~*~Working Family~*~
Chicago, IL

We are there for one another. No matter what.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~*~Becoming Alexandra~*~

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~*~Feels Familiar~*~

Máire is teething.

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

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

Mal hasn’t stopped laughing about it since then.

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

Now where is this going, you may ask?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~*~Facing the Echoes~*~

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Happy Anniversary, Bells.”


A Storm on the Horizon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


A Glimpse into the Journal of Elizabeth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nothing else needs to be said.

*~*Thanksgiving Chaos*~*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And she wouldn’t have it any other way.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~*~Post-Thanksgiving Workout Reflections~*~

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Did It Go Too Far?
Annihem, California
Almost 2 Weeks Ago

Following the match- Actually, let me correct myself....the absolutely BRUTAL ANNIHILATION of Crystal Zdunich, a lot of fans stood cheering loudly but some had their mouth agape, wide open after they had just witnessed Bella Madison absolutely lose her shit and finally rid SCW of a cancer.

Bella though, the blood from her face practically dried after the dirty shot that was dropped on her at the beginning of the match, stood tall. She would say what she needed to, following the match, she was sick and tired of people pushing her around. Telling her that she would never be quite good enough....she made it a moment. Her moment. No one would take it away from her, if they even dared to try.

By the time she got to the back, through gorilla positions to the applause from the crew in that area, she’d take a quick bow before she was handed a towel and water from her husband.

“That was amazingly brutal.” he said, giving her a quick once over, “Doesn’t even look like she did that much damage.”

“Besides that cheap shot and whatnot with the knucks, I’ll probably be bruised and sore in the morning.” she smiles before spilling some of the water onto the towel, trying to clean up the dried blood on her forehead, “Did it look as insane as it felt?”

Mal gave a broad bright smile and nodded before but before he could answer he was interrupted, “Hey Bella?” she heard the voice of Mark Ward over the crowd, “You up for some more fun?”

The smile on his face told her one thing, it was indeed gonna be fun, “I’m in.”

“Good. Clean up, meet Chris and I at the loading bay in 5 minutes.” he said as he left, “Don't worry, Malachi, we’ll bring her back in one piece.”

“You better,” Mal spoke up, keeping his attention to his wife and helping her clean up, “You sure you’re alright? I mean, that was amazing but I don’t think I’ve ever seen you like that.”

“I’m fine, really.” Bella raises her eyebrow at him, “It was almost cathartic in a weird way, finally putting that bitch in her place. And there is that whole possibility that I made some enemies finally doing what needed to be done, but fuck them. I don’t regret it and won’t regret it.”

Mal can’t help but smile, “That’s my girl.” You can tell Bella is biting at the bit to go meet up with Mark and Christian and Mal can’t help but roll his blue eyes, “Alright, go have fun with the bosses, I’ll be in catering when ya get back.”

Bella giggles and gets up on her tip-toes to give a kiss, “Love you.” is what she gets off before she exits the gorilla position.

Mal looks around with a smirk, “Anyone willing to bet she tries to off-road an ambulance? ....Anyone?”


Problems, There Have Been A Few
New York, NY
Thanksgiving Day

The whole day has been bustling and busy as Bella and Mal joined up with Mal’s little sister Alanah for a traditional American Thanksgiving dinner. One thing to be said about Alanah, she embraced the whole idea of big over-the-top celebrations because that was her sister-in-law’s M.O., family first and foremost.

So with the food eaten, dishes cleaned, the twins of Alanah and Jack were situated in the den with their dad, Uncle Mal and Uncle Mack, all fast asleep, which was per the tradition it seemed for the last 3 years; while the girls, the trio known as the Unholy Trinity, Bella, Mattie Comier and Alanah, her stomach slightly pronounced at 4 and a half months pregnant, chatted away in a different room as to not disturbed the boys and twins.

“Ooof, I’m beat,” Alanah said as she leaned back in a recliner, placing her hand on her stomach, “I don’t know how the heck I’m gonna do this in a month again.”

“Mami, you are going to plan and we will prepare, even if it means putting the guys to work to pull it off.” Mattie said with a smile while sipping on the wine that Alanah insisted that both her and Bella enjoy, even if she couldn’t, “Who knows, the way Bella’s been going lately, she may do it all herself.”

“Not on a bet,” Bella smirks, “I’ll help as much as possible but the way I’ve been feeling lately, ya’ll don’t want me doing that all myself because I’m liable to go all Hulk Smash on it.”

“I take it the meds the doc has you on are messing with you?” Alanah says with concern.

“It hasn’t been all bad, but there have been times the swings have been really interesting.” Bella says tilting her head from side to side, “When I found out that mom and dad wasn’t gonna be home this year, I had a moment where I was crying and didn’t know why. Thanks for fitting us in, by the way, sis.”

Alanah smiles and reaches over, touching her arm, “Anytime, I was expecting you for dessert but this was so much better.”

Bells just smiles and shrugs, “Either way, the doc said I shouldn’t have to be on this for too long but man, I’m convinced after what happened against Crystal that people were gonna be wondering what the hell was going on with me. After what she said to you, what she did to Chloe, amongst her many other violations of nature of just existing...she had that coming.”

“So what’s got you worried then?”

Bella sits back and takes a deep breath, “Well the last time I was like this, a lot of people were really worried about my mental state. Knowing what I’m going through lately, I almost wonder if it’s about time I just call another time out but I can’t stop now. Especially after the way Kayla talked about my parents, I gotta do something.”

“Sometimes in this business, you have to be mean to get a point through though, Bella.” Alanah simply states

Mattie smirks, “Heaven knows the boys have proven that one over and over...”

“And over...”

“And over...”

They all laugh, for a moment.

“You ever get that creepy feeling that no matter what though, someone somewhere out there is going to blame my high emotional state?”

“And do what with it exactly?”

“That’s the thing, I don’t even know what to do with it.” Bella points to herself, “I mean eventually it’s supposed to lead to the goal of being a mom, but if this is going to have extra powers for other things I’d rather use them for good and not evil.”

Mattie goes to say something but her attention is caught by Malachi walking into the room, his hair which he has been letting grow is pointed everywhere and poofed up, “One thing about Thanksgiving I hate, the inevitable nap. How long was I out?”

“Just about an hour,” Bella says, looking up at him with a smile, “See what I said about his hair?”

“Holy hell,” Alanah says, “Looks like you stuck your finger in an outlet, brother!”

“What?” Mal says looking at the three of them in confusion.

Bella hops up on her feet and reaches up, “Hold still, babe.” She pushes his hair down and starts to work it back, “Oh man, it looks like your hair is almost long enough to pull back.”
Mal grumbles, “I feel like a damn doll!”

“Oh man, maybe a tiny little man bun! Hold on, I think I have a hair tie in my purse. Be right back.” Mattie stands right up and leaves the room.

“I am not putting my hair in no damn man bun.” Mal barks but it falls on deaf ears as the girls fuss over him.


What’s a Girl Gotta Do?

The screen pops on and we see Bella Madison sitting in front of a camera, no gimmicks, no scene....

“I just wanna talk to you, Alicia. Just you.”

“Is it my imagination or has this been “Bella’s Big Unfinished Business” tour? Since my return from my injury it seems like there have been a lot of things being cleared up.”

She laughs.

“Not many remember this but there was a moment before I had joined Wolfslair, that I was supposed to take Alicia Lukas on but due to unforeseen circumstances it had to be placed on the backburner. Since then Alicia and I have been in the ring together in other matches but the one on one has always been held off.”

She takes a deep breath and looks deep into the camera.

“But now here we are, Mentor vs. Student, Wolfslair vs. Wolfslair in something that needed to be asked...can the student surpass her teacher? And the answer is...we’re going to find out. It is no secret that since I joined the Wolfslair ranks that you took me under your wing, in fact it was almost a year ago to the day that I realized that I needed more in my career.”

“There is no doubt that being a part of Wolfslair has been one of the best choices in my life, despite what SOME people say. I have been more confident, I have become stronger and faster and that ‘Kill or Be Killed’ instinct has become so much sharper. I owe a lot of that thanks to you, Alicia. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that I am a viable threat to any championship because of you.”

Bella sighs and shakes her head.

“But what has been happening to you? My mentor has been kicking her own ass into the dumps because of a few losses. If I did that, in my time, if I had quit when life loved to kick me in the ass...you would have ripped me a whole new ass, including the hole to go with it! I mean we all have moments, but you have been living on Pity Party Lane enough, girl and it’s time I become the one person to remind you of who exactly the fuck you are!”

Her voice echos for a moment, and she lets the silence set in before she continues.

“I know you are not going to be a pushover like Crystal, you sure as fuck aren’t going to look down on me like Kayla....you know EXACTLY what I am capable of and that excites me. For once, since my return there are no bullshit games to be played and just a great potential for match of the year show stealin’ ass kicking that we both can dish out and take. I’m going to snap you out of that shame spiral, even if that means putting my body in the way of potential harm.”

She follows that with a shrug.

“Afterwards, I may cry my eyes out as one or the other raises the other’s hand in victory, because that’s just who I am but I’ll be damned if I’m not going out of one of the craziest roller coaster years of my life and not leave it all on the mat. I need the champion badass that I know you are, Alicia. I need to know if this keeps going for me into the new year, that all the talk is more than just talk. And in return, I’m going to bring all that fury you saw 2 weeks ago when I shipped Crystal’s bipolar ass out of the company.”

Bella simply smirks and puts her hand on her chest and lets it soak in the power of her words.

“This Sunday, in Bakersfield...the student is going to save her mentor...but I have to do it by surpassing her. And it sucks because there is no one else I look up to more, besides my own mother, than you! But a girl has to do what she has to do. That’s what this girl has to do.”

With that she blows a kiss to the camera, stands up and walks away.

Chaos Hotel O’Connell
New York, NY
Wednesday Night

It’s been a long night at the home of Malachi and Bella, as they have found themselves with their hands full. Elise and Patrick Russow found themselves being taken care of by their aunt and uncle after Jack ended up in the ICU. Alanah had only dropped them off an hour ago, Mal and Bella meeting her outside, making sure they had everything she had for them before she took off like a bat out of hell.

It was only just a couple of weeks ago that she had announced that she was pregnant and now all this going on with Jack couldn’t have been good for her but that wasn’t able to be brought up before she left them in the dust.

Bella shifted Patrick on her hip, looking at Mal who has Elise and giant bag slung over his shoulder, “I really hope she’ll be ok.”

“Lanah is a big strong girl. Let’s get these kids in before the skies open back up.”

“I know she is, but she barely let us know what was going on or anything that we needed to know about the kids,” Bella’s voice sounded a little worried.

Mal smiles sadly as Elise reaches up and touches his beard. He playfully nips at her little hand and she giggles, before turning and escorts his wife and nephew inside, “Love, she’s frantic and wants to get to Jack. Let's give it about 30 minutes, if these two start screaming, we’ll feed them.”

“Might have to look into getting some seats and a toddler bed. We have absolutely nothing here for them.”

“We’ll make due and if desperate times call for desperate measures then there are always the delivery options.”

Once they both ascended the stairs they both stopped at the same time and looked down, noticing that they were not prepared for this at all. Exposed stairs, no seats for toddlers and that pesky no bed. Mal sighs and drops the bag, grabs his phone.

“Ok, you’re the expert. What do we need?”

After about an hour of waiting for a delivery of booster seats, temporary foldout kids couches that would double as the twins beds for the night and a few gates to cut off all escape routes, the twins ran off the energy of a new place by giving Luka a run for her high energy and a game of tag. Luka would find herself running for her life for a moment from Patrick and Elise before she would turn around and chase them back for a moment, to a bout of giggles from the twins.

Not for anything said for her past history in watching Jack’s twin brother and sister, it made her almost a natural for their niece and nephew. Malachi however...well lets just say there was a learning curve but after a while he got a handle on everything but it did lead to everyone wearing a little something from dinner including poor Luka.

“How do you know how to do all of this?” Mal asked as he washed a bit of squash out of his beard. He’d look at the reflection as Bella sat on the floor watching the kids splash around the tub, cleaned but still full of energy.

“Charlie and Rosie.” Bella said with a smile as she splash the little ones a bit, “I did a lot of babysitting of those two when they were almost the same age. Of course, I don’t remember them being quite this energetic but it makes for a good workout.”

Mal squatted down next to her, “That it does. I could wrestle 3 matches and not even be this close to being exhausted as I am right now.”

She smiled as Mal yawned and tried to shake the cobwebs loose. She would splash him a little bit to get a fit of giggles again from the twins, “Well wake up, big boy. We still gotta get them dressed and down for the night. Alanah said they’ve never had a night over anywhere else, so this may get interesting.”

“Lovely.” he just deadpanned.

And Bella nailed it right on the head, after their baths they introduced the twins to the guest room where they had a few of their toys that was sent with them. Mal watched in awe as Bella would sit down with them on each side as she read to them from one of her favorite books. Patrick would sit still and listen, while it was obvious that Elise was not really having it. Before long though, Patrick was out like a light and Bella would bring his sister out with her and try and sooth her, to no avail.

Elise would whimper and whine even with her favorite blanket and binkie as Bella would walk her back and forth around the house as Mal finished getting everything cleaned up.

Everyone once in a while she’d cry out for her mama, clearly battling sleep.

“I know sweetie, I wish mama could be here too. But she’s gotta be with daddy right now and we will see them in the morning, okay?” Bella would try to reason with the 14 month old but Elise would just rub her sleepy eyes and continue on whining, “I don’t know what else to do. I can’t lay her back down with Patrick, she’ll wake him up on purpose and then all hell would really break loose.”

Mal could see Bella was getting frustrated as well as exhausted, and walked over to them rubbing his niece on her back, “Why don’t you hand her over to me and rest a bit? I can tell she’s feeding off your frustration right now. I got a trick up my sleeve.”

“Really?”

Mal just motioned and Bella willfully and carefully hands Elise over, “Hey there lil one, let’s give Aunt Bella a break.”

He’d give his wife a kiss on her forehead and send her off to a shower as he battled the exhausted little girl in his arms.

10 minutes later, Bella would come back out to check on them to find Mal swaying with Elise now passed out in his arms and singing a lullaby in Irish:

Suantraí sí, a linbhín
Luasc go mall sa chliabhán
Lú lá luí, a linbhín
Dún do shúil, a naíonáin

Seoithín seoithín seoithín seó
Seoithín seoithín seoithín seó
Seoithín seoithín seoithín seó
Suantraí sí, a linbhín,
A thaiscidh, a stór

Luí go socair, luí go ciúin
Codladh sámh, a ghrághil
Fan id' shuan, a thaiscidh buan
Go n-éirí tú ar maidin

And all Bella could do was melt against the wall and watch with her eyes tearing up and her hand on her stomach. It was only a matter of time until she could have this in her life forever, right?

But Until That Happens...


Paging Ms. Candy, Paging Ms. Robertson

“Your sassy little hellion has arrived to give you a rude awakening!!!!”

Bella stands inside of Wolfslair, dressed in business attire with her long blonde hair hanging down. She places her hands on her hips and smirks.

“I cannot put into words the greeting from the fans I got 2 weeks ago when I stepped through that curtain and back into the six-sided ring. It was like a giant welcome home that I didn’t know how much I missed until that moment. Char Kwan, nothing against you sweets, you tried your best but it just wasn’t good enough.”

“NOW, I need to make things clear. When I came back I made it known to Mark and Christian that I wasn’t back to walk right into a championship match. There has been plenty of other Bombshells that were here busting their fucking asses while I had to have my head put back together again.” Bella holds her hands up to her chest and takes a deep breath in, “I wanted to work my way back into a division whether it’d be Roulette or Internet and get there by my own fruition. And here we are, just a few short weeks after my return and I find myself in this triple threat match to determine who is going to be pretty much a sacrificial lamb to the slaughter of my own stablemate, Kayla Richards in just a few short weeks.”

“First we got the ever colorful and glittery Candy. And my girl, what the hell can be said about you that hasn’t? You have known me over half of my life and honestly, it’s still amazing to me that even after all this time you are still that amazing bubbly personality that I met way back in the day. I feel though like there are times that you have one foot out the door and I know you have your hands full with your daughter and everything now. You have your hands full. But I also know that this kind of opportunity will not pass you by.” she blinks slowly because well, she’s trying to put another bad thought in but just lets it out, “You have never been the one to give up a chance this big. You are a former Roulette Champion and I just can’t ignore that. You’ve beaten me, I’ve beaten you. But we have another factor in this match.”

“Georgie Robertson.” Bella sighs, “Apparently I somehow missed your whole debut and I apologize for the most part. But when I finally got the chance between family drama, working my ass off in training to make sure that I was actually really ready to come back...I had to say I was rather....let’s just say this: I have seen this before. I mean, at least it seems that way every time I turn on the BBC.”

She laughs and waves her hands around, “I have been sitting for hours upon hours of trying to come up with something scathing to say about you when the fact remains, I couldn’t. ...hell now that I think about it, I couldn’t even come up with something positive to say about you. While yeah, I’ve been out on injury, you came in here and might as well have been painting the Bombshells’ locker room beige, like the whole color of your personality and sat and watched the paint dry because that would have been a better time than setting through anything I found about you.”

Putting her head in her hands she growls with a bit of frustration, “And I hate that. I hate being that bitch but it’s absolutely 100% on the nose. You are the definition of “mid”, whereas when it comes to me, it’s ONLY a matter of time. Either one of two things happens, I finally get that brass ring...or in this case the Internet Championship or I end up a mom and out for a little while again while I bring life into this fucked up world that we all live in.”

“The facts are I am out to make this time that I have here a whole lot more special than the rest. I’m finally starting to see the bigger picture. But for me, a win or a loss won’t make or break me. I’m already made, here in Sin City. Everyone know exactly what Bella Madison is capable of, all that matters now is finally making it stick. So come at me, bitches.”

Bella flips her hair and turns on her heels, and before she walks out the door you hear, “I’m out to show you all exactly what you were missing without me around.”

When Is It Enough?
Wolfslair Gym
New York, NY

It had been almost 2 weeks and every bit of her latest failure put a weight on her shoulders. Something she didn’t like one bit.

It brought up feelings that she didn’t not want to envelop her or her career.

In her head, she’d play the whole damn thing over and over again. Where could she have done anything differently? Where did she go wrong? Why in the fuck was it pissing her off so much?

“Ya know...” Bella heard a voice break through her foggy focus, where she had taken all the frustrations of her world out on monopolizing the punching bag, “If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were a little frustrated.”

Alicia Lukas would know about that, she was Bella’s mentor afterall and had taken the young one under her wing. What made it even more obvious was Bella had managed to get the bag off the hook somehow and took to tossing it around the room for the last hour.

“And while I’m sure Alex would appreciate the removal of the old broken down bag so he can get it replaced, I don’t think he was expecting you to break union rules and take matters into your own hands....”

Bella just kept going though, picking the bag up, hiking it onto her shoulders and lifting it and slamming it down.

“You do know we have dummies and students for this exact reason, right?”

Alicia kept trying to get through to her but it was like Bella was not having it today, that was enough to have Lukas grab Bella by the arm and pull her up straight.

Bella just pulls her arm away and barks, “Do you mind?”

“Yeah, I do mind! What the hell has crawled up your ass?”

Bella just rolls her eyes and you hear Alicia vocally scoff, “What? What do you want from me?”

Alicia is almost taken aback by Bella practically barking at her, “You have been moping around here for DAYS since you got back.”

“Yup!” the blonde says ‘matter-of-fact’ like before reaching down and grabbing the bag, dragging it over to another area of the gym.

Alicia stays hot on her heels, “Soooo you decided to redecorate the gym?”

Bella tosses the punching bag into the corner nonchalantly and it falls without her giving one care, before turning back and walking over to her gym bag, unwrapping her hands and wrist, “No, I just needed something to beat the hell out of for a bit. Heard the boss talking about replacing this old thing and took matters into my own hands.”

Alicia watches her for a moment, “Alright, so what about earlier today when you were working in the ring?”

That recent memory brings a smirk to the young one’s face, “What about it?”

Alicia just shrugs, “I got told you were working some of the newbs a little extra tighter than usual.”

Bella just glances at her mentor for a moment who just gives her that look, “Sometimes they gotta learn that it happens and no one is going to play pattycake with them when they’re in the ring. It’s what you have been trying to beat into my head, right?”

Lukas has a hard time keeping a straight face, swallows the laugh and continues on, “You told one of them to quit being a “sniveling little bitch”.”

Bella can’t help but snicker as she finishes unwrapping her hands, mumbling, “Little pussy bitch could take chops from a girl and goes whining. They deserve to be called a ‘sniveling little bitch’ if that’s really the case.”

Alicia growls in frustration, grabbing her protege by the shoulders and screams, “BELLA!”

“WHAT?!?!” Bella screams back.

The women look at each other for a moment before a smile breaks out on Alicia’s face, “It’s about time I see some viciousness come out of you.” Bella blinks in surprise, as Alicia grabs her shoulder and shakes it, “Now, if you can only keep that same attitude going into the match this week.”

Bella steps back and rolls her eyes, “Because we all know how you feel about Candy.”

“Hey, I’ve done what I needed against her.” she holds up her hands, “You however, need to keep this whole stubborn ass attitude that reminds me way too much of your mother, pack it in that bag along with that hottie thottie gear you’ve been rocking lately and beat her ass!”

Madison tilts her head, “You actually want me in that Queen for a Day match?”

“More than I want her, that’s for damn sure.” Alicia says, “And when it comes Into the Void, you are going to keep this whole next level Mini-Ali attitude and bring it like never before. Got me?”

Bella just squints at her, “Mini Ali?”

Lukas steps back and just motions at Bella all together, “Oh you better believe I am taking credit for this. I have had a hell of a year already. Don’t piss out on me now, Madison.”

“You? I can’t seem to find a streak unless I stripped naked and ran through Time Square.”

Ali tries to think of a comeback for that but isn’t sure, “Let’s avoid that for the time being despite how many people would just love to see that. Get going, take that bag with ya, throw it at Malachi a few times and I will see you in Lesbos and watch you kick that twit’s ass. I’m gonna go harass the sniveling little bitch for a bit before I call it a day.”

Bella looks over to where the students are standing around and Alicia looks with her, “Sometimes you gotta get a little mean to get what you want.”

And with that Bella grabs her gym bag and on her way out, dragging the punching back behind her we hear, “Alright....chop drill!” followed by a collective moan.


Sometimes Being Nice Isn’t Enough

Bella is seen sitting in front of a burn pit that sits in the middle of a beautiful Lesbos hotel patio, “It’s really not. And I know Candy has lived her entire life and career with the innocence of a child and we’ve been over our whole past with families. She looks at me like I am one of her best friends and part of me feels almost guilty about how I am feeling right now.”

“After my loss 2 weeks ago in that triple threat, I feel like I have reached the point in my career where I am just...spinning my fucking wheels. It’s been getting increasingly worse since before the new year. I have only been good for so much and then when it comes to the point of really making a point, I come up juuuuuuuuuust short of making it really count.”

“In my head, I have been wanting to scream something that I know would probably garner me a tad bit of heat and honestly at this point I don’t have much left to lose. I took to twitter and I spoke my mind. I have been feeling like when it comes to my general direction in the company itself, it has been sorely lacking. I’m not a contender. I don’t even have a SNIFF at any of the three bombshell championships right now.”

She points to herself, “And it is my own fault.”

“I have no one to blame for this void right now, but me. So it IS on me to fix that course. I could sit here and bitch all day about management putting the screws to me but that’s not the case. Mark and Christian have been nothing but amazing despite how some people feel about them. I absolutely adore SCW and I have said it once before and it will be repeated over and over again, this is considered one of my homes. I find myself time and time again here and I will keep doing it. Bella Madison is still growing and wanting more. I’ve become so hungry for bigger things but when I have attempted to crack the ceiling...all I have done is crack my head and give myself a massive migraine.”

“So I pick myself up, I dust myself off...but how many times does one have to do that before the cracks become something more?”

She can’t help but growl in frustration before that turns into a sigh,

“Candy, I love you. I love you like an aunt. I love your adorable daughter and your husband is a wonderful and extremely patient human being that deserves an award for it all. And I know you are hearing this and wondering what I am talking about but those that get it, know. But I cannot let my love for you and your family and for our history get in the way of what needs to be done.”

“You once gave me one of the greatest chances I have ever had in my career in my own hometown and it led to one of the best moments of my career. I can never thank you enough. But when it comes to what I need next, I have to make a point. I can only beat up a punching bag for so long before I come to the realization that I need to take all this frustration and the lack of course and put it on one thing at a time.” Bella looks up and points forward,

“And right now....that’s you.”

“And I’m sorry. I am so sorry. But you have to understand, I have no other choice. I have to get to ‘Into the Void’, into that match for Queen For A Day. To do that, I have to beat you and make my course very abundantly clear.”

“That course is straight up, and not stopping for a fucking soul.” She looks down and smiles evilly at the pit of fire.

“Let the rest burn.”

My So-Called Life
Dallas, TX
Feb. 16th

“BIRFDAY! IT’S MY BIRFDAY!” the young voice of Aaron Madison streamed through the store and as fast as his little legs could carry him, he was running full tilt through the walkways of one the many Dallas Walmart’s.

Hot on his heels, was his big sister, Bella Madison, “AARON!”

Aaron stops at one of the workers, a very tall black gentleman, who stepped out in front of him to slow him down, “HI! IT’S MY BIRFDAY!” This allows his sister ample time to catch up with him and sweep him up into her arms.

“Thank you!” Bella says to the worker, she looks at the name tag, “DeMarcus, thanks for the intercept. We let him walk instead of riding in the cart and turned one minute...”

“It’s all good. Glad I was able to help.” DeMarcus says before turning to the wiggly 3-year-old, “And a Happy Birthday lil dude. Don’t take off on her like that again, alright?”

“K!” Aaron barks out, as DeMarcus walks away. Bella levels her little brother with a glare, and Aaron looks down and whimpers a pathetic, “Sorry, Be.”

“Dude, we had an agreement. You stick with me and Mal and we weren’t gonna force ya to ride in the cart.”

“I am 3 now, I don’t wanna!” Aaron says pouting and folding his arms across his tiny chest.

“Yeah, I know but you blew it kid.” Mal says catching up and pushing a cart, “In ya go.”

Aaron tries to growl at his brother-in-law but Mal just looks at him to say ‘Dude really?’, “Nice try pipsqueak, I invented that.”

Bella snickers as she places her little brother in the seated part of the cart, “I won’t buckle ya in, but try me bro, I dare ya.” The trio make it to the toy department after a bit of whining, “Alright, birthday boy, what are ya thinkin this year?”

“DRUMS!” he waves his arms like he’s playing them already.

“Oh your mother is gonna LOVE that one.” Mal quips with a laugh in his voice.

Bella gives him a quick glare before looking at her brother, “Uh, I don’t know if they have drums here. How about Hot Wheels tracks with cars or something?”

“No, I want drums! So I can play with daddy.” Aaron beams.

That brings up even more laughter, “Oh please, please let this happen.”

Bella sighs, “Ok tell you what, cause I know we’re not gonna find drums here, how about we get something else? And maybe we can order you what you want and we’ll have it delivered to your house?”

Bella wanders off as Aaron kind’ve whimpers, Mal taps him on the shoulder and whispers, “It’ll be alright rugrat, trust me.”

Aaron smiles brightly and reaches up and hugs Mal real quick. That catches a little ole lady’s attention, “Aww, so sweet! You have a real connection with your son like that.”

Mal looks up and can’t help himself, “Actually he’s my brother-in-law.”

“Your...but he’s...”

“I’M THREE! IT’S MY BIRFDAY!”

Bella walks back around with a huge box that features Mario Kart, “Bro, check this out!”

The woman looks at Bella and back to Aaron and Mal and the look on her face is a look of confusion, “Uh, well...” and that’s all she can get out before she just walks away.

Mal smirks, “That’ll never get old.”

“Fun?” Aaron looks at his brother in law with a questionable look.

He laughs, “A lot of fun.”

“You both are silly.” Bella holds up the box, “Speaking of...check this...”

Aaron’s eyes get big, “YAS! And drums?”

Bella sighs and drops it in the cart, “We’ll see.”

She turns her back to them but Mal taps Aaron on the shoulder one more time, “I got you.”

Aaron gives him a high five and they continue through the store.


A RERUN?

“So I just got a text message from my mother, wondering who ordered the drums.” Bella says as she walks into the hotel room.

“I haven’t the foggiest idea what you are talking about.” but he can’t help but smirk, “I’m sure I’ll pay for that one soon enough.”

“She had several curses for you,” she said looking at him, “Trouble maker.”

He just shrugs, “What can I say? I have a bit of a soft spot for the kid.”

“I’ve noticed.” she said, shoving him a little bit.

“Where were you?”

“Trying to keep my motivation up.” she says almost looking deflated, “I understand that I’m sort’ve in this awkward phase right now where I’m back to the beginning of the line but I don’t know...part of me feels like a failure right now when it comes to SCW.”

“Not even close.” Mal tries to protest but she just shakes her head.

“They’re playing with me with kid gloves, Mal.” Bella blurts out, “It’s round fuckin’ 2 with Chloe Benton after I soundly schooled her at Inception. I don’t know what I gotta do but playing best of what the hell ever with the greenhorn isn’t exactly my idea of getting myself back into the main event picture.”

“So repeat the process? Remember what I told you then?” Mal says looking right at her, “I told you flat out that you have every tool in the box that you have taken from your parents and what you have learned from everywhere else. Are you going to seriously let a repeat in matches deter you from what you really want?”

“No. I just am really annoyed by it.” Bella says before she smirks, “I guess I’m just gonna have to go Phoenix 101 on the poor girl again.”

“Sounds like a plan. Besides, you could be worse off.”

Bella looks at him with one eyebrow up, “How so?”

“You could be teamed up with Todd Williams in the BFTP like Lanah.”

Bella laughs, “We’ll thank the Gods for me having the good sense to trust my PTSD instincts then, eh?”

“That you can, love. That you can.”

~*~*~Red~*~*~
Wolfslair Gym

The secret was out. Well, it wasn’t really a secret but the announcement was made that Bella Madison was one of the newest members of Wolfslair. She had waited for the fallout considering the hell that Levi recently raised but nothing came. One less battle right now.

Instead, she has been in the hands of Alicia Lukas inside the Wolfslair: New York gym helping her prepare for the battles that lay ahead of her. If ANYONE could show her what it really took to be a World Champion, it would be this woman.

“You did great today.” the praise coming from the woman herself as Bella worked on unlacing her wrestling shoes, “Take the next couple of days to relax, and we’ll get back to it on Friday morning.”

Bella laughs, “Yeah, relax...you have met my family, right?”

Alicia looks deadpan at her shaking her head, “I don’t understand why you insisted on hosting Thanksgiving. You have enough on your plate right now as is. You sure you’re not a sadist?”

“Sometimes I wonder. But I decided to do it because it’s the first one since Mal and I got married and I thought, at the time, cause the whole building is finally done to just invite mom, Nick and Aaron over with the possibility of Alanah and Jack with the babies showing up later with Mal and Lanah’s mom too,” Bella says tossing things aside, “THANKFULLY, mom has been more than willing to help and I got some of the stress taken off. But it’s just a lot to deal with.”

Alicia places her hand on her hip and with the tilt of the head says, “And what did Mal say about all this?”

Bella doesn’t answer right away before she just sighs in defeat, and mumbles, “That I’m a damned fool but he’ll gladly be there for all the food.”

Laughter breaks out, “Spoken like the bastard we all know.”

Bella laughs herself, grabbing up her bag and standing up, “Just thankful that his cast came off before the holidays which means he can get his ass back in the gym on a full-time basis and maybe Oscar can be less grouchy around the parentals.”

Alicia gives that look on her face and wraps her arm around the shoulders of her student, “I wouldn’t bet on it. Just remember, training Friday morning...and I will bump your ass off hungover or not!”

Bella just hangs her head for a moment, before smirking at her, “I wouldn’t expect any less.”



~*~*~F is for Family~*~*~
O’Connell Home

“Hey babe, could you come in here and help out a bit? I got my hands full and the potatoes are ready to be mashed up.” Bella’s voice rang out from the kitchen of the O’Connell home. Bella thought it’d be nice to be the one to host Thanksgiving this year. First year her and Mal would celebrate as a married couple and therefore a full blown family get together was called for.

She really needed to stop thinking that these things would go perfectly. She’d kick Norman Rockwell in the sack, if it was possible.

“I HELP!” pipped up the littlest voice in the room over the noise. Followed by the patterning of his toddler feet of his 3 foot stature, flew in her baby brother Aaron. His dirty blonde hair was a bit out of control due to him playing with Luka just a moment before.

Bella couldn’t help but laugh at him running right to her and wrapping his arms around her leg, “Well you weren’t exactly WHO I had in mind,” she says looking up as Mal walks in and looks down, “I think you have a volunteer to help.”

“Mal, I help you!” he says looking up with a toothy grin, “Mash tatos!”

Mal just looks up at Bella with a ‘Please don’t make me do this’ look on his face, but he groans when he knows he won’t win, “Well, I appreciate the enthusiasm rugrat, but I’m not sure if you’d be much help.”

“MASH!” he barks out with a growl.

“What in the world is going on in here?” a voice from behind Mal pops in, the voice belonging to Bella’s mom, Laura, “I hear him screaming like the Hulk.”

“He wants to help Mal with the potatoes but we’re not sure if he really can.”

“Oh he absolutely can, you just gotta make sure he keeps him in control or it’s a giant mess.” she states looking at them both, “I could help if he doesn’t think he can handle it.”

“I didn’t say that...” Mal barks a bit.

Bella puts her hand up and one on Mal’s shoulder to stop him, “Mom, no. You are a guest in our house and already did enough with the side dishes you brought.” Bella hands Mal the pot with the masher, “Mal, let him help you. You should be ok.”

If you can hear Morgan Freeman at this point saying something along the lines of “It indeed was NOT ok.” you’d be right.

Between Aaron thinking he was Bruce Banner, Mal trying his best to wrangle him and Luka being her wild self, the potatoes were about 35% less what was originally made. Which turned into Aaron getting a bath and a change of clothes, Mal getting a shower and into an even grumpier version of himself, and Bella and her mother killing a bottle of red merlot wine. And after dinner, them thankful for the annual L-tryptophan doing it’s work and the boys falling asleep in the living room with a football game.

Mother and Daughter found themselves at the dinning room table, with their wine glasses, “So, how's the training at Wolfslair going?”

“It’s been amazing. Working with Alicia has been educational to say the least.” Bella says sipping at her glass, “You sure things have been quiet?”

“Like the dead. I think Levi coming face to face with Alex last week has been a tad humbling for him,” Laura says with a slight shrug, “Either way, I want you to be a sponge with everything Alicia will show you. She kicked MY ass back in the day. If anyone can get you truly ready for the likes of Amber Ryan, it's her.”

“She’s been there, done that, got the t-shirt and it was a best seller. All I know is these next few weeks are going to fly by and before I know it, I’m going to be standing across the ring from my biggest challenge to date then.” Bella says sitting back. She points to herself towards her chest, “I just...I want her to look at me as an actual viable threat to her title. I mean, she’s a champion for a reason so looking beyond her challenger isn’t her forte but listening to her last week, daring the Bombshell roster to step up...I felt almos short changed in a way.”

Laura tilts her head with her eyes squinting, “Like you think she’s not taking you seriously?”

“Exactly like that.” Bella says with a shrug, “I mean I get it. Only title I’ve won in SCW has been with Mal and everytime I went for the Roulette it just wasn’t enough.”

“That may be, but you know damn well when you are motivated enough you have this amazing ability to perform above and beyond anything that was expected.” Laura tips her glass, “You, my dear, have the potential to even out perform me. You just need to find something to bring it all together.”

“Well, considering on Sunday I get Seleana Zdunich...” Bella says with a quirk in her eyebrow, “I know she’s going to be out for my head after the match at MSG. She has been thirsting to get back to the main event so much but it’s like she has no real direction with it. Who knows, maybe I’ll be her direction but I can’t slip up now. Not when I have so much momentum going into the 19th.”

Mother looks at her daughter before draining the rest of her wine, she takes a breath while setting her glass down, “Well stay focused with that mindset. You are the one to beat right now without a title.”

Bella groans, rubbing her face for a moment before swiping her hair from her face, “No pressure or anything.”

“Psh, you’re your mother’s daughter. We thrive off of pressure.” Laura says with a wink and a wriggle of her eyebrows.

“Ohkay, you’re cut off.” she says reaching for the bottle, before looking inside it, “...which would be a thing to say but it appears we have killed this one.”

“Opps! I guess that’s a clue to wake up Nick and get him and the boy home.” the girls stand up from their chairs and mother hugs daughter, “Just trust me, kid, you have all the right tools. Just gotta put it all together.”

With a deep breath she nods, “Starting with Seleana.”

“Oh you started it already with MSG, Seleana is just a part of the path.” Laura touches Bella’s face, “Remember to drink water. I’ll check in on ya later, okay? And...take it easy on the grouchy one there.”

“No promises. I should let him sleep there all night.” she says glaring at her sleeping husband, who has Aaron curled up with him. That never fails, 3 years in a row.


~*~*~No One Else~*~*~
Back to the Wolfslair Gym

Bella sits in the center of the room, back in her workout gear. Her long blonde hair pulled back tightly and sweat dripping off the tip of her nose like she’s just been through one hell of a workout, “Seleana, this feels oddly familiar, doesn’t it? The few times we have been in this ring together but now the tide has sort of changed.” she looks up, her clear blue eyes shining brightly, “I have that one thing you wanted, a return to glory sits with me and the road to Las Vegas. Course first we have to make a stop at Stanford where we get to face one another yet again. But somehow I have found this about being just a regular one on one. I feel that target on me, Seleana. Suddenly I need to be made an example of by former champs. Am I right?”

“I have had to grow so much in such a short period of time. I wanted so much and I just needed something to really just connect the dots. But I also need to make a point.” she reaches down and grabs a towel, wiping her face, “You see, last week I sat there and I heard Amber beg for women to step up. Suddenly, there was Bea, suddenly there were a few others that was like “Oh hey, what about me?” when they just dipped their toe in the water that is this division. Don’t worry ladies. I had a couple years before I even had a sniff and let me tell you something, this pressure. It is GLORIOUS.”

A laugh crosses her lips, “Maybe that’s something that is missing with you Seleana. You can’t seem to embrace the beautiful pressure. Instead, you’ve cracked and found yourself here against me and hoping that just a possible win will get you back. But just like MSG, I’m afraid that it won’t be that easy.” she sits back and catches her breath, “Instead, I’m going to use you to make a point. And I hate the term “Stepping stool” but sometimes it’s appropriate. You want to use me to step up into glory that has been avoiding you like Christian avoids Candy. I want to use you to step up into that spotlight. I have 3 weeks this Sunday to prepare myself. I would consider it an honor to learn from you and that’s what I’m going to take away from this.”

“And then who knows, maybe we’ll get a Christmas miracle after all.” Bella stands up and looks dead ahead, “And no one else is going to take that Bombshell away from her. No one BUT ME!”

Mirror Mirror on the wall
Who is the greatest fuck up of them all?

She couldn’t believe it. All of that work.

And nothing to show for it.

She got to the back, Malachi didn’t even wait for her to come through the curtain, he was waiting for her on stage and they glared for the cameras  right there with a warm smile and a waiting hug. Both she welcomed, but it felt like it was wasted. He’d walk her to catering in the arena, sit her down, making sure she hydrated herself like always. She could tell he was trying to not let her go into her own shame spiral but it was fruitless. They called for him for his match and she saw he was reluctant to leave her by herself.

Leaning on her hand she couldn’t help but get a kick out of his reluctance to leave her side. She leaned on her hand and just smiled at him, making a muscle with her other arm, “Go, I’ll be alright. I’m a big strong girl. I can tie my own shoes and everything.”

Which brought a smirk to his face, giving her a kiss, “See you in a few.”

“Knock 'em dead, babe.” she said to his back, but he turned and winked at her with his bright blue eyes. But the moment she knew he was gone, she just groaned and collapsed into her arms, trying to not scream at the Gods in front of the staff.

After a quiet moment in silence, she just couldn’t sit there anymore. “Fuck it.” she pronounced loudly, pounding on the table, after leaving out one of the loudest breaths in history, almost scaring the staff. Sliding her boots off, she made her way to the locker room area, determined to watch him and be prepared for whatever may come from his match.

Needless to say, they were on a flight back to New York 4 hours later.

Neither wanted to celebrate anything.

Go home. Recoup. Recover. And try again.


“Penny for your thoughts.”

Bella practically jumped out of her skin when her sister-in-law, Alanah made her way through the door to the nursery, with bottles in her hand. Mal insisted that they’d visit within a couple days of getting home, because he knew that seeing Patrick and Elise was exactly what they both needed. He wasn’t showing much of anything following his loss to Caleb, but Bella basically dragged herself around the house.

She couldn’t help herself, being in awe of Alanah. She had the poise of the queen she is but you could tell that it was tiring having 2 babies AND dealing with Jack. Though she knew Jack would die for his children, something told her that her visit was very much welcomed at the Russow manor.

Before Alanah returned though she stood over the cribs, just staring at the little ones who were almost a month old already and just lost in nothingness. So it was no wonder that her return scared her a bit.

“I’m sorry! You okay?”

Bella collects herself before smiling at Alanah, “Yeah, no, I’m fine. Just lost in my own little world for a moment.”

“Gosh, at least you didn’t scream.”

“Thankfully I had the good sense to know where I was. Need help?”

“Of course! Who do you want?”

She smiles as she looks at the babes, “I think I’ll take Patrick. Haven’t spent as much time with him as I have with her. Nothing personal Ellie.” she says, talking to her little niece, before reaching over and carefully grabbing Patrick.

“Have I mentioned how grateful I am for you and Mal popping over as much as possible?” Lanah says, handing Bella one of the bottles and picking up her daughter, “It’s been a Godsend, really.”

“Why haven’t you gotten yourself a part-time nanny or even a housekeeper? Take some of the stress off of you.” Bella says, settling into one of the rocking chairs with Patrick in her arms.

“I said something but Jack is so protective of the babies and after what happened with that witch...”

Bella sighs, as she watches Alanah settle in with her daughter, “Good point, but still, a little help will go a long way around here. I could put in a few calls, see if my grandfather knows of some agency that really vets their people...”

“I wouldn’t want you to go out of your way just for...”

Rolling her eyes, she grabs the cloth on her, she cleans up a little dribble on the baby’s chin, “NONSENSE! Lanah, these are my niece and nephew and YOU TOO! Mal would flip if he saw how exhausted you really are.” she continues to feed Patrick, almost like the pro she is after she helped with Jack’s brother and sister years ago, “I would love to help in any way I can and with us doing these tours again, trust me I am more than willing to make your life easier.”

“Well...if you insist.”

“I do.” Bella says, “Of course it’s yours and Jack’s final call but just that extra help will bring me peace of mind for you too, mommy.”

Alanah almost blushes when Bella calls her ‘Mommy’, “I’m still not used to that.”

“But you are, and you are a wonderful mother. I don’t know how you do this.”

Alanah just raises her eyebrow as she checks on Elise before looking at Bella, “Do what?”

Bella motions around with her head at everything, “This! While I can tell you are exhausted, you just...you look like you have it all together.”

That brings a fit of laughter, “Trust me, I don’t. I dropped a glass of milk in the sink the other night, and completely lost it.”

Bella watches as Alanah brings Elise up to burp her before looking down at Patrick, “That could just be hormones.”

“Maybe, but trust me, I barely hold it together sometimes. Between the littles, worrying over Jack, my own health...seeing what is going on with you...” Alanah looks at her sister-in-law, “I know that loss to Krystal is still eating at you.”

“It’s not that she beat me, it’s the fact that I worked so damn hard and I just have nothing to show for it. When I got word that SCW was finishing the year HERE, in New York? AT MSG? I don’t know, I thought it was like the stars had finally panned out in my direction but instead I’m finding myself right back at the end of the line.”

Silence fills the air for a moment as Patrick finishes his bottle finally giving Bella a chance to burp him. The sisters sit there for a moment before Alanah finally breaks the the quiet.

“So...now what?”

“I don’t know. And that’s scarier than a gauntlet and facing down gorram wheel from Hades. But I do have a question, do you think Jack would go...” with her foot she steps on a squeaky toy that one of their dogs left in the room, “Ba-zurk if you got to play hooky here soon? I could really use a good girls da-” Patrick finally lets out a good burp and then almost immediately starts grunting. “Uh oh....”

“Oh boy....sounds like someone is trying to poop. I forgot the extra diapers downstairs. I’ll be right back.”

Alanah cradles her daughter in her arms and quickly leaves the room as Patrick continues to grunt away. Bella looks at him, “That’s alright kiddo...seems like everyone is shitting on me lately.”


When You Wish Upon A Star

Bella sits patiently in a chair, her long blonde hair pulled up in a high ponytail, wearing a purple top. She seems almost lost in thought for a moment, “Lanah asked the million dollar question.” her bright blue eyes look up, “Now what?”

Shaking her head, she glances around, like she can’t believe that she has to do this again, that she can’t face the truth but she knows she doesn’t have a choice, “I failed. I failed so unbelievably badly and I have found myself back at a place I really didn’t want to be.”

“It’s like getting stuck on the Small World ride and the attendant is taking a smoke break so all you can do is sit there and listen to the same song over and over and over. How many times do you take it before you finally snap and start taking out the animatronics? Well, I can tell you this much....I’m pretty close.”

She stands up and puts her hands on her hips and leans in ever so slightly like she’s trying to garner up all the sass she can, “I’m going to make something VERY abundantly clear, I am not about to be some damsel in distress that the prince needs to come rescue. I’m a damsel, I'm in distress, I can handle this. SO if anyone of you think that Mal is suddenly gonna show up and bring me out of this weird moment in my career, get to stepping and have a nice day because I’m not gonna be calling for him everytime something doesn’t go my way.”

Putting her head in her hands, she whispers just loud enough, “I know my goal....New York City.“ her eyes appear again and you can see them shining just right, that hint of she is determined to make it or break it, “Madison. Square. Garden. Standing in the ring, in my hometown and the fans singing along to my theme song as I somehow manage to shock the entire world. How do I get there?”

She makes a broad motion and just throws her hands out with a giant shrug, “Your guess is about as good as mine. BUT, I do know where it starts.”

“Speaking of getting stuck on mind numbing rides, Violet Amelia Holt.....good lord,” she laughs at herself, “Apparently buying a clue to stop putting your nose in my business didn’t quite sink in the last time. What’s sad is now I get to do this in front of your hometown in the Happiest Place on Earth. Let me lay this out for you, Vi, YOU ARE NOT THE HERO IN THIS STORY!”

Stopping herself short, she holds up her hand, “BUT, I will say that even if the villains have a chance at a happy ending, sometimes the villain's story is just started on a simple misunderstanding or a wrong turn. I heard a rumor that you were attempting to turn over a new leaf and my dear for your sake, I sure hope so. Because the last time we did this, you backed the wrong damn horse. And let me tell you something right now, I am not in the best mindset.”

She walks around for a moment, seemingly stressed out a bit, “I am backed into this corner that I have no one to blame but myself for the situation I find myself in...but that doesn’t mean that I am just going to sit back and let you get one up on me. I am in a very dangerous place right now....but victims, aren’t we all?”

Stopping, she adjusts her ponytail, moving it just right, “So, to the SCW Fans, boo me if you must...SCW Management, pay close attention...SCW Bombshell locker room...you haven’t seen ANYTHING yet. And to Violet Amelia Holt, I will not apologize for what I am about to do to you.” a smirk crosses her face before she stands up and begins to walk away, swaying the entire way, she turns around and smirks, giving a small salute, “Thanks for everyone, guys. It’s been a real slice.”