Post by andisnow on Jul 16, 2019 4:31:02 GMT -5
Malibu, California.
Three Days after Pandemonium.
If the sole intention of the events at Pandemonium were for it to live up to the name, rest assured: it did. At least that’s what Andi thought. Though she did pick up a win, Andi did not look at her victory over the far less experienced Alyssa Lucchi as a triumph. Instead, she hoped it marked the end of a situation that she never should have gotten into in the first place.
The last couple of months were so turbulent that it put a lot of things into perspective. Namely, the distance that Andi put between herself and her former assistant and twin sister Adrianna.
So when Andi finally decided to stop ignoring her sister’s calls, she was elated with the news that there would be a new addition to their family. Yes, Adrianna had announced that she was pregnant with her second child. Just a little more than four months. There was nothing like new life to mend old fences between family, and at this particular juncture in her life; to Andi? Family meant everything.
Family Reunions on the other hand? Not so much. Though the news of Adrianna’s pregnancy was a welcomed surprise, even more shocking was the fact that their estranged cousin was willing to throw a Baby Shower in her honor.
Their cousin’s sprawling mansion nestled in the beautiful Malibu Canyons would serve as the backdrop for such an occasion. Both ladies were dressed the part. Andi was outfitted in a pastel blue silk mini slip dress with thin spaghetti straps. The dress, per usual, exposed her long tanned legs that ended with her feet in a pair of high heeled strappy sandals that laced up to her knees. Her signature high ponytail was smoothed back into a sleek low ponytail that rested down her back instead of over one shoulder.
The more moderately dressed Adrianna resembled something not unlike a sun goddess. She was dressed in a loose flowing white cotton maxi-dress with bell sleeves. Her mid-length, highlighted hair was down in loose beachy waves and a flower crown rest atop her head.
Andi Snow: “How did SHE know that you were pregnant before I did?”
Andi asked her sister as they strolled together inside the mansion, taking in their surroundings. Adrianna smiled adoringly at the décor while Andi thought it to all be a little cringeworthy.
Adrianna Snow: “I don’t know…I told Mom...Mom told Aunt Denise…Denise told Cousin Blair. Plus, you haven’t exactly been the easiest person to reach.”
Andi Snow: “Okay okay I get it, I’m an asshole.”
‘Cousin Blair,’ as Adrianna called her, was none other than the famous if not infamous Blair Buchannan. A former Beauty Queen turned Professional Wrestler, Blair had made a name for herself in the ring in her own right. She retired long before Andi ever considered a career in Sports Entertainment.
The main reason that Andi never mentioned her connection to Blair could be that, in reality, they didn’t really have much of a connection at all. At 30 years old, Blair was about four years older than Andi and Adrianna. A bitter one-sided feud from Blair’s mother to theirs, stuck a wedge between the cousins and they never really saw much of each other once Blair became an adult.
Andi Snow: “Okay, but I still don’t get why Blair would want to throw you a Baby Shower. I mean, I haven’t spoken to her in years.”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh really? But you two live in the same city!”
Andi Snow: “Beverly Hills and Malibu are like forty-five minutes apart…that’s like two hours in traffic.”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh really? Well I live in Montana and I speak with her like once a month now.”
Andi Snow: “I still don’t get how you don’t think this is weird.”
Adrianna Snow: “Gee Andi, I don’t know. I haven’t overthought it the way you’re obviously doing right now. It was a nice gesture. I think it’s sweet.”
Andi Snow: “Yeah well ten bucks says she just wanted an excuse to flaunt this gaudy new house that she was able to afford from her book deal.”
Adrianna Snow: “Be nice!”
Andi Snow: “What?! You’re going to tell me that deep down inside you don’t know that our cousin is a completely selfish, self-serving, succubus? She’s always been this way. I’m telling you, she has this huge chip on her shoulder. It’s kind of sad, really…the way she tries to fill that dark, nasty void inside herself by flaunting how much money she has? It’s soooo superficial.”
Adrianna stopped dead in her tracks, and looked Andi up and down.
Andi Snow: “What?”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh, nothing. I’m just wondering if the poor Brazilian girl who had to get scalped for you to have those hair extensions is saying the same thing about you right now.”
Andi Snow: “Very funny. But I’m nothing like Blair…Yeah I may like to shop, but I know none of that stuff really matters. It’s purely ornamental. Plus, I happen to have very good taste…Blair on the other hand is just tacky. This entire place looks like Shane Mitchell and Queen Elizabeth had a baby. That’s it! If Shane Mitchell and Queen Elizabeth had a baby, and that baby grew up to be a STRAIGHT MALE interior decorator…this is what his house would look like. Just look at this picture frame! Tackyyyy!”
She says, gesturing to a picture frame resting atop a nearby end table.
Adrianna Snow: “Oh wow, I’ve never seen this picture before!”
Adrianna picks up the picture frame. Though it’s opulent gold frame might be considered tacky to some, for Adrianna it’s contents meant much more. The picture inside the frame was one taken of two women who look around the same age as the sisters now. In fact, one of the two women in the picture looked exactly like the twins.
Adrianna Snow: “This must be Mom and Aunt Denise when they were our age.”
Andi Snow: “Woah….it’s scary how much we look like mom. She has some seriously strong genes. We didn’t get dad’s jaw, or nose, or anything…”
Adrianna Snow: “Well you definitely didn’t get his hair.” She teased.
Andi Snow: “Well one thing’s for sure…you definitely got his brains.”
Woman’s voice: “Yooohooooo! May I have everybody’s attention please?”
The sound of a butter knife clinking against crystal echoed throughout the impressive mansion, drawing in party guests from all parts of the home. It was coming from the main foyer where an older woman stood at the base of a grand staircase. She was dressed in a long, purple, flowing, one shoulder evening gown. Her Shoulder length auburn hair was styled into a sleek, classic asymmetrical bob. Andi and Adriana filed into the crowded foyer where they saw their Aunt holding up a glass of champagne.
Denise Buchannan: “I just wanted to thank you all again for coming to celebrate my darling Niece and her new baby! In a moment, brunch will be served in the grand hall, followed by desert and gifts out on the terrace. But first, I’d like you all to give a warm welcome to our Hostess…my daughter, Blair. Ohhhh Blaaaaaaiiiiiiir!”
The sound of heels clicking against cold marble tile echoed throughout the foyer as everyone’s attention was focused on the grand staircase. A pair of long tanned legs punctuated by red open toed sling-back stiletto heels made themselves visible. As they stepped down each step more of their owner’s body became visible. The shapely waistline wrapped in a skin-tight bandage dress that clung to every curve. The plunging V neckline of the dress revealing an ample albeit surgically enhanced cleavage with the decolletage adorned by rows and rows of sparkling diamonds.
Her ruby red lips twisted into a wide alligator grin, as her disarmingly beautiful brown eyes scanned the room, beneath smoky purple shadowed lids. Long tendrils of auburn hair spiraled down the woman’s back while some hung over one shoulder, hiding one eye from view. The woman stopped at the landing of the staircase where she held up a glass of champagne before addressing her guests.
Blair Buchannan: “Welcome everyone! I’m sooo happy you all were able to join us in celebrating me-…I mean, MY darling baby cousin Adrianna’s new arrival. As you know, family means everything to me..-“
Rolling her eyes, Andi leans in to whisper into Adrianna’s ear.
Andi Snow: “Bullshit. I bet she doesn’t even know where her own daughter is right now.”
Adrianna Snow: “Stop it…” She replies under her breath, jabbing Andi in her side with an elbow. She smirks however, trying to stifle a laugh.
Blair Buchannan: “Now I know some of you may be thinking it’s a little tacky to throw a baby shower considering this is going to be Adrianna’s second child in what? Two years, is it?”
Adrianna’s cheeks flush with embarrassment while Andi stares daggers through Blair.
Blair Buchannan: “But anyone who knows our family knows very well that we ladies have a tendency to stray from tradition. Yet even though I have a terribly busy schedule promoting my new book, Business by Blair, available in stores and online now, I believe it’s crucial to take time to celebrate the important events such as these.”
Andi Snow: “Chapter One: How to Get Ahead by Giving Head…”She mutters under her breath.
She and her sister break out into a fit of subdued giggles earning the ire of their older cousin. Blair raises a brow as she gives the twins a sidelong glance, yet presses on not wanting to break her façade.
Blair Buchannan: “But enough about me. This day is all about Adrianna and her new baby! Wishing you a safe delivery and a healthy young girl who hopefully takes after her slightly older, wiser, more civilized cousin. Cheers!”
The shady toast was taken as a joke by everyone in the room, except for the Snow Twins. This was not lost on Blair. Everyone raised their glasses before they began sipping champagne and talking amongst themselves. Meanwhile, as the music cued back up, Blair wove her way through the crowd of party goers until she approached her cousins.
Blair Buchannan: “Adrianna! I’m so happy you could make it!” She says with a grin, before pulling Adrianna into a tight hug.
Adrianna Snow: “Um…thanks?”
Andi Snow: “It’s her baby shower…you literally planned the event around her.”
Releasing Adrianna from her clutches, Blair turns to Andi before addressing her square on.
Blair Buchannan: “Andrea…what a surprise…I thought you’d be halfway around the world cavorting with some millionaire on a yacht somewhere of the coast of St Barth’s or something.”
Andi Snow: “That’s me…full of surprises.” She says, sarcasm dripping from every word.
Blair Buchannan: “That’s right! I heard you’d given up the life of a Professional Party Girl and decided to follow in my footsteps. How IS the world of wrestling treating you? You must be holding your own…you barely have a scratch on you…althouuuugh it does look like you’ve had a little work done. I can spy a nose job a mile away.”
Andi Snow: “Well…you would know.” She says with a smirk, giving Blair’s entire body a once over. Each curve and contour was expertly enhanced.
Blair Buchannan: “Well it certainly does pay to keep a good plastic surgeon on retainer…just sayin’.”
Using her free hand, Blair pushes up her breasts before smoothing out any and all non-existent wrinkles in her body con dress.
Andi Snow: Anyway…I actually did have a work related question for you.”
Blair Buchannan: “Oh?” She asks, feigning both interest and surprise.
Andi Snow: “Yeah…RSW, the company I’m working with right now is having this big milestone show and a bunch of their alumni are coming back for the night to participate in matches. It’s kinda like a reunion show I guess.”
Blair Buchannan: “Uh huh, uh huh…and what exactly does any of this have to do with me?”
Shutting her eyes for a few seconds, Andi takes in a deep breath to quell her growing frustration before pressing forward.
Andi Snow: “Well I noticed that a couple of your exes…namely Johnny Stylez and Hunter Valentyne were scheduled to compete..”
Blair Buchannan: “Hmm…the names aren’t ringing any bells…”
Andi Snow: “I know they were also in that company you used to work for, as well as a guy named Nocturnal…aka Alexander Koresh…”
Blair Buchannan: “I do hope you’ll be making your point soon. I have guests to entertain.”
Andi Snow: “My point is my opponent for this upcoming week is a woman named Aurora Deadwood. Apparently she has some connection to the Koresh family, but I don’t really know much about them…I was hoping maybe you could give me a little insight as to what I’ll be dealing with at Anarchy 50.”
Blair Buchannan: “I’m sorry, what is Anarchy 50?”
Andi Snow: “It’s the show I literally just spent like a minute explaining to you.”
Blair Buchannan: “That’s what they’re calling it? Anarchy? How original.”
Adrianna Snow: “Andi, just forget about it…I can help you do some research later.”
Blair Buchannan: “No…” She interjects, a wicked grin crossing her lips. “Let’s talk somewhere a little more…discreet. Shall we?”
Blair signals with a well manicured finger for the two to follow her, before she casually makes her way out of the foyer. With the twins in tow, Blair heads down a long corridor. Andi and Adrianna can’t help but exchange looks of disgust as they notice the walls adorned with nothing but large framed photos of Blair.
Finally, after what seems like an eternity of vanity portraits, Blair leads them into her ‘powder room.’ Outfitted in wall-to-wall opulent French décor, Blair’s budoir was fit for a queen; A detail she intended to accomplish.
As Andi and Adrianna step into the room, Blair is already on the opposite end pouring an amber liquid from a crystal decanter into a small port glass. Swiveling the glass around with them stem between her middle and ring fingers, the liquid swirls a bit to create a small whirlpool.
Blair Buchannan: “Care for a drink?” She asks.
Andi Snow: “Um…no thanks.”
Blair Buchannan: “What about my guest of honor?” She asks, gesturing toward Adrianna.
Adrianna Snow: “I’m pregnant. This is my baby shower. How do you keep forgetting this?”
Blair Buchannan: “Details, honey. More for me then.”
Blair tilts her head back before downing the contents of the glass in one swift motion. She sets the glass down on the tray carrying various crystal bottles that more resemble magic potions than plain old booze. Perhaps, this was a perfect analogy for Blair herself.
Blair Buchannan: “Now…where were we?”
Andi Snow: “Aurora Deadwood…you were going to tell me what you know about her?”
Blair Buchannan: “Ah…yes…well I’m afraid I won’t be much help on the subject. The Koresh family is full of a bunch of inbred invalids and I make it a personal mission to avoid unsavory types like them. We didn’t exactly travel in the same circles…petty backstage gossip would have people believe that Aurora is nothing but a sad, pathetic woman with a nasty case of Stockholm Syndrome. That nocturnal uses her as both his punching bag and his own personal sex slave…then again, you can’t believe everything you read in the papers….right Andi?”
She smirks as she lets the words seep out of her mouth like venom, obviously getting some sort of sick pleasure out of teasing her younger cousin. The comment was meant as a reminder of how, not too long ago, rumors about Andi’s personal life were the talk of all the gossip blogs.
Andi Snow: “Fuck you, Blair. Nobody reads newspapers anymore. I should have known better than to ask you for help. As usual you don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about. It was stupid of me to expect you to think of anyone but yourself for once in your life.”
With that, Andi whips around, and heads for the door. Adrianna shakes her head slowly, giving Blair a look of disappointment until she too heads for the exit. Suddenly, Blair perks up as she calls out after them.
Blair Buchannan: “How does it feel?”
The words stop Andi in her tracks. Perhaps, it wasn’t what she said, but the way she said it. Blair’s voice was still full of malice. Only something else was there as well. A hint of desperation, and something that Andi couldn’t quite put her finger one. This curiosity is probably what made her turn around to face Blair once more.
Andi Snow: “What?”
Blair Buchannan: “How does it feel to have fallen so low that you’ve succumb to asking me for help?”
Andi Snow: “Oh get over yourself.”
Blair Buchannan: “No…I want to know. How does it feel, miss high and mighty? I know you and your family always looked down on me and my mother. I don’t remember anybody ever giving me any help when I was dealing with that overbearing Stage Mom. In fact, I was the one who had to be the breadwinner of our home because your selfish parent’s couldn’t be bothered to lend us a couple bucks back then just to keep our lights on.”
Adrianna Snow: “That is so unfair.”
Blair Buchannan: “Unfair? Oh sugar, bless your heart. You don’t know the meaning of the word.”
Andi Snow: “Blair, it is not our fault that your mother pimped you out because she was too irresponsible to take care of her responsibilities.”
Blair Buchannan: “You want to talk about responsibility?! What on earth do you know about it? Neither of you ever had to work for a damn thing in your life. I clawed my way to the top. Nobody ever gave me anything…and you have the nerve to come and ask me for help? How about you do the heavy lifting yourself for once. You’re both just spoiled little brats who think that you’re better than everyone just because your mama and daddy have a few fancy college degrees on their walls. But in reality, you’re no better than anyone. My mother may be a lot of things…but at least she isn’t a common criminal like your father.”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair, stop it. You’re going too far.”
Andi Snow: “What the fuck is she talking about?”
Andi looks to Adrianna who just stares at the ground.
Andi Snow: “Adri???...what is Blair talking about?”
Blair Buchannan: “Ohhhhh this…no….this is too much.” She says with a laugh. “Don’t tell me they never told you…”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair, that’s ENOUGH!” She proclaims, with uncharacteristic bravado.
Andi Snow: “Never told me what?! Will somebody just tell me what the fuck is going on?!”
Blair Buchannan: “What’s going on is it appears that your so called ‘family’ has been lying to you your entire life.”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair, please.”
Andi Snow: “Just shut UP Adrianna!”
Blair Buchannan: “Didn’t you ever wonder why your ‘genius’ father’s illustrious medical career was cut so short?”
Like a snake sizing up it’s pray, Blair slowly inches toward the two sisters. One high heel in front of the other until she stood face to faces.
Andi Snow: “Yeah…he was toying around with some official medical stuff for his own private research on stem cells or something and got caught.”
Blair Buchannan: “Oh…he was doing much more than toying around. Tell me…did your family ever tell you about how your mother took ill before you were born?”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair there’s no need to do this just stop.”
Blair Buchannan: “ooh…bingo! Seems like we have a winner.” She points an index finger at Adrianna with her thumb in the air as if it were a pistol, and mocks a gunshot sound. She then takes aim at Andi before speaking. “But what about Thing 2 over there? Seems Like somebody is in the dark. Well….allow me to enlighten you. You see, your mother, my aunt…contracted what’s called Lou Gehrig’s disease…commonly known as ALS…Back then very little was known about this degenerative disease. Suffice it to say that your ‘mother’ and ‘father’ were just about as in the dark as you are right now Andi. So Papa Snow, being the genius that he was, got to working on a remedy to cure his beloved. Now, I’m no doctor so forgive my paraphrasing but I believe it goes a little something like this…”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh no…’ Adrianna leans against the doorway for support as she buries her head in her hands. Meanwhile, Andi is looking like a deer caught in the headlights as Blair continues.
Blair Buchannan: “Stem cell research was pretty new back in the late 80’s so it took him a few years but eventually, the great Dr. Snow discovered that this very technology could be used to possibly cure, or at least manage the disease that plagued his wife. Since it was such unfamiliar territory, there weren’t exactly tons of people signing up for clinical trials but that didn’t matter because his wife was all too willing to be his little test subject. He extracts the stem cells from his wife…adds a little sugar…a little spice…and evvvverything nice…and you have the perfect recipe for…wait for it…clones.”
Andi Snow: “…I think I’m gonna be sick.”
Blair Buchannan: “You know, that was my exact reaction when my mother recounted the story to me!” Lifting an emery board from a nearby vanity desk, Blair begins casually filing her nails while speaking. “I mean, from what I heard, his first few batches were by all accounts…and I rarely use this word when describing another human being but in this case I’ll make an exception….abominations.”
Andi Snow: “Is the room spinning or is it just me?”
Blair Buchannan: “But the story gets better! Eventually, Doctor Snow perfected his recipe and just in time too! By the time the medical board caught wind of some lunatic trying to play God, he had already successfully created the first two perfect human clones of his darling wife.”
Andi Snow: “You’re a pathological liar, Blair. You really need some help. If there were human clones walking around the world would know about it.”
Blair Buchannan: “That’s the beauty of it…Your father, or rather ‘creator,’ was one of the leading scientists in the world. Any institution that knowingly or unknowingly allowed one of their employees to play God would be shut down faster than you can say Frankenstein…His employers knew this so they made an arrangement.”
Andi Snow: “What kind of arrangement?”
Blair Buchannan: “Absolute silence. Not a word, or face life in prison on top of losing his medical license. In exchange, Doctor Snow got a nice payout under the guise of a ‘severance.’ His employees were able to use part of his research to eventually find a medical breakthrough that would not only help your mother, but countless individuals around the world manage their symptoms…and as a consolation, he even got to keep his little science projects as souvenirs. Subject A…”
She says, pointing at Adrianna who meets her gaze with a stone face. Blair then turns to Andi who has tears welling up in her eyes.
Blair Buchannan: “…and subject A2!”
Andi Snow: “That’s ridiculous.”
Blair Buchannan: “It’s a pretty sweet deal if you ask me.”
Andi Snow: “No..the entire story. It’s bullshit. It’s just like those stupid scary stories you used to tell us when we were younger to freak us out. Why should I believe anything you say?”
Blair Buchannan: “Who said you had to believe me?...Ask the girl you call your sister.” She hisses with a wicked grin.
Her knees are locked up. Her stomach in knots. She was frozen. All Andi could manage was to crane her neck around to face Adrianna, who’s remorseful expression was all that she needed to know.
Andi Snow: “A-…Adrianna?” She asks, her voice growing hoarse.
Adrianna Snow: “Andi, im so sorry. We wanted to tell you.”
Andi Snow: “…So it’s true.” She’s trembling now. Her body going through a mixture of paralysis, fear, nervousness, anxiety, and anger.
Adrianna Snow: “Yes. I’m so sorry.”
Andi Snow: “All this time, you knew…and you never told me.”
Adrianna Snow: “Yes! I mean no…I mean…”
Andi Snow: “Well?! which is it?!”
Adrianna Snow: “You have to understand, Andi. They wanted to wait until the right time. Mom and Dad told me after I graduated from law school. After I passed the bar. That’s the reason I started filling in as your assistant when Mom wasn’t able to come to every one of your competitions. We all agreed to tell you once things slowed down…but your Gymnastics career already had so much momentum, it wasn’t long before it took off. You were so busy, we didn’t want to derail your success. Then, once the scandal broke between you and that judge…we figured the break would be the right time…but you took everything so hard when your career fell apart…you started spiraling out of control…we didn’t know if you could handle it, mentally. We thought it would break you.”
Andi Snow: “So…what? You figured it would be better to just hear it from this Social Climbing Hillbilly Bitch?!”” She gestures toward Blair.
Blair Buchannan: “Excuse you! I’m wearing Chanel.”
“FUCK OFF, BLAIR!” The twins scream in unison.
Blair Buchannan: “So rude…well…” She sighs, smoothing her skirt. “Seems my work here is done. If you’ll excuse me, I have a party to get to.”
Fluffing up her hair with both hands, Blair places a hand on her hip before casually strolling through the doorway and back out into the hall. The echoes of her heels clicking against the tile growing more and more distant until there ws nothing but silence between the two sisters.
A long, uncomfortable yet ear-splitting silence radiates in the air. After a moment, Adrianna finally gets the courage to speak.
Adrianna Snow: “Andi…’
Andi Snow: “Don’t.”
Adrianna Snow: “Just let me explain.’
Andi Snow: “Oh, now you want to explain? Fuck you, Adrianna. FUCK. YOU. I should have kept ignoring your calls.”
Adrianna Snow: “Andi just listen to me!”
But it was too late. Andi had stormed out of the room and left her sister behind, all alone. Finally, the distant sound of a door slamming hard could be heard. Adrianna sinks to the ground, leaning against the door frame, before burying her head in her hands and sobbing unconsolably.
Beverly Hills, California.
A few hours later.
Adrianna steers up the long driveway leading to her sister’s sleek and modern Beverly Hills home. Turning the engine off, she takes the keys out of the ignition and inhales deeply. Her shoulders slump as she sighs, resting her forehead on the steering wheel before mustering the courage to get out of the car. Stepping out of her black luxury sedan, Adrianna shuts the door and heads toward the entrance to her sisters house. Upon arriving at the front door, Adrianna rings the doorbell to no avail. The sound of loud music emanating from inside the house is sure to drown out the sound of the bell so she resorts to knocking, then pounding on the door.
Inside the house, Andi is crumpled on the floor sobbing uncontrollably into the lap of her young friend Ellie who is doing her best to console her. R&B music blasts loudly, seemingly from everywhere in the house at the same time.
Ellie: “It’s going to be alright, Andi..” She tries to assure her friend, stroking her head as she does so.
Andi Snow: “It’s…not…okay…!!!” She says, vacillating between sobs and hyperventilation. “I’m …a….fucking…freakshow!”
Ellie: “Who isn’t? So you didn’t have the most conventional birth. I know tons of test tube babies!”
Andi Snow: “waaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!” She cries out before starting another bout of uncontrollable sobs.
Ellie: “Awww no! I was kidding! That was a joke!”
Adrianna Snow: “Hello?...Andi?...I was knocking but I guess you couldn’t hear me above the music…oh…”
Adrianna stops short, seeing her sister and this stranger to her on the floor. Ellie stares at Adrianna, stunned at the mirror image of her best friend looking down at her. Collecting herself, Ellie carefully grabs a pillow from the sofa nearby. She slides the pillow under Andi’s head to take her place before standing and approaching Adrianna.
Ellie: “Hey…I’m sorry…she’s kind of a wreck right now.”
Adrianna Snow: “No, I’m sorry. I don’t know who you are, but I need to talk to MY sister.”
Adrianna attempts to maneuver around Ellie to Andi, but Ellie quickly sidesteps to block Adrianna’s path.
Ellie: “My name is Ellie. I’m a friend. But like I said, this isn’t a good time.”
Adrianna Snow: “Little girl, get out of my way!”
Ellie: “Please, it’s only going to make things worse.”
Adrianna Snow: “Andi, call off your little pet here!”
Ellie: “Pet?! Who are you calling a pet?! I’ve been more of a sister to her these past few months than you have!”
Adrianna Snow: “You don’t know what you’re talking about, please move!”
Adrianna attempts to push past Ellie but as she does, her foot catches Ellie’s ankle the wrong way. Adriana is sent tumbling to the ground.
Adrianna Snow: “Owwwww!”
Ellie: “Oh my Goodness, are you alright?!”
Amongst all the commotion, Andi lifts her head off of the pillow towards the direction of everything going on. She holds her palms to her forehead at first, her head throbbing in pain from hysterically crying. Suddenly, the sight of her sister sprawled out on the ground at Ellie’s feet causes her eyes to go wide.
Andi Snow: “ALEXA, TURN THE MUSIC OFF!” She calls out, and the room goes silent. Andi crawls over to her sister who is writhing in pain. “Adri?! Adrianna?! Are you okay?!”
Adrianna Snow: “It…hurts…” She groans, clutching at her belly. A wide-eyed, panicking Andi follows the direction of her sister’s hands. Andi’s mouth drops in horror as the once white dress fabric between her legs becomes a rapidly growing red stain. “Ellie…what have you done?!”
Ellie: “It was an accident! Andi, I’m so sorry she just tripped! It was an accident!”
Andi Snow: “just…GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!”
She cries out without thinking. Ellie, being very young and in a state of shock, finds herself backing out of the room before turning and running out of the house in a fit of tears.
Andi Snow: “ALEXA, CALL 9-1-1!”
Alexa: “Calling 9-1-1…” The Android’s voice echoes out. After a few seconds, a series of rings emanate throughout the house before a first responder answers.
Dispatcher: “9-1-1 whats your emergency?!”
Andi Snow: “I need an ambulance! Hurry! My sister fell and there’s so much blood! She’s pregnant!”
Dispatcher: “Try to stay calm, Miss, we’re sending a team straight to you.”
Andi Snow: “You hear that, sweetie? Help is on the way…stay with me, girl…stay with me…”
Three Days after Pandemonium.
If the sole intention of the events at Pandemonium were for it to live up to the name, rest assured: it did. At least that’s what Andi thought. Though she did pick up a win, Andi did not look at her victory over the far less experienced Alyssa Lucchi as a triumph. Instead, she hoped it marked the end of a situation that she never should have gotten into in the first place.
The last couple of months were so turbulent that it put a lot of things into perspective. Namely, the distance that Andi put between herself and her former assistant and twin sister Adrianna.
So when Andi finally decided to stop ignoring her sister’s calls, she was elated with the news that there would be a new addition to their family. Yes, Adrianna had announced that she was pregnant with her second child. Just a little more than four months. There was nothing like new life to mend old fences between family, and at this particular juncture in her life; to Andi? Family meant everything.
Family Reunions on the other hand? Not so much. Though the news of Adrianna’s pregnancy was a welcomed surprise, even more shocking was the fact that their estranged cousin was willing to throw a Baby Shower in her honor.
Their cousin’s sprawling mansion nestled in the beautiful Malibu Canyons would serve as the backdrop for such an occasion. Both ladies were dressed the part. Andi was outfitted in a pastel blue silk mini slip dress with thin spaghetti straps. The dress, per usual, exposed her long tanned legs that ended with her feet in a pair of high heeled strappy sandals that laced up to her knees. Her signature high ponytail was smoothed back into a sleek low ponytail that rested down her back instead of over one shoulder.
The more moderately dressed Adrianna resembled something not unlike a sun goddess. She was dressed in a loose flowing white cotton maxi-dress with bell sleeves. Her mid-length, highlighted hair was down in loose beachy waves and a flower crown rest atop her head.
Andi Snow: “How did SHE know that you were pregnant before I did?”
Andi asked her sister as they strolled together inside the mansion, taking in their surroundings. Adrianna smiled adoringly at the décor while Andi thought it to all be a little cringeworthy.
Adrianna Snow: “I don’t know…I told Mom...Mom told Aunt Denise…Denise told Cousin Blair. Plus, you haven’t exactly been the easiest person to reach.”
Andi Snow: “Okay okay I get it, I’m an asshole.”
‘Cousin Blair,’ as Adrianna called her, was none other than the famous if not infamous Blair Buchannan. A former Beauty Queen turned Professional Wrestler, Blair had made a name for herself in the ring in her own right. She retired long before Andi ever considered a career in Sports Entertainment.
The main reason that Andi never mentioned her connection to Blair could be that, in reality, they didn’t really have much of a connection at all. At 30 years old, Blair was about four years older than Andi and Adrianna. A bitter one-sided feud from Blair’s mother to theirs, stuck a wedge between the cousins and they never really saw much of each other once Blair became an adult.
Andi Snow: “Okay, but I still don’t get why Blair would want to throw you a Baby Shower. I mean, I haven’t spoken to her in years.”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh really? But you two live in the same city!”
Andi Snow: “Beverly Hills and Malibu are like forty-five minutes apart…that’s like two hours in traffic.”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh really? Well I live in Montana and I speak with her like once a month now.”
Andi Snow: “I still don’t get how you don’t think this is weird.”
Adrianna Snow: “Gee Andi, I don’t know. I haven’t overthought it the way you’re obviously doing right now. It was a nice gesture. I think it’s sweet.”
Andi Snow: “Yeah well ten bucks says she just wanted an excuse to flaunt this gaudy new house that she was able to afford from her book deal.”
Adrianna Snow: “Be nice!”
Andi Snow: “What?! You’re going to tell me that deep down inside you don’t know that our cousin is a completely selfish, self-serving, succubus? She’s always been this way. I’m telling you, she has this huge chip on her shoulder. It’s kind of sad, really…the way she tries to fill that dark, nasty void inside herself by flaunting how much money she has? It’s soooo superficial.”
Adrianna stopped dead in her tracks, and looked Andi up and down.
Andi Snow: “What?”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh, nothing. I’m just wondering if the poor Brazilian girl who had to get scalped for you to have those hair extensions is saying the same thing about you right now.”
Andi Snow: “Very funny. But I’m nothing like Blair…Yeah I may like to shop, but I know none of that stuff really matters. It’s purely ornamental. Plus, I happen to have very good taste…Blair on the other hand is just tacky. This entire place looks like Shane Mitchell and Queen Elizabeth had a baby. That’s it! If Shane Mitchell and Queen Elizabeth had a baby, and that baby grew up to be a STRAIGHT MALE interior decorator…this is what his house would look like. Just look at this picture frame! Tackyyyy!”
She says, gesturing to a picture frame resting atop a nearby end table.
Adrianna Snow: “Oh wow, I’ve never seen this picture before!”
Adrianna picks up the picture frame. Though it’s opulent gold frame might be considered tacky to some, for Adrianna it’s contents meant much more. The picture inside the frame was one taken of two women who look around the same age as the sisters now. In fact, one of the two women in the picture looked exactly like the twins.
Adrianna Snow: “This must be Mom and Aunt Denise when they were our age.”
Andi Snow: “Woah….it’s scary how much we look like mom. She has some seriously strong genes. We didn’t get dad’s jaw, or nose, or anything…”
Adrianna Snow: “Well you definitely didn’t get his hair.” She teased.
Andi Snow: “Well one thing’s for sure…you definitely got his brains.”
Woman’s voice: “Yooohooooo! May I have everybody’s attention please?”
The sound of a butter knife clinking against crystal echoed throughout the impressive mansion, drawing in party guests from all parts of the home. It was coming from the main foyer where an older woman stood at the base of a grand staircase. She was dressed in a long, purple, flowing, one shoulder evening gown. Her Shoulder length auburn hair was styled into a sleek, classic asymmetrical bob. Andi and Adriana filed into the crowded foyer where they saw their Aunt holding up a glass of champagne.
Denise Buchannan: “I just wanted to thank you all again for coming to celebrate my darling Niece and her new baby! In a moment, brunch will be served in the grand hall, followed by desert and gifts out on the terrace. But first, I’d like you all to give a warm welcome to our Hostess…my daughter, Blair. Ohhhh Blaaaaaaiiiiiiir!”
The sound of heels clicking against cold marble tile echoed throughout the foyer as everyone’s attention was focused on the grand staircase. A pair of long tanned legs punctuated by red open toed sling-back stiletto heels made themselves visible. As they stepped down each step more of their owner’s body became visible. The shapely waistline wrapped in a skin-tight bandage dress that clung to every curve. The plunging V neckline of the dress revealing an ample albeit surgically enhanced cleavage with the decolletage adorned by rows and rows of sparkling diamonds.
Her ruby red lips twisted into a wide alligator grin, as her disarmingly beautiful brown eyes scanned the room, beneath smoky purple shadowed lids. Long tendrils of auburn hair spiraled down the woman’s back while some hung over one shoulder, hiding one eye from view. The woman stopped at the landing of the staircase where she held up a glass of champagne before addressing her guests.
Blair Buchannan: “Welcome everyone! I’m sooo happy you all were able to join us in celebrating me-…I mean, MY darling baby cousin Adrianna’s new arrival. As you know, family means everything to me..-“
Rolling her eyes, Andi leans in to whisper into Adrianna’s ear.
Andi Snow: “Bullshit. I bet she doesn’t even know where her own daughter is right now.”
Adrianna Snow: “Stop it…” She replies under her breath, jabbing Andi in her side with an elbow. She smirks however, trying to stifle a laugh.
Blair Buchannan: “Now I know some of you may be thinking it’s a little tacky to throw a baby shower considering this is going to be Adrianna’s second child in what? Two years, is it?”
Adrianna’s cheeks flush with embarrassment while Andi stares daggers through Blair.
Blair Buchannan: “But anyone who knows our family knows very well that we ladies have a tendency to stray from tradition. Yet even though I have a terribly busy schedule promoting my new book, Business by Blair, available in stores and online now, I believe it’s crucial to take time to celebrate the important events such as these.”
Andi Snow: “Chapter One: How to Get Ahead by Giving Head…”She mutters under her breath.
She and her sister break out into a fit of subdued giggles earning the ire of their older cousin. Blair raises a brow as she gives the twins a sidelong glance, yet presses on not wanting to break her façade.
Blair Buchannan: “But enough about me. This day is all about Adrianna and her new baby! Wishing you a safe delivery and a healthy young girl who hopefully takes after her slightly older, wiser, more civilized cousin. Cheers!”
The shady toast was taken as a joke by everyone in the room, except for the Snow Twins. This was not lost on Blair. Everyone raised their glasses before they began sipping champagne and talking amongst themselves. Meanwhile, as the music cued back up, Blair wove her way through the crowd of party goers until she approached her cousins.
Blair Buchannan: “Adrianna! I’m so happy you could make it!” She says with a grin, before pulling Adrianna into a tight hug.
Adrianna Snow: “Um…thanks?”
Andi Snow: “It’s her baby shower…you literally planned the event around her.”
Releasing Adrianna from her clutches, Blair turns to Andi before addressing her square on.
Blair Buchannan: “Andrea…what a surprise…I thought you’d be halfway around the world cavorting with some millionaire on a yacht somewhere of the coast of St Barth’s or something.”
Andi Snow: “That’s me…full of surprises.” She says, sarcasm dripping from every word.
Blair Buchannan: “That’s right! I heard you’d given up the life of a Professional Party Girl and decided to follow in my footsteps. How IS the world of wrestling treating you? You must be holding your own…you barely have a scratch on you…althouuuugh it does look like you’ve had a little work done. I can spy a nose job a mile away.”
Andi Snow: “Well…you would know.” She says with a smirk, giving Blair’s entire body a once over. Each curve and contour was expertly enhanced.
Blair Buchannan: “Well it certainly does pay to keep a good plastic surgeon on retainer…just sayin’.”
Using her free hand, Blair pushes up her breasts before smoothing out any and all non-existent wrinkles in her body con dress.
Andi Snow: Anyway…I actually did have a work related question for you.”
Blair Buchannan: “Oh?” She asks, feigning both interest and surprise.
Andi Snow: “Yeah…RSW, the company I’m working with right now is having this big milestone show and a bunch of their alumni are coming back for the night to participate in matches. It’s kinda like a reunion show I guess.”
Blair Buchannan: “Uh huh, uh huh…and what exactly does any of this have to do with me?”
Shutting her eyes for a few seconds, Andi takes in a deep breath to quell her growing frustration before pressing forward.
Andi Snow: “Well I noticed that a couple of your exes…namely Johnny Stylez and Hunter Valentyne were scheduled to compete..”
Blair Buchannan: “Hmm…the names aren’t ringing any bells…”
Andi Snow: “I know they were also in that company you used to work for, as well as a guy named Nocturnal…aka Alexander Koresh…”
Blair Buchannan: “I do hope you’ll be making your point soon. I have guests to entertain.”
Andi Snow: “My point is my opponent for this upcoming week is a woman named Aurora Deadwood. Apparently she has some connection to the Koresh family, but I don’t really know much about them…I was hoping maybe you could give me a little insight as to what I’ll be dealing with at Anarchy 50.”
Blair Buchannan: “I’m sorry, what is Anarchy 50?”
Andi Snow: “It’s the show I literally just spent like a minute explaining to you.”
Blair Buchannan: “That’s what they’re calling it? Anarchy? How original.”
Adrianna Snow: “Andi, just forget about it…I can help you do some research later.”
Blair Buchannan: “No…” She interjects, a wicked grin crossing her lips. “Let’s talk somewhere a little more…discreet. Shall we?”
Blair signals with a well manicured finger for the two to follow her, before she casually makes her way out of the foyer. With the twins in tow, Blair heads down a long corridor. Andi and Adrianna can’t help but exchange looks of disgust as they notice the walls adorned with nothing but large framed photos of Blair.
Finally, after what seems like an eternity of vanity portraits, Blair leads them into her ‘powder room.’ Outfitted in wall-to-wall opulent French décor, Blair’s budoir was fit for a queen; A detail she intended to accomplish.
As Andi and Adrianna step into the room, Blair is already on the opposite end pouring an amber liquid from a crystal decanter into a small port glass. Swiveling the glass around with them stem between her middle and ring fingers, the liquid swirls a bit to create a small whirlpool.
Blair Buchannan: “Care for a drink?” She asks.
Andi Snow: “Um…no thanks.”
Blair Buchannan: “What about my guest of honor?” She asks, gesturing toward Adrianna.
Adrianna Snow: “I’m pregnant. This is my baby shower. How do you keep forgetting this?”
Blair Buchannan: “Details, honey. More for me then.”
Blair tilts her head back before downing the contents of the glass in one swift motion. She sets the glass down on the tray carrying various crystal bottles that more resemble magic potions than plain old booze. Perhaps, this was a perfect analogy for Blair herself.
Blair Buchannan: “Now…where were we?”
Andi Snow: “Aurora Deadwood…you were going to tell me what you know about her?”
Blair Buchannan: “Ah…yes…well I’m afraid I won’t be much help on the subject. The Koresh family is full of a bunch of inbred invalids and I make it a personal mission to avoid unsavory types like them. We didn’t exactly travel in the same circles…petty backstage gossip would have people believe that Aurora is nothing but a sad, pathetic woman with a nasty case of Stockholm Syndrome. That nocturnal uses her as both his punching bag and his own personal sex slave…then again, you can’t believe everything you read in the papers….right Andi?”
She smirks as she lets the words seep out of her mouth like venom, obviously getting some sort of sick pleasure out of teasing her younger cousin. The comment was meant as a reminder of how, not too long ago, rumors about Andi’s personal life were the talk of all the gossip blogs.
Andi Snow: “Fuck you, Blair. Nobody reads newspapers anymore. I should have known better than to ask you for help. As usual you don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about. It was stupid of me to expect you to think of anyone but yourself for once in your life.”
With that, Andi whips around, and heads for the door. Adrianna shakes her head slowly, giving Blair a look of disappointment until she too heads for the exit. Suddenly, Blair perks up as she calls out after them.
Blair Buchannan: “How does it feel?”
The words stop Andi in her tracks. Perhaps, it wasn’t what she said, but the way she said it. Blair’s voice was still full of malice. Only something else was there as well. A hint of desperation, and something that Andi couldn’t quite put her finger one. This curiosity is probably what made her turn around to face Blair once more.
Andi Snow: “What?”
Blair Buchannan: “How does it feel to have fallen so low that you’ve succumb to asking me for help?”
Andi Snow: “Oh get over yourself.”
Blair Buchannan: “No…I want to know. How does it feel, miss high and mighty? I know you and your family always looked down on me and my mother. I don’t remember anybody ever giving me any help when I was dealing with that overbearing Stage Mom. In fact, I was the one who had to be the breadwinner of our home because your selfish parent’s couldn’t be bothered to lend us a couple bucks back then just to keep our lights on.”
Adrianna Snow: “That is so unfair.”
Blair Buchannan: “Unfair? Oh sugar, bless your heart. You don’t know the meaning of the word.”
Andi Snow: “Blair, it is not our fault that your mother pimped you out because she was too irresponsible to take care of her responsibilities.”
Blair Buchannan: “You want to talk about responsibility?! What on earth do you know about it? Neither of you ever had to work for a damn thing in your life. I clawed my way to the top. Nobody ever gave me anything…and you have the nerve to come and ask me for help? How about you do the heavy lifting yourself for once. You’re both just spoiled little brats who think that you’re better than everyone just because your mama and daddy have a few fancy college degrees on their walls. But in reality, you’re no better than anyone. My mother may be a lot of things…but at least she isn’t a common criminal like your father.”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair, stop it. You’re going too far.”
Andi Snow: “What the fuck is she talking about?”
Andi looks to Adrianna who just stares at the ground.
Andi Snow: “Adri???...what is Blair talking about?”
Blair Buchannan: “Ohhhhh this…no….this is too much.” She says with a laugh. “Don’t tell me they never told you…”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair, that’s ENOUGH!” She proclaims, with uncharacteristic bravado.
Andi Snow: “Never told me what?! Will somebody just tell me what the fuck is going on?!”
Blair Buchannan: “What’s going on is it appears that your so called ‘family’ has been lying to you your entire life.”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair, please.”
Andi Snow: “Just shut UP Adrianna!”
Blair Buchannan: “Didn’t you ever wonder why your ‘genius’ father’s illustrious medical career was cut so short?”
Like a snake sizing up it’s pray, Blair slowly inches toward the two sisters. One high heel in front of the other until she stood face to faces.
Andi Snow: “Yeah…he was toying around with some official medical stuff for his own private research on stem cells or something and got caught.”
Blair Buchannan: “Oh…he was doing much more than toying around. Tell me…did your family ever tell you about how your mother took ill before you were born?”
Adrianna Snow: “Blair there’s no need to do this just stop.”
Blair Buchannan: “ooh…bingo! Seems like we have a winner.” She points an index finger at Adrianna with her thumb in the air as if it were a pistol, and mocks a gunshot sound. She then takes aim at Andi before speaking. “But what about Thing 2 over there? Seems Like somebody is in the dark. Well….allow me to enlighten you. You see, your mother, my aunt…contracted what’s called Lou Gehrig’s disease…commonly known as ALS…Back then very little was known about this degenerative disease. Suffice it to say that your ‘mother’ and ‘father’ were just about as in the dark as you are right now Andi. So Papa Snow, being the genius that he was, got to working on a remedy to cure his beloved. Now, I’m no doctor so forgive my paraphrasing but I believe it goes a little something like this…”
Adrianna Snow: “Oh no…’ Adrianna leans against the doorway for support as she buries her head in her hands. Meanwhile, Andi is looking like a deer caught in the headlights as Blair continues.
Blair Buchannan: “Stem cell research was pretty new back in the late 80’s so it took him a few years but eventually, the great Dr. Snow discovered that this very technology could be used to possibly cure, or at least manage the disease that plagued his wife. Since it was such unfamiliar territory, there weren’t exactly tons of people signing up for clinical trials but that didn’t matter because his wife was all too willing to be his little test subject. He extracts the stem cells from his wife…adds a little sugar…a little spice…and evvvverything nice…and you have the perfect recipe for…wait for it…clones.”
Andi Snow: “…I think I’m gonna be sick.”
Blair Buchannan: “You know, that was my exact reaction when my mother recounted the story to me!” Lifting an emery board from a nearby vanity desk, Blair begins casually filing her nails while speaking. “I mean, from what I heard, his first few batches were by all accounts…and I rarely use this word when describing another human being but in this case I’ll make an exception….abominations.”
Andi Snow: “Is the room spinning or is it just me?”
Blair Buchannan: “But the story gets better! Eventually, Doctor Snow perfected his recipe and just in time too! By the time the medical board caught wind of some lunatic trying to play God, he had already successfully created the first two perfect human clones of his darling wife.”
Andi Snow: “You’re a pathological liar, Blair. You really need some help. If there were human clones walking around the world would know about it.”
Blair Buchannan: “That’s the beauty of it…Your father, or rather ‘creator,’ was one of the leading scientists in the world. Any institution that knowingly or unknowingly allowed one of their employees to play God would be shut down faster than you can say Frankenstein…His employers knew this so they made an arrangement.”
Andi Snow: “What kind of arrangement?”
Blair Buchannan: “Absolute silence. Not a word, or face life in prison on top of losing his medical license. In exchange, Doctor Snow got a nice payout under the guise of a ‘severance.’ His employees were able to use part of his research to eventually find a medical breakthrough that would not only help your mother, but countless individuals around the world manage their symptoms…and as a consolation, he even got to keep his little science projects as souvenirs. Subject A…”
She says, pointing at Adrianna who meets her gaze with a stone face. Blair then turns to Andi who has tears welling up in her eyes.
Blair Buchannan: “…and subject A2!”
Andi Snow: “That’s ridiculous.”
Blair Buchannan: “It’s a pretty sweet deal if you ask me.”
Andi Snow: “No..the entire story. It’s bullshit. It’s just like those stupid scary stories you used to tell us when we were younger to freak us out. Why should I believe anything you say?”
Blair Buchannan: “Who said you had to believe me?...Ask the girl you call your sister.” She hisses with a wicked grin.
Her knees are locked up. Her stomach in knots. She was frozen. All Andi could manage was to crane her neck around to face Adrianna, who’s remorseful expression was all that she needed to know.
Andi Snow: “A-…Adrianna?” She asks, her voice growing hoarse.
Adrianna Snow: “Andi, im so sorry. We wanted to tell you.”
Andi Snow: “…So it’s true.” She’s trembling now. Her body going through a mixture of paralysis, fear, nervousness, anxiety, and anger.
Adrianna Snow: “Yes. I’m so sorry.”
Andi Snow: “All this time, you knew…and you never told me.”
Adrianna Snow: “Yes! I mean no…I mean…”
Andi Snow: “Well?! which is it?!”
Adrianna Snow: “You have to understand, Andi. They wanted to wait until the right time. Mom and Dad told me after I graduated from law school. After I passed the bar. That’s the reason I started filling in as your assistant when Mom wasn’t able to come to every one of your competitions. We all agreed to tell you once things slowed down…but your Gymnastics career already had so much momentum, it wasn’t long before it took off. You were so busy, we didn’t want to derail your success. Then, once the scandal broke between you and that judge…we figured the break would be the right time…but you took everything so hard when your career fell apart…you started spiraling out of control…we didn’t know if you could handle it, mentally. We thought it would break you.”
Andi Snow: “So…what? You figured it would be better to just hear it from this Social Climbing Hillbilly Bitch?!”” She gestures toward Blair.
Blair Buchannan: “Excuse you! I’m wearing Chanel.”
“FUCK OFF, BLAIR!” The twins scream in unison.
Blair Buchannan: “So rude…well…” She sighs, smoothing her skirt. “Seems my work here is done. If you’ll excuse me, I have a party to get to.”
Fluffing up her hair with both hands, Blair places a hand on her hip before casually strolling through the doorway and back out into the hall. The echoes of her heels clicking against the tile growing more and more distant until there ws nothing but silence between the two sisters.
A long, uncomfortable yet ear-splitting silence radiates in the air. After a moment, Adrianna finally gets the courage to speak.
Adrianna Snow: “Andi…’
Andi Snow: “Don’t.”
Adrianna Snow: “Just let me explain.’
Andi Snow: “Oh, now you want to explain? Fuck you, Adrianna. FUCK. YOU. I should have kept ignoring your calls.”
Adrianna Snow: “Andi just listen to me!”
But it was too late. Andi had stormed out of the room and left her sister behind, all alone. Finally, the distant sound of a door slamming hard could be heard. Adrianna sinks to the ground, leaning against the door frame, before burying her head in her hands and sobbing unconsolably.
Beverly Hills, California.
A few hours later.
Adrianna steers up the long driveway leading to her sister’s sleek and modern Beverly Hills home. Turning the engine off, she takes the keys out of the ignition and inhales deeply. Her shoulders slump as she sighs, resting her forehead on the steering wheel before mustering the courage to get out of the car. Stepping out of her black luxury sedan, Adrianna shuts the door and heads toward the entrance to her sisters house. Upon arriving at the front door, Adrianna rings the doorbell to no avail. The sound of loud music emanating from inside the house is sure to drown out the sound of the bell so she resorts to knocking, then pounding on the door.
Inside the house, Andi is crumpled on the floor sobbing uncontrollably into the lap of her young friend Ellie who is doing her best to console her. R&B music blasts loudly, seemingly from everywhere in the house at the same time.
Ellie: “It’s going to be alright, Andi..” She tries to assure her friend, stroking her head as she does so.
Andi Snow: “It’s…not…okay…!!!” She says, vacillating between sobs and hyperventilation. “I’m …a….fucking…freakshow!”
Ellie: “Who isn’t? So you didn’t have the most conventional birth. I know tons of test tube babies!”
Andi Snow: “waaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!” She cries out before starting another bout of uncontrollable sobs.
Ellie: “Awww no! I was kidding! That was a joke!”
Adrianna Snow: “Hello?...Andi?...I was knocking but I guess you couldn’t hear me above the music…oh…”
Adrianna stops short, seeing her sister and this stranger to her on the floor. Ellie stares at Adrianna, stunned at the mirror image of her best friend looking down at her. Collecting herself, Ellie carefully grabs a pillow from the sofa nearby. She slides the pillow under Andi’s head to take her place before standing and approaching Adrianna.
Ellie: “Hey…I’m sorry…she’s kind of a wreck right now.”
Adrianna Snow: “No, I’m sorry. I don’t know who you are, but I need to talk to MY sister.”
Adrianna attempts to maneuver around Ellie to Andi, but Ellie quickly sidesteps to block Adrianna’s path.
Ellie: “My name is Ellie. I’m a friend. But like I said, this isn’t a good time.”
Adrianna Snow: “Little girl, get out of my way!”
Ellie: “Please, it’s only going to make things worse.”
Adrianna Snow: “Andi, call off your little pet here!”
Ellie: “Pet?! Who are you calling a pet?! I’ve been more of a sister to her these past few months than you have!”
Adrianna Snow: “You don’t know what you’re talking about, please move!”
Adrianna attempts to push past Ellie but as she does, her foot catches Ellie’s ankle the wrong way. Adriana is sent tumbling to the ground.
Adrianna Snow: “Owwwww!”
Ellie: “Oh my Goodness, are you alright?!”
Amongst all the commotion, Andi lifts her head off of the pillow towards the direction of everything going on. She holds her palms to her forehead at first, her head throbbing in pain from hysterically crying. Suddenly, the sight of her sister sprawled out on the ground at Ellie’s feet causes her eyes to go wide.
Andi Snow: “ALEXA, TURN THE MUSIC OFF!” She calls out, and the room goes silent. Andi crawls over to her sister who is writhing in pain. “Adri?! Adrianna?! Are you okay?!”
Adrianna Snow: “It…hurts…” She groans, clutching at her belly. A wide-eyed, panicking Andi follows the direction of her sister’s hands. Andi’s mouth drops in horror as the once white dress fabric between her legs becomes a rapidly growing red stain. “Ellie…what have you done?!”
Ellie: “It was an accident! Andi, I’m so sorry she just tripped! It was an accident!”
Andi Snow: “just…GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!”
She cries out without thinking. Ellie, being very young and in a state of shock, finds herself backing out of the room before turning and running out of the house in a fit of tears.
Andi Snow: “ALEXA, CALL 9-1-1!”
Alexa: “Calling 9-1-1…” The Android’s voice echoes out. After a few seconds, a series of rings emanate throughout the house before a first responder answers.
Dispatcher: “9-1-1 whats your emergency?!”
Andi Snow: “I need an ambulance! Hurry! My sister fell and there’s so much blood! She’s pregnant!”
Dispatcher: “Try to stay calm, Miss, we’re sending a team straight to you.”
Andi Snow: “You hear that, sweetie? Help is on the way…stay with me, girl…stay with me…”
