Post by VooDoo on Dec 18, 2022 8:47:31 GMT -5
The scene fades in as it usually does and we find ourselves in the kitchen at the House of the Wolf in Parts Unknown, Wisconsin. It was a massive kitchen with an island in the middle, white cabinets with marble countertops. VooDoo is at the stove flipping the last of the pancakes knowing that any moment her Pack would come running down for breakfast. She was dressed in a pair of jeans, a long sleeve t-shirt and a pair of chucks. She came in early this morning so she could make the kids breakfast before school; she’d grab some sleep once she dropped them off at school. She wasn’t alone, in the corner following her every move was Curtis the Cameraman and his Rayban Stories recording her every move, we don’t see him, but we know he’s there. Over the past couple of months he has become her shadow and was actually coming to work for her once the World Series of Wrestling event was over. Overhead, comes the sound of running feet down the hall and within a few minutes VooDoo’s son, Callan Black and Marie, Roger Wright’s daughter came running into the kitchen and jumped in their seats; both laughing.
I won! Marie yelled as she picked up the glass of orange juice and took a drink.
I let you win. Call shot back, but everyone knows that she really did win.
Where’s the twins? VooDoo asked as she walked over and placed a couple of plates in front of them with eggs, bacon and toast; immediately the two began to dig in.
We’re coming. Ciara answered for them as she and her twin came walking in; both were the spitting image of her with red hair and all. Ciara, the oldest, has VooDoo’s attitude and Rose has her father, Vincent Black’s, attitude. Callan was a mix of them both. All four of the kids wore [Redacted] Public School uniforms. Ciara had her hair in a french braid and Rose had just a ponytail, because she didn’t have time for all that braiding.
I see you brought your entourage with you. Rose commented when she saw Curtis in the corner. Both the twins took their seats just as VooDoo came over with their plates and sat them down in front of them.
Get used to him. VooDoo told them then went and got the plate stacked high with pancakes and placed them on the table; immediately Call stuck his fork in one and pulled it onto his plate and drowned it with syrup. He’s going to be hanging around the house alot when I’m here.
Feels like another stray. Ciara rolled her eyes a little. It was well known within the Family that VooDoo had a big heart, especially when it came to kids and people in need. If he craps on the carpet, you’re cleaning it up.
VooDoo looked at the camera. Do not shit on my carpet.
Aunt Voo! Marie said at the use of a “bad word” being used.
I know, I know. As soon as I get my wallet, I will pay it.
I promise I won’t poop on the carpet. Curtis said causing Callan and Marie to giggle.
Callan watched as VooDoo took a seat at the breakfast bar and picked up a pencil and started making marks on the pad on the counter top and instantly he was curious. Whatcha doing, Mom?
Nothing really. She erased something and started over.
If it was nothing, you’d be over here asking us 500 questions about what we did last night. Rose said, she didn’t even bother looking up from her plate. Not that I mind because I hate when you bombard us so early with questions.
Yes! VooDoo exclaimed in victory, looked at the camera and smiled. Finally found one of my traits in Rose. She’s been all her father this whole time.
Rose stopped mid bite. Like being the spitting image of you isn’t a trait?
Oh and I have it on good authority that both our parents are slick at the mouth when they want to be. Ciara tossed out there.
Curtis chuckled from behind the camera, not every day that you see a woman of VooDoo’s stature in the business get taken down and by her kids no less. VooDoo shot a glance at him and he stopped.
So what are you drawing Aunt Voo? Marie asked, bringing us around to full circle.
A house. She told them.
Like we need another house. Rose let slip out her mouth with a mumble that was just loud enough to be heard.
It’s not for us, smartass. She told them and put the pencil down and looked over at them.
Would rather us be smarties or dummies? Rose asked careful not to use a word that she would have to pay for.
I know I told you about one of my employees, Tastee… She ignored the little slick comment from Rose.
The one with the asshole husband?
Yes, that would be the one. Again, she ignored her 10yr going on 20 yr old daughter’s choice of words. Well, I’ve been wanting to do something, like open an organization, like a charity to help women in need. Like a domestic violence shelter, where they can live and get their lives and their kids’ lives back on track until they are ready to step back out on their own.
They could save money while there. VooDoo nodded at Marie’s suggestion. If they didn’t have to worry about rent and stuff like that.
Go back to school even. Rose added, also causing VooDoo to nod. Better education would get them a good paying job, especially if they have kids to support.
If you got people to donate clothing and stuff, they’d also have a pretty decent wardrobe when they went looking for a job and when the kids went to school. VooDoo couldn’t help but smile at Ciara, her little fashion diva would be the one to suggest clothes.
All of those are such great ideas.
So, what issue are you having now? Callan asked.
Besides a name for it, housing. I’ve been doodling around with small homes and I’d like for it to be a small 3 bedroom home, but I can’t figure out how without making it too big for what I want.
Callan jumped up from his seat and picked up his empty plate and walked over to the sink and put it in then made his way over to VooDoo and took a look at the drawing she had been working on.
You could call it VooDoo’s House for the Unwanted. Rose suggested; VooDoo glanced at the camera and mouth the word no and shook her head.
How about let’s not. Let’s find something a little more “nicer”. She dreaded when these two started their periods and started slinging PMS at her; the first time they pop off, she’s just gonna fall back on the age old saying of… “I brought you into this world and I can take you out of it”... it might work?
Oh, oh oh!! Ciara said with a smirk. I’ve got it. She paused just long enough for dramatic purposes before making the big announcement. A Bitch’s Pocket.
When the words slipped out of her mouth, VooDoo’s face flushed as red as her hair and she dropped her head on her arms as they rested on the counter. Rose and Callan started laughing and Marie’s eyes shot wide open, even Curtis had to stifle a laugh. VooDoo raised her and looked over at the camera with a look on her face that screamed “These kids.”
OoOoOo, you owe the Swear Jar money! Marie pointed, the camera panned into the direction she pointed and there was a jar sitting on a small table and the inside was crammed full with change as well as paper money in every denomination, including multiple large denominations.
Damn.. Curtis let slip.
All of that isn’t us. Ciara reassured him. Big Red over there is the one who contributes the most to it and we get to spend it when we go on vacations.
They’ve seen and heard my kids, so they understand. VooDoo said as she raised her head up finally. They will make me say bad words.
Come on, Mom.. think about that name and every time you or someone says it’s name.
All proceeds go to… Rose didn’t finish the sentence; she wasn’t getting caught by the potty mouth police.
…A Bitch’s Pocket. VooDoo smiled as it rolled off her tongue. She had to admit it, her kids were good, all she had to do was keep them out of the wrestling business; they would one day inherit an empire and the last thing they needed to do was fight in a square ring. It’s why she and Vincent worked as hard as they did, to make sure their kids DIDN’T need to or hopefully want to follow in their footsteps. The world was theirs once they grew up, they had other options.
Here, mom. Callan slid the drawing back over to her. VooDoo looked over the drawing, he had taken out the small closet she had between the living room and kitchen and turned it into a set of stairs to a loft with space over the living areas for two small rooms upstairs.
Perfect. She leaned over and gave him a kiss on top of his head, noticing all the kids had finished eating she slid from her chair. Alright you little heathens, upstairs and get your gear, we don’t want to be late for school. Plates in the sink for One, he’s not your maid. He was, but he wasn’t. The masked man had been their nanny for years now. Chopper leaves in 15.
Chopper? Curtis questioned.
We live almost 45 mins outside of town, it’s quicker by air. Ciara said nonchalantly as if everyone traveled to school by helicopter.
And FYI… Rose began. If you’re going to be hanging out with us, I hate being late for school, so don’t make me late.
Within 15 mins they were out the door, heading to the private airport on the other side of the compound where the chopper was waiting for them and within 15 mins they were landing at a helicopter pad outside of town limits that the town agreed to let them build to make traveling easier. As they drove through the city in the SUV parked at the landing pad, Curtis snatched his glasses off his face and held them in a way to where you could only see VooDoo sitting in the driver seats with a faint smile on her face. It was the first time he had actually been to the town.
You’re kidding me?
In my defense the town has been here since 1850 so we had nothing to do with its name. She chuckled lightly.
But…
I know, right? She kept smiling and nodded her head. It was one of the biggest selling points with the rest of the family when we first moved here, it just seemed like it belonged to us already. It was at the first town meeting we attended that we found out how bad the place was struggling, so we decided to step in and help out, for a price. It was beneficial to both us and the Town.
We get to live a normal life. Ciara said as she leaned in view from the back seat.
If you call taking a chopper to and from town normal, sure. Curtis said.
Ciara disappeared in the back and Rose appeared. Normal for us, is not having people with cameras following us to and from school hoping to catch a picture of Mom being a normal Mom and not Mom being the owner of the Velvet Rabbit. Being able to go to the movies or the park without being tailed.
It must be hard for you kids sometimes.
It is. But we’re at the same age Allison was when she was kidnapped and our parents are making sure that doesn’t happen with us. Rose looked back at her sister. Can’t kidnap us if you can’t find us.
Exactly. VooDoo pulled the SUV to a stop in front of the school. There would be no place for someone to hide my kids from me, I would find the and kill them.
Easy there, Killa. Rose said as VooDoo’s cell phone gets a text message, she quickly grabs it. It’s from WSOW. Want me to open it?
Sure. VooDoo said her life was an open book to her kids; she and Vincent had agreed to keep no secrets from them because they didn’t want the kids to be disappointed in them when they found out.
It says.. Dear Candice… yadda yadda yadda.. We want you to forget the other competitors, this one is all about you. Blah, blah blah.. Might be inducted into the Hall of Fame so have your speech ready just in case.
Wait… what? VooDoo gets a confused look on her face. You mean.. The previous airings weren’t supposed to be about me, they were supposed to be about the other people in the event?
Yeah, Ciara said from the backseat. Don’t they know everything is supposed to be about Mom? How dare they?
This caused some laughter, even VooDoo couldn’t help but smile.
Is that really what that says?
Really, Mom. Rose handed the cell phone to VooDoo so she could read it with her own eyes
With everything I do, how in the Hell am I supposed to come up with a speech? VooDoo groaned.
We could be your speech writers? Marie said from the back. Tell them about how you make great pancakes.
That you’re really good at healing during group raids. Callan added; he loved that his mom played video games with him; when she was traveling, it helped.
And that you’re really great at paying credit card bills. Ciara snickered.
That’s it! All of you, out. The rear doors opened and the kids began to get out, Rose was the last one.
You could always start from your humble beginnings… a little girl raised by her grandfather who one day dreamed of a big family. She smiled. See ya in a few days. Love you.
Love you, too. After the door closed, VooDoo looked at the camera. I’ve got good kids…. A pain in my ass sometimes, but good kids. They understand their parents have less than orthodox lives but they also know it affords them things in life that many don’t have. Like parents decide on a whim to take you to Greece? Having a credit card that has no limit; literally my kids could buy an island and I wouldn’t know it.
Forty-five minutes away from the nearest town might as well be an island.
Point taken. A tap came at the passenger side window and with the car monitor teacher there.
Move it along, Ms Wolf, other students that need dropped off. One of the teachers said loud enough that they could hear her through the window.
Will do, Ms Johnson. VooDoo said loud enough for the teacher to hear with a fake smile on her lips and then lowered her voice. Ms Johnson and I don’t get along, the woman is militant with the carpool lane.
The scene slowly faded to black as VooDoo pulled out from in front of the school and started back towards the landing pad, they were supposed to be up in the air and on their way to Las Vegas within the hour to start the cycle of her crazy life all over again.
The scene fades back in and it’s a few hours later and we find ourselves at the Velvet Rabbit in Las Vegas, more like VooDoo’s office at the Rabbit. She, her husband, Chronic Chris Page are sitting at the conference table with Cameraman Curtis sitting across from him. Chris was holding the drawing of the house and she was telling Chris about the conversation she had with the kids this morning as they passed a blunt back and forth making sure Curtis was in the rotation.
And I have to admit, Ciara is right. She chuckled a little. I do like the sound of it rolling off my tongue.. All donations going to.. A Bitch’s Pocket. How often are women called Bitches? How often do kids hear their mom’s being called Bitches? At least some good will come from a word like that.
Got to admit, that’s a great name. He shrugged his shoulders a little. The houses are kinda small but I get they’re just transitional housing.
Right, just temporary, until they can figure out what they are going to do.
Sounds like you have it all figured out. He passed the blunt to her.
Pretty much. She nodded as she took a hit. I just have to make it official and start taking donations and look for a large enough piece of property and get the houses built.
Once you have a checking account set up for it. Page began as he handed her back the drawing. Let me know so I can transfer the first donation over.
Aww. VooDoo leaned in towards him and gave him a kiss. She turns to the camera as she passes the blunt to Curtis. He wants to be my first. Curtis is heard chuckling and his hand seen taking the blunt as VooDoo turns back to Chris. What are you doing after the first of the year?
Lots of things.
Think you can squeeze in a trip to Greece? She put on her biggest smile and batted her eyelashes.
Oh? What’s in Greece?
Am I going to Greece too? Curtis asked real quick. When he got a quick nod from VooDoo he whispered yes! excitedly.
Well, Atara is in Greece. A few weeks ago when we were at the Rabbit on Tribal Fusion night she made a comment about the Hive that I wanted to talk to her more about. Plus, it would be a great learning experience for the kids to visit all those historical locations and learn about ancient Greece.
..And? Chris knew that wasn’t the only thing that she was there for.
And there may be an island that I heard from a little dove that would be the perfect spot for a Velvet Rabbit. She smiled. I was serious about Velvet Rabbit World. My five year goal is having a Rabbit on every continent and from there, they will multiply like… well, like rabbits.
Can you see why I fell in love with her? Chris said to the camera. She’s more ambitious than I am and she’s funny, too.
You fell in love with me because I am too busy with my life to wonder what you’re doing in yours.
Says the woman surrounded by half naked men and women all day.
They both laughed at each other.
Speaking of half naked men and women… VooDoo says as she stands up. I think it’s time to hit the Rabbit.
They made their way down to the ground floor of the Rabbit and made their way over to the Chronic Choice Smoke shop to pack up for their journey. While Chris was talking it up with the manager, Curtis followed VooDoo around as she looked at the various blends the shop had to offer.
So what does one say when they are inducted into a Hall of Fame? She glanced at the camera and shrugged her shoulders before turning back to the blends. Hell if I know? What a great honor it is? What an honor it is to be before you today? Never would I have expected an honor like this?
Will you cry?
VooDoo looked at the camera.
Oh God, I’m gonna fucking cry. I better wear waterproof mascara so I don’t look like a fucking racoon.
Well, you are female, they’ve been known to cry.
Don’t make me make YOU fucking cry right now.
Shutting up now.
Like seriously.. What do I say.. Little did I know when my first husband put me in the ring that would be the only thing that he would have been good for. That the way I was treated at the beginning of my career, as the eye candy portion of the program made me want to become better than not just the female wrestlers I faced against but the males as well. About the struggles I went through as a female wrestler helping pave the way for the ladies of today and every bit of pain that I went through was worth it. About how I literally made a whole entire career out of fighting men, some in this very room right now. Because my second husband even made it a part of our contract when we went into a federation after federation that I was the one who they sent the world world title shots to because he believed in me and my dream and he knew that I had it in me if only given a chance.
You could mention the honor of holding three world titles at once, I mean, not many men… He paused and corrected himself. Not many people can do that.
I could also mention the family and friends that my career brought to me. About how it afforded me the ability to do what I wanted outside of the ring with the Velvet Rabbit. About how it opened a whole world to me with being about to help others.
Seems like a good start. Curtis told her.
Alright, I am loaded for bear. Chris said as he walked over and interrupted things. I say we start at the casino and try to win some money and then make our way to the Rabbit and finish off the rest of the night.
Sounds like a date to me. VooDoo said with a smile, she turned to the camera. With Chris and I being separated like we are sometimes it feels like every time we meet up is a date and I am all about them date nights.
And that’s what they did, let date night begin. She started out being Mom that morning, but she was now Candice Wolf-Page, owner of the Velvet Rabbit and despite looking like she was just casually there having a good time, she was also taking in the employees and how they were working. If they were smiling, if they were saying Ma’am and Sir and if the patrons they were taking care of had a smile on their faces and with everything going on around her, VooDoo couldn’t help but wonder, did she deserve to be in the Hall of Fame? There were better wrestlers out there than her. There were wrestlers out there who had better records than her. What has she done lately in the ring that has made her noteworthy? Her feud with Vhodka that ended as soon as they both saw their kids in the front row crying of their big match? Her matches at Cannabis Cup against the Bing Bong Twins and Team Cheney? The thing with Cheney did put her and the Rabbit on the proverbial map.
You know you could change that?
Damn it, she hated when that voice spoke up.
You know all you have to do is say you want to get back in the ring and every single fed would be clamoring for you, including your husband’s.
VooDoo looked up at her husband as he studied his cards, it was hours later and people had been paying to play a hand with them at the Royal Rabbit. She had to agree with the voice, Page would love for her to come to his federation.
Shut up voice. Besides, you can’t be inducted into a Hall of Fame unless you’re out of the business.
Or can you?
What was that, love? Page looked up from his cards.
Nothing, babe, just thinking about business and where I should put the shelter.
Page looks at the camera.
And she says I am always working.
I heard that. She laid her hand on the table and smiled.
You were meant to. He looked down at her cards and then folded his as did the three other men playing with them. Lady wins again. He stands up. I am tired of losing to the lady. He turned to the dealer and shoved his rack of chips over to her. Have our chips sent to the cage. I’m going to go somewhere where at least I’ll have a good time losing to the lady.
Is that so? She arched a brow just slightly knowing that the strip club was the next stop on the itinerary.
It is. Page held out his hand and helped her up. Because I am going to tell Curtis to go have a night on us and we’re going to go upstairs and spend the rest of the night alone.
If that’s the case, maybe I’ll let the man win a few times? She teased.
With that being said… Page looks at the camera and smirks with a wink. Hope you have a great night, Curtis, because we sure are.
The scene slowly fades to black as VooDoo and Page make their way through the casino floor and Curtis begins to gather up his chips he had sitting on the table to cash them in, you couldn’t see it, but he had a shit eating grin on his face. He was going to take plenty of advantage of having a great night on them part; the perks of this job were like no other.
It was days later and this time we find ourselves in New York City at the original Velvet Rabbit; we’re upstairs in VooDoo’s small penthouse apartment and she’s sitting at the vanity table putting the finishing touches with her makeup. She is dressed in a black VooDoo t-shirt and jeans with boots, weather being chilly she had a leather jacket on the back of the chair.
I brought you all here today to announce my new charity… She closed her eyes and groaned. When she opened them she looked at the camera. I am really not good at this speech thing. She looked back in the mirror. Talk shit about an opponent in front of a camera, I can do it for hours. For days even.
Talking shit is just making a speech. Curtis is heard from behind the camera.
But it’s a different kind of speech. VooDoo tried to convince him and herself.
Still working on that speech for the Hall of Fame?
Yes. She told him and put the powder down. And still feel like I can’t get it right, seems like one giant ego trip or something. Like I am patting myself on my back.
Isn’t that what it means to be inducted.
I don’t know? I’ve never done this before.
It’s almost time, Candice. Page came walking in and saved his wife from explaining herself further; he was dressed almost the same as VooDoo but with a plain red button up shirt under his leather jacket. And as usual, you look stunning. Clearly, one of the smartest things I did that I can't remember doing, was marrying you.
I never get tired of hearing that. She laughed a little and stood up and put on her coat with a light laugh. It’s one of the craziest things we’ve done.
Almost as crazy as us staying married. Curtis’ voice is heard.
Well, we were already married, might as well test it out and see if it worked or not and save us the hassle of going through a divorce only to get married again. She gave herself a final look in the mirror, giving her hair a little fluff on the sides. Okay, let’s do this.
With a quick trip down the elevator, they made their way out into the courtyard where a few cameras from local TV stations as well as national and sports networks waited and as soon as the door opened all eyes were on them, those in front of the cameras began speaking. VooDoo thought back on the last time that she was doing this same thing, she was making her announcement that she would be entering the World Series of Wrestling event and smiled, indeed life was good. She still didn’t know if her wrestling career was something that she would call Hall of Fame worthy, but it was the foundation that led to the life that she was living today.
Thank you for joining me here today, especially with this weather. She smiled a little. With the coming of the new year, I wanted to get groundbreaking done on January 1st and with that only a few weeks away, I am rushing to get things done. But I think it’s the perfect time, a New Year for New Beginnings. Having seen some of the struggles that a few of the women I employ have to deal with on a day to day basis, I have decided to form an organization to help domestic violence victims make a break from their abusers. Too many women are trapped in abusive relationships with no way to get out and this organization will be a means for them to do so if they choose so. It will offer a place to live with drug and alcohol treatment programs, and a basic sense of peace while they figure out what their next step is for them and their children. There will be a team there to support and guide them, whether it’s an overnight stay or a year long one; we will get them back on their feet.
She paused for a moment and continued on.
The name of the organization is… A Bitch’s Pocket. Immediately there were a few chuckles that came from the crowd. I know, I know. It’s what happens when you let your kids in on naming something but let’s face it, I don’t think I could have come up with a better name. Plus I have them designing the playground and kids club. I mean who better to design a place for kids than other kids, that’s free labor right there. I am sure there are plenty of questions you would like to ask and we will get to them in time if you choose to do so. I have guests inside the Empire Room who I’ve invited to have them slip some money to.. A Bitch’s Pocket for a donation.
This again made those who gathered laugh, VooDoo was going to have to tell Ciara she was right, it was fun saying the name.
If you decide to leave the cameras outside and sign a confidentiality agreement stating that you won’t name any names inside, you are welcome to join us and ask all the questions you would like from me as well as everyone in the Room. There are models of the homes as well as a set up of the whole little community and find out all of the extras we’ve added, like a small general store where they can shop and cook their meals at home. You can listen in on the presentation I’ll be giving and learn more about what the organization will be doing. Of course you’re welcome to drinks and food, but it’s standing room only right now, unless you want to eat at the Red Room and miss anything being said. She paused and shrugged her shoulders. It is what it is, the choice is yours. So if you will excuse me, I’ve got people to smooth talk.
VooDoo and Page made their way over to the entrance to the members only dining area, the Empire Room with Curtis on their heels. He had signed multiple confidentiality agreements and VooDoo knew that he would make sure that images and voices were changed to protect the identities of those inside. The reporters, on the other hand, had choices to make, they could either line up to sign the agreement that one of VooDoo’s lawyers stood at the door holding or they could go home and consider this interview done.
When VooDoo entered the Empire Room, it was to a round of applause and a few “about damned times” as she went straight for the bar. One of the bartenders on duty started pouring her drink as soon as they saw the outer door open.
All that talking outside and I need a drink. She took the drink that was offered to her.
All that talking outside and you left us in here long enough to get a couple of drinks in us to loosen our pockets. Came from one of the people sitting in the room causing a few laughs.
You know me so well. She raised her glass to the person and took a drink. Yes, as [BEEP] said, I’ve come to hit your pockets. She made her way around the room, all eyes glued to her. As you all know, I am a sucker for a good cause when I find one and I’ve found one… She stopped and worked the room with her smile. A Bitch’s Pocket… The room erupted in laughter and after a few seconds VooDoo spoke again with a smile.. No seriously…
The scene slowly began to fade to black as VooDoo’s voice too began to grow softer as she proceeded to tell them all about her upcoming plans. But it wasn’t over just yet, through the darkness came VooDoo’s voice.
You know, maybe I won’t write a speech? Maybe I will just wing it?
VooDoo’s entrance music came on as Marylin Manson began to sing about sweet dreams being made of these and slowly faded out to let us know we had finally faded to black for good.
I won! Marie yelled as she picked up the glass of orange juice and took a drink.
I let you win. Call shot back, but everyone knows that she really did win.
Where’s the twins? VooDoo asked as she walked over and placed a couple of plates in front of them with eggs, bacon and toast; immediately the two began to dig in.
We’re coming. Ciara answered for them as she and her twin came walking in; both were the spitting image of her with red hair and all. Ciara, the oldest, has VooDoo’s attitude and Rose has her father, Vincent Black’s, attitude. Callan was a mix of them both. All four of the kids wore [Redacted] Public School uniforms. Ciara had her hair in a french braid and Rose had just a ponytail, because she didn’t have time for all that braiding.
I see you brought your entourage with you. Rose commented when she saw Curtis in the corner. Both the twins took their seats just as VooDoo came over with their plates and sat them down in front of them.
Get used to him. VooDoo told them then went and got the plate stacked high with pancakes and placed them on the table; immediately Call stuck his fork in one and pulled it onto his plate and drowned it with syrup. He’s going to be hanging around the house alot when I’m here.
Feels like another stray. Ciara rolled her eyes a little. It was well known within the Family that VooDoo had a big heart, especially when it came to kids and people in need. If he craps on the carpet, you’re cleaning it up.
VooDoo looked at the camera. Do not shit on my carpet.
Aunt Voo! Marie said at the use of a “bad word” being used.
I know, I know. As soon as I get my wallet, I will pay it.
I promise I won’t poop on the carpet. Curtis said causing Callan and Marie to giggle.
Callan watched as VooDoo took a seat at the breakfast bar and picked up a pencil and started making marks on the pad on the counter top and instantly he was curious. Whatcha doing, Mom?
Nothing really. She erased something and started over.
If it was nothing, you’d be over here asking us 500 questions about what we did last night. Rose said, she didn’t even bother looking up from her plate. Not that I mind because I hate when you bombard us so early with questions.
Yes! VooDoo exclaimed in victory, looked at the camera and smiled. Finally found one of my traits in Rose. She’s been all her father this whole time.
Rose stopped mid bite. Like being the spitting image of you isn’t a trait?
Oh and I have it on good authority that both our parents are slick at the mouth when they want to be. Ciara tossed out there.
Curtis chuckled from behind the camera, not every day that you see a woman of VooDoo’s stature in the business get taken down and by her kids no less. VooDoo shot a glance at him and he stopped.
So what are you drawing Aunt Voo? Marie asked, bringing us around to full circle.
A house. She told them.
Like we need another house. Rose let slip out her mouth with a mumble that was just loud enough to be heard.
It’s not for us, smartass. She told them and put the pencil down and looked over at them.
Would rather us be smarties or dummies? Rose asked careful not to use a word that she would have to pay for.
I know I told you about one of my employees, Tastee… She ignored the little slick comment from Rose.
The one with the asshole husband?
Yes, that would be the one. Again, she ignored her 10yr going on 20 yr old daughter’s choice of words. Well, I’ve been wanting to do something, like open an organization, like a charity to help women in need. Like a domestic violence shelter, where they can live and get their lives and their kids’ lives back on track until they are ready to step back out on their own.
They could save money while there. VooDoo nodded at Marie’s suggestion. If they didn’t have to worry about rent and stuff like that.
Go back to school even. Rose added, also causing VooDoo to nod. Better education would get them a good paying job, especially if they have kids to support.
If you got people to donate clothing and stuff, they’d also have a pretty decent wardrobe when they went looking for a job and when the kids went to school. VooDoo couldn’t help but smile at Ciara, her little fashion diva would be the one to suggest clothes.
All of those are such great ideas.
So, what issue are you having now? Callan asked.
Besides a name for it, housing. I’ve been doodling around with small homes and I’d like for it to be a small 3 bedroom home, but I can’t figure out how without making it too big for what I want.
Callan jumped up from his seat and picked up his empty plate and walked over to the sink and put it in then made his way over to VooDoo and took a look at the drawing she had been working on.
You could call it VooDoo’s House for the Unwanted. Rose suggested; VooDoo glanced at the camera and mouth the word no and shook her head.
How about let’s not. Let’s find something a little more “nicer”. She dreaded when these two started their periods and started slinging PMS at her; the first time they pop off, she’s just gonna fall back on the age old saying of… “I brought you into this world and I can take you out of it”... it might work?
Oh, oh oh!! Ciara said with a smirk. I’ve got it. She paused just long enough for dramatic purposes before making the big announcement. A Bitch’s Pocket.
When the words slipped out of her mouth, VooDoo’s face flushed as red as her hair and she dropped her head on her arms as they rested on the counter. Rose and Callan started laughing and Marie’s eyes shot wide open, even Curtis had to stifle a laugh. VooDoo raised her and looked over at the camera with a look on her face that screamed “These kids.”
OoOoOo, you owe the Swear Jar money! Marie pointed, the camera panned into the direction she pointed and there was a jar sitting on a small table and the inside was crammed full with change as well as paper money in every denomination, including multiple large denominations.
Damn.. Curtis let slip.
All of that isn’t us. Ciara reassured him. Big Red over there is the one who contributes the most to it and we get to spend it when we go on vacations.
They’ve seen and heard my kids, so they understand. VooDoo said as she raised her head up finally. They will make me say bad words.
Come on, Mom.. think about that name and every time you or someone says it’s name.
All proceeds go to… Rose didn’t finish the sentence; she wasn’t getting caught by the potty mouth police.
…A Bitch’s Pocket. VooDoo smiled as it rolled off her tongue. She had to admit it, her kids were good, all she had to do was keep them out of the wrestling business; they would one day inherit an empire and the last thing they needed to do was fight in a square ring. It’s why she and Vincent worked as hard as they did, to make sure their kids DIDN’T need to or hopefully want to follow in their footsteps. The world was theirs once they grew up, they had other options.
Here, mom. Callan slid the drawing back over to her. VooDoo looked over the drawing, he had taken out the small closet she had between the living room and kitchen and turned it into a set of stairs to a loft with space over the living areas for two small rooms upstairs.
Perfect. She leaned over and gave him a kiss on top of his head, noticing all the kids had finished eating she slid from her chair. Alright you little heathens, upstairs and get your gear, we don’t want to be late for school. Plates in the sink for One, he’s not your maid. He was, but he wasn’t. The masked man had been their nanny for years now. Chopper leaves in 15.
Chopper? Curtis questioned.
We live almost 45 mins outside of town, it’s quicker by air. Ciara said nonchalantly as if everyone traveled to school by helicopter.
And FYI… Rose began. If you’re going to be hanging out with us, I hate being late for school, so don’t make me late.
Within 15 mins they were out the door, heading to the private airport on the other side of the compound where the chopper was waiting for them and within 15 mins they were landing at a helicopter pad outside of town limits that the town agreed to let them build to make traveling easier. As they drove through the city in the SUV parked at the landing pad, Curtis snatched his glasses off his face and held them in a way to where you could only see VooDoo sitting in the driver seats with a faint smile on her face. It was the first time he had actually been to the town.
You’re kidding me?
In my defense the town has been here since 1850 so we had nothing to do with its name. She chuckled lightly.
But…
I know, right? She kept smiling and nodded her head. It was one of the biggest selling points with the rest of the family when we first moved here, it just seemed like it belonged to us already. It was at the first town meeting we attended that we found out how bad the place was struggling, so we decided to step in and help out, for a price. It was beneficial to both us and the Town.
We get to live a normal life. Ciara said as she leaned in view from the back seat.
If you call taking a chopper to and from town normal, sure. Curtis said.
Ciara disappeared in the back and Rose appeared. Normal for us, is not having people with cameras following us to and from school hoping to catch a picture of Mom being a normal Mom and not Mom being the owner of the Velvet Rabbit. Being able to go to the movies or the park without being tailed.
It must be hard for you kids sometimes.
It is. But we’re at the same age Allison was when she was kidnapped and our parents are making sure that doesn’t happen with us. Rose looked back at her sister. Can’t kidnap us if you can’t find us.
Exactly. VooDoo pulled the SUV to a stop in front of the school. There would be no place for someone to hide my kids from me, I would find the and kill them.
Easy there, Killa. Rose said as VooDoo’s cell phone gets a text message, she quickly grabs it. It’s from WSOW. Want me to open it?
Sure. VooDoo said her life was an open book to her kids; she and Vincent had agreed to keep no secrets from them because they didn’t want the kids to be disappointed in them when they found out.
It says.. Dear Candice… yadda yadda yadda.. We want you to forget the other competitors, this one is all about you. Blah, blah blah.. Might be inducted into the Hall of Fame so have your speech ready just in case.
Wait… what? VooDoo gets a confused look on her face. You mean.. The previous airings weren’t supposed to be about me, they were supposed to be about the other people in the event?
Yeah, Ciara said from the backseat. Don’t they know everything is supposed to be about Mom? How dare they?
This caused some laughter, even VooDoo couldn’t help but smile.
Is that really what that says?
Really, Mom. Rose handed the cell phone to VooDoo so she could read it with her own eyes
With everything I do, how in the Hell am I supposed to come up with a speech? VooDoo groaned.
We could be your speech writers? Marie said from the back. Tell them about how you make great pancakes.
That you’re really good at healing during group raids. Callan added; he loved that his mom played video games with him; when she was traveling, it helped.
And that you’re really great at paying credit card bills. Ciara snickered.
That’s it! All of you, out. The rear doors opened and the kids began to get out, Rose was the last one.
You could always start from your humble beginnings… a little girl raised by her grandfather who one day dreamed of a big family. She smiled. See ya in a few days. Love you.
Love you, too. After the door closed, VooDoo looked at the camera. I’ve got good kids…. A pain in my ass sometimes, but good kids. They understand their parents have less than orthodox lives but they also know it affords them things in life that many don’t have. Like parents decide on a whim to take you to Greece? Having a credit card that has no limit; literally my kids could buy an island and I wouldn’t know it.
Forty-five minutes away from the nearest town might as well be an island.
Point taken. A tap came at the passenger side window and with the car monitor teacher there.
Move it along, Ms Wolf, other students that need dropped off. One of the teachers said loud enough that they could hear her through the window.
Will do, Ms Johnson. VooDoo said loud enough for the teacher to hear with a fake smile on her lips and then lowered her voice. Ms Johnson and I don’t get along, the woman is militant with the carpool lane.
The scene slowly faded to black as VooDoo pulled out from in front of the school and started back towards the landing pad, they were supposed to be up in the air and on their way to Las Vegas within the hour to start the cycle of her crazy life all over again.
The scene fades back in and it’s a few hours later and we find ourselves at the Velvet Rabbit in Las Vegas, more like VooDoo’s office at the Rabbit. She, her husband, Chronic Chris Page are sitting at the conference table with Cameraman Curtis sitting across from him. Chris was holding the drawing of the house and she was telling Chris about the conversation she had with the kids this morning as they passed a blunt back and forth making sure Curtis was in the rotation.
And I have to admit, Ciara is right. She chuckled a little. I do like the sound of it rolling off my tongue.. All donations going to.. A Bitch’s Pocket. How often are women called Bitches? How often do kids hear their mom’s being called Bitches? At least some good will come from a word like that.
Got to admit, that’s a great name. He shrugged his shoulders a little. The houses are kinda small but I get they’re just transitional housing.
Right, just temporary, until they can figure out what they are going to do.
Sounds like you have it all figured out. He passed the blunt to her.
Pretty much. She nodded as she took a hit. I just have to make it official and start taking donations and look for a large enough piece of property and get the houses built.
Once you have a checking account set up for it. Page began as he handed her back the drawing. Let me know so I can transfer the first donation over.
Aww. VooDoo leaned in towards him and gave him a kiss. She turns to the camera as she passes the blunt to Curtis. He wants to be my first. Curtis is heard chuckling and his hand seen taking the blunt as VooDoo turns back to Chris. What are you doing after the first of the year?
Lots of things.
Think you can squeeze in a trip to Greece? She put on her biggest smile and batted her eyelashes.
Oh? What’s in Greece?
Am I going to Greece too? Curtis asked real quick. When he got a quick nod from VooDoo he whispered yes! excitedly.
Well, Atara is in Greece. A few weeks ago when we were at the Rabbit on Tribal Fusion night she made a comment about the Hive that I wanted to talk to her more about. Plus, it would be a great learning experience for the kids to visit all those historical locations and learn about ancient Greece.
..And? Chris knew that wasn’t the only thing that she was there for.
And there may be an island that I heard from a little dove that would be the perfect spot for a Velvet Rabbit. She smiled. I was serious about Velvet Rabbit World. My five year goal is having a Rabbit on every continent and from there, they will multiply like… well, like rabbits.
Can you see why I fell in love with her? Chris said to the camera. She’s more ambitious than I am and she’s funny, too.
You fell in love with me because I am too busy with my life to wonder what you’re doing in yours.
Says the woman surrounded by half naked men and women all day.
They both laughed at each other.
Speaking of half naked men and women… VooDoo says as she stands up. I think it’s time to hit the Rabbit.
They made their way down to the ground floor of the Rabbit and made their way over to the Chronic Choice Smoke shop to pack up for their journey. While Chris was talking it up with the manager, Curtis followed VooDoo around as she looked at the various blends the shop had to offer.
So what does one say when they are inducted into a Hall of Fame? She glanced at the camera and shrugged her shoulders before turning back to the blends. Hell if I know? What a great honor it is? What an honor it is to be before you today? Never would I have expected an honor like this?
Will you cry?
VooDoo looked at the camera.
Oh God, I’m gonna fucking cry. I better wear waterproof mascara so I don’t look like a fucking racoon.
Well, you are female, they’ve been known to cry.
Don’t make me make YOU fucking cry right now.
Shutting up now.
Like seriously.. What do I say.. Little did I know when my first husband put me in the ring that would be the only thing that he would have been good for. That the way I was treated at the beginning of my career, as the eye candy portion of the program made me want to become better than not just the female wrestlers I faced against but the males as well. About the struggles I went through as a female wrestler helping pave the way for the ladies of today and every bit of pain that I went through was worth it. About how I literally made a whole entire career out of fighting men, some in this very room right now. Because my second husband even made it a part of our contract when we went into a federation after federation that I was the one who they sent the world world title shots to because he believed in me and my dream and he knew that I had it in me if only given a chance.
You could mention the honor of holding three world titles at once, I mean, not many men… He paused and corrected himself. Not many people can do that.
I could also mention the family and friends that my career brought to me. About how it afforded me the ability to do what I wanted outside of the ring with the Velvet Rabbit. About how it opened a whole world to me with being about to help others.
Seems like a good start. Curtis told her.
Alright, I am loaded for bear. Chris said as he walked over and interrupted things. I say we start at the casino and try to win some money and then make our way to the Rabbit and finish off the rest of the night.
Sounds like a date to me. VooDoo said with a smile, she turned to the camera. With Chris and I being separated like we are sometimes it feels like every time we meet up is a date and I am all about them date nights.
And that’s what they did, let date night begin. She started out being Mom that morning, but she was now Candice Wolf-Page, owner of the Velvet Rabbit and despite looking like she was just casually there having a good time, she was also taking in the employees and how they were working. If they were smiling, if they were saying Ma’am and Sir and if the patrons they were taking care of had a smile on their faces and with everything going on around her, VooDoo couldn’t help but wonder, did she deserve to be in the Hall of Fame? There were better wrestlers out there than her. There were wrestlers out there who had better records than her. What has she done lately in the ring that has made her noteworthy? Her feud with Vhodka that ended as soon as they both saw their kids in the front row crying of their big match? Her matches at Cannabis Cup against the Bing Bong Twins and Team Cheney? The thing with Cheney did put her and the Rabbit on the proverbial map.
You know you could change that?
Damn it, she hated when that voice spoke up.
You know all you have to do is say you want to get back in the ring and every single fed would be clamoring for you, including your husband’s.
VooDoo looked up at her husband as he studied his cards, it was hours later and people had been paying to play a hand with them at the Royal Rabbit. She had to agree with the voice, Page would love for her to come to his federation.
Shut up voice. Besides, you can’t be inducted into a Hall of Fame unless you’re out of the business.
Or can you?
What was that, love? Page looked up from his cards.
Nothing, babe, just thinking about business and where I should put the shelter.
Page looks at the camera.
And she says I am always working.
I heard that. She laid her hand on the table and smiled.
You were meant to. He looked down at her cards and then folded his as did the three other men playing with them. Lady wins again. He stands up. I am tired of losing to the lady. He turned to the dealer and shoved his rack of chips over to her. Have our chips sent to the cage. I’m going to go somewhere where at least I’ll have a good time losing to the lady.
Is that so? She arched a brow just slightly knowing that the strip club was the next stop on the itinerary.
It is. Page held out his hand and helped her up. Because I am going to tell Curtis to go have a night on us and we’re going to go upstairs and spend the rest of the night alone.
If that’s the case, maybe I’ll let the man win a few times? She teased.
With that being said… Page looks at the camera and smirks with a wink. Hope you have a great night, Curtis, because we sure are.
The scene slowly fades to black as VooDoo and Page make their way through the casino floor and Curtis begins to gather up his chips he had sitting on the table to cash them in, you couldn’t see it, but he had a shit eating grin on his face. He was going to take plenty of advantage of having a great night on them part; the perks of this job were like no other.
It was days later and this time we find ourselves in New York City at the original Velvet Rabbit; we’re upstairs in VooDoo’s small penthouse apartment and she’s sitting at the vanity table putting the finishing touches with her makeup. She is dressed in a black VooDoo t-shirt and jeans with boots, weather being chilly she had a leather jacket on the back of the chair.
I brought you all here today to announce my new charity… She closed her eyes and groaned. When she opened them she looked at the camera. I am really not good at this speech thing. She looked back in the mirror. Talk shit about an opponent in front of a camera, I can do it for hours. For days even.
Talking shit is just making a speech. Curtis is heard from behind the camera.
But it’s a different kind of speech. VooDoo tried to convince him and herself.
Still working on that speech for the Hall of Fame?
Yes. She told him and put the powder down. And still feel like I can’t get it right, seems like one giant ego trip or something. Like I am patting myself on my back.
Isn’t that what it means to be inducted.
I don’t know? I’ve never done this before.
It’s almost time, Candice. Page came walking in and saved his wife from explaining herself further; he was dressed almost the same as VooDoo but with a plain red button up shirt under his leather jacket. And as usual, you look stunning. Clearly, one of the smartest things I did that I can't remember doing, was marrying you.
I never get tired of hearing that. She laughed a little and stood up and put on her coat with a light laugh. It’s one of the craziest things we’ve done.
Almost as crazy as us staying married. Curtis’ voice is heard.
Well, we were already married, might as well test it out and see if it worked or not and save us the hassle of going through a divorce only to get married again. She gave herself a final look in the mirror, giving her hair a little fluff on the sides. Okay, let’s do this.
With a quick trip down the elevator, they made their way out into the courtyard where a few cameras from local TV stations as well as national and sports networks waited and as soon as the door opened all eyes were on them, those in front of the cameras began speaking. VooDoo thought back on the last time that she was doing this same thing, she was making her announcement that she would be entering the World Series of Wrestling event and smiled, indeed life was good. She still didn’t know if her wrestling career was something that she would call Hall of Fame worthy, but it was the foundation that led to the life that she was living today.
Thank you for joining me here today, especially with this weather. She smiled a little. With the coming of the new year, I wanted to get groundbreaking done on January 1st and with that only a few weeks away, I am rushing to get things done. But I think it’s the perfect time, a New Year for New Beginnings. Having seen some of the struggles that a few of the women I employ have to deal with on a day to day basis, I have decided to form an organization to help domestic violence victims make a break from their abusers. Too many women are trapped in abusive relationships with no way to get out and this organization will be a means for them to do so if they choose so. It will offer a place to live with drug and alcohol treatment programs, and a basic sense of peace while they figure out what their next step is for them and their children. There will be a team there to support and guide them, whether it’s an overnight stay or a year long one; we will get them back on their feet.
She paused for a moment and continued on.
The name of the organization is… A Bitch’s Pocket. Immediately there were a few chuckles that came from the crowd. I know, I know. It’s what happens when you let your kids in on naming something but let’s face it, I don’t think I could have come up with a better name. Plus I have them designing the playground and kids club. I mean who better to design a place for kids than other kids, that’s free labor right there. I am sure there are plenty of questions you would like to ask and we will get to them in time if you choose to do so. I have guests inside the Empire Room who I’ve invited to have them slip some money to.. A Bitch’s Pocket for a donation.
This again made those who gathered laugh, VooDoo was going to have to tell Ciara she was right, it was fun saying the name.
If you decide to leave the cameras outside and sign a confidentiality agreement stating that you won’t name any names inside, you are welcome to join us and ask all the questions you would like from me as well as everyone in the Room. There are models of the homes as well as a set up of the whole little community and find out all of the extras we’ve added, like a small general store where they can shop and cook their meals at home. You can listen in on the presentation I’ll be giving and learn more about what the organization will be doing. Of course you’re welcome to drinks and food, but it’s standing room only right now, unless you want to eat at the Red Room and miss anything being said. She paused and shrugged her shoulders. It is what it is, the choice is yours. So if you will excuse me, I’ve got people to smooth talk.
VooDoo and Page made their way over to the entrance to the members only dining area, the Empire Room with Curtis on their heels. He had signed multiple confidentiality agreements and VooDoo knew that he would make sure that images and voices were changed to protect the identities of those inside. The reporters, on the other hand, had choices to make, they could either line up to sign the agreement that one of VooDoo’s lawyers stood at the door holding or they could go home and consider this interview done.
When VooDoo entered the Empire Room, it was to a round of applause and a few “about damned times” as she went straight for the bar. One of the bartenders on duty started pouring her drink as soon as they saw the outer door open.
All that talking outside and I need a drink. She took the drink that was offered to her.
All that talking outside and you left us in here long enough to get a couple of drinks in us to loosen our pockets. Came from one of the people sitting in the room causing a few laughs.
You know me so well. She raised her glass to the person and took a drink. Yes, as [BEEP] said, I’ve come to hit your pockets. She made her way around the room, all eyes glued to her. As you all know, I am a sucker for a good cause when I find one and I’ve found one… She stopped and worked the room with her smile. A Bitch’s Pocket… The room erupted in laughter and after a few seconds VooDoo spoke again with a smile.. No seriously…
The scene slowly began to fade to black as VooDoo’s voice too began to grow softer as she proceeded to tell them all about her upcoming plans. But it wasn’t over just yet, through the darkness came VooDoo’s voice.
You know, maybe I won’t write a speech? Maybe I will just wing it?
VooDoo’s entrance music came on as Marylin Manson began to sing about sweet dreams being made of these and slowly faded out to let us know we had finally faded to black for good.