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Gift-story (THREE); HIstory of DeMarcus Gresham (KWI)
Topic Started: Apr 6 2017, 11:40 AM (130 Views)
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5 - Hot and Cold

There’s always a moment where it’s harder to focus at times. Things can distract you no matter how hard you maintain your level head and keep the blinders on. We are human which means we are prone to error. So no one person on this earth will remain constantly focused on a goal at all times. There must be times for reprieve and times for recollection. Time for rest and even time for enjoying the fruits of those moments of unaltered focus.

I sit on my plush California King sized bed inside my Knoxville apartment in a moment of mix feelings. It was a strange time for me an odd moment indeed. I sat in a moment of recollection, reprieve, and even slight enjoyment. A photo twirling within my fingertips as I looked over it time and time again I couldn’t help but smile internally. It was a moment of warmth on the photo and it turn made me feel valuable. My room stood still without sound or disturbance as I give such a simple photo my undivided attention. What was the photo?

One of those silly multiple pictures taken from the photo booth at the local carnival. Four pictures lined up vertically in black and white reminiscent of the time I took Mackenzie Roberts to Los Angeles with me for one of my very first photo shoots as a newly signed YL clothing line model. Every single one of the pictures were absolutely hilarious. We agreed to go from stupid to crazy to random and continued. Warmth...heat...welcoming.

That was one of the better weekends I had in a long time. I signed my modeling contract, did well with my photoshoot, and enjoyed Mackenzie’s company every minute I could. She had to leave early to make her match for the other company she currently works for. I remember it was as if she never left because we continued texting back and forth every moment. Continued calling each other on the phone. She’s fun. Always smiling and even when she was being smart she was cute. I remember thanking her sincerely for being such a good friend to me at a time when I wasn’t sure if people were there for me or just to use me.

I received a hefty signing bonus with the modeling contract. Came back to Knoxville and couldn’t wait to give her the present I bought for her in thanks and truly just because I appreciated her. Within minutes of landing I headed to her home with my glass roses with a diamond in the middle of the sculpted petals. Sure I was thinking the traditional jewelry and things of that nature at first but I wanted to be a little different. Something that said I really gave thought into it. I remember the pleased look on her face when I handed the delicate piece to her. She was sincere and happy to see me. We returned right back to form just as we did in LA. Enjoying each other, having fun, no strings, no extras, just living. I felt hot, I felt warmth coming from her.

I twirl the picture in my fingers a little while longer before placing it beside me on the bed and standing up. After a short stretch I leave out of my room and head toward the living room area just slowly pacing and thinking.

I cooked for her that night. I don’t remember what dish exactly but I know it was pasta adjacent. I did the whole cheesy thing putting on the apron and all. Feeling such warmth and heat emanating from another person toward me those stupid things didn’t bother me. I did them all with a smile because I loved the accepted feeling. The hot sensation in a cold world. I was staring at her probably longer than I should’ve been, she felt that same heat because she turned to me smiling. She told me I looked good cooking in there. I smiled and returned that she looked good over there laying on the couch. And boy did she.

These are the warm moments. The hot temperature running through my veins. That picture that currently sits on my bed turns everything hot...warm...comfortable. Accepting. I felt this with Mackenzie.

Then as if with the flip of the faucet it quickly goes cold…

A match is announced and things change. If I’m honest with myself things were coming to a change even before the card announcement. Then again, I could be thinking too far into it. We are both too very busy individuals and I’m not partial to the thought of spending every moment together obviously.

I finally find some direction in my house and head toward my kitchen for a bottled water. Thoughts somehow make you thirsty.

I’ve had many scenarios when it comes to Kenzie. Even thought to myself what would happen if we tried to make it exclusive. A fleeting thought of course knowing my heavy apprehensions to such an endeavor at this point in my life. On twitter she asked me had I seen the upcoming Aggregation Card at that point I hadn’t and quickly remedied that. She seemed so unsure and worried. On one side I understood but it felt as though she was extending the situation for what it was. We come, we wrestle, we continue. At least I thought that was the logic we both shared. This couldn’t change our temperature, this couldn’t change hot to run cold. Could it?

I reach out to her after our back and forth tweets asking to meet with me so we can talk about this. I wanted to reassure her and let her know things will be fine. She replied she was with Alexis and we would talk later. Tomorrow if I remember specifically.

That brings me to look at the face of my cell phone. So many texts sent from me since then. A week. Reaching out, wanting to be there not for the physical but just as a friend. Nothing in return for awhile. Tomorrow came and went...even days after that. When she did reply to my texts...it was simple, plain...it honestly felt cold.

‘After the match’

Really? That’s it? No hello? Hope you’re doing well? Hell, even a good luck?

I found myself feeling a cooler temperature at that point. What was once hot was becoming quite arctic to the touch. I was making that same mistake again. Investing too far in people that considered me a option. Not even a high option. Giving to those that don’t care, the cold seems so much easier and safer nowadays. Sick of the used feeling. The ‘dance monkey dance’ was getting old. Commentary speaks about my ‘women issues’. It’s only a problem if you care…

And I’ve turned cold. I shouldn’t fight my true nature. It’s futile.




“Water...can burn to the boiling point and freeze to the coldest stone. Either one very harmful to the touch.”

Mackenzie,

This is one of those once in a lifetime moments where you really get to see where you are measured. It’s one thing to face a foe that you have no connection to, you find it easier to cause that person harm, easier to put said opponent in their appropriate place. This is the perfect test from Chen to both of us. We must know how to put aside feelings for what needs to be done in the ring. The Business vs. Personal in full force this upcoming Aggregation. Please know Kenzie, just because I’m not bothered by this doesn’t mean I want to do this but when it comes to my career it's like my foster father told me. ‘Family, friend, or foe...all have the ability to become a roadblock to your dreams. You must look past the ties and see the line.’ Our line is this, we are each others opposition and only one can win. I can only see that line Mackenzie. Everything else is everything else.

What also brings an interesting challenge is the fact we know each other well in the ring. Our many sparring sessions we do have a familiarity with each other and it will show on Wednesday. For example, you’re tenacious you never bow out and that is something I have and always will respect about you. No matter what side of the ropes I’m on I will always respect that. BUT...your experiences here are documented. Levi Gordy was your first real taste of success against a larger male opponent. Something you struggled with until then. Brody Watts was a warm up for me. I am as you know a big man. A big man with a devastating work ethic. I’m way more motivated than Brody Watts and far more superior than a Levi Gordy. You know this, KWI knows this, lets not for one minute delude ourselves to think I’m not the hardest opposition you’ve seen since being here because I’ll turn right back around and give respect where it is due. You, Sexy Kenzie could very well hand me my first loss. Only…ONLY...if I see personal...and not business.

Then there’s your actions that make me wonder if you are even mentally prepared for this at all. I’m not questioning your ability to be able to be prepared. I know you have the means and focus to be ready BUT...like the amauter poker player, your tells are obvious. Your lack of speaking to me before our match says many things. One, you are motivated to beat me therefore you won’t speak to me. I guess I can admire that in a sense but we are friends Kenzie. No matter what I will have to do to you on Wednesday before any of it I’m your friend. After it I’m still your friend. I just wonder why it takes all of this in the first place. Second, you could very well not want to talk to me at all. Which then I’d have to ask why but of course as you said ‘after the match’ my questions will be solved. For you to have to completely X me out just to prepare for this match lets me know the emotions are playing a toll. In all sincerity Mackenzie, we could come down to the ring at the same time holding hands and exchange a kiss instead of the handshake before the bell rings…

But…

Once it does. I will use the Black Diamond and imprint your back into the mat because that is the business we are in together sweetheart. This isn’t your first rodeo or dance around the gym. You have success in your other place of employment you’ve probably faced close friends before. Why do you struggle here? Why are you struggling with this concept of facing me?

It’s because you see it. You see it better than 85% of the roster. You see the drive, ability, and determination. The only ones that know better than you are the ones that have experienced Gifted in pure form. You have experienced Gifted, haahaa, but not like this. You don’t go down easy but I do know plenty of those ‘spots’ so to speak to weaken you. I hate that I have to lower you to elevate myself but we both know that is the spirit of this business. Therefore it must be done. Queen Bitch...pardon my French...meet King Prick and trust me if you want I’ll massage and soothe any pain I cause right away. Its not personal at all it’s justified moves to attain a desired effect. Like with Lesley for instance...he’s hot now. Burning mad. But do I have his attention now?

As the phone commercials used to state.

‘Do you hear me now?’

Well do you?...









6 - Two Birds...One Stone

September 17, 2014 - Afternoon Aggregation
After the Camera’s cut to In-Ring: N.E.R.D vs. Les Grisham and Zayn Williamson

Today must be the day of absolute idiocy.

“How DARE he place his hand on me.” I walk backstage realizing my tone is very loud and threatening as people stare at me. I am not a streetwalker and I refuse to allow a man to think he can slap me as one. Rolling my shoulders I turn the corner taking more deep breaths in attempt to allow a cooler head. The slap didn’t hurt, I’ve felt more stings from a bee. It was the disrespect of the moment. I never slapped Zachary I attacked him and threw him to the ground. I attacked him with closed fists, like a man. I respected him enough to give him that. Here I walk still the better man giving respect where it may not be due and what do I get in return? Slapped--like a pimp does a destitute moll. I give respect and receive incivility. I will not stand for it. I will never stand for this.

I look at the line of doors following down the hall before reaching the nameplate I wanted to see.

Bruce Chen - Director of KWI

More calming breaths. I realize where I am and who I am soon to hopefully address. I am upset but I know better than to attempt transferring that energy into the room. To get what I want I must be correct in my approach. I follow another exhale with a few raps against the door. Hopefully he is inside I wanted to try my best to get this set in stone as soon as possible.

Not hearing anything I knock again. This time a little bit louder but with more power. I could calm down a little more I’m still very tense. I just want to return the favor and place hands on him as he’s done to me. Place even more hands on his boyfriend as he seems ready to do to me. Make it easier for myself and make it easier for them. Two birds…one stone.

“Come in.” The stern business voice of Bruce Chen calls from the other side. I exhale another deep breath before entering. Behind his desk I could tell he witnessed what recently happened to me as the modest flat screen was mounted to the wall to the right of him. He looked at me with a somewhat surprised expression. I assume after speaking with Luke he wasn’t expecting anymore visitors when it came to our match. Recent actions obviously changed that. Looking at the screen I saw the beginning of the tag match between N.E.R.D and Zayn with that sackless shell of a man. I wanted to jump through the screen and drop him right there. Bruce must of noticed my anger as my posture changed.

“DeMarcus. Are you ok?” Bruce asks looking the part of a concerned head but at the end of the day business and day to day rules will always override the personal lives of his students. I nod in his direction finally taking my eyes off the television screen taking more steps into the office and having a seat in front of his desk.

I clear my throat giving myself a last effort in calming myself before speaking.

“Mr. Chen, I come to you this afternoon to speak about the contract recently agreed upon with one Les Grisham as well as Zachary Sears. First, I want to thank you for the opportunity to showcase my skills at Hellbound and with the opposition ahead I am sure I’ll be able to show you steady increase in my ability and potential. Speaking of said opposition with Zach as special referee I ask for a slight adjustment in ruling. Both men seem to have to have their want in putting their hands on me and I myself would like nothing more than the free reign to take care of both of them at the same time. Can this match allow physically aggressive contact between ref and wrestler and vice versa? I want the opportunity to be as open for them as it would be for me. I am looking to show them both what I mean by placement.” I take a breath leaving my speech on the proverbial table. Knowing Chen to be a man of thought the silence in the room doesn’t deter me as I await his answer.

“No.” He replied short. “These are the rules you both recently agreed to. Zach has no wrestling training and to allow you further harm than what you’ve already accosted the young man opens the door to lawsuit. He’s not a professional wrestler or one in training and after what you did last Aggregation…No.”

I wasn’t expecting this but at the same time acceptance is necessary. I stand from my chair and shake Chen’s hand. “Well, thank you for at least hearing me out sir.” I exit just as quick as I first entered. I made sure not to look at the television screen or the match at hand. I was very disappointed in his decision and as I closed the door behind me and walked toward my locker area I couldn’t help but shake my head slightly.

“You try to do things the right way. The ordained way. Either way come Hellbound two birds will be defeated by one stone. There simply is no other way.” That was just the added amount of frustration I needed to drive myself against Mackenzie Roberts later on this afternoon.

DAYS LATER…

BOOM!! Another poor soul is put to the mat by my ‘Determination’. For the past week almost two actually I have been perfecting the newest piece in my arsenal looking to take full advantage of the work done at Hellbound. There’s a Yakuza Kick and then there’s my ‘Determination’ something that will be considered a step above the average go to move seen from my other classmates. Black Diamond has become a staple in a matter of weeks the same work is being put into my ‘Determination’. The true determining factor of many of my future matches. “Mountain” Dewey Dresden and I continue to work on our 10th hour inside the gym. Many have come and gone but as usual I strive to be the first to arrive and the last to leave. I extend my hand to pick up the freelance student from the mat. KWI’s reputation is growing with every passing week so much so that students from other organizations or beginners come for a day or two just to get some of the best teaching this sport has to offer. Also for their troubles they receive my size 17 wrestling boot to their jawline. All in the days work I say.

Leaving the ring I lightly jog to my bench taking a quick drink of water and noticing a lot of the students around me packing up as if ready to leave for the night. I look up and notice Dewey is zipping up his belongings as well. He turns to look at me affirming my assumptions.

“Same time tomorrow D?” He asks me smiling. I was doing him proud he told me not too long ago. Some of my decisions and actions he didn’t completely agree with but as far as implementing what we have learned week by week in training he couldn’t be more overjoyed with my success. Dewey is giving me the keys to expansion in this field. My undefeated streak is a testament to my ability to grasp and understand the techniques he is teaching me. I also know without him dedicating himself to assisting me in everyway possible I wouldn’t be where I am now. A gift I will always be grateful to him for. Nobody else wanted or could feasibly take my method of learning and end up with a positive reaction. I wouldn’t be looking to Hellbound with such a positive aura around me. I am calm, I am prepared, I am ready. Even so, I wanted more.

“Dewey, I need the finest high flyer and Muay Thai practitioner in the ring immediately.” I stood back to the my feet having my break time filled. I wasn’t done yet. As good as I felt and it was a very grand feeling indeed I wanted to prepare for anything. After the few tweets addressed to me from Zachary Sears I knew he was expecting to be more than just a hand slapping the mat for three. I will prepare for that. I will be ready for everything and if by a small chance something does catch me off guard, I will be superior enough in my proficiency to adjust. Which is why I needed them both in the ring at the same time. Two birds...one stone.

Dewey was a little caught off guard by my request. He smiled at my dedication but was still shocked. He walks closer to me near my bench. I place my water down meeting him up halfway.

“Are you sure about this D? It’s been a long day.” Dewey looks concerned for me and I knew why. He doesn’t want me to burn out or push myself too hard which I appreciated but at the same time this is the way I give myself piece of mind. I nod in his direction insisting.

“Hellbound will be a long day for me if I’m not prepared. I will be ready for Les’ speed and high flying capability. My recent encounter with Zayn has helped me greatly in that endeavor but I must be ready for Zach. For all his talk of being down the middle in this to me, he is the wild card. I do not know MMA, I have never trained in depth on Muay Thai or other fighting styles other than wrestling. I need to be prepared to defend as much of his MMA skill as possible. I need to focus on both for they are both adversaries as far as I’m concerned. I need to begin my expansion.” I respectfully nod before walking past him toward the ring.

“Bring the best still here. Tell them there’s money in it.” My bank account is still in great shape after my signing bonus. A great cause such as this I have no problems investing in my future. A bright successful future.




“To slay two with one stone is it done within the same action meant for one
or the same effort meant for one?”


At last Lesley. The waiting is coming to an end. The moment we both have been assuredly waiting for is upon us and my Creator knows just how much electricity flows through my fingertips thinking about it. This is the chance for you to see why I consider you lacking. Why I see your position as undeserving. All my words will come to be proven true with my actions at Hellbound. Your boyfriend being the referee is of no consequence. He will have the front row seat to your demise and depreciating prominence here in KWI. Things are different this time around. I think you have mistaken my talk of Alexander Crowe in the beginning as my blueprint for what I am doing here. How mistakened you are Lesley.

The linger shreds of respect I had for you filtered away the moment you asslimated me with such trash in the first place. I, Gifted...am not good enough to tie Alexander Crowe’s boots? Interesting you revere and respect a man that put you in the hospital, beat your friend to a bloody pulp, and nearly killed one of the heads of this establishment we both know and love. In all sense disgracing everything you have worked for here and leaving in cowardice shortly after. THIS...is what you are asking me to aspire to? The man who’s boots I cannot tie? THIS is what we all should strive to be? Tsk tsk tsk Welshman. You have completely missed the mark. Don’t fret friend I will lead you back into the fold like the shepherd does his flock.

First, to try and compare us is truly the oil and water. Try to shake and stir as much as you like it will not blend. It will not gel. I am a better man. Why attempt to tie shoes when I am already able to place my foot upon his head? The concept is asinine. I am not here to maim, kill, or destroy. I am here to enlighten, encourage, and construct the truth to be seen by all much clearer. I, as KWI’s Model Citizen, am here helping you realize who you are while showing my ability. I’m helping you find your niche here Lesley while I cement my reasoning to why I will be one of KWI’s most successful graduates. The most successful graduate. I want the wrestling world to recognize the representation I give. I want them saying ‘Hey, that’s a product of KWI’ or ‘Yes, that’s Dewey’s boy’. I am here to build my brand and also help you recognize yours. If that comes through a hospital visit, so be it.

Why you do you ask? Why you Lesley? The Coalition Tournament for starters. A poor showing from a poor excuse of a wrestler. Better yet, let’s try something more recent. From beating Bayani--something even I gave a handclap to as I approached the ring if you remember. To completely folding in half against Maria Murder.

Yes...that Maria Murder. Almost Logan Ford status here ladies and gentleman.

You do realize I gave you the model to follow before you even encountered that disastrous loss right Lesley? I handed you the prototype to follow just so that afternoon wouldn’t happen to you. The Model Citizen with the model to victory, free of charge. Two Lanes: Determination or Destruction. You admitted to taking that win against Bayani and sitting on it like a hen does her young thinking it would glide you to victory against Murder…

and you were Murdered.

All you had to do was stay humble, stay hungry, and you would’ve beat Murder without blinking an eye or breaking a sweat. Another example here of the respect I have for you and your ability but like others on this roster when the time comes for you to put up...you shut down.

This is the enlightenment I am trying to portray to you Lesley. You are given such a high status on this roster. You are a ‘supposed’ leader inside and out. All this praise and adoration…

For a sorrowfully subpar technician.

Your position on this roster is flawed, you’re a one trick pony drawing from your relationships to keep you in the light. You’re extremely inconsistent and unapologetic for it. You called me a coward but I challenged you to your face walking down to the ring moments after your win against Bayani. I tell you to your face your back should be watched. That you are no where near the wrestler you think you are. I challenge your manhood, I challenge your position on this roster. What did you do Lesley? Think back...what exactly did you do?

Nothing…

I speak to your new boyfriend because I couldn’t locate you. I ask him NUMEROUS times of your whereabouts. So much in fact I attempt to call him out for lying to my face. Ample time we conversed inside that ring. Ample time upon which you could have easily made your presence known. You did nothing. Your boyfriend gave me attitude instead of answering my questions so I made him bleed for his trouble. All these course of actions easily avoided had YOU not been the coward and stepped up when called upon. He bleeds now all of a sudden you have a backbone?

Excuse me while I chuckle…

Who is the true coward here? I have done nothing but challenge you and then you show up with a flimsy paper needing your boyfriend in stripes to even stand up to me?

Excuse me while I chuckle some more…

Then you speak about fear, about how I need to leave Ros and Leo and others alone. That I’m just a replay of Crowe. I have not said a word edgewise to either of them. I have asked Leo at most two questions and when it comes to Ros our common ground comes with Jessica. Where...upon the Greek Gods...am I threatening or otherwise damaging other people? Zach was hurt because of your cowardice. Nothing more…This is not fear at play it is reality.

You, Lesley Grisham are the backup singer of KWI’s resident teen band also known as the A*Teens or Trifecta. If Bayani never said screw the lot of you, you would still be in the back practicing your dance moves getting your voice in range but never stepping on the stage. Now with his departure you’re coming off the bench. Otherwise you are just there. The 3rd wheel, the last string, and the final resort in life. Mediocre at best. The Lance Bass of KWI. That’s not a play on orientation either. He was a back shadow in a boy band. Wanted a trip to space similar to you landing a win over Bay and since then what have you done? Went back to your love of solitude in the shadows.

Enlightenment Lesley…

This is not fear, this is not hatred, this...is hierarchy. KWI’s food chain. Wake up and see what’s in front of you. Survival of the Fittest, Natural Selection…

You stand up and fight back prove me wrong...is your position earned or given?

Otherwise I will be going to Hellbound and it will be a mercy killing of two birds with one stone.


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