{The scene opens up in Roxi and Keira’s home gym, where Roxi is once again working out in preparation for her match against Krystal Wolfe/Sin. Roxi’s workout is rather instense as she is drenched in sweat breathing heavily, leaning against the wall to catch her breath. After a few seconds, she picks her head up, breathing in through her nose and out her mouth to speed up the process. After relaxing her breathing, she sits down, in a meditative pose to collect herself. She can then hear Keira’s footsteps as she heads down the stairs from the first floor. This doesn’t stop Roxi from continuing to maintaining her focus, until Keira is at the base of the training mats, and Roxi can simply feel her wife staring at her.}

 

Roxi – Yes?

 

{Roxi says without opening her eyes which takes Keira aback for just a moment before Keira clears her throat.}

 

Keira – I was just wondering how training was coming along.

 

Roxi – It's at its usual pace. But that’s not why you’re down here.

 

Keira – You know you didn’t have to do this.

 

{Roxi opens her eyes and looks at her wife, before sighing.}

 

Roxi – Yes, I did, and yes, I do.

 

Keira – I know that it’s not great, given all that’s happened. 

 

Roxi – That's why I’m doing this.

 

Keira – But you don’t have to, that’s my point. I’m going to finish this once and for all at Violent Conduct. You don’t need to get your hands dirty. This is MY fight.

 

Roxi – It was. But people are getting broken bones and attacked. Even you. I know how badly you want to finish this, trust me, I do. But the fact remains that I cannot simply sit back and let someone else get hurt because this is different than last time.

Keira – It's still Sin. And nobody knows Sin better than me.

 

{Roxi stares at Keira intensely.}

 

Keira – Not much better than you, but still, she was in MY body.

 

Roxi – And I drove her out. But it’s not about you this time. Not entirely. That’s why you’ve been attacked, it’s why she’s seemingly a step ahead all the time. At the end of the day, this is as much for you as it is for everyone else. Myself included.

 

Keira – But you know what Sin is capable of. You know that it was far worse outside of SCW. Now that you’re taking up the fight, it could end up being that bad.

 

Roxi – And there’s no one else, I’d rather have in that position. I will take care of this situation and nobody else will get hurt between now and Violent Conduct.

 

Keira – I wouldn’t be so sure about that. Krystal can be dangerous in her own right, and Sin is only ramping up that level of violence. She could attack at any time. 

 

Roxi – Not while the big prize is sitting in front of her.

 

Keira – Don't talk like that. 

 

Roxi – Don’t you trust me?

 

{Keira goes to answer, but stops.}

 

Keira – Of course I trust you.

 

Roxi – Then let me do what I need to do. I will take care of this. You just need to be ready when your time comes.

 

Keira – I'm not going to sit back and watch her try and hurt you!

 

Roxi – I don’t either, because that’s not what’s going to happen. When you time comes, I know you’ll be ready. Until then, I’ve got this.

 

{Keira goes to speak again, but stops and thinks, before looking at Roxi and nodding.}

 

Keira – Fine. I will get ready, and I will be ready.

 

{Roxi nods.}

 

Roxi – Thank you.

 

{Keira nods and then she leaves as Roxi continues to meditate and the scene fades.}

 

---

 


 

Hello, SCW.

 

I wish I could be doing this under different circumstances, but alas, here we are. 

When this whole thing with Krystal Wolfe kicked off, I was a bit indifferent about it. Krystal was known to say things like the things she said about me, and about everyone else and I wasn’t too bothered. Although I am not one to back down from any challenge, it appeared that Krystal made herself public enemy number one and as such, it was going to be a while before this really got to where I was going to have to step in. Krystal didn’t seem to be in too big of a hurry either.

And then, Krystal started trying to hurt people, and that is when Keira stepped in. 

So, I didn’t believe at that point that I needed to also step in. Keira was quite happy with retirement at that time. So, for her to step back into the ring and deal with Krystal meant a lot to Keira. Because Krystal was a friend. A rival, an opponent to test herself with. And now that had gone downhill fast. But again, that was Keira’s fight. I wasn’t going to step in and spoil my wife coming back to the ring. She made that decision, and it didn’t need me to do anything. 

But now, things are obviously different.

I don’t know how or why Sin decided to come back and crawl out from under the rock she was banished to, but she did. I thought Keira and I had finally rid both SCW and the world of that monster a long time ago. I have had my fill of dealing with Sin and I just maybe just a tad hopeful that that was going to be the end of it. Keira put that to rest. It caused enough problems for everyone and it didn’t need to be drug up again. It should have died last year. It was over.

But, I suppose that evil doesn’t really die. It simply changes shape.

And now, Sin has taken the shape of Krystal Wolfe.

If this was just Krystal Wolfe, then I wouldn’t be standing here in front of you. I wouldn’t be preparing to deal with this problem. I’d be focusing on other things and letting Keira handle it. But since Sin wishes to continue to not just try and hurt people, but to injure and break bones, that is a line I’m not allowing her to cross again. 

That is why I stepped in. Nobody else, is going to get hurt after this. If Sin wishes to hurt somebody, then she is more than welcome to try and hurt me. She couldn’t get the job done before, and this time will be no different. Because I know Sin, better than everyone except my wife. I’m the one who released her in the first place. I’m the one who stood up when no one else would. I’m the one who outsmarted her before. I’m one of the reasons that she took so long to come back.

 
So, I hope that Sin is ready to get right back into the ground and remember to stay away from this world from now on. Better men, better women better monsters have threatened me and I am still here. If Sin thinks that this is just going to be me taking bullets, she is sadly mistaken. I may end up apologizing to my wife, because after Sunday, Sin may not be in any shape to make it to Violent Conduct.   

 
I’m going to put an end to this, or at the very least, I’m going to make sure Sin understands what she has gotten herself into.

And if Krystal is in there, this isn’t going to count, but there will be time for that later. More important to me, is that Sin suffers. 

And I’m going to take great joy in making her suffer.


Because I'm not trapped in a match with her.

She's trapped in a match, with me.
 

See you in Rio.

{The scene opens at the Team Hero gym with Keira leading another class. She has all the students sitting down in the ring. Roxi then comes through the doors and the students stands up and applaud her, along with Keira. Roxi shakes her head and waves the group off as she walks over to them and enters the ring.}

 

Roxi – Alright, alright, that’s enough. 

 

Keira – We just wanted to show our appreciation, my love.

 

Roxi – You don’t need to set up stuff like this. You all need to be learning. But, since you went to all this trouble, I want you all to get just a little touch.

 

{Roxi goes into her gym back and removes the SCW Bombshell’s title and hands it to the student to pass around.}

 

Roxi – I know some of you have replica’s at home, some of you as fans have your own titles, but if only for a few minutes, I want you to feel what having that title, or any title is like. I want you to understand the importance and significance of holding one of those and representing a company, and understand that it means that you busted your butt, and you put in the work, and it will pay off.  But most importantly, it means how much trust they have in you, and how much responsibility they have placed on you.

 

{The students pass around the title, and finally back to Roxi. She simply places it over her shoulder as she continues.}

 

Roxi – Some of you may not win a title, but I believe a lot of you will. For the brief period you touched that title, I want you to envision that it was yours and everything that I just said that goes into it. But winning titles, starts with you putting in the work here. I know, some days absolutely suck. I know, I’m here in sometimes and I’m not letting you slide on things and some of you guys may think I’m the worst trainer in the world and that I don’t like you or that I’m picking on you. Same with Keira, or anyone else that comes down to help you train. But trust me, there is method to the madness. 

 

{Roxi looks around at the students taking all the information in.}

 

Roxi – We're doing this, because we want you to be able to go into that ring, or any ring and earn your living. Because if you go out there, and you aren’t ready, and you aren’t trying to get better, and you aren’t prepared? You know what happens. At the best, they don’t ever ask you to come back. At the worst, you injure yourself or someone else. We are never going to teach you that. I know it may seem harsh, but trust me, if you just prepare and listen, you will learn and you will excel.

 

{Roxi then turns to Keira, who takes center ring in front of the students.}

 

Keira – Roxi's right, now you cannot ever let yourself become complacent. People pay hard-earned money, and trust me in this economy, it’s a lot for them, to come and see you perform. If you take any show for granted, then you will end up making a bad impression. Our whole team is going to do our best to put you in position to succeed, and we will do our best to get you on shows and into the ring in front of people for the experience. But we’re not going to do that, if you arent going to put in the work. Plain and simple. Everybody got that?

 

{The students murmur in agreement.}

 

Keira – Okay, find a partner, get some stretching in, help each other. That’s what this is about. I’ll give you guys five minutes to warm up, and then I’ll lead the last five, and then we’ll get into tumbling, rolling, ring movement okay?

 

{More murmuring as the class gets together and starts chatting amongst themselves as Roxi and Keira go into Keira’s office.}

 

Keira – I really am proud of you.

 

Roxi – Thank you, my love. You think they got the point?

 

Keira – Oh, I’m sure they recognize how this works. The only problem is some people may or may not be willing to go that extra mile. 

 

Roxi – Well, we’ll have to weed them out. 

 

Keira – Oh, and by the way... 

{Roxi looks up as she is putting her title into her gym bag, catching Keira’s eye for a second, distracting her, but she shakes it off.}

 

Keira – They still are asking about putting on a show.

 

Roxi – Okay?

 

Keira – I don’t know, but you know Harper and Jessie and everybody else that comes around here to stop by is also pulling my chain to try and let them do it.

 

Roxi – I mean, it couldn’t hurt. Let them put on a show here. You could charge people to come see it. 

 

Keira – I'm just not sure. What if one of them gets hurt or something?

 

Roxi – They run that risk every day Keira. That’s why we’re here and I know some of them aren’t ready, and quite frankly there’s one or two that aren’t going to cut it without a lot more training. But it teaches them some responsibility.

 

Keira – I guess. 

 

Roxi – Keira, it’s not like -

 

{Roxi notices Keira isn’t paying attention to her, but rather behind her as the students are just standing and looking into the office. Roxi and Keira look at each other in confusion.}

 

Roxi – What do you think that is about?

 

Keira - I don’t know.

 

{Roxi and Keira come out and Tia, one of the smallest wrestlers in training, comes forward.}

 

Keira – What are you guys doing? Is something wrong? You should be stretching.

 

Tia – Yeah, we actually just wanted to again ask about doing our own show. I mean, you just spoke about how much it means to be a champion, and to get experience and we think this could work for everybody.

 

Keira – Guys, I know you really want to do this, and it’s admirable. We just need to get you guys some more training before we start thinking about that.

 

Tia- Yes, we know. But to know that it something we can do, would be a huge boost to us.

 

{Roxi look at Keira and then Keira looks back out at the students.}

 

Keira – Guys...

 

Roxi – Let me ask you this, okay, do you have any plans for how to make this work? How much work is going into putting on a show?

 

Tia – Yeah, and we want to do it. 

 

Roxi – You tell me what your plans are then.

 

Tia – We can do most of everything. You know, make fliers and hang them out. Post on social media. We all know how to set up the ring. We can sell the tickets. We just want to put this together.

 

{Roxi looks at Keira.}

 

Keira – In the future. Yes. Okay, we’ll even help you. But you have to get down to business and stop worrying about that, and instead on getting better. So, for now, yes, you can do a show.

 

{The students are happy and excited about getting their wish.}

 

Keira – But since I’m agreeing to this. Well, since we’re agreeing to this. The deal is really simple. You guys make progress, and make it as a team, then it’s all good. That means we see the improvement, we see you guys trying, and we see everyone doing their part. Deal?

 

{The students murmur in agreement.}

 

Keira – Good. Now, stop bugging me about it, and let’s get back to work. Get to stretching!

 

{The excited students starts stretching as Roxi and Keira head back into the office.}

 

Keira – So... how do we pull of a show?

 

Roxi – I think we can call in a few favors and we’ll be okay.

 

Keira – You think?

 

Roxi – You can’t tell me that Jessie, Harper, Cassie and everyone else in that crew won’t want to be part. There’s a lot of people we can call on. We’ll just have to see how the kids actually think this through.

 

Keira – You called them kids like they’re our kid.

 

Roxi – Because they are. We’re taking them and putting them into a new world that isn’t going to be very friendly and may not be for all of them. That’s why we’re also preparing for life after all this. Because you and I both know it’s not going to last forever. 

 

Keira – Yeah, that’s true. 

 

{Roxi sees Keira turn away and look at nothing in particular, she knows what Keira is actually thinking, but she doesn’t bother to say anything.}

 

Roxi – Anyway, let’s get out there and see how many of them trip over their own two feet, like kids do.

 

Keira – And here I was thinking about... never mind. 

 

{Roxi smirks at Keira as the two head out to begin class, and the scene fades.}

 

 

 

 

---

 


 

Hello SCW.

 

I do apologize for the lack of coming to the ring to celebrate being the Bombshell’s champion for the 5th time. There was something a bit lacking about it, and so, I wasn’t really in the mood to celebrate. While I am happy about winning and hey, only one other person has been champion 5 times, I try not to get hung up on accomplishments at this point in my career and my life. But I will hold up my hand and apologize for not being where I am supposed to be as advertised. There were just some unforeseen circumstances that caused me to not be able to appear. It was what it was, and I will always do my best to give you what you paid to see. 

You will not have to worry about anything like that happening this week when I have to defend this championship. And trust me, I will be there for that. 

A lot of people congratulated me on winning the title for a 5th time and I am truly appreciative of all those good vibes. Winning any title is hard and trust me, it’s not like it ever gets any easier the more you go along. I do not take for granted what I had to go through to win the title. And I do not take for granted who I had to beat to get it. 

I don’t know if Amber is coming back or will be back. Maybe that was it for her. Maybe she is hanging it up, or maybe she’s just biding her time. I don’t know, but if that was the end of everything between us? She has always had my respect, and I like to think I earned hers. At the end of everything, maybe she realized what I was afraid of when this whole thing began, that at the end of it, neither one of us would be able to do anything in our later years because of the hell we put each other through. And maybe she realized it wasn’t worth it. 

And again, she could come right back and get in my face this Sunday. I don’t know for sure. 

But if the latter is the case, I will be there, and I will be ready. I made her a promise, and I always intend to keep my promises.

But Sunday isn’t about whether or not Amber Ryan is coming back. It’s actually not about Amber at all. It’s about another old enemy. One that continues to survive despite all efforts to put her out of her misery. My old pal, Mercedes Vargas.

 

Now, I don’t really know what else there is to say at this point about Mercedes in general. Mercedes is being given this opportunity because of her past accomplishments, and I think that’s really the problem with the whole Mercedes Vargas thing. I don’t think we can keep rewarding her based on what she did 4-5 years ago. I think we are enabling Mercedes to continue to do the thing we all know she’s doing. Resting on those accomplishments like they are a get out of jail free card. 

Let’s just call a spade a spade. Mercedes Vargas has done exactly nothing to earn this match. Yes, she’s a grand slam champion. Yes, she’s in the Hall of Fame. And that’s all well and good. I respect that, and all those accolades. But there comes a point about doing something that’s relevant. What was the last thing that made any of us notice Mercedes Vargas? Her last two matches have been handouts.

Now, I’m not saying I haven’t gotten those. Because I have. But when literally every single time we have to see Mercedes Vargas, it’s putting all of her accolades in front of her name and trying to sell her as still being that person. When we all know at this point, it’s just a front. SCW, I implore you to stop propping up Mercedes Vargas. Stop enabling her to stop caring about evolving at this point. Make her actually earn these things. 

But I guess doing that would expose Mercedes for having rested on her laurels this entire time. Let me just ask this question: How long has it been since you actually thought Mercedes was going to really do something important? For the past what, 3-4 YEARS, she has been canon fodder, and the worst part is she not only seems to know, but seems to not even care. I mean, I get it, there’s gonna be some point where you know that winning isn’t everything, and you stop really caring about the wins and losses and you focus more on your own enjoyment. I know this, because I can see this coming over the horizon for me. Heck, I even made a list of dream matches I wanted to have, and really at the end of the year, it’s still up in the air whether or not I really want to continue this. Because while I appreciate the significance of holding this very championship, and what it represents, I know now that there’s a lot of other things that interest me more these days. 

I have been very fortunate and lucky to have the opportunities I’ve had. I have never let that slip away from me. I am thankful for everything that SCW has given me, and by that same token, I’m going to fight to make this championship as prestigious as it ever was. And when the time comes that I am no longer champion, I will know that I did everything I could, and I fought as hard as I could to keep this title where it is. 

But I’m not blind and I see the crops of wrestlers coming up, and really so should Mercedes. I know each year they get younger and hungrier. And it forces me to keep my game as sharp as it ever has been. I refuse to end up being like Mercedes and relying on everything I once was to carry me through. At some point that has to stop. And I again implore SCW to stop giving Mercedes these chances. On Sunday, I’m going to beat Mercedes again and that’s really all there is to it.

 

Well, I guess there was a little more to talk about than usual when it comes to Mercedes. I guess I could continue on the nostalgia trip, but I think I’ve had enough of that kind of thinking. I would hope that this reaches Mercedes so she too takes this more seriously, but I’ve known her long enough to know that I’m better off talking to a wall.

 

I heard it right after I lost the title that I was a boring champion. I heard that I didn’t do anything to elevate the division or make it mean anything. I heard this all from Mercedes Vargas of all people, and at this point, I just had to chuckle and wave it off, because you just kinda look at the source and that’s my reaction. 

I suppose we should all strive to have that 30 day title reign that nobody really talks about. We should all want to just have this championship. It doesn’t matter if you hold it for 30 minutes. Just have it once, and then it’s bragging rights forever. It makes you special. While all that is true, she has no right whatsoever to criticize or critique anything I’ve done. I’ve done more with this championship than just wear it for a short time. I’ve tried, over and over to open this up. And I’ll do the same here and now.

It doesn’t matter to me how long you’ve been in SCW. If you earn a match against me? If you earn a match for this championship, I will be more than happy to wrestle you. I want you to come and chase this championship. Because that’s what I did. I want you to try and take it. Sieze your moment. 

 

Because it will mean a hell of a lot more if you take it from me, than if you win it from Mercedes Vargas.

 

But for now, you on’t have to worry about that. Because I’m going to beat Mercedes. Again. And at this point, I really don’t even take satisfaction in it, and neither should any one else who wrestles her. Until she gets up off her ass and actually tries to make her name mean something again. But until that day comes, this is just another match for me. Just another defense. And it’s sad to have to say that about someone who has accomplished so much.

If you ever really wanted to know the difference between Mercedes and myself, it’s really simple. Mercedes has allowed herself to become complacent and just be here. I am always will be hungry for the next challenge. 

So one last time, SCW. Please, stop enabling Mercedes Vargas based on her past. Make her do what everyone else has to do. Earn it. Because after this, there shouldn’t be any more freebies. 

On Sunday, I will do what I always do, and I will put on a show. Even if I had to drag Mercedes Vargas kicking and screaming to being acceptable. 

 

See you Sunday.

{The scene opens at the Johnson household where Roxi has returned from Inception and enters the house. Nate runs up to Roxi and gives her a big hug as she puts her bags down.}

 

Nate – Mommy!

 

Roxi – Hi Nater! Were you a good boy while I was away?

 

Nate – Uh-huh!

 

Roxi – Good. 

 

{Nate kisses Roxi and runs off to continue playing. Keira comes up to Roxi and also gives her a kiss and a hug, but she can see the almost stunned look in Roxi’s face.}

 

Keira – Hey.

 

Roxi – Hey.

 

Keira – So... are you okay?

 

Roxi – Yeah, fine.

 

Keira – Are you sure?

 

Roxi – Yes.

 

Keira – So... then... what happened?

 

{Roxi picks up her bags and shrugs with a sigh.}

 

Roxi – I lost. 

 

Keira – Right. I know that part. What happened?

 

Roxi – I didn’t take it as seriously as I should have. I got complacent. 

 

{Roxi heads towards the bedroom where she sets her bag on the bed and begins to take out her gear in order to wash it. Keira has followed Roxi into the bedroom and hugs her from behind.}

 

Keira – I'm sorry.

 

Roxi – For what?

 

Keira – I... I thought you had that one. 

 

Roxi – Yeah, I did too. But that’s just how it works sometimes.

 

Keira – But you are better than that. You should have won.

 

Roxi – And I didn’t. It happens.

 

{Keira looks at Roxi, puzzled herself at Roxi being so nonchalant about the whole thing.}

 

Keira – Aren't you upset?

 

Roxi – Well, obviously, I’m a little annoyed, but there’s not much I can do to change it now. I just have to be better next time.

 

Keira – No, I see it in your face. Even you can’t believe what happened. 

 

Roxi – I said as much. It was as much of a shock to me as it was to you.  But losses happen.

 

Keira – You are almost too comfortable with this loss. I don’t want you to be comfortable with that. You know what the next step is? Jobber to the stars! 

 

{Roxi raises an eyebrow to Keira.}

 

Roxi – It's not that serious. 

 

Keira – Okay, okay, maybe not that bad. But it causes a little concern in me, and your fans and all that.

 

Roxi – It was one match, Keira. If I’m not mistaken, I don’t think your last match was -

 

Keira – That wasn’t the point of that match, and you know it. 

 

Roxi – Still, can’t win them all.

 

Keira – It's just odd.

 

{Roxi eyes that Keira seems more manic than usual.}

 

Roxi – You seem very agitated for some reason.

 

Keira – I'm fine.

 

Roxi – You're also a bad liar.

 

{Keira sighs.}

 

Keira – Do you know our son wants to be a wrestler?

 

Roxi – Our son is also 5. and also wants to be an astronaut and a farmer and a fighter pilot for the rebellion. He’s a child, Keira. Children say things all the time.

 

Keira – No, you didn’t see the look in his face. He wants to be like us.

 

Roxi – I'd just...chill out on that. He’s 5, he might just grow out of it.

 

Keira – Roxi, he’s around it all the time. Sometimes I take him down to classes to give your mom a break. He’s around it. He sees it. He gets in the ring and goofs around. It’s... it’s in his blood now. 

 

Roxi – And you don’t want that?

 

Keira – What? No! He’s... he’s my baby. He will get hurt! 

 

Roxi – He fell outside and hurt himself all the time, Keira. 

 

Keira – But I was there! I can protect him. I can’t do that in the ring. Not even if he wrestles!

 

Roxi – Keira! 

 

{Keira is now pacing and Roxi has to stop her, and place her hands on her shoulders.}

 

Roxi – Relax.

 

Keira – It's not okay, Roxi. You know that.

 

Roxi – Ultimately, it’ll be his choice. But again... let’s just understand that right now, he’s 5. Okay? Relax. If he wants to do this when he’s older, then we’ll cross that road when it comes to it. But right now, the kid wants to be lots of things. It’s okay.

 

Keira – Maybe... you’re right.

 

Roxi – I know how you feel. I do. But right now, he’s fine. It’s a kid being a kid. 

 

Keira – I'm sorry, things have just been wild lately. These classes are stressful nowadays. 

 

Roxi – You know, you can take a break. Keri and Angelica can handle things just as well. We have Jessie and Kim and Stacy and even Griff who can come by and do training. 

 

Keira – I know, but, that just means I’d be focused on watching you and then that makes me think about... other things.

 

Roxi – Didn't you retire?

 

Keira – Yeah, I did. I mean... I am. I am retired.

 

Roxi – Okay then. Just relax.

 

Keira – Can... can I help you train for your next match?

 

Roxi – Sure. 

 

Keira – Good, I want to be sure you’re ready. 

 

Roxi – Keira...

 

Keira – Oh, and I don’t need Nate watching either. I want him far away from wrestling right now. 

 

Roxi – Keira!

 

{Keira sighs again.}

 

Keira – You’re right, I should let the kid, be the kid. I mean, it’s not like he wants to be a superhero or something...

 

{Keira’s eyes widen as she looks at Roxi.}

 

Roxi – Yeah... let’s... not talk about this stuff anymore, okay? 

 

Keira – Deal. I’m gonna go make dinner.

 

{Keira hurriedly exits the room as Roxi sits down on the bed, stretching out and shaking her head before going to wash her gear as the scene fades.}

 

---

 

{The new scene is Roxi walking up on the doorstep of Amy Jo Smyth yet again. She knocks, and soon enough AJ comes to the door, a knowing look on her face.}

 

Amy Jo Smyth – You must need something.

 

Roxi – Yes, and no.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – It’s 99% of the reason you visit me.

 

Roxi – I’m sorry about that. I should visit you more often. And I still owe you a trip to Studio 54.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – You owe me a lot of things, Roxi.

 

Roxi – I will get you that jacket, okay? 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – You better. And yes, we are going to Studio 54.

 

Roxi – You know it’s an opera house now, right?

 

Amy Jo Smyth – And we will go there, and we will dance. 

 

Roxi – Okay, okay. You got it.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Now, what is it you need, and what the hell happened in your match last time?

 

{Roxi rolls her eyes.}

 

Roxi – I lost.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Yeah, I know. What the shit, Roxi?

 

{Roxi sighs.}

 

Roxi – I lost. That’s about it.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – You clearly should have won.

 

Roxi – I know, and I didn’t. That’s what happened.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Get your ass in gear, Roxi. I don’t want to hear about you slipping up when you’re better than that. I didn’t retire to watch you mess up your career.

 

Roxi – It was one match. One. You and my wife are freaking out over this and it’s weird. But, I appreciate your encouragement. 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Well, you should.

 

Roxi – ANYWAY, can I talk to you?

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Are we not talking?

 

Roxi – Okay, smart ass. I meant about why I’m here.

 

{Now, it’s AJ’s turn to sigh.}

 

Amy Jo Smyth – So, you’re not here simply to go to Studio 54?

 

Roxi – No. I need your help.

 

{AJ rolls her eyes and motions for Roxi to come in.}

 

Amy Jo Smyth – What else is new.

 

Roxi – Also, wait... is Anya here?

 

Amy Jo Smyth – No. She comes and goes. Got her own... Things she does, I guess.

 

Roxi – Okay.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Are you avoiding her?

 

Roxi – No. I just don’t want to be talking about things we shouldn’t be in front of her.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – I see. Come on.

 

Roxi – Thank you.

 

{AJ leads Roxi into her house and into the basement/lab that AJ has set up.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – So, what this about now? Secret formulas? Explosions? It's explosions, right? Please tell me, it's explosions?

 

Roxi – Remember how I told you about a brewing gang war? 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – And remember when I told you I’m out of favors with the CIA?

 

Roxi – Yeah, but what if I have some information.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – With some evidence, at least your case is stronger.

 

Roxi – Well, there seem to be three players in this. Maybe four.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Oooh! A mystery! 

 

Roxi – There’s Louie’s gang, possibly the Hamiltons.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Okay, I mean, that really isn’t going to be CIA.

 

Roxi – And this third guy... Refers to himself as the Hidden Hand.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Nice. Cleche, but nice.

 

Roxi – Can we focus here, AJ?

 

Amy Jo Smyth – I’m listening.

 

Roxi – There was a meeting setup, and it was all a double cross. People got hired to kill those at the meeting, at the request of the Hidden Hand.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Why didn’t you tell me this when you found out?

 

Roxi – Because I needed to piece it together myself. Anyway, I guess this Hidden Hand has ties to Hamilton, based on the information I got. I’ll have to lean on some snitches in order to make any progress.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – So, what do you need me for?

 

Roxi – I’m... I’m gonna need some help on this.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – And... you expect me to able to help you?

 

Roxi – I need eyes where I don’t have them. I don’t want this city to become gangland.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – I’ll look up what I can and see about any Hamilton dealings. That, I might be able to get away with in some old files. But you’re going to need to give me more information or something bigger for me to even try. And even then, like I said...no guarantees.

 

Roxi – I’m not asking you to pull any strings any further than you can. I don’t need you getting in trouble.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Honey, trouble is my middle name.

 

Roxi – I thought it was “Jo.”

 

{AJ rolls her eyes again.}

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Okay, smart ass, it’s a figure of speech.

 

Roxi – I know. 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – ANYWAY, You get some something solid, and I’ll get you what I can. I can look into old Hamilton files.

 

Roxi – How many files do you have on them anyway?

 

Amy Jo Smyth – They’re a big corporation. We have many files. That’s kind of how the CIA works. Once you get big enough to get noticed... Uncle Sam puts eyes on you.

 

Roxi – Ominous. 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – But like... the good kind of eyes on you?

 

Roxi – I don’t think you’re making it better.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – The point is, we have files. 

 

Roxi – That’s all I need to know.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – You’re damn right it is.

 

Roxi – Okay, you’re not in the CIA.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Not anymore. But I still have access. 

 

Roxi – So stop saying “We.”

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Oh hush. 

 

Roxi – Just... see if you can find any bad dealing or ones that fell through for Hamilton.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Hey, wait, doesn’t like the daughter have a hate-boner for Keira?

 

Roxi – Oh yes. 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Are we sure this isn’t her?

 

Roxi – No. The person at the meeting representing Hamilton was a man. 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Okay so... should I start from her dad?

 

Roxi – I would. 

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Alright, I’m on the case. But you will owe me big time if this goes south.

 

Roxi – You know I’m good for it.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – ...

 

Roxi – … Ish.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – Go train wrestlers or something. I’ll let you know what I find.

 

Roxi – Thanks, AJ. I love you.

 

Amy Jo Smyth – So I’ve heard.

 

{Roxi gives AJ a hug before departing, the scene fades.}

 

---

 

Hello, SCW.

 

I have and make no excuses for what happened at Inception. I took my opponent lightly, and I didn’t put forth the effort needed to win. There’s really not much else to it. I don’t know what came over me, but it is on me, to make it right in the future. I suppose that after having such a successful 2022, that I perhaps believed that 2023 would just be a continuation of this. And I was ignorant to think so. Cocky even. I got ahead of myself, and I lost. I think it should not be considered an upset, simply because when you look at a match on paper, that it should obviously go one way. If this was the case, then the match really shouldn’t have taken place. This is why we have those matches. I fell into that line of thinking and you see the result. But I make this promise now

That’s not going to happen again.

I’m not about to simply become a stepping stone for other people. And let’s just be honest here: I’ve lost plenty of matches that I probably should have won, and this is just another one of those. Losses happen. Now, if Georgie Robertson goes on and she becomes a champion or has this incredible career, then maybe she can look back, like all of us, and point to that match at Inception and say “That’s where it started.”

But to continue to be honest, I’ve had people beat me, and have it be considered this huge thing, and then they flame out. They accomplish next to nothing afterwards and then disappear from the wrestling business entirely. That has happened, so I don’t put that much stock into this being a sign of anything to do with me, or her. All of that, rides on what happens next. 

I stated last time out, that should this exact scenario happen, people would start to question my age, my drive and dedication, whether or not I still have it anymore. And sure enough, that has happened. I didn’t expect this from the people putting together match titles and whatever. The questions are there, and I think it’s a little early in the year to be sitting here and questioning anything with me. It was a loss, and I will gladly admit that. But if the idea is now forming that all of a sudden that I’m just going to go out there and tarnish everything by losing and still thinking myself to be at the top level, that’s also not going to happen. I am not Mercedes Vargas. 

But I’m also not planning on going out there and just being some enhancement person. Because I’m not letting this one loss define me or my career. I’ve lost before, I will probably lose again in the future. But it will never, ever again be because I didn’t try hard enough. That’s happened at Inception, and it’s not going to happen again.

 

And this of course, bring me to my opponent this week, Krystal Wolfe.

 

Krystal and I both didn’t have the greatest night at Inception, and that’s okay. It’s not the end of the world as people want to make it seem. Losses happen. What I am more interested in is seeing what happens after this. Where does this all go? But really, the most interesting thing is actually if Krystal heard my words last time or if she will continue to do what she does all the time. I caught that glimpse of her face after our match in December. I see the frustration and the anger in her face and in her body language. It told me a lot. Krystal is frustrated and that’s perfect logical and acceptable. But from what I told her, and how she chose to move on from it, is even more telling. 

See, while it’s okay to be upset, eventually, you have to let it go. You have to learn to move on. You cannot let a setback become some impossible mountain to climb. If Krystal is upset that she lost, that’s good, but it cannot be the only reason for her participation in this match. “Getting a win back” as they say. You set yourself up for failure every single time. It’s really not the way you want to go about things. You give yourself no option and back yourself into a corner. What happens if I beat Krystal again? Does she then double down on trying to beat me? Does it break her? Does she just give up? Or will she understand what this whole speech is about? 

Moving on and moving forward.

Being able to accept the situation and evolve from it. You lose? Okay then, stew in it for a little bit, but at the end of the day, you have to get over it. That look of anger and frustration in Krystal’s eyes and the tweet of Krystal “looking to bounce back” leads me to believe that Krystal is now more focused on simply winning the match because in her own eyes, if she fails, she will be a failure. 

Which isn’t the case.

Why do you all think my wife considered Krystal one of her greatest rivals? Right up there with Jessie Salco? It’s because Krystal is capable of doing great things and winning any time she steps into the ring. Keira tried to teach Krystal the same lessons that I have been talking about this entire time. Taking from what happened, learning and becoming better for it. 

I’ve been trying to give Krystal that lesson since December. Evolve. Be different.

I made a request last time for Krystal to take a chance on making a change. But I fear that this isn’t reaching her now. And I get it, I’m the last one to really be talking about changing everything given I’m like a dang clock with how I have everything fitting into a schedule. 

But you know, it wasn’t always like that. At some point, a change needed to be made. I needed to change how I did things and make sure that was the best option for me. I’m not as wild and crazy as I used to be. Things changed. But I have done enough in my life and my career to stand out in a crowd. I have earned my place at the table, and I did it, by being able to evolve.

I asked Krystal to do this last time. Something to be known as Krystal Wolfe. Graduated from the Go Gym? Great. So did many others. Twitch streamer? Awesome, how many of THOSE are there? Yikes. I simply asked Krystal Wolfe to show me, no, in fact, show the WORLD what makes her Krystal Wolfe. 

And much like a lot of other things I could mention, here I am, still waiting for it.

People have come to know me, because I am who I am, and I do what I do. There’s people who follow me around the world that maybe I spoke to or interacted with, but at the end of the day, I let what I do, do my talking. My track record speaks for itself. People only have to say my first name, and everybody knows they are talking about me.

And this isn’t coming from a place of mockery or me trying to “big league” anybody. I’m just stating the facts. I want that exact same thing, to be what people do for Krystal Wolfe. Heck, anybody who is trying to make a name for themselves. Krystal Wolfe can be a household name. Krystal Wolfe can be a star. I am saying these things because they are true. 

I am simply waiting for Krystal to make them true.

I feel like I went over this back in December. And then when Team Hero had it’s last match. Because Krystal was one of the opponents. I have told Krystal more than once that she is capable of these things, and she simply needs to do something to fully become who Krystal Wolfe is. And I get it, sometimes it takes a while for that stuff to kick in. But looking at the success Krystal has had, and how it hasn’t been the same since, I think the truth is staring her right in the face. 

Things have to change.

And I’m not just talking about in the ring. If Krystal wins this match, does it say more about her, or more about me? Is she “back on track”? The answer is no. The same can be said if I win the match, that doesn’t mean I’m back and I’ve got everything figured out. It’s simply the first step. 

The major difference is, Krystal Wolfe has far more time to figure things out than I do. I know what I have to do, and I know how it make it happen. A loss happened, a mistake was made, and starting on Sunday, it will become a memory, and I will begin that climb, back to the top of the mountain. 

Maybe for the last time, but the climb starts now. 

And I know who’s waiting for me at the top.

 

So to Krystal, this isn’t a personal thing, please don’t take it that way. I want to see you succeed, because I know you can. This match isn’t the end for you, it’s just the beginning. Do not let a loss be who you are. You need to control who you are. I can only give the same speech so many times though. This is going to be a lesson for you in evolution. One more time. 

I expect your best, because you can better believe I will be better, even better from the last time we wrestled. 

You’re going to have the chance to continue to do great things in your career. Earn many championships, many chances, & many victories.

Sunday, just isn’t going to be one of those times.

I’ll see all of you there.

{The scene opens the next day following High Stakes. Roxi lays in bed with Keira both of them sleeping well into the morning. Keira however is the first to wake up and rolls over and kisses Roxi on the forehead before slowly and quietly scooting out of bed. She stretches and walks over to the balcony door, parting the curtains to look at the sun outside which is up and bright as usual. She opens the door, letting in a small breeze, but leans up against the railing, and smiles to herself. She heads back inside and pours herself a cup of coffee, before heading back out and simply enjoying the view from the balcony. 

Roxi slowly rises from sleep herself. She is... less bright eyed and bushy-tailed about the day, but none the less finds her way onto the balcony along with Keira, throwing an arm around her and kissing her on the head.}

 

Roxi – How'd you sleep?

 

Keira – Like a million bucks. 

 

Roxi – Good.

 

Keira – I just... I can’t believe that, it’s over. You know? Just... over now. I can finally just... be Keira.

 

Roxi – You mean you haven’t been Keira this whole time?

 

Keira – No, smart ass. I don’t have to be me turned up anymore. I woke up and I look at my hall of fame ring, and my plaque, because I wondered if everything that happened this entire weekend was just a dream. I needed to assure myself it was real.

 

{Keira looks down with a satisfied grin at her finger.}

 

Keira – And it is.

 

Roxi – As long as you got everything you wanted.

 

Keira – I did. I really did. And I couldn’t have done it without you.

 

Roxi – I was just there for moral support really. 

 

Keira – But you were there.

 

Roxi – Of course I was. I’m your wife. I will always be there for you. But the point is, you didn’t need me to do anything for you. You did all of that, you did. Not me.

 

Keira – But, you were there. That’s what more important than anything to me.

 

{Kiera and Roxi share a kiss and Roxi heads back inside and prepares herself a cup of coffee and sits down at the kitchen table, making herself some breakfast. Roxi’s mother Elizabeth is already at the table, reading the newspaper and doing the crossword puzzle.}

 

Roxi – Nate was all set, right?

 

Elizabeth – Yes, dear. I got him ready like always.

 

{Roxi frowns at this.}

 

Roxi – It was a long night.

 

Elizabeth – I'm aware. It’s not a bother, dear.

 

Roxi – But he’s our son.

 

Elizabeth – And he’s my grandson. It’s fine.

 

Roxi – No, it’s not. We should be getting our own son ready for school.

 

{Keira walks in with her cup of coffee and sits down at the table.}

 

Keira – Well, now I can do that. 

 

Roxi – I... I guess... I guess you can.

 

Keira – It’s not like we haven’t done it before. I just... I get to do it more regularly now. So there’s that.

 

Elizabeth – So, what is the next step for you?

 

Keira – I guess... I’m running Hero Academy full time now. Keri and Angelica should be happier now that I get to be around more often to help. I really should have waited until after all this stuff to open a school.

 

Roxi – You took them on a boat, so there’s that. And Cassie seems to be doing well.

 

Keira – But she’s just the start, and she’s a pain in my ass a lot of the time.

 

Roxi – I think you just enjoy making her do stuff.

 

Keira – That too, but don’t ruin my fun. The point is, there’s a lot to do, even though I’m not gonna wrestle anymore. 

 

{Keira pauses for a moment to let that sink in.}

 

Keira – I can’t believe I just said that.

 

Roxi – You can always un-retire.

 

Keira – Not funny.

 

Roxi – I'm just saying.

 

Keira – That's not what we’re doing. I finished up everything the way I wanted to. It’s all over. Time to move on. I guess the bigger question is, what are you going to do?

 

Roxi – I mean, it’s not like I haven’t wrestled before without you. I’m sure it will be fine.

 

Keira – Are you though?

 

Roxi – What? Am I magically not going to be any good anymore because you’re not there? I wrestled like a year ago in a place that you weren’t in. I wrestled for many years without you there. I understand that it’s not going to be the same anymore, but... it’s still the same. I still have a lot left to do.

 

Keira – Then don’t let me stop you.

 

{The scene fades.}

 

---

 

{The next two weeks go by with Roxi and Keira adjusting to Keira’s retirement and Roxi sits in their duo’s home gym, training herself as Keira isn’t there watching, having busied herself with Hero Academy and being a stay-at-home mom now. Roxi finishes her workout and looks around, but again, Keira isn’t there. 

Finally, the next week arrives as Roxi recieves her plane ticket for the upcoming SCW Climax Control, having been alerted to her booking. Keira is washing a dish in the sink when she sees Roxi come in the door from running an errand.}

 

Keira – You got your travel.

 

Roxi – Thanks. Did...

 

{Roxi stops herself.}

 

Roxi – Right. Never mind. 

 

Keira – It's been weird for me too.

 

Roxi – It's just taking some getting used to. How’s the school?

 

Keira – More signups and these kids are starting to grate on me a little. Jessie stopped by to do some classes, There’s two new students that... 

 

{Keira pauses}

 

Keira – They remind me of us.

 

Roxi – I don’t know if it’s a good or a bad thing.

 

Keira – I'm not sure yet. 

 

{Keira shuts off the sink and drys her hands before checking her watch and picking up her purse.}

 

Keira – I have to go pick up Nate. I’ll be back in a little while.

 

Roxi – Yeah...

 

{Roxi looks over at the lone plane ticket and sighs. Keira sees this and walks over, hugging her tightly and smiling.}

 

Keira – You'll be fine. I’ll always be with you, like you were for me. I know you’ll do great. You did great things before I was there, and you will now.

 

{Roxi smiles.}

 

Roxi – Thanks.

 

{Keira and Roxi share a kiss, as Keira leaves and Roxi goes to prepare to pack her gear up for the next part of her journey. The scene fades.}

 

 

---

 



 

Hello SCW.

 

I know that I began this whole journey solo. It was actually a couple of years in SCW for me before Keira joined me, and so, after the events of a few weeks ago, I was okay with the time off and really coming to terms with everything. I anticipated that things would just be normal. The only difference between now and a month ago is that Keira is at home. She’s not traveling with me anymore and she gets to do the things she wants to do now, and not worry about wrestling. I’ve traveled alone before, I’ve been doing it for a long time, in different places. Keira doesn’t always come with me. And that, felt normal. But that was everywhere else. SCW was the one different spot. I had become so used to when SCW sends up travel, that there were always two tickets. And now, there’s just one. Now, it’s just me. And while I never thought it would be strange... it is. It’s very strange.

 

I know in my heart, and I heard from Keira that she is happy with how everything turned out. A hall of fame induction, a great overall weekend, and the fight she always wanted. She got everything she asked for, and now, she’s ready to move forward with the next phase of life, and really... so am I.

 

I made the announcement back on the 6th of October that, much like Keira, my ride is slowly coming to an end, and I think that 2023 is going to be it for me. But there’s a lot of time between now and then and things can change. But, seeing my wife happy has made me happy and now, I drift more towards being satisfied with things, and less content. But for now, I am not satisfied and I am simply yearning for more. 

 

And I know I’m going to get all I can handle this week. Because Seleana has yet to disappoint me in the ring, or as a person.

 

Make no mistake, the SCW Bombshell’s championship is obviously still in my sights, and my number one future priority. But that comes down the road. We’ve got time for that. Right now, it’s all about Seleana and finishing what I feel is one of my most successful years in SCW the right way, and I know Seleana will be there, every step of the way to make that happen.

 

I know that people like Mercedes always want to try and being Seleana down, and look at records and numbers and throw them all in there and call Sel a failure, or a loser, and you can look up and down this roster, and nobody is without a loss. It happens, sometimes it’s your night, and sometimes it’s not. That’s just how it works. There’s not one person in this whole game who hasn’t lost to someone, somewhere. The point is, unlike a lot of people, I don’t see Seleana for how many losses she has.

 

In any sport, you can have a run of bad luck, you can lose a lot of games or matches, but the season continues and you go out and you play the next game, because you are trying to win. I don’t understand why people like Mercedes try and say things about Seleana like Seleana doesn’t go out there and give it her all each and every time she’s out there. I’ve never seen Seleana roll over and give up because she hasn’t done X or Y. It’s absurd that we have to go through this kind of stuff.

 

There might be people who don’t like Seleana for whatever personal reason or professional reason, but I am very proud and very happy to call Seleana my friend, and I am always happy to step into the ring with her. Not because of any record or grudge, but because she’s a great wrestler and a great opponent. There’s a reason she gets thrown into matches and championship opportunities time and time again, because she’s there, she’s consistent, and at any moment she can go out and win a match, or any title. Because she’s good.

 

And I suppose this is a new beginning for the both of us at this point. Well, for me anyway, but now I know how Sel felt after all she went through. I swore to myself I would make it through this without mentioning it, and so that’s all I’ll say about it. I know that Seleana is a trooper and she will give me her best and that’s all I want out of this match. 

 

To be honest, that’s all I want out of pretty much every match at this point. Just the opponent giving me their best. I’ve reached the point now where I see a lot more clearly the way it all goes. This isn’t about me trying to beat Seleana again just to say that I did. This is about me, having a wrestling match, against my friend. And I’m not going to let what other people say and think about her, or me for that matter, get in the way of that. 

 

I’m not paying attention to the win-loss record thing, that’s almost never been my thing. But this match is important for me to try and win. This is the start of a whole new solo adventure for me in the wrestling ring. Maybe that makes me a bigger target than usual. Perhaps people think that because Keira is no longer here with me physically, that all of a sudden, I am vulnerable. That I’ve lost some kind of edge or confidence. The fact is, I’ve never needed Keira to fight my battles for me, and Keira never needed me to fight hers. But those same people also say “Roxi was the better of the two, she was the better half.” You didn’t see Keira out there with me before, no you no longer have to worry about it. My wife is all set. And now, I continue on, because I still have plenty of unfinished business I need to attend to.

 

But it all starts with Seleana. That’s who is in front of me, and regardless of how our past meetings have gone, this is a brand new one. This is the next one. I have my sights set on another victory, after another great match between the two of us. I have no ill will toward Sel, she’s always spoken highly of me, and I will always speak highly of her. She’s great, and sooner or later, she will get back into the fray, and she’ll have a title around her waist. 

 

I could sit here and say that Sel has been lacking in success, and I have taken note of her not putting it all together, but that happens to everybody. There was that period for me, and at the end of the day, you simply need to focus up, and get your head in the game. Sel should be clear of all those distractions now, which makes this match all the more intense, and all the more important. 

 

The road to becoming a contender to the Bombshell’s championship once again starts this Sunday in California. I love being on the west coast, it’s pretty much like Florida, except they have earthquakes instead of hurricanes. But that’s where all of this starts for me. It will be different, but the goal remains the same: Not only get back into the hunt, but to win the Bombshell’s championship once again. And the first step to that is to beat Seleana. So, Sel is first on the list, and she’s going to get everything I have. Win/loss record be damned. This is going to be a great match, and I am looking forward to it, much like I have every time. This time will be no different.

 

So, with all that being said, I will wish Seleana the best of luck, as she is my friend. I look forward to yet another encounter between us, and I look forward to walking away with the victory, and knowing that you gave me your best, because you will certainly get mine.

 

I will see you all there.

 

The journey continues.

{The scene opens up after Violent Conduct, as Roxi is in the training room, her face smeared with blood and she winces as she sits on the training table, moving gingerly as she tries to find a comfortable spot, but gasps and winces as a piece of glass stabs her.}

 

Trainer – We've got to get all that out of you.

 

Roxi – You might need a bucket.

 

{The trainer does end up producing a bucket as Roxi takes a few deep breathes as she looks down and sees her shirt is literally stuck to her torso, and grabs and tugs hard. An audible groan escapes her as there are plinks of glass hitting the table. Roxi winces as the trainer starts to go through her hair and start picking out the glass. After a few moments, Keira comes in, a concerned look on her face, but Roxi greets her with a smile.}

 

Roxi – Hey! 

 

Keira – Are you okay?

 

Roxi – Well, I’ve been better, but I’m prouder of you more than anything.

 

Keira – Roxi, you look like hell.

 

Roxi – I figures as mu- OW. I figured as much.

 

{Roxi eyes the trainer, who has begun to pick glass out of Roxi’s head.}

 

Keira – I'm sorry about the loss.

 

Roxi – I’ll be okay. Just have to get all this glass out of my body. Hopefully, people understood what was going on out there.

 

Keira – You seem way too upbeat for having lost the championship.

 

Roxi – Because it doesn’t mean as much to me, as you completing the grand slam. Sorry I didn’t get a chance to come out and celebrate with you.

 

Keira – Thanks, but it’s really not that serious right now. Your health is.

 

Roxi – I'll be fine. Right, doc?

 

Trainer – I'm just a medical professional, not a doctor.

 

Roxi – Oh.

 

Trainer – But, barring some cuts and bruises, you should be okay. We just have to make sure we get a least most of this glass out, we don’t want you getting an infection.

 

Roxi – Fair enough. Hey, looks like I’m gonna be here a while, I’ll catch up with you at the hotel, okay?

 

Keira – Are you sure you don’t want me to wait?

 

{Roxi looks over at the small pile of glass accumulating in the bucket, then back to Keira.}

 

Roxi – I think we’re gonna be a while.

 

Keira – Alright, I hear you. I’ll see you back at the hotel then.

 

Roxi – I'll be alright. Go on and enjoy your moment.

 

Keira – Thanks. For always believing in me.

 

Roxi – Always.

 

{Keira departs, blowing a kiss to Roxi who is still being worked on as the scene fades.}

 

---

 

{The new scene is Roxi working out at her home gym, practicing her punches and shadow boxing, while Keira just watches. Roxi ends up hitting the ropes a few times at full speed, basically doing wind sprints to end her training day. Drenched in sweat, and then wincing as she looks down at her side and picks out another piece of glass, she leans against the ropes to catch her breath. Keira hands Roxi a towel to dry off, stepping up onto the ring apron.}

 

Keira – Are you okay?

 

Roxi – I'm good. Just a lot running through my head.

 

Keira – Is it about Stacy?

 

Roxi – Of course it is. That, what to do about the Bombshell’s title and this seemingly impending gang war, trying to find out what Heather has planned next. It’s all adding up.

 

Keira – You could have postponed this match.

 

Roxi – I could have yes, but the match isn’t something that happens every day. A match with Stacy isn’t something I want to pass up. I have wanted to do this match for a long time. It’s on my dream match list.

 

Keira – I know that, but now, after all that’s happened?

 

Roxi – The door is open Keira. Besides, before too long, I’ll be looking to have my dream match list completed.

 

Keira – How big is that list?

 

Roxi – It's pretty big.

 

Keira – Oh. Well... you know, I have a list too.

 

Roxi - I know that, but you checked off a pretty big one a couple of weeks ago. 

 

Keira – Yeah, I finally got it. But there’s still at least one other thing I want to do.

 

Roxi – And I have no doubts you will accomplish that. You’ve come a long way, and I am damn proud of you. 

 

Keira – I guess I can finally celebrate now. Maybe they’ll even put me in the hall of fame now.

 

Roxi – I mean, you have a pretty strong argument. Not too many grand slam folks running around. 

 

Keira – I’m also kind of bummed though.

 

Roxi – Oh, why?

 

Keira – Because we were *this * close to holding two of the top championships at the same time. It would have been so cool. You as the Bombshell’s champion, me as the Internet champion. 

 

Roxi – Well, if you hold onto that championship long enough, maybe we can make it a reality.

 

Keira – Maybe, but you’ve got this match coming up.

 

Roxi – Yeah... 

 

Keira – You're not...worried, are you?

 

Roxi – Stacy is my friend. Of course, I’m worried about this. I’m worried about what it’s going to look like and how it’s all going to play out, and what kind of situation are we having here? It just makes me a bit nervous because I don’t want to hurt Stacy, but at the same time, I keep hearing you in my head.

 

Keira – Me?

 

Roxi – I keep hearing you saying “Don’t hold back” “Give me all you got!” and I want to honor that, but I also think about how, Stacy is not you. It’s different for us. 

 

Keira – You know how to exercise the proper level of restraint. You wanted this match; Stacy wanted this match. You know what has to be done, but you also know that this is not the end of the world. This is for you, and for her. You need to relax, and just... enjoy it.

 

{Roxi smiles and nods at her wife, agreeing with her.}

 

Roxi – You're right. This is for us. And you know what, I’m going to enjoy that. 

 

Keira – It's best that way. 

 

Roxi – Look at you, coming up with some good advice.

 

Keira – I have my moments.

 

Roxi – You do.

 

{Roxi and Keira exit the ring, and walk back upstairs to see Nate, who is practicing his handwriting in a book as Elizabeth oversees him. He carefully traces over letters as Roxi comes by and kissing him of the head.}

 

Roxi – How's my little genius doing?

 

Nate – I'm writing!

 

Roxi – I see that. What are you writing?

 

Nate – I'm practicing my words.

 

Roxi – And what word is that?

 

Nate – It's uh... uh...

 

Roxi – You can do it. 

 

Nate – D..D-R...E...

 

Roxi – You're almost there. Sound it out.

 

Nate – E-A..M... Dr...Dre...Dream.

 

Roxi – Very good! You are so smart.

 

Nate – I have dreams Mommy.

 

Roxi – Are they good dreams?

 

Nate – Sometimes. Sometimes they are scary.

 

Roxi – We all have bad dreams sometimes. That’s okay. But if they are good dreams, or nice dreams or fun dreams, those are the best dreams.

 

Nate – I have good dream. Of Ice Cream and puppies.

 

Keira – That's my boy.

 

{Roxi shakes her head.}

 

Roxi – You dream of Buster?

 

Nate – Sometimes. Buster is always there.

 

Roxi – Well, he is your dog. He loves you very much.

 

Nate – I love him too.

 

Roxi – I remember when you were a tiny thing and he would never leave your side. He watched me and Mama change you, feed you, and every step you’ve taken, he’s been right there. Huh Buster?

 

{Buster barks, jumping into Roxi’s lap so she can pet him.}

 

Roxi – You've been a good boy. Except when you jump. You know not to jump and you did it anyway. Huh?

 

{Buster barks again.}

 

Roxi – Yeah. You know. 

 

{Roxi gently puts Buster down, giving him eye contact, and so he sits down, still close enough to Nate to act as his guard dog, but out of the way.}

 

Roxi – Good boy.

 

Keira – I suppose I better get dinner started.

 

Roxi – Sounds like a plan to me.

 

{Keira pulls out some pots and pans to start setting up.}

 

Roxi – You decided that quick?

 

Keira – We have a giant Ham. I figured I’d just make that.

 

Roxi – Fair enough.

 

Keira – Now... what do you guys want?

 

Roxi – Har har... very funny.

 

Nate – Mama’s silly.

 

Keira – Mama loves you.

 

{Roxi whispers to Nate.}

 

Roxi – Mommy loves you more.

 

{Nate giggles.}

 

Keira – I heard that.

 

{Roxi and Nate high five as Keira starts the dinner as the scene fades.}

 

 

---

 

 



Hello SCW.

 
I supposed I should be in a more annoyed and angry mood. Yes, I just lost the SCW Bombshell’s championship, and that, sucks. I very much enjoyed being champion, and it feels just...wrong that is in the hands of Masque, but that’s the way it is. It feels like people got their wish and the title isn’t around my waist anymore, but that’s okay. I said from the beginning that I didn’t stop the Rapture, I merely postponed it, But, if nothing else, I feel that now, people should no longer fear Masque, don’t turn your tail and run because she has the championship now. No, you should stand up, and step up. 

 
I would very much have liked to have a third match with Masque, but the timing is not correct. It feels like there are other things at play here, and my pursuit has been halted for now, but it is only for now. As I’ve said many times, the Bombshell’s championship is very important to me, but it is not the most important thing to me. That, is the health and well-being of my friends and family. And well, what has recently come up, it important to me. Because how often am I going to be able to check off a match I’ve always wanted to have? The stars have aligned for me to have this match, so yes, I have to respectfully bow out of that fatal four-way match, and for now, someone else can continue to fight for the Bombshell’s championship. I held that title for six months, and I am very proud of that. But right now, there are more important things to me that are taking place.

 
And that brings me to one Stacy Jones.

 
The thing is, maybe not everybody is familiar with Stacy, and that’s okay. I’m sure not everybody is familiar with me even after all this time, but this is a match I’ve had on my bucket list for a long time, and I am very happy and excited that we can make it happen. It just never seemed to be a good time for both of us, and now it is. I will tell you that Stacy is a lot like me, in the fact that she encourages more people, and uplifts more people that she has any reason to. In a business like this, where it is so easy to tear people down, Stacy doesn’t do that, and she has set a great example for everyone. And on top of all that, she’s enjoyed a ton of success everywhere she has gone. She has put her best foot forward each and every time out, and I expect that this match will be no different. 

 

But, Stacy deserves a lot more than me talking about her, she deserves me talking TO her.

 
Hello, Stacy. 

 
First, I have to tell you that it is a huge honor for me to step into the ring with you. It’s no secret that we both have had this match in our minds for some time, and now we get to actually have this match, and 

 
I’m super excited for it. Now, of course, we’ve spoken in the past about the when and where, and SCW was able to make it possible. You’re coming here, and I have to say I am extremely humbled by the fact that you chose to come here to make it happen. You have always been a caring and supportive friend and I hope that I have been able to be the same for you. This match is going to be so much fun, but I want you to understand just a couple of things before that bell sounds and we are standing across from one another.

 
First, this isn’t about who is better. No matter which way this match ends up going, who wins and who loses is irrelevant to me. You get the better of me? I’ll be happy. I get the better of you, I’ll be happy. Maybe a touch happier, but again, that’s not what this is about. This isn’t about winning or losing for me. This is about being able to step into the ring with someone who I consider a dear friend and one of the best people in the entire world. And that’s not me blowing smoke, it’s a statement of fact. The mere fact that you are coming here and we are getting to do this, is a huge thrill, and I want you to know how much that means to me. More than a win, or loss could mean. Like I said, a lot of things are important, but nothing is MORE important. The win, and the loss, just happens to be what happens at the end. But this match is about the journey, and not the destination.

 
Second, I want you to have fun out there. Enjoy the moment we are about to create. I want to see that smile on your face, because I’m certainly going to have one on mine. I know that maybe you might feel the nerves, I will as well. I do every time I walk through that curtain. But I don’t want you to be nervous about this. I am not your enemy this match. I’m not out to hurt you, I’m not out to embarrass you, I’m out there with you, so that we can do something special. That’s what it’s about. I know your neck is a sore spot, but you don’t have to worry about me trying to injure you, or take advantage of that. That’s not what I’m about, and you know that. This is about US, having the time of our lives and the match we always wanted to have. So, I want you to be able to soak all of that in. In the immortal words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” And I don’t want you to miss this, worrying about anything. That’s what this is all about.

 
Now, with that out of the way, I expect your best, and I will give you, my best. This IS my home territory as it were, and I intend on defending it. I always aim to put on the show that people paid their hard-earned money to see. I aim for perfection. I chase it, even though I know I will never actually catch it. 

 
But, at the end of the day, the main thing I wanted you to take from that little private lesson was that I was trying to make you better. It was helping you remember who the heck you are. I am happy to have helped you, I am proud of you and everything you have done. I wanted to make you better. I try to make everyone better in the ring that I compete with. So, while yes, this is a dream match, yes, we’ve both wanted this for a long time, and no, it doesn’t matter what the outcome is, and who gets their hand raised, make no mistake that this is a learning experience for both of us. This is about giving it your all.

 
I’m sorry, I might just be overthinking this just a little. I have had so many different emotions go through my head during this week of training and preparation, because, I’m training to face you, Stacy Jones, in the ring. My mind has been going a mile a minute recently, because I have all these different emotions, because I don’t want you to be disappointed. It feels like I’m facing a family member, and although Keira and I have wrestled, that has always been hard for me to do. And you are like family to me. I often imagined during the week that you would say the same things Keira would say. 

 
“Don’t hold back on me.” 

“Don’t treat me any different”

 
I want to abide by these things. I did that with Kat Jones, and she almost took my head off. But you’re not Kat, Stacy, I know that. I just take a lot of things into account, but I know that at the end of all this, we will still be friends and have shared something that will last forever. We will always have this match on Sunday, on top of being great friends.

 
You know how much you mean to me. You know how much I care, and I want to see so many good things for you. You have all the ability in the world, and I am damn proud to call you my friend and one of my best friends. And before the bell, and after the bell, you will still be one of my best friends, you will still mean the world to me. It’s going to be one of the coolest things to stand across from you This Sunday. It is truly an honor and a privilege that I get the share the ring with you. Maybe one day we won’t have to be opponents, we can be partners. Maybe one day we’ll do this again, or something similar. But this Sunday? That night will be extremely special. 

 
You will get my best, my friend. I love you and I cannot wait to see you in the ring.

 
Let’s create a moment they will never forget.

 
Because I know I won’t ever forget this match.

 
Good luck, Stacy.

 
I will see you out there.

 

{The scene opens inside the Hero Academy gym, but the day's lesson has long since ended. The doors to the gym open and Stacy Jones, good friend of Roxi and Keira, enters, greeted by Keri.} 

 
Keri – Hello. Can I help you? The class has already concluded for the day. 

 
Stacy – Yeah, I’m supposed to meet Roxi here. Is she in? 

 

{Keri pushes a button to signal into the gym itself.} 

 
Keri – Roxi, there’s someone here to see you. 

 
Roxi – Is it Stacy? 

 

{Keri looks up at Stacy, who confirms her identity to Keri.} 

 

Keri – Yes. 

 
Roxi – Be right there. 

 
Keri – Thank you. 

 
{Keri smiles politely at Stacy.} 

 

Keri – She'll be right with you. 

 
{Stacy just nods politely, then sets her gym bag on the ground to get it off her shoulder. Roxi eventually comes through the door, a wide smile on her face as she hugs her friend.} 

 
Roxi – How are you, my friend? 

 
Stacy – I'm good. You look great. 

 
Roxi – As do you. I see you brought your bag. 

 
Stacy – A good pro never goes anywhere without their gear. 

 
{Roxi smiles and puts a hand on Stacy’s shoulder.} 

 
Roxi – Good. I don’t know how much we’ll need it, but we’ll find out.   

 
Stacy – Yeah, so, um... What AM I doing here anyway? 

 
Roxi – Just a little thing. Like I said, it’s nothing crazy. I promise. Just follow me. 

 
{Roxi opens the door leading to the gym area and motions for Stacy to follow her. They make it through the door and Stacy looks at the gym itself and nods, impressed with the whole setup.} 

 
Stacy – Wow, this is nice. 

 
Roxi – Yes, Keira put a lot of work into this. You can set your bag anywhere for right now. 

 
{Stacy sets her bag down a few feet away and begins unzipping the bag to access the contents.} 

 
Stacy – Do I need anything? 

 
Roxi – Not right this second.   

 
Stacy – Uh... okay. Where is Keira anyway, now that you mentioned her? 

 
Roxi – She's headed home, probably stopping at the store to get some food for the evening. But she concluded class about an hour ago. 

 
Stacy – Okay.   

 
{Stacy notices Roxi is just looking at one of the rings set up in the gym and not at her. Stacy is still very confused by the request, so she walks up to Roxi and taps her on the shoulder.} 

 
Stacy – So... what am I doing? It’s been kind of weird to just be here and you haven’t told me anything yet.   

 
Roxi – I know. But there’s a method to my madness here. 

 
{Roxi finally turns to Stacy, the warm, polite smile is still there as Roxi looks at her, a hand placed on Stacy’s shoulder.} 

 
Roxi – I brought you here to talk to you about something and I know, it’s a little dramatic right now but it’s for a reason. I’m kind of the bad guy trainer here. I have to tell people what they do wrong and be honest and blunt about what I see.   

 
Stacy – Sure. That makes sense.   

 
Roxi – And I have been watching you, since you came back to NFW. 

 
Stacy – Oh.   

 
Roxi – Now...   

 
{Roxi sighs.} 

 

Roxi – First, let me say this, because I am your friend and I am excited for you: I am glad you’re able to wrestle again. I really am. You mean the world to me and I want very much to see you succeed. You know that. 

 
Stacy – Of course, and … thanks. It means a lot coming from you and I’m glad I was able to come back too. 

 

Roxi – I watched your matches before you were injured, and since you were injured. I do like to keep up with friends and see how they get on and stuff. And, again, I preface this by telling you that I am excited and happy for you. I want you to do well.   

 
Stacy – There's a “but” coming here... 

 
Roxi – Yes, there is. And I’m not trying to bring you down or make you feel bad. I’m only going on what my eyes tell me. I’ve learned to trust them, and my gut over the years, because sometimes my heart makes some rash choices. So, I am happy for you, but I have noticed things that concern me. 

 
Stacy – Roxi, you don’t have to worry about me. 

 

Roxi – I don’t HAVE to do a lot of things, Stacy. But I can’t help it when I see one of my friends having an issue. 

 
Stacy – It's only been a couple of matches. I’m not going to be 100% back to where I was right away. That’s going to take time. I’ll be okay. Plus, in the last match I got hit with a chair. 

 
Roxi – Normally, I would agree with you. But, what I saw the past two matches is not ring rust, or the after effects of a chair shot, nor is it due to not being in the ring, mostly. 

 
{Stacy eyes Roxi, very confused.} 

 
Stacy – What are you getting at? 

 
{Roxi turns away from Stacy, looking back at the ring.} 

 
Roxi – You're afraid. 

 
Stacy – Excuse me? 

 
Roxi – I see it, Stacy. It’s written on your face. You are wrestling scared. 

 
{Stacy is at first defensive.} 

 
Stacy – Okay, you brought me here to give me a lecture? I could have stayed home for that. I was injured. My neck was messed up. And yeah, I had to take it easy. Because I HAVE to take it easy. I don’t want to get injured again. Maybe you don’t quite understand the seriousness of that. 

 
Roxi – I understand it perfectly. I’m not trying to lecture you. I’m trying to help you. 

 
Stacy – I appreciate the help, but I really don’t need negative reinforcement. 

 
Roxi – It’s not negative. I think you just need to understand where I’m coming from. I know it seems like I’m being harsh and it’s not something you want to hear. I get it. Me sitting here and telling you you’re afraid after you come back from a bad injury doesn’t seem very positive.   

 

Stacy – You can say that again. 

 
Roxi – But, I’m trying to help you, but letting you see what that thinking does. Perhaps this will make it far easier to digest. Do you remember that scene in the Dark Knight Rises where Bruce needed to get out of the pit? 

 
Stacy – Well... yeah. I’ve watched that movie a hundred times. 

 
Roxi – Good. Think of me as the old blind man.   

 

Stacy – Well, you’re not that old. 

 
Roxi – Yes, very funny. I’ve seen those two matches, and I can see the look in your eyes and that you are afraid you will get hurt again. You might as well be wrestling in a plastic bubble. You’re thinking about it too much and not reacting. You’re thinking “One bad move and I’m going to hurt myself again.” I know you are, and more importantly... YOU know you are. 

 
{Stacy at first goes to say something, but she doesn’t, instead swallowing her thought.} 

 
Roxi – You think about that day you got hurt and it’s affecting how you do everything in that ring. It has to stop, and that’s what I’m trying to get through to you about. I know it sounds harsh, but it’s the truth, and I’m never going to lie to you about these things. Because I don’t want you to get hurt again. But if you keep going the way you’re going, you will get hurt again. 

 
Stacy – So, what do you propose I do then? It’s not easy to come back from an injury like this. I’m happy I’m alive, and even more so I can continue to do what I love. I don’t understand where this is going. 

 
{Roxi turns back to Stacy and smiles.} 

 
Roxi – Walk with me. 

 
{Roxi starts walking towards the ring, Stacy walking beside her. They stop a few feet from the ring itself. Roxi then turns to Stacy and points at the ring.} 

 

Roxi – I want you to tell me what you see. 

 
{Stacy turns to where Roxi is pointing, and shrugs.} 

 
Stacy – It's the ring. 

 
Roxi – Is it?   

 
Stacy – Yeah. What... What are you getting at? 

 
Roxi – I want you to look, long and hard at what’s in front of you, and tell me what you see. 

 

{Stacy is still confused, and then shrugs.} 

 
Stacy – It's the ring in your gym. I don’t understand what you want here. 

 
Roxi – Are you 100% sure that’s all you see. I don’t want you to think about what you see. I want you to look, and tell me what is in front of you. You’re thinking about what you think I want to hear. That’s not what this is about. I need you to tell me what this is. I need you to feel it. 

 
{Stacy is very confused, and stares at the ring for a few moments. Roxi then walks up to the ring and sits on the apron. She motions for Stacy to come closer to the ring, pointing at the mat.} 

 

Roxi – Touch it.   

 

{Stacy is still confused. She touches the ring running her hand on the mats and canvas.} 

 
Stacy – I still don’t get what this is supposed to be, Roxi. You’re acting very weird, right now. 

 
{Roxi leans forward, looking Stacy in the face.} 

 
Roxi – You’re thinking about it again. Because in a ring, just like this one, you were hurt. You got injured and it’s what makes you afraid. I want you to feel the ring because it’s not going to bite you. But you have become afraid of it. You have become a... stranger. It’s time you get reacquainted. This is where you are in control. You can let go Stacy. And as soon as you understand exactly what this is, it’s the moment we can move forward.   

 
{Stacy continues to touch the ring and then takes the initiative and gets up on the apron next to Roxi, even standing up and jumping over the ropes into the ring and running the ropes a couple of times. Stacy moves around freely and tumbles around for a few seconds. Roxi nods, hops off the apron and looks at Stacy in the ring.} 

 
Roxi – What do you see? 

 
{The lightbulb has gone off in Stacy’s head.} 

 
Stacy – This is my home.   

 
Roxi – Good.   

 
{Roxi nods in approval and gets into the ring herself with Stacy.} 

 

Roxi – I saw that for a minute there. You weren’t afraid. Ring rust is natural. But when you start thinking about what could go wrong, it’s going to go wrong. I understand how that feels, but this right here... This is where you are home. You are in control. You have to let it go, and understand how powerful you really are.   

 
{Stacy looks down, hands on her hips, nodding that she truly understands.} 

 
Stacy – Thanks Roxi. I... That was a little unorthodox, but the message was received. 

 
Roxi – It’s a good start, but not quite there. 

 
Stacy – What do you mean? 

 
Roxi – Do you trust me? 

 
Stacy – … Yeah? 

 

Roxi – Lean forward. 

 
{Stacy looks cautious, but does so.} 

 
Roxi – I’m going to put you in a headlock. 

 
Stacy – Are you serious? 

 
Roxi – Yes. 

 
{Roxi very gently puts Stacy in a headlock. Stacy winces a tiny bit.} 

 
Roxi – Back me into the ropes, shoot me off, and take the shoulder block. 

 
Stacy – Are you sure? 

 

Roxi – Stacy, don’t think, react. Make the climb. Without the rope.

 
{Upon hearing the line from the Dark Knight Rises, Stacy indeed backs Roxi into the ropes, shoots her off and when Roxi rebounds, she takes Stacy off her feet with a shoulder block, and Stacy quickly tries to get back up, But Roxi stops her.} 

 
Roxi – You felt that, right? 

 
Stacy – Yeah? 

 
Roxi – And you’re okay, right? 

 
Stacy – Yeah, I’m fine.   

 
Roxi – Are you telling me you’re fine, or are you actually, okay? 

 
Stacy – Yeah, really, I’m good. I promise. 

 
Roxi – You didn’t turn to dust, did you? 

 
{Stacy almost laughs, shaking her head.} 

 
Stacy – No, of course not. 

 

Roxi – Good. 

 

{Roxi leans down, offering a hand to help Stacy up. Stacy accepts. Roxi pats her on the back and smiles.}
 

Roxi – You feel that now?

 

Stacy – Yes.

 

Roxi – Good. Now, you do it.

 

Stacy – You –

 

Roxi – Do it. 

 

{Stacy nods and she puts Roxi in a headlock. Roxi backs her into the ropes and shoots her off, and Stacy runs back a little tentative, and Roxi just bumps into her.}

 

Roxi – Knock me down, Stacy. 

 

Stacy – Sorry, I just...

 

Roxi - Remember who you are. And do it.

 

{Roxi lowers her head to be placed in the headlock again. Stacy this time is far more proactive, clamping on the side headlock. Roxi backs her into the ropes, shoots her off again and this time, with more energy, Stacy runs into Roxi and knocks her down with a shoulder block. Stacy almost seems to snap out of a trance as Roxi nods in approval.}

 

Roxi – Good. Very good.

 

Stacy – Are you okay?

 

Roxi – Better now. I’m just happy that you remember who you are.

 

{Stacy grins hearing a Lion King reference. She extends a hand and helps Roxi up.}

 

Roxi – Well, I think that went pretty well.

 

Stacy – I... have to admit I didn’t know what to expect, but... I just want to say thank you. Again. You really opened my eyes and made me see what I was missing.

 

Roxi – It’s what I’ve tried to do for a lot of people. But I just need you to remember who you are.  You are Stacy Jones, and you are more than just a wrestler, more than just a woman. You are a symbol. You are the living embodiment of the word “Unbreakable.” 

 

{Stacy nods and grins before hugging Roxi tightly.}

 

Roxi – Now, you go out there, and show them how unbreakable you really are. After all... why do we fall?

 

{Stacy’s eyes light up again.}

 

Stacy – So we can learn to pick ourselves back up again.

 

Roxi – Exactly.

 

{The two friends turn and leave the gym together, the scene fading.}
 

---

{The new scene is Roosevelt Elementary School and the orientation open house for the school year. Roxi and Keira are there, along with Nate, to meet his Kindergarten teacher. Roxi and Keira look around all the parents with their children. Roxi’s eyes shift around as she’s clearly uncomfortable in this situation, and Keira scans the room and then whispers to Roxi.}

 

Keira – Which one is the teacher?

 

Roxi – I don’t know. 

 

{Finally, a younger woman, with a bright and perky smile, extends her hand to Roxi, who is holding Nate’s hand.}

 

Woman – Hello! I’m Katherine Curtis, I’m the kindergarten teacher.

 

Roxi – It’s nice to meet you, I’m Roxi, this is my son, Nate.

 

Ms. Curtis – Hello Nate. Are you going to be in the class this year?

 

Nate – Uh-huh.

 

Ms. Curtis – Are you excited?

 

Nate – Uh-huh.

 

Ms. Curtis – I think we’re going to have a lot of fun this year!

 

Nate – Yay!

 

Ms. Curtis – I look forward to seeing you in a couple of weeks!

 

Roxi – He's pretty excited, Don’t let his shyness fool you.

 

Ms. Curtis – Are you a single parent?

 

Roxi – No.

 

{Roxi turns to Keira.}

 

Roxi – My wife is here with me.

 

{Ms. Curtis is taken aback for a second, but smiles and nods.}

 

Ms. Curtis – Oh! I’m sorry, I thought you were with another child. But it’s good to meet you too. Will you two be coming to any PTA meetings?

 

Roxi – Uh, maybe. 

 

Keira – Depends on the schedule. We have some... other activities that take up a lot of time.

 

Ms. Curtis – Oh, well, we’ll be sure to keep you up to date with our newsletter and email. Just in case there are changes. 

 

Roxi – That’s good.

 

Ms. Curtis – I will be sure to keep all that up to date. Will you be picking him up, or will he be taking the bus?

 

Roxi – One of us, or my mother will be picking him up. 

 

Ms. Curtis – Okay, well, I do have some documentation to give you.

 

Roxi – Sure.

 

{The 4 walk to the teacher’s desk where she has three packets handy to give to Roxi.}

 

Ms. Curtis – This first one is the drop off and pickup procedures, we just want to ensure every child is very safe. This second packet is for after school care numbers just in case someone can’t make it to pick up your son, we do have some programs that will be able to watch your son until you can arrive. This third packet is the list of school supplies they will need for the year. I know it’s a few pages, but there’s one for every grade, complete with the prices of everything. And this fourth packet is simply for parents. We call it the parent handbook. It just goes over school hours and numbers, the faculty, the attendance policy and everything you need to know. Just let me know if you have any other questions.

 

Roxi – Sure...

 

{Ms. Curtis walks away to greet more parents as Roxi looks almost dizzy looking at Keira.}

 

Roxi – Did you catch all that?

 

Keira – She talked a mile a minute. But look at those packets.

 

Roxi – I feel like I got homework now.

 

Keira – Let me see those.

 

{Keira begins to look through the documentation as Nate begins curiously looking around and Roxi walks with him as he looks as the desks.}

 

Nate – I will sit here, maybe?

 

Roxi – Well, maybe, we’ll have to figure out where your seat is on the first day. 

 

Nate – Okay. Mommy, are you gonna be here for school?

 

{Roxi’s eyes already start to water when faced with the question.}

 

Roxi – I... I will bring you to school, me and Mama both will. But then you’re gonna stay with Ms. Curtis for a little bit, then we’ll come back and get you. I promise.

 

Nate – Where will you go?

 

Roxi – I... Mama and I will be at home while you’re here. 

 

Nate – Do I have to?

 

Roxi – Yes, baby. It’s what all big kids do. They go to school. And you’re a big boy now.

 

Nate – I am a big boy.

 

Roxi – That's right.

 

{Keira comes over and sees Nate sitting at the desk and smiles, which almost instantly turns into a frown as she shows the papers to Roxi.}

 

Keira - Have you looked at this?

 

Roxi – Not everything why? You’ve been looking at it, what’s wrong with it?

 

Keira – This shopping list. 

 

Roxi – Okay?

 

{Roxi looks at the list of items needed for the kindergarten class.}

 

Roxi – It's fine, it’s $60 bucks. I think we can afford that.

 

Keira – And this handbook...

 

Roxi – Okay, let’s not make a scene here, please.

 

{Roxi and Keira get a picture of Nate sitting in the chair at the tiny desk before they turn to try and leave. Ms. Curtis waves good-bye to them}

 

Ms. Curtis – Thank you for coming out! I will see you in a couple of weeks Nate! It’s going to be so much fun!

 

{Roxi and Keira are finally out of the school and into the parking lot, Keira shaking her head and mocking Ms. Curtis.}

 

Keira – It's going to be so much fun! What does she know?! 

 

Roxi – What is wrong with you?

 

Keira – She's way too chipper for a teacher. 

 

Roxi – She's teaching little kids.

 

Nate – Big boys.

 

Roxi – Sorry, big boys too. 

 

Keira – I don’t know, something is wrong with that. And she’s way too young. Did you see her? She doesn’t look at day over 20!

 

Roxi – So?

 

Keira – I don’t like it. Plus look at all these packets of information!

 

Roxi – I saw them already, I’ll read them later.

 

{Roxi and Keira drive home with Nate, and soon, he’s tucked into bed and Roxi sits at the kitchen table with Keira going over the parenting handbook Ms. Curtis provided.}

 

Keira – Look at this. Don’t have a backpack with wheels! No cell phones, there’s even a car lane loading and unloading zone! What is all this?

 

{The soft chuckle of Roxi’s mom is heard as she enters the room and sits down.}

 

Elizabeth – Aren't you just excited?

 

Roxi – That's not funny.

 

Elizabeth – Now you know how I felt with you and your sister. I had two girls to look out for. Of course, it wasn’t as safe as it was now. You shouldn’t even be complaining. You’ve got it pretty easy.

 

Keira – Look at this list, all these rules!

 

Elizabeth – And before, we just trusted that the teacher would look out for our kids, and send them on their way when they got done with them. Today, it’s extra pre-cautions. 

 

Keira – It's just... gahhh!

 

{Keira places her hands on the table and sighs, before she takes a breath, calming herself down.}

 

Keira – I’m gonna go train now.

 

{Keira then walks away as Roxi takes a read of the information and looks at her mother.}

 

Roxi – I'm not ready for this.

 

Elizabeth – Neither was I.

 

Roxi – But you handled it. I don’t know if I can.

 

Elizabeth – You're going to be fine. Soon enough, you’ll want him out of the house more and more.

 

{Elizabeth chuckles, but she can see Roxi is really stressed about this.}

 

Elizabeth – I didn’t mean to tease, but trust me, you’re doing fine. 

 

Roxi – Mom... am... am I good Mom?

 

{Elizabeth is taken aback by the question as first, as she clears her throat and touches Roxi on the shoulder.}

 

Elizabeth – The best I’ve seen. 

 

Roxi – You think so?

 

Elizabeth – Well, I’m not the best judge of what makes a good mother, because I wasn’t one. You know as well as I do. 

 

Roxi – But you were there for... a little bit.

 

Elizabeth – I made mistakes and I left you and your sister and I regret that. But, both of you have turned into strong women who are fully capable of handling any situation and you didn’t get most of that from me. But I am proud of how you both turned out. You’ve raised a wonderful little boy, who I love being my grandson. Your sister seems to be finally deciding to settle down and stop globe-hopping, but that may just be a phase. Oh lord, I’m still mothering, aren’t I?

 

Roxi – You have no idea how much I appreciate it.

 

Elizabeth – You're a good mother. You’re a good person. That’s who you are.

 

Roxi – I just don’t... I don’t know if I’m ready to be... “School mom” just yet.

 

Elizabeth – Is that some slang term I’ve never heard of?

 

Roxi – I meant, he’s... starting school. He's going to not be here. It’s not the same when he’s not here. Because I know where he is. I know he’s with you, or with Keira, or with someone I know and can trust. And now... he’ll just be gone and I won’t know where he is and I don’t like that.

 

Elizabeth – You're going to be ready, because he’s ready.

 

Roxi – He's ready? I don’t know if he even grasps the concept.

 

Elizabeth – Yes, he does. You don’t give him enough credit. He watches you leave all the time.  He watches Keira leave all the time, He’s been with me, he’s been with your friends, and he’s not afraid, he doesn’t cry. He just... knows you’re coming back. He knows you’re always coming back. He’s smart, he is independent, and he’s curious. He’s exactly what he needs to be. Just like you and your sister were.

 

Roxi – Really?

 

Elizabeth – You want to know your first day of school? I was exactly like you are now. Stressed, anxious. But you? Nicole? You were both so excited. You wanted to run around and meet new friends and play with toys. You know, like he does now. You were ready, because you understood what was going on. I remember when I asked you both if you were going to be okay, you both just say “Uh-huh.” 

 

{Roxi can’t help but grin at this.}

 

Roxi – Wow...

 

Elizabeth – And from then on, you were okay with it. Nate’s going to be fine. He’s already super smart. He knows his letters and numbers and can write his name and everything he needs to be able to do. So, if you want an evalutation on being a good mom? I’d say you and Keira are doing a fine job.

 

{Roxi leans in and hugs her mother.}

 

Roxi – Thank you. You have no idea how much I needed that.

 

Elizabeth – Don't worry, we’ll be having this conversation again when he’s a teenager.

 

{Roxi’s eyes widen as she shakes her head.}

 

Roxi – No. No. No. Stop it. Why?! Why did you say that?!

 

Elizabeth – Roxi, he’s growing up right now. You can’t stop it. No matter if you actually have super powers or not. I think you just need accept it. I remember when you were tiny. How do you think it makes me feel...

 

{Roxi sighs and stands up from the table, rubbing her mother’s shoulder.}

 

Roxi – You're right. I guess, that’s what Keira and I are both going through. I should go talk to her.

 

Elizabeth – She does seem a little on edge.

 

Roxi – Thank mom. Really.

 

Elizabeth – Anytime.

 

{Roxi walks down to the underground gym for Roxi and Keira to train in the their basement and Keira is in the gravity room and has loaded up the diamond wall. She is punching it as hard as she possibly can, but the unbreakable wall holds up. Roxi finally stops it as she sees Keira almost in tears.}

 

Roxi – He's ready.

 

Keira – …

 

Roxi – Trust me, I know how you feel. I really do. I don’t think I am still quite ready either. But, it’s just... it’s hard, I know. And I don’t like it any more than you do. 

 

Keira – He's... growing. And I don’t want him to grow anymore. Now I know how you felt. He’s supposed to be tiny and be in my arms. And... now he’s not and he’s going to not be here. He’s... growing.

 

Roxi – I know.

 

Keira – I'm not ready for that. 

 

Roxi – I just talked to my mom about it and... you know, she eased the pain a little bit. Heck, she still treats me like a kid, because, no matter how old I am, she’s still my mom. And... no matter how old Nate is...he’s still our son.

 

{Keira perks up a bit hearing that.}

 

Keira – And we’re still his parents.

 

Roxi – No matter how old he gets. We just have to be who we are. And well... this is just another thing we have to face, and we have to get through it, like we always do.

 

 

Keira – Together.

 

Roxi – Together.

 

{Roxi and Keira hug as the scene fades one last time.}

 

---

 



 

Hello SCW.

 

I stand before you again today, happy, proud, and well... maybe feeling a little lucky to still be the Bombshell’s champion, and to have had a couple of weeks as the only 3-time Bombshell’s Internet champion. That was a pretty cool feeling, but I know, it could have very easily gone the other way, and I could be sitting here, licking my wounds and wondering where in the world I would go from here. I mean, the easy answer would be we pick ourselves up and we continue the fight, because that’s just how I am. 

 

Fortunately, I don’t have to worry about that as I still hold the Bombshell’s championship and I continue to fight anyway. I am fully aware that Masque is far from finished, and that match could have just as easily been hers. And I know she’s aware of that too. So, while that is in the future, I have to focus on the present and defending this Bombshell’s championship with the attention it deserves and give the challenger, the attention she deserves.

 

And so, I have to start out with an admission.

 

I have never beaten Kate Steele.

 

There. I said it. I feel better. 

 

I don’t understand why this is a giant talking point for Diamond, Kate, Ruby or whomever wants to throw this kind of thing out there. Diamond has made it a point to let everyone know time and time again that I’ve never beaten her, and she has gotten the better of me a few times. And I say, congratulations. If this is what we’re really going for, then I’m not sure what else there is to talk about. But many times, I’ve listened to her talk and most of the time it’s not even about me, and then I just get slipped in there. It just happens. All the time.

 

“I’ve never lost to Roxi Johnson. Roxi’s never beaten me.”

 

I find this to be a puzzling thing to throw out there like it’s a good poker hand or something. You know, there’s a lot of people I haven’t beat and I’ve wrestled 3 or 4 times. It’s not like I always won every match I’ve had against people, so this is seemingly a random, obscure fact that happens to pop up during a sporting event on ESPN. Some random thing that gets thrown out there before the person in question blows a big kick or something. So again, I offer a congratulations to Diamond for clinging onto this fact and milking it for all it’s worth. It’s this seeming “gotcha” moment that Diamond loves to throw out there every now and again when she’s after something. It's like it's a coupon or like "good for 1 free medium fries" type thing. But that's all it's for. Well, now it has landed for a Bombshell’s championship match against me, Roxi Johnson, a person who has never beaten Diamond/Kate/whatever name we’re going with this week Steele.

 

I guess I should be more worried than I am. And to be fair, there are some real concerns I have going into this match, because to be honest, for all that Diamond Steele has done and said over the years, I really still don’t know anything about her of substance. She continues to change many things about herself for no real reason, other than it makes her happy, I guess. I mean, she says “bloody” a lot of because she’s British, even though that’s been questioned. She randomly references Tyson Fury, or another U.K. sports figures, she roots for the Jets for some reason. All of these things are just thrown out there, at random. These things, while facts, are just there for window dressing. I mean, before this most recent phase, did anyone know that Diamond watched Jem, a show that was on and off TV before she was even born? It’s almost like she discovered this show because someone else was talking about it, and then she watched one episode and she was suddenly and expert on the show. And to be, there’s really nothing worse than a person like that. 

 

Nobody likes a person who randomly is a subject matter expert on anything that just throws out all these random facts and little tidbits like they really know what they are talking about. Like, honestly, I don’t know a lot about say... Final Fantasy or Pokemon. I have played a few games, I have seen the concept of what these things are about, but I am no expert in anything. My friend Stacy Jones knows a lot about Pokemon, but a lot of the time she’s tried to talk to me about it, I just smile and nod because I’m not really into it, and I don’t know a lot about it. I don’t pretend to know all there is to know about these things, but Kate Steele does. I guess Google is a modern marvel for a reason. 

 

But you hear it all the time. People know one fact about something and all of a sudden, they know everything. Nobody wants to be around that person, and this just seems to scream Diamond/Kate Steele. She was Kate forever, then start watching Jem and though “Yes.” No rhyme or reason to it, it just tickled her fancy and so, let’s just go with that. 

 

It just seems that Diamond/Kate is this big, well... relatively speaking this big ball of just...stuff. None of it holds any meaning, none of it has any value except for what it does for her currently. You’re not going to hear about Tyson Fury or some sports team in England unless it gives her some kind of imaginary credibility. It’s all a bunch of stuff that Kate/Diamond just likes or randomly enjoys so we’ll milk that cow for all it’s worth, and then we will be on to the next thing. I’m sure there’s going to be something else down the line with the Gemstones and all that so they will all go away since they lost the Battle of the Bands to Heart, which I’m sure Diamond probably doesn’t know who they are, but that’s not the point. I suspect that soon the Gemstones will be a thing of the past, and then Kate will go back to going by Kate and forget all about the “Diamond” part and we’ll be onto the next thing.

 

And therein lies the problem with trying to scout or figure Kate out. She knows full well that all of this is just the flavor of the month style stuff, so as in-frequent as our battles have been, it’s like a completely different person every time. And Diamond/Kate is aware of this. There’s no way she’s not. And she really doesn’t care that I’m calling attention to it either. She’s happy just having literal surface level traits. She’s cool with an understanding akin to a written review of a product. Literal base level understand it all she needs. It’s completely impersonal and that’s just that. She’s become basically Patrick Bateman from “American Psycho” Just there. And that’s is where most people are so upset with her.

 

They want something tangible. They want something they can sink their teeth into, and there’s not much there to sink into. Nothing means anything, and it can all change on a whim. It's incredibly frustrating, and then she goes out and wins and that gets even more frustrating. And she’s very much proud of this fact. Much like the statement that I’ve never beaten her, and thus we come full circle already. 

 

So it just best the question: “Who actually is Kate/Diamond Steele”

 

I mean, I could run down her list of accomplishments and whatnot, but does that tell the story of who she actually is? It means she’s talented and a good wrestler, but really, who IS this person? I’ve just watched over the years as they have adopted persona after persona and it just changes. Nothing sticks. It's all so random and completely inconsequential to anything. Her persona changes like her hair color. And so, we’re here, and I have to defend the Bombshell’s championship against her. 

 

What does it even do for her, to win it? In the long run, it will be like anything she has done. It’s a talking point, and nothing more. It’ll simply be a callback for something else. These little moments that should mean something to people, are just information to Kate. Just data. It's like a person who you owe something to, or they did you a favor and they never let you forget it. “I won the title from Roxi Johnson you know? You should take me seriously.” It’s very hard to take Diamond/Kate seriously when we’re sitting here talking about her basing her current persona off a show from 1985. But maybe this is one of those “Crazy like a fox” things? I don’t know. 

 

I guess despite all of that, I do have my work cut out for me since I’ve never beaten her. I take every single opponent seriously, and maybe in the past, because her past is basically multiple choice at this point, something seems to always stop me from doing so. So, I guess I’m just going to have to try extra hard in order to break this little curse I’ve got going against me. But hey, this feeds right into what I’m about. I’m about being better, and continuing to strive for that I know I can’t ever fully obtain, but the journey makes it all worth it. I know I still have a lot left to prove to myself after Summer XXXtreme, and well, this is a good place to start. Beating Diamond/Kate Steele and snapping this little losing streak will be a good way to move forward and continue my winning ways this year.

 

And... speaking of Summer XXXtreme, didn’t Diamond finally beat Alicia Lukas at that show? Didn’t Diamond have like a winless record against Alicia before that show? I wonder how Alicia felt about having that snapped? But, I mean, I guess I can try and learn from Kate/Diamond about snapping streaks. Finally getting over that Diamond hump would be a big morale boost, much like it was for Diamond to get over the Alicia hump. And what does it mean, when the talking point "Roxi Johnson never beat me" is rendered useless?

 

Maybe we will answer the question of who exactly Kate/Diamond Steele is after this Sunday. I can’t promise that, but the one thing I can, is that I will give you everything I have, and I will show everyone, once again, exactly who I am and who I will be at the end of the night.

 

The Bombshell’s Champion.

 

I will see you all in Jaipur. 

 

Let the India tour continue!