~*~Homecoming~*~
A few days after Into the Void

The front door clicked open with a soft groan, and the warm scent of home wrapped around them like an old, familiar blanket.

“Home, sweet home…” Malachi muttered, balancing a sleepy Máire on one hip as he used the other hand to shove the door wide open.

Bella followed, her carry-on slung over one shoulder, oversized sunglasses barely hiding the faint circles under her eyes. Behind them, Bodhi Bennett emerged from the kitchen with a grin, a bouncing Luka at his heels and Salem perched smugly on the stair railing.

“Well, well — look who survived Paris,” Bodhi quipped, his voice easy and familiar.

Máire instantly perked up at the sight of him, wriggling in Mal’s arms with a gleeful, “Unca Booo!” that echoed through the entryway.

Bodhi knelt down and opened his arms. “There’s my favorite girl.”

Mal chuckled and handed their daughter over, watching as Máire practically launched herself at her honorary uncle. Luka barked excitedly, tail wagging at light speed, while Salem gave an unimpressed flick of her tail and padded down the stairs.

Bella let her bag fall to the floor with a soft thud, exhaling deeply as she took in the sight of their home — the cozy mess of life they’d built here. The normalcy of it was comforting… and yet, something heavy still clung to her shoulders.

“Place looks good,” she said softly.

“Hey, what can I say? I’m a responsible adult now,” Bodhi teased. “Kept it all standing for ya. Luka missed you like crazy, though. Salem pretended not to care, but, you know, cat.”

Bella gave a faint smile and knelt to greet Luka, who showered her with eager licks. “I missed you too, psycho-mutt.”

Mal exchanged a quick look with Bodhi, reading the unspoken wear in his wife’s posture.

“Babe,” Mal said gently, stepping toward her, “Why don’t you go unwind for a bit? We’ve got this. Bodhi and I’ll get the bags, take care of everything here.”

Bella hesitated for a beat, her fingers idly running through Luka’s fur.

“You sure?” she asked, her voice quieter than usual.

Mal brushed a knuckle beneath her chin, lifting her gaze to his. “I’m sure. Go. Take a long bath. Clear your head. We’ll be right here.”

Bodhi chimed in, still holding a babbling Máire. “Yeah, go soak. This one and I have some very important business to attend to. Like snacks. And cartoons.”

That earned a soft laugh from Bella — the first real one since the flight home.

“Alright,” she relented, standing slowly. “But if you teach her more bad words, Bodhi—”

“Me?” he grinned innocently. “Never.”

Mal winked. “Go. I’ll come check on you later.”

Bella nodded, leaning up to kiss his cheek before heading toward the stairs.

As she ascended, her steps grew slower, heavier. The weight of Paris… of that loss… still clung to her skin like smoke.

She made it to the master bath, wordlessly twisting her hair up into a loose knot. The hot water hissed to life, steam soon billowing through the space.

Bella shed the last of her travel clothes and sank into the tub, the heat wrapping around her aching muscles, her bruised pride.

Her eyes drifted shut.

And there, beneath the surface of the water and the haze of exhaustion, her mind began to slip away — the ache giving way to dreams, memories, and the first stirrings of the fight still to come.

And what if she never followed in her mom’s footsteps. What if she never took a chance to meet Malachi.

And...what if she never became a wrestler.



Fate. Fate is simplistic and yet a wild fickle thing.

For instance, in the world of Elizabeth Marie, there were so many roads that she could have taken.

Prime example of this was when sweet Bella took off for Paris, all those years ago, she was over the drama of her family, her extended family and needed her own air. It was there that she met Malachi but

What if Bella decided to not meet Malachi on that one particular night 6 years ago?


The world shimmered. The sound of running water blurred into the low hum of city life.


When Bella opened her eyes, she was sitting at a familiar desk — worn oak, towering bookshelves all around her. The New York Public Library, 5th Avenue branch. The biggest one in the city.

Her name plate read: Elizabeth Madison — Chief Archivist

She blinked in confusion. Her hands… soft and not one nail chipped. No taped knuckles. No lingering bruises. The faintest smell of old books and polished wood surrounded her, instead of sweat, leather, and adrenaline.

She leaned back in the chair, eyes wandering. An old display case near the main reading room caught her attention — a curated exhibit on New York sports history. Tucked among the memorabilia, a faded wrestling poster from the late '90s. Headlining the card was a familiar name: Laura Phoenix.

Bella’s breath caught. The past had a long shadow, even here.

She looked away, heart a little heavier.

Sometimes, though, the past crept in through the cracks. Just yesterday, a young intern had asked if she was related to “that wrestler from the old tapes.” Bella had brushed it off with a polite smile — a reflex by now. But the question still echoed.

‘I took the safe road.’ The thought echoed in her mind, unbidden.

The faces came next — the constants.

Mattie Cormier, still her best friend that she met through her , still running her fashion studio. The designs were more boutique now — elegant, understated. Less about stage gear, more about timeless style.

Alanah Russow — still Alanah O’Connell in Bella’s mind — married to Jack, though Jack had retired after a severe injury. He refused to set foot at wrestling shows anymore. Lachlan and Malachi still wrestled, still fought… though no one quite remembered why they started in the first place. Some old grudge that neither would let go.

The library was quiet, the hum of ceiling fans and the soft click of keyboards the only company. Towering shelves lined with knowledge stretched far into the distance. Bella sat behind the desk at the New York Public Library’s flagship branch, a pair of reading glasses perched on the tip of her nose, her long dark hair tied up in a messy bun. She wore a name tag that read: Isabella Madison-Richards. Senior Collections Specialist.

She wasn’t unhappy.

But she wasn’t lit up, either.

This life… It was safe. Predictable. Quiet.

And Bella? She lived this quiet life. Books. Coffee. Dinner dates with friends. No titles. No crowds. No ring.

No fire.

Then came the shift.

A familiar bell above the library door rang. She looked up from a stack of restored volumes to see Alanah, her curls bouncing with every frantic step.

"Bells! There you are!" Alanah beamed, a little breathless, hands clutching her phone and purse like they were her lifelines.

“Lanah?”

Alanah Russow practically bounced through the lobby, blonde hair in loose waves, designer sunglasses tucked into the neckline of a casual tee. She looked rushed, like she always did, except this time, her wide eyes were fixed on Bella like she had urgent business.

“I’ve been texting you for days. Why haven’t you answered me?”

Bella looked sheepish. “My phone’s been on silent. You know how it is. Dewey Decimal waits for no one.”

Alanah rolled her eyes and leaned over the desk. “You have got to come with me tonight.”

“Where?”

“A wrestling show. In Brooklyn. Local promotion, but the card is nuts. Lach and Mal are on it.”

Bella’s brow creased. “Jesus. They’re still fighting?”

“Oh yeah. Five almost six years now. They don’t even remember why. Stubborn Irish idiots. But this is the first time they’re on opposite ends of a six-man tag. I can’t miss it.”

Bella folded her arms. “So go.”

“I can’t go alone! Jack won’t come — not since the accident. And you know he hates the idea of being around it. But I miss it. I miss the rush. I want to go. And I want you to come with me.”

“Lanah…” Bella hesitated. “That was Mom’s world. I’ve spent my whole life trying not to be pulled back into it.”

“But it’s part of you, whether you like it or not,” Alanah said softly.

Before Bella could respond, another voice chimed in from behind a nearby column.

“She’s right.”

Bella turned as Mattie Cormier stepped out, arms crossed, a lopsided smile on her face.

“You’ve spent years cataloguing stories in here,” she said, nodding to the towering shelves. “Isn’t it time you lived one?”

Bella opened her mouth to argue… but the words never came.

Mattie, leaning in through the side door with a sly smile. "Come on. It'll be fun. I already laid out something for you to wear."

Bella stared at both of them. The pull was there — a strange flutter deep in her stomach.

‘Fate’s a fickle bitch.’

"Okay, FINE!" she finally said. "One night."

Flash forward — the arena lights.

The warehouse venue was packed and gritty. Chain-link fencing. Exposed beams. Raw noise and pure energy pulsed through the air. Bella stayed close to Alanah and Mattie, feeling completely out of her element.

Bella sat beside Alanah, her heart pounding for reasons she couldn’t explain. The roar of the crowd vibrated through her chest.

Then the music hit.

Malachi.

He emerged through the curtain — lean, coiled with energy, eyes blazing.

Bella’s breath caught.

She’d never met him. Had only heard stories through Alanah. But something deep, ancient, undeniable sparked when their eyes locked for the briefest of moments during his entrance.

A tether. Invisible, but unbreakable.

"Why does this feel like I know him?" she whispered.

Alanah didn’t answer. She just smiled knowingly.

Fate didn’t care about safe choices. Fate circled back around — one way or another.

And as Bella’s gaze stayed locked on Mal’s form in the ring, something deep inside her — some dormant fire — flickered to life.

For one dizzying second, the sounds, the lights, the sheer electricity of it all swept her back — to being a little girl, standing on a chair beside her grandmother, watching her mother’s entrance, lights blazing, the roar of the fans washing over her.

It felt just like this.

It was part of her. No matter how far she’d run.

Not if.

When.

Later, she found herself backstage — dragged along by Alanah, who still had all the connections.

Mal was off to the side, nursing a bruised shoulder, laughing at something Lach said before the two parted ways. He looked up as Bella approached — and this time, the eye contact lingered.

“You looked like you belonged out there,” she said, before she could stop herself.

He smiled. “You look like you don’t know if you’re lost or exactly where you’re meant to be.”

“I think it’s both,” she admitted.

He extended a hand. “Mal.”

She shook it.

“Bella.”


And in that moment — just like that — fate circled back.


Back in the Bath

Bella’s eyes snapped open. Water sloshed gently as she sat upright, hand pressed to her chest.

The dream still clung to her like mist. It hadn’t been scary. It hadn’t even been bad.

But it wasn’t right.

No matter how many roads she could have taken...Her story always led here.

To him. To the fight. To wrestling.

Because fate? Fate’s a fickle bitch.

But sometimes...

She brings you exactly where you were always meant to be.

The bathwater had long since cooled, skin wrinkled and pink from her unintended soak. Bella stirred, groggy, dragging in a deep breath. Her heart was still racing faintly from the dream — no, the vision — that had taken her under.

A soft knock sounded at the door.

“Bells?”

The familiar lilt of Malachi’s voice drifted through. Concern, warmth… and the barest undercurrent of that mischievous charm that never quite left him.

She blinked the haze from her eyes. “I’m up,” she croaked.

The door cracked open. Mal poked his head in, dark hair tousled, grey t-shirt hanging loose over gym shorts. One brow arched as he took in the sight of her still sitting in the tub, dazed and damp.

“Well, well,” he teased gently. “Ya know, I usually have to bribe you with champagne and scented candles to catch you like this.”

Bella gave a small, weary smile, leaning on her arms on the side of the tub with a tired smirk. “Guess you lucked out.”

Mal stepped inside, bare feet quiet on the tile. He grabbed a fluffy towel from the warmer, unfurling it with a practiced flick.

“Come on, love. You’ll turn into a prune if you stay in there much longer.”

She let him pull her up — water sluicing off her skin, the towel cocooning her in warmth. For a moment, he simply held her there, strong arms wrapped around her, chin resting atop her damp hair.

“You okay?” he asked softly.

Bella exhaled, her voice small against his chest. “Maybe a little jet lagged but...I had a dream… or something. Saw what life would’ve been like if I’d never taken that chance. If I’d stayed safe.”

Mal kissed the crown of her head. “Well it goes without saying but safe is overrated.”

She tilted her face up, meeting his gaze — blue eyes twinkling, lips curved in that signature half-grin. God, she loved him.

“I wouldn’t have met you,” she whispered. “Wouldn’t have this life. Wouldn’t have Máire.”

Mal smirked. “A tragic loss for the world, really. Imagine — no me.”

Bella snorted, swatting his chest lightly. “You’re such an ass sometimes.”

“Ya married me, mo chroí. Your choice.”

Her smile faded, replaced by something more solemn. She rested her palm against his cheek, thumb brushing the stubble just above his full beard there.

“Thank you,” she said softly. “For taking that chance on me. For seeing me… when I didn’t even know who I was meant to be yet.”

Mal’s eyes softened, mischief giving way to something deeper. “I’d do it a thousand times over. You never had to be anyone but yourself, Bells. And you’ve always been more than enough.”

A long pause settled between them, thick with unspoken truths.

Then Bella drew in a steadying breath. “Also, I’ve made a decision.”

Mal tilted his head, watching her carefully.

“As much as I want to give Máire a little brother or sister… as much as that’s still in my heart…” Her voice grew steadier, conviction rising. “I need to go back. To the ring. To this fight. It’s who I am, Mal. And I can’t walk away from it. Not yet.”

For a beat, Mal said nothing — simply searching her gaze. Then a slow, knowing smile tugged at his lips.

“I know.” He cupped her face in both hands, leaning his forehead to hers. “And I’ll be with you every step of the way. Just like always.”

Bella’s eyes glistened. “You sure you want to deal with this crazy life again?”

Mal chuckled. “Love, I live for it. And I live for you. Go light the world on fire — I’ll be right there to cheer ya on… and to catch ya when ye need it.”

She surged up, capturing his lips in a fierce kiss — gratitude, love, and promise all tangled in that single moment.

When they finally parted, breathless, Mal grinned wickedly. “Now — since I did catch you in the tub lookin’ like a goddess…” He waggled his brows. “How ‘bout I carry you to bed and we start makin’ those future tag-team partners?”

Bella laughed, swatting him again — though her cheeks flushed deliciously pink.

“Down, O’Connell.”

He scooped her up anyway, bridal style, towel and all.

“No promises, love. But I’ll follow your lead.”

Their laughter echoed through the house as Mal carried her out of the bathroom — toward whatever fate had in store next.



"And where I’m meant to be…...is standing over the broken ego of Mercedes Vargas, Internet Championship in my hands — again."

~*~Rules of Engagement: "Fate’s a Fickle Bitch"~*~

It all fades in — Bella Madison, damp hair, hoodie on, sitting on the edge of the tub in their master bathroom. Face calm, eyes sharp — no smile, no softness. Voice cold.

"You know what the funny thing is about fate?"

"She gives you just enough rope to hang yourself. She lets you think there are other roads you could’ve taken — safer ones, quieter ones. Ones where you stay behind a desk and let the world pass you by."

"But here’s what I realized — no matter what road I could’ve chosen? They all lead me right back to this fight. Right back to this ring. Right back to this moment."

Her gaze lifts into the camera, eyes steady as stone.

"And thanks to our glorious Queen Alexandra...I come right back to you, Mercedes Vargas."

"Let’s not waste any time here."

"You took the Bombshell Internet Championship from me. That part’s true. But the story you’ve been telling ever since? That’s where the fiction starts."

"You didn’t outwrestle me. You didn’t expose me. You didn’t ‘put an end to my reign of terror’ — or whatever bullshit you’re peddling this week."

"You caught me on a night where I was off. A night where the weight of the division sat heavy on my shoulders. And now? You’ve made the mistake of thinking that one match defines who I am."

"That one match defines this fight."

Her voice tightens — ice creeping in.

"It doesn’t."

"Because since then, you’ve been really comfortable. Real loud. Real smug behind your keyboard — spitting out the same tired catchphrases and one-liners you’ve been using for the past decade."

*"‘Legend.’"
*"‘Hall of Famer.’"
"‘Record holder.’"

Bella smirks, the expression sharp and bitter.

"Do you know what those words sound like now, Vargas?"

"They sound like excuses."

"They sound like the armor you wear so no one asks the real questions."

"Like: what have you done lately that matters?"

"What have you done in this division that means something, other than collecting belts like trinkets in a dying career?"

"You talk about the Bombshell Internet Championship like it’s your throne. Like you own this place now. But deep down? You and I both know you needed me having a bad night to make that happen."

"You needed the perfect storm to drag that title off my waist — because when I’m sharp? When I’m dialed in? You can’t fucking touch me."

"That’s why you talk so much now. Because you’re scared. Because you know I’m coming. And this time? I’m coming with nothing left to lose — and everything to take back."

She leans forward slightly, her voice dropping lower — venom in every word.

"And let’s talk about the little game you’ve been playing on Twitter/X/Whatever the fuck you call that cesspool. The constant jabs. The passive-aggressive bullshit. The constant need to remind everyone who you used to be, instead of showing who you are now."

"You spend more time clinging to the past than building the future. You think you’re keeping yourself relevant, Vargas. You’re not. You’re just proving how desperate you are to matter."

"See, the real ones in this division? We don’t have to remind anyone what we’ve done — because we’re too busy doing it again."

"We’re too busy building legacies that can’t be torn down by one fluke win. And that’s where you and I are different."

"You can have your hashtags. Your highlight reels. Your record book stats. And honestly you can fucking shove them up your tight ass. Because when the lights go up and that bell rings? None of that’s going to stop me from dropping you flat on your back. None of that’s going to stop me from taking that title back.”

"I want you to get used to the term “Transitional Champion” because that’s exactly what you are about to be. And here’s the part that should really keep you up at night: I don’t even care about padding my own résumé anymore."

"I don’t care about the number of reigns. About what some Hall of Fame plaque will say someday."

"I care about shutting people like you the fuck up."

"I care about fighting for this division — so that it’s not run by bitter veterans clinging to faded glory, but by wrestlers who are hungry, who are driven, who are still building something real."

"Because make no mistake — you are not the future of this division. You’re the ghost of a past that needs to be put to rest."

"And I’m the one holding the shovel."

Her hands flex, eyes burning now.

"You should’ve known better, Vargas. You should’ve known that running your mouth the way you have was only going to piss me off. You should’ve known that giving me a reason to focus this fire? To lock in and come after you with everything I’ve got left? Was signing your own damn death warrant."

"Because now?"

"This isn’t about winning a belt."

"It’s about proving a point."

"It’s about ripping away every excuse you’ve been hiding behind — and leaving you with nothing but the harsh truth staring back at you."

"That you’re not the measuring stick anymore. You’re just a stepping stone on my way to the top. Again."

She leans in — tone pure ice.

"And when I’m standing over you with that title back around my waist?"

"I want you to remember every smug tweet. Every backhanded comment. Every time you thought your legacy made you untouchable."

"Because none of it will matter."

"Because you? You’ll just be another broken name on my list."

"And me? I’ll be standing right where fate always meant me to be — holding that championship high."

"And Vargas — when that moment comes? I don’t want your respect. I don’t want your handshake. I don’t even want your apology. I want you to look me in the eyes… and know that I was the one who ended this little fantasy run of yours."

"I want you to know that I didn’t come back to reclaim my spot — I came back to bury you under it."

"I’m here to walk into that ring and tear the Bombshell Internet Championship out of your hands."

"I’m here to become a three-time Internet Champion — not because I need some God damn validation, but because I’m done letting greedy caddy bitches like you prop themselves up on MY name."

"You have no idea what’s coming for you, Mercedes. Because I have absolutely fucking had it with the noise. With the so-called ‘legends’ who treat this division like their personal playground while the rest of us are out here fighting for every inch."

"You’ve coasted long enough. You got your spotlight off my back — now it’s time for me to take everything from you."

Leaning in — voice a low, cold growl now.

"And when I’m standing over you with that title raised, when you’re left lying in the middle of that ring with nothing but excuses and empty words to cling to? I want you to remember this, Vargas — fate put me here. Right where I’m meant to be — DIRECTLY in your path. Dead in my sights."

Pause. One last look, unwavering.

"And you should’ve stayed the hell out of mine. Because this time? I’m not leaving empty-handed. And you? You’re not walking out at all."

"Because fate? She’s a fickle bitch."

"And this time? She’s standing in my corner."

"See you soon, legend."

"Try not to choke on it."

Fade to black.

~*~Oi, Toddler Years~*~

Bella pulled into the driveway of their new home, exhaling a long, contented breath as she leaned back against the seat. The day had been productive—Mattie and Alanah had helped her pick out some final touches for the house, small details that would make it feel more like theirs. But there was still plenty of work to be done. Moving in was one thing, but settling in? That was a whole other battle.

She grabbed her bag and stepped out, the crisp air filling her lungs as she walked up the front steps. The house, standing tall and proud just outside of the city, was everything she and Mal had dreamed of—a place with space, a place where they could breathe, and a place where their daughter could grow up surrounded by more than just the noise of New York City. There was a stable for the horses, a gym with room for a full wrestling ring, and enough space to finally feel like they weren’t stacked on top of each other. It was theirs.

Pushing open the front door, Bella stepped inside, setting her things down before making her way into the living room. What she saw stopped her in her tracks.

There, in the middle of the room, was Mal—her ever-loving, sometimes too-laid-back husband—dancing. And not just a casual sway, but full-on moving to whatever song was playing from the speaker. And right there with him, standing—yes, standing—on the coffee table, was their one-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Máire. She wobbled slightly as she giggled, her tiny hands flailing in excitement, her dirty blonde curls bouncing wildly. But Mal was right next to her, hands at the ready, encouraging her with that signature grin of his.

Bella’s heart leapt into her throat.

“Malachi Noah O’Connell!”

Her voice cut through the music, and Mal immediately froze, eyes going wide like a kid caught stealing cookies. Máire, however, clapped her hands, clearly enjoying herself far too much.

“Uh, hey, Bells,” Mal said, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. “You’re home early.”

“I am home exactly when I was supposed to be!” Bella shot back, crossing her arms. “And what exactly are you doing letting our daughter dance on the damn coffee table?”

Mal glanced at Máire, who looked up at him with the biggest, most innocent smile. He let out a small chuckle. “Well, technically, she got up there herself. I just... supervised.”

Bella pinched the bridge of her nose. “Supervised? Mal, she’s not even two yet!”

“She’s got great balance,” Mal defended, lifting Máire off the table and setting her onto the couch instead. She immediately pouted, but a quick tickle from her father had her giggling again. “She’s a natural, mo ghrá. She’s fearless. I mean, look at her.”

Bella sighed, shaking her head as she stepped forward, gently brushing Máire’s wild curls back from her face. “I know she is,” she murmured, pressing a kiss to her daughter’s forehead. “But she’s also our baby. And our baby does not need to be standing on furniture and giving her mother a heart attack.”

Mal smirked, wrapping an arm around Bella’s waist, pulling her in close. “Noted. But you gotta admit... she’s got moves.”

Bella rolled her eyes, but the fight was already lost. She leaned into him, sighing as Máire crawled into her lap, snuggling against her. “Yeah, yeah. Just... let’s keep the dancing on the ground from now on, okay?”

“Promise,” Mal said, holding up a hand in mock solemnity before pressing a quick kiss to her temple.

Bella shook her head again, but she couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at her lips. Chaos or not, this was home. And she wouldn’t trade it for anything.

After settling Máire down with some of her toys, Bella wandered through the house, letting herself take it all in. Even with the moving boxes still scattered around, this place already felt like home. It was theirs.

Her footsteps took her to the room that was meant to be her office-slash-library, though right now, it was still a mess of sealed boxes and half-unpacked shelves. There was so much to do, but something caught her eye—the faint smell of sawdust, a few stray wood shavings on the floor, and tools neatly stacked in the corner. Someone had been in here earlier, working.

She stepped further into the room, her brows knitting together. Mal. It had to be him. But what exactly was he doing in here?

“Mal?” she called out, glancing over her shoulder. “What exactly have you been up to in here?”

A few seconds later, Mal leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. “Was wondering when you’d notice.”

Bella folded her arms. “Notice what?”

He nodded toward the far wall, and that’s when she saw it. A partially built wooden structure, sleek and sturdy, taking shape against the wall. It wasn’t just any shelving unit—it was a trophy case.

Her breath hitched as she took a few slow steps forward, reaching out to run her fingers along the smooth, unfinished wood. The edges were precise, the foundation solid. He had put real effort into this—more than just a quick project.

“Mal…” she breathed, turning back to look at him.

He pushed off the doorframe, stepping beside her, his hands slipping into his pockets. “You’re a two-time SCW Bombshell Internet Champion now, Bells. Figured it was time you had a proper place for everything you’ve earned. Not just the titles, but all of it—the plaques, the medals, the moments that matter.”

Bella swallowed hard, a lump forming in her throat. “You didn’t have to do this.”

Mal shrugged, ever the nonchalant one, but she could see the pride in his expression, the way his eyes softened as he looked at her. “Yeah, I did. You’ve busted your ass for everything you’ve got. You deserve a place to see it all, to remind yourself who the hell you are when you need it.”

Bella let out a shaky breath before stepping closer, pressing herself against him, arms wrapping tightly around his waist. “You’re such a sap,” she muttered against his chest, her voice thick with emotion.

“Only for you,” he murmured back, his arms securing around her as he pressed a kiss to the top of her head.

She closed her eyes for a moment, letting herself just exist in this moment, in his warmth, in the weight of what this meant. She thought about the journey—every setback, every victory, every time she’d doubted herself, wondering if she was good enough, if she was meant for this life.

And now here she was. A champion. Again.

She took a small step back, looking at the case once more. It wasn’t just about the titles. It was about everything she’d fought for—her name, her legacy, her ability to stand tall in a business that never made anything easy.

“I want this to be more than just for titles,” she said quietly, running her fingers along the wood again. “I want this to be for everything that’s made me who I am. Every match that changed me. Every moment that reminded me why I do this.”

Mal nodded, a slow, knowing smile tugging at his lips. “Then that’s exactly what it’ll be.”

“And I want your titles in there too.” Bella stated matter-of-factly, “We are a team after all.”

“Really?” Mal said and she just nodded with a smile, “Well I was just going to put my stuff up out in the new workout area but...Ok then, I’ll make sure to add space.”

Bella took a deep breath, steadying herself. “Good,” she said, her voice firm, resolute. “Because I’ve got so much more to add to it.”

Mal smirked, looping an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close once more. “Damn right you do.”

And with that, Bella felt it—an unshakable certainty, a fire burning deep inside her. This was only the beginning.

~*~The Fire That Never Dies~*~

Bella sat on the back enclosed deck at her mother’s home, her fingers curled around a steaming mug of tea as she watched a late winter, slightly warm wind whipping around the loose leaves that somehow missed the clean up before winter had fully hit. The night was quiet, save for the rustling leaves and the occasional distant howl of something wild. She had always found solace in the stillness, but tonight, her thoughts refused to settle.

Across from her, Laura "Phoenix" Madison sat with her own cup, her sharp blue eyes scanning her daughter's face, reading her like an open book. Decades in the business had taught her to recognize the storm brewing inside a fighter before they even spoke a word.

Bella sighed, staring into the liquid in her mug like it held the answers she was looking for. “I don’t get it, Mom. I worked my ass off. I fought tooth and nail to win that title, and just like that—it was gone. I lost it before I even had the chance to build something with it. I mean at least I got it back but...” She shook her head. “Where did I go wrong?”

Laura took a long sip of her tea, the warmth spreading through her chest, before leaning back in her chair with a knowing smirk. “You’re asking the wrong question, kid.”

Bella frowned, glancing up. “What do you mean?”

Laura exhaled slowly, her mind drifting back—way back—to a time when she was in Bella’s shoes. When she was young, hungry, and questioning herself in the wake of a loss.

“Let me tell you something,” she began, her voice low but steady. “When I first stepped into PWSWF, I wasn’t some big name. I wasn’t handed a damn thing. But then I got my hands on the X-Division Championship.” A small chuckle escaped her lips. “That damn title changed hands more times than I could count, and every time I lost it, I fought like hell to get it back. Five times, to be exact. Five times, I fell. Five times, I clawed my way back.”

Bella sat up a little straighter, listening intently.

“And then, one day, I stopped losing it. I held onto it so damn long that the company couldn’t ignore me anymore. They saw me for what I was. Not just a champion—but the champion. The one who set the damn standard. I built my name on that title, made it mean more than even some of the so-called main eventers. They couldn’t touch me, not in that ring, not in reputation.” Laura’s fingers tapped against her mug, her gaze distant as memories flickered through her mind. “I stood toe to toe with the elite, Bella. I was almost burned alive for it, and you know what I did?”

Bella’s brow furrowed. “You got back up.”

Laura’s lips curled into a proud smile. “Damn right, I did. And I came back even harder.” She leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees. “It’s easy to sit in doubt, to let yourself question everything. The world wants you to do that. They want you to believe you aren’t good enough, that you can’t hang, that you’re just another name in the shuffle. But you?” She pointed at Bella. “You have built a world where you survive on the idea of pissing those naysayers off. So do it. No hesitation. No fear.”

Bella swallowed hard, feeling the heat in her mother’s words.

“You don’t wait for them to ask ‘How did she do it?’ You don’t let them breathe long enough to doubt you. You go out there, and before they even have a chance to whisper your name, you prove it. You live with the audacity and gumption that the Gods themselves gave you.”

A shiver ran down Bella’s spine—not from the cold, but from the fire in her mother’s words.

Laura smirked, leaning back again, her job done. “So stop asking where you went wrong. You didn’t go wrong, Bells. You just hadn’t finished the job yet. Now you got it back, now you don’t give them the fucking chance to do it again.”

Bella exhaled, a slow, steady breath. The weight in her chest wasn’t gone—but it had shifted. It no longer felt like failure. It felt like fuel.

And she was ready to burn.


~*~Rules of Engagement: The Queen Stands Her Ground~*~

Bella Madison sat forward, her SCW Bombshells Internet Championship draped over her shoulder like a badge of honor—no, like a warning sign to anyone daring to take it from her. The glow of the camera lights reflected off the gold plate, but it wasn’t the title shining the brightest in this moment. It was her. The fire in her eyes. The sheer determination etched across her face. The undeniable presence of a woman who wasn’t about to let anything be taken from her.

"Alright, Harper. Let’s talk."

Her voice was steady, unshaken. But there was something behind it—a quiet, brewing storm waiting to unleash itself the moment that bell rang.

"When I became SCW Bombshells Internet Champion, I didn’t just take a title—I took a responsibility. A responsibility to stand my ground, to prove that I’m not some transitional champion, not some flash-in-the-pan success story that fades before her name is even carved into history. I dared this locker room to step up. I put out the challenge to every single woman back there who thought she had it in her to take me down. And you? You answered the call."

A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips, but it wasn’t one of amusement. It was one of anticipation.

"That means something, Harper. That means you’re not afraid to fight. It means you want to stand in this ring and prove you deserve to be here just as much as I do. And you know what? I respect that. I respect you. But respect?"

She let out a small chuckle, shaking her head.

"Respect doesn’t mean I’m about to let you take this from me."

She leaned forward, her grip tightening on the championship, fingers tapping against the gold plate as she measured her next words carefully—words that would burn their way into Harper Mason’s mind long before the fight even started.

"Do you know what it feels like to lose something just as fast as you gained it? To fight, to claw for something, only to have it slip through your fingers before you even have the chance to breathe it in? I do. And I refuse—absolutely refuse—to let it happen again. I am not just hungry for gold, Harper. I am starving to keep it. And that? That makes me more dangerous than I have ever been."

Her smirk faded. Now, there was only cold, calculated truth.

"You stepping up isn’t a challenge to me—it’s a confirmation. It confirms what I already knew: I’m the one running this division. I am the standard. I am the one standing at the top of this damn mountain, and I dared the best to come and fight me. And you did. So congratulations, Harper—you get the honor of trying. But that’s all it’s going to be. A damn attempt. Because let me tell you something right now—you are not taking this from me. Not now. Not ever."

Bella tilted her head, the fire behind her eyes burning even hotter.

"I don’t care how much heart you have. I don’t care how much fight you bring. I don’t care if you’re coming at me like a bat out of hell, looking to light this whole damn ring up like it’s the Fourth of July. Because the only fireworks that are going to matter when it’s all over? Are the ones celebrating me still standing here as your SCW Bombshells Internet Champion."

She adjusted the title, letting the weight of her words sink in before continuing.

"You can try, Harper. You can come at me with everything you’ve got, and I hope you do. I want the fight. I want the challenge. I want you to push me, to make me dig deeper, to test every ounce of skill, strength, and willpower I have. But at the end of the night, when you’re staring up at those bright arena lights, gasping for breath, you’re going to realize what I already know."

Bella stood up, holding the championship in front of the camera, making sure the entire world saw what she was fighting for.

"You don’t get to hold this. Not yet. Not while I’m still breathing, fighting, standing. You can get close. You can give me everything you have. But you will not break me. You will not take this from me. Because I have fought to be here. I have bled for this. And I will be damned if I let this slip away without one hell of a war."

She placed the title back over her shoulder, running a hand over the plate as if reaffirming her claim.

"So bring it, Harper. Bring everything. Make me fight like hell to keep this. Because that’s exactly what I plan on doing. And when the dust settles, and the match is over, and you’re left wondering where it all went wrong… you’ll understand that you never stood a chance to begin with."

She exhaled, stepping back from the camera, the weight of her words heavier than ever.

"See you at Climax Control, Harper. And trust me—you're going to wish you never answered my call."

And with that, Bella turned and walked off, leaving nothing but her words, her fire, and her undeniable dominance behind her.

Waterford Christmastime
New Years Day
Waterford, Ireland

The brisk New Year’s air bit gently at Bella’s cheeks as she stood on the balcony of the rented cottage in Waterford, Ireland. Below her, the green countryside stretched far and wide, kissed with frost and glimmering in the soft winter sunlight. She wrapped her cardigan tighter around herself, her thoughts swirling as she gazed out at the view.

It was New Year’s Day, and also her and Malachi’s fourth wedding anniversary. She should’ve felt happy, she thought—grateful for her family, this time away, and the quiet moments with Mal and their daughter. But despite her best efforts, the sting of her loss to Aleesha still gnawed at her. She had fought tooth and nail to earn the SCW Bombshell Internet Championship, only to have it slip from her grasp after just one defense.

The creak of the balcony door pulled her from her thoughts. She turned to see Malachi stepping out, their daughter Máire perched on his hip, bundled up in a little sweater and hat. Her giggle carried through the still air, and Bella couldn’t help but smile as Mal approached.

“Thought I’d find you out here,” Mal said, his breath visible in the cold air. “Figured you’d need a minute to yourself.”

Bella sighed, running a hand through her hair. “It’s not exactly how I imagined starting the new year—or our anniversary, for that matter.”

Mal shifted Máire onto his other hip and reached out to tilt Bella’s chin up gently so she met his gaze. “You’re allowed to be upset, Bells. But you can’t let this eat you alive. You’ll get your chance again. And when you do, you’ll prove to everyone that you’re more than worthy of holding that title.”

She leaned into his touch, letting the warmth of his hand chase away some of the chill. “I just… I can’t help feeling like I let people down. You, Máire, my mom, my friends, the fans. Everyone who believed in me.”

“Bells, stop,” Mal said firmly but softly. “You didn’t let anyone down. Least of all me or Máire. You gave everything you had in that ring—like you always do. And yeah, maybe it didn’t go your way this time. But you’ve come back from worse. You’ll come back from this, too.”

Máire wriggled in Mal’s arms, reaching out toward Bella with a small squeal. Bella smiled as she took her daughter, holding her close. “You think so, huh, little one?”

Máire babbled in response, her tiny hands clutching at Bella’s sweater. Mal chuckled, slipping an arm around Bella’s waist. “She’s your biggest fan, you know. And so am I. You’re not starting this year at the bottom, Bella. You’re starting it with a clean slate—and you’re going to make the most of it.”

Bella nodded, her resolve beginning to harden. She looked down at her daughter, then back out at the rolling hills of Waterford. “You’re right,” she said quietly. “This trip was supposed to help me reset. And it has. I can’t change what happened, but I can change what comes next. This year, I’m getting that championship back—and this time, I’m not letting go of it.”

As if on cue, Mal’s phone buzzed in his pocket. He fished it out and glanced at the screen before handing it to Bella. “It's the realtor office.”

“On New Years Day?” Bella’s eyebrows lifted in surprise, but she quickly swiped to answer. “Hello?”

“Hi, Mrs. O’Connell,” the realtor said cheerfully. “This is Jerri, Mrs. Ortegua’s assistant. She asked me to reach out to you as soon as I could. She knows you’re out of the country, but she wanted to let you know that the house that she had discussed with you just became available. It’s on a beautiful piece of land, perfect for a growing family—and according to Brenda, it’s everything you were looking for.”

Bella’s breath caught for a moment. She turned to Mal, who was already smiling as if he knew exactly what the realtor had said. “That’s… amazing. Can we arrange a time to see it as soon as we’re back?”

“Absolutely. I’ll make sure it’s ready for a visit when you return,” the assistant confirmed before hanging up.

Bella stared at the phone for a moment, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Maybe this is a sign,” she said, looking up at Mal.

“Could be,” he replied, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “A new year, a new start—and maybe a new home.”

She glanced down at Máire, who had begun to doze off against her chest. “And maybe… a sign that it’s time to let go of what’s behind me and focus on what’s ahead.”

Mal kissed her temple, his voice soft. “That’s my girl.”

As the three of them stood there, wrapped in each other’s warmth, Bella felt the weight on her chest begin to lift. She still had a long road ahead of her, but for the first time in weeks, she felt ready to walk it.

This year will be different. She will make it different.

---

Fast Forward to Earlier this Week
Just outside of New York City

“Bella, Mal! It’s wonderful to see you!”

Brenda Ortegua, a silver haired firecracker of a realtor that came highly recommended on the personal word of her grandfather, had called out to them from the huge wrap around front porch. The moment that Malachi and Bella had stepped out of the car, Brenda turned on her charm with the whitest teeth smile that she could muster.

The couple would give her a quick wave, as Bella would pull her bag from the back and glanced over at Mal as he opened the back door to their car to retrieve Máire from her car seat. “That woman has the whitest smile.”

“I can already tell she’s gonna be big on trying to sell us this house.” Mal mumbled as he unlatched Máire from her seat, “Are you sure you wanna do this, Bells?”

“We looked over those pictures of this house a thousand times when we were in Waterford.” she simply shrugged. “I wouldn’t mind getting a closer look at things, besides if we walk in there and aren’t feeling it...then it’s not for us.”

“You were looking at those pictures a thousand times, I already could see that brain going off and my wallet feeling a little lighter with all the renovation ideas you had as you did.” Mal laughed as Máire slid out of her seat and right to him.

“Only a few small things....”

Mal stops and gives her that look.

“FINE! More than a few things, but if I walk in here and...”

“Oh Bella, there is nothing that you need to worry about.” Brenda quickly chimes in as they approach the steps, “I know looks can be deceiving, especially in picture form nowadays but what do you think so far?”

Bella and Mal both looked around at the gorgeous land, currently snow covered and gorgeous, and in the middle of it a fairly large 3 storied home with a huge wrap around porch. “So far it’s fantastic, Brenda.”

“Well you said you wanted something with some land, it sits on 6 acres, which yes I know is a lot but at least 3 of those acres are forested.” Brenda smiled at them both as they climbed the small set of stairs. Brenda motions towards the door, “Of course the house itself is what we are really here to see, so why don’t we head inside?”

Once inside, Mal let Máire down but kept a hold of her little hand. Brenda started in on the amount of rooms (6), bathrooms (4). They toured the huge kitchen that was something out of a dream that Bella would see in one of her favorite Home Makeover magazines. She snapped a quick picture and just had to send it to not just Alanah but to Carter to make them jealous. During the tour upstairs, Máire let go of her daddy’s hand and made a bee-line to a particular room, giggle away and running around and spinning in circles.

“I think someone has picked her room.” Mal let out with a laugh as he went to scoop her up and spin her around a few times to a fit of giggles from the little girl.

Bella stands there and watches it for a bit before Brenda nudges her, “I’ve been holding out one of the best surprises yet just for you. You wanna see it?”

“Yeah, for sure!”

The curiosity peaked, Bella follows her back down the stairs and through the living room which is huge with a fireplace. Bella’s imagination was just flowing already with what she was seeing. But what came next...

“So, one of the reasons I held on for you to see this is house...I had a wonderful chat with your grandfather and...” As Brenda led Bella through the living room and opened the double doors, she stepped aside with a knowing smile. Bella's eyes widened in shock, her breath catching in her throat.

The room before her was massive, with floor-to-ceiling built-in shelves lining the walls, currently empty but brimming with possibility. A ladder on a rail was tucked neatly in one corner, waiting to glide along the shelves. Tall windows let in streams of natural light, and in the center of the room, a cozy alcove with a window seat beckoned for someone to curl up with a book.

Bella stepped inside slowly, her fingers brushing over the wooden shelves. “Is this... a library?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Brenda beamed. “Your grandfather mentioned it’s always been your dream to have your own library. When I saw this house, I knew it was meant for you.”

Bella turned around to see Mal, who was holding Máire as she reached for the shelves in wonder. Her husband grinned knowingly. “You’re already picturing it, aren’t you?”

Bella nodded, tears prickling her eyes. She turned back to Brenda with a smile that lit up her entire face. “I’m sold.”

---

An Empty Gym
New York City
January 2025

The camera opens on Bella Madison standing in the center of a dimly lit gym. The faint hum of fluorescent lights buzzes overhead, and the echoes of her footsteps bounce off the walls. She’s dressed in black leggings and a tank top, her hair pulled back into a messy ponytail. Her fists are taped, and a pair of boxing gloves hangs around her neck.

She paces slowly, a sense of purpose in her every step.

“Fresh start. Clean slate. Reset. Those are the buzzwords flying around right now, aren’t they? A new year, a new chapter, a new chance to rewrite the story. And while it’s all nice in theory, we both know that life doesn’t just hand you a fresh start—you have to fight for it.

“For me, 2024 was a war. I clawed my way to the SCW Bombshell Internet Championship, only to have it ripped out of my hands faster than I could blink. And you know what? That loss stung. It hurt. It made me question everything—whether I was good enough, whether I deserved to be in this business at all.

“But here’s the thing about pain: it either breaks you, or it makes you stronger. And me? I refuse to break.”

She stops pacing and turns to face the camera directly. Her voice softens, but her words carry weight.

“Bobbie Dahl. You’re the first name on my calendar for 2025. And honestly? I couldn’t ask for a better opponent to kick off the year. We’ve been through it, haven’t we? There was a time when we couldn’t stand the sight of each other. But now? Now, there’s respect. I see you, Bobbie. I see your fire, your determination. I see you hungry for gold again, ready to bulldoze through anyone in your way.

“But here’s the thing—you’re stepping into the ring with someone who’s just as hungry. Someone who’s been knocked down, beaten, and doubted but refuses to stay down. I’ve been through hell and back to get to this point, and I’m not about to let anyone, not even someone I respect, stand in my way.”

Bella steps toward a heavy bag hanging in the corner, her hand lightly brushing the worn leather.

“This isn’t just a match for me. It’s a declaration. It’s me telling the world that I’m not done, that I’m still here, and that I’m better than ever. You see, Bobbie, you and I? We’re hitting the reset button together. But for me, this isn’t just about starting over—it’s about hitting the gas pedal and never letting up.

“You want gold? So do I. You want to prove yourself? So do I. But only one of us is going to walk out of Climax Control with the momentum to make this year ours. And as much as I like you, Bobbie, as much as I respect you, I’m not here to play nice. I’m here to win.”

She slides the gloves off her neck and slips them onto her hands, tightening the straps. Her voice grows more intense as she punches the bag once, the sound echoing in the empty gym.

“Bobbie, I know what you bring to the table. I know you’re as tough as they come. But you’d better believe I’m bringing everything I have and then some. Because for me, this isn’t just about winning—it’s about redemption. It’s about proving that I’m not just someone who gets a taste of success and fades away.

“When that bell rings, it’s not personal. It’s business. And business means doing whatever it takes to get the job done. I’m stepping into that ring with a fire I haven’t felt in a long time. And when the dust settles, only one of us is going to be standing tall.

She delivers a few more punches to the bag, each one harder than the last, before turning back to the camera. Her eyes are sharp, her voice steady.

“This is my year, Bobbie. My time to reclaim what’s mine. And if that means going through you to get there, then so be it. Respect or not, I’m not holding back.

“So bring your best, because I sure as hell am. Let’s see whose fresh start burns brighter.”

With one final punch, Bella steps back, breathing heavily as the camera fades to black.

Over 5 years ago
Late Morning
Early April 2019
London, UK

Bella’s time in London was coming to a fast end as much as she didn’t want it to.

On the school’s dime, she and several other graduate students had made their way from Paris to London for a whole week for different reasons strictly for educational purposes.

But with the hard work also comes the fun.

She was invited to a wrestling show by Malachi with the promise of dinner later. She couldn’t even begin to explain to herself why she was so attracted to this man but she wasn’t about to turn down a chance to watch him at work. Enthralled is a wonderful way to put it with how Bella looked at Malachi and when Mal looked at her, she had felt that wall that she had put up around her heart before she left for Paris coming down piece by piece.

But when the show hit intermission, she stood back and watched as he stepped out from the back, toweling himself off and quickly switched out to just a pair of shorts and she had to laugh a bit a the pair of slide-on sandals with the socks and had made a mental note to poke at him later. She was just about to step up when she saw a tiny little brunette step up with a look on her face that she was ready to sink her claws into him and immediately could tell that Mal was already extremely uncomfortable. But what she saw next, it shocked her and it made her realize that he wasn’t at all what everyone else had said.

He turned the brunette down flat and as soon as she stormed away Bella took her place rightfully at his side, and with a little flirtatious power instead of going out to eat, they ended up ordering room service.

And let it grow cold.

The next morning, while Bella was finishing up in the bathroom, Mal had ordered them room service and while he waited, he decided to check his phone. As he went to pick it up, he accidentally had tipped over Bella’s purse, “Shit.”

He quickly had put the phone down and had grabbed at it and managed to sit it right again with everything in it but one thing, a pink stone that was smooth all around and even in its corners. And it caught Mal’s attention and picked it up and was staring at it.

“It’s a rose quartz,” Bella said when she came out of the bathroom and found him staring at it in his hands. Mal turned around on his heels, looking like he had been caught. “I got it a while ago to help with my creativity and whatnot.”

“I didn’t mean to umm...I went to grab my phone and the purse just tumbled.” Mal fumbled to explain.

“Mal, it’s fine.” Bella reached out and touched his arm, “I know you sat your phone over here and well there is so much in that bag, it constantly tips over and besides it’s not like I have anything to hide, especially from you. You like the stone?”

“Yeah, it’s pretty.” Mal hands it back to her, “And definitely you.”

She rolls the stone over in her fingers and looks up at him, “You could have it, if you’d like.”

“No, love. It’s yours.” Mal said with a smile, “So how long until your train?”

“Umm...about 4 hours. What about you?”

Mal does the math in his head, “Shortly after yours, I think. I ordered breakfast but we could just cancel and have a late morning brunch before I see you off.”

“I think that’s a wonderful idea.”

So that’s exactly what they did. And before too long they were standing at the train station with all their bags.

Bella stood there looking a little sad but not sure how much she wanted to really say, “Ok, so I promise that I will message you as soon as I get back to Paris. And...we will talk and hopefully it won’t be too long until we can see each other again.”

Mal just grabs her face, “Bells, you don’t need to worry about anything. I promise that we will see each other again and it’s probably not going to be as long as we even think.”

Bella’s eyes light up, “Really?”

Mal smirks, “Really. If I could throw a repeat on a weekend like this, I so would.”

It was Bella’s turn to smirk as she wrapped her arms around Mal’s neck, “As would I. Maybe with a little more food but I did have a lot of fun.”

“Yeaaah that was such a waste of food.” Mal quipped back before placing a gentle kiss on her lips.

“Attention passengers, the 2:20 train for Paris is now boarding...”

And that caused her to sigh and only wrap Mal up a little tighter. After a few he leans her forehead against his lips and simply mutters, “It’ll be okay, Bells.”

“Still sucks.”

“ALL ABOARD!”

Bella finally peels herself away and walks over to the train with Mal’s hand in hers. He helps her with one big bag up the steps before giving her one more kiss and then helping her up into the train. He watches her enter the car and takes a few steps down as she finds her seat, sitting next to the window. He gives a quick wave as does she before he goes to turn. But is stopped when she knocks on the window and puts up a piece of paper that simply says “Check Your Pocket”.

Mal looks confused but searches through his pockets of his coat, and then to his pants where he stops when he feels something and pulls it out as the train whistle blows. It’s the rose quartz. And he just looks up with shock as Bella gives him a simple wave as the train begins to depart and he just stands there. And watches as it leaves.


Closer to the present day
5 years later
O’Connell Home

Bella stood in their spacious Manhattan apartment, meticulously organizing every detail for their trip. Bags were lined up by the door, neatly packed for their upcoming flights. Mal had been bustling around, ensuring their daughter, Máire, had everything she needed, while Bella, being the perfectionist she was, decided to pack Mal's bag herself.

“Make sure Máire’s ready, Mal!” Bella called from the bedroom as she pulled out his travel bag from the closet. As she placed the clothes she had laid out inside, something small and familiar tumbled out of one of the side compartments. The soft thud caught her attention, and her heart skipped a beat when she saw what it was.

The rose quartz.

The same stone she had given Mal all those years ago in London. Time seemed to stand still for a moment as she stared at it, the memories flooding back—their whirlwind weekend, the promise that they would see each other again, and all the love that had grown between them since. Alongside the stone was a small, slightly worn photo of her and Máire, back when she was just a couple of months old, taken just a few months after their daughter was born. Her heart swelled as she realized he still carried these tokens with him, through all the travels and matches.

She sat down on the floor, clutching the rose quartz in her hand, tears welling up in her eyes. Despite everything that had changed—the moves, the careers, the victories, and the losses—Mal had remained her constant. Her rock. And right now, with her own uncertainties looming large, it felt like this little stone was the only thing grounding her.

She hadn’t felt herself since her match at Violent Conduct. The sting of her loss still lingered, as did the scars, and the frustration of not knowing what came next was eating away at her. She wasn’t sure what her future in the ring looked like, or if she even had a place anymore. She was supposed to be packing, preparing for her upcoming match against Diamond Steele, a former multi-time champion. But instead, she found herself sitting on the floor, overwhelmed by a flood of emotions.

As if sensing her unease, Mal walked into the room. He paused when he saw her sitting there, the rose quartz clutched tightly in her hand, tears threatening to spill down her cheeks.

“Bells...” His voice was soft, filled with concern. He knelt down beside her, his hand resting gently on her back. “What’s going on?”

Bella looked up at him, her voice breaking slightly. “You still kept it... after all this time.”

Mal glanced at the stone in her hand and smiled softly. “Of course I did. It’s part of us.” He reached over, brushing a tear from her cheek with his thumb. “Well of course, you and this stone... you keep me grounded, even when we aren’t in the same company, so having a reminder of my favorite girl and now girls...well I consider it almost like my good luck charm now.”

She sniffed, trying to compose herself. “You’ve always been my rock, Mal. And I don’t know what I’d do without you. I’m just—” She paused, struggling to find the words. “I’ve been feeling so lost since Violent Conduct. I don’t know what’s next for me. And here you are, getting ready to go back, to team with Lach... I just—”

Mal shifted so he was sitting beside her on the floor, pulling her into his arms. “Bells, you’re not lost. You’ve just hit a rough patch. It happens. But you’re Bella Madison... you don’t quit. You don’t give up. And whatever happens next, we’ll figure it out together.”

Bella leaned into him, her head resting against his chest as his words sank in. “I just... I don’t know if I’m good enough anymore.”

Mal tightened his hold on her. “You’re more than good enough. You’re one of the strongest people I know, and I’ve seen you bounce back from worse. This is just another chapter. And you’ve got this match against Diamond Steele, right? You’re gonna show her, and everyone else, that Bella Madison is still here. Still fighting.”

She smiled weakly, her fingers tracing the edges of the rose quartz. “You always know what to say.”

“Because I know you,” Mal replied, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “And I know you’re going to go out there and remind the world who you are. But first... we need to get packed.”

Bella let out a small laugh, wiping her tears. “Right. We have a flight to catch.”

“Exactly. And don’t worry about the rest, okay? Just focus on being you. I’ve got your back, always.”

Bella stood up, her hand still gripping the rose quartz, feeling its familiar weight in her palm. She gave Mal a grateful smile as they finished packing his bag together. Whatever came next, she knew she wouldn’t be facing it alone.


~*~Nothing Left to Lose~*~
Rules of Engagement: Fuck the Rules

The scene opens with Bella Madison sitting in the locker room, a single light casting shadows over her face. She looks calm, but there’s a glint in her eyes that speaks of something much darker—like someone who’s gone beyond caring about what anyone thinks of her anymore. She leans forward, elbows resting on her knees, as she begins to speak.

"Let’s get something straight… I’ve spent weeks—months—tearing myself apart to prove a point. And what do I have to show for it? At Violent Conduct, I went out there and poured everything I had into that match against Victoria Lyons. I pushed myself to the limit—hell, I damn near broke myself—because I believed that was my moment. I believed if I just gave everything, it would be enough.

Turns out, I was wrong."

Bella pauses, a bitter chuckle escaping her lips.

"But that’s the funny thing about hitting rock bottom, isn’t it? Once you’ve already given everything, once you’ve already felt the pain of losing it all, what’s left to lose? Nothing. And that’s where I’m at now.

I walked away from Violent Conduct with nothing. No title, no victory, just the reminder that in this business, nothing is guaranteed. It doesn’t matter how hard you work, how much blood you spill, how far you’re willing to go—sometimes, the universe just doesn’t give a damn.

So yeah, I’m lost. I’ve been feeling lost ever since that night. I don’t know what’s next for me, and I don’t know what the future holds. But in that loss, in that uncertainty, I’ve found something terrifying within myself. Something I didn’t know was there until everything else was stripped away…"

She leans forward even more, her tone sharpening.

"I don’t care anymore."

"You hear me? I. Don’t. FUCKING. Care. I don’t care what people think of me. I don’t care about being liked, or about playing nice. I don’t care about the rules or the expectations you people try to place on me. What I care about now? It’s simple.

Winning. And making sure that no one ever forgets what happens when you cross me."

She holds her hand up, staring at it as if visualizing the violence she’s prepared to unleash.

"I’ve hurt myself before. I’ve thrown my body into the fire, and it wasn’t enough. But this time? This time, I’ll burn everything down if I have to. I’ve got nothing left to lose, and that makes me more dangerous than I’ve ever been. Do I care if I hurt myself again? Not even a little bit. Because I’m willing to go further than anyone else, and that’s what it’s going to take to get what I want.

That starts with you, Diamond Steele."

Bella smirks, though there’s no humor behind it—only cold determination.

"You think you know what you’re walking into? You think you’ve faced tough opponents before? You haven’t faced me. Not like this. I’m not the Bella Madison everyone knew. I’m not here to play by the old rules. I’m here to tear down anyone in my way, and unfortunately for you, Diamond, you’re first on my list.

This match with you? It’s more than just a win or a loss. It’s a statement. A statement that I don’t care anymore, that I’ll do whatever it takes. So yeah, bring everything you’ve got, because I’m not walking into that ring to just beat you—I’m walking in there to remind everyone that Bella Madison isn’t some nice girl waiting for her moment. I am the moment. And I’ll make damn sure you know that when I walk right over you."

She stands up now, pacing slightly as her intensity builds.

"I promised myself that by High Stakes, I’d have my first singles title in SCW. I’ve waited long enough. I’ve played the game long enough. And now, the game is done. I’m coming for what’s mine. I’m coming for that title, and I don’t care who’s in the way. You, Diamond Steele? You’re just the first step. After you, I’ll keep going. One by one, I’ll take down anyone in front of me, and I won’t stop until that gold is around my waist.

This isn’t about getting respect anymore. This isn’t about proving a point to anyone but myself. I’m doing this because I said I would. Because I will keep my word. I’m going to take that title, and I don’t care if I have to burn down SCW to do it.

So to everyone watching? Take a good, long look. What’s coming next? It’s not the Bella you think you know. It’s something far, far worse."

Bella stops pacing, locking eyes with the camera, her voice cold and final.

"I’m done playing nice. I’m done caring. The only thing that matters now is winning, and making sure everyone who ever doubted me regrets it. Diamond Steele, you’re the first... but you won’t be the last. High Stakes is coming, and I will claim what’s mine—by any means necessary."

She lets the silence hang in the air for a moment before walking off screen, leaving nothing but her dangerous words behind.

"I've thrown my body into the fire, and I’ve walked through hell and back for this. But now? Now, I’m ready to hurt others. I’m ready to make the pain I feel something tangible—something you can see, something you can taste, something you’ll never forget. Because when you’ve got nothing left to lose, you’re dangerous. You become something more than just a competitor. You become a force of nature. And trust me when I say… you don’t want to be on the wrong side of a storm like that."

Bella's expression darkens as she straightens up, her eyes locking with the camera, full of intensity.

"So here we are, Diamond Steele. I hope you’re ready for this match, because I’m coming in with nothing holding me back. No restraints. No chains. No more second-guessing. I’m coming into this match like my life depends on it because, honestly? It feels like it does. You’re standing in my way, and that’s the worst possible place to be.

You see, Diamond, I respect what you've done in this business, but right now? I don’t care about respect. I don’t care about accolades, or how many times you’ve held a title. The only thing I care about is making sure you leave that ring knowing you’ve been in a fight—a real fight. I’ve been at the bottom, and I’m clawing my way back up. You? You’re just the next obstacle in my way. And if I have to break you to remind everyone what I’m capable of, then so be it."

She stands up, rolling her shoulders as if getting ready for battle, the determination on her face now undeniable.

"I’m done playing nice. I’m done being the underdog. I’m done questioning myself. It’s time I stop looking for validation from anyone else and start taking what’s mine. Diamond Steele, you’re about to find out firsthand what happens when someone has absolutely nothing left to lose.

I’ll see you in that ring, and when it’s all said and done, you’ll remember the name Bella Madison. Because this? This is just the beginning of my next chapter. And trust me... it’s going to be written in blood."

Bella’s final words hang in the air as she walks out of the locker room, the camera lingering on the empty space she leaves behind. A storm is brewing, and it's clear Bella is ready to unleash it.

~*~First Class Ass Whoopin’~*~
Backstage at Climax Control 399
Ontario, Cali.

That first step through the curtain after opening the show in such an auspicious manner, Bella Madison couldn’t help but feel vindicated in a large way. Yes, every inch of her body was screaming in pain and she could already see an extremely hot bath with epsom salts awaiting her. But the adrenaline was still running high so for now it wasn’t completely crippling like it will be when she wakes up tomorrow.

But her point was made to them both.

A camera was almost immediately on her when she turned the corner for the extra tidbits that they loved to pick up, catching the aftermath, blah blah blah, et. al

So Bella being who she is, she plastered the best smile on her face and wrapped her arms around the case tightly.

“Four times? Charity Case?” Bella’s laugh echoes through the halls, holding the briefcase to her tightly, “I got a case all right. Who’s laughing now Krystal? You’re now Prudence’s BITCH and I’m on my way to the Princess with a first class ticket to the Bombshell Roulette Championship match.”

She would stop herself short and her face drops.

“OH and Prue, let what happened tonight be a lesson. You stuck your nose into my business and now you're picking splinters out of your ass. Next time do yourself a whole ass favor....and stay in your lane, bitch. I told everyone that this year was going to be different, if you are going to get in my way...you are going to end up hurt.”

Bella smirks and gives a kiss to the briefcase and the camera before she walks off.

Then and only then she is able to drop the facade just a smidge and start to limp. Hopefully she can just make it to the locker room before...

“Hey kid, you alright?”

Shit.

Bella would look up to see her own mother standing there with her ever faithful assistant Spinelli standing beside her.

“Well, I didn’t know you guys were going to be here.” is all she said, “I mean it’s great to see you nonetheless but-”

Laura just covers the steps between them and wraps her daughter in a hug for a moment.

“Well, I wanted to make it out to watch your match, we’re going to be hanging out this way for a couple of weeks for of course 400 and Miles and Carter’s wedding. So Spinelli and I are making our rounds, checking out local talent and whatnot.” 

“The lives of the busy. Is dad gonna make it out?”

“Yes, Nick has told AND promised me that he’ll be here with Aaron for 400 and then we’ll be there for the wedding of course. But Spinelli and I really wanted to make sure that we were here for you tonight.”

Bella steps back and squints her eyes, “Did Mal call you?”

This seemed to catch Laura even by surprise because her daughter seems to be rather stand-offish.

“No, he didn't.”

Bella sighs and just shakes her head, “Don’t lie to me, mom.”

“I’m not. Kid, is it really so hard to believe that I wouldn’t be here to support you just because I want to?” Laura just stood there and you could tell that part of her wanted to shake her oldest but, “What’s going on with you? You’ve been so stand-offish lately.”

“Nothing.” Bella stated flatly and her mom just gave her that look that told you that she wasn’t buying it. Bella’s bright blue eyes rolled hard, “Fine, if you must know, I have been dealing with a lot of people throwing comparisons and a whole lot of trashing of not just your name but mine as well. I just got done kicking Krystal’s ass who not only called you overrated but-”

“Ok, like I actually give a rats fucking ass what one bitter bitch has to say about me, Krystal hasn’t mattered to anyone a whole lot lately and a lot of that is her own damn fault.” Laura shrugs, “My record stands for itself outside of SCW and she’s not even worthy of licking my boots let alone carrying my Louis Vitton luggage, which means that she’s fucked in the head for that train of thought. I earned my fucking retirement properly and I came to SCW just to have fun. Fuck Krystal Wolfe and anyone that thinks like her. You are standing here with that briefcase, not her, which tells everyone that has remotely any shit to say about you or me just how wrong they really are.”

Bella smirks and sets that briefcase down for a moment and shakes her head.

“It’s just stupid at this point. The whole damn thing is stupid.”

“It is and it’s low hanging fruit. Don’t let them eat at you and just enjoy that that was exactly what you showed them tonight.”

Bella looks down at the briefcase.

“It’s gonna be nice to be on the cruise again, that’s for sure.”

Laura smiles at Bella and nods, “It’s always a fun time.”

A voice clears from behind them that makes both turn with a start. They turn and see Christian Underwood standing there.

“Sorry, ladies, didn’t mean to startle you.”

“No, it’s fine. I was just finishing up here with her.”

“Is everything okay? Bella, do you need a trip to the trainers?”

“Nah, I’ll be alright. Nothing that some epsoms and pain killers can’t fix.” Bella smirked, “I feel like you’re here to talk to me about something.”

“Yes, I am. Actually someone came to me with an idea for you for Climax Control 400 and I just came to let you know about it.”

“Oh? May I ask who it was?”

“Yeah, actually it was Carter and well...Miles was there but Carter actually had a pretty interesting idea, seeing as you and Ariana are both involved with their wedding, he was thinking maybe you guys would be able to settle any bad feelings in a match so nothing crazy happens.”

“Oh boy, and what does my darling friend have in mind?”

“I- I think it’s better if we talk in my office.”


~*~Rules of Engagement: Leave It In The Ring~*~

Arrrrrrrrrrrri, dear sweet Ari.

I’m sorry.

I’m sorry that we have ended up here. I’m sorry that you felt that I slighted you a few weeks ago. I’m sorry that showing appreciation for getting booked for the first time in weeks was somehow making you feel like I was making fun of the unfortunate situation that you were put in.

A situation that I might add, your mouth got yourself in.

But then you just had to go and double down on that and you turned out that you were no damn better than the likes of Krystal Wolfe where you took that low hanging fruit and just had to make a shot about how I have had some issues about picking up my first singles title in SCW.

It’s so damn typical that people are so quick to go there.

But it is what it is and someday maybe people can find something else to focus on.

Bless Carter. I’m not mad at him at all. He is trying to make sure that the peace is brokered before his big day and that is fine by me.

I have zero issue in leaving any and all issues in the ring.

Not that I would do anything during his and Miles' ceremony because I’m not a selfish bitch. I love Miles and Carter and have been there to cheer them on since the very beginning and I wouldn’t dream...so if that means I have to embarrass myself and get dressed up and possibly stripped down to gain any sort of peace between us, then so be it.

And a bonus, I’ve got my friend Mattie to help me come up with a cute little number for this particular match that is both beautiful AND gives me the ability to move in that ring.

I’m more than willing to make this the end of whatever issues that we may have between us, Ari.

But I’m not about to make what is about to happen about me.

So let’s finish it and then we will make it all about our boys.

~*~The Healthiest of Scratches~*~
O’Connell Home
New York

She went to Into The Void, her face was around, some even asked her if she was pregnant again because of not being on the show.

All she could do was shrug her shoulders, asure people that she was indeed not pregnant and just watch as Victoria Lyons became the Queen for a Day. She watched as Alexandra’s match, she watched Kayla...she had her eyes on practically everyone. And she was internally kicking herself for mentally checking out and pulling herself from this show.

She was asked, and she mentally just couldn’t.

And she told absolutely no one.

Not even Malachi.

She had garnered herself quite the reputation since her return with the matches that she was involved in and she embraced the hardcore style. But sometimes she had wondered if putting herself through these types of matches was not only not healthy for her, but not healthy for her family.

The realization hit her like a ton of bricks after the last match that she had and she sat at home, still very sore and she would take a couple of days to just spend it with Mal and Máire healing before she felt like she wanted to make her way to the Wolfslair gym for training.

She curled up on a couch as Máire played on the floor.

Now 10 and a half months old, the young one got to her cruising stage. Not quite sure of her feet yet but she would take to holding herself up with the couch, the table, the gate that cut her off from getting into any other major trouble. It also cut her off from her best friend.

“Ooo-ka!” Máire called out as she hung on to the couch in the center of the room with a direct stare towards the husky pup that we have all known to be called Luka. From across the room, Luka laid in her living room bed, gnawing on her rawhide bone that recently was gifted, lifted her head and tilted it. Máire once again calls out “OOOO-KA!!!” and this time adds a little pat to the couch.

Bella looked up from her book with wide eyes and looked around quickly, “MAL! Mal come quick!”

Mal comes running in, “What? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing! But look!” Bella points to Máire but nothing happens, instead she just turns and looks at Mal and gives a big four teeth smile. Bella sighs, “She was just calling for Luka.”

“Dada!”

“Hello my lil princess, what are ya doing over there? Ya cruising again?” and Máire once again gives a toothy grin and looks back at the dog and points.

“Ooo-ka!” and her little hand opens and closes like she’s trying to urge the pup to come towards her.

Bella turns her head and looks at her husband who is smiling brightly at his little girl, “When did this happen?”

“Just now, she’s been mostly screeching at her and Salem to get their attention but this is something new. Even her patting at the couch to get her attention.”

“OOO-KAAAAA!!!”

“And Luka is completely ignoring her.” Mal laughed.

“Well that bone is far more important, babe.” Bella laughed as she threw the blanket that she had over her legs off and slowly made her way over to Máire who was getting annoyed that Luka was ignoring her, “You want me to help, Máire?”

“Mama,” Máire said with a smile, giving her a kiss before turning back, “Ooo-ka.”

“Yup, that’s Luka. Luka, come.” Luka tilted her head before she picked her bone up and began to trot across the floor. That brought a squeal of delight to the little girls face and she started clapping before she fell to her butt and patted the floor next to her, “You want Luka to come into the pen?”

And she got a big toothy grin again before she crawled over towards the giant Stitch that has been moved out into the living room area and took a hold of her bottle that was currently full of juice and one of her soft book’s, “I think she wants her reading buddy with her. I have a feeling she is about to go down for a n-a-p.”

The nap word was something else she had learned but could not speak yet and every time they did, she would whine and fight it.

Bella opened up the gate a bit to let Luka through and she trotted over to the little one, to Máire’s delight with a soft “Ooo-ka” and she patted behind her and as if they have done this a thousand times Luka simply just laid down behind her and with the soft book and the bottle the two curled up on the floor and just began to simply chill.

“That is so damn adorable. I can’t even. I need my phone.” Bella said, pulling herself up from the spot she was in and heading over to grab it and as she turns around just in time to see Salem make her way over and all three are as cute as can be and Máire’s are already drooping. “Oh my God.”

“I’ll go get her blanket.” Mal simply said as Bella just watched as the three fell asleep and that only brought tears to her eyes as her little girl was seemingly growing right in front of her. Mal returns and covers up his little girl and gives small pats to the animals before he turns around and sees Bella in a full on cry, and immediately wraps her up in a hug, “Heeeey, mo grá, what’s wrong?”

“She’s...she’s growing so fast,” Bella sniffs, “I can’t even believe she’s starting to talk, before we know it she’s going to walk and run and then go to school.”

“Bella, hey, listen. We take her everywhere we go. You never miss anything as is.”

“But if something happens and I get hurt...”

“Babe, where is this all coming from?”

“I- I actually asked Christian to keep me off Into the Void a couple of weeks ago.” She finally admitted it. “And I don’t know why I did it but I haven’t been feeling like myself a bit lately. I thought maybe taking time away was going to help, but then when we went anyway and the looks I was getting I felt ashamed about it. I actually got asked if I was pregnant and that was why I was left off.”

“Which we know that’s not true. But babe, you’ve been doing some amazing things lately.”

“Yeah, and some wild things. And I don’t know why. I should be considering you and Máire before I go and do these wild things and feel sore for days,” she grumbles, “What if I really hurt myself and then I’m on the shelf for good.”

“Bells, it’s what we do!” Mal let out a little loudly as Bella shushed him, “Sorry, but you know damn well that this business, even the simplest of matches can do damage, but babe...you have wholeheartedly found your niche and I’m not gonna lie, it’s sort’ve hot.”

“You’ve said that before, I still don’t get it.” Bella giggled through the tears, “Are you sure I’m not taking things too far?”

“Babe, you are fantastic no matter what. Why don’t you go and call Christian and tell him that you are open to at least the whole King for a Day show with that idiot Guy, though that dude still weirds me out.”

“Oh Guy is harmless...if you are on his good side...at least I think he is.”


~*~Rules of Engagement: King Me~*~

All I said was a big fucking thank you to Guy.

He didn’t have to book me but he did.

And with that simple thank you, I had my head ripped off by Ari because she is finally getting her comeuppance from a few months ago.

I seem to remember recall everyone including your best friend Carter who was full on sick of your shit, Ari. Look, be fucking pissed off at me all you want. You got dealt a shit hand and I’m sorry that you have to go through this insanity match with your hands tied behind your back. But our words will always be remembered.

Just like you brought up how I will never be as good as my mom.

See, I felt bad for you...up until then. And that is your major problem Ari, you let your mouth write checks that your ass could never cash because you could have easily had a friend in this match. Now I’m out to make you an example.

Then we come to the woman who was our Queen for a Day last week, Victoria Lyons. You are not very well liked around here after what you did with your chance to make a true impact and instead you became enemy number one when you attempted to damage Carter and Miles' relationship. They are loved even by the coldest heart.

You are an absolute biatch.

Then we come to sweet Eiley and darling Melissa. I don’t wanna hurt you but hell we all know that this isn’t a normal match either. Guy has definitely made things interesting for each and every one of us. What can a few girls do?

Well I think it’s obvious what we are supposed to do.

Ariana is obviously the one that is meant to be the target and it’s made sweeter by the promise of a match against the Roulette Champion.

Can we all stoop so low for a championship opportunity? .....Yes. Yes we can.

Bob Ross really said it well... “It's hard to see things when you are too close.” Maybe my step away made things a little clearer. Maybe I really am just a bitch. Maybe I’ll never be as great as my mother.

But I never wanted to be her.

I’m the first and only Bella.

And I’m the hardcore pixie.

~*~Working Family~*~
Chicago, IL

We are there for one another. No matter what.

That has been our mantra in Mal and I’s relationship since the very beginning.

It was rare that the two of them had worked in two separate companies though, so this was something a little bit new for them both. Yeah, Mal had taken time to work in another company that didn’t have that long of life, while she was pregnant with Máire. She wasn’t about miss this for him or her brother-in-law Lachlan and sis-in-law Sierra. Especially with the brothers teaming up, just like they wanted to do.

There was a quick visit with Sierra and Lach before she was whisked off and was treated to a private box along with the other significant others that had come to watch the show but had no part in the promotion. Máire had been nothing but charming, if not a little shy to all the new faces that decided to dote on her about just how adorable she looked.

Máire spent her day turning officially 7 months old, getting spoiled and for the first time since she was born she watched as her daddy and Uncle Lach teamed up. In fact she had melted everyone’s heart when she looked at the scene in the private box and yelled out “DADA!”. As the match unfolded, the crowd erupted into cheers as Malachi and Lachlan teamed up in the ring. Bella watched proudly, her heart swelling with pride as she saw her husband and brother-in-law working together seamlessly. After a hard-fought victory, Malachi stands triumphantly in the ring, his eyes meeting Bella's as he throws up a kiss to their private box. Bella and Máire cheer loudly, with Máire even clapping.

They would be escorted to the locker room area following the match, much like the routine that Mal had established with her with Bella’s matches in SCW. As soon as they got down there they were greeted by a very happy Mal, who seemed to have all the stress knocked off of him just from one match.

“There’s my girls!” Mal let out, wrapping his arms around them both, and planting plenty of kisses on them both.

“You guys looked so amazing out there!” Bella giggled as Mal immediately gave her arms a rest and took Máire out of her arms.

“It felt spectacular. Lach and I just flowed even with the extra guy on the team.” he was beaming from ear to ear, something that had been missing when it didn’t have anything to do with her or their daughter.

“Just like old times, eh bro?” Lach spoke up behind him and gave his niece a quick little tickle which caused her to giggle and wiggle in her daddy’s arms. “What’s up cutie pie? You've gotten so big since the last time I saw you.”

“She’s growing so fast, she’s even crawling now.” Mal let out, the dad mode already kicking in.

“Well it’s more of a scooch-slash-army crawl and sometimes she’ll get on her knees and rock....” Bella said with a shrug

“Oohhh that’s the warning sign, she’ll be running before you know it.” Lach said with a sly smile, and a pat on Mal’s back.

“She chases the hell-demons already with the army crawl, and it’s like they encourage her.” Mal laughed.

Between all the excitement, Máire never made it to the main event to watch her Aunt Sierra wrestle but that was easily forgiven.

After following the show and the delightful dinner at one of Bella’s favorite pizza joints in Chicago, Bella, Malachi, and Máire return to their hotel room, their hearts full from a day filled with love and laughter. As they step into the warm, inviting space, Bella feels a sense of peace wash over her, grateful for the moments they've shared as a family.

Malachi gently sets Máire down in her playpen, where she immediately begins to babble and play with her toys. Bella watches with a smile, her heart swelling with love for her precious daughter. Apparently the nap she had earlier had been just enough to give her energy.

"Look at her go," Bella says, her voice filled with affection as she joins Malachi by the window, wrapping her arms around his waist. "She's growing up so fast."

Malachi nods, his gaze softening as he gazes at their daughter. "Seems like it’s too fast," he agrees, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "But every moment with her is a gift."

Bella rests her head against Malachi's shoulder, feeling the warmth of his embrace enveloping her. In this quiet moment, she finds solace in the simple joys of family.

"We're so lucky, Mal. There were times I thought about it but..." Bella murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper as she looks up at him, her eyes shining with emotion. "To have each other, to have Máire...I wouldn't trade this for anything in the world."

Malachi smiles, brushing a stray lock of hair away from Bella's face with gentle fingers. "Neither would I," he replies, his voice filled with love. "You and Máire are my everything, Bella. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Bella's heart swells with love at Malachi's words, her eyes brimming with tears of gratitude. In this moment, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family, she knows that she is exactly where she's meant to be.

Together, they stand by the window, watching the city lights twinkle in the distance as they bask in the glow of their love. And as they settle into bed, wrapped in each other's arms, Bella knows that no matter what tomorrow may bring, they'll face it together, as a working family, united by an unbreakable bond.

~*~Intensified Training~*~
Back to New York

As the date of her match against Bobbie Dahl for the SCW Bombshell Roulette Title loomed closer, Bella found herself consumed by an insatiable drive to push herself even further in her training regimen. Every moment outside of her responsibilities as a mother and a wife was dedicated to honing her skills, refining her techniques, and pushing her limits to the edge.

With each grueling session in the gym, Bella pushed herself harder, determined to be in the best shape of her life for the biggest match of her career. The thought of facing off against Bobbie, a formidable opponent with a reputation for ruthlessness in the ring, fueled her determination to succeed.

But before she could step into the ring with Bobbie, Bella had another challenge to overcome: a match against Alexandra Callaway, the former SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion. Alexandra was a respected veteran in the world of professional wrestling, a friend of the family, and someone Bella looked up to with admiration and respect.

As Bella prepared for her match against Alexandra, she knew that she couldn't afford to underestimate her opponent. Alexandra's skill and experience made her a formidable adversary, and Bella knew that she would have to bring her A-game if she wanted to emerge victorious.

With each day that passed, Bella threw herself into her training with renewed determination, pushing herself harder than ever before. She sparred with her trainers, studied tapes of Alexandra's past matches, and fine-tuned her strategy for the upcoming showdown.

As the day of the match drew nearer, Bella could feel the anticipation building within her. She knew that this would be her chance to prove herself against one of the best in the business, to show the world that she was ready to step up to the challenge and take her place among the elite.

But more than anything, Bella knew that this match was about more than just victory. It was about respect. Respect for Alexandra, for everything she had accomplished in her career. And respect for herself, as she sought to prove that she had what it took to be a champion.

~*~Becoming Alexandra~*~

“You know, they say that in this business, you're only as good as your last match. And that's true, to an extent. But for me, it's about more than just wins and losses. It's about legacy. It's about leaving your mark on this industry, about being remembered long after you've hung up your boots.”

“And when I look at Alexandra Callaway, I see someone who has left an indelible mark on this business. She's a multiple-time champion, a respected veteran, and a friend of the family. And yet, for all her accomplishments, there's a part of me that wonders why she hasn't gone further than she has in SCW.”

“Some may say that maybe it's because she's been content to stay where she is, to be a big fish in a small pond. Or maybe it's because she hasn't had the right opportunity, the right moment to seize her destiny and become the star that I know she's capable of being. But I know for an absolute fact that it is only a matter of time until she’s ruling the Bombshell Division, she just needs that right moment.”

“But as I prepare for my match against her, I can't help but feel a sense of... obligation. Like I owe it to her, to myself, to this business, to be the best that I can be. To push myself harder, to train longer, to fight with everything I've got.”

“Because when I step into that ring with Alexandra, I'm not just fighting for myself. I'm fighting to honor her legacy, to prove that she's not just a stepping stone on my path to greatness, but a worthy adversary in her own right.”

“And maybe, just maybe, if I can be half the wrestler that Alexandra is, then I'll have earned the right to call myself a champion. Not just for myself, but for her. Because in the end, it's not about winning titles or accolades. It's about earning the respect of your peers, and leaving a legacy that will stand the test of time.”

~*~Rules of Engagement: Leave it in the Ring~*~

The ring was silent, save for the faint echoes of the hard night of training still echoed off the walls of Wolfslair. Bella sat alone in the locker room, the weight of the Sunday evening's events heavy on her mind. Sunday night, she had to face off against Alexandra Callaway in a match that will push her to her limits in more ways than one.

As she peeled off her sweaty workout gear and settled onto the bench, Bella couldn't help but run her game plan over and over in her head. She will go toe-to-toe with one of the most respected veterans in the business, a woman she had looked up to for years, and held her own. But in the end, it wasn't just about the win or the loss. It was about something deeper, something more profound.

"You know, Ally," Bella began, her voice soft as she addressed the empty room, "I've always admired you. From the moment I stepped foot in this business, you were someone I looked up to. You've accomplished so much, achieved so many accolades, and yet... I don’t know... you are holding yourself back?"

Bella's words hung in the air, the weight of them settling around her like a heavy blanket. She knew that Alexandra was capable of so much more, of reaching heights that few could even dream of. And yet, here she was, still fighting in the trenches, still grinding away night after night.

"I guess what I'm trying to say is... I want to be like you, Ally. Like you and mom in a way but in my own way," Bella continued, her voice trembling slightly with emotion. "I want to reach the same heights, achieve the same level of success. But more than that, I want to earn your respect. I want you to look at me and see someone who's worthy of standing shoulder to shoulder with you in this ring."

Bella fell silent, her words hanging in the air like a challenge, a gauntlet thrown down at Alexandra's feet.

She knew that the road ahead would be long and difficult, filled with obstacles and challenges that would test her resolve like never before. But she was ready. Ready to prove herself, ready to show the world what she was made of.

"And so, Ally," Bella whispered, her voice barely above a whisper, "I promise you this. I won't rest until I've earned your respect. Until I've proven myself worthy of standing in the ring with you as an equal. Until I've reached the same heights of success that you have. Because in the end, that's what it's all about, isn't it? Respect."

With those final words hanging in the air, Bella rose from her seat, a fire burning in her eyes. Tonight may have been just the beginning, but she was determined to make it count. Determined to leave her mark on the world of professional wrestling, just like Alexandra Callaway had done before her.

As she stepped out of the locker room and into the dimly lit hallway, Bella felt a sense of purpose wash over her. The echoes of the crowd's cheers still lingered in her ears, driving her forward with renewed determination.

With each step she took, Bella knew that she was one step closer to her goal. One step closer to earning the respect of one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. And she would stop at nothing to make it happen.

For Bella Madison, the journey was just beginning. And she was ready to leave it all in the ring.

~*~Feels Familiar~*~

Máire is teething.

Nothing unusual for a little one that is growing quickly and considering that she was only just a few days away from being a full 6 months old, it was bound to happen.

One day was never the same with that little girl and when she was in the mood to chew on everything from toys, to fingers and it didn’t matter who, mom, dad, her own, to Luka’s tail. That last one even caught the husky by surprise and since that moment Luka has apparently grown eyes out of the back of her head and any time the miniature one has made a move, Luka jumps and runs.

Mal hasn’t stopped laughing about it since then.

Even Salem hasn’t remained by Máire for longer than a few moments, even asleep.

Now where is this going, you may ask?

It is going to the point where sleep has become a fickle creature in the House of O’Connell.

Máire's teething phase had transformed the once tranquil nights in the House of O'Connell into a series of unpredictable, sleep-deprived escapades. The familiar creaks of the wooden floor beneath Bella's weary feet resonated through the dimly lit halls.

As Bella padded softly into the nursery, she found Máire nestled in her crib, little hands exploring a teething toy with newfound intensity. The soft glow of a nightlight cast a warm ambiance, revealing the weariness etched into Bella's features.

"Hey there, little one," Bella whispered, her voice a soothing melody in the hushed room, “Still awake I see.”

She scooped Máire into her arms, cradling her against her chest. Máire's eyes, wide with curiosity, locked onto Bella's tired but loving gaze.

The nursery was adorned with subtle touches of whimsy, from the gentle murals on the walls to the comforting hum of a lullaby drifting from a musical mobile. Even the giant Stitch that she was gifted by Carter and Miles, sat in a corner watching over everything. Yet, even the most enchanting surroundings couldn't entirely mask the sleepless nights that had become an unwelcome visitor.

Bella settled into the plush rocking chair, the rhythmic creaking echoing in tandem with Máire's soft coos. “Thank goodness for mommy’s thinking ahead and getting the teethers.” She gave her daughter a kiss on the forehead, noting that with teething came a slight fever. “Hopefully daddy will get that medicine and we can knock down that fever and we can all get some sleep.”

It was very obvious that Máire was battling between exhaustion and pain, that her whimpers and swiping at her eyes with her free hand made Bella smile sadly. “I know, baby girl. How about we tell a story while we wait for daddy to get back? You just listen to your mama’s voice and soon it will all be better.”

Bella sits back and thinks for a moment, “OH! I know! Do you know that it was just a couple of weeks ago that it was a year to the day that mommy found out that you were going to be coming into the world? You see, for almost a whole year your daddy and I had this beautiful vision of making our little family a little bit bigger by bringing a little one into the world. We had some heartbreak, a lot of testing and we found out that because of something your mama went through when she was born, that she needed just a little bit of help from the doctor.”

“And during this time, mommy had to take some medicine and that in turn gave her some major mood swings. And you see during this time your mama had to deal with a egotistical little witch by the name of Crystal. Crystal thought that she ruled the whole kingdom, no matter how many times she kept getting stomped down.”

Bella shifted a bit and turned the teether ever so slightly in her daughter’s little hands, “Well your momma was given a huge opportunity by the rulers of the kingdom to finally, once and for all show that the evil witch had no power over the land. So, without so much as a glimmer of fear in her voice, your mother stepped up and challenged the witch. Of course, for all of her bravado, the witch didn’t dare to speak back but did manage to show up for what was a battle for the ages. In the end, while the witch did give your momma a real fight, she was slain and as a gift for her hard fight, your mommy got to drive her out of the arena in a big ambulance. Of course, your mommy battled her own restraint from basically turning it into an amazing episode of Monster Jam, but she did deliver the witch to a local medical facility to be treated for her battle wounds and the kingdom lived at peace for a long, long time.”

Bella smiles at the memory of it and then looks down at her daughter who is just captivated by the voice of her mother for a moment, “It is said, in hushed whispers of course, it was at that moment that I was able to finally relax enough and allow the treatments to work and it wasn’t too far into the future after that we found out that you would be coming. So, I guess, in a weird way your mommy has to thank Crystal for what she did.” Máire fusses a little bit and Bella brings her up and starts to rub her back shushes her for a moment but it doesn’t seem to work so Bella stands and begins to pace the room. After a moment, she looks at her daughter with a smile, “If mommy hadn’t been able to let go of all her frustration and pent up anger, then we might have had to wait just a little bit longer for the most beautiful princess in all the land.”

“And that she is.” Mal’s voice breaks in as he’s standing there watching his girls, and obviously listening to at least part of Bella’s story, “But of course your daddy had a big part to play in your creation as well.”

“Well that’s a given but she doesn’t need to hear the dirty parts and how when you picked me up at the hospital we didn’t exactly make it all the way back to the hotel...” Bella smirks, covering her daughter’s ears for that last part, “Did you find the meds?”

Mal holds up the box as he walks into the room and joins Bella and Máire in their little dance, brushing back the soft brown hair and gives Bella a kiss before kissing his daughter’s cheek, “Caught them just before they closed up for the night, thankfully they took pity on an exhausted father and helped me find it immediately. How’s my little girl doing?”

“The teether is helping but I think it’s the fever that is keeping her up right now.” Bella says, “Thankfully your brave warrior momma has her own white knight to help keep her sanity in check now and again.”

Mal just rolls his eyes and begins to open the box up, “You’re starting to sound like the dweeb.”

Bella looks at Máire with a smile, “Uncle Spinelli does tell the best stories in the most glorious fashion, but I think having a mommy original story helped too.”

“Well for as many stories that she has read and continues to tell, your momma is the best...” Mal looks at his wife, and gives her a kiss before he takes Máire out of her arms, “Even at giving the medicine to help their darling princess the dose she needs so the whole house can get something resembling a decent night’s sleep.”

~*~Facing the Echoes~*~

Back under the glaring lights of Sin City Wrestling, there's a storm brewing, and its name is the Blood Bath Brawl.

Crystal, we share a history, one that extends beyond the squared circle, one that carries echoes of triumph and struggle.

Crystal's return is not just a reappearance; it's a resurgence. A familiar name, a familiar adversary, and now, the stage is set for a Street Fight. No rules, no boundaries, just a canvas for us to paint our shared narrative in hues of conflict.

The memories of our past encounters linger, but this time, it's different. The stakes have shifted, circumstances evolved, yet the essence remains. Crystal, you once stood as an antagonist, a force that needed to be confronted. Our past battles are etched into the history of SCW, but this time, the story comes full circle.

As we approach the Street Fight, even the Blood Bath Brawl at My Bloody Valentine, the canvas is wide open. The rules are few, the battlefield extends beyond the ring, and the clash amplifies the intensity of our shared history. Crystal, you're not just an opponent; you're a reflection of the journey we've both undertaken.

This isn't just about fists and fury; it's a confrontation with the shadows that linger in the recesses of our shared narrative. Crystal, you've shown resilience, strength to claw your way back. But remember, my narrative is not confined to the echoes of the past. I've evolved, grown, and faced challenges that transcend the boundaries of this wrestling ring.

The Street Fight is our canvas. Whether it's chaos or resolution, the outcome will be a testament to the evolution of two warriors. Crystal, let the echoes of our past propel us into a confrontation that transcends the confines of familiarity. The storm is here, and within its tempest, we shall find our destiny.

~*~Rules of Engagement - Temporarily Suspended~*~

The neon lights of Reno's streets painted a vivid tapestry of colors as Bella Madison strolled along the bustling sidewalks. The distant sounds of slot machines and laughter drifted through the air, but for her, the focus was on the impending street fight with Crystal Zdunich.

"This city," Bella mused to herself, her steps measured and purposeful. "A place of chances, of risks. The perfect setting for a street fight, don't you think, Crystal?"

She moved through the lively crowd, each person probably oblivious to the storm that was brewing on the horizon. Bella's blue eyes flickered with a mix of determination and introspection, her thoughts a silent monologue.

"Crystal, we've danced in the ring before, left our marks on SCW's canvas. But tonight, it's not about the cheers of the crowd or the echo of the bell. It's about you and me, navigating the streets of Reno, leaving a trail of chaos in our wake, and maybe some blood too. And perhaps our unfinished business will go finished for at least a little while, until we get back to Vegas and do it all over again in that insane match that we find ourselves in."

As she passed by a street performer, their music became the rhythm to her internal dialogue. Bella's gaze remained fixed ahead, the anticipation of the impending showdown palpable.

"You've earned your place in SCW again, Crystal, climbing back into the spotlight. But remember that I've evolved as well. I’m a little older, I have a whole lot more to fight for and the streets of Reno will bear witness to a different kind of battle tonight – unbridled, relentless and potentially career shortening and once again, bloody. A perfect beginning to what will be ending at My Bloody Valentine."

The cityscape served as a gritty backdrop, the street lamps casting long shadows. Bella's hands clenched into fists, the weight of the moment settling on her shoulders.

"We share an interesting history, Crystal, but tonight, we redefine it. No ring ropes, no turnbuckles. Just ground beneath our feet and the determination to prove who stands tall."

As she approached an alley, the ambient noise of the city heightened. Bella's eyes gleamed with a fierce resolve. "This is our canvas now, Crystal. Let the streets tell a story of grit. And when it's over, Reno will remember the night the my fire met the your fury."

With that, Bella Madison stepped into the dimly lit alley, ready to let the streets of Reno bear witness to the street fight that would etch a new chapter in their shared legacy.

January 1st, 2024. Not just a new year for everyone around the world, but an extra-special day for Bella Madison and Malachi. Three years ago on this day, he surprised her by arranging their wedding with the help of their closest friends and family. He told her that 2020 had been such a shitshow of a year that he wanted to start 2021 on the right foot by getting married to the love of his life and best friend. Now, they get to celebrate the start of every new year by also celebrating their love for each other.

This year, Mal had sneakily hinted to Bella that he had some plans in motion for their anniversary, and she was dying to know what he was up to. While most people saw him as a cold, sarcastic asshole, Bella was one of the very few people that saw his tender, caring side. After all, it’s not every day that a girl gets wooed in the most romantic city in the world. But it came out even more after the birth of their daughter. Mal absolutely adored little Máire, and she loved watching him dote on her.

Even now after four years together, Mal still managed to keep the romance alive in their relationship. It wasn’t even just about the big, grand gestures, like the trip to Greece for her birthday in 2022, or the belated honeymoon trip to Paris later that same year. It was the random bouquets of flowers she’d find on the kitchen island. The coffee runs to her favourite cafe, along with extra sweet pastries. Or sometimes, it was just the way he’d look at her during quiet moments in the house when he thought she wasn’t paying attention to him. The way his eyes softened and a smile would light up his face…it made her heart race just as much as their first kiss.

But that didn’t mean that she still didn’t love when he did make the big, romantic gestures. Every time he did, he stopped at nothing to make sure each time was a memorable occasion. So she was eager to see what he had planned for this year’s celebration together. Their New Year’s celebration the night before had been pretty quiet, just the three of them watching movies at home before switching over to watch the ball drop at midnight in Times Square on TV. New Year’s Day had been pretty much just as quiet, the two of them taking care of a few chores for the majority of the day while also tending to Máire. But around 4 pm, as Bella was lounging on the couch watching Máire play on the floor, Mal came downstairs fresh out of the shower and immediately plopped down on the couch next to her. “You know, I’m kind of surprised that you haven’t been needling me incessantly about my plans for tonight.”

“Well, now that you mention it…” She put her phone off to the side and started poking him in the sides repeatedly. “Tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me!”

He laughed as he tried to swat her arms away. “Alright, alright! It’s about that time anyways!” When he couldn’t fend off her attacks, he quickly rose up from the couch and scooped up Máire in his arms. The four month old squealed and laughed as she bounced excitedly in her daddy’s arms. “Well, Miss Máire, shall we finally let your mama in on the super-big secret?”

The little girl giggled again as her blue eyes stared expectantly between her parents. Bella huffed as she rose up from the couch to join them. “What exactly do you have up your sleeve, mister?” Bella’s blue eyes narrowed as she stared at her husband, arms folded over her chest.

“Hey, I promised a special anniversary and I’m just trying to deliver,” he said with what he hoped was a charmingly disarming smile as he leaned in to kiss her lightly. “Now, if you’ll make your way to the bedroom, you’ll see part one of your gift from me.”

She raised an eyebrow, but turned to go up the stairs as he followed up after her. When she got to the bedroom, a large flat box laid in the middle of their bed, tied with a red bow. She turned to look at him suspiciously again, and he simply nodded his head towards the box as he adjusted Máire in his arms. She reached out and pulled on one end of the ribbon to release the bow and slowly lifted the lid of the box. Nestled among a bundle of gold tissue paper was a beautiful royal blue dress that had some streams of gold laced through it along with a matching jacket. Bella gasped as she lifted it out of the box and ran to the mirrored door of their closet. “MAL! This is absolutely gorgeous!”

“OK, full disclosure. I may have had an assist from Mattie on that gift,” he chuckled. “But the rest of the night is all me. Now, hurry up and get yourself ready. The Uber will be here in an hour and a half.”

She whirled around on him, eyes wide. “But what about Máire? We need a sitter and I don’t know if we can-”

He pressed a finger to her lips. “Already handled. I’m on my way to drop her off with Alanah and Jack for the night. Now, when I get back you better be ready, miss.” He gave her a swat to the ass as he headed out the door and into their daughter’s room to get her overnight bag ready. After getting everything together and bundling Máire up in her carseat, he let Bella know that he was on his way and headed out to the car while she started up the shower to get ready.

An hour later, Mal returned from dropping Máire off at his sister’s house and headed up the stairs. Bella was sitting at her vanity table, putting the finishing touches on her makeup. When he saw her in the dress with her hair done and her makeup on, he stopped for a moment in the doorway to admire her. She caught sight of him in the mirror and smiled. “See something you like?”

“If I didn’t already have these plans made, I would say ‘fuck it’ and we’d just stay home,” he chuckled as he walked up behind her, softly kissing the back of her neck. “You look absolutely stunning, mo ghrá.”



In no time at all, the couple were dressed in their finest. Bella in the gifted dress from her fashion designer bestie Mattie Cormier, and Mal in a navy blue suit with a white dress shirt and no tie. They left the townhouse and hurried to the car waiting at the side of the road for them. When Bella saw that it wasn’t an Uber, but rather a luxurious town car, she turned with a raised eyebrow to Mal. “I thought you said we were taking an Uber.”

He shrugged nonchalantly, a coy smile appearing on his face. “The first of many surprises in store for you tonight, my love.” He gestured towards the car, where the chauffeur held the back door open. The couple climbed inside, and soon they were pulling up in front of a Brazilian steakhouse. Bella’s eyes were wide as she stared at the lavish building. “I’ve been wanting to try this place forever! I can’t believe you got reservations here!”

He smiled as he held out his arm for her to take, and they walked into the restaurant together. After being seated in a private booth, they had a leisurely dinner where they spent a good hour and a half talking, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Once they were finished with their meal they ventured back outside where the car was once again waiting for them, and this time it took them to the front of Central Park. As they exited the car again, Bella looked over to see a horse-drawn carriage waiting a few feet away from them. She looked towards Mal with an incredulous expression. “You didn’t.”

“I did.” He wrapped an arm around her shoulders and led her to the carriage. “All these years we’ve lived here and never done this. I figured this was the perfect time.” He helped her up into the carriage before climbing in after her. They arranged the thick faux-fur blanket over themselves as the driver started the carriage at a leisurely pace through Central Park.

Bella let out a happy sigh as she snuggled closer to Mal, resting her head on his shoulder. “Just when I think you couldn’t surprise me any more, you go and do something like this.”

He chuckled, kissing the side of her head. “Well, the surprises keep coming. After this, we’re headed to our luxury suite at the Plaza for the night.”

Her blue eyes lit up in excitement. “Just like Eloise!”

Mal stared at her for a moment before letting out a groan and dropping his head. “Leave it to you to turn a romantic gesture into a book reference.”

She giggled and lifted his face to press a kiss against his lips. “Sorry, couldn’t help it. But for what it’s worth, I am feeling very romanced right now.”

He returned her kiss with a smile. “You’re lucky you’re so damn adorable and that I am madly, impossibly in love with you.”

They cuddled back up together and continued to enjoy their ride, watching the wintery sights of Central Park pass them by. “I just still can’t believe you did all this for us,” Bella said, her face glowing with the reflected light of a lights display still set up in the park.

“Well, truth be told, it’s more for you. Last year, you put everything on hold to carry our baby girl, and in almost no time after that you were back in the ring, raring to go.” He cupped her cheek with his hand and stared at her, running his thumb along her cheekbone. “And I know that this year, you are going to get everything you want. You are going to sprint up ladders, shatter glass ceilings and finally be acknowledged as the amazing talent you are. And you know that I will be right there with you to support and encourage every single step. So, consider this night a celebration of everything you’ve already accomplished and everything you’re about to accomplish in the new year.”

By the end of his speech, Bella’s eyes were full of tears but a happy smile was stretched across her face. One errant tear slid down her cheek as she leaned forward and tenderly kissed him. “Happy New Year, Mal.”

“Happy Anniversary, Bells.”


A Storm on the Horizon

Denver's crisp winter air greeted Bella Madison as she stepped off the plane, a refreshing change from the tumultuous emotional weather that had been swirling around her since December 2 Dismember. The snow-covered landscape of the city seemed to offer a clean slate, a chance for redemption after the disappointment of falling short in her bid for the Bombshell World Championship.

As the O'Connells navigated the snowy streets, Bella couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the city's winter charm. Malachi pushed Máire's stroller through the powdery sidewalks, the bundled-up infant nestled comfortably, oblivious to the tension that lingered in her mother's thoughts.

They settled into their cozy accommodations, the warmth of the hotel a stark contrast to the chill outside. The Denver skyline stretched before them, a panorama of possibilities, both scenic and competitive.

Later that evening, as Bella sat by the window, gazing at the city lights, her mind inevitably turned to Georgie Robertson, the holder of the Golden Briefcase. The weight of the upcoming match pressed on her, a mix of determination and anticipation.

It was a new year, after all. What happened in 2023 in the ring didn’t matter now. It was time to focus on the future.

"Mal," she began, her voice carrying the echoes of her reflections, "Georgie is no ordinary opponent. That briefcase she carries... it's like a storm cloud hanging over every championship in SCW. Anytime, anywhere, she can cash it in. That kind of unpredictability is unnerving." Bella smirks, “Almost makes me thankful that I didn’t win at December 2 Dismember.”

Malachi, leaning against the hotel room door frame, crossed his arms, his eyes fixed on Bella. "We've faced storms before, love. This is just another challenge, another opponent. Yeah, Georgie's got that briefcase, which right now is nothing you need to worry about, but you...you have got your own arsenal of skills, your own resilience. And you know damn well that you're not alone in this."

Bella nodded, appreciating the steadying presence of her husband. "I know. It's just... I can't let December's disappointment seep into this match. I promised myself when I came back that I wasn’t going to let things get to me and I promised that 2024 was going to be something new. Georgie's a wildcard, and I need to be ready for anything."

Malachi moved closer, kneeling beside her, his hand gently finding hers. "Bells, you're the woman who has faced down challenges, climbed ladders, and left a mark in the history of SCW. December was a setback, not the end. This match with Georgie is a chance to show the world that you're not defined by one night."

She met his gaze, gratitude mingling with determination. "You're right. Georgie may be unpredictable, but so am I. Denver will be the stage, and I'll weather whatever storm she brings. I won't let the disappointments of the past dictate the triumphs of the future."

Malachi smiled, squeezing her hand. "There’s my girl. You've got this. Now, let's enjoy the night and focus on what lies ahead. And in this city, they are all waiting for the next chapter in the story of Bella Madison."

As they embraced, the city lights outside seemed to shimmer with promise, the storm on the horizon only fueling Bella's resolve to conquer whatever challenges awaited her in the squared circle.


A Glimpse into the Journal of Elizabeth

As the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve, a wave of resolution washed over me. 2024 isn't just a continuation of the calendar; it's a canvas waiting for the strokes of ambition and determination. The echoes of December 2 Dismember may still linger out there in the multiverse, but in the crisp air of the new year, there's a chance for a fresh start.

This isn't about resolutions; it's about rules – rules I've set for myself, a roadmap to navigate the challenges, and grasp the opportunities that lie ahead. A Current List of Rules that can be edited, added-on to or deleted as the year goes on, but you will get the general gist as we move along.

Rule One: [/color]Learn from setbacks, don't dwell on them. December's defeat stung, but it won't define me. It's a stepping stone, not a stumbling block. Besides, if I was going to do nothing but stumble since my return, I would not have gotten to that main event spot to close out 2023.

Rule Two: [/color]Embrace the unpredictable. In the squared circle, unpredictability is a constant, and opponents like Georgie Robertson, wielding the Golden Briefcase, epitomize that. She thinks she's the underdog, the badass. Well, this year, I'll show her what a true underdog can achieve. I'll dance with unpredictability and turn it into my ally.

Rule Three: [/color]No shortcuts. Championship gold isn't handed out; it's earned. I proved this one was already a possibility but we are going to build on this. Climbing ladders, breaking barriers – that's the path to success. The golden briefcase may offer a shortcut, but I've never been one for shortcuts. I'll earn my spot at the top, each victory a testament to skill, not chance.

Rule Four: [/color]Be Relentless. The pursuit of greatness requires unyielding determination. The disappointments of yesteryear won't deter me. Georgie, with her briefcase and bravado, is just another challenge to conquer. Relentlessness is my armor, and victory is the only option.

Rule Five: [/color]Stay True. In the whirlwind of competition, it's easy to lose sight of oneself. But not this year. I'll stay true to who I am – the resilient, skilled, and determined athlete who has left an indelible mark in SCW. The woman who thrives under the spotlight and isn't defined by a single night.

So, here's to 2024, a year of challenges, victories, and uncharted territories. Denver may be the first battleground, but it's not the last. With these rules as my compass, I'll navigate the storms, face the unpredictability, and emerge victorious. This isn't just a new year; it's a declaration. The rules are set, and I'm ready to play the game.

Just a quick addition that I thought of late at night when Máire woke me up at 4am to get her butt change.

Rule Six: [/color]Don’t let ANYONE tell you that you can’t. They are fucking lying and they’re just scared because they know damn well that when it comes to the standard it’s only YOU that is holding yourself down. [/i]

Rule Seven: [/color]Make them Pay Attention.[/i]

Nothing else needs to be said.

*~*Thanksgiving Chaos*~*

The savory aroma of roasted turkey wafted through the O'Connell household, signaling the arrival of Thanksgiving. Bella, with a determined smile on her face, wore an apron that read, "Chef in the Making," as she navigated through the bustling kitchen. Máire was safely tucked in her high chair, observing the organized chaos around her with wide-eyed curiosity.

The doorbell rang, and chaos ensued as the guests arrived almost simultaneously. Malachi, who was still finishing his attempt at tying a bowtie but just decided to say to hell with it and stuff it into his pocket, rushing to greet everyone at the door while Bella juggled a wooden spoon and a tablet that had garnered her all of her favorite recipes, in the kitchen.

"Well it’s about time you all get here! Come on in!" Malachi greeted Alanah and Jack, who were wrangling the energetic twins, Patrick and Elise. The toddlers were already racing around, their laughter filling the air which only set off Luka who enjoyed getting chased around by something other than Salem.

Patrick stops only for a second in front of Mal, "Uncle Mal! Look at my race car!" Patrick proudly displayed his toy car, zooming it through the air as if on a mission to explore every inch of the living room.

Meanwhile, Rory, the 7-month-old bundle of joy, was happily babbling in Alanah's arms. Alanah, noticing the commotion from the kitchen, called out, "Need any help in there?" with an air of faux confidence.

"I've got it all under control!" Bella shouted back, attempting to corral the unruly ingredients that seemed to have formed an alliance against her.

In the midst of the chaos, Mack McKane and Mattie Cormier arrived, bearing desserts and festive smiles. Mack, known for his playful banter with the children, immediately joined forces with the toddlers, getting Luka even more riled up.

"’ey there, lil ones! Uncle Mack's got some tricks up his sleeve!" he exclaimed, earning giggles and laughter from the kids as he sent Luka hauling ass down the hallway and back again.

Meanwhile, Mattie and Alanah, ever the calm presences in Bella’s chaotic life, strolled into the kitchen after they placed some of the things that Mattie brought on a table that was set off to the side. "Bella, do you need a hand with anything?"

Bella, determined not to admit she was slightly overwhelmed, waved her off with a dismissive smile, "No, no, I've got this. It's just a little... Thanksgiving flair!"

Malachi, sensing the potential chaos, intervened, "Bells, why don't you let them help you out? I know you prepared a lot last night but it’s clear that you are a bit over your head at the moment."

After a moment of reluctant consideration, Bella relented, "Fine, but only because I don't want the fire department here before dinner."

As the Unholy Trinity teamed up in the kitchen, Jack, who surprisingly was a vision of calm in the midst of the whirlwind, settled on the couch with Rory. Elise and Patrick, now joined by Bella’s little brother Aaron, who had a superhero action figure in hand, created a symphony of laughter, giggles, and the occasional clatter of fallen toys. Máire, in her daddy’s lap, watched everything and occasionally one of the other kids would come up and give her a quick tickle which would bring a huge smile to her face followed by a laugh before she tucked herself into Malachi’s chest, being shy.

The delightful aroma of pies and turkey filled the air as the chaos of Thanksgiving continued to unfold. Laura and Nick, Bella's parents, who had arrived with Aaron, just in time to witness the organized pandemonium. The family gathered around, sharing stories, laughter, and the occasional, "Watch out for that spill!"

As the feast neared completion, Bella took a moment to glance around at the joyful mess that was her first Thanksgiving as a new mother. The love and laughter that echoed through the O'Connell household were the true ingredients that made this chaotic Thanksgiving a perfect celebration of family and gratitude. Things felt complete.

And so, amid the clamor of kids, the aroma of delicious food, and the warmth of loved ones, the O'Connell Thanksgiving unfolded in a glorious symphony of chaos and joy.

And she wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Thanksgiving chaos had settled, leaving the O'Connell household bathed in the warm glow of familial love and the contented sounds of post-feast bliss. With the kids now occupied with toys and games, and the adults savoring their after-dinner coffees, well the girls were. The men found themselves down in the basement level of their home, as Mal showed them around the area, Bella found a quiet moment to escape to the living room with Alanah, Mattie, and her mom, Laura.

They settled on the couch, each holding a cup of coffee, the rich aroma mingling with the faint scent of pumpkin pie still lingering in the air. Máire was peacefully napping in her crib, oblivious to the world outside her dreams.

"So, how's the new mom life treating you?" Alanah asked, her eyes sparkling with a mix of genuine curiosity and the shared experience of motherhood.

Bella sighed, a mixture of exhaustion and contentment evident on her face, "It's a wild ride, that's for sure. Between late-night feedings and attempting to keep up with my training schedule, I sometimes feel like I'm running on fumes."

Mattie chuckled, giving Bella a sympathetic look, "Welcome to the world of mommyhood. It's a beautiful mess, isn't it? Not that I would know but the wedding planning is exhausting."

Laura, sitting beside them, wore a knowing smile, her eyes filled with the wisdom of years spent navigating the complexities of parenthood. "You're doing an amazing job, Bella. Balancing a career, family, and your own dreams is no small feat."

Bella leaned back, a grateful smile playing on her lips, "Thanks, Mom. It's just... I want to be the best mom for Máire, the best wife for Mal, and still, pursue my passion in the ring. Sometimes, I worry I'm spreading myself too thin. ...or even came back too soon."

Alanah placed a reassuring hand on Bella's shoulder, "You know, you don't have to do it all alone. We're here for you. Your mom and I, we've been through our fair share of sleepless nights and mommy doubts. Mattie is more than willing to help out when things get crazy when she can. It's okay to lean on your friends."

Mattie nodded in agreement, "She's right. You're not alone in this, chica. We've got your back."

Laura chimed in, her voice filled with a mix of maternal pride and warmth, "And remember, it's okay not to have all the answers. Motherhood is a journey, and you're allowed to learn as you go. You're doing wonderfully."

Bella felt a surge of gratitude, her eyes misting with unshed tears, "Thank you, all of you. It means the world to me. I guess sometimes I forget it's alright to ask for help."

Alanah grinned, "That's what friends and family are for, Bells. We're in this together."

As the comforting chatter continued in the cozy living room, the atmosphere shifted slightly. Alanah, ever perceptive, sensed a hint of contemplation in Bella's eyes. With a knowing glance exchanged between her and Mattie, Alanah gently broached the subject that lingered in the air.

"Hey," Alanah began, her tone soft and understanding, "How are you feeling after the return match? I mean, it was a tough one, and we all know how much it means to you."

Bella sighed, her shoulders momentarily slumping as the weight of the recent defeat settled on her. "Yeah, it hit hard. I gave it my all, and Bobbie and I had a hell of a match. But in the end, she came out on top. I guess I'm just figuring out how to process it all. That and letting my ribs recover."

Mattie nodded in empathy, "Losing is never easy, especially when you invest so much of yourself into your craft. But you've always been resilient, Bella. It's okay to feel disappointment, but don't let it overshadow the progress you've made."

Laura, sensing her daughter's inner turmoil, offered her own perspective, "Sweetheart, success isn't measured solely in victories. It's in the journey, the growth, and the lessons learned. Every setback is an opportunity to rise stronger, to refine your skills, and to come back even more determined."

Bella looked down at her coffee cup, her thoughts swirling. "I just... I had this image in my mind, you know? Coming back, making a statement, and showing everyone that I hadn't lost a step. And now, it feels like I stumbled out of the gate."

Alanah leaned forward, her gaze unwavering, "Bella, we both know that stumbling doesn't define you. It's the getting back up that does. Bobbie got the better of you this time, but that doesn't erase everything you've already accomplished. All we know is that you can use this as fuel, as motivation to come back even stronger."

A supportive silence settled over the room, allowing Bella the space to absorb the encouragement and wisdom being shared. She took a deep breath, that familiar spark flickering back in her eyes.

"You're right. I can't let one loss dictate my journey. There's always another match, another opportunity. I just need to figure out my next move...which just so happens to be Seleana Zdunich and her ever growing hunger for Julianna’s spotlight."

Mattie grinned, "That's the spirit, Bells. We've seen you conquer challenges before, and this is no different. You've got the strength and resilience to turn this setback into a comeback."

~*~Post-Thanksgiving Workout Reflections~*~

The clang of weights and the rhythmic beat of Bella's footsteps on the treadmill created a symphony of determination in the home gym. After an intense Thanksgiving workout, she took a moment to catch her breath and gather her thoughts. And checking on a sleeping Máire who was in a swing that they kept in the area for times like these. Malachi, sensing her reflective mood, sat down beside her, handing over a towel and a bottle of water.

"You're pushing yourself hard, Bells. What's on your mind?" Malachi asked, concern evident in his eyes.

Bella wiped her face with the towel, her gaze fixed on the SCW logo on the wall. "Seleana Zdunich," she replied, the name carrying a weight of significance.

Malachi nodded, understanding the gravity of the upcoming match. "She's no pushover. What are you thinking?"

Taking a sip of water, Bella's expression turned contemplative. "Seleana is not just an opponent; she's a challenge I need to overcome. This match is my ticket to December 2 Dismember, and I can't afford to underestimate her."

Malachi leaned back, his support unwavering. "You've faced tough opponents before, Bells. What makes Seleana different?"

Bella's eyes focused, her mind delving into the intricacies of her upcoming opponent. "Seleana is relentless. She's hungry for success, and she fights with a tenacity that's hard to match. I have studied her matches over and over, her strategies. She adapts, she improvises, and she seizes every opportunity."

Malachi listened attentively, recognizing the analytical edge in Bella's voice. "So, how do you plan to face her? What's your strategy?"

A determined glint appeared in Bella's eyes. "I need to be one step ahead. Seleana is not someone you can predict easily. I'll capitalize on her strengths, anticipate her moves, and, most importantly, use my experience to outmaneuver her."

Malachi nodded approvingly, "That's the Bella I know. But remember, it's not just about the physical game. Your mental game is just as crucial."

Bella sighed, acknowledging the truth in his words. "Yeah, mentally, it's been a rollercoaster. After the last match with Bobbie, I questioned my readiness and whether or not I was too eager to get back. But this is different. Seleana is a different challenge, and I need to prove to myself that I can bounce back stronger."

Malachi placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, "You're resilient, Bells. You've overcome doubts before, and you'll do it again. This match is an opportunity to redefine your path in SCW."

Bella nodded, a determined spark in her eyes. "Seleana may be a challenge, but she's also an opportunity. An opportunity to show everyone, including myself, that I'm not defined by setbacks. I'm defined by how I rise from them."

As Bella prepared to face Seleana Zdunich in the World Bombshell Qualifier match, her mind echoed with a mix of anticipation and determination. The gym, once again, became the arena where she honed not just her physical prowess but her mental fortitude—a crucial element in the upcoming battle.

The match against Seleana wasn't just about victory; it was about proving that every setback was a stepping stone to something greater. With her unwavering spirit and the lessons learned from past challenges, Bella Madison geared up for a showdown that would define her journey in SCW.