Sunday November 6th, 20ll..after Climax Control: High Stakes

Following Climax Control: High Stakes, new Bombshell Champion, Misty, is in the Bombshell’s locker room, packing up her duffel bag, getting ready to head home.  There is a knock on the door as she puts the last of her things into her bag and zips it up, then grabs her Bombshell Championship belt.  She walks over to the door and opens it to find her fiancée Spike standing there waiting for her.

“We gotta get going.  Dixie just called and said Eden keeps asking where we are.  You ready to go?” He says, leaning against the doorframe.

Misty hands her duffel bag to Spike. “Let me meet you at the car okay?  I just found out my match for the main event next week and there is someone I need to talk to first.”

“What’s your match?” He asks curiously.

“I’m teaming with JT Underwood to face Kittie and Gabriel.  I’ll only have to fight Kittie, though.  And by the way, Kittie is the number one contender for my title now.” Misty replies, though she doesn’t seem worried.

“I don’t think Kittie is still here, if that is who you need to talk to.” Spike replies, looking inside the locker room, and not seeing any sign of Kittie.

Misty shakes her head. “I don’t think talking to her is a good idea right now.  I actually wanted to find JT and talk to him for a few minutes.”

Spike’s nostrils flare, but he remains calm. “I’ll go with you then.”

Misty laughs and shakes her head. “Relax, babe.  I’ll be fine.  I’ll only be a few minutes.  Just go to the car and I’ll meet you there in a few minutes. Here, take this with you, too.” She hands him the Bombshell title.

Spike tries to object, but Misty leans in and gives him a kiss then walks off past him without another word.  He watches her walk away, takes a deep breath and shakes his head.  Faced with no other option, he walks off toward the parking lot, not looking very thrilled.  When he gets out to their car, he gets in the driver’s side, starts the engine, then waits patiently for Misty to return.  

After a couple minutes, he spots JT Underwood storm out of the building and over to his motorcycle, not looking in a good mood.  Shortly after, Misty walks over to JT’s motorcycle, and Spike watches them closely.  He can’t hear their conversation, but he keeps a close eye, should he need to intervene at all.  When JT throws his helmet against the wall and shatters it, Spike is just seconds away from going to get her, but doesn’t as she seems fine for the moment.  

He honks the horn to get Misty’s attention.  She turns around, signals for him to wait, and he growls under his breath.  Spike notices JT look over in his direction, and when JT hands Misty a piece of paper, he honks again.  Misty finally ends her conversation with JT and heads to the car.  She gets into the passenger’s seat, then looks over to Spike, almost annoyed.

“Overly impatient, aren’t we?” She says, fastening her seat belt.  As soon as she has her seat belt on, Spike drives off out of the parking lot.

“Why the hell did he break his helmet like that?  He’s lucky I didn’t—“ Misty cuts him off before he can finish his sentence.

“He just lost the Gauntlet Match for the Heavyweight Title, Spike.  He’s a little pissed off.  I’m sure Kittie is feeling the same way at the moment, you know.”  Misty replies.

Spike shakes his head and growls again.  “I don’t care what you say, I’ll be at ringside during that match in two weeks.”

Misty laughs and shakes her head. “I’ll be fine, Spike.  Gabriel can’t touch me.  I can only fight Kittie.”

“That’s not my point.”

Misty looks at Spike, sees the look on his face, then smiles.  “You’re really sexy when you’re jealous for no reason and over protective too.  But, you really need to relax.”

Spike then pulls into their driveway.  A tiny grin appears at the edge of his mouth.  Misty grabs her things from the backseat, draping her Bombshell Title belt over her shoulder.  She expects to see Eden through the front window, and then come running out the front door, but nothing.  Even when she and Spike walk through the front door, the only person they are greeted by is Misty’s sister, and babysitter for the evening, Dixie.

“Congrats, champ!” Dixie says as she walks up to Misty and gives her a hug.  Misty sets her duffel bag down, and looks around for Eden.

“Where’s Eden?  I thought she was waiting for us?” Misty asks, as Spike walks past her and into their living room.

“She just fell asleep a few minutes ago.  She fought to stay awake, but she’s passed out on the sofa now.” Dixie replies with a smile.

Misty is about to head into the living room, when Spike comes back into view with Eden in his arms, her head resting on his shoulder.  She is still asleep.  Misty kisses Eden’s forehead, and runs her hand through her raven colored hair.

“I’ll go put her to bed.”  Spike says.  Misty nods her head, and Spike walks past, heading to Eden’s room.

Misty walks into the living room, carefully sets her Bombshell title on the coffee table and looks at the TV.  A still frame of her holding the belt up is seen, and she can’t help but smile.

“I did it Dixie.  I actually DID IT.  I’m the first ever SCW Bombshell Champion.”  She says as she stares at the TV screen.  Dixie sits next to her and looks at the Bombshell title belt and smiles.

“We all knew you would, sis.  You’ve been a champion before, so what makes now any different?  You did great in that match.  Eden was so excited when you won.”  Dixie says, as Misty grabs her Bombshell Championship and places it in her lap. She stares at it, making sure its real.

“There was a second there where I thought Kittie had me beat, though.  I don’t know how I managed to get my shoulder up right at the last minute.  Even before that, I thought for sure Raynin was going to eliminate me all together.  I’m just still in awe right now.  I’m making sure this isn’t a dream.”

Dixie shakes her head. “But you fought your way through it.  You gave it your all and you walked out of there as the champion, just like you said you were going to do.  It’s not a dream, sis.”  Dixie then pinches Misty’s arm.

“Hey!”  Misty yanks her arm away.  “What was that for?”

“Proof that this isn’t a dream.”  Dixie smirks.

“Ok, point proven.”  Misty says.  “Anyway, I’m pretty exhausted right now.  I think I’m going to go take a shower, then get some sleep.  My back is starting to hurt a little bit right now.”

Dixie nods. “Alright then.  I guess that’s my cue to get heading home.  I’ll call you tomorrow, okay?”

“You’re more than welcome to crash here, Dixie.  You know that.”  Misty offers as she stands up from the sofa, along with Dixie.

Dixie laughs. “Right.  And sleep in the guest bedroom that is right next to yours and Spike’s?  I’ll pass.”

Misty can’t help but laugh.  “Fair enough.  I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Dixie then grabs her car keys, and her purse, and heads to the front door. “Later, Misty.  Congrats again.”

Dixie then walks out the front door and heads home.  Misty walks upstairs to hers and Spike’s bedroom, where she places the Bombshell Championship on her nightstand, goes into her dresser and grabs a pair of pajamas.  Spike appears at the doorway and looks at her.

“She didn’t even wake up, and I’m pretty sure Timmy is asleep in his room.”  He says with a wink.

Misty smiles and walks up to him. “I was just getting ready to go take a shower.”  She walks past him, and he turns around, watching as she walks to the bathroom.

“You going to join me or not?”  She says just before she walks into the bathroom.  Spike doesn’t need to be told twice, as he grins and the two disappear into the bathroom, closing the door behind them.

*************************

The scene opens up in Spike and Misty’s bedroom.  The camera focuses on Misty as she is laying in bed, half sitting up, and looking, well, exhausted.  She slowly turns and looks right into the camera.

”I have asked a cameraman to come to my home today, or one reason and one reason only.  If I was currently able to get out of this damn bed, I would be out doing my promotional duties as the Bombshell champion, rather than speaking into the camera, explaining why you all have to see me like this in the first place.  Trust me when I tell you, I’m not happy about it, and I’m not happy having to do what I’m about to do.”

Misty again adjusts her position and winces.

”Last Sunday, I did exactly what I told everyone I was going to do.  I did what I promised my family…my little girl...what I would do.  I walked into that Gauntlet Match with nothing, and walked out as the first ever SCW Bombshell Champion.  I may have held an advantage being the last one to enter the ring, but had I been the first entrant, much like Gabriel was in his, the outcome would have been the same.  Oh, and I’ll get on the subject of Gabriel shortly.

Misty reaches for her bottle of water, sitting on the nightstand next to her, and takes a sip before returning it to where it was.

”I fought like hell in that match, and ultimately, I paid a price for that battle.  I took a beating first from Raynin, and then from Kittie, and I’m hurting like hell right now.  Aside from getting up out of this bed to use the bathroom and take a shower, I’ve been layed up in this bed for the majority of the week.  I had to put off any celebrating I wanted to do because of this damn back injury I suffered in that match, and you know what?  It really SUCKS.

Sitting next to Misty on the bed is a laptop.

”I hate that I have to admit this, considering I KNOW that Kittie will watch this, and honestly, I don’t know how she will react.  The day after High Stakes, I went to the doctors with a horrible pain in my lower back.  It hurt so bad, I could barely walk at times.  Spike didn’t want me to take any chances, so I called the doctor and made an appointment that day.  Thankfully, it’s nothing serious.  Doc says it’s just a lower back strain and that I need to stay off my feet for few days, and rest up as much as possible.  He prescribed me some pain killers and muscle relaxers and sent me on my way, and here I am now.  Feeling absolutely useless.

Misty then places the laptop in her lap, but doesn’t open it just yet.  She looks like she is about to cry, but she holds back any tears she may have.

”I’m thankful that I have my own personal ‘doctors’ here at home to help take care of me, otherwise, I might just be losing my mind.  All week I’ve been wanting to get out of the house and do something…ANYTHING.  I mean, how pathetic is it that I have to spend my first week as Bombshell Champion practically bed ridden?  For those of you watching this, don’t take this as an injury that will force me out of action for a certain length of time, because I’m not going to allow that to happen.  I have a championship to defend, and I don’t care if I have to risk breaking my damn back, I’m going to defend and RETAIN it.  But first, I’m teamed up with JT Underwood to face Kittie and Gabriel.”

Misty then opens the laptop, and goes to the SCW website.  She pulls up Gabriel’s promo video, and smirks.

”Gabriel, Gabriel, Gabriel.  I guess I should start by congratulating you on your win and becoming the first Heavyweight Champion.  Job well done.  You managed to fight your way through every single entrant in that Gauntlet Match, with the exception of Despayre, and walked out as the champion.  Impressive.  But, I listened to what you had to say about me, and quite frankly, I had to laugh.  You brought up something that I’m fairly sure most people who know Spike are probably thinking.  You brought up whether or not Spike needs to be worried about me being teamed up with JT.  The answer?  Not one bit.

Misty turns her attention back to the camera, looking directly into it, as if looking right at Gabriel.

”Gabriel, would you be thinking the same thing had I been paired with you instead?  Would you think that you and I perhaps would, and I quote ‘make a cute couple’ if it weren’t for Spike?  I’d like to hear your response to that, because if you think that, you’d be very mistaken.  Being teamed with JT is strictly business, and I’m not ignoring Spike at all.  I’m not creating chemistry with JT, because for all I know, this is the only time I will need to work with him.  I’m committed to Spike, and have no plans on jeopardizing the family we have together.  Plain and simple.  So, think what you want, but you’re wrong.”

Misty then tries to pull up Kittie’s promotional video, but it appears to have been removed.

”And that brings me to Kittie…the only person I really need to worry about in this upcoming match.  I know Kittie will see this, and I have a few things that I want to make very clear.  I may have walked away as the champion, but it wasn’t easy.  I know you probably took it personally, Kittie, and hell, I probably would have too, but I would have been proud to lose to you.  I was afraid I might!  I saw what you did to the mirror in the locker room after the match.  Hell, I was the one who cleaned it up, because I felt responsible.  I can only imagine what is going through your head, because had the tables been turned, I’d probably be feeling close to the same way.  I hope our friendship can withstand this, but just realize one thing…I plan on holding this belt for a while.  I have no intention of being the shortest reigning Bombshell Champion.  I don’t care if I get crippled in the process.”

Misty closes the laptop, then places it next to her once again.  She adjusts her position and winces again.

”I don’t expect you to take it easy on me next week at Climax Control, so don’t think that me admitting that I’m hurt right now is me asking for pity, because it’s not.  I felt it necessary to explain why nothing has been seen from me all week, as I hate waiting until the last minute to do anything.  I’m the Bombshell Champion, but right now, I’m feeling like complete sh*t.  I’m worried that I won’t be able to walk into Climax Control at one hundred percent and give SCW and its fans a main event performance.  I’m worried about letting everyone down, including my partner this week, JT Underwood.”

Misty fluffs her pillow, attempting to get more comfortable, but it just doesn’t seem to be working.

”JT, injury or not, I’m going to go into this match and give it my all.  I’ll go down fighting if I have to, but I won’t let my back injury get in the way.  I’m not going to give up and I’ll do everything in my power to get through Kittie and get us the win.  It’s not in my nature to cry and whine like a little bitch when I’m hurt.  I’ll fight through the pain.  I won’t let you down, and I’ll show everyone just why I am the Bombshell Champion.  I’ll show everyone just how dedicated I am.  Feeling one hundred percent or not…I’ll be at Climax Control ready to fight.  That’s a promise.”

Scene fades…to black.

 Misty’s writing
Misty’s thoughts

Misty is sitting in her bed, holding a leather-bound journal she just purchased.  She opens the cover, going to the front page and begins writing.

Entry #1

What have I become?

“It still amazes me how much I’ve changed over the past five years.  I am like a completely different person…No, I AM a different person.  At least I thought I was.  But have I really changed that much?  Eden has changed me in so many ways that I never thought possible, but something still seems…missing.  I don’t feel quite satisfied with everything just yet.”

Am I the same person I was before I had Eden?  Have I really changed?

“I could have easily turned down Mark’s offer when he contacted me about SCW.  I could have done what Spike did and thrown that contract right back in his face and stayed home in St. Louis.  I could have, but I didn’t.  I chose to wrestle again.  I chose to do the one thing that has always been my passion in life.  I sacrificed time with my family for this.”

Why?  Why did I do that?

“My life has been far from dull since I had Eden.  I was on diaper duty for the first two and a half years of her life.  Before she came along, I had never really changed a diaper in my life.  I never helped my parents with Desiree when she was a baby, and I didn’t even know Dixie existed until a few years ago.  And my other sister Jackie lives out of state with my nephew Luke so I was never able to help with him either.  My point here is that I adjusted to this life.  I dove right in to the life of motherhood, leaving my wrestling career behind for what I thought was permanently.”

I was already a three time Women’s Champion, so why would I need to go back to this life?

“On the outside, I hid my feelings quite well, honestly.  I was…I AM happy being a mother and having a family, but deep down, I’m not truly finished with my wrestling career.  I’m not ‘burnt out’ like Spike says he is.  Even I don’t believe him when he says that, but oh well.  I still want more.  Sure I’ve already been a women’s champion, but in my eyes, I haven’t beat the best there is to offer yet.  My main goal back then was beating a woman by the name of Chastity Pride.  Those who remember her remember just how hard she was to beat.  She was my toughest competition.”

Sadly, I never got my chance.

“But things happened beyond my control and I couldn’t find out if I was capable of beating her.  How could I call myself the best, when I hadn’t beaten her?  In order to be the best you have to beat the best, right?  I think that is why I accepted Mark’s offer.  That is why I am here in Sin City Wrestling today.  I’m not finished yet.  I’m going to beat all the best Bombshells SCW has to offer so that I KNOW that I am THE best Bombshell in this company.”

I can hear the record books calling my name.

“At High Stakes, I get my chance to prove to SCW that I’m not just some washed up has been from a now defunct company.  I get to prove to the rest of the Bombshells that I am the top bitch in this company and there isn’t a thing they can do about it!  I am going to show each and every one of them just what it means to be a champion.  Those six other women better not underestimate me just because I am a mother.  They better not make the mistake of thinking that I’m not one-hundred percent focused on being the first ever Bombshell Champion, because that title is all that is on my mind!”

I’m more focused now than I have been, actually.

“I think about facing those six women, and I can see MY hand being raised in victory.  I can see the ref handing me the Bombshell Championship and the ring announcer announcing me as the very FIRST Bombshell Champion.  Rebecca Blades, whoever she may be, can’t stop me.  Though at this point, I don’t think she even wants to.  No one knows who she is.  No one knows anything about her.  Why did she even sign a contract with SCW if she apparently doesn’t even want to be here?  I’m sure she saw what she’d be up against and went running like the little bitch that she is.  It’s cool, though.  Leave the Bombshell Championship to someone who really wants it…someone who DESERVES it.”

I want it more than any one of those women.  I deserve it.

“And what about Allison Summers?  Is she really in this game?  To be honest, I have no idea.  She only shows her face during her boy JT’s promos, so I can’t tell if she’s just simply an escort or a dedicated wrestler!  Why is she even here?  I don’t think she really wants to make a name for herself.  She seems to be too focused on helping her boy JT then showing SCW what she claimed she can do in the beginning.  Do us all a favor, Allison…leave the wrestling to those of us who prove everyday we WANT to be here.  Don’t put yourself through the embarrassment of a beat down if it’s not what you want.”

No one can say that I don’t want to be here.

“And Angelica…*laughs*…I’m very familiar with that piece of trash.  I have to say, though, I’m glad she signed a contract in SCW.  I’m glad because it gives me the great pleasure of kicking her ass all the way into next year!  She wants to make promos and interviews slamming ME?!  Well, I’m going to show her just with this ‘housewife’ can do.  I’m going to beat her within an inch of her life for being the trashy, disgusting, low-life sl*t that she is!  She thinks she can fight?  HA!  She can talk all the smack she wants to, but she knows that the only reason she’s even here is to do personal ‘favors’ for Mark.  If I have anything to do with it, her jaw will have to be wired shut for MONTHS!  And she wants to sit there and insult my family?  Insult my KIDS?!  I’ll bet anyone out there that my three and a half year old can kick her ass any day of the week!  Angelica is the type of woman that gives the women’s divisions in wrestling a bad rap.  I’m going to enjoy every minute of beating the hell out of her.  Then, I’ll toss her skanky ass over the top rope.”

Angelica’s filthy hands won’t come anywhere near the Bombshell Championship.

“Even Fantasia is better than Angelica.  I at least have respect for her and what she’s accomplished in her career, but Fantasia is similar to Angelica in one way.  She’s more focused on pleasing her man than being a wrestler anymore.  Back in her day, Fantasia was a force to be reckoned with.  She was one of the best out there.  But now…she’s just Shane Boswell’s play thing, and vice versa.  She doesn’t have the passion anymore.  She doesn’t have the drive and dedication to be a champion anymore.  That is why, at High Stakes, she’ll have one more loss added to her record.  So sorry, Fantasia.”

Can they see how passionate I am now?  Can they see how DRIVEN I am?

“That leaves Kittie and Raynin.  Ahhh, Raynin.  What can I possibly say about her?  She’s one tough bitch, I’ll give her that.  She’s focused…determined.  But her downfall?  Her general cockiness.  She already has the mindset that SHE is the best.  What did I say earlier?  In order to be the best you have to beat the best.  That is the mindset I am focusing on going into this match, and I’m not going to let Raynin beat me.  After High Stakes, we’ll know who the best in the Bombshell Division is, and it’s not Raynin.”

I’m going to fight tooth and nail to prove that person is ME.

“I can’t forget Kittie, can I?  Next to Raynin, she’s my toughest competition in this match.  SHE is my number one obstacle, actually.  I’m going to be honest here.  I have to say that Kittie’s mental health concerns me just a bit.  She may be my friend…sort of…but as I’ve said before, she could easily turn on me in the blink of an eye.  She wants the Bombshell Championship just as much as I do and I know she’ll stop at nothing to get it.  We may have been allies last week, but once we’re in that ring together, all bets are off.  I’m bringing my A-game and my eyes are on the prize.  If I see an opportunity open to eliminate Kittie, she’s going over that top rope and out of contention for the championship.  And that’s a fact.”

It won’t be easy, but I KNOW I can do this.

“I hope these ladies realize what they are up against when the face me.  On November 6th, Allison, Rebecca, Angelica, Fantasia, Raynin and Kittie are going to experience a side of me I thought I buried years ago.  Seven women all fighting for one prize, but only one can walk away the winner.  Only ONE can be called the Bombshell Champion.  I plan on being that person.  After High Stakes, MY name will be remembered in SCW as the very first Bombshell Champion.  That is a promise.”

What have I become?  Nothing more than what I have always been.  A TRUE CHAMPION.

Misty closes her new leatherbound journal, and sets it on her nightstand, placing the pen next to it.  She feels good about everything she just wrote.  She got a lot off her chest, and although it wasn’t on camera, it has made her more focused…more determined.  Just then, her cell phone rings.  She looks at the caller i.d and look a bit surprised at who is calling her.

“Hey Mark, what’s up?...Yeah, he’s here, but he’s downstairs…He probably saw it was you calling and didn’t want to speak to you.  You know just as much as I do how he is…What do you need?...I honestly have no idea if he plans on being there…I can try and talk to him, but he’s stubborn as hell.  Besides, he’ll be watching Eden during my match…I can’t just find a babysitter, Mark…Look, I’ll do my best, but I’m not making any promises…Yeah, talk to you soon.”

Misty ends the call and sets her phone on the nightstand next to her journal, shaking her head.  Being the messenger girl is not what she signed up for.  Ah well…she has more important things to worry about anyway.  And she’s not about to go and make Spike angry.

************************************

The scene opens up inside of Las Vegas’ Pure Nightclub.  The dance floor is packed with people enjoying the night and the DJ’s choice of music.  Women dance provocatively.  The men stare or join in on the action.  Overall, it’s the typical night life in Las Vegas, outside of gambling at one of the many casinos.

Misty and her sister, Dixie, are just two of the few women who are not on the dance floor.  They are sitting at a table not far away from the bar, enjoying a couple of drinks.  Misty is sipping on an ice cold Coors Light, while Dixie is enjoying a Cosmo(typical girlie drink).  Misty seems to be on another planet, not paying attention to Dixie, or anyone else in the nightclub.

“Earth to Misty!” Dixie shouts, snapping her fingers in front of Misty’s face.

Misty shakes her head and looks at Dixie, dazed and confused. “Huh? What did you say?” She takes another sip of her beer.

Dixie shakes her and growls. “What is with you tonight?  I asked you to come out to have some fun and get your mind off of things, but you’re, like, lost in translation!  What gives?”

“Oh, I’m sorry I have a really important match in a little over a week and can’t be bothered to focus on all these desperate single women throwing themselves all over the just as desperate losers  pretending to be men.” Misty snaps back.

“I’m not saying you should focus on them, but damn, pay attention to me, would ya?  Have you even heard a word I’ve said tonight?” Dixie says, taking a sip of her Cosmo while eyeing a hot guy at the bar.  She frowns when a woman walks up to him and practically throws herself at him.

“Honestly, no, Dixie.  I have six other women I need to focus on right now, and all this,” she points around the whole nightclub, “isn’t me.  I don’t do the nightclub scene.  You should know that.”

Dixie laughs. “Oh, please, Misty.  You have this match in the bag!  Don’t you know that by now?”

Misty chugs the remainder of her beer, and sets the empty bottle down, ready for another. “I DO know that, but that doesn’t mean I can allow myself to lose focus.  All it takes is one mistake…ONE…and that Bombshell Championship can slip from my grasp. I’m not going to let that happen.  So I apologize if I’m not having fun.”

Misty signals the bartender for another beer, and he acknowledges her.

“You’re still pissed about what Angelica said, aren’t you?” Dixie is almost knocked on her feet by the look Misty gives her.  

“Pissed doesn’t even BEGIN to describe how I feel right now, Dixie.  I hope she realizes that she lit a fire with those words, and I’m not holding back.  I’m going to HURT you.  I’m going to PARALYZE her and she’s not going to be able to stop me.  She awakened a side of me I didn’t even know existed anymore.”  One of the hostesses brings Misty her fresh beer.  Misty gives her the money and takes a swig, savoring the flavor.

“And what about the rest of them?  You have five other women besides Angelica to get through.” Dixie suddenly smiles as yet another hot guy stares at her from by the bar.  She plays it cool though, keeping most of her attention on Misty.

“Once I see all of their promos for the match, I’ll know what I have to do.  There may be five others besides Angelica, but it only took one to fuel my fire, and that’s what happened.  I have a lot of aggression begging to be released, and every single one of them is in that line of fire.”

Before Dixie can respond, a young brunette walks up to their table, looking at Misty with a smile on her face.  Misty looks at her, confused.

“Oh…my…GOD!  You’re Misty!  Three time former GXW Women’s Champion.  2004 GXW Woman of the Year and current SCW Bombshell!”  The girl says, sounding excited.

Misty and Dixie look at each other, trying not to laugh.  Misty takes another sip of her beer and looks back at the girl.

“Always a pleasure to meet a fan.  If you want an autograph, I don’t have a marker, sorry.” Misty replies.  The girl, however, just laughs.

“Who said I was a fan?” She responds, sounding snobby.  “I’m just surprised to see you here when you SHOULD be at home being a mother to your daughter.”

Dixie’s jaw drops open, and Misty glares at the girl, wondering if she heard her correctly.

“Excuse me?” Misty asks.  “Who the hell do you think you are?!”

The girl laughs again. “What?  Is your hearing going to hell just like your wrestling career?  I feel sorry for your daughter.  She must feel abandoned.  She’s going to have some serious mommy issues in a few years.”

“Girl, I suggest you leave us alone…”Dixie tries to interrupt, but the girl cuts her off.

“Oh can it, BLONDIE!” She yells in Dixie’s face.  Misty stands up from her chair, standing inches away from the brunette.

“Have you ever had your ass beat, little girl?” Misty asks with a devious smile.

“No, but I know YOU have.  Angelica was right about everything she said about you.  I hope she beats you, you worthless piece of CRAP!”

Misty looks over at Dixie, who is sitting in her seat, at a loss for words.  She shakes her head and motions for Misty to just leave, but Misty stands her ground, and begins slowly nodding her head.

“I hope she embarrasses you.  You deserve it!  You’re selfish!  You’re…” Before she can finish, Misty grabs a hold of her hair, and pulls her face up to hers.  Misty is fuming and on the verge of losing it.

“You have NO idea who you’re messing with you little WH*RE!” Misty screams.  Just then the girl headbutts Misty, causing her to release her hold, but not without a nice handful of hair.

“Get your disgusting hands off me!” The girl screams, attempting to back away.  Unfortunately for her, Misty is quick to jump back and she tackles her to the ground, nearly knocking the table over!

“CHICK FIGHT!!” Several guys yell from the bar, and suddenly they surround the fight.  Dixie looks on, wondering if she should try and break it up, but she decides against it, and just smiles as she watches Misty get the best of the brunette.

“You STUPID…UGLY…TRASHY…NO GOOD SL*T!” Misty is screamin, while choking and shaking the girls head. “You think Angelica can beat me?!  You think ANYONE OF THOSE BITCHES CAN BEAT ME?!”

Security suddenly pushes their way through the people surrounding the fight.  They grab a hold of Misty, attempting to pull her off the girl, but she doesn’t give up.  She kicks wildly, getting a few good kicks in to the girls midsection, all the while screaming wildly.  And the icing on the cake?  She spits , making sure her aim is good enough to hit the girl.  The security guards drag her away, with Dixie following.  The brunette just lays on the ground, coughing and gasping for air.  Her nose is bleeding and her hair is a mess.

The security guards throw Misty out the front door, nearly knocking her to the ground, but she keeps her balance.  Dixie is not far behind, and is soon at Misty’s side, as she brushes herself off, trying to calm down.

“Don’t come back here!” One of the security guards yells at her, as he turns around and heads back inside.

“Don’t worry!” Misty shouts back. “I WON’T!”

Misty takes a few breaths, looking around at all the people who are outside and are now staring at her.  She ignores them, then looks at Dixie.  Dixie has a serious look on her face, but it soon disappears as she starts laughing hysterically.  Misty looks a bit confused, but she soon starts laughing as well.

“Oh..my..God..” Dixie stutters. “You kicked her ass!  That just made my night, Misty!”

Misty smiles, then winces.  She touches her lip, then looks at her finger.  Her lip is bleeding, but she doesn’t care.  It was all worth it.

“Sh*t…how am I going to explain this to Spike?” She says, still laughing.

Dixie shrugs her shoulders, and takes her car keys out of her purse. “I guess we’re going to find out in about five minutes, aren’t we?”

Misty and Dixie walk off in search of Dixie’s car, laughing the whole way there.  About five minutes later, Dixie pulls into Misty and Spike’s driveway.  As they walk up to the door, Misty tries to wipe the blood from her mouth, but even that won’t hide the evidence.  As they walk in the door, talking amongst themselves, Eden, who SHOULD be in bed, is wide awake and staring at them.  She sees Misty’s bloody lip and immediately looks concerned.  Spike appears behind her, also noticing Misty’s lip.

“Mommy’s bleeding!” Eden says worried.

Misty tries to hide it, but it’s too late.  She walks past Eden without explaining her injury, and heads upstairs to her bathroom.  Spike looks at her, then to Dixie, waiting for answers.

“Some chick headbutted her,” is all Dixie can come up with.  Spike folds his arms, as Eden runs off, probably to help Misty.

“So I’m guessing the cops will be here in a few minutes, then?  Because I KNOW Misty didn’t just let the girl get away with it.” Spike says, almost laughing himself.

Dixie bursts out laughing again, and Misty’s laughter can be heard from upstairs as well.  The whole bunch seem to be amused at what is a sign of things to come.  All it will take is one wrong move…one wrong word..And the rest of the Bombshell’s will fall.  Or in this case, FLY over the top rope!

 Gliding through the aisles of tables, a short woman of oriental decent carries a large tray with handles, her beautiful white gown flowing behind her as she moves. The chatter of the restaurant is plentiful, but tame in comparison to the events that had just taken place moments ago with the Staggs party in the back corner.

Through the chaos of the hibachi tables with seating, to the hibachi table visible to the audience of partons, the agility of the young waitress shines through. She is moving with the a grace and beauty of the muzak playing in the background. She is quick and precise in her movements in avoiding spilling the tray as ignorant patrons get in the way. Avoiding misfortune at every turn, however she is reluctant to reproach the table she had witnessed constant bickering, and even a one-sided, nearly physical altercation between Kittie and business manager Erik Staggs (uncle and father figure to Spike Staggs).

She takes a deep breath before approaching the table and painting on her smile once more.

“Steak an Cheeken, Lobster scallop, an sushi platter for you? Yes?”

Not even waiting for an answer, she places the steak and chicken hibachi special in front of Misty, sushi platter in front of Kittie, and lobster and scallops hibachi in front of Erik. She hands each a set of chopsticks, and then sets small trays of dipping sauces in front of each before excusing herself with a bow.

Erik looks at each of the ladies, who seem to be having a silent conversation amongst themselves. Occasionally they stare back at him, then to their plates, then back to each other. Erik eventually slams his fist against the table.

“Enough!” He says in a raised voice, drawing just a bit of attention to them from the few surrounding tables. He places his fist in front of his mouth as if trying to properly phrase what he is trying to say.

“You two really do need to take things just a little bit… no, a LOT more serious if you plan on getting anywhere near that Bombshell Championship. Not only to benefit me, which I know doesn’t make a difference to either of you, but to greatly benefit your own careers. Misty, the veteran, kicking asses, and taking names as well as belts. Kittie, the classic underdog story. Both of you are very marketable, and apparently more dependable than Angelica and Michelle. The job you have hired me to do, you are not letting me do it.”

Misty finishes chewing the bite of steak she just took and glares at Erik.  She takes a sip of her tea, then sets her chopsticks down to give him her full attention.

“The job we hired you to do?” Misty raises one eyebrow. “Funny. I don’t remember hiring you to do a damn thing.   And don’t you DARE think that neither one of us is serious about becoming the first Bombshell Champion in SCW.  I’ll prove my dedication next week at Climax Control when we team up with Allison Summers and face those two nobodies and Fantasia.”

Kittie places a piece of sushi in her mouth, chewing while nodding along with Misty. As she swallows, she rests her chopsticks atop another piece of sushi before raising her eyes to Erik’s.

“The job that I hired you to do 7 years ago, and you haven’t done any of it. You just cashed the checks from Vision Black’s mild success. You cashed in majorly on Kat’s Cradle, but as far as the few things that I accomplished in my career, it was on my own. You never had a hand in any of it, so I want you to tell me why we should give a damn about how you want us to go into this match, and just let us go along with what we want to do.”

“Because, Katalya, I will sue both of you for breach of contract in a heartbeat. You signed your careers away to me for dollars compared to the pennies I collect from you. I can proceed further into the matter if you would like, but I’m not sure you want your dirty laundry aired in public…”

Kittie clinches her fists, and begins to huff and puff, until Misty grabs her shoulder, and then looks over to Erik with glaring eyes.  Misty manages to keep Kittie as calm as possible for the moment.

“Do you really think that pissing Kittie off like this is the best idea to get us to focus on this upcoming match? Threatening her like that?!” Misty shakes her head. “Just so you know, the SECOND that little contract that I was hussled into is up, I’m done with you.  I wrestle how I see fit and there is not a damn thing you can do about it.  I’m gonna do what I have to do to ensure that Kittie, Allison and I walk out of Climax control as the winners.  I don’t know Allison, but I’m fairly sure she won’t mind my way of thinking here.”

Misty grabs her chopsticks, this time grabbing a piece of chicken.

“You want to focus on our match? Get to the freaking match already.  Don’t throw threats and bullsh*t at us just because you’re an arrogant old man.” She tosses the piece of chicken in her mouth and begins chewing very slowly.

Kittie looks down at her plate, her lips moving, but virtually no sound comes out of them. She rocks back and forth a little bit, slowly shaking her head as she does so. She picks up a piece of sushi and takes a bite from it, humming as she chews. Once she smile, she slowly begins speaking from a whisper to a shout. “… no, no, no, no, No, No, No, NO, NO, NO, NO!!! He can’t just say that about you and threaten you, Kittie. He thinks he can get away with it, and see no repercussions, but he can’t! He can’t! HE CAN’T!”

Erik drops his chopsticks, staring at Kittie with a worried expression upon his face. His mouth hangs open as she continues on, working back down to a whisper in her volume.

“… TALKING ABOUT CALEB, And matches, and money, and making fun of...”
She places the rest of her piece of sushi in her mouth, her eyes flashing hints of her insanity, while trying to regain a grip, rather unsuccessfully. Erik mutters under his breath, almost inaudibly as the entire restaurant goes quiet, looking over at the table.

“She’s off her f*cking rocker… I pay this doctor the big bucks, and she isn’t doing a damn thing but making her worse…”

Misty throws her chopsticks down, suddenly losing her appetite.  This is just what she needs.  One of her tag team partners this week to lose whatever is left of her mind.

“You happy now, Erik?!” She yells as quietly as she can so the restaurant can’t hear her. “How the hell do you expect us to beat Fantasia, Rebecca Blades and Raynin next week if Kittie is in this frame of mind? Why don’t you do us all a favor and just let us both walk away from these stupid contracts.  You may not think it’s in SEI’s best interests losing us, but do you think us LOSING would be?  Because I can promise you that it would be YOUR fault.”

Erik eyeballs Kittie as she continues on with her episode, but in a quiet manner of rocking. He looks over to Misty and leans in to try whispering, but he is startled by an outburst from Kittie.

“He’s whispering about you now! Probly wants to take you back to the hospital away from Lilly. I bet! I bet! I BET!”

Erik places his napkin over his plate in a fit, downing his glass of wine in one gulp. “Oh f*ck this. Waitress, please bring me about four shots of Jack Daniels along with the bill… See, this in a wrestling match is phenomenal, but this in public? It’s another lawsuit waiting to happen.”

“You got that damn right!” Misty shoots back. “Kittie doesn’t even have her mind on the match right now!  She’s living in the past and drifting away from reality.  I don’t want to add another loss to my record in SCW.  I don’t want to be on a winless streak, and the way I see things right now, that is damn well where this is headed!  The only one of my opponents who I know anything about is Fantasia.  I can’t be worried about Kittie accidentally costing us the match and try and learn as much about Raynin and Rebecca Blades as I can before the match.  This little dinner meeting was a horrible idea, but I’m sure you knew that.  I’m sure you’re trying to sabotage this match anyway you can.”

“Sabotaging two of my only three actives? Like this is some conspiracy against you? Maybe you need help, too. Letting you two out of your contracts, not happening. I will try to be more flexible to your needs. I am paying for Kittie’s therapy, trying to help her. I am not this bad guy that you think I am. I try to keep face, but any smart businessman pushes his investments. He strives to do what he can to make his product sell. Hating me does that, but this… this…”

Erik gestures over toward Kittie in a desperate attempt to keep the situation from getting any worse.

“This just isn’t what I’m used to dealing with. Just… give me time to work things out. By match time, the situation WILL be remedied. Focus on your opponents, and I will make sure she does the same...”

Erik accepts his bill from the waitress and slips a few large bills into the black sleeve. He accepts the shots and quickly takes down half, offering one to Misty, while his gaze rests on Kittie, who is quietly stabbing the remainder of sushi on her plate.

Misty shakes her head, refusing the shot, leaving Erik to finish them off himself.  He slams the empty shot glasses down on the table, as Misty looks at him and shakes her head in disbelief.

“She damn well better.  Not that I trust you with paying for her therapy, because obviously, something isn’t going so well with that.  I trust Kittie when she’s SANE, which she isn’t right now.”

Erik wipes his mouth with his hand, contrary to his usual manner, shaking his head as his eyes widen from the quick shots. He allows himself to slowly stand up from the booth, receiving his coat from the waitress. In a polite gesture, he returns the bow to her before sliding his jacket on.

“You think I knew that before tonigh?. I’ve been getting positive reviews from her doctors, she performed wel on the show, I thought it was getting better. Just keep your head in the game, and I will make sure hers is.”

Erik walks away from the table, shaking his head in disbelief. His walk of shame garners the stares of every patron within the establishment besides Kittie. Once Misty sees Erik leave the restaurant, She turns to lok back at Kittie, trying to figure out whether she should leave as well, or help Kittie in some way.

Much to her surprise, Kittie looks back at the door, and then she relaxes immensely. She takes a sip from her water, and then looks over to Misty with a smile and a great sense of accomplishment.

“I thought that assh*le would never leave… You didn’t catch my hint that I was going to lay the act on thick?”

Misty’s mouth opens to speak, but nothing comes out. She is a bit confused, trying to figure… Forget it. She sighs with pure relief

“You really think I’m crazy? I’m hurt, Misty…”

Kittie winks and smiles as she finishes the last bite of her sushi that isn’t mutilated. She looks curiously at the plate, then over to Misty.

“Did you do this to my sushi when I wasn’t looking?”

*********************

Misty is walking to her car after leaving the restaurant.  She seems highly agitated as she digs her keys from out of her pocket, and hits the unlock button on the remote without really looking towards her car.  She doesn’t notice the long blonde-haired beauty leaning against the back of her car, until she is just inches away and is startled to see the woman standing there.  She jumps back, but when she gets a good look at who the woman is, her face lights up.

“Dixie?!” Misty is surprised, yet happy to see her younger half-sister. The two share a hug.

“In the flesh lady.” Dixie replies with a smile. “Happy to see me?”

“What the hell are you doing here?” Misty looks past Dixie as if expecting to see someone else. “A better question would be, how did you know I was even here?”

Dixie shrugs her shoulders. “I have my ways.” She laughs. “Seriously, though, I talked to Spike.  He told me what restaurant you would be at, so I decided to surprise you.  Mission accomplished.”

Misty nods. “Why are you in Vegas anyway, and why are you by yourself?  Shouldn’t you be back in Chicago?”

Dixie shakes her head and smiles again. “I don’t live in Chicago anymore, sis.  I needed change, and what better place for change then Sin City?!”

Misty’s eyes widen, and her jaw almost drops.  “You’re kidding, right? You moved to Las Vegas?”

“I don’t have an apartment just yet, but I’ve got something lined up.” A slight grin appears on her face. “I don’t know how we haven’t run into each other at the hotel yet either.  Spike told me you were rooming there, too.”

Misty shakes her head, trying to process all of this information.  She hasn’t seen Dixie in several months at least, and to learn that she is now living in Las Vegas is a bit of a shock.

“This is all too much for me right now.  I don’t care why you’re here, I’m just glad you’re here.  I wanted to be back home in St. Louis this week, but Spike’s joke of an uncle decided to spring this stupid dinner meeting on us at the last minute.  Family means nothing to him!” Misty starts babbling about a million different things, but Dixie hugs her again to try and calm her down.

“I think that is our cue to sit down and talk.  Let’s just get back to the hotel and we can catch up, okay?” Dixie looks Misty in her eyes, which are glossy from almost crying.  Misty is able to hold back tears as she nods her head.

“Thanks, Dixie.  I’ll meet you there.”

The two get into their respective cars and leave the restaurant parking lot, heading off towards the hotel.  A short while later, they are walking into the entrance of the Treasure Island Hotel, quietly chatting.

“My room is on the fourth floor.” Misty says, heading towards the elevators.  Dixie follows her.

“That’s fine.  I’m in no rush to get back to my room anyway.” There is something off in Dixie’s voice, but Misty can’t quite put her finger on it.  She shrugs it off as they get in the elevator and head up to the fourth floor.

“Do you know how expensive it has been staying at this place the past two weeks?  I may be wrestling again, but I refuse to live in a hotel and travel back and forth to St. Louis week after week.   Spike doesn’t seem to get that.”

Dixie bites her lip, then shrugs. “I don’t know what to tell you about that, Misty.  I’m sure you two will figure something out soon. “

“I hope so.  I can’t stand not seeing Eden every day.  She probably thinks I abandoned her or something.”  The elevator makes its stop at on the fourth floor, where Misty and Dixie head down the hall to Misty’s room.  She swipes her keycard and opens the door.  Misty walks over and plops down on the bed, while Dixie follows behind her.

“What am I doing, Dixie?  Why did I come to Vegas?” Misty says as she puts her hands under her head and stares at the ceiling.

Dixie sits in the chair on the other side of the bed and looks at Misty. “What do you mean?  I thought that answer was obvious?”

Misty turns her head to face Dixie. “I’m just trying to figure out if I made the right decision or not.  I’m pretty sure everyone in SCW is expecting me to fail, considering I have a daughter now.  How could I possibly focus on both my family and wrestling at the same time?”

“I don’t personally know any other professional wrestlers other than you, sis, but I’m pretty sure there are other wrestlers who are more than capable of balancing their careers and their family life at the same time. “ Dixie reassures Misty.  “And, I’m pretty sure that no one is expecting you to fail.”

Misty sits up and leans against the bed’s headboard. “I lost last week.  I think after that, people are going to realize that I can’t balance both.”

“I think you’re talking about yourself, Misty.  From the way I see it right now, you’re setting yourself up to fail with that mindset.  You’re only going into the second show.  Give it some time.  You’re just getting back into this.  And from what I understand, that loss last week wasn’t a true loss.  YOU didn’t get pinned.”  Dixie says matter-of-factly.

Misty takes in a deep breath and sighs. “A loss is a loss.  I just don’t want to have Eden see me lose all the time.  I want her to see me win.  Last week, I faced two opponents.  Next week, I’m facing three, only this time I’m being teamed up with Kittie and some chick that I don’t even know!  The odds aren’t exactly in my favor.”

Dixie can’t help but laugh.  She’s not used to seeing this side of Misty.

“What the hell happened to you?  You were always the most confident wrestler I’d seen.  You didn’t let anything stand in  your way of a win, and you never let yourself get so worried like this.  So what is the real issue?”

Misty stands up from the bed and walks over to her suitcase.  She opens it up and pulls out a frame holding a picture of her, Spike, Timmy and Eden.

“This,” she says, showing the picture to Dixie. “I can’t let them down, Dixie.  I’m not doing any of this for just myself anymore.  I’m doing this for my family, too.”

Dixie nods. “I understand that.  I really do.  But, seriously, snap out of it!  Go into this match next week and kick some ass, because I know you can.  I’ve seen you do it countless times before.  I don’t care who your tag team partners are or who your opponents are.  You go into that ring and show everyone out there who they should be afraid of.”

Misty places the picture frame onto the dresser, and sits back down on the bed, nodding.  She thinks to herself for a while before speaking again.

“Damn, you’re right.  I never thought I’d say that, but you are.  I guess I’m just so worried about failing now, that I’m letting it get to my head.  The worrying stops NOW.”

Dixie smiles, having accomplished what she does best.  “That’s the spirit!  Now, tell me about your match…about your opponents.”

“Well, I only really know one of them, and that is Fantasia.” She replies, shrugging her shoulders. “As far as Rebecca Blades and Raynin, I have no idea who they are or what their experience is.  That doesn’t help me, but there is nothing I can do about that.  I’ve got Kittie on my side, and I know that she doesn’t want a loss either.”

“You sure you can trust her?” Dixie asks, unsure of the answer.

“I’m fairly sure I can.  We may not be the best of friends, but she respects Spike, and I’m sure if she were to do something to screw me over, he wouldn’t appreciate that.  It’s not Kittie I’m worried about trusting anyway.  It’s that girl, Allison Summers.”

Dixie nods again.  “I see.  Well, Kittie is one tough bitch, so I’m sure you don’t need to worry about Allison Summers.  And for the record, Eden IS proud of you, no matter what you do.  Just do what you do best out there.  I have faith in you, sis.  OH!  Before I forget..”

Dixie suddenly gets excited and jumps up and down in the chair. Misty looks at her curiously.

“Do you know what Las Vegas is known for?!” Dixie claps her hands.

Misty shakes her head and shrugs her shoulders again. “Several things, Dixie.  What the hell are you so excited for?”

A wide grin spreads across Dixie’s face.  “WEDDINGS!”

Misty suddenly laughs, and shakes her head again.  She hadn’t even thought about that, but that was a subject she wasn’t ready to get on just yet.

“Maybe later, Dixie.  That is something Spike has to be let in on anyway.  Don’t get too excited just yet.” Misty laughs and watches as Dixie’s expression turns sour.  

“Oh, don’t you worry big sis.  I have a perfect record at persuading someone to do something.  You two have been engaged long enough!”

Misty rolls her eyes, but smiles regardless.  Having her sister in Vegas meant the world to her, but who knows how long before she gets annoyed by the bubbly blonde.  She wouldn’t have it any other way, though.  She’ll prove to everyone, and to herself, that she can balance her family and her career.  Her upcoming match may be a six woman tag match, but to Misty, she only has one thing on her mind.  Gold.  More specifically, being the first Bombshell Champion.  

 ST.LOUIS, MISSOURI

****One Week Ago****

Only a few clouds make their way across the sky on this otherwise sunny day in September. The day is topped off with unseasonably cooler temperatures, but no one seems to mind.

A black cat wanders around the yard outside a two story light blue house. He chases squirrels, then darts over to a robin collecting twigs from the ground. He is unsuccessful in his attempt to catch what he would consider a snack for himself, or perhaps a “gift” to his owners, but he doesn’t seem to mind. He only finds another squirrel or bird to keep him occupied.

As he runs back and forth in the yard, the front door to the house opens and a raven-haired little girl runs outside, darting toward him.

“Dero! Leave those birdies alone!” She runs up to him and grabs a hold of him, but he doesn’t care. The little girl holds on to him as she drags him back inside the house.

She doesn’t let him go once they are inside the house, either. She squeezes him in her arms as she heads into the kitchen, where another raven haired beauty is washing the dishes. Only this person is her mother, Misty.

“Eden, honey, put Dero down. You know what happened the last time you carried him around the house. He’s only going to get angry.” Misty reminds her daughter as she rinses off a plate she just cleaned. Eden, however, ignores her mother’s warning.

“No,” she refuses, while shaking her head. “He won’t leave birdies alone!”

Misty places the plate in the dish drainer next to the sink to dry and walks over to Eden. She gets down so she is eye level with her and gently takes the family cat out of the little girls grasp.

“He’s a cat, sweetie. That’s what they do. Besides, you know he never catches them anyway.”

Dero leaps out of Misty’s hands and darts into another room. Eden folds her arms across her chest and pouts, bottom lip out and all.

“You’re mean! I’m getting Daddy!” She runs of down the hallway yelling for her Daddy. Misty stays behind and just laughs off her daughter’s latest outburst. She brushes some of Dero’s fur off of her shirt, then heads back to the sink to finish the few dishes that need washing.

After the last dish is washed and in the drainer, Misty lets the water drain from the sink, then dries her hands with a towel. Just as she is about to begin to towel dry the dishes and put them back in the cabinets, her fiancée, ad father to her daughter, Spike Staggs, walks into the room holding Eden in his arms.

“She tattled on me again, didn’t she?” Misty asks with a half laugh.

Spike nods his head as Eden buries her head in his neck, quiet sniffles heard.

“Eden, look at your mother.” Spike says, but Ede refuses. She shakes her head and a muffled “No!” is heard.

“Spike, it’s fine. She’s only three and a half. You know she overreacts.” Misty can’t help but let a slight smile appear on her face. She knows just how dramatic her daughter can be.

“No, Misty, she has something she wants to say.”

Spike nudges Eden.

“…” Eden whispers something, but Misty couldn’t quite hear it.

“She couldn’t hear you, Eden.” Spike says, nudging her again.

“I’m…sorry” She sniffles.
Misty smiles and laughs again. Spike sets Eden down, and turns her so she is facing Misty. She looks at her mother with a pitiful expression. The expression most children give when they know they are in trouble.

“As if I could not forgive that face. Come give me a hug.” Eden runs into Misty’s arms, completely forgetting having called her mean. She wraps her arms around Misty’s neck in a tight hug, which Misty returns.

“Ok, why don’t you go find Timmy and spend some time with him, or go play in your room for a bit. I need to talk to Daddy for a few minutes.”

Eden doesn’t need to be told twice this time. She disappears down the hall once again. Misty walks up to Spike, and wraps her arms around him. He leans in for a kiss, which she returns.

“Who’d have thought she’d be such a Daddy’s girl? If it weren’t for you, Eden would probably hate me.” Misty laughs, knowing that’s not true.

Spike shakes his head. “Nah. She just wants everything her way. Kinda like someone else I know around here.”

“Yeah, and she has your temper, which is what makes her so difficult to deal with sometimes.” Misty’s comeback doesn’t even phase Spike. He just grins. Misty backs away, a serious look now spread across her face.

“That’s not what I wanted to talk to you about, though.” She bites her bottom lip.

“This doesn’t sound good.” Spike raises an eyebrow.

“Well,” she begins. “That depends on how you look at it.

Spike folds his arms. “Just tell me whatever it is. You’re starting to make me nervous now.”

Misty takes a deep breath. “Ok. While you were in the shower earlier, we got a phone call.”

“We?”

Misty nods.

“From who?”

“A blast from the past, actually. Our old friend, Mark Ward.”

Spike’s eyes widen a bit.

“Mark Ward? As in “Hot Stuff” Mark Ward? You can’t be serious.” Spike seems genuinely surprised, yet curious at the same time.

“Oh it was him alright. As if I could forget that accent. Anyway, apparently he and Christian Underwood are starting up their own company. Sin City Wrestling. It’s based out of Las Vegas. He’s offered us both contracts and wants us both on board.”

Now Spike takes a deep breath.

“That’s not a good idea, Misty. Both of us couldn’t handle being on the road. Not with Timmy and Eden.

Misty leans back, allowing most of her weight to sit on the dining table.

“I know that. That is what I told him. I said I had to talk it over with you first before I gave him an answer. He needs an answer by tonight, though.”

Spike scratches his head and runs his hand through his hair, then shakes his head.

“I can’t do it, babe. I’ve had my career. I’m burnt out.”

Misty doesn’t respond. She just looks at the floor and goes deep in thought.

“Look, if it’s what you want to do, Misty, just do it. You were just starting to build your career when you got pregnant. I wouldn’t blame you for wanting to go back.”

Misty shakes her head, then looks like she is about to cry.

“I don’t want to leave you, Eden or Timmy, Spike. I know I could come home during free time, but I haven’t been away from her since she was born. Yet a part of me wants one last run at this. I just don’t know.”

Before Spike can respond, Eden can be heard screaming from down the hall. She runs past them and into the living room, leaving Spike and Misty looking on, confused. When Spike’s son, Timmy, comes running past holding a rubber snake in his hands, they get the answers they need.

“Timmy! Stop teasing her with that thing, please!” Misty yells as Eden’s terrified screaming continues.

Timmy laughs as he makes his way into the kitchen and grabs a soda from the fridge. He opens it and takes a sip.

“I was just having some fun.” He snaps back. “Maybe now she’ll think twice before she breaks another one of my X-Box controllers!”

He tosses the rubber snake on the counter then heads back to his bedroom. Misty and Spike both shake their heads.

“Anyway,” Spike says, returning to the topic at hand. “Just accept the contract, Misty. I can handle things here. No sweat!”

Misty bursts out laughing.

“HA! You sure about that? Handling a teenager AND a toddler? Somehow, I doubt that.”

Suddenly presented with a challenge, Spike takes full advantage of the situation.

“Alright then. You call Mark right now. Tell him you accept his offer, and that I will stay here and take care of the kids.”

Spike grabs Misty’s phone from the counter and holds it out to her. She eyes it with a smile, then takes it.

“You’re on. But just so you know, I don’t think you will last one week without me here. You’ll be begging me to come back or you’ll be calling my sister for help.”

“You’re doubting my mad skills. I got this!”

Misty lets another laugh escape, but she doesn’t say anything further. She dials a number, staring at Spike the whole time with a smile on her face. A few seconds later, someone answers on the other end.

“Hey, Mark, it’s Misty…yea, I talked to him. Spike is going to sit this one out. He’s going to stay home and take care of the kids, while I wrestle for you guys in SCW…No, not right now…Completely his idea, actually…*laughs* I will tell him that…Ok, see you soon.”

Misty hangs up and Spike looks at her curiously.

“You wanted to tell me something?” He locks his eyes on her, as she just laughs some more. She slowly walks up to him, places a hand on his chest and smiles.

“I’m to inform you that you will be receiving a special ordered apron with the words “Mister Mom” on it. But, he wishes you luck all the same.”

Misty pats his chest, laughing yet again. She sets her phone back on the counter and walks away, leaving Spike standing there wide-eyed and speechless. After a few seconds, he shakes his head and goes after her.

“Hey! I’m installing a damn dishwasher while your gone!”

Misty’s hysterical laughing can be heard from the living room, along with Eden’s as well.

************

If you asked me four years ago, how I felt about having kids, my answer would have been pretty damn obvious. I was absolutely terrified. I never imagined myself being a mother. I was more focused on building my career as a wrestler and get the fame and recognition I wanted. I was well on my way to being a legend when I got pregnant.

I stand in the doorway to Eden’s room, watching her sleep peacefully.

Don’t get me wrong. I wouldn’t change a thing, because if I had made the choice back then, I wouldn’t have the best gift anyone could ever give me. I wouldn’t have my mini-me…my daughter. I don’t regret having my little girl. Not for a second.

I quietly walk up to her bedside, and pull her blanket up over her. Her soft breathing soothes me.

Back then, I spent so much time focusing on doing whatever I had to do to be number one. I didn’t care if people hated me or liked me. I simply did what I wanted, when I wanted, to become champion…three times I might add. I turned my back on people who I considered friends, simply because I thought I was better than everyone else. I was greedy. I was a cold-hearted bitch at times.

Eden’s favorite teddy bear lays on the floor by my feet. I pick it up and tuck it under the covers next to her just in case she wakes up and can’t find it.

Things have changed, though. I have changed. Everything I did years ago just seems so…trivial. Now that I’m a mother, I can’t walk around with the same attitude I did before. Not when my daughter might very well be watching me, though I hope Spike limits that as much as possible. I can’t risk her seeing a side of me that I buried almost four years ago when she was born. I could never forgive myself if Eden were to see me turn into the heartless bitch I was just mere months before she was born. I need to show her that she can achieve anything she wants if she sets her mind to it, but she has to do it in a respectful manner. She has to earn it. Things in life just aren’t handed to you. I’m going to make her proud of me. I want her to be proud of her Mommy.

I look at a drawing that is now hanging on the wall above Eden’s bed. The family stick figures that represent “Mommy, Daddy, Timmy and Me” put a smile on my face. They are pretty good for being drawn by a three and a half year old.

I haven’t wrestled in four years. If not slightly longer than that. The fact that I have been booked in a Hardcore Match has me a bit terrified. Not for myself, but for my daughter. I can’t imagine her reaction if I came home with a nasty injury of some sort, but I can not let myself think the worst. I have to look at who my opponents are, and those two women are no strangers to me.

I quietly walk out of Eden’s room hoping not to wake her. I’m going to the one place I know I can focus and remind myself just what I am capable of. Mine and Spike’s trophy room.

Kittie is one women I do not plan on taking lightly. I’ve feuded with her in the past, but last time I saw her, we were on good terms. At least I think so. Kittie is a lot like me, actually…or she is a lot like the person I used to be. She is hungry for the recognition she deserves. I know she has it in her, I won’t doubt that, but she has to be careful. Her anger and frustration could very well get the best of her and be her biggest downfall and cost her everything she is working on accomplishing. I know better than anyone. I respect Kittie, but I won’t allow myself to let my guard down. One of us will prove to be better than the other. Only time will tell who that woman is.

I open the door to the trophy room, immediately feeling a sense of nostalgia. Reminders of our time in GXW, as well as other companies, adorn the walls of the room. One prize in particular has my eye. My GXW Women’s Championship Belt.

Fantasia, however, is a different story. I don’t know her personally, but I saw her around back in our GXW days. I don’t think I have ever seen her wrestle, but does that mean I should underestimate her? Absolutely not. I’m fairly sure her escort, Shane Boswell,will be at ringside, and he may very well try to interfere. Anything is possible in a hardcore match after all. Fantasia knows how to get what she wants. She’ll use her body and good looks if she has to, but I really don’t care. If I feel in anyway threatened by her, I know what I have to do. I know what I WILL do.

I run my hand along the case containing my most prized possession. Is it a symbol of what I can do? Or is it simply a symbol of what I once was and never will be again?

Kittie and Fantasia I’m sure will have some interesting things to say about me. They know who I was back then. They know I was a bitch and didn’t give a damn. But, I am going to show them, as well as anyone else who knows me, that I am not who I used to be. A new Misty has emerged, and the old Misty is never coming back. The bitch is gone. I am devoted to my daughter…to my family. This time around, I’m going earn my right as top woman in this company. I’m going to make my daughter proud, and there is nothing ANYONE can do to stop me. Present or future. And that is a fact!

Scene fades to black.