Take A Chance
By Jason Harris
Section Jump: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - END
Harry Ficter was driving on Santa Monica Blvd. in Beverly Hills, California, window gazing at the window shops, palm trees, bikini babes, and new cars. The shopping was exquisite, Ralph Lauren's clothing store, Christian Loubitin shoe store, even Joe's Pizza - Harry says aloud, "Heya Joe! How about a pizza? Hey!" In the summer it's always sunny here and full of tourists. It's about the same weather where he lives in California City (About an hour and a half away from Beverly Hills) but you're just not that close to the Pacific Ocean smell and favorable breeze.
He was once called a Californian Beach Bum by a drunk guy in New York who didn't like him because of how he dressed and Harry's articulate demeanor. Thing is Harry didn't take offense to it but agrees he does look like a typical Californian beach bum probably because he wears shorts mostly all year round and is always tanned. Harry thought, "Well at least I don't have to wear long underwear in the winter bud."
Harry thought about the man who is making popularity hit the roof for a minute. He thought, "I'm going to meet Malcolm Millions. The biggest talk show host on the TV game show "Take a Chance" on the HSC network in the U.S."
After 2 failed attempts, Harry Ficter was finally able to do this interview. He was able to make Malcolm have a change of mind due to the increased offer of 'flow' thanks to his Boss. It's called flow because it costs money to do certain people, usually top celebrities and this one was expensive.
His boss manages one of California's most popular entertainment magazines called "EXTRA". He hired Harry 7 years ago and he's been chief-editor for 3 years now. Before this, Harry had about 8 years of news editorial experience for a newspaper he was editor for. He reflects and knows this: In this business you move on. It's actually great when you can hold on to one spot for a while, but there's always a chance to get spotted by someone else, or even worse; BUMPED! Out the door with a little hobo bag stick too. I've had to do it to others myself. Hey big deal: take the positive, a good rapport, you got a good reference, and experience will take you to other positions in this field I'd like to call Journalism.
As Harry was turning on to Malcolm's Mansion Rd, he happened to notice the other mansions in Beverly Hills were a little more vacant than he anticipated. Most of the stars are gone now. Property Managements are managing former mansion style homes. I'm glad for the fact they keep the upkeep to them for potential buyers or this could be a potential real estate graveyard. He thinks he'll ask his wife about maybe selling their house to move here. He knows the kids would say Yes. Maybe he'll just leave it up to the kids.
Malcolm's Mansion Rd. came to a brief halt when Harry approached the main gate. The road had Malcolm's name and a private drive up a hill as it rounded up like a mountain-side road. At the top of the gate above it said, "Malcolm's Mansion," in a black metal overhead and white lights for the letters. Below it, a black metal-steel gate and a gateman.
The gateman approached the vehicle and said to Harry, "Hello Mr. Ficter, Malcolm has been expecting you. Please park your car on the right side of the garage and you can enter the side door you will see. He'll be ready to see you soon, go in and sit on the couch in the guest room."
Harry said, "Sounds great but I hope I don't get lost, this place is huge!" The gateman said, "I assure you won't, an usher will lead you there and please consider possibly staying the night as Malcolm has honored you with a party later this evening with some of his guests."
Harry felt completely humbled, but for sure he would. His boss paid this guy a good chunk of flow so he figures he'll go for the gusto! Surely it's a yes for Harry.
"I think I'll have to accept the invitation." declared Harry Ficter.
"I'm Johnson, Mr. Ficter. Just Johnson will do, now go on and drive up. You have an important job to do. America awaits us all."
"Thanks Johnson."
"Wow, oh wow!" he thought. He couldn't believe it as he drove. Harry was so ecstatic, he almost forgot that at 4 o'clock he had to do the interview with the hottest Game Show TV Personality guy going for a moment. This is the biggest interview of his career. He's here at ten to two and has to calm down. Harry's watch helped him settle, as he looked at it for a minute. He was able to collect his thoughts that weren't just about partying with a bunch of babes around a pool hammered. I have to get serious now and realize I'm here to do an interview he thought to himself.
He started to do his rundown on this upcoming job: have hors' d'oeuvres after I arrive, take camera shots at 2:30, prepare for the interview at 3:30 with Malcolm. Prioritizing helps Harry get through serious situations when it's an important one. Harry Ficter's boss encouraged him by saying, "Go get him Tiger. Don't bring me back a calf, but a bull." If I don't, I'll probably be the next calf walking out the door.
The Estate was huge. It was 3 stories high. Harry parked to the right of a dark forest-green Bentley sitting in the driveway outside the 5th door of the 5 door garage. The garage and outdoor walls had a peach color with an Old El' Paso Mexican style, black trim, as well as the vegetation was desert cactus and plants. There was a roundabout water fountain out front with colored flowers around it.
Harry looked up and saw two more floors, starting with the ground floor. There was a side door and high walls with an Old El' Paso style again. He looked up at the top floor and it had hollow style windows and a Mexican Style Palapas roof to it. The second floor had Glass studio windows and tints with glowing lights. In the middle was a bar and spiral stairs leading up and down with futuristic looking lights. He thought Malcolm had an expensive taste.
his could be very much the party hub of California… Ya, The Great Malcolm Million's place as Harry looked at it. For furniture, there were chairs and couches and all different shapes to them. There was a huge outdoor pool and pool-deck you could probably just host a big party by itself outside the second floor. As Harry approached the side door and knocked, an usher answered,
"Come in Mr. Ficter, you're a little early but enter the guest room straight ahead and Malcolm will see you at 2."
"Thank you."
Harry came equipped with his recorder, camera, and notebook to do this interview. He was thinking he'll possibly do my rough draft tonight since there's a party in his honor later. The usher disappeared down a hallway to the left so Harry entered the grand hallway where he saw big pictures of Malcolm's accomplishments and highlights in his life. Huge pictures and in a glass case standing from the ground a piece of his contract with HSC. "Oh Boy!" Harry can't believe those 9 figures. Harry saw a sitting area with a big projection screen on the wall so he sat down on the couch wondering when Malcolm may appear.
All of a sudden, the screen turned on and Harry looked behind himself to see who may have turned it on and sure enough, it was the great Malcolm Millions himself, standing behind Harry looking at him with the converter held out in front of him.
You're right on the button kid. I know you're a star after all." said Malcolm. Bashfully Harry said, "Well I'm flattered Mr. Malcolm Millions."
"Call me Malcolm, my friends do. Friends with big pockets and shit rockets. You'll catch on real quick when you come over again Mr.Ficter. Bring the wife and little ones for a weekend retreat next time."
"Um, thank you for the invitation Malcolm. It's just a little bit for me to get used to this house, this life, this TV personality you are. I'm ready to find out more about you."
"You know what? I feel as if I know you already." a big grin came on Malcolm's face and Harry Ficter thought it was sincere. You're going to be a star one day. A big star with EXTRA after this interview. So I hope you know what you're doing because I know you already do.'
"Thanks for the flattery Malcolm, but honestly we just met and I want to ask…" Malcolm interrupts and says "Geez, come on kid. Don't disappoint me with the preppy talk. I'm your new best friend that lives next door. You don't snitch on me, I don't snitch on you, catch my drift? No really kid, how old are you and how many years working for this magazine EXTRA?"
"Well I'm 46 years old and I'm chief editor. Been doing it 3 out of the 7 years with them. Before that, I was editor for a newspaper company for 8 years."
"So you're really a booksmart. I could already read you as one. You got married before 25 to a couple of kids in a rich suburb North of the Hills, beautiful wife. Am I right."
"Yes you are!" Harry was shocked.
My grade 10 english teacher would always remind me "Ain't" isn't a word Malcolm Williams, So you know what I said? I told her, If hell could send you back to earth, I'd rather keep myself in hell than this class. Hahaha!" Malcolm laughed.
"Listen you're not intoxicated or impaired Mr. Malcolm sir because I can't do this interview. I value honesty, sobriety, and integrity sir."
Malcolm gives me a big diabolical stare and looks into my eyes. He says, "You know what Mr. Ficter? I'm not fake. This is Malcolm Millions. Get used to it. Like I said, we already know each other. I'll simmer down now and talk casually in a casual manner. Check this out." Malcolm says solemnly, "This is my game show and I'm the star of 'Take a Chance' Harry Ficter.
The lights dimmer and a huge projector shines a beam of light across the room onto the screen in front of them. It appears to be highlights of the game shown in different clips. Malcolm sits down in the big comfy chair beside Harry and starts to watch the show in silence.
"These are the intakes to the show and some of my favorite clips. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy some hors d'oeuvres while we watch it together."
About 2 minutes into the show, Malcolm talked a little mostly about what was being displayed on the screen. It was clips I've never seen before.
"I study this everyday. My humor, the contestants' faces, the camera angles, the lighting, everything in a full stage production, Harry Ficter."
"Now here is a real doozy… Look at this saggy boobed broad here. She just can't get any answers right. Well I told her it's a shame we don't have her whole family up here because that would be too many to count, right Ms. Vicky?" Malcolm suddenly laughs. "On live TV too! Here's another clip where the guy isn't looking and he looks one way while the other contestant pulls his pants down and I say 'hey droopy drawers, your pants are looking a little droopy. Please tell me you didn't poopy."
Ha!Ha!Ha! Malcolm laughed zealously. "The ratings went up 88% at the end of the show. That meant only 12% of the population felt sorry for poor Mr. Droopy Poopy."
I was a little appalled by his ridicule of the contestants and decided to speak. I said "You know Malcolm, cutting people up on TV isn't always a good decision either."
"I know kid, it's comedy, comedy kid I tell you. I got the best ratings, a dozen different girlfriends a month, money, and I've been doing it for years. I had record breaking ratings for one year. America loves me and so does HSC."
Ok, I guess you're talented Malcolm for what you do, there's no one else in showbiz that can compare, but some other people would also shun this away. I want to ask you some questions about that."
"Like I said, America loves Malcolm Millions. Money I got and just about everything else. Even securing my wealth and in the afterlife, I'll be mummifying myself."
"Now that's very interesting Malcolm," said Harry, elaborate more.
Malcolm ignores Harry and says "Now here is a good looking contestant who wins the show and at the end says - Can I marry you Malcolm? And you see me with my smile, charm, and put my arm slowly across her back. You can honey, when you have the chance to win the millions on our next TV show! I've been proposed to 13 times on live TV! Can you outbeat that or know anyone else who can?"
"No I can't Malcolm." said Harry shaking his head no.
"Hell no! you can't say it?"
"Hell no! I can say it."
"Well Woo-Wee!! Cowboy! You've grown some walnuts under that tree branch of yours. No, I'm just kidding. I'll tone it down now and say Harry Ficter. Let's take a tour at 2:30. Take your photographs with me too. We'll sit down and talk at 3:30 for interview preparation? If that's how you'd like to do it?"
"Yes I would Malcolm, that's exactly it."
"Enjoy some hors d'oeuvres with me, how about a beverage? We can talk like we're neighbors now."
"Sound's great partner." in a cowboy accent said Harry and they both shared a laugh at the same time.
Section Jump: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - END
During the meal, They discussed certain details to collaborate on during the tour and interview. They were both sharing ideas on what to emphasize on and what not to emphasize. Harry started to see the professional side of Malcolm, where he wasn't the rowdy black hat cowboy like before.
"Let's get the picture of me shining under the lights on stage opening the show," said Malcolm.
"That's a good picture Malcolm. I'll probably use that picture with the opening dialogue beside it. First I'll need a picture of you formally for the cover." Malcolm acknowledged it and they got him a shot of himself and his suit looking dignified.
He started to take Harry for a tour talking about his achievements and highlights of his career. He says to Harry "For 39 years I retired as game show host to Family Facts and thought about making a change for myself would be best. This time I have a little more freedom to use my mouth a little more."
I was busy taking photographs most of the time and letting him tell me his story. I asked him about the money he makes and if it makes him feel happy? and he replied
"Well sure it does, Marriage is a sacred thing I believe, but it wasn't meant for me. That's just who I am. What else then? Money is happiness to me."
I got a little trickier with this one and said, "Well if you had no money like you do now, would you marry?" Malcolm paused, he thought and, "Well I love how money talks and without it, I'd just be a pessimistic pig and talk back to it. Marriage? Well no way. I'd have more money for myself than sharing it with someone else."
"You said to me you've had 13 different women propose to you and a dozen top notch girlfriends? In fact you bragged to me about it… Why did you do that?"
"You know seriously, I'll say I may have out-did rapper Snoop Dogg. How many girlfriends does he have? It's funny because he's actually been here and I think he's got more than me. Okay, I would like to get on to the next subject please."
"Alright Malcolm, have it your way. I think comedy can only last a short while. The show has to end and you really have to take life seriously at times especially with people who want to know more about you. America wants Malcolm! And that's why I'm here."
"You're right Harry Ficter. I'm starting to understand you a little better and comedy is more my thing so we'll keep it that way. On to my pool and bar and then the top floor. Oh by the way, you're the guest of honor tonight for my party. Just a little get together if that's ok to ask. I know spending the night was a possible option we talked about."
"Sure thing Malcolm. I'd love to."
"I'm really glad son. Really glad. You can meet a few of my friends tonight including the beautiful Ms. Jill Veela as the headliner tonight. She's usually over here on any other ordinary day, making use of the pool and bar usually, but she's a great chick who digs the limelight and has many celebrity friends. I'm sure you'll get a long just great, but no interviewing and tricky questions ok. She's a little skeptical of people asking questions."
"You won't have a problem. I'll be on my best behavior."
"I know you will. Okay firstly son, The pool is where…"
Harry finished the tour and interviewed Malcolm. He did a rough draft to show him. There's one hour before Malcolm's guests show up. I am now excited again to meet the movie actress Jill Veela who starred in a couple of hit movies I enjoyed watching. (The Flip Squad, P.I. Peeler) She hasn't put a hit out in a number of years now, but still is a hit for us to enjoy. Malcolm didn't mention who the others were, but I didn't ask to leave that a surprise tonight.
He never met a Hollywood actress before and he really is flattered about Ms. Veela but Malcolm told him just be casual and you'll pass. Malcolm asked me if I didn't mind going over the rough draft with him before his guests show up tonight.
Rough Draft
Just how does a charismatic, career TV Entertainer like Malcolm Millions become what he is today? It's simple, you have to be loved by the people. He has to be talented, He has to be the one, He has to be natural and put in hard work day in and day out. Imagine TV without Malcolm Millions? Well we wouldn't have another America's favorite Game Show host that can do it better. He does it, because he loves it. That's his secret.
It's what he does every day while on stage.
People tune in because he's the host of "Take a Chance" and he comes loaded with humor, charm, charisma, as well as money. He's out to prove he's the one to watch every night across HSC's cable network. If you see him, you fall in love with him; you have to love him, even when you hate him. Here's the amazing Malcolm Millions…
Malcolm: "Well Malcolm Millions was my first name. My director and I felt it had a flow that we both agreed upon. I have to thank HSC for picking me over the other Gameshow host contestants because I think they saw and felt something in me that I could shine on Take a Chance and I haven't proved them wrong since. The show was HSC's idea. I could say I know what I'm doing. I just play the part very well. I've had a career in TV for 40 years now.
"Why do people at home like you? Why do they turn in every night to watch the great Malcolm Millions?"
"I've basically got it. I must say I have it all. Thanks to them, I'm a star or a hero or bad guy to others. You see it's how the people at home want to perceive me and I must be doing something right. The ratings prove it and HSC is paying me the most out of any TV show on television today. I feel like I earned who I am today."
"Fair enough Malcolm, but do you ever feel you've ridiculed someone a little too much?"
"I don't think so, I never purposely intended to. Well maybe, but it's what everyone loves a hot headed critic they can watch on National TV. One who gets away with it. You see, Comedy is euphoric when it isn't staged. Lets not forget Bob Hope, Red Skelton, Dean Martin etc. Please don't take it to heart. It's only entertainment. They always for years have said the show must go on. Well that's what I'm doing here. America I love you, honestly."
"You said to me earlier today and I quote ‘Harry I've been proposed to 13 times on live TV.' What does that make you feel?"
"The luckiest bachelor around. What do women love about me? Hell what do I know? Ask them not me, but maybe because I'm rich and I'm famous. My fame is no different than a raving rockstar but I want to point out the fact that it's happened 13 times and I find that quite remarkable."
"You view marriage as being a sacred thing. Elaborate for me?"
"Yes I do. You say your vows in front of a minister. That to me is sacred when you say those things because less not forget we are in holy matrimony at that point. Those vows are written for true lovers and true love between each other, Amen. It's like words for heaven on earth. I'm a career bachelor and it's been that way ever since I was a young boy. I'm an atheist and I have plans to be mummified for when death comes about."
"How do you plan on doing that? What does it symbolize to you personally?" "I've paid my duty for it to happen and it will. My body will be mummified and placed in a coffin. The mummy symbolizes life after death to me because they are buried in coffins with the body preserved over time to let their spirit live freely in a tomb. From the underworld perhaps, but the spirit can finally rest in the body again when needed because their burial is hollow and not buried to rest forever."
"Your home is a modern day castle. Too big for you to use. What do you do here and how do you make use of it?"
"Well I have a lot of guests over. Really money makes me happy and this house makes me happy too. I enjoy seeing people having fun. Like winning the millions on "Take a Chance" for example, it's the way it makes a person fill with love and joy you see. It's a getaway for some and an escape from the stresses of modern day life."
"Would you say then life's a party Malcolm?"
"No I'm not, but you must enjoy it and I'll elaborate on this again. Life is too short to live. Life isn't a party either. You have to earn your money to make a decent living and stick to it. If it doesn't work, make a change for the better and follow your heart. Take that seriously from Malcolm's mouth. That's what I feel is my basic guideline in life. Live life happily because life isn't always happy to live."
"How long do you think you can accomplish Malcolm Millions?"
"Until my time comes knocking on the door to finally retire. I feel like I'm a kid again, rejuvenated after one year doing this, and honestly Harry, maybe the next 40 years or so when I reach 100 is my goal. My secret is to have a great sense of humor. Don't do drugs or smoke, and be young at heart. Even though you're up in age, it doesn't hurt to put on Frank Sinatra, some dinner, fine wine and viagra."
For Malcolm Millions he's just good at what he does and that delivers his big pay cheque and the man soaring the ratings right to new outer space. He ventured into TV entertainment land 40 years ago and he's now feeling like he's just taken off again with a new Game Show. He's suddenly the new neighbor we want to know. He predicts he'll live freely in the afterlife being mummified and his spirit will live on. The bachelor life keeps him happy and so does money, but his sarcastic humor, his charismatic ways, is why America loves him. The great Malcolm Millions. He is on his way to legendary status as one of TV entertainers of the century because he's ruthless, so lookout America, he's not going to quit for anybody.
Section Jump: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - END
Harry pondered in his mind and decided to call his wife.
"Hi hun! I miss you and I love you."
"Hi Harry. I miss you, so do the kids."
"Ya tell Turner and Eric I said Hi and that Mr Malcolm Millions has invited us to come out one weekend if we really want to. Well, even if we don't honey it's up to you, but tell the boys anyway so we keep their curiosity going."
"OK Harry will do, so what's it like there?" "Well It's a fantasy come true." "Oh Wowww!" said Felicia.
"Ya that's a very Wowww! And guess what? I'm getting a chance to meet Ms. Jill Veela the movie actress here tonight at Malcolm's home."
"Are you serious!"
"Oh ya hun, I am and I'll be coming home tomorrow morning. We all got our separate rooms here and this place is a mansion extraordinaire. I did a super interview and I think the magazine is going to love it."
"Ohh that's great news Harry. I'm so proud of you. The boys are focused on our conversation."
"Well rich and famous are ‘way out there' sometimes, but overall he's not too bad when you get used to him. I wouldn't want to come back though hun. You wouldn't get like him."
"What do you mean Harry?"
"Well he's a womanizer and says what he wants and if it's said in humor, then it's alright."
"Well forget that. I'm not listening to a rich womanizer go on like that. He sounds like a pig. Ok boys that's enough now, get ready for movietime and your dad says he loves you. He'll be home tomorrow morning with the scoop, ok?"
Boys say at the same time "Ok mom, we love you dad."
"I love you boys, I love the most beautiful snuggle muffin you Felicia. I'll see you tomorrow ok."
"Ok Harry Ficter, the villain womanizer, hahaha! Just kidding. Have a good night and enjoy your guests. I love you dear."
Harry checks his Rolex and it says 7:20 pm. He prioritizes himself quickly. "Ok: Talk to wifey, done, rough draft, done, supper, not done. Oh, Malcolm never said anything about supper. Hey, maybe I need to get out of this bedroom and roam around a bit. I don't even know where to eat here. I never saw the kitchen. Maybe there's
Mummy brains on the menu tonight."
Harry looked himself in the mirror and started to draw pretending he was the big black hat outlaw in town looking for the other outlaw Malcolm Millions. He started to recite to himself in a old West cowboy accent:
"They put a pretty price on your head Malcolm, and I'm here to collect it. Your head on a stick for the sheriff in Kansas."
Then it finally hit me, maybe there's room service. I didn't know my room had a phone in it. Might as well check things out I thought.
The phone had the address below the phone receiver. Harry picked up and it began to ring right away. It rang once quickly and he heard."Room service."
He said "Hello, I'm Harry Ficter and I'm in room 3, I was wondering if I could get something to eat?"
"Oh sure, Mr. Ficter. We were wondering when you were going to get hungry. Supper will be done at 7:30. Scallops, potato, green asparagus served with gravy on the side and butter for your greens with any kind of beverage you would like. Dinner will be served on the ground floor where the winding stairs go up to the bar. Mr. Malcolm
Millions will be awaiting your presence and your report."
"Well thanks again Varment. I've been practicing my old wild west talk since being here in this palace like Malcolm does to me."
"Well Malcolm is a very good man Mr. Ficter. He does more than you know."
"Well thank you again. I'm going to make my way to the dining room now." Away Harry went out of his room door and down the hallway towards the stairs. He remembered the winding stairs looking from the outside in through the tinted studio glass when he first laid eyes on the place. As Harry made his way through to the stairs, he was admiring the artwork on the walls of the hallway and it had some sort of old West Cowboy theme.
There was a great picture of the battle of the Alamo located in San Antonio Texas. The great battle of the Alamo took place in 1835 where a group of Texans led by George Collinsworth stormed the fort in Mexico to seize control and claim independence for Texas. That was a true all American history story that always sticks in his mind. He saw the big table by the stairs where plates and some food were laid out slightly ahead of time. Two butlers stood there. One at my end, one at Malcolm's. There were some fresh hot dinner rolls on the table with plates and cutlery laid out. The Butler approached Harry and said,
"Good evening Harry Ficter. Can I fancy you a drink?"
"How about a Cola?"
He replied "yes sir" and began to walk to a doorway to the right. Harry could hear pots and pans clinging beyond the doorway and knew that the kitchen lies beneath the bar above. He could smell the wonderful food aroma and it started to make his stomach grumble. Malcolm appeared at the other side of the room and said, "Hello Harry. I hope you'll enjoy dinner with me tonight."
"I said sure thing Malcolm, I'm a little hungry and I could use some grub around here pilgrim." Joked Harry.
"I see you're finally coming out of your shell and talking like me around here. That's good. I enjoy Western movies a lot and my theme here is about the old Wild West. A rancher's paradise."
The butler entered the room with Harry's Coke. The second Butler went into the kitchen. Harry's Butler said, "Here you go Mr. Ficter, it's been a pleasure to have you stay with us for a night. Dinner will be served in a couple of minutes." He also went to the kitchen.
"Now Harry," said Malcolm. "Were you able to finish your report for me?" "Yes I did Malcolm, I have right here in this folder-binder for you to read at your discretion."
"Good, good. I like to hear that. Geez Harry, you know how to put a smile on a rich man's face. Like the gold on Clint Eastwood's face in The Good, The Bad, The Ugly. Almost like you're not bluffing and I can tell you right away. I like you Harry and my guests will too. They'll be arriving a little later. They just heard that you write for the magazine and know that our interview was a smash hit."
"I'm really glad you feel that way Mr. Millions and to prove it, read what I got in the binder."
Dinner was brought out by both Butlers and boy did it look good. Harry couldn't help himself and decided to indulge right away. Gravy on the potatoes, butter on the asparagus, scallops were plentiful, it was a meal fit for a king. Malcolm himself also indulged right after Harry and they both began to eat. Harry was so delighted with his meal he said "Malcolm, I must admit, I'm coming over every weekend if your dinners are as good as this one. We'll pretend my wife doesn't know I said that. Ha! She likes to think I can only fall in love with her cooking, that's all."
"Tell me more about her Harry? Your family life. What's it like?"
Malcolm took a break from eating and opened the binder and began to read awaiting my reply to his questions.
"Well I was married at the young age of 24 fresh out of school and she was 21 going to UCLA. We dated for about a year and decided to tie the knot. I knew she was the one Malcolm. She was good looking, fun, my best friend, really my world because all my other guy friends faded away after that. We chose to get married and have children later on when she was done with her schooling and me a job at a local radio station in San Jose. We held off on the children till 10 years ago when we had our first: Turner was born and then Eric who's 7, they are both a treasure of the world to us today.
We are a fun loving typical Californian family with good morals we were taught and teach our kids. Our careers kept us busy and children came to us in our thirties. We felt that that was a good age really. We were definitely a little more mature to handle that kind of responsibility."
"You know Harry Ficter. You are a good father and I'm really applauding you for your accomplishment there. This draft is amazing. I'm so happy with this. Just when will it be published and photos too?"
"Yes, the illustrations I will be printing on Monday morning and the report I have there will be inserted Tuesday morning to the photos. You will be on the front page cover of EXTRA for May's issue. You'll also be the first story we cover on the second page. My final draft has to be submitted tomorrow to my boss for his approval and if there's anything you want to correct, do it now because once the report is final, it's final." We have 2 weeks until May so I'll make sure you get a copy of our first issue later next week."
"Terrrrriiiifffffiiiicccc!!!" said Malcolm and he slid the binder across the table to me. "I'm really glad we did this kid. Real glad. So glad I'm going to give you a 5 grand incentive for good work and honesty."
"Well thank you very much Mr. Millions. I'm speechless for your generosity and my wife and kids give you their best gratitude too."
"Keep being who you are, Mr Harry Ficter and you'll go far. You're a good friend in this place and when I may need to do another interview, the next one I'll be more than obliged at no cost. How about that? You've earned my trust and now my respect. You're welcome to my home any given time because you've made me a very happy man."
"Oh thanks Malcolm. I must say this food is delicious. I'm so glad we're hitting this baseball out of the park back to back together." as Harry looks at Malcom with a smile. Malcolm returns the smile too.
"You're a funny guy Ficter. A funny, good guy."
Section Jump: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - END
Supper was done a little before eight and Malcolm instructed me to enter the guest room again where our guests will be arriving soon. He had to take care of something first, but told me not to be shy and introduce myself till he got back. I sat in the same spot on the couch and again this time an Usher was visible in the back towards the door. The butler approached me and asked, "Will there be any dessert for you tonight Mr. Ficter, perhaps another drink?"
"Sure, how about a beer. A Bud."
"As you wish sir."
There was a knock on the door and the usher let three ravishing looking people in. An older couple and the movie actress Jill Veela entered the room. Her hair was shining. Sparkling too. Mascara and red lipstick looked immaculate. Harry Ficter was a dedicated man who wouldn't cheat. He just couldn't and highly values his wedding vows to the fullest in his life. Ms. Jill Veela was hot tonight and she looked like she hadn't aged in ten years. She was incognito.
"Hello Mr. Ficter, I'm Cannabis defense lawyer Geoffrey Godwin, this is my wife Hillary Godwin, and this is movie actress Jill Veela. Don't mind us if we seem a little peculiar, but it's likewise I assume meeting strangers for the first time. Listen up, we love you and your work and that's why we're all here tonight. Malcolm did brief us a little about your credentials."
"Great, I'm really flattered. This all has been an experience I won't forget. Even Malcolm, you gotta love him and America loves Malcolm. I'm having the time of my life staying here at night and now meeting you. I'm completely exhilarated."
"And you are really cute." said Jill Veela. "The married ones want more purring, or fame like Malcolm does. Like I like to say: "The boys will always play rough, while the girls will always play like soft pussy cats." in a provocative manner.
"Now that is a true statement Jill," said Hillary "And we are lucky to have such a handsome youngman in our presence tonight."
"Now ladies calm down. He is our guest of honor and deserves other compliments than just his good looks. He's a chief-editor for his magazine. Now that is a real accomplishment in that field I presume Harry?" interrupted Geoffrey.
"Well that is very true Geoffrey and thank you by the way ladies. I've never been so flattered by a couple of lovely ladies at once other than my wife."
"We like to play around,'' said Jill provocatively. "At least I do Mr. Ficter. I'm not married and have the free will to do whatever I please."
"Oh nonsense!" barked Hillary. "A classy woman takes her time to get to know the man before she chooses her mate."
"Geez ladies, ladies, ladies, please… this isn't the dating game either. Now let's formally talk about ourselves and what we like to do." said Geoffrey. "Harry, would you like to start and lead?"
"Ok, well I was invited to stay overnight to formally meet you guys and spend it with Malcolm. I'm a family man with a loving caring wife, Felicia, and two young wonderful boys who are my world. I work for the Magazine EXTRA. I've been chief-editor for 3 years now, but had to work my way up to that position because I actually started as a field reporter 7 years ago. I have a great relationship with my boss so really I have to admit, I'm very happy, and can't complain. If my wife was here… She would declare I get too serious sometimes."
"And why is that Mr. Harry Fichter?" snapped Geoffrey.
"Well there's moments I have to be serious with the children so they listen and learn, but a lot of it comes when I'm working. I tell her I need time to study, but sometimes I get lost in my train of thought that I'm being too serious. I was also a News editor before, for a newspaper and I had to take that job quite seriously too."
"Now, now, now, is that your only flaw Mr. Ficter?" asked Hillary.
"Um, No but I can't think of one that stands out more right now. Honestly."
Malcolm reluctantly says, "Jill says I don't shut up." declared Malcolm, as he entered the room and our living room area where Harry and all the guests seemed to appreciate his entrance."Not just Jill, Malcolm." added Geoffrey.
"Oh my Malcolm. Thank you for having us all again and to sit and meet this fine young gentleman, Mr. Harry Ficter." acknowledged Hillary.
"It's all how you present yourself to people and possess the right people skills to be successful. Not too serious I'd say." added Jill.
"Forgive me dear. I hope I didn't interrupt you Jill, but it's not so stifling now. Hillary! Brandy for you, a Cognac for Geoffrey, and I see Mr. Ficter has a beer already. How about some red wine for me at once, Henry" said Malcolm.
"Yes sir, right away sir." said Henry the butler.
Geoffrey pulled out a stogie and it was a really expensive one and gave one to Malcolm and offered Harry one too, but he turned it away because he doesn't smoke. "Ladies, forgive us, but us gentlemen are going to the pool deck to talk about important matters. Please, feel free to join us if you'd like or stay comfy here on the furniture. Do as you wish in my house. Thank you." explained Malcolm.
"I know how those 2 women can get when they see a nice handsome youngman. Especially fresh new meat I think. I thought we duck out here for a man's talk, You, me, and Geoffrey" said Malcolm to Harry.
"So Mr. Ficter. How did the interview go today?" asked Geoffrey.
"It was splendid. Malcolm loves it and I have a copy of it here if you'd like to see it. If there's any input or margin for error please let me know and we can discuss it. I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt, you being a man of your stature, I think you may know a thing or two that may be informational to us both."
"I would love to see it and give you my input to the dialogue. But please do tell me, how big was this interview and story for you?" asked Geoffrey. "Well it was the biggest one so far. It's actually my second front cover too. Being Chief editor I have to collaborate with all our writers and especially the boss. He's number one over me, but this will surely secure me an incentive for this piece." "Very interesting." inquired Geoffrey.
"Harry was inquisitive enough and he kept his composure during the tour and interview today. Especially with a son of a gun like me." said Malcolm. "Is that you John Wayne?" Harry said with his western cowboy accent again and the trio all shared a laugh together.
"Now son, after this meeting, let's get together with our guests who will be leaving at around 9:30. I have some business to discuss with Ms. Jill Veela in my bedroom. If you were wondering where she may have gone or even myself, I'm letting you know ahead of time so you don't accidentally stumble on our conversation. We'll be shortly out after to join our little party and you can enjoy anything the place has to offer." explained Malcolm.
"You know Mr. Ficter. This is very good work and I can't wait for a copy to have for myself. I bet the photos of the place are just stunning." said Geoffrey. "Thank you Geoffrey. I take a lot of pride in my work."
Malcolm asked if the men needed more drinks and they both acknowledged. He then entered the house to check on the ladies."I think you capitalized on a very good point with what you just said, Harry Ficter. You take pride in your work. You have to take pride if you ask me. It's the driving force that keeps you going every day, day in, day out especially in my type of work."
"Oh yes, I agree Geoffrey."
"I get a lot of guys who are repeat offenders who always frown upon me if I don't get what they feel is right and I tell you it's frustrating at times, but really I love my job. I do it well. I'm 62 years old, Married for 39 years to Hillary and only one child who works for a law firm in Chicago. I've done well. My wife too and that's my pride every day in and every day out. Heck 3 more years and I'm going to retire happily."
"How do repeat offenders affect you when it's not always what they want for a conviction?
"Well you see Mr. Ficter. At my age you know the ins and outs of the law a lot and really it doesn't affect me too much anymore. My first years were a lot harder, but now, it's simple logic, you do the crime, you pay the time. I do have a knack for getting them a lesser sentence and that's really the best I can do."
"Ya, I understand where you're coming from."
"Let's join the rest in the guest room," said Geoffrey.
Harry and Geoffrey entered the guest room where they saw Malcolm talking to the ladies making them chuckle and it appeared they were all having a good time.
Malcolm turned around and spotted Harry and declared, "Here's a toast to Harry Ficter. The new kid on the block and a proud, dedicated, magazine chief editor."
Everyone put their drinks together and shouted, "TO HARRY!"
Harry, feeling humbled, said "Thanks everyone, I'm extremely commended. This whole entire day has been a new adventure and I want to thank you for your time we've spent together and your devotion towards me." Hillary said, "Well Geoffrey, I think it's time we get going now. A good sleep tonight will always put you in a better mood tomorrow I always say. It's been a great pleasure to meet you, Harry Ficter. We have enjoyed your wisdom and charm."
Geoffrey looked at Harry straight in the eyes and smiled and said, "You're alright kid and if you ever want to do a story on me. Well I'll have to defend you first." The crowd laughed except for Veela who suddenly didn't seem interested in anyone at the moment.
The Godwins thanked Malcolm too and made their way out through the doors. Malcolm was smiling at Harry and Veela and said, "Well? Are we going to chat or who wants to watch Take a Chance outtakes, they're better than the intakes."
"Oh Malcolm, I've seen it a hundred times already. Why do you always enjoy watching yourself over and over again on the big screen?" asked Jill Veela.
"Oh when was your last box office hit?" I can play that game too. Sorry you lost this time. I'm rich, you're broke."
"You're a bloody bastard Malcolm. You always have been. I need a drink. This is going to be a late night tonight. I can feel it already."
Harry didn't understand the new tone and wanted out of there so he intervened and said,
"Well guys, it's been a great time tonight for me and meeting you Jill, the Godwins, and you especially Malcolm. You've been nothing but a good guy to me all day and showed me that having a little bit of fun in the day is still important. Don't take things too seriously, right John Wayne?"
Malcolm looked at me and gave me the Million dollar smile and said "Couldn't have done it without you kid. You're a Star now."
"Goodnight you two."
They replied, "Goodnight."
Off to bed went Harry Ficter and he was wondering if this was the right thing to do and he asked himself again and yes he was convinced hitting the sack was the best thing to do.
Section Jump: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - END
Harry checked his watch and it was a quarter to ten. He was tired but his adventure today would keep him up a little bit. Harry did feel like a celebrity now staying at Malcolm's place. Especially Interacting with a movie actress Jill Veela who had the hots for him. It was exciting to fathom all of it. A different lifestyle.
Overall, Harry couldn't be Malcolm Millions for a day. He would rather return home to his simple life with his wife and kids. That was his greatest treasure of all. That's where his heart belongs.
Harry decided to take a walk around the place because he was experiencing broken sleep, off and on. I wonder if those 2 are still up. It was close to 11 and Harry decided to go for a walk. He made his way to the guest room where in the distance he could hear Jill Veela's voice in a scornful tone talking to someone he couldn't see yet. She was also crying and in tears.
Harry stood unseen in the distance, but close enough to hear what was going on. There was someone else talking but Harry couldn't exactly see who it was. A voice unrecognizable.
Jill Veela said weepingly, "You always made a scene and you beat her and left. Why tell me, why did you do that? Why did you do it when I was up in the bedroom begging you to stop screaming at the top of my lungs?".
"I'm not perfect, you know. She deserved it."
"No, you go around here thinking you're perfect though. All the time. Constantly!" wept Jill.
"Here, take this. It will help you sleep and you'll forget all about this in the morning. This argument is over. Have a drink to drink it down. Relax my child, relax" the mystery voice said.
Harry saw Jill take the pill and she swallowed a big gulp of her drink where she quietly laid down on the couch in the guest room. Harry still couldn't see who was talking to her and couldn't really make out the voice. He thought he better return to his room and think about what he just witnessed for a minute.
Once in the bedroom, he thought Malcolm and her must have had a loving relationship and she was the victim of his mental abuse. Maybe that's why she's now washed up? He wondered. Could this be the reason why? Harry's curiosity was getting the best of him and he wondered where Malcolm was all this time. Harry said he'll brave it again and take another walk to the guest room in a few minutes.
Harry ventured out of the room to see what was going on in the guest room again. There was a little light shining above the pictures, but not enough light to see completely down the hallway. He quietly and slowly made it to where he was before and there was Jill Veela still laying on the couch but this time real motionless. The projection screen was on and that was different then last. It was providing quite some light on her and the front of the room. Jill just laid there without moving a muscle. Harry thought he'd better get to her fast and get a close up view, so away he went, slowly, quietly till he was right in front of her and he witnessed blood and a stab wound to the gut. "Oh my god! What should I do? Jill! Are you awake? Jill!" Harry began to shake her but she laid motionless.
"Jill! Oh Jill! My god! Save her, save her," and he began to weep.
He laid in front of her motionless body for a few seconds and began to panic.
"I can't move the body until the police arrive. Oh Geez, I'm an accomplice to murder now. Oh no dear god what do I do? Ok Harry Ficter. Call the police. Yes, call them. I don't even know where Malcolm is, but I should call them anyway."
Oh no he realized that his phone was in the bedroom and he had to leave Jill bleeding on the couch with the only light source on the Projection screen. Suddenly, the power went out at that second. The house felt big and creepy. Harry was scared and was crying and ducked down. After a couple of minutes, he started crawling his way back to the bedroom for his phone. He felt any sudden movement may stir up noise so he quietly got up on his two feet and ran down the hallway looking for his door. He actually ran past his bedroom door. He was terrified and threw open his door and began to look all over for his phone. He went through his travel bag and nothing. Started rummaging through his clothes. Oh ya, his laptop bag is where he kept it. He was in such a frenzy, he couldn't remember that, but he eventually did. He pulled out his phone and dialed 911. His phone wouldn't work.
"What the hell?" It wasn't his phone. It was a toy phone that lit up. His phone was gone. He started to feel hysteria.
"What the hell is going on here!" he yelled and began to feel poignant about Jill's death.
He had a feeling he was going to die. He dropped to the ground in front of the bed and said solemnly, "Calm down Harry, calm down,"
He heard a glass smash in the guest room direction. He paused, but slowly approached the bedroom door and peered out. Darkness. Is all he could see in front of him and down the hallway.
He yelled, "Hey! Why don't we get help and call 911? That's our best move.
Malcolm? Are you out there? Malcolm, are you there? Jill is dead! We need help!"
"Harry! Is that you?" Harry hears in the distance.
"Ya!"
"How about we quickly make it to the guest room ok?" said Malcolm.
"Ok. Here I go, I'm going to run to the couch."
"You do that quickly."
Harry ran as fast as he could to the guest room to meet Malcolm.
"Oh my god Malcolm, what do we do? Jill is dead. Did you kill her?"
"No, No, No, Harry I was in my room the whole time and awoke because I heard you yelling and noticed the power was out?"
"Well then what the _uck is going on Malcolm?" Harry grabbed Malcolm and in a fit of hysteria began to shake him and scream "We're dead too!"
"Now hold on a second Harry. Get a hold of yourself. We're both adults and both are going to get out of here. We're not killers."
Out of the darkness behind both gentlemen was a scary voice but not visible to them. "We will see who gets killed and who survives now.""And just who the hell are you? You _ucking bastard. Get out of my house or I'll call the police." said Malcolm.
"Well Malcolm, looks like you have a little debt to pay… Take a Chance big shot, You only have one chance in this game of survival. Last one standing by sunrise wins the game."
"Now just wait a darn picking minute. Who are you and what are you talking about?"
"I'm a Fanatic fan who wants revenge for Jill and myself personally. That's all Malcolm Millions. I see you have a guest with you as well. This is interesting. If I kill one of you, that means it's one on one. If you eliminate me first, that's it, you win. So c'mon Malcolm, I'm right here, c'mon and Take a Chance."
"Look look look, let's work out a deal first. I can pay you. What's your price? Name it."
"I'd rather you pay in your own blood Malcolm and your other friend too." "Just, how did you get in here? You killed Jill." said Malcolm.
"No Malcolm you did, now I'll count to ten and you run and hide. It's the only grace you'll get in this new game of survival. One, two, three,..."
"Holy shit Malcolm, this guy isn't fooling around we got to go or we're going to die, the kitchen, lets go to the kitchen!" said Harry frantically.
"I'm heading upstairs. I'm going to kill this son of a bitch with my big gun.," said Malcolm.
"I'll see you around, I need to arm myself."
Harry broke free and headed to the kitchen where he kept thinking he'll find himself a big kitchen knife. He was beyond terrified now and desperately wants to get out of this whole mess. Malcolm headed for his bedroom where he kept a .45 magnum caliber and six shots in his bedroom end table. The game of survival has begun.
Harry Ficter made it frantically to the kitchen where he was knocking over everything in sight trying to locate a knife somewhere. He found a knife. A little steak knife and grabbed a big frying pan for his defense. It's the best he could do for now. He ducked behind a chef's table where he could stay focused on both doors of the kitchen. His plan was to swing the pan at anything that came close and stab with the other hand profusely. He remained still.
Malcolm Millions made it frantically up the stairs to his bedroom where he was out of breath and began to load the big handgun with the six bullets he had. He scrambled the bullets and only placed three in the barrel as he still was hysterical over what was happening and going on. Malcolm was ready as he laid on the bedroom floor with the loaded gun in his hand.
"Alright whoever you are, I got my little buddy with me and he doesn't like the likes of you so I'm warning you. Exit and leave now or else you're going to get a hole through your heart as big as the moon."
The Fanatic was nowhere to be found. He was a stealth killer. He hides in darkness with clothes camouflaged.
Malcolm began to wonder about the day Jill said to him, he's going to get it one day. Well her redemption was about to unfold. She vowed upon it in a drunken rage on Malcolm after a night of sex and booze and mental abuse. He finally knew it caught up to him. He didn't care though. His star status and fame is at jeopardy and that angered him that someone was trying to end that.
Malcolm treated Jill like her mother because she really wasn't his. Now he knows his time and his fate has come for his treachery of mental and physical abuse of Jill and her junky mother when Jill was a young girl. Malcolm made Jill a star, but she was too drunk all the time to know the difference on how to do it yourself.
Malcolm starts yelling, "C'mon out, you know let's talk this out first before we kill each other. Jill, no I didn't kill Jill. Maybe Harry did? Was it you Harry? You were the only one who found her dead. How about you Mr. Fanatic? Why don't you show your face and let's have a chat. Can we now? Peacefully? I'll put my gun down and let's sort this out. Ok?"
As Malcolm stepped into the hallway, a vase went flying by him and he quickly stepped back into the room and grabbed the gun again. He heard the Fanatic's voice from the hallway.
"You know Malcolm, Jill was right about you. You are a ruthless pig. You really know how to treat a lady. I'm here personally because Jill got me here, but there's more to it."
"Well let's see here, Jill was washed up and I supported her financially for the last ten years. She had nobody after her mother died. That counts for something right?"
"You were a terrible physical abusing bastard before that."
"You don't even know me or my side of the story so how can you think that's true?"
"I do know Malcolm Millions. You are a phony behind that smile and charm you have. I know first hand because I was a contestant on your show."
"Well there we go, huh! Let's do it again. Did you take a chance and win a million dollars?"
"No Malcolm, total opposite. I lost and you belittled me on national TV and now everywhere I go people don't treat me the same anymore. I'm an outcast to society and I swore I was going to make you pay."
"Now wait a second, wait a second, look bub. I can make you a very happy person. I'm worth a fortune and I can change your life around. I owe you. Now let me do this for you and show yourself now."
Bang! Malcolm's gun went off but missed in the direction the fanatic's voice was in the hallway.
"Hahaha, talk is tough little doggie but don't come home to cry. Hahaha you know you crazy son of a bitch, Jill was a good _uck. But that's it. Her mother stole from me all the time. She had to be taught too. You, on the other hand, need to take a chance and have your brain looked at. Show yourself out front in the guest room where this childish stupid game began."
Malcolm appeared out of the bedroom and down the hall towards the staircase where the guest room was. He was more confident now and was certain he was going to kill the Fanatic.
Bang! Malcolm fired again towards the staircase, but nothing was there.
"I got one shot left _sshole and it's got your name written all over it. What a deranged individual. You're going away for a long time whoever you are…" Suddenly, a thump!, thud! Swat! Bang! Thud, thud. Could all be heard.
Harry was still stuck in the kitchen sweating and scared for his life.
"Oh Jesus, please protect me, please protect me oh Jesus. I need to get out alive. I heard 3 gunshots. Please tell me this fanatic person is dead. I hope Malcolm is alive."
Harry was terrified after hearing the gunshots and started thinking to himself. "I have to make a move here in about ten minutes. Ya ten minutes. I'll make a dash to the front door. Try that way. Maybe a window. Ya that's it a window. No No No, the only windows are the big thick glass studio ones. Ok I'm going out there to see what's up. It's been ten minutes already. Here I go."
Harry was ready for any little noise in the kitchen as he slowly walked towards the door. The door seemed as if it was longer to get to this time but Harry was still armed with a frying pan and a little steak knife that could pierce the skin and do a little damage if inflicted in a vulnerable spot. He thought about his offensive strategies. It took 5 minutes for Harry to finally reach the door and he opened it quietly. Nothing was there as he stood gazing in the dining room.
He yelled, "Malcolm! Are you alright? I'm coming out now. Don't shoot me!" Harry was breathing heavily and sweat poured out every pore of his body, but he still kept a keen eye and was very alert to any given sound. He walked slowly down the hall towards the guest room where the last gunshot was heard in that direction.
"Mr. Fanatic sir please sir. I'm 46 and I have a family to take care of. I don't have anything to do with your revenge. I just happened to be here. Can you just be kind enough to let me go and if you do I swear I'll keep this confidential even to the authorities?"
Nothing, complete silence. The silence started getting to Harry. It was stirring up paranoia again as Harry now had to watch his back and front as he moved forward down the hallway. He made it to the mouth of the guest room. He saw a banister broken on the stairwell leading down to the ground floor. To his amazement, Both Malcolm and the Fanatic lay over each other at the bottom of the stairwell with broken debris over them and a blood trail not visible to whose blood it was. Harry paused and stuck his eyes like glue on both bodies. I think I win, he thought.
Harry thought, "Ok, I'm grabbing that spit by the fireplace and I'm going to stab them both."
Harry quickly went over to the fireplace and grabbed the metal spit that could easily pierce right through someone with enough force. It made a noise as Harry dropped it the first time, but he picked it up again and stared at the bodies.
Still no movement.
"Oh lord," Harry said, weeping. "Please forgive me for my sins, for now I may have to kill someone in order to save myself. I solemnly swear that when I do and I make it out alive, I will attend church this upcoming Sunday and pray 100 times to you for forgiveness dear lord."
He ran up to the bodies and poked the spit over the both of them. He noticed Malcolm had a gunshot wound to his chest. The Fanatic abruptly made a desperate move and grabbed the spit with his right hand. Harry struggled with it but held on, he quickly dodged the Fanatics left hand with a big combat knife in it as it came straight up to stab Harry's abdomen.. Harry won the struggle over the spit and had to get up as he fell backward to the floor. He got up and repositioned it to stab the Fanatic. Both men had a weapon each staring at each other. One false move and the other wins. The Fanatic was bleeding somewhere and was badly hurt in his leg, but he was on his feet armed with a combat knife in his left hand. Harry was in better condition, but has no survival skill training like the Fanatic does. Harry made the first stabbing motion first, The fanatic dodged it. The Fanatic comes back with a slice of his knife and Harry dodges it. The two go back and forth taking swipes waiting for a false move. Harry pleads, "Look man, we can just walk away. This game is stupid. The real asshole is dead now. You got your revenge," as both men stood eight feet apart staring at each other's eyes.
The Fanatic replies "No way, it's a fight to the finish. Those are the rules."
Harry makes a valiant effort to stab him by lunging at him forward with the spit, but the Fanatic is too good with his knife and hits the spit with it and Harry goes by unscathed. The Fanatic appears to have a broken leg as he begins to stumble after that last lunge by Harry. He's in a bit of agony.
Harry picks up on this weakness and says, "Hey you Fanatic fucker take this," as he slides his feet towards the broken leg, kicking behind the knee joint and lower calf. The Fanatic lets a big yell of pain out - while at the same time Harry stabs the Fanatic holding the spit up on an angle upwards inserting into the gut of the Fanatic.
The Fanatic lets out a whispered groan, but that's about all and collapses to the ground. It's finally game over for him and Harry Ficter is the victor of this "Take a Chance" survival game.
The End
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This content is original content by Jason Harris. Please do not use this content in any way, shape, or form, without explicit permission from him. Hope you enjoyed 'Take a Chance'. Questions, comments, or feedback about the story are welcomed via email. Be sure to come back soon for more stories by Jason at Writing for Change.