Early December
County Courthouse- Las Vegas, Nevada
With Christmas right around the corner, O’Malley is finding it harder and harder to be in the Christmas spirit. He wants nothing more than to have his son, Owen, home where he should be, but the custody battle with Misty’s family hasn’t even gone to court yet. Not to mention the restraining order that is still in place against him and Darcy, which bars either of them from even attempting to see Owen before then.
But that brings us to today. O’Malley and Darcy knew the restraining order had no merit. They had done nothing to harass or threaten Misty’s family, and Synn’s attorney, who was now representing O’Malley in this case, agreed as well. So a motion to dismiss the restraining order had been filed, and because of the sheer fight the attorney has, she was able to get the date scheduled for before the holidays.
O’Malley and Darcy had arrived at the courthouse earlier than their attorney had told them to. They didn’t want to risk running late, so all the better to be early anyway. They’re currently seated on a bench outside their assigned courthouse, waiting for the others to arrive. O’Malley, dressed in a navy suit and tie, is clearly very nervous as Darcy grips his hand. She’s dressed just as appropriately as he is, wearing a matching navy colored pant suit with a white blouse.
Darcy: Relax, O’Malley. Everything is going to work out just fine. Ms. Omar ensured us that the restraining order would get thrown out. Why are you so nervous?
O’Malley takes in a deep breath, and Darcy gives his hand a gentle squeeze.
O’Malley: I can’t help it, Darc. This is the first true step in gettin’ Owen back. I want so bad to have him home fer Christmas.
Darcy: He very well may be. As soon as the restraining order is handled, the custody hearing is next. She’s going to do everything in her power to get it scheduled in time to have him home for Christmas.
O’Malley wants nothing more than to believe his wife’s comforting words, but given everything that is at stake, it is much easier said than done. His right leg begins to bounce up and down, yet another tell tale sign of his rising anxiety. Darcy shakes her head lightly, but comforts her husband quietly while they continue to wait. The first person to arrive, to their surprise, is O’Malley’s half-brother, Alistair Adams. O’Malley growls and looks away as Alistair approaches them with a warm smile.
Alistair: Well good morning, Shane. And Darcy, always lovely to see you.
O’Malley shoots his brother a glare, most likely the result of being called by his first name. But Alistair addressing Darcy could also have been a contributing factor.
Darcy: I wish I could say the same, Alistair, but I think we both know that would be a lie. What are you doing here?
O’Malley: Yeah, didn’t ye give up this case? Or was that another one of yer lies and I’m about to find out er still set on—
Alistair holds his hand up, silencing his brother before he can continue that rant. O’Malley’s nostril’s flare and Alistair shakes his head.
Alistair: It was not a lie, Shane. Once you confronted me and I found out the child involved was your son, I set up a meeting with the Waters’. If there is one thing I do not like, it is a conflict of interest in any case.
O’Malley: So this was about ye then? And not the fact that me son is being kept from me?! And quit feckin’ callin’ me Shane!
Alistair takes in a deep breath then exhales a frustrated sigh.
Alistair: You’ll have to just deal with it I’m afraid, because I find it rather strange that you prefer to be called by your last name. And, for your information, no. This is not about me. If you’ll recall, I tried to get my firm to drop them as clients completely so I could help you.
Darcy’s eyes widen and she turns her full attention to O’Malley. He’s looking away from them both, and she places her hand on his chin, and forces him to look at her.
Darcy: What is he talking about?
O’Malley: It doesn’t matter. I don’t need or want his help, Darc. We got someone better representin’ us anyway.
And as if on cue, the elevator down the hall dings open and the sound of heels clicking against the tiled floor follows. All eyes turn in the direction of the elevator to the woman walking towards them with a briefcase in hand. Alistair arches an eyebrow, and O’Malley and Darcy stand up from where they are seated to greet his attorney.
Mahreen Omar, the renowned attorney in her early fifties, walks up to them wearing a professional black business suit, with a black and white blouse under the blazer. Her chocolate brown wavy hair falls just past her shoulders, standing out perfectly against her olive skin tone.
Alistair: Mahreen Omar. I had absolutely no idea you dealt with these types of cases.
O’Malley’s attorney, Mahreen, stands next to her client, staring coldly at Alistair.
Mahreen: Alistair Adams. I was under the impression you had recused yourself from this case. Or, are you prepared to go down with the rest of your firm after all?
O’Malley: He was just leaving, Ms. Omar.
Alistair: Was I now?
O’Malley stares down his brother, not at all pleased he is still around. Alistair, meanwhile, turns his attention to Mahreen, and a slight grin appears on his face.
Alistair: Might I say you are looking lovely as ever, Mahreen.
She glares at him almost immediately.
Mahreen: Don’t even attempt it again, counselor. Your little advances will not work with me. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to speak with my clients in private.
O’Malley and Darcy each grin and let out amused chuckles as Mahreen leads them into the courtroom. No one else is inside yet, giving them a few brief moments to speak before the judge and everyone else arrives.
Mahreen: Mr. and Mrs. O’Malley, it’s a pleasure to see you again. Now, I wanted to speak with you before everyone else starts arriving because I want to make sure you are prepared.
O’Malley: Is there something new we don’t know about? I thought ye prepared us plenty the last meeting we had.
Mahreen sets her briefcase down on the table on their side of the courtroom. She opens it and takes out a few papers before turning back to O’Malley, remaining serious the entire time.
Mahreen: I wouldn’t exactly consider this to be new information, but your former in-laws really shot themselves in the foot here. They essentially gave us something golden to use against them, but I want to make sure you understand what the consequences could be because of it.
Darcy: You’re referring to them changing Owen’s last name on all the documents, aren’t you?
Mahreen nods, but she is focused solely on O’Malley. As Owen’s father, she is more concerned about his wishes than anything else.
O’Malley: I’m a little lost here, Ms. Omar. I know what they did was wrong—
Mahreen: It wasn’t just wrong, Mr. O’Malley. It was against the law. And the fact that their attorneys either didn’t realize it, or went along with it, is of equal consequence. I’m going to get your son back with you, but I need to know that you understand that Mr. and Mrs. Waters, and anyone who knew of their actions, are facing serious criminal charges here.
O’Malley scratches his head and turns his attention to Darcy. They both look conflicted, but before O’Malley has a chance to respond, the courtroom doors burst open and Misty’s parents walk in, along with their attorneys. The courtroom starts to fill not long after and O’Malley turns to Mahreen before taking his seat.
O’Malley: Just...do what ye need to do. I need me son back home…
Mahreen nods and O’Malley takes his seat. He looks behind him at everyone who is seated on either side of the courtroom. On his side are seated Gabriel, Odette and Synn. Not many in the way of support, but it is more than enough and he gives each of them a grateful nod. To his surprise, Daniel J. Morgan even shows up, taking a seat behind the others and exchanging a quick glance with O’Malley. Ever since the reopening of Daniel’s casino several months ago, the two had become friendly you could say.
On the opposite side, O’Malley focused on everyone he had considered family at one point. Colleen and Andrew Waters and two of their daughters, Dixie and Desiree. Their oldest daughter, Jackie, was not present, but then again, she was mostly absent from their lives even when Misty was alive. Desiree glares at O’Malley from the corner of her eye, and O’Malley looks to Dixie as she remains mostly expressionless. She was the closest of anyone to Misty, and it showed to this day, even three years after her death.
O’Malley quickly turns around to face forward, just in time as the bailiff announces the judge's arrival. Everyone stands up as the judge takes his place, then orders everyone to sit. The courtroom immediately goes silent as he starts to speak.
Judge: Good Morning counselors. I will begin listening to both sides in regards to Andrew and Colleen Waters restraining order against Shane and Darcy O’Malley. Before we—
Mahreen: Excuse the interruption Your Honor, but on behalf of my client I am requesting immediate termination of this restraining order, on the bearings it holds no grounds. Furthermore, we are requesting sole physical custody of the minor child, Owen Andrew O’Malley, be granted to Mr. and Mrs. O’Malley effective immediately.
The judge does not look pleased with the interruption by Mahreen, as he stares at her. Darcy reaches and takes O’Malley’s hand in hers, gripping it tightly as they focus their attention on the judge. Meanwhile, the Waters’ attorney stands up quickly.
Opposing Counsel: Your honor, this is ridiculous. Ms. Omar and her clients are out to disrupt this child’s life—
Judge: Quiet, Mr. Hampton.
Mr. Hampton immediately goes silent as the judge shuffles through some papers before looking up and directly at Mahreen.
Judge: Ms. Omar, you referred to the minor child as Owen Andrew O’Malley. But it says here the child’s last name is Waters?
O’Malley and Darcy look at one another, grinning, before turning their attention forward once again. Mr. Hampton looks to his clients nervously, as Mahreen nods.
Mahreen: That is correct, Your Honor. The child legally has the same last name as his father. My client, Mr. O’Malley. It has come to our attention that all documents in reference to the child were altered to give him a different last name. His late mother’s maiden name, and the last name of Mr. Hampton’s clients. It is for that reason that we feel sole physical custody should be awarded back to his father.
The judge seems quite surprised to hear any of this information as he looks through the papers again before focusing his attention on Mr. Hampton.
Judge: Mr. Hampton, what do you have to say for yourself and for your clients?
Mr. Hampton stumbles on his words, knowing full well that they have been caught. The judge tosses the paperwork down and shakes his head, and O’Malley and Darcy smile, thinking they will have Owen home with them soon enough.
Judge: This...this is a situation I never in a million years thought I would come across. Where counselors would knowingly break the law and do a poor job of hiding it, in fact. Due to this information, I am immediately dismissing the restraining order against Mr. and Mrs. O’Malley. And pending a further review of this case and all paperwork filed, the child is to remain in the custody of his grandparents.
Mahreen: Your Honor! With all due respect!
The judge takes his gavel and slams it down against the podium. O’Malley and Darcy are at a loss for words, but they remain quiet so as not to make matters worse.
Judge: Enough, Ms. Omar. I understand the gravity of this situation, but as it stands, I am withholding any further decisions until I get all the information I need. The child is to stay where he is, and the custody proceedings will begin the second week of January. Anymore arguments and you will be held in contempt. Am I clear?
Mahreen nods.
Mahreen: Yes, your honor.
The judge turns to face Mr. Hampton and Misty’s parents.
Judge: As for you and your clients Mr. Hampton, I strongly suggest you discuss with them what you all are facing should these accusations be proven true. Trust me when I say that I was very inclined to award Mr. O’Malley full custody here today. Court is adjourned pending a scheduled date in January.
He pounds his gavel once again, stands up and exits the courtroom. Misty’s parents and her attorneys quickly exit the courtroom but O’Malley, Darcy and Mahreen stay behind, as do Synn and the others. O’Malley is disappointed, given what the judge was told, but Darcy and Mahreen do their best to reassure him.
Mahreen: Don’t worry, Mr. O’Malley. Given the circumstances and what the judge will most certainly find out, there is simply no way he’d allow your son to remain with them. I am not happy with his decision, but I do understand where he is coming from.
O’Malley: I just wanted me boy home fer Christmas. But it looks like that ain’t gonna happen. I trust ye though.
Mahreen: I’ll do what I can to push the next hearing up sooner, but there are no guarantees. For now, just stay positive. And even though the restraining order was thrown out, I’d suggest staying away from them regardless. Let me handle everything, okay?
O’Malley nods and Mahreen puts her paperwork back into her briefcase. She looks towards Synn and they exchange nods.
Mahreen: I’ll be in touch soon.
She then walks away, and O’Malley and Darcy prepare to leave. O’Malley still isn’t satisfied with the outcome of today, but he trusts in Mahreen’s judgement, and has to do his best to have faith that his son will be back with him soon. Sooner rather than later he hoped…
About a week later…
O’Malley has tried to do his best to stay positive, and believe that the next time he goes to court, Owen would be coming home with him and Darcy. That’s the most important thing to him right now, but despite what Mahreen suggested, he was finding it extremely difficult to remain upbeat. It was perhaps all that was weighing on his mind that cost him his match against Agostino Romano not long after he had declared his intention to fight for the World Heavyweight Championship. Terrible excuse, of course, as no one would buy into it, but if you were to ask O’Malley, that is what he would say.
Christmas is just around the corner. Not only would this be the third Christmas without Owen, but it would also be the fourth without Misty. And while he has Darcy, and the life they have built together, the losses they have endured over the years is perhaps toughest to ignore around the holidays. This year in particular is weighing heaviest on him, due largely in part to the craziness that the Covid-19 pandemic has caused everyone.
While Darcy was finishing some last minute decorating at their home, O’Malley needed to get away for a little while. He was vague on where he was going, but Darcy didn’t put up any arguments and gave her husband the space he needed. Where he was going, however, not many people knew was still a part of O’Malley’s life. Where has he gone, you ask?
To the home he shared with Misty before she died. The very home that after she died, and after he had returned to Ireland almost three years ago, he had not managed to put up for sale. He couldn’t, and not because he couldn’t get over Misty, but because this was the only home that Owen had known. At least...it was until now.
It took him a while after parking in the driveway, but he had finally built up the courage to head inside. It was the first time in almost three years he had been inside, and everything was exactly the way he left it. The electricity was shut off, and it was drafty inside, but the second he stepped through the door, his mind wandered back to the last Christmas he had spent with Misty and Owen in this house. Owen was just under a year and a half old at the time, but he was running around as a toddler would. He and Misty were not married yet, but they were building their life with their son anyway. As he stands in the entranceway leading to the front living room, he remembers that day vividly.
Christmas morning 2016…
Misty and Owen are seated on the floor just inches away from the Christmas tree. Owen is more interested in the wrapping paper thrown about than any of the presents he has already opened, with assistance from Misty of course, but O’Malley watches with a smile. Misty’s daughter, Eden Staggs, is also there, having the night before returning to her father’s later in the morning. Owen had currently left his mother’s lap and wandered over to his sister, bringing one of his new toys to show off.
Misty stands up from the floor and walks over to the love of her life, and he wraps his arm around her. They both watch as Eden spends some time with her baby brother.
O’Malley: How did I get so lucky? If ye had asked me a few years ago where I saw meself, I never would have said livin’ in America with an amazing woman and our kids.
Owen lets out a loud giggle and Misty smiles.
Misty: The Universe works in mysterious ways sometimes, O’Malley. There was a point in time where I wasn’t even sure any of this was possible, but I’ve been proven wrong. I just wish…
She keeps her eyes on her kids, the lights of her life, when her voice trails off, almost sadly. O’Malley looks down at her, raising an eyebrow.
O’Malley: Ye wish what? What’s wrong?
She shakes her head, trying to put any negative thoughts out of her mind.
Misty: Nothing. It’s nothing. Let’s just enjoy today.
O’Malley: Now ye know I’m not about to just let ye just try and change the subject like that. Somethin’ is botherin’ ye and I want to know what it is.
Misty sighs, knowing he won’t let this go.
Misty: Fine. I look at our kids and how amazing they are and I sometimes wish we could have more. At least one more anyway. Don’t get me wrong, I love Eden and Owen more than anything, but watching them grow has been what makes me wish I could have another baby. Ya know?
He nods. But they both knew that was impossible, as complications during Owen’s premature birth had left Misty unable to have any more children. He thinks for a while as he watches his son and stepdaughter and gives Misty a loving squeeze.
O’Malley: If this has anythin’ to do with ye wantin’ to give me another kid, we already talked about that. I love Eden as if she were me own, and I don’t consider Owen to be me only child. We have everything we need with what we have. I may not be a father they can look up to yet, but I’m damn sure determined to work on it.
Misty: What do you mean?
O’Malley: Ye know what I mean. I’m still tryna find me place here in the States. I don’t wanna be the fella I was back in Ireland. I was drawn here fer a reason, and I’m still tryna figure it out.
Misty turns her full attention to O’Malley, wrapping her arms around him and looking up into his eyes. She cracks a smile before she responds.
Misty: What? So I wasn’t the only reason you came here? I’m hurt…
She laughs and even he cracks a smile.
O’Malley: Well, I mean ye were the biggest reason. But, I’ve always felt like there was more. That I was gonna do somethin’ to make Owen...and Eden...proud of me. To make ye proud of me. Just don’t know what that is.
Misty nods. She thinks for a moment and then nudges him as something hits her.
Misty: Have you given any more thought to giving wrestling a shot? We can start out with light training because of your accident, but your doctors did say—
O’Malley shakes his head and laughs.
O’Malley: Me? A wrestler? I don’t think so. That was always yer thing, love. I don’t think I’d be very good at it.
Misty: You never know. You might just surprise yourself. I could talk to Spike and work something out—
O’Malley lets out a laugh and shakes his head again.
O’Malley: No offense to Spike, but it would be a little weird to be trained by yer ex, don’t you think? I know yer on good terms, but...it’d just feel strange to me.
Misty: Then we can find someone else…
O’Malley: It ain’t gonna happen, Misty. Let that be yer thing. Ye accomplished so much, I’d look like a fool next to what ye’ve done. I’ll figure it out, though. Trust me.
Their conversation is then cut short as Owen comes running up to them, and O’Malley scoops him up into his arms. Misty drops the conversation, for now, but judging by the look on her face, she’s not going to give up. O’Malley heads over to the sofa and sits down, placing Owen in his lap before Misty walks over and takes her place beside him.
Back to the present…
O’Malley had made it into what was Misty’s “trophy room” of the house. Pictures and memorabilia from her wrestling days were decorated and placed throughout the room. He slowly looks around, taking it all in, remembering his words that day as if he had just spoken then.
He had been so sure that this life would not be his. Misty was the accomplished one. She was the champion. She was the legend and the Hall of Famer. And even though he could potentially accomplish just as much, if not more, on the men’s side, he didn’t see it as possible. He didn’t think that wrestling was what was calling him to America. At least, not until that December day just a year later when Misty was taken from them.
He walks up to a shelf where Misty’s past year end awards were placed. The most notable being her Two Woman of The Year awards. He picked up the first one, from 2012, and just looked at it, running his hand over the engraving. Man of The Year, he thought, was something he would probably never achieve. And to him, that award would say more than any championship victory he would ever have.
As he looks up and around the room again, he takes in a deep breath before grabbing the other Woman of The Year award, and a few other things. He couldn’t allow them to stay here and collect dust, and he knew just what to do with them. Eventually, he would be back for the rest. But for now...this would do. He then heads out of the house and back to his car, having a clear goal inside his head. He’s so focused on getting back home, that he doesn’t notice the car parked just out front of the house. And behind the driver’s seat is Misty’s sister, Dixie…
Christmas Eve Night
O’Malley’s Christmas Surprises
It’s not how O’Malley envisioned he would be spending Christmas Eve- or Christmas at all for that matter- this year, but he’s making the best of it by planning. Yes, planning. Planning for what, exactly? Well, for the day he is awarded custody of Owen, and Owen returns home where he belongs. That day could be just around the corner, so he needs to be ready.
Truth be told, he’s been planning for weeks. But he had some things to finish before that time comes, and what better day than Christmas eve? You see, when Owen returns home, he needs a proper bedroom. A five year old little boy can’t just sleep anywhere now can he? No, he needs a place where he feels comfortable after transitioning to a bed he’s never slept in, in a room he’s never been in. So that is where all of this planning comes into play.
He wasn’t sure exactly what Owen was into these days to know exactly how to set up and decorate the room, so he just went with it for now, and if Owen didn’t like it, they would change it as soon as possible. He just wanted to show that he tried, and that he did so because he knew Owen would be coming home. And that he wanted him home more than anything.
After spending most of the day arranging everything in the room, and sometimes rearranging it, he’s just about finished. He stands in the doorway, leaning against the frame, looking it over again when Darcy walks up behind him. She wraps her arms around him and looks inside at all of his hard work.
Darcy: Finished for today? I’d like to spend some quality time with my husband, you know.
O’Malley chuckles and takes in a deep breath.
O’Malley: Sorry, Darc. Didn’t mean to be so distracted, but yeah. I think I’m done, but not just fer today.
Darcy: It looks good, sweetie. I’m sure Owen will love it. Particularly that set up on the dresser next to his bed.
Both of them focus their attention on just what Darcy was referring to. On the right side of his bed, the top of the dresser has been dedicated to Misty’s memory as it seems. Her two SCW Women of The Year awards are there, on either side of a photo of her holding Owen when he was a baby. Other photos are hanging on the wall just over the dresser, but O’Malley wants Owen to know that she will never be forgotten. And that she will always be with him.
Darcy: I figured her family would have all of her wrestling awards and such. But I’m sure he’ll be happy to have them here.
O’Malley: I can’t help but wonder if it’ll just make him miss her more. And if he’ll look up to her more than me. I’ll be lucky if I even win Man of The Year once, let alone twice.
Darcy: That little boy loves you no matter what, O’Malley. He’ll be proud of you even if you never win Man of The Year, but I’m sure you will.
O’Malley sighs and shrugs his shoulders. He’s doesn’t share the same confidence that his wife does, but he loves her all the more for her support and encouragement.
O’Malley: So he’ll be proud that I was voted Most Hated in both SCW and SCU this past year? He’ll be proud of the fact that I challenged Jack Washington fer the World Heavyweight Championship one week, only to go on to lose to Agostino Romano the next week. And not just any loss, but I tapped out? And now Kris Ryans has the damn belt.
Darcy: You knew when you got involved in this business that nothing would come easy. You have good weeks and you have bad weeks. That match against Agostino was a bad week. Whenever you get your shot at the title, you’ll be ready. No matter who it’s against. But for now, you need to wait to see who they have for you after the holiday break is over. Enjoy this time off.
O’Malley nods as he lets out another sigh. He remains quiet, though, taking in every word she said. He reaches in the room and turns off the light, ready to focus on spending time with Darcy.
Darcy: And speaking of enjoying the time off…
Before Darcy can get another word in, their doorbell rings. They both turn their attention to the front door, then look at each other, confused.
O’Malley: Did ye invite someone over?
Darcy shakes her head.
Darcy: No. I was going to ask you the same question. I have no idea who it could be.
O’Malley heads towards the door, allowing O’Malley the opportunity to greet their unexpected guest first. She stays behind a few feet, curious about who could be dropping by. When O’Malley opens the door, they both get the shock of their lives as Owen’s smiling face is the first that O’Malley sees. And Dixie is right behind him.
Owen: Daddy!
O’Malley pushes open the door and immediately drops down to Owen’s level. Owen’s arms are wide open and O’Malley scoops him up into his arms, stepping back inside the house and letting Dixie inside. Darcy watches with a joyous smile on her face, almost near tears.
O’Malley: Owen, me boy! What a great surprise! Dixie...great to see ye, love.
Dixie smiles back at O’Malley as she drops what appears to be an overnight bag on the floor. O’Malley sets Owen back down as he focuses on Dixie.
Dixie: I thought he should be with you for Christmas. I hope you don’t mind that I didn’t warn you first.
O’Malley: Of course not. Yer parents are okay with this?
Dixie: Do you mind if we talk in private for a few minutes? Owen, how about you spend some time with Darcy while I talk to your Daddy?
Owen looks up at Dixie, then to O’Malley. O’Malley gives his son an encouraging nod, then Owen looks to Darcy. Darcy has a nervous smile on her face, as this is the first time she is meeting her stepson, but they all seem to be in agreement.
Owen: Ok!
Darcy then steps past O’Malley and Dixie, taking Owen’s hand and leading him into the living room. She gives Dixie a thankful nod before O’Malley leads Dixie into the kitchen to talk in private.
Dixie: I’m sorry to put you in this position, but my parents don’t know that Owen is here. They think he’s having a sleepover at my house. You’d be surprised at how well Owen can keep a secret though.
O’Malley: Ye know, as much as I’d love to have Owen spend the night here, are ye sure going about it this way is a good idea? I don’t want to screw anything up with the custody hearing next month if they find out.
Dixie shakes her head.
Dixie: Don’t worry about that. If they find out, I’ll take the heat for it. This whole situation is just...it’s not right. And Misty wouldn’t want any of this to be happening, either. He’s a wonderful little boy, O’Malley, and you and Darcy deserve to experience every second of it.
O’Malley is at a loss for words. He folds his arms and leans against the island in the center of the kitchen, looking at his former sister-in-law.
O’Malley: I can’t tell ye how thankful I am to hear ye say that. Not many people are on my side let alone Darcy’s.
Dixie: Well, given everything she said about Misty, it wasn’t easy, I’ll admit. And even if she hasn’t completely changed, I guarantee spending just one night with Owen will have an affect on her. I think raising my own daughter has helped me to see the bigger picture here. And that is that Owen needs his father in his life. All I ask is that you don’t hate my parents for what they’ve done to protect him.
O’Malley: Yer talkin’ about them lyin’ about his last name.
Dixie nods.
Dixie: I can’t completely defend them, but I understand why they did it. Misty has already been gone three years, O’Malley, but none of us has completely healed from it. Once Owen is back here with you, I don’t exactly know how it will affect them, but I’ll have to worry about that when the time comes.
O’Malley: So...yer sayin’ ye believe I’ll get awarded custody?
Dixie: Of course I do. You’re his father. And they lied about his last name on legal documents. There is no way the judge would not award you custody. Just...please don’t hurt him again, O’Malley.
O’Malley shakes his head.
O’Malley: I don’t plan on it. I’m doin’ everything in me power to be the father he needs me to be. A father he can be proud of.
Dixie: I hope you mean that. I really do. Anyway, I won’t take up anymore of your time. I’ll let you spend as much time as you can with him tonight. I’ll be here in the morning to pick him up, because they expect him home for Christmas.
O’Malley: Absolutely. Thank ye, Dixie. Really.
She nods again before turning around, and heading towards the front door again. Before she leaves, Owen runs up to her and gives her a quick hug, before heading back into the living room with O’Malley. Darcy, however, is the one to show Dixie out.
Darcy: Thank you, Dixie. I know you have every reason to hate me after the things I said about your sister, but I can’t even begin to express how terrible I feel about it all.
Dixie: I’m doing all of this because it’s what she would have wanted, Darcy. I’ll never forget all the terrible things you’ve said, but time will tell how sincere that apology really is. You guys have a Merry Christmas. I’ll see you all in the morning.
Dixie then walks out the front door, heading back to her car. Darcy closes the door behind her and turns just as O’Malley is leading Owen off to his bedroom. She smiles, takes in a deep breath, then follows behind them. Back in Owen’s room, he’s looking around excitedly at everything his father did. When he stops at the area dedicated to Misty, he just stares at the picture of his mother holding him when he was a baby, then looks at her awards and the other pictures.
Back in the doorway, O’Malley can’t stop smiling. Darcy walks up behind him. She’s holding a small rectangular box already wrapped with a bow on it. He turns around to face her and she hands him the gift. He takes it, slightly confused as he stares at her.
O’Malley: What’s this? I thought we were gonna exchange gifts tomorrow?
Darcy: We were, but I honestly couldn’t wait anymore. And now that Owen is here, we should focus more on him tomorrow before he has to leave. Open it.
O’Malley smiles and shakes the box, trying to get an idea of what is inside, but there is no sound. Darcy laughs as she waits for him to open it.
O’Malley: Is there anything in here, or are ye just prankin’ me?
Darcy: Oh, there is something inside. Just open it and find out.
He doesn’t need to be told a third time and he starts to rip the wrapping paper off. Rather than tossing the paper on the floor, Darcy takes it from him as he slowly removes the top off of the box and gets a look at what is inside. He’s confused at first until it hits him just what he is looking at. He stares at Darcy at a loss for words, and she just nods.
O’Malley: Wait. Are...are ye serious, right now?!
O’Malley grabs what is in the box, and holds it up revealing an ultrasound picture. He drops the box it was in and Darcy keeps nodding.
Darcy: I’m serious. I’m pregnant, O’Malley. We’re having a baby.
O’Malley lets out almost an astonished laugh as he stares at the picture, the tiny spec showing his and Darcy’s growing child. Owen walks up to them and stares up at his father.
Owen: What’s going on, Daddy? I wanna see!
O’Malley reaches down and pics up Owen again, showing him the picture. Owen isn’t quite sure what he is looking at but O’Malley explains the best, and only way he can.
O’Malley: This, Owen, is yer future baby brother or sister. What do ye think about that?!
Owen: Do I get to choose what I want it to be?!
O’Malley and Darcy both share a laugh and O’Malley shakes his head.
O’Malley: No, kiddo, ye don’t. But I’m sure no matter what, ye’ll be the best big brother ever.
O’Malley sets Owen down and the five year old heads back inside to explore his room some more. O’Malley can’t stop staring at the ultrasound photo as Darcy moves in closer to him.
Darcy: So...you’re okay with this, then? I know several months ago you weren’t exactly ready for us to add to our family.
O’Malley: I was an arsehole, Darc. Of course I’m okay with it. I’ve had some time to think things over, and I told ye we’d just let whatever is supposed to happen, happen. I think it’s safe to say, this has turned out to be a better Christmas than I was expectin’.
Darcy smiles and lets out a sigh of relief, having been almost afraid of what O’Malley would think. He wraps his arm around her and they both stare at the ultrasound photo, and then to Owen, hopeful and now looking forward to their future as their family grows.
I think it’s safe to say that 2020 was a pretty terrible year fer most of us. Despite what we might have accomplished, or the positive things that may have happened, the pandemic sorta overshadowed any of that, am I right? But 2020 is finally behind is, and 2021 is finally here. Good riddance to that awful shite year, and welcome to the new year and whatever it has in store fer us all. I fer one, have a great feeling about it, despite what happened in America on just the sixth day in. But let’s not talk about that, yeah?
Me first year back in SCW was a bit all over the place. A sort of roller coaster ride, I guess ye could call it. I had had moments where I was on a roll, feelin’ like no one could stop me. And then I had times where I crashed and didn’t think I’d ever get back to makin’ an impact. Hell, I ended the year with a bit of a losin’ streak that I ain’t too proud of. I lost both the SCU Underground Championship and SCW roulette titles in the span of a couple weeks. I lost to Brother David Shepherd at High Stakes X, and then I lost to Agostino Romano at the last Climax Control. Shite way to close out the year in SCW, am I right?
I can’t focus on that anymore. If I do, it’ll only drag me down further, and with the start of a new year, it means a fresh start. Wiping the slate clean in a way, and pushin’ forward as I build me way up to bigger and better things. Things like bein’ the World Heavyweight Champion, and bein’ seen as the top star that I know I can and will be. No matter what people may think. If I’m honest, it seems fittin’ that me opponent this week is Senor Vinnie, because he and I...well have the same goal it seems. And not just gettin’ to the top of the SCW ladder. No, I’m talkin’ about redemption. Because if there has been one thing on me mind the last couple o’ months, it’s redemption.
I ain’t too sure what Vinnie boy has to redeem himself fer, if I’m honest. Before he came back after High Stakes, the only thing he was guilty of was bein’ a strange, mentally unstable fella that talks to a cactus. Fairly sure he still talks to that cactus, but he seems a bit less strange. Just more...troubled.
I get it though. In his eyes, he’s made mistakes. He’s gotten so low in his life, that there is really nowhere else to go but up, and returnin’ to the glory he once had. But to consider that redemption? I ain’t too sure if that’s what I’d describe what he’s tryna accomplish. It’s more like rebuildin’. Puttin’ himself back together after lettin’ himself fall apart and losin’ himself. Then again, I’m sure there is more to the story than even I know.
I’m a little lost on how I really feel goin’ into this match against Vinnie this week. I’ve faced the fella before. He’s a tough competitor to face, I’ll admit. But..that was the old Vinnie. This version I’ve got this week? I don’t know quite what to expect from him. He’s been on a roll since he came back. He’s made enough of an impression that I’m sure Mark and Christian feel like he deserves a shot at the championship over me. Hell...maybe they’re right. But do I want them to be?
Absolutely not.
I know I haven’t done much in recent months, but I think despite all that I’ve earned my shot to go fer the big one. And I mean truly go fer it. Not the open challenge I accepted from Ben Jordan last year. But there is also the fact that my challenge was to Jack Washington...the now former champ.
But Vinnie...he’s my ticket to movin’ up. He’s my shot at showin’ that the string of losses I’ve had recently are behind me, and that I’m one hundred and fifty percent serious at provin’ meself worthy of representin’ SCW as its stop champion. Vinnie may have held the title once before, and be may very well hold it again, but that time is not now, or anytime soon. Maybe he should take the time to team up with his buddy Bill’s wife Bea, and go after the Mixed Tag titles. Because as long as I have a say, Vinnie won’t get his hands on the World Heavyweight Championship.
I have no doubt he’ll come at me with nothin’ but respect. Even before this whole attitude change, he always did. But even with that respect, I ain’t gonna let me guard down. I ain’t gonna give Vinnie an opportunity to beat me and move up to challenge what I’ve been bustin me arse fer. Just like he’s a changed fella, so am I and I’m ready to prove that while Vinnie may be on a roll right now, he’s about to fall way back down to the bottom. They aren’t gonna be talkin’ about how good Vinnie’s been since he’s been back after this. No...they’re gonna talk about the statement I’m gonna make and how serious I am. Because I’ll be damned if I’m gonna let what happened against Agostino, happen against Vinnie.
I’m done bein’ looked at as the Most Hated. That was the old O’Malley. And while I was also voted as Most Improved, there are two that woulda been more meaningful. Future Star...and Man of The Year. Jack Washington was considered Future Star, and while he may not be the World Heavyweight Champ at the moment, he could very well make his way to bein’ Man of The Year. And I have to stop him. I have to stop Kris Ryans.
Me. Not Vinnie. Because I’ve got issues that need to be settled against both Jack and Kris, and I ain’t gonna let Vinnie be a roadblock. This shite has gone on long enough as it is, and I’m gonna show Mark and Christian just how big of a draw either one of those possibilities would be. They won’t be able to deny it much longer.
I hope Vinnie is ready. I hope he understands that this one...it ain’t personal. It’s just business, because the bosses, despite what they might say, they want to have me prove them wrong. They know...they know that when it comes to either me or Vinnie...the answer is me. O’Malley. The GO Gym graduate. Not the mentally unstable cactus lover out to prove he’s not crazy anymore.
2020 in SCW fer me ended on a sour note.
2021 begins on a high note.
And it only gets better from there!
