The Future is Unknown
Hilton London Hyde Park
London, England
The soft glow of the hotel room lamp cast long shadows on the walls as Alexandra sat at the edge of the bed, deep in thought. She absentmindedly twirled a strand of her dark hair between her fingers, her mind replaying every moment from the visit with LJ's moms earlier that evening. The quiet hum of the city outside felt distant compared to the loud questions spinning in her head.
Her eyes drifted to the window, the London skyline peeking through the curtains. She sighed, leaning forward with her elbows on her knees, palms pressed against her forehead. How am I supposed to make this work? The thought lingered, heavy in her chest.
Ally had been through a lot in her life—raising her daughter Ashlynn mostly on her own, making a name for herself in the wrestling world. But meeting LJ's family, especially under the circumstances of their age difference, was a different kind of challenge. She wasn’t some fresh-faced twenty-something stepping into a new relationship with endless time ahead of her. She was in her forties, and that fact seemed like a constant, invisible wall between her and whatever future she might have with LJ.
She smiled bitterly at the irony of it all. LJ, with his carefree energy and that disarming smile, always made her feel so at ease. When they were together, the years between them melted away. But sitting here, alone with her thoughts, those years felt like boulders stacked between them—boulders that neither of them could move, no matter how strong their connection was.
Ally stood up, pacing the small space between the bed and the window. "It’s not just us," she whispered to herself, rubbing her temples. LJ was younger, sure, but he wasn't some naive kid. He was grounded, responsible, and deeply caring. Still, how would his moms see her? Joan seemed warm, even eager to get to know her. But Rebecca... Rebecca's eyes had that subtle hint of something—doubt, maybe, or caution. And Ally couldn’t blame her.
Don’t take it the wrong way, his mothers were lovely. Warm, welcoming to the strange woman their son had brought home. The little boy they had raised was now a man. Bringing home the woman he had been dating for a few months now. The two stopping in wasn’t unexpected and it was clear that they had planned for the visit. But Alexandra feared the thoughts that had been going through their mind. Then she thought about her own daughter, how she was taking it too. She seemed to not care, but that could be because her daughter was often far more tough than she was.
She wandered over to her bag, pulling out her phone. Her finger hovered over Ashlynn’s video, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she opened it. Ashlynn and Miles, racing around backstage at one of the shows—so carefree, so in the moment. Her daughter had never cared about the age difference between her and LJ, had even teased her a bit about “robbing the cradle,” but Ally couldn’t shake the feeling of guilt. What if this wasn’t just about her and LJ? What if she was pulling him into something too complicated, too messy?
Her reflection in the window caught her attention, and she stared at herself for a long time. She was still beautiful, still strong—but there was no denying the lines that had begun to etch themselves into her face, the subtle signs of years lived and battles fought, both in and out of the ring. Would they always see her as ‘too old’ for LJ? Would he eventually feel the same?
Her phone buzzed in her hand, snapping her out of her thoughts. It was a message from LJ.
“You alright, love? Been thinking about you since we left. My moms can be a lot, I know.”
Ally exhaled, her heart softening. He was always so understanding, so patient. She typed back to him quickly.
“Yeah, just thinking. Your moms were lovely. I just hope I made a good impression.”
Almost immediately, his reply came: “Angel, you did. I could see it. Don’t overthink it. They loved you.”
She gave a smile at the phone, before responding back. “I loved them too. I’m just scared I guess.”
She closed the message and waited a few moments, looking at the wallpaper on her phone, it was her and LJ at the Saint Dunstan-In-The-East Gardens, then the phone buzzed with another message, it was LJ.
“I’m on my way, I would rather be with you than in my own head tonight. And I feel that you love, might need the distraction too.”
She smiled, but the worry didn’t completely fade. She tossed her phone onto the bed and leaned against the windowsill, watching the street lights flicker below. Could she really make this work? Could they? The door to the future felt uncertain, but the warmth in her chest every time she thought of LJ reminded her that maybe, just maybe, love wasn’t about fitting into neat little boxes. Maybe it was about embracing the mess, the imperfections—the age difference included—and trusting that they’d find a way through it, together. Ally straightened up, taking a deep breath. He doesn’t care about the age difference, she reminded herself. Maybe it’s time she stopped caring so much, too.
Tomorrow, she'd figure out the rest. For now, she just had to believe. She had to believe in him, in everyone around her. Most of all she had to believe in herself. A short amount of time passed and a knock fell upon her hotel room door. Knowing who it was, she opened the door and let him in, feeling him wrapping his arms around her, the door closing with a loud click behind him.
Beheading the Queen
Tower of London
London, England
Alexandra was sitting near the Tower of London, it being the backdrop for the final time she would speak about or rather to her opponents for the tables match at Violent Conduct. There was a lot riding on this match, between wanting to impress LJ’s and Miles' family, she also wanted to make sure she didn’t let her own family down either. Lately the string of losses had been a rough blow for her. But here she was, fighting like she always did. Sometimes it wasn’t about always winning, but rather, proving that no matter how many times you get knocked down, you get right back up again and keep fighting. That was her legacy. It wasn’t about wins or losses, it was about resilience.
“Violent Conduct, one of the most brutal shows that happens at Sin City Wrestling, one of the ones that is sure to see bloodshed, injuries, triumphs and losses. You see this is more than just a win for me. This is about proving that no matter how far down I’m shoved, how many times my back is pinned to that mat, I get back up. It’s about resilience, first and foremost. That’s the legacy I want to leave behind for my daughter. I want her to know that no matter how bad it seems, how bad it can be, that she needs to keep going. That in the face of challenges she has to stay strong.”
Alexandra took a moment to pause, collecting her thoughts. A lot had happened over the past few months, things that weren’t that uncommon for others in some ways. Coming off a string of losses, much like the others, however, it wasn’t going to continue. No matter what it took, she would walk out on top and become the number one contender for the Bombshell Roulette title.
“Seleana, this isn’t the first time we’ve faced off, and each time, I walk out with the win. But I need to ask—why? Why do you keep holding yourself back? It’s almost like you're afraid of what might happen if you really let loose, if you finally unleash that beast I know is lurking inside you. And trust me, I’m counting on it. I want you at your most ruthless, at your hungriest. That’s the only version of you that stands a chance. But if you continue to hold back, if you hesitate for even a second, I’ll make sure you regret it.”
She let the silence linger for a moment, her eyes sharp and focused. Alexandra wasn’t here to play nice.
“Look, I’ve been knocked down too. I’ve been through losses that have rocked me to my core. But every single time, I’ve rebuilt myself stronger. When I hit rock bottom, I don’t stay there. I rise up and become the force no one can stop. This time? It’s no different. I’ve learned from my mistakes, and I’m more dangerous than ever. This isn’t just about proving myself—it’s about taking back what I never should have lost in the first place.”
Alexandra took a breath, her tone growing more intense, filled with cold confidence. She didn’t need to worry when it came to Seleana. It started to seem to her like she was just punching the clock at this point.
“Now, let’s talk about what’s really at stake. This match is about survival. It’s about showing who has the strength, the fire, and the drive to step over whoever gets in their way. I’m not walking into that ring to settle old scores or hand out compliments. I’m walking in to destroy anyone who stands between me and that number one contendership. You, Cassie, Luna—it doesn’t matter. I respect the fight in each of you, but respect isn’t going to save you when I’m coming at you full force. I will break through you if I have to.”
Her gaze hardened, her focus absolute.
“When the dust settles, I will be the last one standing. I’m not here for second chances—I’m here to claim what’s mine. This match is where I prove, once again, why I am the standard. So, if any of you think you’re ready to stand in my way, think again. Because I won’t hesitate to remind you all exactly who you’re dealing with.”
Alexandra’s intensity radiated through her words, showing her single-minded determination to walk out the victor—no compromises, no mercy.
"Winless, huh Cassie? Is that what you think of me? Yeah, I know that feeling all too well, but trust me, there's a big difference between being motivated and being ready. Let’s get one thing straight, the reason I’m here isn’t to just be a stepping stone for anyone, especially not someone who thinks losing is their greatest weapon. You’re motivated? Good for you! I’m not here for motivation—I’m here because this is what I do. SCW, PWS, wherever you’ve seen me, I’m always looking to dominate, and that hasn’t changed.”
Cassie Wolfe, seemed so excited, but then to bring up stakes, well Alexandra often set the bar high for herself. On purpose, could Cassie say the same?
“You want to talk about what’s at stake? I’m out for more than just a title shot. I want redemption. Victoria may have taken the title from me before, but let’s not get it twisted—I’m not chasing old ghosts. I’m here to remind everyone who Alexandra is, and if getting through you is what it takes? So be it. I always say whatever it takes, because I mean it. And this is a table’s match, I wouldn’t be surprised if Luna takes you all out, just to try and make an example of me. But I have something in store for all of you.”
Maybe it was the match itself, or maybe it was just the vibe she got from being here in London, but she was fired up for this match. She needed to be.
“Luna, Seleana, yourself... None of you are standing in my way. You're just along for the ride while I take what’s mine. Jokes about wood and foursomes? Cute, but maybe you should focus more on surviving what’s coming because in that ring, it’s no laughing matter."
Alexandra flicks her hair over her shoulder, taking a breath.
“You think you have a point to prove? So do I. The difference is, I don’t need to tell you to watch out. You’ll feel it soon enough.”
She nodded and that brought her to the last opponent she would be speaking about. It was only one more night until they would face off. This time, Luna would have to give it EVERYTHING she had if she wanted this win.
“Luna Pasilno, once again you come crawling out of whatever hole you hide in, spitting your venom and desperate to prove something — but let me stop you right there. You can rant all you want about respect, titles, or trying to make me bleed, but that doesn’t change the fact that you’re only here because of me. Every time you put my name in your mouth, you remind the world who keeps you relevant. It’s not about you being better, it’s about you needing to feel superior. You cling to the past because it’s the only place you can claim victory.”
She knew her words were pointed, direct and very painful if Luna could get her head out of her ass long enough to actually think about it. Alexandra’s focus was there, despite everything going on in her life.
“You’re right, I’ve fallen short. I’ve tasted defeat, and I’ve had moments where it all came crashing down. I’ve faced the best this business has to offer, and yes, I’ve been beaten. But what you seem to forget, Luna, is that I’m still standing. Through the highs, through the lows — I am still here. That burns you, doesn’t it? You want me broken. You need me broken. Because as long as I keep getting up, I’m a reminder that your so-called dominance is nothing more than an illusion. You are just upset that you can’t end me. Several people have tried recently, I had a concussion, after having my head kicked into a dumpster. And yet, I’m still standing. I had you even slam a crown of thorns down on my head and I got up and walked from the ring, in defeat it’s true, but I was still standing. Every single time you’ve come at me, I walk away from it. So sure, bring your anger, bring your violence, because I plan on doing the same.”
She nodded, there was no denying it. The truth was, Luna had always defeated her. But even in that defeat Alexandra had still been proud of everything she had accomplished.
“You mention how you’ve beaten me, how you’ve embarrassed me — but tell me, how does it feel to know that every scar I carry makes me stronger? That every time I’ve been knocked down, I’ve risen with more fire, more hunger, and more resolve? You want to put me through a table? You think bleeding is going to make me beg for mercy? You really don’t know who I am. You would think by now, you would know who the fuck I am. But clearly, you don’t. So I’m going to be more than happy to show you.”
Luna truly believed that she had Alexandra’s number again. But the truth was, Luna would feel just what happened when you doubted Alexandra. She took a few moments, mulling over everything that had happened between Luna and herself. From them trying to get her to join The Conspiracy to Luna blaming her for Alexander Raven’s losses. When the biggest weakness was Luna herself. Because at the end of the day, Raven would always put Luna above his own goals, instead of standing side by side, facing the battles together.
“See, Luna, I don’t fear pain. I don’t fear blood. I don’t fear you. I embrace the hurt. Because for every drop of blood you spill, I will return it tenfold. You thrive on breaking others, but what happens when you finally come across someone you can’t break? That’s what terrifies you, isn’t it? That somewhere deep inside, you know there’s a reckoning coming for you — and it’s me.”
It was true, Alexandra respected people she fought against. The entire industry was about making each other look good. Once Luna did that, once she let go of her own preconceived notions and her delusions of grandeur, she might actually be a decent person.
“You claim I hide behind respect? No, Luna. I fight with respect because unlike you, I know this business isn’t about pretending to be a queen sitting on a crumbling throne. It’s about surviving, about proving that when everything is stripped away, I am still standing tall. You can’t say the same, can you? You need to tear others down to make yourself feel powerful. Without that, you’re just another insecure woman, trying to make up for her shortcomings by tearing the wings off of anyone who dares to rise above. But you won’t rip mine off again.”
That was a true fact. Luna felt the need to tear apart her opponents, just to make herself look bigger, better, stronger. That was often the sign of weakness. Something Alexandra tried hard to not do. Tearing others down to make herself look better, was never her game.
“So when the dust settles and the tables are broken, just know one thing: you will never end me, Luna. You can’t. I will always rise. You talk about making yourself happy by watching me bleed — but don’t be surprised when it’s your blood spilling across the canvas, and it’s me standing over you with a smile on my face. Understand this, Luna: I’m done being your stepping stone. You want to fight? I’ll give you the war of a lifetime. And when it’s all over, when you’re laying broken and battered, don’t cry. Don’t beg for sympathy. Because like you said — I’ll have none for you. Funny you say that we don’t belong in your ring, but here the hell we are.”
She gave a flourish of curtsy and giggled softly.
“The next time you ask why I’m still here, the answer will be clear. I’m not here because I’m chasing you. I’m here because I’ve already surpassed you. You just haven’t realized it yet Luna. When I’m done with you three ladies, I will go on to behead the Queen and take what she values most. My Bombshell Roulette Championship. See you ladies at the O2 arena.”
With that, she stands, walking away from the camera. Disappearing into a crowd of people.
Calls to home
Hilton Hotel Hyde Park
London, England
Alexandra sat at the small desk in her London hotel room, her muscles still humming from the training session she had earlier that day. It felt strange to be in another city so soon after sharing the mat with Ashlynn just a few days ago, their laughter echoing in the air as they practiced together. As the familiar glow of her laptop lit up the room, she felt a rush of excitement mixed with a touch of homesickness. Their nightly calls were a tradition she cherished, a lifeline that kept them connected even across the miles.
When the video call connected, Ashlynn’s face filled the screen, her fourteen-year-old features lit up with a mix of mischief and warmth. She lounged on the couch back in Texas, her oversized hoodie swallowing her petite frame. The background was a vibrant snapshot of home, with sunlight filtering through the curtains and the faint sound of metal music drifting from somewhere else in the house.
“Hey, superstar!” Ashlynn exclaimed, a playful grin breaking across her face. “Did you get lost in London or something? I missed you mom.”
Alexandra laughed, settling back in her chair. “Just had to take a quick nap after training, but I’d never forget to call you. What’s up?”
“Did you at least eat something besides hotel food?” Ashlynn asked, her brow furrowing in mock concern.
“Okay, okay, I had a scone this morning,” Alexandra admitted, rolling her eyes. “But you should’ve seen the training session today! It was intense.”
Ashlynn perked up, leaning closer to the screen. “Was it better than when you and Mika were trained together?”
“Totally different vibe,” Alexandra said, her smile brightening at the memory of their last training session. “But the atmosphere here is incredible. I even got to meet LJ’s moms as well too!! It was great! We went to their house the other day.”
“Wait, for real? LJ’s moms? What were they like?” Ashlynn's eyes widened with excitement.
“They were wonderful!” Alexandra said, her face lighting up at the memory. “They were so warm and welcoming. We spent a few hours talking, and they shared all these sweet stories about LJ when he was little. Apparently, he used to build forts out of blankets and pillows and would insist on having tea parties with them. He seemed to be a really happy kid.”
Ashlynn giggled, her eyes sparkling with delight. “That sounds so cute! I can totally picture him doing that. So how did they feel about you two? You know, the age thing.”
“I know, right? They said he was such a creative kid,” Alexandra continued, her heart warming at the thought. “And they showed me some old photos of him in costumes, pretending to be superheroes. You would’ve loved hearing all those stories—they were so proud of him.” She took a deep breath trying to focus on the topic at hand. “They didn’t seem upset about it. But maybe they were a bit cautious. I don’t blame them.”
“I wish I could’ve been there!” Ashlynn said, her expression brightening. “It sounds like you had a blast!”
“I did, but it made me miss you even more,” Alexandra admitted, her heart tightening. They had shared so much laughter and excitement in their training sessions, and she missed having Ashlynn by her side. “I’m only here for a few more days. Just until the tour moves on.”
“But it feels like forever,” Ashlynn said, her expression turning serious for a moment. “I know you call me every night, but it’s just… different.”
“I get that,” Alexandra said softly, her voice laced with understanding. “I promise, as soon as this tour is over, I’m coming home. We’ll make up for lost time, okay?”
Ashlynn’s eyes brightened a little, but she still looked hesitant. “For real this time?”
“For real,” Alexandra promised, nodding firmly. “No last-minute bookings or anything. We’ll have our time, even if we just stay home and binge-watch those crime documentaries you love.”
Ashlynn let out a small laugh, the tension easing between them. “You’re only saying that because you miss me.”
“Guilty as charged,” Alexandra replied with a grin. “But seriously, I do miss you. Every day.”
“Me too,” Ashlynn said, her smile returning. “So, what’s next? More sightseeing? Are you gonna see the Queen’s Guard?”
“I’m thinking of checking out the Tower of London tomorrow,” Alexandra said, excitement creeping into her voice. “You know, see the Crown Jewels and all that.”
“That sounds cool! Just don’t get too lost or end up in a pub. Or have too much fun without me.” Ashlynn teased, crossing her arms as she pretended to glare at her mother.
“I’ll keep that in mind,” Alexandra laughed. “Just don’t let Uncle Damien eat all the snacks while I’m gone, okay?”
“Deal!” Ashlynn replied, her playful tone returning. “He can’t help it. He has no self-control when it comes to chips and salsa, you know that mom.”
They both laughed, and in that moment, the distance between them felt a little less daunting. Ashlynn shifted in her seat, her face becoming more serious again.
“Okay, Mom. I guess I’ll let you go and not keep you from your London adventures.” Ashlynn said, her voice softer now.
“Get some rest, okay?” Alexandra said, her heart swelling with love for her daughter. “We’ll talk tomorrow.”
“Yeah, okay. Night, Mom.”
“Goodnight, sweetheart. Love you.”
“Love you too, mom.” Ashlynn replied before the screen went dark, leaving Alexandra staring at the empty space. She took a moment to let the warmth of their conversation wash over her, reminding herself that soon, they’d be back together again. She’d have to see if LJ wanted to join her back home for a bit. She wanted them to bond as well, especially if this was going to get any more serious.
