Backstage at the Henderson Pavilion
After Climax Control:  Sunday May 13

The sounds of Climax Control have fades and now all that can be heard backstage is the sound of boxes being filled with equipment and the joking tones of the roadies as they pack up after another successful show.  The soft swish of a broom cleaning up the catering area is a slight static sound against the soft clicks of boot heels on the concrete.  As the sound gets closer, the roadies’ chatter fades as smiles break over faces as a familiar person appears and calls out to them.

“Y’all don’t mind if I borrow the Roulette wheel, do you boys?” questions a soft southern voice with just the slightest lilt in it.  Sam Marlowe offers the roadies her own smile as she reaches the wheel.  She is dressed for comfort, her jeans hugging every curve, the soft Sam Marlowe named tee (available at SCW Shop, go look, I will wait.  *Whistles softly* Welcome back.) emphasizing her toned body and the black cowboy boots finish off the look.  Sam raises one eyebrow as she waits for a response.

“Yeah I guess we can let ya borrow it but you gotta bring it back before we pack up,” offers one roadie.  “I ain’t leaving it here and if you don’t let us put it on the truck, you are going to be answering to the bosses.”  

“Tell you what, why don’t you guys take a break and I will do what I need to do then you can come back and do what you need to,” offers Sam as she moves towards the roulette wheel and lifts her hand to run it along the edge.

The suggestion of a break runs through the crew who nod and jostle one another.  The first roadie gives Sam a thumb up.  “You won’t tell on us will ya?”

“Who me?” demands Sam, a shocked look on her face.  “You guys’ secrets are safe with me.  Now skedaddle so I can get this done and head back to the hotel before it is too late.”

The crew moves off towards catering as Sam once more caresses the wheel then moves to a nearby equipment box and pulls out a camera which she positions to take in the wheel.  Pressing record, she is covering the lens but pulls away to look down into the camera and begin to speak as she moves to stand right beside the wheel and then gently tugs at the side to spin it slightly.

“Congratulations Brittany, you won a very hard-fought battle to win the number one contendership to the Bombshell Roulette title scheduled for Into the Void.  And like I said, congratulations on that.  I mean think about it really.  You beat three other women to face me in the ring at the supercard and while any other person would be tearing you down right about now, here I am putting you right where you need to be,” says Sam as the wheel clicks softly to a stop on a match type.

Sam spares only the minimum glance at the match before setting the wheel to spinning again, the clicking a counterpoint to her soft drawl.

“Brittany, I hope you realize that tonight you faced your opponents in a match that is a novelty for you.  I mean, except for tonight, how many times have you been in a roulette match?  How many times have you had do prepare to come out and see your fate decided by a wheel just like this one?” demands Sam with a look of curiousity.  “This match tonight was your introduction to the Roulette concept of the title match.  I mean okay, you pulled a match that for all intents and purposes could have gone any which way because that is the whole concept behind the Roulette title.  Fate decides the match.”

Sam watches as once more the wheel slows and stops on a match time, this one indicated with a flame and the word inferno being spelled into the center.  “You were pretty lucky not to have this one Brittany, an inferno match can be downright dangerous,” adds Sam before reaching up once more and spinning the wheel again to add counterpoint to her speech.

“Speaking of dangerous, I can’t help but wonder if you think that you are all that dangerous because you have done what you did to your mother or because you are a third-generation wrestler that thinks you deserve all this because you are Crystal Hilton’s daughter and you want to tear everything away from her for some mommy issues that you have yet to resolve.  Well all I can say to that is don’t think you will be able to use me to prove to your mother and the world that you are what you think you are and that darlin’ is dangerous.”

Once again the wheel stops, this time a very divalike match in pudding appearing as the stipulation that makes Sam giggle, her hand reaching for the wheel while the other covers her smirk.  Once she gains control of her laughter, she addresses the camera.

I really don’t think that I want to have to deal with that kind of match for my title.  I am not saying that I can’t do it but still…whatever will I wear?  What goes with PUDDING for sobbing out loud?” asks Sam before dissolving into giggles once more.  Finally stifling the laughter, she begins to speak again.  

“Now gettin’ back to family as I was speaking of, you want to tear down your Mom for whatever reason and I get that, I really do.  But fighting family just puts one into a position where it is more about the family and less about the title and the match.  See, I have had the same type of person in my life.  But it wasn’t my mother,” begins Sam as she leans against the wheel, appearing lost in thought.  “I didn’t have to deal with a child wanting to destroy everything I had.  No, my cross to bear was my sister and I carried that cross for the longest time until when push came to shove, I threw off that cross and I got my life back together and I went on to win the Bombshell Roulette title at the last supercard.”  

Sighing, Sam once more straightens and once more spins the wheel.  She doesn’t wait for it to stop on its own, she puts a hand up and stops it herself.

“What I am trying to get at Brittany is that this here wheel doesn’t play favorites.  This is fate and luck in their purest and simplest forms.  And I don’t pretend that I know just what fate I have when it comes to Roulette title matches but I think the odds are in my favor since I have been in quite a few Roulette title matches and I know what to expect and that is any and everything you might try to dish up to help you win the Bombshell Roulette title and I have to say sorry now missy but there ain’t anything that will separate me from that title at Into the Void.”

Sam can hear the stomping feet of the roadies as they return to continue the packing of the equipment for shipment back to SCW.  Sam moves away from the wheel and moves to where the camera is and picks it up to direct it directly at her face which has lost all sign of jocularity.  The greenish grey eyes of Sam stare into the camera as she speaks once more.

“Brittany Williams or Hilton or whoever you are in that ring at the supercard, I have only one piece of advice for you and this is from the Bombshell Roulette champion.  Prepare for anything and don’t think that you will have a pushover for an opponent.  This is my match to win…whatever match that wheel…” Sam moves slightly to show the wheel in the frame. “Decides to put us in.  You might like to think that you got what it takes and that you are going to put me in my place and take my title.  You might think that it doesn’t matter whata kind of match we will be in either.  Well I have this to offer…I am the Bombshell Roulette champion and I ain’t going to let no upstart little ‘I’m the best’ would be champion get the best of me, you can count on that!”

“Hey Sam, you done with the wheel?  Boss says we gotta get packed up like yesterday,” asks the roadie.  Sam takes a moment to let a smile cross her face before she turns and nods.  

“Yeah, but take real good care of the wheel, I am going to need it at Into the Void.  That there is going to decide just how I am going to be beating Miss Brittany Williams at the supercard,” replies Sam as she begins to walk off.  Turning after a few strides, Sam stops and points the camera at the wheel as the roadies spin it.

“Take a look Brittany, in a little under two weeks, that is what is going to decide your fate in the ring with me,” Sam can be heard to say from behind the camera.  “I wonder just how it is that I am going to beat you come Into the Void.”

With that, the image in the camera goes to black as heels can be heard on concrete once more.

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Living Room, Sam Marlowe’s house
Skype call:  1:30 pm Wednesday May 16

The shrill sound of a call being announced on Skype breaks through the soft sounds of Riverdale on Netflix as Sam is resting on a living room couch surrounded by books and other school paraphernalia as she watches the image on the screen.  In another corner of the screen, a professor can be seen writing something on a board.  Sam looks over at the open laptop on her coffee table then reaches across to click on accept.  Suddenly the image of the patriarch of the Marlowe family appears on the screen.

“Hey Daddy,” says Sam as she hastily picks up the remote and silences the two screens.  Looking down at her father, she smiles as she can see the view from his office window indicating that he was at work.  “So what do I owe the honor?”

Philip Marlowe coughs slightly as he tries to find a polite way to start the conversation.  “Well princess I was calling to see why you weren’t here in Houston to celebrate Mother’s Day with your Mama.  Cyn was here with that husband of hers…speaking of, I thought he was dating you Sweet Pea,” says Philip softly.

Sam taps at her nose as she wrinkles it at the mention of Cyn and Monte.  “You got it in one Daddy,” she replies sheepishly.  “I really don’t think that I can be around those two right now.  I mean it was Cyn that almost lost me my career and Monte was helping her and helping himself to her if I’m honest.  Besides Daddy, I had to be at the show that night.  But I did call and wish Moms a happy Mother’s day and I hope she got my gift and all.”

“She sure did Sammi.  I also wanted to call you and tell you that your grandfather’s will was read the other day and well, he wants you to have something,” offers Sam’s father as he brings a hand up to run it through his greying red hair.  “He wanted you to have…”

Suddenly a second window opens with a message from Cyn Marlowe which read, “How dare you get the company that Grandpapa bought.  I was supposed to be CEO and he gave it to you lock stock and barrels…lots of barrels.”

Sam’s face gets a look of surprise then annoyance as she reads the diatribe from Cyn.  Shaking her head, she mutters something under her breath before her attention is taken by her father once more.  “Everything all right princess, you look a little vexed,” says Philip as he leans forward.

“Sorry Daddy,” Sam replies as she closes the window to Cyn’s conversation.  “Cyn just messaged me ranting about the company that Grandpa gave me.  Grandpa didn’t give me a company so I don’t know what she is on about.”

Philip nods slowly.  “That’s why I am calling Sammi.  Your grandad did leave you a small company and Cyn is jealous because all she got was money and some of your grandma’s jewelry,” he says with a bit of a grimace.  “Your grandfather had just bought a small company out of the blue mumbling something about giving you something for you and your friends to play with.”

Sam’s eyebrows knit together as she tried to comprehend what her father was saying.  “A company for me and my friends to play with?  Daddy, that is the strangest thing you could say to me.  I don’t think that Grandpa would do something like that.  What kind of company did he buy?”

Sam’s father leans over to read something to the side of the screen and then looks at Sam.  “Says here that it is a small brewing company that was going under.  He said that Cyn was a champagne darlin’ but you were the down to earth beer drinker that he knew would appreciate this place.  I will be faxing the information to you soon but I think you need to come back home and take a look at it.  I promise I will keep Cynthia out of your way.”

Sam can’t believe her ears.  “Grandpa bought me a brewing company?  What the bubble?”

“I couldn’t believe it either Princess but you know your grandfather, he was just that eccentric enough to buy you that so you don’t go out spending all sorts of money on those “pub” thingies I keep seeing you and your friends having,” says Philip.

“DADDY!  You follow me on twitter?” asks Sam in surprise.

“Of course I do Sammi, sometimes it is the only way I have to see you lately.”

Sam has the grace to hang her head in shame.  “I’m sorry Daddy, but with Cyn still living there I think it would be better if you come out to Vegas and visit me.  I got a lot of room and you are always welcome.  But you are right, I should come out and see the brewery.  Why don’t I come after Into the Void.  This week coming I have a bunch of exams for my classes and training for the supercard and after it, I am free and clear to come to Houston.”

“I am going to hold you to that Princess.  But I have to go now because I have a meeting so I will see you in Vegas at Into the Void.  So save a room for me,” says her father before he reaches for the screen.  “Love you Sammi!”

“Love you too Daddy,” replies Sam as the window shuts and the conversation ends.  Taking only a moment to smile, she reaches once more for the remote and presses play once more.  The scene fades out on her picking up a book with her eyes intently on the screen where Bughead (Riverdale shipping Betty and Jughead…happy sigh) can be seen kissing.

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An exercise room at University of Nevada.
Friday May 18

BREAKING NEWS – There is an active shooter situation in a school in a suburb of Houston Texas.  Death count is at ten with ten others injured.  We go next to …

Sam Marlowe’s attention is on the television that is hanging on a small shelf at the gym where she was slowly running on the treadmill there.  With her eyes glued to the screen, she stumbles before steadying herself and steps off the machine.  

“My god, that is horrible!” exclaims one gym patron as she points to the television.  Other voices join in as Sam rushes towards the television to better to hear what was being said.  Hearing the name of the high school, Sam’s face goes white.  

Grabbing the towel that she had draped over the machine, she heads towards the change rooms.  Once inside, she pulls out her cell and dials a number.  Pacing slowly she stops as the phone is picked up at the other end.

“Bobbi, what school is your little brother at?” demands Sam in a worried voice.  “I heard about the school shooting in Houston and my first thought was about you and your brother.”

A quiet panicked voice is heard over the speaker as Sam’s friend Roberta replies.  “He’s safe Sammi but he’s all jacked up with worry about his friends.  If you ask me something should be done about this!”

Sam’s shoulder drop in relief before she nods at the anger in her friend’s voice.  “I am glad he is safe.  Hang on for a second…” Sam looks at the number of an incoming call and puts her friend on hold to answer the second call.

“Sam, it’s Pussy, I wanted to talk to you about an interview about the upcoming supercard and wanted to see if you could do it today,” asks the SCW Interviewer.  

“Yeah Pussy, I have a few things I want to say and it would be great to talk to you.  Give me an hour and I am all yours.”

“Okay I will text you where to come to meet me.  Talk to you soon,” says Pussy who hangs up quickly.  Sam presses the button to return to Roberta.   “Bobbi, I have to go, got an interview to do but keep me in the loop with what is going on at home okay?”

“Sure Sam, good interview and we can talk later,” answers Bobbi as she hangs up the phone.

An hour later, Sam is changed and dressed rather plainly.  With her hair pulled up in a high ponytail, she has a look of concern on her face as she appears to be reading her cell phone.  Pussy Willow stands and waves at Sam to get her attention.  “Hey Sam!  Over here!”

Sam looks up at her friend and offers a half smile as she moves through the crowd and then slides into the booth at the restaurant.  Pussy hands her a menu before scrambling through her purse for her mini camera and sets it on the table.  A waitress comes over and takes both women’s orders as she pours out a glass of water for each.  

As the waitress leaves, Pussy picks up the camera and begins to film Sam who holds up her hand in front of the lens.  “Look I know you want to get an interview in and trust me I am sure that I need to talk about my match but can we do the whole camera thing next week.  Right now I want to talk about something else if you don’t mind?”

“But Sammi, next week is going to be crazy for me.  Tell you what, you talk then we get the interview.  But let me film it ok?” asks Pussy.

“Actually, you are right.  What I have to say is something that I need to you get and pass on for me,” answers Sam, a soft half smile crossing her face.  “Let’s get this going.”

Pussy pulls the camera back up once more and focuses it on Sam who leans forward, her arms crossed on the table in front of her.  “I want to send a message to the kids at Sante Fe High and the people in Houston.  Houston is my hometown and I had friends that attended that high school and who have family there.  I want to let you know that my heart and thoughts are on Houston.  It wasn’t that long ago that Houston was the site of a natural disaster and now they are the victims of a horrific school shooting.  So I have a message and that is #Houstonstrong and know there are people in this world who bring evil into the world but there are so many more that are standing behind you in Santa Fe high school and Houston.”

Pussy lowers the camera slightly to give Sam a sympathetic look before bringing the camera up once more.  “Now that you have that message sent, don’t you think that maybe you might want to send a message to Brittany Williams?”

Sam lifts her finger to wag it at Pussy.  “Okay okay, I will talk about my match if it will make you happy.”

“Okay Sammi, answer me this then,” Pussy begins, “We all saw what Brittany did to her mother or Christina Rose at Climax Control and believe me she is as vicious as they come.  So are you ready for what might happen in the ring at Into the Void?”

“If you think that I haven’t been preparing for this match Pussy, then you don’t know me very well.  I have been quiet and I have been getting ready for the fight of my life.  I saw what Brittany did to Crystal Hilton…and it is Crystal Hilton…which only brings me to question one thing and that is why in the bubble does Brittany think she needs to do what she does.  Acting the big bad is only going to get her one thing and that is the beating of her life.  I have realized something Pussy.  I realize that I hate hypocrisy and that is all I am seeing from Brittany.”

Pussy gives Sam a look of surprise to hear such comments.  “What are you saying Sam?  You think that Brittany Williams is being a hypocrite?”

“You bet your life I am Pussy.  I mean great for her winning the opportunity at my title but in reality, she thinks she is so much more than the bombshell Roulette title.  And I bet you that if she doesn’t beat me she is going to claim that she should be in the Bombshell title match because she was able to beat her mother,” says Sam with a vengeance, her hands clasping into fists on the table.

Pussy thinks about it and then asks another question.  “So what have you got planned for Brittany in that ring?  And don’t hold back.”

Sam thinks for a moment as she sips at her water.  Setting it down right in front of her, she keeps her hands wrapped around it as she thinks of what she wants to say.  Pussy uses the close up on her as Sam begins to speak.

“I am not your mother Brittany but there is something completely different between her and I and that is I am mentally prepared to do whatever is decided in that spin of the wheel.  And regardless of what the match stipulation is, I am going to be putting one hundred and ten percent into this title defense and I promise that I will not be leaving empty handed when all is said and done.  I am going to defend the Bombshell Roulette title as if it was the most coveted title in Sin City Wrestling because believe it or not, for me, it is the most coveted title.  And there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do to retain at Into the Void.  So Brittany, prepare for a fight because I am going to be bringing it to you.”

Pussy is about to say something else when the waitress returns and sets down a burger in front of Sam and a salad before Pussy.  As she does, Sam gives her friend a sad smile.  “Let’s eat Pussy, I have a plane to catch in a bit, I am going down to Houston for a quick trip to offer my support to the kids of Santa Fe High School and see if there is anything I can do for them.”

Pussy nods and puts the camera down.  “All right Sam, will do.  But you owe me big time.”

Sam laughs and nods.  “You got it.  Next week, pick a day and we will spend it together and you can have your exclusive.”

“DEAL!” agrees Pussy.

The pair laugh as they begin to eat.  The scene fades on the two talking about the shooting and how the gun control discussion will be brought up again and another round of lobbying will be happening with this school shooting.

NOTE:  My heart goes out to the friends and families of the victims of the Santa Fe High School shooting and my thoughts and prayers are for all those affected by this horrible event.

 It got away from me…

Have you ever had one of those weeks?  You know the ones.  The weeks when nothing seems to go right and everything has it out for you because of timing and things beyond your control.

This isn’t going to be a rant nor will it be apology, it is just a statement of a fact and with that, let me tell you a little bit about my week this week and why I am in the place I am right now.

Sam Marlowe’s voice filled the room that was seeming to be empty but as she leans back, her cell phone camera captures the bare stone walls of a building that resembles any other workplace, a sea of cubicles stretching as far as the eye can see. In the distance, the Marlowe name can be seen in a rather direct and straightforward font.  

Leaning back into the frame, Sam Marlowe’s face looks ravaged as she wipes at the corner of one eye, red from crying as she sighs and addresses the camera.   She is dressed in black, her normal carefree curls pulled back into a chignon at the base of her neck and her make up is subdued.  She once more addresses the camera.

This week has been the week from hell and here I stand at my Daddy’s company wondering where it went wrong.  See I am a shareholder in the Marlowe company and actually it was Daddy who gave me the editing job here.  Well this week, something happened which made me look at my priorities and where I need to put my head in the game.  

Daddy’s daddy, my grandfather passed and now I am more than ever looking at what could very well be an end to my dream of getting my masters and starting to run this company on a more full time basis.  Which then brings me to Sin City Wrestling.

So before I go much further, even though I said it wasn’t going to be an apology, I have to offer Caleb my sincerest apologies because I haven’t been able to do anything when it comes to wrestling.  As a matter of fact, I have been here in Houston and dealing with the funeral and family and SCW has had to take a backseat to that.  Which I guess is going to mean that I am letting people down, especially my partner and that is driving me crazy because everyone that knows me knows that I absolutely detest letting people down.  And as much as I wish I could do more, it just got away from me.

The ill look that passes over Sam’s face attests to the physical affect it has on her.  

I have to say as well, as much as I love my family, I also love my SCW family and after this week I am going to be getting focused once more.  But this week and all that has gone on, I am pretty sure that my head and my heart aren’t into this round of the Blast for the Past tournament and I will be looking to get back into fighting form.  

So where does that leave me now…well for the next few days I am going to try my best to get ready to go out there and try to kick butt like I normally do.  However, no excuses…If it happens that I lose the match for our team, I apologise to Caleb.  I was the weak link and I take one hundred percent of the blame.  And Fenris and Courtney, I hope to give you the match you deserve…

A voice can be heard to call Sam’s name as a familiar redhead moves into the view of the camera and Sam turns to see her older sister looking for her.  Ducking down to hide in a cubicle, Sam looks in the camera and mouths the words “I’m sorry” before sneaking away as the camera goes to black.  

 After Climax Control 200 : Sam’s house in Vegas

A rather bleary-eyed Sam Marlowe walks along the hallway towards her kitchen.  Dressed in a pair of worn plaid flannel yoga pants and a tee-shirt that barely skims along the waistband of the pants, the effects of the mist from her partner from the night before rings her eyes with a redness that has her blinking in the light of the hall.  Before she gets to the kitchen, a soft chime from the front door sounds which stops Sam in her path and has her sigh and turn to open the door with a smile as she begins to speak.

“If you call me Stevie Wonder one more time Ben I am going to…” she begins before noticing that it isn’t her Cockney friend.  

Standing on her front porch is Monte Christopher looking worse for wear and her sister who has her eyes covered in mirrored shades.  The pair move to step into the house but Sam closes the door slightly and leans against it.

“Whatever could you two want?” demands Sam as she rests her head against the door preventing the pair from coming inside.  Cyn crosses her arms over her chest as Monte shoots Sam a look then shares a glance at Cyn.  He turns back to Sam, a grin splitting his face as he turns on the charm.

“You don’t need to ask that Sweetness,” he states with a wink.  â€œYou should have known that once that sham of a match happened we would go right back to where we were and start planning for the future.”

Sam chuckles as her eyes roll slightly.  â€œYou figured that I wanted to have a future with the pair of you?” replies a skeptical Sam who slowly shakes her head in the negative.  â€œAfter last night if I don’t ever see you in my life again I wouldn’t complain.”  As she says this she begins to close the door but Monte puts his hand against it and holds the door open as Cyn moves closer.

“Really Sammi, how can you say that when you know that we only wanted what was best for you.  And if you ask me, leaving that company and marrying this man right here would be the best.  Hell if I wasn’t already sure that he wanted you, I would snap him up in a moment,” states Cyn as she offers Sam a smile and a wink for Monte who nods as he puts a hand over his heart and gives Sam a puppy dog look.  

“Forgive me,” begins Sam as she straightens up slightly and pulls away from Monte to glare at her sister.  â€œI couldn’t give a dang if you two went and did whatever.  I am through with the pair of you. I mean really?  For the past couple of months, you have done nothing but make my life miserable.  Do you realize that because of you and your mouth Cyn, I have had to deal with someone that I respect thinking that I don’t respect them.  And you Monte, you don’t own me, I am not going to be the missus that you want.  We aren’t even engaged…”

“But I asked you and I offered you that ring..” begins Monte but Sam holds up a hand stopping him from talking.  

Sam sighs and frowns.  â€œI said no then Monte and I meant it.  And the past few weeks, just made my mind up more.  But Cyn is right about one thing.  She would probably snap you up now that I am not interested in you.  She always seems to want what I have and to be honest, I am kind of surprised that she hasn’t had you yet in some way or…”

Monte turns away from Sam guiltily that slows her speech as the truth dawns on her.  Cyn looks guilty as well but her guilt is covered by the cocky smile she has on her lips.  Sparing a glance for the two of them, Sam just scoffs in disgust and without another word she steps back into the house and shuts the door, leaning back on it as outside of it, Monte turns to Cyn with a questioning look.

“You told me she would be over it,” Monte says as he storms angrily back and forth on the porch as Cyn slaps her hand on the door.  â€œSammi,” she calls only to hear a muffled sound from inside.

“Go away Cyn and take Monte with you!” says Sam as she leans her head back against the wood of the door.  â€œI have to leave myself in a bit because I have somewhere I have to be…”

Not waiting for the pair to answer her, Sam pushes away from the door and heads towards the back of the house ignoring the banging on the door by Monte or Cyn’s strident voice calling her name.  The door of the house next door opens and the lady of the house comes out and yells across to the pair for them to leave or she would be calling the authorities.  With that threat, Cyn Marlowe and Monte Christopher move down the drive and both get into a rental car and pulls away.  

The older lady moves down her drive as she watches the car pull away.  Once it turns the corner, she moves to the door of Sam’s house and rings the bell.  Moments later, Sam whips the door open to see the neighbor who gives Sam a sympathetic look.  Sam smiles slightly and moves back to invite the neighbor into the house and the door shuts on the pair.

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The soft glow of firelight bathes Sam Marlowe in a fiery golden glow as she stares into the fireplace in front of her.  Wrapped in a rather large shawl like blanket, she brings a cup to her lips and sips at the warm liquid that fogs up the pair of glasses she has on the tip of her nose.  Setting the cup to the side, she once more cuddles up on the couch and reaches to the table where a small screen can be seen lighting up as her fingers brush across it.  Pulling it towards her, she presses the home button and then watches the log in screen opens.  Quickly her fingers move over the keyboard on the screen as the characters of her password flash into small dots.  Once all are entered, icons fill the screen.

Pressing one, she opens a camera window that takes in the view of the room from her place.  One finger touch and the view switches to take in her face, framed by soft curls that float down from a rather messy topknot that has every appearance of falling at any moment.  Taking a long breath, she presses the record button before beginning to speak.  

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Here I am somewhere off the grid because I needed to get my head back into the game after the rather interesting few weeks I have had in Sin City Wrestling.  Especially given that I have a match at the very last supercard for the Bombshell Roulette title.  Hmmm the very last supercard in SCW…I really never thought I would be saying something like that especially after the fight I had to go through to be at that actual show.  

Sam pauses to reflect on that statement before she continues to speak.

I had to deal with two people that wanted to make me give up something I am passionate about.  And they came that close to succeeding but I managed to keep my career and I beat the two of them.  I had to pin my own sister to keep wrestling but when push came to shove, I did it and believe it or not, it felt good.   Hellfire, my life of living in Cyn Marlowe’s shadow was totally destroyed that night.  I spent all of my life as a second thought to my sister and now I was finally able to exorcise that demon at the last Climax Control.

Of course I wasn’t able to do that with the help of Anthrax who seemed to have developed some kind of obsession of me.  I couldn’t say I was flattered but he did help me realize that I shouldn’t have let Monte control my life like he did.   So the crazy clown did save me in a way but he took it a little far.  I mean I ain’t that afraid of clowns but he did scare me a little.  But I don’t think I could have let him beat up someone that really wasn’t able to defend himself and all that got me was a misting to the face and a save from my friend Ben who then challenged Anthrax for Full Circle.  Now I am grateful that Ben saved me, I am but now I am worried that in defending me he is gonna get hurt.  And I have yet to be able to reach him…

Sam pulls up a cell phone that she opens to reveal a number of calls to Ben’s number.  

If you are seeing this, call me back Ben, you got me worried.  

Putting the phone down once more, Sam again addresses the camera on the screen.

I guess I do have to offer someone an apology right now before I go any further considering what has been happening since I lost the Bombshell Roulette title.  So Cadence if you are listening, I want you to know that I am sorry.  You will probably scoff and say something to the effect that I was just using my sister as my mouthpiece and you coulnd’t be farther from the truth.  But you don’t know me that well so instead of giving me the benefit of the doubt you thought I would be like any other bombshell and just sneak around and talk behind your back.  And because you don’t know me, you have no clue about what I am like.   If you knew me you would know that I have no chance whatsoever putting words in Cyn’s mouth.  So whatever Cyn said to you, I am sorry you have thin enough skin to let it get to you without coming to me and dealing with things woman to woman.  Because if you had asked, I would have told you exactly what I thought of you winning the title.  I know I congratulated you for it and had nothing but respect for you accomplishing the win.  I was content to let you bask in the spotlight before I would ask for my rematch.  But make no mistake, when I was ready to ask for it, I would come right in front of you to get my rematch.  I am not the kind of person that decides to let others do my talking for me.  

Sam chuckles as she reaches for the cup and sips at it again, once more fogging up the glasses that she reaches for with her other hand and drags from the tip of her nose.  Closing the legs of the glasses, she uses them to point at the camera.

So here we go Cadence, this is me point blank telling you that I am coming for my rematch for the Bombshell Roulette title.  See I don’t need to hide behind anyone because I am telling you straight that I want that title shot and when the ink was dried on the contract, I felt something was missing and I have realized what it is.  It’s the respect that competitors have for one another.  I mean seriously I respect your skills because you are pretty new to this and you managed to win a title in your rookie year here in SCW.  And trust me I know how something like that feels because I did the same thing in my rookie year when I challenged for the Bombshell title and won it from Mikah.  But the difference between you and me is that I still have respect for the person that I won the title from.  Just like when I won the Bombshell Roulette title at Summer XXXTreme and injured someone to do it.  I was sick to my stomach that I ended someone’s career but I couldn’t let that get inside my head especially when I had to defend that title in matches that could end careers.  But that is something that I had to do and I got good at it.  I could adapt to any match and each one would bring out the best of me.  Heck, you saw what I was capable of when I defended the title against you the first time.

Sam’s face gets a bit serious as she pauses in remembrance.

Then of course, after that loss, you still had respect because you knew that I earned it.  But then you came back, earned yourself another shot and you won.  And as much as you say you don’t believe it, I was glad about it.  And for a couple of reasons if you must know.  It freed me up to maybe make a run at another title that I still had a rematch contract for.  Or maybe I could have worked towards the Bombshell Internet title and earning my shot at that one.  But then my sister began her little campaign and dug at your ego.  And you let her.    

If you knew anything about my sister Cyn, you would know that no one is able to put words in her mouth.  Anything she says is all her and she really got to you from what I have seen.  Which then raises the question, if she was able to get to you that easily, what would you have done if I had actually done what she said I did?  Seems to me that with her suggesting what she did and you getting all defensive about it, makes one wonder how confident you were about winning if it was that easy to get under your skin?  I mean did it cause you to question just how good you were?  Or question if she was right about me letting you win.  Is that what has made you think of me as a bad person?  Is there anything that I have done to show you that I didn’t respect you?  You can’t say there is and that is what gets to you isn’t it.  You have to use ad hominin attacks to make yourself feel better about the fact that you aren’t certain that you did win it on your own or not.  Let me put your mind to rest, you won the title all on your own, with your own skills and talent.  Does that make you feel better?  

Sam gives the screen a look that seems to ask if Cadence could accept that she was wrong about her.

So now Cadence, my apology is over and I have some straight facts for you.  I am coming for my rematch for the Bombshell Roulette title and sadly that means I have to face you in the middle of the ring where you seem to think that I am not going to have enough respect for your skills and that you are going to have to beat that respect into me.  Hellfire, I have heard you ranting enough at Climax Control about it.  So here is what I have to say to that…Bring whatever you think you can to this match at Full Circle because that is what I am going to do.  And I am coming with a burning desire to leave the last ever show of my Sin City Wrestling career with the Bombshell Roulette title.  But see, I know I am coming for a fight because you have told me time and again that you lost respect for me and that you will beat me for this title and walk out the champ.  I can’t let you do that Cadence.  

My competitive streak is a mile wide and my desire to be the best is burning very hot.  So if you think that you saw everything I could bring to the ring, just you wait til Full Circle when I bring that much more to the ring and a knock down drag out fight for the belt.  I am looking forward to any stipulation of that fickle roulette wheel of fate that will dictate just how that title will be won.  I am ready for anything so guess that means I am ready for you.  

You know what Cadence, it is going to be a new year very soon and that means New Years Resolutions and I want to share mine with you.  I am resolved Cadence that at Full Circle, I am going to walk out of that six-sided ring after having my hand raised in victory and the belt handed to me.   So, if that peeves you off, I am sooo sorry but I am not going to tell you anything but the straight truth.  Good luck because Cadence, you are definitely going to need it.

Sam grins at the screen which she presses the button on to end the recording.  Sighing, her face falls somewhat as she puts the screen to the side and once more picks up the now cooled drink and begins to sip it again as her gaze moves to the fireplace once more.

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Sam buckles in to her seat in the plane that is slowly filling up.  Hoping to discourage any talk, she closes her eyes and leans her head back with a pair of earphones to block out the noise of the plane.  As the plane begins to taxi towards the runway, a yawn escapes the redhead and her breath becomes shallow as she actually does fall asleep…

Sam opens her eyes to find herself being pulled to her feet by a pair of hands that are gentle but insistent.  She looks into the stern gaze of a rather angered Monte Christopher who yanks her up and turns her towards a doorway where Cyn Marlowe can be seen.  Looking around, Sam finds herself in an apartment building being demolished with piles of rubble surrounding her.  She is moved towards the other redhead who is rubbing her hands together.  

“Finally I can finish you off and leave you in the rubble of this building,” taunts Cyn as she motions for Monte to bring Sam with him as the pair move to the elevator that looks none to safe.  Opening the doors, Cyn let’s Monte climb inside with Sam and joins them for the short ride upward.  Cyn spares only the barest glances for her sister but she begins to talk once more.  â€œYou know, you really shouldn’t even be allowed to think that you are anything more than the victim I have made you today and most of your life.  I know you think you have been able to save yourself or get saved by that Cockney idiot but trust me, it is all nothing but a dream that I am about to destroy.  You would have been better to accept my offer and join Monte here rather than push my buttons.”

The sinister tone of Cyn’s voice speaks of the ill intentions she seems to be showing towards Sam as the elevator door opens on the rooftop floor.  Monte chuckles evilly as he pushes Sam towards the rooftop door that Cyn has pushed open to the sky.  Sam manages to escape from Monte’s grip and backs closer and closer to the edge...her red curls whipping in the high winds as Cyn and Monte approach, evil grins on their faces.

“How can you do this?  I mean you...” she says as she points at Monte.  â€œYou told me you loved me and would support me and you,” Sam adds as her finger turns towards a now seductively laughing Cyn as she puts a hand on the shoulder of Monte.  â€œYou are my sister for sobbing out loud.  And after all the stuff you said about Cadence and her thinking that it was me that made you say them and all that...”

Sam's lifts her arms in surrender only to have her wrist grabbed and she is pulled onto the ledge where a smiling Anthrax is looking at her and then towards the pair that lured her to the edge of the building.

Anthrax growls towards the pair who stand watching the clown.  â€œI told you that she was my girl!”

Sam struggles against the hold of the clown which draws his attention to her.  Leaning closer, his smile changes to an evil grimace.

“I said you were MY GIRL!” he reiterates in a measured menacing way.

“Noooo...I can't be your girl,” pleads Sam.  â€œI was your partner and then when I stopped you, you sprayed me with your mist.  Let me go and find someone else to obsess about...”

Anthrax thinks for a moment before pulling Sam into his arms and dances her along the edge before holding her away from him into the air.

Laughingly Anthrax answers her.  â€œIf you won't be my girl...then you will be no one's girl,” he says as he pulls his hands away from her upper arms which sends her windmilling to try and catch her balance but with a screech of fear she falls backwards into the empty air and begins to plummet towards the ground.  Sam’s eyes slam shut as the thought of the impact with the ground fueling her screams of terror.

“Oomph!?!”

Suddenly an impact against a rather solid form cuts off Sam mid scream and has her eyes flying open in surprise to find a Superman holding her that looks very familiar.

“Is that you Ben?” she asks in disbelief.

“I don’t know who this Ben fella is but you better hold on miss, wouldn’t want to drop you,” says the hero.  Sam looks over her shoulder to see the ground still quite far below her making her react by flinging her arms around the neck of ‘SuperBen’ who offers her a smile as he begins a descent towards the ground at a slow rate which is sped up by Anthrax leaping on the back of SuperBen who releases his hold on Sam sending her screaming downward again as she watches as Ben and Anthrax battle back and forth in the air...

The plane landing brings Sam screaming awake which has the flight staff rushing towards her.  Passengers look over their seats as Sam brushes her hand through her hair as she slumps into her seat with an explosion of breath escaping her as she rushes to let the staff know she is fine.  Ducking down once more, she tries to disappear as the rest of the passengers prepare for the layover.

“I am so letting this get to me too much,” she mutters to herself as she once more puts the headphones over her ears, this time pulling a magazine from the back of the seat in front of her and opens it to cover her embarrassment.

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Sam Marlowe can be seen, a pair of blue jeans molding to her legs as her hands are stuffed into the pockets of a varsity letterman jacket from the University of Nevada.  She can be seen standing facing a cameraman and is speaking quietly but with a half smile that doesn’t reach her eyes.  

Cadence I am taking this opportunity to tell you that no matter what you may think, I am coming for a match that will see the two of us fighting for the Bombshell Roulette title.  Now I have been watching Twitter and I can’t believe how delusional you have become about what my sister said that got under your skin.  And like I keep saying that is her, not me but you can’t believe that can you.  Well fine, don’t believe it.  

Now I have seen your comments and you what…I really don’t appreciate the names you call me and the attitude you take with me.  Calling me a cowardly C word because you have doubts about me saying something through my sister that maybe struck a little close to home for you.  Ok, I can give you the benefit of the doubt that you are only using those words to make yourself feel better about having to face me for the title at Full Circle.    

But what you don’t realize is that using that kind of language and conjecture about me is a self defeating thing.  Oh wait, I’m letting my Masters educated language describe my emotions going into this match…let me put it in terms that you will be better able to understand Cadence.  

Sam looks intently into the camera lens.

At Full Circle this Sunday I am coming to give you an holy heck of a beating to prove once and for all that I am not my sister with innuendo and taunts.  See I am the one that comes directly at you to kick your ass.  So when you look across the ring on Sunday, that redhead standing there is going to be the one that is going to drive you right into the canvas and take what you think that you will retain.  And when all is said and done, that respect you were demanding, I will have earned and when I hold that title up and Justin Decent calls out my name as the NEW Bombshell Roulette CHAMPION, there is going to be two things that you can do…nothing and like it.  

The time is running out for talk, the time for action is coming up soon and my actions will be speaking loud and clear in the ring.  So good luck Cadence Carter, you are going to need it.  

With that Sam Marlowe moves away from the camera’s view and begins to walk towards a building that is revealed to be the Gold Coast Casino before the image fades to another that has a message for Cadence Carter.

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 Just after Climax Control went off the air, a very familiar redhead can be seen walking along the street, a hoodie pulled up around her red curls with only a few tendrils blowing in the soft wind and tangling with the white cords of earbuds that are tucked into her ears.  Burying her hands into the pockets over her midsection, her lips moving to lip sync the song she is listening to as she walks along.  Trying to be unnoticed, she can’t help but draw glances as she moves along the street in the Sydney downtown as she moves towards the public transit stop where she stops and looks at the times of the arrival for any vehicles.  

Suddenly, Sam Marlowe turns to look around her, her hands moving to the cords of the earbuds.  Her nose crinkles as she looks over the small groups of people moving along the street as if looking for someone following her.  Shaking her head, she gives a half smile as the bus approaches.  Putting the earbud from her left ear back, she widens her smile and then slides a bill into the payment slot of the bus and moves along the aisle to sit down at the window half way down the bus and puts the other earbud in.

The whoosh of the door is blocked as Sam slides down slightly.  The bag she had on her shoulder is pulled to her lap and she slides it open slightly to pull out a small book and sets it on the seat before once more tightening the drawstring and setting it on the floor at her feet.  Picking up the book, she opens it and begins to read, losing herself in the play.    She can’t see the group of young men who are motioning and talking about her.  One pulls away from the group and moves to Sam to tap her lightly on the shoulder.

“G’day,” says the man with a smirk at his friends which fades slightly as Sam seems to ignore him.  He reaches out again and taps her harder on the shoulder and offers her another smile as this time she looks up and with a nod and smile acknowledges the tap before turning back to her book.

Looking at his friends, the guy can’t believe he had been dismissed so easily.  â€œHey Sheila,” he says as he gets her attention once more.  Sam looks up and this time she reaches up and pulls the earbuds with one hand and offers the young man a smile as she leans the book against the University of Nevada logo on her chest.

“Hey there, can I help you?” asks Sam in a friendly voice as she smiles.

“Ya can,” offers the young man with a wink to his friends which has Sam checking behind her.  â€œMe mates and I were talking and I said that you was Sam Marlowe from that wrestling company that was here in Sydney.  But my mate there says it ain’t you.  Could you please tell him that you are who you are?” asks the youth.

Sam turns back to the group who are jostling each other and chuckling.  Sam calls out to the group.  â€œY’all’s buddy here is right, it’s me,” offers Sam.  â€œI hope that there was no money on this.”

“Nah,” replies one of the others before his friend once more gets Sam’s attention.  â€œI was wondering Sam…I can call you Sam can’t I?  I was wondering if I might get a picture with you.”

Sam looks around at the few people on the bus and then with a shrug nods slowly.  â€œSure,” she says as she slowly stands, her foot catching the bag and making it jingle.  The sound is soft but still the youth hears it and reaches down to pick up the bag and holds it, shaking it slightly to hear the clink once more.  â€œIs that the title belt in the bag?”

Sam reaches out for the bag which is held just out of reach by the redhead.  His buddies move closer as Sam nervously looks at the group before reaching again for the bag.  â€œNah, no title, just some of my lipglosses clinking against a mirror,” lies Sam as she finally is able to clutch part of the bag and tug at it.  

“I don’t think so,” offers the guy holding the bag as he yanks it and Sam closer.  â€œI think it’s the belt and would really like to see it.”  

Sam looks around and does some quick thinking.  She smiles and yanks the bag back towards her, and after a short tug of war later has the bag clutched to her chest with the hand holding the book in a protective embrace of the bag.  The guys continue to crowd around her as she tries to get herself some breathing room.  â€œListen, why don’t we get that picture as my stop is coming up,” she lies.  The guys good naturedly jostle her and then three of them surround her to get in the picture.  Sam smiles as another of the group takes the picture.  

“Thanks Sam,” says the first guy as Sam backs away from them towards the front of the bus.  The guys wave her off as the first one calls out to the redhead once more.  â€œYou need someone to walk you home?”

Sam shakes her head negatively as she moves towards the front of the bus and then raises her hand to wave.  â€œY’all are sweet to offer but I can see my place from the road.  Have a great night,” she says before exiting the bus that pulls away slowly only to stop as Sam begins to speed up in her walk toward her apartment building.

Once at her apartment, Sam let herself inside and then leans against the door as she shoots home the lock.  Pushing away from the door, she moves further into the room and lays the bag and book down on the table before heading into the kitchen where she pulls open the fridge and grabs a beer and then opens it before moving into the living room.

Sitting down, Sam takes a long drink of the beer as she reaches for the remote and switches on the television to reveal a sports report.  Leaning back and leaving the television flickering but quiet as she once more reaches for the bag and her book.  As her hand lands on the bag, it begins to vibrate as the sound of her phone begins to be heard.  Pulling it out, she presses the button and smiles as the image of Monte Christopher appears on the screen.

“Hey darlin’,” says Sam with a smile as she settles back to speak to him.

“Hi Sweetness,” he replies with his own smile.  â€œI saw that you got yourself a helluva match at that supercard you got coming up in a couple of weeks.  And I wanted to talk to you about that,” says Monte.

Sam nods slowly as she looks over to the television before reaches to turn it off.  â€œYou wanted to talk to me about High Stakes?  What about?”

Monte takes a deep breath and then begins.  â€œI am getting worried about you.  Since you won that title you got, you have been in matches that could injure you and Sweetness, I don’t want to see you injured.”  Monte offers Sam a concerned look.  â€œWhy don’t you just go back to wrestling in regular matches or better yet, give it up and marry me like I asked you to.”

Sam tries unsuccessfully to hide her surprise at his comment.  â€œYou want me to give up the belt and wrestling?  Monte…I don’t think that I want to do something like that.  I am loving my job here at SinCity Wrestling.  And I have been really successful since I won the Roulette title.”

“You might be successful Sammi but those matches that are on that wheel are dangerous and I saw the match that you had at Violent Conduct and I thought for a moment there that you weren’t gonna make it through the match without hurting yourself…” begins Monte only to have Sam interrupt him.

“Monte,” says Sam.  â€œI know that those matches can be dangerous and I know that there is the possibility that I can get hurt but Monte, darlin’ I am good at reacting to the matches and I am good at doing what I do.  And if I have to fight tooth and nail to win, then that is what I will do.”

Monte’s eyes narrow slightly with makes Sam wince.  â€œSweetness, that match against that Cadence Carter last time was more than a win that was you totally becoming someone else.  You were willing to do something that I have never suspected you to do.  You were willing to end a career to win the match.”  Sam looks thoughtful as she once more winces.

“Monte…I would never…” begins Sam only to have Monte stops her.

“Sammi, you injured someone when you won the title.  And the last time you wrestled for the title at a supercard, you were going to break someone’s leg.  That isn’t my Sweetness…I want you to think about that,” insists Monte.  â€œActually I want you to think that maybe you need to walk away while you can still walk.”

Sam gives Monte a surprised look.  â€œMonte!  How can you ask me that?”

“I ask it because I love you and want to keep you safe,” answers Monte.  And if it means you need to walk away, that will be the choice I would ask you to make.”  In the background of the call, a ringing phone can be heard which draws Monte’s attention away from Sam.  Reaching for it, he looks at the number then back at Sam.  â€œI have to take this Sam but we will talk later.”

Sam nods and lamely says goodbye as Monte’s hand comes into view to press disconnect.  Sam thumbs the phone off and tosses it to the other side of the sofa in frustration before pulling her knees up to her chest and lays her forehead against them as a low whimper escapes her.

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A bed can be seen, a redhead reclining on it in a white button down and little else as Sam Marlowe looks towards a camera on a laptop and begins to speak into the microphone.  

“Y’all know that coming up soon is a match that for all intents and purposes is going to light up High Stakes.  Y’all know that night I am in a fight for this title…”  Sam pulls up the belt that had been lying flat on the bed in front of her.  Laying it out once more, she reclines further and puts a hand under her cheek.  â€œI have to say that this match is going to make history.”

Sam smiles as she looks into the camera and runs her free hand through her curls as she looks upwards as if in thought before looking out the side of her eye towards the camera.  â€œI am sure you have heard Mercedes Vargas talk about how this title defense at High Stakes could see me beating her record and if I am honest, part of me really wants to do that.  See, I have been making history ever since I joined SCW and I can’t help but want to keep doing that.  And when I step into the ring at High Stakes, I am sure that I am not going to want to let this opportunity get away from me.  So, I am ready for making history and beating Mercedes’ two-year-old record.”   Sam stops for a second and thinks about that as the smile brightens up her face before she begins to once more speak.  

“Sad part about me making history is having to do it by beating Cadence Carter in a rematch from Violent Conduct.  Thinking back, that night she was one heck of an opponent and believe you me, I was surprised that I managed to win that night.  And I am sure that is something that Cadence will be bringing up if she does talk about this match.  And I would agree with her one hundred percent,” offers Sam before chuckling.  â€œThat’s right, I agreed with the woman that will be trying to take my title at High Stakes and the sky hasn’t opened up and struck me down with lightning.”

“You see Cadence, I can say that because I recognize how dangerous you can be because I have seen it before.  And you may ask where I saw it and I will tell you point blank that you are a lot like me when I started wrestling.  But just because you have the drive and ability I am going to give you a free pass.  You remind me a lot of me a year ago.  I was fresh faced and new and I was so eager to prove myself and prove myself I did.  I got noticed and then I began my climb up the ladder and managed to win my first title against the one person that no one ever thought would be beaten.  And here I am now the Roulette champion and I am in the fight of my life at the supercard against you.”

Sam adjusts herself to be leaning on one elbow and sighs.  â€œCadence I am ready to admit that maybe just maybe you might beat me but for this match you have to realize I don’t have to pin you or submit you.  I am the champion and the match is mine to lose.  And I ain’t fixin’ to lose this match.  There is too much ridin on this match and when push comes to shove, this is a match that I am not going to lose because this title means so much to me.  So if you want to win it,” Sam offers to the camera, “you are going to have to beat me down enough to pry it away from me.”

“There is no quit in me and you are going to realize that at High Stakes,” vows Sam.  â€œThis title is staying with me regardless of what you do to try and win it.  Mad props to you for your determination and all the respect in the world for your abilities.  So I am just going to put it this way…”

Sam stops talking and collects her thoughts.  

“Good luck Cadence,” says Sam with a serious look on her face that breaks into a smile.  â€œthe title will be going nowhere but I am looking forward to the challenge that you will be giving me.  And trust me, I know right now that you ain’t gonna make it easy.  Which is just how I like it…makes it worth so much to me to know that I faced a strong challenge and was able to get past it.  And in my opinion that challenge is you.  I’ll see you at High Stakes and may the best woman win.”

Sam holds out her hand for a handshake before the camera stops recording and the video goes to black.

 The sound of a set of keys can be heard to rattle before a door opens into a dark room.  A hand reaches out and flicks the switch which illuminates Sam Marlowe in a pair of jeans and a worn bomber jacket over a black tee.

“Honey I’m home…oh wait,” Sam says to the empty room.  â€œI forgot, I live alone.”

Sam lets a half smile cross her face as she pulls the carryall that she had hanging off her shoulder and drops it lightly on the floor beside the closet and shrugs out of the bomber jacket.  Opening the sliding door of the closet she pulls out a hanger and slides it into the arms of the jacket before putting it inside and then shutting the door.  

Reaching once more for the bag on the floor, she picks it up and moves towards the bedroom.  Inside on a dressing table rests an open laptop with a blank screen.  Sam pauses only long enough to press the power button before she moves further into the bedroom and sets the suitcase on the bed, opening it and pulling out her dirty laundry.  The whir of the hard drive spinning up proceeds the soft chimes of the laptop powering up.  

Sam turns and softly pads towards the computer and logs in then moves towards the closet, her hands reaching for the hem of the shirt and pulling it over her head as she walks towards the bed once more.  Soft pings can be heard on the laptop as her messengers open.  Message after message can be seen loading up as Sam opens her jeans and begins to work them off her hips before stumbling and sitting hard on the bed.

“Dang it,” she mutters as she fights to pull off the worn cowboy boots she had on.  Finally they were gone ad Sam stood once more, stretching out her muscles before advancing to the dresser in only her bra and panties.  Pulling a pair of fluffy pajamas out of the top drawer, she tucks the top between her arm and her body as she pulls the shorts on then thrusts her hands into the sleeves of the top.  

The ringing of a phone can be heard which has Sam fighting to pull the shirt down over her head.  The window on the laptop opens to reveal Pussy Willow who can be seen to be clicking her fingernails along the desk in front of her.  Sam smiles and then reaches for the answer and calls out to her friend.

“Hey Pussy, how you doing?” she begins with a teasing tone before continuing, “Long time no talk.”

“Funny Sammi, very funny but this is official business,” says Pussy with a no nonsense look that she can’t keep up the pretense of.  â€œI am calling to talk to you about your match for next week.  I want to know if you are ready to defend your title in a match against Trinity Jones?”

Sam looks surprised at the screen before her eyebrows draw together as if trying to remember who that is.  When she can’t place her, she shrugs and offers Pussy an apologetic smile.  â€œI am sorry Pussy but right now I am really rather tired from my flight in and I can’t really place her.  But I am sure that she is really focusing on the fact that she is getting this shot because that is what I would do.”

Pussy nods in understanding before speaking again.  â€œShe’s the one that is new and really has only a couple of matches under her belt and now that Melanie Gabrielle is recovering from her tag match, Christian put you against Trinity Jones.  Is it punishment for you being so dominant lately as the Roulette champion or wanting to promote new bombshells, I haven’t figured it out but I thought I would facetime you and get the whole story out there since she is your opponent and well, you won’t be in New Zealand early enough to get some interview time.  So do you think that we can ask you to talk about your match Sam?” asks Pussy.

Sam looks from the laptop to the bed then back again.  She nods slowly before leaning towards the computer and smilingly begins to speak.

“Trinity Jones is getting a once in a lifetime chance at the next Climax Control when she gets her first shot at gold here in SCW.  The sad part about it is that she is facing me, the Bombshell Roulette title holder who is on sort of a winning streak if you listen to Mercedes Vargas.  But I want Trinity to know that well, I’m the kind of competitor that will go above and beyond to give the fans what they want and judging from the cheers and shout outs that I receive, they like the fact that I am doing what I do in the ring for them and giving one hundred and twenty percent each and every week,” Sam says.

“But Sam, there is always the chance she might beat you,” adds Pussy.

“Y’all are right Pussy, there is that chance but like my Daddy says, even a snowball has a slim chance in hell.  But I have to admit that there is a chance that if I take her lightly she will beat me and beat me handily so I want to pass on a message,” states Sam before looking right into the camera.

“Trinity, I want to apologize now, I can’t let you beat me this week for my title.  Not because I don’t think you can’t, it is because I want it more than anything and when I am in that mindset, no one can beat me!”

Sam stops to yawn slightly then offers Pussy a sad look.  â€œI would love to continue talking about this but I am beat to my socks and need sleep.  Will talk to you at CC ok Pussy?”

With a nod at her friend, Sam disconnects the call and then moves to the bed to flop onto it, cuddling her pillow and hitting the light switch by the bed to plunge the room into darkness.

 After teasingly pinching Ben Jordan’s cheek, Sam Marlowe rushed through her post match clean up then rushed out of the venue and headed towards her car.  Tossing her bag in the back of the beat up camaro, she slides behind the wheel and guns the engine to head out into the night for the drive to Reno.  

Looking into the darkness of the night, she slows and gets off the road.  Pulling her bag into her lap, she digs around and pulls out her phone and then slaps it into the holder that is stuck to the windshield and focuses it on her in the driver’s seat.  After pressing the record button she once more pulls out onto the highway and begins to speak.

“You know what, tonight was a pretty good night for yours truly,” she begins as she peers into the dark.  â€œI was able to beat back a challenge from Mercedes and kept my belt but you have to realize that in two weeks I will be defending this title against Cadence Carter and everyone has already said that this is going to be a defense like no other.”

Sam takes a swipe at her nose and eyes before reaching down and pulling a cup of some kind of liquid up to her lips.  Sipping at the drink, she sets it down again before once more addressing the camera.

“I could sit here and toot my own horn,” she begins while a smile breaks over her face and she slightly depresses the horn of the car to emit a short honk.  â€œbut that wouldn’t’ be me because I am the nicest person on the roster here in SCW.  So let me just set the stage for this match at Violent Conduct.  I am defending the Bombshell Roulette title again Cadence like I said and from what I have seen of her, she is a pretty good wrestler.  Well of course she is, SCW doesn’t hire people that can’t perform.”  Sam gives the camera a side eyed look as if breaking the fourth wall before once more paying attention to the highway.

“And believe me I have watched Cadence lately only to see her win her matches when push comes to shove or lose by the slightest of margins.  Now my Daddy says that every dog will have its day and every one of them will have the sun shine on their rear ends at least once but Violent Conduct ain’t gonna be the night that Cadence Carter will be able to shine brighter than me,” Sam offers to the camera.  â€œI kinda like the streak I am on right now, it is giving me back all the confidence that I had lost with my losing streak a while back.  Only now that I am holding the Bombshell Roulette title, there is a little bit more giddyup and go when it comes to Sam Marlowe and defending her title.”

Reaching down again, the redhead pulls her cup up to drink from it only to have the last dregs of the drink dribble into her mouth.  Pulling the cup away with a sigh of disappointment, she stuffs the cup into the cup holder with a couple of muttered words that aren’t caught by the microphone of her phone.  Looking up at the device, she can’t help but chuckle to herself, laughter tinging the comments.  

“I really have to say that tonight was something that I needed for my confidence walking into the supercard.  A win, a successful title defense to walk into Violent Conduct just made me that much more confident for when I face Cadence.  Because she is stepping into the ring with one hell of a shot at a title that is very much a surprise with each spin of the wheel.  Which then begs the question, does she have what it takes to adapt to the unpredictable nature of the Roulette title,” ponders Sam.  â€œDoes she have it in her to be prepared for whatever match that wheel decides for us.  Will she be able to step in the ring and face me in a TLC match like I had tonight?  Is she willing to get naked if that wheel lands on a bra and pantie match?  See that is the nature of the wheel…it is totally random and you have to be prepared for any little thing.”

With that comment, she looks up to see the flashing light blinking indicating a low battery.  Growling slightly, she reaches up to the phone about to press stop when she directs one last comment towards the camera.

“Y’all want to know what I think about the upcoming supercard and the Bombshell Roulette title match?” asks Sam with a smile.  â€œI think that it is going to set the bar for the rest of the title matches that night and between Cadence and I, the two of us are going to blow the roof off the place.  And Cadence, right now I want to wish you luck because believe you me, the mood I am in right now, you are gonna need it.”

Sam then pushes the button on the phone to stop the recording.  Looking out into the night, she spies the highway sign directing her towards Reno as she takes the off ramp and disappears from sight.

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Hours later, the battered green chevy is resting in the parking lot of the hospital in Reno with a redhead leaned against the window fast asleep.  Not even the noises of the construction crew nearby are waking her.  Suddenly a person approaches the car and taps on the window which makes Sam Marlowe jump and then bring her right hand up to rub the sleep from her eyes.

“Y’all shouldn’t do that to a person,” mutters the redhead in a sleepy southern accent that sounds like soft velvet.  The person outside of the car knocks again and Sam looks up into the face of Keith’s mother who offers Sam a small smile.

“You here to see Keithie?” she asks.

“Of course, I promised him that I would visit after last night and show him that I am still the champ,” replies Sam as she scrambles to find her bag and pull it close.  Struggling to open it as she yawns once, she reaches inside to pull the strap out to display the title.  

“Keith is going to be so happy that you kept the belt,” offers the mother as she waits while Sam opens the door and slides out with the belt and her keys.  Slamming the car door shut, she moves towards Keith’s mother while pointing over her shoulder with the keys to hit the lock button a soft chime indictates that the car is locked.  Sam and Keith’s mother head towards the hospital and inside.  

Coming out of the elevator, Sam spies Keith in a wheelchair watching for something or rather someone to appear off the elevator.  Seeing Sam, he crows with delight as he fights to reach the wheel of the chair to bring him towards his favorite wrestler.  Sam rushes towards him to prevent him wasting any energy.

“Hey Keithie, kept my promise and the title,” Sam offers as she drapes the belt over his lap.  Letting go of the wheel, Keith puts both hands on the belt and half hugs it into his midsection.  

“I knew you would Sam,” says Keith with all the conviction of a boy who knows the truth.  â€œI betted Daddy that you would and I won a piece of cake for it.  But there were a couple of times I thought you might…” Keith stops for a moment, looking around as if the confession he was about to make would be overheard by everyone.  â€œI mean I thought that Mercedes was going to make you hurt and lose.”

Sam shrugs a bit before smiling at her young fan.  â€œHow could I let her win when I promised you that I would be bringing the title back to Reno to prove that when I say that I am going to win the title for you, I WIN it.  With you in my corner buddy, there ain’t any title I can’t defend.  So now you gotta be ready to cheer me on at the supercard.  Big title defense there and I am going to need all the good thoughts you can send me.”

“Yeah, gonna cheer for you as loud as I can!” vows the little boy still clutching the belt as Sam stands and moves behind the wheelchair and begins to push him down the hall.  â€œOf course though, the nurses telled me that I yelled too loud last night so they might make me yell not so loud when you wrestle again.”  These final words come out a bit breathlessly as Keith slumps somewhat in the chair as the pair of them walk down the hall towards Keith’s room, disappearing around the corner still talking softly.  

 After Climax Control 186…

Sam Marlowe watches as Keith and his family walks out of the backstage area, her eyes shiny with unshed tears as she holds her cell phone, the image on the screen a selfie with the young boy and her holding her bombshell roulette title before it flips to black.  Turning around, she slowly begins to walk towards the locker room. She sets down her phone and begins to toss items into her bag and then stops as her sight is taken by the tears as she cries silently at the injustice of her small fan being ill.  

It was only last year when she had first met Keith and now here he was, a Make a Wish kid who used his wish to spend time with her.  Sam reaches up and wipes at the wetness on her cheek as she swallows and takes a breath that comes out as a soft sob.  Getting to her feet, she zips up the battered bag and then throws it over her shoulder as she turns and prepares to leave the room.  Stopping, she shakily chuckles as she moves back and picks up the phone.  Walking back to the door, she pulls it open and exits only to run into Pussy who is heading down the hall.

“So Sammi, where are we meeting for drinks?  Ben said that the first ones are on you,” says the interviewer before noticing the puffiness of Sam’s eyes which makes her smile fade as she puts a hand on the shoulder of Sam.  â€œYou ok?” she adds, concern replacing the joking voice of Pussy.

“Yeah I’ll be fine,” replies Sam with a sigh.  â€œJust had a really bad night tonight you know.  I was told that I am facing Polly Playtime under roulette rules but lucky for me Christian took pity on me and made it non-title.  Then I had a Make a Wish thing and it turned out that it was a young man who I met at a mall last year who said he was my best fan and tonight he was the Make a Wish kid…”

Sam’s voice breaks as emotions hit her once more.  Pussy is quick to hug the redhead who sobs softly.  Patting her back, Pussy makes soft shushing noises as Sam fights to regain her composure.  â€œListen Sam,” begins Pussy, “why don’t you forget tonight and head back to Vegas?  We can party another night.”

“But I promised Ben that…” begins Sam only to have Pussy hold up a hand.  

“He’d understand.  Why don’t you send him a text saying something’s come up and you’d like to offer him a raincheck?” offers Pussy with a half-smile.  â€œI am sure there has to be a flight out sooner than later.”

Sam nods as she looks down at her phone while letting her thumb brush over the screen.  It lights up to reveal the selfie once more which pulls a soft smile from Sam before she opens the messenger on her phone and scrolls through her contacts.  Hitting Ben’s, she begins to tap on the screen and sends him a message about how she needed to go back to Vegas but next time the pair were at a pub, she would buy the two drinks she owed him.  Hitting send, she waited for the confirmation that the message had been sent before thumbing the phone off and stuffing it into the front pocket of the jeans she was wearing before hugging Pussy then backing away from her slowly.  

“I’ll talk to you next week some time,” Sam says as she turns and moves towards the garage where her rental car was leaving Pussy to watch her leave.  Pressing the key fob, she opens the door and then slides behind the wheel and slides the key into the ignition.  Reaching to turn the fob, she stops and looks up to see a small boy standing there in front of her holding his hands open in a hug toward Sam.

“Keithie?” whispers Sam before the small boy disappears down the garage at a call that Sam barely can hear.  She waves at the retreating figure and with a shake of her head turns on the ignition and the engine purrs to life.  Only moments later, the car pulls out of the garage and drives off into the night.  

An hour later, she is sitting in the airport after dropping the keys off at the Enterprise car rental.  With her bag resting at her feet, she leans back with her head resting on the back of the hard plastic seat allowing her to look up at the roof of Reno International Airport.  Suddenly she hears her flight called over the speakers in a crackly soft voice.  Getting to her feet, she makes her way to the desk and then hands the ticket to the attendant then moves down the skyway to the plane.  

Stepping inside, she is met by a flight attendant who smiles at her and motions towards the first class seats with a jaunty “Welcome to my plane.”  Sam nods in response but doesn’t say anything as she passes the doorway and finds her seat.  Sliding her bag into the overhead compartment, she slumps in her seat and pulls out a pair of earbuds and her phone.  Pushing the connector into the bottom of the IPhone and setting it on her lap, she leans back and slides the earbuds into her ears.  Picking up the phone once more, she checks first for a response from Ben then thumbs her music icon to bring up her playlists.  Clicking on one, music floods her ears as her eyes close to discourage anyone trying to talk to her.  

Suddenly over her shoulder, a flight attendant reaches down and waves his hand in front of Sam’s face.  The slight breeze makes her eyes open while she looks upward as the attendant smiles down at her.  â€œWe are about to get underway and we would like to ask you to please pay attention to the safety talk and keep your electronics off while we take off please,” he asks with a bit of a singsong voice.

Nodding in response once more, not bothering to talk, Sam pulls the earbuds from her ears and the faint beat of a song can be heard before Sam turns off the music.   Straightening in her seat, she reaches down for the seatbelt and buckles it over her hips then once more slumps down as a voice is heard to start giving the safety speech.   Half listening, Sam turns to the window and looks out on the tarmac where lights are defining the runways.  The plane starts to taxi towards the row of lights as the final instructions are given.  Finally the voice over the intercom says, “Sit back and enjoy the flight to Vegas.”

Moments later as the plane taxies along the runway with the thrum of the engines rising as the plane angles upwards Sam is pushed back into the plush seat.  Five minutes later, the fasten seatbelt sign blinks off and the plane levels off.  Sam sits up and looks over the plane to find that she is the only person on her side of the plane.  Motioning to the attendant who is moving along the aisle, Sam softly asks if she could start using her electronics one more.  The attendant whispers yes then asks if he can bring her anything.  Looking around, Sam nods and requests a drink which sends the attendant towards the galley as Sam pulls out her phone to once more listen to music.  Putting the earbuds in her ears, she stops for a second then instead of opening the music app, she opens the camera and begins to record herself, the light of the screen her only illumination.

“Hey, SCW fans, it is the SCW Bombshell Roulette champion, Sam Marlowe here and I got some things that I wanted to talk about and figured that the flight to Vegas from Reno would be the best time to talk about it.  So buckle up, it is going to be an interesting flight,” says Sam.  â€œNow first I want to say something to a very special friend that I saw tonight.  Keithie, you say you are my biggest bestest fan and I want you to know that I am your biggest and bestest fan.  So with that I want you to know I am always gonna be there for you just like I know you will be there for me.”

Sam pauses as she is handed a glass with a gold liquid that sloshes along the side with the ice cubes.  Taking a small sip, she sets it to the side on the tray table then once more pulls up the camera to continue recording.

“Now let me address what happened tonight when Christian Underwood came to me and told me that I would be facing Polly Playtime at the next show.  I had heard about her ‘list’ that she is talking about.  You know the one…her five fave opponents or some such thing.  And believe it or not, one of those names was mine.  Now I don’t know if she is doing it because she thinks that if she faces this list she is going to somehow be in line for a shot at some title or one of the bombshells she needs to face to justify that she is still a threat.  Great, so she wants to make her name by stepping on all of these people she listed.  And I can’t say that I disagree with her methods but what I do disagree with is that she thinks that she is all that for doing this.  I mean I applaud her sense of wanting to work for the title but there is something there that really bothers me as well,”  offers Sam as she taps her nose with one finger as if trying to figure out what was motivating Polly.

“But I am the one that she will be facing this next Climax Control.  But the thing is that Christian said the match will be under roulette rules.  I don’t know if Polly has ever had a chance to actually be in a match that no one knows what kind of match it will be until only a few moments before the match itself.  Now I am rather new to the Roulette title and the match stipulations but when it comes down to it, I have a bit more experience at Roulette matches.  But will that mean that Polly will be at a disadvantage?  Probably not,” Sam speculates as she reaches for the drink and brings it to her lips once more to sip at.

“Excuse me miss,” says the flight attendant, “but I was wondering if there was anything else you needed before we landed in Vegas.”

Sam smiles for the attendant and thanks her as she walks away before looking back at her phone.  The red button is still flashing as it records Sam.  Bringing up the phone, Sam smiles into it and continues to speak.

“Where was I? Oh yeah, wondering if Polly would be at a disadvantage in a roulette rules match.  I bet you are thinking ‘Sam, Polly is never at a disadvantage in that ring because she has beaten some of the best people in the company.  And I know I am in for a hell of a match so I really have to make sure that this week I prepare for facing someone that could come out of the corner and kick my ass from ringpost to turnbuckle.  But I hope she realizes that if she is going to try that, she has to know that I am someone that has a do or die attitude and when it comes to providing the fans with someone that they can get behind, I am the one bombshell that will do whatever the fans want or need.  Everyone calls me the sweetheart of SCW and I will admit that yeah, I can be a sweetheart.  But don’t mistake sweetness for weakness,” says Sam.  â€œI mean yeah, I have helluva lotta respect for everyone in the company but when it comes down to it, I still have that streak of competitiveness that drives me to push myself for the win.  And believe that at Climax Control, that drive will be front and center in our match.”

Before Sam can say anything else, the soft chime of the fasten seatbelts sign is heard as the small screen lights up.  With that, Sam turns to the camera and quickly smiles an apology to the screen.  â€œWe are coming into Vegas and I wish I had more time to talk about next week but they are looking at me to turn off my phone and get ready to land.  But there is still time to say this one thing…” says Sam before her smile brightens.  â€œGood luck Polly, something tells me we are both going to need it.”

Saying that, Sam thumbs the stop button on the camera then shuts it down and lets it fall into her lap as she reaches for the earbuds and pulls them from her ears.  The plane begins to lower as Sam rolls the earbud cord around her phone and then shove it into her pocket as the lights in the cabin go dark as the plane can be heard to bounce off the tarmac and a screeching of brakes is heard faintly.

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The sounds of fingers caressing and tapping on the keys of a keyboard can be heard, a counterpoint to the playlist that is running on a window of the open laptop.  A soft voice sings along with the song that is currently playing while the typing slows then stops.

“I don’t know what more I can say about this,” mutters a voice.  â€œYou can only say so much about Henry five before you start repeating yourself.”  The sound of a book being slammed on the table beside the computer is barely heard over the song ending but the angry flutter of pages being turned is loud in the silence between songs.  

Sam Marlowe looks down at the book then at the screen, her nose crinkling in frustration as she pulls the book closer to read the passage on the open page.  Grumbling at the laptop, she sees a window for twitter pop up.  Suddenly an idea forms in her mind as she opens her twitter and then sends a message to Ben Jordan to finish off this reading for her class.  Once it is sent, she pushes away from the table and then moves towards the doorway.  

“The heck with this, I am giving myself a break.  All work and no relax makes Sammi a really dull girl,” Sam says to herself before heading towards the stairs and her room.  Moving inside, she walks towards her closet and steps inside where she moves to a built in dresser and opens a drawer.  Pulling out a two piece swimsuit and heading towards the bathroom, she catches a look at herself in the mirror.  With her hair pulled up in a rather messy ponytail high on her head, a pair of fades denim shorts and a white unicorn halftee, Sam looks relaxed but her frustration can still be seen in the way she is standing and the half grimace on her face.  Stopping short, she moves closer to the mirror and then leans in to joke towards her reflection.  

“Are you lookingth at me?” she taunts mixing genres with Shakepeare and Scorsese.  This brings a giggle to her lips as she moves towards the bathroom once more.  Taking a few minutes in the bathroom, she exits dressed in the swimsuit with her hair still pulled in a high cascade of curls.  In one hand is a towel as she exits her room and heads down the stairs.  

Stopping to reply to Ben on Twitter, she picks up her phone and laptop and moves towards the patio door leading to her backyard.  Reaching towards the hot tub, she sets it to bubbling before moving towards a table that is nearby and setting up the computer on it.  Turning away from it, she moves back to the hottub and steps up on the small deck around the top of it and then down the stairs into the warm water.

Leaning back, she lets her eyes close as she relaxes.  Suddenly from the side, the hum of her phone is heard as a call comes in.  Leaning over, she spies who it is and pushes a button before beginning to speak.

“Hi Rocky Mountains, how are you?” says Sam.

“I am good Sam, I was wondering if I could ask you a few questions about the match coming up on Sunday.  When I didn’t see you after I had talked to Ben, I thought I would get in touch with you later in the week to do an official interview.  So can you come into the office?” asks Rocky, her voice professional.

Sam shakes her head as if Rocky could see her before speaking out.  â€œSorry Rocky, I am really busy this week before I get to leave on Saturday to make it to Stateline for Climax Control.  If you could do this over the phone I could answer your questions now.”

Over the speaker, Sam can hear Rocky muttering but can’t make out exactly what she is saying.  Finally Rocky speaks up as Sam sits up to pay more attention to the call.  â€œOkay Sam, I suppose that I can ask you over this call.  First I want to know how you are feeling about the fact that you are the Bombshell Roulette champion yet everyone sees you as an easy mark,” asks Rocky which causes Sam to chuckle which turns into a cough to try and hide the laugh.

“Well I guess you could say Rocky that I am enjoying it,” begins Sam who pushes a stray curl behind an ear.  â€œI mean everyone still talks about how I was Christian’s whipping person for the longest time and probably still am.  But I have to say that it definitely built my character for sure.  I mean how many people can be professional enough to do what I did?”

“What did you do Sam?” asks Rocky, her voice raised in speculation.  

“Well I did what I was told but no matter how menial, I was still there and still a big part of the show.  And when I was given opportunity, I took it and ran with it and once more I am in competition.  And when the opportunity came to win the Roulette title, I took that as well and look at me now,” offers Sam.

“Speaking of the Roulette title match, have you talked to Chelsea Payne and apologized for injuring her…maybe permanently?” demands Rocky.

“Have you been talking to Kris?” asks Sam in disbelief.  â€œHe’s the only one that seems to want to start something from that and now you are asking.  Well let me set the record straight.  I haven’t had the chance to talk one on one with Chelsea but I will go on the record now and say that I am sorry that she got injured but I also know that if it had been reversed, no one would be demanding of Chelsea if she had said sorry to me.  When we signed the contract for that match, we all knew what we were signing up for,” says Sam with a hint of regret in her voice.  â€œI am completely sorry for Chelsea getting hurt and if there were any way I could make up for it I would but right now I can’t focus on the past.  I have to move on and focus on the future and that future right now is Polly Playtime and the fact that Christian Underwood put us in a match on Climax Control.”

Rocky can be heard to be typing something in the silence that is then broken as she speaks up.  â€œSpeaking of that match, how are you feeling about the fact that Christian is protecting your title by making it a nontitle match?”

“If you are wondering Rocky if I was worried that if it was for the title, I have to tell you that I am always prepared to treat each and every match as a title defense.  Luckily it is nontitle but it is still going to be contested under Roulette Rules so if that puts it in my favor, then so be it.  I know that Polly will probably say that no matter what, she will win and good for her.  Confidence is a great thing to have when it comes to matches and she has every reason to be confident but then again, so do I,” says Sam as she lets her hands trail along the bubbly water, one hand curling into a fist trying to catch the liquid that slips through her hand.  â€œI know that since coming back from the losing streak I was on, I have nowhere to go but upwards.  And I have been training and I am only getting better with each and every match.  And with it being under Roulette rules, it means that I will get even better as Roulette champion because it means I can adapt to any match that the wheel decides.  Do you know how many people can adapt that quickly…not many.”

Rocky can be heard typing again before speaking.  â€œAnd I have to ask you Sam, you have signed Ben Jordan to be your manager in the company.  Why?”

“You want to know why I signed with Ben?” repeats Sam, laughter bubbling up in her voice.  â€œI signed with Ben for three very good reasons.”

“And they are?” demands Rocky over the phone.

Sam pulls her hands out of the water and then holds up three fingers as she speaks, lowering one finger as she begins.  â€œFirstly, Ben is someone I trust who has done well in ACW and SCW.   He has held championships and has been someone that helped me the most in SCW with my confidence.  Secondly, my crazy sister took it into her head that I needed a manager and was trying to get me to sign a contract with her and well…I know that wouldn’t have been good and once again, Ben saved me from the dragon that is my sister.”

Sam stops as Rocky’s typing also stops.  There is a pause that neither women break for the moment before Rocky speaks up.  â€œAnd number three?”

Sam chuckles as she looks down at her index finger and slowly lowers it.  â€œThirdly, when Ben lost the tag titles, he was going to manage and well between you and me, I figured that if I had him as my manager, I would be able to work on him subliminally to return to the ring for a proper singles run because I think he would be an awesome champion in SCW.”

“You get no argument from me on that score,” offers Rocky.  â€œWell I think that is everything I need Sam but do you want to take this opportunity to say anything to your opponent this week?”

“Yeah, I have something I want to say to Polly,” says Sam as she leans her arms on the edge of the hottub by her phone.  â€œPolly Playtime, you are a former internet and bombshell champion and you have beaten some of the greatest people in this company and I am sure that you are looking at this week’s match and thinking that you have nothing to worry about but I hate to be the bearer of bad news.  As much as you are probably thinking that I am no challenge to you because you are so dang good, well then you need to realize I have decided that I ain’t going to back down from a fight and I am not going to allow anyone to think that because of my record I am an easy mark in the ring.  Yeah, you have won the Bombshell championship and the Internet championship.  But there is one thing that you have to realize as well.  I have held the Bombshell championship twice as well as the Roulette title.  So in terms of being champions, both of us are able to say we have been there and done that.”

Sam lets her head fall for a moment as she chuckles to herself.  â€œThis week isn’t a championship match but I am going to treat it as one so I am going to be pushing my limits to the extreme and if that means I have to take it out on you and go for the win, that is something I am going to do.  But I do have one promise…win or lose I am leaving it all in the ring and once this match is over, I won’t think about it every again except to learn from it.  So thank you in advance.”

“You are thanking her?” demands Rocky in disbelief.  â€œThis is a woman that will probably put you down as much as she can.”

Sam takes a slow breath and exhales it before speaking.  â€œRocky, win or lose this is going to be a learning opportunity.  And I am going to have to say thank you because she considers me a challenge.  You see, she had that list of people she wanted to face and well I am on it.  And considering that I am like number four out of five, that must mean she thinks that I am a real challenge so I can’t help but thank her and Christian for this.  Besides, that is just the type of Bombshell I am,” jokes Sam.

“I guess you are,” agrees Rocky before adding, “well I have enough here thank you Sam for answering my questions.”

“Any time Rocky, it is always a pleasure talking to you,” replies Sam.  

The sound of a click then dial tone can be heard on Sam’s phone.  Reaching one damp hand towards the towel, Sam dries it and then presses the disconnect button before laying back and closing her eyes as the hottub continues to bubble, the soft sound of it lulling Sam into a relaxed state.

 It had been a great week up to the boarding on the Grand Princess Cruise ship.   Sam Marlowe had made it to her cabin on the ship and was preparing to head topside to enjoy a movie on the deck.  Dressed in a pair of blue jeans and a bikini bra, she steps out of her room and locks the stateroom door and turns only to pull up short as she is confronted by a familiar redhead in a tailored white dress and pumps who smiles as she pulls the large Jackie Kennedy sunglasses from her eyes.

“Sammiwich, imagine running into you,” says Cyn Marlowe as she takes in the look of Sam with a slight sneer.

“Cyn…what are you doing here?” demands Sam as she tries to move around her sister but is blocked as Cyn moves with her to tuck her hand through her sister’s arm and begins to walk with Sam along the hallway.

“Can’t I be here to support my sister?” answers Cyn as she smiles at a couple coming from the other direction, the husband pointing at Sam and beginning to chatter at his wife.  â€œBesides Sam, with all the changes that I am hearing you are going to need someone to support you in this crazy thing called SCW.  After all, you will be a champion you know.  And I am definitely the person that manages champions.”

Shaking her head, Sam tries to pull away but Cyn has a death lock on her arm and keeps her near her.  â€œCyn, as much as you talk about me being managed by you, it isn’t going to happen.  I thought when Daddy and I told you that you weren’t going to be my manager, you would take the hint,” states Sam as Cyn waves at the couple then ignores them to focus back on her sister.

“Did you say something?” asks Cyn before answering herself.  â€œOf course, you were probably saying that it was a great idea for me to manage you,” adds Cyn but is stopped by Sam who comes to a standstill in the middle of the hall.  Cyn stops and looks around making sure the pair aren’t being watched.  â€œWhat is the matter with you?” demands the redhead, her hands moving to her hips as she glares at Sam who crosses her arms over her chest.

“You aren’t listening to me Cyn, you are NOT my manager and you won’t ever be,” states Sam with her teeth gritted against the screaming tone of voice she wants to use.  Cyn’s eyes widen before narrowing slightly as a sneer begins to cross her lips.  Sam flips her hair back over her shoulder then straightens up.  â€œSee Cyn, I have made it this far in SCW without a manage…”

“Yeah, you have been so great, former Bombshell champion and all that,” interrupts Cyn.  â€œSpare me the oh I am so good speech Sammi, we both know that you dropped the title like it was hot and have been lukewarm ever since.  If that isn’t a cry for my help, I don’t know what is!”

A growl erupts from Sam who throws her hands up in the air and begins to stalk off.  Cyn follows behind as she lets the sneer change into a smirk.  The pair move to the lift where Sam taps quickly at the button to call the elevator in a vain hope that it will arrive and she will be able to escape her sister but her luck is not there as Cyn arrives to join Sam in the elevator.

“So,” Cyn says with a deep breath.  â€œHave you done any talking about who you are facing in this match and tell me you aren’t going to choke this title match.”

Sam doesn’t spare a look for her sister as she watches the deck numbers flash by.  â€œNo Cyn, I am not going to choke this time,” mutters Sam before adding, “unless you work on my confidence and cause me to choke.”  The last is said into the side of the elevator where Cyn can’t hear it.    â€œBut I have been preparing to face Jessie and Chelsea so I think that I have everything under control.  So why don’t you just enjoy the cruise and leave me to deal with the match.”

“Sammi, do you think that would be a good idea?  Besides, I told Mother and Daddy that I would be here to protect you on this cruise and I am going to do what I need to make sure that you come out of the match with the win.  Chelsea has beaten you before and Jessie, well, Jessie really hasn’t beaten anyone of importance so you really don’t need to worry about her,” says Cyn as the doors open to reveal the sunlight of the upper decks.  She slides her sunglasses over her eyes and moves to walk with Sam who is working her way along the deck.

“Cyn, that isn’t true, Jessie is the champion,” answers Sam in exasperation.  â€œShe beat Chelsea for the title and oh em gee, she is better than you give her credit for!”  Anger is written all over the body of Sam Marlowe as she puts her hands on her hips and glares at Cyn who reaches a lounge chair and drapes herself across it.  â€œAnd let me tell you something Cyn, as much as you seem to think that you can talk down about all the bombshells in the company, I have to remind you that I am the one that wrestles here, you are only someone that thinks that she is my manager.  And you aren’t.  And if you think that there are people that won’t prevent you from getting involved in my career, you have it all wrong.”

Cyn waves her hand at Sam’s comments as a deck boy arrives and leans towards her with a menu for drinks.  Cyn orders something then turns to look up at her sister.  â€œSuch strong words Sam, makes me almost believe that you have what it takes to win the match on Sunday,” taunts Cyn.  

“ARGGHHHH!”

With only the growl of anger, Sam once more throws up her hands and turns to walk away.  Cyn calls out to her sister who ignores the woman on the lounge chair and heads towards a distant part of the deck leaving Cyn to smirk as her drink is delivered.

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Jessie and Chelsea, my two opponents this week in an Ultimate X match over a pool for the Roulette title.  Everyone is talking about how it is Jessie’s to lose and Chelsea’s to win.  And then here I come, the spoiler…the underdog…the one bombshell I don’t think either of you wanted to see in the match.

See, I have worked my way back into competing in SCW once more.  I had Christian humble me with all the crappiest of tasks but I got past that.  I worked the concessions and I sold tshirts and I did what I needed to so I could get back in the ring.  And yeah I won some and I lost some but truth is, I get into that ring week in and week out and I do what no one else does and that is put my heart and soul into each and every match I wrestle.

Now I am sure that people are asking what it was that got me to the show and in the Roulette title match against Jessie and Chelsea.  Honestly, I have been asking myself the same thing and I have come to a realization.  It is that wheel of fortune that spins that got me back into contention…how apropos don’t you think?  The Wheel of Fortune turns constantly and some days you are on top and other you are on the bottom.  And that is just like the Bombshell roulette title stipulations get chosen from a wheel that is spun for each match.  

On Sunday Jessie, we meet once more in a title match and this time it is for the Roulette title and it is going to be one hell of a match because you are fighting to keep the title and I am fighting to take it from you.  And I won’t make the mistake of resting on past victories when it comes to this match.  You are dangerous and one hell of a champion so I am not going to take you lightly but I am going to bring everything I have to that match and will use that to send you to a watery ending where you will be looking up from the pool to see me hold up the title high.

Then of course, we aren’t the only ones in the match Jessie.  We both have to contend with Chelsea who was the former champion.  Now she has beaten me before and has never let me forget it but this time I have a really good feeling about my chances against her.  I think she has been focused on the wrong things right now and that is the Black Sheep and all the fun and games they are playing.  

Chelsea, this match isn’t a game to me.  Jessie, this isn’t just a comeback match to prove I have earned the shot.  This is my redemption match to prove not only to you and Chelsea but everyone else that I am committed to be the best in SCW.  If that means starting once more with the Roulette title then that belt is going to be mine Sunday.

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Sam is standing in the middle of her stateroom, one hand brushing her hair back as her other hand brings up an earring to clip it in her ear.  She looks into the mirror catching her reflection.  Dressed in a silvery shimmering mini dress, Sam slowly moves her hands down her body and smiles.

Suddenly, a knock sounds at the door which catches Sam’s attention making her turn towards the door.  Rolling her eyes, worried at who it might be, she pauses for a moment to run a finger along her lipline only to have another knock sound which makes Sam’s head droop as she turns to open the door.

“I told you Cyn that I…” begins Sam as she yanks the door open to reveal her friend Ben standing there dressed rather casually.

“Oy Ginge, is that what you are wearing?” Ben asks as he takes in the fancy dress making Sam look down at her dress.

“What’s wrong with what I am wearing?  I thought that tonight I might go to the chocolate and wine pairing,” begins Sam before she stops.  â€œWait a minute…I get the feeling that I am forgetting something.”

Ben gets a hurt look on his face as he playfully pouts and puts a hand over his heart.  â€œI can’t believe you forgot our anniversary Sam,” he states with a soft sigh at Sam’s wrinkled nose and look of confusion.

“Our anniversary…What anniversary?” asks Sam.  

“Our date from last year…the charity auction, you, me Legend?” he replies.  â€œOnly from the looks of it, this year you got the fancy clothes and I get to be casual.  So since it is our anniversary, I made a few plans of me own.  So come on.”

Ben motions towards the lifts while Sam hangs back a bit.  â€œDon’t got all night Ginge,” he adds as he moves into the stateroom and grabs Sam’s small purse and stateroom key.

“Do you think I should change?” wonders Sam out loud as Ben shakes his head.  â€œNah, turnabout is fair play,” teases Ben back as he reaches out and catches Sam’s hand and pulls her out of the door, closing it.  The two moves towards the lift and Ben pushes the button.  The doors of the other elevator swoosh open to reveal Cyn who is shocked as Ben and Sam climb into the first lift and wave while the doors close.

An hour or so later, the pair can be seen sitting at a table in the pub, two beer in front of each.  Sam smiles at Ben as her fingers curl around the glass.  â€œI have to tell you something, I’m glad that you and I are celebrating our date night anniversary and that you saved me from having to deal with Cyn.”

Ben raises his glass with a grin.  â€œThat’s me, Saint Ben…dragonslayer!” he teases which only gets an answering giggle from Sam who takes a drink from the glass and sets it down.  

Looking up at Ben, Sam winks as she begins to speak.  â€œYeah, now if you can only save me from Cyn wanting to be my manager, I would love ya forever,” moans Sam as she rests one elbow on the table and lays her chin on her open hand.  â€œYou won’t believe what she told me earlier in the week.  She is smothering me like a blanket for sobbing out loud.  I’ve been avoiding her like the plague all week because I don’t think I can listen to her anymore.  So I focused on training and doing what I need to for the match,” says Sam as she shoots a look at Ben.  â€œOnly way I can get her out of my career is either stop wrestling or get someone else to be my manager.”

“Why don’t we get through this weekend first then I might just have me own suggestions for slaying the dragon once and for all,” offers Ben as he finishes the beer in his glass and holds it up for a refill before turning back to Sam.  â€œSo you ready?”

“As I will ever be prat,” jokes Sam as she toasts the thought of her match.  â€œCome this time Sunday, I am going to either be wet or the Bombshell Roulette champion.  Cheers!”

The two friends clink glasses as the scene fades out.  

 A microphone is seen standing alone in a room where suddenly the sound of footsteps can be heard.  Stepping into view, Sam Marlowe approaches the microphone and smiles as she curls her fingers around it and pulls it closer.  Letting her eyes shift from right to left, she leans closer and begins to speak.

“I found out about whom I am facing this week and I realized that no one has really done what we should be doing every time a new person enters the company.  And since she is my opponent, let me begin by saying, ‘Welcome to SCW Otaki’ and give her a quick orientation that she really didn’t get in her match against Veronica Taylor,” says Sam.

Taking a moment to let that sink in, Sam slightly tugs at the SCW Bombshell tee she is wearing before once more looking up and speaking.

“See, we have a great bombshell division in Sin City Wrestling and trust me when I say that anyone can totally step into the spotlight and win titles.  Heck, when I won the Bombshell title I was totally surprised with the shot I had been given and well, I took advantage of the title shot and drove myself hard to win.  So if you have the drive to succeed, like I saw that you had when you faced Veronica, y’all are going to fit in quite well with the rest of the bombshells in SCW,” says Sam.  

“I also want to let you know though that as much as we talk a good game and as much as this is about being able to trash talk our opponents, we have to realize that actions speak volumes and in the ring that is where we make our names,” offers Sam as a hand moves to brush her hair out of her face.  â€œAnd believe you me, I am ready to step up to you in that ring and prove that I deserve once more to wrestle for gold in this company.”

Sam looks to the side, a slight fading of her smile belying the confidence she is showing.  Pulling herself together again, she turns once more to address the microphone.

“I don’t know if you know my history here in SCW,” Sam teases with a quick roll of her eyes then speaks once more.  â€œHowever, I started out like any other bombshell at the bottom and then wrestled my way into matches that others never thought I would be able to wrestle in.  Then came what I like to refer as ‘THE SHOT’ and I was to face the Bombshell champion for her title.  Now everyone saw how the champion at the time was the one that decided that I would be the one to have the shot and she probably did it because she didn’t think I could beat her and guess what…”

The eyeroll returns for a sheepish look into the camera as Sam then winks.

“I went on to win that title,” says Sam.  â€œBut eventually champions have to lose and lose I did.  Then I started to go on a losing streak.  It got to be like I couldn’t win a one person race no matter how much heart I showed in the ring.  And that caused me a bit of problems with the owners, well Christian Underwood.  And that got me suspended and…”

Sam pauses for a moment to suck her bottom lip into her teeth as she once more brushes her hand through her hair.

“I hope I am not boring you with all this history stuff but I really think you need to get the full story before you go ahead and think that maybe I am not really a challenge to you because of your win against Veronica.  See, when it comes down to it, I tend to work my way up the ladder and with every slip down a rung or two, I fight my way back to the next rung on the ladder,” offers Sam who tilts her head as if listening for a response before she continues.  â€œThen of course, Mark Ward gave me an opportunity in the Blast for the Past mixed tag team tournament and I made it all the way to the finals where my opponent had to basically push the referee into me to get the opportunity to pin me after faking being hurt.  But that is all well and good, I am glad to know that she needed to resort to that to win.”

Sam’s confidence restored, she begins to move the microphone with her as she begins to pace.  â€œThen of course, we have last week.  Facing off against Crystal Millar and beating the current Bombshell champion gave me momentum and a confidence boost that I needed.  And you would think that beating her would put me back up in the rarified air of the Bombshell championship but you see, I still haven’t proven to Christian that I deserve that and so he put me on track for the Roulette title.  But you know what…maybe that is what I need right now.  The ability to test my limits…”

“I don’t know if you really understand what it means to challenge in a match with Roulette rules.  Let me lay it out for you.  In Sin City Wrestling there is the roulette rules wheel where match types are listed on the wheel.  Rocky Mountains spins the wheel and the match that it lands on will be the way the match is contested.   I haven’t really had much experience much in Roulette matches but that doesn’t mean I ain’t game to excel in a Roulette match.  And if I win this one against you Otaki, that will mean that I am probably going to be able to at least be considered for the Bombshell roulette title,” offers Sam.  â€œAnd as much as most people have said that I don’t deserve the shot, I am content in knowing that this week I face you and if I can beat you, I’m in line for once more challenging for gold.”

Letting go of the microphone, Sam straightens and puts her hands behind her back as she addresses the microphone once more.

“I have to admit, between you and me, I don’t really care if I am wrestling for a title or not but there is something about getting in that ring and testing myself against people that just makes me excited about wrestling on Climax Control.  And if that means that I am going to get a chance to wrestle for gold because I am going to beat you this week on Climax Control,” says Sam before she lets her grin widen.  â€œYou better believe that I am out to pin you to the mat for the one two three.  So Otaki, welcome to Sin City Wrestling…I am your welcome wagon presenter and the woman that is going to hand you your first loss in SCW.”

Sam pulls away from the microphone and then walks out of the room leaving the view of the solitary microphone as the only thing seen.

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Music can be heard in the small theater on a rather warm day.  Dressed in a pair of cutoff overalls and a soft lavender half tee, a redhead can be seen pouring a stream of goldish colored liquid into a small bucket.  Looking up, Sam Marlowe takes in the trim she is preparing to paint with the gold.  Nearby, a woman in blue jean shorts and a tied off Sam tee can be seen rolling on a coat of light eggshell paint on a wall nearby.  

As Sam prepares to walk by, she smiles and nods at her friend who stops for a moment to look at the redhead.  â€œLooking good Bobbi, although your husband’s getting ahead of you,” teases Sam while pointing to Bobbi’s hubby who has finished his wall and is working his way towards Bobbi with his roller.  

“Yeah yeah,” Bobbi retorts before she is met by her husband who stops only long enough to offer her a peck on the cheek before smacking her ass and mumbling something about going to help Sam and let the big boys do the hard work.  Rolling her eyes, Bobbi puts her roller down and joins Sam who has made her way to the balcony and the scroll work she wants to paint.  Picking up a second brush, Bobbi dips it into the paint and begins to swish it across the wood.

“So Sam, you ready for this weekend?  Hubby there has been talking about nothing but the fact that they got you in a match that has roulette rules.  And from the way he is talking, he’s got his heart set on a bikini pillowfight for some reason,” says Bobbi, her voice lowering with the last of her comment like it is some secret she is sharing that she shouldn’t be.

Sam laughs at the comment and then nods her head as she begins to slather paint on the scrollwork.  â€œYeah I am as ready as I will ever be when it comes to that match on Climax Control.  I mean I saw how Otaki was able to beat Veronica and well, my dubya’s seem to be coming few and far between,” answers Sam.  â€œDon’t get me wrong, I put heart and soul into it and I just tend to come up that short…”

Bobbi scoffs which only gets Sam’s attention.  â€œReally Sammi, you know why you have been doing as bad as you have been.  You ain’t focused on the prize.  Now that you are on break from school and Monte ain’t around, maybe what you need to do is get back to the Sam that first started in the company.  No nonsense and full focus on the match,” taunts Bobbi as she paints another scroll with the gold paint.

“It isn’t as easy as that Bobbi,” replies Sam.  â€œI mean like sure, I was splitting my focus but you have to admit some of the people I have been facing have been really tough opponents.”

“They are only tough because you let them be.  Now you have a chance to get into the groove and Matt said that you could be champion just like that.  He is telling me that if you get through this week against that Otaka person, you might just get a title shot at Jessie Salco’s Roulette title.  And if that is the case, this roulette rules match will get you tuned up for sure,” offers Bobbi.

“Her name is Otaki and I am sure that she is not going to make it easy for me,” says Sam as she gets a thoughtful look on her face.  â€œBut you are right that if I make it through this challenge and beat her, I stand a really good chance at getting that shot.  So what I need to do is be the better person on Sunday in Long Beach.”  

“Then when you win on Sunday, you can look forward to a title shot on that cruise of yours,” adds Bobbi as she finishes up a scrollwork shield with the gold paint then turns to Sam and lightly taps the paintbrush on the end of Sam’s nose.  â€œLook, you can definitely say you look good in gold now!”

Sam’s eyes cross as she takes in the swath of gold across.  Bobbi can’t help but laugh at the comical look on Sam’s face.  Uncrossing her eyes, Sam leans forward and threatens Bobbi with her brush full of gold paint.  The friends begin a paint fight, tagging each other with splotches of gold paint.  Matt comes into the room and spies the two giggling friends and just shakes his head which causes the pair to stop for a moment before once more guiltily giggling as Bobbi’s husband leaves the pair of them to calm down.

Once the giggling is over, Bobbi turns to Sam and tilts her head questioningly.  â€œSoooo…you ready for the weekend and winning your way into the Roulette title??”

“Dang straight I am!” replies Sam as she moves to drape her arm over Bobbi’s shoulder.  The pair walk out of the room because you know…watching paint dry is rather boring…

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The sound of click click click breaks through the sounds of technicians setting up the ring and the sound cables for the show in Long Beach.  Standing in front of the SCW Roulette wheel is Sam Marlowe, her hand slowly clicking the wheel back and forth as she reads the match types listed on it.  From the side, she notices a cameraman checking his equipment by filming her standing there.  She turns more fully to the cameraman and motions him over.

“Listen, if you want to film something for me, I would really appreciate it.  I think I better talk about my match this week and well, being here in front of this wheel has given me a couple of ideas,” says Sam with a half-smile as the cameraman looks back at the equipment then Sam with a nod and moves back to pick up his camera and turns it towards Sam who has given the wheel a slight spin before beginning to speak.

“This week, in the six sided SCW ring, I have a chance to have this wheel spin and choose a match stipulation for when I face Otaki and I have been here and watching this wheel as it spins and realizing that there is no real way to prepare for a match that you don’t know you are wrestling in,” says Sam as she watches the spinning wheel slow down and land on a match stipulation that she reads outloud.  â€œTake for instance this stipulation…kendo on a pole match.  How can you prepare for trying to be the first one to take down that weapon and use it?  How can you prepare for it knowing that you will be feeling the pain it could cause because your opponent got to the kendo stick first.”

Sam reaches for the wheel again and spins it softly so only a few clicks are heard before it stops on another match type.  â€œPreparing for a roulette rules match is like trying to catch the wind…it isn’t possible.  Sure, some people might say that they are ready but who truly is ready for matches like this?”

Shrugging her shoulders, Sam traces a finger along the edge of the wheel, about to spin again but holds on not moving it as she faces the camera.

“Noone is ever ready for matches like this but this week I am prepared to step into that ring out there,” says Sam as she points in the direction of the ring while she speaks.  â€œAnd I am prepared to do what it takes to get the win in whatever match is chosen by this here wheel.  Granted there might be some hellacious matches on here but as a SCW bombshell, that is what you need to be ready for.  We ain’t just fluff in that ring.  We are just as capable and just as dangerous in the hardcore matches as we are in the ‘girly’ matches most men would like to see us in.”

A confident and determined look crosses the face of Sam as she leans into the cameraman to emphasize her next comment.  â€œI want to warn you Otaki, Sunday night isn’t going to be all nice girl Sam Marlowe as much as some people think.  See, I have the chance to finally get what I have wanted for the longest time and that is the chance to prove to Christian Underwood and Mark Ward that I belong in the title picture.  And if I have to beat you to do it, so be it.”

Sam stops, the determined look slowly being replaced with a smile and a friendly look from the redhead who begins to speak once more.

“Now that I got that off my chest, Otaki, I want to say good luck to you.  This wheel is going to be deciding how we will be fighting this match but there is one thing that the wheel isn’t going to be able to do and that is give you the win, not with how much I want to have my hand raised at the end of the match and Justin Decent say ‘the winner of the match…SAM Marlowe!’ and to hear my music blare out over the arena,” says Sam.  â€œSee ya Sunday!”

With the cheery farewell, Sam motions for the cameraman to stop filming.  Moving beside him, she smiles as she puts her elbow on his shoulder.  â€œThink we could check out the playback on that?  Make sure I haven’t darkened my good girl image or anything like that?” teases Sam as the cameraman pulls the camera away and begins to fiddle with the buttons with the scene fading out on him and Sam watching the playback.

 A bare room can be seen with nothing but a small bar stool and an old fashioned microphone stand.  The walls of the room look barren with the outlines of past picture frames making bright contrast to the faded wall paper.  High dirty windows allow bits of sunlight into the room where dust motes can be seen sparkling on the beams of light.

Into the bare room, the click of a pair of high heels can be heard to echo hollowly of those same walls.  The cadence of the footsteps sounds unsure as if the owner is unsure of whether or not they are in the right place.  Coming further into the room, SCW Interviewer Pussy Willow can be seen taking in the décor, a look of confusion and uncertainty on her face.  She turns to the man behind her who is holding a camera and sharing her same look of uncertainty.  

“Are you sure we are in the right place?” wonders Pussy as she takes in the room once more then reaches into the handbag over her left wrist and pulls out a cell phone.  She thumbs the screen and begins to tap on it as the cameraman shoulders the camera and begins to film the room.  He slowly pans around it while Pussy can be heard to type into the phone.  She looks up finally with a smile of triumph as she moves towards the cameraman and waggles the smartphone in the lens of the camera.  The cameraman is forced a few steps backwards to bring the phone back into focus before it moves to Pussy’s face.

“We are in the right place,” she crows before scanning a look around the room.  â€œBut where is…”

The sound of boot heels are heard from behind Pussy as the camera moves to film over her shoulder.  Walking into view, Sam Marlowe has a smile on her face as she moves towards the pair.  Sam is dressed casually in a pair of dark denim with a black and white shirt that has a sequined butterfly on it that winks into the camera’s lens with each movement of the redhead.  Her normally naturally wavy hair hangs in a shimmery ruby curtain that is held back with a wide white band.

“I am so glad you made it Pussy, I figured you might not find the place too easily,” offers Sam as she lowers the bag she had carried in to the floor and straightens to give the cameraman a smile and a wave.

“Wild horses wouldn’t keep me away when I heard you wanted to talk,” answers Pussy with a smirk.  â€œGiven the fact that you have a big return match to Climax Control against the new Roulette champion Chelsea Payne I knew you had something to say.  So, if we are doing this interview, where am I supposed to sit?”

Sam shakes her head slowly as she motions towards the stool.  â€œY’all can sit right down there Pussy but this ain’t an interview.  I am planning to talk but I needed someone here for moral support and right now, the only thing I need you to do is nod and smile,” says Sam, her nose crinkling slightly with guilt at tricking her friend to this place.  

Pussy looks at the cameraman then back to her redheaded friend, her brows pulling together in surprise at what Sam just said.  â€œYou want me here for moral support?  You don’t want to do an interview?” questions Pussy.  â€œI mean all right but before we do whatever…” she waves her fingers around the bare room as she speaks.  â€œWhat is this place?  You got me all curious.”

Sam looks around the bare room and then back at her friend.  â€œIt’s going to be an investment.  Daddy says that you need to work at something and this is going to be my investment.  Jamie has his Oasis…this is going to be my Escape.”

The cameraman continues to film the pair as they talk.  Pussy crosses her arms over her chest as she regards Sam who has surprised her once again.  â€œEscape?” echos Pussy.  â€œWhat do you mean Escape?”

Sam moves closer to Pussy and puts a friendly arm over the shoulders of Pussy as she begins to guide her towards the stool and then picks it up to lead her towards one of the walls.  â€œThis is going to be a place for people to come and escape for a while.  I have it all planned to open this great dramatic arts studio for everyone.  This room is going to be my recording studio, radio room.  I want people to have a place where they can go to get away from all the bad out there.  Not just kids but parents, seniors…anyone that needs to get away,” says Sam as she sets down the stool and motions Pussy to sit.

As Sam walks back towards the microphone stand, she turns to spy Pussy gazing at her, one finger resting against her lips as she considers the redhead.  â€œI knew you were a goodie two shoes but doesn’t this go above and beyond?  Next people will be saying that you are trying for sainthood or something.  Is this your friend Ben rubbing off on you?”

Sam’s head drops onto her chest as she chuckles slightly.  â€œJust because I want to help the community doesn’t mean that sainthood can’t happen,” jokes Sam as she shakes her head.  â€œReally though, I love helping people and this is an investment for me in a possible future.  I have always been into Shakespeare and acting and drama so when I saw this building, I knew that I had the nudge I needed to branch out.  So I talked to Daddy and we made a bid on this place and I got it.  Now I just have to work at getting it ready.”

Pussy looks around the room as Sam positions herself behind the microphone and the cameraman continues to film Marlowe.  â€œSo then why am I here?  You really don’t need moral support, if you had wanted the cameraman, I would have gladly sent him on his way here and I would be relaxing right now,” comments Pussy.  

Sam flushes guiltily as she puts one hand on the microphone resting in the stand.  â€œActually Pussy, I do need you for moral support because I am about to do something that I haven’t really done before,” says Sam as her fingers curl more around the microphone.  â€œToday isn’t going to be all about sunshine and golly gee, good luck promotion of my match,” adds Sam as she swallows and takes a deep breath.  â€œI am going unplugged and I need someone to be there if I go off the rails.”

Pussy can see how nervous Sam is as the redheads fingers lightly claw at the microphone then release it before curling around it again.  â€œAre you going to be all right Sam?  You know you could stick with what you know and keep it light like you always do,” offers Pussy only to watch as Sam shakes her head.

“I wish I could Pussy, really I do but I have things that need to be said and it is better I do it this way,” begins Sam as she looks to the cameraman who gives her a thumbs up as he continues to film her.  Sam offers her friend one final smile before taking a slow breath and beginning to speak…

  ~Sam Marlowe…Unplugged ~

Hey y’all, it is me, SCW bombshell, Samantha Marlowe and I decided that I wanted to talk straight to the folks in SCW and all our fans.  This might not be my usual “promo” but I can’t help it.  I am getting to the point where usual ain’t so usual after all.

Now firstly I want to say that I love SCW.  I love it like I love my grandma’s homemade cookies.  And there isn’t anything I won’t do for this company.  Heck I even proved it when Christian Underwood basically made me a jill of all trades.  And I will always give my all for Sin City Wrestling.  

But lately, there has been some rather, how shall we put it…troubling things that have been happening in SCW and I don’t think I can stay silent any longer and I really need to get this off my chest.  Mainly it concerns the fact that wrestlers and bombshells need to moan and whine on social media about wanting this and wanting that, basically trying to get themselves into title pictures.  Now if you ask me I would say that maybe what they should be doing is proving they deserve it rather than demanding shots.  Guess that will be making me look like a fool because I ain’t going to do that.  I don’t have the time nor the inclination to even lower myself to something like that.  

Oh and don’t get me started on the bragging and hypocrisy that is also on social media.  I am about this close to shutting down my twitter because my phone keeps exploding with the nonsense that is happening day in day out.  Hell, if I wanted to live my life as a soap opera I couldn’t have done it better.  
Speaking of living a soap opera, don’t get me started on the romance and other BS happening either.  

But that isn’t what I am here to talk about right now, no, I am here to discuss my match.  Facing Chelsea Payne and having to deal with the put downs that I am sure she has been making when it comes to facing me and having to deal with a ‘loser’.  I get it Chelsea, put me in my place like everyone else does.  That isn’t original at all.  Hell, I could be a crowd of one and still be invisible to people which is basically how I have flown under the radar of everyone’s contempt for me as a competitor which suits me fine because all that it does is show me where I stand with people and how much I am worth to those people who can’t be bothered.

With that statement, you can better believe that there are people saying that if that is the case, why don’t you just leave, quit or disappear and trust me, I have heard it all but I will tell you why I don’t.  It is for the fans that I go to the ring and step inside the six sided ring and wrestle to the best of my ability.  Do I care if I win or lose?  Sure, winning is nice and all but I would rather wrestle a match that I can be proud of for those fans than only put out the effort because I had to when all I would rather be doing is being the center of attention for all the wrong reasons.  

So this week Chelsea when you come to the ring, I want you to remember one thing.  I am not there to win or lose this week on Climax Control. I am there to give my all for the fans.  And if that means that I have to beat your rear all over the venue in West Wendover then that is precisely what I am going to do.  You might be the Bombshell Roulette champion and you might think highly of yourself and how much you are going to beat me but Chelsea…

There is nothing you are going to be able to do when facing me in that ring because I am that competitor that people don’t want to face.  I am that competitor that has nothing to lose.  How are you going to counter that hmm?  As much as you put me down, it will be like water off a duck’s back because I don’t care what you say or do, I am all fired up and looking for a fight.

Pussy begins to applaud as Sam’s eyes regain their focus on the pair of people in the room with her.  A smile begins to break over Sam’s face as Pussy rushes over and claps her on the shoulder.

“You laid it all on the line girl, you sure you want people to see that?” demands Pussy in a no nonsense voice.  â€œYou let a lot out in your comments.”

Sam looks rueful as she runs a hand through her hair.  â€œSometimes I think I haven’t said enough at times.  But maybe that is going to change,” replies Sam as she shrugs.  â€œWhatever happens, I ain’t going to care anymore.  I am wrestling for the fans and that is it.  If that means I have to be invisible so be it.”

With that said, Sam turns and heads out of the room leaving Pussy and the cameraman to watch her leave.