[Christian Underwood]

 Please post roleplays here.

First RP Period Deadline:
United States: 11:59pm EST Saturday 08/15/2015
England: 04:59am Sunday 08/16/2015

[Sam Marlowe]

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Dressed casually in denim cut offs and a light purple midriff tee, Samantha Marlowe sings along with the song on the radio of her rented car as she drives along the road towards her soon to be relaxing vacation spot she has booked.  She paws through the small bag that is resting there and pulls out a small cell phone holder and pushes it against the windshield.    

Still reeling from her first loss, she made plans to be alone for a couple of days to pull herself together so to speak.  That and she wanted to hide away from her sister Cyn who would be doing her level best to make sure that Sam knew she lost.  Going off the grid would be good.

Once she has the holder on the window, she reaches once more to pull out an iphone and sets it against the holder and presses the menu button.  Suddenly, the camera lights up to reveal Samantha’s face on the screen as the blinking light of the recording icon flashes in the corner.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Getting ready for my match…take one…

She smiles into the camera as she begins to think of just what she wanted to remember for her match at the upcoming supercard she was taking part in.  Rather than talking to herself, she records her thoughts and ideas.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Okay Sam, you have to remember the following things for Summer XXXtreme.  You are facing Alexis Edwards and she is going to be very difficult to beat and you are going to have to be ready because I am pretty sure that she isn’t going to be all nice like.  I mean she could be, you don’t know her but from the looks of it and the guys she hangs with, nice isn’t a thing that she is.  So what are you going to do about that?

Her lips quirk as she tries to think of a response to that.  What could she say that would counter that.  After all, she had to make a statement with this match to prove to herself and more importantly her sister that she was doing the right thing in SCW.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Note to self, best way to prepare for this match is to calm yourself down and let go of the loss you just had.  It was only your second match Sam, and you know that you can’t win all the time.  You gave her a fight and it just was that one mistake that caused you to lose the match.  And you have a chance to redeem yourself on a cruise ship.

That comment only makes Sam laugh as she turns into the drive for the resort.  Pulling up to the front of the main building, she cuts the engine and sliding out of the car, quickly heads inside.  In a matter of minutes, she steps back out onto the porch and to her car.  Sliding into the driver seat, she dangles a key in front of the still recording screen.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Here it is…freedom from the world and not a care for you Sam.  No worrying about wrestling or Cyn or anything for three whole days.  And I just can’t wait.  Rest, relaxation and recharging is going to do wonders for me.  

Gunning the engine, Sam pulls away and towards her rented apartment.  Reaching the building, Sam stops the car and then climbs out of it, her cell phone in one hand.  Looking at the building and beyond it to the beach where she can see the Pacific waters that rush up to the light sand in the fading light, a smile curls her lips as she lightly closes the car door and tucks the cell into her back pocket.  Working her way to the trunk of the car, she opens it to pull out her bags and a couple of plastic bags of supplies.  Grabbing her purse out of the passenger side after shouldering her bag, she pushes the car door shut with her rear then walks to the building.  Once she gets to the apartment, she opens it and pushes the door open.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Hi Honey…I’m home!  Oh yeah, I get to be alone here.

Setting the food on the counter, she takes her bag into the bedroom where she sets it on the bed.  Taking a long slow breath, Sam can almost feel all the worries falling off her.  Stepping back into the main room, she begins to store her groceries away only to feel her phone vibrate against her rear and the sound of Original Sin by Meatloaf begins to play.  Pulling her phone from her back pocket, she looks at it as if it is a snake before putting it on the counter and swiping the call to her answering machine.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Oh heck no, I am not dealing with her right now.  This is time for me to relax and she is definitely not going to be conducive to relaxing at all with her carping at me like she does so no Cyn for me for three days.  Matter of fact, no one calling at all.

With that, she turns her phone off with a sound of satisfaction.  Moments later after rifling through her purse, she pulls up another phone and activates it.  Once she does, she grabs her purse and pulls out her phone book.  Dialing a number, she presses speaker and listens to the ringing.  Suddenly the phone is picked up and a voicemail message plays.  Once the beep happens, Sam begins to speak.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    This is Samantha Marlowe.  I am calling to let you know that if you wish to get a hold of me you can contact me at the following number…

She reels off a set of numbers then presses the end call button.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    There, the next three days are all mine.

Looking at her old phone she wonders what it was that Cyn wanted but smiles as she ignores the urge to see what it was and makes her way towards the bedroom and pulls off her shirt with a sigh of satisfaction before disappearing into the bedroom.


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Music from a small laptop can be heard as a person walks up from the beach, her body barely covered by a dark bikini that contrasts with the tanned skin of the redhead.  With her hair hanging damply curling around her shoulders, she reaches her balcony and opens the door to her apartment.  Once inside, she stretches as she moves to the kitchen and pulls open the fridge and grabs herself a Foster’s then moves back to where her laptop is set up near the door to outside.  Grabbing the laptop, she moves out of the room and onto the shaded balcony.  Setting the beer and computer on the small table, she returns inside to grab a fishnet coverup and pulls it over her barely damp bikini.  Just as her head breaks through the neck hole of the coverup, the ringing of a skype call can be heard.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Oh god who is it?

Worriedly, Sam looks on the screen and sees that it is Pussy Willow who is calling.  Pressing answer Sam smiles as she calls out a greeting.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Hi Pussy Willow, to what do I owe the pleasure?

Pussy Willow:    Hey Sam, I am in such trouble right now because no one has said anything for next week’s super card and I need something, anything for the bosses at SCW.  And since you are new and need to get your name out there, you are the first person I thought of and here I am contacting you.

The enthusiasm from the interviewer could be heard on her voice which only makes Sam shake her head with a smile.  Sipping at her drink, she leans back and closes her eyes.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    So what did you want to talk about?  The fact that I lost last week or this is my first supercard and I will be facing Alexis Edwards on that cruise.

Pussy Willow:    Why don’t we start with the loss then work our way up to the cruise.  Oh and by the way, I also want to ask about Ben Jordan.  Looks like he and you got a little friendly…

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Fishing for a story Ms Willow?  Are you working for the FBI or writing a book hmmm?

The sound of nervous laughter can be heard coming from the interviewer.

Pussy Willow:   Enquiring minds Sam, enquiring minds.  Besides, you know that most fans don’t really care about the backstage antics but there are those that follow the sexcapades of the wrestlers in Sin City.  And when it comes to two good looking people like you and Ben Jordan, everyone wants to know.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Well, let’s get that out of the way right now.  All I am going to say is that Ben is a gentleman and I have no comments to make other than that.

Pussy Willow:    Awww Sam, come on.  He is gorgeous.  You can’t tell me that you were able to resist…

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I will never tell Pussy so next question please.

A moan and muffled ‘damn’ escapes Pussy before she sighs then is about to speak.  Sam takes another sip of her beer as she listens.

Pussy Willow:     Okay then let me ask you about your match at the last Climax Control.  It looked like you were about to win when Lucy pulled it out in the end.  Do you think you deserved that loss or was it just the case of one mistake making the difference?

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    I would have to say that I let that one mistake get to me and Lucy was smart enough to pick up on it and use it.  Now I know that people think I show too much respect and that I am too nice but I gotta tell you that maybe just maybe being that way will work out for the best when push comes to shove.  I mean, you don’t have to get nasty to get respect.

Pussy Willow:    You do have to be able to back up your talk.  I know that everyone says that you are so nice and they have respect for you…

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Why is it that I am hearing a ‘but’ in that statement?

Sam sits up as she speaks, her beer forgotten as she tilts her head waiting to see what Pussy has to say.  The interviewer is quick to respond.

Pussy Willow:     Wrestling isn’t all fairplay and gentlemen rules.  Sometimes you have to dig deep and come out swinging for your opponent with tough talk and even tougher actions.  I mean I am pretty sure that Alexis isn’t going to be so gentle in your match at Summer XXXTreme on the cruise ship.   So don’t you think that maybe you need to be a little more direct for what you want the fans to know about what you are going to do to the person you are facing?

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    I am sure that is what most people want me to be but I can’t be anything other than myself now can I?  So I could try to talk tougher but do you seriously think that this is going to be anything that will make me better?  How will being someone else help?  

An awkward silence falls over the pair.  Pulling her feet up underneath her, Sam gets more comfortable as she sighs.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I suppose that I could see what has been said about me by my opponent…

Sam pulls the computer towards herself and opens a second window, her fingers dancing over the keys as she types in the url of the Sin City Fansite that seemed to have all the news that was fit to print or post.  

Pussy Willow:    Nobody has posted anything.  Hah, nobody posted anything, that is funny considering that Alexis belongs to that group.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Really Pussy, that is too funny.

The pair share a laugh as Sam scrolls through the site and finds nothing as Pussy said there wouldn’t be.

Pussy Willow:    Well then Sammi, what do you have planned for the supercard.  This is your first one in Sin City.  Are you excited?

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Oh yes I am totally excited for this.  I mean Cyn my sister told me that supercards in SCW are big deals.  I mean I get that they are but some more than others she says.  She keeps warning me that I need to be better and then tells me I am good enough.  Confusing to say the least.

Sam’s last comments seem to be said more to herself rather than Pussy Willow who doesn’t quite hear her.  

Pussy Willow:    What was that Sam?

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Nothing Pussy, nothing.  I was just thinking that I was going back to the beach to relax.

Pussy Willow:    Ooooo which beach?  Maybe I could meet you and we could do an interview for your match.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I am sorry Pussy but I am taking the next two days off the grid and really I shouldn’t even be talking to you now.  This was my gift to me, these three days before I had to get on the ship for the cruise.  But between you and me, I don’t think I could have completely disappeared.  Guess it is just me trying to get my equilibrium back.  But tell you what, first thing I am going to do is come find you for my prematch interview when we get on the ship, deal?

Pussy Willow:    You better believe it.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Talk to you then.  Bye for now.

Not letting Pussy respond, Sam clicks off the call and then quickly leaves Skype and closes the window.  Clicking on the windows media player she turns on her playlist then leans back into the chair once more and brings the beer to her lips to take a long sip.  Setting it to the side, she pulls the laptop into her lap and begins to tap on the keys as she opens her mail.



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The voice of Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    This week coming up I am in a match that most people would say I am in over my head and maybe I am but that doesn’t mean that I am just going to roll over and let Alexis Edwards get the pin.

This coming week is Summer XXXTreme and I have been put in a match against a nobody.   And a nobody is who I have to defeat.  Some might say that is too funny.  They would say it was a joke but I am not taking it as a joke.  I am taking it deadly serious.  See, this match is between two young Bombshells out to make names for themselves.  Alexis because she feels and acts like the tough misfit that nobody cares about.  And lil ole me, fighting tooth and nail to get out of the shadow of my sister.  

Stepping into view, Sam Marlowe has not much but a pair of ragged dark cutoff shorts and a cut up half tee over a bikini top.  Her long red curls are pulled back into a high ponytail that falls over her shoulder and her feet are bare as she softly paces in front of her laptop that is recording.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:   Alexis, I am sure you are going to be the mouthy badass that everyone says you are because you don’t know how to be any better.  I don’t know why you need to be that way but you do you.  If it means I have asked for you to kick my ass, oh well.  You just have to remember that I am going to be going all out to kick your behind as well.  I have something to prove and it just might be more than what you might think you need to prove.  So I hope for your sake you take this challenge that I am going to be giving you seriously.  If I for one second think or feel that you aren’t, that is when I am going to be the most dangerous.

In my last match I didn’t take the challenge of Lucy serious enough and that meant that I made that one mistake that cost me the match.  My father always said that I could make one mistake when it comes to things and if I made the same mistake, it wasn’t a mistake but a choice and I am telling you now that I am not going to make that a choice in our match Alexis.

Tapping herself in the middle of her shirt, she leans forward slightly.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I hope for your sake Alexis that you are ready.  I am.  I am rested from my stay here, I am relaxed and I have been recharged.  I am energized to get back to my winning ways.  So I will take the time now to wish you the best of luck at Summer XXXTreme Alexis because once I am on the ship, you can be guaranteed that I will be focused on winning.

With that comment, Sam can be seen approaching the laptop and her hand moves forward towards the camera and suddenly the screen goes to black.  Sam takes a slow deep breath as she moves to the bed and turns on the light beside it.  Coming back to the closet, she grabs her suitcase and sets it beside the bed.  Reaching for the light switch, she turns off the overhead light then moves towards the bed once more.  She leans forward and turns out the bedside lamp, the only light coming from the slightly open door which only outlines her silhouette.  The shadows hide her as she pulls her shirt off then reaches for her pants.  Sliding them down her legs, she picks something up from the bed, wrapping it around herself before she climbs into the bed, covering herself to sleep.  Very quickly, her soft even breathing is the only sounds that are heard in the dark.  

[Alexis Edwards]

 Sunday August 2nd
Hougang Stadium, Singapore
Immediately Following Climax Control

Talk about a fuckin’ rough night.  Not a single thing has gone right for any of us in The Nobodies and I started the shit storm it seems.  My match against Crystal Hilton was going fine until I fucked up and let the bitch pin me.  I don’t know what the hell happened but I lost and it was only the first of a series of events that made us look shitty.

Not long after my match, and shortly before Connor’s match against Jeremiah Hardin, Stevie Boy Ramone and his band of losers decided to make a big mistake in pretending to be masked Nobodies and mugged my boy Tim in the ring.  I may not be able to lay a finger on Steve Ramone or either of his douchebag bodyguards, but they’ll get what’s coming to them and then some.  

Oh and let’s not forget Connor’s match against Jeremiah Hardin shall we?  Connor had a chance to end the night on a high note for us.  He had a chance to make us look good, but it wasn’t in the cards, was it?  Nah, we were doomed from the start of the night and it’s all because of me.

That’s the major reason why I’ve decided to just head back to the States.  This may have only been my second match, but things haven’t been going how I thought they would so I’m starting to think I made a mistake in even signing the contract with SCW in the first place.

I’m sitting in the Bombshell’s locker room, alone.  Most of the other Bombshells haven’t filtered their way to the locker room yet to gather their things and I’m thankful for that.  I need some time to think, though I didn’t need very much time.  My duffel bag is on the bench next to me as I’m leaning forward, my elbows on my knees.  I’ll have to break it to Tim and Connor, but fuck if I really care right now.  I can’t disappoint them anymore than I already have.

I take in a deep breath grab my duffel bag, pulling it into my lap.  For a quick moment my eyes are drawn inside the bag, to what is laying directly on top of my things.  I go very still for a moment, forgetting I even brought what my eyes are glued to with me.  I consider taking it out of my bag, but my attention is quickly averted away by a loud knocking on the door.  I zip up my duffel bag quickly and stand up, throwing it over my shoulder as I walk to the door.  When I open the door, Tim and Connor are standing there waiting for me, surrounded by the masked members.  Tim looks a little beat up but no worse for wear following Steve Ramone’s ambush and Connor doesn’t seem in the best of moods either.  Tim glances directly to my duffel bag over my shoulder.

~*~TIM~*~: You didn’t have to pack your stuff that quick.  Our stuff is still back in our locker room.

I close my eyes and take in a deep breath.  Best not to waste time in breaking the news.

~*~LEX~*~: Look, I need to talk to you guys and you’re not gonna like what I have to say.  

~*~CONNOR~*~: Lexi, m’love, you can tell us anything.  What’s goin’ on love?

~*~TIM~*~: What’s going on Lex?

I open my eyes, looking directly at Tim.  I have no doubt that he will be more disappointed with my decision than anyone else.

~*~LEX~*~: I’m goin’ back to Vegas, guys.  I can’t do this.

Tim and Connor look at each other for a second but they both nod and look back to me.  Something tells me they’ve misunderstood what I’m trying to tell them.

~*~TIM~*~: Alright.  We’ll just meet up before the Summer XXXTreme cruise leaves.  

I shake my head.

~*~LEX~*~: That’s not what I mean, Tim.  I can’t do this shit anymore.  I think I made a mistake.

I adjust my duffel bag over my shoulder and look away.  I’m not ready to see the disappointed looks on their faces, but I can feel Tim’s stare burning a hole through me.

~*~TIM~*~: You’re joking, right?  You’ve only had two matches, Lex!

~*~LEX~*~: Yeah and clearly I’m not cut out for this shit.  I lost to Crystal fucking Hilton tonight and it set off the shit storm for all of us.  I’m not going to be the fuck up around here.  I’m not going to—

Tim holds his hand up, silencing me before I can finish my sentence.  I finally look up at him and he doesn’t look disappointed.  No, he actually looks almost furious with me.

~*~TIM~*~: Shut up, Lex.  Just shut the hell up, alright?!  If you think for one second that I’m going to let you just walk away, you’re wrong.  You’re tough as nails and you know it.  So you lost one match?  Who cares?  Connor and I have lost matches too, but you don’t see us tucking our tails between our legs and crying off, now do you?

I don’t say anything in response as I look away again.

~*~TIM~*~: If you walk out after one damn loss, you’re not only going to make yourself look bad, but you’re going to make us look worse, too.  You’ll ruin everything we’ve been working to accomplish and I’m not going to let that happen.

~*~LEX~*~: If I stick around that’s going to happen anyway!  I may be a Nobody by name, but fuck if I’m gonna let my actions prove that I’m a true Nobody!  I’m not going to be the weak link, Tim.

Tim shakes his head as the disappointed look now appears on his face.  Connor steps in between us, putting a hand on my shoulder.

~*~CONNOR~*~: Relax, love.  Yer far from bein’ any kind of weak link.  Ye just need to get yer ass back in the ring and keep up yer trainin’.  Keep yer chin up, love.

I know Connor has a point, but I’m too disappointed in myself and upset at everything that happened tonight that I just swat his hand away from my shoulder.

~*~LEX~*~: I don’t need your damn sympathy, Connor.  And Tim, I couldn’t care less if walking out makes me look bad.  Not a single person will give a fuck if I leave.  I’m a Nobody, remember?  They’ll be throwing a fucking party.  Have fun in Samoa and on the rest of the tour, guys.  I’m done.

I refuse to stand around and listen to another word either of them has to say.  I shove myself past them, making my way swiftly through the hall towards the exit.  I’ll have to figure my flight back to the States tomorrow morning, and right now, my mind is only thinking on one thing, and it’s safely tucked away in my duffel bag.  But, I’ll be sure to take care of that back in my hotel room where I know I won’t be bothered.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Later that Night
Alexis’ hotel room…

I’m sitting in a completely darkened room at the moment, and it is where I have been for a couple of hours.  The moment I got back to the hotel, I tossed my duffel bag on the bed and collapsed to the floor leaning against the foot of the bed.  Before I did so, however, I made sure to take my old friend out of my bad, clutching it in my hand.  I haven’t had these thoughts in quite a while…over a year and a half actually…but lately, they’ve been creeping back in.

I bring my knees up to my chest, and bury my head in my knees.  All these thoughts running through my mind, and not a single one of them is good.  I’ve done well at keeping them at bay for the majority of the last year and a half, but I know sooner or later, I’m going to slip.

Who am I kidding?  I want to slip.  I need to slip.  Just once.

I slowly raise my head and take in a deep breath.  Just as I am about to do something I haven’t done in a year and a half, a knocking on my door stops me.  I look towards the door, then to my hand.  I am not interested in any social activity right now, but the knocking on the door comes once again.

“Lex?!  It’s Tim.  Open the damn door!”

Of course it’s Tim.  Because he doesn’t want to give me space right now, and will no doubt try to talk me out of leaving SCW.  I ignore him and get back to the task at hand.  Unfortunately Tim won’t let up.

~*~TIM~*~: I know you’re in there, Lex!  If you don’t open the door I’ll just break the damn thing down!

I roll my eyes as I know he’s bluffing.  Just as I am about to ignore him once again and get back to my business, I hear the keycard being inserted into the lock and the door opens up a few seconds later.  I have to think quickly as I jump to my feet and put my hand in my pocket.  I can’t let Tim see what I have and I put it away just in time as he turns on the light in my room and looks right at me curiously.

~*~TIM~*~: What are you doing?

I shake my head, pretending I have no idea what he is talking about, but maybe he did catch me.

~*~LEX~*~: Huh?  Nothing.  I’m not doing anything.

~*~TIM~*~: Bullshit you’re not.  You’re really set on leaving SCW and going back to the States aren’t you?

Oh, so that is what he is referring to.  He didn’t see what I was about to do, thankfully.  I shrug my shoulders and plop down on the foot of the bed.

~*~LEX~*~: I really don’t feel like talking about it, Tim.  Wrestling is in your blood, dude.  It’s not in mine.  

~*~TIM~*~: So?  That doesn’t mean shit to anyone these days.  Everyone is half expecting me to fail despite my family.  Doesn’t mean I’m not going to prove them all wrong.  You’ll do the same thing.

I shake my head.  Why can’t I just be left alone?  Tim may be my best friend and all, but if he doesn’t back off, I’m afraid I will say or do something to fuck it all up.

~*~LEX~*~: Tim, I’m really not in the mood for a pep talk, okay?  I’d just like to be left alone.

~*~TIM~*~: Too bad, because I’m not leaving until you talk to me.  It’s kinda shitty that I talk to you about everything, but you can’t even do the same.  You think I’m really gonna judge you?  Tell me what the hell is going on with you, because this isn’t the Alexis I know.

He knows me, true, but only the parts of me that I show.  I know his life hasn’t been easy either, but there are just some demons in my closet that I’d like to keep hidden because they truly don’t even matter.

~*~LEX~*~: Man it ain’t about that shit.  

~*~TIM~*~: Then what is it about?

I go quiet for a while, deciding how I am going to answer that question.  Do I tell the truth and answer that honestly?  Or do I keep this shit bottled up like I always do?  I decide to go with the ladder as I let out a sigh and shake my head.

~*~LEX~*~: Just don’t worry about it, alright Tim?  You’re making it into a bigger deal than it is, so just quit bugging me about it.  Damn.

Tim growls and mumbles something under his breath.  No doubt in my mind he just cussed me out.  He glares at me and throws his hands up in the air.

~*~TIM~*~: You know what?  Fine, you’re right.  You’re just a scared, weak little girl and we don’t need you in the Nobodies.  You’re nothing but a big disappointment so go ahead and leave.  I don’t give a shit anymore.

I’m taken back by everything he has just said.  I wasn’t expecting that attitude from him and I’m left speechless, which is a good thing as he turns around and storms out of my room, once again leaving me in dead silence.  It’s not long before I’m sinking to my knees on the floor, burying my head in my hands and sobbing…for the first time in I don’t even know how long.  I reach into my pocket and grip my old friend in my hand before I stand up and head into the bathroom.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Wednesday August 12th
Brisbane, Australia
A Battle of Will Power
~*~Off Camera~*~

The last ten days have not been easy for me.  After Tim went off on me in my hotel room in Singapore, I wanted to do something I haven’t done in over a year and a half.  Hell, I almost did, but I was able to stop myself.  With Tim’s help of course.  All I had to do was listen to his words over and over in my head, and although at first it was more leading me to make that decision, it was ultimately my saving grace.  Tim has been my best friend for the last year and a half, and I know him going off on me like that was only tough love.  It doesn’t change the fact that he is still pretty damn pissed off at me.

I showed up in Samoa after debating for about five minutes on getting a flight back to the states.  I hid out by myself for a bit before I headed to the show, but it was clear Tim wasn’t about to forgive me right away.  I can’t say that I blame him anyway.

Anyway, now we’re all in Australia, hanging out before the cruise is supposed to set sail on Sunday.  The silence from Tim is stressing me the fuck out so I just sent him a Tweet a little while ago telling him to get one of the masked female Nobody hopefuls and meet me at the gym.  He never responded back and as I’m waiting very impatiently at the gym I’m not even sure he checked his tweets or not.  Just as I’m about to shoot him a text message, the doors burst open and in walks Tim, Connor and a few of our masked friends.

Tim is glaring at me as he takes one of the masked ones aside, whispering something into her ear.  With a nod of her head, she acknowledges whatever he’s just told her before she heads over to the ring, sliding in under the bottom rope.  I lower my hand, letting a lead pipe fall out of my sleeve and into my hand as I look at Tim.

~*~LEX~*~: Finally.  I was just beginning to think you didn’t get my Tweet.  Who ya got for me?

Tim, Connor and the others walk over to the benches and take a seat.  Tim glares at me and with a sadistic smile he responds.

~*~TIM~*~: You’ll find out soon enough, Lex.

I raise an eyebrow curiously and Connor is grinning eagerly from ear to ear.  I turn around to face my masked opponent and my eyes fall to the police steel chain she is holding in one hand and the police baton she has in the other.  I quickly turn back to Tim.

~*~LEX~*~: Whoa…wait a fuckin’ minute.  

~*~TIM~*~: What’s the matter, Lex?  You too chicken shit to go through another beating?  

I narrow my eyes and glare at Tim, shaking my head.

~*~LEX~*~: Fuck no I ain’t scared, but this isn’t what I had in mind when I asked you to bring her here!  She’s the one who hasn’t even been initiated yet.

~*~TIM~*~: So?  

I am about to voice my objections again, but before I can even get another word out I’m brought to my knees as she bashes the police baton over the back of my head.  She wastes no time in whipping the chain across my back and I let out a loud cry from the stinging pain.  Damn, this chick is tougher than I thought.

~*~TIM~*~: I think we might have made a mistake in initiating you first, Lex.  Clearly you’re not the tough bitch I originally thought you were.

The masked one backs off for a moment as I bring my head up, staring at Tim.  He has his arms folded across his chest with a slight smirk.  I know he’s doing this shit to further prove a point, but it’s pissing me off even more.  When I see him nod his head slightly, I quickly dive to the right, just as the steel chain comes swinging down once again, bouncing off the canvas.  

I roll on to my back and kick her hard in the knee, bringing her down to the canvas, now fully prepared for a fight.  I jump to my feet and grip the lead pipe in my hand before I dive towards her, bringing the lead pipe crashing against her midsection and she lets out a wail.

~*~LEX~*~: That’s bullshit and you know it, Tim!  

I bring the lead pipe up, then swing it down once again, hitting her in the midsection harder this time.

~*~LEX~*~: You’ve proved your point enough already.

I take my eyes off of the masked Nobody on the canvas for just a moment, staring at Tim.  I make the mistake in thinking she’s hurt enough that I can address Tim for a few moments.

~*~LEX~*~: I told you the other day that I was sorry but you’re still acting like you want to replace me or some shit.  Well guess what, Tim?  That would be a big fuckin’ mist—

I’m quickly cut off as she comes out of nowhere and tackles me to the mat and starts beating me with the police baton.  I somehow manage to bring my arms up and protect my face, and because of this, ever once and a while the police baton bounces off of the lead pipe.  Not before, however, it cracks over my wrists and I drop the lead pipe.

She cracks me hard across the skull with the police baton, leaving me dazed and confused for several moments.  I am unable to even fight when I feel the chain wrapping around my neck and I suddenly can’t breathe.  She drags me towards the ropes and I’m fighting for air.  A few seconds later I see Tim kneel down in front of me, but the chain is wrapped around my neck.  This is it, I think.  I’ve truly fucked up.

~*~TIM~*~: If you’re truly sorry, Lex, you’ll stop fighting.  You can’t breathe?  So what?  Pass out then!  You want to prove to me that you’re not really some weak little girl?  Then prove it.

I can hear the masked one laughing behind me.  My eyes dart over to Connor for a quick second and for a moment, he almost looks concerned, but I bring my attention back to Tim.  I know the look on his face is serious, and he’s right.  I need to prove that I’m not weak.  I need to redeem myself and prove myself once again.  I need…to do…this.  I stop fighting and my eyes begin to close.  I can hear Tim’s voice just before I pass out, but I have no idea what he said or to who.

I’m not sure how long I’ve been out, but the next thing I know, water is being splashed against my face and someone is tapping my cheek.

~*~TIM~*~: Lex…Lex, wake up.  Come on.  Open your eyes.

My eyes flutter open and I have a splitting headache as I look at Tim.  I am not completely aware of my surroundings but Tim is the only one standing around me.  I take in a deep breath, or try to, before I start coughing and I slowly pull myself up so I’m sitting.  I am in one of the corners of the ring.

~*~TIM~*~: Congratulations.  You’ve redeemed yourself.

~*~LEX~*~: Where is…everybody?  

I can barely get the words out and my throat is killing me, but I don’t really care.  I don’t care about any of the pain, because I deserve it all and then some.

~*~TIM~*~: They went outside for a smoke break.  It was sort of forced though because I told them I wanted to talk to you alone.

~*~LEX~*~: Is this…where I…get..lectured again?

I bring my hand up to the back of my head.  The bitch must have busted me open because I can feel blood in my hair, and I don’t need to look at my hand for proof.  I roll my eyes as I lean my head back, trying to get some of my strength back.

~*~TIM~*~: I know there is something you’re not telling me, Lex.  You can lie about it all you want, but I’m not stupid.

I lower my head to look at him again.  Well, it’s more of a glare, because I’m in no shape to argue with him again.

~*~LEX~*~: Shit, Tim, are you really gonna—

He holds a hand up, silencing me.

~*~TIM~*~: How many times have I vented to you over the last year and a half?  How many times have I told you about the shit I was going through, but you can’t even do the same?  I trusted you, yet for whatever reason, you can’t even trust me.

~*~LEX~*~: Dude, it’s not that simple.  You of all people should know that.

~*~TIM~*~: I do know that, but come on!

I close my eyes and I try my best to hold back the tears that are suddenly welling up in my eyes.  I know Tim is only trying to help me, but I’ve never been good at talking about anything painful.  And this shit that I’m holding in is pretty damn painful.

~*~LEX~*~: Look, when I tell you, you gotta understand the reason why I never told you any of this.  It’s not something anyone would exactly have an easy time talking about.

Tim only nods in response, showing me the patience and understanding that I clearly never gave him.  I take in a deep breath and open my mouth, waiting for the words to come out.

~*~LEX~*~: Everybody deals with shit in a different way, Tim.  Nothing about my life has ever been easy for me.  I had to find some way to deal with all the stress and bullshit my family put me through…

~*~TIM~*~: Whatever it is, Lex, it can’t be that bad.

I bite my tongue for a moment, really contemplating what I am about to do.  I am about to tell Tim something I have never been able to tell anyone else.  I take in another deep breath and just before I spill the beans, I shake my head and wipe a single tear away from my eye as I look at him.  I just can’t tell him.

~*~LEX~*~: Then there really isn’t a reason for me to tell you, is there?  Just forget it.  I can’t talk about it right now.

I force myself to push through the pain as I pull myself up to my feet.  Tim is clearly not pleased with my decision to keep this shit bottled up again, but he’ll just have to accept it.  I don’t force him to tell me shit, so he shouldn’t do the same to me.  Connor and the others have filed their way back into the gym just as I exit the ring and storm my way past them.  Connor looks at Tim slightly confused and I can hear the others snickering and laughing as I burst out of the gym, and Tim just shakes his head, once again disappointed.

Next week is going to be one long fuckin’ week on that cruise…

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Saturday August 15th
Port to the Sun Princess Cruise Liner
~*~ON CAMERA~*~

In just twenty four hours we’ll all be setting sail on the Sun Princess Cruise Liner, which is already docked here in Brisbane.  I’m standing on the dock leading to the ship, just staring at the boat.  I’ve never been on a cruise before.  My self-absorbed piece of shit family has, but they never included me.  I finally get my chance without any of them.  I turn around and face the camera, pointing back to the ship.

“You see that people?  You see that huge ship right behind me?  That is where I get to make my Supercard debut for Sin City Wrestling when I’m put up against some goody two shoes little brat named Samantha Marlowe next Sunday at Summer XXXTreme III.  I sort of wish the show was tomorrow night, because I’ve really been itching for a damn fight these last couple of weeks and just waiting another week is killin’ me.”

My hands are now at my sides and I clench them into fists, just thinking about the moment that bell rings and I can unleash all this hell on Samantha Marlowe’s pretty little face.  I let out a chuckle.

“Samantha, you and I seem to have a lot in common, don’t we?  Both of us will be walking into Summer XXXTreme, heading into our third match.  I won my debut match, you won yours.  You lost your second match, and what do you know?  So do I.  Not only do we have similarities with our wrestling careers so far, but it seems we’re both used to our sisters getting more attention than us.  But Samantha, the difference between you and I?  I did the smart thing and said a big fuck you to my family and I left.”

I turn around and face the Sun Princess Cruise Liner again.  I think about my identical twin sister, Riley, and how thankful I am that she is nowhere near me right now.

“My family…my perfect little twit of a twin sister, Riley…they have no idea where I am, Samantha.  But yours?  You talk to her all the time.  She knows what you’re doing and where you’re going.  Why the fuck do you want her and her attitude following you everywhere you go?  You want so bad to be out of her shadow?  Well, ya made a big mistake in telling her that you signed with SCW, didn’t you?  For some stupid reason, you still love your sister despite the bullshit she’s put you through.  Shit, I have no shame in admitting I despise my sister and I’m glad she’s somewhere back in the States, no doubt sucking up to our parents as usual, while I’m getting ready to bust your pretty little face in.”

I crack my neck to each side and close my eyes, envisioning what I’m going to do to her next Sunday.

“I probably had you fooled just now, didn’t I Samantha?  I was sitting here, being all nicey-nice as I pointed out our similarities, but you know what?  Fuck anything we have in common, bitch.  None of it will help you come next Sunday.  If anything, it’ll  make me all the more dangerous because when push comes to shove…I am nothing like you what-so-ever.  I’m a hell of a lot more dangerous than you, and I’ve already proved that more than enough so far in SCW.”

I spin back around, glaring into the camera now with a fire in my eyes.  My nostrils are flared and I show just how determined I am.

“I’ve suffered one loss already, Samantha, just like you, but like hell if I’m going to let myself lose another one, especially to someone like you.  I don’t know if you’ve noticed, Samantha, but people are under the impression that I’m a few screws loose in the head.  Are you really prepared to get into the ring with someone everyone thinks is bat shit crazy?  Hell, I’ve been so set on convincing them I’m not, maybe I need to re-think that decision.  Maybe being bat shit crazy isn’t such a bad thing!!”

I feel a wicked smile grow on my face and I laugh as crazy a laugh as I can.  Fuck I’m really enjoying this.

“I’m accomplishing everything I set out to accomplish, Samantha.  I’m getting myself noticed.  I don’t care if it’s in a good way, or a bad way, people WILL know my name and what I’m capable of and sadly for you, you’re just the next unlucky little bitch to get put up against me.  There is a secret to my madness, Samantha, but like hell if I’m going to tell you what it is.  One week, Samantha…that’s all you have left.  Enjoy your time on the cruise.  Put on whatever skimpy little bikini you might have brought.  Rub some sun tan lotion all over your body and get a nice little tan.  Look good for as long as you possibly can because after next Sunday?”

I let out a laugh and pound my fist into my hand.

“Your face will be busted and bruised from the damage I’m going to cause.  No amount of plastic surgery will be able to fix it either.  I hope you’re ready, Samantha.  Because this Nobody that you’re all looking at is about to become a Somebody at your expense.  See you in a week, Sammiwich.  Once that bell rings, you’re in for one hell of a ride.”

I glare into the camera with a sick smile on my face and I raise my right hand, waving into it as my final warning to Samantha Marlowe.  I turn around one last time and start laughing again, eagerly waiting for Summer XXXTreme, and the scene fades to black.  

[Christian Underwood]

 The first RP period is now over.

As of now, we are in the second RP period.

Second RP Period Deadline:
United States: 11:59pm EST Friday 08/21/2015
England: 04:59am Saturday 08/22/2015

NOTE: Remember folks! All RPs in week two have to take place on the Sun Princess cruise ship.

[Alexis Edwards]

 Sailing and Slipping Away

~*~Day One~*~
~*~Sunday August 16th
~*~The Cruise Sets Sail~*~

If you had asked me a year and a half ago where I saw my life headed, I probably would have laughed in your face, because being part of the Summer XXXTreme cruise on the Sun Princess Cruiser Liner at this moment in time definitely wasn’t something I ever imagined.  This isn’t normally my thing, because let’s face it, I’m not one of those self-absorbed whores whose main focus is to work on my tan for the entire week.  I’ve been on the ship for barely five minutes and I’m pretty sure I saw several chicks with their tits and asses hanging out, laying in lounge chairs.  Me, however?  I’m just searching my way around the ship, trying to find my damn room.  

You know what’s not surprising to me?  It’s not surprising in the slightest that my room…the room of a Nobody…is probably on the lowest deck.  I clearly haven’t been given a luxurious suite or anything even remotely close to it.  When I walk up to the door with my room number on it, I put the key into the lock and turn it.  Moments later, I push the door open and get the first glimpse of my sleeping accommodations for the next week.  I drop my duffel bag on the floor just inches inside the room and roll my eyes and what I see.

<img src=http://www.princess.com/images/html/global/popups/metas/cp_dp_sp_interior_photo.jpg>

~*~LEX~*~: This is bullshit.  THIS is what they offer their superstars and Bombshells these days?  Mark Ward’s and Christian Underwood’s bathrooms are probably bigger than this!

I shake my head as I take the few steps it takes to reach the bed.  I plop down on the foot of the bed and then lay down, staring at the ceiling.  I think about the majority of the SCW Bombshells and Superstars who are further up on the ship, enjoying their suites with balconies and the like while I’m stuck in this small ass room with a tiny window.

~*~LEX~*~: Good thing I’m not claustrophobic otherwise this would be a major problem.

I let out a sigh and sit up on the bed.  I look around the room, if you can even really call it that, and run my hand through my hair as my thoughts wander.

~*~LEX~*~: This wouldn’t be a problem if I had a shitload of money like everyone else and could have reserved one of the damn suites.  

I bury my head in my hands, letting the frustrations from the past year and a half make a return.  Sure, I get an SCW paycheck and I’ve got money, but anyone who believes the other skanks that say they get paid an outrageous amount of money by these pricks is just out of their minds.  SCW doesn’t pay shit, and this little room I’m in proves it.

~*~LEX~*~: Oh, that’s right, Lex.  You did have a shitload of money until some dickwad stole it.  You just had to be a fuck up then to let that happen, didn’t you?

I continue talking to myself for a moment as my mind once again goes back to a year and a half ago…to the night I left home.  And to the moment I made a decision that would guarantee I could never go back.  At least in my eyes…

~*~FLASHBACK~*~
January 24th, 2014

It’s the middle of the night, following the big eighteenth birthday bash for my identical twin sister, Riley.  It was apparently supposed to be for the both of us, but it was far from a celebration for me.  I wasn’t allowed to invite any of my friends, not that any of them would want to be there anyway, and everyone who did show up were only paying attention to my blonde haired attention whore twin sister.  I wasn’t exactly going to stick around and deal with it any longer, so I got out of there as quick as I could, heading back home…if you could even call it that.

Once I’m sure that everyone is sound asleep, I get moving.  I should have left earlier, but I was undecided until now.  I quickly get to my feet and head over to my closet where I’ve left my packed bag.  I grab my duffel bag and sling it over my shoulder and head towards the door.  I look around my bedroom one last time, making sure there is nothing else I need before I grab my other bag, a backpack, and walk out of the room.  

I slowly head downstairs hoping with everything that I have left in me that the stairs don’t make any creaking noises and wake up my sister or my parents.  I have one last thing to grab before I leave, and it’s the most important.  The one last fuck you to my parents and my saving grace.

Money.

My parents aren’t completely smart when it comes to their money.  They have plenty of it in the bank, don’t get me wrong, but they’re the stupid fucks that also keep a boatload in the safe downstairs.  Stupidest decision they’ve ever made, but I’m sure they never imagined that their own daughter would be the one to rob them of their hard earned cash, right?  What my father failed to realize is that I’d watched him secretly when he was putting another wad of cash in the safe, so I saw the combination.

Jackpot!

I make my way to the safe and quietly put in the combination.  I’m relieved and overjoyed when I hear the click of the lock and the door pops open a few seconds later.  I close my eyes and take in a deep breath when I open the door.  When I open my eyes and stare at the contents of the safe, the only thing I’m looking at is the glorious amount of cash they have stored in there.  

I have to think quick when I’m taking the cash from the safe.  I don’t even check how much I’m taking, but I’d have to guess several thousand, and I tuck it safely into my backpack.  As much as I want to, I don’t take it all, instead choosing to leave just a little bit.  Not only that, but I don’t close the safe the whole way before I leave.  I want them to know…I want them to see.

I don’t even look back when I walk out the front door and raise the hood over my head, walking away into the night.  I don’t have a plan or an end destination.  I just want to get as far away from here as possible and by the time they wake up in a few hours, I’ll be long gone.

And for the first time…I feel free.  I feel full of hope.

~*~END FLASHBACK~*~
Back To Reality…

~*~LEX~*~: How fuckin’ stupid was I?  Carrying all that cash in my damn backpack!

I smack myself in the head for good measure, thinking about all that cash I had.  Yes, had.  I had it for a good amount of time, but shortly after getting to Vegas, I woke up to find that some douchebag had stolen it from my backback when I was sleeping.  I don’t know who do it, and I couldn’t very well go to the cops about it because I stole it in the first place!

So…I was screwed.  I had no money.  I had no job and I had no place to live.  I was forced to take Tim up on his offer to crash in his dad’s office at the Staggs’ Dungeon.  Don’t get me wrong, that sofa was pretty damn comfortable, but to this day I don’t think his dad has any idea that I was staying there.  Ah well, who cares.

I let out a sigh, looking around the room once again and the silence starts to irritate me.

~*~LEX~*~: Shit I’m not gonna just sit around in this tiny ass room and go deaf.  I guess I should go find Tim and Connor and see what they’re up to.

I stand up and walk the few feet to the door and head out.

A few hours later…

A lot of good that really did me.  I found Tim and Connor and the other Nobodies, but Tim, of course, is still pissed off at me.  Hell, he’s pissed off at a lot of people right now, but I’m sure everyone will see the reason why in his promo this week.  Can’t say I blame him on this one, though.  That shit is fuuuuuucked up and he has every reason to be pissed off.

I’m heading back to my room now, ready to crash for a bit.  I’m enjoying a quick smoke as I make my way around the deck when I hear a voice calling behind me.

“ALEX!  ALEX WAIT!”

~*~LEX~*~: Fuck…no.

I stop dead in my tracks and take in a deep puff of my menthol cigarette.  I close my eyes and as I turn around, I let the smoke out of my lungs, preparing to open my eyes.  I know who I am about to see, but I am not fully prepared.  When I open my eyes, there she is standing right in front of me.

<img src=https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSmay269er465ShQzPG1ndailHBoSKpDKhPnlDTm-c0a26Tlyqr>

~*~LEX~*~: Riley?!  

My identical twin sister throws her arms around me in a warm embrace, which I do not return.  She is almost sobbing into my shoulder as we reunite for the first time in a year and a half and she has the biggest smile on her face when she backs away.  To say that I am shocked to see her is an understatement and it is taking everything in my power not to throw her overboard.  She yanks the cigarette from my mouth and flicks it over into the ocean.

~*~RILEY~*~: Gross!  When did you smart smoking?!

She tries to hug me again, but I shove her away much to her surprise.

~*~LEX~*~: Riley, what the fuck are you doing here?!  How did you find me?!

~*~RILEY~*~: Hey, Alex.  It’s great to see you, too, sis.

I smile and laugh sarcastically, wanting nothing to do with my sister.

~*~LEX~*~: I’m sorry, did I give the impression that it was great to see you?  Because it’s not.  So again, I’m going to ask…What the fuck are you doing here?

Riley folds her arms across her chest, disappointed that I don’t show the same excitement in seeing her.  She runs her hand through her long blonde hair and looks around before her eyes fall back on me.

~*~RILEY~*~: I had all  but given up hope on ever seeing you again, but a friend of mine from school came to me when he said he saw me on this SCW show.  Well, as it turns out, it was you.

~*~LEX~*~: Obviously, but that doesn’t answer my question.

Riley sighs, and if she wastes any more of my time I’m liable to just walk away.

~*~RILEY~*~: Why wouldn’t I be here?!  Alex, I’ve been so worried about you this last year!  

~*~LEX~*~: Stop…calling me—

She holds up her hands defensively.

~*~RILEY~*~: I know, I know.  You suddenly hate me calling you Alex.  Look, how could you expect me to stay back in Arizona when I knew exactly where you were going to be?  

~*~LEX~*~: Because I left, Riley!  I left for a damn reason!  I wanted nothing more to do with you or your parents!

~*~RILEY~*~: OUR parents, Alexis!  

I shake my head and laugh, clenching my fists at my side.  It’s taking every ounce of will power in me not to punch her in the face right now.

~*~LEX~*~: That may be true by blood, Riley, but when it comes to actions?  They couldn’t give a fuck about me!  They never have!  It’s always been about you, Riley!

~*~RILEY~*~: If you’d just come home with me, we could all sit down and talk.  As a family!

I burst out laughing, bringing my hands up to my hair, pulling at it.  The frustration is just building and building and it’s only getting more dangerous for her.

~*~LEX~*~: Riley, you really think that’s possible?  Even if it were, I DON’T WANT TO!

Riley looks absolutely heartbroken and I can say that I honestly don’t care.

~*~RILEY~*~: Alexis...I saw you that night.  I watched you leave.

My eyes widen and I’m truly shocked to hear this.  It doesn’t matter, though, because I don’t care.

~*~LEX~*~: So?  Why the hell should I care?  I’m glad you didn’t try to stop me.

~*~RILEY~*~: Look, I know you needed time away Alexis.  I know you were hurting and to be honest, it’s probably good that you didn’t come back for the first couple of months…

I laugh and nod.

~*~LEX~*~: You’re not helping your case any, Riley.  

~*~RILEY~*~: Alexis, you stole money from Mom and Dad.  A LOT of money I might add.  If you had showed up, I would have had to fight them tooth and nail not to have you arrested on the spot!

~*~LEX~*~: Riley, you’re seriously about two seconds away from having my fist meet your face…

Riley doesn’t seem to heed my warning as she takes a step forward and takes a hold of my hands, looking at me with a pleading look in her eyes.

~*~RILEY~*~: Please, Alexis…Please come home with me.  We can talk to them together—

~*~LEX~*~: It’s NEVER going to happen, Riley!  So shut the fuck up about it already!  

I’ve had enough of her and this conversation.  My blood is boiling at this point and I need a cigarette right now.  Better yet, I need…something else.  Something that is back in my room and the only thing that can relieve my stress at the level it is right now.  I turn away from my sister and she grabs my arm to try and stop me.  I bring my fist up, nearly punching her but she quickly releases my arm and jumps away from me.

~*~LEX~*~: Next time I won’t stop myself, Riley.  Stay the fuck away from me!

I make sure she knows that I’m serious with the fiery look in my eyes.  I turn and storm away, ignoring all the stares from those on the ship who have witnessed the rocky reunion between my sister and I.  But I’m not focused on them.  I’m only focused on getting back to my room and to the one thing that I know will calm me down.  I had been able to resist, but seeing my sister again has sent me over the edge and there is nothing holding me back any longer.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

~*~Day Two~*~
~*~Stress Level…Lowered?~*~
~*~OFF CAMERA~*~

What a difference a day makes.  I knew what I had to do to lower my stress level and release some of this frustration.  I am in no way happy that Riley is aboard this cruise and I could run in to her again at any point.  But if I do?  When I do?  I have my sure fire way of dealing with the stress and the bullshit, because Tim sure as hell doesn’t want to be around me right now.  

I’m pretty sure that most of the people on board the ship should be sleeping right now…at least anyone who knows me probably is.  So I’m taking the opportunity to take a quiet and private dip in the hot tub.  This normally isn’t my thing, and I sure as shit wouldn’t get into a swimming suit in front of anyone else.  I’ve got no reason or desire to flaunt my body to the whole world like most of the other sluts on the Bombshell roster, but that doesn’t mean I don’t need a little relaxation every now and then.

So I sneak my way to the hot tub and to my relief, no one else is around.  I’m wearing one of those complimentary robes they leave in the bathrooms, thinking it has come in handy tonight.  I turn on the jets to the hot tub and look around one last time, making absolutely sure the coast is clear and I take the robe off, hanging it on one of the hooks.  My bikini is nothing special, just a pair of boy short bottoms and matching top, and I step into the awesomely warm water.  Okay, I’m not even sure awesomely is a word, but it is today because that is all I can think of describe this.

~*~LEX~*~: Now this is what I’m talking about.  A nice relaxing hot tub all to myself.

I sink down a little further into the water and lean my head against the side of the hot tub and close my eyes.  I drift off into LaLa land for a bit that I don’t even hear someone else get into the hot tub with me.  Several minutes goes by when I hear someone clearing their throat, and before I open my eyes I know who it is.

~*~LEX~*~: If you continue to stalk me, you’re really going to piss me off more than I already am.  Why can’t you just leave me alone?

I raise my head and open my eyes, once again looking at Riley.  She has her blonde hair pulled back into a messy pony tail and she’s smiling, apparently having forgotten anything that happened yesterday.

~*~RILEY~*~: Because you’re my sister and regardless of how you feel about me right now, I still love you.  

~*~LEX~*~: Ya know, all I wanted to do most of this week before my match on Sunday was try and relax a little and have a good time.  Between my buddy Tim being pissed off at me and you showing up here, so far I’m having a really shitty week.  So, thanks for that, Riley.  

Riley lets out a sigh and runs her hands along the top of the water.  I lean my head back, trying my best to pretend she isn’t here, but my sister is determined to make her presence known.

~*~RILEY~*~: I met your friend Tim yesterday.  Seems like a nice enough kid.  Is he your boyfriend or something?

She met Tim?  Tim met her?  This is news to me and I once again lower my head, staring at her in complete shock.

~*~LEX~*~: You…you met Tim?  

She nods with a smile.

~*~RILEY~*~: Oh yeah.  I was looking around for you and I ran into him.  I figured he knew you because of his reaction when he saw me.  You didn’t answer my question though, sis.  Is he your boyfriend?

I snarl and shake my head.  Of course she would ask that.

~*~LEX~*~: No, he’s not.  He’s just my best friend.  Or used to be.  I don’t even know right now.  

~*~RILEY~*~: Oh I get it.  It’s a friend zone situation, isn’t it?  It’s cool.  You don’t need to—

~*~LEX~*~: Look it’s really none of your damn business, Riley, so just shut up okay?  I don’t even know why I’m still talking to you.  Shouldn’t you be sleeping?

Riley shrugs, keeping the smile on her face.  She clearly is enjoying talking to me again and all I’d like to do is punch that smile off her face.

~*~RILEY~*~: I could ask you the same question you know.  Come on, Lexi.  We’re twins.  As much as you hate to admit it, we have a lot in common.  When you had trouble sleeping, so did I.  

~*~LEX~*~: Oh geez.  Please don’t start with the twin telepathy bullshit again.  

~*~RILEY~*~: I know you don’t believe any of it, but I do, Lexi.  There have been times over the past year and a half when I got these awful feelings in my gut and I was immediately worried sick about you.  The worst was about a month after you left.

I immediately go silent as I put two and two together.  Riley has always been the more instinctive one between us.  Maybe that was because the bad shit was always happening to me? Either way, I don’t really care.  I don’t feed into her shit, but my silence is enough to tell her that her instinct was right.

~*~RILEY~*~: I was right, wasn’t I?  Something happened to you?  Oh my God, Lexi!  What happened?

~*~LEX~*~: Nothing happened, Riley so just drop it.  I’m just fine as you can tell.

~*~RILEY~*~: Yeah you’re fine now, but you weren’t then were you?  Lexi, please talk—

I’ve had about more than I can take of Riley’s nosiness, so I splash water at her and let out a growl.  Knowing she’s not going to leave me alone, I stand up and get out of the hot tub quickly, reaching for my robe.  Riley stands up a moment later and when I turn around I see a shocked and concerned look on her face.

~*~RILEY~*~: Oh…My…God!  Alexis you’re still doing what I think you’re doing, aren’t you?!

I tie the robe around my waste and look at her, shaking my head.

~*~LEX~*~: I have no idea what you’re talking about, Riley.  Seriously, just leave me alone.

~*~RILEY~*~: Like hell!  I have every right to be worried about you!  Why won’t you let me help you?!

I take a threatening step towards her, getting right in her face.

~*~LEX~*~: Because you’re NOT helping me, Riley!  I swear to God…if I lose this match on Sunday because you can’t leave me the fuck alone, I will hunt you down and beat the fuck out of you.  Twin sister or not!

~*~RILEY~*~: Lexi…you need help!  You can’t hide those marks for—

In a fit of rage, I shove her hard and she falls backwards into the hot tub.  By this time, a crewmember from the ship has arrived on the scene as I’m glaring down at Riley, pointing at her with an even more furious look in my eyes than yesterday.

~*~LEX~*~: I’m not going to warn you again, Riley.  If you don’t stay the FUCK away from me, I’ll toss your ass overboard next time!  Stay the fuck out of my life!

The crewmember doesn’t even have a chance to speak as I storm off and away from the hot tub.  He helps Riley out of the hot tub and much like yesterday I’m focused on getting back to my room.  Riley is the only one who knows my secret and I’ll be damned if I’m going to let anyone else find out.  

Fuck it…I’m just going to stay in my cabin the rest of the week.  Maybe I won’t even show up for this bullshit match against Samantha Marlowe on Sunday.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

~*~Day 4~*~
~*~Hiding Away…Into The Darkness~*~
~*~OFF CAMERA~*~

After the second, and hopefully last confrontation with Riley, I decided to lock myself in my cabin for the remainder of the cruiser.  I mean, that’s the best bet in making sure I don’t see her face again, right?

Once I got back to my room, I did a little de-stressing and it helped me relax…a lot.  I changed into some pajama pants and a tank top and plopped on the bed, and about five minutes after my head hit the pillow, I was out.  It came as a shock to me, because I normally don’t sleep a lot…ever…but I think the combination of the lack of sleep and crazy amount of stress finally caught up with me.  Not that I’m complaining because I have nothing better to do anyway.  Getting hours upon hours of sleep is just fine and dandy with me.

It apparently isn’t fine with someone else as I’m startled awake, after I don’t know how many hours, by a pounding on my door.  I just barely lift my head off the pillow and through still sleepy, and uncaring eyes, I yell at whoever is at my door.

~*~LEX~*~: Go away!  I’m tryin’ to sleep!

I hear a woman laughing and I almost think it’s Riley but the voice that follows gives away just who it is.  At least to me.

~*~NOBODY~*~: That’s all fine and dandy with me, Lexi, but I’ve been sent here to get your ass to the gym.  

I bury my head further into the pillow and laugh.  Oh, gee, Tim sent his new best friend to check up on me.  Maybe to beat the shit out of me again just for shits and giggles.  I don’t really know, and I don’t really care.

~*~NOBODY~*~: Look you and Tim might be at each other’s throats right now, but Connor sent me.  He said you need to get ready this match on Sunday.

~*~LEX~*~: I don’t care!  Leave me the fuck alone before—

Don’t ask me how, but the bitch somehow has a spare key to my room and a few seconds later, she’s barging in.  I may know what she looks like, but she’s still now allowed to show anyone her face until her initiation.  Whenever that may be.

~*~NOBODY~*~: As fun as it would be, I really don’t feel like dragging your ass out of that bed, but I’m sure if I report back to Connor, he’d have no—

~*~LEX~*~: How the hell did you get a key?!  Get the fuck out of my room!

She laughs, and twirls the key in her hand.

~*~NOBODY~*~: Geez, and to think they thought so highly of you to initiate you first.  You must really want to get humiliated when that Marlowe chick beats your ass.  Maybe she’ll do you a favor and toss you overboard while she’s at it.

I let out a growl and grab one of my pillows, throwing it at her.  She steps to the side quickly and it misses her and now that I’m wide awake, I jump out of bed and storm over to her, trying to get the key from her.

~*~LEX~*~: I’ll be glad to initiate you on Sunday if that’s what ya want, bitch.  Just give me back my damn key and leave me the fuck alone like I said!

When I go to yank the key away from her, she pulls her arm back, and then waves her other hand in front of her face, as if she had just smelled something rotten.

~*~NOBODY~*~: Shit girl!  When was the last time you took a shower!  

I roll my eyes and turn away from her.

~*~LEX~*~: Fuck people are really doing their best to annoy the shit out of me on this cruise aren’t they?  You can run back to Connor and tell him I’m not interested in any training sessions.  Good to know that he’s concerned and not Tim though.

~*~NOBODY~*~: I don’t know what the hell is going on between you two, and I don’t really care.  That beef is between you two.

~*~LEX~*~: Oh please.  I bet it makes you happy as a fucking clam because Tim is all up in your shit now, right?  Spare me the bullshit.

She rolls her eyes and folds her arms across her chest.

~*~NOBODY~*~: If you’re really set on losing this match on Sunday, I couldn’t care less, but as I said I’ve been sent to get you and I really don’t feel like dealing with the wrath of Connor.  He’s in a bad enough mood as it is.  And I really don’t feel like forcing you to take a shower—

~*~LEX~*~: If you so much as try and force me into the shower, I will throw your ass overboard.  I already want to throw my sister overboard…

~*~NOBODY~*~: That shit is so weird to me.  I was confused as hell when I saw her walking around.

I roll my eyes and lower my head.  Great…everyone knows my sister is on the cruise.

~*~LEX~*~: Yeah, I know I brought her up, but I’m going to put an end to talking about her right now.  Fuck I could so use a drink right now…

~*~NOBODY~*~: Then why don’t you get your ass in the shower and go get a few drinks with me.  Cause some trouble or something…

I laugh and shake my head.

~*~LEX~*~: Are you offering to buy booze for me?  I mean, I’m fine with that but—

~*~NOBODY~*~: Hell no!  The drinking age is eighteen remember?  You can buy your own alcohol!

~*~LEX~*~: Fuck I forgot!  That shit is music to my ears and it’s just what I need right now.  Shit, you know what sounds fun?

She shakes her head and I stand up and walk over to my duffel bag to get some clean clothes.

~*~LEX~*~: Connor thinks I need a training session, right?  

~*~NOBODY~*~: Well…you sort of do.

~*~LEX~*~: Ever wrestled drunk?  

I grin wickedly from ear to ear and I think she does the same as she nods.

~*~LEX~*~: I’ll meet you up on deck in a little bit.  I’m gonna take a shower.  But don’t get started without me!  I don’t want you puking all over me.

~*~NOBODY~*~: Please…I’m capable of holding my liquor thank you very much.

She walks out of my room confidently as I disappear into the bathroom.  I take a few extra minutes to lower my stress level a little more.  That mixed with the booze in a little while will be sure to loosen me up quite a bit.

Several hours later…

Thank God for a legal drinking age of eighteen!  That finally gave me something to do to have fun on this damn cruise without having to sneak around to do it.  Don’t get me wrong, I have no problem in sneaking around…but it’s more fun to do it without someone trying to stop me.  I think.

I really need to give this chick the benefit of the doubt because the bitch can drink.  I lost track of how much we drank so I’m not entirely sure who beat who, but it doesn’t really matter.  We’re all set to go for our training session, but we have one little problem.  

We can’t find the gym…or Connor!

~*~LEX~*~: Duuude.  W-where da fack are we?

She stumbles into me, knocking me against a wall and laughs as she points at me.

~*~NOBODY~*~: Diiid you jus’ say fack?  

She laughs and this sends me into a fit of drunken giggles.

~*~LEX~*~: I sure did!  I…think anyway.  

I stand up, very unsteadily and throw my arm around her shoulder.

~*~LEX~*~: We needs to find da gym, girl.  I..*belches*…need to poopare for Sammi Marloaf!

She looks at me confused, yet highly amused.

~*~NOBODY~*~: Poopare?  Dude maybe we should find you a toilet!

~*~LEX~*~: Fuuuck you, asshat!  You know…what I meant!

She nods and we start stumbling around again trying to find out way to the gym.

~*~NOBODY~*~: I do, but…it was still funny as hell.  Oh!  Hiii Connor muh-man!

I glance up just as we’re about to run right into Connor.  He’s got a cigarette between his lips and once he lays eyes on us, he knows full well that we’re drunk off our asses and he lets out a chuckle.

~*~CON~*~: Oh shite…Are ye kiddin’ me?  You went drinkin’ without me?!

I place my hand on Connor’s shoulder and nod.  I let out another belch, getting another taste of the alcohol I just consumed and it nearly comes right back up.  Connor and our masked friend take a quick step away.

~*~LEX~*~: We were jus’ comin’ to find you, Con!  Hows about that…trainin’ session me boyooo?!

In my drunken stupor I try to put on my best Connor impression, but it turns out to be my worst.  Our masked friend laughs, and I start laughing again but Connor just shakes his head.

~*~CON~*~: That was hours ago, darlin’ and right now, yer in no condition to—

I roll my eyes and let out a growl.

~*~LEX~*~: Wwwwhatever, Connie!  You’re jus’ scared of…getting’ your Irish asssss beat by a drunken female!

Connor lets out a loud laugh and he looks to our masked friend.  She holds her hands up and shakes her head.

~*CON~*~: Alright darlin’.  Let’s have it yer way.

Before I know it, and before I even have a chance to protest, Connor picks me up and tosses me over his shoulder.  Our masked friend is laughing uncontrollably and I’m kicking in screaming…horribly I might add..as Connor carries me around the deck, towards the gym.

~*~LEX~*~: Connor!  This is not…such a great…idea!

He laughs but doesn’t put me down.

~*~CON~*~: Not so tough now are ye, love?  

I’m fighting back the urge to throw up, but a part of me is about to say fuck it and just let loose, when I’m tossed on my ass in the middle of a ring set up in the gym.  Our masked friend is still laughing and I glare at her.

~*~LEX~*~: Shut up would ya?!  Fuck…Connor I was about ready to puke all over you!

~*~CON~*~: Stand up.

I look up at Connor and laugh.

~*~LEX~*~: I’m sorry, I don’t take orders—

Connor reaches down and pulls me to my feet.  I’m still very unsteady and suddenly regretting this decision now.

~*~CON~*~: Is this how ye plan to show up to yer match on Sunday?  Drunk off yer arse?!

I laugh again.

~*~LEX~*~: Maybe…maybe not.

Connor shakes his head and sighs.

~*~CON~*~: Alright then.  Might as well prepare ye then.  Hit me.

I look past Connor to our masked friend.  She’s still laughing and I roll my eyes again, looking back to Connor.  He’s dead serious and stands there, waiting for me to hit him.  I turn around, acting as if I’m going to walk away when I try to take him by surprise.  I attempt a clothesline, which backfires as he ducks it and I twirl around, losing my balance.

Our masked friend is laughing uncontrollably once again and I fall against the ropes.  I grab a hold of the ropes, trying to steady myself and when I turn around, Connor has a grin that says “I told you so”.  I growl and charge at him, once again attempting a clothesline.  He steps away and when I lose my balance again, I fall straight on my ass, causing more laughter.

~*~CON~*~: Like I said…Yer in no condition to train, love.  I’m all for a drinkin’ contest, though.

~*~LEX~*~: Damn it Connor.  You made me hurt my butt!

I am now the one laughing uncontrollably and Connor just shakes his head.  When the room starts to spin, I lay down on the canvas and close my eyes taking in a few deep breaths.  Connor walks out of the ring and up to our masked friend.

~*~CON~*~: I’ll leave ye two to yer drunken antics while I go get plastered.  Have fun

~*~NOBODY~*~: I’ll go with you.  I’m not as drunk as she thinks I am.  Clearly I can hold my liquor a lot better than she can.

I look up at her a little shocked when I hear this.  She waves to me and smiles.

~*~NOBODY~*~: Lightweight!

She then throws her arm around Connor’s shoulder and the two head out of the gym, leaving me there alone.  I lay back down, unable to move much and decide to close my eyes for a little bit.  Before I know it, I pass out right in the middle of the ring.  

I am going to regret that decision in the morning…

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

~*~Day 5~*~
~*~Time To Focus~*~
~*~ON CAMERA~*~

The days are just ticking down until Summer XXXTreme III kicks off and I make my supercard debut.  So will my opponent, Samantha Marlowe, and I guess it’s time to focus my attention on that instead of worrying about the next time I’ll possibly run into Riley.  Or wondering when Tim is going to snap out of his pissed off mode and talk to me again.

I’m at the very back of the ship, leaning against the railing enjoying a cigarette.  Last night’s attempt at a training session did not go very well and the hangover has finally started to subside.  I need to get my ass into serious mode and get a real training session in, but I needed to sneak away for a quick smoke first.  As I’m staring down at the water and take in another puff, a voice comes from behind me, nearly startling me.

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: If you’re planning on pulling a Kate Winslet move, I’m not going to be Leonardo DiCaprio for this one.

I turn around, staring at the other busty reporter for SCW.  The dark haired one.  Not the blonde one whose name I can’t say without laughing.

~*~LEX~*~: Oh, hey Rocky Tits.  I don’t know what you’re talking about.

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: It’s Rocky Mountains, thank you very much.  And haven’t you ever seen the movie Titanic?

I roll my eyes and shrug.

~*~LEX~*~: Whatever…it’s still better than saying Pussy.

I laugh and shake my head.

~*~LEX~*~: And sorry, I have no interest in watching chick flicks.  

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: Probably for the best, but I had to point out the irony with me finding you here.  Oh honey, smoking is a very unattractive quality for a woman.  Didn’t anyone ever teach you that?

I sigh and shake my head.  I finish off the last of the cigarette before I flick the butt into the ocean, much to Rocky’s disapproval.

~*~LEX~*~: I don’t really give a shit, Rocky Tits.  I do what the fuck I want.  Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to get to the gym.

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: How’s the training going?  I hope you’re not taking another beating just for fun, Alexis.

I laugh again.  This bitch is really starting to annoy me and I stand there staring at her, unimpressed.

~*~LEX~*~: Even if I was, what the hell does it matter to you?  At least it proves I can take a fuckin’ beating, unlike half the bitches around here.  

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: You haven’t even started to prepare for Samantha Marlowe have you?  I had heard a few things going around the ship but—

~*~LEX~*~: But what, bitch?!  I’m sorry if I’m been trying to enjoy my time on this cruise like everybody else yet everywhere I turn, people are trying to fucking ruin it for me!  First Tim is pissed off at me and then my stupid twin sister shows up and makes it a million times worse!

Rocky suddenly smiles when I bring up Riley.

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: Ahh yes.  I met Riley.  Very nice girl.

I throw my hands in the air and let out an angry growl.

~*~LEX~*~: Of course you did!  Everybody has met Riley!  Fuckin’ bitch is ruining everything for me!

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: Maybe you should, I don’t know not let it upset you so much?  Samantha Marlowe will use it to her advantage if she finds out.

~*~LEX~*~: I don’t give a fuck what Samantha Marlowe will use against me, because the fact of the matter is, Miss Rocky Tits, that I’m one extremely pissed off Nobody right now, and that doesn’t bode well for little miss Sammiwich.  And if I’m honest, once I step into that ring with her on Sunday, I’m going to imagine my sister’s face on hers!  Because I’d really like nothing more than to beat the shit out of her!

Rocky suddenly starts laughing and I look at her, slightly confused.

~*~LEX~*~: What the FUCK is so funny?!

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: I’m sorry…did you hear what you just said?  If you imagine your sister’s face as you’re beating her up, isn’t that sort of like imagining your own face?  You know, because she is your identical twin and all.  Minus the clear dye job on your hair…

I narrow my eyes and snarl at her, unimpressed at her trying to be funny.

~*~LEX~*~: Very fuckin’ funny, Rocky Tits.

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: I thought so…

~*~LEX~*~: Like I said, I’ll just pretend little miss Sammi is my sister.  It’s a sure fire way to beat her ass.  Ain’t nothing gonna stop me from whooping her ass and walking away with my first Supercard win, Rocky Tits.  

Rocky shrugs, not looking like she really believes me.  I take a step towards her and fold my arms across my chest.

~*~LEX~*~: You don’t think I can do it, do you?  You think Samantha Marlowe is going to beat me?

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: I think she stands a better chance than you give her credit for.  I’m sure she has learned a lot from her sister.  You know, the former bombshell Cyn Marlowe?

I raise my eyebrow and shake my head.

~*~LEX~*~: Her name doesn’t really ring a bell so she must not have made an impact as a bombshell.  How much could she teach her sweet baby sister if she herself couldn’t hack it in SCW?  I may not have wrestling in my bloodline like she does, but I’ve been training in the Staggs Dungeon for the last year and a half.  To me, that’s more impressive than her pathetic sister.

I’m much more confident and determined now that some time has passed on the cruise.  I’m letting myself realize what’s important right now.  And that’s beating the fuck out of Samantha Marlowe.

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: Maybe it is…maybe it isn’t.  I still think you need to see the girl for what she is.

~*~LEX~*~: And what is that?

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: A threat!  Good God girl…You’re young and yet already full of yourself.

I laugh and shake my head.

~*~LEX~*~: I’m not full of myself but that doesn’t mean I have to act all scared of some little bitch, because I’m not.  I’ve been through a hell of a lot worse than Samantha Marlowe and the bitch hasn’t shown me any reason to be scared of her.  So..next argument please, Rocky Tits.

Rocky is now the one laughing and shaking her head.

~*~ROCKY MOUNTAINS~*~: Do you think that Samantha doesn’t want to beat you just as badly as you want to beat her?  You’re both walking into Summer XXXTreme III with the same exactly win loss record.  Both making your Supercard debuts.  Both of you are working to make a name for yourself so why can’t you actually identify with her instead of trying to act better, when so far, you haven’t proven you are.

If looks could kill, I’d be chopping Rocky Mountains into bits and using her as shark bait right now.

~*~LEX~*~: I have proven it, but you people choose not to pay attention to any of it or think that I’m crazy!  If you piss me off further, I’ll just feed you to the sharks and then we’ll see if you people finally start to take me seriously or not.  So Samantha Marlowe wants to make a name for herself?  So fuckin’ what.  I don’t give a shit about Samantha Marlowe!  I’m thinking about myself as I fuckin’ should be!

I take another step towards her, standing taller and more confident than before.  I want her to know just how serious I am.  I may be a Nobody, but I’m ready to kick Samantha Marlowe’s ass.

~*~LEX~*~: I ain’t here to make friends.  I ain’t here to empathize with these other sluts runnin’ around backstage.  I’m here to do what I’ve learned I do best.  Beat the shit out of bitches, having fun while I do it.  People want to laugh at me?  Think I’m crazy?  That’s fine and fuckin’ dandy, but they won’t be laughin’ once I’m through with Sammi Marlowe.  They won’t be laughing when she’s being wheeled out of here on a stretcher…her career over after her third fuckin’ match!  

I clench my fists at my side and I can tell by the look on Rocky’s face that she believes me know.  She knows just how dangerous I am…how dangerous I am turning at this very moment.

~*~LEX~*~: I made the mistake earlier this week in letting myself lose focus, but I’m done with that shit.  Samantha Marlowe is focused on winning?  Good for her, because it won’t be enough.  This Nobody is focused on beating her ass all over that ring and having MY hand held high in victory.  This Nobody is sick of being considered a joke and after Summer XXXTreme…Every last person watching will know.  Samantha Marlowe is just collateral damage.  Now fuck off, Rocky Tits.  You’re wasting my time.

I shove my way past her, storming my way off to the gym for my training session.  Rocky Mountains just stares at me, a little shocked, but ultimately speechless.  As I disappear through the set of double doors leading to the training area, I can’t wipe the wicked smile off my face as the scene fades to black.

[Sam Marlowe]

 <img src=http://i58.tinypic.com/2u5rvih.jpg>

It had been fun, for almost ten minutes.  Sam Marlowe had boarded the ship ready for a week of fun and sun and wrestling.  What she hadn’t been expecting was her sister being on the same cruise.  In the same stateroom…

<img src=http://i62.tinypic.com/2zdu9g5.jpg>
~* Upon Boarding *~

Sam smiled at the ships attendant she hands him her ticket for the cruise.  While he looks it over, Sam slowly turns to take in the ship’s loading deck and all the amenities.  Pulling off the silvered sunglasses she had been wearing, she tucks them into the pocket of her pale pink blazer.  For a rough and tumble tomboy, Sam really cleaned up well when she put her mind to it.  Today she was wearing a cool pale pink pantsuit with a creamy ivory blouse.  Her hair was tucked neatly into braid that lay over her left shoulder.  

Ships Attendant:  Excuse me miss but this boarding pass is not valid.

Sam turns to look at the attendant then down at the boarding pass.   With an apologetic smile, she tries to read over his shoulder to the guest list.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  You must be mistaken, this is what was given to me by Sin City Wrestling when I was preparing to board this ship.  Can you please check again, Samantha Marlowe?

With a nod, the attendant swipes his finger over the screen and then taps in her name.  Sam waits patiently beside her roll on luggage as he finally notes her name.  

Ships Attendant:  Here it is, Miss Marlowe.  You are on the Caribe deck, C749 suite at the back of the ship.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  That really is a mistake.  My ticket says I have an interior stateroom, not a suite.  I don’t think that the company would want me to be in a suite.  

The attendant continues to tap on the screen as he reads it off as he puts keycards through the reader then hands them to Sam.

Ships Attendant:  It says right here that you called and upgraded your room to, and I quote, “something more worthy of a Marlowe.”  So we have you on the Caribe deck, suite C749.  Enjoy the cruise.

When the attendant turns away, the look on Sam’s face is one of surprised anger and disappointment.  Grabbing her luggage, she moves down the hallway towards the lifts muttering under her breath and paying no attention to the people watching her and pointing.  Pressing the button, she leans on one foot as she runs a hand over the bridge of her nose to pinch off the headache that was starting to form right behind her eyes.   The doors swoosh open and Sam pulls her bag into the lift then turns to face the doors.  Pressing the button for the Caribe deck, she sighs before continuing to mumble as the doors close.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Why me…who did I peeve off to have to suffer my sister just when I don’t need her.

The soft strains of the musak on the lift can’t distract Sam from her thoughts as she tries to figure out just what she is going to say to her suspected guest.  Getting to the Caribe deck, she exits the lift and makes her way to the bow of the ship where her new suite is located.  Putting the key card into the slot, she pushes against the door, letting it swing open to reveal the sitting room of the suite.  Through a pair of sliding doors, Cyn can be seen on the cabin’s balcony with the room’s steward pouring her a glass of champagne.  Sam lets the door close which catches Cyn’s attention.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:  There she is, my little sister the wrestler.  Thank you David for all your help getting me settled in.  I will call you when I need you again.

The steward nods and with a smile at Sam, he offers up the bottle of champagne which Sam declines.  Setting the bottle down, he bows his way out of the suite as Sam stands up her luggage and rounds on her sister who sips the bubbly beverage with a sigh of satisfaction as she looks over the water while Sam removes her hat.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Okay Cyn, just what are you doing here?  After the last time we talked, I purposely didn’t talk to you about this supercard, Sin City Wrestling or anything to involve my wrestling career.

The older Marlowe sister puts a look of disappointment on her face as she slowly gets up from the deck chair and moves towards her sister who has put both hands on her waist after tossing her hat onto the sofa.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:  Is that any way to talk to your sister Sammiwich?  After all I only want what is best for you and since I have more experience in a wrestling ring than you do, I figured that you could benefit from my mentoring.  And if you had taken any of my calls, you would have known I was coming to the cruise to be your manager for this match and any others that you are going to have…

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Oh no you aren’t Cyn.  There is going to be no way in hell that you are managing me.  Besides, don’t you need like a contract or license or something to manage wrestlers?  

Cyn airly waves her hand in denial as she walks into the room and sits down on the sofa, directly on Sam’s hat.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:  I’m Cyn Marlowe, I don’t need anything like that to help my baby sister.  And you know that you need me to.   So first things first, I need to talk to Markie Ward about getting you a better deal and title shots…

Sam shakes her head and crosses her arms over her chest.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:   Cyn, I don’t think you heard me…You are NOT my manager!  I am doing fine on my own so thanks for the offer but no thanks.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:  Fine on your own huh?  You have lost fifty percent of your matches.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  I have only had two matches Cyn!  I am one and one so it isn’t like I am doing that badly.  Besides, you can’t tell me that I will get worse without you as my manager.

Cyn nods sagely as she once more takes a sip of the champagne then puts it down on the coffee table in front of her and leans towards Sam.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:  Sammiwich, we both know that I can say so and we also know that you need me.  So let’s just stop talking about it and start preparing for the match at the supercard.  Have you given any thought to what you are going to do in that match?  You can’t rely on just playing fair and all.

Sam moves to sit on a chair, her knees drawn together as she lets her shoulders fall against the seatback.  She still glares at her sister rebelliously.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  You aren’t my manager Cyn and granted you are here for the cruise and all, you are not coming to the ring or taking part in the show at all.  You retired and that means you aren’t a part of SCW.  You can help me train but that’s it!

Smiling as she gets to her feet, Cyn moves to the chair and sitting on the arm, pats her sister’s head patronizingly.  Sam swats the hand away and sinks lower in the seat almost as if she could escape Cyn in the upholstery of the chair.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:  Samantha, I will help you, of course I will.  You are just way to trusting of your opponents and I will show you that you need to smarten up I that ring.  So here is what I propose.

Wiping her hand down the tight fitting skirt Cyn has on, she smiles.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:  You enjoy this first day of the cruise and starting tomorrow I will have you in the gym preparing for your match.  As for me, I am going to prowl around this ship and see the sights and the men.  After all, one can never exist on champagne from a ships steward alone…although David did look rather delish.

The tinkle of her laughter grates on Sam’s nerves as Cyn gets to her feet and moves towards the door.  Once her sister leaves, Sam gets to her feet and walks to the couch where her hat is laying broken and flattened.  With a sigh, Sam grasps the handle of her luggage to drag it towards the bed only to find that Cyn has commandeered the whole closet and room for herself.   Seeing herself in the mirror over the dresser, Sam sighs.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  This is going to be a looooong week…

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~* Two Days Later *~

People are gathered in the gym where a pair of redheads are working out.  The older one is gently jogging on a treadmill and barely working up a ‘glow’ while the younger is running faster.  Cyn Marlowe is wearing a pair of pale mauve tights and purple “Original Cyn” tee with her long hair pulled up in a long sleek ponytail and Sam is in a pair of dark biker shorts under a leotard of silvery blue with her hair in a long braid, tendrils of damp curls are plastered to her forehead and the nape of her neck.   Sam looks over at her sister and raises her eyebrow quizzically as she calls softly across the space between the two.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Don’t you think Cyn, you might want to move a little faster if you are training me to be ready for my match?

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Like you keep saying Sammi, I am not a wrestler anymore which means I don’t have to push myself that hard.  You however…

Cyn steps on the side of her treadmill and looks at Sam’s.  Reaching over, she increases the speed slightly which trips her younger sister causing her to stumble but she quickly rights herself by grabbing the rails.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     What was that for?

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:     Your opponent is going to be pulling anything they can to get the win so I want to see that you are prepared for anything like surprises and the like.  If you aren’t, that one mistake you make will be the one that loses the match for you like last time.  So Sammiwich, you need to be prepared for anything and you need to learn to anticipate your opponent as well.

Sam is watching her sister and when Cyn reaches for the treadmill again, Sam steps off before she is tripped again.  Cyn applauds her sister sarcastically then finishes her motion and shuts down the machine.  Motioning for Sam to follow her, she moves towards a set of mats that are in front of a mirror.  Cyn takes in her reflection and then reaching into the small cut at her cleavage she pulls out a peach lipgloss and slides a slight wash of color across her lips.   Sam joins her with a snort of laughter.   At the glare of ‘what’ from Cyn, Sam just points to the mirror,

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Only you would stop your workout to put on gloss.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Look around you Sammi, we are being watched which means you should always look good.  I believe that part of getting the crowd on your side is physical appearance because any of the dogs I have faced have always gotten a subdued response and fans were very vocal when they introduced me.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    They  were usually booing Cyn.  Besides I don’ t think that the fans I am making are that shallow.  So I don’t need to worry about the looking good so much as being good.  

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    If  you are going to take that kind of attitude then why am I here hmmm?

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Because you showed up to take over my training?  Trying to regain your past glory by trying to ride my new wrestling career?

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:     You are so mean Sammiwich.  After all I am doing for you to help you get better and win more.   It shows me just how much I am appreciated by you.  I guess loving my sister and wanting her to do well isn’t really wanted as much as I thought it would be.

Cyn sighs dramatically as she turns away from the mirror and begins to walk towards the women’s locker room doors.  Samantha watches for a moment then with a few muffled words, calls out to her sister.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Okay Cyn, you can help me train and I promise not to talk back.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Only if you are sure Sammiwich

 Cyn turns slightly to peer at Samantha in the mirror.  Sam nods her head and Cyn’s

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:     Now as I was saying, this show is going to be the first one that you are taking part in and being in a supercard show is very special.  They are usually watching the talent at these shows in the lower card for future title shots and I know you want to shine so what are you going to be doing in that match to win?

Sam thinks about it for a moment then turns to Cyn to speak.  Before she can, Cyn steps behind her and forces her to look into the mirror.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Speak into the mirror as if you were doing an interview with a camera.  I want to see how you giving a speech.

Rolling her eyes, Sam looks into the mirror and then takes a slow breath as her hand pushes at the damp curls, sliding them to the side of her forehead only to have them spring right back.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I am coming to that ring and I am going to do what I do best and that is give it my all because I know Alexis is going to be a tough com

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Is that the best you can do?  Seriously?

Sam shoots a look into the mirror at Cyn.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    That is usually how my promos go.  Seems to have worked so far although Pussy says I need to be a bit more tough in my talking about my opponent and focusing on what I want to say in a tough way.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:     If you were wrestling in jello could you use that kind of talk.  You are supposed to be a serious threat to the bombshells in Sin City.  Get mean for sobbing out loud.

Sam looks down for a moment but only a moment before looking up at Cyn.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     That isn’t me Cyn.  I have respect for everyone that I face in the ring.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    I can tell you now that they have NO respect for you so you have to give them the knowledge that you don’t respect them.  Now repeat after me…I am Samantha Marlowe and I am the baddest bitch on this boat!

Cyn looks so serious which causes Sam to dissolve into giggles.  The older Marlowe glares at Sam who fights to contain her laughter.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:     You find this funny?  So you want to lose, ok.

Again Cyn makes to walk away only to have Sam grab her arm as her giggles slowly die.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    I am sorry Cyn, it is just…wow, I haven’t heard you talk like that in quite a while and well, I don’t know if I could be like that to be honest.  

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:   You are going to have to be.  You may not have been paying attention to the competition but I have and this person you are facing is a tough little girl who will think nothing of hitting you where it hurts.  So I want you to be prepared for anything and everything that she is going to throw at you.

Sam nods slowly, the smile that had been gracing her features faltering somewhat as she gets serious.  Cyn smirks a little as she turns away and picks up a rather large weight and brings it to her sister.  Holding it out in front of her, she waves it in a small circle for Sam.  As Sam, reaches for it, Cyn pulls it away and as her sister is off balance smacks her on the back of the head.  Stumbling into the mirror, Sam turns with a look of surprise on her face as she rubs at the stinging on the back of her neck.


Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     What was that for?

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Did it hurt?

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    YES!

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Good because that is what your opponent is going to do to you.  Sucker you in and Ms Goodie Two boots that you are, she is going to beat you without you getting any offence in.  Because you are too trusting and that little bitch that you’re facing on the supercard will be able to beat you six ways from Sunday.   You need to go into this match with your eyes wide open and NOT all doe eyed.  That deer in the headlights look shouldn’t be seen on a Marlowe at all.

Pushing herself away from the mirror, Sam begins to slowly circle her sister as Cyn watches Sam then rolling her eyes, begins to check out her manicure.  Sam stops and straightens up to once again look at her sister.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Now what?  Don’t you see me as a threat to you?

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:    Not like that Sammiwich.  And I am sure that Alexis won’t either.  Matter of fact, I am pretty sure that the only threat you are in this match is a threat to put the crowd to sleep.  I want you to attack first and hard.  Send me to the mat little girl.

Without letting Cyn finish her comment, Sam charges across the mat and tries to take Cyn down with a clothesline but only staggers her.  Cyn turns around and laughs at Sam.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Maybe Cyn I can’t be anyone but me.  So trying to get me to wrestle like you and Alexis and all the others in the company is not going to work.  I’ll get by on my own and win or lose, I can say I didn’t settle.

Cynthia ~Cyn~ Marlowe:     It isn’t settling if you wrestle to win Sammi!

Cyn’s comment falls on deaf ears as Sam moves towards the locker rooms and with a final look at her sister, she pushes the door open and disappears inside it.  Angrily Cyn puts her hands on her waist and scoffs after her sister then looks around to see if she is being watched and notices a pair of men motioning at her and talking.  Plastering a smile onto her face as she tosses her head Cyn moves towards them and then begins to walk on the treadmill invitingly which gives the men a clue to come and talk to her.

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For most people, rain on a cruise means you are resting in a cabin or enjoying some of the many attractions on the interior of the ship.  One person however has no such intention of remaining inside on a day full of rain.

Samantha Marlowe sits on her balcony of her suite while her sister sleeps inside after a rather long night.  Ignoring the slight snores from the room that she has closed the door to, Sam reaches for the coffee pot sitting where the remains of her breakfast can be seen.  A soft knocking on the cabin door gets her attention and Sam rushes to answer it.  On the other side, Pussy Willow is standing in a heavy sweater over a tee and shorts.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Thanks for coming Pussy, I wanted to do an interview for the show but Cyn has kept me rather busy this week.  And since she is sleeping now…

Sam motions for silence which causes Pussy to nod and then move into the room and towards the couch.  Sam follows then tapping her shoulder, points to the balcony where chairs have been pulled close to the hull of the ship.  The drizzle foreshadows a rainstorm but for now the mists just chill the skin slightly as the pair get comfortable and Sam pours a hot drink for Pussy.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I figured that this would be a good time to talk and do that interview.

Pussy Willow:    So why are you hiding out on your sister?  I mean she has done this before and one would think that you would want to get an expert’s opinion.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     Let’s just say that I don’t want to relive her career in wrestling.  I want to be my own person and to do that I need to get out of Cyn’s shadow but with her here, she is just casting a bigger and bigger one.  Did you know, she is here because she wants to manage me.  I told her point blank no but she isn’t taking that for an answer.  So I need to do things on the DL for now.  So we need to keep this between us ok?

The interviewer nods with a soft chuckle, one finger tapping the side of her nose in agreement.  Taking a sip of the coffee, Ms Willow pulls out a recorder and then pressing record, brings it to her lips and begins to speak.

Pussy Willow:    Interview with Sam Marlowe take one.   Sam, this week is the very first supercard that you will be taking part in as a bombshell of Sin City Wrestling.  What are your thoughts about the venue?

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    I have been on cruises before but never as part of the cruise.  And as I tend to enjoy the fact that I am a bombshell now in SCW, it gets me excited to think that we will be wrestling on the ship for all these fans.

Pussy Willow:     And in your first supercard match you are facing someone that has the same record you do, Alexis Edwards.  Both of you won your debuts then lost your second match and now this is the third match for each of you.  Do you think you are ready for the match?

Sam looks out into the mist of the rain and thinks of her answer for a moment before turning her eyes back to Pussy who is holding the recorder towards Sam and sipping from the coffee as she waits for an answer.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    I get that both of us are relative newcomers in the federation and from what I suspect, Alexis is real close friends with Tim Staggs and everyone knows the Staggs Dungeon so she has probably been benefitting from training there and if that is the case, maybe I have my work cut out for me.  But just because she is able to train with Staggs, that doesn’t equate to desire and dedication to the sport.  You have people like Alexis who are training with the Staggs’ then you have me, someone that hasn’t really gotten that much professional training.  But I have a lot of amateur training and wrestling under my belt and a bit of help from my sister who was a professional wrestler for a little longer than I have been.

Pussy Willow:     But your sister hasn’t wrestled in over a year.  Is that going to give the edge to your opponent?  I mean Alexis has all sorts of Nobodies to help her train.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    I totally understand Pussy, I am the underdog in this match and that’s okay by me.  I don’t have a problem fighting those odds.  And if that means I am going to have to dig deeper and fly higher than I have so far, so be it.   I can’t let the fact that she is a tough young woman scare me into a loss before I even step in the ring.  

Pussy Willow:    It’s not to scare you Sam but she is a Nobody so she will have back up at the ring I am sure.

Sam laughs at that.  Taking a small pastry from the plate, she nibbles at it while she contemplates her response.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     So you are basically telling me that this is going to be a handicap match?  Tell me something I don’t know Pussy.  But where she needs the help and the support system to make her feel better, I depend on one person and one person only.  That’s me and that is the only person that will be going to the ring and fighting this battle.  So she can bring all the company she wants, I will be bringing the fight to her and anyone else that wants to get involved.

Pussy is nodding enthusiastically as Sam slams her right fist into the palm of her left hand.  

Pussy Willow:     That is exactly how I have been wanting you to cut a promo Sam.  That is tough talk that you need to do instead of the wimpy ‘I respect her’ stuff you are always on about.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I still respect her since she does have the same record that I do but I think I am starting to understand that I need to give a bit more strength to my talking about my opponents.  Respect is good but if I don’t get the same respect back, what chance to I have to win if my opponent will do whatever necessary to win.  So I need to realize that I am on my own when it comes to being responsible for my wins and losses.  And I don’t want to lose any more matches if I can help it.

Pussy Willow:    From the sounds of it, you are pretty determined.  So have you decided what you are going to do in the match to overcome the Nobodies?  And if you have, will you tell us?

Sam’s smile appears at that comment as she slowly starts to shake her head negatively.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:     I think that maybe all I am going to say to that is that both of us will be in that ring and giving it our all but only one will walk out.   And we will see who it will be at SummerXXXTreme.  But truth be told, I think that I want it more so good luck to Alexis.

As Samantha finishes her comment, Pussy smiles and presses stop on the recorder.  Setting the device on the table, Pussy grabs the coffee pot and pours herself another cup.  Sam leans back to relax.  The two of them are surprised by Cyn who walks out on the balcony and without saying a word, grabs the cup of coffee from Pussy and the plate of pastries and turns to take them back into the stateroom.  Sam and Pussy share a look that speaks volumes.

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Day before the supercard and Sam is walking towards her stateroom.  It is later in the day and Sam is ready to relax and rest for the supercard.  At her door, she stops as she sees the do not disturb sign on the door.  Angrily she reaches for the knob only to hear sounds from the room.  Rolling her eyes, Sam moves back to the wall and then with a sigh turns for the lift once again.

Moments later, Sam sits down at a table near the bar.  When a steward approaches, she orders a chilled juice then pulls out a small cell phone turns it on and presses some buttons which pulls up the camera.  Setting it to record, she makes the camera switch to face forward and begins to talk, her words mixing with the sounds of music and talking that surrounds her.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Here I am, ready for SummerXXXTreme and all I want to do is relax but I am locked out of my room.  Sisters…can’t live with them, can’t kick them out, right?  Great so what more can I do but talk to myself since I can’t get back into my room…

Sam chuckles at the picture she has just painted.  Her laughter dies slowly ending with a sigh.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  I bet that Alexis isn’t having the same issues I am.  She’s probably already trained and prepared and is getting whatever sleep she can before tomorrow.  I mean that yeah, I’ve trained and I am ready but if I don’t get some rest, I might as well forfeit.  And something tells me that would suit Alexis just fine.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  However, that isn’t something that I am willing to do for her, or anyone else for that matter.  I earned my spot on the roster and it will be a cold day in Hell that I give up this match, this career or anything in general.

Sam looks up into the smiling face of the steward who sets the icy glass of a pale yellow juice.  He returns her smile as he backs away slightly to allow Sam to continue what she seemed to be doing.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  Alexis, you know what I think.  I think that you are putting on some kind of front for everyone so no one can feel any sympathy for you, tough as nails tends to mean a soft center for anyone else.  Could this be you?  Maybe but even though I sympathize, it doesn’t mean that I am not coming at you with everything I got.  I am sure that you feel the need to use me as a punching bag just to put yourself over and I expect that.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:  And no matter how tough you are, there is always someone tougher.  I may look like some pretty girl who is nothing more than fluff or eyecandy but I’m from Texas and that means no surrender.  So I hope that you aren’t expecting something easy in that ring.  I will be digging into my bag of tricks and pulling out all the stops.  This match isn’t one that I am going to want to lose.

As she is talking, she seems to be drawing a crowd of what appears to be fans.  Smiling, she points the camera to take in the crowd then brings it back to herself.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    These people are here because they want to see an exciting supercard  and between the two of us, I think our match will just ramp up that excitement.  So good luck to you Alexis, and may the best woman win.

Pressing stop on the recording, she slides the phone into its holster as she looks up at the group of tourists pointing and talking amongst themselves.  

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    I guess you are looking for an autograph or two?

 The crowd replies almost as one that they would be looking for autographs and pictures.  Looking around, Sam shrugs and motions them forward.  The mad rush of the people block the bombshell from view but one final comment can be heard from the redhead.

Samantha ~Sam~ Marlowe:    Don’t crowd…I will sign an autograph for everyone because I am pretty sure I have got all night…