Post by Gerard Angelo on Jan 30, 2022 11:15:36 GMT -5
His arms fucking burned as they curled the dumbbells up again, face distorted with strain as he tried to keep form.
“Another one! Don’t quit!”
Gerard fought through as his biceps burned and veins bulged, sweat dripping down his face, soaking his tank top.
“That all you got? You’re an embarrassment! How are you going to be a champion?!”
Gerard fought the urge to chuck one of the weights at Liam’s face as he curled, his breath being forced through pursed lips.
“C’mon. One more!”
Gerard closes his eyes and forces his arms back up, shaking a little as he completes his last rep. He brings his arms down, dropping the weights on the matted floor. Dull thuds echo as Gerry takes a lap. Liam smirks at him from the weight bench.
“We’re making great progress here, Gerard.” Liam stands up, leaning down to pick up the weights, “You might have the body of an Avenger, but we can always improve.
“Yeah, of course,” Gerard says as he waits for his heart rate to slow, reflecting on the thought of improvement. There was always something to improve. Physical fitness, mental toughness, the list was endless.
Gerard wanted to improve the United States title by bringing it into the spotlight that showed so brightly on him. There was something else he wanted to improve, but that currently wasn’t an option. So he decided to throw everything into training for his biggest match so far. Liam had been kind enough to come out for the day to help him get prepared.
“Gerry? You good?” Liam asked, raising an eyebrow. Gerard snapped from his thoughts and immediately flashed a smirk.
“Yeah, sorry,” Gerry said, “I was silently praying that I would regain the use of my arms before Sunday.”
Liam laughs.
“You need to be in tip-top shape for Sunday. What’s going to happen if you need to lift that guy, or you need to climb out of the cage? Gotta make sure you're strong enough to pull your ass out of anything.”
Gerard nods, stretching before feeling a twinge in his back. He makes a face, pressing his knuckles into it. Liam notices.
“You alright?”
Gerard nods.
“I just have to poop.”
Liam rolls his eyes.
“Go then.”
Gerard turns, heading to the bathroom. He yanks open the door, closing it behind him. He carefully, quietly, clicks the lock on the door and turns, leaning on the sink. He ran a hand underneath it, searching for something. He finds the baggy and slowly peels the tape off, lifting his hand, looking. Three round pills sit in the bag. Gerry opens it, pinching one out with fingers, tossing the bag down on the sink. He reaches into his pocket, pulling out two dollar bills. Sets one down before folding the other length-wise, dropping the pill into the fold, before laying it down on the sink. Gerry presses both hands down, crushing it. He retrieves the other bill, carefully rolling it up. Gerard picks up the other bill, snorting up the painkiller.
Hastily stuffing the dollars back into his pocket, he then carefully retapes the pill baggy under the sink. Gerard flushes the toilet, turning on the sink when his phone goes off. Reaching into his pocket he sees that it’s his brother. Gerry hits accept bringing the phone to his ear.
“I’m in the middle of training.”
“Dad called me.”
Gerard pauses.
“What did he want?”
“He wanted to know if we could come up to the house. Said he had to tell us something urgent.”
“You go, text me what it is,” Gerard says, sniffing.
“He wants us both.”
“He can send a text.”
“Gerry,” Sean groans, “Just come with me.”
“Sean.”
“Please.”
Gerard sighs.
“Fine. We’ll go, get the info, then leave.”
“Deal.”
Gerard hangs up, unlocking the door. He walks back towards the training area where Liam is setting up a bench press with plates.
“I’m gonna have to cut it short today. My brother just called, it’s urgent family stuff.”
“No worries. Just going harder on Tuesday then.”
“Deal,” Gerard says as they clasp hands. Liam squints at Gerard.
“You got something on your nose.”
Gerard rubs it with the back of a hand.
“Probably a booger.”
====================
I told you so.
I told you that I would win the Trials. I told you no matter who was put in my path, I would emerge victoriously. Kidsgrove couldn’t beat me. I put Balfore down. I showed Lissie I'm the vastly superior competitor.
‘You only won because of Adler!’
My victory was inevitable. I took my opportunity. I’m good at that.
I had nothing to do with Adler.
Just in the right place at the right time. I was smart enough to take advantage.
That’s what you need to be to reach the top of this goddamned business. I’ve proved that already in my short time here. First big show and I’m wrestling for the United States title. I’m manifesting my destiny here that will be fulfilled at Revolution.
This brings me to the current US champion, CJ Phoenix. I need to thank you, CJ. Without you making the tournament, I would’ve never been able to give myself this opportunity.
But you’re playing with fire. I’m not Gunn, I’m focused on this opportunity. I'm walking into the cage at Revolution and leaving with the US championship. I’m the most dangerous man you’re ever going to face. I knocked off former world champions. Survived grueling matches. All to go to the nation's capital and win the championship.
=================
Gerard and Sean are in a limo cruising down the freeway. Sean is fidgeting and nervous while Gerard is drinking most likely his fifth glass of scotch. Sean keeps looking at his brother, drumming on his legs.
“So what do you think Dad wants?”
“Can we not talk about Dad? I already have to go be in his presence.”
“I still don’t understand why you hate him so much.”
Gerard takes another sip from his glass. He could explain everything to him, but even then it wouldn't be enough. Sean was blinded by love and admiration for their father, anything Gerard said would just fall on deaf ears. Gerry decides to just change the subject.
“Chiefs or Bengals this weekend?”
Sean rolls his eyes but just lets his brother off the hook.
“Bengals.”
Gerry nods and drains the glass of scotch. Sean fidgets again not wanting to sit in silence.
“You ready for the cage match?”
“As ready as I’ll ever be,” Gerard says as he pours another scotch from the bar, “You’re never really ready for a match like that.”
Gerard sips his drink.
“A thousand pounds of steel locking you in the ring with another person who wants to beat you senseless. Grueling. Not to mention going through a hardcore match and last man standing in consecutive weeks. My body is battered but I must endure.”
“Alright, alright,” Sean rolls his eyes again, “You don’t have to cut a promo on me.”
Gerard snorts.
“Force of habit.”
“You remember your last cage match?”
“I do,” he says, “It was for a title as well. Against Kyle Shane, one of the greatest competitors I’ve ever faced. I walked out a champion.”
“What about this Pheonix guy you’re facing?”
“He’s talented, confident, and in way over his head. Overconfident in creating the tournament. I’m sure watching the whole thing was great. Like chumming the waters and going down in a cage to watch sharks eat. Now there’s an apex predator in your cage with you. He’s going to give me everything he’s got. It won’t be enough. Hopefully, he takes the loss constructively and gets better, because he’s oozing with potential.”
===================
It’s nothing personal, CJ.
You’re holding something I need.
I realized what my destiny is. I don’t just want to become a champion, I need to become a champion. The United States is so split that it’s nearly civil war. As Lincoln once said, “A house divided cannot stand.” I’m here to save the country. The American people need a champion that they know. A man who embodies the American dream. A real star that can unite us once again.
That man is me. Gerard Angelo is a name known the world over. When the world sees me as the US champ, a shining beacon of hope, then Americans can start to heal. This is bigger than us. A higher calling. Something that generations of future Americans will look back to and say, ‘That’s when the world changed for the better’.
Not that you’re not talented. I’m just better than you. I’m the absolute best this business has to offer. I’m on a goddamn roll right now. I’m going to complete the greatest debut month in the history of this company at Revolution.
It’s a fitting event name. I am the revolutionary superstar. I am here to change this company for the better. For everyone. You losing the United States championship to me isn’t a bad thing. It's necessary to bring Action Wrestling to the forefront of this industry. To become the undisputed leader in sports and entertainment.
A rising tide raises all ships. Like I told Lissie last week, you getting in the ring with me will be a boon for your career. A talented star going against the biggest star in all of entertainment. Even though you'll lose, being in the ring with me will be nothing but a benefit for you, kid. Hell, you can tell those kids under your wing that you lost your title to Gerard Angelo. That one day they could be a launching point for a revolution. Now, that's hope.
==================
The limo pulls up to the entrance of a sprawling estate. The limo comes to a stop, the doors popping open as the Angelo brothers get out. The front doors of the mansion swing open. The brothers are greeted by a near seven-foot-tall man dressed in a suit, tie, and vest. He eyes them over.
“Ah, Master Sean, Master Gerard,” he says in a posh British accent, “Good of you to make it.”
He moves his huge frame out of the door for them. Sean goes in first.
“How are you, Charles?” He asks walking by, Gerard walks past looking up at him.
“How’s it hanging, Lurch?”
“I see you still possess the same humour, Master Gerard.”
Gerard just scoffs as Charles closes the door behind them.
“Your father is in the lounge area. You remember the way. I need to prepare refreshments.”
Charles gracefully turns on his heel and walks off. The two Angelo boys walk through their old home, their memories flaring up, though both had different experiences. They reach the back of the house, walking out into the lounge area by the pool. An older man is standing near the pool dressed in a robe. He’s staring down at his phone, checking stocks. He turns around, putting the phone away.
“Boys, nice of you to come.”
“Hey dad,” Sean says, walking over to his father, hugging him. Gerry stops about halfway. His father releases Sean and stares over at Gerry.
“Gerard.”
“Tony.”
Anthony Angelo was a self-made billionaire. He started a tech company that quickly grew into a company producing things people use every day.
“Is that how you greet you dear old dad, son?” Tony asks, eyes locked on Gerard.
“I wouldn’t use the word dear, to be honest.”
They both stare at each other while Sean fidgets uncomfortably but he decides to break the silence.
“So what was the urgent news, Dad?”
“Oh, right,” He says, clearing his throat, “I want you to know, I’m getting married.”
“Wow! Congratulations, Dad.”
“Is this wife number three or four?”
Tony clasps his hand on Sean’s shoulder, ignoring his oldest's jab.
“I proposed to Katia last weekend in Santorini.”
“You’re still dating Katia Kozlov?”
“Engaged, son.”
“I’m just shocked a gorgeous model would settle down with a man your age.”
“I’ve got a lot to offer, Gerry.”
“Yeah, I can think of a billion of them.”
Tony’s face flickers from the jab but keeps his smile.
“I called you boys here because I want you both in my wedding party. In fact,” Tony looks at Gerry, “I want you to be my best man.”
“Me?” He askes incredulously.
“You’re my firstborn! It’s only right.”
“I’ll pass.”
Tony clenches his jaw but turns to Sean.
“Sean, why don’t you go see the new car I just bought.”
Tony pulls keys out of his other robe pocket and tosses them to Sean. Sean takes it, shrugs, heading back into the house. Tony closes the gap between him and his remaining son.
“Every time I try to reach out to you, you shove me away. I’m just trying to mend our relationship.”
“You’re the only one that wants that.”
“For once in your life don’t be selfish and think of family.”
“Oh, I’m selfish? Like you were thinking of family every time you were out cheating on mom? Like when you missed nearly every single game or big moment growing up? Real selfless, Dad.”
Tony sighed.
“I’m man enough to admit that I’ve made some big mistakes in my life. But I’m trying to atone for that. You just gotta give me a chance.”
“After what you drove mom to?” Gerard lets out a laugh of disbelief, “I’ll never fucking forgive you for that.”
They both realize they are just inches apart from each other, fists clenched. Tony tosses his hands up and walks away, rubbing the back of his neck.
“I know. I know. All I can do is continue to try and earn your forgiveness. You just have to give me the chance. You know your mother wouldn’t want you to harbor a grudge this long.”
Gerard crosses his arms over his chest and sighs. He was right. His mother did try to teach him about forgiveness. She always said holding on to hate was like getting tabbed but never pulling the knife out of you. You never got a chance to heal.
“Alright, I’ll go to your wedding. I’m not going to be your best man,” Gerard says, holding out a hand to cut off his father’s protests, “But I’ll be in your wedding party. For Sean.”
Tony nods.
“It’s a start. Thank you.”
Charles clears his throat as he walks over, carrying a tray of Tom Collins that he sets down on the table.
“Your refreshments, Master Anthony.”
“Thank you, Charles. That will be all.”
The massive man nods and turns, leaving as quietly as he arrived. Toyn reaches down and sips the Collins. Gerard goes to take one and looks at his dad.
“So what’s the catch?”
Tony stops mid-sip.
“What do you mean?”
“There’s always something you want when you invite Sean and me here. So what is it this time?”
“You don’t think I just wanted to share the news of my engagement with my only sons?”
“You’re the CEO of a multi-billion dollar company. Every move you make has meaning. Also, like the last time I was here you asked me to help get your friend elected to congress. So, what is it?”
Tony sets his drink down.
“You were always the perceptive one, Gerard. So here it is. I’m trying to get a massive deal signed with China to get our software and tech integrated with their products. It’s a very lucrative deal.”
Gerard raises an eyebrow.
“So where do I come in?”
“Well, the Minister of commerce is a big fan of your movies and wants to meet you.”
“You want me, a person who is a known critic of China, to help you secure a deal with them? And knowing you this deal also has some kind of military contracts.”
Tony sips his Collins, saying nothing.
“And here I thought you wanted to change. You’re still the same selfish bastard you’ve been all your life.”
Gerard drops his Collins glass on the ground where it shatters, ice and glass sliding along the stone tile.
“I’m out. When Sean is done with his love fest for you, tell him I’m waiting for him in the limI have a flight to catch.”
Gerard turns and heads back into the house, heading towards the front door.
=============
Tell me though, what does your nickname mean? Luminary of Despair? Is despair your superpower? Is that how you’re going to beat me? Make me depressed by telling me some girl is making thousands selling feet pics on Onlyfans?
The name makes about as much sense as NFTs.
Wait.
It's because you’re a boring champion? That's the despair?
You’ve defended that title three times and twice was against Gunn who can't lace my boots. The most exciting things to happen during your reign were the Trials of Despair and a fat lawyer's seventeen-page document of crap. This is the reason I was added to the tournament. The network needs the biggest star in the most prime position possible. One of the most important titles in the company in the hands of a boring champion? What can be done?
Enter the Living Legend. I will save America. I will save the US Championship from falling into obscurity. Look at this match’s placement on the card to tell you that’s just what is happening. The Hardcore title and the Cruiserweight title are listed above us! A gimmick title that’s designed for goons that can’t wrestle and a title for vanilla midgets cosplaying as a wrestler have their shine. A guy who doesn’t wrestle here gets billed before us. This is what I’m here to change. To bring the US title back to relevance.
The title doesn’t make the man, CJ.
The man makes the title.
I am going to walk into that cage and free the title just like the country it represents. It’s time for a change. It’s time for a revolution.
The Era of Angelo.
Learn to love it.
“Another one! Don’t quit!”
Gerard fought through as his biceps burned and veins bulged, sweat dripping down his face, soaking his tank top.
“That all you got? You’re an embarrassment! How are you going to be a champion?!”
Gerard fought the urge to chuck one of the weights at Liam’s face as he curled, his breath being forced through pursed lips.
“C’mon. One more!”
Gerard closes his eyes and forces his arms back up, shaking a little as he completes his last rep. He brings his arms down, dropping the weights on the matted floor. Dull thuds echo as Gerry takes a lap. Liam smirks at him from the weight bench.
“We’re making great progress here, Gerard.” Liam stands up, leaning down to pick up the weights, “You might have the body of an Avenger, but we can always improve.
“Yeah, of course,” Gerard says as he waits for his heart rate to slow, reflecting on the thought of improvement. There was always something to improve. Physical fitness, mental toughness, the list was endless.
Gerard wanted to improve the United States title by bringing it into the spotlight that showed so brightly on him. There was something else he wanted to improve, but that currently wasn’t an option. So he decided to throw everything into training for his biggest match so far. Liam had been kind enough to come out for the day to help him get prepared.
“Gerry? You good?” Liam asked, raising an eyebrow. Gerard snapped from his thoughts and immediately flashed a smirk.
“Yeah, sorry,” Gerry said, “I was silently praying that I would regain the use of my arms before Sunday.”
Liam laughs.
“You need to be in tip-top shape for Sunday. What’s going to happen if you need to lift that guy, or you need to climb out of the cage? Gotta make sure you're strong enough to pull your ass out of anything.”
Gerard nods, stretching before feeling a twinge in his back. He makes a face, pressing his knuckles into it. Liam notices.
“You alright?”
Gerard nods.
“I just have to poop.”
Liam rolls his eyes.
“Go then.”
Gerard turns, heading to the bathroom. He yanks open the door, closing it behind him. He carefully, quietly, clicks the lock on the door and turns, leaning on the sink. He ran a hand underneath it, searching for something. He finds the baggy and slowly peels the tape off, lifting his hand, looking. Three round pills sit in the bag. Gerry opens it, pinching one out with fingers, tossing the bag down on the sink. He reaches into his pocket, pulling out two dollar bills. Sets one down before folding the other length-wise, dropping the pill into the fold, before laying it down on the sink. Gerry presses both hands down, crushing it. He retrieves the other bill, carefully rolling it up. Gerard picks up the other bill, snorting up the painkiller.
Hastily stuffing the dollars back into his pocket, he then carefully retapes the pill baggy under the sink. Gerard flushes the toilet, turning on the sink when his phone goes off. Reaching into his pocket he sees that it’s his brother. Gerry hits accept bringing the phone to his ear.
“I’m in the middle of training.”
“Dad called me.”
Gerard pauses.
“What did he want?”
“He wanted to know if we could come up to the house. Said he had to tell us something urgent.”
“You go, text me what it is,” Gerard says, sniffing.
“He wants us both.”
“He can send a text.”
“Gerry,” Sean groans, “Just come with me.”
“Sean.”
“Please.”
Gerard sighs.
“Fine. We’ll go, get the info, then leave.”
“Deal.”
Gerard hangs up, unlocking the door. He walks back towards the training area where Liam is setting up a bench press with plates.
“I’m gonna have to cut it short today. My brother just called, it’s urgent family stuff.”
“No worries. Just going harder on Tuesday then.”
“Deal,” Gerard says as they clasp hands. Liam squints at Gerard.
“You got something on your nose.”
Gerard rubs it with the back of a hand.
“Probably a booger.”
====================
I told you so.
I told you that I would win the Trials. I told you no matter who was put in my path, I would emerge victoriously. Kidsgrove couldn’t beat me. I put Balfore down. I showed Lissie I'm the vastly superior competitor.
‘You only won because of Adler!’
My victory was inevitable. I took my opportunity. I’m good at that.
I had nothing to do with Adler.
Just in the right place at the right time. I was smart enough to take advantage.
That’s what you need to be to reach the top of this goddamned business. I’ve proved that already in my short time here. First big show and I’m wrestling for the United States title. I’m manifesting my destiny here that will be fulfilled at Revolution.
This brings me to the current US champion, CJ Phoenix. I need to thank you, CJ. Without you making the tournament, I would’ve never been able to give myself this opportunity.
But you’re playing with fire. I’m not Gunn, I’m focused on this opportunity. I'm walking into the cage at Revolution and leaving with the US championship. I’m the most dangerous man you’re ever going to face. I knocked off former world champions. Survived grueling matches. All to go to the nation's capital and win the championship.
=================
Gerard and Sean are in a limo cruising down the freeway. Sean is fidgeting and nervous while Gerard is drinking most likely his fifth glass of scotch. Sean keeps looking at his brother, drumming on his legs.
“So what do you think Dad wants?”
“Can we not talk about Dad? I already have to go be in his presence.”
“I still don’t understand why you hate him so much.”
Gerard takes another sip from his glass. He could explain everything to him, but even then it wouldn't be enough. Sean was blinded by love and admiration for their father, anything Gerard said would just fall on deaf ears. Gerry decides to just change the subject.
“Chiefs or Bengals this weekend?”
Sean rolls his eyes but just lets his brother off the hook.
“Bengals.”
Gerry nods and drains the glass of scotch. Sean fidgets again not wanting to sit in silence.
“You ready for the cage match?”
“As ready as I’ll ever be,” Gerard says as he pours another scotch from the bar, “You’re never really ready for a match like that.”
Gerard sips his drink.
“A thousand pounds of steel locking you in the ring with another person who wants to beat you senseless. Grueling. Not to mention going through a hardcore match and last man standing in consecutive weeks. My body is battered but I must endure.”
“Alright, alright,” Sean rolls his eyes again, “You don’t have to cut a promo on me.”
Gerard snorts.
“Force of habit.”
“You remember your last cage match?”
“I do,” he says, “It was for a title as well. Against Kyle Shane, one of the greatest competitors I’ve ever faced. I walked out a champion.”
“What about this Pheonix guy you’re facing?”
“He’s talented, confident, and in way over his head. Overconfident in creating the tournament. I’m sure watching the whole thing was great. Like chumming the waters and going down in a cage to watch sharks eat. Now there’s an apex predator in your cage with you. He’s going to give me everything he’s got. It won’t be enough. Hopefully, he takes the loss constructively and gets better, because he’s oozing with potential.”
===================
It’s nothing personal, CJ.
You’re holding something I need.
I realized what my destiny is. I don’t just want to become a champion, I need to become a champion. The United States is so split that it’s nearly civil war. As Lincoln once said, “A house divided cannot stand.” I’m here to save the country. The American people need a champion that they know. A man who embodies the American dream. A real star that can unite us once again.
That man is me. Gerard Angelo is a name known the world over. When the world sees me as the US champ, a shining beacon of hope, then Americans can start to heal. This is bigger than us. A higher calling. Something that generations of future Americans will look back to and say, ‘That’s when the world changed for the better’.
Not that you’re not talented. I’m just better than you. I’m the absolute best this business has to offer. I’m on a goddamn roll right now. I’m going to complete the greatest debut month in the history of this company at Revolution.
It’s a fitting event name. I am the revolutionary superstar. I am here to change this company for the better. For everyone. You losing the United States championship to me isn’t a bad thing. It's necessary to bring Action Wrestling to the forefront of this industry. To become the undisputed leader in sports and entertainment.
A rising tide raises all ships. Like I told Lissie last week, you getting in the ring with me will be a boon for your career. A talented star going against the biggest star in all of entertainment. Even though you'll lose, being in the ring with me will be nothing but a benefit for you, kid. Hell, you can tell those kids under your wing that you lost your title to Gerard Angelo. That one day they could be a launching point for a revolution. Now, that's hope.
==================
The limo pulls up to the entrance of a sprawling estate. The limo comes to a stop, the doors popping open as the Angelo brothers get out. The front doors of the mansion swing open. The brothers are greeted by a near seven-foot-tall man dressed in a suit, tie, and vest. He eyes them over.
“Ah, Master Sean, Master Gerard,” he says in a posh British accent, “Good of you to make it.”
He moves his huge frame out of the door for them. Sean goes in first.
“How are you, Charles?” He asks walking by, Gerard walks past looking up at him.
“How’s it hanging, Lurch?”
“I see you still possess the same humour, Master Gerard.”
Gerard just scoffs as Charles closes the door behind them.
“Your father is in the lounge area. You remember the way. I need to prepare refreshments.”
Charles gracefully turns on his heel and walks off. The two Angelo boys walk through their old home, their memories flaring up, though both had different experiences. They reach the back of the house, walking out into the lounge area by the pool. An older man is standing near the pool dressed in a robe. He’s staring down at his phone, checking stocks. He turns around, putting the phone away.
“Boys, nice of you to come.”
“Hey dad,” Sean says, walking over to his father, hugging him. Gerry stops about halfway. His father releases Sean and stares over at Gerry.
“Gerard.”
“Tony.”
Anthony Angelo was a self-made billionaire. He started a tech company that quickly grew into a company producing things people use every day.
“Is that how you greet you dear old dad, son?” Tony asks, eyes locked on Gerard.
“I wouldn’t use the word dear, to be honest.”
They both stare at each other while Sean fidgets uncomfortably but he decides to break the silence.
“So what was the urgent news, Dad?”
“Oh, right,” He says, clearing his throat, “I want you to know, I’m getting married.”
“Wow! Congratulations, Dad.”
“Is this wife number three or four?”
Tony clasps his hand on Sean’s shoulder, ignoring his oldest's jab.
“I proposed to Katia last weekend in Santorini.”
“You’re still dating Katia Kozlov?”
“Engaged, son.”
“I’m just shocked a gorgeous model would settle down with a man your age.”
“I’ve got a lot to offer, Gerry.”
“Yeah, I can think of a billion of them.”
Tony’s face flickers from the jab but keeps his smile.
“I called you boys here because I want you both in my wedding party. In fact,” Tony looks at Gerry, “I want you to be my best man.”
“Me?” He askes incredulously.
“You’re my firstborn! It’s only right.”
“I’ll pass.”
Tony clenches his jaw but turns to Sean.
“Sean, why don’t you go see the new car I just bought.”
Tony pulls keys out of his other robe pocket and tosses them to Sean. Sean takes it, shrugs, heading back into the house. Tony closes the gap between him and his remaining son.
“Every time I try to reach out to you, you shove me away. I’m just trying to mend our relationship.”
“You’re the only one that wants that.”
“For once in your life don’t be selfish and think of family.”
“Oh, I’m selfish? Like you were thinking of family every time you were out cheating on mom? Like when you missed nearly every single game or big moment growing up? Real selfless, Dad.”
Tony sighed.
“I’m man enough to admit that I’ve made some big mistakes in my life. But I’m trying to atone for that. You just gotta give me a chance.”
“After what you drove mom to?” Gerard lets out a laugh of disbelief, “I’ll never fucking forgive you for that.”
They both realize they are just inches apart from each other, fists clenched. Tony tosses his hands up and walks away, rubbing the back of his neck.
“I know. I know. All I can do is continue to try and earn your forgiveness. You just have to give me the chance. You know your mother wouldn’t want you to harbor a grudge this long.”
Gerard crosses his arms over his chest and sighs. He was right. His mother did try to teach him about forgiveness. She always said holding on to hate was like getting tabbed but never pulling the knife out of you. You never got a chance to heal.
“Alright, I’ll go to your wedding. I’m not going to be your best man,” Gerard says, holding out a hand to cut off his father’s protests, “But I’ll be in your wedding party. For Sean.”
Tony nods.
“It’s a start. Thank you.”
Charles clears his throat as he walks over, carrying a tray of Tom Collins that he sets down on the table.
“Your refreshments, Master Anthony.”
“Thank you, Charles. That will be all.”
The massive man nods and turns, leaving as quietly as he arrived. Toyn reaches down and sips the Collins. Gerard goes to take one and looks at his dad.
“So what’s the catch?”
Tony stops mid-sip.
“What do you mean?”
“There’s always something you want when you invite Sean and me here. So what is it this time?”
“You don’t think I just wanted to share the news of my engagement with my only sons?”
“You’re the CEO of a multi-billion dollar company. Every move you make has meaning. Also, like the last time I was here you asked me to help get your friend elected to congress. So, what is it?”
Tony sets his drink down.
“You were always the perceptive one, Gerard. So here it is. I’m trying to get a massive deal signed with China to get our software and tech integrated with their products. It’s a very lucrative deal.”
Gerard raises an eyebrow.
“So where do I come in?”
“Well, the Minister of commerce is a big fan of your movies and wants to meet you.”
“You want me, a person who is a known critic of China, to help you secure a deal with them? And knowing you this deal also has some kind of military contracts.”
Tony sips his Collins, saying nothing.
“And here I thought you wanted to change. You’re still the same selfish bastard you’ve been all your life.”
Gerard drops his Collins glass on the ground where it shatters, ice and glass sliding along the stone tile.
“I’m out. When Sean is done with his love fest for you, tell him I’m waiting for him in the limI have a flight to catch.”
Gerard turns and heads back into the house, heading towards the front door.
=============
Tell me though, what does your nickname mean? Luminary of Despair? Is despair your superpower? Is that how you’re going to beat me? Make me depressed by telling me some girl is making thousands selling feet pics on Onlyfans?
The name makes about as much sense as NFTs.
Wait.
It's because you’re a boring champion? That's the despair?
You’ve defended that title three times and twice was against Gunn who can't lace my boots. The most exciting things to happen during your reign were the Trials of Despair and a fat lawyer's seventeen-page document of crap. This is the reason I was added to the tournament. The network needs the biggest star in the most prime position possible. One of the most important titles in the company in the hands of a boring champion? What can be done?
Enter the Living Legend. I will save America. I will save the US Championship from falling into obscurity. Look at this match’s placement on the card to tell you that’s just what is happening. The Hardcore title and the Cruiserweight title are listed above us! A gimmick title that’s designed for goons that can’t wrestle and a title for vanilla midgets cosplaying as a wrestler have their shine. A guy who doesn’t wrestle here gets billed before us. This is what I’m here to change. To bring the US title back to relevance.
The title doesn’t make the man, CJ.
The man makes the title.
I am going to walk into that cage and free the title just like the country it represents. It’s time for a change. It’s time for a revolution.
The Era of Angelo.
Learn to love it.
