"Lullaby: Part 1"

Lullaby: Part 1

Chapter 1

(Ryan sat on his desk looking over the city. Times square was buzzing as usual. He took a sip from his coffee mug. He winced in pain at the searing heat. He blinked quickly and immediately took another swig. He proceeded to gulp the piping hot coffee and spurted some of it out. He beat his chest furiously. He had no choice but to down all the caffeine he could as he had only slept for an hour the night before. He had to shake everything off and remain focused, today was judgement day. He slicked back his greasy black hair. It was still wet with a combination of grease and water. He didn't dry his hair properly before leaving his house. He slipped out of the boardroom and went to the bathroom. He quietly shut the door behind him. He looked in the mirror. His eyes were bloodshot, his face was unshaven. Ryan had a slim build, he was 6'2 with pale white skin. He tucked his shirt in, fixed his tie, his collar still wasn't done properly but he hadn't noticed it. His shirt was not matching his tie but he didn't have the time in the morning to find the right complimenting pieces. He was only in to complete one job. He had to do his presentation to the company. He had been practising for week. But that had not been what was giving him sleepless nights...)

(30 minutes later he walked into the boardroom. All the eyes were on him as he walked into the room. He didn't feel the pressure as he walked in. So much was at stake but he wasn't phased.)

Terry: Ah, Mr. Graham! I am very pleased to see you, you look..ah well. You look good.

(Terry laughed awkwardly, Ryan responded with an equally awkward laugh)

Ryan: I won't be too long...

Terry: Actually let me have a word with you quickly.

(He pulled Ryan to the side of the room and smiled at him awkwardly, showing his crooked yellow teeth.)

Terry: So Ryan..

Ryan: Terry...

Terry: So you are up for this?

Ryan: Business as usual.

(Ryan turned away from him and Terry pulled him back.)

Terry: You don't look like you are ready for business.

Ryan: (Whispers)  Leave me to do my Godamn job!

(He winked at him as he turned away back to the heard of the boardroom. He smiled brightly at the board members.) 

Ryan: Now I'm sure you are all wondering how Gee Wizz Inc can grow expand and make profit over the next 3-2 years. Well I will tell you how-

(After 45 minutes Ryan had blown everybody away. They marvelled at him. He had hit point after point after point. He demonstrated the marketing plan perfectly. He galvanised everybody in the  room. Terry applauded and smiled.)

Gary: That was unreal! Well done champ!

Ryan: Ah, it's all good man. You are the real man around here!

Gary: You have got these guys by the balls! I don't have the bravery to speak in front of these meat heads. They will make you walk the plank if you say one thing they don't like!

Ryan: Well, I have my days I guess...

(Terry rushed over to Ryan and Gary.)

Terry: Well done! I always knew you could do it! Tonight you have to let me take you out for drinks and-

Ryan: I'm on a detox buddy, I'm going to have to pull out of this.

(Terry waddled away. Gary laughed at him as he walked away. Gary was 5'9, black, he had a bald head and a beard. He and Ryan had been close friends for many years. They both studied investment banking at Yale)

Gary: I have never been somebody as fake as Terry.

Ryan: He is a prick for sure.

Gary: And you are keeping that prick in a job. I can;t wait till these fat cats realise you are the brains behind the operation!

Ryan: Maybe one day.

Gary: Hows the wife?

Ryan: She is wonderful! Yourself?

Gary: She's alright, same old, cry, complain, laugh, complain again. Kids are good though. We need to go out though!

Ryan: Remind me!

Gary: I will drag your ass out, I ain't playing fool!

Ryan: Remind me!

(Ryan patted Gary on the back and nodded at him. He slid through the small crowd. He avoided the small talk and fake vibes. He knew he was only somebody when he was bringing in money and direction. If he wasn't bringing the green piece of paper then nobody would care about him. In the company each person is valued by how much money they bring in, the minute you don't bring the bacon in you become disposable. Corporate life was only for the savages, not for the faint hearted. He went through the double doors and jumped in his black Jaguar. Before he put the keys in his ignition he looked into the mirror, he rubbed the mop of black hair resting on his forehead. He stared blankly. The city was still busy. There was a lot of hustle and bustle, but Ryan was oblivious to everything. He was zoned out completely. He turned on the radio and Linkin Park 'In The End' was blaring through the speakers. He looked in the mirror once more then peeled off.)

Linkin Park: I tried soo hard! And got so far! But in the end, it doesn't even matter!

(As he cruised down the streets he passed some hookers on the side walk. He noticed a tall Hispanic looking lady looking at him. She was tanned and had deep green eyes. She wore leather boots, fish net stockings with a red dress. Ryan admired her curvy figure for a brief moment. He had noticed her before and she had noticed him. Although they had never spoke, but why would they? Ryan was married. He was a city guy making legitimate money, whilst she was a hooker selling her body. He turned away and shook his head. The car behind him was beeping loudly. He accelerated and turned the corner.)

(After 30 minutes he was at home. He pulled into his drive way and parked up next to a red Jaguar. He sat momentarily and examined his face in the mirror. His house was big. It wasn't a mansion but definitely one of the biggest on the street. He and his wife had bought it outright a few years ago. He looked inside at the chandelier light glistening. It lit up the whole living room and kitchen. There was a movement inside the house and his heart sank. He slowly stepped out of the car. There was a light warm breeze. He locked the door and slowly walked up the cobbled path to the front porch. He breathed deeply just before he opening the door. He takes his keys out of his pocket but they fall on the floor. He goes down to pick them up. As he bends down the door swings open. He looks up and sees blue eyes staring back down at him. Patricia scowled at him. She had short red hair. She wore pink rubber gloves, a pink dress and a pink apron.)

Patricia: Hi

Ryan: Hi

(He slid past her avoiding eye contact. The house smelt like a bakery, a sweet and warm aroma filled the house.)

Patricia: How was work?

Ryan: Good. I did my presentation and closed the deal-

Patricia: Ok

Ryan: Urm yeah, so-

Patricia- That's nice.

Ryan: I'm going to shower.

Patricia: You do that Mr.

(Ryan jogged up the stairs and dived into the bathroom. He stripped off and hopped into the shower. He stayed in there almost 45 minutes. He scrubbed his body aggressively. When he was done he dried himself and got changed into his Nike black tracksuit bottoms. He jogged back downstairs.)

Patricia: Have you eaten?

Ryan: Nope

Patricia: Check the fridge, you might be lucky.

(He found some left over meat loaf and some vegetables. He heated it with some gravy. He ate it on the dinner table by himself whilst Patricia sat on the living room sofa watching the news.)

Ryan: Did you have a good day?

Patricia: It was the same as everyday.

Ryan: I see.

(He got up to wash his plate.)

Patricia: What does that mean? 

Ryan: Oh, nothing I was just hoping you had a good day that's all.

Patricia: Well I did some Cinderella duties and relaxed.

Ryan: That's good to hear, take it easy and relax.

Patricia: Not exciting as your day huh?

Ryan: It wasn't as exciting as you would think-

Patricia: You think that you are better than me? Mr big shot?!

Ryan: No hunny-

Patricia: Yes you do!

(Patricia began to shake in anger. She began tearing up.)

Patricia: You always do this, it's like you enjoy making me feel like crap!

Ryan: Hunny!

Patricia: Don't call me that, you don't mean it you asshole!

Ryan: Patricia, its ok-

Patricia: That's what you always say but you know it's not. I know that you hate me.

Ryan: That's not true, I love you.

(She stood up and picked up a half empty bottle of whiskey and pointed it at him.)

Patricia: You didn't even ask about the cake I made for you!

Ryan: Well I didn't know you-

Patricia: Why the hell would I be wearing this apron and these gloves?

Ryan: Calm down.

Patricia: Taste it! Damn it! Taste it!

(Ryan got up and opened the oven. He saw a lemon drizzle cake and a Madeira cake. He cut a slice and bit into it. He moaned in pleasure and nodded his head. The cake wasn't nice at all but he forced himself to eat it. He winked at her and she blushed.)

Ryan- This might be the best cake I've ever tasted.

Patricia: Try the other one baby...taste it for me.

(Ryan bit into the other one which was even worse.)

Patricia: Eat it baby, she bit her lip.)

(Ryan nodded at her and smiled. Patricia's face changed and in one swift movement she threw the bottle on the side of his face. Blood poured from under his eye.)

Ryan: God Damn!

Patricia: God damn you its your fault!

(Ryan was reeling in pain, he began to cry, he sat in the corner sobbing endlessly.)

Ryan: Why? Why do you always do this to me?

(Patricia started to sob and rushed over. She cushioned his head in her bosom and cradled him.)

Patricia: (Sang) Hush little baby don't you cry, mama's gonna sing you a lullaby.

End Scene

Chapter 2

(The next morning Ryan was jogging around the block. The swelling on the side of his face started to reduce. It was still sore but he ignored the pain. He jogged 5 days a week to take his mind off the stress at work and at home. For the last 2 years Ryan and Patricia's marriage took a turn for the worse. Since Patricia miscarried their baby she hadn't been the same. She turned to alcohol and violence to escape her trauma. They barely spoke, and almost never made love. She stopped attending mass, they never went out together. They were hardly in the same room apart from when it was time to sleep. Only at family functions they would brave it and put on their best and shiniest fake smiles. After he completed his 10k run he went to Sally's Cafe a few blocks away. He strode in and sat at his usual window seat near the middle. Evelyn smiled and winked at him. A few minutes later she walked to him holding his mug on a small tray. She had a long thick grey hair. She had a cute face with wrinkles running across her face. She was four foot something, she was very short. She beamed at Ryan. She was always happy to see him.)

Evelyn: There you go darlin, nice and piping hot how you like it.

Ryan: You are a star!

Evelyn: Thank you gorgeous!

(She frowned at him)

Evelyn: Any reason why you are wearing your hood on when you are inside? You hiding from the law!?

Ryan: New York fashion (He chuckled.)

Evelyn: I bet! How's everything going with you son?

Ryan: Everything is lovely, I can't complain. I got my job, my health and a roof over my head.

Evelyn: Don't forget a beautiful wife!

Ryan: Haha! How could I forget, Don't tell her I forgot to add her to the list.

Evelyn: Your secret is safe with me! Ha!

Ryan: Hows things with you?

Evelyn: Well Annie and James are still in Boston, they bring the grand kids down sometimes. I will head up there in a few months. Hopefully the weather will be kind when I get up there.

Ryan: I hope so for your sake! 

(She smiled at him and shuffled away back to the counter. Ryan opened the New York Times and read the finance section. He and Patricia were very well off but he was always looking at different ways to get more big bucks. Making money was the only thing that gave him joy. After another 30 minutes he got up and left. He winked at Evelyn as he walked out and crossed the street. The neighbourhood was very quiet for a Saturday afternoon but Ryan appreciated the peace. He strolled to his house and entered to the sound of laughter and chatter. Patricia was hosting a mini brunch BBQ. This was her Saturday tradition. He could smell the meat being cooked on the grill. He walked into the living room and Patricia, Mimi, Sam and Colette were in the kitchen area. Each of them had a glass of wine.)

Mimi: Hey!

Ryan: Hey ladies! I hope you are all alright. Enjoying the drink and food!

(Ryan didn't mind Patricia's friends, they seemed to make her happy and calm her down. He was certain she enjoyed their company more than his. They were all friends from High School they were all supportive of Patricia when she lost the baby and for that he was grateful. They were all attractive, all were married except Mimi who was recently separated.)

Mimi: You have a good run?

Ryan: Yes ma'am.

Colette: So you run every single day?

Ryan: Naw, only 5 days actually, on the weekdays I try to run in the morning before work if not I will run at night. But I always have to do a mandatory Saturday afternoon run!

(Patricia walked up to him and give him a large kiss on the cheek, she held him closely and stroked the back of his neck. He smiled at her awkwardly.)

Patricia: Hey Mr. 

Ryan: Hey hunny

Patricia: I left some chicken for you, you're welcome to enjoy once you've freshened up. She pinched his behind and he grinned.

(The afternoon flew by as the ladies laughed and drank till their heart's content. Ryan was in his man cave beside the conservatory. He was doing some work for work and tackling some of his online business matters. Patricia came in a few times to offer him food and drink which he gladly accepted. She was in the complete opposite mood to the night before but Ryan was used to it. He typed away, he made a few calls to some of his business partners. When he looked up at the clock it was now 7pm and the ladies were still enjoying themselves.)

Mimi: I know but it's not easy coming out of a marriage finding somebody.

Colette: Don't worry Mimi! The men aren't running away, when the time is right you will find somebody who is right for you.

Sam: You still got that petite frame and firm breasts even after having those twins. I don't know how you did it! You might as well find a lil toy boy.

(They all squealed in laughter.)

Sam: They last longer, they don't bring headache and they know all the cool places to go. Most importantly these young guys are getting a lot of money now as well, so you are covered!

Patricia: Just make sure you do things when you are ready Mimi. I know the separation was difficult and who knows you might get back together. 

Mimi: Hell to the NO! I am done with Brian. He doesn't make me happy, he is good for the kids but me and him are done. We've been through too much its not worth the stress and headache. I want the divorce but he's begging me not to because he doesn't want to cough up the cash. Lord knows what he spends the money on because he is a high earner.

Sam: Doesn't matter how much you earn, if you can't handle cash, you can't handle cash and that's that!

Colette: GOSH! MEN!!

Mimi: I had my suspicions but the proof was in the pudding when I caught him out, all those late night shifts and business trips but he was off with that skank in his office! Honestly I am done with men! You are lucky Patricia, you got Ryan that handles his business like a real man, he treats you like a Queen! Tell me your secret!?

Patricia: Indeed I am a lucky gal! I love him deeply, we've been through a lot but we managed to get through it.

Mimi: (Sighs) That is what true love is about! Respect and honesty! Something my husband knows NOTHING about! Top me up another glass!

(The girls giggled. As the evening went on Patricia was very drunk. She was long past tipsy and was now drunk. She still strutted in her expensive heels in the house effortlessly but her belly was warm and her head was swimming. Ryan came out of the room scratching his head. He smiled at the ladies as he walked past them to the fridge. He took a bottle of water and nodded at them.)

Patricia: Sorry baby! Are we keeping you up?

Ryan: Not at all dear, I've been working. I've had music on and I've been in the zone sorting out a few things. I was going for another run but I'm going to hit the sack. You need any help?

Patricia: Urmm... noooo we are, I mean, I am, you know what I mean. (Giggles)

Ryan: Uh oh! Ha! Don't worry I will clear this up.

(He strode to the kitchen area and began to clear everything. Some of the bottles were half empty and he stashed them away in the bottom cupboard. He could have sworn at least 5 or 6 wine bottles had been finished including some of the tequila. Alcohol and Patricia was not a good combination but on this occasion she seemed very tired and maybe needed to sleep. Sometimes she would crash on the sofa. After a  few hours the ladies began to exit the house. Ryan ordered them two taxis because none of them were in a good position to drive.)

Mimi: Thank you sweet heart!

(Sam was also quite drunk, wearing only one shoe.)

Sam: Oh my God I love you girls sooooo sooooo much! We have to do this again!

(She hunched over like she was about to to throw up. but she got up and laughed to Ryan's relief. He ushered them out of the house. Patricia tried to stand up but failed miserably, sank back to her seat laughing. She rubbed her head as it was pounding.)

Ryan: Hey lady, you ready for bed?

Patricia: My head! I feel sick!

Ryan: I will fix you up.

Patricia: Ryan-

(He rushed to the counter and took a bottle of water and crushed some paracetamol. He slid it over to Patricia and she gulped it down. He gave her another water bottle and she also gulped it down.)

Ryan: Shower?

Patricia: No, I'm too tired.

(Ryan nodded and walked towards her. He held his hands out and she got up. He hoisted her up and carried her to the bedroom. He pushed the door open and placed her gently on the bed. He helped her take off her shoes and undressed her. She giggled as her slid off her dress. He smiled at her innocently.)

Ryan: You ok? You need more water?

Patricia: No I need something else and she winked at him.

(She sat up and smiled. She reached for the string on his tracksuit bottoms and began rubbing his crotch area. She felt goosebumps and a rush of excitement, Ryan on the other hand was very uncomfortable. His face went red and he turned away. She kept fumbling her hands as she was still very very drunk.)

Patricia: Aren't you excited baby? All that exercise and testosterone I know you want to get your release Mr and I have all night for you baby.

(She got up and went to the stereo and pressed play. Marvin Gaye Lets get it on rang out through the speakers. She turned and smiled at Ryan and stumbled towards him drunkenly. She pushed him on the edge of the bed and she hopped on top of him. His face was blank, she licked his face like a dog, she was trying to kiss him but couldn't quite make his lips fully. She kept catching his nose and forehead. Her breath reeked of alcohol. She began to grind on him, Ryan held her waist and sat in silence whilst she drunkenly tried to seduce him.)

Patricia: Get excited for me baby.

Marvin Gaye: LET'S GET IT ONNNNNNN.

Patricia: I know you've missed this.

Ryan: Yep.

Patricia: Kiss me.

(Ryan grabbed her face and kissed her, she shoved her tongue down his mouth. He could taste the rancid smell of tequila mixed with wine. She pushed him back on the bed and continued to straddle him.)

Patricia: OH YES! YOU LOVE THIS!

Marvin Gaye: Babbyyyy!

(After a few moments she stopped moving and stared at Ryan whose face was now turned away completely. She bit her lip and leaned into him.)

Patricia: (Whispers) Your so sexy, I can't wait to-

(Suddenly she jerked back and leaned forward puking on the side of the bed, narrowly missing Ryan. After she puked she passed out on the bed. Ryan looked at her eagle sprawled on the bed and shook his head.)

End Scene

Chapter 3

(The following week...

The strip was busier than usual but it was a Friday night and it was the end of the month so most people had been paid. The street was buzzing. It was mostly city players out in the streets. The air smelt of alcohol, adultery and drugs. City workersin New York were big on all of those aspects. Most city workers indulged in one of the three if not all three. Ryan was with Gary and Kevin. Kevin was white, early 30s, he worked on the same floor as Kevin and Ryan. He was quite tall and had a round pot belly. He called it the money belly. He and Gary had begged Ryan to come out with them for drinks all weeks. He almost never came out because he didn't drink but mainly because of Patricia. She was always funny about him being out later than he should. He had taken more hours at work to avoid being at home. She would get herself worked up but he had got so used to it, the extra hours at work gave him some uninterrupted serenity. But this weekend she was in Nebraska with Mimi so he had some peace. Kevin and Gary were both on the hunt for some tail.)

Kevin: What happens on this strip stays here, I didn't make the rules.

Ryan: Aren't you the model husband.

Gary: Mr Judgy McJudgeson we didn't bring you here to make us feel guilty. Our wives do that enough for us.

Ryan: You guys are just different. Don't you feel guilt when you get home?

Kevin: Guilt?

Gary: Guilt? Whats that?

Kevin: I would only feel anything when I got caught but so far I haven't got caught for anything.

Gary: Meh! My wife hasn't got me but deep down she knows I'm a scum bag, but I bring the bacon home so she plays dumb.

Kevin: Ah! Ignorance is Bliss!

Gary: And the Church said AMEN!

(They walked into a bar called Sunshine. They went straight to the bar to order some beers, Ryan ordered some mocktails.)

Gary: Ahhhh fancy drinks for a fancy man.

(He chuckled at the mini umbrella in his cocktail. He took it out and put in his his beard.)

Gary: Ohhhhhh!

Ryan: Shut up! Ha! Maybe if you boys cut down your alcohol in take you would be able to keep it up for 5 minutes.

Gary: That's why I have my blue tablets my friend. (He tapped his inside pocket.)

Kevin: So we going for students? Bartenders? City chicks?

Gary: Like a kid in a candy store.

Kevin: Lucky dip! Lucky tits!

Gary: Hmmm! I really want to disturb the peace tonight...

(Gary walked to the bar and whispered in the bartender's ear. She was shorter than 5ft, she looked Chinese, slim and petite frame, very pretty face, but definitely not Gary's type so they knew he wasn't trying to have a good time with her.. He came back with a serious look on his face.)

Gary: This one is on me guys don't worry.

(Kevin sniggered)

Kevin: Oh Boy!

(After a few moments they were escorted out of the corner into a section with two tables. Within a few moments two ladies brought a tray of beers and champagne. It felt like the music started to get louder and everything got busier and faster. The atmosphere was more lively. All the chicks were looking at the section. Even the ones with dates couldn't help but have a sly peep.)

DJ: I have to give a shout out to Ryan in the house for sealing more deals and keeping the cheques coming in at his company.

(Ryan was mortified. He despised being the centre of attention. Kevin and Gary both laughed at him.)

DJ: Ladies if you need city dudes with money they are right over there! (He pointed at their section. Kevin gave a thumbs up to the DJ.)

(Ryan blushed and sighed. Different women of all shades began to inch their way to their section. Ryan's stomach turned.)

Kevin: Loosen up soldier.

Ryan: You're a dick!

Kevin: I know! I LOVE IT! And that's what I'm putting on the menu for these lovely ladies tonight! OWWW!

DJ: LETS GO! LETS GO! OLD SCHOOL!

Pharell: Homeboy! I came to party! Your girl was looking at me!

(The crowd was moving and more people entered. Kevin had two chicks under his arm. One with  blonde hair and blue eyes, another was a dark skinned black chick with brown eyes. Both chicks were fantastically stunning. Gary was talking to one of the bartenders . He held her hands and stared in her eyes. She had a punk rock look, green and pink streaks in her hair. One lady came from the side of Ryan. She was a sexy brunette with blue eyes, she had olive skin. She smiled sweetly at him. She looked good but she wasn't as young as the other women she looked as though she was close to her 40s.)

Ryan: Hey! Whats up? You have a name?

Bianca: Bianca, pleased to meet you.

(She kissed him on both cheeks.)

Bianca: Won't you sit down and have a drink with me? She helped herself to a beer. She wore high heeled stiletto heels with a tight black dress.

Bianca: So tell me about yourself...

Ryan: Ha! I'm just a regular guy!

Bianca: I don't believe that for one second sweetie, the DJ made a big deal about you.

Ryan: Trust me, don't believe the hype. I'm just  project manager for a company. But I'm actually qualified in investment banking so I deal with the accounts of the company. I out a few deals thorugh recently so I guess these two pricks I'm with wanted to make a big deal about it.

(He looked up and saw Gary and Kevin pointing at him and sticking his tongue out at him. Ryan shook his head and laughed)

Bianca: Hmm, brains and brawn.

(She squeezed his biceps and his chest. She leaned in close and licked his earlobe.)

Ryan: Wow

Bianca:  Wow indeed baby!

(She stroked his arm and held his hand she giggled as she noticed his wedding ring.)

Bianca: Married?

Ryan: Yes

Bianca: So we have more in common than I thought.

Ryan: Your married?

 (Ryan had a look of shock on his face. Then he quickly realised where he was. It was impossible that everybody in here looking for a good time was single.)

Bianca: Yeah but my husband is an asshole. Well he provides everything, money, house, presents but no emotional availability, not enough attention or affection. All the things money can't buy.

Ryan: As they say they is no romance without finance.

Bianca: But THEY didn't realise that money and material things can only sustain a woman's interest for so long.

(Ryan chuckled in his head as he damn well knew she was only speaking to him in the section because of the bottles but he skimmed over this observation and continued to listen to her. Bianca continued to drone on at length about how she rushed marriage to please her over zealous Catholic parents. She was engaged and married in less than a year. She felt under appreciated and under sexed. In some ways he felt sorry for her and in some ways he could relate to her. Especially in regards to being under appreciated. He felt somewhat relieved to know that he wasn't the only person suffering in the marriage world. An hour passed and Bianca was incredibly tipsy. She was becoming more playful and touchy feely. She went to go and bite his neck.)

Bianca: I just miss some excitement. You know what I mean?

Ryan: I guess so, maybe you need marriage counselling?

Bianca: According to my doting husband our marriage is perfect and I complain too much!

Ryan: That sucks!

(Kevin was now kissing the two ladies simultaneously. Everybody in the section was drunk except Ryan. He was plotting his escape.)

Bianca: I know right, I'm too fine for all this stress.

Ryan: Yes you are. (He kissed her on the cheek and whispered in her ear.) I'm going to the bathroom meet me there in 5 minutes.

Bianca: Ok sweetie (She bit her lip and winked at him. She took out her mini mirror and lip stick and she fixed herself up.)

(He slipped through the crowd. He could hear Gary calling his name but he ignored it. Before he knew it he was out on the street. He breathed a gentle sighed of relief as he walked past small crowds of people trying to get into the clubs.)

Security: You ain't getting in buddy, you can't come in big groups unless you got a table, try another joint!

(3 guys sighed in irritation and frustration. Ryan smiled as the group of guys reminded him of himself, Kevin and Gary. in their younger days. He took a stroll and ended up near his offices. He walked into a nearby diner. He ordered a hot chocolate  and a chocolate chip muffin. He opened the New York Times paper. The diner was more or less empty. He sipped his hot chocolate peacefully. After a few minutes the door opened. He glanced up and stared wide eyed. He almost spilt his drink. It was the hooker he saw on his travels from work. She stared back at him and went to the counter. He looked down at his paper, his palms were sweating. Sure enough she walked towards him and stood in front of him. She was a phenomenal sight to see.)

Angel: Is anybody sitting here?

Ryan: I should think not

Angel: Thank you papi.

Ryan: Oh, my name is Ryan and yours?

Angel: My name is Angel

Ryan: Nice to meet you

Angel: Well we have met before but not formally.

Ryan: Really?

Angel: Really? You gonna act stupid or dumb?

Ryan: Why, urm, well-

Angel: I've seen you at the red light check out the merchandise Ryan. But you haven't tried to cash in.

Ryan: You are very up front aren't you?

Angel: Well I have to be in my line of work.

Ryan: I see.

Angel: You disapprove?

Ryan: I don't judge, as long as you are safe and happy.

Angel: I wouldn't say it's either of those things but I haven't been left with a lot of choice. And for the record I am stripper, I only do extras sometimes if I need quicker cash.

Ryan: What do you need money for?

Angel: Well we all need money?

Ryan: I know but what is the end game? A house? Business?

Angel: Is this a financial consultancy session?

Ryan: Ha! You have no idea how boring it is for some over weight asshole with a Harvard degree telling you how to spend your money.

(They both laughed.)

Angel: To make enough to move me, my Grandma and my sister out of Queens. I don't live on the nice side of town like you do.

Ryan: Do they know what you do?

Angel: I think my Grandma does but she doesn't ask too much questions. You probably ask more questions than her

Ryan: Oh, sorry.

Angel: It's ok you nerd!

Ryan: (Blushed) Well just for the record I don't judge, just stay safe and be careful.

Angel: Oh I'm ok, I am always careful. 

(She lifted up her dress and revealed a knife tucked away in a holster. Ryan gasped.)

Ryan: Holy shit!

Angel: Relax, it's probably not even longer than your meat papi. I spent time in juvy when I was younger so I know how it works.

(Ryan was shocked at this information but he tried to play it cool. He had never known anybody that had been incarcerated.)

Ryan: I see. By the way what accent is that?

Angel: Another question?

Ryan: Ha! Yes!

Angel: Mexican dear. You been to Mexico??

Ryan: Only spring break when I was younger. But that's not the proper experience I want to go properly to explore the mountains, the lagoons and the caves.

Angel: Boring! I would rather show you the low key food spots and the Latin nightclubs. More exciting than any mountain that is for sure.

Ryan: I like culture.

Angel: Culture my ass! Now tell me about yourself Mr Mountain.

(They both laughed. He gave her a brief run down of his studying and stint in the military. He told her he was married but he didn't reveal any real details about how the marriage was. Angel had  immigrated to the States at 5 years old. Her family moved to Queens at a time where many Cubans and Mexicans moved to Queens because of the drug trade. She spoke about her stint in juvenile hall as a young teen. Ryan found it fascinating because he usually rubbed shoulders with high earning pricks that went to Harvard or Yale. They didn't have any criminal history but they had their own demons and corruption in their hearts.)

Angel: So how is married life? Mustn't be that good because you are in a diner at 4am drinking hot chocolate with a hooker.

Ryan: You mean part-time hooker.

Angel: Ha!

Ryan: Well lets just say it can be over rated.

Angel: She too tired to give you regular sex?


Ryan: No

Angel: Oh I get it, you can't get it up?

Ryan: No! I mean yes, yes I can! (His face turned red.)

Angel: You sure?

Ryan: YES!

Angel: She doesn't cook for you?

Ryan: Yes she does.

Angel: So she cooks for you and you make love but that's not enough? You are an unappreciative high class asshole!

Ryan: It's complicated-

Angel: Love shouldn't be complicated.

Ryan: Sometimes love isn't enough.

Angel: Hmm anyways it's late and neither of us are getting paid for this therapy session.

Ryan: That's true.

(They both got up and the chair legs scraped the floor. They both went outside.)

Angel: Guess I will see you around

Ryan: Guess so.

Angel: Hey give me your number, maybe I will need some financial advice in the future.

(He paused)

Ryan: Alright that's fine.

(He gave her his number and she flashed him.)

Angel: Bye Mr. Mountain.

Ryan: Get home safe

End Scene

Chapter 4 

(A few days later...

Ryan had been texting Angel back and forth since he met her. The conversation was smooth. Just friendly chatter and banter, nothing sexual or suggestive. It was refreshing talking to somebody new. Nothing about money or deals just good conversation. He sat in the living room with his laptop out and the TV on watching Bloomberg. Soon enough the door opened and it was Patricia. She wore a long and red jacket with black leggings and converses. She walked in the living room with a big smile and kissed Ryan on the cheek. She quickly went upstairs and came downstairs in a robe.)

Ryan: How was Nebraska?

Patricia: It was so good! We did skiing, hiking and a bit of drinking Mimi's uncle's wine cellar is absolutely divine.

Ryan: Fantastic.

Patricia: I needed a break.

Ryan: You take some cool pictures?

Patricia: Not too much. I will send you some later.

(She stepped in the garden for a cigarette. Another habit she had picked up since the miscarriage. He looked at her as she stood on the garden steps puffing away. He looked at her longingly, he still loved her deeply. He was already on Facebook so I thought he might as well check her page to see if she uploaded anything. He clicked on Patricia's profile and saw a few pictures she uploaded. She was always a poser and ready for the camera no matter what. She posed holding a wine glass outside what looked like a cottage. She wore a red and white polka dot dress with sandals. Another picture she wore a maxi dress and heels in a shopping mall carrying some bags, sporting her designer frames. In another picture she wore a tracksuit stood at the foot of a mountain side flexing her arms and grinning into the camera. He scrolled down to leave a comment as he was about to type he froze. He saw a comment from Mimi which read "You look stunning! I wish I came!". Ryan was confused. He read it again and again. "I wish I came!" He was rattled. So if Mimi wasn't there who did she go with? At that point Patricia came in the house.)

Patricia: Sweety I'm going to have an early night.

Ryan: How's Mimi?

Patricia: She's great, she needed a break after that crappy break up.

Ryan: Hmm, I agree.

Patricia: Detox from all the deception and drama. Honestly I don;t know how some people just lie all the time.

Ryan: Hmmm you are so right.

(She walked upstairs. Ryan's heart sank. It was a heavy blow for him to take. She was horrible to him and often brutal but she never lied to him. His head was in his hands, he was close to tears. Suddenly his phone vibrated. It was Angel.)

Angel: Hey! xxx

(He blinked at his phone briefly and then responded.)

Ryan: Hey! What are you up to?

End Scene

Chapter 5

(A month had passed on and Patricia was becoming more and more distant. She had hired a PT named Diego. She said after all the hiking she did she felt unfit and wasn't happy. She wanted to get back to her usual self. Meaning how she was before she miscarried. Ryan offered to train with her but she insisted she wanted professional help and that Ryan would go easy on her. He reluctantly accepted this. She wasn't aggressive to him much these days but far more distant. She was always going out to run and to swim. Either with Diego or by herself. Ryan felt that she was having an affair with Diego but she would bring him around the house when Ryan was there. He didn't think she would be brazen enough to have an affair so openly. He had tried to take her out and offer her gifts but Patricia barely paid attention to Ryan. However in that period Ryan had gotten closer to Angel. The attraction was there but there was an invisible line that nobody crossed. Ryan had lied to Patricia that he was on a business trip. Instead he hired out a swanky apartment just outside the city to stay with Angel. They both sat on the balcony looking down at the city. They could see the statue of liberty from the balcony. They both enjoyed a selection of cheeses, grapes and croissants. Angel shoved them down her mouth ravenously.)

Ryan: Well well well I thought this food was for stupid gringos with more money than sense?

Angel: It is but- 

Ryan: But?

Angel: I can't even front, it tastes good, shoot me.

Ryan: I'd rather watch you eat them, crumbs and all. 

(He pointed at her mouth where a crumb was. She kissed her teeth and threw a grape at his head.)

Angel: Still would have preferred a Pizza.

Ryan: Ewww! I could not think of anything worse!

Angel: You are bugging out New York has the best pizzas in the world!

Ryan: Overrated!

Angel: So hows everything? We've been spending more time together? Trouble in paradise?

Ryan: I wouldn't call it paradise. And yeah everything is fine, work is good and business is booming.

Angel: And somehow you spend time with me? I must be special.

Ryan: You are intriguing to say the least.

Angel: I have to agree because you must be the only guy I've met that doesn't want ass and you can actually afford it for an entire lifetime. But all you want to do is talk..

Ryan: Well I'm not most guys.

Angel: Hmm...does your wife know where you are?

Ryan: Nope

Angel: Has she checked on you?

Ryan: Nope. 

Angel: If my husband went on a 'business trip' for 3 nights I would be running his phone down. I know you dude's ain't shit.

(Ryan looked in the distance, he looked as though he was in a trance.) 

Ryan: Patricia is a lot more distant these days. She used to be very intense and possessive but nowadays she is very blase. Especially since her that trip.

Angel: The one she lied about.

Ryan: Yep

Angel: You think she's having an affair?

Ryan: I'm not sure, maybe I am being paranoid.

Angel: Don;t you want to know the truth?

Ryan: (Sighs) I don't know what I want. 

Angel: Well, what doesn't come out in the wash comes out in the rinse. 

Ryan: True. What would you do if you had a husband and he was distant? 

Angel: Cut him

Ryan: Really?

Angel: Ok I'm playing, I wouldn't cut him straight away but I would try to sit him down and figure out what is happening. 

Ryan: I can't believe your name is Angel

Angel: Shut up! Anywayyyy with me, I need to be in control of situations I hate being in the dark. You need to take control and stop waiting for things to present themselves to you.

Ryan: Easier said than done.

Angel: Do you believe in star signs?

Ryan: Not really but I know I'm a Taurus.

Angel: So am I! We are the coolest but also the most stupid. We are loyal but unfortunately our loyalty extends to people who do not deserve it. After I came out of juvy I met this guy that was always in trouble and I used to do a lot of favours for him.

Ryan: Like?

Angel: Hiding cash or drugs.

Ryan: That's crazy!

Angel: What can I say that's the life in Queens. But after a while I he started to be funny with me, be distant or just being rude. He was only hitting me up to do favours. Then I found out that he was dealing with another chick down the block. As soon as I found out I cut him off. Because I was risking everything and being loyal to somebody who didn't deserve it. I compromised my freedom, happiness and mental health for somebody who didn't give a rat's ass about me.

Ryan: Angel, I'm sorry-

Angel: Listen you are a decent guy, you are caring and you don't have your brain in your pants. 

Ryan: Thank you.

Angel: Well it's getting late and I'm running out of kind words or wisdom and advice. I need to shower, care to join me?

(Ryan grinned.)

Ryan: Goodnight Angel.

Angel: Ha! goodnight.

(A few weeks had past and Patrica was still distant with Ryan. She went from being in the house 24/7 to being out of the house 24/7. She still maintained her Saturday brunch with the ladies. Aside from that Diego would meet her at the house and take her for training and then bring her back. Then she would eat and then go back out to jog or swim. Ryan had contemplated following her and Diego but he rejected the idea. The more he looked at Diego the more he seemed on the feminine side, possibly gay. But then again he wasn't sure. Only thing that was sure was that she didn't go to Nebraska with Mimi. 

It was a Sunday afternoon and Ryan had just come back from Mass. As he turned into his road he saw Jack on his skateboard approaching him. Jack was 17 years old, he was a weedy boy, a close family friend, he and Patricia agreed to let him do the gardening every few weeks whilst he was studying. Patricia wasn't too fond of having him around, said he always looks scruffy.)

Jack: Mr Graham.

Ryan: Jacky Boy! You ok?

Jack: Just studying mostly.

Ryan: Make sure you are unwinding too.

Jack: Not too much of that, mid term season.

Ryan: Do what you gotta do.

Jack: How was Mass?

Ryan: It was a blessed service.

Jack: Nice to see you have faith sir, my mother always says faith is what keeps us going in this cold and cruel world.

Ryan: Your mother was always a wise woman.

(They both entered the house, Jack went straight to the garden and set down his gardening kit. Patrica was sat on the hammock with a maxi dress and sun glasses. She looked Jack up and down and rolled her eyes.)

Jack: I hope you are ok this fine afternoon ma'am.

Patricia: I'm fine. 

(Ryan was in the kitchen playing Gospel music. Sunday afternoon was the best part of the week. He was always peaceful after attending mass.)

Maranda Curtis: There's nobody like you Lord! NOBODY LIKE YOU LORDDD!

(Ryan hummed along. Patricia walked into the house.)

Patricia: I take it Mass was good.

Ryan: As always.

Patricia: I'm going for a walk now, bye.

Ryan: Just like that huh?

Patricia: What? I'm going for some fresh air.

Ryan: You've been out in the garden all morning, you haven't got enough fresh air?

Patricia: I don't complain when you go for your jogs do I?

Ryan: You've been strange Patricia, always leaving the house suddenly. Whats up?

Patricia: Who the hell do you think you are?

Ryan: Your husband, now what's going on?

Patricia: When you work 12 hour shifts do I talk?

Ryan: I do it for us-

Patricia: Don't give me that, before I lost my baby you never did that, but now you can't stand me! You still think its my fault!

Ryan: OUR baby! And you know I don't think it's your fault. 

Patricia: Look I don't have time to talk about this! I need to get back to how I was. You should be supporting me.

Ryan: I offered-

Patricia: Get out of my way. 

(She pushed past him. He lightly placed his hand on her shoulder.)

Patricia: Get your hands off me now! Or I will scream this house down and call the police!

Ryan: Patricia?

(She shoved past him and exited the house slamming the door behind her.)

Jack: Mr Graham is everything ok?)

(Ryan nodded.)

Ryan: It's all gravy kid, just get back to work

End Scene