Post by Deleted on Dec 25, 2009 11:13:04 GMT -5
Continued from the previous entry: Second Chances
Monday morning, December 21st, four days until Christmas
After a weekend of relative relaxation and calm, the beginning of another hectic work week has arrived for Bobby Cairo. This is the homestretch before Christmas, and for a FedEx deliveryman such as Cairo that means that there will be no rest for the weary. Fortunately for Cairo, this is also the beginning of the end of his tenure at FedEx. After meeting with his attorney/business manager Dave Kartel over the weekend, Cairo has decided that he will begin making promotional appearances at various wrestling functions across the country as a means of supporting himself, and thus he will sever his ties with FedEx. Cairo has not yet shared his decision with his friends, family or employer, nor his girlfriend and fellow FedEx employee Emily Hotchkiss.
Cairo feels confident that he’s making the right decision and he believes that his loved ones will support him. Cairo also believes that his return to the wrestling community in a promotional capacity is the first step toward his eventual in-ring return. All of that is in the future. Right now, it’s Monday morning. Cairo is sitting at the breakfast table in his trainer/roommate Bolts Quackenbush’s apartment. Cairo is sipping freshly squeezed orange juice and reading the paper before work. Cairo is joined at the table by his friend Chad Evans. Chad is recovering from a late night out with his girlfriend, a Megan Fox look-alike named Holly.
Chad could have spent the night at Holly’s or gone back to his own apartment, but he comes to Bolts’ place for the free food. Plus, Chad and Bolts carpool from Bolts’ apartment in Hartford, Connecticut to the Ultra Nova Dojo in Brooklyn, New York, where Bolts is the head trainer and Chad is a striking and grappling coach. Plus, Bolts likes to keep a short leash on Chad because he can get pretty crazy when it comes to women and booze.
As Chad and Cairo sit at the table and sip their juice, Bolts prepares breakfast for the three of them. Bolts is wearing his Kashi (all natural organic foods) apron and he means business with a spatula in his hand. Bolts is cooking up an egg-white omelet with cottage cheese and spinach, a dish that’s high in protein and taste, and low in calories and cholesterol.
Bolts Quackenbush: “You were out late last night, Chad. I hope that you’ll be ready to put in your hours at Ultra Nova today?”
Chad Evans: “Don’t worry about me, Bolts. Holly had me working overtime last night, but I’ll be ready to go. I guess you could say that she gave me an early Christmas present, ha-ha. We did a little bit of role-playing. I played Santa and she played Mrs. Claus, but I don’t think Mrs. Claus has ever worn an outfit like that before!”
Chad chuckles as he takes a sip of orange juice.
Bobby Cairo: “I’m sorry I missed that, Chad. It sounds like you guys put on a hell of a show.”
Chad Evans: “Hey you know me, Bobby: I stay strong all night long!”
Chad flexes his bicep while thankfully keeping his “other” muscle tucked in his pajama bottoms.
Chad Evans: “Speaking of shows did you guys catch One last night? Obviously I was otherwise occupied during the broadcast, but I did catch the highlights on Sportscenter this morning. From the looks of it, it was a hell of a show.”
Bobby Cairo: “I saw bits and pieces of it last night. I couldn’t really get into it. It’s tough watching a show knowing that I can’t compete on it.”
Chad Evans: “I tell ya, Torture was lucky to escape with the belt. I thought for sure Slickie had him beat.”
Chad smiles and pats Cairo on the shoulder.
Chad Evans: “Tort is lucky he wasn’t wrestling Bobby Cairo last night!”
Cairo smiles at Chad.
Bobby Cairo: “I appreciate that, Chad, but personally I think Torture is lucky that Seth Lerch likes penis.”
Chad laughs like a schoolboy and almost spits his OJ.
Chad Evans: “That’s a good one, Bobby!”
Chad wipes his face with a napkin.
Chad Evans: “Hey, our boy Biohazard did a great job last night!”
Bolts’ ears perk up as he turns the omelet in the skillet.
Bolts Quackenbush: “Bio wrestled at One last night?”
Chad Evans: “Not exactly. He was playing with a band called the JCP Allstars. They performed Torture’s intro music.”
Bolts turns his attention away from the stove.
Bolts Quackenbush: “What? Why the hell was Bio playing Torture’s intro? Has he joined the dark side or something?”
Chad Evans: “Well, Bio’s in the band with Seth. I guess they’re friends or something, I don’t know. I don’t think it has anything to do with Torture.”
Bolts Quackenbush: “I should hope not!”
Bolts slams the spatula onto the stove top.
Bolts Quackenbush: “Breakfast is ready.”
Bobby Cairo: “Geez, Bolts, calm down. They just played a song together, it’s not like Bio joined the tater tots, or ToT, whatever they call it. For what it’s worth I thought the band did a good job with Torture’s theme. I can’t stand that song because I think Kings of Leon are shit, but they redeemed that song as much as it could be redeemed.”
Chad Evans: “You don’t like Kings of Leon, Bobby? I think they’re good. They’re a throw back to the 70’s rock sound, bands like Zeppelin and Aerosmith, even the Allmans. How about you, Bolts, what do you think?”
Bolts divides the omelet into three sections in the skillet before carefully placing each piece onto a dish.
Bolts Quackenbush: “You know me, Chad. I listen to Sinatra and Garth Brooks.”
Cairo nods his head, knowingly.
Bobby Cairo: “I swear if he blasts ‘My Way’ one more time on that damned Bose radio of his I’m gonna flip out.”
Bolts looks Cairo in the eye as he puts a plate down on the table in front of him.
Bolts Quackenbush: “You don’t like it? Move in with Kings of Leon over there.”
Bobby Cairo: “Ugh, no thanks. Chad’s apartment is way too cramped and it reeks of pot and teriyaki. Besides I think I’m gonna be getting my own place soon.”
Bolts Quackenbush: “Really? Well, that’s great, Bobby. I didn’t know FedEx was paying you that kind of money.”
Chad gives Bobby a thumbs up as he grabs a fork and digs into his omelet.
Chad Evans: “Congratulations, Bobby! I’m proud of you, man!”
Bobby Cairo: “Thank you, guys, but I should tell you that I won’t be working at FedEx anymore. In fact today is the start of my last week at FedEx.”
Bolts drops his fork onto his plate and looks up at Cairo.
Bolts Quackenbush: “What the hell are you talking about, Bobby? You’re quitting your job and you think you’re gonna have money to buy your own place? Are you daft, son?”
Bobby Cairo: “Bolts, calm down. I met with Dave over the weekend and he told me that there’s a big demand for me at promotional events. You know meet and greets with wrestling fans? Most of the guys who do those events are washed up, they’re at the end of their career, so I would be one of the few, current, name wrestlers. I mean, listen, I’m not an active wrestler at the moment, but I will be soon and people still remember me. It wasn’t long ago that I was world champion. Anyway I would be making more money than I’m making now, I’d get to tour the country and I’d get my name out there in wrestling circles again. I’d also be doing a bit of public speaking, which is something that I enjoy.”
Bolts furrows his brow as he strokes his white, Carlin-esque beard.
Bolts Quackenbush: “Are you sure this is a good idea, Bobby? I know that FedEx was never part of your long-term vision, but they’ve given you structure and discipline. You’re up at four o’clock every morning, ironing your uniform, exercising. You’re putting in your forty hours a week. You’re a real professional, a real jam up guy. Do you really want to give that up to sign autographs and pose for pictures?”
Bobby Cairo: “I understand what you’re saying, Bolts, and believe me I’m thankful for the opportunity that FedEx has given me. I just… I want to be part of the wrestling community again. I’m feeling detached from it, man, like a drug addict who’s going through withdrawal. Dave told me that I might even be able to get a job as an announcer, you know, until I’m ready to return as a wrestler. Wouldn’t that be something? I mean I know it’s hard for me to watch the shows at home, but maybe if I was calling the action it would be different. Let’s face it I have a mellifluous speaking voice, and I’m funny and charming.”
Chad pats Cairo on the shoulder and nods his head approvingly.
Chad Evans: “I think this is a great opportunity for you, Bobby. If it’s something that you want to do then you should go for it. I’m thinking of getting back into the wrestling game myself. Ultra Nova is great but I see myself as a competitor, not just a coach. I got a taste of what it’s like to be a competitor in WCF and I liked it. My advice for you, Bobby: life’s too short to spend time at a job that you hate.”
Bobby Cairo: “I don’t hate FedEx, Chad. Like I said I’m thankful to them. I’ve enjoyed my time there. They’ve given me work at a time when I’ve needed it. They got me into a regular routine instead of sitting around, watching TV and drinking. Most importantly, FedEx gave me the opportunity to meet the woman of my dreams.”
Cairo licks his lips as he thinks about Emily.
Chad Evans: “You and Emily are pretty hot and heavy, eh Bobby?”
Bobby Cairo: “You could say that, uh, in fact I’ve been planning a very special evening for the two of us on Christmas. I can’t very well bring Emily back here so I’ve reserved a room at the Sheraton.”
Chad Evans: “Ooh la la, the Sheraton! Very ritzy, Bobby.”
Bobby Cairo: “Yeah, I know. See I have this whole plan. First I’m gonna take her out to dinner at a real nice restaurant, treat her to a steak and lobster dinner. I’ll wine her and dine her and then I’ll bring her to the hotel room. Mind you, I’m gonna decorate the room real fancy with scented candles, roses and lilac on the bed, and of course I’m gonna give her her Christmas present. I really think she’s gonna like it.”
Chad Evans: “Whadya get? Whadya get?!”
Bobby Cairo: “Well, after receiving my mother’s blessing, I’m giving Emily my grandmother’s diamond broach.”
Chad’s draw drops.
Chad Evans: “Oh my God… she’s going to flip out, Bobby! In a good way I mean! Nicely played, buddy!”
Bolts tries to play it cool and keep his poker face, but eventually he cracks.
Bobby Cairo: “Bolts, is that a smile that I spy upon your face?”
Bolts Quackenbush: “You played your hand well, my son. If she has a pulse she’s gonna love it. That’s romance right there and women love romance. I should know because I’m an expert on both subjects.”
Bobby Cairo: “Thank you, Bolts. How about you, Chad? Do you and Holly have any special plans?”
Chad Evans: “Yeah, she’s dressing up as Wonder Woman and I’m dressing up as George W. Bush.”
Bobby Cairo: “What does that have to do with Christmas?”
Chad Evans: “She’s gonna whip me with her Lasso of Truth until I give in and spill the beans about all of my administration’s criminal activities. We’re both into S&M, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Conversely my administration’s war crimes and corporate bailouts are the gifts that keep on taking.”
Bobby Cairo: “That’s um… interesting. Hey, have fun, alright?”
Chad Evans: “Thanks!”
Bolts Quackenbush: “I have no comment on that, but I do have a question for you, Bobby.”
Bobby Cairo: “Shoot.”
Bolts Quackenbush: “How do you think Emily is going to react to the news that you’re leaving Federal Express? After all she works in the office. She's an administrator, she’s not a temp like you. She can’t very well pick up and travel with you across the country to support you during your promotional appearances. She’s a career woman.”
Bobby Cairo: “I don’t exactly plan on telling Emily, not immediately anyway. I’ve told her about my past as a wrestler and I’ve told her that I plan on returning to wrestling, but I'm sure that she didn't expect me to take off from FedEx this quickly. Quite frankly I think most people at FedEx expect me to be offered a full-time position once the holidays are over.”
Cairo folds his hands in front of his face and takes a deep breath.
Bobby Cairo: “I just hope that she understands. I don’t know what I would do if I lost Emily.”
Chad consoles his friend.
Chad Evans: “Don’t worry, Bobby. If she loves you then she’ll understand. You’ll find a way to make it work.”
Cairo nods his head.
Bobby Cairo: “Thank you, Chad. I appreciate that.”
Cairo checks his watch.
Bobby Cairo: “Geez, I gotta get going, guys. Thanks for the wonderful breakfast, Bolts. And thank you for the support, Chad. Friends like you guys are the best Christmas present that a guy could ask for!”
Chad laughs.
Chad Evans: “You a corny motherfucker, Bobby, but that’s why we love you!”
Cairo finishes his juice, waves goodbye to Chad and Bolts, and takes a walk out the door. Cairo is ready for another day as Bobby the delivery guy. It’s just another step on Cairo’s chosen path, a path that he believes will land him the woman of his dreams and a return to the squared circle. Cairo’s path isn’t about getting sex, fame and money. It’s about honor, passion and integrity. These are undeniable truths that Cairo will never again take for granted… never again.
Monday morning, December 21st, four days until Christmas
After a weekend of relative relaxation and calm, the beginning of another hectic work week has arrived for Bobby Cairo. This is the homestretch before Christmas, and for a FedEx deliveryman such as Cairo that means that there will be no rest for the weary. Fortunately for Cairo, this is also the beginning of the end of his tenure at FedEx. After meeting with his attorney/business manager Dave Kartel over the weekend, Cairo has decided that he will begin making promotional appearances at various wrestling functions across the country as a means of supporting himself, and thus he will sever his ties with FedEx. Cairo has not yet shared his decision with his friends, family or employer, nor his girlfriend and fellow FedEx employee Emily Hotchkiss.
Cairo feels confident that he’s making the right decision and he believes that his loved ones will support him. Cairo also believes that his return to the wrestling community in a promotional capacity is the first step toward his eventual in-ring return. All of that is in the future. Right now, it’s Monday morning. Cairo is sitting at the breakfast table in his trainer/roommate Bolts Quackenbush’s apartment. Cairo is sipping freshly squeezed orange juice and reading the paper before work. Cairo is joined at the table by his friend Chad Evans. Chad is recovering from a late night out with his girlfriend, a Megan Fox look-alike named Holly.
Chad could have spent the night at Holly’s or gone back to his own apartment, but he comes to Bolts’ place for the free food. Plus, Chad and Bolts carpool from Bolts’ apartment in Hartford, Connecticut to the Ultra Nova Dojo in Brooklyn, New York, where Bolts is the head trainer and Chad is a striking and grappling coach. Plus, Bolts likes to keep a short leash on Chad because he can get pretty crazy when it comes to women and booze.
As Chad and Cairo sit at the table and sip their juice, Bolts prepares breakfast for the three of them. Bolts is wearing his Kashi (all natural organic foods) apron and he means business with a spatula in his hand. Bolts is cooking up an egg-white omelet with cottage cheese and spinach, a dish that’s high in protein and taste, and low in calories and cholesterol.
Bolts Quackenbush: “You were out late last night, Chad. I hope that you’ll be ready to put in your hours at Ultra Nova today?”
Chad Evans: “Don’t worry about me, Bolts. Holly had me working overtime last night, but I’ll be ready to go. I guess you could say that she gave me an early Christmas present, ha-ha. We did a little bit of role-playing. I played Santa and she played Mrs. Claus, but I don’t think Mrs. Claus has ever worn an outfit like that before!”
Chad chuckles as he takes a sip of orange juice.
Bobby Cairo: “I’m sorry I missed that, Chad. It sounds like you guys put on a hell of a show.”
Chad Evans: “Hey you know me, Bobby: I stay strong all night long!”
Chad flexes his bicep while thankfully keeping his “other” muscle tucked in his pajama bottoms.
Chad Evans: “Speaking of shows did you guys catch One last night? Obviously I was otherwise occupied during the broadcast, but I did catch the highlights on Sportscenter this morning. From the looks of it, it was a hell of a show.”
Bobby Cairo: “I saw bits and pieces of it last night. I couldn’t really get into it. It’s tough watching a show knowing that I can’t compete on it.”
Chad Evans: “I tell ya, Torture was lucky to escape with the belt. I thought for sure Slickie had him beat.”
Chad smiles and pats Cairo on the shoulder.
Chad Evans: “Tort is lucky he wasn’t wrestling Bobby Cairo last night!”
Cairo smiles at Chad.
Bobby Cairo: “I appreciate that, Chad, but personally I think Torture is lucky that Seth Lerch likes penis.”
Chad laughs like a schoolboy and almost spits his OJ.
Chad Evans: “That’s a good one, Bobby!”
Chad wipes his face with a napkin.
Chad Evans: “Hey, our boy Biohazard did a great job last night!”
Bolts’ ears perk up as he turns the omelet in the skillet.
Bolts Quackenbush: “Bio wrestled at One last night?”
Chad Evans: “Not exactly. He was playing with a band called the JCP Allstars. They performed Torture’s intro music.”
Bolts turns his attention away from the stove.
Bolts Quackenbush: “What? Why the hell was Bio playing Torture’s intro? Has he joined the dark side or something?”
Chad Evans: “Well, Bio’s in the band with Seth. I guess they’re friends or something, I don’t know. I don’t think it has anything to do with Torture.”
Bolts Quackenbush: “I should hope not!”
Bolts slams the spatula onto the stove top.
Bolts Quackenbush: “Breakfast is ready.”
Bobby Cairo: “Geez, Bolts, calm down. They just played a song together, it’s not like Bio joined the tater tots, or ToT, whatever they call it. For what it’s worth I thought the band did a good job with Torture’s theme. I can’t stand that song because I think Kings of Leon are shit, but they redeemed that song as much as it could be redeemed.”
Chad Evans: “You don’t like Kings of Leon, Bobby? I think they’re good. They’re a throw back to the 70’s rock sound, bands like Zeppelin and Aerosmith, even the Allmans. How about you, Bolts, what do you think?”
Bolts divides the omelet into three sections in the skillet before carefully placing each piece onto a dish.
Bolts Quackenbush: “You know me, Chad. I listen to Sinatra and Garth Brooks.”
Cairo nods his head, knowingly.
Bobby Cairo: “I swear if he blasts ‘My Way’ one more time on that damned Bose radio of his I’m gonna flip out.”
Bolts looks Cairo in the eye as he puts a plate down on the table in front of him.
Bolts Quackenbush: “You don’t like it? Move in with Kings of Leon over there.”
Bobby Cairo: “Ugh, no thanks. Chad’s apartment is way too cramped and it reeks of pot and teriyaki. Besides I think I’m gonna be getting my own place soon.”
Bolts Quackenbush: “Really? Well, that’s great, Bobby. I didn’t know FedEx was paying you that kind of money.”
Chad gives Bobby a thumbs up as he grabs a fork and digs into his omelet.
Chad Evans: “Congratulations, Bobby! I’m proud of you, man!”
Bobby Cairo: “Thank you, guys, but I should tell you that I won’t be working at FedEx anymore. In fact today is the start of my last week at FedEx.”
Bolts drops his fork onto his plate and looks up at Cairo.
Bolts Quackenbush: “What the hell are you talking about, Bobby? You’re quitting your job and you think you’re gonna have money to buy your own place? Are you daft, son?”
Bobby Cairo: “Bolts, calm down. I met with Dave over the weekend and he told me that there’s a big demand for me at promotional events. You know meet and greets with wrestling fans? Most of the guys who do those events are washed up, they’re at the end of their career, so I would be one of the few, current, name wrestlers. I mean, listen, I’m not an active wrestler at the moment, but I will be soon and people still remember me. It wasn’t long ago that I was world champion. Anyway I would be making more money than I’m making now, I’d get to tour the country and I’d get my name out there in wrestling circles again. I’d also be doing a bit of public speaking, which is something that I enjoy.”
Bolts furrows his brow as he strokes his white, Carlin-esque beard.
Bolts Quackenbush: “Are you sure this is a good idea, Bobby? I know that FedEx was never part of your long-term vision, but they’ve given you structure and discipline. You’re up at four o’clock every morning, ironing your uniform, exercising. You’re putting in your forty hours a week. You’re a real professional, a real jam up guy. Do you really want to give that up to sign autographs and pose for pictures?”
Bobby Cairo: “I understand what you’re saying, Bolts, and believe me I’m thankful for the opportunity that FedEx has given me. I just… I want to be part of the wrestling community again. I’m feeling detached from it, man, like a drug addict who’s going through withdrawal. Dave told me that I might even be able to get a job as an announcer, you know, until I’m ready to return as a wrestler. Wouldn’t that be something? I mean I know it’s hard for me to watch the shows at home, but maybe if I was calling the action it would be different. Let’s face it I have a mellifluous speaking voice, and I’m funny and charming.”
Chad pats Cairo on the shoulder and nods his head approvingly.
Chad Evans: “I think this is a great opportunity for you, Bobby. If it’s something that you want to do then you should go for it. I’m thinking of getting back into the wrestling game myself. Ultra Nova is great but I see myself as a competitor, not just a coach. I got a taste of what it’s like to be a competitor in WCF and I liked it. My advice for you, Bobby: life’s too short to spend time at a job that you hate.”
Bobby Cairo: “I don’t hate FedEx, Chad. Like I said I’m thankful to them. I’ve enjoyed my time there. They’ve given me work at a time when I’ve needed it. They got me into a regular routine instead of sitting around, watching TV and drinking. Most importantly, FedEx gave me the opportunity to meet the woman of my dreams.”
Cairo licks his lips as he thinks about Emily.
Chad Evans: “You and Emily are pretty hot and heavy, eh Bobby?”
Bobby Cairo: “You could say that, uh, in fact I’ve been planning a very special evening for the two of us on Christmas. I can’t very well bring Emily back here so I’ve reserved a room at the Sheraton.”
Chad Evans: “Ooh la la, the Sheraton! Very ritzy, Bobby.”
Bobby Cairo: “Yeah, I know. See I have this whole plan. First I’m gonna take her out to dinner at a real nice restaurant, treat her to a steak and lobster dinner. I’ll wine her and dine her and then I’ll bring her to the hotel room. Mind you, I’m gonna decorate the room real fancy with scented candles, roses and lilac on the bed, and of course I’m gonna give her her Christmas present. I really think she’s gonna like it.”
Chad Evans: “Whadya get? Whadya get?!”
Bobby Cairo: “Well, after receiving my mother’s blessing, I’m giving Emily my grandmother’s diamond broach.”
Chad’s draw drops.
Chad Evans: “Oh my God… she’s going to flip out, Bobby! In a good way I mean! Nicely played, buddy!”
Bolts tries to play it cool and keep his poker face, but eventually he cracks.
Bobby Cairo: “Bolts, is that a smile that I spy upon your face?”
Bolts Quackenbush: “You played your hand well, my son. If she has a pulse she’s gonna love it. That’s romance right there and women love romance. I should know because I’m an expert on both subjects.”
Bobby Cairo: “Thank you, Bolts. How about you, Chad? Do you and Holly have any special plans?”
Chad Evans: “Yeah, she’s dressing up as Wonder Woman and I’m dressing up as George W. Bush.”
Bobby Cairo: “What does that have to do with Christmas?”
Chad Evans: “She’s gonna whip me with her Lasso of Truth until I give in and spill the beans about all of my administration’s criminal activities. We’re both into S&M, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Conversely my administration’s war crimes and corporate bailouts are the gifts that keep on taking.”
Bobby Cairo: “That’s um… interesting. Hey, have fun, alright?”
Chad Evans: “Thanks!”
Bolts Quackenbush: “I have no comment on that, but I do have a question for you, Bobby.”
Bobby Cairo: “Shoot.”
Bolts Quackenbush: “How do you think Emily is going to react to the news that you’re leaving Federal Express? After all she works in the office. She's an administrator, she’s not a temp like you. She can’t very well pick up and travel with you across the country to support you during your promotional appearances. She’s a career woman.”
Bobby Cairo: “I don’t exactly plan on telling Emily, not immediately anyway. I’ve told her about my past as a wrestler and I’ve told her that I plan on returning to wrestling, but I'm sure that she didn't expect me to take off from FedEx this quickly. Quite frankly I think most people at FedEx expect me to be offered a full-time position once the holidays are over.”
Cairo folds his hands in front of his face and takes a deep breath.
Bobby Cairo: “I just hope that she understands. I don’t know what I would do if I lost Emily.”
Chad consoles his friend.
Chad Evans: “Don’t worry, Bobby. If she loves you then she’ll understand. You’ll find a way to make it work.”
Cairo nods his head.
Bobby Cairo: “Thank you, Chad. I appreciate that.”
Cairo checks his watch.
Bobby Cairo: “Geez, I gotta get going, guys. Thanks for the wonderful breakfast, Bolts. And thank you for the support, Chad. Friends like you guys are the best Christmas present that a guy could ask for!”
Chad laughs.
Chad Evans: “You a corny motherfucker, Bobby, but that’s why we love you!”
Cairo finishes his juice, waves goodbye to Chad and Bolts, and takes a walk out the door. Cairo is ready for another day as Bobby the delivery guy. It’s just another step on Cairo’s chosen path, a path that he believes will land him the woman of his dreams and a return to the squared circle. Cairo’s path isn’t about getting sex, fame and money. It’s about honor, passion and integrity. These are undeniable truths that Cairo will never again take for granted… never again.
