Post by Sarah Twilight on Jul 21, 2019 10:25:13 GMT -5
January, 2010 - Sunland, California
It has been said that good lies within each of us. That even the most vile and despicable of all have a light hiding within them ... somewhere. When given the chance, that light will grow, and it will shine. However, when evil is allowed to fester within. It too will grow, and the ramifications of its bounds are endless. It takes but one deed to undo all else, good ... or evil.
Sunland is a beautiful place. Quiet, much more slow paced than the neighboring city of Los Angeles. The convenience of being so very close to the city, the beaches, and almost anything you needed, mixed with the serenity and peacefulness of a quaint suburb, being set apart from the chaotic city life. This was truly a haven. We watch as a small car pulls up against the curb, parking. Birds chirping, cool breezes on this sunny day. Even in the middle of winter the area had almost perfect weather. Stepping out from the car, we see Madame Selene and a still quite young Sarah Twilight. Young Sarah stands, folding her arms as she looks ahead of her, obviously unaware of what the purpose of this trip was.
Sarah: What are we doing?
Selene: I want you to meet someone. I think you'll have fun.
Sarah: I was doing just fine staying at the shop and reading.
Selene: Come now, let's go inside.
Reluctantly, Sarah follows Selene inside of the building. As they enter, we can see people vigorously working out, and people inside of wrestling rings, tossing each other around. As they move through-out the place, Sarah is observing everything, wondering exactly why Selene would bring her to a place like this. Selene scans the room for a moment, finally spotting who she was looking for. She smiles down at Sarah and the two head towards a young man who is watching a few of the combatants.
Selene: Garrett?
The man turns around.
Garrett: Ah, Selene. It's been such a long time. How have you been?
Selene: I have been well. And yourself?
Garrett: Doing well.
He glances at Sarah, then looks back to Selene.
Garrett: I...thought you were no longer running the Children's home?
Selene smiles.
Selene: I've not in quite some time. People do not understand by beliefs and, well, you know that creates problems.
Garrett: It's a shame, you were doing such a great service to the community.
Selene: I try to help where I can.
Garrett: So who is this?
Garrett again glances at Sarah.
Selene: Her name is Sarah. I brought her here in hopes that we could....redirect some of her...energy, shall we say.
Garrett smiles and extends his hand.
Garrett: Well hello there, Sarah. I'm Garrett.
Sarah folds her arms and gives him a slight nod. Garrett looks back at Selene.
Garrett: So what can I do to help?
Selene looks to Sarah.
Selene: Sarah, please have a seat over there so I can discuss a few things with Mr. Hawkins. I promise I will let you know as soon as we're through.
Sarah rolls her eyes and walks away, taking a seat down beside one of the wrestling rings. She leans back in the chair and watches the training wrestlers go over the motions. Meanwhile, Selene and Garrett walk towards his office as they talk.
Selene: Sarah, she's a very gifted, very bright young girl. But she possesses such anger within her. I have yet to get everything out of her, but from what I can tell, she grew up with severe neglect.
Garrett: And the parents? What do they think of your involvement?
Selene: She's been on her own for two years now. I have given her a place to stay, and something to occupy her time, but it isn't enough.
Garrett: (sighs heavily) I don't know, Selene. I have helped you before, but those were legal cases. Every one of those kids were under your care legally. I don't know if I want to jeopardize everything for a runaway.
Selene: She didn't run away, Garrett. Her mother and father ousted her.
Garrett: How old?
Selene: She was twelve.
Garrett: Why didn't you contact the sheriff's office?
Selene: So they could see to it that she is allowed back into that house? That madness? A few days in lockup for her father, only to enrage him more?
Garrett: I see your point....well how does she fair with academics? You know my policy on scholastics.
Selene: Straight A student.
Garrett: And she has this much of an issue that you brought her here?
Selene: She excels at any task that she draws interest. She is very intelligent, it is the anger and rage within her that I wish to direct into something positive.
Garrett: How are her feelings towards taking this on?
Selene: She is unaware of why she is here.
Garrett: Do you really think it was best to bring her here unkowingly?
Selene: I think she will take to it. If she is unwilling, I will not pressure her.
Garrett: (sighs) Alright, we'll see what happens.
Selene and Garrett exit the office and back onto the main training floor. Sarah is still seated, watching the trainees intently, almost as if studying every move. One of the trainees is practicing a DDT, and repeats the manuever several times. Garrett and Selene approach Sarah.
Selene: Sarah, Garrett would like to speak with you now.
Sarah glances over at them, and she stands, looking rather annoyed as she again folds her arms.
Sarah: What?
Garrett: How would you like to spend some time training here after school? It would be a great activity and I....
Sarah: I work at Selene's shop after school. Don't have time, sorry.
Selene smiles, trying to offer a hand.
Selene: Oh, that would be no trouble. You know I can manage. Have some fun, enjoy yourself. You can spend as much time as you like at the shop. Just give this a try.
Sarah rolls her eyes.
Sarah: Wrestling is for guys ... not for girls. I don't see any other girls here.
Garrett: You would be the first...but why should that stop you?
Sarah: Maybe because I don't want to wrestle? It does nothing for me.
Garrett nods.
Garrett: I understand, Sarah. No problem. I am sorry for wasting your time.
Sarah walks past him with an attitude.
Sarah: You should be.
As she passes him, Garrett looks to a disheartened Selene, and smiles as he turns back and calls out to Sarah.
Garrett: You seemed to be watching my students pretty intently.... for someone with no interest that is.
Sarah stops, and turns around, rolling her eyes again at Garrett.
Sarah: It's not like there was anything else to do here.
Garrett nods again, smiling.
Garrett: I understand.. ..you know, it would mean so much to Selene if you would step into the ring ... just one time.
Sarah places her hands on her hips.
Sarah: Is that so?
Selene nods her head.
Sarah: One time, and we get the hell out of here?
Selene: You have my word.
Sarah shakes her head, annoyed with this, but she heads back over.
Garrett: Step into the ring with William over there.
Garrett points her to the ring he was mentioning. A rather hefty boy is in the ring. Quite the gut and obviously MUCH larger than Sarah. She glances over to the ring and looks back at Garrett.
Sarah: Are you out of your mind?
Garrett: Not at all. Just go step into the ring, take him down, and you can leave.
Sarah: Take down tubby? That kid is like ten times my size.
Garrett: To the determined spirit, one's size does not matter.
Selene: Garrett, she's had no training ... that boy is...
Garrett: I am aware Selene. Nothing to worry about.
He looks back to Sarah.
Garrett: It's as simple as it gets. Take him down, and walk out of here. I won't ask anything else of you.
Sarah looks at him oddly, she walks towards the ring where the fat kid was at, she looks back again, waiting to hear that this was a joke and she wasn't really expected to step into a wrestling ring with a kid who knew what he was doing and outweighed her by so much. But the joke never came. She exhales heavily and steps inside. Garrett and Selene move alongside the ring, watching her.
Garrett: It's alright Sarah. Just think about what to do.
William chuckles a hearty, jolly laugh.
William: Are you kidding me? This little girl, take me down?
Sarah eyes him, knowing his girth was far too much for her to lift, and she wasn't trained in any of this. What could she possibly do to take this fat bastard off his feet? She wanted nothing more than to get back to the shop, get back to her studies. William continued to scoff.
William: We ain't got all day here.
Sarah narrows her eyes at him.
Sarah: Shut up tubby. You have bigger breasts than your mom I bet.
William screams out.
William: Don't talk about my mom!!!
He starts lumbering towards her, each step shaking the very ring it seemed. All that Sarah could think of is how fat this kid was, and now he was like a charging elephant. What to do? And then ... WHAM! ! She sends a kick directly between his legs, William doubles over, gasping. His face turns red, then purple as she nailed him dead on. Almost without even thinking about what she was about to do next, she drops William down with a DDT, not even realizing it. She quickly rolls outside of the ring and smirks at Garrett.
Sarah: Tubby is down. Now I'm outta here.
Garrett looks at Selene with shock.
Garrett: She's never trained before?
Selene: Only what she was watching while we spoke.
Garrett jogs up to Sarah who has wasted no time heading for the door, she had no interest in this place.
Garrett: That was very impressive. You seem to be a natural at this. Are you sure you don't want to stick around?
Sarah opens the door to exit, she pauses and looks at Garrett.
Sarah: I am sure that I don't have time for this stupid place, stupid fat kids, and stupid wrestling.
Garrett: If you ever change your mind...or get bored. The doors are open.
Sarah: Thanks, but no thanks.
Sarah walks out and heads to the car, waiting for Selene. Garrett waits by the door as Selene makes her way towards the exit now as well.
Selene: I suppose we can say we tried.
Garrett: That we did. So much talent ... to pick up the execution like that without ever practicing it on her own. But no interest.
Selene: She must have some interest, or she would not have picked it up so quickly. Sarah ... she is very stubborn, but when she finds something she enjoys ... nothing stands in her way.
Garrett: Perhaps she'll accept the open invitation at some point.
Selene: Perhaps.
Selene gives Garrett a hug, and exits as well, she heads to a waiting Sarah, and the car. The two drive off as we fade out here.
May, 2010 - Sunland, California
Come on, Sarah! You'll be late for school!
I'm coming. Relax!
We can hear as Sarah calls downstairs to Selene. Our scene opens inside of Selene's main shop area, which is not yet open for the day. Sarah comes racing down the stairs into the shop, all of her belongs for school with her. Selene smiles and shakes her head as the young teenager does what mostly all teens do, rushes around in the morning.
Selene: Finals today?
Sarah: Yeah, gotta go.
Sarah hurries towards the door.
Selene: Sarah, don't forget, I am heading down to San Diego this afternoon. The shop is closed for the day. You have your key right?
Sarah: I got it.
Selene: Please pick up the inventory supplies on your way back from school.
Sarah: Okay. See ya.
Sarah heads out in a dash. Selene tends to a few things, preparing for her trip that afternoon.
Later that day
The 3:00 bell rings as we see the exterior of Verdugo Hills High School, nestled just on the border of Sunland and Tujunga. Hundreds of students begin pouring through the exits. Some of them hanging around, chatting and gossiping. Others, being picked up by their parents. We focus in on Sarah, who quickly leaves the campus and starts walking, she looks at the time and quickens her pace, heading towards the supply store to pick up Selene's order. She makes it in time, and gathers the supplies, just a small amount of things such as receipt paper, and an inventory booklet. As she makes her way the main shopping district of Sunland, she stops, looking at something.
Sarah: (to herself) No Sarah. This is stupid. Just go home and read.
She thinks for a few more moments and finally she sighs, turning and walking inside of a building. Inside, we recognize this as Garrett Hawkins' school of Professional Wrestling. She looks around for a moment, and decides this was a bad idea and turns towards the door once again.
Is that who I think it is?
Sarah stops at the door and hesitantly turns around as the voice calls out. Garrett had noticed her before she was able to slip back outside.
Sarah: I was just leaving.
Garrett: Well you obviously came in here for a reason.
Sarah: I made a mistake. I have things to do.
Garrett: I see.
Sarah: What does it matter to you, anyway?
Garrett: It doesn't. It's your choice to make.
Sarah: Good, then I'm going.
Garrett: Take care.
Sarah pushes the door open, but she doesn't walk outside, she stops, and lets the door close, looking back at Garrett.
Sarah: Why did Selene bring me here? What is so damn important about wrestling?
Garrett: Maybe nothing. But it would be a way for you to release some of that anger you have inside of you.
Sarah: Excuse me?
Garrett: You walk around with a chip on your shoulder, why?
Sarah: None of your business.
Garrett: No, it isn't. But what is my business is why you came into my school. Either you're here to learn, or you aren't.
Sarah: Like I said, I'm leaving.
Garrett: Is that what keeps you so angry? Just taking the easy way?
Sarah: You don't know a damn thing about me.
Garrett: You're right, I don't. Why don't you show me that I'm wrong?
Sarah glares at him for a long moment, finally she places her backpack and bag of store supplies on one of the benches and she stands arrogantly in front of Garrett.
Sarah: I will!
Garrett smiles as he leads Sarah over towards the other students.
Garrett: Aright guys, listen up. I want to introduce you to the newest member of our class. This is Sarah.
A few Months Later
Various scenes fade in and out of Sarah practicing maneuver after maneuver. She would perfect each one, getting angry with herself whenever she could not master something in the first few tries. We see her stretching, developing speed and coordination with a punching bag. Doing various workouts and using submission and a ground based, technical style to take down her opponents, all of whom were larger than her and all of whom were male. Our scene changes now to show Sarah at a weight bench, a large amount of weight on the bar. One of the students rushes over to inform Garrett.
Henry: Mr. Hawkins, Sarah has too much weight on that bar and she's not listening to us.
Garrett drops what he is doing and heads into the weight room. Sarah is positioned on the bench press, wrapping her hands around the bar, preparing to lift.
Garrett: Sarah! What are you doing? That is too much weight for you!
Sarah glances up from the bench, not yet having lifted the bar.
Sarah: How else am I going to get better?
Garrett: You're doing great. But Sarah, that's two hundred and fifty pounds!! That's more than twice your weight.
Sarah: I can lift this.
Garrett: You've only been working with one hundred pounds, Sarah. You can't graduate to more than double that so quickly.
Sarah rests her head back down and lifts the bar off of the stand...the weight immediately forces her arms down and the weight presses down against her. She begins turning red, and Garrett rushes over with a few students to help her. They reach for the bar, Sarah muffles out.
Sarah: No!
She is struggling with the weight but remains stubborn. In short, gasping breaths she unbendingly remarks.
Sarah: Hrrmmmph I'll do it ... hmmmrppppphhh myself.
Garrett halts in removing the bar from her, at least for just a moment.
Henry: Are we gonna help her?
Garrett: Not yet.
Sarah grits her teeth and narrows her eyes, she struggles a bit more. It takes her quite some time but amazingly, she manages to push the bar back up and places it on the rest. Hardly a full repetition of bench presses with such weight, but she manages to lift it just once on that day ... that in itself was a victory.
Garrett: Are you alright, Sarah?
Sarah breathes heavily.
Sarah: I'm fine.
Garrett: You could have killed yourself.
Garrett walks over toward one of the coolers within the weight room and retrieves a bottled water, handling it to Sarah. She takes it, sitting up, and she drinks it down quickly.
Sarah: I'm sick of repeating the same things. I want to do what everyone else can. I need to be able to lift more.
Garrett: That may not be unreasonable after what we just saw. (he chuckles)
Garrett takes a seat across from Sarah and talks with her.
Garrett: You have a determination inside of you, Sarah. Anything that you want to accomplish, you will. Just don't try to move pace too quickly, okay?
Sarah nods.
Garrett: Alright, hit the showers. You did well today.
Sarah grabs her gym bag and heads out of the weight room as our scene fades out once again.
Rewind - February - 2010
Somewhere deep inside the concrete jungle known as Los Angeles we find the young brunette, Lilith, who has found living in America quite difficult. Having no where to go she's been reduced to living off the streets, with only a cardboard box and a few discarded blankets for warmth. Lilith thought that the passersby would have done something, done anything to help her, but all they did was ignore her. Act like she didn't even exist. She was used to this of course as she was treated no differently in the orphanage but was her current circumstances now worse or better than what she'd faced before? She didn't know, all she knew was that she was cold, dirty and extremely hungry as she quietly cried into her teddy bear.
The starving brunette girl looks down at her teddy bear who, despite everything, still stuck by her side.
Lilith: You should probably leave me, Teddy. I don’t want you to go the same way as I'm obviously going to. No one wants me, but you? You could be wanted. Some girl somewhere might love to have you with her in their big warm house. You deserve better than me.
Lilith wipes a few of her tears away as she pulls the cardboard over her prone body. She knew her bear would never leave her, but she knew he deserved so much more than to be with her, like this.
A Few Weeks Later
The hunger was unbearable, she had to do something. Slowly but surely Lilith had realized that life, her life especially was not like the Disney movies she had loved to watch in the orphanage. There was no Knight in shining armor coming to her rescue. Lilith knew, if she wanted to survive, this damsel in distress was going to need to get up onto her weakened legs and do something about it.
Lilith crept into a nearby small convenience store, knowing full well she was about to do. Something she never thought she would, steal. Luckily for her there were a few people at the counter keeping the clerk busy as she crept down a few Isles, putting essentials into a rucksack she'd managed to find in a dumpster. Lilith was smart enough to know that she should only grab non-perishable food items so she mostly grabbed tinned food, a few boxes of twinkies and some bottled water. It may not have been her first choice, but it was a necessity. Now all she had to do was exit without been seen. As she approached the exit though the clerk called her over, Lilith was crushed, she knew she'd been caught.
Clerk: Is everything okay, kid?
Lilith looks up at the man, trying her hardest to look as innocent as possible. She knew she was failing at this big time.
Lilith: Erm, yeah. I just couldn't find what I wanted that's all. See ya later.
The clerk eyes her suspiciously. He steps out from around the counter, noticing the sack over her shoulder.
Clerk: Is that so? What’s in the bag?
Lilith was extremely nervous at this point. If he found all of the items she’d stolen she would surely end up being arrested, and worse sent right back to England as she was not an American citizen. She contemplates turning and running for the door as her heart is beating rapidly. But as luck would have it, she didn’t need to do such a thing. This was Los Angeles after all, and there were about to be bigger fish to fry.
Clerk: Shit!
The clerk dashes behind the counter as two armed men in ski masks enter the shop. They ignore the young brunette as they march toward the counter, brandishing their weapons and demanding the cash in the till. This provided Lilith with the perfect opportunity for escape, and she absolutely takes advantage of it as she runs away from the scene.
Later that day Lilith and Teddy had one of the hardest meals she'd ever had to endure. She desperately wanted to rip open all the food products she'd successfully stolen but she knew she couldn't do this, if she did she'd have to go back to stealing quicker than she wanted and that meant she'd be in a bad position again. She might not be so lucky next time.
Lilith ate only a handful of food and one twinkie instead of the whole box like she wanted to do. She grabs her bear, making sure her food is securely hidden away and sits back in the back alley she now called home watching yet another day pass her by with no hope in sight.
Flash Forward - July -2010
It had been just over a year since Lilith had found herself stranded in America. How she’d managed to stay alive was beyond her comprehension. She didn’t know anyone here, not as if she would have had anyone to turn to back in England. At least it was familiar there.
People weren’t any nicer here even though she’d always heard about the American dream when she was back home in England. Each night from her modest, makeshift dwelling in the alley she could look up at the Hollywood sign and dream that maybe one day she could be rich and famous. Never having to worry about basic life necessities again. Mostly however, she just dreamed about being loved … or even wanted, by anyone.
Lilith just sits on the floor, on top of an old picnic blanket someone had discarded, practically starting at the Hollywood sign. Her teddy bear sat next to her on the blanket as the two of them just thought about their dreams and how they'd happen. At least Lilith imagined that Teddy was also dreaming with her, even though she knew deep down he wasn’t..
Lilith: I'm telling you, Teddy, one of these days someone nice will find me out here and they will take me in… and love me.
Lilith wipes a few tears away as she thinks about how she'd never felt or known love from anybody before, not including her Teddy.
Lilith: I just don't get it, Teddy. How come I'm so unlovable? I'm a nice person… yes, I've stolen stuff but that's only cos I HAD to!
Lilith looks down at her bear and then gives him a shocked look as if he'd just spoken back to her.
Lilith: Yeah okay! And I'll just go and buy all that stuff with what money?! I guess you've got some dollars hidden in your invisible pockets there, huh?
Lilith looks at her bear and nods her head as if Teddy was agreeing with her.
Lilith: Exactly. So yeah, I only stole that stuff because I HAD to. I can't exactly get a job, Teddy. Who'd hire me?
Lilith sighs heavily as she sets down her bear and begins crying, placing her hands over her face. She didn’t truly believe anyone would ever find her out here. Every passing day made her lose more hope.
Lilith: I’m so lonely that now I’m having conversations with my teddy bear that can’t even talk!
She removes one of her hands from her face and slams it down into the ground angrily, not even caring that it was painful to do. She continues to cry, feeling so empty and alone. She does the only thing that she can do, she cuddles her bear and cries herself to sleep once again.
The next morning started off as any other. Lilith awoke feeling very hungry and very cramped as she wasn’t even sleeping in a bed anymore. The orphanage she once called home may not have been the most comfortable, but it was certainly better than sleeping in an alley. The young, disheveled brunette walks out from the alley knowing she had to figure out survival for another day. On this day however, things would take a very different turn.
It all began with her life going from bad to worse. As she walks along the streets in the Los Angeles suburb of Sunland, contemplating her next meal, she is approached by a group of teenagers who were slightly older than her. She could hear them laughing and could see them pointing at her as they got closer. One of the girls in the group calls out to Lilith.
Teenage Girl: You have GOT to be the dirtiest bitch I have ever seen! We can smell you from here.
Lilith tries her absolute hardest not to listen as she'd learned long ago that talking back only made things worse, much much worse. She gripped her teddy bear’s paw tightly and tried to walk away from the scene.
Lilith: Just ignore them, Teddy. We're okay, you're okay. Don't worry.
As Lilith turns to walk in the opposite direction away from the group, they start quickening their pace. Obviously the teens were looking for trouble. Lilith starts to walk quickly, looking over her shoulder occasionally to make sure they weren’t too close.
Teenage Girl: Oh look at this bitch. What, you think you’re too good for us? Dumpster diving trash whore. You don’t get to walk away when you’re on my block!
The teens finally pick up into a dash towards Lilith. There were two girls and four boys, which in of itself was distressing that four male teenagers would chase a frightened young girl. Lilith starts her own sprint into a full run to get away from them, taking a right into one of the back alleys. She knew the alleys like the back of her hand and knew all of the best hiding places. She kept low and hidden out of sight for some time until she knew for sure that those teenagers had gone away.
Lilith: Hmmmm.
Lilith checked out her surroundings, she didn't know there was a gym here. She continued to hide as she watched several other teenagers enter and exit.
Lilith: I bet you if I went in there and got all big like them people wouldn't try and bully me anymore.
Lilith looks down at her bear, she now pictured him making a doubtful face at her, she sighed.
Lilith: Yeah, okay, you're right. I still would be.
The brunette sighed hard as she slid down a nearby wall still watching the gym and it's members. Inside, a young Sarah Twilight exits the showers and gathers her belongings. She waves goodbye to Garrett and the other students as she heads for the door. She’d been waiting for the end of the day to take the money she’d earned at Selene’s shop to buy herself some better wrestling gear. As she walks outside, she sees a few other girls and a number of guys run passed her as if looking for something or someone. Sarah starts walking but can’t help but look back at the scene with these other teenagers shouting and angrily proceeding. With the group of teenagers gone, Lilith decides it is her time to make her escape. She rushes up the alley alongside the gym and just as Sarah turns back from watching the rowdy teens, Lilith collides into her accidentally. Lilith falls back and Sarah is startled a bit, not expecting this. Immediately, Lilith holds her hands up in front of herself from the ground.
Lilith: I’m sorry! I’m sorry! Please don’t hit me! I’m really sorry!
Sarah looks down at the frightened young girl who was clearly malnourished and filthy. To Lilith’s surprise, her trembling hands are grabbed and she is pulled up to her feet.
Sarah: I … I’m not going to hit you. Are you alright?
Sarah looks back over her shoulder.
Sarah: They were chasing you, huh?
Lilith paused, still extremely frightened. She'd never known someone actually talk nicely to her like this before. She wanted to burst into tears and tell the nice stranger all of her troubles, but she desperately tried her hardest to keep it together. Not too sure whether the redhead was being sincere and genuine with her or not.
Lilith: I'm… ummmmm… yeah. They were chasing me but I probably deserve it to be fair…
A single tear rolls down Liliths cheek and she immediately kicks herself for letting that happen. Turns out she wasn't as good at hiding her emotions as she thought she was. Sarah watches this, noticing the fear in the young girl’s face. It wasn’t all that long ago that Sarah herself was struggling to survive on the streets. She offers a hand to the brunette and smiles.
Sarah: I don’t think anyone deserves that. I’m Sarah, by the way. And you are?
Lilith is hesitant, extremely hesitant, to shake Sarah's hand. She finally picks up enough courage to do so after wiping her hand on her torn dirty clothing to make sure it's as clean as possible. Lilith hated looking like this.
Lilith: I'm… Ummm… Lilith. My name’s Lilith.
The brunette flinched expecting Sarah to either hurt her physically or emotionally, neither of which happened and she hoped Sarah hadn't noticed her behaving in such a weird way. In a desperate attempt to take Sarah’s mind off of what she'd just done, she points down at her teddy bear who was still in her hand.
Lilith: And his name’s Teddy.
Sarah smiles, shaking Lilith’s hand. She did notice that she was obviously very much so frightened.
Sarah: Nice to meet you, Lilith …. And Teddy.
Sarah uses her free hand to reach into her pocket, pulling out the hundred dollars she had worked for to buy her new wrestling gear. She looks down at it for a moment before placing it back into her pocket and looking back at Lilith.
Sarah: So, Lilith … do you like hamburgers? There’s a Carl’s Jr. nearby and you look like you could use a bite to eat. I was going there anyway. Would love it if you joined me?
Of course, Sarah was never intending to go to the restaurant. However, knowing how difficult a meal was to come by when you’re on the streets, she knew the wrestling gear could wait and was not nearly as important.
Lilith: I mean… I'd love to, Sarah… but… ummm… I, I don't… I mean, I can't… afford it. It was a nice offer though. Thanks.
Lilith looked across at Sarah, still expecting her to turn into every girl she'd ever known. Was this some kind of attempt to make fun of her for living on the streets?
Lilith: I'll see you later.
Sarah shakes her head at Lilith.
Sarah: I never asked you if you could afford it. I’ve invited you, that means it’s my treat. You can have whatever you want. Come on, let’s go.
She smiles again at the disheveled brunette, offering out her hand once more to solidify the invitation. Lilith just stands there, looking at the redheaded teen, watching her every movement, as tears started to flood her eyes.
Lilith: You’ll… pay for me? Are you actually serious? But…
Lilith begins to cry, pretty hard. She looks at Sarah and the concerned look she was currently giving her just makes her cry even harder. Lilith falls down onto her knees, crying into her hands.
Lilith: No one is ever nice to me… why… I mean… how come you're being so nice? I don't deserve it.
Once again, Sarah helps Lilith back to her feet and she just gives the emotional girl a hug.
Sarah: I’ve been in your position before, and someone was nice enough to help me. Now come on, let’s go get you something to eat, okay?
The redhead calmly and slowly steps back from the hug, smiling. She offers out her hand for Lilith to accept for a third time, Lilith finally takes her hand, wiping her tears away with her free dirt covered arm.
Lilith: I promise, if I ever get back onto my feet, I'll make this up to you, Sarah.
Sarah smiles as the two walk toward the famous west coast hamburger joint.
Sarah: Don’t worry about it. Just enjoy a nice meal with a new friend. How’s that sound?
Sarah had plenty of acquaintances between her wrestling training and working at Selene’s shop. Friends however, were few and far between. Selene and Garrett were the only two people she’d actually ever considered friends. She’d been where Lilith is now, there was common ground so even as premature as it may have been, Sarah somehow just knew she could call Lilith her friend.
Friend… Sarah had just called Lilith her friend. She was the first and only person in the whole world who had ever done that. Lilith was overjoyed and again, very emotional, but she really didn't want Sarah to see her cry again so she tried to keep it together as best as she could.
Lilith: You… actually consider me… to be your friend?
Sarah smiles very brightly and giggles a bit. Lilith begins to frown, expecting that it was a trick and Sarah was laughing at her but that was quickly put to rest as Sarah nods emphatically.
Sarah: I wouldn’t be paying for lunch if you weren’t.
She pauses.
Sarah: I know we’ve only just met, but as I’ve mentioned, I’ve been in your shoes. You have more in common with me than anyone else I know. So I’ve no problem calling you a friend.
Lilith quirks an eyebrow at Sarah.
Lilith: You mean, you were also forgotten about and bullied in an orphanage and then after you left that you also accidentally ended up shipping yourself… literally… to a completely different country?
Sarah’s eyes widen a bit as she listens to this. She knew the young girl had an accent, but she certainly hadn’t expected the rundown of events she’d just been informed of.
Sarah: I … was talking about being stuck on the streets. I can’t believe that you’ve gone through all of that. That’s horrible.
Sarah stops just in front of the Carl’s Jr. and looks at her new British friend.
Sarah: You don’t have to worry about those things anymore. I have a friend … a really nice lady who helped me, and I am sure she can help you too. After lunch, we’ll go talk to her, okay?
Sarah was buying her lunch, called her her friend, and now she also had an adult who could help her? Without being able to stop herself Lilith was now in tears again as she quickly walked on towards and into the restaurant. Sarah follows after her new friend.
Once she gets Lilith seated, she asks the brunette what she would like. Lilith, still being very shy and embarrassed just asks for whatever Sarah is having. The young redhead heads to the counter, ordering herself only a chicken sandwich and a water. For Lilith, she orders a few cheeseburgers, some fries and a strawberry milkshake wanting to make sure that her new friend was well fed. She gathers the food once it is set down for her and begins back towards the booth at the window where Lilith was waiting.
Lilith cannot see what Sarah sees as she approaches their table with the food. The group of teenagers from earlier were walking by after having given up their search when one of them notices Lilith at the booth. The group make their way towards the door of the restaurant. Sarah sets the tray of food down and remains standing by the booth, Lilith of course, has no idea why.
Lilith just grabs one of the burgers and the bottle of water, not expecting Sarah to have bought so much for her. She was still extremely grateful though as she smiled up at her new and only friend.
Lilith: Thanks, Sarah. I've never even tried one of these before. It really means a lot. Like, more than you realize.
Sarah smiles, though clearly she had her attention on something else. She retrieves the bottle of water from Lilith and instead hands her the milkshake. She also sets the other two hamburgers and fries in front of the brunette.
Sarah: You just enjoy your meal. Don’t worry about it, I’m glad to be able to help.
Still, Sarah’s attention is elsewhere as she has her eyes trained on the entrance door. The group of teenagers enter the restaurant and immediately begin heading towards Lilith and Sarah.
Teenage Girl: Oh look, the garbage pail bitch managed to find herself a friend.
The teens laugh and Lilith turns to see them, and again she is terrified. The outspoken girl turns to one of the guys.
Teenage Girl: Baby, I’m hungry. I want her food.
The boy nods and steps toward Lilith, reaching his hand out to take the cheeseburgers away from her. Sarah grabs his arm and wrenches it behind his back VERY harshly. The girls gasp and the other boys look on shocked.
Sarah: That doesn’t belong to you, asshole! Now unless you want me to break it, I suggest you take your bitch and get out of here!
Lilith looks on in amazement. She had no idea Sarah knew how to fight, and by the looks on the faces of the teens, neither did they. The wrestling classes had most certainly paid off. The boy nods as he groans before Sarah lets go of his arm and the group retreats. The mouthy girl lambasting her boyfriend for being embarrassed.
Lilith: Wow…
Lilith just continues to watch on, her mouth open with shock and amazement. Her new friend, Sarah, was a badass! Lilith couldn't believe out of all the people she could be friends with, she chose her. Sarah definitely would have been the coolest girl back in the orphanage. The redhead takes a seat across from Lilith and smiles as she casually opens up her chicken sandwich.
Sarah: Like I said, you won’t be worrying about things like that anymore.
She takes a bite from her sandwich and watches as Lilith eats. She was really happy to see the lost, lonely brunette relax enough to enjoy her meal. Sarah reaches back into her pocket and removes what was left of her money after purchasing the food. There was seventy eight dollars and some change. She slides it across the table to Lilith.
Sarah: That’s for you. I don’t need it right now and you--
Lilith shakes her head and slides the money back over towards Sarah refusing to take it herself.
Lilith: Sarah, I can't take this. I can't. You're a lovely girl… you're the ONLY nice girl I've ever known. All this is super nice… and believe me I am going to be your friend forever… but I can't take your money. Besides, after seeing you handle those bullies like that I'd much rather stick by your side anyway, if that's okay? So keep that money. You can use it to buy us stuff when we go out next… if you want anyway?
Sarah nods, collecting the money and placing it back into her pocket. She smiles again at her new British friend.
Sarah: Alright. I guess I’ll get us a pizza tonight. We can have that and watch some movies.
Lilith sucks up some of her milkshake, still looking at Sarah in awe over how she'd just handled those bullies.
Lilith: So, ummmm… what’s the deal here? Are you like… a superhero or something? I promise not to tell anyone if you are…
Sarah shakes her head laughing a bit.
Sarah: I am FAR from anything like that. I’ve just learned not to take anyone’s shit. You’ll get there, over time.
Sarah continues to watch as Lilith devours her meal. She smiles even more, knowing that this girl would not go another day being hungry. Selene would surely take her in just as she had done with Sarah. That was the plan. Lilith would have herself a roof over her head, steady meals and a job by the time the day was over
To be continued ...
It has been said that good lies within each of us. That even the most vile and despicable of all have a light hiding within them ... somewhere. When given the chance, that light will grow, and it will shine. However, when evil is allowed to fester within. It too will grow, and the ramifications of its bounds are endless. It takes but one deed to undo all else, good ... or evil.
Sunland is a beautiful place. Quiet, much more slow paced than the neighboring city of Los Angeles. The convenience of being so very close to the city, the beaches, and almost anything you needed, mixed with the serenity and peacefulness of a quaint suburb, being set apart from the chaotic city life. This was truly a haven. We watch as a small car pulls up against the curb, parking. Birds chirping, cool breezes on this sunny day. Even in the middle of winter the area had almost perfect weather. Stepping out from the car, we see Madame Selene and a still quite young Sarah Twilight. Young Sarah stands, folding her arms as she looks ahead of her, obviously unaware of what the purpose of this trip was.
Sarah: What are we doing?
Selene: I want you to meet someone. I think you'll have fun.
Sarah: I was doing just fine staying at the shop and reading.
Selene: Come now, let's go inside.
Reluctantly, Sarah follows Selene inside of the building. As they enter, we can see people vigorously working out, and people inside of wrestling rings, tossing each other around. As they move through-out the place, Sarah is observing everything, wondering exactly why Selene would bring her to a place like this. Selene scans the room for a moment, finally spotting who she was looking for. She smiles down at Sarah and the two head towards a young man who is watching a few of the combatants.
Selene: Garrett?
The man turns around.
Garrett: Ah, Selene. It's been such a long time. How have you been?
Selene: I have been well. And yourself?
Garrett: Doing well.
He glances at Sarah, then looks back to Selene.
Garrett: I...thought you were no longer running the Children's home?
Selene smiles.
Selene: I've not in quite some time. People do not understand by beliefs and, well, you know that creates problems.
Garrett: It's a shame, you were doing such a great service to the community.
Selene: I try to help where I can.
Garrett: So who is this?
Garrett again glances at Sarah.
Selene: Her name is Sarah. I brought her here in hopes that we could....redirect some of her...energy, shall we say.
Garrett smiles and extends his hand.
Garrett: Well hello there, Sarah. I'm Garrett.
Sarah folds her arms and gives him a slight nod. Garrett looks back at Selene.
Garrett: So what can I do to help?
Selene looks to Sarah.
Selene: Sarah, please have a seat over there so I can discuss a few things with Mr. Hawkins. I promise I will let you know as soon as we're through.
Sarah rolls her eyes and walks away, taking a seat down beside one of the wrestling rings. She leans back in the chair and watches the training wrestlers go over the motions. Meanwhile, Selene and Garrett walk towards his office as they talk.
Selene: Sarah, she's a very gifted, very bright young girl. But she possesses such anger within her. I have yet to get everything out of her, but from what I can tell, she grew up with severe neglect.
Garrett: And the parents? What do they think of your involvement?
Selene: She's been on her own for two years now. I have given her a place to stay, and something to occupy her time, but it isn't enough.
Garrett: (sighs heavily) I don't know, Selene. I have helped you before, but those were legal cases. Every one of those kids were under your care legally. I don't know if I want to jeopardize everything for a runaway.
Selene: She didn't run away, Garrett. Her mother and father ousted her.
Garrett: How old?
Selene: She was twelve.
Garrett: Why didn't you contact the sheriff's office?
Selene: So they could see to it that she is allowed back into that house? That madness? A few days in lockup for her father, only to enrage him more?
Garrett: I see your point....well how does she fair with academics? You know my policy on scholastics.
Selene: Straight A student.
Garrett: And she has this much of an issue that you brought her here?
Selene: She excels at any task that she draws interest. She is very intelligent, it is the anger and rage within her that I wish to direct into something positive.
Garrett: How are her feelings towards taking this on?
Selene: She is unaware of why she is here.
Garrett: Do you really think it was best to bring her here unkowingly?
Selene: I think she will take to it. If she is unwilling, I will not pressure her.
Garrett: (sighs) Alright, we'll see what happens.
Selene and Garrett exit the office and back onto the main training floor. Sarah is still seated, watching the trainees intently, almost as if studying every move. One of the trainees is practicing a DDT, and repeats the manuever several times. Garrett and Selene approach Sarah.
Selene: Sarah, Garrett would like to speak with you now.
Sarah glances over at them, and she stands, looking rather annoyed as she again folds her arms.
Sarah: What?
Garrett: How would you like to spend some time training here after school? It would be a great activity and I....
Sarah: I work at Selene's shop after school. Don't have time, sorry.
Selene smiles, trying to offer a hand.
Selene: Oh, that would be no trouble. You know I can manage. Have some fun, enjoy yourself. You can spend as much time as you like at the shop. Just give this a try.
Sarah rolls her eyes.
Sarah: Wrestling is for guys ... not for girls. I don't see any other girls here.
Garrett: You would be the first...but why should that stop you?
Sarah: Maybe because I don't want to wrestle? It does nothing for me.
Garrett nods.
Garrett: I understand, Sarah. No problem. I am sorry for wasting your time.
Sarah walks past him with an attitude.
Sarah: You should be.
As she passes him, Garrett looks to a disheartened Selene, and smiles as he turns back and calls out to Sarah.
Garrett: You seemed to be watching my students pretty intently.... for someone with no interest that is.
Sarah stops, and turns around, rolling her eyes again at Garrett.
Sarah: It's not like there was anything else to do here.
Garrett nods again, smiling.
Garrett: I understand.. ..you know, it would mean so much to Selene if you would step into the ring ... just one time.
Sarah places her hands on her hips.
Sarah: Is that so?
Selene nods her head.
Sarah: One time, and we get the hell out of here?
Selene: You have my word.
Sarah shakes her head, annoyed with this, but she heads back over.
Garrett: Step into the ring with William over there.
Garrett points her to the ring he was mentioning. A rather hefty boy is in the ring. Quite the gut and obviously MUCH larger than Sarah. She glances over to the ring and looks back at Garrett.
Sarah: Are you out of your mind?
Garrett: Not at all. Just go step into the ring, take him down, and you can leave.
Sarah: Take down tubby? That kid is like ten times my size.
Garrett: To the determined spirit, one's size does not matter.
Selene: Garrett, she's had no training ... that boy is...
Garrett: I am aware Selene. Nothing to worry about.
He looks back to Sarah.
Garrett: It's as simple as it gets. Take him down, and walk out of here. I won't ask anything else of you.
Sarah looks at him oddly, she walks towards the ring where the fat kid was at, she looks back again, waiting to hear that this was a joke and she wasn't really expected to step into a wrestling ring with a kid who knew what he was doing and outweighed her by so much. But the joke never came. She exhales heavily and steps inside. Garrett and Selene move alongside the ring, watching her.
Garrett: It's alright Sarah. Just think about what to do.
William chuckles a hearty, jolly laugh.
William: Are you kidding me? This little girl, take me down?
Sarah eyes him, knowing his girth was far too much for her to lift, and she wasn't trained in any of this. What could she possibly do to take this fat bastard off his feet? She wanted nothing more than to get back to the shop, get back to her studies. William continued to scoff.
William: We ain't got all day here.
Sarah narrows her eyes at him.
Sarah: Shut up tubby. You have bigger breasts than your mom I bet.
William screams out.
William: Don't talk about my mom!!!
He starts lumbering towards her, each step shaking the very ring it seemed. All that Sarah could think of is how fat this kid was, and now he was like a charging elephant. What to do? And then ... WHAM! ! She sends a kick directly between his legs, William doubles over, gasping. His face turns red, then purple as she nailed him dead on. Almost without even thinking about what she was about to do next, she drops William down with a DDT, not even realizing it. She quickly rolls outside of the ring and smirks at Garrett.
Sarah: Tubby is down. Now I'm outta here.
Garrett looks at Selene with shock.
Garrett: She's never trained before?
Selene: Only what she was watching while we spoke.
Garrett jogs up to Sarah who has wasted no time heading for the door, she had no interest in this place.
Garrett: That was very impressive. You seem to be a natural at this. Are you sure you don't want to stick around?
Sarah opens the door to exit, she pauses and looks at Garrett.
Sarah: I am sure that I don't have time for this stupid place, stupid fat kids, and stupid wrestling.
Garrett: If you ever change your mind...or get bored. The doors are open.
Sarah: Thanks, but no thanks.
Sarah walks out and heads to the car, waiting for Selene. Garrett waits by the door as Selene makes her way towards the exit now as well.
Selene: I suppose we can say we tried.
Garrett: That we did. So much talent ... to pick up the execution like that without ever practicing it on her own. But no interest.
Selene: She must have some interest, or she would not have picked it up so quickly. Sarah ... she is very stubborn, but when she finds something she enjoys ... nothing stands in her way.
Garrett: Perhaps she'll accept the open invitation at some point.
Selene: Perhaps.
Selene gives Garrett a hug, and exits as well, she heads to a waiting Sarah, and the car. The two drive off as we fade out here.
May, 2010 - Sunland, California
Come on, Sarah! You'll be late for school!
I'm coming. Relax!
We can hear as Sarah calls downstairs to Selene. Our scene opens inside of Selene's main shop area, which is not yet open for the day. Sarah comes racing down the stairs into the shop, all of her belongs for school with her. Selene smiles and shakes her head as the young teenager does what mostly all teens do, rushes around in the morning.
Selene: Finals today?
Sarah: Yeah, gotta go.
Sarah hurries towards the door.
Selene: Sarah, don't forget, I am heading down to San Diego this afternoon. The shop is closed for the day. You have your key right?
Sarah: I got it.
Selene: Please pick up the inventory supplies on your way back from school.
Sarah: Okay. See ya.
Sarah heads out in a dash. Selene tends to a few things, preparing for her trip that afternoon.
Later that day
The 3:00 bell rings as we see the exterior of Verdugo Hills High School, nestled just on the border of Sunland and Tujunga. Hundreds of students begin pouring through the exits. Some of them hanging around, chatting and gossiping. Others, being picked up by their parents. We focus in on Sarah, who quickly leaves the campus and starts walking, she looks at the time and quickens her pace, heading towards the supply store to pick up Selene's order. She makes it in time, and gathers the supplies, just a small amount of things such as receipt paper, and an inventory booklet. As she makes her way the main shopping district of Sunland, she stops, looking at something.
Sarah: (to herself) No Sarah. This is stupid. Just go home and read.
She thinks for a few more moments and finally she sighs, turning and walking inside of a building. Inside, we recognize this as Garrett Hawkins' school of Professional Wrestling. She looks around for a moment, and decides this was a bad idea and turns towards the door once again.
Is that who I think it is?
Sarah stops at the door and hesitantly turns around as the voice calls out. Garrett had noticed her before she was able to slip back outside.
Sarah: I was just leaving.
Garrett: Well you obviously came in here for a reason.
Sarah: I made a mistake. I have things to do.
Garrett: I see.
Sarah: What does it matter to you, anyway?
Garrett: It doesn't. It's your choice to make.
Sarah: Good, then I'm going.
Garrett: Take care.
Sarah pushes the door open, but she doesn't walk outside, she stops, and lets the door close, looking back at Garrett.
Sarah: Why did Selene bring me here? What is so damn important about wrestling?
Garrett: Maybe nothing. But it would be a way for you to release some of that anger you have inside of you.
Sarah: Excuse me?
Garrett: You walk around with a chip on your shoulder, why?
Sarah: None of your business.
Garrett: No, it isn't. But what is my business is why you came into my school. Either you're here to learn, or you aren't.
Sarah: Like I said, I'm leaving.
Garrett: Is that what keeps you so angry? Just taking the easy way?
Sarah: You don't know a damn thing about me.
Garrett: You're right, I don't. Why don't you show me that I'm wrong?
Sarah glares at him for a long moment, finally she places her backpack and bag of store supplies on one of the benches and she stands arrogantly in front of Garrett.
Sarah: I will!
Garrett smiles as he leads Sarah over towards the other students.
Garrett: Aright guys, listen up. I want to introduce you to the newest member of our class. This is Sarah.
A few Months Later
Various scenes fade in and out of Sarah practicing maneuver after maneuver. She would perfect each one, getting angry with herself whenever she could not master something in the first few tries. We see her stretching, developing speed and coordination with a punching bag. Doing various workouts and using submission and a ground based, technical style to take down her opponents, all of whom were larger than her and all of whom were male. Our scene changes now to show Sarah at a weight bench, a large amount of weight on the bar. One of the students rushes over to inform Garrett.
Henry: Mr. Hawkins, Sarah has too much weight on that bar and she's not listening to us.
Garrett drops what he is doing and heads into the weight room. Sarah is positioned on the bench press, wrapping her hands around the bar, preparing to lift.
Garrett: Sarah! What are you doing? That is too much weight for you!
Sarah glances up from the bench, not yet having lifted the bar.
Sarah: How else am I going to get better?
Garrett: You're doing great. But Sarah, that's two hundred and fifty pounds!! That's more than twice your weight.
Sarah: I can lift this.
Garrett: You've only been working with one hundred pounds, Sarah. You can't graduate to more than double that so quickly.
Sarah rests her head back down and lifts the bar off of the stand...the weight immediately forces her arms down and the weight presses down against her. She begins turning red, and Garrett rushes over with a few students to help her. They reach for the bar, Sarah muffles out.
Sarah: No!
She is struggling with the weight but remains stubborn. In short, gasping breaths she unbendingly remarks.
Sarah: Hrrmmmph I'll do it ... hmmmrppppphhh myself.
Garrett halts in removing the bar from her, at least for just a moment.
Henry: Are we gonna help her?
Garrett: Not yet.
Sarah grits her teeth and narrows her eyes, she struggles a bit more. It takes her quite some time but amazingly, she manages to push the bar back up and places it on the rest. Hardly a full repetition of bench presses with such weight, but she manages to lift it just once on that day ... that in itself was a victory.
Garrett: Are you alright, Sarah?
Sarah breathes heavily.
Sarah: I'm fine.
Garrett: You could have killed yourself.
Garrett walks over toward one of the coolers within the weight room and retrieves a bottled water, handling it to Sarah. She takes it, sitting up, and she drinks it down quickly.
Sarah: I'm sick of repeating the same things. I want to do what everyone else can. I need to be able to lift more.
Garrett: That may not be unreasonable after what we just saw. (he chuckles)
Garrett takes a seat across from Sarah and talks with her.
Garrett: You have a determination inside of you, Sarah. Anything that you want to accomplish, you will. Just don't try to move pace too quickly, okay?
Sarah nods.
Garrett: Alright, hit the showers. You did well today.
Sarah grabs her gym bag and heads out of the weight room as our scene fades out once again.
Rewind - February - 2010
Somewhere deep inside the concrete jungle known as Los Angeles we find the young brunette, Lilith, who has found living in America quite difficult. Having no where to go she's been reduced to living off the streets, with only a cardboard box and a few discarded blankets for warmth. Lilith thought that the passersby would have done something, done anything to help her, but all they did was ignore her. Act like she didn't even exist. She was used to this of course as she was treated no differently in the orphanage but was her current circumstances now worse or better than what she'd faced before? She didn't know, all she knew was that she was cold, dirty and extremely hungry as she quietly cried into her teddy bear.
The starving brunette girl looks down at her teddy bear who, despite everything, still stuck by her side.
Lilith: You should probably leave me, Teddy. I don’t want you to go the same way as I'm obviously going to. No one wants me, but you? You could be wanted. Some girl somewhere might love to have you with her in their big warm house. You deserve better than me.
Lilith wipes a few of her tears away as she pulls the cardboard over her prone body. She knew her bear would never leave her, but she knew he deserved so much more than to be with her, like this.
A Few Weeks Later
The hunger was unbearable, she had to do something. Slowly but surely Lilith had realized that life, her life especially was not like the Disney movies she had loved to watch in the orphanage. There was no Knight in shining armor coming to her rescue. Lilith knew, if she wanted to survive, this damsel in distress was going to need to get up onto her weakened legs and do something about it.
Lilith crept into a nearby small convenience store, knowing full well she was about to do. Something she never thought she would, steal. Luckily for her there were a few people at the counter keeping the clerk busy as she crept down a few Isles, putting essentials into a rucksack she'd managed to find in a dumpster. Lilith was smart enough to know that she should only grab non-perishable food items so she mostly grabbed tinned food, a few boxes of twinkies and some bottled water. It may not have been her first choice, but it was a necessity. Now all she had to do was exit without been seen. As she approached the exit though the clerk called her over, Lilith was crushed, she knew she'd been caught.
Clerk: Is everything okay, kid?
Lilith looks up at the man, trying her hardest to look as innocent as possible. She knew she was failing at this big time.
Lilith: Erm, yeah. I just couldn't find what I wanted that's all. See ya later.
The clerk eyes her suspiciously. He steps out from around the counter, noticing the sack over her shoulder.
Clerk: Is that so? What’s in the bag?
Lilith was extremely nervous at this point. If he found all of the items she’d stolen she would surely end up being arrested, and worse sent right back to England as she was not an American citizen. She contemplates turning and running for the door as her heart is beating rapidly. But as luck would have it, she didn’t need to do such a thing. This was Los Angeles after all, and there were about to be bigger fish to fry.
Clerk: Shit!
The clerk dashes behind the counter as two armed men in ski masks enter the shop. They ignore the young brunette as they march toward the counter, brandishing their weapons and demanding the cash in the till. This provided Lilith with the perfect opportunity for escape, and she absolutely takes advantage of it as she runs away from the scene.
Later that day Lilith and Teddy had one of the hardest meals she'd ever had to endure. She desperately wanted to rip open all the food products she'd successfully stolen but she knew she couldn't do this, if she did she'd have to go back to stealing quicker than she wanted and that meant she'd be in a bad position again. She might not be so lucky next time.
Lilith ate only a handful of food and one twinkie instead of the whole box like she wanted to do. She grabs her bear, making sure her food is securely hidden away and sits back in the back alley she now called home watching yet another day pass her by with no hope in sight.
Flash Forward - July -2010
It had been just over a year since Lilith had found herself stranded in America. How she’d managed to stay alive was beyond her comprehension. She didn’t know anyone here, not as if she would have had anyone to turn to back in England. At least it was familiar there.
People weren’t any nicer here even though she’d always heard about the American dream when she was back home in England. Each night from her modest, makeshift dwelling in the alley she could look up at the Hollywood sign and dream that maybe one day she could be rich and famous. Never having to worry about basic life necessities again. Mostly however, she just dreamed about being loved … or even wanted, by anyone.
Lilith just sits on the floor, on top of an old picnic blanket someone had discarded, practically starting at the Hollywood sign. Her teddy bear sat next to her on the blanket as the two of them just thought about their dreams and how they'd happen. At least Lilith imagined that Teddy was also dreaming with her, even though she knew deep down he wasn’t..
Lilith: I'm telling you, Teddy, one of these days someone nice will find me out here and they will take me in… and love me.
Lilith wipes a few tears away as she thinks about how she'd never felt or known love from anybody before, not including her Teddy.
Lilith: I just don't get it, Teddy. How come I'm so unlovable? I'm a nice person… yes, I've stolen stuff but that's only cos I HAD to!
Lilith looks down at her bear and then gives him a shocked look as if he'd just spoken back to her.
Lilith: Yeah okay! And I'll just go and buy all that stuff with what money?! I guess you've got some dollars hidden in your invisible pockets there, huh?
Lilith looks at her bear and nods her head as if Teddy was agreeing with her.
Lilith: Exactly. So yeah, I only stole that stuff because I HAD to. I can't exactly get a job, Teddy. Who'd hire me?
Lilith sighs heavily as she sets down her bear and begins crying, placing her hands over her face. She didn’t truly believe anyone would ever find her out here. Every passing day made her lose more hope.
Lilith: I’m so lonely that now I’m having conversations with my teddy bear that can’t even talk!
She removes one of her hands from her face and slams it down into the ground angrily, not even caring that it was painful to do. She continues to cry, feeling so empty and alone. She does the only thing that she can do, she cuddles her bear and cries herself to sleep once again.
The next morning started off as any other. Lilith awoke feeling very hungry and very cramped as she wasn’t even sleeping in a bed anymore. The orphanage she once called home may not have been the most comfortable, but it was certainly better than sleeping in an alley. The young, disheveled brunette walks out from the alley knowing she had to figure out survival for another day. On this day however, things would take a very different turn.
It all began with her life going from bad to worse. As she walks along the streets in the Los Angeles suburb of Sunland, contemplating her next meal, she is approached by a group of teenagers who were slightly older than her. She could hear them laughing and could see them pointing at her as they got closer. One of the girls in the group calls out to Lilith.
Teenage Girl: You have GOT to be the dirtiest bitch I have ever seen! We can smell you from here.
Lilith tries her absolute hardest not to listen as she'd learned long ago that talking back only made things worse, much much worse. She gripped her teddy bear’s paw tightly and tried to walk away from the scene.
Lilith: Just ignore them, Teddy. We're okay, you're okay. Don't worry.
As Lilith turns to walk in the opposite direction away from the group, they start quickening their pace. Obviously the teens were looking for trouble. Lilith starts to walk quickly, looking over her shoulder occasionally to make sure they weren’t too close.
Teenage Girl: Oh look at this bitch. What, you think you’re too good for us? Dumpster diving trash whore. You don’t get to walk away when you’re on my block!
The teens finally pick up into a dash towards Lilith. There were two girls and four boys, which in of itself was distressing that four male teenagers would chase a frightened young girl. Lilith starts her own sprint into a full run to get away from them, taking a right into one of the back alleys. She knew the alleys like the back of her hand and knew all of the best hiding places. She kept low and hidden out of sight for some time until she knew for sure that those teenagers had gone away.
Lilith: Hmmmm.
Lilith checked out her surroundings, she didn't know there was a gym here. She continued to hide as she watched several other teenagers enter and exit.
Lilith: I bet you if I went in there and got all big like them people wouldn't try and bully me anymore.
Lilith looks down at her bear, she now pictured him making a doubtful face at her, she sighed.
Lilith: Yeah, okay, you're right. I still would be.
The brunette sighed hard as she slid down a nearby wall still watching the gym and it's members. Inside, a young Sarah Twilight exits the showers and gathers her belongings. She waves goodbye to Garrett and the other students as she heads for the door. She’d been waiting for the end of the day to take the money she’d earned at Selene’s shop to buy herself some better wrestling gear. As she walks outside, she sees a few other girls and a number of guys run passed her as if looking for something or someone. Sarah starts walking but can’t help but look back at the scene with these other teenagers shouting and angrily proceeding. With the group of teenagers gone, Lilith decides it is her time to make her escape. She rushes up the alley alongside the gym and just as Sarah turns back from watching the rowdy teens, Lilith collides into her accidentally. Lilith falls back and Sarah is startled a bit, not expecting this. Immediately, Lilith holds her hands up in front of herself from the ground.
Lilith: I’m sorry! I’m sorry! Please don’t hit me! I’m really sorry!
Sarah looks down at the frightened young girl who was clearly malnourished and filthy. To Lilith’s surprise, her trembling hands are grabbed and she is pulled up to her feet.
Sarah: I … I’m not going to hit you. Are you alright?
Sarah looks back over her shoulder.
Sarah: They were chasing you, huh?
Lilith paused, still extremely frightened. She'd never known someone actually talk nicely to her like this before. She wanted to burst into tears and tell the nice stranger all of her troubles, but she desperately tried her hardest to keep it together. Not too sure whether the redhead was being sincere and genuine with her or not.
Lilith: I'm… ummmmm… yeah. They were chasing me but I probably deserve it to be fair…
A single tear rolls down Liliths cheek and she immediately kicks herself for letting that happen. Turns out she wasn't as good at hiding her emotions as she thought she was. Sarah watches this, noticing the fear in the young girl’s face. It wasn’t all that long ago that Sarah herself was struggling to survive on the streets. She offers a hand to the brunette and smiles.
Sarah: I don’t think anyone deserves that. I’m Sarah, by the way. And you are?
Lilith is hesitant, extremely hesitant, to shake Sarah's hand. She finally picks up enough courage to do so after wiping her hand on her torn dirty clothing to make sure it's as clean as possible. Lilith hated looking like this.
Lilith: I'm… Ummm… Lilith. My name’s Lilith.
The brunette flinched expecting Sarah to either hurt her physically or emotionally, neither of which happened and she hoped Sarah hadn't noticed her behaving in such a weird way. In a desperate attempt to take Sarah’s mind off of what she'd just done, she points down at her teddy bear who was still in her hand.
Lilith: And his name’s Teddy.
Sarah smiles, shaking Lilith’s hand. She did notice that she was obviously very much so frightened.
Sarah: Nice to meet you, Lilith …. And Teddy.
Sarah uses her free hand to reach into her pocket, pulling out the hundred dollars she had worked for to buy her new wrestling gear. She looks down at it for a moment before placing it back into her pocket and looking back at Lilith.
Sarah: So, Lilith … do you like hamburgers? There’s a Carl’s Jr. nearby and you look like you could use a bite to eat. I was going there anyway. Would love it if you joined me?
Of course, Sarah was never intending to go to the restaurant. However, knowing how difficult a meal was to come by when you’re on the streets, she knew the wrestling gear could wait and was not nearly as important.
Lilith: I mean… I'd love to, Sarah… but… ummm… I, I don't… I mean, I can't… afford it. It was a nice offer though. Thanks.
Lilith looked across at Sarah, still expecting her to turn into every girl she'd ever known. Was this some kind of attempt to make fun of her for living on the streets?
Lilith: I'll see you later.
Sarah shakes her head at Lilith.
Sarah: I never asked you if you could afford it. I’ve invited you, that means it’s my treat. You can have whatever you want. Come on, let’s go.
She smiles again at the disheveled brunette, offering out her hand once more to solidify the invitation. Lilith just stands there, looking at the redheaded teen, watching her every movement, as tears started to flood her eyes.
Lilith: You’ll… pay for me? Are you actually serious? But…
Lilith begins to cry, pretty hard. She looks at Sarah and the concerned look she was currently giving her just makes her cry even harder. Lilith falls down onto her knees, crying into her hands.
Lilith: No one is ever nice to me… why… I mean… how come you're being so nice? I don't deserve it.
Once again, Sarah helps Lilith back to her feet and she just gives the emotional girl a hug.
Sarah: I’ve been in your position before, and someone was nice enough to help me. Now come on, let’s go get you something to eat, okay?
The redhead calmly and slowly steps back from the hug, smiling. She offers out her hand for Lilith to accept for a third time, Lilith finally takes her hand, wiping her tears away with her free dirt covered arm.
Lilith: I promise, if I ever get back onto my feet, I'll make this up to you, Sarah.
Sarah smiles as the two walk toward the famous west coast hamburger joint.
Sarah: Don’t worry about it. Just enjoy a nice meal with a new friend. How’s that sound?
Sarah had plenty of acquaintances between her wrestling training and working at Selene’s shop. Friends however, were few and far between. Selene and Garrett were the only two people she’d actually ever considered friends. She’d been where Lilith is now, there was common ground so even as premature as it may have been, Sarah somehow just knew she could call Lilith her friend.
Friend… Sarah had just called Lilith her friend. She was the first and only person in the whole world who had ever done that. Lilith was overjoyed and again, very emotional, but she really didn't want Sarah to see her cry again so she tried to keep it together as best as she could.
Lilith: You… actually consider me… to be your friend?
Sarah smiles very brightly and giggles a bit. Lilith begins to frown, expecting that it was a trick and Sarah was laughing at her but that was quickly put to rest as Sarah nods emphatically.
Sarah: I wouldn’t be paying for lunch if you weren’t.
She pauses.
Sarah: I know we’ve only just met, but as I’ve mentioned, I’ve been in your shoes. You have more in common with me than anyone else I know. So I’ve no problem calling you a friend.
Lilith quirks an eyebrow at Sarah.
Lilith: You mean, you were also forgotten about and bullied in an orphanage and then after you left that you also accidentally ended up shipping yourself… literally… to a completely different country?
Sarah’s eyes widen a bit as she listens to this. She knew the young girl had an accent, but she certainly hadn’t expected the rundown of events she’d just been informed of.
Sarah: I … was talking about being stuck on the streets. I can’t believe that you’ve gone through all of that. That’s horrible.
Sarah stops just in front of the Carl’s Jr. and looks at her new British friend.
Sarah: You don’t have to worry about those things anymore. I have a friend … a really nice lady who helped me, and I am sure she can help you too. After lunch, we’ll go talk to her, okay?
Sarah was buying her lunch, called her her friend, and now she also had an adult who could help her? Without being able to stop herself Lilith was now in tears again as she quickly walked on towards and into the restaurant. Sarah follows after her new friend.
Once she gets Lilith seated, she asks the brunette what she would like. Lilith, still being very shy and embarrassed just asks for whatever Sarah is having. The young redhead heads to the counter, ordering herself only a chicken sandwich and a water. For Lilith, she orders a few cheeseburgers, some fries and a strawberry milkshake wanting to make sure that her new friend was well fed. She gathers the food once it is set down for her and begins back towards the booth at the window where Lilith was waiting.
Lilith cannot see what Sarah sees as she approaches their table with the food. The group of teenagers from earlier were walking by after having given up their search when one of them notices Lilith at the booth. The group make their way towards the door of the restaurant. Sarah sets the tray of food down and remains standing by the booth, Lilith of course, has no idea why.
Lilith just grabs one of the burgers and the bottle of water, not expecting Sarah to have bought so much for her. She was still extremely grateful though as she smiled up at her new and only friend.
Lilith: Thanks, Sarah. I've never even tried one of these before. It really means a lot. Like, more than you realize.
Sarah smiles, though clearly she had her attention on something else. She retrieves the bottle of water from Lilith and instead hands her the milkshake. She also sets the other two hamburgers and fries in front of the brunette.
Sarah: You just enjoy your meal. Don’t worry about it, I’m glad to be able to help.
Still, Sarah’s attention is elsewhere as she has her eyes trained on the entrance door. The group of teenagers enter the restaurant and immediately begin heading towards Lilith and Sarah.
Teenage Girl: Oh look, the garbage pail bitch managed to find herself a friend.
The teens laugh and Lilith turns to see them, and again she is terrified. The outspoken girl turns to one of the guys.
Teenage Girl: Baby, I’m hungry. I want her food.
The boy nods and steps toward Lilith, reaching his hand out to take the cheeseburgers away from her. Sarah grabs his arm and wrenches it behind his back VERY harshly. The girls gasp and the other boys look on shocked.
Sarah: That doesn’t belong to you, asshole! Now unless you want me to break it, I suggest you take your bitch and get out of here!
Lilith looks on in amazement. She had no idea Sarah knew how to fight, and by the looks on the faces of the teens, neither did they. The wrestling classes had most certainly paid off. The boy nods as he groans before Sarah lets go of his arm and the group retreats. The mouthy girl lambasting her boyfriend for being embarrassed.
Lilith: Wow…
Lilith just continues to watch on, her mouth open with shock and amazement. Her new friend, Sarah, was a badass! Lilith couldn't believe out of all the people she could be friends with, she chose her. Sarah definitely would have been the coolest girl back in the orphanage. The redhead takes a seat across from Lilith and smiles as she casually opens up her chicken sandwich.
Sarah: Like I said, you won’t be worrying about things like that anymore.
She takes a bite from her sandwich and watches as Lilith eats. She was really happy to see the lost, lonely brunette relax enough to enjoy her meal. Sarah reaches back into her pocket and removes what was left of her money after purchasing the food. There was seventy eight dollars and some change. She slides it across the table to Lilith.
Sarah: That’s for you. I don’t need it right now and you--
Lilith shakes her head and slides the money back over towards Sarah refusing to take it herself.
Lilith: Sarah, I can't take this. I can't. You're a lovely girl… you're the ONLY nice girl I've ever known. All this is super nice… and believe me I am going to be your friend forever… but I can't take your money. Besides, after seeing you handle those bullies like that I'd much rather stick by your side anyway, if that's okay? So keep that money. You can use it to buy us stuff when we go out next… if you want anyway?
Sarah nods, collecting the money and placing it back into her pocket. She smiles again at her new British friend.
Sarah: Alright. I guess I’ll get us a pizza tonight. We can have that and watch some movies.
Lilith sucks up some of her milkshake, still looking at Sarah in awe over how she'd just handled those bullies.
Lilith: So, ummmm… what’s the deal here? Are you like… a superhero or something? I promise not to tell anyone if you are…
Sarah shakes her head laughing a bit.
Sarah: I am FAR from anything like that. I’ve just learned not to take anyone’s shit. You’ll get there, over time.
Sarah continues to watch as Lilith devours her meal. She smiles even more, knowing that this girl would not go another day being hungry. Selene would surely take her in just as she had done with Sarah. That was the plan. Lilith would have herself a roof over her head, steady meals and a job by the time the day was over
To be continued ...
