Post by Jonny Fly on Sept 27, 2017 12:37:59 GMT -5
“Jonny Fly has always crafted his own reality.”
We’ve entered a random television studio. Our shot has focused on two men sitting on chairs in the middle of a stage. Around the stage are various cameras and cameramen, all pointed in the direction of the men. The previous sentence is spoken by a man in a suit who is seated on the right. He is identified by a graphic in the lower third of the screen as “Jim Roberts – Wrestling Historian.” He continues to speak to the unidentified man who serves as this show’s presenter.
Roberts: His mannerisms and rhetoric always screamed of a man who lusts to control everything around him. To Fly, his wins were always a wholesome display of superiority. His losses always a fluke. His title reigns were always the best and toughest, his title losses always a case of apathy or wanting to move on. Fly is perhaps the most arrogant and narcissistic wrestler we’ve seen…
The historian stops and brings one finger into the air.
Roberts: …but he was far smarter and more calculated than people give him credit. Evil and genius are packaged together far more than society is comfortable admitting. Look at H.H. Holmes, Ted Kaczynski, Jeffrey Dahmer, Ted Bundy, and more. Those who we term evil are those who show no compassion or remorse. They understand right and wrong, but lack the emotional intelligence to regulate how they act within the confines of society. That accurately describes both Fly’s highly troubled personal life and masochism over the years in WCF.
Fly viewed every other wrestler as a pawn on his chessboard, save perhaps Steve Orbit. I’m not sure about him. But everyone else – friend or foe - served a purpose to Jonny Fly. Perhaps that purpose was to help him out of troubled legal times, like Phantasm. Maybe it was to bolster his stable. There’s not many who argue against Pantheon as the greatest stable in wrestling history. That’s a feather in the cap of Fly’s legacy. But he knew he needed to play nice with others to make it a reality. Fly needed antagonists like Corey Black, Logan, and Gravedigger in his early months in the company. He targeted these people. He riled them up enough to gain their attention and by extension the attention of everyone else. Those wins would increase his exposure and credibility. Fly then seamlessly pivoted from vanquisher of the old guard to its standard bearer, and for a couple years, defeated all challengers to the wrestling kingdom he had created. All the while neatly tucking away old or fallen rivals underneath him in the Pantheon pecking order.
It was brilliant strategy. Now years later, Jonny Fly is one of the first names that comes to mind when you think of WCF’s greatest wrestlers. Yet, Fly has neither the longevity, titles, or number of wins as many others. He can’t possibly attain those triumphs without a lengthy full-time return to the company – which there’s no indication will ever happen. But to the narcissist obsessed with creating his own reality, there is one way to get over on everyone one last time – destroy and humiliate Corey Black.
Forget what happened last time they were in the ring together. That’s the convenient explanation for Fly’s insistence on this match. That’s misdirection. What Jonny Fly is truly after is Corey Black’s status. He wants to crumble WCF’s pillar. He wants to burn it all to the ground and then rise from the ashes. Black has done everything, and done it more, than anyone else in history. Fly can’t touch that and he’s smart enough to realize it. But he can force Corey Black back into the ring one more time and use that forum to inflict his punishment. He can be the person who ends his career. He can take that scalp for his own. The man who ended the career of the company’s most historic star. If you can’t have the status of greatest WCF wrestler, that’s one hell of a consolation prize. It might just be enough to placate Fly once and for all. I don’t know. But let there be no doubt, Fly has more on his mind than revenge when those two square off. This is his end-game. The last leg in his long operation to make the Jonny Fly world bigger than the WCF universe.
Our scene cuts on those words, immediately going to black.
---
We pick back up at Jonny Fly’s house. The days of the vaunted New York City mansion are a distant memory. These days Fly finds residence in a Chicago penthouse near Navy Pier, one purchased about 18 months ago. There’s little public knowledge about where Fly has been, and what he’s been doing, since his last appearances in WCF. This is the first time this home has been shown on camera. Mysteriously wealthy, even outside of his successful wrestling career, it’s no surprise to see Fly inhabiting posh quarters.
The penthouse utilizes a modern open concept. The kitchen, living room, dining room, and office all encompass one large space bordered by floor to ceiling windows with a nearly 360-degree view of the Windy City skyline. Positioned in a large space behind the kitchen is the property’s single bedroom. Occupying the middle of the main living space is an oversized black leather couch, contrasting the dark wood floors and white wall colors of the home. The couch is positioned toward the left wall, where one of the building’s structural pillars breaks up the run of windows. The interior side of the pillar is finished with a vertical piece of white marble. The marble includes an insert in which a flat-screen television has been fit. It is this television that is the source of Fly’s current interest.
The man once referred to as ‘The Dynasty’ sits upright on the couch. Wearing a dress shirt, buttoned casually, slacks, and dress shoes, Fly’s right arm is draped across the back of an attractive young woman. Her name, appearance, and details of her purpose in Fly’s life matter little. All women are merely an accessory to Jonny Fly. As if to prove that very point, he’s seen to be paying her little attention. On the television, Fly has just witnessed the same interview we saw moments ago with Jim Roberts. As it finishes, he retreats his arm from his across his women’s shoulders and digs around the seat cushions of the couch until he finds the remote. Fly turns off the television – but for a moment, still stares blankly into the black screen. He mutters, almost to himself.
Fly: It only took six years for someone to figure it out.
The woman with Fly turns toward him with a confused look. Before she has a chance to say what’s on her mind, Fly follows up his own comment.
Fly: It’s time for you to leave. I suppose it’s about time to put my plan into action.
Fly gets up from the couch and looks down upon the woman. She returns his stare, and with a hint of annoyance and pinch of confusion, she does as instructed. The woman rises from the couch and without further acknowledging Fly, turns and heads toward the door. Our camera cuts off her and instead swings around in the direction Fly is headed. He disappears through a doorway positioned next to the kitchen and into the bedroom. About a minute passes before he returns, now wearing a black sports coat over his dress shirt and holding a 9mm Walther PPQ pistol in his hand. He tucks the gun into his inside jacket pocket. Fly begins to move toward the penthouse’s exit and speaks out loud – for nobody in particular to hear…
Fly: I’m going to drain the life from Corey Black before he even has a chance to enter the ring.
Fly reaches an elevator door on the far right of the penthouse. He presses the down arrow and the doors immediately slide open. He enters the elevator, turns, and clicks the button for the ground floor. As the doors of the elevator close so does our scene.
---
Charm. It’s an underrated part of the Jonny Fly repertoire. No different than many vile characters over time, Fly has the unique ability to charm and coerce the people around him to get whichever outcome he desires. He can be warm, friendly, funny, and outlandish. He can flip the switch and become cold, cunning, and ruthless. His anger is legendary. His jokes and catchphrases are still selling shirts. These character traits are well known to wrestling fans. They are less known, however, to world-famous pop stars and their assistants.
Our newest scene has taken us back to Jonny Fly’s roots. New York City. After arriving in the city, Fly took a cab to the West Village in lower Manhattan. For the last two hours, he’s been sitting at Prodigy Coffee. Sipping a coffee and staring out the window, Fly takes special attention to the female clientele as they walk into the café. He’s waiting for someone and won’t have to wait much longer. A bell chimes as the entry door opens. A woman in her mid-20’s, slender, with brunette hair and glasses walks in. She’s dressed professionally with a black skirt, a white one button suit jacket, and red heels. The woman heads directly for the counter where’s she greeted by a shop employee.
Woman: Hello! Good to see you again.
Shop Employee: The usual?
Woman: Yes please, latte with skim milk.
“You can go ahead and put that on my tab. Add another black coffee for me as well, dear.”
The voice comes from behind the woman. Startled, she turns to see the charming mask of Jonny Fly. He holds out his hand.
Fly: Hello ma’am. I’m Tim.
The woman smiles politely and reaches out to return the handshake.
Tina: That was very kind of you, Tim. My name is Tina.
Fly nods and sets his credit card on the counter for the cashier to run. He half turns toward Tina to continue the conversation while his payment is being processed.
Fly: I hope this isn’t awkward. I promise I’m not hitting on you or anything – which I must admit is hard, as you’re quite attractive.
Fly smiles at his own comment and softly touches the woman on the shoulder to subtly reinforce his interest. She laughs at the comment in response and waves her hand.
Tina: Oh, stop it!
Fly: The truth is, I work for a local non-profit and September is our ‘random acts of kindness’ month. It’s this drive we do one month each year where we’re required to perform at least one kind act to a total stranger each day. It’s crunch time for us, so sorry, but you’re my victim for the day!
Tina: Well, lucky me I suppose.
The cashier at the coffee shop slides Fly his card and receipt to him on the counter. He signs the receipt and sets his card back in his wallet. He and Tina walk to the end of the counter to await their orders.
Fly: May I ask what you do?
Tina: I’m a personal assistant. My boss – well, she’s really famous.
Fly: Well, that’s interesting! How famous are we talking?
Tina: Err, well, she’s definitely world famous. If I was permitted to say her name, you would know her. It’s really a crazy job. Work every day, tons of travel, events, meetings, shows, public appearances. I manage the whole deal and go everywhere she goes. Heck, I even live with her!
Fly: Wow. That sounds intense. Do you find it rewarding?
Tina: Most of the time. I’ve made great connections for when the time comes to do something different. But enough about me – tell me about your non-profit?
Fly: Our mission is to rehouse as many homeless animals in The City as possible. It’s straightforward, but it’s a huge problem. With so many people living here and the urban environment, dogs, cats, you name it – they get lost all the time. When they’re discovered, we want them to come to us. With our network we can do what your normal city shelters can’t – invest time and resources to find their owners. If we can’t, then we provide them safe shelter until we get them a new family. We also have a side of our operation that focuses specifically on educating people on the benefits of simple things like microchipping their pets, keeping their contact information on their collars updated, or keeping them on a leash when they take them outside.
Tina: Aww. That sounds like a great organization!
Fly: It’s a passion. It doesn’t pay much, but hey, there’s no price on doing something you love, right?
At this point, both drinks are ready and set onto the counter for Fly and Tina to grab.
Fly: I’d invite you to sit, but I don’t want…
Tina: Sure. I have a little bit of time, I suppose.
Fly smiles almost mischievously. He’s close, and like any predator, he knows it. Both individuals walk toward the closest two-seat table and sit. As they sip their drinks, they continue talking.
Fly: So, you’re not permitted to reveal who you work for – which makes sense. Privacy is important for celebrities. But can you tell me at least what this person does – are we talking movie star, singer, athlete?
Tina smiles politely.
Tina: I’m not really supposed to say. All I can tell you is that she keeps me running around 24/7.
Fly: Well that’s a shame. A beautiful girl like you shouldn’t be working all the time. Are you not able to do anything fun? You don’t get any time to yourself?
Tina blushes ever so slightly.
Tina: Well, sometimes when she takes vacation. But that’s the job. Like I said, we live together. I’m not even always in New York. She’s her for the week, so am I. She’s got houses in a few cities.
Fly: Wow. That’s a gut punch.
Tina: What?
Fly: That you don’t live in New York.
Tina: I’m all over the place. It just depends on what’s going on.
Fly: So…
Fly pauses. He shakes his head.
Fly: Nevermind.
He turns away, feigning sadness. Tina leans forward in her chair.
Tina: It’s okay. What’s on your mind?
Fly turns back toward her.
Fly: Well, I was just starting to scheme on how to ask you out for a proper date before our conversation was over. But now I’m not so sure it’d work out with you always jet setting across the country.
Tina: Aww. Well look, the good news is my boss tends to spend more time in New York than any other city. But we don’t really know if it’s even worth worrying about until we actually get to know one another, right? What’s the harm in one date?
She says the last comment with a smile. Fly returns the smile, though his does tend to look more like his trademark devious smirk.
Fly: Well then. What about today – right now, to be specific?
Tina seems taken aback by the statement.
Tina: You want to go on a date...now?
Fly: Well, I don’t want to miss my chance. Who knows where you’ll be tomorrow, right?
Tina looks a bit flustered. She stammers, looking down at her clothing.
Tina: I just…I don’t know…I mean, I’d have to at least change…I guess…
Fly: Perfect! I don’t mind. How about we meet back here in an hour? Would that work?
Tina: Okay. That works. In the meantime, why don’t you think about where we’re going.
Fly nods his head and rises from his seat.
Fly: Come on, I’ll walk you out.
Tina gets up from her seat as well and they discard their drinks and walk outside. Fly walks to the curb and raises his hand, hailing a cab for the lady. A moment later a cab pulls up and Fly opens the door for Tina.
Fly: I’ll see you in an hour.
Tina smiles and gets into the cab, giving Fly a thankful peck on the cheek. He watches as her cab pulls out. He turns the opposite way and holds up his arm to hail another cab. As one pulls over, Fly hurriedly enters the backseat of the car and directs his drive.
Fly: Do you see that cab just up the street? Please follow it, but not too closely.
As he says those words, Fly pulls out his wallet and slides a $100 bill onto the arm rest next to the driver.
Fly: For your trouble, and your discretion.
The driver grabs the bill and nods his head affirmingly. He pulls out and begins following Tina’s cab at a safe distance. After about a ten-minute ride, the cab Fly is following pulls up in front of the ‘Sugar Loaf Condominium’ building. Fly’s cab pulls over a safe distance behind Tina’s. He waits for her to exit the cab, before doing so himself – making sure to slide another $100 bill to his drive to close their transaction. As Tina walks from the curb toward the glass façade of the first story of the building, Fly takes up an inconspicuous spot leaning up against a street light. He watches Tina enter the building, check-in with the building’s security officer, and then proceed to the elevator. He’s able to see her press the button labeled ‘Penthouse’. He smiles, and she disappears into the elevator.
…
Five hours later, things are much different at the Sugar Loaf building. Jonny Fly sits quietly inside the building’s penthouse. The space is designed in a vintage look. There’s wide plank wood flooring, exposed brick on the walls, 12-foot wood beamed ceilings, and older style furniture – with red seemingly being the color of choice. Fly sits on a red loveseat. In front of him, tied up by his feet and arms, is the building’s security guard seen briefly in the previous scene. He’s gagged by another segment of rope to avoid noise.
Fly’s chair has been positioned to face the unit’s elevator entrance. We’ve begun to hear the noise of the elevator being summoned into operation. Seconds later we hear a female voice mutter…
“I can’t believe he stood me up. He really seemed like a nice guy.”
The elevator doors open. Tina is the first to step into the living space, her eyes immediately finding Fly.
Tina: What the…
From behind her steps Taylor Swift. For a fleeting moment, both ladies stare at the sight of Jonny Fly sitting in their living room with a tied-up security guard at his feet. Before another sound can be made, Fly reaches into his pocket and pulls out his pistol. He sets it onto his lap.
Fly: Hello ladies. Not a word, please. Step forward and take a seat on the couch.
The elevator door behind Tina and Taylor closes. There’s nowhere else for them to go.
Tina: What the hell is this!? How did you…wait, did you follow me earlier?
Taylor Swift: Tina, you know this person!?
Tina: He’s the guy from the café!
Annoyed already, Fly grabs his pistol and holds it into the air – pointing it at each of them. The action immediately gathers the girls’ attention and prompts silence.
Fly: I really don’t have time for this nonsense. I have a busy week and this is only my first stop. Now, if you would, take_a_fucking_seat_on_the_couch.
The stern words, and the presence of the gun, initiate action. There’s a couch in the room to Fly’s right. The ladies slowly walk toward it and take a seat. Fly smiles, and brings the gun down and tucks it into his pants.
Fly: Good, now we can begin. I don’t intend to hurt either of you, nor do I intend for this to last long. However, this is a serious situation that – for you, Taylor – needs full attention. Do you understand?
Taylor Swift: I do.
Fly: The situation is this; you have a friend that I’ve taken an issue with. A very important and personal issue. Now, I’ve already expressed my issue with this individual in person. He felt my displeasure. But I just don’t think it’s quite enough. This man is very thick-headed. He actually believes he’s the greatest wrestler in history.
The last sentence makes it clear to Taylor Swift who Fly is referring to.
Taylor Swift:. …Corey?-
Fly doesn’t respond to the question. He simply continues speaking.
Fly: So, drastic measures must be taken. I’m not just going to beat Corey Black in the wrestling ring – for a third time, mind you. I’m not even restricting myself to ending his career and embarrassing him in front of millions of people. I want to kill Corey Black. Not literally, though the thought has crossed my mind over the last year. I want to do something worse. I can kill his name and legacy in the ring. No sweat. But I want to kill his spirit and soul. I want to suck the life out of him. I want him to wake up every motherfuckin’ day, walk to the top of whatever shithole he’s living in and jump. I want him to be pained when he looks in the mirror. I want him to be ashamed to show his face his public. I want him to feel like a man being kept breathing by artificial forces and not his own body’s will. I want him to only be alive by only the strictest definition of the word.
Fly pauses. The anger shown within his face dissipates. The energy from his voice disappears, making way for Fly to continue in a lighter note.
Fly: That’s where you come in, Ms. Swift. I need your help.
Taylor Swift: I’m not sure I understand.
Fly: Then let me explain it. I don’t want you to ever see or talk to Corey Black again. This sideshow of you two hanging out, going to Ikea – that’s done. Have some self-respect for fuck sake. The dude’s literally a foot shorter than you. You’re Taylor Swift, not some domesticated housewife. He’s a midcard wrestler who labels his best features as an elbow and a beard.
Fly rises from his seat. He turns to face the two women and pulls a folded-up piece of paper out of his pocket. He steps forward and hands the paper to Taylor.
Fly: Not only that, but this week I want you to publicly read what I’ve written in this letter. Memorize it. I want it to look real.
Taylor Swift: That’s all you want? Are you going to leave now?
Fly: I’m going to leave. But do you see that man right there?
Fly points to the security guard still tied up on the floor. Then he points to Tina.
Fly: Do you see her?
Fly then points his finger in the air and moves it around in a large circle.
Fly: What about this place, do you like this place? How about your life? You’ve been pretty angsty lately for a grown-ass woman. Think clearly, do you like the life you’re living? Do you want it to continue? Do you want these completely innocent people you’re with right now to continue living their lives? I can either be a ghost – never seen or heard from again. Or I can take a flamethrower to your entire life. The choices you make after I leave will determine which route we all take moving forward. Do we understand one another?
Taylor Swift nods her head. Fly looks at Tina.
Fly: What about you?
Tina: Yes.
She says the words albeit being on the verge of tears.
Fly: I assure you both that you’ll never see me again. But let me also say that police, FBI – I’ll see them coming. Been there done that. Before they get me, I’ll be right back here to pay you both a visit. Even if I was detained, outside of a little breaking and entering, some unlawful restraint of our friend on the floor, and some hard-to-prove-in-court verbal threats – I’ve done nothing wrong. Surely not enough to lock me up for an extended period. Any idea on where I’d go when I was let out?
Taylor Swift purses her lips. She nods understanding.
Fly: You have my word. Forget I was ever here, read that letter, and I’m a ghost. You ladies have a great day.
Fly turns and leans down and touches the security guard on the shoulder.
Fly: Nothing personal. They’ll get you untied in a moment, I’m sure. But the same applies to you. You’d be best served forgetting this happened. Your family would appreciate not having to meet me.
With that, Fly rises to his feet and moves toward the elevator. He presses the down arrow. A moment later the elevator chimes and the doors open. Fly enters the elevator, clicks the button for the bottom floor, and disappears.
…
Right now, a contingent of very sensitive people are upset at Kate Winslet for working with directors Roman Polanski and Woody Allen. Apparently, Kate Winslet is the acting world’s equivalent of Mother Teresa. This author takes no position on the matter, but it certainly seems people are shocked at the possibility that Kate Winslet is not some wholesome character. Or at least, she’s not whoever they – the self-righteous types – want her to be.
But these people clearly don’t know the Kate Winslet that the Wrestling Championship Federation came to know several years ago. Graciously referred to in the earlier part of the decade as the ‘Pantheon Slut,’ she slummed around the group’s members trying nothing more than to accumulate as many dicks as possible. A series of comedic inside-jokes resulted. Many of those made their way onto WCF televisions in the form of match promotions from group members. Good times were had at poor Kate’s expense. Throughout it all, all members maintained that they never engaged with ‘Kate Winslut.’ But were they all being truthful?
These days Kate’s doing some promotion herself. She has a movie coming out with Justin Timberlake this winter. Rumors are that she only accepted the role because she thought she was starring opposite of Jeff Purse. Alas, despite her disappointment, she fulfilled her contractual duty to the movie and is now onto the press tour. The name of this movie doesn’t matter because, well, it stars Kate Winslet and there’s apparently ‘sexuality’ in its content. The people are already running away as fast as humanly possible. Plus, her character’s name is ‘Ginny’ and – spoiler - everyone knows that in the end she ends up marrying Harry Potter.
Anyway, (Not)Classy Kate is sitting down tonight with Seth Myers on the show “Late Night with Seth Myers.” You know, because Jimmy Fallow didn’t want to be anywhere close to her. We’re live in the studio where Seth has just introduced Kate. He’s standing up and waiting for her as she walks out from the back wearing a black dress that everyone watching in the live audience and at home wishes was LESS tight-fitting. Seth greets Kate with a limp-wristed handshake, while making sure to keep the rest of his body as far away as possible without looking too awkward. Kate moves from the handshake to her chair next to Seth’s desk on the stage. She sits down and (deep sigh of relief) crosses her legs. Looking relieved as well, and inconspicuously sliding nose plugs back into his pocket, Seth takes a seat at his desk. He looks at Kate, fakes a smile, and then pretends to stretch out his legs – making sure to roll his chair to the far side of the desk away from her. That’s where he begins the interview.
Myers: It’s great to see you again!
Winslut: Thank you, Seth! Always great to see you!
Myers: Thank you. You’ve been busy lately, haven’t you?
Winslut: I have! It’s been a crazy time for me. I have two movies coming out, two movies last year, the kids are getting older. It’s all great stuff, but I’ve been as busy as ever over the last couple of years!
Myers: One of those movies – Wonder Wheel – you get to star in with Justin Timberlake. Love him. Big friend of the shot. This was your first time working with him, right?
Winslut: Oh, yes. And he’s great. I really loved working with him. He’s such a natural.
Myers: Tell us what the movie’s about.
Winslut: It’s based on Coney Island in the 1950’s. I play a woman named Ginny who is married to a carousel operator at the Coney Island Fair. My life is bleak and boring, but then she takes interest with a local lifeguard she meets. Eventually her husband’s estranged daughter returns to their life and takes interest in the same lifeguard.
Myers: So, you go from a carousel operator to a lifeguard?
Winslut: I traded up!
Myers: But then your husband’s daughter falls for the same man? You two are like competing for this individual, even though you’re married?
Winslut: Yeah!
Myers: Scandalous.
Winslut: I just love playing these roles where you can get into a character and really the emotion of that situation. Ginny is trying to find herself and love at the same time.
Myers: Did you find this character easy to play?
At this point, Kate – almost nervously – directs a glance off-stage. For all her faults, she is a good actress. She’s about to do some of her finest work.
Winslut: Seth, I have to be honest with you. I did find this character easy to play. I feel like Ginny and I have a lot in common. I’m happily married. But my eyes do wander. My weakness isn’t lifeguards. My weakness is people with beards longer than their arms and legs.
Myers: …what?
Winslut: Oh, yes. There was one man in particular who for a time was the light of my life. I don’t know if you’d even know who he was, but man, the times this person and I had. It was so pure. So organic. I took this role because I knew I was the perfect person for it. It was a role made just for me. Ginny’s lifeguard is my….
…Corey Black.
Kate Winslet smiles proudly. Seth Myers blinks. Then blinks again. He doesn’t know what to say. The audience falls silent and we, the listening audience, take this break to find the nearest shit can to throw up in.
We’ve entered a random television studio. Our shot has focused on two men sitting on chairs in the middle of a stage. Around the stage are various cameras and cameramen, all pointed in the direction of the men. The previous sentence is spoken by a man in a suit who is seated on the right. He is identified by a graphic in the lower third of the screen as “Jim Roberts – Wrestling Historian.” He continues to speak to the unidentified man who serves as this show’s presenter.
Roberts: His mannerisms and rhetoric always screamed of a man who lusts to control everything around him. To Fly, his wins were always a wholesome display of superiority. His losses always a fluke. His title reigns were always the best and toughest, his title losses always a case of apathy or wanting to move on. Fly is perhaps the most arrogant and narcissistic wrestler we’ve seen…
The historian stops and brings one finger into the air.
Roberts: …but he was far smarter and more calculated than people give him credit. Evil and genius are packaged together far more than society is comfortable admitting. Look at H.H. Holmes, Ted Kaczynski, Jeffrey Dahmer, Ted Bundy, and more. Those who we term evil are those who show no compassion or remorse. They understand right and wrong, but lack the emotional intelligence to regulate how they act within the confines of society. That accurately describes both Fly’s highly troubled personal life and masochism over the years in WCF.
Fly viewed every other wrestler as a pawn on his chessboard, save perhaps Steve Orbit. I’m not sure about him. But everyone else – friend or foe - served a purpose to Jonny Fly. Perhaps that purpose was to help him out of troubled legal times, like Phantasm. Maybe it was to bolster his stable. There’s not many who argue against Pantheon as the greatest stable in wrestling history. That’s a feather in the cap of Fly’s legacy. But he knew he needed to play nice with others to make it a reality. Fly needed antagonists like Corey Black, Logan, and Gravedigger in his early months in the company. He targeted these people. He riled them up enough to gain their attention and by extension the attention of everyone else. Those wins would increase his exposure and credibility. Fly then seamlessly pivoted from vanquisher of the old guard to its standard bearer, and for a couple years, defeated all challengers to the wrestling kingdom he had created. All the while neatly tucking away old or fallen rivals underneath him in the Pantheon pecking order.
It was brilliant strategy. Now years later, Jonny Fly is one of the first names that comes to mind when you think of WCF’s greatest wrestlers. Yet, Fly has neither the longevity, titles, or number of wins as many others. He can’t possibly attain those triumphs without a lengthy full-time return to the company – which there’s no indication will ever happen. But to the narcissist obsessed with creating his own reality, there is one way to get over on everyone one last time – destroy and humiliate Corey Black.
Forget what happened last time they were in the ring together. That’s the convenient explanation for Fly’s insistence on this match. That’s misdirection. What Jonny Fly is truly after is Corey Black’s status. He wants to crumble WCF’s pillar. He wants to burn it all to the ground and then rise from the ashes. Black has done everything, and done it more, than anyone else in history. Fly can’t touch that and he’s smart enough to realize it. But he can force Corey Black back into the ring one more time and use that forum to inflict his punishment. He can be the person who ends his career. He can take that scalp for his own. The man who ended the career of the company’s most historic star. If you can’t have the status of greatest WCF wrestler, that’s one hell of a consolation prize. It might just be enough to placate Fly once and for all. I don’t know. But let there be no doubt, Fly has more on his mind than revenge when those two square off. This is his end-game. The last leg in his long operation to make the Jonny Fly world bigger than the WCF universe.
Our scene cuts on those words, immediately going to black.
---
We pick back up at Jonny Fly’s house. The days of the vaunted New York City mansion are a distant memory. These days Fly finds residence in a Chicago penthouse near Navy Pier, one purchased about 18 months ago. There’s little public knowledge about where Fly has been, and what he’s been doing, since his last appearances in WCF. This is the first time this home has been shown on camera. Mysteriously wealthy, even outside of his successful wrestling career, it’s no surprise to see Fly inhabiting posh quarters.
The penthouse utilizes a modern open concept. The kitchen, living room, dining room, and office all encompass one large space bordered by floor to ceiling windows with a nearly 360-degree view of the Windy City skyline. Positioned in a large space behind the kitchen is the property’s single bedroom. Occupying the middle of the main living space is an oversized black leather couch, contrasting the dark wood floors and white wall colors of the home. The couch is positioned toward the left wall, where one of the building’s structural pillars breaks up the run of windows. The interior side of the pillar is finished with a vertical piece of white marble. The marble includes an insert in which a flat-screen television has been fit. It is this television that is the source of Fly’s current interest.
The man once referred to as ‘The Dynasty’ sits upright on the couch. Wearing a dress shirt, buttoned casually, slacks, and dress shoes, Fly’s right arm is draped across the back of an attractive young woman. Her name, appearance, and details of her purpose in Fly’s life matter little. All women are merely an accessory to Jonny Fly. As if to prove that very point, he’s seen to be paying her little attention. On the television, Fly has just witnessed the same interview we saw moments ago with Jim Roberts. As it finishes, he retreats his arm from his across his women’s shoulders and digs around the seat cushions of the couch until he finds the remote. Fly turns off the television – but for a moment, still stares blankly into the black screen. He mutters, almost to himself.
Fly: It only took six years for someone to figure it out.
The woman with Fly turns toward him with a confused look. Before she has a chance to say what’s on her mind, Fly follows up his own comment.
Fly: It’s time for you to leave. I suppose it’s about time to put my plan into action.
Fly gets up from the couch and looks down upon the woman. She returns his stare, and with a hint of annoyance and pinch of confusion, she does as instructed. The woman rises from the couch and without further acknowledging Fly, turns and heads toward the door. Our camera cuts off her and instead swings around in the direction Fly is headed. He disappears through a doorway positioned next to the kitchen and into the bedroom. About a minute passes before he returns, now wearing a black sports coat over his dress shirt and holding a 9mm Walther PPQ pistol in his hand. He tucks the gun into his inside jacket pocket. Fly begins to move toward the penthouse’s exit and speaks out loud – for nobody in particular to hear…
Fly: I’m going to drain the life from Corey Black before he even has a chance to enter the ring.
Fly reaches an elevator door on the far right of the penthouse. He presses the down arrow and the doors immediately slide open. He enters the elevator, turns, and clicks the button for the ground floor. As the doors of the elevator close so does our scene.
---
Charm. It’s an underrated part of the Jonny Fly repertoire. No different than many vile characters over time, Fly has the unique ability to charm and coerce the people around him to get whichever outcome he desires. He can be warm, friendly, funny, and outlandish. He can flip the switch and become cold, cunning, and ruthless. His anger is legendary. His jokes and catchphrases are still selling shirts. These character traits are well known to wrestling fans. They are less known, however, to world-famous pop stars and their assistants.
Our newest scene has taken us back to Jonny Fly’s roots. New York City. After arriving in the city, Fly took a cab to the West Village in lower Manhattan. For the last two hours, he’s been sitting at Prodigy Coffee. Sipping a coffee and staring out the window, Fly takes special attention to the female clientele as they walk into the café. He’s waiting for someone and won’t have to wait much longer. A bell chimes as the entry door opens. A woman in her mid-20’s, slender, with brunette hair and glasses walks in. She’s dressed professionally with a black skirt, a white one button suit jacket, and red heels. The woman heads directly for the counter where’s she greeted by a shop employee.
Woman: Hello! Good to see you again.
Shop Employee: The usual?
Woman: Yes please, latte with skim milk.
“You can go ahead and put that on my tab. Add another black coffee for me as well, dear.”
The voice comes from behind the woman. Startled, she turns to see the charming mask of Jonny Fly. He holds out his hand.
Fly: Hello ma’am. I’m Tim.
The woman smiles politely and reaches out to return the handshake.
Tina: That was very kind of you, Tim. My name is Tina.
Fly nods and sets his credit card on the counter for the cashier to run. He half turns toward Tina to continue the conversation while his payment is being processed.
Fly: I hope this isn’t awkward. I promise I’m not hitting on you or anything – which I must admit is hard, as you’re quite attractive.
Fly smiles at his own comment and softly touches the woman on the shoulder to subtly reinforce his interest. She laughs at the comment in response and waves her hand.
Tina: Oh, stop it!
Fly: The truth is, I work for a local non-profit and September is our ‘random acts of kindness’ month. It’s this drive we do one month each year where we’re required to perform at least one kind act to a total stranger each day. It’s crunch time for us, so sorry, but you’re my victim for the day!
Tina: Well, lucky me I suppose.
The cashier at the coffee shop slides Fly his card and receipt to him on the counter. He signs the receipt and sets his card back in his wallet. He and Tina walk to the end of the counter to await their orders.
Fly: May I ask what you do?
Tina: I’m a personal assistant. My boss – well, she’s really famous.
Fly: Well, that’s interesting! How famous are we talking?
Tina: Err, well, she’s definitely world famous. If I was permitted to say her name, you would know her. It’s really a crazy job. Work every day, tons of travel, events, meetings, shows, public appearances. I manage the whole deal and go everywhere she goes. Heck, I even live with her!
Fly: Wow. That sounds intense. Do you find it rewarding?
Tina: Most of the time. I’ve made great connections for when the time comes to do something different. But enough about me – tell me about your non-profit?
Fly: Our mission is to rehouse as many homeless animals in The City as possible. It’s straightforward, but it’s a huge problem. With so many people living here and the urban environment, dogs, cats, you name it – they get lost all the time. When they’re discovered, we want them to come to us. With our network we can do what your normal city shelters can’t – invest time and resources to find their owners. If we can’t, then we provide them safe shelter until we get them a new family. We also have a side of our operation that focuses specifically on educating people on the benefits of simple things like microchipping their pets, keeping their contact information on their collars updated, or keeping them on a leash when they take them outside.
Tina: Aww. That sounds like a great organization!
Fly: It’s a passion. It doesn’t pay much, but hey, there’s no price on doing something you love, right?
At this point, both drinks are ready and set onto the counter for Fly and Tina to grab.
Fly: I’d invite you to sit, but I don’t want…
Tina: Sure. I have a little bit of time, I suppose.
Fly smiles almost mischievously. He’s close, and like any predator, he knows it. Both individuals walk toward the closest two-seat table and sit. As they sip their drinks, they continue talking.
Fly: So, you’re not permitted to reveal who you work for – which makes sense. Privacy is important for celebrities. But can you tell me at least what this person does – are we talking movie star, singer, athlete?
Tina smiles politely.
Tina: I’m not really supposed to say. All I can tell you is that she keeps me running around 24/7.
Fly: Well that’s a shame. A beautiful girl like you shouldn’t be working all the time. Are you not able to do anything fun? You don’t get any time to yourself?
Tina blushes ever so slightly.
Tina: Well, sometimes when she takes vacation. But that’s the job. Like I said, we live together. I’m not even always in New York. She’s her for the week, so am I. She’s got houses in a few cities.
Fly: Wow. That’s a gut punch.
Tina: What?
Fly: That you don’t live in New York.
Tina: I’m all over the place. It just depends on what’s going on.
Fly: So…
Fly pauses. He shakes his head.
Fly: Nevermind.
He turns away, feigning sadness. Tina leans forward in her chair.
Tina: It’s okay. What’s on your mind?
Fly turns back toward her.
Fly: Well, I was just starting to scheme on how to ask you out for a proper date before our conversation was over. But now I’m not so sure it’d work out with you always jet setting across the country.
Tina: Aww. Well look, the good news is my boss tends to spend more time in New York than any other city. But we don’t really know if it’s even worth worrying about until we actually get to know one another, right? What’s the harm in one date?
She says the last comment with a smile. Fly returns the smile, though his does tend to look more like his trademark devious smirk.
Fly: Well then. What about today – right now, to be specific?
Tina seems taken aback by the statement.
Tina: You want to go on a date...now?
Fly: Well, I don’t want to miss my chance. Who knows where you’ll be tomorrow, right?
Tina looks a bit flustered. She stammers, looking down at her clothing.
Tina: I just…I don’t know…I mean, I’d have to at least change…I guess…
Fly: Perfect! I don’t mind. How about we meet back here in an hour? Would that work?
Tina: Okay. That works. In the meantime, why don’t you think about where we’re going.
Fly nods his head and rises from his seat.
Fly: Come on, I’ll walk you out.
Tina gets up from her seat as well and they discard their drinks and walk outside. Fly walks to the curb and raises his hand, hailing a cab for the lady. A moment later a cab pulls up and Fly opens the door for Tina.
Fly: I’ll see you in an hour.
Tina smiles and gets into the cab, giving Fly a thankful peck on the cheek. He watches as her cab pulls out. He turns the opposite way and holds up his arm to hail another cab. As one pulls over, Fly hurriedly enters the backseat of the car and directs his drive.
Fly: Do you see that cab just up the street? Please follow it, but not too closely.
As he says those words, Fly pulls out his wallet and slides a $100 bill onto the arm rest next to the driver.
Fly: For your trouble, and your discretion.
The driver grabs the bill and nods his head affirmingly. He pulls out and begins following Tina’s cab at a safe distance. After about a ten-minute ride, the cab Fly is following pulls up in front of the ‘Sugar Loaf Condominium’ building. Fly’s cab pulls over a safe distance behind Tina’s. He waits for her to exit the cab, before doing so himself – making sure to slide another $100 bill to his drive to close their transaction. As Tina walks from the curb toward the glass façade of the first story of the building, Fly takes up an inconspicuous spot leaning up against a street light. He watches Tina enter the building, check-in with the building’s security officer, and then proceed to the elevator. He’s able to see her press the button labeled ‘Penthouse’. He smiles, and she disappears into the elevator.
…
Five hours later, things are much different at the Sugar Loaf building. Jonny Fly sits quietly inside the building’s penthouse. The space is designed in a vintage look. There’s wide plank wood flooring, exposed brick on the walls, 12-foot wood beamed ceilings, and older style furniture – with red seemingly being the color of choice. Fly sits on a red loveseat. In front of him, tied up by his feet and arms, is the building’s security guard seen briefly in the previous scene. He’s gagged by another segment of rope to avoid noise.
Fly’s chair has been positioned to face the unit’s elevator entrance. We’ve begun to hear the noise of the elevator being summoned into operation. Seconds later we hear a female voice mutter…
“I can’t believe he stood me up. He really seemed like a nice guy.”
The elevator doors open. Tina is the first to step into the living space, her eyes immediately finding Fly.
Tina: What the…
From behind her steps Taylor Swift. For a fleeting moment, both ladies stare at the sight of Jonny Fly sitting in their living room with a tied-up security guard at his feet. Before another sound can be made, Fly reaches into his pocket and pulls out his pistol. He sets it onto his lap.
Fly: Hello ladies. Not a word, please. Step forward and take a seat on the couch.
The elevator door behind Tina and Taylor closes. There’s nowhere else for them to go.
Tina: What the hell is this!? How did you…wait, did you follow me earlier?
Taylor Swift: Tina, you know this person!?
Tina: He’s the guy from the café!
Annoyed already, Fly grabs his pistol and holds it into the air – pointing it at each of them. The action immediately gathers the girls’ attention and prompts silence.
Fly: I really don’t have time for this nonsense. I have a busy week and this is only my first stop. Now, if you would, take_a_fucking_seat_on_the_couch.
The stern words, and the presence of the gun, initiate action. There’s a couch in the room to Fly’s right. The ladies slowly walk toward it and take a seat. Fly smiles, and brings the gun down and tucks it into his pants.
Fly: Good, now we can begin. I don’t intend to hurt either of you, nor do I intend for this to last long. However, this is a serious situation that – for you, Taylor – needs full attention. Do you understand?
Taylor Swift: I do.
Fly: The situation is this; you have a friend that I’ve taken an issue with. A very important and personal issue. Now, I’ve already expressed my issue with this individual in person. He felt my displeasure. But I just don’t think it’s quite enough. This man is very thick-headed. He actually believes he’s the greatest wrestler in history.
The last sentence makes it clear to Taylor Swift who Fly is referring to.
Taylor Swift:. …Corey?-
Fly doesn’t respond to the question. He simply continues speaking.
Fly: So, drastic measures must be taken. I’m not just going to beat Corey Black in the wrestling ring – for a third time, mind you. I’m not even restricting myself to ending his career and embarrassing him in front of millions of people. I want to kill Corey Black. Not literally, though the thought has crossed my mind over the last year. I want to do something worse. I can kill his name and legacy in the ring. No sweat. But I want to kill his spirit and soul. I want to suck the life out of him. I want him to wake up every motherfuckin’ day, walk to the top of whatever shithole he’s living in and jump. I want him to be pained when he looks in the mirror. I want him to be ashamed to show his face his public. I want him to feel like a man being kept breathing by artificial forces and not his own body’s will. I want him to only be alive by only the strictest definition of the word.
Fly pauses. The anger shown within his face dissipates. The energy from his voice disappears, making way for Fly to continue in a lighter note.
Fly: That’s where you come in, Ms. Swift. I need your help.
Taylor Swift: I’m not sure I understand.
Fly: Then let me explain it. I don’t want you to ever see or talk to Corey Black again. This sideshow of you two hanging out, going to Ikea – that’s done. Have some self-respect for fuck sake. The dude’s literally a foot shorter than you. You’re Taylor Swift, not some domesticated housewife. He’s a midcard wrestler who labels his best features as an elbow and a beard.
Fly rises from his seat. He turns to face the two women and pulls a folded-up piece of paper out of his pocket. He steps forward and hands the paper to Taylor.
Fly: Not only that, but this week I want you to publicly read what I’ve written in this letter. Memorize it. I want it to look real.
Taylor Swift: That’s all you want? Are you going to leave now?
Fly: I’m going to leave. But do you see that man right there?
Fly points to the security guard still tied up on the floor. Then he points to Tina.
Fly: Do you see her?
Fly then points his finger in the air and moves it around in a large circle.
Fly: What about this place, do you like this place? How about your life? You’ve been pretty angsty lately for a grown-ass woman. Think clearly, do you like the life you’re living? Do you want it to continue? Do you want these completely innocent people you’re with right now to continue living their lives? I can either be a ghost – never seen or heard from again. Or I can take a flamethrower to your entire life. The choices you make after I leave will determine which route we all take moving forward. Do we understand one another?
Taylor Swift nods her head. Fly looks at Tina.
Fly: What about you?
Tina: Yes.
She says the words albeit being on the verge of tears.
Fly: I assure you both that you’ll never see me again. But let me also say that police, FBI – I’ll see them coming. Been there done that. Before they get me, I’ll be right back here to pay you both a visit. Even if I was detained, outside of a little breaking and entering, some unlawful restraint of our friend on the floor, and some hard-to-prove-in-court verbal threats – I’ve done nothing wrong. Surely not enough to lock me up for an extended period. Any idea on where I’d go when I was let out?
Taylor Swift purses her lips. She nods understanding.
Fly: You have my word. Forget I was ever here, read that letter, and I’m a ghost. You ladies have a great day.
Fly turns and leans down and touches the security guard on the shoulder.
Fly: Nothing personal. They’ll get you untied in a moment, I’m sure. But the same applies to you. You’d be best served forgetting this happened. Your family would appreciate not having to meet me.
With that, Fly rises to his feet and moves toward the elevator. He presses the down arrow. A moment later the elevator chimes and the doors open. Fly enters the elevator, clicks the button for the bottom floor, and disappears.
…
Right now, a contingent of very sensitive people are upset at Kate Winslet for working with directors Roman Polanski and Woody Allen. Apparently, Kate Winslet is the acting world’s equivalent of Mother Teresa. This author takes no position on the matter, but it certainly seems people are shocked at the possibility that Kate Winslet is not some wholesome character. Or at least, she’s not whoever they – the self-righteous types – want her to be.
But these people clearly don’t know the Kate Winslet that the Wrestling Championship Federation came to know several years ago. Graciously referred to in the earlier part of the decade as the ‘Pantheon Slut,’ she slummed around the group’s members trying nothing more than to accumulate as many dicks as possible. A series of comedic inside-jokes resulted. Many of those made their way onto WCF televisions in the form of match promotions from group members. Good times were had at poor Kate’s expense. Throughout it all, all members maintained that they never engaged with ‘Kate Winslut.’ But were they all being truthful?
These days Kate’s doing some promotion herself. She has a movie coming out with Justin Timberlake this winter. Rumors are that she only accepted the role because she thought she was starring opposite of Jeff Purse. Alas, despite her disappointment, she fulfilled her contractual duty to the movie and is now onto the press tour. The name of this movie doesn’t matter because, well, it stars Kate Winslet and there’s apparently ‘sexuality’ in its content. The people are already running away as fast as humanly possible. Plus, her character’s name is ‘Ginny’ and – spoiler - everyone knows that in the end she ends up marrying Harry Potter.
Anyway, (Not)Classy Kate is sitting down tonight with Seth Myers on the show “Late Night with Seth Myers.” You know, because Jimmy Fallow didn’t want to be anywhere close to her. We’re live in the studio where Seth has just introduced Kate. He’s standing up and waiting for her as she walks out from the back wearing a black dress that everyone watching in the live audience and at home wishes was LESS tight-fitting. Seth greets Kate with a limp-wristed handshake, while making sure to keep the rest of his body as far away as possible without looking too awkward. Kate moves from the handshake to her chair next to Seth’s desk on the stage. She sits down and (deep sigh of relief) crosses her legs. Looking relieved as well, and inconspicuously sliding nose plugs back into his pocket, Seth takes a seat at his desk. He looks at Kate, fakes a smile, and then pretends to stretch out his legs – making sure to roll his chair to the far side of the desk away from her. That’s where he begins the interview.
Myers: It’s great to see you again!
Winslut: Thank you, Seth! Always great to see you!
Myers: Thank you. You’ve been busy lately, haven’t you?
Winslut: I have! It’s been a crazy time for me. I have two movies coming out, two movies last year, the kids are getting older. It’s all great stuff, but I’ve been as busy as ever over the last couple of years!
Myers: One of those movies – Wonder Wheel – you get to star in with Justin Timberlake. Love him. Big friend of the shot. This was your first time working with him, right?
Winslut: Oh, yes. And he’s great. I really loved working with him. He’s such a natural.
Myers: Tell us what the movie’s about.
Winslut: It’s based on Coney Island in the 1950’s. I play a woman named Ginny who is married to a carousel operator at the Coney Island Fair. My life is bleak and boring, but then she takes interest with a local lifeguard she meets. Eventually her husband’s estranged daughter returns to their life and takes interest in the same lifeguard.
Myers: So, you go from a carousel operator to a lifeguard?
Winslut: I traded up!
Myers: But then your husband’s daughter falls for the same man? You two are like competing for this individual, even though you’re married?
Winslut: Yeah!
Myers: Scandalous.
Winslut: I just love playing these roles where you can get into a character and really the emotion of that situation. Ginny is trying to find herself and love at the same time.
Myers: Did you find this character easy to play?
At this point, Kate – almost nervously – directs a glance off-stage. For all her faults, she is a good actress. She’s about to do some of her finest work.
Winslut: Seth, I have to be honest with you. I did find this character easy to play. I feel like Ginny and I have a lot in common. I’m happily married. But my eyes do wander. My weakness isn’t lifeguards. My weakness is people with beards longer than their arms and legs.
Myers: …what?
Winslut: Oh, yes. There was one man in particular who for a time was the light of my life. I don’t know if you’d even know who he was, but man, the times this person and I had. It was so pure. So organic. I took this role because I knew I was the perfect person for it. It was a role made just for me. Ginny’s lifeguard is my….
…Corey Black.
Kate Winslet smiles proudly. Seth Myers blinks. Then blinks again. He doesn’t know what to say. The audience falls silent and we, the listening audience, take this break to find the nearest shit can to throw up in.
