't come easy. That to have my arm raised by the referee, I have to bust my ass.
"And I've never backed down from a challenge.
"Which is why I never backed down from Sally Talfourd. Sure, people told me not to waste my time, but I wasn't going to let them dictate the choices of my career. After all, how else do you get better, than to push yourself to the limit. Than to challenge yourself time after time.
"And that is where I find myself this week, with a big task in front of me, because not only am I going one on one with Sally Talfourd, but I am going one on one with her on a Pay-Per-View, and as most people know, Pay-Per-View Sally only has one Achilles heel, only one thing that is considered her kryptonite.
"Level One.
"Now, I am not Level One and I'll go on record saying that I won't be Level One anytime soon. But that isn't stopping me. That isn't making my balk at the idea of possibly leaving Australia with a win. That isn't changing the thought in my head that I have a very good chance at beating Sally Talfourd.
"Much to her dismay.
"Then again, she is living in this world where she is unbeatable. Where she is some sort of immortal goddess that is merely going through the motions. Thinking that she can't be touched, merely satisfying her own needs and urges to wrestle.
"But that's not how this is going to end. Even if I can't pull out a victory, I am definitely going to make sure that Sally, and everyone watching, realizes that this woman can be beat. I am going to make sure that I take down some of her ego with me.
"Though that's a bit of a what if. What if I lose.
"Right now, I'm thinking about the possibility of winning and if she wishes to continue to live in her shell of ignorance, than so be it. It won't be too hard to knock her out of it and bring her back to reality.
"After all, that is what Mayhem does, isn't it? It makes you see things clearly, and for what they really are. It makes you understand that immortality does not exist. It makes you see that everyone has a weakness that extends farther than a single enemy.
"And that includes you, Sally."
(The scene opens up inside of a hotel room where C.J. Gates can be seen pacing between the bed and the glass doors that lead onto the small balcony. The room is smaller than the usual rooms he is seen in, but that fits his Pay-Per-View regiment. Gates is wearing a pair of black pants, a black T-shirt and his cowboy hat rests on the round table that stands between two chairs in the corner. Every time he walks passed the glass doors, he takes a quick look outside, nervously. On his next pass he moves in toward the doors and draws the curtains over it. He lets out a sigh of relief before taking a seat on the end of his bed and running his hands through his hair. As he does, his cell phone begins to ring and he pulls it out of his pocket, looking at the caller ID before answering.)
C.J. Gates: B.J.! How's it going bro?
B.J. Gates: Good, good. Bit of a clerical error at dad's company, so I've been keeping myself busy by helping out there for the past little while.
C.J. Gates: Anything serious?
B.J. Gates: Naw, just some files put in the wrong places. Dad figures it was a temp who just stopped giving a fuck.
C.J. Gates: I guess that's why they call them temps.
B.J. Gates: Very true. Anyways, just thought I'd call and give you a little brother to brother pep talk. Saw your bit earlier and you're really holding nothing back are you?
C.J. Gates: Why would I? I've got to get rid of this thorn in my side one way or another.
(B.J. starts to hum.)
C.J. Gates: What the hell, man?
B.J. Gates: Sorry. When you said "thorn in my side", I got a song stuck in my head. Catchy tune. Anyways, I think the real question is, do you think she'll listen to you?
C.J. Gates: Sally? Oh, I know she won't. That's the sort of person she is. If things don't go her way, she wants nothing to do with them, and I can safely say that I didn't say anything that went her way.
B.J. Gates: You sure about that?
C.J. Gates: Well, I'm not going to give a one hundred percent guarantee, but she hasn't exactly listened to anything I've said yet, so why would she start now?
B.J. Gates: Maybe she's trying to throw you off?
C.J. Gates: Thanks Captain Obvious. I kind of figured that. The thing is, I'm not sure I really care.
B.J. Gates: What do you mean?
C.J. Gates: I mean, it's one of those situations. They don't want to listen and it's all good for them living in their bubble of ignorance, until they get into the ring and I hit them with a dose of reality that makes them realize they've been drinking the wrong Kool Aid.
B.J. Gates: What is this, a cult?
C.J. Gates: You never were the smart one, were you?
B.J. Gates: Once...back in grade one.
C.J. Gates: Back when finger painting was the toughest job. Well, what I mean is that whatever she's decided to follow, it isn't the right path. And usually, if that is the case, it comes in the form of a false leader or something. I mean, I'm not trying to say it's cult...
B.J. Gates: Good, because I think you're reaching on that one, buddy.
C.J. Gates: Well...yeah...I probably am. But still, do you get what I'm trying to say?
B.J. Gates: Kind of. Whatever she's doing, and whoever she's listening to, it's not really working.
C.J. Gates: If you want to dumb it down like that, yeah. And to top it all off, she's already balked at the whole idea of giving away some of my secrets. Or at least the one she said she had.
(B.J. chuckles.)
B.J. Gates: Ooo she's got some dirt on you!
C.J. Gates: Shut up. You know what I mean. She told everyone that she knew something about me and then...poof, nothing. She kept teasing it, but nothing even came out of it.
B.J. Gates: Yeah, I know. I kind of wondered about that.
C.J. Gates: Who knows? Maybe it's a sign that she's realizing her mistakes.
(There's a pause as both end of the phone are silent.)
C.J. Gates: Naw, that can't be it. I mean, I'd love for that to be the reason, that she finally realized that telling whatever it was she was going to tell would have only hurt herself in the long run, but I highly doubt that is the case.
B.J. Gates: Wait, are you saying that you want her to go back to her former self?
(There is a bit of hesitation as C.J. thinks it over.)
C.J. Gates: No, that's not it. Truthfully, if she stayed the way she is right now I wouldn't care. It's more...well, I guess I'd just like for her to realize that I'm not a bum and that I have something to offer, you know?
B.J. Gates: I guess I do.
C.J. Gates: It's one of those things that will always bug me until it's sorted out. After all, how would you feel if someone constantly ripped you down after everything you did. I mean, I won three matches in a row, all in the main event, highlight of the night quality matches, and I still get admonished for it each and every time.
B.J. Gates: Good point. Though I still think you should just not care about what she has to say about all of that and just go do your thing.
C.J. Gates: Easier said than done, B.J. Not like I can just stop caring about someone dragging my name through the mud.
B.J. Gates: I do.
C.J. Gates: Well, that's because there's nothing to really praise or insult about you.
B.J. Gates: Exactly.
(C.J. Gates chuckles.)
B.J. Gates: Hey, wait!
C.J. Gates: Besides, it's not that I'm hurt by it because I have a pretty thick skin for stuff like that. It's more...for once, I wouldn't mind if my opponent would pay attention, do their homework and realize that they aren't in for a cake walk.
B.J. Gates: Well, I could tell them that if you want.
C.J. Gates: Something tells me they won't listen to you if they haven't listened to me. But thanks anyways.
B.J. Gates: I do what I can. After all, what are brothers for?
(C.J. Gates shakes his head.)
C.J. Gates: Oh, hey while I have you, let me ask you a question.
B.J. Gates: Shoot.
C.J. Gates: Has anyone called the house looking for me? Maybe asking you questions about me?
B.J. Gates: Um, no, I don't think so. Or at least, nothing that I've heard about. But you know our family. It sometimes takes awhile for things to circulate.
C.J. Gates: True.
B.J. Gates: Why do you ask?
C.J. Gates: Well, I'm kind of being followed.
B.J. Gates: Oh man, don't tell that one to mom or she'd have a cow.
C.J. Gates: I know. Nothing bad has happened I've just seen this guy. It started happening after an odd interview for what turned out to be a fictitious magazine, a phone call from an unknown individual to Rico and then the front desk clerk at the hotel said someone asked about me.
B.J. Gates: Damn, this is serious, huh?
C.J. Gates: I'm sure it's nothing but you never can be too sure. There are a lot of crazy people in the world these days.
B.J. Gates: Too true. And this is the last thing you need with your big match at Mayhem just around the corner.
C.J. Gates: Tell me about it. Not exactly stoked about any of this really. But the whole mysterious person thing won't be a big deal come match time. I mean, once I get to the arena on Sunday, I'll be one hundred percent focused on Sally. You know that.
B.J. Gates: I know. Just, until then, it's got to be messing with your normal routine.
C.J. Gates: Definitely is. Though I'm hoping that whoever it is realizes that and maybe backs off.
(B.J. laughs.)
B.J. Gates: Good luck with that. They find those type of moments to be more bothersome.
C.J. Gates: Thanks for the support, brother.
B.J. Gates: Well, that's why I called after all. To give you my support. Since we couldn't make it to Australia, figured this was the next best thing.
C.J. Gates: Well, thank you. And please, don't mention the stalker to mom. She'd be torn up.
B.J. Gates: That's an understatement man. She'd swim out to Australia. Or at least, she'd try to.
C.J. Gates: No doubt about that, either. She's one crazy--
B.J. Gates: Hey now, that's still mom that you're talking about.
C.J. Gates: But it's true, isn't it?
B.J. Gates: Yeah, alright, it is. One second.
(There's silence and the sound of muffled speech coming from the other end of the phone before B.J. returns.)
B.J. Gates: Alright, Ceej, I've got to get back to dad's office. Knock 'em dead this weekend, man. Show them all what you're capable of.
C.J. Gates: Oh, I plan to. Take care, Beej.
(Gates hangs up the phone and puts it back in his pocket as the scene fades to black.)
"Maybe B.J. is right.
"Maybe I need to put everything out of my mind to be able to succeed this week. Maybe I need to focus on one thing and one thing only. The match. The feeling that will course through my body the moment I walk out onto that ramp, and the moment I feel the heat of those lights beaming down on me.
"Forget everything that Sally has done and said, forget that she has tried to kill me and tried to defame me. Just picture her as any other opponent that anyone would face. Just another match against another person.
"Maybe.
"Unfortunately, it's not that easy. It's never that easy. The only closure one gets in times like these, is with an actual fight. An actual match. And perhaps, an actual victory to go with it. But we will all have to wait to figure that one out. We will have to wait until the bell rings and our match starts.
"And who knows, maybe my mind will still be racing with all of the things that have happened over the months, all of the accusations thrown my way, and all of the insults hurled at me...but I won't let them get to me when I'm inside of that ring. I refuse to. Because inside of that ring is where the personal vendettas are not welcome. Inside of that ring is when professionalism takes center stage.
"At least in my mind. Though I know not everyone can share my point of view. I know that some people need to let little grudges and petty differences take control. Thing is, Sally, I don't hold grudges. Sure, I might be upset with the way someone speaks about me, but I don't hold a grudge, because grudges cause people to overlook certain aspects, causes them not to think clearly.
"Which could be where you are, and it could explained all your flip-flopping and indecisive ranting.
"That is, if you're looking for a way out."
(The scene opens up in the hotel lobby where C.J. Gates can be seen walking from the elevator to the front door. He seems focused, barely noticing anyone around him. As he gets closer to the doors leading out to the street, he is stopped by a man stepping directly in front of him. Gates stops just in time and takes a step back.)
Man: Mr. Gates?
(Gates finally gets a good look at the man, clad in his fedora, trenchcoat and suit. Almost immediately his eyes go wide.)
C.J. Gates: It's you! You're the one that has been following me.
Man: Yes. My name is Preston Webber.
C.J. Gates: What do you want with me?
(The man pulls out his credentials and shows them to Gates.)
Webber: I'm a private investigator that was hired to look for a specific someone. I was hoping that you would be able to provide some assistance.
C.J. Gates: So that's why you were following me?
Webber: I had to make sure I could trust you, and that you were the right person for the job.
C.J. Gates: Still, you could have said something. I was freaking out thinking I was going to get murdered.
Webber: I'm sorry about that, but if I was found out, I wouldn't be doing my job now would I?
(Webber flashes a smile as Gates shrugs and raises an eyebrow.)
C.J. Gates: So how can I help you?
Webber: Well, I was wondering if you could answer a few questions for me, maybe provide some insight into the whereabouts of this individual.
C.J. Gates: Oh, sure, yeah. Fire away.
Webber: Not here. I have an office space rented out that I would rather use, if that's alright with you.
C.J. Gates: Uh, sure.
(Webber nods and turns around.)
C.J. Gates: By the way, who is the individual?
Webber: I'll tell you when we get there.
(Webber leads Gates out the doors as the scene fades to black.)
"If history is any indication, than this match is anyone's for the taking.
"November twenty-fifth. The hundredth episode of Overdrive. That was the first look everyone had at you and I in the ring, Sally. It came in the form of a tag team match, with Blade and myself picking up the victory over you and Branden Harvey. I'm sure that's not exactly something you enjoy remembering, but back then, you were in lighter spirits, and you even gave Blade and I credit for the job we did at pulling at the victory.
"December second, the very next week, was when you and I first went toe to toe inside of that ring, one on one. And if my memory serves me right, we shook hands before and after the match. We made that match out to be a battle of respect, between two individuals who could honestly look at one another and say that they respected what they did. Though, in some ways, it feels like it was long before December that it happened.
"December ninth we teamed up to take on four others in what turned out to be a no contest. At Survive and Conquer in January, you and I once again teamed up to help each other in the match. We worked as a team up until the final stages when I let you leave the cage first so you could win. I let you leave and made sure you got out safe so you could be fresh for the final three.
"What a mistake that turned out to be.
"Fast forward to February twenty fourth when we once again teamed up in a match that you claimed I cost you. In a match that you assumed I purposely lost just to hurt you. Which wasn't the case, Sally, as I'm sure you have pieced together yourself. I wouldn't sabotage a match just to get back at someone.
"Our March tenth handicapped match didn't go as planned, that's for sure. Even with Lester Only as the ref we weren't able to beat you, though I attribute that more to my partner than to myself, and am sure that had it been one on one, things would have been different then. But we'll never know, now will we.
"And of course, how could I forget about two of the past three weeks, where you and I stood on opposite sides of the ring. And much like the first time we fought one another, I came out on the winning side on both of those occasions. And really, when you look at those three tag team matches that I have won over you, what is the constant again? What is the one thing being maintained in each one?
"C.J. Gates.
"Though at least this means there is one thing we should be able to agree on. We can agree that there is no love lost between the two of us. And really, given the past matches between us, no one could say that either one of us has the advantage at Mayhem. Sure, they could give the edge to you because of what you have been able to do, but I think that would be jumping the gun a bit on their part.
"I think that would be a gross underestimation of what I am able to bring to the table, don't you? And I only pose that question because you should know what my in ring talent is like. You SHOULD know that I actually am capable of winning a match when I want to.
"Just like the past tells us.
"I've been successful, and I have also had my down moments. But really, Sally, which person hasn't? Which wrestler can safely say that they went through their entire careers without facing one moment that they didn't enjoy, that they felt down on? Even Lester can agree that his losses to you were his own down moments.
"And who knows. Maybe I'll be able to give you your own down moment. After all, you never know where the chips will fall in this match at Mayhem. The next chapter in our tale.
"And I'm sure that it won't disappoint."
(The scene opens up outside of a set of large, wooden double doors where Preston Webber can be seen wearing his grey suit, his fedora and trench coat elsewhere at the moment. Beside him is another man, wearing a slick, black suit with a red tie adding a pop of color. In his hand he is holding a manila folder. Webber makes a move to open the door, but the second man grabs his arm.)
Man: So he knows why he's here, right?
Webber: He thinks he's here to help us with the investigation by answering a few questions for us.
Man: Alright. I just wanted to know before we went in there.
(Webber nods before opening the door into a large conference room. Save for the large table in the middle of the room and the dozen or so chairs that surround it, the room is empty. Sitting in one of the chairs is C.J. Gates, looking impatient at first, but as the door opens, his look seems to change to one of anxious anticipation.)
Webber: Hello again, Mr. Gates. This is my associate, Stefan Brooks.
(Webber prods Brooks with an elbow, prompting him to show his credentials, much like Webber did earlier. Gates nods his head and the two men take seats opposite him.)
C.J. Gates: This won't take long will it? I've got some important stuff to attend to before this weekend is up. Not saying this isn't important, just that I've got prior engagements and everything.
(Brooks and Webber exchange a look, each sporting a slight smirk.)
Webber: Well, as long as things roll on smoothly, we shouldn't be too long. But, that all depends, you know?
C.J. Gates: Of course. Anything I can do to help, I'd be more than happy to.
Brooks: Glad to here that.
(Brooks opens the file and props it against the edge of the table.)
Webber: What Stefan and I do, is we provide our services to interested parties that, for the most part, and trying their best to hunt down missing people. And three months ago, we were contacted by one particular group that were trying to find someone.
C.J. Gates: Do I know the individual that you are looking for?
Brooks: We're getting to that. It took us a little while to follow up some leads, but the more we hunted and the more we found out, the more your name kept popping up.
Webber: So naturally, we wanted to follow that up as well. But I must say, Mr. Gates, you weren't easy to track down.
C.J. Gates: Well, I'm always on the move with my job.
Brooks: But even when you were back around the area of your office, we always seemed to miss you. Of course, it didn't help that you don't have an assistant.
C.J. Gates: Yeah, figured one wouldn't be worth it. Any important calls go to my cell phone.
Webber: As we expected. Now, I'm sure you understand why I was tailing you. Without a number to reach you at, we needed to make sure you were going to be able to help us.
C.J. Gates: I guess that makes sense.
Brooks: Of course it makes sense.
(Brooks shakes his head while Webber only chuckles.)
C.J. Gates: So, who is it?
Brooks: No need to rush us, we'll get there, don't worry.
(Gates nods apologetically.)
Webber: First off, we were wondering about your whereabouts on the evening of January thirtieth of this year.
C.J. Gates: January thirtieth?
Brooks: You heard the man.
C.J. Gates: I was having the night of my life. The APW was in Las Vegas for the Survive and Conquer Pay-Per-View. I was around until the bitter end of that event, being one of the final ones left standing in the match. After I had caught my breath and had some patch work done, it was late into the night.
Brooks: Can anyone vouch for that?
C.J. Gates: Tons of people can. My boss could, a few of my fellow workers could. I bet a few of the tens of thousands of fans cheering me on could vouch for that.
(Brooks scribbles something down on a piece of paper.)
Webber: And you have any numbers of those that can vouch for you?
C.J. Gates: Of course I do.
(Gates pulls out his phone and looks through his contacts until he finds the numbers and writes them down on the piece of paper that Webber has slid in front of him.)
Webber: Thank you. I hope you understand that we will have to follow this up. For completion's sake.
C.J. Gates: I'll let them know that they are supposed to be expecting a call. Why is that night so important?
Webber: That was the last night that he was seen by eye witnesses. Now, from what we understand, you are a close friend of the man in question...
(On cue, Brooks pulls out a photo from the folder and places it on the desk, sliding it across the table.)
Webber: Vincent James.
(The photo shows the smiling face of a bald headed giant, wearing a peaceful look on his face as he is seen standing beside an attractive brunette.)
C.J. Gates: Shit, you guys are looking for Vinnie? Of course he and I were close, we grew up together.
Brooks: So then you would know all about him.
C.J. Gates: Of course. There wasn't much he and I didn't share. He kind of got a bit quieter once he met his wife and had a child, but I just assumed that was part of a new chapter of life.
(Webber continues as if Gates hadn't even spoken.)
Webber: When was the last time you spoke to Mr. James?
C.J. Gates: Months ago. Late December, early January. He had mentioned that he was moving, and didn't have much time to talk.
Webber: And that's the last time?
C.J. Gates: Yes.
Brooks: You're sure?
C.J. Gates: Of course I'm sure.
Brooks: So then how would that explain these calls?
(Brooks now pulls out a copy of cell phone records, that shows the calls Gates had made. A select few are highlighted.)
C.J. Gates: Well, yeah, I tried to call him because I hadn't heard from him, but I never got through. Just kept ringing and ringing.
Webber: It never went to voice mail?
C.J. Gates: Nope. Though to be fair, he rarely used that. Then again, he rarely left his phone unanswered so I don't know how much help that will be.
Webber: You say he was acting weird?
C.J. Gates: Yep. Kind of like he was being forced to pick up the pace or something. Like someone was forcing him. I just assumed that was his wife. He's really missing?
Webber: According to his family.
C.J. Gates: His parents?
Webber: His wife. Says she hasn't seen or heard from him since January, and noted that you were one of the last people to talk to him. To you remember what he had to say?
C.J. Gates: I have no clue, it was so long ago. He probably wished me luck in my match, maybe told me to send my love to my family...
Webber: Your family?
C.J. Gates: I said we grew up together. My parents were kind of like his substitute parents or something, the ones he answered to when he wasn't at home.
Webber: Sure, of course.
Brooks: I'm not buying it.
C.J. Gates: Excuse me?
(Brooks slides the folder onto the table top and slides his chair back. At this moment, Webber gets up from the table and walks into the far corner, pulling out a cell phone. )
Brooks: I don't buy it. I think he had something to do with it.
C.J. Gates: I swear, I didn't. Honestly.
Brooks: So you were the last one to talk to him, you know everything about him, and then the man goes missing. And you want us to believe that it's not you or any parties your involved with.
C.J. Gates: I swear that I had nothing to do with it. I'd even take a polygraph about it. He's like a brother to me, I would never do anything to hurt him or his family in any way.
Webber: His alibi for that night checks out.
(Brooks shakes his head and takes his seat again, while Webber stands behind his chair.)
C.J. Gates: I thought I was just being brought in to help answer some questions. It's feeling an awful lot like I'm a suspect.
Brooks: You're damn right...
(Webber places a hand on Brooks' shoulder.)
Webber: Everyone's a suspect. We have to follow up on every lead and every possible avenue if we want to make sure our job is done thoroughly.
(Gates nods his head.)
C.J. Gates: Are we done here? I kind of have places to be.
(Brooks and Webber exchange a look and Webber nods.)
Webber: I guess we are. We might have more questions but we'll call you with them if you'll leave your number.
C.J. Gates: Of course. Anything to help find Vinnie.
Webber: Thank you for your understanding.
(Gates rises from his chair, takes one last look at the photo staring up at him from the table, and shakes his head. He walks toward the doors where Webber meets him, leaving Brooks to stew in his seat. Gates opens the door, exits and turns back around.)
C.J. Gates: It's so unlike him, though. He's usually always around, always happy and energetic.
Webber: Maybe he's having second thoughts about his marriage and just took off.
C.J. Gates: Maybe, but that still seems unlike him. Seems like he just vanished. Quite the mystery.
Webber: On the same page as a pair of unknown initials, wouldn't you say?
(Gates is stunned as Webber smiles wide before closing the door. Gates moves forward and grabs the handle to open it to no avail. He knocks on the door but there is no answer. After a few moments he turns and walks away, pausing briefly to look back over his shoulder.)
C.J. Gates: What the fuck...
(He shakes his head and slowly makes his way down the hall as the scene fades to black.)
------------------------------
(The scene begins to open up outside on the balcony of a hotel room. C.J. Gates' hotel room, to be exact. We see the North Dakota Cowboy leaning against the railing, looking out over the scene below, wearing a pair of jeans and a black T-shirt. He has his hands clasped together and looks quite content before standing up straight and scanning the details below. The scene seems quite peaceful and serene, and Gates nods his head.)
C.J. Gates: Do you hear that?
(Gates closes his eyes and holds up his arms.)
C.J. Gates: That sound. It's what Lester Only bought, what Ryan Ruckus wishes he had, and what you, Sally Talfourd, threw away in the blink of an eye. It's the sound of the fans screaming and cheering, helping to drive their favorites to victory. They cheer because they are excited, because they know what is about to happen, what it is time for. They cheer because they know that the show is about to begin and in due time they will be able to watch C.J. Gates in action.
Unfortunately, it's going to be at your expense, Sally. But that's really your own fault. You could have had them on your side, backing you at every corner, chanting your name en masse. But you decided to give them the old heave ho once things went south that one night. Once you didn't get that one win, you decided to tell them all off...tragic, really.
But let's move on from all of that, because I doubt you're looking to be harped at again, after I already did a good deal of that earlier. And I also assume that you don't need to have your inequalities pointed out, since you are probably well aware of all the bad habits you've picked up in this recent...slide.
Which is what it's been.
You can try and live in the past, and try and hang on to the memory of being the APW Wold champion, but you're only kidding yourself. You're only diluting your own personality by doing so. And you can compare the two of us in our rises to where we are currently, but it doesn't really matter to me. Sure, six months after you debuted you were the champion of this federation, and six months after I debuted, I was fighting in whatever match I could get my hand on. But that's what happens when you aren't gifted a title shot. That's what happens when you don't debut prior to a tournament that awards the winner with a guaranteed title shot.
Now, I'm not saying that there was anything fishy about all of that, because I'm not in the game of hunting down conspiracy theories. I'll leave that to the other hopefuls that want to tear you down a few pegs. What I mean, though, is that I am completely certain that had we debuted at the same time, and both been involved in that tournament, who knows what could have happened. Who knows what possibilities could have come from all of that. But we didn't. So instead, I had to carve my own path in this federation. Sure, I could have been like Pence Weatherlight was toward the end of his time here, and begged each and every person who would listen for a title shot, but that's not my style.
I like to earn the rewards I am given.
I like to be given opportunities because of what I have been capable of doing. And yes, I understand that you did just that when you won Test For The Best. I had to forge on and get my foot in the door. I had to make sure that I was not just going to fade into the sunset like a dozen or so others have since I entered the fray. And I didn't. If anything, I began to rise quickly since those first few weeks. I began to create my star in APW, even if you won't agree to that. But you know what the kicker is, Sally?
At Survive and Conquer I officially came out. I officially tapped into the promise that everyone knew I had, and I began to become noticed. If people didn't hear about C.J. Gates before that night, than they certainly did after that night. And ever since then, I have continued to climb the ladder of success, continued to reach toward the heights, challenging myself at every rung. But you? You did the exact opposite. Ever since Survive and Conquer, you've spiraled out of control. You've tumbled down the hill like Jill and now you're trying to climb back up. I guess you could say that now we have met, going in two different directions.
You could...but I wouldn't.
If you were to ask me, I'd say that you are farther down that you think you are. You are below me at this point in time. I know you don't see it, but it's true, and not only because you've left a sour taste in my mouth ever since to verbally slapped me. No, I say this, because you've become a sort of...cancer to APW. You've become a growth that a lot of people would like to see removed forever. A nuissance that the fans are officially done with.
(Gates smirks and shakes his head.)
C.J. Gates: I'm not trying to go all evil doer on you or anything, I'm just speaking how it is. I'll be honest with you, Sally, there have been a lot of people who keep telling me that you can't be beat. That when it comes to Pay-Per-Views, Sally Talfourd is unbeatable. And while I've seen that from afar, and while I've seen that only Level One seems to beat you, I don't buy what they're selling. Though what makes this an even better story, is that each and every one of those that warned me, also wished me luck.
Funny, right?
Each and every one of them has told me that they are wishing against you, hoping that you get what is coming to you. Each one has tried to give me tips from their time in the ring with you, and each one has given me confidence. The funny part is that these are people you used to call your friends. People that you used to consider your colleagues, your co-workers. All having turned their back on you. Maybe it's as simple as all of them realizing that this is my time, that this is when I rise up to the level of a champion. Or maybe they just hate you with every fiber of their being.
Tough choices, I know. But it's an interesting twist. Because while you sit around and contemplate about how I am nothing, and how I will never amount to anything, you seem to be the only one that thinks that way. You seem to be the only one that believes that. If anything, it's obvious that everyone sees you as nothing, and sees you as never being able to amount to anything again. Do I?
I don't agree that you will never amount to anything again, but I do admit that their perception of you as being nothing is quite right. At least right now. But who knows, you could always rewrite that chapter of your career this week in our match. You could always make them believe that you are more than what they think you are, and that you haven't begun the slide into obscurity that it looks like you have. You could...but I don't think you will. I just don't think it's in the cards.
And here's why.
You don't have that drive, that attitude, that desire to finish. No, no, I'm not making a sexually referenced joke here, Sally, I'm talking about how you're still balking at the idea of bringing up these reasons. You keep speaking about that as if they're some sort of code, as if I should have an idea of what you're talking about. Even though I have said, time after time, that I have no idea why you've chosen to hunt me down, let alone seek revenge on me, you still persist. Which is why I don't think you have it in you to change people's perceptions of you. You don't have it in you to make a clear cut case that you aren't a waste of a roster spot.
Which, if I can be frank, you aren't exactly doing a good job proving with your choice of words. With your hypocrisy. With your affinity to show your teeth and show yourself to be the true bitch of the business.
(Gates now smiles and nods, walk back from the balcony and into the room, closing the door behind him.)
C.J. Gates: Every woman watching this match, watching the build up to our meeting, is shaking there heads right now. They are cursing your name. Because not only have they all been able to, for the most part, break out of this cliche that women have no business in the wrestling ring with men, you're throwing them right back into it. I never mentioned once that you had no business, that you were a female and therefore incapable of doing anything inside of that ring. Never. Because unlike some others, I am a believer that, man or woman, everyone is dangerous every time they step into that ring. Even in our match, I'm still giving you credit, still giving you the benefit of the doubt that you are capable of bringing it when you want to. That even though I beat you in those tag matches, I still expect a hell of a fight.
But now you want to teach me a lesson because I'm getting an easy road in life? Because I have it easy in this business because I'm a man? Bullshit, Sally, and you know it. No one has it easy. Everyone has to work time after time to get ahead in life. You want to complain about how you have to put your body on the line each and every time you step into the ring? So do I. You want to complain about having to risk it all whenever you want a win? So do I. And we could keep going like that forever because nothing will separate the two of us. Even outside of it, it's the same story. People seem to think that because of my rich parents, everything I wanted I was handed. Far from it. I had to work for it each and every time. Just like wrestling. And anything you have to do in that ring, I do as well. Unfortunately, you just want to play the wounded damsel in distress role so that people will take pity on you. You just want to get the easy sympathy vote for having two X chromosomes.
Well, that's not how it works. If anything, it's attitudes like that that give women a bad name and make them feel like they have to work harder. It's people like you who make women out to be some sort of charity case, needing help at every opportunity. But you and I both know that isn't true.
(Gates grabs the back of a chair and takes a deep breath before straightening up.)
C.J. Gates: You were the APW World champion for months. How is that a payoff that doesn't match the struggle? How is winning the top prize in the federation not worth all the risks that you took to get there. Sure, you had to fight men to get there, but it's no different than fighting women. If anything you got it easy because you didn't have to fight women, if you're deducing that all women have to fight tooth and nail to get a win in this business. But if that title wasn't enough, what are you looking for as a payoff? Are you looking for all the men to wait on you hand and foot like servants? Are you looking for a cushy office with an ocean view and wireless internet? I figured as the World champion you could have made your own schedule, made things easier. And I think you actually might have, since your involvement in matches seemed pretty...non existent leading up to both Survive and Conquer and Rasslemania.
But I'm probably just overlooking something. Because I'm a man and my mind isn't as developed as yours is, right? I'm...misremembering because I can't wrap my head around the suffering that female wrestlers are going through.
Though maybe that's just you, because when I was wrestling in the CWC tournament Valerie Belmont didn't seem to share the same sentiments. And back when I was in Wrestling Unplugged, Laura Seton didn't share those same opinions on the matter. So yeah maybe it is just you, Sally. Maybe it is only you who thinks that you are owed something for all your pain and suffering in a business where pain and suffering happen each and every week. In a business where sex can get you a hell of a lot more than being a man can. Right? Flipping the script on you there, but you have to admit, if you were to flash a little leg, bat your eyelashes and thrust your chest forward, I'm sure you'd be able to get your own way.
Which wouldn't work for me. Hell, getting my own way hasn't happened since I got here, Sally. Do you remember back a few months when I was throwing temper tantrums because I wasn't being treated the way I felt my Survive and Conquer finish dictated? Remember that? And what happened in that case? Oh, that's right.
Nothing.
I took a risk, and it didn't pay off in that case. But I take risks each and every time I'm inside of that ring, so I know that there is a margin for failure. And I'm willing to accept that failure, which you seem hesitant or incapable of doing. And the hypocrisy of it all, is that you rant on about how women are being held back, and then boom, in a split second you turn around and start talking about how you're not held back and how you're further along than most of the men. How I should feel glad to be in the ring against you. It just doesn't add up to your earlier feminist movement. But maybe that's just me.
As for your little request?
(Gates shakes his head and walks away from the chair, across the room closer to the door before turning around.)
C.J. Gates: You can forget about that ever happening. I was never going to get on my knees and beg before, and I definitely won't do it after. Because honestly, I won't have to. You can call this my cocky side coming out, but I have a good feeling that even if I am unable to pick up the win that you claim is so coveted, I know that I will still open your eyes. I know that I will still be able to plant the seed in your mind, about how I actually have worth in this world as more than just a nine to five desk jockey. I have no intentions on spending the Overdrive after Mayhem begging for you to lie to the world yet again. To be honest, if you couldn't tell us all yet, I am beginning to think that there is no real reason for you to have even started this little war.
That's all I'm trying to prove. And if along the way, I manage to prove that I am indeed better than you, than so be it. Just another note to add to a great night. Just another memory to add to a great evening of wrestling. But never did I hint at being better than every other Megastar, and I definitely never said I was better than the fans. But that's just more of your rumor spreading attitude, Sally, trying to paint me as the villain so that you can save some sort of face in this match. So that you can come away with your head held high. But it takes more than rumors and lies to do that. It takes hard work, dedication, focus, and determination. Ideally all of those attributes would be put toward the match at hand. Have you been doing that? Focusing on this match that is coming up between us? Nope. Or at least, it doesn't seem like it to me.
You're still viewing this as a cake walk. As a bit of a warm up before you latch yourself back onto Lester Only so that you can try and regain the only thing that made you feel...happy. Is that safe to say? That when you were holding onto that title, you felt you had a purpose. And maybe that is all this match boils down to. You've lost your way and need to find that niche that made you so successful. Doesn't explain why you felt obligated to single me out from the bunch, to put me back in my place when really it should be you that is put back into place.
And you say that I am only entertainment?
(Gates chuckles and shakes his head.)
C.J.Gates: Please, Sally, you and I both know that I am more than just entertainment. That I am more than just a talentless hack. Nobody that is a mere sideshow gets by in this business on that alone. They need to have talent. They need to be an athlete. They need to be able to go out there and put on a great match each and every week they step into that ring. And I do just that. Yes, I pride myself on sending the fans home happy, at giving them something to cheer about, but all of that happens with my moves and my actions in the ring. All of that happens with the high risks I constantly take. But you? You should be considered entertainment for the mere slander you're throwing me way. After all, a lot of people consider the Enquirer to be nothing more than entertainment, and that thing is filled with lies and misrepresentations.
Much like you are feeding my fans. Yeah, they hate you. A lot of people hate you Sally. Yet you still hang on to them. You still talk to them like they will suddenly become you, turn right around and change their outlook on life. You keep mentioning them, as if you're trying to pull them into your way of thinking. They don't care, Sally. They gave up caring when you blamed them. Or have you already forgotten all about that? Have you already put that out of your mind because you regret ever having done it?
Because that's what it looks like to me.
Ant to be honest, they don't care about anything you do or want to do. At this point, I'm sure that the fans only want to see you lose and to see you shut up for good. They want your voice to stop berating them. And I'm not saying that you have to disappear and leave the federation, I just mean you should stop pandering to the fans. Stop forcing them to feel like they are doing something wrong by booing you and making you out to be the bad girl. Because it's not their fault. It's yours.
But enough about that, because it's a topic that is being hammered to death. Let's change gears.
Do you think I'm actually worried about being remembered? Do you think I'm panicked that I am not going to be enshrined as an immortal God because of the way that I act, the way that I carry myself, and the way that I wrestle? No, I'm not Sally. Because I'm not like you. I'm not the sort of person that drives themselves crazy trying to figure out if they will be remembered. I'm not the sort of person that has to be constantly reminded by the fans that they are going to be inducted into the hall of fame. I just go out and do what I do. I put on a good match and make sure they go home happy. That's it. I don't need your congratulations or your acceptance. I don't need you to be satisfied with the way that I wrestle, and I definitely don't need you to accept the way that I perform inside of that ring.
You've done nothing but lie since the moment you set yourself in this mind frame. And who knows? Maybe you've been pulling the strings in your favor since the moment you stepped into APW. After all, you mentioned it yourself, you only came here to follow someone that you absolutely despised. And how are we to know that you weren't invited here? Because that seems like something that you would do. That seems like the sort of levels you would stoop to just to make sure you got what you wanted.
Which, I guess, means that when you actually work on it yourself, you can't do anything. That when it's all left to Sally and Sally only, success is not in the cards. But that is only speculation, and I am willing to admit that. I am willing to admit that it is not the truth, just speculation about how things look to me right now.
Now let's get back to the truth, shall we?
(Gates leans against the unit holding the small television and folds his arms over his chest.)
C.J. Gates: Let's get back to the truth where we all remember that I am a top talent. That I don't quit until he has nothing left to give. That I give it my all each and every time I am in that ring for the fans and for APW as a whole. And really, Sally, that is one thing that you can not take away from me. That is one thing that you can't argue about.
My heart.
Because unlike some of the people who flutter in here, I am APW, I live APW and I bleed APW. There is definitely nothing to dispute there. Since day one, I have done everything not only for myself lik e you, but also for the federation as a whole. I helped rebuild the tag team division to it's successful height, giving it enough recognition to bring in a whole slew of tag teams in the past week. I helped etch APW's name on the map with my involvement in the Ascension tournament.
And this week I will give APW another moment to be proud of. I will make sure that the APW faithful know who truly has their back when I fight you in their honor. Like I've said before, the fans drive us. The fans are the one thing that push us to become better inside and outside of that ring. At least, that's the case for me and I'm sure there are many more that will agree.
It all comes down to this match, this week, at this Pay-Per-View, Sally. The night that I rewrite your legend and show that your ability to win big matches when it matters most was started by men who were upset that they lost to a woman. Something you will never catch me doing. If I am to lose this week, then so be it, I was beaten by the better person.
But I'm not planning to lose.
Not in the slightest. Because I also have a bit of an affinity for winning Pay-Per-View matches, with the only ones I lost happening because of my partner, not me. So, Sally, I'd say that you're in for quite the fight this week, whether you like it or not. I'd even go as far as to say that after this match, you'll realize that I am not just some midcard hopeful trying to dance his way into the spotlight.
You will realize that I belong.
(He smirks slightly and stands up straight off of the unit. He nods slightly before walking back to the sliding glass doors, looking back out at the view spread out below him, as the scene fades to black.)
