Breakdown 10-28-20
Not long after sending my promo in to be uploaded to SCW and wherever else it hits the internet, I don't know how that works.... Dom got a text from Lisa saying she'd gotten a few calls almost immediately, asking for quotes, conformation, and interviews about our engagement. He told her to confirm (apparently some vultures thought I may have just said it as a publicity stunt or to fuck with David), say whatever she wanted personally, and hold off on accepting any interviews until after Under Attack. She agreed, but said E! Entertainment was very interested in getting first access and made a very good offer. So we'll more than likely take that one, that network has been very good to us. But Dom was right, we can't make any decisions like that until Monday. If Tommy Valentine beats me.... I might not feel very chatty, you know? Not that I'm not ready for him, but the last few months have proven than anything can happen, no matter how ready or confident I am. That's not exactly something I like to admit, but the proof is on video. Sometimes the truth hurts even me. That said... I am ready, and I am confident.
{{Sunday, October 18th
Atlanta}}
The group of us arrived at the arena about two hours before bell time, as requested. After checking in, Jaina went off to get her assignments, Scott went to try to find out if I was actually the main event or not, and Sienna, Xiomara, Dom, and I went to my locker room. I could have got Dom a VIP area seat, it's reserved for family of the roster, the section is never shown on camera, but he wanted to stay backstage. Didn't matter to me either way.
After getting our things settled my locker room and making sure none of us were needed for any kind of pre-show interviews or such, Dom and I go down to catering, I wanted coffee and maybe a sandwich. As we're on the way there, I am stopped by a lady from production, I recognize her but I don't know her name.
“Excuse me, Miss Lancaster?”
“Yes?”
“Pardon the interruption, Mr. Teller-” Dom waves it off. “But we're looking for Jaina, she did arrive with you, correct?”
“She did, she told me she was going to check with you guys.”
“Oh. Maybe we crossed each other. I'll go back to the green room. Thanks!”
“No problem, babe."
The lady walks off quickly.
“That's weird. Jaina should have been there by now. I hope she's okay.”
“I'm sure she is, maybe she ran into her mom?”
“Maybe.”
We continue down the hall towards catering, and after going a few feet, Dom stops, stops me, and points to a door across from another hall that intersects the one we're going down. I see Jaina leaning against the wall near a locker room.... speaking to Jordan. I can't see Jordan's face but I know it's her, her hair is pretty distinctive currently. Jaina is nodding with a grin.
“Well. That's interesting.”
“You think?”
“Jordan better not be messing with her head!”
I start to walk over, but Dom grabs my arm. “She's an adult now, you know. Should you really storm over there?”
I sigh. “No. You're right. But I do want to say something to Jordan. I'll just walk up normally, not storming.”
“Bree...”
“I promise. It'll be fine.”
Dom lets go of my arm. I'm not sure why he was concerned, he knows I don't have any anger towards Jordan. I just know Jaina is in a bit of a vulnerable place at the moment and that Jordan knows what's going on with her. I take a deep breath and walk over.
- “sure yet about that.”
“You'll figure out what's best for you. You always do.”
“I try....” Jaina looks up and sees me, and stops talking. The look on her face makes Jordan turn around.
“Oh... hi.... I'll um, I'll just get going.” Jordan starts to walk away.
“No, wait. I actually wanted to talk to you.”
“Oh. Wait. You did?” I nod. “Okay. Um... why?”
I turn to Jaina. “Would you mind if Jordan and I spoke in private?”
“Oh... no. Go ahead. I'll go to production like I was supposed to be doing.”
“Yeah, they were looking for you.”
“Figures.” She looks at Jordan. “Thanks, we'll talk later okay?”
“Sure thing boo.”
Jaina smiles as she walks off. I notice her hand over stomach. I wonder if she's having pains or something. I turn back to Jordan, she seems a little apprehensive.
“So... you wanted to talk to me?”
“I did. I know that you and Jaina have been speaking, and she's told you... things. And I wanted to tell you thanks for being a friend to her, despite the way things went down.”
“You don't have to thank me for that. I never wanted things to end bad or get weird.”
“You had a funny way of showing it.”
Jordan sighs. “I know, and you have every right to be mad at me for what I did, but-”
“I'm not mad at you, Jordan. I never was.”
“Really? Cause I seem to remember you screaming in a promo that we were not friends.”
I cross my arms and look down a second. When I look back up, Jordan has her arms crossed too.
“I did do that. And that was out of hurt, babe. Not anger. You hurt me. I thought I was doing the best I could for you, and you threw it all back in my face and made me look like a fool to Sienna. I vouched for you!”
“I know you did. But she wasn't buying it, you know she wasn't! I never wanted to push you away, I just wanted her off my ass.”
“How did that work out for you?”
Jordan laughs, harsh. “Not very well, clearly.”
A few seconds pass in silence. “I tried to get her to leave you alone.”
“You did?”
“Yeah. Enough was enough, you know?”
More silence. “As long as were admitting things... I might as well tell you I miss you guys. Well, you and Dom and Jaina.” She smirks. Of course not Sienna.
“Really?”
The smirk fades into seriousness. “You were my best friend.”
I fight off the urge to just hug her. I hadn't come over to talk about this, just Jaina. I guess I should have known better. “That didn't have to change. Yeah, it was weird for a while but you didn't have to shut me out because of Sienna. Forget Sienna, she and I aren't attached at the hip. She has friends I don't like, I know she's doing things she isn't telling me. But that's fine, she's her own person. So am I.”
“Are you trying to say you miss me, too?”
I grin. “Yeah... that's what I'm saying. I do miss you. Everything I said on camera about or to you wasn't mindgames or whatever. I do still want to help you, and you really are still on my gate allow list. Maybe don't drop by soon, Sienna is actually staying with me for a while...”
Jordan grins. “I don't care what Sienna thinks about anything. We beat the shit out of each other twice and as far as I'm concerned that's over with.”
“For what its worth, she's moved on to Kelcey. And I'm not having any luck getting her to back off her, either.”
“I thought you would want her to maim Kelcey.” Jordan knows my feelings on that bitch, we discussed it at length over wine once.
I laugh. “I mean, yeah... but not here, under SCW's watch, where it gets both of us threatened.”
“I can see your point.”
“You probably enjoy the fact that her actions are getting heat on me.”
Jordan shakes her head. “Not really. It's not fair to hold you accountable for someone else.”
This surprises me. “I see. Well, thank you.”
“This is gonna sound weird but I have to say it... I know there's no way things are ever gonna be the same, but its good talking to you.”
“It doesn't have to be the same to be good.”
Jordan smiles. “Good to know.”
I smile back. Another few silent seconds pass. “Well, I just wanted to tell you thanks for being there for Jaina. I wasn't very understanding at first, which I'm sure she told you...” Jordan nods. “I'm glad she had someone to talk to who was on her side from the start, like I should have been.”
“I'm glad you came around. She needs you.”
“Just do me a favor, okay?” Jordan nods, waiting for my request. “Don't fuck with her head? I'm pretty sure you wouldn't mean to, but.... she's not in a good place and it would be easy to-”
“I know. You don't have to worry.”
“Thanks.” Jordan nods. “I should get going, preparations and all that.”
“Actually, me too. I found out my match is first.”
“Oh, ouch. I hate that. Good luck. Kick Chris hard one good time for me.”
“Thanks, I'll do my best. And good luck to you, too. I'd rather see you champion again than that guy.”
“Psht, that's cause you let David Helms corrupt your brain.”
“As if, I barely know him!”
“That's probably for the best. He can't betray you that way. You can ask Dom about that sometime. See you around.”
Jordan gives me an odd look as I walk away. It might have been rude after the amicable way the rest of the talk went, but I was afraid I would start ranting if we kept on that topic and I didn't want to ruin the moment.
I hadn't intended for all of that to be said, but maybe it was a good thing we both let our thoughts known. I'd told Jaina I still cared about Jordan and I wasn't mad at her. Jaina probably told her but it wasn't the same as hearing it from me. Maybe I could get my friend back, somehow. I'm sure Sienna would hate that, but I don't care. I love her like family but she doesn't get to decide who my friends are.
* * * * *
My match is over, and I have leather and gold around my waist again. I can hear the recap package SCW is playing to the crowd about Selena Frost and Xander Valentine as Scott and I walk through the curtain. Tommy is a few steps ahead of me, I can tell he's pissed and I don't blame him – I would be too. To his credit, even after all the knee attacks I went for, he's walking normally. Or maybe he's forcing it to not give me any more satisfaction, who knows. Anyway, I go up behind him and tap his shoulder. He turns and gives me a stare. I can't tell if it's anger or respect or something in the middle. I don't say anything, I just extend my hand out. He looks at it a few seconds, then nods and takes my hand, shaking. We both said some brutal things and went hard in that ring minutes ago, but under all of that is respect, I wanted him to know I still have it. Apparently so does he. I nod back. He turns and walks off.
I wonder if I should have said something, and almost call out, but then I feel a hand on my shoulder. I turn around and Dom is smiling at me, arms open waiting to hug me. I smile back and hug him, he holds me tight. I'm still wearing the belt Scott put on me in the ring so the hug is a little awkward but neither of us care.
“I knew you would do it, cakes.”
“It was close.”
“I know, but you still did it.”
I squeeze a little tighter for a second, then pull away a bit, still catching my breath from the match.
“I don't know how I pulled that off at the end, I thought I was just gonna make him burn energy, but-”
“But you'd already done that. You were brilliant, and you look beautiful in that gold.” He grins.
“Stop it, I'm a mess. I'm sweaty and my hair-”
He kisses me to shut me up. “You're beautiful and I love you.”
I smile. “I love you too. I love when you meet me here after my matches, Sienna usually-” Suddenly, a thought comes to mind. “Oh my God, Sienna! I have to-”
“Calm down, she's in your locker room with Xio and Jaina. I watched the match with them there. Came out here as soon as the three hit. They're waiting for you.”
I exhale, the last thing I need was for Sienna to be off causing more trouble right after I won the World Championship back. She'd done enough tonight already, not that I minded in this particular case. “Okay. Let's go. Thanks for keeping an eye on her.”
Dom just grins, I doubt Sienna knew that's what he was doing, but I knew.
We get back to my locker room, Scott goes off to do his information gathering thing. As soon as I walk in, Sienna gets to her feet and hugs me.
“Oh thank goodness sweetie, this company needs you with that belt right now.”
“Thanks babe.”
I pull back and see Xio and Jaina smiling. I hug both of them, then finally remove the belt from my waist. Jaina takes it and lays it across my luggage. I look around at everyone, and smile.
“I just want to thank everyone in this room for being here for me, supporting me. I know all of us have had a rough time in the last little while, over various things... and it means a lot to me that despite all of that, I know I can count on all of you. I love you.” I look around, so they all know I mean all of them. I get a bunch of smiles. “That said... right now I really just want to get out of here.”
“But the show isn't over..." Jaina seems wary of leaving early.
“So? I have no interest in the matches left, and honestly? I think we should leave before Sienna gets herself into any more trouble.” I give Sienna a pointed look. She puts her hand up to the bandage on her head.
“Funny, I thought you would have enjoyed seeing me beat the shit out of Blake.”
“Never said I didn't. But you know what I mean, Sie.”
Sienna nods. Xio does, too. “I have to agree with Bree, there is no reason for us to be here now that Bree's match is done. Others could come looking for retaliation, we don't need that risk. Besides, who are we to refuse the champ's wishes?”
I grin. “Well I wasn't going to play that card...”
“You don't have to, I will for you Mami.”
I smile, and turn to Jaina. “Do you have any assignments tonight?”
“No. I had one, but Tony took me off it.”
“Tony?”
Jaina sighs. “Running production tonight. Do you not know any of the production staff?”
I shrug. “Not really. Never needed to. But why would he do that? Are you okay?” I give her a pointed look, so that she would know what I'm really asking. Only her, me, and Dom would know what I meant. She shrugs.
“I'm fine. Scott told me he heard they pulled all the interviews, not just mine.”
“Oh. Okay.” I don't believe her at all. But there are other people in the room to where she can't speak freely.
Dom clears his throat a bit, I think he doesn't believe her, either. “Well, if all you ladies are in agreement, I'll track Scott down and get the car ready?” It's really an SUV we rented cause there are six of us.
“Ladies?”
Xio and Jaina nod. Sienna shrugs. “Fine with me.”
“Okay. Let's go. I'll even wait to shower til we get back to our room.”
Dom nods and leaves. I quickly change out of my gear and into track pants and a t-shirt. I have extra clothes with me so it doesn't matter that I put these on sweaty.
Fifteen minutes later we are at our hotel. I rented a suite this time to keep everyone together, Dom and I have a room, Sienna and Xio have one, and Jaina has the smaller one. Scott has his own room as usual, except this time its a floor below us, since there are only suites on this floor. Anyway, Scott helped get our luggage in and left for his own room. Sienna and Xio went to theirs, it has two beds. I saw Sienna grab wine out of the fridge. I know she shouldn't be drinking but she is already in a mood after getting stapled and I don't feel like fighting with her. We're in our room and it'll be fine.
I have my shower, put on shorts and a thin t-shirt, and go to Jaina's room. I didn't believe her about her getting taken off her assignment. I knock and she tells me to come in. Shes laying in bed, and looks a little... pale? Off? Just not herself. I must have been too focused on my match to notice earlier tonight. I sit in the chair next to her bed.
“Okay. It's just you and me in here. What really happened with your assignment?”
Jaina sighs. “I had two. It was supposed to be the winner of the US and the winner of the Adrenaline, since either one could be targeted by the winner of the chamber. But when we got to the arena, I didn't feel well. Like, kinda weak, really tired. Jordan even noticed when I was talking to her. So when I went to production after seeing you and Tony gave me the jobs, I asked him if someone else could do it. But no other reporters were here, it was just me. So they had to just pull the segments. I felt bad about that, but... I couldn't be on camera. Look at me... I'm white as rice.”
I nod, she isn't wrong. “Maybe you should have stayed home.”
“Maybe. They said I should be okay, but everyone is different.”
“Are you going to be in trouble for pulling out?”
“I don't think so. Tony offered to get a medic to examine me, I declined, I told him I thought I had bad food for lunch. He didn't believe me, he knew about when I tried to interview Asher Hayes after he beat Syren and I ran off-”
“Wait, what?”
“Oh... yeah. It was meant for the website, but I got nauseated halfway through and had to leave. I actually threw up that time, I don't know why. Production just killed the footage, I think. I never actually checked....”
“Why didn't you tell me?”
Jaina shrugs. “It didn't seem that important. Anyway it doesn't matter now, I won't be doing that anymore. Point was, Tony knew about it. He told me to see a doctor when I get home.” She looks worried for a moment. “Do you think I can get in trouble for lying about being sick? I mean, I'm not really sick, you know?”
“I don't think so, it's a health thing, you know? That kind of information is meant to be private. It's not like anyone can get sick from you. But I don't really know, I will have Scott find out for you.”
Jaina nods. “Thanks.”
“I'm sorry you feel bad, babygirl, I am glad you came and tried to work, and were here for me, but I want you to feel better.”
“I think I will once we get home. You're probably right, I shouldn't have done this traveling.”
I reach over and pat her hand. “Well, it'll just be icky for another day or so after we fly back, but you'll be okay. Call the doctor at the clinic tomorrow if you're worried.”
“I'm not worried. I'm not like... still bleeding or anything. Just really tired.”
“Okay. In that case, I will get out of here and let you rest. If you need anything, just-”
“I'll get it myself. I'm not gonna interrupt whatever you're doing to celebrate.” Jaina smirks. I fake-scowl at her.
“Cheeky.”
“I'm sure cheeks will be involved.”
“Jaina!” We both laugh. I get up. “Get some rest, you naughty thing.”
“I'll try. I'm really happy and proud for you.”
I smile. “Thanks, babygirl. Good night.”
I walk out and close the door. My room is across the sitting area from Jaina's and Sienna's. I notice Sienna's door closed. I know she's happy for me but she isn't happy about her own situation. I can hear her TV on, from the sounds of it, the chamber match is still going. I honestly don't care who wins it, it has no effect on me.
I grab two water bottles from the kitchenette and go into my room to meet Dom. I apparently didn't need the water – on the table is an ice bucket with a bottle of my favorite Merlot, two wine glasses... and a gorgeous gold vase with a half dozen roses. Dom hears the door open and turns, then smiles.
“Baby....”
“What? It's just a little something.”
I walk in and close the door, locking it. “And what would you have done if I lost?”
“You assume I thought that was a possibility.”
“It was.”
“Okay. Honestly? I had the order with room service on standby. I called in the go ahead while you were showering. Now stop asking questions, you're killing the moment!” He grins.
“Okay, okay. I will accept this lavish display of affection with no further protest.” I grin back.
“That's my girl.” He smirks, then opens the wine and pours the two glasses. I start to sit in the chair, but he leads me to the bed instead. “Nope, you ma'am, get to relax. Lay back and bask.” I laugh a little as I do as he says. He then hands me my wine, and sits next to me. He holds his glass up I do mine too, might as well play along with his silliness. “For you, current World Champion, future wife, and ever-present love of my life.” He taps my glass with his. I laugh.
“You are so extra and I love it.”
“What, I meant every word.” He smirks. We sip the wine. It's perfectly chilled.
“Oh I know you did. But I mean all of this.” I sip more wine. “You spoil me.”
“You deserve it. I know things have been rough for you for a while, it's good to see you happy and smiling.”
“it's good to feel happy and be smiling. After Rise to Greatness it just felt like I couldn't get my feet under me. Then Sienna lost it, Jaina.... had her thing. But things are getting better. Sienna left Kelcey alone-”
“Nah, she just assaulted your ex instead, who is close to Kelcey.”
I wave my hand in the air, brushing that off. “Yeah but that's different. I asked her to leave Kelcey alone. She did. That's a good thing.” Dom nods, conceding my point. “Jaina is happy, even if she's not feeling great at the moment, but she will soon. And I got my championship back. I would have preferred to beat a different man for it, but I'm not gonna dwell on that.”
“As well you shouldn't. Don't stress yourself about David anymore. I'm not. If he returns and you face him again, great. Kick his ass. If not? Well... one less challenger, right?”
“Right. But baby? I need you to do me a favor.”
“Yes, cakes?” He grins.
“Don't say that man's name while we're in bed.”
Dom laughs. “Deal.” We clink glasses again, and both finish the wine. Dom takes mine and sets it aside with his back on the table. He then sits next to me again. I scoot over to give him room to get all the way in. He does, and sits back against the pillows like I am.
“The wine and the flowers and adoration are all great baby, thank you. But there's only one thing that will make tonight absolutely perfect.”
“What's that?”
I smirk, and lay down all the way, then curl my finger at him in a 'come here' gesture. He smirks, and leans over me.
“Of course... it'll be my pleasure to please the champion.”
I laugh. “Would you stop it?”
“Never.” He then kisses me.
And the rest of the night was perfect.
{{Monday, October 19th
Kenner}}
We flew out of Atlanta in the morning, and got home a little after noon. Jaina went upstairs to lay down again. She asked to not be bothered the rest of the day, I didn't have a problem with that. After getting all the luggage put away and unpacked, Sienna, Xiomara, and I decided that since it was still warm, we would spend the afternoon around the pool. Have a few drinks, swim, relax. I wanted to ask Sienna if chlorine should get on her staple wounds but I didn't want to upset her, so I let it go. I asked Dom to join us but he couldn't right away, he had a conference call with Lisa and some movie producer, I wasn't sure what for exactly, I figured he'd explain later.
All three of us are in our suits, Sienna in a black tie-on bikini, Xio in an orange one piece halter, and me in a bikini that's navy with tiny white dots. We've been outside a few minutes, testing the water, arranging the table and chairs. I go back inside to get the drinks. I made a pitcher of mimosa, so I grabbed that and some glasses and set everything on a tray. Just as I was picking it up to go back outside, I hear a knock at the side door. Only one person uses that door. I open it and smile.
“Hi Reece.”
He looks me up and down a second, and smiles. “Hi... hope I'm not interrupting anything.”
“Oh, no. Just me and the girls were having a pool day.”
“I can see that.”
I grin. “Yeah... sorry. I was about to head out back.”
“I won't bother you long then. First, I watched your show, team was off this week. Congratulations.”
“Thank you.”
“Secondly, can your pool day spare Jaina for a few minutes?”
“Oh... she's not here.”
Reece glances over his shoulder, towards the front of my house. “I see her Jeep....”
“Yeah, her car is here. But she isn't. She's out with her mom, she picked her up.”
“Oh...”
“Yeah, some mom-daughter thing. They hadn't really been speaking much since she moved here so it's like a thing.”
Reece nods. “Right, she told me about some of that. Alright, sorry to bother you-”
“Don't be ridiculous. In fact... would you like to join us?” I really, really hoped he would say no. But I had to act as if nothing was wrong, despite the fact I just blatantly lied. Not very long ago I would have felt a lot worse about doing so than I do now. Amazing what happens when you realize that the expectations of some overbearing deity don't actually matter.
“Oh no, I wouldn't want to impose. I'm not sure your friends really like me.”
“Nonsense! Sienna is just having a hard time right now, if she's aloof, it's not personal.”
“Even so, I would feel out of place. Can you just ask Jaina to call me, or maybe come over, when she gets back?”
“Sure. It might be late though, she may not get back to you til tomorrow.”
“That's fine. Appreciate it.”
“Of course.”
Reece nods with a grin and turns to leave. I watch him walk away a few seconds, he seems disappointed that he didn't get to see Jaina. I feel bad for him, but what else could I do?
I close the door and turn around, meaning to go upstairs and tell Jaina what happened, so she knows the story I gave him.... but Sienna is standing behind me, leaning on the island, in such a way that I know Reece couldn't have seen her from the door.
“Sienna....”
“I didn't want to interrupt. For the record... I do like your friend. He's sweet.”
“He is, he's a good friend and he treats Jaina well.”
“And you just lied to him for her.”
I cringe. “You heard that, huh?”
“I did. I don't think I've ever heard you lie to anyone. What's going on?”
I sigh. Now I have to lie twice. “She just didn't want to see him today.”
“I thought they were dating, why wouldn't she?”
“They are. Were.... it's complicated. She's just a little... nervous. Cause things went fast. She's trying to back off a little.”
Sienna nods. “I understand. She's young, these things can be scary. Especially after her last relationship ended so badly.”
I notice a flash of anger across Sienna;'s face, but it passes. I was waiting for another rant about Jordan, but it doesn't come. She doesn't know Jordan and I spoke in Atlanta, and I didn't plan on telling her, not yet anyway. “Yes, I'm sure that's part of it. Anyway, I don't consider what I just said lying. I was just keeping my promise to Jaina to help her avoid him for a few days.”
“Loopholes are wonderful things.”
I grin. “Yes, they are.” Sienna grins back. “Would you do me a favor babe and take these drinks outside? I want to go tell Jaina what just happened so she knows what to say when she sees him.”
“Of course. I have to warn you though we're probably going to start drinking without you.”
“Go right ahead. I won't be long.”
Sienna nods, and grabs the tray. She takes it outside where Xio is sitting at the patio table.
I go upstairs and knock on Jaina's door.
“It's open.”
I go in. She's sitting in that purple chair with a blanket over her, playing on her phone.
“Hey Jay. I just thought you should know... Reece was just here asking for you.”
“What? What did you say?”
“I told him you weren't here, that you were out with your mom. He wants you to call or go over when you can.”
“Okay. Thanks for covering for me.”
“Of course. You should also know that Sienna heard me and asked me why I lied. So I told her that you were creating distance because the relationship made you nervous.”
Jaina frowns. “I hate that you have to lie to everyone....”
“Don't worry about that, I'm doing what I have to do to help you. But I will say that if it really bothers you, you can trust Sienna if you want to let her know what really happened. She won't judge or talk. She's just as good at keeping secrets as I am.” Maybe better. I know there are things she hasn't told me, her and Xio whisper too much for there not to be. But I don't pry. It's up to Sienna what she wants to tell me.
“I know. She's always been nice to me, even if she does hate my ex-girlfriend. I'll think about it. Thanks for telling me about Reece. I might call him later.”
“I think you should. I'm not going to try to convince you to tell him everything, that's up to you. But it's not fair to him to shut him out completely, he doesn't know why. You have to tell him something.”
“What you told Sienna isn't very far from the truth, honestly. I don't know what I'm supposed to do now.”
I sit on the edge of her bed. “What do you mean?”
“Like.... should I tell him? If I do, then it's probably more serious, right? If I don't, can it ever really be a real thing if I'm keeping something from him? I know how he feels about secrets, he told me about his ex wife.” Reece's ex wife cheated on him with a former teammate while he was recovering from his back injury, then lied about it when he found out and asked her. I can understand Jaina's uneasiness in keeping something from him.
“I can't answer that for you. Only you know what you really want, or if you feel comfortable telling him. If it was me... I would tell him. But you know me, I don't like keeping things from people I care about. I will admit it gets me into trouble sometimes, but I prefer to be as honest as I can.”
“I know... that's why I don't know what to do. It's part of why I'm avoiding him. I don't know what to say.”
“I wish I could help you. I can only tell you what I would do, but you have to decide what's best for you.”
"That's almost exactly what Jordan said." Jaina smirks. “Are you sure you can't just go back to the days when you did tell me what to do?”
“The last time I tried that it didn't turn out well for anyone. So, hard pass. Sorry.” I grin.
“Oh fine...” She grins. “I will talk to him. Soon as I figure out what to say.”
“Okay. I'll be out back with the girls, text if you need something.”
Jaina nods, and goes back to her phone.
I go back downstairs and join Sienna and Xiomara. Xio was in the pool with her glass, Sienna was sitting on the edge with her feet in the water. Both Donatella and Sienna's dog Milo were in the pool splashing around. She's had him here with her the whole time, he's very sweet and I think Tella thinks he's her boyfriend. I smiled at the scene as I poured myself a glass. I then walked down the steps to join Xio. We spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing and swimming. Dom ordered my favorite sushi for dinner. It was a great first day back home after my victory. I don't know if Jaina called Reece or not, I hope she did. As much as I was against them being together at first, I actually really hope it works out for them. Jaina should be as happy as I am.
{{Thursday, October 22nd
Kenner}}
Yesterday was an experience.... Sienna, Xiomara, and I went to the French Quarter. Sienna wanted greasy food so I had the idea to go down there, eat, shop, show them all the cool shops. Sienna though found herself in Erzulie's Voodoo shop, and by the time Xio and I found her, she was in an argument with Anna, the owner. I know her just from being from the city and also through Amy, she's a regular customer there as Anna sells things for other kinds of magic besides voodoo. I have no idea what Sienna went in there for or why she was arguing with Anna, but if this doesn't calm down, I am going to have to sic Amy on her, and I know Sienna wouldn't like that. We got home and things calmed down, we had a quiet dinner, and by quiet I mean hardly anyone spoke. Xio and I decided to keep Sienna's visit to Erzulie's to ourselves. But we are both worried.
Today has been quiet too, Sienna, Xio and I went to my usual gym this morning, after I took them home I brought Donatella to the groomer's. She and Milo get along well and they have been.... “playing” rough? Yeah, we'll call it that. Thankfully she is fixed.
Anyway, we are leaving tomorrow for Los Angeles. Breakdown is there next week, and Sienna wants to go a few days early to spend some time at her house. I don't blame her. Dom and I are going with her and will stay with her. Jaina will meet us Tuesday to be there for Breakdown. Jaina did tell me she called Reece the other night but they didn't speak long, which means she likely didn't tell him anything substantial. I hope the time here by herself will give her a chance to feel comfortable talking to Reece without anyone else around.
It's evening and I've just finished getting Dom and I's things ready to leave in the morning. I'm sitting on the small couch we have near the fireplace in the bedroom. I have music on to try to relax before traveling tomorrow.. I'm sitting sideways on the couch, leaning my back on the arm, with my feet up on the other arm. I have my eyes closed, and am focusing on the music, its some Celtic instrumental stuff I heard Amy playing a while back and she gave me a copy. I didn't hear anything so when I feel a hand on my foot, I jump.
“Shit! Baby, you scared me!”
Dom laughs. “Sorry, I thought this would be less startling than me saying something.” He wiggles my foot.
“Honestly, I'd have jumped either way. How was your meeting with Lisa?”
Dom moves my feet, sits next to me, and puts my feet back down over his lap. “Really good, actually. Got some things to run by you.”
“Okay.” I grab the stereo remote and lower the music.
“Well, firstly, she's confirmed our interview for E! next week. It'll be Monday, which works out since one, we'll already be there, and two, Breakdown is in L.A.”
“So once again, we're promoting two things at once?”
“Pretty much, except this time there's no film involved. Just you and us.” He grins.
“I'm sure you'll be asked about taking time off.”
“I will, Lisa gave me a runsheet of what they want to discuss. We can go over that on the plane tomorrow though, there's other news, too.”
“Such as?”
“Well, that clause in my contract about a bonus once the film reaches a certain profit level?” I nod, I remember it, it's supposed to be an extra two million.. “It's passed that level, a few weeks ago. Everything has been confirmed and accounting did their thing, so... I got paid.”
I smile. “That's great, baby!”
“Yeah, I was happy to hear it for sure. As for the money itself, I want to give it to you, so I'll need-”
I pull my feet off his lap and sit up. “Wait, what? No!”
“Just hear me out, Bree-”
“No, you hear me out! You did all the hard work on that movie, the long hours, the promotion and interviews and the bullshit with SCW, you earned every penny of that and I-”
“You don't want other people's money. I know that. I remember how you didn't want anything from Blake when you divorced even though you had a prenup that would have give you all kinds of assets.”
“Exactly! That isn't the kind of thing I care about, which I made blatantly obvious when I filed for an annulment instead, just so I wouldn't have to wait any longer to be done with it. I didn't care about his money, and I don't care about or want yours!”
“I know all of that, cakes. But if you'd listen....” I sigh, and nod. “I'm not talking about just giving you money directly. I want to put it in your plane expense account.”
“Oh.... but I don't need-”
“Listen. Whether you need it or not, I've been using that plane just as much as you, going to promotional events, without you with me for a lot of them. It's only fair that I contribute to the expenses.”
“Okay, but.... the entire bonus? Two mil will keep it running for over a year! Maybe two with you taking time away from working, you won't have to fly anywhere to promote anything.”
“Good, that's two years you won't have to worry about it.” Dom smiles.
Dammit. I can't win this. “Well.... okay. I guess I can't argue the point that you've used it a lot, too.”
“Great. I'll need your accountant to contact mine with bank information for the transfer.”
“Okay, I'll call Cindy tomorrow.”
Dom hands me a business card, its for his accountant, a man named Curtis Brown. I set it aside next to my phone on the side table. I still don't like the idea of Dom giving me a large sum of money, even if it is meant to be used for something he also uses. I guess it's something I'll have to get used to once we're actually married. Hmm. I sit back again and put my feet back where they were. Might as well get comfy if I'm about to bring this up.
“You know, since it was kinda brought up a bit... there's something we should probably discuss before we get too deep into thinking about when and where and such with this whole marriage thing.”
“What, money?”
“Yeah. Like... how we're gonna handle finances and certain expenses and such. I know it's not a particularly exciting or sexy conversation, but-”
“Necessary, I know. Now that you mention it, it's probably a good idea, yeah.”
“Right. So, I guess the first thing I should tell you is that Louisiana is a community property state, which means that once people get married, their asserts merge. Unless previously agreed differently.”
“You're talking about a prenuptial agreement.” It wasn't a question.
“Yes.”
Dom nods, and sits up a little straighter. “Yeah, okay. We should discuss that.”
“As much as I hate to keep talking about Blake, I kinda have to reference it here. The deal his lawyer drew up was a good one. Things work weird here. ” I breifly explain some of the legal details.
“Okay, I get that. I assume the agreement you had made it so you both kept your own assets?”
“Mostly. Like the houses and bank accounts and his plane and that kind of thing. There was the money I was supposed to get, some stock from his family's business, some other things I don't remember. His lawyer put it all together, I just signed the thing. So, what I would suggest for us, is something similar. I'm sure you don't want what's left of my Dior money, I don't want your movie money. And the agreement doesn't have to be just terms in case we were to split up. It can set terms for the whole marriage, that certain assets never merge.”
“That's a good idea. Would probably make things less complicated on several levels.”
“It really does, trust me.”
“Do you think there should be wording concerning what happens in the event of a divorce? Not that I-”
“I know you don't think that will happen. Neither do I. But... I didn't before, either. We can't predict the future, baby. So yeah, there should be something. I doubt Rodney would let me sign someghing that didn't.”
“Fair enough. Do you have thoughts on that? I admit it's not something I've thought about.”
I shrug. “I figure just a line saying we both keep our own things and be done with it.”
“Sounds fair to me. But... what if we have kids?”
“Oh, we can set up like a trust or something. That way it's their own accounts and not affected by whatever happens with us.” That was also in the agreement I had with Blake, but I didn't want to say his name again.
Dom nods. “Alright. That was a lot less complicated and uncomfortble than I expected.” He grins.
“It's just business, baby. I'll talk to Rodney tomorrow too, and ask him to work something up for us. You can have someone look it over for you if you want. In fact he'll probably advise you to. Just cover all the bases.”
“Eh, I trust him and you. I'm sure whatever he works up will be fine.”
“Okay. And it's not like there's a rush anyway, we haven't even talked about when we want to do this.”
“That's a discussion for another day, I think.”
“Mmm, yeah. Good idea. I think I can only handle one major decision conversation a day.”
“That's about my limit, too. Although, we did kinda do two. The plane money....”
“Shit, you're right. I'm tapped out. No more decisions til Christmas.”
We laugh. “That might be a bit far. But at least for the next week or two?”
“Deal.”
“Sorry I made you think, cakes. How can I make it up to you?”
I smirk. “You can start by rubbing my feet. I went running with Reece earlier.” I wiggle my feet on his lap. He grins and grabs one.
“And I thought you'd ask for something hard.”
“Maybe later...” I smirk again. He realizes what he said and laughs as he starts to work on my foot.
It seemed like this week was just filled with one awkward conversation after another. Jordan, Jaina, Reece, now Dom... yet all of them ended up working out in the end. Sure, I had to lie to Reece (and then Sienna cause she heard) but in the bigger picture it was for the best. In a few days Dom and I would give an interview, and then next week Sienna and I had our next match in the Tag League, against Asher Hayes and Cid Turner. That seemed like miles away sitting here in my bedroom with my man rubbing my feet. I decided to not think about any of those things for the rest of the evening. I would focus on all of it once we got to Los Angeles.
ON CAMERA
The scene opens to a close up of the faceplate of the SCW World Championship belt, clearly reading the name BREE LANCASTER. The shot pans out to reveal the belt rests around the waist of the woman herself. Dressed in black leather pants and a silver silk top, Bree turns around slowly, showing off all sides of the belt. She faces camera once again, and removes the belt from her waist. As she places it on her shoulder we see that she is standing in a bedroom, rather than hotel room, although it's not hers. Bree holds her arms out wide, a smirk on her face.
What did I tell you, SCW?
You needed a leader. You needed someone to trust. You needed a champion. I stepped up, I stood tall, and I became everything you needed.
You're welcome.
Bree smirks again as she lowers her arms, one gripping the belt that's over her shoulder.
Before I go any further, I have to comment on the man I beat to get this championship back, Tommy Valentine. Once again, there were moments in that match where I wasn't sure I would pull through. Don't let anyone try to make you believe the man isn't a top tier talent, nearly on my level. I am here to tell you that he is, and as I've said before, I have all the faith in the world that he'll hold this belt again before his career is over.
I just couldn't let it be now.
So many things were uncertain here in SCW, even Tommy himself tried to instill uncertainty, hinting that maybe he did see Hodges coming after me and let it happen, or maybe not. He wanted me to question that, question his motives, his trustworthiness.
You'll never have to question that with me. I have always been completely transparent about my motives, and whether or not you like what I say, what I plan to do, what I then actually do.... you all know you can trust me to be true to my word, and always speak the truth.
Let's be clear here, I don't give a damn if SCW or anyone else calls this championship an Interim one, how it's listed on supremecw dot-com, we all know the truth. I am the true SCW World Champion. I know it, you know it, Tommy knows it.... and David Helms knows it, too. I am certain that when... and if... he comes back and attempts to reclaim this he will say otherwise. But he isn't here, is he?
I am.
And with the World Championship around my beautiful waist, SCW once again has stability. SCW once again has credibility. Camelot once again has royalty.
Bree smirks, and adjust the title on her shoulder.
But, tomorrow night here in Los Angeles isn't about this championship. So let's put this aside for the moment.
Bree removes the belt from her shoulder and turns to set it over the back of an armchair that's nearby.
No, tomorrow night is about the Tag League, and myself and Sienna Swann adding two more points to our total, and one more win on our way to running this block and eventually becoming Tag Team Champions. I realize that our previous two wins were not exactly conventional, the first being handed to us by DQ thanks to that bitch Kelcey Wallace putting her hands on Sienna... and the second coming from Sienna and I taking full advantage of Jay Gold and Holly Adams being distracted. Hey, we might be Ambitchous Angels but that doesn't mean we're above taking our shots when we see them. My point though, is that Sienna and I know that we need a solid win, a.... legitimate one, for everyone else to take us seriously. Which is a shame really, we should always be taken seriously! I am not going to list our accolades, you know them. You know what I have done this year, you know what Sienna is capable of.
And tomorrow night, we are going to give two men a first hand look at exactly what that is. Cid. Hi babe.
Bree wiggles her fingers waving.
I don't think you and I have been properly introduced, although I'm aware that you've met my niece. We'll become very well acquainted once the bell rings though, I can assure you of that. While I may not know you very well personally, I know who you are. It's hard not to, as a member of the SCW roster, or just a fan of wrestling in general. We were all fans before we were wrestlers, I think everyone can agree with that. And you, Cid, you have quite the resume, don't you? Hall of Fame, several titles to your name... then you kinda, disappeared. Yet here you are, like so many others have done this year in returning to SCW looking for another shot at the spotlight, to add to your success. You've attached yourself to Asher Hayes though, which makes me question how you plan to create your own success when so far all you've done is ride the coattails of a man who's been far more successful than you this year.
Asher, hi babe, I'm talking to you now. Yes, I did just call you successful, it's the truth. Two time Adrenaline Champion, current Television Champion.... and if things go your way tomorrow night, Adrenaline Champion for a third time.
And babe?
I want you to win that main event. In fact, I'm going to assure you, and Cid, who seems to have great concern over the condition of your leg.... that I have no plans to try to rip your knee apart. That's not to say I'm not going to make it hurt.... Sienna and I do want to win, you know. But... I also want to leave enough of you left to be able to kick Glory Braddock's ass, so I can watch her fail in another main event.
Bree shakes her head in disgust.
It's actually kind of sad what she's trying to do. I mean first, she got in the way of my World Championship rematch by using her Trios to face David Helms... when here I thought we were supposed to be allies. But, she failed in spectacular fashion to become World Champion, having to settle for only being Adrenaline Champion. And now, she struck up this deal with you, Asher, to go title versus title, winner take all.... and you? You bought it on sale, babe. First Glory wanted to be part of Sienna and I, and now she's trying to emulate me by being a double champion in any way she can. Couldn't become World Champion? No problem, Television will do! She just wants to carry two belts because let's face it... she is jealous of me. She was jealous of my and Sienna's friendship, she's jealous that I have accomplished things here in SCW that she only dreams of, and now? She's salivating over another chance to do something similar to what I did.
Glory.... babe.... it takes more than blonde hair, some modeling photos, and a few titles to be me. You can never be me. Please stop trying, you're embarrassing yourself.
Bree shakes her head again.
Sorry, tangent. Anyway... Asher. You're a smart man. I don't think you want people to know you are, but I see through that. I used to do the same thing. It's easier to catch people off guard when they think your head is in the clouds. But we've fought more than once, I know that you're more grounded in reality than most give you credit for. We've traded pins. I beat you one on one, you eliminated me from the End of the Year Battle Royal last year. I am actually looking forward to this match, this is going to be the one that defines this tournament for Sienna and I.
Not a DQ win over two talented young men handed to us out of the anger of one bitch. Not a win that we stole thanks to some patriotic Americans taking out their frustrations on a man they feel wronged them. While those wins gave us points.... now we need to make a statement. We can beat anyone put in front of us. We don't need DQs or interference to do it. We are the two most talented individuals in this company!
This Tournament is ours for the taking. And come Retribution? You're going to see me with two championships all over again. Because I will remain World Champion for a long time, whether David Helms returns or not.... and Sienna and I are not stopping or slowing down until we've defeated every single team in this block, the winners of the other block, and those championships are ours!
Asher... Cid.... the two of you are in a unique position. Normally I would do everything I could to incapacitate my opponent and get the win. In this case... I have to be smart. I have to be careful to not cross the line from hurt to injury. I need Asher worn down enough in this match for us to win, yet still be able to compete later to further embarrass Glory.
Cid... I hate to break it to you babe but that means I am going to have to target you. Don't stress yourself out over Asher's leg.... you need to be concerned about yours. This week... Asher gets mercy.... while you get the mercenary. You're a team player, aren't you? You want to do everything you can to protect your partner, keep him healthy and able to fight another day, right? Then you'll have no problem literally taking one for the team by fighting most of the match yourself, right Cid? Keep Asher fresh, while you take the beating for both of you. That's what a good partner and friend would do, right?
Right?
Bree smirks again.
Don't worry, losing to stars on the level of Sienna and I won't hurt you, it's actually a privilege. You'll get credibility just for being in the same ring with us and not getting injured. We are happy to do this favor for you, both of you. Allow Cid to be the hero of the A/C Unit by taking our onslaught himself, fighting valiantly, yet failing in the end. And Asher, letting you rest and save yourself for your main event title versus title match where you will ultimately defeat Glory, once again ending her fantasy of holding two championships at once, and leaving her with nothing.
You don't have to thank us, babes.
You're welcome.
Bree blows a kiss to the camera, then smiles smugly as she reaches to the chair and picks up her World Championship belt again. She looks at the faceplate lovingly as the shot fades out.