It was less than a week ago when all hell broke loose following the Main Event to Climax Control, and much of the controversy surrounded none other than the World Heavyweight Champion, Alex Jones. Alex had issued an ominous threat against his number one contender, Carter McKinney - promising that Carter’s loved ones would bear the burden of his “sins” against the champion. And Alex is nothing if not a man of his word.

Carter’s brother-in-law, Lyle Kasey Junior, fell in defeat to the veteran wrestler - and it was Carter that saved him from a post-match beat down. It was also Carter that suffered for his efforts, thanks in part to the timely interference of Aaron Asphyxia and a curb stomp right into the very same chair he had used against Alex mere seconds ago. Which was where we picked up mere minutes later, following the arrival of Carter’s husband and LJ’s half-brother Miles…

“Careful, luv.” Miles said as the curtains to the famed “gorilla position” were thrown open wide and he and a now alert LJ, helped Carter through - his arms draped over the shoulders of both Kasey brothers. They took one step at a time, carefully, as they led Carter down the small flight until Carter's feet met solid ground once again.

“Miles…” Carter said, his bell clearly been rung, but still as stubborn and as feisty as ever. “I’m fi-”

“You’re NOT fine.” But it was LJ who had spoken up in place of his own brother. He and Carter had issues between the two of them at one point but that was ancient history. Carter was his family now, and Carter had proven that by coming to his aid when he needed it. The least LJ could do was the very same. “I was RIGHT there and felt that fecking stomp! If I wasn’t so damn out of it…”

“Stop, the both of you.” Miles all but commanded as they set foot on the floor and were converged upon by some of their close friends such as a concerned Alexandra Calaway, not to mention Bella Madison and her own husband, Malachi. But it was the sudden presence of Christian Underwood, flanked by two of the backstage paramedics that were hired primarily for just such occasions.

“Follow me.” Was the simple but direct command of the SCW’s boss man as he did an about face and headed back up the aisle with Miles and LJ helping Carter along the path…

***

“Do you feel nauseated?” One paramedic asked Carter, as the young grappler sat on the bench in the room set aside for first aid. LJ had taken his leave momentarily alongside Alexandra, but Miles remained, hovering as close as allowed while the two paramedics did their work. Christian had taken his leave with the specific request that he and Mark Ward be updated as soon as possible on Carter’s condition.

The second paramedic made note of this on the tablet in his hand, while her peer shone a small light in Carter’s eyes, murmuring solidly, “So you just have the headache?” To which Carter nodded in the affirmative.

“I just had my head stomped into a steel chair.” Carter retorted with a trace of sarcasm in his tone. “I’d be surprised if I didn’t.”

“Babe…” Miles all but warned Carter, knowing his husband’s saucy nature and even more acidic tongue. But these professionals were only doing their jobs and Carter’s personality quirks could hinder that.

The older man that was kneeling in front of Carter for the examination glanced back at Miles over his shoulder and smiled appreciatively. He turned back to the ‘patient’ and addressed him, “No dizziness? No sensitivity to the light in this room?” Both of which Carter shook his head no to in answer. The paramedic then said, “Okay, up.”

Carter did as instructed, and the paramedic stepped back and said, “Walk across the room and back.” As in testing him for any signs of imbalance or sudden waves of dizziness that might arise. Carter did as told, walking across the room and passing Miles who watched his progress intently. Carter arrived at the far wall, then turned back but it was as he passed Miles again that Miles jumped, almost making a squeaking noise.

“Oop!” Miles quipped. “I think he’s good.”

“Why do you say that?” The female paramedic asked, shaking her head as Carter returned to sitting on the bench at their direction.

Miles answered, “He grabbed me arse.”

All heads turned to Carter who just wore that smoldering grin on his face. The male paramedic exhaled gently, shaking his head. He took his place beside his coworker and said for both Carter and Miles to hear, “I don’t think he has a concussion since he just has the headache, so I don’t think a trip to the hospital is necessary.”

“Thank fuck…” Carter whispered, but the paramedic continued, “Just take some over the counter aspirin for the headache for the time being. But I would suggest not leaving for Copenhagen tomorrow as scheduled. I would wait an extra day, just to be on the safe side.”

“Is that really necessary?” Carter asked, but before either paramedic could say anything, it was Miles who answered with a firm, “Yes it is!” prompting Carter to turn his head aside with an almost comical expression that silently said “Sorry I spoke!” Miles then looked to the two as he opened the door and he gave a genuine smile of appreciation for the care shown to his husband, “Thank you. Both of you.”

They both smiled and nodded as Carter slowly stood up, still feeling it, and Miles was quick to lend him a helping hand and he escorted him through the door as it shut behind them. Miles started to walk down the hall, heading in the direction of the locker rooms with his arm snugly wrapped around the waist of his husband.

Miles said, “I’ll drop you off for a moment to get your things and let LJ and Ally know we’ll meet them for a late dinner. I have to go talk to Christian.”

“About what?” Carter asked, his brow knitting into a frown as if he had some slight inkling on the direction Miles’s mind was headed. And he was right.

“Protective hubby mode has been activated.” Miles stated matter-of-factly, a statement that sounded silly but was anything but intended. “So I’m going to have a little chat with Christian and…”

But whatever else Miles was going to say was interrupted by a forceful, “no.” emanating from Carter himself who stopped, forcing Miles to come to a halt as well. Carter turned to face Miles directly and shook his head, a most uncharacteristic expression of stern authority on his own face. “Just… no.”

“No, what?” Miles questioned, to which Carter answered, “No going to Christian and wanting a match against Alex.”

“After what that fuck did to you!?” Miles asked, clearly caught off guard by this stark refusal on Carter’s behalf. “Why shouldn’t I go out there and kick his…?”

“Because I am asking you not to!” Carter’s voice rose before he could check himself. The two men stared into one another’s eyes, as if searching for something. A lingering silence was kept between them until Carter broke it with no small sense of discomfort. He asked, “Do you believe I can beat Alex?”

Miles frowned, as if he couldn’t believe Carter was questioning his faith in him. “Luv, you know I do!”

“Then you need to step aside and let me handle this.” Carter stated, his words strong. His tone was even stronger. “Because even if I do win the title from Alex, how seriously will anyone take me with you handling all my fights for me? Or softening up Alex for me two weeks before our match?”

Miles stared hard at him, but his facial expressions softened as he took in his words and the meaning behind them. If Miles went to Underwood now and demanded a match against Alex, it would be little to no better than what happened when Vincent Lyons interfered in the Elimination Chamber, costing Jayden Harris and leaving Carter questioning to this very day if he truly deserved that victory and the title opportunity against Alex Jones in Paris.

“You know I don’t like this?” Miles asked with more of a statement than a question. Carter just smiled and he answered back, “And you know how much I love it when protective hubby mode is activated but there are just sometimes when I have to do this on my own. Like now. Vincent already took away the credibility for my win in the Chamber. Please don’t do the same with Alex.”

Miles drew in a deep breath and gently exhaled through his nose, his eyes never leaving those beautiful blue orbs that he often found himself lost in. He felt the familiar warmth of love swell in his chest. Though he had his own thoughts, his own wishes melted in the light of Carter’s persistence. With a small smile he wrapped both arms around him and drew Carter into one of those famously talented hugs.

“If it matters to you, then it matters to me,” Miles said, his voice low and yielding, not out of defeat, but out of devotion.


Standing in an empty wrestling arena, the silence feels almost surreal, a stark contrast to the roar that usually fills the space. Rows of vacant seats stretch into the shadows, their stillness echoing with memories of cheers, chants, and the clash of bodies in the ring. The faint scent of sweat and adrenaline lingers in the air, mixing with the sterile smell of disinfectant. Overhead, spotlights cast long, sharp beams onto the vacant ring, now just a silent stage awaiting its next battle. The emptiness carries a strange weight, as if the ghosts of past matches still linger, watching, waiting for the bell to ring again. And it was inside of that ring where the “Pride of SCW” - Helluva Bottom Carter, stood.

The camera panned a surrounding shot, showcasing each side of both this young grappler as well as the arena where in two days, the latest stop on the Viking Era tour would take place. More to the point, it would be where Carter would put the proverbial foot down on an issue that had arisen in recent weeks.

“Let me put this as gently as I can, and this goes out to the so-called ‘loose cannon’ of the Lyons Den. My opponent in just a matter of days. Vincent Lyons … Junior. Vincent, I won’t pretend any sort of good will between your family and myself - save for perhaps Eddie and that’s only because in a family of black sheep, Eddie is solid gold. But with his present company excluded, please allow me to say that the Lyons family is about as stable as a game of Jenga during an earthquake!”

“And yes, this all started when the Queen Bee herself, Little Ms Victoria, decided to play sex therapist between Miles and myself and show us that pain is supposedly pleasure or something to that degree. Really, who the hell knows what goes through that woman’s head? I mean I could say she’s the more shallow basket case between the two of you when the truth is just that much more simple; Victoria Lyons is like a family heirloom that nobody wants to inherit. Cluttered, outdated, and just a constant reminder of how bad taste can run in the same bloodline. I never really had any issues with the woman, up until she decided to play off some perverse pleasure of watching Miles and myself beat one another bloody. I mean, she and I even bonded somewhat over our mutual affection for Patti Lupone.”

Carter snapped his finger as if to proclaim, “Yes Queen!”

“But after your actions in the Chamber, and her being almost as dismissive as you were in what you cost me? The gloves are off and the filter is non-existent. But this isn’t about her, not really. This is about you and why I went to the brass and asked for this match specifically. This is why I wanted to stand inside of the ring against a man so many are calling one of the more physically and psychologically dangerous Superstars in all of Sin City Wrestling. And that is to deliver one very simple message…”

“Stay out of my business!”

Carter raised his brow, his eyes glaring right into the camera.

“I blame you, Vincent. For everything! SCW was making history and seven men went into that Elimination Chamber and we put on the grandest show, one that I am certain will have its place as a Match of the Year candidate. We didn’t leave a single fan in their seat that night, but you just couldn’t handle that, could you? You just had to be a part of things, even if literally nobody wanted you out there! I had Jayden! I knew it then, just as I know it now! But you took that away from me. For whatever reason you have it out for the Brat, you took away all credibility of that one career defining win! Now, for the remainder of my career, I am going to be left wondering those two most painful words – ‘what if?’! And that’s why I wanted this match! That is why I called you out!”

“You  and that Queen cousin of yours, you both told me to just accept the win and move on.”

Carter shook his head.

“Sorry Junior, but I don’t work that way. Do you honestly think for a second I haven’t come across men like you before? The kind of man who walks into a room and makes the air feel charged, like a storm about to break? Unpredictable and explosive, a man that plays by no one’s rules. Not because he wants to be thought of as a rebel, but because rules simply didn’t exist in your world! A man who’s temper flares without warning, your maniacal laughter too loud, and who’s silence is often more dangerous than your words.”

“I’ve known men like you my whole life, Vincent. People around you watch with a mix of awe and fear, never sure if you’re about to start a fight or crack a joke. A loose cannon, volatile and magnetic, the kind of man you can’t trust but also you can’t ignore.”

“But here’s the thing; do you know what happens when you turn your back on so-called ‘loose cannons’ and ignore their reputations? They disappear. All of your words - which I’m certain Victoria thinks of as sharp and commanding - are going to fall flat on deaf ears. And you are going to fall flat beneath the uncomfortable weight of your own failure. You and Victoria think of you as some powerful figure to be in awe of, but in truth the world sees you as you are. Small. Insignificant. Grasping at some ghost of control that you never really had in the first place outside of your own family tree, if even there!”

Carter approached the side of the ring where he leaned against the ropes, resting his forearms on the top rope and he looked down into the camera below.

“The sad, simple truth of this entire ordeal between us Vincent is that I don’t care. I don’t care about you, or whatever the hell you have going against Jayden Harris. Jayden made his thoughts about me all too evident last week and I can respond to everything he said about me with two very simple words - ‘suck it!’. But you, this is about you. Literally everyone around the world watched you get involved in the Chamber, but at the time nobody was angry at you. They just felt pity. Because interfering in that match was like seeing a raccoon try to join a ballet recital. Completely out of place and embarrassing for everyone involved. Especially your own flesh and blood.”

“She’d never admit it but I can’t imagine Victoria feeling anything but shame where you’re concerned. She’s become the most dominant Bombshell Roulette Champion in recent memory so kudos to her! And no matter where he stands, no matter what Victoria says to the contrary, Eddie is a success story and his star is just going to burn hotter and shine brighter the longer he’s in the spotlight! But you?”

“If you were any more of a failure to your family, you’d have to apply for a part-time job as a cautionary tale! I mean, people talk down on me about not being able to extend my reach and grab that brass ring, but you serve as something of an inspiration for all the wrong reasons. It’s impressive how you’ve achieved absolutely nothing with all the time in the world to be somebody other than Victoria’s toady!”

Carter gave the ring ropes a hard tug - as if testing them - but he used them as a means to stand upright. Tall and proud. The number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship. 

“I also admit that this match is going to serve another purpose, so I hope you don’t mind my use of you as something akin to a guinea pig. Men like you… Men like Alex Jones. You question me. Question whether or not I have the killer instinct to do what must be done in order to take that one, final step up the mountain. Well, after Sunday? Nobody is going to be questioning just how far I can go in order to get things done - and to make things right. The days of people questioning how far I can go in this business are going to come to an end, and I can only pray to god that Alex Jones will be watching - because while you’re first? He’s next.”

Carter then stepped through the ropes and dropped to the ringside floor, one last thing to say to the Lyons whom he knew would be watching.

“Oh, and Queen Victoria? Do let me know where to send flowers in lieu of Vincent digging his own grave.”

He puckered his lips and walked into the shadows of the arena’s darkness.

Perhaps one of the more familiar sites as of late where Carter Kasey-McKinney had been concerned as of late, but this time, things would be seen a bit differently. Because when the door that led inside of the fifth floor condo that the 2023 and 2024 Couple of the Year called home, it was not Miles who was accompanying Carter inside, but someone who had not been seen in some time – Carter’s best friend for a number of years, Ariana Angelos.

The day had been long and grueling, but not because the two besties had spent all of their time in training at the GO Gym, Carter to better prepare himself for Blaze of Glory XIV or Ariana to keep her ring skills razor sharp on the off chance she might be interested in an eventual return to the six-sided ring. No, the two had spent a rare day together at the movies and lunch, and then a shopping spree at the Fashion Show Mall that spanned the remainder of the day. When it came to shopping with Carter and his bestie, it was more of a sprint than a marathon and the two buddies were thoroughly exhausted by day’s end.

“Oh god, I missed this!” Carter exhaled with a smile, setting his shopping bags down to the cherry wood floor paneling at his feet, while an equally exhausted Ariana set her own bags on the Ottoman, turning to her closest of friends with an inquisitive smirk.

“What are you talking about?” She asked. “You go shopping at the mall all the time.”

“Not all the time!” Carter objected, walking across the foyer of the condo and he sat down on the white sectional sofa that dominated the living space. “I do the online thing too… maybe a bit too much. I’m on a first name basis with a few Amazon drivers.”

Ariana smiled as she joined Carter on the sofa and after kicking her open-toe shoes off, surly her feet up under her with an arm draped on the back of the sofa. She asked, “Where is that husband of yours anyway?”

To which Carter answered, “He’s off with LJ, somewhere on the Strip. Brotherly bonding and all that! They both invited me to tag along but I thought they needed time to themselves every now and then. Things are still new between them.”

“It’s not because of that whole mistrust issue you have with LJ?” Ariana asked, and Carter was quick to correct her, “‘Had,’ Ari. Past tense. I know things were tense at first when LJ showed up, but I can admit when I’m wrong.”

A single, perfectly coifed eyebrow rose on Ariana’s forehead, causing Carter to put on his best affronted act, a face that screamed aghast and hand on his chest. “I just don’t have that option often enough to know the feeling!” He declared, allowing her to nod with a satisfied smirk.

“That’s my boy.” She said. Ariana then glanced around and asked, “Where’s Ms. Thang?”

Carter then started to look around, noticing that his and Miles’s ‘baby girl’ didn’t come greeting them with head bonks to the shin or weave between their legs and cause a face plant to the floor like was a normal routine of the little black and white Tuxedo cat.

“I’m not sure.” He said softly before he started to cluck his tongue, a gesture that had started to act as close to a summoning or a calling for Ms. Thang as anything could.

He called aloud, “Here kitty, kitty…!” Before the mistress of the homestead finally deigned to grace them with her presence, but all was not as Carter might have believed it should be. Ariana spotted her first, only a split second before Carter himself did. The cat’s head peaked slowly, almost as if with caution, around the corner of the guest bedroom door which was slightly ajar, giving Carter pause. He could have sworn that he had closed that door after airing it out.

“Hey girl…” Carter cooed, leaning over at the waist in a gesture of invitation. “What’s wrong?” Realizing that she was not immediately heading over to them for her usual tribute of head scratches and massages. She almost seemed cautious before finally moving over into the foyer and hopping up onto the sofas where her daddy and ‘Auntie Ariana’ started cooing over her and helping her to relax.

“What’s wrong?” Ariana asked with a soft voice as she stroked the fur along her head, taking care to pay close attention to that spot between her ears. Ariana knew Carter and Miles’s girl well enough to know her massage preferences. Ariana added, “You know me!”

“Course she does!” Carter insisted. “She’s probably just still a little bitter about having to get her annual shots at Dr. Mary’s this week.”

“Aww!” Ariana pouted her bottom lip. Carter then leaned over and whispered like a co-conspirator, “Took two vet techs to hold her down and she still managed to draw blood.”

“That’s my girl!” Ariana chuckled, and finally the cat crawled up into her lap and perched there like Ariana’s lap was her throne. Ari then cast her gaze toward Carter and asked, “So how are you doing? Really.”

“Me?” Carter asked, confused. “I’m fine.”

Ariana rolled her eyes and said, “Carter. I’m your best friend. I’ve always been able to tell when you’re lying.”

“How?” Carter all but demanded, then quickly changed his tune and stated, “I most certainly do not!” causing his BFF to smother a smile, but not quickly enough. She pointed a forefinger toward her own eyes and answered, “You have this way about batting your eyelashes a little bit when you’re not being entirely honest.”

She then tilted her head to the side and asked, “Is this about your match with Miles?”

Carter sighed, seemingly avoiding her gaze as both she and Ms. Thang looked back toward him. He sighed, “Is it that obvious?” To which she pinched a thumb and forefinger close together.

He finally admitted, “I’m just nervous, Ari. This match is serious. It could be violent. And I’m in there against my own husband and I-I don’t know how to handle it.”

“Have you tried talking to Miles about it?”

“And say what?” He asked. “Confide that I’m feeling the same way that he probably is?”

“Fair.” She conceded. “But you have to talk to someone.”

Carter nodded, a downcast look on his face. “I considered Doctor Delacore but this is out of her realm of expertise. Besides, I can’t just go run to my therapist every time I have a problem.” He sighed and shook his head. “I don’t know. I’ll think of something.”

Ariana patted his shoulder before giving it a light squeeze. She said, “In the meantime, why don’t you pick out a movie for us to watch? I’ll order us a nice curry. I’m in the mood for something spicy!” She then glanced down at the feline who was now curled up on her lap and purring with contentment. “It looks like I’m not going anywhere for a while.”

“Now you’re talking!” Carter’s face lit up, all concerns over the past few minutes all but forgotten. He stood upright and crossed the immediate threshold to the shelves where he and Miles had grown quite the collection of DVDs and BluRays. True streaming was the thing now, but both he and his husband had an affinity for the classics.

“Hello?” he heard Ariana on the phone. “I’d like to place an order for delivery?”

Carter reached for the movie he had his heart set on when he paused, his face confused and his eyes roaming the collection. Noticing this, Ariana covered the phone with her hand and asked, “Carter? What’s wrong?”

“I’m not sure.” Carter said. “I just bought Kraven and thought we could watch it, but it’s not where I put it on the shelf.”

“What do you mean?” She asked, her brow knitted in a confused frown. “Where is it?”

“Well, it was on the shelf…” He answered, picking the BluRay up from the spot his eyes discovered it. “It’s just not where I put it.”

He turned around to Ariana and shook his head, “It was moved.”

---

The Elimination Chamber

Seven men will enter this history-making match in Sin City Wrestling, and only one will exit with both the honor of being the very first victor as well as being named the number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship. Whether it be Finn Whelan or Alex Jones, both would be paying very close attention as whoever walked out of the Chamber would have earned it, and thereby declared themselves publicly as a legit threat to their championship reign.

And one of those seven men - Helluva Bottom Carter - stood on the viewing deck of the Las Vegas Strip’s Eiffel Tower, his eyes surveying the night life for the famed “City of Sin” that had become his home. All of the lights of the hotels and Casinos along the famed Strip beneath the night sky, while the lights of hundreds of cars passing along the historic route, going both to and fro.

“I’m going to fill you in on a little secret Bulldog. I know, I could call you by your given name of Bill or your surname of Barnhart but to me? As both a peer and a fan of this business before I ever set foot inside of the ring? To me, you’ll always be the Bulldog. Anyway, out of all the men I've competed against from SCU to SCW, you rank right at the top as one of my favorite opponents. Not just toughest, but favorite.”

“Reason being, for all of your accolades. For every championship and Hall of Fame induction that you've earned - and believe me when I say there's been plenty from both sides - you don't take yourself as seriously as you might want for us to believe. I mean, any grizzled veteran of the ring such as yourself that can break out into song during a promo?”

Carter shows those pearly whites and salutes the camera.

“Respect! You and I have had our share of experiences inside of the ring, in both singles and tag team matches. And for someone who is as old school as you are, it amazed me just how open-minded you are as an opponent. You never once hesitated in getting up close and personal. You were, are, an equal opportunity butt kicker. In fact, the only thing I ever had against you doesn’t even really have anything to do with you, either as a person or a wrestler.”

Carter leaned in closer toward the camera with his hand cupped over his mouth to stage whisper.

“It’s your wife and manager. And this isn’t even because of how she involves herself in your promos. I mean, who cares if she does some of the talking? She’s your manager. A manager is a mouthpiece for their wrestler, so you shouldn’t be penalized for her doing her job.”

Carter briefly looked into the camera before resuming his shoot.

“No, this is because she’s both a back stabber and a hypocrite. Now I know you feel the need to defend her by proxy but let’s be honest. She’s about the most dishonest person in SCW and that includes Logan Hunter and Kevin Carter. This is the woman that helped blind Fenris and then told the world it never happened, even though everyone saw it! This is the woman who warns everyone not to interfere in your matches lest they incur her wrath – and then goes out and interferes in your matches herself. Get where I’m going with this, Bulldog? I’m hoping that you haven’t grown too comfortable with her lending you a helping hand because that’s not happening this time around. You’re going to be inside of a sealed pod and the Chamber itself, and she’s going to be on the outside with absolutely no way to help. It’s just you and six other men, Bulldog. Let’s make history!”

That said, Carter briefly leaned over for something off camera and proceeded to pick up a small, potted cactus. He gave it the once over before setting it back down.

“Funny the things you find here in Vegas, isn’t it Vinnie? I remember that match I had with you back in January of 2023 like it was yesterday. Yeah, can you believe it’s been that long? Two years since you and I set foot inside of the ring against one another! I can only hope the fact that the memory still lingering to this very day is a testament to just what that match meant to me at Inception VI. I remember I wasn’t exactly in my best frame of mind - which I’m fairly certain that you can relate to. At least from a professional standpoint. I was ready to chuck it in and settle for being a curtain jerker for the remainder of my career, were it not for two certain individuals. One was, of course, my now husband Miles. He had no intention of letting me step back into the shadows of obscurity, and neither would the other person I make mention of… You, Vinnie.”

Carter nodded.

“Yeah, you might not even be aware of what you did for me at that point in time, Vinnie, but I’m here to tell you now. I know full well that I wasn’t booked for Inception VI. Another Supercard event with yours truly holding down the fort in catering. A feeling that I thought I should get used to. And then you stepped in. You weren’t booked either. In fact, you were making something of a return as I recall and you wanted booked, and you wouldn’t take no for an answer. You are a former World and Internet Champion more than once and you weren’t going to be left out. And seemingly, you weren’t going to let me be left out either. You wanted a match, you wanted me as an opponent, and you and I practically set that ring ablaze with the performance we gave the world.”

“And I’ll be honest with you. I still feel as if I won that match by the skin of my teeth. You beat me from pillar to post and showed me the tough love inside of the ring that I desperately needed. You showed me why, despite all of your unique characteristics, you are a former World Heavyweight and Internet Champion. And that win against you was all the proof that I needed that I belong up there as well. It was that win that gave me the confidence I needed to win the Internet title from Peter Vaughn. And it’ll carry me on though this match and straight towards the World Championship. So I will thank you again Vinnie for everything that you did for me then, but you won’t be thanking me anytime soon for what’s going to happen in just over a week.”

Carter then paused, arms resting on the rail of the deck, his head lowered. After several lingering moments, he glanced up and scoffed, shaking his head.

“You know Eddie Lyons, and what I am about to say is going to be said with respect so I hope that you take it that way. Out of all the men in this match, to me, you are the truest wildcard out of everyone. I’ve been inside of the ring against Finn Whelan. I’ve watched countless others step inside of the ring against the champion and it’s my personal opinion that you took one of the most dominant champions in SCW history to the brink of defeat. I was honestly shocked that you didn’t walk away with the gold that night, but that’s more a testament to the caliber of athlete Finn is than anything negative about yourself.”

“And I am positive that not only will you get another shot at the championship and one day will become top dawg around here, but it won’t be because of the Elimination Chamber because you won’t be the man with his arm raised in the end. Because when you decided to stoop low enough to infer that Miles and I were the ‘weak links’ of this match because of our devotion to one another, you made me all the more determined to see you not walk out the winner. You think that just because Miles and I aren’t willing to bash each others heads into the Chamber and reduce each other to bloody pulp that we don’t have it in us to win the Chamber?”

Carter just shook his head, his eyes never straying far from the camera.

“I’ll tell you again what I told you then. Miles and I don’t have to turn each other into ground beef in order to compete against each other. You on the other hand? You flat out said that you’d do it for us so please, allow me to hit you with the one insult that is going to have you so damn pissed that it’ll make you want to use my head and the Chamber like a cheese grater! You are more like your cousin than you pretend to NOT be! And I welcome you to try anything and everything that you think yourself capable of doing at my expense – and we’ll just see for ourselves if you’re truly ‘Unbreakable’.”

Carter stood upright and his face took on a more serious expression, one more annoyance than determination.

“And I will go on record and reiterate that Jayden Harris and J2H do not belong anywhere near this match! They don't! This whole thing between them has been dragging on since Jayden ran J2H down because, at the time, Daddy Dearest, was unable to get the job done. And that was how long ago? Let it die out already because it's getting to the point where nobody cares anymore! The only ones who do are …”

Carter motioned from side to side toward the camera.

“The two of you. And you two could have had some big match to bring this thing between you to a close at Blaze of Glory. Something epic between just the both of you that would burn its way into the memories of wrestling fans and your own peers for years to come. But no. Instead, you horn in on a history-making event that neither of you belong in. Of course I'm pretty certain what the both of you are going to say. Or at the very least, what J2H is going to say. He's going to say what he always says - I'm J2H!... And that's it. That's his reasoning. That's his justification for being handed everything that he thinks he's entitled to.”

“J2H! 2016 and 2017 Wrestler of the Year! J2H! 2016 and 2017 Man of the Year! J2H! In 20168, ranked by Tommy Knocks as the greatest Superstar in SCW history! J2H! 2019 Hall of Fame inductee! J2H! Longest championship reign in the history of Sin City ..!”

Carter briefly broke his focus, smiling and holding up a hand.

“Sorry, force of habit. That one doesn't belong to you anymore, at least it won't in a matter of days. That's when our current champion, Finn Whelan, will have broken your record. Now granted there are arguments that the competition levels between them and now differ like night and day…”

Carter scrunched up his face and shook his head

“I can't say I agree with that, but it's neither here nor there. Point is that in a matter of days you are no longer going to be the Golden Child of Sin City Wrestling. Your time of waltzing in like you own the place and think you can call all the shots? Gone. Your time of thinking you have Mark Ward and Christian Underwood wrapped around your little fine? Gone. The days of you walking in and just getting a championship match just because you feel like it? Gone. Do you honestly think that if you win - you won't - but if you do and you happen to unseat the champion? That they'll let you get away with your usual modus operandi of MAYBE winning the championship and then just throw it back in the faces of EVERYONE by just vacating it rather than defend it like a REAL champion?”

Carter closed his eyes and shook his head.

“Two times you won the World Championship and just vacated it. Two times you won the Internet title and just left it there like you were proving some kind of insipid point. I always wondered why you would do that when you worked hard to win the championship in the first place. Attitude aside, I actually respected you because you were one of the first wrestlers to prove that guys like us, guys like me - light heavyweights - belonged in this business and could succeed in it. And then the answer struck me from out of nowhere and even I have to admit it was a disheartening discovery. Maybe you preferred vacating rather than defending simply because – you couldn’t. I mean, you could but whatever reign you had in the now would pale in comparison to that first one and your ego just could not handle it. And your ego is not going to be able to handle the Elimination Chamber because there is not a man involved in that match who is not going to work overtime just to keep you from winning and once again tarnishing the prestige of the SCW World Championship!”

“But… as infuriating as your previous actions have been, at the very least you have proven time and again that J2H is money. J2H is a Main Event level star. You worked your way from the bottom to the very top, from being the laughing stock of the locker room to the envy of many. More than I can say really for Jayden Harris - the guy who shares the reason why either one of you are even involved in this match in the first place.”

“I mean, I get it. The bosses think a major feud will help sell this match - both Chamber matches actually because what they did for you two? They also did for the Bombshells’s Chamber match, gifting the spots to Candy and Necra rather than have them actually win a qualifying match to earn it.”

“But I suppose that’s just one of the benefits of being SCW’s resident nepo-baby, isn’t it Jayden? I mean, the sheer level of hypocrisy that practically radiates off of you is about as blinding as staring into an eclipse. Some time ago last year, you told the world that you were not your father, and you’re right. You’re not. While I am not the biggest fan of his for obvious reasons, at the very least, Michael Harris had a personality that wasn’t dominated by this overbearing chip on his shoulder. He at the very least had a personality that didn’t make him seem like Bart Simpson had stepped into the real world. Your father had style. He had charisma. And he had a legacy that is going to be remembered for years to come. Decades! Can you actually say the same? Because for a man that tells the world over that he’s not his father and wants to separate himself from his legacy, sure does seem to be reaping the benefits of being a second generation Superstar!”

“After all, how else can you really explain this immediate push to the stratosphere that you’ve been enjoying ever since you signed your name on the dotted line? Because you are the son of Michael Harris. It’s sure as hell not because of your own merit because you really haven’t done what you want the world to believe.”

“Okay, you made it to the Quarter-Finals of the 2024 Blast From the Past before you pussed out and stabbed your partner in the back. That alone showed your lack of maturity inside of the ring and proof you never would have made it past Whelan or whoever the champion might have been at the end of the tournament. But aside from that…?”

Carter held his arms out with an expression of wonder.

“You’ve been so consumed by J2H and his bootlicks that you haven’t really noticed that there is a whole roster that is anxious for the chance to step inside of the ring against the so-called ‘future legend’ that you claim to be. Granted, you got some pretty impressive wins for yourself against the likes of Alexander Raven and Kevin Carter in the process, but once again: you have blinders on, taking your attention completely away from everything else going on around you. There is more to SCW than J2H. More than Kevin Carter. And even as we near the Elimination Chamber, why are you even involved? Because of your obsession with J2H! The simple truth of the matter is that you did not earn your spot in the Chamber like five other men did. You fell into it. You lucked out! True, you did make J2H tap out but at the same time, HE pinned YOU and I am STILL trying to wrap my head around the way that worked.”

“Oh and side note? Don’t get cocky because you made the great J2H tap out. You weren't the first to manage that. That honor goes to Fenris.”

“Which brings me back to my original point. When Song and Seleana Zdunich both missed out on their chance to get into the Chamber, they didn’t get a second chance. Nobody else that flubbed theory shot got a second chance, so why then did you? Answer: Because you’re the son of Michael Harris.”

“I admit it. I want to like you. After the hell you’ve been put through over the past year, I want to support you. I want to root for you and have your back if you need it the next time you get jumped. But Jayden, I am going to say two words that are probably going to haunt you in the years to come. Earn. It! Daddy isn’t here to help you out this time, and once that Chamber door closes, neither is anyone else.”

Carter then leaned against one of the metallic support structures and drew in a deep breath, his face marred by concern.

“I guess you could say I saved the best for last.

Carter shook his head, his visage confused.

“I still don’t know how this is supposed to play out if Miles and I are the two that have to begin this match, or if we’re the final two. Anything could happen in this match where we end up left alone inside of the Chamber and then what? Both of us have the same hopes and dreams going into this match; to win and secure for ourselves a shot at the World Championship. And for one of us to realize our dream, we have to dash the hopes of the one person we love. And I’ll be honest - the very thought scares me.”

“How do you look at the person who brought you from the brink of disaster and showed you a love that you never thought you deserved, and tell them that your dreams will be put ahead of their own? When I sat backstage and watched Miles earn his spot in the Chamber by beating Logan Hunter, I was as proud as a husband could be. I was telling everyone who would listen - willing or otherwise - that we were looking at the winner of the first-ever Elimination Chamber. And then I was scheduled for my own qualifying match against Connor Murphy. And when I won that match, all I could think afterwards was ‘what did I just do?’”

“Admittedly this isn’t the first time that Miles and I faced each other in a match - and I’m not counting that bullshit match that Victoria Lyons tried to force us into. I’m thinking more about the time that Miles was the Roulette Champion back in `22. For some god forsaken reason the powers that be granted me a title shot at the worst time in my life, and unbeknownst to Miles or anyone else, I walked into that match with a broken finger. And through no one’s fault but my own, I think I became the first person in history to tap out to a hammerlock. Not my proudest of moments but my point remains the same. That match was our last legit competitive match - well before we started dating and long before we got married. And now here we are, together in possibly one of the potentially most violent matches conceivable and I … I don’t know what to do. I don’t know how to handle this.”

Carter then moved over to the elevator and pressed the ‘down’ button. He turned toward the camera, his eyes glistening. And for all intents and purposes, he might as well have been looking at Miles himself.

“Miles, you know that I love you. More than any poet could ever describe and do it justice. But you and I have the same dream going into this match, and as much as we want to support each other's dreams, only one of us is going to be able to make it out of there as the winner.”

The elevator door slid open and Carter stepped inside, giving the camera one last, lingering stare.

“So let’s you and I prove Eddie Lyons wrong and one of us win this thing without busting each other open?”

He gave a wistful smile before the elevator door closed.

A familiar enough site for anyone with a knowledgeable history where some of Sin City Wrestling's resident Superstars were concerned. The Towers, located a mere block away from the famed Vegas Strip, was where not only Carter and Miles called home, but of course, Fenris - his husband David Shepherd and his brother Aron as well. It was centrally located on ten acres right in the heart of Vegas and everywhere around the Towers was something for the residents to take hearty advantage of.

But in this particular condominium on the fifth floor, there were two faces most familiar with the SCW Universe on the scene...

"Mal and I really appreciate you and Miles letting us crash here for a few days." Bella Madison said amicably as she and Carter Kasey-McKinney emerged from the hallway of the luxury condo in which Carter and his husband Miles called home. Having helped Bella get her things settled in the guest room, Carter paused and gave Bella a funny look at her use of the phrase 'and Mal' to which she sighed with a smile and a slight shake of her head.

"Okay," She admitted. "I appreciate it. Mal was kind of pushing for us to stay at a hotel."

"Why?" Carter frowned. "Hotels are just an unnecessary expense. Why would someone rather stay in a hotel than with friends..." Carter trailed off, looking into Bella's teasing eyes and he looked aside and exhaled gently.

"He was afraid he would overhear Miles and I going at it." Carter reasoned, to which Bella betrayed the truth with a laugh as she admitted, "Yeah. I believe his exact words were 'I don't want to hear those two making barnyard noises all night!'" In the best impression of Malachi's husky Irish accent that she was able to muster.

"Uh huh..." Carter mused. "Well not that I'm making any promises, but how did you manage to convince him to stay over while you were in town?"

"I told him that you guys had the bedroom sound proofed." Bella answered all too casually as she had a seat on their sofa in the front room. Carter remained standing at the foot of the sofa and he folded his arms over his upper body and frowned, "And he bought that?"

"By the time he finds out the truth, it'll be too late." Bella answered, to which Carter just shook his head and turned around, stating, "We'll try to control ourselves."

"Where are they, anyway?" Bella then asked, sitting upright and having a look around. "The movie is going to start soon." A movie. In the City of Sin and playing hosts, Miles and Carter would have taken their guests to anywhere they wanted to go for a nice evening out. A dinner, nightclub - anything. But all Malachi and Bella wanted (for this particular evening) was a movie and a nice home cooked meal.

Carter just directed her attention toward the sliding patio doors where indeed Miles and Malachi could be seen standing in the cool, Las Vegas air and hovering over Miles's most cherished possession - his grill.  "I think they're still debating over the proper way to stack charcoal briquettes." Carter said, turning to give Bella an exasperated look.

To which she replied, "You know you'd avoid silly debates like that if Miles would just get a gas grill." Carter just stared at her and visibly shuddered before he said with much faux seriousness in his voice, "Oh I just dare you to suggest that to Miles!"

Bella just smiled and held her hands up in surrender but just in time as the patio door slid open, letting in a gust of cool wind to blow across the foyer. Ms. Thang, perched on her royal throne aka the coffee table, looked up from her royal nap and twitched her whiskers in annoyance before hopping down and moved about the condo to continue her leisure.

"It's about time!" Carter greeted the two men as Miles and Malachi entered the condo, Mal sliding the patio door closed behind the pair. "Who won the big debate?"

"It's my grill." Miles stated matter-of-factly, giving his husband a quick smooch. "I won." And behind Miles, Malachi mimicked his friend by making a face and mouthing the exact same words Miles had just spoken.

"Well fascinating as the Great Briquette debates are, I'm sure..." Bella all but announced, standing up from where she was sitting. "That scintillating wit could have waited. We need to get to the movies."

"Yeah," Miles stole a glance at the clock on the wall. "I checked and the next showing for Captain America isn't too far from now."

"Captain America?" Carter frowned. "I was hoping we could go see Flow."

"Oo!" Bella turned around from grabbing hers and Malachi's jackets, eyes wide with a reflection of excitement in her baby blues. "I thought Flow was out of theaters! I haven't seen it yet!"

Carter stated with a smile, "I found a theater that keeps those indie films longer than most others!" At about the same time Malachi said, "You can see that on Max any time!"

But Bella was not someone to just not accept a random gauntlet being tossed down at her feet and she helpfully pointed out, "Considering how fast those Marvel films go to streaming these days, you could say the same for Captain America."

"Besides," Carter added. "The MCU has went downhill ever since Endgame! I mean, just look at Kraven!"

"Kraven isn't a part of the MCU!" Malachi barked, but Carter debated, "Close enough!"

"And besides..." Carter then walked around the edge of the sofa, joining Bella at her side for what was fast becoming a "wives versus husbands" debate, even if one of the wives was, in fact, a man. "The only good thing they've done since is Agatha."

Malachi audibly scoffed to which Carter spun around and held out a finger, pointed directly at him, "Ohhh NO!" Malachi blinked back with widened eyes and looked to Miles who just shrugged with a smirk, stating, "Thou shalt not speak Agatha's name in vain in this house." Causing his male guest to roll his eyes quite noticeably.

"So what are we going to do?" Bella asked, passing her husband his jacket to stave off the bitter chill that Vegas was still seeing at this early time of the year. "We clearly don't agree on what movie to see?"

"Well," Miles offered. "You two..." he pointed at Bella and Carter. "Could go see Flow while Mal and I watch Captain America. They've got to be playing at the same theater."

"They are." Carter answered with a nod. "But Captain America starts thirty minutes later and is almost an hour longer. So Bella and I would be left sitting and waiting for over an hour for you two."

"And...?" Mal shrugged his shoulders, earning him a swat in the upper body from his wife. Malachi cleared his throat and looked innocently toward first his wife and then to a smiling Miles. Malachi nodded toward Miles and then to Carter, half jokingly saying, "You two could just arm wrestle for it as the hosts."

Miles smiled and Carter just looked between them and shrugged, slipping off his feathered wool/denim jacket, "Sure, I'm game!"

Carter passed his jacket over to Bella and Malachi just smiled confidently, knowing full well that his friend Miles was clearly the physically stronger of the two. Miles just went along with it, always a good sport no matter the circumstance. He too removed his jacket and flung it over the back of the sofa and followed Carter toward the bar counter that separated the kitchen from the rest of their home. Bella and Malachi watched closely as both of their hosts took their positions and placed their elbows on the bar counter.

Bella stepped up to play the role of referee as her boys locked their hands together, their fingers interwoven.

"You ready?" Bella asked each, and both Carter and Miles nodded. "Okay... go!"

And no sooner did she call out for the contest to begin, than did Carter reach up and with a deft flick of his hand, pop open the upper half of his button up shirt, flashing Miles his developed left pectoral. Miles stared and Carter swiftly put his arm down for the win. Miles remained slack jawed and his lustful gaze followed his husband as he walked back around to the foyer, buttoning his shirt back up as a very pleased Bella announced to a startled Malachi, "Flow it is!"

Malachi watched as Carter and his wife headed for the front door and he called out, "Two out of three!"

"Not a chance!" Bella shouted back.

Malachi just turned and huffed at Miles who continued to stare, "Nice going lust bucket!"

---

A video feed proceeded to showcase the violent intricacies of the upcoming Elimination Chamber. The images of the monolith of steel, eighteen feet in height and thirty-six feet in diameter. At a staggering fourteen short tons, it is an imposing structure where in mere weeks, the Superstars and Bombshells of Sin City Wrestling would be putting it all on the line for this one shot at potential glory.

The camera then drew back, the shot widening and it is revealed that the viewer of this footage is none other than former Internet Champion, Helluva Bottom Carter. His dazzling eyes are foreboding and stern in a most uncharacteristic way, never leaving the flickering images on the screen until the footage finally draws to a close. Only then did Carter nod and slowly turn around, his back against the wall both literally as well as figuratively.

He clapped the palms of both hands together.

"Okay! So, now we come to our favorite part of the day. That part where all of you fine people tune in to hear whatever it is that I have to say about my opponent. Now I know some of you out there are going to support the other guy, while others have my back and will be cheering me on. And bless you for that - but first, before we get that far, there's another fork in the road that I want to take a little detour down. Same destination, different path if you will."

"When Mark Ward and Christian Underwood first announced the Elimination Chamber matches at Inception VII, I think you could hear the collective roofs over both locker rooms - men and women's - blow clear off the building. Not in anger mind you but in excitement because after twelve plus years, there was very little that we haven't done in Sin City Wrestling. Since 2011 when SCW first manifested and I myself was just eleven years old, the fans who watched from around the world saw everything from Hell In A Cell matches to the classic All In Bombshell Championship match! Exploding Barbed Wire Death matches to that bad ass Candy versus Sin Cinematic match! I mean, the sheer level of imagination from the bookers and match makers has been nothing short of phenomenal! And now, we are getting the Elimination Chamber! Both the Superstars and the Bombshells! But..."

Carter held up a forefinger and frowned.

"And trust me when I tell you that there is always a but... there seems to be a key difference in these matches between the men and the women and it seems to have caused a certain level of confusion. For the Bombshells, the Elimination Chamber is for the World Bombshell Championship. For us guys? It's for the Number One Contender spot for the World Heavyweight title."

Carter bit at his bottom lip and casually glanced in mock confusion from left to right. he held out his arms and shrugged his slim shoulders.

"Can you spot the difference? Do you see where I might be a bit confused? -Whereas the new World Champion Andrea Hernandez and Kayla Richards - who have unfinished business obvs, get automatic spots in their respective Chamber match, the unfinished business between the Heavyweight Champion Finn Whelan and Alex Jones is going to be settled seemingly in a one-on-one rematch. Just the two of them. My question is ... why? Is the fact that Finn - as of now - is only thirty days away from breaking J2H's record as the longest reigning champion in SCW history? So he likely is starting to have J2H-level stroke with the powers that be? Or do the match makers just think there's more money to be made with a rematch between Finn and Alex after the way their first match broke down?"

"Well, even if that is how they feel, I can't say as whether or not I agree or disagree. Because their first match for the gold at Inception VII was, to put it mildly, on fire! But we are talking about history being made here and the participants who have earned their way into the Chamber so far? We're talking about Eddie Lyons and, of course, my husband Miles Kasey?"

Carter cast a quick glance into the camera and winked.

"Love ya, Miles!"

Before he resumed his shoot.

"And this week things are no different, with more to come! I just think this match would mean even more if it were actually for the championship rather than just to see who is next in line. But that's just me, and Lord knows I'm not the passive aggressive type. So...! Let's just move on to the heart of the matter here tonight, shall we? And delve into the next step of my career. You see, I just so happened to lose my Internet Championship to Kevin Carter at Inception and as much as I would like to go out and tell the world that he stole it from me...?"

Carter clenched his teeth with a tight fist.

"I just can't! Because he didn't steal it. He won it, he earned it. And as bad a taste as this leaves in my mouth to admit, Kevin carter was the better man. But, did anyone else notice that his first title defense of the Internet Championship was not a rematch against the former champion? No, the former champion - me - was left standing on the sidelines while he put his title on the line against the Bulldog. I guess I can see the logic behind it. Barnhart gave Kevin such a fight in that match that had he given me my rematch, I probably would have walked away a two-time champion and most likely would have forfeited my spot in the Chamber. So perhaps Kevin Carter ducking me was his way of being... charitable?"

Carter wandered over and had a seat on the edge of an upright table and pondered this and then shook his head with a silent "Nah!".

"In a small way, this is almost better, as this gives me the chance to get my career back on the track. For months now I've had people asking me things like why am I not going after the World Championship more often? Accusing me of wasting all of the momentum that I had built for myself - especially after I got that upset win over Michael Harris. I've had some armchair experts tell me I wasted everything by not trying, or not trying harder. But the simple fact is that I did try. I did, and I bided my time and made my moves when I was ready. But the champions like Finn Whelan at the time, they were more ready than I was. Plus others were vying for the gold and I wasn't going to find myself in the legendary Jessie Salco mold where I made demands and challenges for championships at every turn. I had a great run as the Internet Champion and sooner or later, I'll get that belt back home where it belongs. But for now, the World title is in my sights and to get there, I have to get to that Elimination Chamber! And that means, I have to get past Connor Murphy."

Carter placed both hands on his knees and sat up straight, his gaze wide as he leaned back and breathed deeply.

"Connor Murphy. Not to crack age old jokes but I almost didn't recognize you when you returned to us. And not to be crass or anything, but when Mark and Christian announced a former Superstar was returning, I will be the first to admit that I got my hopes up. Maybe a little too high. Because when they said someone was coming back, my immediate hopes were for names like Ben Jordan, Fenris ... maybe even Austin James Mercer. But no, when the lights died down and the music hit ... it was you, Connor. And I have to admit that at that given moment, I felt a giant swell of... oh, what's the word I'm looking for? Disappointment, I guess. And I am not saying that to anger or belittle you, but it's just that they built this idea up to be something - or someone - major and you just... aren't. Not really."

"I mean, don't get me wrong. There was still a certain level of enthusiasm when you showed back up. Especially with Despayre at the GO Gym. He kept referring to you as the Gummy Bear Savior... whatever that means. But it's Despy so it obviously means something meaningful."

"But let's be honest for a second here, Connor. Before your big return, the last time you set foot inside of the ring was against J2H back in March of 2020. Almost a full five years ago. And before that? It was September of 2016 - against Dmitri. I could go on but do you see where I'm going with this? Even back then when I was just a know-it-all teenager, I knew well enough to know what my hopes and dreams were. I knew I wanted to be right where I am now, and I didn't let anything come between me and realizing those dreams. Not even the objections of my own loving family. But as a know-it-all teen, from the outside looking in? All I could think of when I turned in and watched you was that you wasted every chance the bosses gave you. It felt like you had virtually no commitment to this business. You would come back, have a match or two to make sure your name was still heard and remembered, and then would just go and piss off until you got bored enough to make another go of it. And Connor...? That just isn't cool."

"And it's not like you didn't have all the tools it took to be a success inside of the ring! I mean, you came from out of literally nowhere to tea, with Tim Staggs and beat the Guns For Hire for the World Tag titles! And you held them for almost two months. Kudos, bitches! But, for all the potential that you hold, that's still the pinnacle of your SCW career. A title reign that you had to share with a second generation star that used his daddy's name to get his foot in the door. You deserved better, Connor. You deserved more, but the simple fact of the matter is that you just never showed the initiative nor the interest. You would just come and go as you pleased and not show any interest in actually furthering not just your career but the careers of your peers! And really, what is the point of even being in this profession if you're not willing to give it your all, and be the very best?"

"And to be the very best, means you have to beat the very best! Which, as you might have guessed, means actually making the effort in becoming the best - the World Heavyweight Champion. That is why we are here, Connor, you and I. Now I don't know how these Qualifying matches were even determined. Whether they were luck of the draw or if there's a method to the madness. Maybe at some point my lack of enthusiasm for your return got back to the bosses and they decided to have some fun at my expense and put us up against one another. "

"Well, that's fine. I don't want you getting the wrong idea and thinking that I don't like you. I don't know you well enough to say whether or not I like you. I just find your lack of commitment to this business to be infuriating. And being put into this position to earn your way into the Chamber - insulting."

"Or am I wrong? And if so, prove it to me. I've broken bones, Connor. I've been hospitalized for injuries I suffered inside (and outside) of the ring. And all to prove my commitment to this business that I love and respect - and you profess to."

Carter stood up from the table and looked hard into the camera.

"I know compared to you, I am a relative rookie Connor. But I have been more true to this business in the past five years than you have your entire career. So before you decide to prove anything to the fans or to yourself...?"

He tapped a finger into his own chest.

"Prove it to me. And then we'll talk."

“A broken nose. That's just terrific.” Carter Kasey-McKinney grumbled as he struggled to slip his shirt back on over his head, still in the examination room of the hospital he had been brought to following the attack by Kevin Carter. The young man was obviously worse for wear, his body was freshly banged up, having not healed completely from the previous week's attack.

That, coupled with his nose covered in a special brace to keep the cartilage in place so it would heal properly, he was having a good deal of difficulty with a simple task. His husband, Miles, immediately stepped up. He sat down the paperwork the doctor had given him, complete prescription for painkillers.

Miles helped pull his shirt down the rest of the way and reached for his husband's jacket, all the while Carter looked absolutely miserable and said, “First Lazarus and now that jack off! Why do they always target my nose!?”

“Don't worry about that bastard “ Miles warned in his distinctive, British accent. “I'm going to fuck him up…”

“No.” Carter quickly said, catching his husband by surprise. “You're not.”

Miles shook his head in a quizzical manner, not understanding but Carter stressed, “You know I love it when you take charge and defend me. But Kevin targeted me for a reason so I'm handling this my way “

Carter gazed closely into Miles's eyes, “I have to.”

Prompting Miles to draw Carter into one of his famous hugs, “I understand.” He said. “I don't like it, but I understand. It's just a damn shame this shit show ruined our Christmas plans.”

Carter frowned from where he was being held and slowly, and somewhat reluctantly, separated from his husband's arms and shook his head. “What are you talking about?” He asked. “We're not canceling anything.”

Miles sighed, already knowing what was about to happen because of his husband's stubborn nature.

“Love,” Miles started to say. “You heard the doctor. You can't fly with a broken nose.”

“For 24 hours.” Carter corrected him. “She said I shouldn't for 24 hours minimum.”

“She also said that you shouldn't be flying at all.” Miles added on to the already convoluted logic between them. “So, we're not going to.”

“Miles….”

“Don't ‘Miles’ me!” Miles interrupted his husband before Carter could get going. “This isn't the time to get stubborn!....” Miles thought for a moment before adding, “More so than normal! I'm serious!”

“Alright, Miles!” Carter held his hands up in surrender. “Alright! You don't have to get so worked up! I know you have my best interests at heart!”

“Of course I do.” Miles stated.

Carter shrugged, “And I've always thought of you as something of the boss of the relationship.”

“Good.” Miles nodded.

“If you say we're not flying then we're not flying.”

“Okay, okay.” Miles said. “We're not flying.”

“We are too.” Carter said matter of factly as he marched right past Miles out of the examination room, grabbing his prescription along the way.

Miles stands there for a brief moment, trying to process what was just said and he shakes his head and quickly catches up to Carter, “Pardon? Is this not the same man that did nothing but give me nothing short of all the business when I cracked my ribs in that match a year and a half ago? I seem to recall you constantly watching over me after that hellacious match against Austin.”

“Yes, I did and I will still stand by the fact that us flying to China was absolutely pointless and it only delayed your healing even more by flying. But we’re not active over the next 2 weeks..”

“And we’re going to Seattle, right? So it’s not like we can’t drive...” Miles stops for a moment, “actually more like I drive.”

“What's wrong with my driving?”

“Love, just trust me, it's like a 17 hour trip and the weather hasn't been the best. Or better yet, I can get last minute plane tickets for your mum and Grams and they can join us....”

“Miles, we can't do that!”

“Why not!?”

“Because we're not going to Seattle!” And suddenly a hush of silence fell between the two. Miles just stared at his husband as Carter looked like a deer in headlights briefly until he closed his eyes and exhaled gently.

Miles shook his head, “What do you mean we're not going to Seattle?”

“Damn it…” Carter mumbled helplessly as he fished in his pocket to draw out his phone. Miles watched as Carter went about on his phone, searching for something. Until he found what he was looking for and turned his phone around, handing it to his husband.

Miles looked it over and with a look of realization dawning on his face, he looked up. “The tickets aren't for Seattle. They're for London.”

“Yeah.” Carter sighed. “We were never going to Seattle.”

Carter watches Miles take in all the details both on his phone as well as spoken. He continues, “I know it's been years since you spent a Christmas home in the UK. I've had this arranged since September. I rented a flat. Ms. Thang is going with us. Mom and Grams are on their way there now…”

“Really?” Miles looked up with a toothy dopey smile, to which Carter shrugged almost bashfully. He responded, “Why not? Most married couples take turns on holidays with which family to spend it with. I don't see any reason why we should restrict ourselves like that. We can just take turns on where.”

“So that’s why Brianna was giving me the bum's rush when I was trying to nail down details when I could call her and mum on Christmas day, she was fighting keeping the secret.”

“Which I thought for sure when you asked her that I was screwed at that point,” Carter laughed, “I know that the flight is gonna hurt but I don’t care. Not if that means I get you out of this funk you’ve been in. You’ve been very Grinch-like and considering how much I know you love Christmas, I’m more determined than ever to get us there.”

Miles cringes, “I haven’t been that bad, have I?”

“I’ve seen worse. Not completely Scrooged but you were teetering there for a bit.” Carter tilts his head, noticing Miles is having that emotional moment of ‘I so do not deserve him’, “So we’re flying?”

“I still think it’s absolutely insane because you are going to be in so much pain but, love...I cannot believe you did this. And not just us, but your mum and grams too?” Miles smiles, “I’d kiss you right now if I didn’t think it’d damage that beautiful face more.”

Carter just smiled as Miles snaked his arm around his waist to escort him through the automatic doors of the hospital and into the night sky. This Christmas was going to have so much potential.

From the moment the camera opens, we are gifted with a shot of a set of the classic and popular game show Family Feud. The theme music plays in the background and the studio audience cheers heartily, and we see the set slightly changed where a makeshift wrestling ring is set in the forefront of the game's center podium along the stage’s floor. And on both the left and right of the stage stand figures stand in red lighting and shadow beneath the arches lined with lights.

Rubert Ervin: Ladies and gentlemen! Boys and girls! It is time for Celebrity Family Feud!

The studio audience cheers, many of them wrestling fans but many others just thrilled to be a part of the show that is featuring celebrities.

Rubert: The stakes have never been higher as it is the women against the men in anticipation of the biggest wrestling event of the year! This weekend’s thirteenth edition of the High Stakes Supercard Event! Introducing first the Bombshells of Sin City Wrestling…!

Bella Madison! Bobbie Dahl! Crystal Zdunich! Alexandra Calaway! And Cassie Wolfe! Ready for action!

All five women are caught in a five-way mock brawl, with Alexandra and Bella doing the Laverne and Shirley ‘slap fight’ while Cassie was on Bobbie’s back while Bobbie had Crystal in a side headlock! At the announcement, all five look like they’d been caught and they immediately break character and separate, applauding before they descend to their panel!

Rubert: And their opponents! The Superstars of Sin City Wrestling…!

Helluva Bottom Carter! Miles Kasey! Ben Jordan! Alex Jones and “Bulldog” Bill Barnhart! Ready for action!

The men are no less subtle as they are in a train of side headlocks; Alex holding Carter… Ben holding Alex… Bulldog holding Ben… And Miles holding Bulldog! Their heads turn as one at the announcement and they jump apart and put on their best innocent expressions and stances while applauding before descending to their panel!

Rubert: And introducing the star of the show! Your ring announcer! Your time keeper and most importantly, your referee! STEVE HARVEY!

The studio audience and all ten wrestling stars applaud and whoop it up as the popular comedian and game show host Steve Harvey walks onto the stage, that ever-present smile present on his face as he waves to the audience and then to both sides of the stage and their celebrity contestants. He fist bumps Carter as he passes the men by and he takes a brief moment to pour on the charm, bounding over toward the Bombshells and takes the hand of Alexandra to lightly kiss the back of it; Alexandra feigning a swooning act and fanning herself as Steve takes center stage inside of the ‘ring’.

Steve Harvey: Thank you! Thank you very much! Welcome to this special High Stakes episode of Celebrity Family Feud, everybody! I’m Steve Harvey!

Everyone, audience and grapplers alike, cheer and applaud!

Steve: Boy I don’t know if you all are going to be ready for this one tonight! Because we have the men and women of Sin City Wrestling competing tonight for not just the $25,000 for their respective charities, but also to head into this weekend’s Pay-Per-View Supercard, High Stakes XIV! Woo! Yeah!

The audience cheers as the camera pans both sides of the stage, the Superstars and Bombshells from start to end.

Steve: Alright everybody, let’s get this battle underway! It’s ladies first so let’s meet the Bombshells of SCW!

The studio audience cheers and applauds as the men’s side ‘boos’ and gives playful thumbs down while Steve walks over to the ladies’ side, where Bella stands as captain. Steve then takes a step behind her and points at the men…

Steve: Now that’s just uncalled for! Don’t make me come over there!

Steve points at the Superstars while the Bombshells ‘taunt’ and the audience laughs. Steve then steps back around to greet Bella.

Steve: Ladies and gentlemen, let’s hear it for Bella Madison! Challenger this weekend for the Bombshell Internet Championship!

Bella does the RVD thumbs to the shoulders pose and laughs as her teammates cheer her on.

Steve: And joining her is none other than the former Bombshell Roulette Champion Bobbie Dahl, competing this weekend against Harper Mason in a Baby Wear match!

The audience cheers as Bobbie makes her best ‘cry baby’ face while wiping at her eyes.

Steve: Joining them is former Triple crown Champion and 2018 Hall of Fame inductee, Crystal Zdunich!

Crystal just puts on her best ‘who, me?’ impression and waves off the cheers.

Steve: Two-time Bombshell Roulette Champion, Alexandra Calaway who is an entrant in the High Stakes Rumble!

The crowd cheers as Alexandra points at herself with a cocky grin and nods her head.

Steve: And rounding the team out, another entrant for the Bombshell Rumble and nominee for Newcomer of the Year, Cassie Wolfe!

Cassie strikes a double bicep pose while Alexandra playfully tests her muscles to the audience's cheers. Steve backs up to the head of the panel with Bella, all smiles.

Steve: You know my sons watch SCW every week and they told me earlier their favorites are the Bombshells and that they hope the Bombshells beat the Superstars today!

The Bombshells cheer and applaud, nodding with satisfied smiles while the men opposite them jeer and give thumbs down. Steve turns to give them a look and they immediately quiet themselves. Steve gives them the universal “got my eye on you” sign before turning back to Bella.

Steve: Now, Bella Madison. Why don’t you tell everyone the charity the Bombshells are playing for?

Bella: Oh, yeah! We are playing for Hope For the Warriors. It provides support programs for service members, veterans, and military families that focuses on transition, health and other opportunities.

The audience cheers and both sides applaud.

Steve: Alright, a very worthy charity! And now it’s time to meet the men! The Superstars of Sin City Wrestling!

Steve crosses the stage and shakes the hand of all five Superstars before taking his place at the front where Carter stands, the SCW Internet Championship belt on the podium in front of him. He is about to start the introductions when…

Cassie: BOOOOOO!!!!

Everybody laughs and Steve turns to her with a stern expression which quickly melts. He smiles and nods, eyes closed with a thumbs up. Steve turns to the Superstars staring at him ‘aghast’ but he just shrugs.

Steve: My sons like the Bombshells, what can I say? Now, let’s meet the current Internet Champion of SCW - Helluva Bottom Carter… Helluva…

Steve looks at the card in his hand, then at the name badge on Carter’s orchid colored button up. There are scattered cheers and Steve stands upright and stares at him.

Steve: You know what that sounds like, right?

Causing Carter to laugh and nod, all smiles.

Steve: You know WHO it sounds like?

More laughter and Carter nods.

HBCarter: I do!

Steve: And … do you think she would approve?

HBCarter: I hope so because I love her!

Steve turns to look directly into the camera.

Steve: I hope that takes the sting out of it, Helena. Now, Carter? You are the reigning Internet Champion and this weekend you’re defending against…?

HBCarter: Kris Ryans. Grand Slam Champion and he’s in the Hall of Fame.

Steve: Wow… And this here…

He taps the center plate of the Internet title belt.

Steve: This here is the championship?

HBCarter: It is, you want to try it on?

The audience cheers as do the wrestlers on both sides as Steve is all “Oooo!” and he steps back while Carter picks up the Internet title belt and he walks around the panel to drape the championship belt around the waist of the game show host and feast it, snug and secure. Everybody cheers and laughs as Steve hams it up, acting all big and bad while Carter resumes his place at the head of the panel.

Steve: Yeahh! That’s right! That’s what I’m talking about! And I’ll meet you…

He turns and points at Carter.

Steve: This weekend if you want to get this belt back!

More cheers and applause as Steve steps back up to the front and he resumes the introductions of the Superstars.

Steve: Now joining you is not only your husband but also challenging for the World Heavyweight Championship this weekend - Miles Kasey!

The studio audience cheers as his teammates applaud while the Bombshells playfully ‘boo’ his and each name of their opposition.

Steve: Joining you and participating in the Superstars Rumble, former World Heavyweight, Tag Team, Roulette and 2017 Blast From the Past Champion, Ben Jordan!

More cheers!

HBCarter: The Cockney King!

Steve stumbles and turns to look at Carter.

Steve: What… what did you just say?

HBCarter: The Cockney King!

Steve shakes his head with a shocked expression on his face.

Steve: You can’t say that on TV! This is a family show, young man!

HBCarter: So sorry!

Steve: Now, if we can BEHAVE ourselves… we have another Superstar Rumble entrant! Former two-time World Heavyweight Champion! Roulette Champion! Mixed Tag Team Champion AND 2022 Hall of Fame inductee, Alex Jones!

Alex drinks in the cheers and applause, eyes closed dreamily.

Steve: And finally, yet ANOTHER Superstar Rumble entrant! Two-time Roulette Champion and Mixed Tag Team Champion, the Bulldog himself! Bill Barnhart!

There are cheers and applause as Bill playfully barks along.

Steve: Now you three are all in this Rumble match… I’m not going to have to separate you tonight, am I?

All three; Ben, Alex and Bill all act innocent with hands held up and shaking their heads while Steve watches them warily as he heads back up to the front of the panel.

Steve Harvey: Alright, because you know you know I'd hate to have to get physical and break things up.

The Bombshells call out ‘that’s right’ while the men all look around with wide eyes as the audience cheers and laughs.

Steve: Carter, why don’t you tell everyone the charity that your side is playing for?

HBCarter: Well we’re playing for For the Love of Alex. It provides urgent and emergency veterinary care for cats and dogs whose owners can’t afford it.

Everyone present applauds as Steve nods with a smile as he steps back toward the main podium.

Steve: Another great cause! We got to take care of those fur babies! Now it’s time to play the Feud! Give me Bella! Give me Carter! Come on down!

The theme song plays as Bella and Carter make their way to the podium, the audience and their respective teammates cheer them on. Carter and Bella take their place and ready themselves as Steve prepares the first question.

Steve: We had a hundred people surveyed, top seven answers on the board! Name something that gets passed around!

Both slap their hands on the buzzer but Carter is just a shade faster.

HBCarter: Valentine’s Day!

The camera focuses on the answer board and ‘Valentine’s Day’ is there, with four points.

Steve: Bella?

Bella: A date!


The women play! Steve walks over as Bella joins her teammates and Steve approaches Bobbie…

Bobbie: Well this is just a guess because I don’t normally wear underwear but…

Steve freezes, card in hand and he just slowly starts to sink down to one knee as the laughter from both the wrestlers and the studio audience grows in intensity until he places a hand on his heart.

Steve: Oh don’t do that to me, girl! I’m not in my twenties any more!

Steve manages to pull himself upright and …

Bobbie: Wedding night?


Alexandra: Just to feel confident?


Crystal: A job interview?


Cassie: …. A holiday?


Steve: Okay Bella, two strikes. The men can take this one.

Bella: … To bring wealth?

The buzzer goes off and all the Bombshells call out and cry foul. Steve crosses the stage where the Superstars were conferring and they separate.

Steve: Alright Carter, what’s your answer?

HBCarter: Gambling!

Steve: If it’s there, you take the points. Show me gambling!

---

Steve: Alright, now let’s bring down Miles Kasey and Bobbie Dahl!

The fans cheer as Miles and Bobbie approach the podium to cheers and support from their teammates.

Steve: We had a hundred people surveyed, top five answers on the board! Name something that gets passed around!

Both slap their hands on the buzzer but Bobbie is the quicker of the two.

Bobbie: Gas!

Laughter fills the studio and Steve stares at Bobbie before he very slowly turns around to check on the answer. The buzzer goes off.

Miles: A rumor!


And the men take control.

Ben: A joint.

He mimics a smoke as Steve stares at him and shakes his head.

Steve: You’re going to hell, you know that? Right?


Alex: A cold?


Bulldog: Food!


Bulldog: What!?

HBCarter: Notes?


Miles: A collection plate.


Ben: A ball.

Steve: You mean like as in a sports ball I hope?

Ben laughs: Yes!


The Bombshells take control and break from their huddle.

Steve: Bella? Can you give me the answer and steal this one away?

Bella: A baby!

---

Steve: Alright, let’s bring up Ben Jordan and Crystal Zdunich!

Ben and Crystal jump up to the podium and shake hands amidst cheers and applause.

Steve: This is double points! Name a wrestling move that best describes your partner in bed!

Both slap their hands on the buzzer but Ben is first!

Ben: Belly to back!

The audience and everyone around them erupts in laughter as Steve tosses the card from his hand into the air. He just paces, hands on hips until he picks the card back up and rejoins them.

Steve: What have I told you about this being a FAMILY show!? Filth!


Steve closes his eyes and shakes his head.

Crystal: Backslide?

More laughter.


The men take control and Steve approaches Alex.

Alex: Bearhug?


Bulldog: Body press.


HBCarter: Piledriver!

Steve stares at him as scattered laughter begins and grows in intensity as Miles closes his eyes and the red color creeps up his neck and colors his face while Ben just pats him on the shoulder.

Steve: You okay over there, Miles?

To which Miles just nods.


Miles: Booty bop?

More laughter as Steve looks between Miles and Carter and shakes his head.

Steve: We are going to get canceled at this rate!


Ben: Body scissors!

Buzzer and the Bombshells take control! Steve crosses the stage and the women are ready for their answer.

Bella: I can’t speak for any of us but a sleeper hold!

---

Steve: Okay Bombshells! The Superstars here are just sixty six points away from winning this! Let’s bring down Alexandra and Alex!

Alex and Alexandra approach the podium to cheers and applause. They shake hands which turns into a brief thumb wrestling match before we are ready!

Steve: Top six answers are on the board, triple points! In one word, describe the last kiss you got from your partner!

They slap the buzzers but Alexandra is faster!

Alexandra: Perfect!


Alex: Quick?


Steve approaches Bulldog.

Bulldog: Happy?


HBCarter: Breathtaking!


HBCarter: Noo!

Miles: Sloppy.

Laughter immediately fills the audience and Carter stares at Miles with wide eyes and an even wider mouth. Miles does a comedic double take at his husband and Steve clears his throat as he turns around.

Steve: Looks like the honeymoon is over?


The theme song plays and the five men jump about and high five and embrace as the Bombshells side bemoan the loss as the studio audience cheers!

Steve: Okay ladies, I just want the Bombshells to know that even though the Superstars have won tonight, we are still making a donation to your charity. Thank you for being here with us tonight. Now you fellas…

He turns to the Superstars.

Steve: I need two of you fellas out here for our Final Round! Two!

The audience cheers as Carter and Bulldog join Steve on the stage.

Steve: Okay! I got Carter and I got the Bulldog, we gonna play Fast Money when we come back!

---

And we return to celebrity Family Feud with Fast Money on the line, Steve standing beside Carter.

Steve: Now Carter, stand there and tell the world what you are playing for!

HBCarter: $25,000 for For the Love of Alex!

The audience cheers and both Superstars and Bombshells applaud and cheer as well.

Steve: Alright, twenty seconds on the clock! Name a place you stop going to when you’re broke!

HBCarter: The bank!
4 points

Steve: Name something that is full of holes!

HBCarter: Clothes!
16 points

Steve: Name something you would find in a bathtub!

HBCarter: Shampoo!
7 points

Steve: Name a place that’s filled with people who don’t want to be there.

HBCarter: Jail!
36 points

Steve: Name something you might catch up on.

HBCarter: Chores!
8 points

Steve: And that brings you to seventy one points! Now let’s bring out the Bulldog!

Carter rejoins his team as Bill walks onstage and shakes Steve’s hand.

Steve: Alright, now your teammate Carter scored 71 points, meaning you need 129 to win this and the $25,000. But you can do it! Are you ready?

Bulldog: I’m ready!

Steve: Alright, 25 seconds on the clock! Name a place you stop going to when you’re broke!

Bulldog: Restaurants!
32 points

Steve: Name something that is full of holes!

Bulldog: Cheese!
40 points

Steve: Name something you would find in a bathtub!

Bulldog: Water!
44 points

Steve: Name a place that’s filled with people who don’t want to be there.

Bulldog: Work!
10 points

Steve: Okay, final question. All you need is 3 points and the Superstars win $25,000 for For the Love of Alex! Name something you might catch up on.

Bulldog: Sleep!
29 points


The audience cheers as Bill fist pumps as the Superstars swarm the stage and they celebrate! Ben and Alex pick Bill up as the veteran raises his arms while Miles and Carter hug and applaud their teammate pushing it through!

Steve: The Superstars win $25,000 for For the Love of Alex! Make sure you tune in THIS Sunday for High Stakes XIV! Thirteen matches! The 2024 Hall of Fame AND the 2024 Year End Awards! Good night everybody!

The audience continues to cheer as the Superstars continue with their celebration as the camera fades out.

---

“I’ve been the Internet Champion since the beginning of August, winning it on the Summer XXXTreme cruise and it was one of the best wedding gifts I could have received, and it’s a memory that I’m going to look back on and cherish from now until I ultimately hang up my boots and even  beyond. I might have held a number of championships in Sin City Underground, but when I came up to SCW, I discovered just how much more severe and challenging the competition was. Mark WSard was the one who was impressed enough by me and what I accomplished in SCU, to which he felt like he could take the chance on some young, wet behind the ears pup such as myself. He even made me an early offer but I didn’t want to abandon SCU until its dramatic curtain call. Hot Stuff had told me that the door was open and he officially signed me to the roster in December of `21. I even remember my first match as an official SCW Superstar. It was against Levi Russow and yeah, I admit it. I walked away the loser of the match but – I still managed to walk away. Levi’s own career in the six-sided ring was winding down and the list of his accolades could reach to the moon and back! That match against him taught me so much. Ity taught me that sometimes just managing to walk away from a confrontation is a victory unto itself.”

“Of course, I wasn’t sure I believed that at the time. I kind of had to get the whole thought process beat into me over the course of the next near-three years. I faced every single man on the roster that they could find that were willing to face me. Some of these Superstars did so because they thought I’d be an easy win and a stepping stone to them moving a step further up the rankings. Men like Austin James Mercer and Peter Vaughn. Others agreed because they knew I was just on the cusp of my career and some of the veterans like Bill Barnhart, Goth and Ben Jordan knew that they had a lot that they could teach me. Win or lose. And for a time, I can’t lie. I was losing more often than I was winning because, as I said, I was not prepared for the sheer high level of competition that SCW provided!”

“I scratched and I clawed, and yeah. I admit it. Things got to the point that I was so downcast and feeling sorry for myself that I managed to convince myself that ultimate success inside of the ring was never going to happen for me. That championship gold was not something that I was going to end up experiencing. But as I was at my lowest points in both my personal and professional lives, I had what a lot of unfortunate people did not; a strong support group of friends, co-workers and family that loved and supported me. They gave me the confidence boost that I so desperately needed to keep fighting and not utter those three, unforgivable words - ‘I give up’. I had them in my corner and I truly believe that is what kept me pushing forward, and it allowed me to realize that everything I was believing about my career was not true.”

“I could be a success story, because I became one. At Summer XXXTreme X, everything came together. Just days prior I had married the love of my life and before we left for our honeymoon, I had one more thing to do. Strip Peter Vaughn of the Internet Championship. And there is no way I am going to act like so many others before me and tell the world how easy it was because it was not. Vaughn held that championship for as long as he did for a reason – and not just because he had this habit of taking the low road to secure the final piece of the puzzle. He was a dominant wrestler because he was a quality wrestler! Win or lose, there wasn’t a match he was involved in that was not a Match of the Year candidate in my own humble opinion. I went into that title opportunity as the dark horse, the underdog. And I walked out a champion. And if I have to be perfectly honest? So far my reign as Internet Champion has been somewhat…”

“... I guess underwhelming is the most politically correct way of characterizing it. I was hoping to further make a name for myself and put this championship back on the map where it belonged. Peter Vaughn brought it up to the highest level, and I thought it was only right that I honor the man and try to keep it right where he left it. Where it belonged; as a proper rival for the standing of the World Championship itself. But since the start of August, I can count on one hand the number of opportunities I was given. I mean my first defense was against a glorified jobber for some god forsaken reason! I competed in more non-title matches than championship defenses!”

“The single most legit title defense I had since winning the gold was against my own brother-in-law! And I think that was because the powers-that-be thought it would be morbid fun to see family fight it out. I just hope we did them proud because LJ and I beat each other senseless in that Ladder match, which I am proud to say that I ultimately won. But while we gave the world what it wanted in glorified violence between fami;y, it had the added bonus of bringing us closer together as in-laws.”

“But that was at Violent Conduct X. The end of September. Almost two months ago! That was my last proper championship defense! So much for keeping this title where it belongs, am I right? Which is why when Kris Ryans made it known he was publicly calling me out as champion to step up and defend the title against him  here at High Stakes XIV? Trust me when I tell you what I was feeling about that - the world’s most accomplished authors and poets could not put into words! I mean, think about it! Kris Ryans! The man is a Grand Slam Champion and one of the single best talents to have ever set foot inside of the six-sided ring! 2021 Hall of Fame inductee! A two-time World Heavyweight Champion! Two-time Roulette Champion! World Tag Team Champion! Undefeated Mixed Tag Team Champion! And yeah… the Internet Champion! The only thing he hasn’t managed to accomplish is win the Blast From the Past!”

“That is who wanted to challenge me for the championship! One of the best wanted an opportunity to face me for the gold and the chance to test myself – I mean truly test myself – was at hand! So you’re damn right I accepted the challenge! Kris came off a loss to Finn Whelan a few weeks prior but i didn't care! This could go down as one of the biggest matches of my career! There was no chance I wasn’t going to reach out and grab this opportunity! And once I did… poof!”

“The self contained interest on Kris’s part seemingly vanished. Just like that. The minute I signed on the dotted line, it was like Kris just turned his back on me like all the hard work was done and what was coming was a mere formality. Like he was already looking past the match in Tucson and celebrating becoming a two-time Grand Slam Champion and at my expense! And you know something? I could even get past that level of disinterest and disrespect, because in the end, it often plays to my advantage as I’ve said in the past. Men who look past me and think just because I look soft, I compete that way? In the end, that’s their mistake to make at their own expense, and seemingly now it’s yours, Kris.”

“Now whether that is true or not, I guess we’re going to find out. I just can’t think of any other reason why I went from up where your interests were concerned, to practically floor level. If you have distractions or issues going on outside of the ring, then just tell me! Because like it or not, I want to face the Kris Ryans that took men like Fenris and Tommy Crimson and Kain to the absolute limits! Otherwise, what the hell is the point of all this? Winning a championship!? Trying to defend it and do everyone proud! The fact you tanked a match to a man named after a cartoon character that is over a hundred years old just compounds things! If and when I get past you in Tucson, I feel obliged to offer a title shot to Felix but the point here is… I have to get past you.”

“And I will because whether you know this or not, in the past few weeks you gave me all the motivation I could possibly need to walk out of the TCC Arena still the Internet Champion!”

“I blame you, Kris, for the relative lack of interest in a title match that could have been right up there along with the World title matches and Harris-J2H! But no, you seemingly took this match for granted and now, from the outside looking in, treating it like it’s some form of consolation prize! You were given an opportunity against Finn Whelan and even though you did yourself proud, Finn was the victor. So rather than take the time to build yourself back up, you instead build on your past reputations to and look at me as second best. Now, I admit it! I could be reading you completely wrong because from a personal standpoint, I don’t know jack about you other than locker room whispers and the fact you and Fenris used to be a thing!”

“I have my own thoughts and opinions where you’re concerned but that’s a Fairy Tail for another day. I even sunk so low as to go to Fenris and ask him what he could tell me about you, and do you know what he said? He said you had a thing for being tied up and gagged and I am NEVER going to be able to unsee that mental image! He refused to help out of loyalty to whatever the two of you held in the past, but bright side? He also told me he wouldn’t have helped you against me either. So, in the end? I’m on my own against one of the living legends of the SCW locker room.”

“You want to use me to become a two-time Grand Slam Champion. But not this time. Not at my expense. I need this win, Kris. And I am going to take it. For both myself, and for the integrity of the championship itself. Come hell or high water, I am going to do it proud!”

It had been awhile since Carter had last accompanied Miles to his hometown of London, but circumstances had changed since then. The last time they were here, it was to soothe a homesick Miles who, at the time, was not even completely aware of what was wrong with him. This visit proved that you can indeed go home, and doing so sometimes was the absolute best of medicines. And this time? Sin City Wrestling’s “Royal Pain” tour was culminating for the Violent Conduct X Supercard event, and it just so happened to be in Miles’s backyard. But first things first…

The room reserved was spacious and comfortable, predominantly colored in tans and whites with wood panel accents. While there was a dresser with flat screen TV over it and a comfortable recliner in the corner with a desk, the predominant feature of the room was the king sized bed with golden headboard and matching comforter over the white linens and the white and turquoise pillows - and in the center of the bed a wicker basket filled with fresh fruit as a welcoming gesture. Very comfortable surroundings for a two-week stay.

The door to the room then opened with the soft sound of the key card lock being undone and the first to enter the room were two hotel porters in classic suit uniforms, delivering an impressive amount of luggage on a bellman luggage cart. While they proceeded to unload the bags and suitcases carefully and neatly along the far wall, Carter and Miles then entered the room where they would be staying over the course of the next two weeks; taking care of assigned SCW duties to better promote Violent Conduct X and Carter’s championship defense, while also working in some free time to visit Miles’s family and friends.

While Carter did his usual walk through the hotel room - a habit he seemed to have picked up somewhere and it carried over to every place they stayed together since - Miles tipped the two men generously before they took their leave, wishing Miles and Carter a pleasant stay with them. Miles walked over to the large, picturesque window and gazed out at the city surrounding them and he felt a tightness in his body and mind slowly begin to loosen. He still would have preferred to be competing on the biggest event his hometown had hosted in years but for now, he would have to be satisfied at playing his part and getting some rare family time.

Miles tore himself away from the window and wandered back over to the bed and had a seat at the foot, giving it a slight ‘bounce test’ when Carter emerged from wherever he had wandered and he proceeded to walk across the room’s threshold and he grabbed the first suitcase within reach and opened it, starting to unpack as Miles watched with curiosity.

“You okay?” Miles asked, causing Carter to look up from what he was doing with a quizzical expression of his own and he nodded, “Yeah, why?” But Miles didn’t answer just yet, as he watched Carter continue to unpack for them both and set their clothes in the dresser drawers until there was no room left and he then went for the nearby hangers in the room’s closet…

“Love, stop.” Miles' soft accented words caused Carter to indeed stop as he was walking back across the carpeted floor with a handful of hangers, staring at his husband.

“What's wrong?” Miles once again asked, but this time his words were stronger in concern, wanting an answer that was more than avoidance or denial in nature. Carter appeared to be lost or confused as to why Miles was asking this from out of the blue.

“Why do you think something is wrong?” Carter asked with a soft smile, to which Miles offered a shrug of his own muscled shoulders and he wore the wisp of a cocky smile on his lips as he answered, “Because since you and I first started traveling together, this is the first time we arrived at a hotel room where the first thing you wanted to do wasn’t … me.”

Miles then watched as the color rose from Carter’s lightly tanned neck and rose up to his cheeks, giving him a charming and endearing flush. It did Miles’ heart (and ego) a world of good to know that even after all this time together, their dating and finally their wedding, he still had that ‘hot flash’ effect on his husband. Where Miles was concerned, Carter’s “appetites” were damn near insatiable (thank GOD!), so this was indeed a change of pace.

“Are you worried about dinner with me Mum?” Miles asked all-too casually, earning him a look from Carter who asked, “Why would that bother me, having dinner with your Mom? We’ve had dinner together before.”

“Year,” Miles laughed to himself. “But back then she was the mother of either your boyfriend or fiance. Now…” Miles leaned forward, his elbows on his knees and a wicked smirk on his face. “Now she’s your mother-in-law.”

Carter just stared at Miles for several long seconds before he shook his head, “Sometimes you can be truly, truly evil.” Before he turned back to his duties and resumed unpacking. “Cute AF, but evil!”

Miles stood up from where he had seated himself and approached his husband from behind and wrapped his arms around his slim waist, reeling him in and holding him tight as he nuzzled his chin in that soft crevice at Carter's neck.

“I know what you’re uncomfortable about.” Miles confided gently, his words washing over Carter’s ear gently but he still had that effect that caused Carter’s body to tingle. “You’ve been acting like this ever since LJ won that match.”

That was when Miles felt Carter’s body tense somewhat, and he set the hangers down on the surface of the dresser and he turned around to face Miles while still remaining in his embrace. Miles saw Carter’s questioning gaze and his dark eyebrows rise almost to the hairline as he asked, “You think I’m bothered by having to defend against your brother?”

Miles did not answer directly. This indeed was what Miles felt was troubling his man. The moment Lyle Kasey Junior pinned “Unbreakable” Eddie Lyons in the Main Event of the Monaco tour stop, the champion - his husband - had little to no reaction. They had been watching on the monitor alongside Alexandra Calaway in the annals of the backstage area, and once LJ emerged victorious, Miles and Alexandra were each proud of the younger brother getting not only his first victory in an SCW ring, but gaining a championship opportunity in the process. Carter – simply walked away.

Miles shrugged and offered, “It’s not so unusual, being uncomfortable defending against family or someone that you’re close to…”

“LJ and I aren’t close…” Carter shook his head, causing Miles to close his eyes and draw in a breath before resuming, fully aware of the tension between his husband and his brother. He resumed, “But… look at how you and I reacted when Victoria put us against each other. Neither of us wanted to…”

“Miles,” Carter spoke softly. “That was different and you know it. She wanted us to hurt each other to the point one of us couldn’t continue because she’s a sadistic bitch. LJ…?” He shook his head. “The only thing about this match that makes me uncomfortable is the fact that it’s a ladder match.”

“Really?”

“Really.” Carter stressed. “I never understood how climbing a ladder was supposed to prove who the better wrestler was - but that’s not even the issue. The last time I was in a Ladder match, I was blinded and almost broke my neck. There’s still one or two demons at play about that up here…” He tapped a forefinger to his temple.

Miles smiled, knowing that match still haunted his husband, but also the fact Carter had his ways of getting past these hurdles to overcome them, both mentally as well as physically. Miles leaned in for a quick kiss, to which Carter all-too happily obliged, before he said, “Trust me Miles, this may or may not be what you want to hear given the circumstances but I am going to treat your brother like any other man who wants to try and take my championship.”

“Understood.” Miles nodded with acceptance. He had to accept it. What other option was there? He couldn’t rightly ask or expect Carter to ‘go easy’ on LJ when he knew LJ would be attempting everything to try and win his Internet Championship. He especially could not - would NOT - ask Carter to ‘allow’ LJ to win. The mere thought of that option was just unthinkable. Miles then looked again into those dazzling blue eyes and shrugged, “Then what is it?”

“Truth?” Carter asked, which almost sounded more like a statement than it did a question, with a touch more force to it than Miles might have come to expect.

“Yes, Carter.” Miles nodded. “The truth.” Miles took a few steps back, releasing Carter from his arms and had a seat on the edge of the bed. Miles continued, “I’m not your boyfriend anymore, babe. I’m not even your fiance. I’m your husband.” He nodded. “I deserve the truth.”

“Okay…” Carter sighed. Truth be told, he felt his heart pounding in his chest as he turned to face Miles. Like any good spouse, Carter did not want to upset or offend his husband. And it was true; Carter and Miles have had few arguments over the past two years and no full blown fights. But new as they both were to the world of marriage, Carter knew that they had to have open communication between them. He just had that nagging feeling in the back of his head, wondering if what he was feeling was petty or legit.

He resigned himself and finally said, “I’m upset because of how you reacted to the match. About my having to face LJ.”

“Me?” Miles’ own eyebrows rose in surprise, a hand on his sternum for emphasis. “What did I do? What did I say?”

“Nothing.” Carter answered. “And that’s the whole problem. The moment LJ won and the match was signed, you pretty much stepped off to the side and played the role of Switzerland in the War rather than support me in my first legit defense!”

“Carter,” Miles stressed. “I told LJ that he was on his own.”

“Yeah,” Carter nodded, his head downcast. “But it just feels like you pretty much told me the same, even if you didn't say the words outright. Rather than support me from the start, tell me that I've got this or … anything – it just feels like you and Ally have stepped off to the side and are just going to let Lyle and I beat the hell out of each other and whoever wins…” Carter held up a hand as if to silently say, whatever happens, happens.

*You're making it sound a lot easier than it is, love.” Miles stressed with a heaving sigh. “How do you think I felt when LJ won that match and I knew you two would be fighting in a potentially dangerous match? He knows how you feel about him and he's concerned himself about what this match is going to mean.”

“Which brings up an interesting point.” Carter nodded, chewing at his bottom lip. *I figured he knew how I felt. I mean, he seems to go out of his way to avoid me. I figured Alexandra probably filled him in but that begs the question… how did she find out?”

Miles blinked and glanced down briefly but nodded. Holding up his hand as if to silently answer the question. “I told her.”

“And now I’m the bad guy for how I feel.” Carter sighed with helpless resignation. “Even though you admitted yourself that the circumstances of his showing up were suspicious. And that Brianna felt the same way that I did.”

“Babe…”

“Miles,” Carter interrupted. “What we told each other in those sessions with Doctor Delacore was confidential. Or at least, it was supposed to be. You heard her number one rule…”

“I know, and I am sorry.” Miles sighed. “I just started feeling the pressure and felt like I needed someone impartial to talk to.”

“Someone like Alexandra who is one of your best friends and dating the aforementioned party?” Carter questioned with a risen brow.

“He's my brother babe…” Miles stressed.

“Yeah,“ Carter said gently. “But I'm your husband. We've known each other for, what? Three years? Four?” To which Miles nodded, saying, “Give or take “

Carter nodded, “You've known LJ for less than a year. Maybe I’m just old fashioned like that, I don’t know.” Carter said, tucking his hands in his pockets and sitting against the edge of the dresser. “But I was always led to believe that the choice between spouse and family is made when you take your vows.”

Miles briefly looked downcast, taking in everything that Carter had said up to this point and he nodded, “Fair enough.” he stated, finally looking back up. “I get where you’re coming from. You know I never intended for you to take any of this that way? I just …” he sighed. “I don’t want either of you to go out there and hurt each other. So I thought if I just stayed out of it…?”

“Things might work out for the best?” Carter smiled, to which Miles simply nodded. Carter just chuckled, “God I love you.”

“Now YOU tell ME the truth.” Miles stood up and said, gathering Carter once again in his arms. “You say spouses first, before family. Right?”

Carter nodded and Miles continued, “So if your Grams and I had a blowup, you’d side with me by rote?”

Carter scoffed, “Oh come on now, Miles! That is a completely irrational example! Grams adores you!”

“It is not irrational, Carter! It could very well… No, you’re right. She loves me. I’m wonderful.”

---

It was much like the last time these two had visited London, when they made the reservations for an extended stay in a hotel so as not to cause Miles’ - and now Carter’s in-laws - any discomfort by crowding themselves into Brianna and Garrett’s house. But now that these two newlyweds had settled between them what was troubling Carter - and they got back into their familiar routine of Christening their hotel room, they had decided it was time to accept the invite to dinner from Carter’s in-laws. Not that there was much choice in the matter. It was one of the primary reasons why the two men had arrived so early before Violent Conduct X; so that they had ample time to conduct their work for SCW while visiting Miles’s family at length.

Miles already didn’t get to see his family as much as he should, so they were going to make sure they saw them as often as their schedule allowed these two weeks.

They had pulled up in front of the house and walked the path and before they even reached the front porch, the door swung open and there stood Miles’ mum, and Carter’s mother-in-law, Mora. Her face lit up with unbridled joy as she ran straight for them and she enveloped first her son into her arms for one of those hugs mothers around the world were famous for. (So that’s where Miles learned his famous hugs from!) Once they separated, Mora turned to her new son-in-law and she lost none of the joy at the sight of the newest addition to their family.

She hugged Carter tightly, whispering into his ear, “Thank you so much for coming!”

“Thank you for having us.” Carter smiled as Mora took his arm into her own as a lady would a gentleman and they walked toward the front door, her free hand waving off his words, “Nonsense, dear. Bri and I wouldn't hear of you boys having anything else but a home cooked meal for your first night in London!”

“That does sound nice.” Carter admitted with a smile.

Mora continued, “So as a special surprise, we fixed Miles’ favorite!”

“Oh?” Carter said. “What’s his favorite?”

“Steak and kidney pie!” Mora exclaimed, and Carter’s head whipped to stare at his husband as Miles 'conveniently moved out of arm's reach of Carter to the other side of his mother.

“You’re finally here!” Were the first words Miles and Carter heard as they entered the house, Mora shutting the door behind them. They turned the corner into the living room where Brianna was seated on the sofa. She started to rise to greet her brother and brother-in-law and Garrett quickly made his way over to give her a hand, and once he did so, it was soon evident as to why.

Carter gaped and pointed at her obviously pregnant belly, "Do you know what you did!?"

All heads turned toward Carter and Miles smiled, wrapping an arm around his shoulder and drawing him in, "Isn't he cute?"

---

With the recent news of the passing of Dame Maggie Smith, there just seemed no more appropriate location for the reigning Internet Champion, Helluva Bottom Carter, to talk about his upcoming championship defense. And as the masses moved about the world famous train station, there was Carter himself, poised against Platform 9 ¾, clad elaborately in his Slytherin robes, the curved wand of Bellatrix Lestrange twirling idly in his fingertips.

“Professional wrestling, by nature, has always been a physically demanding sport. Often to the point of being physically brutal, even cruel. But more so than any other contact sport, professional wrestling has evolved since its earliest days. From the nineteenth century when wrestling first got a kick start as a professional sport, the men who were the biggest stars worked more than anything to physically wear their opponents down to the point they could not continue. Often resulting in a pinfall or a submission, and at times, a referee having to step in and make an official decision. It wasn't unheard of for a single match to last two hours or more because of the excellent physical conditioning of the wrestlers way back when, but as time moved on and what happened inside of the confines of the ring changed, there was simply no way matches could continue going on for that length of time. Physically punishing moves like body slams and clotheslines and soon suplexes took over much of what happened to wear down a body faster. Submission holds like Boston crabs and hammerlocks (yeah, hammerlocks!) could force a submission in record time if applied right.”

“And now, look at how far we’ve come as a sport. Or as some purists like to believe, how far we’ve fallen. Matches where the ring is surrounded by a steel cage or barbed wire, or even when the wrestlers are allowed to use any weapon at their disposal and fight anywhere in the building! Like it or not, that is just where we stand right now in this business. The more you do to physically punish your opponent, the more the fans are rabid for it. And the entertainment of the fans is chiefly what we are even putting our bodies on the line for. Am I right? These purists and so-called armchair experts want to go back to the territory days and think we were better off ‘old school’ style but I am here to tell you…”

Carter leaned down close to the camera so that his face practically filled it.

“IT IS NEVER GOING TO HAPPEN!!!”

He then stood upright and adjusted his emerald green robes and leaned against a pillar in order to continue.

“Now… I don’t profess to be an expert on this business or even some kind of self-professed historian or student of the game. I just know one of my favorite hobbies is watching some of wrestling’s earliest matches and can you imagine how some of the stars of the Golden Age would react if they were able to look into the future and see what we’re doing now? Can you imagine them doing it then? Granted, the very first cage match in wrestling was held way back in 1937 so it has been known to happen. Can you imagine some of the original badass men in this sport like Dick the Bruiser or Bobo Brazil fighting in a hardcore match? They’d kill each other! But this business is all about the show. Give the fans what they want, and more often than not, what they want can be narrowed down to two things… Sex and violence.”

“Sex and violence are the predominant traits of this business. Way back when, it was a forbidden pleasure for the mostly male population in the arenas to get to sit back and watch two women in swimsuits scratch and claw and flip each other ass over! The sexism at the time behind women's wrestling was even one of the reasons why women weren’t allowed to compete in many states. It was unholy. Of course, they just said they were doing it for the women's…”

Air quote…

“Best interests. And, let’s be honest, it wasn’t just about the women inside of the ring. Women attended matches too, and do you think they objected to seeing two handsome and physically fit men wrestle each other in nothing more than those little trunks? Sex. Sells. It’s a fact of life and this business, and it continues right up to this day. It doesn’t matter if the fans are men or women, gay or straight. They come to the shows to see and enjoy some eye candy and I say more power to them!”

“But it’s not just about sex. I mean a lot of it is, but that’s where the violence comes into play. There’s no other logic behind this, folks. The entire point of wrestling is to physically hurt or wear down your opponent’s body until they either can’t escape a pinfall or they end up having to submit so they can continue to fight another day. And as time went on, this just wasn’t enough. When two men or women hated each other enough, the promoters raised the stakes to satisfy the bloodlust we all know fans of this business have. Steel cages. Barbed wire. Thumbtacks… Scaffolds over piranha tanks…”

Carter turned to the camera and cupped a hand around his mouth for a stage whisper…

“Sorry Miles! Just an example!”

“But the thing about these violent stipulations is that many times it just isn’t enough. In the eyes of the fans or the pockets of the promoters. The men and women that run this business often strive to reach new depths as far as match styles to shed blood and break bones, their only concern filling their pockets and not on the physical welfare of the men and women that they are technically responsible for.”

Carter turned toward the camera, facing it directly.

“Which is where we stand right now. Where I stand, to be more precise. SCW is here in London for a Supercard event DEDICATED to these types of matches and yes…”

Carter nodded in the affirmative, free hand on his upper body.

“I find myself in one as well, defending my Internet Championship for the first time against an actual contender and not some glorified jobber. Two issues, however…”

He again held up two fingers to count off.

“One, is the fact that I am defending the championship in, of all things, a Ladder match. I make no bones about how I feel about Ladder matches, and that goes back to before that fiasco of a Golden Briefcase match I was in back in June of this year. You know, the one I would have won if it hadn’t been for Enti-oh, excuse me. Kevin Carter! The one where I got blinded and fell off a twenty foot ladder with no way to brace myself? Yeah, that one. No, my issue with Ladder matches is more basic. I don’t see how or why the better wrestler is decided by who is able to climb a ladder the fastest to reach the belt over the ring. That only tells the world who is the fastest or luckiest - not the best. But, it’s what the boss wants. More importantly, it’s what the fans want. So who am I to argue or dispute?”

“The second thing that has me feeling like I’m backed into a corner is the fact that I’m not facing just any random challenger, but my own brother-in-law, Lyle Kasey Junior who, I hope doesn’t mind that for the duration of this, I’m going to just call him LJ. The last time I was stuck in a spot like this, I was booked against Miles in a Knockout match, thanks to that raving lunatic Victoria Lyons. Things didn’t turn out quite how she wanted, but that’s more on her.”

He shook his head.

“Not my problem. But as uncomfortable as that situation was, this feels just as problematic. And why? Have any of you even seen a Ladder match!? The things that go down just to immobilize your opponent enough so that you can climb the ladder freely without worry of being pulled down - or worse - tipped over and spilled out of the ring!? There’s no way around it! People are going to fall from that ladder! LJ and I? Neither one of us are going to be content to just stand back and watch the other climb up; me to reach and retain my title or him to win it from me. We’re going to pull the other down! I imagine if necessary, we’ll tip that ladder over if there are no other options. Someone is going to end up using that ladder or ladders as a weapon! Someone will POSSIBLY get hurt BY the ladder or ladders!”

“It’s an unfortunate fact of life when you get stuck in these types of matches with a championship on the line. But here’s the thing…”

Carter glanced up and his eyes were focused. Intense.

“I have no issue with this. I don’t care right now who I’m up against. I fought for too long to win my first championship here in SCW, and I am not going to lose it in my first legitimate defense. LJ? I told your brother, and I am warning you. I am going to treat you like any other man coming at me to take the Internet title away from me. I am going to fight like a rabid bitch to protect what's mine! Now…”

He raised a forefinger to stress a point.

“That doesn’t mean that I’m going to go out of my way to hurt or injure you. I know you might not believe me, given I know you know how I feel about you, but it’s the truth. I am just going to do whatever it takes to keep what’s mine, and to send you to the back sans MY Internet Championship. So don't take anything personally, LJ. Family or not, I just have a job to do, and a championship to retain. And you…?”

Carter slipped the hood over his head, now hiding his young features and near-white hair in shadow.

“You’re going to find out why your own brother calls me a tried and true Slytherin!”

He twirled his crooked wand around and a gathering of people passed, and once dispersed, he was gone.

As if by magic.

The activity from the Port of Los Angeles had been hectic since just after sunrise at 6:05 AM. Vessels from the world over had both arrived at dock for passengers to disembark for recreation or having arrived at their chosen destination - while others were making their final preparations to launch to begin their own grand adventures on the Pacific. One such vessel was the Sun Princess, who in the coming week, would play hostess for the twelfth year to not just the stars of Sin City Wrestling, but also those lucky members of the SCW Universe that would be attending Summer XXXTreme XII on the open water!

Nearly one thousand employees worked the port keeping each and every cruise ship running smoothly as they awaited the arrival of the oncoming passengers of which many had arrived early. Porters efficiently took hold of the baggage brought and stacked them onto carts so that they could be checked in and delivered to the assigned rooms and suites aboard. Security was stationed on all corners of the port to ensure the safety of all while leaving themselves open to being approached, should any passenger have any questions or concerns. And maintenance had been busy at work from sunup to current, inspecting every aspect of the ship for safety. All the better to get on the ship and settled in their cabins without delay. Nearly three thousand guests total were expected to board, counting both SCW stars and staff alike alongside those aforementioned fans. Which was a reason why many thought ahead and had already arrived, all the better to quickly get their luggage checked and get to the front of the line to board the ship to get settled for what would hopefully make for a memorable event.

Two who had thought ahead as such - well, more like one while the second was just brought along for the ride, were about to arrive at this early hour as a taxi pulled into the nearby parking lot for the port and as the driver stepped out to assist with the luggage, the rear doors opened and out emerged the newly married couple of Miles and Carter, both of whom elected to take their partner’s last name as their own. Miles, a morning person by nature, appeared refreshed and ready for what the day would bring - while Carter, who was anything BUT a morning person, seemed almost surly by comparison.

All of the luggage was unloaded from the trunk, quickly and efficiently by the cab driver with Miles lending a hand. A driver was about to assist in bringing the luggage to the port to be checked in, but Miles held up a hand with a genuine smile to indicate that he and Carter had this well in hand. Tipping the middle aged man generously as was Miles's nature, he and Carter gathered up everything they brought and wheeled the entirety along. Miles's arms remained full while Carter expertly used one hand to wheel the luggage cart behind him while his free hand held tightly to that mighty cup of java that Miles had purchased for him. Miles knew his husband well enough to know what would work best to not only get him out of bed, but to get his proverbial motor running. It just so happened that this morning was proving a bit more difficult than normal.

“Did we really to get here this early?” Carter asked, almost dropping the luggage to the ground while they waited for the porters who busied themselves with the luggage of the passengers in front. “The ship doesn’t even set until noon! We could have slept in a couple more hours!”

“It’s nice to know married life hasn't changed that cheery, morning disposition that I fell in love with.” Miles quipped, the smile evident on his face as his husband’s own eyes narrowed at him from over the rim of his coffee cup. Miles then asked, “And even if we can't get on board yet, you know as well as I do that the bosses wanted everyone here as early as possible. See?”

Miles pointed around, indicating that they were far from being the only SCW star or staff who was present. He followed up by taking his life into his own hands, removing the cup of coffee from Carter's hand so he could take a sip himself, “We're not the only ones here. And besides… I'm just as exhausted as you are. And it's entirely your fault.”

“How is it my fault!?” Carter questioned, snatching the coffee back out of Miles's hand.

Miles answered, “I suggested we get to bed extra early to arrive here in time.”

“We did!” Carter shot back, only for Miles to answer in kind, “Yeah but we didn't get to sleep for three hours after that.”

Miles then leaned in and whispered into his husband's ear, “Not that I'm complaining, mind you.” Earning a self-satisfied smile from Carter, “I guess not! You fell asleep on top of me!”

Followed by a murmur, “Best comforter on the market.”

Of course there was a minimum of three hours between our heroes’ arrival and when boarding would finally commence. Needless to say, we’re not about to bore you with the minute details. Needless to say as soon as the fans attending this cruise started arriving, the sight of their favorite Superstars and Bombshells was enough to cause an impromptu meet n greet on the port itself with young and old approaching the men and women who put their bodies on the line for photo ops and autographs. This in itself caused a congestion in the boarding process to the point that the LA Port security had to step in and bring it to an end and get everyone back in line so that they might board in a safe and orderly fashion.

Once onboard the Sun Princess, Miles and Carter went about locating their cabin, their eyes shifting between their assigned suite ticket and the numbers along the walls by the closed doors. They weaved in between fellow passengers and cruise staff alike, pausing only long enough to ask once or twice for directions until they finally arrived at their assigned cabin door. Miles, as was his nature, took the lead and slid the key card to unlock the door and he stepped aside to let Carter enter first, and once they set foot inside, they were brought to a complete halt by their surroundings. Whatever the two of them had been expecting, this far exceeded everything they had imagined. In lieu of a regular cabin or even a mini suite, they found themselves standing in the honeymoon suite of the ship, the size of a small hotel room. Their luggage had already been brought within and was set up against the walls, allowing them to make their way further inside and inspect their surroundings. The teal and gold plush carpeting of the room matched the drapery that hung over the port window as well as the sliding patio doors that led out to a private balcony. The bedroom was set opposite a small living area, complete with round table, sofa and wall-mounted flat screen television and a bathroom that looked comparatively the same size as a small cabin.

“Miles…” Carter, jaw agape, turned back around to face his equally perplexed husband, and he asked, “Are you sure this is the right room?” To which Miles could only answer by holding up the key card in his fingers, indicating that it worked so this had to be it.

“Not that I’m complaining but… Wow…” Carter was looking everywhere, and he even then noticed the bottle of champagne in an ice bucket on the center of the table with two towels folded into the shape of kissing swans. Carter turned back around to Miles and the smaller man stepped in closer and snaked his arms around Miles’s waist, drawing him in closer.

“You know, sometimes I don’t think it’s hit me entirely…”

“What's that?” Miles asked.

“We’re married.” Carter replied, shaking his head but the pearly white smile on his face was self-evident at how thrilling this past week had been. “We’re actually married.”

Carter leaned up and Miles took that as his cue and he gave as good as he received with the impending kiss. It lingered for several long moments, threatening to take Carter’s very breath away. Miles shifted his legs forward, effectively backing his husband up toward the bed for potentially more clandestine activities when anything else more fun-related to pre-honeymoon activities was interrupted by the resounding knock on their door. They pulled apart, both sporting equally disappointed expressions on their faces.

“I suppose we should get that.” Miles sighed, to which Carter questioned, “Why? We were just getting to the good part.”

Miles smirked, but pulled away nevertheless, resulting in a pouting Carter. Miles walked across the suite to open the door and there stood none other than the Co-Owner of Sin City Wrestling, Christian Underwood.

“Thanks, I’d love to come in.” Christian said nonchalantly, stepping inside and having a look around before noticing the slightly disheveled appearance of both of his Superstars. He asked, “Am I interrupting anything?”

“No, we were just standing around waiting for you to show up.” Carter answered with his natural sauciness, to which Miles deflected by asking, “Something we can do for you?”

“Actually, I came here to deliver these.” Carter answered, holding out manilla envelopes toward both men separately. Both Carter and Miles accepted and Carter asked, “What’s this?”

“The usual itinerary we give you every year.” Christian said. “You have the first two days for yourselves but it is a working vacation after all, so we assigned you both some activities with the fans.”

“What sort of activities?” Miles asked, a raised brow as he slid the papers inside out of his so he could have a quick look. He knew Christian all too well and was naturally suspicious of the man ever since the “piranha incident”.

“Oh you know, the usual.” Christian answered with that smirk of his. “Fan meets. Photo ops and interviews. Some together, some on your own. … Newlywed Game…”

“Say what?” Carter asked, but by then the boss man had made his way to the door and opened it to take his leave and continue distributing the itineraries to everyone else. He turned around and smiled, but this time it was genuine. He said, “Plus, I wanted to get a look at the suite we had reserved for the two of you.”

This caused Miles and Carter to share a bewildered look before looking back to the boss who was typically thought of as the “bad cop” between Mark Ward ands himself.

“You reserved the room for us?” Carter asked, to which Christian just nodded, “Consider it a wedding gift from Mark and myself.”

He then took his leave and was about to close the door entirely when he opened it up again just enough to peek through and add, “But don’t let word get out! I have a reputation to maintain!” And shut the door behind him.

---

Sun Princess - The Eatery

If there was one thing that many passengers on not just this cruise but any cruise looked forward to, it was the dining experience. And the food here on the Sun Princess was no exception. There were, in fact, more than one dining establishment on this ship, including the three-tier level main dining hall. This was preferred by many for the late hour dining but when it came to breakfast and lunch - or really anything else between - the Eatery, served as a more laid back and casual buffet experience.

In fact, the ship had set sail two hours prior and many onboard had converged to one of the dining rooms to grab a bite to eat before they made the most of soaking up the sun, go swimming or - as far as the fans were concerned - hunting down a Bombshell/Superstar or two to chat, take pictures - whatever!

Carter himself was actually right here in the buffet line with two full plates in hand, but conspicuous by his absence was his new husband, Miles. It was almost comical by how much Carter was having piled onto the plates in hand - one, presumably, for his hubby; Belgium waffles, omelets, sausages and the obligatory bacon. By the looks of it, he was going to have to ask for a hand back to his table before he could even grab coffee - when his best friend Ariana came hurrying up to him in line, a most uncharacteristic look of worry on her face.

“Carter!” Ariana said as she glanced back over her shoulder before returning her attention to him. “Where’s Miles?”

“Probably still asleep in our suite.” He answered nonchalantly. “He asked me to bring him back a plate. Why?”

“Hey babe.” A familiar voice came from behind and Carter turned around, thinking Miles had decided to come have breakfast in person but just as he turned, he realizes there was no British accent behind those honeyed words and the moment he saw who was standing there with a smarmy smile on his face, his stomach about plummeted to his feet and he came ever so close to dropping the two plates that he held in his hands.

Lazarus.

“Laz…” Carter whispered, and Ari bit at her thumbnail. She had caught sight of her bestie’s abusive ex not more than twenty minutes ago in the crowd and had hurried to warn him and Miles but she had arrived only seconds too late.

“Maybe I should…” Go get Miles was what Ariana was about to say, but Carter pushed one of the heaping plates in her hand and shook his head, “No.” He stopped her from getting his husband for one reason only. He knew what Miles would do if he found out Lazarus was onboard this ship.

“Ari,” Lazarus smiled in her direction, and the sight was enough to make her stomach go sour. It was like a snake attempting to be charming. As if he thought everything he had done to Carter, all of the mental and physical abuse, had never happened. Lazarus asked, “Could you excuse us?”

“Maybe I should…” Ariana said, to which Carter finally yielded with a nod. He knew his best friend well enough by now to know she herself was this close to attacking Lazarus for everything he had done in the past, and he took the plate from her and she took her leave.

Carter turned back to his ex and shook his head, “What are you doing here?”

“What?” Lazarus poured on the charm with that smile of his and stepped closer, prompting Carter to take an instinctive step back. Lazarus asked, “Is it so unbelievable I’d want to take part in this fancy cruise of yours?”

Carter scoffed, “You’ve never taken an interest in wrestling a day in your life!”

“No.” Laz conceded. “But I have taken an interest in you.” And this statement only caused Carter to do a double take and he frowned.

“Seriously?” Carter sneered. “It’s been two - years, Laz! In fact, the last time I saw you, you tried to sue me!”

“For beating me up and costing me five modeling gigs.” Lazarus pointed out, to which Carter said, “Because you put your hands on my Grandmother. You’re lucky I didn’t do worse!”

“Whatever.” Lazarus rolled his eyes as if Carter’s admonishing of him was the most ludicrous act imaginable. He sighed and that smile returned, taking another step forward, “That’s all water under the bridge. You and I had a good thing going until your friends got involved. I thought, you know… maybe we could get a drink? Catch up on old times?” One step closer. “Have some fun…?”

“Save it.” Carter stated roughly, setting the plates in hand aside and he held up his left hand in his ex’s face, giving him a closeup view of both rings on his finger. Lazarus stared and it took a moment to process until things clicked.

“You’re married?” Lazarus said, a mocking tone of disbelief in his voice. “You?”

“What can I say?” Carter shrugged his shoulders, matching his smile with one of his own. “I upgraded since we saw each other last.”

Lazarus just shook his head in disbelief before he ultimately asked, “Who is it?”

“None of your business.” Carter answered back defiantly, before he yielded, knowing the answer would do more harm to his ex than not knowing. “Miles.” Lazarus’s otherwise handsome face slid into an expression that could best be described as cold and ugly. Carter could not help himself but to add, “And why would I ever settle for pot roast again after tasting kobe beef?”

Lazarus laughed derisively, “Come on, Carter. You talk but it was all bad. We had some good times.”

“Oh, right!” Carter looked upward in thought. “Remind me again about those good times? Were they the ones where you beat me so bloody that my own family didn't recognize me? Or the time you beat me to the floor and raped me?”

“Watch your mouth.” Lazarus said with dangerous intent, not taking any form of insult likely. And perhaps misunderstanding that their old relationship hierarchy yet stood. “I’d hate to go to your bosses and get you fired for that smart mouth.”

Carter just stared at the man before he snorted back a laugh. The smile was anything but cheery as he shook his head and took a moment to compose himself before he shook his head and said, “Do you seriously think that you can still intimidate me, Laz? I mean, at all? Especially by threatening to tattle on me to my bosses? Which, when you think about it, only goes to show how little you know about this business I'm in. Especially when one of my bosses has turned being a bitch into an art form and the other is extremely protective of the men and women he's responsible for?”

This time it was Carter, not Lazarus, who stepped closer and Lazarus taking a step back, knowing now things had indeed changed. Carter whispered, “If I were you, I'd be smart for the first time in my left and skedaddle. Because if I know my Ari - and I do - then she is fast on her way to get Miles.”

Carter turned and picked both his and Miles’s plates back up and started to take his leave, pausing just long enough to lean in and whisper in Lazarus’s ear with as much sarcasm as he could muster, “It was good seeing you again.” And he walked right past Lazarus, leaving him all alone and watching him vanish into the crowd.

---

The door to an office setting opened up and Helluva Bottom Carter, who in a matter of days would be challenging for the Internet Championship at Summer XXXTreme XII, entered. He was dressed in a tasteful and tan tweed suit with his hair slicked back and thick rimmed glasses worn over his eyes. Carrying a clipboard in hand, he carefully walked across the hardwood floor of his office, passing a couch where a mannequin, dressed in coveralls and a Xerox copy of the face of Internet Champion Peter Vaughn taped to its head.

“Pardon me a moment, Mister Vaughn…”

Dr Carter drew up a chair close to the sofa and had a seat. He crossed his ankle over his knee and smiled down at his “patient”.

“I'm sorry I'm late but I got here as soon as I wanted to. Now, where did we leave off from our last session?”

He starts to rifle through the papers on his clipboard and smiles with satisfaction, nodding.

“Ah yes! We were discussing your career and how your recent actions have tarnished it.”

Setting the pen back down on the clipboard and resting it on his lap, Dr Carter folded his hands together, interlacing his fingers, and looked down with much sympathy toward his “patient”.

“While I am greatly in favor of the direct method, I thought we'd start this session a little bit differently if you don't mind? And discuss not only your actions, but maybe how history has had its effect on you and allowed you to think that taking the shortcut was a perfectly normal and acceptable thing to do. And if you don't mind, I thought perhaps we could take part in some comparative therapy? In doing so, we can visit some instances in other sports where individuals also took the shortcut en route to success. Thus way I can show you that your actions aren't so unique nor special. And truthfully? Neither are you.”

Dr. Carter, eyes closed and nodding with sympathy, reached over and patted his patient on the hand.

“I know. It's easier to say than it is to hear, but that is one of the risks of therapy.”

“Now then, are you familiar with the basketball controversy between Russia and America in the 1972 Olympics? It was no small secret that Russia wanted to win fifty gold medals to commemorate the anniversary of the Soviet Union. The Soviets stacked their team with professionals while designating them as soldiers to get past their own “no professionals’ rule while at the same time, crippling the American team under the same conditional rules. Among other flagrant violations, the last three seconds of the game was restarted multiple times until the Russian team was able to score the winning basket. Cementing one of the worst controversies in Olympic history.”

Dr. Carter looked over the rim of his glasses toward his patient.

“See? Compared to that, you're not so bad.”

“Even the NFL has not been without controversy over the last fifteen to twenty years. In the 2007 season, the New England Patriots videotaped the defensive signals of the New York Jets which was found to be a gross violation of the rules.”

“However it is in my professional opinion that the worst example of cheating in sports within 1983 when professional boxer Luis Resto removed an ounce of the padding from his gloves, replacing it with chalk, allowing him to brutalize and defeat the undefeated Billy Collins Jr. Billy's injuries were so severe that he lost partial sight in his eyes and his boxing career was ended. There is speculation that this was the catalyst that led to Billy ending his life prematurely.”

Dr. Carter looked down at his patient and smiled.

“You see? Compared to that, you're relatively meaningless.”

“Now I think the fascinating question is not the who's not the how's but the why's. Why did these and countless other athletes attempt to cheat their ways to victory? There are, of course, your typical sociological cliche answers. Anything from those self-esteem to the desire to get ahead of others. In sports, money and fame is a motive. As is prestige. Some might run circles around themselves by cheating to prove how smart they are when in fact, it proves the exact opposite. Some cheap simply because it makes things easy. But where you're concerned, dear?”

Dr. Carter looked to his patient and shook his head, clucking his tongue.

“You're short.”

He shrugged.

“I'm sorry! I simply don't know how else to say it. Average height for a professional wrestler is between 5 '10 and 6 ft 4. You, my dear, are clearly below average and it has affected you psychologically. It's a psychological fact that people, mainly men, who are of short stature, possess an overly aggressive or domineering demeanor. Your attitude to win at all costs, along with your recent actions, is all the evidence that I need to prove you not guilty – but in desperate need of help. That's where I come in here, and I am thankful that you decided to come to me. It's probably one of the few smart decisions that you've made recently in life.”

“You know, now that I think about it, having you as a subject raises a very interesting point. In most sports when someone is caught cheating, they face severe repercussions. Fines. Suspensions. Some are even banned for life and forced to return whatever prizes or awards that they had won due to their unscrupulous methods. The aforementioned Luis Resto? He was imprisoned because of his criminal actions. However in professional wrestling? This is the only sport where the government isn't involved where cheaters are not only allowed to get away with their actions, but are allowed to prosper. You don't have your championships taken away or victories  from the records. No, if anything you're just handed more opportunities.”

Dr Christian uncrossed his ankle from his knee and slowly removed his glasses. He cast aside the clipboard onto the coffee table nearby and drew in a deep breath.

“I was truly hoping that trying to deal deeply enough into your mind might give me some semblance of how you can be helped. But the simple truth is, I cannot help somebody who doesn't want to be. Everything that you said as of late, doesn't scream ‘Help me!’. It mocks the very profession that we are in and has told me you feel absolutely no shame.”

He shrugged, staring straight ahead at the wall.

“So be it. I can see you out of a place of caring, wanting to remove the tool around your waist that has only served to make you think lower and lower each time you stepped inside of the Ring. But if you want to just continue acting like a male Karen who does nothing but play the victim card and continuously talk out of his ass, well then we're going to have to abandon this subterfuge and simply fight. Tooth and claw.”

“That's fine Peter. More than mine actually. Everything that you've said, all that you've done, you've proven only one thing by all of that bullshit. And that is a simple fact that you're looking past me already. And that's not an insult to me. It actually works in my favor better than you can imagine. You think I'm some sad little victim that you're going to take advantage of inside of the ring? Sweet pea, I seriously cannot wait to see the look on your face when you find just how wrong you are. I've had too many people already - too many - who have made that same mistake and the only thing I left behind inside of that ring with them was excuses. Excuses for why they lost. Excuses for how I could have done to them what they suffered. You don't live the life I lived, young as I am, without knowing how to fight.”

“And yes, Peter. I will give you full props for your track record of success at my expense. I admit it. In four matches, you've had my number. But I want you to tell the full story. I want you to acknowledge that in my big return that you talked about and in that mixed tag team match, there really wasn't anything at stake. I lost in front of my dad, that stung. I admit it. And losing with Ariana as my partner wasn't how I wanted that match to go but it also didn't move you forward or hold me back.”

He leaned forward, is right forearm rested against his knee.

“And as for those last two matches? The tag team match and the ladder match?”

He shook his head.

“Neither time did you straight up beat me. That's just where you continued with your outlook of winning at all costs. You had to cheat to win that title around your waist. You had to drug me to get that pinfall against me in the tag team match. And you never would have won that briefcase had it not been for that masked lunatic blinding me. That's not something you can dispute unless you really have something negative going on up here!”

He tapped the forefinger to his temple.

“I find it amusing at best that throughout this entire ordeal between us, you question my intelligence in attacking you. As if it hasn’t brought me to where I wanted to go all along. True, I could have issued you a challenge but I found my own methods to be much more effective. And, not to toot my own horn but … toot toot! It was me getting under your skin, not the other way around and I don’t think you know how to handle that. By my own estimation, it’s gotten me exactly what I want so how was it a dumb thing to do on my part? Oh! I get it… that was your way of warning me, or some sad attempt at intimidation. Well, allow me to tell you Peter that the only mistake I ever made where you’re concerned was when you revealed to the world that you wore that outfit due to your janitorial roots. And here all this time I just thought you were a garbage man.”

“You don’t scare me in the slightest, Peter. You’d do better to climb back into your Keebler house and make the locker room some cookies than try to make me fear you. I’ve been inside of the ring with ENIGMA. I’ve been in the ring with Michael Harris - THAT Michael Harris - both men who are above and beyond anything you’re capable of when it comes to intimidation factors! And them I beat!”

He shook his head and slowly forced his way to his feet.

“I’m sorry, Peter. You can’t be helped. Only humbled.”

He looked down toward his patient one final time.

“Feel free to remain until the weekend is over.”

He turned his back and made his exit, one final statement to be made.

“That is when our session comes to an end.”

The night was young and well within its prime, as in a matter of days Sin City Wrestling would hit the scene of Inglewood, California, a distance of less than forty miles from the famed City of Angels, Los Angeles - for the much hyped and celebrated 400th edition of Climax Control! This show has attracted attention the world over, not for merely proving the staying power of SCW and the men and women behind it, but because stars of the past - both male and female alike, would be returning for one more clash in the spotlight!

And the two men who called this condo in particular their home would be no different as the soon-to-be-wed Miles Kasey would be challenging for the Mixed Tag Team titles alongside Alexandra Calaway, and Carter McKinney would be accepting the challenge by former Superstar and Roulette Champion, Caleb Storms. But it was what was to come in less than a week which brought us to where we were this evening; a wedding between two young souls who had found and completed one another. And tonight, only two days away from that historic edition of Climax Control, both groom and … groom, would be partaking in one last night of single revelry with their respective wedding parties and closest friends.

“So…” Miles started to speak as soon as Carter emerged from their shared bedroom and the adjoining bathroom, freshly showered and practically glowing. Carter could indeed be accused of being the stereotype of a gay man’s propensity for self care. His blond-colored hair carefully styled and dressed in a white dress shirt with gold floral accents, black slacks and matching dress shoes. The only bling being that moonstone necklace gifted to him for his birthday two years prior, and of course the moonstone ring that Miles had proposed with.

Miles slid up from behind his fiance and snaked his muscled arms around his waist to nuzzle him in the nape of the neck, and felt quite satisfied with himself by the shudder that he felt course its way through Carter’s body. Having that effect on his man never got old and Miles finished asking, “What are your plans for the evening?”

“Hey - heyheyhey!” Carter laughed as he finally (and reluctantly) pried himself away from Miles’s grasp. “We had an agreement about asking what each others’ plans were. And besides…” Carter walked across the threshold of the condo toward the front door, followed closely by Miles. “But if I’m going to be honest, I’m not entirely sure what Ari has in mind. I know her first plan was a rooftop pool party but Bobbie is coming and she doesn’t want her feeling left out with that boot of hers.”

They reached the front door and Carter extended a hand for the keys to his lime green bug from the ceramic seashell dish they rested in on the counter, when his hand was swatted with lightning fast precision by the “lady of the house” and their adopted little pain in the butt, Ms. Thang. The black and white feline was laying contentedly on the very same table and how dare he disturb her rest. Carter stared at the cat and then to Miles who made no attempt at hiding the smirk from his face and he jetted a thumb back at Ms. Thang, stating, “Control your daughter!”

“Oh sure!” Miles quipped with dry sarcasm. “She does something wrong and suddenly she’s MY daughter.” Earning him a look from his man as Carter successfully retrieved his keys from the dish, avoiding another swat.

Carter turned around but this time there was a genuine smile on his face as he snuggled up once again into Miles’s arms, saying, “But I can say I told the girls no strippers, much to their disappointment I imagine.”

“Oh?” Miles’s brow raised.

“Sure.” Carter leaned in for a kiss, adding, “Why would I need that when I got you to do that for me any time I want.” Adding a reach around to quickly grab two handfuls of Miles’s backside, causing him to jump and make that “Oo!” face complete with pursed lips.

“Keep that up,” Miles started to say. “And neither one of us will make it to our parties!”

Carter just drew back and waggled his eyebrows suggestively as he backed out of the door and closed it behind him….

---

The evening had started off successfully as Ariana had reserved only the best private room at Las Vegas's trendy Cathédrale restaurant just off the lobby of the Hotel Ariana. Carter’s closest friend spared absolutely no expense and money was no object for this one special evening for her bestie and those closest to him, indulging in French cuisine that would wet even the hardiest of appetites! Dishes such as Faroe Island Salmon, Black Truffle Fettuccine, Prime Aged Ribeye etc were enjoyed by all, and money was no object for this one evening as Ariana had this night planned well in advance! But it was what was to come afterwards that truly made this night something to remember!


https://open.spotify.com/track/5R8dQOPq8haW94K7mgERlO?si=803d6ebe97494c00

“I wanna hold 'em like they do in Texas, please
Fold 'em, let 'em hit me, raise it, baby, stay with me (I love it)
Love game intuition, play the cards with spades to start
And after he's been hooked, I'll play the one that's on his heart”

“Oh, whoa, oh, oh
Whoa, oh, oh
I'll get him hot, show him what I've got
Oh, whoa, oh, oh
Whoa, oh, oh
I'll get him hot, show him what I've got”

“Can't read my, can't read my
No, he can't read my poker face
(She's got me like nobody)
Can't read my, can't read my
No, he can't read my poker face
(She's got me like nobody)”

The music of Lady Gaga pumped across the sound system of the Golden Ring Casinos nightclub and the opening shot was that of a ring of extended hands reaching to the table top, each one grabbing a shot glass filled with only the very best tequila in the house. They picked the shots up and you saw none other than the man of the hour himself, along with his best woman for his upcoming wedding, Ariana Angelos, along with his immediate wedding party of Dawn Warren and Kat Jones. Not to mention friends Bella Madison, Bobbie Dahl and Alexandra Calaway rounded out the guest list. Even Ben Jordan popped in for a drink and to wish Carter all the best. And Ben would not explain how he was able to attend both Carter's as well as Miles's bachelor parties at practically the same time!

Everyone present was wearing a custom made “I Do Crew” rainbow shirt that Ariana had custom made for one and all.

The shots were downed and Ariana immediately signaled the nearest bar made for refills, fully intending to get her bestie absolutely lit and he was well on his way! The fact that the owner of the Golden Ring Casino, Daniel Morgan, had made certain that all drinks for the wedding party were on the house as his gift to Carter and Miles, only helped speed things along!

And as the music continued to pulsate throughout the nightclub, Dawn acted the life of the party as she started grabbing hands and dragging everyone out onto the already glutted dance floor for an impromptu dance party, of which everyone was only too glad to oblige, having the absolute time of their lives!

Everyone that is save for Bobbie Dahl herself who was unable to take part in this part of the evening because of her foot injury and the fact she was yet wearing her walking boot. And to Carter this was absolutely unacceptable for her to be left out of anything involving the evening, despite the fact this one night was meant to be all about him. So perhaps it was the wine at dinner coupled with multiple shots afterwards, but Carter proceeded to march himself over and straddle Bobbie’s lap and give her the steamiest lap dance he could manage!

Bobbie’s jaw hit the floor and all of the party guests and many around them whooped and cheered as Carter totally and completely hammed it up for her benefit!

That was when none other than Mackenzie Page of London Underground, along with Charlotte Elliot and Osbourne approached the party - but not before Bobbie slipped a twenty into Carter’s pocket.

“Alright kid, break it up.” Mackenzie said in a tone that would brook no argument, but it was for an altogether different reason. “We got one more surprise for you.”

Carter, still straddling Bobbie’s lap, cast a playful look back over his shoulder and smiled, “Oh keep this up and you just might spoil me!”

“Dare to dream!” Mackenzie rolled her eyes and grabbed him by the collar, pulling him from Bobbie’s lap. “Now c’mon!” And she, along with the other two London Underground members and his guests, walked through the crowd until they hit another part of the nightclub and as the crowd parted, there was actually a professional mud wrestling ring set up in the middle of the floor! It was surrounded by ring ropes and rows of seats, most of which were occupied by attendees of the Casino, save for the empty seats in the front row reserved specifically for Carter’s bachelor party.

“Are you kidding me!?” Carter laughed as he turned to Mackenzie while the guests all made their way past him to take their seats. “Since when does Daniel have this sort of thing at the Casino!?”

“He doesn’t.” Charlotte shrugged as they followed Carter toward the front row. “But it’s a special occasion…”

Mackenzie added, “So he said fuck it.” And they arrived at the front row to see each seat had been filled, leaving Carter looking confused and he looked to London Underground.

“But there’s no seat for me.” He started to say to which Mackenzie replied, “Therein lies the surprise.”

And before Carter could react, Osbourne scooped the MUCH smaller man up into his arms and HEAVED him over the ropes as Carter screeched, “NO!” and he landed with a wet splat, sending the mud splashing everywhere! Ariana, Bella and everyone else were all laughing and the rest of the audience cheered even though they themselves were none the wiser!

Carter flopped helplessly in the mud and rolled over to rise to his knees and he was completely covered in California red clay - mud for professional mud wrestling! His clothes were ruined and his hair soaked, the mud covering his facial features as he stared at the women of London Underground.

“Uh oh.” Charlotte quipped. “I think he’s angry.”

“Yeah, maybe this wasn’t such a great idea.” Mackenzie swatted Osbourne on the shoulder and nodded to the mud pit. “Help him out, Os.”

The big man lumbered over to do as instructed and leaned over the ropes, extending a hand. Carter clasped it but no sooner did he do so than Mackenzie planted her boot on Osbourne’s backside and with a tremendous push, sent the big man of London Underground tumbling over the ropes and landing in the mud with an even BIGGER splash!

Now the crowd was really in a fun loving frenzy as Osbourne rolled over to his knees and glared out at his personal tormentor in Mackenzie who just smirked and shrugged her shoulders. By instinct alone, Os tore his now ruined shirt off and threw it aside, exposing his massively muscled upper torso and garnering quite a rave of whistles and catcalls!

Mackenzie cast Charlotte a look and nodded and with her left hand, Charlotte swung the hammer into the time keeper’s bell and a loud clang was the result!

And immediately the drunken Carter pounced on Osbourne’s back, the slippery mud causing Os to collapse face-first into the mud and the pair scrambled in the mud! A laughing Bella fell against Dawn and said, “Now the party has REALLY started!” With Mackenzie high-fiving Charlotte as the crowd cheered the two in the mud on!

---

Carter emerged from a special locker room that was housed deep in the Golden Ring Casino, showered and wearing a change of clothes that Ariana had secretly smuggled inside, thanks to Mackenzie Page having tipped her off. All the mud gone, and the thrill of the evening’s festivities having started to burn the booze from his system to a lesser degree.

His skin still hot and moist from the shower, his clothes clinging to his flesh, Carter stood back against the wall and looked absolutely euphoric.

“Okay, this week has been one long and absolutely wild ride and I hate for it to come to an end, but as they say, all good things have to come to an end. But in this case, to pave the way for even bigger and better things to enter your life. And I will be the first to admit that I am heading into this match at Climax Control 400 with so much on my plate that my head is absolutely swimming, but that’s life!”

“Right now, I am blessed and everything coming to me has been the result of someone looking down on me and smiling. Above everything else, I’m pretty certain that everyone watching me out there is aware that in just five days, I’m going to be a married man and I swear to god…”

Carter closed his eyes and with a smile on his face, shook his head as if he were in a dream-like state.

“I don’t think my life could get to any better place where I am right at this point in time. I didn’t even think being here where I am would have ever been possible, but I was fortunate enough to have loved ones like Miles and Ariana open my eyes to what I truly deserve as a man. Other things that are looming on the horizon…?”

He jetted out a bottom lip and looked upward in contemplation.

“I might have a hand in myself. Both out of a sense of justice and no small amount of pettiness. Most of that leaning toward what I did after Peter Vaughn’s this past week. Call it a spur of the moment decision because while I was standing backstage, watching on the monitor. And to his credit, Miles did try to stop me but…”

He shrugged.

“Consider that payback for that shot with the briefcase, and sending me falling, blind off of a ladder! I could have broken my neck, and was lucky I was only banged up as much as I was, but that really is of no concern of yours, is it Vaughn? Because like you always say - anything to win? Well, I guess you heard the news. I was originally scheduled to be in the Ultimate X match at Summer XXXTreme XII but I just could not resist the temptation to bow out and bring all of your plans crashing down around you. Me laying you out? That was just a sign of things to come.”

“Which brings us to the here and now – and what’s coming in Inglewood, California. Climax Control 400… Wow!”

Carter whistled and shook his head.

“I was about twelve years old when that first show took place, and I was glued to the set! I watched every episode, every Supercard web-per-view that my family would subscribe to, and here I stand, the result of endless dreams coming to fruition. … Pun intended. And here we go, returning to California for the big 4-0-0 and a match that is literally going to steal the show! Caleb Storms and myself!”

Carter cupped his hands around his mouth, leaned back at the waist and … 

“WHOOOO!”

“Now I have to admit that when Caleb first signed up for the Blast From the Past, I was thrilled to see him back because before I realized my dream, he was one of my absolute favorite wrestlers on the roster! He and Despayre were the two GREATEST aerial wrestlers and they left my head absolutely spinning with the things they did inside of the ring! Caleb’s ongoing in-ring rivalry that he had going with my GO Gym grad peer, Fenris? Those matches, even though they didn’t go Caleb’s way, god they showed the world just how ballsy the man was because how many men actively sought out Fenris and WANTED to fight him in his own turf!?”

Carter pursed his lips and let loose a low whistle while shaking his head, thoroughly impressed.

“So, imagine my surprise when after the Blast From the Past when Caleb spoke up about one more match and he wanted it against yours truly at Climax Control 400? By the time I was aware, I was not medically cleared because of that fall off of the ladder, but I wanted to accept more than anything else just to experience the thrill of not only competing at such a historic event, but also having the chance to wrestle one of my favorite wrestlers bar none! I was actually concerned I wouldn’t be cleared in time but here I am, and here we go Caleb!”

“I admit I don’t know why you chose me out of everyone to face at Climax Control 400. You could have challenged Fenris one more time…”

Carter paused in thought and nodded.

“Scratch that. But did you think maybe facing me, a less experienced and not as imposing GO Gym graduate might be your ticket to a little comeuppance toward your record against Fenris? I shouldn’t think you’d have such a thought in your head. You’re a good guy, and you have your reasons and the fact that you did, in fact, choose me out of everyone both past and present…”

He almost laughed with a hand on his heart.

“I tell you Caleb, I’m honored. I’m thrilled. And I am confident that you and I are going to tear that house down.”

Carter pushed himself up from the wall and smiled into the camera.

“I can’t wait, Caleb. And thanks, for everything.”

Carter then walked off-camera, bringing the promo to a close.

The first thing that Miles Kasey noticed about the waiting room just outside of the office of Carter’s therapist was the minimalist decor. The room itself was dominated by soft, neutral tones with the walls a very light beige with a minimum of three paintings spaced carefully, hanging from the walls. It would seem that the good doctor’s preferences in decor were natural as she had more than one potted plant or fern in the corners of the room, on small accent tables and even hanging from the walls. But perhaps the thing Miles noticed most was that nowhere was there a single newspaper or magazine for those waiting to leaf through, nor a television to keep one’s attention occupied.

The latter was by professional design by the doctor herself. While some patients might welcome the distractions, especially from the TV, others might not and that could lead to one imposing one’s own comforts over another. But there was more to it than that, a more professional reason. Doctor Delacore didn’t want her patients to be distracted by some random magazine articles or episodes of Keeping Up With the Kardashians. She wanted them to be focused on themselves, their thoughts calm and private for when they were about to talk.

Beside him, Carter sat idly in the seat next to Miles’s own, his one hand holding up his phone and idly scrolling through some random website when he found the fingers of his free hand suddenly interwoven by Miles’s. This drew Carter’s attention away from his phone and he turned to Miles who did not look directly at him, but his stare was elsewhere, his thoughts his own. But you know how it feels when you can sense that someone is watching you? Staring? That was how both men felt when they turned their eyes to find an older woman on the other side of the room, watching them intently and showing no shame in her staring. Another one of the doctor’s patients, most likely.

Carter turned away, preferring not to give his attention to this woman but Miles continued to stare her down, noting her eyes continued to flicker toward their joined hands and maybe even the engagement ring on Carter’s hand.

Ahhh! So that was it! Miles smiled suddenly and leaned forward in his chair, saying, “Hey I’ll tell you what’s wrong with me if you tell me what’s wrong with you.” Prompting the woman to suddenly avert her gaze and pretend as if the two men weren’t there. Miles smiled, despite himself, and leaned back in the chair when he felt a reassuring squeeze on his hand, turning his focus onto his fiance.

“Are you okay?” Carter asked, his calm masking concern.

“I’m fine, love.” Miles replied, but he fidgeted which indicated that he wasn’t being entirely truthful. He then sighed and admitted, “Maybe I am a bit nervous. I’ve never been to a doctor like this.”

“You mean a therapist?” Carter asked, to which Miles nodded. “Never?”

“Never.” Miles shook his head. “Had offers and even a suggestion or two that I should, but just never followed through.”

Carter nodded, assuring Miles, “It’ll be alright. Doctor Delacore is great. A bit of a ball buster - but great.”

At hearing the term ‘ball buster,’ Miles turned to Carter and snorted, “You’re not exactly selling me on this babe.” Causing Carter to smile but before either could speak further, there was a buzz on the desk of the secretary stationed on the far side of the waiting room, distracting them all. The secretary picked up the phone and had a quiet exchange before hanging up and she looked in their direction, “Mister McKinney? Mister Kasey? Doctor Delacore is ready to see you.”

“Fan-tastic.” Miles half muttered before he allowed the already standing Carter to draw him to his feet and escort him toward the closed door of the doctor’s official office. Once opened, Miles realized that the office was decorated much like the waiting room, save for a large and fully stocked book shelf along the wall and a mini fridge in the corner behind the doctor’s desk. But the doctor herself? She was a woman Miles immediately read as being both heartfelt in her career and patients, as well as simply formidable. Someone whose respect was commanded inside of this room, and would brook no less.

She was older, in her middle years but dressed professionally in a tasteful brown pant suit, hair done but wearing very little makeup. She stood up the moment the two men entered and shut the door behind them.

“Carter…” The doctor spoke amicably as she extended a hand toward him and he readily accepted with the genuine familiarity between the two of them.

“Doctor Delacore.” Carter smiled, shaking her hand and once their hands were no longer joined, Carter turned at the waist and held a hand toward Miles, presenting him and saying, “Doctor Delacore? This is Miles Kasey. My fiance.”

“Miles.” Doctor Delacore nodded, extending a hand likewise to him to which he accepted before she gestured toward the two chairs opposite her desk. Only then did she sit down once the two men were settled.

Observing Miles’s curious eyes roaming albeit discreetly (he had hoped), she nodded and said, “Not what you expected?”

Miles turned back to her as if a naughty child caught off guard and he shook his head but didn’t speak up directly. Doctor Delacore motioned with her head toward her surroundings and said as more of a statement, “This isn’t what you were expecting?”

“Maybe a little.” Miles flushed a charming shade as if he had just been caught with his hand in the proverbial cookie jar. “I was expecting a couch…”

“And your doctor being some short little man with a sharp beard and glasses with a notepad?” She half jested, but Miles answered, “Well yeah - NO! I mean… no.” He sighed and shook his head in the negative, eyes closed.

“It’s alright, Miles.” She said. “It’s natural. Even in these modern times, any form of medicine, even mental, is still observed as something of a man’s world.” She picked up a pen to write something down on the pad in front of her, “So if it makes you feel any better, I used to be a man.”

You could have practically heard the record screech to a halt as Miles stared at her and she just looked up from her brow and he then heard Carter snort back a laugh. Miles turned to him and only then did he realize the doctor had uncharacteristically been teasing him, somewhat to help put his mind at ease. Miles closed his eyes and chuckled, and only then did Carter release his hand and run his fingers along his forearm before sitting back.

Doctor Delacore sat up straight and placed both hands on her desktop, lacing her fingers together.

“Miles,” She begun, addressing him directly. “I am sure Carter has told you about me and my policies, but I would like to tell you myself so that you understand with no room for misunderstandings.”

Miles nodded silently and she continued, “I am not a marriage counselor. That is no longer my area of expertise. Too much drama for my tastes. But I agreed to delve back into this field for Carter and yourself as both a favor - as well as my way of thanking you for the invitation to your wedding.”

Carter and Miles both smiled, and Miles added for reassurance, “You’re coming?”

“I have already accepted the invitation.” She answered with a slight nod. “But this is not about me. It’s about the both of you. Even the most ‘perfect’ of couples have to go through premarital counseling to get anything off their chests in order to build a solid foundation for a long term commitment. As the first session…”

“First?” Miles questioned. “As in more than one?”

“Typically the usual number is between five and seven sessions.” Doctor Delacore answered. “So yes, the first. The goal is to identify and address any potential conflicts early on before they become more serious concerns. I will not speak of what goes on in these sessions with anyone, and neither will you. Those are my rules, and if you dislike this, the door is there.”

“I understand.” Miles nodded after a moment’s pause, to which Carter looked from him to the doctor who now seemed satisfied, stating, “Good. Now, I am going to tell you the same little secret that I told Carter during his journey with me. Be yourself, above all else, in this office. If you get angry, so be it. If you think you need to yell or cry or to curse, I want you to do so. And despite what some therapists and counselors who like to take full credit, I am not one of them. It’s as with Carter during the hard periods of his life, the journey was his. The path already laid out in front of him. I just helped to guide him along.”

MIles turned to Carter and smiled lovingly into his eyes before he looked at Doctor Delacore and he said, “Well, all due respect doctor, I still have to thank you for everything that you’ve done for him. For us. If it wasn’t for your help …”

“It was my pleasure.” She said, interrupting what he might have said as being something close to the truth. She had helped heal Carter’s mind and soul during the hardest times of his life. During both the loss of his father as well as the hell he went through with his ex Lazarus. And the healing that helped Carter feel strong and confident enough to acknowledge that he did deserve to be happy – and to have Miles in his life.

Doctor Delacore then said, “But it’s something that has come to my attention which is why we’re here for our first session. Something concerning – to Carter here - that he felt it best addressed so that you might be able to work things out.”

Miles’s brow creased into a confused frown. Something … concerning? This was news to him because as far as he knew or was aware, everything between them was about as perfect as could be. Miles turned to Carter and now it was Carter who looked down, almost ashamed or hesitant to speak up now that he had the opportunity to do so.

“Babe?” Miles started to say. “What’s wrong?”

“Tell him.” Doctor Delacore prompted Carter, but said no more as she watched and observed and would speak up only when and if needed.

“Are you having second thoughts?” Miles finally broke the silence between them, causing Carter’s head to snap upright to look at him, almost aghast, “Second th… no! How could you think…?”

“Then what is it?” Miles pressed. “Love, what’s wr-”

“I don’t trust Lyle, okay!?” Carter blurted out, his eyes clenched shut tightly. The words hung between them and to say Miles was shocked, would have been a vast understatement. He wouldn’t have been more so had Carter slapped him right across the face. Carter said in a coarse voice as if he were struggling to say the words, “I don’t trust him.”

“Don’t trust…” Miles was clearly struggling to process that his fiance did not trust his newly discovered half-brother. He shook his head and asked, “What do you mean you don’t… I mean, why? What has he done…?”

“Directly, nothing.” Carter admitted. “But ever since he showed up, everything put together just makes me feel… paranoid, I guess. Like waiting for the shoe to drop.”

“Everything?” Miles frowned. “Like what?”

“Miles, come on.” Carter finally turned in his chair and forced himself to look at the man he loved so dearly and prayed that he would understand. “Do I have to spell it out? Let’s start with how you found out about him when that bitch Wendy of all people dropped the bombshell that you had a brother you never knew about?”

“Wendy?” Doctor Delacore prodded in question.

Miles answered, “My sister’s mother-in-law.”

“Is the very definition of a bigot monster-in-law.” Carter added. He then went on to continue his explanation to Miles, “Then by sheer coincidence he ends up getting cross-trained at the GO Gym, the very same Gym and practically at the same time, as when you were allowed to start going there? Then when you pretty much let the cat out of the bag, he approached you and chose to do so right before you had a big match that deserved your full attention? He couldn’t have waited until the end of the night or the next day? No, he approached you before. And ever since then, it’s been as if he had always been a part of your life from the very start. No feeling out process. No real getting to know each other or taking your time drawing him into your circle. He’s just … there.”

Carter took a deep breath as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. He then shook his head and added, “And don’t even get me started on him and Ally.”

“Ally?” Doctor Delacore asked once again so she could maintain tabs between them.

Miles answered, “A close friend of mine.” To which the doctor nodded. Miles almost scoffed in his disbelief on what he was hearing. “What is so wrong with what’s going on between Lyle and Alexandra? Is it their age difference?”

“No it’s more so like they were all over each other and flirting the moment she found out about him.” Carter stressed.

“You mean like how you were flirting with me when we first met?” Miles only half jested, but Carter looked straight at him and said, “The big difference here is I didn’t flirt with your brother before I met you.”

“Carter…” Doctor Delacore began. “Do you not like this Alexandra?”

“I like Alexandra just fine.” Carter stressed. “What I dislike is her insistence that I don’t like her.”

“Babe,” Miles spoke up. “Ally did not have feelings for me. All she did was a little harmless flirting.”

“Really?” Carter answered back. “Then why the moment she found out about Lyle did she shift her attention from you to him?”

For a moment, Miles was at a loss for words, but to help him, Doctor Delacore stated, “Transference is not an uncommon trait, Miles. It happens when one person transfers feelings from one person to an entirely different individual.”

“Like my brother.” Miles muttered.

Doctor Delacore nodded and then asked, “Miles, how does all of this make you feel?”

---

“I don’t know what to even begin to think about this situation that Miles and I have been put in thanks to that delusional bitch who fancies herself a Queen, namely Victoria Lyons. I am sorry but this goes out to her flesh and blood Eddie – dude? You have seriously got my sympathies for having to call that lunatic your family. I’ve sat back and watched everything she’s been saying on Twitter in regards to pretty much every match that she had a hand in booking, and trying to justify them in one way or another, but you know what I was also made aware of during this entire time?”

“She has yet to really have the guts to speak up to me directly. She’s had her say with Miles and Harper and everyone else that’s attracted her attention for one reason or another but when I started in? When I spoke out against her putting me in a match this damn serious against the man I love more than life itself??? She either just couldn’t be bothered or she knew she that if she said anything to me in response, and I mean anything – that she would come to a very serious understanding that I have always lived by; and that is the simple truth that you will never find a bigger bitch than a pissed off gay man!”

“And guess what Queenie!? I am pissed off! I am angry and hurt and I literally do not know how the hell to go about a match where neither participant wants to be a part of! Miles and I met once before… one time, and it was far more uncomfortable than you can imagine - both physically as well as emotionally. And in recent times? When Miles was walking around as the Internet Champion, once or twice the powers that be offered me a chance at the championship and I just could not do it. Not because I was afraid of losing but I was afraid of winning. I was afraid of having to fight my man for something that he worked so hard for. I was afraid that I might actually take it away from him. But more so, I was afraid of what it would take for either one of us to walk away from an actual match as a winner. I don’t know how happily married couples like Roxi and Keira or Crystal and Seleana did it. I just … can’t. I won’t.”

“And newsflash; you can’t make me.”

“Carter, you’re being safe, yes?” It was the voice of Joanna McKinney that voiced her concerns for her only son and by extension, her future son-in-law, Miles Kasey who was currently in the shower following a grueling morning jog. Even in this city, Miles was not one to forgo a chance to work out, and even managed to get Carter to join him in his early morning run habit that Carter fully blamed the Baltasarsson brothers for kick starting.

And it was from inside his and Miles’s suite at the Kas Kekik Apart hotel where Carter was currently engaging in a video chat with his mother via Face Time, despite the extensive difference in hours between Turkey and Seattle, Washington. True, Carter was known for keeping regular contact with his Mom and Grams no matter where he was touring in the world; it had become daily ever since his and Miles’s arrival in Turkey. Joanna had done her research on the country of Turkey and their outlook toward the LGBTQ community and discovered it was less than favorable compared to so many other nations in the world.

“Mom…” Carter sat back in the chair that was positioned in front of the desk against the far wall of the suite. “You ask me that every time I call you ever since we arrived in Turkey. We’re fine.”

“Well you can't fault a mother for being concerned for the safety of her only son.” Joanna pointed out, and it was far more of a statement than it was a question. She raised her eyebrows over the rim of her glasses. “Can you?” She asked.

“No,” Carter smiled, despite himself. He knew well enough the risks as a gay man traveling in nations such as this. “I guess I can’t. How’s Grams?”

“Concerned, just like me.” Joanna spoke openly, adding, “Although you know your grandmother. She hides those feelings behind sass and humor.”

“Oh is that who I got it from?” Carter jested to which Joanna mocked his smirk with a brazenly fake laugh of her own. “Must be.” She answered, adding, “I know I’ve been driving you crazy but this is the first time you’ve gone to a country that didn’t favor your lifestyle.”

“Yeah because America has been overly progressive these past eight years towards the gays.” Carter jested but it was one of sarcasm for how backward things seemed to have gone for the LGBTQ community since 2016. Only recently have things even begun to recover.

Joanna stressed, “Limited as America has been lately, it’s still a world above many other countries for men and women like you sweety.”

“I know.” Carter smiled. “But I just want you to know we’re safe. Nothing bad has happened.”

Although Carter’s assurances were not accurate. Not entirely. For the most part, the citizens of Turkey were wary but welcoming, starving for the excitement that the Superstars and Bombshells of SCW were bringing to them this coming weekend. But unfortunately, there was always the possibility for there to be at least one rotten apple in the bushel filled with ripe and enticing fruit. And Carter had experienced that evidence firsthand just yesterday when he and Ariana had taken some time to go out for a bit of shopping for souvenirs for their friends and loved ones back home. Carter had tried to entice (IE drag) Miles along but shopping wasn’t Miles’s favorite of pastimes so while his fiance kicked back with Francisco and Malachi at the hotel, Ariana and Carter, along with Bella Madison, hit the waterfront shops for a simple, relaxing day of shopping and coffee, planning to meet the boys later for dinner.

And it was in an open shop called Kusadasi Leather, where everything from bags to jackets and beyond crafted of the finest leather materials was sold - that Carter came to a startling discovery. Celebrity did not always matter in the face of bigotry.

While Bella and Ariana were inspecting a display of some of the finest made leather boots they had ever had the pleasure of laying eyes upon, Carter had gone in search of a clerk. He had found a leather jacket that he wanted to buy for Miles as a surprise but there were none in Miles’s size, so Carter sought an employee that could perhaps help locate one.

And Carter did indeed find a middle aged male working behind the counter, but every time Carter tried to attract his attention, the man all but blatantly ignored his very presence. Carter, his head in the clouds, did not understand yet what he was facing until he tried for a third time to get the man to assist him and the man spun to face him with the ugliest expressions on his face.

It was a good thing Bella and Ariana were so far from the counter as they could not hear the words the clerk was saying, but it was clear by the pained shock on Carter’s face that the words were vile indeed. The clerk looked him up and down in disgust while pointing toward the open door and the streets beyond, and only then did Carter finally understand and his heart broke just a little.

Satisfied, the clerk turned away from him once again to resume his “work” and a heartbroken Carter quietly walked over to where Bella and Ariana were choosing their boots. Bella looked up first and asked, “Did they have one in Miles’s size?”

Carter just shook his head in a silent answer, trying to keep a straight face to ward off any suspicion or concern on the part of his shopping buddies.

“No.” he said weakly. “I’m just going to wait outside.” He smiled and turned and left the store without giving either young woman a chance to say anything, theory only response being a shared glance between one another.


Two kilometers South of the modern village of Yeniköy in the Ezine district of Çanakkale Province, Turkey, lies Besika Burnu. And only a short distance inland at a tumulus known as Besiktepe is what some historians and many enthusiasts of tales of the ancient world would tell you to be the location of the Tomb of Achilles. Achilles - the central character in Homer’s Iliad, Achilles was known to be the son of the sea goddess Thetis and thought of as history’s greatest warrior. The hero of the Trojan War. But if it was his lust and expertise in warfare that made him well known, it was his undying love for his close friend and as some historians believe - lover - Patroclus, that made him world renown for well over two thousand years.

And while few, if any, believe the demigod Achilles was real, many believe that there indeed was a powerful warrior and his loyal lover and friend who both died on the battlefields of the Trojan War, sparking the tales we now know and revere. Thought to have lived in the time of 400-350 B.C. Achilles was one of the few warriors in history to be openly respected and even revered by the man who became known as Alexander the Great. Alexander thought so highly of Achilles that he considered him both a hero as well as his greatest rival, longing to outdo the legacy of the famed Greek warrior. And in the year 334 B.C., Alexander paid reverence to the Tomb of Achilles, running naked to the Tomb itself where he laid a wreath upon his grave. And mimicking the love Achilles and Patroclus had for one another, Alexander's close friend and love Hephaistion did the same at the mound that was thought to be the grave of Patroclus.

Since then, many have tried and failed to follow the footsteps of Alexander to locate the lost Tomb of Achilles, but the one place that is most agreed upon to be the exact location was where we found ourselves to be now. The bus had slowed to a crawl on the country road, the doors sliding open and the first to emerge was a Turkish male of middle years wearing a tanned, collar shirt and white slacks with moccasins on his feet. He surveyed his surroundings and once satisfied, he beckoned those inside and soon to be followed was a respectable large group of tourists and history buffs who could not resist the chance to visit such a location. Of course, given the distance between the mountain and Yenikoy was just over a mile, it could have easily been walked in roughly thirty minutes' time, but the experience of the bus ride was just an additional part of the touristy package.

There were men and women both, young and old. But perhaps most prominent was a contingent of stars from Sin City Wrestling; notably Miles Kasey and his fiance Carter McKinney. Harper Mason. Bella Madison and her husband, and self-professed history buff - Malachi. All present looked around until their eyes fell upon the fabled mountain of Besiktepe. The scope of the mountain was easy to attract the attention of everyone present as it stood an impressive 5200 feet above sea level.

The heavens above the mountain were cloudy, a gray overcast with the lightest of rains sprinkling down from so very high above their heads. Still, the less than perfect weather was no detriment for those that traveled here from nearby Yeniköy where in a matter of days, the latest edition of SCW Climax Control would be held. And while the weather was wet, there was still a humid warmth behind it which allowed those present to don comfortable clothes of loose shirts and shorts if so desired. However a protective Miles Kasey had insisted that Carter wear something a touch more … substantial, all the better to prevent a relapse from his previous bout of bronchitis from a couple months previous. And while Carter complained and protested, ultimately he yielded to his future husband’s demands with the compromise of wearing jeans rather than shorts and a long sleeved albeit loose shirt. It would be warmer but safer because Miles was well aware that once someone experienced bronchitis, it was all but guaranteed to remain with them throughout the remaining years.

That being said, the tour guide called to the group and beckoned them to follow him and the hike began toward the base of Besiktepe. Of course they were not going to attempt to reach the summit, as there was not enough time in the day nor were any of them prepared. And besides, it was not the reason behind this group’s scheduled tour to be fair. That reason became all too clear within the hour as the group hiked diligently over stream and moor until they reached the approximate base of the mountain. And while the winds had been blowing harder than average for this time of year, here? The winds had strangely calmed down at this exact location, as if the gods did not want to disturb this final resting place of one of their greatest of demigods.

And while there was a well worn path that would lead to a trail further up the mountainside, it was the arrangement of rocks as if fashioning a precise monument that drew them near, where flowers had grown despite the rocky outcrop, a further testament toward whom they believed to be laying here. A tribute from the gods themselves? Yet not all of the flowers were grown naturally; some had been left here as gifts and offerings for the Greek warrior Achilles and his soulmate Patroclus.

Many of the tourists had spread out, looking to their heart’s leisure, including those of our own SCW crew. Malachi was strongly desiring to travel further up the mountain and explore, perhaps hoping to be the one to catch a glimpse of history and where exactly Achilles had been laid to rest but Bella had held fast to his arm to keep him from wandering off too far from her. Harper had walked closer toward the base of the mountain to afford herself a closer glimpse at the various flowers and offerings left by tourists and nature alike.

And Carter and Miles? The two lovebirds had stood back, perhaps wanting to stay somewhat discreet given Turkey’s views on the LGBTQ community but that did nothing to dissuade Miles from wrapping his muscled arm around Carter’s shoulder to hold him close.

“Thank you.” Carter spoke softly as he laid his head for a brief moment on Miles’s shoulder.

Miles asked, “For …?” To which Carter just shrugged and smiled, “For just being here with me.”

This only drew a broader smile from Miles as he snuggled his man in even more so against his upper body.

But while the majority of tourists continued to look around or take pictures - the younger majority taking those ridiculous selfies complete with “duck lips,” Carter took a step forward and reached into the large canvas bag he was carrying over his shoulder. His touring companions noticed this but it was Malachi whose curiosity got the better of him and he nodded his head in Carter’s general direction.

“What are you up to?” Malachi asked, his eyes rising from the bag to meet Carter’s own. “What is that?”

To which Carter answered - not with words but by a simple action as he took out a wreath, fashioned in classic style from combinations of ivy, laurel and myrtle. All eyes were curious but it seemed it was Malachi who understood enough and nodded, saying simply, “Understood.”

“What?” Harper asked, eyeing the wreath before looking between Malachi and Carter. “What is it?”

“This mountain is considered to be the Tomb of Achilles and burial site of Patroclus.” Carter said simply, his cheeks taking on a charming flush as if he was trying to prepare himself should any present make light of his proposed actions. He shrugged his slim shoulders and said, “Would seem a shame to visit and not leave an offering.”

Malachi’s expression was unreadable - big surprise. But Bella and Harper both smiled genuinely at his thought process. But it was Miles who stepped forward and he opened the canvas bag on his man’s shoulder wider and peered inside, saying, “There had better be a second one in there for me.”

And Carter did not even have to answer as Miles reached in and indeed took out a second wreath. Inspecting it closely, Miles then casually smiled and looked at his fiance and said, “I guess this makes me Achilles and you Patroclus, hm?”

“Actually,” Carter said. “If historians are to be believed, it would be the other way around. I’d be Achilles and you would be Patroclus.”

“What?” Miles asked, caught only remotely off guard by this outlook. “Why?”

“Well,” Carter began to explain. “If they parallel our lives? Patroclus was the older of the two so according to ancient Greek custom, Achilles was the receiver and Patroclus was the…” It was then Carter realized what he had just said in front of everyone and their eyes stared at him and he blushed an even darker shade of pink and said, “I know, I know! TMI!”

And he moved forward to lay the wreath at the base of the mountain, Miles snorting back a laugh to do the same while Malachi just looked heavenward and rolled his eyes.

---

By now, the sky had cleared as had the weather. The rain had long since passed and the sun had managed to fight its way through the overcast sky, but it had occurred late enough within the day that the transition between day and night had passed by quicker than rain and sunny skies. And it was here at the entrance to the location of Troy in Turkey where a perfectly reconstructed Trojan Horse. The tale of the Trojan Horse was as famous as the stories about the Trojan War itself. After a seemingly endless war that lasted for over ten years, the Greeks built a huge wooden horse with a contingent of men hidden inside. The Trojans, thinking of keeping it as a victory trophy, pulled the horse inside the city. At night, those inside crept out and opened the gate for the rest of the Greek forces, allowing for the siege of Troy to be a foregone conclusion.

And now here stood the replica of the famed Trojan Horse, standing twenty five feet tall and illuminated by the laps stationed around the black, wrought-iron fence. Some tourists still lingered in the vicinity, none wishing for their evening to end, but there was one person in particular who sat on a bench, his eyes staring straight ahead at the courtyard, and the famed Horse itself. None other than Carter McKinney, aka Helluva Bottom Carter.

“Miles was right. There are perks to being an SCW Superstar that others don’t get to enjoy that we do, and sometimes maybe even take for granted. This…”

Carter nodded toward the Horse and the ruins of Troy that could still be seen beyond.

“...Is one of them. The Iliad was always one of my favorite stories, the tale of the Trojan War always fascinated me. I was always the opinionated sort, even as far back as my school days and I can remember the time my history teacher assigned us to do a report on any historical event, fact or fiction, and I chose the Trojan War. I admit I think I caught my teacher off guard by how unforgiving I was in my report. So many people that had read the Iliad seem to think of Hector of Troy as the true hero but I gave so many differing opinions to those of even the teacher that he had almost failed me were it not for my presentation that swayed him and a few classmates to my way of thinking.”

“Hector was no hero. I mean, what kind of hero is on the field of battle and turns tale and runs when the Greeks’ greatest warrior is seen running toward him, ready to kill him for killing his love? Of course that warrior was Achilles and he was out for blood for killing Achilles’s friend and lover, Patroclus. And who wouldn’t have turned tail and ran like a bitch if an enraged Achilles was coming for you? But it wasn’t just that. I reported everything from Paris being a cowardly little weasel and Helen was a cheating whore. In fact, I blamed the entire war and every death suffered at the feet of those two in particular. Because were it not for Paris having an affair with Helen and spiriting her away to Troy, none of it would have happened.”

“But more so than the story of the war itself, it was the story of Achilles and Patroclus that had always captured my heart and soul. What can you say about a love between two friends and lovers that has remained an epic tale for over two millennia? That is what I call relationship goals! Of course, my bestie Ariana would tell everyone it was Brad Pitt as Achilles that made me love the stories so much, but that is a secret I will take with me to my grave.”

Carter smiled as he leaned back on the bench, his eyes briefly scanning the sky overhead before gazing back to the Trojan Horse.

“But I didn’t come to give everyone a history lesson or talk about a gay romance that historians still debate between fact and fiction. The stories of Troy and Achilles that I have loved all these years are the reason I practically begged Mark Ward and Christian Underwood to find me a match, any match, and let me compete on the same battlefields that fascinated me since childhood. And they came through in a way that I never expected. I would have been happy being in the opener against anyone, but what did they give me instead? They gave me an early Christmas and birthday gift combined because for the first time ever, I get to team with my man, my love and future husband - Miles Kasey.”

“And as if the fact alone wasn’t thrilling enough, then we find out our opponents are two men who are as familiar with one another as Miles and I. And I am speaking of the last remaining remnants of probably the biggest threats as far as wrestling stables go in SCW - the Saviors. Goth and Peter Vaughn.”

Carter blinked, seemingly perplexed with his hands held out.

“I mean, what can you really say about either Goth or Peter Vaughn  when it comes to their records and reputations inside of the ring, both here in SCW and elsewhere? I don’t mean to make Goth feel old by any means but when I was a kid, I was watching that man fight the likes of ‘Bulldog’ Bill Barnhart and Chris Shipman in some of the most epic and bloody clashes down in the AWA, Asylum Wrestling Alliance! In fact, I think it was the respectful rivalries between those three men and the clashes between them that were the first spark of a shining beacon that guided me to follow my path, my dream.”

“Goth is a former champion everywhere he has gone. World title, regional or tag, it didn’t seem to matter. When he set his sights on a championship, you had to feel sorry for whoever the poor sap was that was defending that championship because you knew it was on borrowed time. When Goth wanted to be a champion, he became one. That is his legacy in the sport! That is why he is a multi-time inductee in the Hall of Fame in SCW, AWA and probably a number of other places I don’t even know. He is THAT damn good! He is THE living legend and I am proud to say that I have been inside the ring against him more than once, and I am DAMN lucky to have walked away with a win under my belt at his expense! Not everyone can say that, especially if you’re like me and still in the relatively early stages of your in-ring career.”

“So Goth, please allow me to say this. Let me get the sappy part of this promo out of the way so that we can step inside of the ring one last time and kick it in the ass! I know this is just the lead up to your retirement match at Into the Void XIII, and I find no shame in admitting that I was heartbroken to hear about your impending retirement. But man, if anyone has earned the right for a rest, it’s you. And I believe I speak for everyone that the world of professional wrestling will be lesser without you in it.”

Carter then looked up and there was a somewhat more serious expression on his face as he stared hard into the camera.

“Which brings us to the other half of the Saviors, and Goth’s tag team partner, Peter Vaughn. The raining Internet champion, well… at least until we arrive at Pearl Harbor for Into the Void XIII and Miles writes a wrong and becomes a two-time Internet Champion.”

Carter shakes his head.

“Peter, I never really had anything against you. I mean aside from this in ring rivalry that you had with my fiance, absolutely nothing. I mean realistically speaking, you picked up some of the biggest wins against some of the best talent since you've arrived in Sin City Wrestling. Including myself! And while I'd like to think that I gave as good as I got, the fact remains that it was your arm that got raised when I challenged you for your Roulette Championship. Saying anything otherwise would be both a lie as well as hypocritical. I want respect inside of the ring, so who am I to deny it to somebody else who has more than earned it?”

“Which leaves me to ask the most obvious question, what happened to you? That last championship match that you had when you challenged Miles for the Internet Championship, damn man! That match is the stuff of legends! You know damn well that when it comes time to vote for Match of the Year, that one is going to be right up there high on the list of finalists! At least until you went and ruined it with how you picked up the win.”

Carter snorts back in disgust.

“Seriously Petey, you and Miles had that entire crowd in the palm of your hands! Everyone watching from the arena and on the webcast were leaning on their chairs, white knuckled on the armrests, captivated one hundred percent! So that begs the question, why did you do it? Why did you throw out all of that to get such a cheap win?”

“I suppose in true savior's fashion, it becomes the logic of a win is a win, especially when a championship is at stake. But from the way that match was going from start to finish, I expected more. I expected better, and so did everyone else! Miles deserved better! Is that why you did it? Is that why you took such a shortcut to end his Internet title reign? Because it looked like for the first time between the two of you, that he was about to end things in his favor? You just couldn't handle that thought, could you? The idea of not having a clean sweep over the man was too much and you decided to end it at a desperation, by any means necessary.”

“Well that's what this matches all about this coming weekend. Not just a chance for us to say our final goodbyes to your tag team partner, but also a chance to address and write a wrong that you committed. Oh don't get me wrong, peter! The respect is still there except for that one action. I don't like what you did, I like what you've become even less. And this weekend?”

Carter slowly stood up from the bench, now looking down into the camera.

“I'm going to make damn sure miles picks up that win against you, the one win that you've been dreading since the two of you first locked up.”

That being said, Carter tucked his hands into his jacket pockets and slowly started to walk away, the sound of his heels on the pavement echoing into the night until the camera slowly faded out.