In the soft glow of the living room, Laura Phoenix sat on the couch, a gentle smile playing on her lips as she watched her granddaughter, Máire, sleep peacefully in her crib. The room was bathed in a warm, amber light, the flickering of a nearby candle casting a tranquil ambiance. Beside her, Nick, her husband, sat with an arm draped over her shoulders, his eyes reflecting the same contentment as hers.

Across the room, Aaron, their young son, was sprawled on the floor, his toys scattered around him. He was deeply engrossed in building a colorful tower with his building blocks, his small face scrunched up in concentration. The occasional laughter and excited chatter filled the room, creating a symphony of familial warmth.

It was a rare night. Bella and Mal, Máire's parents, had decided to take a well-deserved break, enjoying a night out together. The responsibility of watching over the little one had fallen to Laura and Nick, a task they embraced with open hearts.

As they sat together, a sense of serenity settled over the room, the knowledge that they were all connected by something deeper than blood—a bond of love and shared experiences. Laura's gaze shifted from Máire to Aaron, her heart swelling with pride. In these moments, surrounded by her family, she found a profound sense of fulfillment.

"You know," Nick said, his voice a soft murmur, "We're truly blessed, aren't we? Look at them, babe. Our children, our grandchild... all of them are happy and healthy."

Laura nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "We are, babe. Sometimes, it feels surreal, doesn't it? To think of the journey we've been on, the challenges we've faced together."

He squeezed her shoulder gently. "Life's been kind to us, but it's also been our shared strength that carried us through the storms."

At that moment, Aaron looked up, his eyes curious. "Mommy, Daddy, do you think I'll be as strong as you guys one day?"

Laura's heart melted at her son's innocence. She reached out, pulling him into a warm embrace. "Aaron, you're already strong. You have a heart of gold, and that's the strongest thing anyone can possess."

Nick ruffled Aaron's hair playfully. "And don't forget, you've got us by your side, supporting you every step of the way."

They settled back into their positions, the room filled with a comfortable silence, broken only by the soft sounds of Máire's peaceful slumber. In this moment, surrounded by love and the quiet assurance of family, Laura felt a profound sense of gratitude.

"Yes," she whispered, more to herself than anyone else, "We are blessed. And we'll keep being here for each other, no matter what life throws our way."

“Hey, mommy?” Aaron asks, breaking Laura from her solace.

“Wassup bud?”

“Are- Are you going to retire like daddy again? I know you’re not gone a lot but with Bella having Máire...” Aaron looked almost embarrassed to even ask.

“Aw, sweetie, I know. Sometimes mommy gets these wild ideas and suddenly I get lost in it. I do miss spending a lot of time with you guys but at the end of the day, I just need to keep going until I can’t anymore.” she pulls her son up onto her lap, “But, I do know that day is gonna come soon and then before you know it, you’ll be begging for your mom to go back to work.”

She tickles him a little bit to bring a laugh to her son’s face, “Maaaaaa, stop!”

Nick laughs, “Not so loud, you two or you’ll wake up Máire.”

“I’m sorry, I just couldn’t resist,” she said, giving her son a kiss on the head, “But I promise you both, when it’s time I’ll make sure to let you both know. Okay?”


A Legacy of Respect

In the quiet solitude of her home, Laura Phoenix sat surrounded by memorabilia from her storied wrestling career. The room was filled with framed photographs capturing moments frozen in time—victories, defeats, and the unbreakable spirit of a woman who had dedicated her life to the ring.

As she traced her fingers over a picture of herself and Alexandra Calaway, a soft smile played on her lips. "Ally," she murmured, the weight of the years they'd shared together evident in her voice. "What a journey it's been."

The respect between them was more than just professional courtesy; it was a deep understanding forged through countless battles. Laura's eyes sparkled with a mix of nostalgia and admiration as she remembered the first time they'd faced off, the electric energy in the air as their skills collided in a symphony of athleticism and strategy.

"Ally is more than another opponent; she's a kindred spirit," Laura said, her voice carrying the weight of decades of camaraderie. "In this business, where alliances can be fragile and rivalries bitter, Ally and I found something rare—a mutual respect that transcends the spotlight. We've seen each other at our best and our worst, and through it all, that respect has endured."

She picked up another photograph, this one capturing them both mid-match, sweat-slicked faces determined even in the heat of battle. "There's an unspoken bond between veterans," she continued, her tone reflective. "A shared history of triumphs and tribulations. When I step into the ring with Ally, I know I'm facing not just a competitor, but a woman who understands the sacrifices, the victories, and the sheer love for this sport."

Laura's gaze shifted to the window, where the last light of the evening cast a warm glow on the room. "Our legacy is not just in the championships we've won or the battles we've fought," she said, her voice steady with conviction. "It's in the respect we've shown each other, the way we've elevated women's wrestling together."

"We've both treaded the tumultuous waters of this industry for over two decades. Yet, the spotlight keeps painting you as the fresh face, the newcomer, while I'm hailed as the seasoned veteran. It's a narrative I want to rewrite, not just for me, but for you, Ally."

Laura stood, her eyes ablaze with determination. "You've earned every accolade, every cheer from the crowd, and every bit of respect that comes your way. But it irks me, Ally, because they don't see the battles you've fought, the nights you've spent honing your craft, and the countless sacrifices you've made."

With a resolute breath, Laura continued, her voice gaining strength. "So, when we step into that ring, it won't just be a clash of bodies and skills. It'll be a declaration—a testament to the fact that you, Ally, are not just a rising star. You are a radiant sun in your own right, shining brightly alongside me and every other veteran in this business."

"When we're in there, Ally, it won't be about proving ourselves. It'll be about cementing our rightful places, side by side, in the annals of wrestling history. The respect we share outside the ring will echo within it, drowning out any misconceptions about who we are and what we've achieved."

Embers of Change

The once bustling office of PWS:Apex was now eerily quiet as Laura Phoenix sat behind her desk, surrounded by boxes containing her personal belongings. The news of the promotion shutting down had hit her, just like everyone else, hard, leaving her with a mix of emotions. Uncertainty filled the air as she wondered what her next move should be.

Nick, who had been by her side throughout the majority of her wrestling career and her time as the general manager, stepped into the office, concern etched on his face. "How are you holding up, babe?"

Laura mustered a half-smile, trying to mask her disappointment. "I'll be alright, Nick. It's just... it's tough to see something you've put so much heart into come to an end."

He walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her, offering a comforting embrace. "You did a great job, Laura. Your dedication and hard work were evident in everything you did for PWS:Apex. But sometimes, change is an opportunity for something even greater."

She sighed, resting her head against his chest. "I know, but it's hard not to feel a sense of loss right now."

Nick gently lifted her chin, making her look into his eyes. "Remember, you're not defined by a single role or job. You're Laura “Phoenix” Madison, a strong and talented woman who has achieved so much in wrestling and beyond. This is just another chapter in your life, and you have the power to turn it into something amazing."

Laura nodded, feeling a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty. "I know, you're right. I can't let this setback hold me back. I've faced challenges in the ring, and I've always come out stronger. But...it just...I feel like I failed everyone here. You, Bella, the amount of talent that depended on me to keep this place alive. For the longest time, this was home for a lot of people that really felt like they didn’t belong or they weren’t sure where to really go. I prided myself on being a beacon  that I never had. And instead it just slipped through my hands and I couldn’t do anything about it."

“We all could have done something,” Nick said with a touch of sadness, “Sometimes though things just need to end.”

“Yeah, I guess. I gotta finish up. Bella and Mal are coming over to the house for dinner, and I’m debating between astronomical amounts of cheese or the colonel,” she said as she looked around the room.

“Knowing that girl, get both and we’ll buffet it.” Nick said with a smirk, “I’ll go grab you another box and we’ll get out of here.”

With a swift kiss he left her to continue packing the last of her belongings. As she did, she couldn't help but think about her passion for wrestling and her desire to make a positive impact on the industry, it was one of the reasons that she became a general manager after she had retired the first time.

She turned and saw a picture of her and Bella and Alanah, following the match that would give her daughter her very first singles title run with the United Title in PWS.

A few hours later...

“OH I remember this!” Bella said, pulling that very same picture out of the box that Laura brought home.

The aroma of a delicious meal filled the Madison household as Laura and Bella sat together at the dining table. Nick, ever the supportive husband, had taken a moment to pick up both the cheesy extravaganza of a good ole fashion New York style grease in a box pizza and a bucket of fried chicken, offering comfort in the form of indulgent food.

"I still can't believe it's all over," Bella said, a touch of sadness in her voice as she served herself some macaroni and cheese. "PWS:Apex was like a second home for so many of us."

Laura nodded, taking a bite of her fried chicken, her thoughts momentarily drifting back to her time as the general manager. "It was a place where dreams came true for many young talents, a platform to showcase their skills and chase their passion for wrestling."

Bella glanced at her mother, seeing the mixture of emotions on her face. "Mom, I hope you don't blame yourself for what happened. You were doing the best you could, juggling your responsibilities as a mother and a general manager."

Laura set down her fork, looking into Bella's eyes. "You know, sometimes I wonder if I made the right decision to focus on wrestling more. Maybe if I had put more effort into managing PWS:Apex, things would have turned out differently."

Bella reached out and held her mother's hand, offering a reassuring squeeze. "Mom, you can't blame yourself for everything. You were doing what you thought was best for you and your career. And let's not forget how much you've achieved in wrestling. You've inspired so many people, including me."

Laura's eyes glistened with tears, touched by her daughter's words. "Thank you, sweetie. Your support means everything to me. It's just hard not to feel like I let everyone down, especially those young talents who were counting on PWS:Apex to be their launching pad."

Bella smiled warmly, her love and understanding shining through. "You didn't let anyone down, Mom. Sometimes, things just don't work out the way we want them to. But that doesn't mean it's the end. You still have so much to offer in wrestling and beyond."

Laura took a deep breath, feeling a weight being lifted off her shoulders. "You're right. I shouldn't let this setback define me. I've faced challenges before, and I've always come out stronger. I need to take this as an opportunity to explore new paths and find new ways to make a positive impact."

Bella nodded, a sense of pride evident in her eyes. "That's the spirit, Mom! You've always been a fighter, and I know you'll overcome this too. PWS:Apex might be gone, but you still have so much to offer to the wrestling world."

Laura smiled gratefully at her daughter, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Thank you, Bella. Your belief in me means more than you know. And speaking of belief, you have your own match coming up, don't you?"

Bella's eyes lit up, the conversation shifting to her own wrestling career, which was put on hold for the obvious 37 weeks and counting that was soon to be Laura’s very first granddaughter, "Yes, I do! And I'm going to give it my all, just like you always have. You've been my inspiration since I was a little girl, and I want to make you proud."

"You've already made me incredibly proud, Bella," Laura said, her voice filled with love and admiration. "You're talented, passionate, and driven. I have no doubt you'll make your mark in the wrestling world, just like I know you'll be an amazing mother."

Bella blushed slightly while rubbing her still growing mid-section, feeling the love and support from her mother. "Thanks, Mom."

“Just do me a favor, and don’t pop when I’m on the other side of the world?”

“Hey, it's bad enough Mal is going to be gone a week before she’s due. Thankfully, it looks like I’m gonna be spending the weekend with Alanah so I’ll be in good hands.”

“Sure, you around your niece and nephews and Jack...that’s not gonna be stressful at all.” Laura laughed.

“Like being here, around my little brother and dad and Mal who are currently having another deep discussion about sports yet again??”

“HOW CAN YOU CALL IT FOOTBALL WHEN YOU BARELY EVER KICK THE BALL?!?”

Mother and daughter stare at each other.

“I’ll get the wine for ya.” Bella says pulling herself up and Laura just sighing.

“Maybe a trip to China is exactly what I need.”


Embers of Change - Embrace The Future

Laura Phoenix stood at the edge of the Great Wall of China, the vastness of the ancient structure mirroring the emotions swirling within her. This was no ordinary match; it was a moment of truth, a chance to prove herself once again. Julianna DiMaria, a rising star in SCW, had already shown her prowess in the ring, and Laura knew she couldn't underestimate her.

As the wind whispered through the historic stones, Laura took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment settling on her shoulders. She had faced countless opponents throughout her illustrious career, but there was something different about this encounter. It wasn't just about winning a match; it was about embracing change and embracing the future.

Julianna represented the next generation of talent, the future of wrestling. And as she looked at the Great Wall stretching into the distance, Laura realized that she, too, was a part of that future. Her journey in wrestling had been a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks, but she had always emerged stronger and more determined.

"I stand here, at the Great Wall of China, ready to face Julianna DiMaria, a force to be reckoned with in the wrestling world. And as I stand on this historic monument, I can't help but reflect on my own journey," Laura spoke, her voice strong and resolute.

"For all my accomplishments, there's one area where I've come up short recently—capturing singles gold. It's a goal that has eluded me, and it's a void I am eager to fill," she admitted, her eyes holding a touch of vulnerability.

"Throughout my career, I've encountered obstacles that seemed insurmountable, faced challenges that tested my limits. But every time, I rose above them. I embraced change, adapted, and became a better wrestler, a better person. And this weekend, I stand here, ready to face Julianna, not as an end but as a new beginning."

Laura's eyes gleamed with determination as she continued, "Julianna, you're talented, there's no denying that. But know this, I didn't come all the way to China just to be defeated. I came here to prove that the embers of change burn within me, that my passion for wrestling is as fierce as ever."

"The Great Wall stands tall, an enduring symbol of strength and resilience. And just like this ancient wonder, I will stand tall in that ring. I will show you, the fans, and the wrestling world that Laura Phoenix is not done yet. I have more to give, more to achieve, and more to inspire."

She closed her eyes for a moment, feeling the energy of the moment surrounding her. "So, Julianna, bring your best because I'm bringing mine. This isn't just a match; it's a clash of generations, a testament to the ever-changing landscape of wrestling. And when that bell rings, know that I will fight with all my heart and soul, leaving nothing behind."

Laura opened her eyes, her gaze unwavering. "I am ready for this challenge, ready to embrace change, and ready to create a legacy that will stand the test of time, just like the Great Wall. On Sunday, I step into the ring with you, Julianna, and together, we will create a moment that will be etched into the history of wrestling."

"China, it's an honor to stand here in the presence of such rich history and tradition," Laura spoke, her voice filled with appreciation for the moment. "The Great Wall is a testament to the strength and resilience of generations past, and it serves as an inspiration for what lies ahead."

She took a moment to collect her thoughts, the weight of her upcoming match with Julianna DiMaria evident in her gaze.

"In a few days, I'll be facing Julianna, a talented newcomer who's made a name for herself in SCW. I've watched her rise, and I have to give credit where it's due—she's proven herself to be a formidable competitor. But, in the ring, experience and passion can be the difference-makers."

Laura's eyes flickered with a glint of fire as she continued, "I won't deny that my recent journey has seen its challenges. I haven't captured singles gold, and that's something that has been gnawing at me. But you know what? It's also fueled a fire within me, a hunger to reclaim my spot at the top."

"This match isn't just about titles or rankings; it's about proving to myself that I still have what it takes to excel in this industry. I've faced setbacks before, and every time, I've come back stronger. This time will be no different."

She paused, looking out at the vastness of the Great Wall, drawing inspiration from the historical wonder.

"I stand here, ready to embrace the future, ready to take on the challenges that come my way. Julianna, I respect you, and I know you'll bring your best to the ring. But let me make one thing clear—I won't hold back, and I won't back down."

A determined smile tugged at the corner of her lips as she spoke, "This is my moment, and I intend to seize it. China, get ready for a match that will be a celebration of wrestling, a testament to the spirit of competition, and a showcase of the enduring legacy of the Phoenix."

Laura's eyes met the camera's lens with unwavering intensity, her message to the world crystal clear.

"To all the fans who have supported me throughout my career, I say this—I won't let you down. This match is for you, for everyone who believes in the power of change, in the strength of the human spirit."

With that, Laura Phoenix left the interview, her heart ablaze with determination and a newfound sense of purpose. As the sun dipped below the horizon, it marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of another—an epic clash awaited, and the world would bear witness to the phoenix's rise.

"Through the Smoke"
Wednesday afternoon
Madison Home

Laura Madison stood at the broad living room window, gazing out at the hazy skyline of New York City. The acrid smell of smoke filled the air, a constant reminder of the wildfires raging across the Canadian border. She sighed, torn between a few pressing concerns.

As Laura's four-year-old son, Aaron, tugged at her hand, she knelt down to his level. His bright eyes pleaded for adventure outdoors, but the smoke-laden air made it impossible to grant his wish. She explained, "I know you want to play outside, buddy, but the smoke is too dangerous right now. We have to stay indoors until it clears up."

Frustration welled up inside Laura as she watched Aaron's disappointment as he yelled out, “But mommy, I wanna go swing and play in the pool!”

The skies over their home was orange between all the smoke and the sun. It was bad enough that Nick had to be out in this. She wanted nothing more than to protect him from harm, but the circumstances made it challenging.

Determined to distract him, Laura finally got an idea, “Hey, bud I have a suggestion. How about we build a fort in the living room? We’ll get it just right where we can watch any movie off of Disney+ and we can bring all kinds of snacks in with us.” Hoping that promising to make it an adventure of their own would be incentive enough to keep the youngest Madison from getting a bad case of cabin fever.

“Will daddy join us?”

“When he gets home, you better believe it. He’d never say no to a Disney marathon.” Laura said with a smile before nodding towards the stairs that led to his bedroom upstairs, “Come on, let’s go pick some fun blankets and pillows.”

Aaron cheered loudly, taking off well ahead of his mother shouting at the top of his lungs, “I’ll grab Stitch too!”

The laughter of her son as he made his way up the stairs made this gloomy day a little brighter but before she could follow him up the doorbell rang, “Hey bud, someone is at the door, just bring it to the top of the stairs and wait for me, okay?”

“OKAY MOMMY!” Aaron let out before he got to the top of the stairs and ran down the hall to his room.

After she made sure to check the video at the door, she smiled and opened the door to the smiling face of Spinelli along with his young daughter Rose, “Well, hello there.”

“Gracious greetings, Valkyrie. I’m sorry to come by without calling,” Spinelli said boosting his daughter up on his hip. Little Rose giggled, as her blonde pigtails bounced.

“Oh Spinelli, you should know by now that it’s perfectly fine for you to stop by and of course getting to see your little one is always a plus. I take it you are looking to get out of the smoke?” she said moving aside to let them in and closing the door tight.

“Unfortunately, we were at the park when the smoke moved in. Breeze had an appointment across town, so I got an uber for us and this was the closest place I could think of to take refuge.” Spinelli said as he grabbed a pack of wipes out of the bag that he carried to wipe his daughter’s face off.

“Well, it just so happens that Aaron and I were about to make a big ole blanket fort and make it a day. You’re more than welcome to join us...” just as Laura looks up and blanket come flying over the railing along with a few pillows to follow, “Aaron Levi! I told you to leave them at the top of the stairs!”

“It’s faster!” Aaron let out as he looked down through the railings, “HI UNCLE SPINELLI! HI ROSE!”

Laura just drops her head and mumbles “I swear that kid gets more like Nick every day. Why don’t you guys head into the kitchen, get cleaned up while I help him before he ends up breaking something expensive.”

“I’ll message the wife and the White Knight to let them know as well, save you the hassle of worrying about that and who knows, maybe they’ll grab us some substance.” Spinelli says with a grin.

“Perfect!” Laura laughs out, “We’ll convene in the den in 10 minutes.”

Within the next hour or so, Nick had made his way home to the surprise of the blanket fort, in the middle of Rose’s choice of Encanto. Aaron had given his guest the choice to go first. It was the first time in a while that the Madison crew got to hangin out with Spinelli and his family and once Breeze had joined them, it was a real party. While Laura got to really devote her time to Aaron, her mind wandered to another pressing matter—the upcoming matches that loomed in her future. In the den that had been dedicated to her and Nick’s careers, a faded wrestling poster hung on the wall, showcasing a photo of Laura in, what some would consider, her prime, the true height of Laura Phoenix.

An interesting chance for redemption had arrived, when she qualified for the Roulette Ultimate X match for Summer Xxxtreme. But Sunday marked a pivotal match against the formidable Seleana Zdunich. The former champion's dominance in the wrestling world cast a shadow over Laura's hopes of reclaiming her former glory. Her ticket may have been already punched to the cruise, but there sometimes, claiming dominance would prove to a few people that she was still a force to be reckoned with.


Training and Preparations
The next day

Laura's determination surged within her as she mentally prepared for the upcoming battle. She had spent months honing her skills, pushing herself to the limit in grueling training sessions. Muscle memory began to resurface, reminding her of her once-formidable prowess in the ring.

But doubts still gnawed at her. Would she be able to regain her past glory? Did she have what it took to defeat an opponent as seasoned as Seleana Zdunich? The answers lay within Laura's unwavering determination and the fire that burned within her. It was bad enough that the loss to Kayla was still gnawing at the back of her head. But this...this was something different.

As the days ticked down to the match, Laura's home became a sanctuary of physical and mental preparation. From her improvised living room fort where it turned into late-night sessions studying footage of Zdunich's matches with Nick and Spinelli, who had a keen eye for things that she may have missed, all the way to the converted detached garage that became an on ground personal gym, she poured her heart and soul into her preparations just like she was taught.

Above the door to the outside of the building hung a sign that she took from her first training facility, the one that she had almost died in more than once but the one big moment was truly a moment that defined her career when her own trainer tried to burn it down with her inside it. The sign managed to survive the fire somehow and she kept it as a reminder. It hung over what was called “Wash-out Lane”. Course times were different then, it was harder to push through and she watched many give up and take a trip under that sign. But for her it held a whole other meaning, she had to be forced to go down it to survive.

“You know there was a period of time that every time I took a long look at that sign and I remembered about every single person that punched down on me. And it motivated me to pick myself up and swing back even harder. There was even once that I used it to let it fuel my absolute hate towards a lot of people that made me feel less and inferior. When Bombshell Roulette Champion, Jessie Salco brought up this whole thing going on with Krystal, it brought back all these memories of that time.”

“Now I know what some of you are thinking- What the hell does this have to do with Seleana? Damn good question, Seleana obviously has that same ability about her but she, like me, is looking for that next chance. It was even made known that a victory for her at this Climax Control meant that she would be added into the Bombshell Roulette Championship match. And as much as I wanna see her do it, I can’t let that happen.”

“You know, part of me is still feeling almost like a rookie in some ways. Yeah I have the resume a mile long but at the same time that was in places that a long time ago, and in a land far away and I still feel like I have so much to prove when I know that a lot of people would tell me that I have nothing left to prove. But beating you Seleana, that you make an amazing impact and denying you that chance at Summer Xxxtreme. But look, no matter what, I wanna see you bring that fire that I had then and I can feel building week after week. The muscle memory is returning and I know that it is only a matter of time til it all clicks just right.”

“You all know the story of the Phoenix right, burns bright, burns to ashes and then once the smoke clears...it’s reborn. Well the smoke is clearing, everyone. Be warned, it’s about to get really hot.”

Semi-Retired Kind of Life
JFK Airport
2 Weeks Ago

It had been a long while since she got to travel like this. Barbados to NYC for only a couple of days to a remote Scottish Isle.

The hardest was hearing her 4-year-old son cry about how he wanted to come with her but both her and Nick had agreed that he needed to stay back for now, go to school and she would check in on them every night.

She spent the majority of the last 5 years at home with Nick and Aaron, and there isn’t a day that went by that she lived with any sort of regret. Getting that time with them was something she didn’t have with Bella, especially at that age. But when the BFTP came around, she took a chance. While she and Mac didn’t make it past the second round, she had to admit that it was like wearing an old familiar hat that she loved so much and while a little dusty, with enough work it would be clean and crisp once again.

Following that show, she traveled with Bella and Malachi to pay a visit to Mal’s mother, Aileen for a quick 24 hours before hopping a flight back to New York. Her and Bella held on to a secret that would be revealed soon enough but there were two very important people that she had to tell.

She just hoped that they would both understand.

The moment she stepped off the plane, she was greeted by the happiest little voice, “MOMMY!!!!”

Her face lit up the moment she saw her 4-year-old son make a b-line right for her. At that point it was bags be damned because she just wanted to pick Aaron up and give him the many missed hugs between them as much as possible, “Hey baby!” she said, bending down and picking him up, “Oooo I missed you so much!”

“As you can tell, we missed you too,” she heard as her husband Nick Madison finally got up to them, giving his wife a peck on the side of her head, “No Bella and Mal?”

Laura sighed and gave a sad smile, “No, they decided to head back to Waterford to spend more time with Aileen. Honestly, after what happened on Sunday night, it’s not a horrible idea.”

“Yeah, I saw that.” he mumbled, as he wrapped his arm around her, grabbing her rolling bag with the other and leading them both to the car, “Sometimes being back in the hometown is the best thing after something like that. Speaking of...how are you doing after everything?”

“I’m doing just fine. It was a hell of a tournament, Bobbie and Jack were the better team that night and I’m not disappointed in any of it. It was fun, the first real fun that I had in this business since mom passed away.”

Nick looks a little insulted, “What? What about our match that we just had with the crew?”

“Oh, babe. That was business, and while I loved teaming up with you and Levi and the others...I did this strictly for me,” Laura looks guilty for a moment, “It’s not that I don’t love being a general manager and being a mentor and whatnot but my time in the Blast from the Past was a release that I didn’t even know I needed.”

“It sounds like you don’t want it to stop,” Nick said, stopping in his tracks, realizing what is going on in his wife’s head, “Something else happened, didn’t it?”

Laura took a deep breath and nodded, “Yeah, following the show Mark and Christian sought me out. Before you freak out, it’s not going to be a completely crazy schedule. They understand that I am a mother and wife, first and foremost and I have other obligations to take care of.”

“So you said yes?” Nick asked, stone faced for a moment.

Laura stayed silent for a moment and that’s all that it needed to be said.

Nick just shook his head with a smile forming on his face, “I had a feeling this was going to happen. When I first met you, you bleed buckets for the business, it’s one of the reasons I respected you before everything else.”

“So, you’re not upset?”

Nick sighs like he could blame her, “Laur! Not at all. You know I love you and I want you to be happy and I know how much you have missed it. I can’t anymore. My bump card is officially full and I went out the way I wanted, Aaron got to see me wrestle before that happened. You however, still have some more chapters to fill.”

Aaron, while young, still picks up on what his parents are saying, and pouts with his little lip out, “So mommy is going to go away again?”

Laura looks at her son and snuggles him, “Aww, baby...I’m going to be home for a whole week before I have to leave again for a few days. I’d take you guys with me to Romania but there is a whole thing where I’d rather not give you nightmares at such a young age.”

Laura tickles her boy and he laughs out, “Why’s that?”

She looks at her boys and with a look that she accepts as a challenge and a bit of a terror, “I get to camp with everyone in Hoia Forest.”

Nick coughs for a moment and looks at his darling wife and son, “You know, my Romanian folk-lore is a little rusty, but isn’t that considered one of the most haunted places in the world?”

“The Bermuda Triangle of Transylvania? Yeah, the same place.” Laura joked as she made a goofy face to make Aaron giggle, “Gonna have to make sure that I get that international plan extended because I will make sure that my GPS is on at all times.”

“I can’t even remember the last time we went camping, The last time I remember, Aaron was still small”

“Last time we went actual camping was just before we ended up pregnant with Aaron.” Laura smirks, “But I still need to be ready. At least I got a week plus to prepare.”

“So tent, air mattress, sleeping bag...” Nick said, loading her bags into the trunk while Laura opened the door for Aaron to climb into his seat.

“Incense, Sigils, salt...” the duo looks at one another, Nick laughing and shaking his head, “What?”

“These are the things that movies prepare us for.”


Nightmare Fuel
Hoia Forest
Present Day

The week and a half back home went by fast and there wasn’t a day that didn’t go by that she didn’t treasure her time with her husband and son but preparation was important.

There were indeed methods to the madness of the veteran and as if someone smiled down on her, she was that much closer to her true purpose.

The long game became a little shorter.

She just had to get there first.

There was work that needed to be done. Not so much psychically, but mentally.

By the time the wheels had touched down in Romania, she had everything she possibly could need when it came to camping. The ride to the site was quiet as her driver spoke very little english but the little that they did speak, she was informed that they thought they were all crazy for even agreeing to do this.

But for Laura, she looked at it as a chance to face fears that she hadn’t faced in years.

When they arrived, she quickly removed her gear from the car, barely got out a “Merci” before the car took off.

Some people rather run from their fears than face them, I guess.

Her first goal was to find everyone, make sure she would silently ask permission to whatever spirits may be there to set up, get it done and then her motherly instincts kicked in. She made Bella a promise to keep an eye out on Malachi and even Miles and Carter who went for the hell of it.

“Mom, promise me you will look after those guys. I know they are grown men, but they are also the kind that would go and manage to piss off even the gentlest of spirits.” she would hear Bella beg on the phone.

Honestly the look of the place in the day, it looked like any other normal forest but at night, the majority would stick together around one centralized spot. Feuds and general dislikes be damned.

Laura would join them the majority of the time but by the time Miles got around to drunkenly belting out the 3rd rendition of ‘Peaches’, she could feel something in the winds of even the spirits being annoyed.

She wouldn’t go far from them, but just far enough where their voices sounded like a mumble. Into a clearing, where the night sky above was full of stars but there was the beginning of a low level fog forming.

Laura would reach into her pocket of her coat, “I come in peace and intend no harm. Forgive my friends, and keep them safe. May I enter into this clearing, in love and peace?”

She would wait ever so patiently, when a sudden gentle breeze would blow a path, not too far out but just enough where she could step out into the clearing and get a better look at the sky.

“I thank you.”

Laura would sit on the ground and just look around. While some saw spooky, she saw beauty and misunderstanding.

“You really sometimes have to sit back and appreciate the chances that are presented in front of you. There are some that barely get a chance, there are even few that get the chances at multiple chances. I consider myself blessed.”

She shifts around, bringing her knee up and leaning on it.

“Back when I began, there weren’t many chances for women. I had walked into a place that had no women on the roster at all, practically begging for any kind of chance and by the time that I finally got going, they realized what I was telling them all along...I am worth it. I took that chance and I made a career out of proving so many people wrong. I loved every minute of it.”

Her eyes shifted off to the side as she relives her memories.

“After a while, I was seeked for after. I was also beaten up, bloodied and left for dead a few different times. I was put through hell the likes that would make this place seem like Disney World in comparison and not once did I shrink away because I wasn’t allowed to. Other people depended on me and if I didn’t, then no one else would.”

Laura shifts herself ever so gently and sits with her legs crossed in front of her. Lifting her eyebrow, she smirks.

“That was then. This is now. The game has changed a little, at its most basic is still absolutely the same. When it comes to my time in SCW though, this time...it’s all for me. I gladly step into the lion's den with my head up high, with absolutely nothing to prove and everything to gain. And I know there are more than a few bombshells on the roster that are frothing at the mouth at a chance to take on someone that blazed a path for them.”

A screech of some type of bird echos through the tree line that catches her attention for just a moment.

“Your record setting Internet Champion, for instance, has more than ONCE brought my name up when I wasn’t even with the company. I heard all of it, Kayla. I heard you calling out into the void trying to goad me in. Well...here I am, girlie. No longer hiding behind the fact that I was blissfully retired. I’m now knocking on the wall that has been put up between you and I.”

“Of course, standing on that wall, in my way is Gorgie Robertson and Selena Zdunich. These two particular bombshells seem to be always on the outside looking in when it comes to any kind of chance, just patiently waiting for their moment. That big breakout moment that is just on that precipice...only for them to get the chance of having to be in the ring with lil ole me.”

Leaning forward Laura smirks gently, placing her hands on her knees.

“You see ladies, while Blast from the Past didn’t exactly work out in my favor that doesn’t mean that I’m going to just roll over and accept that is the end. My story ends when I say it does and I’m going to make for absolute certainty that provided we make it out of this place that come Sunday, I’m going to be the one going to Into the Void.”

“You both, Georgie and Selena, are going to realize real quick, I'm a different kind of spirit. I'm the type that will turn your whole world upside down and inside out. I will make you feel only a small percentage of the pain that I have been put through to even get to this point."

She leans back and holds her hands up and out.

"And it’s nothing personal, at all. But I will not hold back on either of you. It's going to be a hard dose of reality that while the game may have changed on me, the true nightmare has decided to stick around and I'm going to show you two that despite how it's changed, I am more than capable to adapt. To continue to grow despite the ancient nature that some may think has me living in a strange reality that I can’t do this, only when I’ve proven for a fact that I can and I will."

"The hardest thing to grasp, the biggest dream killer... The worst nightmare anyone can have is staying absolutely stagnant. The stubborn refusal to grow. AND I have no desire to just coast by, I'm going to make sure that even though my legacy is secure that there's not one doubt left as to just how good I really am."

Laura stands up and dust herself off, tucking her coat around her a little tighter.

“I think I’m going to like it here.”

The Reasons I Have
Last Saturday

I cannot stress this enough.

It’s been the better part of 5 years since I have stepped away from full-time active competition in any ring.

When I left and hung up my boots, I felt then that I had absolutely nothing left to prove. I earned my titles, I earned my Hall of Fame rings but after everything I did, there was still one very important thing left for me to do.

“Mooooooooooooooooooommy! WE’RE HOME!!!!!!!”

I missed this with Bella. I’m sure you have all heard the tale by now, from her. The most important thing came into my life, after I gave everything I could to the business that allowed me and my husband to give the best life to her and to her little brother.

Personally, I never left wrestling. I became a teacher and a mentor, giving something back to the business that gave so much to me. I also stepped into the behind the scenes, trading spandex for a business suit and high heels.

And I didn’t miss it.

Well actually no, that’s a half-truth. I didn’t miss having my life threatened, or the constant pain I was in. What I missed was the roar of the crowd, that absolute thrill of stepping between the ropes. The adrenaline rush was also something that couldn’t be achieved anywhere else.

But when it comes to bringing my son into this world and spending all that time watching him grow and learn? ...that was the biggest rush of them all.

But there are times you have to say ‘What If..?”

“Mommy! Where are you?”

“Why don’t you go check the gym, buddy?”

“Okay, daddy.”

4-year old Aaron Madison had this house on lock since he learned how to walk. He knew all the best hiding spots when he and his dad played hide and seek, to the point Nick had to call on their golden lab, Hank, to find him.

Instead, inside the gym Laura ‘Phoenix’ Madison was on her second workout of the day, something that she had adopted since she went and personally went and spoke with Mark Ward and Christian Underwood and put her name down for the Blast From The Past Tournament. Hank laid at the end of mat watching as Laura finished off a set on the heavy ropes. You could see Hank’s ears lift up at the sound of his young human’s small feet running full force down the hall means he was about to get attention.

The door cracked open to see the big brown eyes that he got from his mom and the dirty blonde that he gained from his dad peer into the room, and his adorable little face lit up at the sight of not just Hank but his mom. He carefully bounded the 3 steps, jumping big off the bottom one, only stopping for a quick moment to pat the dog on the head before running over to his mother and wrapping his little arms around his mom’s leg, catching Laura by surprise.

“Well hey there, bug!” Laura said with a genuine smile as she pulled an earbud out and reached down to pull him up to give him a kiss on his cheek.

“Ew, mommy you’re all sweaty!” Aaron giggled as he wiped his cheek with his hand, but that only lead to mock insult on Laura’s face followed up by a rain of kisses on her faces adorable face, “MOMMY!”

“Ope! Hold on I missed a spot,” Laura said, crinkling her nose only to give one on Aaron’s nose, “There we go, I think we got it covered.”

Nick had slipped his way into the room and smiled at the two of them laughing before interrupting his wife and son, “Pardon this adorable Hallmark moment but...I thought you’d be ready by now. We gotta be over at Bella’s party in like an hour.”

“Yes, I’m aware.” Laura said setting her son down to let him go over to play a bit with Hank while Laura grabs a towel, “I just wanted to get in the workout in before we head over there and stuff ourselves silly with all that wonderful food as we celebrate Mal’s birthday and we find out about our grandbaby. Trust me, babe...I have it all worked out.”

All Nick could do was shake his head, Laura’s ability to plan things out to the final minute was well passed down to Bella but Nick knew all to well what it was going to be like, “Well then, I suggest you get a move on because you know that Bella is gonna be biting at the bit.”

“Oh she already texted me...she had to force herself to sleep in.” Laura said as she dried herself off, “Okay, I’m off to get ready. 10 minutes and we’re outta here.”

She gives him a sweet kiss, “Any longer and you’re walking there.” Nick quips with a smirk as she walks away.

“And then you will deal with our very pregnant daughter and the fury.” Laura gets out before, just getting out of swinging range from Nick slapping her ass.

Later on...

Laura would stand and watch with Nick and Aaron as she found out her grandbaby was a granddaughter. Her eyes filled up with tears with happiness as her oldest baby collected her feelings with the news.

Bella spun around and spotted her mother in the group of people that had gathered, “Oh my god! MOM!!”

“I know!” Laura only got out before she got engulfed with an emotional hug from her daughter, “You okay, sweetheart?”

Bella pulled away and just nodded, “I think...maybe..”

“Let’s go sit and get a drink.” Laura said, quickly grabbing a bottle of water and leading Bella over to a seat, and handing her a drink, “There we go.”

Bella takes some good sips, “I’m sorry. Just got a little overwhelmed there for a moment.”

“It’s quite alright.” Laura said laying a gentle kiss on her daughter’s head before taking a seat next to her, and holding her hand, “It can be quite overwhelming when your whole life changes like this. You and Mal are only beginning to find out about this, and that little girl is going to be so loved. I will never stop saying how proud I am of you. The both of you.”

Bella smiles and squeezes her mom’s hand before she leans back in the chair and places a hand on her ever growing midsection, “You know when this happened, part of me actually worried for a moment if I stepped back in the middle of my career to...”

“Sweetie, listen, you have always done things your own way. Look, I know I missed a lot with you in the beginning and we’re more than friends sometimes than mother and daughter but I could never be disappointed in you. You have always carved and paved your own path even while carrying on my whole legacy and this is just another chapter for you both.”

“I hope this isn’t the reason why you decided to dust off the gear and signed up for this whole thing with SCW?” Bella said with a smirk.

Laura leaned back with a laugh, “Well, not going to lie there was a void that I saw, but after Nick officially hung it up...I don’t know just something told me that if I were to ever make a return to anything...this would be it.”

“Well, if there is anyone that I absolutely trust with you and seeing you succeed with? ....Mac Bane is a freaking beast and hungry as hell after everything.”

“Ohhhhh I’m aware, and it’s why I have been working my ass off. Trust me, girlie...I’m not going out without a fight. Gonna show a lot of people that it was like I never left.”

The women smile at one another...”OH, did I tell you we already have a name picked out for the little one?”


Ah, ah ah...not yet.

“Ok, let's see if I have this right....mixed tag...men can’t touch the women...women can’t touch the men...well that’s a pity because well hell I made a career out of making a lot of men my bitch.”

Laura Phoenix steps into the shot with a smile.

“But that’s not what this is about, this is something completely different. You see, this to me is an opportunity to really see if my size 8’s can indeed still knock some teeth loose. And I have found myself sitting rather pretty for a moment and my GOD could you imagine what this could do?”

With a shake of her head she takes a deep breath.

“Look, Mac...in this I got your back. You will never have to question that. We are ride and die til the bitter end and I’m looking forward to every damn moment of it. I know you got your side of things”

Her brown eyes shine.

“As for Wilma, look, not going to lie...I know ZILCH about you and that right there tells me all I need to know. My whole career is an open book and I’m not going to hesitate. I learned from day one what happens if you do...that lesson was the hardest thing that one ever has to go through. You hesitate with me....I’m going to make sure this is the shortest time in any BFTP match in history.”

“DOUBT ME! I FUCKING DARE YOU!”