Post by Ruby Lance on Jun 29, 2017 20:47:03 GMT -5
Hermosa Beach
Sunday, July 11, 2017
11:30 AM
[Off-Camera]
With the sun blazing high in the sky over the pristine expanse of sand with volleyball nets, picnic tables, grills, and even a paved walkway for skating and bicycling the West Coast Genesis Beach Party has found its home. Who's already arrived is left up in the air as some have been here all morning soaking in the sun and others are just now starting to find their way in. A pretty large section of the beach has been taken over by these West Coast Genesis stars (and their friends!) for what is meant to be (and hopefully remain) a relaxing and fun evening.
Anyone in particular wanna be the grillmaster with their culinary expertise or does a nameless face serve up the burgers and hot dogs to our partygoers?
Up for a game of beach volleyball? You're probably likely to run into Danni LeBlanc there at some point, but don't quote me on that. That's her decision.
The water is refreshingly cool if you're interested in catching some surf or taking a dip. Probably best to save any skinny dipping for the cover of night which isn't for another eight and a half hours.
Two individuals that have already arrived are West Coast Genesis' own Ruby Rose in her pink bikini and white shorts sitting at one of the picnic tables with her elbows propped up on the table, resting her chin in her hand while she smiles over at Redemption superstar Jonathan Drake in his red board shorts straddling the picnic table bench next to Ruby as the two good friends engage in a conversation with one another.
Jonathan: They really went all out here for the beach party. Wonder when the grill gurus are going to get here. Can’t say beach party without grilled food.
Ruby: You're always thinking with your stomach.
Ruby laughs and shakes her head, lifting her sunglasses up on top her head and instantly regretting it due to the sun's bright rays attempting to blind her. Nope. They go back on over her eyes.
Jonathan laughs along with Ruby.
Jonathan: No not always is my stomach leading. Just well it took a while to get here and no breakfast.
Jonathan looks around the beach happy to be here.
Ruby: I had breakfast. You shouldn't have slept so long and taken so long to get in the shower. Then you could have had some of the toast before I ate it all.
Jonathan: Yea but that shower head you...
Mason Moore finds his way towards the beach, dressed in a simple pair of blue swim trunks and his red Muscle Machine tank top. He smiles as he sees Ruby Rose, but it quickly fades as he sees Jonathan Drake sitting beside her. He walks over and quickly pulls Ruby up into a large hug while he looks down at Drake with a smirk on his face.
Jonathan: ...have.
Mason: Hey beautiful. Good to see you again.
Ruby laughs mostly out of startled embarrassment at how Mason manhandles her with ease, able to pluck her right out of the picnic table bench.
Ruby: Ah! Mason! I hate when you throw me around like that.
She laughs more and playfully swats at him. Jonathan frowns a moment being interrupted before putting his most friendliest smile in place.
Mason: No you don’t.
Jonathan: Well hello. Mason isn't it?
Mason puts her back on her feet now and looks over at Drake.
Mason: Yea, it’s Mason. You’re uhm… damn, I don’t remember.
Mason smirks at him once again before he turns back to Ruby.
Jonathan: Yea it's Jonathan…
Jonathan says even as Mason ignores him. With that Jonathan frowns.
Mason: So, later on, me and you gotta challenge some people to some beach volleyball. You set it up, I spike it down their throats. Nobody would stand a chance.
Ruby looks to Jonathan following Mason's suggestion and then turns back to answer him only for Danni LeBlanc and Donovan Basch step out onto the beach, with Donovan pulling a large cooler behind him. Danni is wearing a turquoise bikini with a matching sarong tied around her waist, while Donovan is wearing a pair of black board shorts. They make their way over to where the group has set up, and Donovan drops the handle of the cooler.
Danni: Hey, guys! Would’ve been here sooner, but parking around here is ridiculous!
Ruby: Oh, don't worry about it. It's still early!
Danni points at the cooler while Donovan lays out a large red beach blanket nearby.
Danni: In any event, we didn’t know who would be bringing drinks, so we brought some beverages.
Mason: I’ll go put it by the others.
Mason grabbed the large cooler and raised it over his head as he flexed a bit, clearly showing off before he carried it over to the area where the other large white coolers had been gathered.
Danni walks over to Donovan, not even paying any attention to Mason, sitting beside her boyfriend on the blanket as she unties her sarong, resting her head on his shoulder.
Danni: What do you say we go for a swim?
Donovan: Sounds good to me….
Donovan gets to his feet first, holding out his hand to help Danni up. However, before she’s fully balanced, he hoists her up in his arms and carries her off towards the surf, with Danni squealing all the way. She pretends to fight him off, playfully banging her fist against his back, but the others can tell by the smile on her face that she’s enjoying every second of it.
Ruby: They are so adorable.
Ruby grins and shakes her head before turning back to Jonathan. They were the first two and now they're the last two standing around.
Ruby: Uh, so Mason is kind of… he's just… Mason. I guess I don't really know him that well.
She cringes slightly at the sheer memory of the awkwardness between Jonathan and Mason from moments ago.
Jonathan smiles as he looks up at Ruby.
Jonathan: Hey it's all ok Ruby. Mason seems to be, well i can't think of a nice word to use. So let's just go with Mason is Mason and we can move on.
He begins to laugh softly as he continues to smile at ruby
Suddenly, the scene is interrupted by a group of teenage girls - and one heavyset boy - carrying what are quite obviously musical instrument bags. The foursome look almost incongruous in their ripped jeans and sneakers, but their main concern appears to be figuring out exactly where they are. As they amble in, looking all around in puzzlement, the girl in front - a short brunette with streaks and a guitar case on her back - turns to the sole boy of the group;
Girl: Seth...can I ask you a question?
The boy, whose whole attention is devoted to the video camera in his hand, replies absentmindedly:
Seth: Sure….
Girl: Where the FUDGE is this freaking party supposed to be at?! ‘Cause it sure as heck ain’t here!
Still distracted, Seth shrugs.
Seth: I dunno…
Girl: YOU DUNNO? Dude! You just SAID you knew!
As the other girls in the band roll their eyes, the one standing next to the brunette - a taller girl with bright red hair - points at the people frolicking in the surf directly ahead:
Redhead: Yo...there’s some people over there. Let’s go ask them!
The brunette nods:
Girl :See, SETH?! This is why TEAGAN should be the road manager, and NOT YOU!
Seth, however, is still busy capturing the scenic setting, and therefore merely shrugs again as the girls walk over to the nearest human being, the brunette promptly asking:
Girl: Yo...do you know if there’s like, a beach party or whatever going on around here?
Mason Moore turns to the girl, then looks back at the rest of the group.
Mason: There’s one for West Coast Genesis Wrestling and some friends, but there’s no party for Hot Topic or wherever the hell you came from. Can you guys even be out in the sun?
The brunette gives the muscular man an exasperated look..
Girl :Dude...we’re the band.
Jonathan frowns at Masons rough words to the strangers.
Jonathan: As my less eloquent friend said. This is the Party for West Coast Genesis. If you are here for that I think the stage can be set up over there. If you're not but are lost you can set up here and play this party.
Mason: Seriously dude? Nobody wants to hear a bunch of 15 year olds who probably grew up in the suburbs, whine about how bad their lives are while barely being able to play their instruments.
Mason shakes his head, clearly not caring about offending them in any way.
Ruby: Mason. That's rude.
She frowns at his lack of concern over offending literally anyone.
Ruby: Do you guys know any Britney Spears covers?
Cringe. She actually said that out loud. She regrets it a little bit only because she's probably the only one who wants to hear it. Mason looks over at Ruby and sighs a bit.
Mason: Fine.
He turns back to the kids.
Mason: Sorry.
Mason looks back at Ruby now.
Mason: Is that better?
The girls roll their eyes and walk away, the brunette making a comment about ‘Britney Spears? Dude, is she for real?’
Jonathan turns to Ruby. “There is nothing wrong with liking the music you enjoy.”
She smiles at Jonathan and his efforts to deflect the negativity towards her taste in music.
Ruby: It's okay. I guess not everyone can be nice.
She shrugs and looks towards Mason, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Ruby: Good effort, though.
Honey all the while arrives, finally. Heart shaped shades on with a white tee, plain with a pair of black cut off shorts and open toed sandals. Her hair had been straightened and tied back to avoid a humidity hair faux pas as she comes bringing a box of burgers from her cab there.
Jonathan smiles as he sees the brugers.
Jonathan “About time food got here.
He laughs in spite of himself.
Honey: I have lots of burgers for everyone. Um, nobody is Vegetarian, are they? Or the other one...Vegan?
Jonathan: I don't think so. I don't mind a veggie burger but I’m not strictly vegan or anything.
Honey: Okey dokey then. I’ll go and start cooking, like, the burgers up.
Everyone starts to prepare themselves a burger when suddenly everyone's attention is drawn towards a certain someone. Ruby is likely grateful that her eyes are covered by her sunglasses right now as she takes a deep breath and looks anywhere but at the new arrival that has everyone's attention. Jonathan sighs and shakes his head.
Walking up to the scene is the man known as the American Maharaja, the #FutureElite and a man that hasn't been getting along with pretty much everyone at this beach party besides his workout buddy Mason. He raises his sunglasses up as he is shirtless with white khaki shorts on. The women around the beach all stare in awe at Scotty Latimer.
Latimer stands there as everyone is all of a sudden silent. He locks his eyes on Ruby Lance and Jonathan Drake. Drake steps in front of Ruby a little as he stares back at Scotty.
Honey: Um….hey Scotty. Would you like a burger?
Scotty hears her but ignores her and continues staring down Jonathan and Ruby. He smirks as he lowers the sunglasses and walks away from everyone.
Danni and Donovan walk arm in arm back to the party after their swim, sitting down on the blanket they brought. The smell of burgers begins to fill their nostrils as Donovan spots Honey behind the grill.
Donovan: Are you hungry, Danni?
Danni sniffs the air.
Danni: Hmmm... I suppose I could eat a burger.
Donovan gets up from the blanket, but as Danni starts to get up after him, he shakes his head.
Donovan: Danielle, just let me do the gentlemanly thing and bring you a burger, okay?
She glares at Donovan for using her full first name, but can’t help but smile at the gesture.
Danni: Lucky for you, you’re cute....
Donovan: If you say so.
He chuckles as Danni scoffs, then heads toward the picnic table to fix burgers for himself and Danni. Mason walks up to the grill and looks down, then back up at Honey.
Mason: Please tell me there are some all white meat turkey burgers somewhere. I don’t do regular ground beef. Way too much fat in those. It’s fine for guys like Drake, but I didn’t get to look like this.
Mason pulls his tank top off and raises his arms as he flexes.
Mason: By eating any old thing.
Ruby frowns and wraps an arm around Jonathan's waist, placing a hand on his bare abdomen while grinning up at him.
Ruby: I think you look great.
Jonathan: Thank you. I am not to concerned with what the likes of Mason thinks.
All of this is overheard by Donovan, who merely shakes his head in disbelief before taking plates back for himself and Danni. He sits down beside her, and as Danni takes the plate offered to her, she tilts her head back in the direction of the grill.
Danni: I didn’t miss anything interesting, did I?
Donovan: No, just Moore being an ignorant buffoon, as usual….
Danni: Oh well. I suppose some things can’t be helped. But we came here to enjoy ourselves, did we not?
Donovan: Certainly not.
Danni picks up her burger, bringing it halfway up to her mouth.
Danni: Well, then… here’s to celebrating with friends… and a few others.
Danni giggles a little before taking a bite of her burger. After chewing and swallowing said bite, she nods her head.
Danni: Hmm… Honey can actually grill a pretty good burger!
Donovan: Well, can’t argue with a ringing endorsement like that…
He begins to consume his burger as well.
A BMW SUV pulls up as out steps a familiar face; Austen Blackwell. Wearing sunglasses and board shorts, Austen approaches the group alone with nothing to offer the group. His hands are empty except for the jingle of his keys in his hand. He walks up to the group and eyes back and forth to see who has arrived.
Austen: What? No warm welcome?
Danni and Donovan look over in Austen’s direction, with Danni smiling as she waves at him.
Danni: Hey! You made it!
She looks past him, a puzzled look on her face.
Danni: No Mercedes?
Austen: She’s actually getting some shopping done. Maybe even buying me some new sneakers. One can only hope.
He sees a spot on a picnic table to have a seat and takes it.
Austen: What did I miss?
Danni: Donovan threw me into the water… I nearly lost my top!
Ruby: Are we sure that wasn't his intention?
Ruby smiles as she teases Donovan for having less than honorable intentions.
Donovan: Of course not!
Danni: Donovan is many things, but he’s definitely not a cad!
Austen: Shit. Give me a moment.
He walks away and pulls out his phone as he answers it's ringing. Mason comes up behind Ruby and grabs her up onto his shoulders.
Mason: Alright, since there’s another duo here, it’s time for that beach volleyball. Twenty bucks says that me and Ruby can kick your asses.
Mason looks down at Donovan and Danni, then starts walking towards the volleyball area with Ruby still on his shoulder.
Jonathan: Hey Mason why don't you let Ruby decide what she wants to do instead of just taking her by force.
Jonathan glares up at Mason. Mason rolls his eyes as he puts Ruby down and looks over at Drake.
Mason: Fine, but don’t whine when she comes with me.
Jonathan: Ruby can always make whatever decision she wants to. I just think it's best to let her decide Mason. I don’t ever have to force someone to do things.
Mason: Dude, shut the hell up already with that crap. I wasn’t forcing anything and you’re starting to piss me off.
Mason walks over towards Drake and looks down at him as any hint of a smile has left his face.
Jonathan just glares back never blinking. Danni and Donovan simply watch the exchange between the two.
Danni: To hell with volleyball… this is almost getting interesting.
Jonathan: Again never felt the need to force anyone to do anything Mason.
Mason: Already got that, you repeating son of a bitch.
Jonathan: I suppose with my words echoing inside that head of yours it feels like I need to make sure you heard me clearly.
Ruby: Okay! It's fine! It's just volleyball.
Ruby speaks up as loudly as she can and with a smile that has way too much effort behind it.
Ruby: Why don't we do like teams of three or something?
Mason: Fine, as long as this asshole isn’t on my team.
Mason nods towards Drake, then turns his back on him.
Mason: I don’t want him “accidentally” hitting the ball into my back.
Jonathan glares at Mason before looking towards Ruby his expression softening.
Jonathan: Fine. Just know Mason I don’t do much on accident and unlike some I won’t turn on a teammate no matter the situation.
Ruby: So… like… Danni and Mason vs Donovan and Jonathan?
She smiles a very weak smile that says she knows she's already wrong and no one is gonna agree to that.
Ruby: I'll keep score?
Donovan and Danni look at each other. Mason can tell that neither one of them like the idea.
Donovan & Danni: Pass!
Mason: Don’t even worry about it. You and Honey are the only people who even want me here, so I’ll just go.
Mason shakes his head and gives Ruby a quick hug, walks over to Honey and does the same, then starts walking off towards his car.
Donovan: Well, that was…. Awkward.
Danni: To say the least….
Ruby: Mason…
She looks to Jonathan, likely trying to gauge his reaction to the situation but eventually ends up hurrying after Mason before he gets too far.
Ruby: Look, you don't have to go. We can do that volleyball thing with Danni and Donovan. I'm sure we can find someone else to even the sides and do the three on three thing.
Mason: It’s fine, I can tell when I’m not wanted, and the rest of them don’t want me around. I appreciate the invite, but it was a bad idea.
Ruby: No, Scotty coming was a bad idea. You coming was just…
She has no end to that sentence, but still tries her hardest to make that seem like a joke. It kind of seems like a bad idea to have Scotty around, though. He's not even trying to be nice.
Mason: A bad idea. They don’t care for me, and honestly I don’t care about them. It’s best i just leave before I end up punching your boyfriend.
Ruby: He's not… that's not what… no. And maybe if you tried to care about them, they'd care for you a little bit. Ever try it?
Mason: Danni there has seemed to have something against me since day one, and Donovan is so whipped that he’ll blindly go along with it. Drake may not be your boyfriend, but he clearly wants to be, so he’s gonna be a dick to any guy he sees as competition. I appreciate the invite, I appreciate you trying to make this work, but it’s just not going to. Go back and have fun with your friends.
Mason gives Ruby another hug, this time raising her up a bit and giving her a kiss on the cheek before he puts her back down and heads out.
Donovan tenses up and is about to say something, but Danni cuts him off before he makes the situation even worse.
Danni: Let it go, Donny…
Ruby makes her way back over to the group, shaking her head.
Ruby: I'm really sorry about that, guys. Like REALLY sorry.
Donovan: No need to apologize. None of this was your fault.
Danni: Not everyone can get along… some friction in group settings is bound to occur.
Jonathan frowns seeing Ruby upset.
Jonathan: No it's my fault. I let Mason get to me from what he said before today and the way he behaved. It's my fault and I am sorry to all of you for that outburst.
Awkward silence is awkward. And uncomfortable. Ruby offers Jonathan an encouraging smile, but doesn't look interested in dwelling on the topic.
Ruby: So… volleyball? Or…?
She looks to Donovan and Danni. They were a heck of alot easier to get along with and right now she was more than willing to follow whatever lead they had for having a good time. After all, they were doing a much better job at it!
An engine splutters in the distance, as a rather modest red Volkswagen pulls up just outside of the beach, a far cry from the flashy SUV that had appeared not too long ago. As the doors swing open, Jessica Hardy and her long-time friend, one-time mentor, and recent Redemption signee Josh Kennedy step out. The two are bickering over being late, although it quickly devolves into some friendly teasing as they make their way over. Jess is sporting an elegant sundress and matching hat, but her counterpart looks all the scruffier for it, wearing a baggy t-shirt for an obscure hardcore band nobody but him has probably ever heard of, and a pair of plain black board shorts, a short, unkempt beard decorating his face. Jess beams as she surveys the large gathering, eager to meet everyone else there, making her way across the sand to join the group. Josh lags behind slightly, surveying the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves of the ocean, savouring every little detail. He fights off the temptation to break off and light a cigarette as he too moves in to introduce himself.
Jess: Hey everyone! Sorry, I decided to be fashionably late today.
Josh rolls his eyes and chuckles.
Josh: Sure, that’s what it was.
Ruby: Hey you guys. Don't worry. You didn't miss anything too exciting. We're all kind of just settling in.
Laughter? Probably could do with some laughter even if it's obvious that it's nervous embarrassment. Then again, what Jess and Josh did miss wasn't exciting to Ruby. It was awkward and embarrassing.
The group would get two more arrivals, two nobody knew was coming, as it was Austen’s girlfriend Mercedes, who came to surprise him. She was wearing a black bikini with pair of blue jeans shorts. She was looking around for Austen. The second one was Melina Wilson, who was on the waiting list for WCG, as she was looking around. She was of course looking amazing in her blue bikini with white shorts. She had on a pair of sunglasses, as she was looking around at everyone, scrunching her nose at them. It was clear she was looking for someone.
Melina: So is this everyone… where’s Scotty someone worthwhile to talk to?
Ruby: He's around.
She responds to Melina, someone who she only knows from seeing on Twitter, with just the information that she has and nothing more. Scotty Latimer is a touchy subject these days anyway and a subject she'd prefer to avoid at the moment. Luckily, she can focus on something that isn't a touchy subject and actually makes her happy.
Ruby: Mercedes! Hey! I'm so glad you made it.
Ruby has a huge smile on her face as she spots Austen's girlfriend arriving after Austen gave them the news that she might not be able to make it. She was happy to see that Austen and Mercedes would get to enjoy the party in the same way Danni and Donovan have been having a blast.
Ruby: Austen is… still on the phone. Honestly, I thought he was talking to you. But that's what you get for assuming.
She laughs and shrugs her shoulders.
Jonathan waves to the newcomers with a friendly smile on his face.
Jonathan: Hey guys and gals welcome to what will no doubt go down as an epic beach party.
Mercedes: Nope not with me. I am sure he will be back soon.
She looks at Melina, as she sighs, not realizing she would be like this.
Melina: Epic, sure, because Scotty and I are here. We’ll make it epic enough.
Jonathan: Well scotty really hasn't done anything aside from ignore the group so it's hard to say he can make it epic.
From over near the coolers, Donovan’s voice rings out.
Donovan: Does anyone want a Mountain Dew while I’m over here?
Danni waves her arm over her head as she stands up.
Danni: I’ll take one!
After no one else takes him up on his offer, he shrugs and grabs a pair of cold cans, bringing one back to Danni, who takes it from him eagerly. Donovan sits back down on the blanket, with Danni sitting in his lap, resting her head against his chest as she cracks her can open.
Danni: As thirsty as that burger made me, I don’t think this is gonna last very long…
She giggles as she raises the can to her lips. As the cold liquid pours down her throat, she watches the others out of the corner of her eye.
Danni: You know, all things considered, I’m glad we came. This was a good chance to get to know some of our co-workers outside of the arena. Frankly, I think we should do this sort of thing more often.
Jess: Totally! Everyone in WCG is so cool and friendly, or, well, mostly everyone... Speaking of which, I think I owe you an apology, Donovan. I was pretty harsh to you when I got to talking about the first show. I’m sorry, I might have misjudged you.
Danni looks up at Donovan, and the pair exchange a smile before Danni turns back to Jess.
Danni: To be fair, you’re not the only one. I kinda thought he had a bit of a stick up his ass. Granted, he can still be a bit of a grump sometimes, but as I got to know him, the REAL him, he’s not so bad.
Donovan: Ladies? I AM right here, you know….
Danni giggles, and Jess promptly joins in.
Donovan: But, to be fair, I didn't do much to ingratiate myself with the rest of the roster, so the reaction was pretty fair. So no hard feelings on my part….
Jess: Oh, ok. Well, I’m glad we can set that all aside, then.
Donovan extends his hand for Jess to shake. Jess smiles, and accepts the peace offering happily.
Jonathan sits back and smiles happy to see things turn around from where they were just a few moments ago. He chuckles to himself as he quietly watches not wanting interject until enough time passes.
Ruby: Well, I'm thrilled to see so many people show up. Honestly, I don't feel like I've had much of a chance to make a lot of friends in West Coast Genesis. Aside from Ryan and Tornado… I guess I've just been a little too busy to make the effort.
She shrugs her shoulders and looks around at all the familiar faces that she knows and has spoken to most of them, but she doesn't really know them that well yet.
Ruby: I hope you guys didn't think I was intentionally trying to avoid any of you. I mean, I guess mostly I was just watching and trying to get a feel for everyone to know who would be approachable. Shockingly, a lot of you actually are. And I say shockingly only because that was not how most people will tell you the business is.
Ruby laughs at the all of the negativity that often surrounds the professional wrestling business and backstage egos.
Suddenly a vehicle pulls up that the rest of the crowd aren’t familiar with at all; a blue Ford F-150. Out steps one of the newest signees and the man that Ruby Rose defeated, Jack Santore. He has on his blue, New York Giants board shorts, black slides and a black tank top with Ray-Ban shades. Jack walks to the bed of the truck and pulls out another cooler stocked with beer. Jack carries the cooler over to the group and sets it down near the grill.
Jack: Hey guy, sorry I’m late.
Jack opens the cooler, taking out a beer and cracking it open. He doesn’t know everyone very well so he just sort of awkwardly smiles at everyone.
Jack: Hey, Honey. Ruby…
Honey and Ruby are the only ones that Jack is sort of familiar with so he greets them first. It’s got to be a little awkward, especially since Ruby just beat him a few days ago. Ruby offers him a somewhat awkward wave and a bit of a smile. She isn't really sure how to approach someone you just beat. Mostly because Jack was her first victory in West Coast Genesis.
Jonathan gets up off the bench he has been sitting on and makes his way over the short distance to stand next to Donavan. Extending a hand.
Jonathan: I wanted to say hi and introduce myself. Im Jonathan. I've been impressed by your work so far. For a long time I was thinking Id get a chance to work you all but someone put me on Redemption. I am excited to be apart of the family though.
Donovan shakes Jonathan's hand.
Donovan: One thing I've learned thus far is to never say never. We very well could face off sometime in the future.
Danni: Who knows? You could very well see one or both of us over there soon. Granted, I’d like to add some gold to my record before I even think about making the jump…
Danni looks up at Donovan, winking playfully.
Jonathan: You are both right. I know you guys and gals have the talent to take over the Redemption roster. I certainly am looking forward to seeing you guys sooner rather than later.
Up from behind Mercedes comes Austen.
Austen: Hey you! My pops called and I couldn’t get him off of the phone. I thought you were shopping?
He was excited to have her at the party.
Danni: I know what you mean… sometimes, I can’t get my mom to be quiet long enough to get a word in!
Austen: So as I was saying earlier. Hey all. Sorry about that.
He laughed.
Austen: He’s not normally a chatterbox. Guess it was the full moon.
Danni giggles, playfully patting the back of her hand against Donovan’s abs.
Danni: You should hear this one howl...
Austen tries not to laugh loudly out loud; partially because it was damn funny and because he did not want to imagine Donovan howling in any manner whatsoever. Danni notices, and it only makes her giggle even more.
Danni: Hey, if you can’t crack a dirty joke around your friends, who can you do it around?
He shrugs.
Austen: I guess so. Maybe at our little ladder match, you go ahead and distract Donovan as much as you can. I am sure the rest of us wouldn’t mind.
Danni: Too bad I’ll be busy going after that belt just as hard as everyone else will be…
She smirks.
Austen: It was worth a try…
He laughs.
Ruby: If you guys don't mind, I'd rather we save the ladder match and belt talk for later. Just the thought of you guys beating the crap out of me for that title is enough to send me into a panic attack and I'd love to enjoy today as much as I can.
She laughs now, but it's clearly her best attempt to mask the honesty behind that statement as she eyes her present opposition.
Austen: You will be fine. Don’t worry. But no match talk. Got it. Has anyone tested out the waters? I am like a fish. Ask Mercedes.
Danni: That was the first thing Donny and I did when we got here… water’s great! Just better make sure your swimsuit isn’t going anywhere….
She adjusts the shoulder strap on her bikini top, blushing just a little.
Austen looks at Mercedes.
Austen: I don’t know about you….
He pulls his shirt off and heads right for the water without saying a second word, diving in head first.
Mercedes: I think his nickname really should be fish.
She laughs, as she pulls her shorts down, before heading off to join him. Danni and Donovan watch as Austen and Mercedes enjoy the water, then they look at each other. Danni smiles.
Danni: Hey Donny… race you to the water.
She playfully elbows him in the gut, then takes off toward the water. Donovan tears after her, but she jumps into the water before he can catch her. He comes up behind her, hoisting her up onto his shoulders.
In the water, Austen and Mercedes come up for air as he tries to gently splash her with water, but she happily dunks him under the water.
Ruby makes her way over to the awkwardly all alone drinking his beer Jack Santore. She greets him with a cringey smile that says she's still not really sure what to say to him or what kind of friendship is feasible after beating someone on their debut.
Ruby: Hey. Glad you could make it.
She reaches into one of the coolers and pulls out a bottle of water for herself.
Ruby: I'm sure you probably know everyone. Big guy in the water is Donovan Basch. His girl Danni. Then Austen and his girl Mercedes. This is Jonathan. He's in Redemption. Honey at the grill, you know her. And Mr. Hollywood himself Scotty Latimer and… Melina Wilson. I don't know how to describe her. Sorry.
More nervous laughter from Ruby as she tries to give the new guy a heads up on everyone.
Jack: Hey, everyone. Nice to meet you.
Jack gives a nervous wave to everyone.
Jack: Thanks for inviting me. It’s nice to do something other than go to the gym and stay cooped up inside that apartment, you know?
Jack gives a small chuckle, still full of nervousness but feeling less awkward now that he’s actually having a conversation with someone.
Jack: Look, I just wanted to say congrats on your win. You really earned that and there’s no hard feelings from me.
Jack tries his best to offer a warm smile to Ruby. He just hopes she doesn’t blow him off or get even more uncomfortable.
Ruby: Thanks. That really means a lot. You were an incredible opponent. It was amazing getting my first win and you didn't make it easy.
Back in the water, Donovan crouches down, only to jump back up, launching Danni into the air. As she comes back down, Donovan catches her in his arms, carrying her out of the water.
Danni: Okay… NOW who’s showing off?
Donovan: Guilty as charged…
Danni rolls her eyes as they make their way back to their blanket. He sets her down feet first onto the blanket as he looks around at everyone else, an odd smile on his face. Well, at least it’s odd for the others to see him smile like that.
Danni: Fine… I’ll let you have that one.
Mercedes and Austen decide to head back out of the water holding hands as they make their way back over to where they dropped their street clothes. Austen wraps her up in a towel.
Austen: Hey… Jack.. right?
Austen extends a hand to shake.:
Jack: Yeah, nice to meet you.
Jack shakes Austen’s hand, then extending his hand to Mercedes.
Jack: Nice to meet you guys.
The three of them exchange pleasantries.
Tornado Desencadenado knew this was a bad idea. Attending a beach party for West Coast Genesis superstars after exchanging words with one online and backhanding the other during the promotion’s broadcast seemed to fly in the face of what would be good manners. Add to the fact he should be on the road back to Louisiana to begin preparing for his next show and showing up here seemed to be a mistake. But if he was to ever form tighter bonds with his co-workers in WCG he had to take advantage of any chance he got. So, clad in an old “Alpha Wrestling Empire” shirt, a pair of bermuda shorts, and some ratty sports sandals, TD made his way from the parking lot to where the wrestlers were congregating.
Ruby: TD! You made it!
Ruby lights up at the arrival of another friend, one of the few she's actually gotten the chance to really get to know. She greets him with a big smile and a wave.
Ruby: You know everybody, right?
The Spin Doctor smiles back awkwardly.
Tornado: I recognize everyone, yeah.
He gives congenial nods towards the others in attendance.
Danni and Donovan look over in TD’s direction, with Danni holding tightly onto Donovan’s well-muscled arm. Donovan returns TD’s greeting with a nod of his own, and the slightest hint of a smile. Danni looks up at her boyfriend, the smile on her face serving as a glimmer of hope that now that their match was over, the two men could at the very least be civil toward each other.
Danni: All things considered, I hope you two can let bygones be bygones. I know it got pretty heated on Twitter, but...
Donovan cuts her off, extending a hand toward TD.
Donovan: I know I came off a bit... territorial, but Danni is the first woman I’ve ever had any real feelings for, and I’m man enough to own up to the fact that I took things the wrong way.
He pauses, clearing his throat.
Donovan: I know you meant no harm.
The young wrestler accepted the handshake.
Tornado: It’s over now. I could have handled it better, so I’m not blameless. I certainly didn’t want to make anyone feel uncomfortable. There was no ulterior motive; it was just like the MCM and WCW hashtags: harmless stuff. It’s just, in this business, I don’t want to get a reputation of being some kind of creeper, especially when I might winding up trading holds with one of the women I, ahm, “liked on twitter”.
He chuckles ruefully.
Tornado: Embarrassing just to say out loud, really. But there it is.
Ruby: Besides, I probably like just as many of Danni's pics on Twitter as TD does.
Ruby laughs and shrugs her shoulders.
Ruby: Hey, when you're a babe you're a babe. And when you're dating a babe… it can get awkward.
Danni looks up at Donovan with a flirtatious smile on her face.
Danni: Of course, Donny’s no slouch in that department, either….
Donovan chuckles nervously, trying VERY hard not to blush.
Ruby: I'm comfortable enough in my sexuality to like another woman's pictures. I am not comfortable enough to like another woman's boyfriend's pictures.
She smiles and shrugs her apology over apparently not clicking like on Donovan pictures. Does Donovan even post many pictures of himself?
Donovan: Well, it isn't as if I post a ton of photos of myself anyway…..
Danni: No, but that’s okay… your dad just gave me a bunch of pics from your college years.
Ruby: Now THOSE I would love to see.
Danni: All in good time, Ruby… all in good time.
She looks up at Donovan and flashes a mischievous grin as he cringes.
Jonathan laughs and shakes his head at the thought of old photos. Moving through the group he extends a hand.
Jonathan: Tornado it's a pleasure to meet you sir. Jonathan Drake. You're in Union Battleground as well correct?
The Ring Revolutionary shakes hands with Drake.
Tornado: Yeah. Small world, huh? Nice to meet you face to face finally. I saw you’re part of UB’s tag tournament. Good luck with that. You plan on being at Guerilla Warfare too?
Jonathan: No not my intention to be at Guerilla Warfare. Needed some time off to get situated after joining Redemption. Good luck to you. You're also in the tag tourney right?
Tornado nods.
Tornado: Trixie and I are facing a team from So-Cal Ultraviolent; Reigner and Reyes. It’s not for a few weeks though. Early July I think. It should be after the next Hype show, for sure.
Jack: Oh, hey! I know Trixie! She’s been really nice to me, giving me tips on how to improve in the ring and everything. She mentioned you guys were tag partners.
Jack turns his attention to Tornado.
Jack: Sorry to interrupt, I’m Jack, by the way.
Jack extends his hand to Tornado, he laughs at himself, almost embarrassed for having interrupted but he’s just happy to...kind of know someone else at the party.
Tornado: Good meeting you, Jack. Yeah, Trixie has been a big help to me as well.
Scotty Latimer appears back in the shot. He is working on a hot dog as he stares at Jonathan Drake and Ruby Lance and ignores Tornado.
Scotty Latimer: So….you two moved in together huh? Jesus Ruby you could have done so much better than this clown..
Jonathan takes a step towards Scotty but Ruby places her hand on his chest. She gives Scotty a menacing look.
Scotty Latimer: Oh what? Jonathan Drake can't fight his own battles? Or are you just too nice of a guy to fight. You know what little man? I want to thank you….because of you signing to Redemption Wrestling now everyone is going to look at that place as the bush leagues instead of West Coast Genesis.
Jonathan glares daggers at Scotty.
Jonathan speaks calmly : Scott if i have no issues with stepping up to Mason. I have no issue stepping down to a matchstick like you.
Ruby: Jonathan! You guys… come on!
Before Jonathan can go into cold clock Scotty Tornado speaks up.
Tornado: Let them fight, Ruby. If Latimer wants to keep running his mouth he isn’t worth protecting.
Scotty Latimer: Oh you have a right to talk? Yeah I guess you and Draky-poo here have something in common. You need a more talented person than you to keep you both from getting embarrassed.
Melina Wilson walks up and whispers to Scotty trying to calm him down.
Scotty Latimer:What's stopping you shooter? All 5 foot of Ruby Lance? Come on boy. Make your move!
Scotty then turns back to Jonathan.
Scotty Latimer: And the name is Scotty stupid….and the same challenge I just issued him applies to….
Tornado has heard enough as he pushes Scotty. Scotty returns the push with a hard slap to TD’s face that prompts Ruby to jump right in the line of fire. She gets herself between the two men, putting herself directly in the path of Scotty should he choose to try and come at TD again. If he does, he'll have to go through Ruby.
Jonathan tenses as Ruby puts herself in between the two potential combatants.
Ruby: Enough. Enough! Jesus, this is not what everyone came here for! We came here to have a good time, not to see grown men acting like children!
She glances from Scotty over to TD and shakes her head in disappointment.
Ruby: I expect a lot better from both of you.
Scotty smirks and first looks at Jonathan.
Scotty Latimer: Real man there aren't you. Letting your girlfriend step in between two men. I knew you two moved in together. What Jonathan was your testicles the down payment on the apartment?
Scotty backs away as Melina pulls him away with others.
Scotty Latimer: You watch what i do to your hero Ryan Keys kids. Because you shooter will be next….
He looks back at Jonathan.
Scotty Latimer: And by the time me and you face off again nice guy maybe she will loan you your balls back.
Jonathan makes a move but Ruby stops him.
Scotty Latimer: I'm out of here. This scene is ruining my reputation. Good luck Ruby. You are the only one worth anything in that little group that's riding your pigtails right now.
He gives them all the gesture for the Midnight Horsemen and leaves the beach. Ruby breathes a sigh of relief once the situation finally settles down with the departure of Scotty Latimer. Though, there's still the aftermath to deal with, much like there was for Mason Moore. Ruby sighs and turns to Jonathan and TD.
Ruby: You guys, I am so sorry.
Jonathan: You have nothing to be sorry for. Some people can't help but show how much of an ass they really are.
Tornado isn’t so accommodating. Still rubbing his jaw, he glares at Ruby with surprising pique.
Tornado: Stop trying to protect that punk. He isn’t worth saving.
Ruby: It's not about protecting him. What good is it going to serve you to clock him backstage or on the beach? Is that what you want? Is that all you need from all of this?
The WCG wrestler’s expression softened slightly, but it was clear he was still upset. His shoulders, tense and ready for conflict earlier, now slumped, and he shook his head in disbelief.
Tornado: This isn’t the time or place to get into this. So I’m heading out. Good meeting you all.
He nods to Jonathan and Jack, gives a farewell wave to the others nearby, and walks off. Ruby sighs and shakes her head.
Ruby: Great. So now he's mad at me. I need to write that book on how to lose a friend in 10 days or something like that.
Danni walks up to Ruby, shaking her head as she pats her on the shoulder.
Danni: I guess it’s just one of those things that just happens. Things get said, people butt heads. I’m not saying either of them are right, but what they do is on them, not you. Should you keep apologizing for what others do? Absolutely not. You’re only going to drive yourself crazy.
Ruby smiles at Danni's attempts to help the situation, showing that she definitely appreciates her kind words.
Ruby: Thanks. Going crazy is the last thing I need right now.
Danni: Sometimes, a little crazy can be fun. It just depends on the type of crazy.
She tilts her head towards Donovan and smirks. Ruby smiles and laughs, nodding along with her.
Ruby: You got the good kind of crazy. Not that you need me to tell you, but don't let it go.
Ruby lays a hand on Danni's shoulder, giving it a friendly pat meant to thank her for providing a good dose of carefree fun into an evening that was meant to be nothing but that.
Sunday, July 11, 2017
11:30 AM
[Off-Camera]
With the sun blazing high in the sky over the pristine expanse of sand with volleyball nets, picnic tables, grills, and even a paved walkway for skating and bicycling the West Coast Genesis Beach Party has found its home. Who's already arrived is left up in the air as some have been here all morning soaking in the sun and others are just now starting to find their way in. A pretty large section of the beach has been taken over by these West Coast Genesis stars (and their friends!) for what is meant to be (and hopefully remain) a relaxing and fun evening.
Anyone in particular wanna be the grillmaster with their culinary expertise or does a nameless face serve up the burgers and hot dogs to our partygoers?
Up for a game of beach volleyball? You're probably likely to run into Danni LeBlanc there at some point, but don't quote me on that. That's her decision.
The water is refreshingly cool if you're interested in catching some surf or taking a dip. Probably best to save any skinny dipping for the cover of night which isn't for another eight and a half hours.
Two individuals that have already arrived are West Coast Genesis' own Ruby Rose in her pink bikini and white shorts sitting at one of the picnic tables with her elbows propped up on the table, resting her chin in her hand while she smiles over at Redemption superstar Jonathan Drake in his red board shorts straddling the picnic table bench next to Ruby as the two good friends engage in a conversation with one another.
Jonathan: They really went all out here for the beach party. Wonder when the grill gurus are going to get here. Can’t say beach party without grilled food.
Ruby: You're always thinking with your stomach.
Ruby laughs and shakes her head, lifting her sunglasses up on top her head and instantly regretting it due to the sun's bright rays attempting to blind her. Nope. They go back on over her eyes.
Jonathan laughs along with Ruby.
Jonathan: No not always is my stomach leading. Just well it took a while to get here and no breakfast.
Jonathan looks around the beach happy to be here.
Ruby: I had breakfast. You shouldn't have slept so long and taken so long to get in the shower. Then you could have had some of the toast before I ate it all.
Jonathan: Yea but that shower head you...
Mason Moore finds his way towards the beach, dressed in a simple pair of blue swim trunks and his red Muscle Machine tank top. He smiles as he sees Ruby Rose, but it quickly fades as he sees Jonathan Drake sitting beside her. He walks over and quickly pulls Ruby up into a large hug while he looks down at Drake with a smirk on his face.
Jonathan: ...have.
Mason: Hey beautiful. Good to see you again.
Ruby laughs mostly out of startled embarrassment at how Mason manhandles her with ease, able to pluck her right out of the picnic table bench.
Ruby: Ah! Mason! I hate when you throw me around like that.
She laughs more and playfully swats at him. Jonathan frowns a moment being interrupted before putting his most friendliest smile in place.
Mason: No you don’t.
Jonathan: Well hello. Mason isn't it?
Mason puts her back on her feet now and looks over at Drake.
Mason: Yea, it’s Mason. You’re uhm… damn, I don’t remember.
Mason smirks at him once again before he turns back to Ruby.
Jonathan: Yea it's Jonathan…
Jonathan says even as Mason ignores him. With that Jonathan frowns.
Mason: So, later on, me and you gotta challenge some people to some beach volleyball. You set it up, I spike it down their throats. Nobody would stand a chance.
Ruby looks to Jonathan following Mason's suggestion and then turns back to answer him only for Danni LeBlanc and Donovan Basch step out onto the beach, with Donovan pulling a large cooler behind him. Danni is wearing a turquoise bikini with a matching sarong tied around her waist, while Donovan is wearing a pair of black board shorts. They make their way over to where the group has set up, and Donovan drops the handle of the cooler.
Danni: Hey, guys! Would’ve been here sooner, but parking around here is ridiculous!
Ruby: Oh, don't worry about it. It's still early!
Danni points at the cooler while Donovan lays out a large red beach blanket nearby.
Danni: In any event, we didn’t know who would be bringing drinks, so we brought some beverages.
Mason: I’ll go put it by the others.
Mason grabbed the large cooler and raised it over his head as he flexed a bit, clearly showing off before he carried it over to the area where the other large white coolers had been gathered.
Danni walks over to Donovan, not even paying any attention to Mason, sitting beside her boyfriend on the blanket as she unties her sarong, resting her head on his shoulder.
Danni: What do you say we go for a swim?
Donovan: Sounds good to me….
Donovan gets to his feet first, holding out his hand to help Danni up. However, before she’s fully balanced, he hoists her up in his arms and carries her off towards the surf, with Danni squealing all the way. She pretends to fight him off, playfully banging her fist against his back, but the others can tell by the smile on her face that she’s enjoying every second of it.
Ruby: They are so adorable.
Ruby grins and shakes her head before turning back to Jonathan. They were the first two and now they're the last two standing around.
Ruby: Uh, so Mason is kind of… he's just… Mason. I guess I don't really know him that well.
She cringes slightly at the sheer memory of the awkwardness between Jonathan and Mason from moments ago.
Jonathan smiles as he looks up at Ruby.
Jonathan: Hey it's all ok Ruby. Mason seems to be, well i can't think of a nice word to use. So let's just go with Mason is Mason and we can move on.
He begins to laugh softly as he continues to smile at ruby
Suddenly, the scene is interrupted by a group of teenage girls - and one heavyset boy - carrying what are quite obviously musical instrument bags. The foursome look almost incongruous in their ripped jeans and sneakers, but their main concern appears to be figuring out exactly where they are. As they amble in, looking all around in puzzlement, the girl in front - a short brunette with streaks and a guitar case on her back - turns to the sole boy of the group;
Girl: Seth...can I ask you a question?
The boy, whose whole attention is devoted to the video camera in his hand, replies absentmindedly:
Seth: Sure….
Girl: Where the FUDGE is this freaking party supposed to be at?! ‘Cause it sure as heck ain’t here!
Still distracted, Seth shrugs.
Seth: I dunno…
Girl: YOU DUNNO? Dude! You just SAID you knew!
As the other girls in the band roll their eyes, the one standing next to the brunette - a taller girl with bright red hair - points at the people frolicking in the surf directly ahead:
Redhead: Yo...there’s some people over there. Let’s go ask them!
The brunette nods:
Girl :See, SETH?! This is why TEAGAN should be the road manager, and NOT YOU!
Seth, however, is still busy capturing the scenic setting, and therefore merely shrugs again as the girls walk over to the nearest human being, the brunette promptly asking:
Girl: Yo...do you know if there’s like, a beach party or whatever going on around here?
Mason Moore turns to the girl, then looks back at the rest of the group.
Mason: There’s one for West Coast Genesis Wrestling and some friends, but there’s no party for Hot Topic or wherever the hell you came from. Can you guys even be out in the sun?
The brunette gives the muscular man an exasperated look..
Girl :Dude...we’re the band.
Jonathan frowns at Masons rough words to the strangers.
Jonathan: As my less eloquent friend said. This is the Party for West Coast Genesis. If you are here for that I think the stage can be set up over there. If you're not but are lost you can set up here and play this party.
Mason: Seriously dude? Nobody wants to hear a bunch of 15 year olds who probably grew up in the suburbs, whine about how bad their lives are while barely being able to play their instruments.
Mason shakes his head, clearly not caring about offending them in any way.
Ruby: Mason. That's rude.
She frowns at his lack of concern over offending literally anyone.
Ruby: Do you guys know any Britney Spears covers?
Cringe. She actually said that out loud. She regrets it a little bit only because she's probably the only one who wants to hear it. Mason looks over at Ruby and sighs a bit.
Mason: Fine.
He turns back to the kids.
Mason: Sorry.
Mason looks back at Ruby now.
Mason: Is that better?
The girls roll their eyes and walk away, the brunette making a comment about ‘Britney Spears? Dude, is she for real?’
Jonathan turns to Ruby. “There is nothing wrong with liking the music you enjoy.”
She smiles at Jonathan and his efforts to deflect the negativity towards her taste in music.
Ruby: It's okay. I guess not everyone can be nice.
She shrugs and looks towards Mason, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Ruby: Good effort, though.
Honey all the while arrives, finally. Heart shaped shades on with a white tee, plain with a pair of black cut off shorts and open toed sandals. Her hair had been straightened and tied back to avoid a humidity hair faux pas as she comes bringing a box of burgers from her cab there.
Jonathan smiles as he sees the brugers.
Jonathan “About time food got here.
He laughs in spite of himself.
Honey: I have lots of burgers for everyone. Um, nobody is Vegetarian, are they? Or the other one...Vegan?
Jonathan: I don't think so. I don't mind a veggie burger but I’m not strictly vegan or anything.
Honey: Okey dokey then. I’ll go and start cooking, like, the burgers up.
Everyone starts to prepare themselves a burger when suddenly everyone's attention is drawn towards a certain someone. Ruby is likely grateful that her eyes are covered by her sunglasses right now as she takes a deep breath and looks anywhere but at the new arrival that has everyone's attention. Jonathan sighs and shakes his head.
Walking up to the scene is the man known as the American Maharaja, the #FutureElite and a man that hasn't been getting along with pretty much everyone at this beach party besides his workout buddy Mason. He raises his sunglasses up as he is shirtless with white khaki shorts on. The women around the beach all stare in awe at Scotty Latimer.
Latimer stands there as everyone is all of a sudden silent. He locks his eyes on Ruby Lance and Jonathan Drake. Drake steps in front of Ruby a little as he stares back at Scotty.
Honey: Um….hey Scotty. Would you like a burger?
Scotty hears her but ignores her and continues staring down Jonathan and Ruby. He smirks as he lowers the sunglasses and walks away from everyone.
Danni and Donovan walk arm in arm back to the party after their swim, sitting down on the blanket they brought. The smell of burgers begins to fill their nostrils as Donovan spots Honey behind the grill.
Donovan: Are you hungry, Danni?
Danni sniffs the air.
Danni: Hmmm... I suppose I could eat a burger.
Donovan gets up from the blanket, but as Danni starts to get up after him, he shakes his head.
Donovan: Danielle, just let me do the gentlemanly thing and bring you a burger, okay?
She glares at Donovan for using her full first name, but can’t help but smile at the gesture.
Danni: Lucky for you, you’re cute....
Donovan: If you say so.
He chuckles as Danni scoffs, then heads toward the picnic table to fix burgers for himself and Danni. Mason walks up to the grill and looks down, then back up at Honey.
Mason: Please tell me there are some all white meat turkey burgers somewhere. I don’t do regular ground beef. Way too much fat in those. It’s fine for guys like Drake, but I didn’t get to look like this.
Mason pulls his tank top off and raises his arms as he flexes.
Mason: By eating any old thing.
Ruby frowns and wraps an arm around Jonathan's waist, placing a hand on his bare abdomen while grinning up at him.
Ruby: I think you look great.
Jonathan: Thank you. I am not to concerned with what the likes of Mason thinks.
All of this is overheard by Donovan, who merely shakes his head in disbelief before taking plates back for himself and Danni. He sits down beside her, and as Danni takes the plate offered to her, she tilts her head back in the direction of the grill.
Danni: I didn’t miss anything interesting, did I?
Donovan: No, just Moore being an ignorant buffoon, as usual….
Danni: Oh well. I suppose some things can’t be helped. But we came here to enjoy ourselves, did we not?
Donovan: Certainly not.
Danni picks up her burger, bringing it halfway up to her mouth.
Danni: Well, then… here’s to celebrating with friends… and a few others.
Danni giggles a little before taking a bite of her burger. After chewing and swallowing said bite, she nods her head.
Danni: Hmm… Honey can actually grill a pretty good burger!
Donovan: Well, can’t argue with a ringing endorsement like that…
He begins to consume his burger as well.
A BMW SUV pulls up as out steps a familiar face; Austen Blackwell. Wearing sunglasses and board shorts, Austen approaches the group alone with nothing to offer the group. His hands are empty except for the jingle of his keys in his hand. He walks up to the group and eyes back and forth to see who has arrived.
Austen: What? No warm welcome?
Danni and Donovan look over in Austen’s direction, with Danni smiling as she waves at him.
Danni: Hey! You made it!
She looks past him, a puzzled look on her face.
Danni: No Mercedes?
Austen: She’s actually getting some shopping done. Maybe even buying me some new sneakers. One can only hope.
He sees a spot on a picnic table to have a seat and takes it.
Austen: What did I miss?
Danni: Donovan threw me into the water… I nearly lost my top!
Ruby: Are we sure that wasn't his intention?
Ruby smiles as she teases Donovan for having less than honorable intentions.
Donovan: Of course not!
Danni: Donovan is many things, but he’s definitely not a cad!
Austen: Shit. Give me a moment.
He walks away and pulls out his phone as he answers it's ringing. Mason comes up behind Ruby and grabs her up onto his shoulders.
Mason: Alright, since there’s another duo here, it’s time for that beach volleyball. Twenty bucks says that me and Ruby can kick your asses.
Mason looks down at Donovan and Danni, then starts walking towards the volleyball area with Ruby still on his shoulder.
Jonathan: Hey Mason why don't you let Ruby decide what she wants to do instead of just taking her by force.
Jonathan glares up at Mason. Mason rolls his eyes as he puts Ruby down and looks over at Drake.
Mason: Fine, but don’t whine when she comes with me.
Jonathan: Ruby can always make whatever decision she wants to. I just think it's best to let her decide Mason. I don’t ever have to force someone to do things.
Mason: Dude, shut the hell up already with that crap. I wasn’t forcing anything and you’re starting to piss me off.
Mason walks over towards Drake and looks down at him as any hint of a smile has left his face.
Jonathan just glares back never blinking. Danni and Donovan simply watch the exchange between the two.
Danni: To hell with volleyball… this is almost getting interesting.
Jonathan: Again never felt the need to force anyone to do anything Mason.
Mason: Already got that, you repeating son of a bitch.
Jonathan: I suppose with my words echoing inside that head of yours it feels like I need to make sure you heard me clearly.
Ruby: Okay! It's fine! It's just volleyball.
Ruby speaks up as loudly as she can and with a smile that has way too much effort behind it.
Ruby: Why don't we do like teams of three or something?
Mason: Fine, as long as this asshole isn’t on my team.
Mason nods towards Drake, then turns his back on him.
Mason: I don’t want him “accidentally” hitting the ball into my back.
Jonathan glares at Mason before looking towards Ruby his expression softening.
Jonathan: Fine. Just know Mason I don’t do much on accident and unlike some I won’t turn on a teammate no matter the situation.
Ruby: So… like… Danni and Mason vs Donovan and Jonathan?
She smiles a very weak smile that says she knows she's already wrong and no one is gonna agree to that.
Ruby: I'll keep score?
Donovan and Danni look at each other. Mason can tell that neither one of them like the idea.
Donovan & Danni: Pass!
Mason: Don’t even worry about it. You and Honey are the only people who even want me here, so I’ll just go.
Mason shakes his head and gives Ruby a quick hug, walks over to Honey and does the same, then starts walking off towards his car.
Donovan: Well, that was…. Awkward.
Danni: To say the least….
Ruby: Mason…
She looks to Jonathan, likely trying to gauge his reaction to the situation but eventually ends up hurrying after Mason before he gets too far.
Ruby: Look, you don't have to go. We can do that volleyball thing with Danni and Donovan. I'm sure we can find someone else to even the sides and do the three on three thing.
Mason: It’s fine, I can tell when I’m not wanted, and the rest of them don’t want me around. I appreciate the invite, but it was a bad idea.
Ruby: No, Scotty coming was a bad idea. You coming was just…
She has no end to that sentence, but still tries her hardest to make that seem like a joke. It kind of seems like a bad idea to have Scotty around, though. He's not even trying to be nice.
Mason: A bad idea. They don’t care for me, and honestly I don’t care about them. It’s best i just leave before I end up punching your boyfriend.
Ruby: He's not… that's not what… no. And maybe if you tried to care about them, they'd care for you a little bit. Ever try it?
Mason: Danni there has seemed to have something against me since day one, and Donovan is so whipped that he’ll blindly go along with it. Drake may not be your boyfriend, but he clearly wants to be, so he’s gonna be a dick to any guy he sees as competition. I appreciate the invite, I appreciate you trying to make this work, but it’s just not going to. Go back and have fun with your friends.
Mason gives Ruby another hug, this time raising her up a bit and giving her a kiss on the cheek before he puts her back down and heads out.
Donovan tenses up and is about to say something, but Danni cuts him off before he makes the situation even worse.
Danni: Let it go, Donny…
Ruby makes her way back over to the group, shaking her head.
Ruby: I'm really sorry about that, guys. Like REALLY sorry.
Donovan: No need to apologize. None of this was your fault.
Danni: Not everyone can get along… some friction in group settings is bound to occur.
Jonathan frowns seeing Ruby upset.
Jonathan: No it's my fault. I let Mason get to me from what he said before today and the way he behaved. It's my fault and I am sorry to all of you for that outburst.
Awkward silence is awkward. And uncomfortable. Ruby offers Jonathan an encouraging smile, but doesn't look interested in dwelling on the topic.
Ruby: So… volleyball? Or…?
She looks to Donovan and Danni. They were a heck of alot easier to get along with and right now she was more than willing to follow whatever lead they had for having a good time. After all, they were doing a much better job at it!
An engine splutters in the distance, as a rather modest red Volkswagen pulls up just outside of the beach, a far cry from the flashy SUV that had appeared not too long ago. As the doors swing open, Jessica Hardy and her long-time friend, one-time mentor, and recent Redemption signee Josh Kennedy step out. The two are bickering over being late, although it quickly devolves into some friendly teasing as they make their way over. Jess is sporting an elegant sundress and matching hat, but her counterpart looks all the scruffier for it, wearing a baggy t-shirt for an obscure hardcore band nobody but him has probably ever heard of, and a pair of plain black board shorts, a short, unkempt beard decorating his face. Jess beams as she surveys the large gathering, eager to meet everyone else there, making her way across the sand to join the group. Josh lags behind slightly, surveying the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves of the ocean, savouring every little detail. He fights off the temptation to break off and light a cigarette as he too moves in to introduce himself.
Jess: Hey everyone! Sorry, I decided to be fashionably late today.
Josh rolls his eyes and chuckles.
Josh: Sure, that’s what it was.
Ruby: Hey you guys. Don't worry. You didn't miss anything too exciting. We're all kind of just settling in.
Laughter? Probably could do with some laughter even if it's obvious that it's nervous embarrassment. Then again, what Jess and Josh did miss wasn't exciting to Ruby. It was awkward and embarrassing.
The group would get two more arrivals, two nobody knew was coming, as it was Austen’s girlfriend Mercedes, who came to surprise him. She was wearing a black bikini with pair of blue jeans shorts. She was looking around for Austen. The second one was Melina Wilson, who was on the waiting list for WCG, as she was looking around. She was of course looking amazing in her blue bikini with white shorts. She had on a pair of sunglasses, as she was looking around at everyone, scrunching her nose at them. It was clear she was looking for someone.
Melina: So is this everyone… where’s Scotty someone worthwhile to talk to?
Ruby: He's around.
She responds to Melina, someone who she only knows from seeing on Twitter, with just the information that she has and nothing more. Scotty Latimer is a touchy subject these days anyway and a subject she'd prefer to avoid at the moment. Luckily, she can focus on something that isn't a touchy subject and actually makes her happy.
Ruby: Mercedes! Hey! I'm so glad you made it.
Ruby has a huge smile on her face as she spots Austen's girlfriend arriving after Austen gave them the news that she might not be able to make it. She was happy to see that Austen and Mercedes would get to enjoy the party in the same way Danni and Donovan have been having a blast.
Ruby: Austen is… still on the phone. Honestly, I thought he was talking to you. But that's what you get for assuming.
She laughs and shrugs her shoulders.
Jonathan waves to the newcomers with a friendly smile on his face.
Jonathan: Hey guys and gals welcome to what will no doubt go down as an epic beach party.
Mercedes: Nope not with me. I am sure he will be back soon.
She looks at Melina, as she sighs, not realizing she would be like this.
Melina: Epic, sure, because Scotty and I are here. We’ll make it epic enough.
Jonathan: Well scotty really hasn't done anything aside from ignore the group so it's hard to say he can make it epic.
From over near the coolers, Donovan’s voice rings out.
Donovan: Does anyone want a Mountain Dew while I’m over here?
Danni waves her arm over her head as she stands up.
Danni: I’ll take one!
After no one else takes him up on his offer, he shrugs and grabs a pair of cold cans, bringing one back to Danni, who takes it from him eagerly. Donovan sits back down on the blanket, with Danni sitting in his lap, resting her head against his chest as she cracks her can open.
Danni: As thirsty as that burger made me, I don’t think this is gonna last very long…
She giggles as she raises the can to her lips. As the cold liquid pours down her throat, she watches the others out of the corner of her eye.
Danni: You know, all things considered, I’m glad we came. This was a good chance to get to know some of our co-workers outside of the arena. Frankly, I think we should do this sort of thing more often.
Jess: Totally! Everyone in WCG is so cool and friendly, or, well, mostly everyone... Speaking of which, I think I owe you an apology, Donovan. I was pretty harsh to you when I got to talking about the first show. I’m sorry, I might have misjudged you.
Danni looks up at Donovan, and the pair exchange a smile before Danni turns back to Jess.
Danni: To be fair, you’re not the only one. I kinda thought he had a bit of a stick up his ass. Granted, he can still be a bit of a grump sometimes, but as I got to know him, the REAL him, he’s not so bad.
Donovan: Ladies? I AM right here, you know….
Danni giggles, and Jess promptly joins in.
Donovan: But, to be fair, I didn't do much to ingratiate myself with the rest of the roster, so the reaction was pretty fair. So no hard feelings on my part….
Jess: Oh, ok. Well, I’m glad we can set that all aside, then.
Donovan extends his hand for Jess to shake. Jess smiles, and accepts the peace offering happily.
Jonathan sits back and smiles happy to see things turn around from where they were just a few moments ago. He chuckles to himself as he quietly watches not wanting interject until enough time passes.
Ruby: Well, I'm thrilled to see so many people show up. Honestly, I don't feel like I've had much of a chance to make a lot of friends in West Coast Genesis. Aside from Ryan and Tornado… I guess I've just been a little too busy to make the effort.
She shrugs her shoulders and looks around at all the familiar faces that she knows and has spoken to most of them, but she doesn't really know them that well yet.
Ruby: I hope you guys didn't think I was intentionally trying to avoid any of you. I mean, I guess mostly I was just watching and trying to get a feel for everyone to know who would be approachable. Shockingly, a lot of you actually are. And I say shockingly only because that was not how most people will tell you the business is.
Ruby laughs at the all of the negativity that often surrounds the professional wrestling business and backstage egos.
Suddenly a vehicle pulls up that the rest of the crowd aren’t familiar with at all; a blue Ford F-150. Out steps one of the newest signees and the man that Ruby Rose defeated, Jack Santore. He has on his blue, New York Giants board shorts, black slides and a black tank top with Ray-Ban shades. Jack walks to the bed of the truck and pulls out another cooler stocked with beer. Jack carries the cooler over to the group and sets it down near the grill.
Jack: Hey guy, sorry I’m late.
Jack opens the cooler, taking out a beer and cracking it open. He doesn’t know everyone very well so he just sort of awkwardly smiles at everyone.
Jack: Hey, Honey. Ruby…
Honey and Ruby are the only ones that Jack is sort of familiar with so he greets them first. It’s got to be a little awkward, especially since Ruby just beat him a few days ago. Ruby offers him a somewhat awkward wave and a bit of a smile. She isn't really sure how to approach someone you just beat. Mostly because Jack was her first victory in West Coast Genesis.
Jonathan gets up off the bench he has been sitting on and makes his way over the short distance to stand next to Donavan. Extending a hand.
Jonathan: I wanted to say hi and introduce myself. Im Jonathan. I've been impressed by your work so far. For a long time I was thinking Id get a chance to work you all but someone put me on Redemption. I am excited to be apart of the family though.
Donovan shakes Jonathan's hand.
Donovan: One thing I've learned thus far is to never say never. We very well could face off sometime in the future.
Danni: Who knows? You could very well see one or both of us over there soon. Granted, I’d like to add some gold to my record before I even think about making the jump…
Danni looks up at Donovan, winking playfully.
Jonathan: You are both right. I know you guys and gals have the talent to take over the Redemption roster. I certainly am looking forward to seeing you guys sooner rather than later.
Up from behind Mercedes comes Austen.
Austen: Hey you! My pops called and I couldn’t get him off of the phone. I thought you were shopping?
He was excited to have her at the party.
Danni: I know what you mean… sometimes, I can’t get my mom to be quiet long enough to get a word in!
Austen: So as I was saying earlier. Hey all. Sorry about that.
He laughed.
Austen: He’s not normally a chatterbox. Guess it was the full moon.
Danni giggles, playfully patting the back of her hand against Donovan’s abs.
Danni: You should hear this one howl...
Austen tries not to laugh loudly out loud; partially because it was damn funny and because he did not want to imagine Donovan howling in any manner whatsoever. Danni notices, and it only makes her giggle even more.
Danni: Hey, if you can’t crack a dirty joke around your friends, who can you do it around?
He shrugs.
Austen: I guess so. Maybe at our little ladder match, you go ahead and distract Donovan as much as you can. I am sure the rest of us wouldn’t mind.
Danni: Too bad I’ll be busy going after that belt just as hard as everyone else will be…
She smirks.
Austen: It was worth a try…
He laughs.
Ruby: If you guys don't mind, I'd rather we save the ladder match and belt talk for later. Just the thought of you guys beating the crap out of me for that title is enough to send me into a panic attack and I'd love to enjoy today as much as I can.
She laughs now, but it's clearly her best attempt to mask the honesty behind that statement as she eyes her present opposition.
Austen: You will be fine. Don’t worry. But no match talk. Got it. Has anyone tested out the waters? I am like a fish. Ask Mercedes.
Danni: That was the first thing Donny and I did when we got here… water’s great! Just better make sure your swimsuit isn’t going anywhere….
She adjusts the shoulder strap on her bikini top, blushing just a little.
Austen looks at Mercedes.
Austen: I don’t know about you….
He pulls his shirt off and heads right for the water without saying a second word, diving in head first.
Mercedes: I think his nickname really should be fish.
She laughs, as she pulls her shorts down, before heading off to join him. Danni and Donovan watch as Austen and Mercedes enjoy the water, then they look at each other. Danni smiles.
Danni: Hey Donny… race you to the water.
She playfully elbows him in the gut, then takes off toward the water. Donovan tears after her, but she jumps into the water before he can catch her. He comes up behind her, hoisting her up onto his shoulders.
In the water, Austen and Mercedes come up for air as he tries to gently splash her with water, but she happily dunks him under the water.
Ruby makes her way over to the awkwardly all alone drinking his beer Jack Santore. She greets him with a cringey smile that says she's still not really sure what to say to him or what kind of friendship is feasible after beating someone on their debut.
Ruby: Hey. Glad you could make it.
She reaches into one of the coolers and pulls out a bottle of water for herself.
Ruby: I'm sure you probably know everyone. Big guy in the water is Donovan Basch. His girl Danni. Then Austen and his girl Mercedes. This is Jonathan. He's in Redemption. Honey at the grill, you know her. And Mr. Hollywood himself Scotty Latimer and… Melina Wilson. I don't know how to describe her. Sorry.
More nervous laughter from Ruby as she tries to give the new guy a heads up on everyone.
Jack: Hey, everyone. Nice to meet you.
Jack gives a nervous wave to everyone.
Jack: Thanks for inviting me. It’s nice to do something other than go to the gym and stay cooped up inside that apartment, you know?
Jack gives a small chuckle, still full of nervousness but feeling less awkward now that he’s actually having a conversation with someone.
Jack: Look, I just wanted to say congrats on your win. You really earned that and there’s no hard feelings from me.
Jack tries his best to offer a warm smile to Ruby. He just hopes she doesn’t blow him off or get even more uncomfortable.
Ruby: Thanks. That really means a lot. You were an incredible opponent. It was amazing getting my first win and you didn't make it easy.
Back in the water, Donovan crouches down, only to jump back up, launching Danni into the air. As she comes back down, Donovan catches her in his arms, carrying her out of the water.
Danni: Okay… NOW who’s showing off?
Donovan: Guilty as charged…
Danni rolls her eyes as they make their way back to their blanket. He sets her down feet first onto the blanket as he looks around at everyone else, an odd smile on his face. Well, at least it’s odd for the others to see him smile like that.
Danni: Fine… I’ll let you have that one.
Mercedes and Austen decide to head back out of the water holding hands as they make their way back over to where they dropped their street clothes. Austen wraps her up in a towel.
Austen: Hey… Jack.. right?
Austen extends a hand to shake.:
Jack: Yeah, nice to meet you.
Jack shakes Austen’s hand, then extending his hand to Mercedes.
Jack: Nice to meet you guys.
The three of them exchange pleasantries.
Tornado Desencadenado knew this was a bad idea. Attending a beach party for West Coast Genesis superstars after exchanging words with one online and backhanding the other during the promotion’s broadcast seemed to fly in the face of what would be good manners. Add to the fact he should be on the road back to Louisiana to begin preparing for his next show and showing up here seemed to be a mistake. But if he was to ever form tighter bonds with his co-workers in WCG he had to take advantage of any chance he got. So, clad in an old “Alpha Wrestling Empire” shirt, a pair of bermuda shorts, and some ratty sports sandals, TD made his way from the parking lot to where the wrestlers were congregating.
Ruby: TD! You made it!
Ruby lights up at the arrival of another friend, one of the few she's actually gotten the chance to really get to know. She greets him with a big smile and a wave.
Ruby: You know everybody, right?
The Spin Doctor smiles back awkwardly.
Tornado: I recognize everyone, yeah.
He gives congenial nods towards the others in attendance.
Danni and Donovan look over in TD’s direction, with Danni holding tightly onto Donovan’s well-muscled arm. Donovan returns TD’s greeting with a nod of his own, and the slightest hint of a smile. Danni looks up at her boyfriend, the smile on her face serving as a glimmer of hope that now that their match was over, the two men could at the very least be civil toward each other.
Danni: All things considered, I hope you two can let bygones be bygones. I know it got pretty heated on Twitter, but...
Donovan cuts her off, extending a hand toward TD.
Donovan: I know I came off a bit... territorial, but Danni is the first woman I’ve ever had any real feelings for, and I’m man enough to own up to the fact that I took things the wrong way.
He pauses, clearing his throat.
Donovan: I know you meant no harm.
The young wrestler accepted the handshake.
Tornado: It’s over now. I could have handled it better, so I’m not blameless. I certainly didn’t want to make anyone feel uncomfortable. There was no ulterior motive; it was just like the MCM and WCW hashtags: harmless stuff. It’s just, in this business, I don’t want to get a reputation of being some kind of creeper, especially when I might winding up trading holds with one of the women I, ahm, “liked on twitter”.
He chuckles ruefully.
Tornado: Embarrassing just to say out loud, really. But there it is.
Ruby: Besides, I probably like just as many of Danni's pics on Twitter as TD does.
Ruby laughs and shrugs her shoulders.
Ruby: Hey, when you're a babe you're a babe. And when you're dating a babe… it can get awkward.
Danni looks up at Donovan with a flirtatious smile on her face.
Danni: Of course, Donny’s no slouch in that department, either….
Donovan chuckles nervously, trying VERY hard not to blush.
Ruby: I'm comfortable enough in my sexuality to like another woman's pictures. I am not comfortable enough to like another woman's boyfriend's pictures.
She smiles and shrugs her apology over apparently not clicking like on Donovan pictures. Does Donovan even post many pictures of himself?
Donovan: Well, it isn't as if I post a ton of photos of myself anyway…..
Danni: No, but that’s okay… your dad just gave me a bunch of pics from your college years.
Ruby: Now THOSE I would love to see.
Danni: All in good time, Ruby… all in good time.
She looks up at Donovan and flashes a mischievous grin as he cringes.
Jonathan laughs and shakes his head at the thought of old photos. Moving through the group he extends a hand.
Jonathan: Tornado it's a pleasure to meet you sir. Jonathan Drake. You're in Union Battleground as well correct?
The Ring Revolutionary shakes hands with Drake.
Tornado: Yeah. Small world, huh? Nice to meet you face to face finally. I saw you’re part of UB’s tag tournament. Good luck with that. You plan on being at Guerilla Warfare too?
Jonathan: No not my intention to be at Guerilla Warfare. Needed some time off to get situated after joining Redemption. Good luck to you. You're also in the tag tourney right?
Tornado nods.
Tornado: Trixie and I are facing a team from So-Cal Ultraviolent; Reigner and Reyes. It’s not for a few weeks though. Early July I think. It should be after the next Hype show, for sure.
Jack: Oh, hey! I know Trixie! She’s been really nice to me, giving me tips on how to improve in the ring and everything. She mentioned you guys were tag partners.
Jack turns his attention to Tornado.
Jack: Sorry to interrupt, I’m Jack, by the way.
Jack extends his hand to Tornado, he laughs at himself, almost embarrassed for having interrupted but he’s just happy to...kind of know someone else at the party.
Tornado: Good meeting you, Jack. Yeah, Trixie has been a big help to me as well.
Scotty Latimer appears back in the shot. He is working on a hot dog as he stares at Jonathan Drake and Ruby Lance and ignores Tornado.
Scotty Latimer: So….you two moved in together huh? Jesus Ruby you could have done so much better than this clown..
Jonathan takes a step towards Scotty but Ruby places her hand on his chest. She gives Scotty a menacing look.
Scotty Latimer: Oh what? Jonathan Drake can't fight his own battles? Or are you just too nice of a guy to fight. You know what little man? I want to thank you….because of you signing to Redemption Wrestling now everyone is going to look at that place as the bush leagues instead of West Coast Genesis.
Jonathan glares daggers at Scotty.
Jonathan speaks calmly : Scott if i have no issues with stepping up to Mason. I have no issue stepping down to a matchstick like you.
Ruby: Jonathan! You guys… come on!
Before Jonathan can go into cold clock Scotty Tornado speaks up.
Tornado: Let them fight, Ruby. If Latimer wants to keep running his mouth he isn’t worth protecting.
Scotty Latimer: Oh you have a right to talk? Yeah I guess you and Draky-poo here have something in common. You need a more talented person than you to keep you both from getting embarrassed.
Melina Wilson walks up and whispers to Scotty trying to calm him down.
Scotty Latimer:What's stopping you shooter? All 5 foot of Ruby Lance? Come on boy. Make your move!
Scotty then turns back to Jonathan.
Scotty Latimer: And the name is Scotty stupid….and the same challenge I just issued him applies to….
Tornado has heard enough as he pushes Scotty. Scotty returns the push with a hard slap to TD’s face that prompts Ruby to jump right in the line of fire. She gets herself between the two men, putting herself directly in the path of Scotty should he choose to try and come at TD again. If he does, he'll have to go through Ruby.
Jonathan tenses as Ruby puts herself in between the two potential combatants.
Ruby: Enough. Enough! Jesus, this is not what everyone came here for! We came here to have a good time, not to see grown men acting like children!
She glances from Scotty over to TD and shakes her head in disappointment.
Ruby: I expect a lot better from both of you.
Scotty smirks and first looks at Jonathan.
Scotty Latimer: Real man there aren't you. Letting your girlfriend step in between two men. I knew you two moved in together. What Jonathan was your testicles the down payment on the apartment?
Scotty backs away as Melina pulls him away with others.
Scotty Latimer: You watch what i do to your hero Ryan Keys kids. Because you shooter will be next….
He looks back at Jonathan.
Scotty Latimer: And by the time me and you face off again nice guy maybe she will loan you your balls back.
Jonathan makes a move but Ruby stops him.
Scotty Latimer: I'm out of here. This scene is ruining my reputation. Good luck Ruby. You are the only one worth anything in that little group that's riding your pigtails right now.
He gives them all the gesture for the Midnight Horsemen and leaves the beach. Ruby breathes a sigh of relief once the situation finally settles down with the departure of Scotty Latimer. Though, there's still the aftermath to deal with, much like there was for Mason Moore. Ruby sighs and turns to Jonathan and TD.
Ruby: You guys, I am so sorry.
Jonathan: You have nothing to be sorry for. Some people can't help but show how much of an ass they really are.
Tornado isn’t so accommodating. Still rubbing his jaw, he glares at Ruby with surprising pique.
Tornado: Stop trying to protect that punk. He isn’t worth saving.
Ruby: It's not about protecting him. What good is it going to serve you to clock him backstage or on the beach? Is that what you want? Is that all you need from all of this?
The WCG wrestler’s expression softened slightly, but it was clear he was still upset. His shoulders, tense and ready for conflict earlier, now slumped, and he shook his head in disbelief.
Tornado: This isn’t the time or place to get into this. So I’m heading out. Good meeting you all.
He nods to Jonathan and Jack, gives a farewell wave to the others nearby, and walks off. Ruby sighs and shakes her head.
Ruby: Great. So now he's mad at me. I need to write that book on how to lose a friend in 10 days or something like that.
Danni walks up to Ruby, shaking her head as she pats her on the shoulder.
Danni: I guess it’s just one of those things that just happens. Things get said, people butt heads. I’m not saying either of them are right, but what they do is on them, not you. Should you keep apologizing for what others do? Absolutely not. You’re only going to drive yourself crazy.
Ruby smiles at Danni's attempts to help the situation, showing that she definitely appreciates her kind words.
Ruby: Thanks. Going crazy is the last thing I need right now.
Danni: Sometimes, a little crazy can be fun. It just depends on the type of crazy.
She tilts her head towards Donovan and smirks. Ruby smiles and laughs, nodding along with her.
Ruby: You got the good kind of crazy. Not that you need me to tell you, but don't let it go.
Ruby lays a hand on Danni's shoulder, giving it a friendly pat meant to thank her for providing a good dose of carefree fun into an evening that was meant to be nothing but that.