Cambridge, Massachusetts. Wednesday 10th April. (Off-Camera)

Rodrigo had been home a lot since the losses he's been getting in Sin City Wrestling and it was because he was losing focus a bit and most assumed Rodrigo's skateboarding career, but little do people know since Rodrigo doesn't talk about his personal life to any professional wrestler or to anyone not in his or his girlfriend's family and friends that it was because Rodrigo was going to be a father.

With that in mind, he did invite his skateboarding friends over, mostly for them to meet Ella who they hadn't met since they went to Switzerland that day. They were currently over and already approved Ella as they've been at Rodrigo's house for the last few days, going out shopping for baby stuff since Ella was now seven months pregnant. Although there was one question in mind Ella had for Rodrigo's skateboarding buddies as they were all in the living room having a drink, well Ella had some orange juice.

Ella: “How did you all become friends with Rodrigo:”

Jerald: “Honestly, I hated Rodrigo at first because the bastard kept getting high scores at Skateboarding with his tricks, but when I apologised with my jealous behaviour and got to know Rodrigo a bit more, he ended up being a decent guy.”

Darius: “Apart from when he threw a massive fit about losing to that thirteen year old skateboarder in the X-Games a few years ago.”

Ella: “No, Rodrigo would never do that. I've never seen him throw a fit when things aren't going his way.”

Rodrigo was silent as it was mostly for the skateboarders to interact with Ella than the other way around, but at the same time, Rodrigo put his finger up as he put the can of coke down on the table as he didn't want to drink beer due to being a father responsibilities being a thing.

Rodrigo Afonso: “It's true, I did throw a fit when a thirteen year old kid beat me twice in X-Games the pandemic years, but I learned a lot on why I don't throw fits ever again. That's why I don't bitch or complain about anything. It's not going to get anyone anywhere in life.”

Ella: “Well, that's the good thing you learned from your mistakes, although your father said you hate arguments.”

Jerald: “Yeah, he does, trust me. I'm sure it wasn't easy for Rodrigo to lose his rag like he did, but he hasn't done it since and takes losses like a man.”

Ella: “His attitude is making him a real man. Besides, he's doing everything for me, cleaning the house, going food shopping. He does a lot more than you think.”

Rodrigo nods at his skateboarding friends and Ella of them telling the truth of Rodrigo's past life that Ella knew nothing about. Of course, they only started dating for a few months and their relationship has only grown stronger each day. Rodrigo thought about something else that was out of the blue for him, something he wasn't expecting.

Darius: “You saw a ghost again?”

Rodrigo Afonso: “I'm in a Roulette title match against Eddie Lyons. What have I done to deserve that match against him, honestly?”

Jerald: “I know you've lost matches, but you put in hard work, you don't moan or complain and you don't trash wrestlers unless you have to. You get in the ring and wrestle.”

Rodrigo Afonso: “SCW staff tell me I should speak on the microphone when I've not got wrestling matches a lot more to promote matches, but the videos I do are more than enough. I don't need to say more than what I've already said. Heck, I hate being interviewed for skateboarding at times, but I do it because I have to. I don't luckily in SCW.”

Ella: “You've fought him before, haven't you?”

Rodrigo Afonso: “Things are very different this time, he's beaten Peter Vaughn for the Roulette title, I haven't. I haven't come close on beating Peter.”

Jerald was the kind of guy that makes slight comments about people at times, even was a bit mean to the thirteen year old kid who beat Rodrigo in the X-Games competition for skateboarding. Anyway as he was a tiniest bit drunk, he says this.

Jerald: “Eddie Lyons is one boring fucker. All he talks about is wrestling. Like does the dude have a life besides wrestling?”

Rodrigo Afonso: “Hey dude, that's not cool. Eddie and I have respect. Even if he talks only about wrestling, nobody should judge him for that. Besides, he's a Roulette champion. I respect the dude and consider him as my friend. Truthfully, I wish I was facing the other champion who's from the UK.”

Ella: “I know, but that's the situation you got in front of you.”

Darius: “She's right, you know. Even I thought Jerald's comment was out of line, but he didn't know like I didn't you two legit respect each other. I can see his point that having friendly matches isn't thrilling to watch.”

That was the problem with wrestling, there wasn't really many enemies in the business these days and Rodrigo saw that. But he was too fragile and small to be an asshole wrestler. So he had to be a people's fan favourite.

Rodrigo Afonso: “Each time we've wrestled, we have torn the house down, for sure and I know what you mean. But my size and fragile structure on top of being a father to my kid soon prevents me from being an asshole. I don't think it would represent well for my kid. I can't afford that right now.”

Jerald: “Dude, I was just busting your balls, but I do think Eddie is boring as hell. The amount of stuff he talks about is purely wrestling, but at least the Roulette title makes up for the match you both will have.”

Rodrigo Afonso: “Wrestling Eddie is not dull, he was my first ever opponent and anything he'll say about me, I'm not going to disagree with him on.”

Rodrigo was already feeling uncomfortable and walks away from the living room as he didn't want to argue with Jerald about his feelings on Eddie anymore. He goes to his room and lets the lads get used to Ella and the pressure of being a Roulette champion and beating Eddie pretty much was on his mind a bit. Ella came into the room and relaxed Rodrigo with his thoughts and forgot about it as the skateboarding lads went to the hotel to get some sleep.

------------------------

I have no excuses to make Eddie youtube.com shoot (Online)

“I know, I've under performed a lot as of late and I literally have no excuse for slacking off, but the truth is, I don't deserve this title match against you, should be you and Entity for the Roulette title. I literally have zero excuses and you'd be right with everything you'll say to me and I'm not going to disagree with you.

But at the same time, it proves I don't really care what people think and I clearly don't like the thought of responding to everything you say. I mean look how badly I struggled to reply to Carter, I hate that and it's why I prefer to do one video to say everything I have to say. Eddie, you know I respect you and I know you'll tell me the truth on things may seem they are, but there is a reason I won't say as it has nothing to do with wrestling or skateboarding for that matter that my attention isn't with wrestling at the minute.

But I leave things there since I don't want to talk about it. I can't overlook the fact beating Peter Vaughn for the Roulette title was impressive. Everyone has tried and failed, but you succeeded and done it well. I'm sure it's going to motivate you to bring everything out of you to go out and win the match. But while I feel I'm undeserving for this title match, I will bring everything I have out of you.

Why? To prove people like you wrong every single time I step into the ring. A lot of people said I would never make it as a wrestler and I made it by holding a briefcase. I got plans for that and I'm not telling anyone, not even you what I'll do with it. You may have been successful with the Roulette title. I know it's cliché to say this, but I can break your title run in half even after underperforming.

Just because a wrestler underperforms, it doesn't mean you'll have this win in the bag, despite you being a threat because of the fantastic win you gotten over Peter. I couldn't find a way to beat him, but you did somehow. Maybe it's because you have the support of your wrestling school and family. I had to go all the way to the United Kingdom to do wrestling training because there's no wrestling schools in Portugal.

Many Americans, Canadians, Australian, British and a German wrestler have won this title, but there's not a single Portuguese wrestler that has won the Roulette title. I don't recall a Portuguese wrestler winning a wrestling title full stop because it's rare anyone from my country that breaks into the wrestling business. That's the big thing that we're different on.

But I got a chance to prove to my country and United States as a whole that I can become champion without wrestling school family supporting me. The only support I have when I go to wrestle in that ring is myself. I go into wrestling you on my own with dignity and do everything I can to upset you and win the belt because that's a big thing you've done and I haven't. I have a briefcase, but I do it when the time is right and when I'm ready.

Maybe beating you for that title will prove I'm ready to be a champion, maybe beating you will lead me to facing someone on the roster I've always wanted to face, but your in the way of that. Beating Peter is impressive and I can't speak that enough, but I've done way more Roulette matches than you and that will be the factor of me winning this match, bringing everything I have into the match to defeat you. That's all I say because I hate talking lengthy to someone I have respect for and being the only guy on the roster so far I can consider being friends with.”

John S. Park Elementary School

It was a day like most others for the parents of the students who attended John S. Park Elementary. The weather had grown blessedly warmer, the chilly winds of winter having given wayside to those warmer currents of spring. And while mornings and nights were still relatively chilly by comparison, the afternoons such as now had temperatures more befitting to spring, rising today to the mid-eighties with a clear blue sky and not a cloud to be seen. And here many of the hands on parents were,parked in the guest parking lot, ready to pick up their respective children while the yellow school buses lined the road in front of the school building, ready to bring the children home for parents who were unable to do as the others.

Resident SCW Bombshell and reigning Internet Champion Tempest was one of those lucky few whose schedule allowed her to personally pick up her stepdaughter Anela.Even were she unable, she would have found someone else - someone she trusted from the GO Gym, to do so for her as she preferred Anela not to ride the bus. Having gotten custody of her dear Malulani’s daughter so recently, she just wanted to handle everything herself. At least until the day arrived when Anela might tell her she wanted to ride the bus.

And even then.

Nevertheless, Tempest was waiting outside, leaning against the side of her Transverse while many other parents remained in their cars in the comforts of the air conditioning provided. Tempest’s reason for not doing the same was almost comical to anyone that knew her – or could see her. She didn’t want Anela to miss her, but considering that she stood taller than the vast majority of the rest of the adults present, even the men, the chances of that happening were slim. She scrolled idly on her phone, while stealing glances toward the school and waiting for the bell that would begin the weekend and send the children out. That was when she almost started when her phone started to vibrate.

Tempest frowned, as few ever called her save for her family in Hawaii. She checked the caller ID and as it turned out, it was none other than Gabriel Stevens on the other end. With a swipe of the thumb, she accepted the call and held it to her ear.

Tempest: Gabriel, what can I do for you?

Gabriel: Alleyne, I have a question for you, and maybe a favor if I may be so bold?

Tempest: A favor, hug? Boy you are bold! But go ahead, shoot.

Gabriel: You’re leaving for Flagstaff with us tomorrow afternoon, right?

Tempest: Yeah, last time I checked. Why?

Gabriel: Well, that’s where the favor comes in. Odette and I have to make a quick trip out of Vegas to Reno and we’ll be back first thing in the morning. Considering the kids will be with us for the flight tomorrow, we were hoping to keep them in Vegas for the night. Is there any chance you could watch Lucas and Hazel tonight?

Babysit? Her? Tempest pulled the phone away from her ear and stared at it briefly to make certain that not only did she hear correctly, but she was talking to the person that she thought she was. Soon enough, she returned to the call and answered.

Tempest: Yes, of course. God knows you’ve watched Anela enough so it’s the least I can do. Synn and Despy not available I take it?

Gabriel: Well Synn and Despy are already in Flagstaff. Apparently Angel wanted to scope out the arena early to get a good spot for his and Mackenzie’s betting table.

Tempest frowned and just as she was about to ask…

Gabriel: And don’t ask. I’ve learned not to. And Aron has the flu and probably won’t be making it to Flagstaff so I didn’t want the kids staying with him and K and risk getting sick.

Tempest: Aww! And after them, you thought of me!

Gabriel: Well… you know.

Tempest: Sure, bring the kids over soon as you can. But you should know I’m going to have company tonight and I’m not sure if you want the kids around him or not.

There was a brief pause following this nugget of a revelation, until Gabriel finally broke the stiff silence while from her end, she heard the tell-tale sound of the school bell finally sound.

Gabriel: Mercer?

Tempest: Yes, Austin is bringing his kids over. Haven’t seen the big lug for awhile so thought we’d take the kids out. We can include Lucas and Hazel but if you…

But before she could finish her sentence, Gabriel had the foresight to interrupt her train of thought. Gabriel was above all else, a consummate businessman where the sport of professional wrestling was concerned. He knew most of the men and women of SCW inside and out, Austin included. While he did not understand the close bond that had formed between his student and a man that had made life a relative hell for two of his other students, but that was not for him to judge. He knew that Austin was probably Tempest’s closest friend in the business where she had so few and for that, he was more than grateful.

Gabriel: Look, I’ll be honest. I don’t like the man for everything that happened between him and Carter and Kristjan. But I also know that it’s in the past and if Carter and Kristjan can move past it, so can I. Besides, one thing I know about Mercer is he’s as full of bullshit as he is bravado. He’s a good dad and likes kids so I have no real objections.

Tempest: Alright, drop them off as soon as you can. I’m picking Anela up now.

Gabriel: Will do, and Alleyne? Thanks.

Tempest: Pleasure.

And that being said, she ended the call just as her nine year old stepdaughter approached the car, carrying her book bag with a smile on her face. The fact that it was Friday and the start of the weekend, no doubt. Tempest pushed herself away from the vehicle as Anela approached.

Tempest: Well, looks like we’re going to have two more guests this evening?

Opening the SUV door and shoving her bag into the back, Anela looked up to her ‘mom’ with a wide eyed wonder.

Anela: Who?

Tempest: That was Gabriel on the phone. Seems Lucas and Hazel will be spending the night tonight.

Anela: Really??

Her smile was bright enough to light a room were they not out of doors and standing in the Vegas sunshine. Tempest strongly suspected that Anela was sporting something of a crush on Lucas but that was neither here nor there. So she just nodded to which Anela then frowned.

Anela: Was Synn or Fenris busy?

Tempest just made a face and nudged a giggling Anela to the open door of the car as she rounded about to climb into the driver’s side. Once inside, Tempest looked to the young girl to her right and gave her a little nudge to the arm.

Tempest: Maybe you'd like to invite another friend or two to go out with us tonight?

But to that suggestion, all Anela could do was shyly shake her head in the negative.

Tempest: Are you sure?

Anela just nodded that she was, in fact, quite certain. Hanging out with Lucas and Hazel would be quite enough and add Austin’s own kids to the equation and all would be just fine for her. Tempest just turned away, somewhat deflated, and she turned the key to the ignition to begin the journey home.


Maile: Alleyne?

The face of her sister-in-law, sister to her deceased husband, filled the screen of her phone as Face-timed her.This would be a surprise to anyone that knew either woman as it was evident for years that they did not get along from the moment Malulani had brought her home. His family considered it a betrayal to his late wife who had died three years ago, as if they believed the widower should have remained alone - perhaps forever. Maile was one of Tempest’s primary antagonists even to this day in how she now cared for and raised her niece.

But right now, there was nobody else that Tempest believed she could turn to for the advice that she had sought after.

Tempest: Listen, I’m sorry for calling you. I know I’m probably the last person right now you were expecting a call from.

To which Maile just raised her brows and shrugged one shoulder in slight acknowledgement to the truth behind the assumption.

Tempest: But I wasn’t sure who else I could talk to.It’s about Anela.

Maile: Anela? Is she alright??

Tempest: Yes, she’s fine. At least, I think she is.

Maile: You think? You mean you don’t know?

Tempest: Give me a br- look. It’s not like that. I’m still new to this whole other thing, okay? It’s just… I have a question I need to ask you.

Maile: … Okay…?

Tempest took one last glance into her apartment living room and saw as the three children, her own Anela and Gabriel and Odette’s children, Lucas and Hazel, were busying themselves watching Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone on the television.The kids were thoroughly engrossed in the film so she took that opportunity to step into her bedroom and close the door behind her.Only then did she find it =within herself to ask her sister-in-law…

Tempest: You helped take care of Anela when she was living with your mom,right?

Maile: Yes, Keanu and I were living with her at the time. So?

Tempest: When she was in school there… Did Anela have many friends?

Maile: What do you mean?

Tempest: I mean, did she have a lot of friends?

Maile: She had a few I guess. Two or three kids she would visit at their house or bring them home to stay over. Why?

Tempest: It’s just … I was concerned. She has a couple friends here but hasn’t really gone to any great lengths to make any more. Her dad was always so outgoing, he could make friends anywhere so I was hoping…

Maile: That this trait would be passed down from father to daughter?

This time it was Tempest who did not answer vocally but with a slight shrug and a nod of admission.

Maile: Alleyne, listen to me. And I know you’re not going to like hearing this but all things considered, you should. Yeah it’s a fact that my brother was what you might call a social butterfly. … But Kaia wasn’t.

Kaia. Anela's mother and Malulani’s first wife. It was something of a sore subject when her name was brought up because it was normally used as a weapon against her by Malulani’s family but this time?Not so much. At the stiffening of her shoulders, Maile held up a hand.

Maile: Relax, would you? You asked me for advice, so here I am giving it to you. Anela is exactly like her mother was. An introvert. She had a couple of close friends and for her, that was enough. Just like Anela. Not every kid has this huge circle of friends surrounding them at every given moment. I didn’t.

The temptation to say something scathing and witty was overwhelming but for the betterment of their shared love for Anela, Tempest managed to resist it.

Maile: Anela may or may not ever grow out of that introverted shell. Either way, so long as she’s happy and healthy, that’s all that should matter, yes?

Tempest finally exhaled as she heard the doorbell ring from outside of the room. She nodded and found herself saying what she believed formerly to be impossible.

Tempest: Thanks … Maile.

Maile blinked and leaned back at the waist.

Maile: Could you say that again? I want to set this to record or else nobody will believe it!

Tempest: Bitch…

Maile: Do you want to be the pot or the kettle?

There was something left unspoken between the two women, but the slight smirk on Maile's face was enough to speak volumes at a possible burnt bridge being on the mend. Tempest nodded and ended the call before she turned to open the door to find Anela racing for the front door to answer it. She swiftly pulled it open without first asking who it was, a big no-no where tempest was concerned and it would be addressed later.

But that was the first time Anela was meeting Austin James Mercer and her head tilted all the way back to look up at him with wide eyes.

Anela: Wow…

Tempest smiled at her stepdaughter’s initial reaction to Austin, his mere presence on par with her own to draw such an overwhelming reaction. But that was where his intimidation factor seemed to end when in a personal setting as the 6’6” Superstar took the initiative to kneel down on one knee, bringing himself (almost) to eye level with the little girl before him.

Austin: And you must be Anela.

Indeed she reverted to being a shy little girl once more, merely nodding. Austin was intimidating but quite handsome in his own right. And more than anything else, he was a stranger to her. But he was her mom’s best friend from what she understood and that was enough to trust him and (slowly) warm up to him. Anela nodded as Austin extended a hand and wrapped his fingers around her own in a gentle greeting as Tempest arrived at their side. Austin stood up to his full height and turned at the waist to look down at the two children who had arrived alongside him. His five year old son Marcus and three year old daughter, Ellie.

Austin: You two remember Alleyne?

It might be a little more difficult for the three year old to recall when her dad took her brother and her to Hawaii to recover emotionally from their mom’s sudden and unexpected death. Tempest asked no questions when she opened her home to them and worked tirelessly to help the children and their dad recover from the loss. The two kids stepped further inside and spotting what was playing on the TV across the apartment, Marcus pointed excitedly.

Marcus: Harry Potter!

And before his dad could stop either of them, not that he would have, Marcus and Ellie raced inside to join Anela, Lucas and Hazel in watching the movie! That was when Austin saw who else was present and he cast a questioning look to his friend and she just beckoned him to follow her to the kitchen.

Austin: Those Gabriel’s kids?

He asked as they entered the kitchen and Austin turned to lean at the waist against the bar counter so he could both speak privately with Tempest whole keeping an eye on his own kids. Tempest backed against the bar at his side and nodded.

Tempest: Yeah, they’re staying with me for the night as a favor to Gabriel and Odette so they’ll be joining us.

Austin: Hunh. Five kids and two adults. I guess a regular restaurant is out. We’ll have to find some place more kid friendly.

Tempest: if you think I’m going anywhere near the inside of a Chuck E. Cheese…

Austin snorted back a laugh, knowing the very idea of this amazon being inside of any place with an animatronic rat was as foreign as mustard on French fries.

Austin: I was actually thinking more along the lines of Adventuredome.

Tempest frowned but Lucas, who must have perfect hearing to overhear the adults' conversation from across the apartment and while the movie was playing, sat upright with wide, hopeful eyes.

Lucas: Adventuredome!? We’re going to Adventuredome!?

Tempest looked back and forth between the excited Lucas who had practically ran up to them for confirmation and back to Austin.

Tempest: What exactly is Adventuredome?

Austin: Basically it’s an indoor amusement park. Has everything; rides, games … food?

Lucas: It’s the greatest thing EVER!

By now the excitement had grown contagious toward the other children even if they didn’t know exactly what they were being excited about. Austin’s son Marcus looked up at his dad.

Marcus: Can we go, dad?

Austin: Well you know, it's not up to me?

And one by one, everyones’ heads turned to Tempest.

Marcus: Can we go Auntie Tempy?

Which caused Tempest to do a comical double take at what she had just been called. And she wasn’t alone as then three year old Ellie joined in with the childlike pleas.

Ellie: Pleeease Auntie Tempy???

Before she knew what she was doing or saying, Tempest looked heavenward and exhaled sharply in an admittance of defeat.

Tempest: Fine! We’ll go to …Adventuredome!

A collective “hooray”erupted from all of the children before they turned and rushed to (hopefully) finish the movie before going on their grand adventure. Austin smirked quite brazenly as Tempest S-L-O-W-L-Y turned her head to look at him.

Tempest: Auntie Tempy? That was your doing,wasn’t it??

To which Austin only answered by raising a hand and pinching a thumb and forefinger closely together…

CLANG!!!

Marcus looked up from the film.

Marcus: What was that!?

Austin: Nothing!

He answered, rubbing the back of his head with a grimace of pain as Tempest dropped the skillet back onto the stove.

---

Sunset Crater Volcano -
Flagstaff, AZ

Friday was here, and with it - the weekend that the SCW Universe had been awaiting with much anticipation! Blaze of Glory XII was only two days away and with it, the Superstars and Bombshells of Sin City Wrestling would be putting on a fourteen match spectacular. Many fans had already made the trip to Flagstaff from as far away as Japan for this weekend in the Grand Canyon State. The majority of the SCW stars and staff alike had by now arrived in preparation for the coming event.Some to engage in last minute preparations, some to conduct interviews and meet n greets, while others took time to kill two birds with one stone by seeing one of the beautiful sights of this Golden State while speaking up on what was to come.

The Sunset Crater National Monument was a volcano landmark that last erupted in the year 1085. And while she was not exactly what you would calla science nerd, enough so to take much of an interest in volcanoes or when they last split the ground open to spew forth lava, Tempest was quietly an admirer of scenic beauty, and this one spot provided something that would forever be remembered.

She sat on a rock, one leg drawn up with her knee against her breast while overlooking the volcano itself, while the sky itself had slowly started its descent from day to dusk. The sky was not colored in many hues of reds, oranges,yellows and pinks while the scattered blues through the clouds overhead allowed for the twinkle of the coming stars this far from the city's lights. The calm was blissful, an apt ambience for what was to follow.

“I think we know by now how these things work. This is usually the part where the random person - in this case, myself - would speak up and talk about the match that I’m scheduled to compete in, and more importantly, the opponent. It’s the usual set up for people to put words to action and talk about all of the dreadful things you intend to do to the man or woman standing opposite of us while also usually throwing some shade and risking the ire of the censors and opposition both. You want to break down your opponent mentally with promos such as this before you set foot inside of the ring to destroy them physically. I should know.God knows I’ve done all of the above often enough but this time…”

She unwrapped her arms from around her bended leg and held up one hand, a single forefinger extended.

“Except for this time. Oh don’t get me wrong, we will eventually get to the obligatory threats and promises but in the meantime, we’re going to do something a little unusual. We are going to start this one by first and foremost, my speaking to Crystal Zdunich the woman before I address Crystal Zdunich, the wrestler - and in two days, the challenger to my Internet Championship. So…!”

Tempest clapped her palms together in readiness.

“You're going to have to look past the fact I am neither a psychiatrist nor am I the sort who wears her heart on her sleeve. I don't usually speak up in regards to feelings, whether it be someone else’s or especially my own! But here we are and I suppose there's a first time for everything. Now, I don’t know you Crystal, aside from our encounters that we’ve had in previous years. I know you by reputation and your own actions and for many, that would be enough to go by.So pardon me if what I’m about to say is too rough but girl…? You’re trying too hard.”

“At least in regards to trying to develop budding friendship with any one of the many who post randomly on social media, but lately it seems a person can’t spend a day just browsing or posting something without you jumping in, trying to either get noticed or get involved. Whichever works better in your own favor. If you’re trying to get noticed well then, congratulations! You’ve succeeded admirably! Except in this case, it might not be such a positive thing because while you might be getting noticed, that's not always a good thing .Especially for a woman with your history. The people you have been trying to get to notice you already know you from your past actions, both the good and the bad –but it’s always the bad things that we remember most. Isn’t it? So drawing attention to yourself by just randomly showing up and acting like nothing bad has happened between yourself and them might be doing you more harm than good. You’re basically painting a giant target right on your back without even realizing it.”
 
“If you’re doing this to try and get involved well then…”

She closed her eyes and grimaced, shaking her head.

“Girl, it’s not working. If anything, you’re alienating people more than you’re working in convincing them to let you join their little circle of friends. You have stabbed so many people in the back so many times that nobody with any wits about them is going to trust you enough to welcome you with open arms because there's the perpetual fear you have a knife in the same hand that could be embracing them!”

“Then there’s this habit of yours where you are always calling some random woman in SCW your best friend. First you do it with Kayla Richards. Then you move on and start calling Kat Jones your best friend.Now if the rumors are true, Alexandra Calaway is next on your bosom buddies radar. Now granted you can have more than one close friend and call them your best friends, but it’s pretty suspect that until you started popping up and addressing them from out of nowhere, when before you had never interacted with them. You just pop on and say ‘Hi bestie!’ and give a goofy wave and smile of excitement and more often than not, the intended target of your friendship seems just as surprised as the rest of us are. Which leaves me wondering if any of these women are or were even aware that they were your…”

Air quotes.

“Close and dear friend.”

Tempest held her arms out, hands up in wonder.

“Who the hell knows? I guess my point is what I said at the very start. You try too damn hard to get people to like you or to be your friend or even both! You worry too much about what people think of you and whether or not they even like you. WHO CARES!? Worrying about shit like that can slow down decision-making and decrease risk-taking, creativity, innovation …whatever!

“Look at what happened that time when you wheeled that cake out to celebrate yourself! Crystal, that just screamed narcissism and look how that turned out! You ended up being tossed out of the ring like a goddamn lawn dart by…”

Tempest suddenly cleared her throat and fiddled with her hair before resuming her thought process.

“Well it's not important who did it. The thing that people remember the most was not that you were sharing cake as a means of self gratification! They just remember the night you went and took a header in that cake in front of the world!If you continue on with being the ‘Pick me’ girl of SCW, the only thing you’re going to accomplish is you’re going to live your life on the terms of those people you surround yourself with rather than your own!”

“And now…”

Tempest then stretched her legs out to their full, impressive length and gripped the edges of the rock she had been perched upon.

“Now we are going to address Crystal Zdunich … the actual wrestler and challenger. And Crystal? I have to say that after everything has been said and done and you won that social media poll to overtake Alexandra Calaway and become my challenger in Flagstaff? You have done nothing – nothing – to bring this match to everyone’s attention other than wear that expression like you just stepped off a street curb and saw a bus barreling down in your path! And I guess… you are, but I guess I just expected more, you know? I don’t know what exactly. Just more. Oh sure, you sat at ringside and watched me bury your wife through the mat but anyone can sit at a relatively safe distance and watch a catastrophe taking place. You didn’t even stand on the table and try to distract me or talk trash for what I did to Seleana, really. Smart girl – just disappointing.”

“The Crystal Zdunich I remember was this vain, gold hungry shrew that would step on the back of a nun if it meant getting any closer to a title shot. Now I get it.You say you’re not that woman anymore and you’re working overtime to prove to everyone else around you that you're a changed woman and not the woman who sold her own wife out for a world title shot. So tell me…”

Tempest clasped her hands together and leaned in closely.

“How’s that working out for you? Since you were named my challenger for Blaze of Glory XII, and by the way there is no chance in hell that you will ever convince me you didn't lead some kind of campaign to get all of your fans and friends to vote for you and stuff the ballot box! Anyway...  you’ve pretty much become the punching bag for the Bombshell division. You lost to Harper Mason for god's sake! That fact alone coupled with how little enthusiasm you’ve shown for this opportunity, well let’s just say that I was surprised when the lineup was announced officially and you and I weren’t the opening act! So here is what you and I are going to do.”

“You are going to forget all about this ‘nice girl Crystal act that you’ve been shoving down everyone’s throats. Nobody is buying it anyway. You have turned back and forth between Good Crystal and Bad Crystal so many times that even Mercedes Vargas would be unable to come up with the correct number of times! If you know what’s best for you, you will not come to the ring and be the same Crystal Zdunich that has been crashing and burning for the past five weeks! No, you are going to come inside of that ring and stand opposite of me and be the woman I know damn well that you are capable of being!”

“You are going to be the Crystal Zdunich that has won literally every championship save for the Mixed Tag Team titles! You are going to be the Crystal that earned her way into the Hall of Fame! The one thing I want more than anything is a challenger that can help me improve on being a champion. The old Crystal was capable of doing just that. Because if you are anything but the absolute best that you can be… Trust me chicky.”

She stood up and glared down into the camera.

“It will not end well for you!”

That being said, she adjusted her jacket and calmly walked off-camera, having had her say. The last thing seen was the camera trailing upward and focusing on the stars above.

Off-Camera

Thursday, April 11, 2024
Office of Seleana Zdunich
Zdunich Zoological Gardens
Los Angeles, California
9:01 AM  PDT





Inside the office, Seleana is getting ready to head out when her daughter-in-law, Haylie Jo “halo” Annis, comes walking into the room.

Seleana Zdunich: Heya, HayJo, how’s it?

Halo smiles at her mother-in-law.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Hey, Mama Sel, how’s it goin’?

Seleana nods at the few papers left on the desk.

Seleana Zdunich: I am almost ready to head to Flagstaff for Blaze of Glory.

Halo nods her head understandingly.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Yeah, I remember how big a deal that was when I worked for SCU.

She shakes her head sadly.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: I miss that place. I never got to team with Jane and Cheech there. I dunno why, you’d think with all the GRIME stuff that having a three person team would have been a good idea but it just never happened. Gutter Ballet never got to see the light of day there.

Seleana almost laughs.

Seleana Zdunich: It is like the mWo with Zenna, Eavan and I, ja?

Halo nods her agreement.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: That never did really happen, did it?

Seleana shakes her head.

Seleana Zdunich: No.

Halo shrugs.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Guess that runs in the family.   

The two share a laugh.

Seleana Zdunich: Ja.

Halo shrugs.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: So, how do you see this match y’all gonna have, Mama Sel?

Seleana takes the moment in and sighs.

Seleana Zdunich: I have heard it called things that are not what you wish your match to be called.

Halo frowns.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: You ain’t serious.

Seleana nods.

Seleana Zdunich: We have been declared an afterthought at best and the pissbreak at worst.

Halo folds her arms in disgust.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Y’all ain’t no pissbreak, Mama Sel. Who the hell are you in there with then, Philo and Gunge?

Seleana smirks at the Fraggle Rock reference.

Seleana Zdunich: Ariana Angelos and Georgie Robertson.

Halo just stares at her mother-in-law as if she just sprouted a second and third head.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: But, thoe are both championship type competitors. Ain’t Ariana won a couple too?

Seleana nods matter-of-factly.

Seleana Zdunich: Ja, she has.

Halo nods in acknowledgement.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: And Georgie’s been in competition for them?

Again, Seleana nods matter-of-factly.

Seleana Zdunich: Ja, she has.

Halo nods and then points at Seleana.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: And I know you done won a couple yourself.

Seleana nods matter-of-factly one more time.

Seleana Zdunich: Ja, I have.

Halo looks away, shaking her head before looking back.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Then what in the unholy fuck is this afterthought bullshit?

Seleana shrugs.

Seleana Zdunich: Some of us are not well thought of lately and this match has no direct championship stakes.

Halo just stares back looking almost ready to explode.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Well who gives a rat’s free fuckin’ ass if the jack-me-off-and-show-it-to-everyone championship is on the line or not? Y’all have all been in the mix before, ain’t nobody should be blowin’ this off like it’s the chance to walk off and piss the beer out!

Seleana nods.

Seleana Zdunich: Ja, that is me as well but I cannot help if others see things differently. All I can do is go into the match and ork to change minds there.   

Halo nods in both agreement and understanding at her mother-in-law’s plight.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Give ‘em hell, Mama Sel.

Seleana smiles and embraces her daughter-in-law.

Seleana Zdunich: I will. I will not allow this thought to top me, especially when I know Aurora will be watching.   

Halo smiles with pride.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: That little girl ain’t lettin’ any of us give up, is she?

Seleana glows with the same pride.

Seleana Zdunich: No, she had faith in all of us.

Halo smiles gratefully. .

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: Bless her heart.

Seleana nods.

Seleana Zdunich: She loves us and we her. I love you, HayJo. 

Halo smiles and hugs her mother-in-law again.

Haylie Jo "Halo" Annis: I love you too, Mama Sel. Knock ‘em dead!

Seleana Zdunich: Ja, I will.




On-Camera
Friday, April 12, 2024
Random Building
Flagstaff, Arizona
3:24 PM  MST





The camera opens upon Seleana Zdunich standing outside a building with a giant Historic Route 66 sign outside of it built into the wall. Seleana looks around, nodding to herself at the surrounding area.

Seleana Zdunich: This is poetic for this match, ja?

Shrugging, she looks around her again.

Seleana Zdunich: Many people would look at Ariana, Georgie and I and say we are little more than afterthoughts that used to be something or should have been but got supplanted by better things.

A grin comes to her face as she looks at the sign behind her. 

Seleana Zdunich: This city is full of such things. It started with the railroad and then had Route 66 come in. They fight until the interstate highway system take over.

She nods and pats the sign.

Seleana Zdunich: And think of what they both used to be.

Turning to look into the camera again, Seleana

Seleana Zdunich: The railroad usd to dominate travel in this country. It ruled the country and was the way goods and people moved great distances for a long time. Nothing could compete with it and it was able to lay claim to be the greatest champion in the land.

She spreads her arms wide to encompass everything that can be seen.

Seleana Zdunich: Whole cities grew around it, taking their place as great centers of everything and making the railroad even more powerful as they did.

She shakes her fist.

Seleana Zdunich: Nothing could challenge it.

She sighs heavily. 

Seleana Zdunich: Then Route 66 came about and the automobile rose up. The very things that had once given it power now cast the railroad aside because Route 66 was much faster and easier. More towns grew into cities because of being with Route 66. Songs were written for it and it usurped the railroad's place and the railroad quickly became…

She nods sadly in acknowledgement.

Seleana Zdunich: An afterthought.

She glances back at the sign.

Seleana Zdunich: Route 66 became the king of everything for a time as well. People worshiped it like a god.

She nods almost sadly at the sign.

Seleana Zdunich: And then the interstate system came into being. Airplanes came to help challenge as well. Buses and cars that had once stuck to roads like route 66 abandoned it for the interstates. Towns that had been growing were suddenly left behind as others grew and prospered near the interstates.

She reaches up and places her hand on the sign.

Seleana Zdunich: Route 66, that had once been the champion of champions that had dethroned the previous champion, was now an afterthought as well.

Seleana nods dolefully at the sign.

Seleana Zdunich: Ariana, Georgie and I have been looked at like this as well.

She turns to face the camera again.

Seleana Zdunich: We have all been on the rise and touted as things that should take over only to have others come along usurp that position out from under us.

She nods pointedly.

Seleana Zdunich: Ja?

She nods, a small smile coming to her face.

Seleana Zdunich: So now we stand in this match that others will dub the “pissbreak match”

Seleana shakes her head in disgust.

Seleana Zdunich: They make hens out of feathers.

She turns and points to the sign behind her.

Seleana Zdunich: People call us afterthoughts but this is an opportunity to rise again in a different way just like Route 66 and the railroad have.

She steps back from the sign and nods to it knowingly.

Seleana Zdunich: Now, they are tourist attractions here in Flagstaff. The old depot is still a train station but it is also now the welcome center and visitor center. Route 66 is plastered all over town and the songs have given it new life to attract people to come see why they were written to begin with. They were given an opportunity for new life…

Seleana turns and looks gravely into the camera.

Seleana Zdunich: As are we.

She nods.

Seleana Zdunich: Ariana, Georgie, we can look at this as a waste of time and a waste of our talents. We can see it as a nothing match with nothing at stake. You are welcome to that opinion if you wish it, but I…

Shaking her head, Seleana points to herself in the chest.   

Seleana Zdunich: I refuse to see it that way.

She points again into her chest.

Seleana Zdunich: I see this as an opportunity to put everyone else on notice. This is our chance, my chance to steal this show and remind people what we were and what we can be again!

She nods, her hand balling into a fist.

Seleana Zdunich: This is it, Ariana and Georgie. This is our opportunity to show the world, to show the roster, to show the company that we are not just warm bodies to take up space and keep the ring in use while those that actually matter wait their turn.

She shakes her head.

Seleana Zdunich: No! This is my chance to remind everyone of why I am here. This is your chance to do the same. Call it an afterthought, call it what you want, but I do not see it that way. 

She points first to herself.

Seleana Zdunich: I am not an afterthought.

Then to the camera

Seleana Zdunich:  And neither are either of you.

She nods and then slaps the sign behind her.

Seleana Zdunich: We are attractions that people pay to see and it is time we remind everyone else of this. If we are to go down, then it will be in such a Blaze of Glory as to make others stand up and take notice!

She pounds her fist into her other hand.

Seleana Zdunich: Välkommen till djungeln. I will see you there and I will make certain this is not an afterthought match!

Blaze of Glory was nearly here as was Ariana’s Triple Threat against Seleana Zdunich and the Golden Briefcase holder Georgie Robertson! But whilst Georgie had been silent, Seleana has at least put in some effort, can Ariana win her second match in a row?

Ariana’s home, Las Vegas, Nevada
Thursday the 11th of April 2024, 14:00pm

Man, I hate to have to call back to last year’s show but what do you expect me to do otherwise?

At least my first Internet Title Match was competitive, but this?! The only thing this match has in common with that match is that it was a Triple Threat Match, Georgie is silent again and Seleana? I’m not even sure where her mind is.

In other words, I think I’m the only one who gives a crap in this match.

It’s like Georgie did that stunt a few weeks ago with the champs and didn’t really have a plan beyond it! Seleana at least has title credentials but those feel like a lifetime ago, my Internet Title Reign may have been short (thanks Courtney) but I’ve at least held a title recently.

Or held a title in general in Georgie’s case, and no, the Golden Briefcase doesn’t count.

”Gods, has it been a year already?” I wondered to myself as I looked back on last year’s Blaze of Glory, only really fast forwarding through Krystal’s attack on me and Cassie because, well, bad memories and all. ”At least no one’s planning on stabbing me in the back THIS year!”

”That you know off.” Francisco responded simply and Ariana turned to her husband with a mock glare. ”Would Krystal’s actions have had the desired effect if she had made her plans public.”

”To quote one of my favourite Disney Movies, no, no, he’s got a point!” I chuckled in response before there was a knock at the door, naturally Oreo, Echo and Zeus all went racing to the door and I got up. ”And speaking of favourites, it’s time my favourite part of owning three dogs at once, answering the door and the doggos get to the door before you!”

”At least the cats are pretty chill about it.” Francisco pointed out as I made my way to the door and three the one large, fully grown dog and the two puppies, when I reached the door I saw one of my new neighbours and I opened the door slightly.

”Err, hi, sorry I’m navigating around my dogs.” I greeted the older guy as the three dogs got more excited, I managed to reach the door without letting them out and closed it behind me. ”How can I help you?”

“I just wanted to get to know the new neighbours, though I wasn’t expecting a girl as pretty as you.” The neighbour explained and I nodded in response with a slight grin. “So are you Italian?”

”Close, I’m Greek.” I corrected him as I brushed some hair over my shoulder. ”My husband’s inside and he’s Brazilian, we moved out here because we needed extra space for our dogs.”

“Yeah, I hear you, plenty of space for the dogs to run around out here.” The guy nodded in response as he looked around. “What do you do for work Ms.?”

”Ariana, and I’m a woman of many hats.” I responded with a grin as I folded my arms. ”But my main jobs are a cooking YouTuber and a professional wrestler for Sin City Wrestling.” I added and the guy’s eyes lit up when he realized that he recognized me.

“I thought you looked familiar! I thought all the SCW wrestlers who live in Vegas live over by the strip.” The older guy responded and I nodded in response. “How’s Carter these days?”

”Doing well, getting ready for the Mixed Tag with Kat Jones against The Barnharts, not to mention his wedding to Miles.” I responded with a shrug and the older guy nodded. ”Other than that? He’s doing good and so am I, or about as well as u can in this crazy division.”

“Yeah, I hear you, well good luck, we’re rooting for you.” The older guy responded before I returned to the house and navigated around the dogs again.

The Disaster Diaries, Ariana’s home, Las Vegas Nevada
Friday the 12th of April 2024, 21:00pm

*start vlog, on camera, promo time*

As I started the vlog I sat in front of my laptop with an annoyed expression on my face.

”Ever get the feeling that you got the short end of the stick? Because that’s how I feel with this Triple Threat Match right now.” I commented as I made myself comfortable. ”On paper this should be a great match, two former two time champions against the Golden Briefcase holder, need I say more? Unfortunately, in reality this match is probably gonna be a dud based on the effort by my opponents.2

Big quotation marks there.

”I mean Georgie continues to make me wonder how she won the Golden Briefcase Match in the first place with the lack of effort she’s been putting into her matches lately, and somehow? I doubt that’s gonna change!” I commented as I brushed some hair over my shoulder. ”And Seleana? What’s there to say that hasn’t already been said about her? She hasn’t held a title in years, as in, before the pandemic years, yet they keep hyping the fact that she’s a former World Bombshell Champion like Julianna beat her for the title instead of Courtney!”

But I digress.

”Regardless of how you look at it? I’m getting back to my winning ways with this match, winning ways that started with my win over Ericka at the last Climax Control! And trust me, I’m going to keep that train of momentum going until I take back the Internet Title, no matter who’s holding it by the time I get there!” I stated as I leaned forward on my desk. ”And if you think for even a second that Seleana and Georgie are going to get in my way? Big mistake!”

It's that simple.

”I don’t even know where my opponents’ heads are right now, only that they seem to be a lot less invested into this Triple Threat than I am! I beg these guys to prove me wrong because they are both talented wrestlers but somehow? I just don’t see it happening.” I added as I folded my arms. ”And I guess we’ll see if I’m right or not on Sunday, won’t we?”

And with that I decided to wrap things up.

”I will say that I expected a lot more from this match but what can you do when it’s apparent that your opponents couldn’t give a crap!” I shook my head with a disappointed sigh. ”And as you guys bask in the Golden Angel’s Light? I’m going to set my sights towards the future and whatever the next cycle has in store of “The Golden Angel” Ariana Angelos! See you guys in the ring at “New Year, New Angel Part V: Well……”!”

I turned off the webcam as the scene fades.

Blaze of Glory Twelve is just around the corner and soon Bobbie and her family will be heading to Flagstaff for all of the pre-match festivities leading up to the show. It’s been known for weeks that Bobbie would be defending her title against Bella Madison, so she had ample time to prepare herself both mentally and physically for the challenge ahead. She had faced Bella once already since making her return- before she won the Bombshell Roulette Championship- and she had come out on the winning end. But this time felt different to her. Because it was different.

It’s the day before they are scheduled to leave for Flagstaff and Bobbie is at her parents’ new home just outside of Las Vegas. Even though it’s Nevada, and the temperature can get relatively hot even in early spring, today was unseasonably cooler. It was the perfect day for Bobbie and her mother, though. They both had enjoyed temperatures like this back in Illinois, so this gave them a chance to sit out in the backyard and just have a relaxing day before Bobbie had to get down to business with her upcoming match. Artie, meanwhile, is off somewhere else getting in a training session to prepare for the Blast From The Past Tournament.

But Bobbie is clearly distracted at the moment. She’s fairly quiet as they sit in their chairs on the patio while Loki has found a spot under a tree to get some shade after romping around playing with some of his toys. Barbie, her mother, turns her head and stares at her daughter for a moment, trying to get a sense of what may be on her mind before breaking the silence between them. Considering everything recently, there was only one of two things that could be bothering Bobbie. Or both. And one subject, Barbie did not want to bring up right off the bat on the off chance it was something else.

“Alright,” she finally says, breaking the long silence and setting her glass of tea down on the small table between them. “You’re nervous about your match against Bella, aren’t you? That has to be it, because you’re too quiet.”

Bobbie sighs and turns her head to look at her mother. She, too, sets her glass of tea on the table, and she shakes her head with a bit of a smile. “So much for a relaxing day? You just can’t help yourself sometimes, can you?” Bobbie responds, although it is more out of amusement than annoyance. She knew her mother cared and had been worried about her quite a bit recently, as did her father. It was what made them such great parents.

Barbie smiles back. “I’m your mother,” she says very matter of factly. “I’m supposed to pry whenever I think it's warranted. What kind of mother would I be if I didn’t?”

Bobbie nods, seeing her mother’s point. She lets out a sigh as her attention darts to Loki, still resting under the tree. “I mean, yeah I am nervous. I’d be crazy not to be. Blaze of Glory is a big show. The biggest of the year along with High Stakes.” She pauses, gathering the rest of her thoughts. She had so many of them, she didn’t know where to begin. “Bella is a tough opponent. I just barely defeated her last time. And this time? She might just pull off the win and make my title reign shorter than I wanted it to be.”

Barbie nods slowly. Bobbie’s anxiousness was understandable in this instance, but she was prepared to do anything and everything she could to get her daughter into better spirits. “There’s always a chance that she could, yes. But your father and I have watched you over the last few months, and you improve each and every time. But I sense your focus isn’t completely on Bella lately as it should be. There’s more, isn’t there?” Barbie used her last question as a gentle transition into the subject she had been avoiding. And if she was wrong, that would be even better.

Bobbie didn’t answer right away. She remained silent for a while, and Loki had finally gotten up from his spot under the tree and trotted over to Bobbie’s side, sitting down next to her. He rested his head on her knee and Bobbie took the opportunity to gently pet and scratch the top of his head, loving on her baby boy as he so wanted. He could sense she needed him just as well. After a few moments gathering her response, Bobbie finally caved and admitted something her mother wasn’t completely expecting. “I’m trying to find a way to get over this…jealousy…I feel towards Bella.”

“Jealousy?” Barbie asks, slightly surprised. “I’ve never known you to be jealous of anyone for any reason.” Barbie gives her daughter her full attention, hoping she can support her in any way possible.

Bobbie shrugs quickly, trying to brush it off like it’s not a big deal, but she knows her mother won’t accept that. So she has no choice but to explain. “Every time I try to go and prepare to face her again, I’m reminded of the fact that she has this beautiful baby girl at home. And she was back in the ring just a few months after giving birth to her.” Bobbie closes her eyes and sighs. “That has to be some sort of record. But not that it should matter to me, because that won’t be happening to me anyway, but I still can’t stop be a little jealous.”

Barbie shakes her head. She knew Bobbie had been struggling a lot recently with this situation, but she still hadn’t given her mother more information. Barbie had to get to the bottom of it and know all the facts if she wanted to really help Bobbie. “Alright. I have let this go on longer than I should have. It might not be the best time to discuss it now, but it has to be done.” Bobbie looks at her mother, confused. Barbie just sits up straight as she faces her daughter. “I want you to tell me what exactly the doctor said. All you told me was that you can’t have kids, but you never gave me specifics.”

Bobbie shakes her head. “No. There’s no need to.”

“There most certainly is a need to.” Barbie responds quickly. “Now, spill it. Tell me what the doctor told you.”

Bobbie goes silent for a few moments, staring at her mother. There was no way she was getting out of telling her the details, so she had to emotionally prepare herself to go back to the day she had been thinking about for the last several months. And she just hoped she wouldn’t start crying all over again…

---

Several months ago…

Just a few days ago, Bobbie had gone through several different tests with her doctor. She and Artie had been privately discussing, and even trying, getting pregnant and adding a little one to their family for some time, but as they were not having any luck they both decided it was best to see their respective doctors to find out if there was an underlying cause. Artie’s tests had come back absolutely perfect, which was a relief. But today was the day they were going to find out all of the results of Bobbie’s tests. To say Bobbie was nervous was an understatement.

The two of them are seated in her doctor’s office, waiting for him to finish with another patient and come deliver the news to them. Bobbie’s right leg kept bouncing up and down, one of the outward signs of her growing anxiety, and Loki was not there to help ease it. Artie did his best, though, as he takes her hand in his and gives it a gentle squeeze. “It’ll be okay, Bobbie.” He says, reassuring her as best as he could. “Just try to relax.”

Bobbie shakes her head. “I can’t, Artie. I know there is something wrong with me, because all of your tests came back perfect.” She turns her head to look at him, somehow managing a little smirk. “Hell, the doctor said your little swimmers were some of the most active he’s ever seen!”

Artie cracks a smile, but even though the comment came from Bobbie, his cheeks still flush a little red. This whole process had been a little awkward for the both of them, but when they had heard that line from his doctor, Bobbie had laughed and Artie had just scratched his head in an awkward silence.

“Yeah, I don’t think I’ll ever forget hearing those words.” Artie replied, letting out a laugh.

“Neither will I.” Bobbie responds, but once again returns to the present moment as they still wait for her doctor. “And it’s how I know that something is wrong with me. You deserve to be a daddy, and here I am, unable to make that happen.”

Artie doesn’t get a chance to respond, as there is a gentle knock on the door and then her doctor slowly walks in, holding a tablet in his hand. “Bobbie. Artie. Good to see the both of you again.” He says as he sits down in the chair behind his desk to face them.

“Alright, doc.” Bobbie says, sitting up straight. “Just break it to me. The wait has been killing me. What is wrong with me?”

Artie shakes his head and just rubs Bobbie’s shoulder. Her doctor, while slightly amused with her rushing him, doesn’t crack a smile. He sets the tablet down and Bobbie and Artie prepare themselves. “I have gone over all of your test results, and while it’s not terrible news, it’s also not exactly good news, either.”

“W-what does that mean?” Artie asks first.

“Just tell me. Am I able to get pregnant or not?” Bobbie asks bluntly.

“Technically, yes, there is a chance you could get pregnant.” Her doctor responds. Artie smiles, almost relieved, but Bobbie knows there is more. “But not without some difficulty. And this is not me getting your hopes up either. After reviewing all of your tests, we have determined you have Polycystic Ovarian–”

“PCOS…” Bobbie interrupts him. She knew exactly what it was, but she had never really suspected it because she didn’t have all of the tell tale signs or symptoms.

“Yes.”  Her doctor confirms. “There are several options for you, Bobbie, and I suggest the both of you discuss how you want to proceed with this and when you might want to have a child. Due to your age, the longer you wait, the probability of a successful pregnancy diminishes.”

It wasn’t the news Bobbie had wanted to hear, but she had somehow expected it. Artie was obviously more hopeful after hearing everything the doctor was saying, but as the doctor continued to go over her options, she began to tune out. All she could think about was that she was right. Artie was perfectly able to father a child, but she was the reason they could not conceive…and probably never would.

---

Bobbie fell silent as she finished telling her mother exactly how her appointment had gone those many months ago. Her mother sat there, slowly nodding, but she, too, was more hopeful than Bobbie was. She reached forward and took Bobbie’s hand in hers. “Bobbie, honey, if you and Artie really want a baby, there are ways to make it happen. Just because it could be difficult, doesn’t make it impossible.”

Bobbie shakes her head. She had stopped petting Loki and he gently pawed at her to get her to continue. She all too happily obliged. “Options? If Artie and I want to have a baby, the only options we have to have a biological child require a lot of time and help. Not to mention, money. With my wrestling career–”

“Have you and Artie discussed all of this? And what you really want to do?” Barbie asks, stopping Bobbie before she could finish any of the negative speak.

Bobbie shakes her head. “Not really. He knows how upset I was after that appointment so he didn’t really push it. And then I returned to SCW so it just got put on the backburner.”

“The two of you really need to have a sit down discussion about this, and soon.” Barbie replies. “Maybe when you are on break after Blaze of Glory, that can be your opportunity. And whatever you two decide, your father and I will support you all the way. Don’t rob yourselves of the chance to be parents if it is what you really want.”

Barbie squeezes Bobbie’s hand again, comforting her as much as she could. Bobbie slowly nods and looks down at her baby boy Loki, silently wondering if the only child she is meant to have is a four legged one. She had to set those thoughts aside, and soon, however, because her match against Bella was fast approaching. And if she wants to retain the Bombshell Roulette Championship again, she needs to focus.

Focus, focus, focus….

---

Blaze of Glory…Wow! I can’t believe we’re already at this biggest show of the biggest show of the year! Well, unless you could High Stakes, but I know Blaze of Glory has always been considered SCW’s biggest and most hyped up event and for good reason. A lot of fantastic matches have taken place at this show, and there is no doubt that history will be made time and time again on a Blaze of Glory card. Hell, maybe even this weekend, but I’m not a psychic so I couldn’t tell ya honestly.

I’ve known for a while now that, as long as I had retained my title, I would be defending it against Bella Madison at Blaze of Glory Twelve. When I found out, I was pretty excited because Bella Madison is someone I respect a hell of a lot, and she truly deserves this chance. But from the time it had been announced up until now, I didn’t do my job as the Bombshell Roulette Champion. I could have showed up every week to hype this match or speak to Bella a time or two and really get ready for it, but I didn’t. I did exactly what I told myself when I won this title that I wasn’t going to do. I wasn’t representing my title. I wasn’t being a champion, and for that…I’m sorry.

Being a champion, it takes a lot of focus and dedication. I knew that before I truly set my sights on winning the Roulette Championship anyway. I had to make sure that I was really prepared and that I could handle it all, and I told myself I was ready. I told myself I could handle anything and anyone that was thrown my way, but look at what happened. I let other stuff steal my focus away, and it’s taken attention away from this match and the performance that Bella and I could put on for our family and the fans. People could be talking about this match right now, but they really aren’t.

I’m sorry, Bella. You deserve for this chance to be bigger than I’ve given it to be. You’ve worked your booty off for so long, just like I did when I was working for my chance, and it is the champion’s job to make more noise than I have in recent weeks. I put other stuff higher on my list of priorities, and I know now that that was a mistake. As the Bombshell Roulette Champion, I need to do better. And if I beat you at Blaze of Glory Twelve, I WILL do better, because I have to.

I can still do this. I don’t have anything holding me back, except myself. The only thing I can say that was taking my focus away was worrying about Artie in the Blast From the Past Tournament, but there is time to deal with that. I only had so much time to get ready to face you again. And I know you’re far from the same Bella Madison that I faced last time. You’ve been on a roll, girl. And I commend you for that. But I have to ask…

Are you REALLY ready to be the Bombshell Roulette Champion, let alone ANY champion in SCW? Can you really sit there and say that you can do what I have stumbled in doing and focus as much time and dedication into representing SCW and the Roulette division as it deserves? Are you really prepared to put your body through anything and everything to defend this title? I could go on and on with more questions, but I think you get my point here.

Think about your baby girl, Bella. Maybe you’re able to be a champion and a great mother, but the physicality of what the Roulette Wheel puts us through is no joke, honey. There are going to be times that your body is so battered and bruised, that you won’t be able to hold your baby girl when she’s begging for you to. Or, that she’ll see cuts and bruises on you and either be scared at what she sees, or she’ll wonder…what happened to mommy?

I mean no disrespect, Bella. I’m not trying to be the bad guy here, but I’m trying to be realistic and prepare you for what could be in your future. I can’t guarantee that I will be able to beat you, and honestly? I’m not upset by that. Do I want to keep my reign going? Absolutely. But I see how determined you are and how much you want this. And I am preparing myself for the very real possibility that this time, you just might be better than me.

What we do is hard, Bella. Everyone knows that, and we also know that there are people out there that say professional wrestlers can’t, or shouldn’t, have families and do what we do. But plenty have proven them wrong. But the fact is that you jumped back into the ring pretty damn fast. Faster than anyone I’ve ever seen after having a baby, and I don’t know if that was determination or…I don’t know. I’m not going to even begin to sit here and pretend that I know or understand your life or how you and Malachi work things out raising your daughter. I’m just trying to get you to really think about everything, if you already haven’t.

Once that target is on your back, Bella, the only way it goes away is by losing the title. As soon as you win the title, you’ll have every woman backstage gunning for you- well, maybe not EVERY woman, but a good chunk of them, anyway.

I’m excited about this match, Bella. You’re one of the few that I know shows respect to each and every match and each and every opponent. As long as they deserve it anyway. It’s one of the things I respect about you so much and if you beat me on Sunday? I will gladly hand over the Roulette title and raise your hand in victory. Is that something I really want to do? Of course not. But I’m woman enough to show good sportsmanship anyway!

I’m not ready to give this title up, Bella. I’m going to fight tooth and nail to keep hold of it, and I know you’re going to fight just as hard to take it from me. To that I say bring it, honey. Let’s go out there and put on the match of a lifetime. Let’s show everyone why were two of the toughest Bombshells on this roster. Let’s bring the house down and then afterwards, if we’re still standing anyway…each of us can move forward in our own ways.

Oh and to Georgie Robertson, if you’re watching this…if you know what’s good for you, you’ll stay the hell away from this match! Just a little food for thought.

See you Sunday, Bella! May the better Bombshell win!

And I plan to!!