The Speed Of Pain

Stern

Chapter Nine

May 15th, 1998

Manson

Going on Howard Stern's show is always a blast. Despite his reputation, he's always been welcoming to me and the band. Can't say the same for most radio hosts. Today, I'm flying solo for the interview since the rest of the band got wasted last night. Typical. But I'll never pass up a chance to address the masses.

Stepping into the studio, I'm greeted by Howard and Robin, his co-host. Taking my seat, I slip on my headphones and adjust the mic.

"Hello, Marilyn," Howard greets cheerfully.

Leaning in, I reply, "Helllooo. It's early as hell."

"It sure is. Can we get you some coffee?" Howard offers hospitably.

I shake my head in disgust. "No thanks. Can't stand the taste. I'll take some hot tea if you have any."

"Anything for you, man."

See? Graciousness. Not something I'm accustomed to. "Why thank you."

"You're working on a new album. It isn't finished yet, but do you have a title?" Howard dives right in.

The whole process of creating this album has been a rollercoaster. Mechanical Animals seems like the only fitting title. It's all I see out in public every day.

"Yes, but I'm not allowed to say," I tease with a smirk. "But it should be out by August or September."

"I loved Antichrist Superstar. Such a fucking classic rock and roll album," he praises. "I can't wait for this project to drop."

Nodding, I reply, "It's worth the wait, trust me."

"I want to talk about a rumor I've been hearing for a while now, Marilyn..." Robin interjects.

I chuckle. "There's a new one going around?"

"It's not rib removal worthy, but I heard you're dating Ozzy's oldest daughter," she says with a knowing smile. "Is that true?"

I nod almost shyly, knowing this topic was inevitable. Don't smile, Manson. I don't need to ruin the image I've built for myself. The "Brian" Charlotte knows is not who I am in this moment. He's reserved for her.

Howard is taken aback by my admission. "Wow, man. How did that happen?"

"We met during Ozzfest last year," I explain. "Kelly actually went out of her way to introduce us. Things moved pretty fast after that. She's the first girl in a long time who has my undivided attention, so I'm daring to be hopeful."

It's half true. I know Charlotte is fully invested in "us."

"Kelly, as in her younger sister?" Robin asks, clearly reveling in the exclusivity.

I chuckle and sit up straight. "Yeah. She attached herself to me the second the band joined Ozzfest. I think she got it into her mind that Char and I should be together, so she did everything she could to meddle and make it happen."

"Aww, she wants you to be her brother-in-law," Robin coos in a baby tone.

Shrugging, I say, "She might just get it if things keep going so well. We're coming up on a year and haven't tried killing each other yet. That's a good sign."

"If you haven't tried yet, you're not ready for marriage," Howard interjects. "Trust me. Now, I've seen the girl, and don't get me wrong, she's hot... But I've gotta say, I didn't think she'd be your type."

"My 'type'? Pale skin, dark hair, and eyes. Sure, I find it attractive, but that doesn't mean I'm not equally attracted to my blonde-haired, blue-eyed doll face," I retort.