Thanks to his mother, Liam neatly folded his clean clothes and stuffed them inside his gym bag before heading to the dining room table where his father was cooking some pancakes and bacon for breakfast.
"Want some coffee?" Dr. Geyer asked his son, offering him a mug from the Keurig.
"Nah," Liam replied. "Orange juice is fine." He crossed to the fridge, got a carton, and grabbed a glass from the cupboard to pour himself a drink. Then he sat at the table as his father served him some food.
"I take it we're not getting a dowry," Todd Geyer laughed as his son realized the inside joke that he shared between his wife and Liam and the botched dinner of last night.
Liam snickered. "No, I'm sure we'll be getting a refund soon since there was no marriage offer." He dug his fork into his stack of pancakes. "They were a nice lesbian couple though. Too bad their son is dating the wrong person."
"Yeah," his father agreed. "A born-again Christian and LGBT in-laws. That relationship isn't going to last."
"Ah well," Satomi Ito-Geyer giggled as she walked over to the dining table to join her family. "Those camels were going to cost me a fortune anyway." She turned on the flatscreen in the family room to the Cinemascope Kids Network that began to air reruns of Class Dismissed, a one season sitcom that was one of Liam's earlier jobs. "Oh, little apple!" She exclaimed. "You look so cute here!"
Liam cringed. "Mom, I was ten! Of course, I would look cute on that show!"
Satomi frowned as she sat down. "Hey, my little boy is growing up. I miss my baby when you were all pink and chubby cheeked!" She reached over and squeezed his cheek. "You were soooo cute!"
Liam rolled his eyes. "Is that before or after my IED episodes?"
His mother scowled. "Now Liam, let's not joke about that. Those first three years were crucial in getting you diagnosed and getting you the right treatment. It wasn't easy especially with a few violent outbursts here and there, but your father and I stuck it out because you are our son, and we love you. Not once did we have any regrets adopting you and raising you. Don't ever forget that."
A hand squeezed his shoulder. Liam looked up to see his father with a large smile beaming back at him. "Son, I know you bear the weight of some guilt of thinking you burdened us with your mental health but if we were to do it all over again, we would. Remember, when you came out to us when you were fifteen? We told you we loved you. We would support you and we would stand by you, completely proud of the man you are and what you would become. That still has not changed."
Liam stood up and hugged his Dad. "Thanks. I guess I just needed to hear that sometimes." He released him and glanced over to his mom. "Since we're discussing the subject of my adoption, I think it's time you start telling me about my birth mother."
Satomi exhaled and folded her arms. "There isn't much to tell, little apple."
Todd shrugged as well and sat down next to his son. "The truth is we don't know much about her. That night in Detroit, your mother and I were working the ER shift when the paramedics admitted a pregnant woman who was severely seizing to the hospital. She was disheveled, had track marks on her arms and apparently had taken too many drugs that it caused her to go into premature labor. We tried to assist her but the drugs in her system caused her to have a stroke which only complicated your delivery. The only procedure we could do was an emergency C-section to save you but, unfortunately, the shock was too much for her that your birth mother didn't make it. You were eight weeks early, so we admitted you to the neonatal unit to monitor you since you were drug addicted."
"You were so tiny going through the withdrawals," Satomi added. "I couldn't bear to see you in such pain, so I made it my mission to personally oversee your care. I think it was then I fell in with love you and saw you as my own child that needed me."
Liam lowered his eyes. "Did my mother have a name?"
"The police checked her belongings," answered Todd. "All she had was a broken dirty purse that had some dime bags, some cash, broken needles, and a driver's license with the name Harriet Dunbar and nothing else."
Satomi jumped in. "When the social workers were planning to put you in foster care, your father and I pulled our connections to formally adopt you since there was no contact to anyone in your birth family to claim you. We filled out your birth certificate with the name of your birth mother but kept Dunbar as your middle name so that you always had a connection to her."
"And the outbursts?" Liam wondered.
"Six months in," Satomi explained. "We thought the crying fits were due to colic or, more likely, neonatal abstinence syndrome since you were born drug addicted. However, when you started to walk, you would get into violent fits that you would hit or strike us whenever you got extremely angry or agitated but then revert to a normal, happy state. It was almost bipolar."
"We didn't know what IED was," said Todd. "Until a specialist friend observed your sudden outbursts and recommended a specialty facility for it in southern California. Once again, I pulled some strings and got in touch with a clinic in San Diego that specializes in IED. I put in an offer at the hospital and soon we were all relocating here."
Satomi jumped in. "Since your father and I had a nice nest egg, I retired from nursing and focused on being a stay-at-home mom to you since you struggled the first three years of your outbursts. I took you to your therapy sessions and discussed your medications with your doctors. Little by little, you were getting better and obviously, it showed."
"What made you decide to enroll me at youth theater groups?" Liam wondered.
"Even though you were getting better and coping well with your IED," his mother replied. "You were still an extremely introverted, shy kid. You had no friends, and you were overly cautious that you might have sudden outburst. These kids' theater classes helped you overcome your shyness and you learned to make friends. Plus, it began to us to me and your dad that you have some hidden acting talent inside you!"
"Don't forget," said his father. "If you didn't do that community production of Oliver, Natalie Martin wouldn't have scouted you and signed you up for her agency. You wouldn't be doing commercials and guest television appearances or even get a one season sitcom on Cinemascope Kids Network. You wouldn't have gotten on a successful soap opera and be now a working actor in Hollywood."
"Good point," smiled Liam. "I can always count on my parents to bring things into perspective."
"Now," his father suggested. "Why don't we finish this meal I made before you drive back? This is one of the few times we have any family time together."
"Exactly," Satomi agreed.
They enjoyed their breakfast as Liam shared the exciting news of his upcoming nationwide commercial while just appreciating the moment.
He was simply happy to be with his loving family.
Monday table reads were always nerve racking. Between the actors not knowing what the next storyline would be to seeing the grueling work schedule, the trials, and tribulations of putting on a hit television show took plenty of effort.
Stiles and Derek sat at the front of the long table as the other actors, crew, and writers were handed their scripts.
It would be Derek who would lead the group. "All right, everyone. Thank you for being prompt. As was stated from the con, there will be some major upsets and story changes that will impact the show. First and foremost, I want to thank everyone involved with Beacon Hills and despite some shocking revelations, understand that everything is for the best."
Murmurs started to weave through the crowd. Garrett and Violet looked at each other confused as did Boyd and Malia. Only Issac and Theo kept things hushed as they knew truth of what was to come.
"Note this is a three-part arc," Stiles interjected. "Two parts leading to the third which is the season finale. As we left off, Maven's sister, Hecate, has betrayed the Fae and allied herself with the human soldier Chad, of Amo's military unit. The couple's plan is to steal the Eye of Set which will open the gateway to a hell dimension which will bring the incoming Apocalypse."
"When doesn't Beacon Hills face an Apocalypse," joked Violet, the actress who plays the faerie, Maven.
"Every season," Garrett added in, the actor who plays the human soldier, Amos.
Boyd snickered. "Hopefully, General Wallis gets into another badass fight. I love when I look good on screen."
"You just love looking good period," Malia rolled her eyes.
"All right everyone, let's begin," Derek instructed. They read through the first part of the script.
Beacon Hills
Season 4: Episode 10
It All Ends Here Part 1
EXT. SKY – NIGHT
We see the rolling fury of a storm coming. Thunder and lightning flashing across the sky. Down below a cavernous mountain with wide open cave pans inside.
INT. CHAMBER OF THE FIR BOLG
Inside the chamber, Christian, Sherman, and General Wallis await patiently for news. Footsteps can be heard echoing from the hall.
Hennie enters.
General Wallis
What news do you bring?
Christian
Hennie, where are the others? Why aren't they here?
PAN TOWARD SHERMAN. A look of concern crosses the vampire's face. He already knows of the news which only makes Christian more anxious.
Christian
What are you not telling me?
Sherman
They might be already dead.
CLOSE-UP ON CHRISTIAN'S FACE. Pain and shock appear. He says nothing as he holds his composure.
Hennie
No! They are not dead! I've just returned from woods. The human and faerie armies are battling two of the demons but have proven to be unsuccessful! Maven and Amos are mortally wounded but still alive. The rest of my coven are watching them and monitoring their wounds. Believe me, two of our clans have barely survived the attacks.
SHOT OF GENERAL WALLIS. His eyes glow golden as he exhibits a serious look.
Wallis
How is that possible? The demons have not been able to penetrate our magical barriers! None of the clans would be foolish enough let those monstrosities through without losing their own lives.
CAMERA TURNS TO SHERMAN. He appears concerned as he ponders Wallis's words.
Sherman
It appears we might have a mole. Someone who is intentionally trying to sabotage our mission to destroy these demons.
PAN TO CHRISTIAN IN SHOCK.
Christian
But why? What would they hope to gain in betraying our tribal circle?
CAMERA CLOSE-UP ON HENNIE.
Hennie
I've discovered our mole, rather two moles. Maven's sister, Hecate, and the human soldier, Chad, of Lieutenant Amos's unit have formed an uneasy alliance. They've stolen the Eye of Set, the Egyptian key, that opens the portal to the hell dimension of the dead!
PAN TO SHERMAN.
Sherman
But why? What do they hope to accomplish from such a foul misdeed?
CAMERA FOCUSES ON HENNIE.
Hennie
Power. The ancient myths foretell that the Eye of Set will give its wielder immense power and control over the clans but in doing so would mean the destruction of all living things. The pair believe they can wield such power, but history has proven this ideal futile. Once the portal is open, it cannot be closed.
PAN ON WALLIS. His eyes look stern and serious.
Wallis
This portal cannot be closed at all? There is no way of stopping forth this destruction.
CAMERA TURNS FROM CHRISTIAN TO SHERMAN AND THEN TO HENNIE. Hennie appears worried as if she wants to say something significant.
Hennie
There is a way but it's not something you going to like.
PAN ON WALLIS. He looks annoyed.
Wallis
Come out with it, girl! Don't keep us in suspense! If there Armageddon is coming, we need to know!
CLOSE UP ON HENNIE. Nervousness and fear fall across her face. She hesitates before speaking.
Hennie
According to the prophecy, the only way to close the portal is for someone from the clans make a noble sacrifice, meaning…
CLOSE UP ON SHERMAN. His face unchanged and expressionless.
Sherman
Someone from one from the tribes would have to die.
PAN TO CHRISTIAN. Shock and confusion are displayed on his face.
Christian
We can't let this happen! No one must die!
Sherman looks away from the camera before turning back. His visage is serious.
Sherman
It's the only way, Christian. There is no other choice.
Suddenly the room fell silent. A somber tone permeated the atmosphere as no one dared to say something. That was until Boyd spoke up.
"I think I can speak for everyone here," he began. "That we can assume one of the characters is not going to make it for next season."
Stiles sighed. He knew writing this script would shock his cast and crew. He prepared himself for this moment. "Yes, Vernon. A major character won't be returning for next season."
Derek decided to cut through the tension. "Look, if you're worried that you're losing your jobs. Don't be. This individual wanted to keep this a private matter until he or she was ready. Let's please respect that…"
"I'm leaving!"
All eyes turned to Issac Lahey who stood up from his chair. Theo leaned back, folded his arms, and said nothing.
"Issac?" Violet gasped. "But you're one of the leads! You're leaving the show?"
Issac looked down. "It's nothing against the show or Derek or Stiles. I loved working with you guys. But mates, I have some personal problems at home that I need to take care of. I can't do it while being on the show. Stiles and Derek have graciously understood this and released me from my contract. I ask that you be respectful of my wishes."
"Of course," Malia smiled, tears filling her eyes. "We wish you the best." She got up the table and hugged him. Soon everyone was embracing Issac, including a reluctant Theo who managed to keep it all together.
After the congratulations and farewells, Stiles decided to break up the sad news. "Now that the news is out. Yes, Isaac's character, Sherman, will not be returning to the show. Hence, we will be adding new cast members for Season Five. We're all professionals here and I hope you can be supportive as we go about casting for the upcoming year."
"In addition," Derek added. "You've all signed NDA's to not discuss any spoilers about the show so please refrain from posting or discussing anything on social media about future scripts. We will make a formal announcement about Issac's departure and our new casting choices. Understood?"
All nodded.
Stiles turned serious. "All righty then. The first round of filming begins tonight at 10 p.m. Please pick up your call sheets to see what scenes are being shot!"
Everyone at the table disbanded as they grabbed their sheets to see what time and days they were shooting. Issac looked at his and compared notes with Theo.
"Oh man, mate," he stated with disappointment. "They really want to work me until the very end. I've got the ten o'clock call tonight. What about you?"
Theo looked at his and grinned. "Got lucky. My scenes aren't until 4:00 p.m. tomorrow. I'm going to sleep in."
"I'm going to try to do the same before tonight," Issac mentioned. "Okay then, see you tomorrow. And thanks again for all the bloody support, friend!"
"Anytime, mate!" He teased the Brit. Watching him leave, Theo swallowed hard as he considered all the new changes that were happening to the show. Secretly, he wished things were not moving so fast. He wished things slowed down a bit and everyone understood all the apprehensions and frustrations building up inside of him. He wished he had someone to talk to.
Someone like Liam Dunbar.
Liam would have been home by the afternoon, but his mother insisted that they stop by Costclub, the premier warehouse grocery chain, to buy cases of frozen food, snacks, and easy to make meals for her son. Leave it up, Satomi Ito-Geyer to be the overbearing, overprotective mother who ensures her son never goes hungry. After loading his small car with a cooler of groceries, he made the two-hour drive to Los Feliz and unpacked and stuffed all the food inside the freezer and fridge. At least, Hayden would be happy that there was free food in the house. As working Hollywood actors, the need to be frugal with groceries was a constant.
It was almost five in the afternoon when he received a text from Hayden about more late-night rehearsals for Oz. Though the work hours would be grueling, it was good to see his BFF enjoying all the work she was doing for the musical.
Making a quick sandwich from the groceries he just bought, Liam got a call from Lydia Martin, his agent. He went to answer his cell.
"Lydia," he greeted. "What's going on?"
"Great news!" She squealed. "Progressive Farm loved the first commercial and wants you to be their official brand ambassador!"
"That's great!" Liam smiled. "I'm shooting the second one this week."
"Well, there's going to be lots more," Lydia declared. "I negotiated a six-figure deal per commercial, minus our twenty percent of the cut, of course."
"Of course," he nodded about the agency's commission fee.
"You're about to be quite a rich man, Liam Dunbar," she teased.
"That's all thanks to your mom and you as my amazing agents," he cooed.
Lydia paused for moment before speaking. "Oh, one more thing, before I forget. A little birdy told me that you're a big fan of this show called Beacon Hills?"
"I am," he said honestly. "I met the cast at the L. A. Comic Fest a few weeks ago. Great people."
"Guess what?" She squealed.
"What?"
"The show is looking to cast for a big villain next season," she informed him. "And I thought you could read as a possible candidate?"
Liam's mouth. "Are you fucking kidding me? Hell yeah! When's the audition?"
"Not until next month," she told him. "They're still wrapping up this season. But you must keep it hush hush. No one is supposed to know about the casting call until it's formally announced."
"Lydia," Liam started. "If you can get me that audition, I will forever be in your debt."
"Too late!" She taunted. "You already are!" She let out a cackle as she attempted to stifle a snort over the phone. "Let me keep you posted about the details and give you the time and place."
Perfect," Liam agreed. "Keep me posted.
"I will."
She hung up the phone leaving Liam to finish his sandwich. After consuming his meal and a soda, an alert buzzed on his phone of a text message. He went to check it out.
It was from Brett.
Goddamnit! Why does he have to ruin my day?
He bravely tapped on it.
Hey bitch! Miss me?
A grainy photo was sent from his cell displaying him naked on the bed, his cock on full display as his new boyfriend went down him proudly. His finger began to delete the message and obscene photo.
What's the matter, prude? You can't satisfy a man? You were always lousy in bed. No man will have you!
Why don't you go and kill yourself, you pathetic queen?
Now fuck off!
Liam could feel his heart race, his pulse beating uncontrollably. The anxiety was getting him. All the fears, the apprehensions, the anxieties were bubbling forth transforming into rage.
He couldn't breathe. He tried to inhale but couldn't. He was drowning.
Come on, Liam. You can do this. Meditate. Close your eyes. Focus on your breath. There is no one else in the room. Just you. You're not alone. Just breathe. Breathe.
Breathe. Inhale. Exhale.
Breathe. Inhale. Exhale.
Inhale.
Exhale.
Inhale.
Exhale.
Breathe.
Breathe.
His heart and pulse slowed. He felt himself suddenly getting calmer, becoming more at ease, relaxed and confident of going about the day. He took a minute to process what happened and returned to next course of action.
Okay, asshole, you want to play. Let's play.
He saved the pornographic picture to his gallery and officially blocked his ex-boyfriend's number. After deleting the rest of his messages, he searched for Hayden on his contact and texted her.
Hi Hayden. Hope rehearsals are going well. Sorry to send this to you but Brett is being an asshole again and sending me gross pics with his new boyfriend. Use it to catfish guys on Cruisr or Ember. Do with it as you wish and have fun.
He sent the message and the pic. Call me J. C. Petty!
His thoughts then drifted back to Brett's words. Prude. Can't satisfy a man. No man will have you.
Well, he was going to prove Brett Talbot wrong. Scrolling his phone, he got the number he needed and texted.
Hey. I know I said yes for this weekend but if you're not working, want to meet up tonight?
Liam sent the text and waited for a few seconds. Theo responded immediately.
Come on over. You have the address. Say about seven?
Liam replied.
See you then.
Theo answered.
Can't wait.
Liam put down his phone. All right, Liam Dunbar, you accepted. Now go through with it. No regrets.
He certainly would as he went to hit the shower.