[Christian Underwood]

Please post all roleplays here! Have fun and good luck!

[Alexandra Calaway]

The Wedding
McKinney Estate
Olympia,Washington

After spending the night at the hotel, Alexandra stood in the lobby waiting for LJ to come pick her up for the wedding. When he arrived and stepped out of the car in a suit she found it hard to speak, biting the inside of her lip. She smiled and stepped towards the car.

“Hello handsome. Well well, look at you.”  The suit, that smile, caused Alexandra’s heart to flutter a bit. She tried to keep her composure and walked towards him, wrapping her arms around him softly. She couldn’t help but smile at him.

“Hello love, you look beautiful..” She felt his arms wrap around her and pull her in for a hug. The two lingered in that hug for a while, enjoying the closeness. “Well then, shall we get going?”  He motioned towards the car. “Don’t want to be late for my brother's wedding.”

“No, we definitely don’t want to do that. The last thing we need is to show up late.”  She let out a soft giggle before walking towards the car with him. “Don’t want them thinking we were late because of other reasons.”

He led her to the car and opened the passenger door for her, she kissed his cheek as she slipped inside, getting situated. The dress she chose, with Miles' approval of course, a yellow, blue and gold number, something that she felt positively beautiful in. Once inside the car, he shut the door and then joined her inside. She couldn’t help but smile at him. As they drove towards the McKinney Estate, he took her hand in his and drove with his other hand. She smiled at their hands touching before she tried to hide the rosy tint that had stolen her cheeks. About twenty minutes later the two arrived at the McKinney Estate and parked, before walking hand in hand towards the spot where the ceremony would be held.  She smiled seeing Miles and saying hello, before the man disappeared and LJ went with him.

The ceremony was beautiful and she found it hard to not tear up. Not because of sadness or longing for a moment like that of her own, but because she was happy to see two people she absolutely adored getting married. The tears were because it was beautiful and weddings are a place where people normally cry happy tears right. After the happy couple were finally one, the party moved to the big white tent where the reception would commence. Alexandra walked again with LJ, seeing him smiling and happy. The meal was served and toasts were given.  Standing up Alexandra clinked her glass and smiled over at Miles and Carter.

“I wanted to take a small moment to give both Carter and Miles all the love and joy that they deserve. I’m so glad to see the two of you finally taking the leap and stepping forward together in life, love and happiness. You two have been a rock for me since I came to Sin City Wrestling. Miles we went from opponents, to friends, to being able to stand here today and tell you both how happy I am for you two. And to Carter, I know we have a rocky friendship, at first you didn't trust me and I understand. But when I look at you two, I see two people who were made for each other. A couple who belongs together. I can see how much you love each other. So from my family to yours, I wish you both the happiest and longest marriage. To always find solace and joy in each other. To face the dark times together and know that with the strength you both possess that everything will work out. To Miles and Carter.”

She raised her glass toasting them both before sitting back down. She smiled seeing LJ looking at her.

“What?” She giggled.  “Didn’t think I had it in me.”

“No, I know you did, angel. I just, that was really sweet.” He leaned towards her while he spoke.

“I am a hopeless romantic at heart.” She shrugged her shoulders a little. The music that had been playing lightly in the background, usually signaling that they wanted to have the guest get up and mingle and enjoy the evening.

It wasn’t until the slow beat of Taylor Swift’s ‘Lover’ starts to play that the crowd couple’s up including Miles and Carter. It’s at that point, LJ shedded his jacket and pushed his chair back.

“Dance with me?”  He stood and offered his hand.

“Wait a minute, you dance?” Alexandra hadn’t expected that. But LJ kept surprising her. Just when she thought she had him figured out, he surprised her again.

“Of course I do. Don’t all great warriors know how to dance?” He smirked and she nodded, standing to take his hand.

“You’re right.” She gave him a soft smile and they headed for the dance floor.

The two joined the others who were dancing out on the floor, a slow song played and she smiled up at LJ. LJ held her close, the two looking at each other’s eyes. Softly singing the words to the song, she smiled a little. Something about being at Miles' wedding, dancing with LJ, being his date, it felt right. With everything that had been going wrong in her life, she had the chance to be happy. Despite the thoughts of her upcoming match, she pushed those thoughts deep down and would deal with them later. Right now, she was living in the moment. At this moment, there was nothing around but her and LJ. The world, everything going on, other than this moment was the last thing on her mind. She focused on him, swaying to the music.

“What are you thinking about love?” He leaned down to whisper in her ear.

“Just being here with you. Getting to see Miles and Carter achieve their happily ever after.” She took a deep breath.

“Well love the night is still young. There’s still so much more to enjoy.” He smiled and pulled her tightly against him.

The two remained in their embrace as the music continued to play throughout the night. Alexandra’s eyes were only for him and it seemed that his were for her only as well. The party raged on late into the evening. Drinks, dancing and fun conversation for all. Here’s to the rest of their lives!

Truth Be Told
Resort Hotel
Olympia, Washington

A camera came up on Alexandra who was at her resort she booked for the few nights she’d be in town for Miles and Carter's wedding. It was her last night there and she was going to use this time wisely. She turned to look at the camera, soaking in all that had happened. The losses, the wedding, being Lyle Kasey Jr’s date to his brother’s wedding, all of the things that had been leading up to what could be one of the biggest weeks of her life. The Summer Xxxtreme cruise. She remembered last year's match, how she managed to pull off a win against Bobbie Dahl to retain her Bombshell Roulette Championship. This time however, she was walking into the event, titleless. She planned to walk out with the title on her shoulder, no matter what she needed to do.

“There’s so much that could be said right now. Yes, I’ve lost several matches over the last few weeks. But that’s the thing, when you lose like that, it’s meant to show you what you need to work on. I underestimated what Victoria would do, I lost my focus. I won’t even get started on my match in PWS: Legacy against Cleo, another member of the Lyons Den. But you see, that’s the thing. Most people after this many losses would tuck tail and run, yet here I am still standing. Even after losing the mixed tag match. Despite busting our asses for it and being one of the best mixed tag teams in this company, Miles and I couldn’t pull it off. I’m not mad about it. I’m fired up. I’m ready to walk back into that ring and walk out as the Bombshell Roulette Champion.”

She took a moment to pause, enjoying the view from the hotel.

“You see, I know there were so many people who were hoping I’d pack up and run off. But you see, that’s really NOT the kind of person I am. There are a great many who would love to see me break down and crumble under the thought of my upcoming match. If anything, those who are in this match with me, should be worried about it. I’m coming in firing on all cylinders. I respect you ladies, you’ve all busted your ass to make it to this point, but it’s time to realize one simple thing. When that match is over, I’m walking away with the title. I keep saying no matter what and I’ve come to realize that we all feel the same way. I’ve been in the ring with each one of you.”

Another quick pause, she runs her fingers through her hair, still full of waves, post Miles’ wedding. She had a smile on her face, thinking about how happy they looked, despite Miles and Alexandra losing their mixed tag match against Kayla Richards and Finn Whelan. She took a deep breath and began to speak again.

“Bella Madison, you are the one competitor who I hold in the highest of regards. We’ve faced off against each other before and you pushed me to the limit the entire time. In the end, we both knew we could have pushed each other over that cliff and we did it. You took the win that night, you showed everyone here that you are every bit of the woman you say you are. There’s one thing I know for sure. If I don’t walk out with that title tonight, I’ll make damn sure you do. But the question my dear is this, are you one hundred percent in this match? Are you willing to go the distance it will take? Ultimate X over a pool of water? Are you sure you are more than willing to take the shot and win the Bombshell Roulette Championship? Are you fully focused on this? Are you willing to take out Mercedes, Victoria and myself to achieve that goal? I know you are more than capable of doing it, your talent speaks for itself. Hell like I said, you’ve beaten me before. I’m sure if you put your heart into it, you could beat all three of us.”

Bella was talented, strong and took no quarter. She stepped into that ring and showed no mercy. Friend or Foe, it didn’t matter, Bella worked to show everyone that she was the best every time she stepped into the ring. She could win this whole match, just like Victoria or Alexandra. It was any woman's game at this point.

“Bella, you have so much potential if you don’t get in your own way. I think that you are more than capable of pulling out the win. If anyone other than Victoria is my biggest challenge it’s you. You actually have a win over me, just as Victoria does. The only person in this match who doesn’t, well, we all know who that is. Just promise me this Bella, you’ll bring your best. Promise me that you will do whatever it takes to win. So that we both aren’t disappointed. I know that you will though. I know that you have a fire inside you that no one else in this match can quench. Use it and burn through the competition. Walk out of this match as the Bombshell Roulette Champion.”

She took a deep breath, trying to find the right things to say to Mercedes now. The woman had managed to weasel her way into yet again ANOTHER championship match, despite having not been on the up and up the last time she faced Alexandra.

“Mercedes Vargas, look at you. A member of the Hall of Fame, one of the most decorated champions to ever grace Sin City Wrestling. Once again we will be facing off in combat, this time with two other women that I have faced and studied. You have the history, the legacy and yet, the fire just isn’t there. I’ve seen that multiple times over. Every single time I see your name on the card, I look for you to pull off a win that is fitting for a Hall Of Famer and I never see it. If I recall, I believe when we faced off the last time you said something about me letting my family, my friends, and the fans down. From where I’m sitting, it seems that’s not the case my dear, I’ve proven time and time again that I am more than capable of handling whatever comes my way. And unlike some people around here, I don’t make excuses when I lose. I face things head on and I keep moving forward. I’m coming off the heels of two really bad losses here in Sin City. I'm fired up and ready to take each one of you to make sure I am the one who walks out of the match with the Bombshell Roulette Championship. Where most people would crumble and disappear into the background after multiple losses, it's not my style to do that. Just look back at my history here in Sin City Wrestling. My losses and my wins are practically tied. But after each loss, comes a historic win. And this one, will be another. You can count on it.”

She took a moment to pause, still not done with Mercedes yet. She had a bit more to say, things she didn’t get to say last time the two faced off.

“You see, you posed the question once before, that once my career was done, who would remember me? Plenty. My career was over once before. I had an injury that very few ever come back from. I was out of action for three years. In that time, people never forgot me. Then when my body was ready I got into the ring, I trained harder than ever before, twice as hard as anyone else I knew. And I got results. I got back into the ring, major promotions sought me out and soon, just a few years later, I got the invite from my amazing friend Miles Kasey about this place called Sin City Wrestling and here I am well into my second year in the company, I’ve been the Bombshell Roulette Champion twice and had a shot at several other titles. I didn’t make excuses for those losses then and I won't make excuses for my future losses, they come and go in this industry. The real prize is those fans. You may not see it, but seeing people wearing my merch, hearing them chant my name, THAT'S what drives me. So the real question here is, who will remember you baby?”

And that brought her to Victoria, the woman who had beaten her and took the Bombshell Roulette Championship away from Alexandra. The woman who she was focused on taking down in this match, getting her out early, was Alexandra’s goal now.

“Well, Well, hello your majesty.” She gave a bow, flourishing it a bit. “How wonderful of you to grace us with your presence at this glorious event. Summer Xxxtreme XII on the Princess Cruise Line.” She gave a soft little giggle. “Damn Lioness, where is your pride now? Vincent is gone, Alex is more than annoyed with you and Eddie seems so fed up with you that he’s ready to tear you apart before any of us can get ahold of you. Oh yes my dear, I know. You seem to forget that Alex and I are close. Where were you when Antithesis abandoned him? Oh that’s right, you didn’t care. You had yourself so wrapped up in your own bullshit that you couldn’t be there for your pride. Like a real lioness would, hell just like a Queen would be there for her Kingdom. Some leader you are, such a good Queen. You see there’s something you fail to realize majesty. A Queen can’t lead if there’s no one left in her Kingdom. Go on, gloat, brag, talk about how you managed to best me in the ring. But you fail to realize, you didn’t defeat me. It would take WAY more than a loss to end my career or my drive. I guess you didn’t learn something in all your time at the Lyon’s Den, perhaps you didn’t take the time to listen to Cleo, to Alex, hell to anyone other than the sound of your own voice you narcissistic bitch. Because if you had taken the time to listen to them, your trainers, hell people backstage here in Sin City Wrestling, you would know that you shouldn’t count me out.”

She tried to pause, taking the moment to calm down. She could feel her pulse racing fast. She was worked up now, she was firing on all cylinders and ready to take out everyone to get her title back. Coming back after that many losses was never easy, but she was ready.

“Ah good Queen Victoria, you ran your mouth pretty hardcore about me when we last faced off, didn’t you? Questioning everything about me, my choices in friends and tag team partners. You ran your mouth about shit that you have no understanding of. You see, you talk a big game and you got all these people believing your bullshit. But we both know that underneath it all, you are a scared little girl, playing in the big time. You talk about the voices calling you the savior, that you are here to lead this company into a new era huh? The era of people running their mouths about things they don’t know. You want to sit here and run your mouth about how you are going to make me tap into the darker parts of me, to go do the darkside. Honey, that song and dance has been overplayed time and time again. That’s the oldest trick in the book baby girl. You see, you are a lot like I used to be. I used to walk around talking shit, running my mouth about how I was a Queen and I could beat anyone and everyone all the time. I got that giant chip on my shoulder and guess what sweetheart, that chip got knocked off real quick. You aren’t a Queen either sweetheart. You won a competition that the real QUEENS of Sin City weren’t even a part of. You got that title on a technicality my dear sweet little Lioness. You aren’t a Queen and you damn sure aren’t my worst nightmare. So you got a win over me, join the long list of people who have. It doesn’t make you special. But what it does make you is a fool. You see, that win, fueled me. I won’t sit here and say that Cleo had anything to do with your win either. Yes I was sore, but I was prepared to face you. You see this time however, I know your methods. I know what you are all about. This time, when we are in that Ultimate X match, you won’t be able to pull your antics. I plan on being the one that is holding that title high at the end of the match. You want the darkside, you want to see the darkness inside me. You got it, your majesty. See you on the ship.”

She turns and starts to walk away, stopping just a few steps away from the camera. The sun starts to go down and she takes a moment to smile at the camera.

“Bella and Mercedes, I’m sorry for what you are about to experience. Just know that it’s neither of you’s fault. If you want to see the harbinger of your doom, the one to blame is Victoria Lyons. Because she wants the darkness and you all are going to get to experience it. Because in the end, you can defy fate.”

She turns around and walks towards woods wanting to spend some time in nature to prepare for the long road ahead.

FADE TO BLACK

Preparing for the trip
Calaway Estate
Dallas, Texas

Back home after a week away visiting with Miles and Carter for the wedding and her own personal sabbatical into the woods of Olympia Washington, she was packing for the cruise, knowing they would soon be setting sail on one of the greatest weeks at sea. The lead up to Summer Xxxtreme was a fun experience and this time, there was none of the hang ups of saying goodbye to friends, family and loved ones. No worries about being away from her daughter. Ashlynn was away at Summer Camp, Alexandra’s family was on their own vacation and her friends would be on board the ship as well. She had just finished packing up the last suitcase when her phone rang. She picked it up, smiling at the lock screen before seeing her daughter's image pop up on the screen. 

“Hey Ash, how’s camp?” She smiled listening to her daughter on the other end.

“Oh it’s great, there’s so much going on. How was the Wedding? Did you send Carter and Miles all my love and tell them hi for me?” She sounded excited.

“Of course I did sweetie. They said thank you. Miles was kind of bummed you couldn’t be there for the wedding, but he says they’ll see you after camp.  By the way, you never told me about it. How’s the preparations for the play going?”

“That’s wonderful. Oh it’s going, you know what it’s like mom. I’ve been working really hard getting my stuff done.” She heard her daughter laugh softly.  “Did you see LJ at the wedding?”

“Yes I did. We are actually seeing each other now.” She sighed softly. “Look, right now, there’s so much more for you to focus on. Stop worrying about your dear old mother’s life, think about your own. You are just a kid. Focus on having fun.” She laughed.

“I just want you to be as happy as I am.” Ashlynn spoke up. “You are always so focused on making me happy that you never think about what makes you happy. Or even trying to be happy.”

“I am happy. I have to think about you and put you first. You are my little girl.” Alexandra leaned against the table while she spoke to her daughter. “Right now you and this match are my main focus.”

“Oh goodness.. You must be bored if I’m what you think about.” Ashlynn rolled her eyes.

“Oh hush you.  I’m happy. I’m comfortable with how things are right now.”  Alexandra smiled. “Besides, I'm about to go on the Summer Xxxtreme cruise. I have to win back my Bombshell Roulette Title.”

“Yeah I know, that lion king wanna be took it. You’ll kick her ass mom, just like you will Mercedes and Bella.”  Alexandra shook her head, listening to Ashlynn.

“So tell me more about this play you are doing..” Alexandra tried to change the subject.

She listened as Ashlynn started telling her all about it. The conversation lasts well into the next hour as Alexandra gets her suitcases into the car and makes sure everything at the estate is in order, before she and her daughter get off the phone and Alexandra heads off for the airport to go to Los Angeles to catch the cruise ship. Summer Xxxtreme XII was going to be a night to remember. The Queenslayer would topple the Queen.

[Victoria Lyons]

It was going to be great, Victoria couldn’t wait for the celebration at The Lyons Den to commemorate her Bombshell Roulette Championship victory. Hopefully Alex got her that Black Cherry Chocolate Cake she loved so much.

She approached the doors to The Lyons Den with pride, and pushed them open, but nobody noticed? That didn’t seem right. Surely they had planned a surprise party for her, this didn’t make sense, looking around she saw her cousin Alexander, and approached him with excitement.

“Alex!” she declared, “I did it! Look, I beat Alexandra Calaway, and now I’m the SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion, AND their Queen!”

He congratulated her, and turned to go back to his workout.

“So, where is it?” she asked, only getting a blank stare, and a few blinks in response.

“Where is what?” asked Alex

“My cake” said Victoria, “My victory calls for a celebration!”

“A cake? Are you serious?” asked Alexander

Victoria couldn’t believe it, people were supposed to be celebrating. Alex had to be mad because Alexandra is his friend, but he denied that being the case, blaming Victoria’s attitude as reason for trying to distance from her.

He kept ranting on about something about Icarus and how he was the only one left to catch her if she crashed and burned or something, but she was really only half listening, he even suggested she might be a fluke, and that was certainly not the case and got her attention back/

“I AM NOT A FLUKE.” Victoria roared

“Then stop talking to me, and go prove it.” Alex replied.

“You want me to prove it? Just watch me then.” Victoria snapped back.

The two glared daggers into each others eyes, before Victoria took a few steps back.

“Just watch me.” she reiterated, before stomping off on her own to one of the schools back hangout rooms, where she plopped down on a couch, alone.

Vincent was gone, Alex was more concerned with his own career now. All she wanted was a celebration, but nobody wanted to celebrate with her, not even those she was close with.
She did have one thing, she had the SCW Bombshell Roulette Championship, she had earned her right to be champion in spite of all of them.  All the haters, the non-believers, she had made fools of them all! They can have their unkind words, but nobody was ever going to take Rue from her. It was hers now, and she would do whatever she needed to to make sure Rue always stayed with her.

She was still disappointed about the cake, there really should have been a cake ready for her. But she could be merciful, and was willing to let it pass this time. For now, she layed back on the couch, with Rue draped across her chest, as she pondered her big match at Summer XXXtreme XII.

__________

The scene opens with Victoria sitting on a lavish throne, crown still perched on her head and now a shiny new Roulette Championship draped across her chest, which of course means that ever confident smirk is still on her face.

“I told you so.” she said, “I told you all I was going straight to the top. I told you I had the vision to get there, and nobody listened. Well, look at me now. I’ve been here a mere weeks and I’m already your queen AND Bombshell Roulette Champion. Nobody helped me with anything, all I got was hateful comments thrown my way. Well take a good fucking look at me now Sheeple, fucking look at me now.”

She pauses for a moment, so everyone can in fact, take a good fucking look.

“Do you see me Bella?” she grinned, "I know you want nothing more than to rip me limb from limb, for what I made Carter and Miles do. It still bugs you doesn’t it? Even though they pulled one over on me, you can’t let that anger go can you? But you know what? That’s a good thing!"

She keeps her grin, and nods at the camera.

“You should learn to embrace it. Let it consume you, because in the end it will make you stronger.”  said Victoria, “That’s advice from a queen and a champion, you would be wise to listen, as would everyone. My success doesn’t just happen. I learned to embrace my own anger, I let it make me stronger and now I sit here before you as your superior, and there is not a damn thing you can do about it. Perhaps it’s time to open your eyes and LISTEN, then you can be as successful as I am.”

She sits there, beaming with pride, as she continues.

“Now someone like Mercedes Vargas is very celebrated.” Victoria continues, “She’s made a name for herself all over the world. But now she’s in the twilight of her career. You’re old news Mercedes, and the truth is you just don’t have it anymore. You might be the OG Queen, but I’m the queen now and you are just a washed up old relic of the past. Just hang it up Mercedes, that’s my advice from one queen to another. It’s for your own good.”

Victoria pauses for a moment, before continuing onward.

“And of course, the former champion Alexandra Calaway.” Victoria continued, “I do apologize for having to take your championship. But I have my own legacy to build, and friend of the family or not, I will go through who I have to to build that legacy. Look, Alexandra. I like you I do, but my advice for you once again, is to rethink your alliances.”

She shakes her head, looking somewhat disappointed.

“I’m telling you. Miles Kasey is holding you back.” said Victoria, “You’re better than he is, and you deserve better than Miles Kasey. I want the mean Alexandra, I want the one my cousin Alexander called his dark queen. Since you started buddying up with Miles Kasey and his little clique, you’ve become a little soft.”

Victoria grins, she’s trying to get under Alexandra’s skin a little here.

“I want  you to get truly dangerous, like we both know you can.” said Victoria, “I was really hoping you’d capture the mixed tag titles, but Miles really screwed it up for you. Hopefully you’ll see one day that he is the weak link, and he’s making you weaker by association. When that day happens, don’t say I never warned you. Cut the bad fruit off, make the sacrifice and kick Miles Kasey to the curb, then you’ll be bale to focus on yourself once more and embrace being the dark queen we both know you are. Sans a crown of course.”

She grins, and laughs slightly.

“I’ve become one of the most hated, and despised people in the locker room.” she continued, “But you can’t deny success. I am the fastest rising Bombshell in SCW history. Even after all the abuse I’ve suffered since I arrived here. All the hateful comments, I never let it break me. I knew I was right the entire time, and now I have the crown and championship to prove it.”

She adjusts her crown, and rubs her championship proudly, as she sits acting like she’s the face of innocence, and everyone else is just bullying her.

“I’ve tried to be nice, I tried to help people.” said Victoria, “Harper Mason has a new confidence, people see her in a different light now because she stayed strong in her handicap match. She stayed in the fight, and even thought she lost, did she not gain a lot of respect that night? Miles and Carter, while they didn’t do as their queen commanded, actually did come closer together. See, the more I thought about it, their little Shakespere act was a result of them needing to come together and figure something out. And they did, and they did it together thus making their relationship stronger. But no thanks sent my way, just middle fingers and rude comments on X.”

She shakes her head.

“Whatever, I have my crown, and I have Rue, sweet Rue.” she said holding up her championship, and looking at it as if looking at her reflection in it.

“You’re all mine Rue.” she said, “My beautiful sweet girl. I will protect you. I won’t let them take you away. You’re in safe hands now, you’re under the queens protection. No harm will come to you my precious. I love you Rue.”

With a smile, she gave “Rue” or the Bombshell Roulette Championship to anyone else a kiss.

“She’s mine now ladies.” Victoria said to the camera, as she held Rue, petting the championship  like a cat. “You can’t have her. I refuse to let you take her from me. I will protect her just as a lioness would protect her cubs, or maybe you’d prefer the mama bear analogy. Either way, you get fucking mauled so you get the point. You try and take my sweet Rue from me, and you’re going to get hurt. I have no real alliances here, even my own kin hates me. So what do I care what happens to anyone else? It’s just me and Rue, and we’re going to be together for a long time, and together we will open your eyes to the truth. Be prepared ladies, be very prepared.”

She giggles and smirks at the camera, as it slowly fades to black.

_________


There was still a few days, before Victoria would have to board the Princess Cruise and get ready to defend the Bombshell Roulette Championship. For now, she was sauntering about, looking for someone to bother, and she found him. Her favorite person to pester, and another who was getting ready for the same cruise, her cousin and fellow SCW superstar “Unbreakable” Eddie Lyons.

“What is it now Victoria?” Eddie asked annoyed, wishing she would just leave him alone.

“So rude.” Victoria replied, “I just wanted to see how you were doing, are you ready for the cruise, dear cousin?"

“I’m really just trying to focus on my match.” Eddie replied, “I want that Roulette Championship back.”

Victoria smiled, and looked down at her own championship.

“They do look nice don’t they?” she said, only slightly mocking in her tone. “I hope you do win, because then we both will have our divisions Roulette Championships. Imagine, The Lyons Den will rule the ENTIRE Roulette Division.”

“Well..I can’t deny, that would be pretty cool.” Eddie said, “But I still want nothing to do with you. You already cost me one match, and you keep coming around throwing your veiled insults at me. Don’t you have anything better to do?”

“Maybe.” she grinned, “But I’m bored and Vincent left on his weird boat trip, Alex seems to only have time for PWS now, so you’re the only family I have around here.”

“Of course.” Eddie sighed.

“We have the chance of a lifetime Eddie.” Victoria continued, “We can’t mess this up. I need you to win for our school. When that cruise ends, I want us BOTH to walk in with Roulette Championships.”

“Look Victoria, I fully intend on becoming a two time Roulette Champion.” Eddie said, “But I’m  not doing it for you. I’ll do it for the school, and I’ll do it for myself but I don’t need any sort of demands from you.”

“Just don’t screw this up.” said Victoria

“And what about you, is your win really such a forgone conclusion?” asked Eddie

“Don’t you worry about that.” replied Victoria, “Rue is going nowhere, those bitches keep wanting to doubt me, but my success speaks for itself.”

“Rue?” asked Eddie

Victoria motioned to her championship.

“....Right.” Eddie replied, “Of course you named it.”

“Her.” Victoria replied.

“Whatever, you want to name your championship, more power to you.” Eddie replied, “You want me to win my Roulette Championship? Then let me do my thing so I can do it, and you worry about defending…..Rue.”

“I am protecting her.” replied Victoria

“...Right.” said Eddie, trying hard to not roll his eyes, “Anyway I’m done here.  I need to find an empty ring, see if Cleo wants to go a few rounds before you and I have to get on that cruise. After all, I have a championship to win right?”

Eddie smirks right back at Victoria, and heads off to do his own training, and focus on his own championship.

“He better bring your brother home Rue.” said Victoria, “He better.”

_________

An open field opens the scene, where three scarecrow effigys are sitting, with the imagery of Bella Madison, Alexandra Calaway and Mercedes Vargas.

“Someone close to me tried to warn me about the story of Icarus.” we can hear the voice of Victoria speak from off-screen. “But ladies, I won’t be the one getting burned.”

Its then we see her walk into frame, with her crown and championship proudly displayed for the world to see.

“Such a silly fable that Icarus.” she said, “I do hope none of you stoop to such comparisons because my wings will soar forever, and I’ll fly as close to the sun as I please, in fact the sun should worry about being too close to ME.”

She laughs to herself.

“SCW is my world now.” she continued, “You all just need to learn to deal with it. The proof is in the pudding, fate rewards the bold and none of you are as bold as I am, and that is why I will continue to be the Bombshell Roulette champion far into the future, smashing all records of the past. Including yours Miss Mercedes.”

As she speaks, she turns to address the effigy of Mercedes.

“I will break your record.” she said, “I will hold this championship longer than you did, in fact my SINGLE reign will not only surpass your single reign record, but  all of your reigns combined. I’m just that good, and as your undefeated queen and Bombshell Roulette Champion I am waiting for someone to prove me wrong, because I hear it all the time how everyone wants to shut me up, but try as they might nobody has been able to. I have Diamond Steele trying to throw insults at me on X, acting like she wants to take a shot at the queen but she still seems too afraid to actually pounce, so she just whispers insults from afar.”

Victoria shakes her head.

“Do you think you will?” questioned Victoria “The old washed up relic of the past? A formidable warrior you once were I’m sure Mercedes, but we all have to admit when it’s time to hang it up. I know it’s hard to hear, but your time is up Mercedes, it was up a long time ago. You have to be the least impressive hall of famer I’ve seen. But I will say I’m intrigued to see what the hall of famer has to offer, and it will be a great chance to once again prove to everyone that I am the new dominant bitch around here. If I have to retire you for good, Mercedes, then I won’t hesitate a moment to do so.”

She turns her attention and steps over to the Bella Madison effigy.

“I do hope the boys had a nice ceremony. Really wish I could have been there. My invite must have got lost in the mail.” she said with a shit-eating grin., “Tell them Queen Victoria sends her regards. As far as your concerned, well you won’t be taking Rue away from me. Why would you be able to? You just don’t have enough killer instinct, you can’t take things to a truly dark place than can be hard for…some of us…to return from. The Head Lyoness is going to crush the Hardcore Pixie, and make you realize how simply average you really are.”

She smirks at the effigy before moving on to Calaway.

“You are the only one.” said Victoria, “You are the only one who has a snowballs chance in hell of taking Rue away from me, back into your arms for the third time. But I’m going to have to do everything in my power to prevent that. Why? Because she doesn’t want you anymore Alexandra.”

Victoria looks down at the championship on her shoulder.

“It’s okay Rue, she’s not real.” she whispered. “She can’t hurt you, and I won’t let the real one either.”

Victoria turned her attention back to the Calaway effigy.

“See.” she growled, “Rue doesn’t want to go back to you, she wants to go with those other to bitches even less. She wants to stay with me, and so I have to fight against all of you trying to take her from me. SHE DOESN’T WANT TO GO WITH YOU!!!”

Victoria screams, pausing after as she breaths heavily.

“You failed your opportunity I gave you.” said Victoria, “You should be a mixed tag team champion right now, but you’re not. Because you don’t LISTEN. None of you do. Even with the proof right in front of you. Look at me, look at what I’ve already done. WHY WON’T ANYONE LISTEN?!?!”
[/b]
She turns away from the effigy, a mixture of disgust and annoyance on her face, as she grabs an unlit torch, and lights it with a lighter she pulls from her jean pocket. With a slow walk, she sets fire to each effigy, first Mercedes, then Bella, and finally Calaway. She turns back to the camera, facing it with all three engulfed in flames behind her.”

“I hope you’re all ready to get burned.” she said, “You’ll be okay, the waters below will extinguish your flames. Then however, you will be forced to look up at your queen, as she once again establishes herself as the new dominance in SCW. You will be forced to look at her STILL being the Bombshell Roulette Champion, and all you’ll be able to do is sit there and admit that I am better than each of you. I am your queen, I am your Bombshell Roulette Champion and my reign is forever.”

She holds her championship high, allowing the flames behind her to illuminate the scene, as it fades out to black.

__________

[BellaMadison]

~*~Let’s Go To A Wedding~*~
McKinney Residence
Olympia, WA

To say Bella and Mal’s jaws dropped when they pulled up in their rental on Tuesday evening for the rehearsal dinner for the wedding of Miles and Carter, it was a massive understatement. They both had seen pictures both shown by the boys and even on twitter but seeing it in person made it very obvious that those pictures did not do it justice.

With their outfits in tow, as well as Mal carrying Máire, they crossed the threshold of the house and Bella was immediately engulfed in a hug by Miles’ sister, Brianna. They hadn’t seen each other in what felt like forever, the duo quickly became friends actually following the forever-ago whatever it was between Bella and Miles and instead decided to to be just strictly friends even from all the distance between the two. Bri would introduce Bella to not only her husband Garrett but her young son Riley and in turn Bella introduced Bri to Mal and Máire and they started catching up as they worked their way into the house.

She got another engulfing hug from Mora Kasey the moment she entered into the living area who was sitting and chatting up with who she was assuming was Carter’s mother and grandmother, Mora took care of the introductions for Bella and of course they all got hugs around.

“The boys are upstairs helping the crew that already arrived. Bri, will you take Mal and Bella up and if you want we will gladly keep an eye out for your precious little one while you take care of that.” Mora said, offering her hands out to Máire who practically lunged at Miles’ mother. Máire was getting crowded anyways and was ready to be let down and explore herself, “Don’t worry, I’ve got plenty of practice with Riley so she’s in safe hands.”

“Thank you Mora. We shouldn’t be long but with that whole crew who knows.”

“It’s quite fine, you guys take your time.”

Máire looked at her momma and Bella blew her a kiss before she left the room which prompted Máire to follow with an open mouth but a blown kiss back. “Behave yourself little one.” Mal said as they followed Bri up the long and beautiful stairs, “This house is huge.”

“Yeah it was Carter’s father’s before he passed away. Left it to him in the will. I’ve been here since Monday and I’m still discovering new spots around here. It’s insane.” Bri said ascending the stairs, “Wait til you get up here and you’ll see the shot of the backyard where the ceremony will be tomorrow. The tent hasn’t been set up just yet, they’re about to though.”

And sure as they reached the second floor they stopped and Mal and Bella’s eyes grew wide with the picturesque window, “Holy-”

“I’ve seen some amazing views in my life but this...” Bella said, still trying to take it all in, “I get why he and Carter have been coming up here more often. THIS is what I would really like with wherever our next house is, babe.”

“Yeah well this one is already taken,” a voice with that damn British accent perked up, which caused Bella and Mal to turn with a start as they were still taking in the scenery to see Miles standing there, actually cleaned up instead of looking like he was slumming it for the evening, “Glad to see you guys made it.”

“Yeah well the airports are still insane after that outage last week.” Bella said as she gave Miles a big hug. “That and traveling anywhere with an almost 1 year old can prove to be tricky. Somehow even our bags made it, thankfully.”

“That is a really good thing, because we don’t have Mattie here to pull our asses out of the fire. Mal, man, thanks again for this.”

“It’s no problem, I’d pay to see Fenris in a tux.”

“To hell with the tux, what about the shoes? You should have seen the fire and hoops I had to go through, their super light, wide and almost a whole size bigger just to get him to wear the damn things and made him promise he’d wear them for the ceremony.” Miles said laughing, running his hands through those roughed up curls.

“Why did you just go with some fashionable slides?” Bella asked with a smirk on her face.

“Because I wasn’t about to have an argument with Carter in regards to K’s toes being out in the ceremony. Trust me, it was worth the argument with K to save the argument with my soon-to-be husband.” Miles nodded behind him, “Let’s get your outfits hung up, I’m sure dinner is almost all done.”

“We may need to pry Máire away from mum with a crowbar, by the way. Riley’s eyes lit up around her, so I have a feeling I’m about to have a 2 year old asking to be big brother eventually.” Bri said, following the whole crew into the room, “She really is beautiful, Bella. Is she walking yet?”

Mal hangs his bag first, “Not yet, but it’s only a matter of time. She’s been cruising every piece of furniture for almost a month now.”

“She’s about to be 1, right?”

“A few days after your birthday,” Bella smiled.

“Yeah, I was really hoping to win that pool when it came to picking her birthday.” Miles smirked before a crash was heard from the adjoining bathroom, “What the-? K? You alright, mate?”

The door gets damn near ripped open and we just see Kristjan flinging the shoes across the room, “Forget it, Kasey. It’s not happening.”

The 4 of them just stand there staring at him and Miles is the first to say, “That’s fine but you are going to have to cross the hall and into the room with Carter and his crew and tell him and then come back and tell me how that works out for you.”

“Gladly!” Kristjan says as he stomps out of the room. At that point Bella settles herself on the back of the couch with Mal on one side and Miles on the other, and with the door open and there is suddenly a whole lot of yelling....started off as K’s baritone and then it is without a shadow of a doubt that Carter is fully lighting into him. You hear a couple of ‘buts’ from K...and Carter continues cutting him off. Then it’s silence...pure silence and a slamming of a door. Followed by more silence and then the sound of footsteps, and K just coming back into the room, finding both shoes and setting them down gently.

“Well?”

K just looks at the three of them, “Shut up.”

~~The Next Day~~

“BEST BITCH IN THE HOOOOOOOOUSE!!!” Bella lets out as she steps out of the makeshift changing area in her fully customized tux that is similar to the guys up top but instead of pants she has a shimmering black skirt with a just enough of an opening to see the spiked black heel boots that she’s wearing.

All three of the men turn and smile at her as she does a little turn on the spot. Mal smiles and steps over towards her, “You look amazing, mo grá.” before he plants a kiss right on her lips.

“Bring it down love birds,” K barks, fixing up his tie.

As Mal smirks and Bella looks at her husband with a smile, “He’s grumpy because I beat him to the last chocolate chip waffle this morning. I do love this tux on you though, babe. You always knew how to wear a suit.”

“Bells, can you help me a moment? I seem to be having issues with these cufflinks.” Miles asked almost frantic, “Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate your da allow me to borrow these for the day but damn.”

“Hold on.” Bella sighs, walking over and holding Miles arm up, “I remember the day my dad wore these. Grandpa gave them to him as a surprise for the wedding. Figured it would cover the something borrowed from us.”

“It is appreciated, just a bit of a pain,” Miles grumbled. “I feel like an invalid.”

Bella smiles and gets the cufflinks finished up, “Let me guess, nerves?”

Miles looks and holds up his other hand and it’s trembling, “It’s not butterflies, it’s a herd of elephants.”

“Ah yes, that’s a familiar feel.” Mal piped in, “When I went to surprise Bella with the wedding, standing there seeing her looking beautiful in that gown, felt like I was going to lose everything then and there.”

Bella smiles, “Same, when I turned and saw you in that tux of yours.”

Miles looks between them, “So you both were nervous?”

“I think if we had planned it all the way through, it would have been worse for me to be honest.” she said as she finished up.

“But they say anything nerve wracking like that makes it worth it.” Mal said, taking her hand, “What about you, K?” That causes Miles to laugh, before he’s even able to answer and Mal looks confused, “Did I say something funny?”

“Oh, it’s not my place to say,” Miles says and nods to Kristjan who is looking like he is not amused at this moment.

“K, you are married right? To David?”

“Yes but....No there were no nerves. We were drunk and thought that Elvis chapel on the Strip was some dumb tourist attraction. We got back to the condo and we tell this asshole, Ben and my brother and well, we made a realization that it actually happened,” That causes Miles and Bella to laugh and Malachi gives him a look. “One word out of you and your ass will be back in New York before you are!”


~*~(Meg’s Part Title)~*~
Back to New York for a few

It was the Saturday following the wedding, and the O’Connells were now back in New York, reunited with their beloved daughter. While Máire had been present during the ceremony (providing a little babbling commentary much to the delight of the gathered crowd), she was taken back to New York by Laura and Nick while Mal and Bella stayed behind for the reception and the day-after festivities since they were part of the wedding party.

The little family decided to enjoy the beautiful summer day and have a picnic in nearby Central Park, bringing along their energetic husky Luka for some exercise. Mal had Luka off-leash since they were in an approved area, and he was tossing a ball for Luka to run after. Bella was relaxing on the blanket watching Máire (and trying to keep the nearly one-year old from eating fistfuls of grass), but she couldn’t shake the feeling that they were being watched. It was silly, she thought, since New York was such a massive city and they were (somewhat) well-known, so it would stand to reason that there would be eyes on them at any given time. But the feeling made her a little uneasy, so she tried to glance around without being too obvious. She spotted someone on a bench some fifty feet away who seemed to be particularly interested in their family, and it set alarm bells off in her head. She slowly turned her head back around and caught eyes with Mal. “I don’t want to seem paranoid or anything, but I think there’s someone watching us.”

Immediately she could see Mal shift into ultra-defense mode, his eyes narrowing as his gaze swept around. “Where?”

She subtly nodded her head backwards, towards the bench. “Guy over there, on the bench. Super blonde hair.”

Mal’s eyes darted over her shoulder, but instead of the fierce scowl she was expecting on his face, it started off somewhat searching, and then all of a sudden he broke out into a huge grin. “No fuckin’ way…” he said, immediately making a beeline over to the bench. Bella watched him go in utter confusion, one eyebrow raised.

She watched as Mal approached the man, and after a few quick words that she was too far away to hear, the two men embraced in a tight hug. Now, she was more confused than ever as she picked up Máire and approached the men.

“...what the hell are you doing here?” Mal said, the smile still on his face.

The blonde man shrugged his shoulders. “Ah, you know me, always going where the excitement is.” His accent was distinctly British, though it had a touch of something else that Bella couldn’t quite place. As she approached them, the blonde man’s eyes shot over to her. “And this must be the beautiful Bella I’ve seen so much of.” His grin was charming as he extended his hand towards her.

“Bells, this is my best mate Bodhi Bennett. Part of the crew from back home when we were wrestling across Europe.”

A glimmer of recognition sparked in Bella’s mind as she shifted Máire in her arms so that she could shake his hand. “Oh! You’re the one Mal talks about! I didn’t recognize you, he’s only shown me older pictures.”

“Yeah, I was just a scrawny kid back then,” Bodhi winked. “Not the handsome bloke you see before you today.”

Bella smiled, and Máire took the opportunity to let out a little squeal, her way of putting the attention back on her. Bodhi’s eyes immediately fixed on the little girl, and he smiled. “Ah, and the little princess herself! Gotta say Mal, she’s a little cutie.” He reached out and gently tickled her cheek, which sent the little girl into a fit of giggles. “Surprising since she’s got you for a daddy. Guess she gets all the cuteness from her mama.” He gave a cheeky wink to Bella, which made her giggle and Mal roll his eyes playfully.

“Yeah, yeah, laugh it up ya mug.” The group made their way back to the picnic set up. They all sat back down on the blanket, watching as Máire crawled around playing with some of her toys.

“So, how long are you in New York for, anyways?” Mal asked.

Bodhi gave a shrug of his shoulders. “Not really sure. I’m actually on a bit of a personal mission, and I was told that New York was the place to look. But I don’t wanna bore you with the details.” He waved a hand through the air. “But I could be persuaded to stick around a bit longer to catch up with my mate.”

“Well, we’re about to head west for a little bit. Bella’s got a huge match coming up in SCW.”

“Ah yeah. Heard about that place. Pretty wild. Having a show on a whole cruise ship? Definitely beats the pubs and back alley halls we used to compete in, eh?”

Mal laughed, clapping his hands together. “Yeah, where you were lucky if you even got paid, let alone leave without some weird rash.”

Bella laughed. “Oh, to have seen you in the good ol’ days.”

Mal snapped his fingers, looking over towards Bodhi. “Hey, just thought of something. We’re gonna be off on the cruise for pretty much all next week, what if you stay in the townhouse. Keep an eye on it for us, along with the pets?”

Bodhi rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Well, it would be nice to stay in an actual house instead of shacking up in these dodgy hotel rooms. You won’t mind?”

“I mean, if you’re OK with it, Bells?” Mal looked towards her. “Saves your parents from having to constantly run over to check on Luka and Salem, they can just keep Máire at their house.”

Bella nodded. “I’m OK with it.”

Bodhi flashed another charming smile. “Beautiful and generous, I’m truly grateful.I can see why Mal fell for you now. Just wondering how a gorgeous, intelligent girl like you fell for this grizzled git?” He pointed a thumb towards Mal, who promptly flipped him off while all three of them laughed together.


~*~Case In Point~*~

It is only a matter of time, dolls and dude.

Ms. Bella of the Brawl got her briefcase and she knows EXACTLY what she’s going to do with it.

It’s a first class ticket into the match that is practically a staple aboard the Princess Cruise Ship and it is always for the Roulette Championship. And with everything that I have done since my return, this could very well be the moment that we have all been waiting extremely patiently for.

Last year, I had to miss this show because I was extremely pregnant and ready to pop at any given moment. Now that my beautiful daughter is here, this is the big moment.

You see when I returned, I made a promise to myself and to all of you that come sometime this year, Bella Madison was going to gain her first singles gold in SCW. I have been frothing at this kind of opportunity and I am fully intending on making this one stick.

Let us look at all the wonderful competition.

First, let’s start right off with Mercedes Vargas: Hi Mercy, remember me? I remember you. I remember when you decided to try and use me as a stepstool to whatever the hell you had planned. However, when you pushed and pushed, I shoved you right into the back of the line where you belonged and I did it in my hometown. Part of me really hopes that you have learned something between then and now and realize how much of a threat I really am. I am not afraid to knock you right off that pedestal yet again if you attempt to get in my way.

I mean I know you’re going to get in my way. You have an amazing way of being an absolute pain in my ass and anyone else that has somewhere better to be.

Then we get to Alexandra Callaway. The former champion in this case and a woman that has the very ability to once again become the Roulette Champion. Ally is pissed and she has every right to be, especially with being on the streak she has been. It can mess with you at every single step when you try to change up where you may be going.

I actually like Ally, she’s a great friend and someone that I look up to. A lot of people could learn from her in the way she has come up as a competitor in the ring and the way she has grown as a human. I will never understand why people have issues with a person trying to grow and change for the better.

What I do take issue with is that we are coming through this and she’s not the champ on record. Instead that mess belongs to her Royal Hind-ass, Victoria Lyons. And don’t worry, bitch, I’ll get to you in just a moment.

Ally, all I can say is something this time around, it’s different and I really really like it. I get why you pushed me as hard as you did when we faced each other, because you knew that eventually I would grow to love putting it all on the line each and every time and how it has its rewards and even its defeats. We all play against the house and sometimes the house is just that much better. If you catch what I’m say.

NOW, let’s get to the bitch of the hour. I say bitch because it is lacking for a far more fitting term that fits you much better. Victoria Lyons seems to think she’s an actual Queen after winning one single solitary match that *I* turned down being apart of in a moment of weakness. I could have been a Queen and I would have treated people with way more respect than you did in your one chance to make a difference in SCW.

Instead you chose to be a Charlie Uniform Next Tuesday and attempted to destroy relationships and friendships. You have so much fucking talent that it makes me sick and you piss it away and trade it for this bitter bitch complex. And the thing that gets me the most is you don’t fucking care. You have no soul. You are without a shadow of a doubt a terrible human being and I cannot wait to punch you square in that face and knock you FULLY off that pedestal.

I am aiming directly for you in this match, I know with that Roulette Championship hanging above the pool that you have no championship advantage. But I am still coming RIGHT FOR YOU because you deserve to get hit from every single side. You earned this.

And then I’m going to finish the job and I am going to be the SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion.

Call it prophecy fulfilled and case CLOSED.

[Mercedes Vargas]

[As the roar of the crowd faded, Mercedes Vargas made her way backstage, her night in Inglewood, California now over after her intense match with Roxi Johnson. She couldn't help but feel a mix of disappointment and determination despite the outcome. The clash between these two SCW veterans had lived up to expectations, showcasing their skills and rivalry.

The electricity was in the air even as the landmark 400th Climax Control in history was still ongoing. The crowd was buzzing with excitement after witnessing the clash of titans that unfolded between Mercedes and Roxi. Even with the momentum Mercedes had entered with coming into the night, this latest setback against Roxi just two weeks before she challenges for the Bombshell Roulette Championship at Summer XXXTreme raised questions about her chances in the upcoming championship match, where she will face multiple competitors in a high-stakes environment. She knew that Roxi would be a formidable opponent, but she also knew that she had what it took to win. That did not happen this night.

While her recent setback may have shaken her confidence, Mercedes has the experience and skill to bounce back. Mercedes knows she'll need to regroup quickly and focus on overcoming this defeat to compete effectively against multiple challengers at Summer XXXTreme in her quest to reclaim her status as a top contender in Sin City Wrestling.]

• • •

[Irma's apartment was filled with the lively chatter of guests milling around as they gathered to celebrate her housewarming. She beams with joy, seeing Mercedes, Ricardo and Tomas just arriving. She welcomed them with open arms.]

IRMA: I'm so glad you all could make it! Thanks for helping me break in the new place.

[Ricardo looks around approvingly.]

RICARDO: Of course, we wouldn't miss it! Congrats on the new digs. Nice place.

[Mercedes envelopes Irma in a warm hug.]

MERCEDES: Seriously, this is amazing. You deserve it after all your hard work.

RICARDO: This could change everything.

[Irma smiles, touched by her friends' kind words.]

IRMA: Thanks. It's been a journey, that's for sure. It's a little scary, to be honest. But I'm ready for the challenge.

[Hugo raises a glass.]

HUGO: A toast - to Irma and all her success!

[Irma clinks her glass against the others, then they all take a sip.]

IRMA: Thanks, guys. I couldn't have done it without you. Here's to the next chapter.

[They all laugh and clink their glasses together, the air filled with a sense of celebration and boundless possibilities.]

IRMA: So, what's new with you, Mercy?

[Mercedes glances around the room, a hint of excitement in her voice.]

MERCEDES: Well, I probably shouldn't say anything yet, but...Summer XXXTreme is coming up. I hear the Sun Princess is perfect this time of year.

[The group erupted in gasps and excited chatter.]

TOMAS: No way!

RICARDO: I'm planning on being there, of course.

[Irma nudges him playfully.]

IRMA: Hey! You were going out of town, remember?

RICARDO: True, but plans change, right?

MERCEDES: Maybe we can convince you to stay. It’ll be epic!

TOMAS: Exactly! The Sun Princess is calling our names!

[Mercedes raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk on her lips.]

MERCEDES: Plus, think of all the fun we could have together as a group.

TOMAS: We didn't have that during the pandemic.

MERCEDES: I’ll get the details and we can make it a group thing!

IRMA: This is going to be the best summer ever!

[The scene fades as the friends began to discuss their plans for the upcoming adventure. The anticipation of Summer XXXTreme on the Sun Princess filled the air with a sense of camaraderie and joy.]

• • •

Present Day ♦ S A N T A M O N I C A • C A L I F O R N I A[/u][/font]

[REC•]

[Mercedes Vargas stands confidently in front of the camera, her intense gaze piercing through the lens.]

"So, it's finally happening. The Ultimate X Over the Pool match for the Bombshell Roulette Championship. Victoria Lyons thinks she's got it all figured out, but she and everyone else in this match are in for a rude awakening."

[Mercedes gave a cold, calculated smile, her eyes blazing with determination.]

"Alexandra Calaway and Bella Madison? They're tough, no doubt. But neither of them has my experience in these extreme conditions. I've been in more Ultimate X Over the Pool matches than you can count, and I know how to turn the tide. The key to winning this match is adaptability. We're not just dealing with the Ultimate X structure, but also the added element of the pool. It's a whole new ballgame. Victoria, Alexandra, Bella - they're all formidable opponents. But they're also obstacles in my path to greatness. And I've never met an obstacle I couldn't overcome."

[Mercedes knew that the Ultimate X Over the Pool match at Summer XXXTreme was more than just another fight - it was a chance to cement her legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of her generation.]

"We've all been through hell and back to get where we are. Each of us has our own story, our own journey. But let me make one thing clear: this isn't just another match. This is the Ultimate X Over the Pool match for the Bombshell Roulette Championship, and it's going to be a war. This match is going to be brutal. It's going to push us all to our limits. But when that final bell rings, when the dust settles, there's only going to be one woman standing tall with that Bombshell Roulette Championship. And that woman is going to be me, Mercedes Vargas. And why am I so confident? Because confidence isn't just thinking you can win, it's knowing you will. And trust me, I've never been more certain than I will be in two weeks."

[She took a step forward, her gaze unwavering.]

"Victoria, you may be the current champion, but titles are meant to change hands. You've had a good run so far since your debut, but your time at the top is coming to an end. Because in a match like this, it's not about technique. It's about survival.]

[She shifts her focus.]

"Alexandra, you've been in SCW for over a year now and while you've had success so far, now you're really beginning to see just how good the women's division here is. While you see me as sneaking my way into another title match, you can say it's almost unfair. I see it as earning my way. I've lost only twice in my last six matches. You've lost in the Blast From the Past Tournament final at Into the Void, lost back-to-back title matches, and your most recent win was against Harper Mason - with help from Julianna DiMaria. Sounds unfair, don't you think?"

[Her eyes narrows as Mercedes addresses the last of her opponents.]

"And Bella Madison, you’re the wild card in this match. Your unpredictability makes you dangerous, but that hasn't help you much in your career, has it? You call yourself the Belle of the Brawl. Funny how you're always the bridesmaid and never the bride. Seems to me that's about to be the case again, mamita. You're already see yourself holding the championship high, the crowd chanting your name, a symbol of her hard-fought victory and the promise of more to come. You've been on this mission to finally bring a singles title around your waist for five years now, give it take. Well, if at first you don't succeed, right?

[Mercedes puts her hands at her waist, a smirk on her face.]

"This is my match to win. So bring on the Ultimate X. Bring on the pool. Bring on the competition. Because I'm ready to make history one more time."

[Mercedes words hung in the air, her unwavering confidence and determination palpable.]

"The question isn't who's going to let me, it's who's going to stop me."

[***Fade***]

 

[Victoria Lyons]

The check-in people really didn’t deserve the earful they were getting for simply doing their jobs, but there Victoria was arguing about her booking, despite being a champion and having one of the Princess Cruises Grand suites all to herself.

“No, check your little computer again.” Victoria said, “Queen Victoria Lyons, SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion. I should have one of the Sky Suites!”

“I’m sorry ma’am” the girl at the desk said kindly, “I assure you our Grand Suites are very nice, and you get a bunch of amenities, they’re still one of out top suites.”

“But they’re not the most premium, it says on your website, the SKY suite is the largest and most premium.” she insisted.

“I do apologize ma’am.” the girl replied, “But there’s nothing I can do."

“It’s Underwood isn’t it?” she growled, “He took a Sky suite didn’t he, I bet Ward did too.”

“I’m not at liberty to discuss those matters ma’am.” the girl replied, “Would you like someone to bring your bags to your room for you?”

Victoria rolled her eyes, and scoffed at the girl.

“No. I don’t need anyone’s grimy hands on my stuff.” said Victoria, “Just give me the damn key.”

“Of course ma’am” the girl replied, doing all she could to remain polite while Victoria was just being a straight up Karen.

Grabbing her bags, she found the nearest elevator and found her room, she looked around and shook her head.

“It’ll do I suppose.” she said to herself still not completely pleased.

After retrieving  her championship and crown, and setting her bags near one of the beds, she pushed open the doors and stepped out onto her private balcony, looking over the people below her with her championship on her shoulder, and crown on her head.

“Well Rue, at least it’s not one of the commoner rooms.” she said, “But it’s still not QUITE fit for a Queen, the Sky suites would be much more accodm…WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK!!! YOU GOD DAMN DIRTY FUCKING SEABIRD!!!”

A passing seagull, had managed to deliver a perfect shot to Victorias eye, causing her to yell out as she wiped the seagull shit from her face, and spit out the bit that even got in her mouth.

“Come on Rue, now I need a bath.” she grumbled, pushing open the doors back into her suite, and readying a nice bath for herself, and Rue was likely joining her.

__________

As the scene opens, Victoria sits on a lounge chair in her Grand Suite, she’s wearing a bathrobe, has her hair in an up-do, and yet still has her crown on. The Bombshell Roulette Championship rests on her shoulder.

“Hello Bella.” she says with a grin, “You know, I’m glad you want nothing more than to punch me in the face. That’s the anger I want to bring out of you, that’s the type of anger I want you all to tap into. Let your hatred of me consume you Bella. Maybe then you could be in my position, with a crown and championship. But, because you lack any real fortitude, you’re not and you never will be."

She smiles, taunting Bella Madison with her signature smirk.

“Mercedes was right about you you know.” she continued, “What was it? Always the bridesmaid and never the bride? How long have you been after a singles championship? Five years? I came to SCW and became a queen and a champion in just a little over five WEEKS. What makes you think you are going to beat me? You said it yourself, you’re weak."

That wasn’t exactly what Bella said, but Victoria was the type to take peoples words and twist them around.

“Maybe you should have joined the queen for a day match.” Victoria said with a shrug, “You still wouldn't have become queen assuming I was still in the match. Now you have nothing but your hopes and dreams, as you have had for years. You talk about how you’d be a kind and respectful queen, and again THAT is why you are weak.”

Victoria shakes her head, and takes a moment to readjust (and draw attention to) the crown on her head.

“You don’t have it in you to get truly dirty.” said Victoria, “At least Alexandra and Mercedes understand that you can’t always play nice. They know how to really dig deep, something you just aren’t woman enough to do. If you were, you would have joined us in the queen for a day match. Instead you’re just going to continue to chase a dream, that you’ll never be able to achieve.”

She glances down at her championship proudly.

“She’s pretty isn’t she?” Victoria continued, “I’m sure you’d love to take my Rue away from me Bella. You all would but I won’t let that happen. She’s mine now and she doesn’t deserve any of you. She deserves to be on the shoulder or around the waist of a queen. A true queen that understands how to properly use her power. One that every day has to face cruel accusations from those who misinterpret her goals. The slander that has been thrown at me since I arrived her is ridiculous and uncalled for, and I simply don’t deserve it.”

She scowls at the camera in disgust.

“Even with the proof that fate is rewarding me.” said Victoria, “I have the crown, I have the championship and they even got me a half decent suite for being a champion. It’s not quite the Sky Suite I deserve, but it’ll do.  Shame this was almost yours Alexandra, maybe next year.”

She goes back to her cheeky shit-eating grin.

“We’ll talk about you a little more later Alexandra, for now I just want to mostly speak to Bella.” Victoria continued, “Save the best for last, you know? Now, back to the Bell of The Brawl, which I’ll hand it to you, is a pretty cute and creative nickname.”

She claps, but it’s really more of a mocking clap.

“You’ll need more than a cute nickname to walk out a champion however.” Victoria continued, “I mean, Alexandra is a proven champion time and time again, and Mercedes is a hall of famer. Then you have me, as your queen, and that leaves you as just…Bella. You have the biggest hill to climb and I just don’t think you can do it.  Even your own friend questioned if you’re really willing to go the distance. If you won’t listen to me, maybe you’ll listen to her and stop getting in your own way.”

Victoria pauses for a moment, and repostures herself in the chair

“You’re going to be disappointed once again Bella.” she continued, “See the thing you had right about me? I don’t care. I will do anything I need to do to win.  You don’t have the ability to flip that killswitch like I do, or like Alexandra or Mercedes do for that matter.  Would you be willing to take off Alexandra Calaway’s head if it meant it got you the victory? Because I’m certain she would take yours off to get herself a victory, friend or not.”

She keeps a gaze on the camera, as she clutches her championship.
[/i]
“I have no friends in this match.” said Victoria, “None of you are any real concern to me, and neither is your safety. My only concern is protecting Rue, and keeping her in the hands of her rightful owner. Her and I are a perfect pair, I mean just look at the image of perfection before you.”

Victoria smiles and mugs some for the camera.

“This is the image you’re all going to be looking at for a long time.” she continued, “And I think you all know it too. Deep down you all know the truth. That my arrival here in SCW has ruined all of your precious plans. That a lioness now prowls the jungle that is Sin City Wrestling and you have become nothing more than her prey. If Bella Madison doesn’t find a way to unleash her inner beast then the Head Lyoness will tear her apart and toss her carcass overboard for the sharks. See you soon Bella.”

She reaches off screen and pulls in a glass of wine, which with a wink she takes a sip of and tips the glass to the camera, as it fades to black.

_________

A cruise is supposed to be relaxing, giving it’s passengers a chance to just cast their worries aside, and just free their minds for a while. That wasn’t how it was going for Victoria Lyons, a passing seagull nails her in the face with bird shit, and now she was getting a stomach bug. It was like karma was fucking with her for some reason.

She was knelt in front of the toilet in her suites bathroom, trying to get over this seasickness before her match.

“I could just vomit on Bella Madison or something.” she said to herself, “That would be prett…blerrgrghhhghh.

There was bits of black cherry chocolate cake, and red wine mixed in that one.

“Gross.” Victoria muttered, wiping her face with a towel. Her stomach still felt like it was in a knot, but at least she had nothing left to vomit up.

“Why is this happening to me Rue?” she said to the Roulette Championship set on the sink next to her.

“It feels like something is out to get me.” she said, “Why me Rue? What have I even done wrong?”

She sighed, and shook her head.

“I’ll tell you what though Rue.” she continued, “Seasickness or not, filthy seabirds or not, I won’t let those bitches take you from me. You’re MINE.”

With a smile of a proud mother, she casually runs a couple fingers across the championships front plate, like it was a child's cheek.

“Yes, my sweet sweet Rue.” she said with a smile, her eyes glowing as she looked at her championship belt, “You don’t want them either do you? You want to stay with royalty, with a queen. The ladies of the realm, even the Highborn ones just don’t appreciate you enough.”

She shakes her head.

“You know you’re considered like a third rate championship?” she said. “Everyone seems to think Kayla or Tempest have the superior championships? A ridiculous notion, because you belong to me and any championship that belongs to me is instantly the most important. Why you’re even more important than Finn Whelans championship, simply because you are with me, you are with a queen.”

She runs her fingers across the championship once more.

“I won’t ever let you leave me Rue.” she said, “Everyone else wants to walk away from me. Not you. You will stay with me, and I’ll make sure of it. I’ll provide you with the attention you deserve. All the others just want you so they can pad their own egos. But me? I want to make you great Rue. I want people to think of the Bombshell Roulette Championship when they think of SCW, with me you will become the most premier championship in the company, because Rue, because you deserve it.”

She leans in and kisses her championship.

“I love you Rue.” she said, “No harm will come to…blergrgghghhghgghhgghghghghghhgghgh:”

It seemed she did have more to vomit up, her seasickness still keeping her from truly enjoying the cruise. Still, despite what anyone might say she was still a fighter and she wasn’t going to let any sickness get in the way of defending her championship. She had no one else, Rue was all she had now and she would rather die than see Rue taken from her.

__________


We open the scene, with Victoria once again in her bathrobe,  in her suite on a lounge chair with her crown and championship proudly on display as usual, a glass of red wine in hand, she lets the camera linger on her for a moment before speaking.

“How are you Mercedes?” she said, taking a sip of her wine. “Still clinging on to any shred of a career you might have left? Doing all you can as you enter the twilight of your career? Look Mercedes, maybe there was once a time when you were important, and people cared about what you had to say. But that time is done, and you need to realize nobody cares anymore.”

She takes another sip of her wine.

“I really hoped to hear more from you Mercedes.” she continued “But all you did was tell me how this match is about survival. As if I’m not a survivor. Did I not survive when I climbed a ladder to earn this crown on my head? Did I not survive a ridiculous paint match to earn my shot at the Bombshell Roulette Championship, where I SURVIVED against Alexandra Calaway and became the Bombshell Roulette Championship? But you think I can’t SURVIVE? Maybe you’re getting a bit senile, or maybe you just got hit on the head to many times throughout your career. I’ll show you how I survive Mercedes, maybe I’ll just retire you for good. You want to talk about peoples win loss records? Honey, I’m the UNDEFEATED BOMBSHELL ROULETTE QUEEN. The haters can talk me down all they want, I will continue to rise above and be the stronger and better person. I am the heroine this company needs, the heroine it deserves.”

Her eyes seem filled with pride as she speaks

“I mean what more can I say that Alexandra Calaway didn’t?” she continues, “You’re basically the least impressive hall of famer ever. The ballot or whatever must have been thin that year or something. You can keep trying to prove you still have it, but nobody is buying it Mercedes. Everyone sees you as you are, that you just don’t really have it anymore. You hold onto the notion of being a hall of famer because it’s all you have. You need to tout that fact to make yourself feel relevant still. You won’t be leaving this ship with Rue. Bella Madison won’t leave this ship with Rue, and Alexandra Calaway won’t be taking Rue back into her arms. I will be the one to survive this war and I will still be \the Bombshell Roulette Champion, and I will still be your queen.”

She tips her glass to the camera, and takes another sip of wine, winks at the camera with her shit-eating grin, as the scene fades out.

__________

It was gone, she had fallen asleep on the pool deck and when she woke, Victoria found her crown was gone!

“SECURITY!!!!!” she screamed like a Banshee, getting more than a few eyes on her as a security guard approached her.

“Can I help you miss?” he asked, “Is everything alright?”

“NO!” Victoria said folding her arms, “My crown is missing, someone stole it!”

The guard scratched his chin.

“Your crown?” he said a little confused.

“Yes. My crown.” she replied with snark in her voice “You know, you wear it on your head, it’s a sign of royalty?”

“I know what a crown is ma’am.” the guard replied, “When did you last see this crown?”

“It was next to me right here, I feel asleep and woke up to find it missing.” replied Victoria

“Can you give a description?” asked the officer

“..It looks like a crown?” she replied, “Gold, has some jewels in it, circular shaped, spiky top.”

“Ma’am, please lose the attitude. I’m here to help.” the guard replied

“Well, maybe if you were doing you’re job in the first place, it wouldn’t have gotten stolen.” she replied, not losing the attitude, “But I shouldn’t expect much from a security guard on a boat.”

“I do apologize ma’am.” replied the guard, “I know having your property stolen can be stressful. We will do whatever we can to find it for you, I would suggest checking lost and found as well.”

“I didn’t lose it.” she said, “It was right here next to me.”

“Well, we’ll keep an eye out, Miiiiisssss…” said the guard

“Lyons.” Victoria replied, “Queen Victoria Lyons, SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion.”

“Ah, your one of the wrestlers.” noted the guard, “Is it possible a rival wrestler did this? Perhaps someone with a grudge against you?”

“Those bitches wouldn’t dare.” she said.

“Well.” said the guard, “I’ll make a report of this, and if we find anything we’ll have the information sent to your room Miss Lyons. Was there anything else?”

“Just go find my damn crown.” said Victoria.

The guard to his credit remained civil, despite Victorias rudeness.

“..Have a nice day ma’am.” the guard said, as he took his leave from her.

“This is the worst cruise ever.” she muttered to herself, “I’m not even having a good time.”

She laid back in her seat, she couldn’t even get back to sleep now. She just wanted to get to her match, retain her title and get off this wretched boat.

_________

Victoria is back in her suite as the cameras open, with the same look as before with the bathrobe and championship combo, rounded out with her favorite glass of Red. Notably missing is the usual crown on her head.

“Let’s be real Alexandra.” she began, “This match is really between us isn’t it? I mean Mercedes isn’t what she used to be, and even you said Bellas heart might not be in this. We re the premier talent of this match and we both know it. If by some miracle I don’t leave with Rue, then that means she left with you.”

She smiles through a sip of her wine.

“But like I told the other two, Rue doesn’t want to go.” she continued. “She likes it with me, and I have to protect her. It’s obvious I have no friends around here. Even with your friendship with Alex, you and I aren’t exactly friends are we? I suppose Frenemies would be a more proper term for the two of us.”

She shrugs.

“You want to know why I’m superior to everyone else in The Lyons Den?” she said, “Because it was MY late father who started it and I am his eldest daughter, by virtue of being born exactly 2 minutes before my brother, just before midnight in a different year.  I am the heir to it all. Cleo, Alex, Vincent, Eddie they all should be listening to me, especially Eddie if he wants his Roulette Championship back.”

She takes another sip of wine.

“You say you used to think like me, and well maybe you should again.” she said, “Maybe then you’d have succeeded at becoming Mixed Tag Champions, an opportunity I basically handed to you.  But you didn’t because you’ve started turning soft. You can deny it all you want, but deep down, you know I’m right, you know.”

She glares into the camera with a serious expression.

“I’m glad you’re gonna show your darkside.” said Victoria, “Or you claim to anyway. We’ll have to see. Like say, what do you do if I hold Bella Madison for you and allow you to take a vicious chair shot on her? Do you take it because she’s an opponent and it betters your chances of winning? Or do you hold back because she’s your friend? A little food for thought.”

She pauses, takes time to flip her hair and continues.

“What pisses me off is you diminishing my accomplishments here in SCW.” she
 continued, “When I have done everything asked of me in that ring. Look save for one show, I don’t decide the stipulations. But it wouldn’t have mattered who I was in there with, I’d still sit here today as Queen and Bombshell Roulette Champion, because that’s how fate works.”

She looks to the camera with a grin.

“Fate has called for me to be the new leader of SCW’s bombshell division.” continued Victoria, “If I have to beat you again for you to understand then I will. I’ll beat you a thousand times over if that’s what it takes. The same goes for Bella and Mercedes as well. See, sweet Bella might be too angry with me over the whole Miles/Carter situation, one has to wonder where he real focus is, harming me? Or winning a championship.”

Victoria grins, knowing that’s exactly what she wants, for Bella to be less focused on winning and more focused on revenge.

“Mercedes, she..well she just refuses to admit it’s over doesn’t she?” said Victoria, “Can’t admit when its time to hang up the boots, so instead of leaving with her head held high she continues to tarnish her own legacy, sort of sad when you think about it.”

She wipes a fake tear away from her eye.

“I at least like you, a little bit anyway.” Victoria continued, “So you wouldn’t be the WORST person for Rue to be with. But if you want her, you’re going to have to fight for her, and I mean truly fight because I love Rue, and we both know how hard we fight for those we love. She won’t be taken from me so easily. We’re going to have to get violent, and you know I like violence and to keep Rue with me I will stop at nothing short of a massacre.”

She looks down at the championship with a prideful smile before looking back to the camera.

“Ladies.” she continues, “I’ll see you on Sunday, just don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

She tips her glass to the camera again, and takes a sip. She keeps a smirk on her face as the scene fades to black.

__________

It had been hours and still no word. She had to send her final address WITHOUT a crown. She must have looked absolutely ridiculous without it. She was a queen after all.

“Damn security can’t even do their jobs.”[/color] she muttered. “I’m glad you’re safe Rue.”

She nodded to the championship on her bedside, which she wisely left in her room when she went to the pool.

“I better get that crown back.” she said as she paced back and forth, “Otherwise Underwood is forging me a new one. Yeah, he’s going to have to make this right.”

As she continued pacing, there was a knock on the door, with an annoyed scoff she answered it to find her cousin Eddie Lyons standing there with her crown in his hands.

“...Lose something?” he said holding it out for her.

“WHERE DID YOU GET THAT?” she snarled, snatching it from Eddies hands, “WAS IT YOU? DID YOU STEAL IT?”

“Seriously?” said Eddie, “You really think I would do that? No I didn’t steal your crown, but I did find it. Some fan had it. I had to convince him to give it back. You should really be more careful with your stuff. I’m only bringing this to you, because it’s your property and it’s just the right thing to do.”

“Well, isn’t that noble of you.” Victoria said rolling her eyes.

“Just doing what’s right.” said Eddie.

“Well, at least I have it back. Now I can look like a proper queen for my match.” said Victoria.

”Indeed.” said Eddie with a disinterested tone.

“See you around cousin.” Victoria said, slamming the door in Eddies face, and happily walking to her championship, crown now back on her head.

“Rue! Look I found my crown!” she said happily. “Now just a few more days, I’ll beat those other three bitches and then we can all leave this wretched cruise behind us once and for all.”

She picks the belt up, and rests it on her shoulder before walking to the balcony to relax and overlook the scenery below her, being up high made her feel powerful. Her confidence remained at an all time high and she in her own mind knew there would be no other result than her hand being raised, as still the SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion.

[Mercedes Vargas]

[The sun shines brightly over the deck of the Sun Princess, casting a golden glow on everything it touches. Mercedes Vargas reclines on her deck chair, her sunglasses perched on her nose, a content smile playing on her lips. Around her, the gentle sound of waves laps against the ship, creating a soothing backdrop that perfectly complements the laughter and chatter of her friends.]

MERCEDES: Ah, this is the life!

[Mercedes stretches her arms above her head, feeling the warmth of the sun envelop her, as she gazes out at the endless horizon from the Sun Princess. The gentle sway of the ocean beneath her creates a soothing rhythm, harmonizing with the laughter and chatter of fellow passengers. With a refreshing drink in hand, she savors the moment, embracing the freedom and adventure that comes with life at sea, where each day unfolds new experiences and memories waiting to be made.]

MERCEDES: The sun, the sea, and great friends. What more could I ask for?

RICARDO: You mean other than a championship title?

[Ricardo sits nearby, sipping a drink, and smirks. The gentle breeze tousles his hair, and he takes a moment to appreciate the vibrant scene around him: families laughing, couples dancing on the deck, and the rhythmic sound of waves lapping against the ship. He raises his glass, a colorful cocktail adorned with a tiny umbrella.]

MERCEDES: Oh, I plan to have the Bombshell Roulette Championship around my waist at Summer XXXTreme, don't you worry about that!

RICARDO: With that kind of confidence, how could you lose? Just remember, overconfidence can be dangerous in the ring - or over the pool, in this case.

MERCEDES: You're right, this is my fifth Ultimate X Over the Pool match and third in a row. But you know what they say - fifth time's the charm! I've learned from my past experiences, and I'm more prepared than ever. Things are gonna change. I can feel it. Those other women might be tough, but they haven't seen what I've got up my sleeve.

RICARDO: Care to share any of those surprises with the world? Inquiring minds want to know.

[Mercedes winks playfully.]

MERCEDES: And ruin the surprise? No way. You'll just have to wait and see like everyone else.

RICARDO: Try not to get too distracted by the cheering crowd or the splashing water.

MERCEDES: The only distraction will be the glare from that shiny championship belt when it's around my waist.

IRMA: Hey, guys! You’re missing out on the best part of this cruise!

[Both Mercedes and Ricardo turn to Irma, who has captured their attention as she gestures toward the pool area.]

IRMA: The water volleyball game is heating up. We need a second and a third!

[The sounds of upbeat music fill the air, blending with the splashes of water as players dive and leap, trying to score points.]

IRMA: We need to make a splash and I could use all the help I can get!

[Irma claps her hands excitedly, urging them to hurry.]

MERCEDES: Looks like we just got recruited for the dream team.

[Ricardo leans closer, a playful grin spreading across his face.]

RICARDO: We should join in. I can already see us dominating the court.

[Mercedes laughs, glances at the pool, then back at her friends, her competitive spirit ignited.]

MERCEDES: Alright, but only if you promise not to let me drown.

[With excitement bubbling between them, they prepare to join the fun, ready to embrace the camaraderie and thrill of the game.]

• • •

[As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow across the deck, Mercedes and her friends gather near the railing, enjoying the breathtaking view. The sound of waves gently lapping against the ship creates a soothing backdrop to their conversation.]

MERCEDES: You know, as much as I love the thrill of competition, days like this really put things in perspective.

TOMAS: I hear you. It's nice to step back and just... breathe.

IRMA: Speaking of competition, Mercedes, are you nervous about the Ultimate X Over the Pool match?

[Mercedes turns to face her friends, a confident smile playing on her lips.]

MERCEDES: Nervous? Not a chance. I've been in this match before, and each time I've learned something new. This year, I'm bringing everything I've got.

IRMA: Well, whatever you've got planned, we'll be there cheering you on.

[Mercedes looks at each of her friends, a wave of gratitude washing over her.]

MERCEDES: And that means more to me than any championship. Having you guys in my corner... that's what really matters.

HUGO: Aww, look at Mercedes getting all sentimental on us!

[The group laughs, the mood light and jovial.]

MERCEDES: Don't get used to it. Sunday, it's back to being the fierce competitor you all know and love.

[Tomas points to the horizon, his voice filled with excitement.]

TOMAS: Look at that view! It’s incredible. We should take a group photo!

MERCEDES: Great idea, Tomas! Everyone, gather around!

[The friends respond quickly, moving closer together, their smiles bright as they prepare for the photo. The sun glints off the water, creating a perfect backdrop for their moment.]

[Ricardo holds up his phone, positioning it to capture the moment.]

RICARDO: Say “champions” on three! One, two, three... champions!

[They all cheer and laugh as the photo snaps.]

IRMA: Now that we have our picture, who’s ready for some fun? I heard there’s a pool party later!

HUGO: Count me in! I love a good party.

[Mercedes smirks, raising a finger playfully.]

MERCEDES: Just remember, no splashing me! I want to stay looking fabulous.

[Tomas leans in, teasing her.]

TOMAS: Fabulous? You mean legendary!

MERCEDES: Exactly!

[Her smile widens.]

MERCEDES: Legends enjoy their time, and I plan to enjoy every moment on this ship.

RICARDO: That's the spirit! And what better way to enjoy it than with a pool party?

[As they approach the pool area, the sound of upbeat music grows louder. A DJ is set up near the pool, spinning tropical house tracks that get everyone in the party mood. Colorful floats and beach balls dot the water, and guests are already dancing and splashing around.]

IRMA: Oh, this looks amazing! I can't wait to jump in!

HUGO: Last one in buys the first round of drinks!

[Hugo takes off towards the pool, with Irma close behind.]

TOMAS: I guess we know who's buying drinks.

MERCEDES: You guys go ahead. I think I'll start with some lounging and people-watching.

RICARDO: Sounds good. I'll join you after a quick dip.

[As Ricardo heads to the pool, Mercedes finds a comfortable lounge chair with a perfect view of both the pool and the ocean beyond. She settles in, adjusting her sunglasses and embraces the moment alone with her thoughts.]

MERCEDES: This is perfect. Sun, sea, friends, and a championship on the horizon. Life doesn't get much better than this.

[The scene fades out with Mercedes relaxing by the pool, the sounds of laughter and splashing mixing with the upbeat music. The cruise ship continues its journey, carrying its passengers towards new adventures and, for Mercedes, the promise of an exciting competition ahead.]

• • •

Present Day ♦ T H E S U N P R I N C E S S C R U I S E L I N E R

[REC•]

[Mercedes Vargas stands at The Dome, the Sun Princess's stunning glass-enclosed venue, with the shimmering pool behind her. The ocean stretches endlessly beyond, visible through the geodesic structure. She locks eyes with the camera, smirking as she runs a hand through her highlighted hair.]

"So, let's talk about the stakes. In just a few short days, yours truly, Mercedes Vargas, Victoria Lyons, Alexandra Calaway and Bella Madison will be competing in an annual tradition at Summer XXXTreme. The Ultimate X Over the Pool match is unlike anything else. It’s a test of skill, strategy, and sheer willpower. And trust me, I am ready to prove that I am the best."

[Mercedes steps closer to the camera, her voice lowering to a fierce whisper.]

"This is more than just a match for me; it’s a culmination of everything I’ve worked for. I’ve faced adversity, setbacks, and doubts. There have been moments when I questioned my abilities, when the odds seemed insurmountable. But I’ve always risen stronger. Each step I've taken in my career, even these past few months, has been a testament to my resilience and determination."

[Her voice grows stronger, filled with passion and conviction. The camera zooms in, capturing the fierce determination etched on her face.]

"As I prepare for this match, I carry with me the weight of my experience. I’m not just fighting for a title; I’m fighting for my legacy. From the top of the card to the opening match, I've done it all in SCW and I've done it better than anyone else. So to all you wannabes in the locker room, take notes."

[She gestures to herself, confidence radiating from her every move.]

"This is what a real champion looks like. This is what a legend looks like. This is what success looks like. But let's get one thing straight: I didn't get here by luck. I got here through blood, sweat, and tears. Every time I step into that ring, I prove why I'm the best. Whether it's a grueling singles match, a high-stakes tag team bout, or a chaotic Roulette Rules match, I rise to the occasion and leave my mark. I thrive in high-pressure situations, and when the stakes are the highest, that’s when Mercedes Vargas shines the brightest!"

[With a fierce smile, she continues.]

"But, here’s what really sets me apart: I don’t just collect titles; I collect moments. I create memories that fans will talk about for years to come. I don't just compete in matches, I create history. I'm not just another pretty face in this company. I'm a two-time SCW Hall of Famer, baby! That's right, they had to induct me twice because once just wasn't enough to capture my greatness. You want titles? I've got 'em in spades. I've won five different championships! No other woman in SCW history can claim that. I’ve proven time and again that I can dominate in any division, with any partner, and against any challenger.

"Remember 2014? When the Mean Girls took on the entire Bombshell roster? That was Feud of the Year, and I was right in the thick of it. So for those who think I’ve had my time and it’s time for the new blood to take over - like Victoria Lyons - I’m here to prove that age is just a number, and passion is timeless."

[Mercedes pauses, letting the weight of her words sink in.]

"Victoria, I know you want to cement your legacy as a champion, but I’m here to tell you that I won’t let you do it at my expense. If you think you can step up and take my spot, think again. I've faced the best this industry has to offer and come out on top every single time. I'm not just a competitor; I'm a trailblazer, a record-setter, and the standard by which all others are measured. You might be the future, mamita, but I'm the eternal present of SCW. You want my spot? You'll have to pry it from my cold, dead hands."

[She pauses, her eyes blazing with intensity.]

"You're the Bombshell Roulette Champion, but that title comes with a target on your back and every champion faces challengers who want to take their place. You’ve had your moments since your debut, but can you handle the pressure when the stakes are raised? I’ve faced champions before, and I know how to dismantle their confidence. You may be riding high right now, but I’ve seen champions crumble under the weight of expectation, and I’m ready to push you to your limits. This isn’t just a match for you; it’s a test of your resolve, and I’m here to expose any cracks in your armor!"

[Mercedes takes a step forward, her confidence radiating through the screen.]

"Alexandra Calaway wants the Bombshell Roulette Championship back so bad, she can taste it. I know she's eager to get back to where she once was. Bad news, chicadee. You're not getting it back. I know what it’s like to hold a championship and the pressure that comes with it. You’ve been on top, and when you fall, the world can feel like it’s crashing down around you. Your lone victory since then—a handicap win over Harper Mason with Julianna DiMaria—may have felt like a small consolation, but let’s be honest, it’s not the same as standing in that spotlight as a champion.
You’ve faced adversity before, and I know you can do it again."

[Mercedes leans in close, her intensity palpable.]

"But when you step into the ring with me, know that I’m not here to be your stepping stone. I’m here to show you that the competition is fierce, and I’m ready to fight for every inch."

[She takes a deep breath, her eyes never leaving the camera.]

"And Bella Madison, you’re not just stepping into the ring with the champion herself in Victoria, but two other challengers, myself included, who are going to end your dreams before they even started. I see the fire in your eyes, and I admire your ambition. You've got the heart of a champion, but let's be real - ambition alone can only get you so far. In an Ultimate X match, heart alone isn’t enough. If that were the case, you would have been a singles champion, and won many more, a long time ago."

[She walks slowly back towards the camera, her eyes intense.]

"Bella, let’s talk reality. You’ve had five years to show the world what you’re made of, to prove that you can hang with the best. But where has that got you? You were once a promising talent with the world at your feet. Yet, here we are, and I can’t help but wonder if you’ve truly capitalized on your opportunities.

"You’ve been in the ring with some of the best, but the results speak for themselves. Even your friends in Wolfslair have left you behind. They’ve racked up titles while you’ve been stuck in neutral. Austin James Mercer, Alex Jones and Alicia Lukas àhas gone on to become world champions, but Bella, where's your world title, hmm? That should be a wake-up call for you. You need to step up your game and prove that you’re not just riding their coattails. You’ve had chances to shine, but time and again, you’ve come up short. You've had your moments but they have been few and far between. Stop me when I’m telling lies."

[Mercedes hated to say it, but this was a hard truth to swallow for Bella Madison.]

"As we stand on the brink of this Ultimate X match, I want you to take a moment and really think about what’s at stake, Bella. It’s time to reflect on what that means for you and your future in this business. What's that blurb on your Twitter bio say: O'Neil by birth, Madison by love, O'Connell by chance?"

[Mercedes pauses mid-stride, then turns back to the camera, a mischievous glint in her eye.]

"Let's add underachiever by nature."

[She takes a deep breath, her eyes blazing with conviction.]

"Victoria, Alexandra, Bella - each of you have your own reasons for competing in this match, and I’m no exception. This is the moment for each of us to show what we’re truly made of. We all bring something unique to the table, but I’ve got the experience, the skill, and the heart to rise above. I’m ready to climb that structure, to fight for every inch, and to reclaim the championship I lost five years to the day on this same damn cruise ship, and I will not be denied this time. This is my moment, and I will seize it with everything I have."

[Her eyes narrow, filled with determination.]

"So, SCW, get ready. Because Mercedes Vargas isn't just here to participate; I'm not just fighting to win the Bombshell Roulette Championship - oh no! I'm fighting to continue my legacy as the most daring, innovative, and dominant force in this company."

[Mercedes takes a step back, spreading her arms wide in challenge to her opponents.]

"And to all my opponents, remember this: When you step into the ring with me, you're not just facing any wrestler, you're not just facing another opponent; I’m the final boss. You're facing a legend, a champion, I’m the mountain you have to climb, and trust me, I don’t make it easy! From epic showdowns to heated feuds, I’ve left a trail of broken dreams and shattered egos in my wake, and this Sunday, I think I'm going to add a lot more!"

[Mercedes takes a deep breath, her final words resonating with power.]

"SCW will witness history. And I will be the one writing it. The Bombshell Roulette Championship is coming home with me, and nothing will stop me from taking it back where it belongs—around my waist.

See you on the cruise, ladies. May the best woman win."

[With a final, confident smirk, Mercedes turns and walks away, leaving the camera to capture the stunning backdrop of The Dome and the anticipation of the epic battle to come.]

[***Fade***]

[Alexandra Calaway]

Boarding the Ship
Midday
Princess Cruise

Once Alexandra had boarded the ship, he headed directly for her room. She had lost focus her past few matches, rather than going all out, she had been holding back and it cost her, dearly. She lost her Bombshell Roulette Title to Victoria. Someone who at first had played friend to her face, talking about how she supported Alexandra and wanted to prove it, to a low down two faced piece of shit. Alexandra had never been one to take losses so badly. This was less about the loss and more about the betrayal of trust. But right now, Alexandra was going to take the rest of the afternoon to relax and take in the festivities onboard the Princess Cruise line. Upon arriving at her Vista Suite, she unpacked her suitcase and smiled at herself in the mirror. She knew that her real friends, LJ, Miles, Carter and Bella were on board and she could take the time to really relax. She and Bella would be facing each other soon enough in the Ultimate X match.

“This is beautiful. My goodness management really stepped their game up. I don’t even care that I’m not in one of the fancy suites. This one is nice, perfect for a small working vacation.”

So many thoughts were running through her head, but she knew that if she just sat down and took a breath, she could focus. She needed to focus. This was about more than just a pay-per-view win, this was about revenge. Not only did she still want to get revenge for what had been done to Carter and Miles just mere weeks before their wedding, she wanted revenge for herself. No, she needed it. There was still time. More than enough time. Physically she was ready to take on what was ahead of her. She looked forward to at least eliminating Victoria, if she could do that, she could take the lead and show everyone that Victoria was a fluke. Victoria’s time would come, she would see that she couldn’t be a Queen anymore. Just like Alexandra had. So what if Victoria wanted her to face the darkness inside of her. Alexandra had done that multiple times over. Now, this was time for Victoria to see who she was.

“It’s time to focus on what needs to be done. I have a match to win and sitting around pouting about losses isn’t what’s going to make it happen again. They want a show, they’ll have it. My focus is on winning back my title.”

Alexandra was in a cheerful mood, for once in a long while. Her phone rang and she noticed it was a call from her daughter. Ashlynn always knew exactly when her mother needed her the most. She answered the phone with a smile crossing her face.

“Hey Ash.” she held the phone to her ear.

“Hey mom.. Did you make the boat?” She heard Ashlynn’s voice and smiled brighter than before.

“I sure did.”  The two carried on a conversation about Camp and the Cruise for a few hours.


Getting down to Brass Tacks
Later that night
Princess Cruise

Alexandra took time to pause, walking the deck of the ship. The air was cool, but not chilly. With Alexandra being from Texas, she was no stranger to heat, but the eighty degree weather was a perfect fit for this cruise. She smiled as she passed a few people, nodding her head before she smirked at the person standing behind the one holding the camera for her.

“You know I told myself I was going to take tonight to relax. To chill and hang out with my friends. People who have enriched my life in ways that no one else has. Instead I found myself feeling out of sorts and unable to actually enjoy my tiny little vacation, thanks to Sin City Wrestling. I should be hanging out with LJ, Miles and Carter, or hitting up the spa with Bella.  Instead I’m out here, walking the deck and taking a moment to really focus everything on this match. You see, there are people in this industry who have busted their ass, paid their dues and earned their place in the spotlight. Then there are people like one of my opponents, who never really paid her dues and got in on the fact that she trains with a prestigious wrestling academy.  The Lyons Den. You see, people like Cleo and Alexander, people who Victoria also thinks she rules over, trained there as well and you don’t see them out here parading around calling themselves a title they haven’t earned. But I’ll get to that later, right now, this is my time.”

She takes a few moments to pause, leaning against the railing and looking up at the stars. She turns back to the camera and nods.

“I fully intend on walking out the winner. I don’t care what it takes. You see last Summer Xxxtreme also saw me walking out the winner. And in the words of a great opponent, this is my show. I won last year against Bobbie Dahl and this year I’ll do the very same, only this time, sadly, Bobbie isn’t here to compete and I actually wish she was, cause I’d love to see her tear into Victoria. She and I pushed each other to be better and now, I’m going to do what she isn’t here to do and that’s rip my Bombshell Roulette Championship back from Victoria’s grip. The title wasn’t in the balance for me last year, but I still took the win. This year, there’s more riding on this win. We have the broken former champion, The Hardcore Pixie, The Hall Of Famer, and the Twisted Queen. Hanging above the ring, we have the Bombshell Roulette Championship. A Title I have bled for many times and will gladly do so again.”

She ran her fingers through her long hair, taking a deep breath. Keeping her anger in check, building it up to use in the ring. It was what she needed to do. The salty air off the water caused her to close her eyes for a moment, bringing herself back down to where she could speak without clenching her teeth.

“I made a promise to my daughter that I would bring that title home. I won’t fail her again. Run your mouth about me all you want. Say things about my friends, about the people I care about and you will find out something about me that you don’t want to know. I will use every drop of my blood, every bit of sweat and all the air in my lungs to make sure that I walk out the champion. I pose this question to both Mercedes and Bella, do either of you think she is worthy of the Bombshell Roulette Championship? To stand before you demanding your fealty on a false pretender? Do you feel right with yourself to bow before her? To bend your knee to a woman whose mind is so twisted, that she pitted a happy couple against each other? A woman who uses her own family as pawns in a sick game of chess. You see I won’t stand here and say that I will beat either of you. I’ve been in the ring with both of you and I know what you can do. If it’s not me, I want to see one of you two with it.  Moreso, I want to see Bella with it more than you Mercedes.. sorry..”

She started to walk, her hand sliding along the metal railing as she spoke, the camera following her. She stopped after a few moments and turned back to the camera. There was so much to say, so many things she needed to get off her chest.

“Oh dear sweet Mercedes, I know what you think of me. I’ve heard everything you’ve said. But you also seem to forget the grueling matches I’ve been in, while I was the Bombshell Roulette Champion. I didn’t get to sit around having a match here and there, whenever I wanted it. No,I defended it every time I was booked. Those matches weren’t anything new to me. Here I am, sitting here well after defending that championship and holding it for a record number of days and you still see me as scum on the bottom of your shoe. You still see me as a nobody and that’s fine.”

Alexandra gives a soft little laugh, knowing that Mercedes underestimated what she could do, what she had done to keep the Bombshell Roulette Championship in her hands.

“I was the Bombshell Roulette Champion for one hundred and twelve days during my first run with it, defending it against a great number of competitors. Never once did I falter, until Bobbie Dahl got her chance and I was glad to lose it to her. Honored even. She had proven she was worthy. Then I took it back only a short time later. And in my second run, I held the title for sixty-three days, all while competing in the Blast from the Past Tournament. So I would say, I did damn good for myself. Meanwhile, if I remember correctly I took you out of the running in one of those attempts to grab the title for yourself. But you seem to forget that. It’s alright though, I don’t mind giving you a refresher course on just who the hell I am.”

She steps closer to the camera as she speaks that last sentence. She licks her lips and steps back, holding her hands up.

“But I can’t blame you for seeing me as a threat. Come on, we both know that’s what you really meant to say. I’m not going to stand around and say you don’t have what it takes to end my shot this time. But we both know the outcome of our last match, you couldn’t get the job done. You won’t do it this time either. You can only hope to get taken out of this match early on, so that you don’t risk any future chances you might have had at glory. Because I can promise you, if Victoria goes out before you, or hell even me, I don’t see you having much of a fighting chance either darlin. Bella’s on fire. I know, I just faced her not too long ago. Bella could take this whole thing home with her, and you know what, I’d be damn proud of her.”

Alexandra nods her head, looking out over the water again, collecting her thoughts. Bella was an easy one to talk to, they had a mutual respect for each other.

“Which brings me to you Bella. You speak truth my dear, a truth that many people seem to forget. Sometimes there are ups and downs in this business, life comes at you fast and sometimes you either have to face it, take the losses and victories in stride, or step aside and let it fly by you. I know that neither of us will just step aside. We lay it on the line every single time. I saw that spark in you, you just needed to see it for yourself. You say you look up to me and I’m honored. Just as much as you learned from me, I learned from you. I learned to never take for granted who and what really matters in life.”

She gave the camera a warm smile, one that was reserved for her friends and family. To her, Bella had been someone that she grew to trust and respect without ever having to really try. They had earned in the way all great warriors did, through battle.

“I’ve learned that sometimes, even the best laid plans and promises unravel no matter how much you fight to protect them. I vowed to get back at her for what she did to Miles and Carter and it cost me the title, but that doesn’t change anything. I’m still going to fight with everything I have in me. And it’s because I know people like you are watching and hell, now fighting against me to win our beloved Bombshell Roulette Championship.  While some people look at that title and see it as nothing other than a consolation prize. We see it for what it’s truly worth.”

She took a deep breath. Bella had shown her a kindness that very few other’s ever had. She never belittled her in the hopes of getting Alexandra to follow her lead. She watched as Alexandra grew and changed as we all do, all through life.

“Bella, you and I both know that at the end of Ultimate X, it should be one of us. Let’s take out the competition and then show the fans what they really came to see, two women who know just what it takes to truly hold that championship. People who won’t use it as a crutch or something they see as the one ring.” She rolled her eyes. “Let’s give that title the champion it deserves and no matter who comes out on top, we shake hands and prove that true competition isn't dead, despite a Queen’s desire to end everything we stand for.”

She froze in her spot, turning away from the camera for a moment, her hands now tightening their grip on the railing.  She closes her eyes for a moment again, opening them she turns to look in the camera, as if she was staring into Victoria’s soul.

“Dear Sweet Icarus, you should learn to listen to those who tell you fables, for fables have meaning my dear. He tried to warn you and yet you refuse to listen to him. He speaks of what he knows, for he once stood across from me. But unlike you, he didn’t see fit to attack those I held dear. He came straight at me and flew FAR too close to the sun. However, unlike him, I will not be so kind to you. I will not accept you into my fold, nor will you ever have my trust and friendship. You can continue to try your attempts at turning him against me. You can continue your attempts to turn me against Miles, the truth is, you are bitter and alone. You attack those who have the happiness you, yourself cannot achieve. I have friends and the respect of my peers, Miles and Carter have love, and you long for those things and cannot find someone to give them to you, because of your bitterness.”

Alexandra sits down on one of the chairs on the deck, smiling up at the camera. She continued on, knowing that time was growing short.

“You think you are so high above me, above any of us. You see, I’ve danced in the ring with Queens and I can tell you that you my dear are no Queen. You sit on a throne of lies. You see yourself as someone above us, when I can tell you all it takes is one wrong move, one bad night for that crown to slip from your brow. Whatever will your kingdom think then? I can tell you this, your kingdom will fall, be it by my hand or anothers. You see, you say that I failed. You act as if Miles and I getting a title shot was a gift from you. No. It wasn’t. We were amusement in your sick little game. In your twisted fable, you see yourself as a Queen, My Roulette Championship as your crown, and all of us as your noble subjects. Wake up from your fairytale kiddo and realize that this is the real world. Or if you insist on carrying on this charade, be prepared for the uprising and your beheading. For what does one do with treacherous ne'er-do-wells, who claim a throne and fail to lead. Why don’t we ask the French?”

She rose, looking into the camera. She licked her lips again, before she clicked her tongue. With a dark smirk on her face that she had not used in a very long time, she focused all of her energy into her.

“Victoria, I’m not going to sit around and play the what if’s game with you. I’m not going to sit here and act like I’m scared of you. You can talk every bit about how you think I’ve gone soft. Believe whatever you would like to believe, think very hard about everything you’ve seen me do in this company, now make a call and ask Alexander, ask Cleo, oh wait, you can’t, your kingdom is falling and in ruins around you. All that needs to happen now is for me to take your crown. I plan on doing whatever it takes. So carry on, hob nob with the other champions, that way you at least have the memory of how great it feels to be on top. After the dust settles on Ultimate X, a new champion will stand in your place and when you look up, you’ll see ME standing over you with my arm held high in victory. You want to play in the shadows, in the darkness, then let’s play your highness.”

She gave a quick bow and then stood up straight, her eyes focused on the camera again. This time the look in her eyes was cold.

“The time is drawing near, we are staring down the barrel of the gun. The only thing left to do is decide whether you are willing to take the risk for glory, or step aside and let the rest of us finish the ride. My focus is on this match, despite people’s thoughts otherwise. I’m not focused on the losses of the past few weeks. I’m driven, I’m on fire and I WILL take back my Bombshell Roulette Championship, ending the reign of the tyrant Queen, Victoria Lyons.”

She paused looking into the camera.

“No matter what it takes.”

She blows a kiss at the camera and walks towards LJ who has walked into frame. He offers her his arm and the two walk off. On the back of her jacket in blood red letters is the word….

QUEENSLAYER

And the camera fades to black.

[BellaMadison]

~*~Far From Her Heart~*~

“Bells, I am begging you, put the phone down and let's just go and enjoy a little bit of this cruise.”

It had been a full week since Bella and Malachi had stood on Miles' side and witnessed their friend finally complete an incredible chapter in a ceremony that fit both men’s tastes to a spectacular capital T. Everything from the setting of the ceremony and right down to the details of the reception made her smile and if you walked away from the night with an empty stomach, that was your own fault.

Laura and Nick had taken the little ones back to the hotel about halfway through the reception, because the excitement of the whole day had completely zapped both Aaron, who was the ring bearer, and Máire completely out and that allowed Mal and Bella to kick back and enjoy the night with their friends, and both were able to just relax and dance the night away. Mal couldn’t help but shake his head and have a good laugh at his adorable wife when she finally kicked off those spiked heels and spent the rest of the night barefoot on the dance floor.

They had watched as Carter and Miles were sent off to begin their honeymoon before everyone had dispersed for the night.

The next day, they were back to New York to finish packing and enjoy some family time before heading back to the west coast to LA to board the Sun Princess to begin their journey for Summer Xxxtreme.

....sans Máire.

It was offered by Bella’s parents and Mal’s sister to take care of Máire for the time that they were going to be aboard the cruise just so for the first time in a long time they could just enjoy it, instead of being parents first and having to keep an constant eye on an extremely active 11 month old.

And this was the longest time that Bella and Mal had spent away from their daughter ever since she was born.

So again we hear, “Bells, I am begging you, put the phone down and let's just go and enjoy a little bit of this cruise.”

But there Bella sat at the edge of the bed, already set to head out to the pool in a colorful purple two piece with a wrap around her waist and flip-flops on her feet, typing away a message to Alanah. She had been in full on panic mode since she woke up this morning, not really eating at breakfast, blowing Alanah’s phone since her eyes opened, “I am just checking in with your sister and making sure that she’s alright.”

“My sister and Jack have everything well in hand, mo chroí. We’re not going to miss anything.” Mal stated as he stood in front of her, with his long hair pulled back tightly, also ready for the pool in loose fitting board shorts. “And I’m sure if something happened or is about to, she would call us right away and video chat.”

“Oh my god, what if Máire takes her first steps and we’re not there to see. I will never forgive myself.”

“Love, you have got to relax. You are in full on worst case scenario mode.”

“How are you not?” Bella glared up at him, “This is the longest and farthest that we have been away from her since she was born and we’re only 2 weeks away from her being a whole year old. We’re hitting milestones like they are going out of style now and her taking her first steps is the next biggest.”

“Yes, I am aware and the timing of the whole thing is a bit on the ridiculous side but our little girl will wait for us.” Mal said, sounding pretty sure of himself, “Then when we get back to New York, you are going to be going in full on party planning mode, and giving her the biggest first birthday ever. ...even if she won’t remember it.”

Bella grumbles, “Yeah, but I will. That’s what this is all about right? Making amazing memories for our daughter and ourselves?”

“Yes but considering I just got a text from my sister that she’s another text rant away from blocking you for the rest of the day if you don’t chill out and relax, I’m going to leave you in here and go get drunk without you and perhaps make a whole ass out of myself.” Mal was actually very light in his voice, to tell her that he was joking....maybe. “You told me very plainly just a few days before we left for this that because you missed it all last year because of being in a very pregnant state that you didn’t want to miss a moment of this whole week. You finally have a break between your duties as a SCW Bombshell to enjoy things at the pool side with your husband, who is hell bent on making sure that you don’t. So, my love, my light, you need to relax and yes I will allow you to take your phone with you but I will be keeping a firm grasp on it.”

And with that he plucked the phone from her hands and quickly tucked it away and before she could even protest, he planted a firm and heated kiss on her lips. It was a nice distraction as Mal got her up on her feet and pulled her even closer.

After several moments, Mal pulled away with a shit-eating grin, “Might I add that you look absolutely down right dangerous in that bikini and you are lucky that I am letting you leave this room looking as hot as you do?”

“We are not on an impregnation vacation like your brother did a couple of years ago.” Bella smirked, her husband always knew exactly which buttons to push to get her to focus and relax.

That brought out the lecherous smile from her husband of 3 years, one that still looked at her like she was the most gorgeous demon that he had ever seen, “I seem to recall we were on one too, sort’ve.”

Bella felt herself being lifted off the ground and walked backwards, and she placed a small kiss on Mal’s lips with a smirk, “While still working.”

“I wouldn’t mind that attempt that whole scenario once again, if you want.” he mumbled against her lips.

That made her only giggle and scrunch her nose, “If only I didn’t make a promise to myself to win singles gold by the end of this year.”

“Damn, maybe next year.” Mal smirks, putting her down on her feet before giving her one last heated kiss before this time she breaks it.

“Can I have my phone back now?” she asked, almost pleading.

“After some time at the pool. Ask one more time and I’ll jump into the pool with you and the phone still in my pocket.” well that certainly caught him a pout, “Besides, I already told Alanah that we do a video chat before Máire goes to bed tonight as long as you found a way to enjoy the day. And besides, we’re out here on the ocean, it’s not like we can just run home at the drop of a hat.”

“True. Doesn’t mean I don’t miss her.”

“I miss her too, but she will be just fine, I promise.”

“Were you really gonna go without me and make a complete ass out of yourself?” Bella asked as she reached for her towel.

“No, love. I would never go whole ass without you around to get the video evidence.” he joked, “I think that’s part of the reason I’m gonna keep a hold of your phone from here on out. Last thing I need is for you to send it to my brother and sister. I do have a reputation to uphold, ya know?”

“The same reputation that actually had you wrap your arms around me at Miles and Carter’s wedding when they recited their vows?” Bella joked back as she turned around and began to walk out of the room.

“Ok I am a sentimental sod and it brought back fond memories of our wedding, okay? Sue me.” Mal said as he trailed after her.

That brought a laugh to Bella, “That’s why I told Miles to tell the photographer to give me plenty of extra shots for the photo album and maybe a few for the Christmas cards.”

“I swear, woman....”

“Give me my phone back then.”

“Nope, I’ll take that bullet, thank you very much.”

~*~This Is Gonna Hurt...You, not me.~*~

Do you, or have you ever got the feeling that no matter how many times you trip up, people are actually extremely jealous of you?

Like you could have all the success in the world, even be crowned and given the royal treatment, rule over it ALL...even for a day...and you can still hear it in the tone of the voice. Jealousy makes some amazing green eyed monsters of some of the most talented people in any locker room.

The current SCW Bombshell Roulette Champion has the biggest green eyes of us all. She is beyond super talented and yet is constantly demanding that people respect her. The problem is, she goes about it in the completely wrong direction. The simple fact that she’s a bitch is only just the beginning, but she’s also condescending as fuck and doesn’t seem to grasp that the simple act of kindness can go a long way. But of course that would mean that the ice queen would actually need to have a heart to go along with the courage and the brains.

I will give Victoria Lyons all the credit in the free world. She is indeed smart but it’s that connection between her brain and her mouth that has caught her in a no-win situation. With everything that she has ever done....there isn’t one person that isn’t gunning for her ass now and I’ll happily be a part of it. She needs to learn, even if it’s at the expense of my ultimate goal.

As far as it comes to Mercedes, I have been here so many damn times with you. I do not for one minute care about your experience, that experience hasn’t brought you a damn thing in recent YEARS, let alone to this very day. You wanna talk about bridesmaids? When was the last time any one on this roster remotely looked at you and wondered just what was going to happen next?

That’s me now. Yeah I am unpredictable, because I have nothing to lose. Win or lose in this match, I’m going to work my way right back up while you go back into the incredibly average and barely matters file. You only seem to matter when they need a warm body. And that’s sad for someone that has a Hall of Fame resume like you do. But you don’t intimidate me like you did back then. I have thrown everything into anything at any given time because I have a goal. That goal is to show each and every bombshell on the SCW roster that even the smallest of dogs have the biggest fight in them.

And as for Ally. Ally, girl you need to get it into your head that you are so much better than any bombshell gives you credit for and that includes me. If I am cheering for anyone in this match to win, if it’s not me it needs to be you. I know you said the same thing about me but our types need to look down that pipeline of all the naysayers and all the adversity that we constantly face and make it our blanket. We can’t let jealous twats like Vicky and Mercy tell us that we don’t belong.

They are quick to punch down on the worst times and ignore the best times. We cannot let them win. Under any circumstances. One of us needs to walk away with that Roulette Title.

I know I screw up a lot, I know I’m punching up a lot but that’s because I have no other choice. I would love to just have one moment where what I say is how it goes. Sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn't.

If I end up getting soaked on Sunday, then I do and I’ll start my path all over again. It can get exhausting but that’s exactly how I like it. I love it. I love the chase and I live for the moments. One day it’s going to pay off and I’m going to try like hell here.

Maybe I’m tapping into my mom’s train of thought here. Make them pay attention, make them be jealous of you. Make them sit in their own fear and wonder if today will be the day that they finally realize that this is it that you are going to reach that moment.

My moment is coming, whether it’s on the Sun Princess or.... Well I didn’t hold back when I said that 2024 I was going to be a singles champion. I am worthy no matter what people say and I am going to make my unpredictability pay off at the cost of Victoria, Mercedes and if I have to Ally...you.

I was given the name Belle of the Brawl, I didn’t name myself that. And you are all about to find out exactly just how dangerous I really am.