Post by Nova Sinclair on Dec 9, 2017 20:33:14 GMT -5
I am being tended to just inside the trainer’s locker room following the brutal ladder match for the Breakout Championship. I very nearly walked out as the new champion, but Kenzi Grey had other plans. Plans that involved hitting me over the head with the championship and being the sole survivor, and the new champion. I am sprawled out on my back on an exam table, holding an ice pack over my head, and my right leg is propped up as I rest for a bit. As I stare up at the ceiling I hear the door burst open and a smile hits my face.
“I was wondering when you were going to show up. Don’t worry, though. I’m fine. Or I’ll be fine.”
”Oh, honey! That was hard for me to watch, but I’m so relieved you’re okay.”
I immediately drop the ice pack and lift my head just enough to look at my mother, shocked to see her.
”Mom? W-what are you doing here?”
My mother walks up to my side, checking me over as a mother would, and should do.
”I was watching in the audience and I had to make sure you were okay after that. I know you’ve been upset with me, honey, but I had to be here.”
”No, it...it’s fine. I just...I thought you were someone else, that’s all.”
I lay back down, bringing the ice pack back to my head and my mother grins.
”I suppose you thought I was that new man in your life? Declan, is it?”
The door opens, and, speak of the devil, it's Declan. He's bearing a couple bags of food and other hallmarks of awesome boyfriendry, but his face is curious at the sight of my mother.
”You'll be…”
My head shoots up again, and my mother turns to face Declan- eyeing him up and down curiously. I remain awkwardly quiet, having expected their first meeting to be under different circumstances.
”Liza Sinclair. Nova’s mother. I guess that makes you Declan.”
His face remains slightly curious, but intentionally noncommittal.
”It would.”
”Ugh...this is not how I wanted the two of you to meet.”
I let my head drop back down.
”Pleasure to meet you, Declan. It looks like we both shared the same concern for her following that match.”
”We did. Nova's my gem. I'm not going to let anything keep her down.”
He pulls out for me a bag from All-American Burger, passing me a coke and a burger. He tenderly kisses my forehead, the picture of a great boyfriend. I slowly push myself up, keeping the ice pack on my head. I take the burger and then take a sip of the coke.
”You’re a lifesaver, baby.”
My mother watches the two of us for a moment, quietly deciding in her mind how she feels about Declan. That is until she blurts out the only thing on her mind.
”But she’s not your only gem, right?”
I nearly choke on her coke and I stare at her, horrified.
”Mother!”
Declan smiles sardonically, never pleased to defend his love life. And I am becoming more aware of how frustrating it can be.
”You know, she was actually receptive to the whole thing when I TOLD her. TELLING people is really very effective.”
”Mom, if this is going to turn into some sort of argument about my life with Declan and the other girls, you might as well just leave.”
She holds up her hands defensively.
”Now hold on, I didn’t mean it like that. I’m just simply trying to understand this whole...situation.”
”Oh, so you're wanting Nova to tell you about her relationship, the way you wouldn't.”
She folds her arms, scowling at Declan.
”I had fully intended to tell Nova about my relationship when the time was right. Don’t try and judge me just because you are able to reveal everything right from the start. I admire your openness with my daughter, but pardon me for just being concerned about it all as well.”
”You really don’t need to be concerned about any of it, Mom. I’m happy with Declan. And with Amy and Kendra. There’s no reason for you to try and pick any of it apart.”
I take another sip of coke and then take in a deep breath. A jolt of pain shoots up my back, and it shows on my face.
”Can we just not argue about any of this right now?”
Declan gives my mother a look of thinly veiled contempt, before turning to me.
”You lay down...doesn't do to get your heart rate up, we want to keep that down in case you have a concussion.”
”He’s right. And I’m sorry for coming across the way I did. It’s just that you’re my little girl, so I’ll always worry about you.”
I grin a little and do as I am told and lay back down.
”A concussion would have been worth it if I’d actually won. But I failed out there, and now Kenzi is the new champion.”
”The only failure is failure to learn. Did you learn anything? Are you different, however minutely, than you were when you came into that match?”
I crack a smile.
”Yeah. Next time I’ll make sure to headbutt Kenzi before she can hit me with the title.”
My mother manages to let out a laugh and she places a hand on my shoulder.
”I’m not sure that’s what he meant by that, but regardless, you did great out there. You had your hands on that title and you deserve it just as much as she does, if not more.”
”And you're a logical future contender for it. Among...other belts…”
”Oh I’m not through with Kenzi yet. Not by a long shot.”
”You are for now, kiddo. Grabbed your check and your booking sheet…”
He hands me a small folder with both paperclipped in. I look up at him, curiosity written all over my face.
”Thanks, but I don’t think there’s anything that will stop—”
My voice trails off as I glance at the list of matches for LAW 73. My eyes widen, and my mother looks more worried than before.
”What? What is it?”
”I’m..I’m in the battle royal to determine the replacement contender for Crystal’s Marquee Championship.”
”And your focus has to be on it if you're looking to win.”
I plant the palm of my hand against my forehead, and let out a sigh.
”And what if I’m not?”
”What? Why wouldn’t it be?”
He kisses my lips, not even caring that my mother's watching.
”Get the win you have in front of you, then we can focus on the one you wish you could have.”
”If I win that battle royal, go on to face Crystal and then beat her for the Marquee Championship, that’s only going to push off how long it’ll be before I get my hands on Kenzi.”
I take in a deep breath, struggling with the decision in my mind, even though I know Declan is right.
”Don’t hold yourself back from achieving something greater, Nova.”
”Once you have the Marquee Championship around your waist, you'll have an easier time getting the matches you want.”
”Not a match for the Breakout Championship.”
”You wouldn't need it. You'd be the number two woman in the company.”
”And that just means you’ll be a greater champion than Kenzi.”
I drop my hands in frustration.
”I understand all that, but...I had the title in my hands! I should be the Breakout Champion right now. Not her.”
”You've got to let it go! You can't succeed if you dwell on stuff like this.”
I cover my eyes with the ice pack and take in a few deep breaths. I reach for Declan’s hand, taking it in mine and I try to calm herself down.
”I’m sorry. I know that for whatever reason you see the good in Kenzi. I’ll try not to let it hold me back.”
”Try not to even worry about any of it anymore right now. You just need to relax for a while. How are you feeling?”
I let out a laugh.
”Like I was hit by a bus…”
”Here, have your burger. Make you feel a lot better.”
I sit up again with help from Declan, and my mother watches closely. Before taking a bite of the burger, I look to my mother.
”See...Declan isn’t a bad guy, mom.”
She nods.
”No, I suppose he isn’t. He’s much different than Preston, too.”
”I would hope.”
”Speaking of Preston. You...you haven’t seen or heard from him lately, have you?”
I take another bite of my burger, looking directly at my mother. She shake her head.
”Not a word, actually. I know he’s taken this break up rather hard, so I tried checking on him but I haven’t heard a thing. Why?”
”We rather think he might be...endangering her safety.”
She seems surprised to hear this as she looks at the both of us.
”I can’t imagine why he’d ever do that. He’s been in love with her for the last seven years. They’ve been through...alot.”
Her voice trails off as she stares at me.
”It’s ok. I told him about the baby.”
She nods, but remains silent.
”And we’re not one hundred percent sure, but he showed up after the last show and just seemed like he was trying to intimidate me. I don’t think he’d be that stupid, but then again, it looks like I don’t know him as well as I thought I did.”
”You also thought you saw him close to our home.”
”Thought being the key word, Declan.”
”Well, I hope for everyone’s sake that he hasn’t gone off the rails and would do anything to hurt you. I’ll try and get a hold of him again when I get back home to Boston and I will let you know.”
”And if you speak to him, please make it clear. If I hear word, and I will hear word, that he's in the same STATE as Nova ever again?”
His voice drops to a low growl that is downright chilling.
”He will be erased.”
My mother’s jaw drops, temporarily at a loss for words. She looks at me, as if quietly asking my opinion of that, and I just shrug and nod slightly in approval.
”Well..alright. Like I said, I hope it doesn’t get that far.”
I finish my burger and set the crumpled wrapper next to me.
”Alright, now that all of that is established, I think I’d like to get out of here. And you should probably get back to Jocelyn, Mom…”
”I will take that as my cue to leave the two of you alone. Declan, it was nice to finally meet you.”
Declan looks at her with a measured gaze.
”Likewise.”
My mother gives me a gentle yet quick hug before turning and making her leave. I sigh and look to Declan with an amused smile on my face.
”That went well…”
”I'd say so.”
Declan, with some difficulty, clambers onto the exam table with me, cradling me in his arms.
”Not that I’m complaining or anything, but I’m fine, Declan. I knew I’d be hurting after this match.”
”I know. I just wanted to lay with you. Tell you I love you.”
Declan looks around conspiratorially, a glint of laughter in his eyes.
”Think we could do stuff on here and not get caught?”
I laugh and look towards the door.
”The door has a lock on it. But I must say, I’m surprised you’re even suggesting that given what I just went through. Again, not that I’m complaining because with you...it’s worth it.”
He kisses my forehead.
”Better not risk it. Besides. I like this, anyway.”
He cradles me gently as this part of the story comes to an end.
Declan and I returned to our home in San Clemente the following day. Declan, not thinking it safe for me to travel just yet, wanted to wait an extra day before we left, but I insisted I was fine. I had been cleared and it was ruled I hadn’t suffered a concussion, despite still suffering from a nagging headache thanks to Kenzi Grey. But I powered through it. I just wanted to get home and rest.
And that is what I’ve been doing for most of the week following Night of Glory. The aches and pains I suffered are slowly started to subside, but the biggest pain of them all- the loss I suffered- still remains. That will remain for quite some time I’m sure. I have always told myself I wouldn’t let a loss drag me down. We win some. We lose some. But this one...Well, I’m finding it much easier said than done.
I want nothing more than to go for a run this morning. Not only would it clear my head, but a bit of cardio training wouldn’t hurt, either. Especially considering the battle royale to determine Crystal Hilton’s next challenger is coming up in a few weeks, and I will be involved in said battle royale. However, due to the fact that my body is still recovering from the ladder match, running isn’t a very good idea today.
So instead, I’ve decided to go for a long walk.
After my last run, alone, I had told Declan about the fact I may or may not have seen Preston outside our home. I’ve persuaded myself it was just my mind playing tricks on me, as I haven’t seen or heard from Preston since, and I’m hoping it stays that way. But even still, I take Declan’s concerns to heart and I grab the taser he gave me. Just in case.
The weather has just a slight chill to it. Not enough to really wear a light jacket, but I put one on anyway and put the taser in my pocket. It’s a bit bulky, but it fits, and then I plug my earphones into my phone and go through my favorite music playlist. I put it on shuffle and then put my earphones in as I start my walk. I really love San Clemente and the entire surrounding area, and while my decision to move in with Declan might have seemed soon to most, I don’t regret it. And I never will.
I walk at a leisurely pace, listening to my music and trying to get the thoughts that try and invade my mind out of my head. Like remembering the last few moments of the ladder match. The moment in which I eliminated Milisandre from the picture and shoved her off the ladder, leaving only Kenzi and I. We both grabbed a hold of the title and as I was trying to figure out a way to get the title for myself, Kenzi went with a cheap shot and hit me over the head with the title.
I feel my eyes narrow as I think about how it didn’t knock me out. Even after falling from the ladder, I was conscious the entire time, though a bit dazed. I listened as the bell rang. I watched as Kenzi used the ladder to keep herself from falling right off of it, as exhausted as the rest of us. I stared at her as the trainers and medical staff rushed to the ring to check on all of us, and it made my stomach curl.
It made my stomach curl even now. So much so I am unaware that I have started walking faster, causing my the aches and pains in my body to remind me they’re still there. I shake my head, trying to erase the image of looking back at Kenzi clutching the Breakout Championship in her hands as the trainers lead me backstage before her. I have to forget it. I have to shove it out of my mind, even if only temporarily.
Kenzi isn’t a priority. At least not anymore. I had completely forgotten that they were looking to find a suitable replacement contender for Crystal Hilton’s Marquee Championship after what happened with Sarah Lacklan. The Marquee Championship wasn’t even on my radar lately as I was too busy focusing on the Breakout Championship and doing just that...Being the Breakout star of LAW and representing as the Breakout Champion. But things quickly change, don’t they? As Declan and my mother both pointed out to me on Sunday, and Declan tried to get me to realize just how important this is for me.
But Kenzi Grey...Ugh! I stop walking, realizing how short of breath and hurting I am, and I yank my headphones out. I stop my music and very nearly throw my phone in frustration, but manage to hold myself back from doing that as having to explain that to Declan might make him think I have a bit of an anger management problem. I drop to the ground, taking in a few deep breaths and clutching my phone in my hand. As I sit on the ground, my phone suddenly rings. It startles me and I nearly drop it, and when I see it’s my mother calling I quickly answer it.
“Hey...Mom. How...are you?”
“Nova? Honey, are you okay? Why are you out of breath? Oh, God...Please tell me you and Declan didn’t just--”
I burst out laughing and shake my head. It takes me a few seconds to finally get my breath before I’m able to answer her.
“No, mother. We didn’t. If we had, I would have waited to answer the phone. I decided to go for a walk.”
“And that is why you’re out of breath? Walking shouldn’t get you out of breath, honey.”
“Yes, I realize that, Mom. But I’m still feeling the effects of that ladder match, and I started walking faster than I had intended. I’m in a little bit of pain right now, which is why I was out of breath. Among other reasons.”
I dust myself off and push myself back to my feet. I look around, still being cautious and expecting to see Preston anywhere in the area, but I don’t see him anywhere, so I shove that thought to the back of my mind.
“Well that is why I called, sweetie. I wanted to check on you and see how you were feeling, but I guess that answers my question. Is Declan taking good care of you.”
I grin and shake my head, wishing she could see it.
“Of course he is, Mom. Declan has been nothing less than amazing since I have known him. You really have nothing to worry about.”
“I will always worry, Nova. He might not be as bad as I originally thought, but he does have two other girlfriends and I am sure he leaves you to go--”
I let out a frustrated growl loud enough so she can hear it.
“We, mother. We have two other girlfriends. And yes, occasionally Declan spends time with them alone, but I’m not going to stand here and explain the details of how we make all of this work. Just understand that we make it work, and I’m happy with it. I am happy with them, and that is not going to change. And not that it is any of your business, or that I really want to be telling you this, but with me still recovering from this ladder match on Sunday, Declan and I haven’t really wanted to--”
“Okay, okay, okay…I get the picture, Nova. Again, I’m sorry. I’m just trying to understand all of this, because it was never the sort of lifestyle I saw you getting involved with. I’m happy if your happy, but I’ll always worry, especially considering that this is something people will try and use against you any chance they can get.”
I nod and take in a deep breath.
“Look, it’s not a lifestyle I ever saw myself as being a part of either, but things happen. Things are brought into our lives that we never expected. I never expected you to hook up with my best friend, either, but you did. If you love Jocelyn, fine. I will accept that. And I won’t give you any problems about it as I try and get used to the idea. But you have to do the same for me. You have to accept the fact that I love Declan. I love Rainie and GoGo. And, if she will let me, I will love Dani, too.”
“Dani?”
“I’ll explain later if I need to. The point is, I love them. And they love me. If people want to use my life against me then I’ll just have to figure out a way to get past it. I’m not going to let their words against me change who I am just because they don’t like it. Hell if that were the case, I’d probably be running with the hashtag Cool Kids by now, trying to fit in with them because they apparently think their opinion is the only one that matters.”
I hear my mother chuckle on the other end of the phone and I roll my eyes.
“You’ll figure something out, I’m sure. And if it helps, I won’t question it anymore. Just know that you can talk to me about anything. Anytime you want.”
“I know. Thank you. And I’m sorry if I ruined your Thanksgiving. Declan wanted to invite you and Jocelyn, but I just wasn’t ready. And I had so much going on with that ladder match coming up.”
“I know, sweetie. I understand. I was a little upset, I will admit, but you had every reason to be angry with me. And with Jocelyn. We didn’t tell you what was going on and we should have.”
I take in another deep breath and shake my head as I start walking again. I’ve been out long enough and I don’t want Declan to worry so I start heading back.
“It’s...fine. The two of us getting angry at each other was bound to happen sooner or later. I just didn’t think it was going to be about you being in a lesbian relationship with my best friend. I still think it’s weird, but if she does anything to hurt you, I’ll have to hurt her.”
She laughs on the other end.
“I don’t think that will happen, so don’t worry. But let’s not talk about that anymore. Have you taken Declan’s advice? Are you going to drop all of this mess with that Kenzi woman for now and focus on winning that battle royale and then that other championship?”
I wrinkle my nose and the mention of Kenzi’s name makes my stomach curl all over again. But I try and relax my nerves and take in a deep breath as I walk towards home.
“I’m going to try my hardest, but I can’t make any guarantees. The longer I’m in LAW, the more I start to get used to everything and it changes my original plan. I’m still trying to stay true to who I am, but I guess it’s coming across all wrong sometimes. It’s okay, though. I’ll figure sometime out. I’ll roll with--”
My voice trails off and I freez in place as I approach the gate leading to the front entrance of home.
“Nova? Are you still there? What is it?”
I stare at the gate. More specifically, I stare at the manila envelope stuck to it, addressed with my name on it. And it’s Preston’s handwriting.
“There’s an envelope left on the gate outside the house. It’s...it’s from Preston.”
I don’t grab it right away. Instead, I spin around, looking to see him anywhere. But, like last time, he is nowhere to be seen. It doesn’t make any sense.
“What is it? What’s inside?”
“I have no idea. I don’t know if I even want to find out. Have you heard from him at all?”
I slowly and carefully take the envelope, trying to get a feel for what he left inside. I shouldn’t even bother opening it, but I know I will.
“Haven’t heard a word, honey. I tried calling him, but the call went straight to his voicemail.”
I stare at the envelope for a few moments, too nervous to open it right away. My mother remains silent, waiting for me to say something. I finally let curiosity get the best of me and I start opening the envelope. There are pictures inside, along with a short, handwritten note.
“You’re boyfriend is cheating on you.”
I place the note behind the pictures, getting a look at the first picture he’s left for me. I immediately burst out laughing, which I think confuses my mother.
“Oh for God’s sake, Nova. What is so funny?”
“Preston! He’s such a dumbass! He’s apparently trying to find a reason for me to break up with Declan because he left pictures of Declan with Rainie and GoGo. Yeah, Preston. I realize he’s with other women. So am I, you idiot. Nice try.”
I shove the pictures and the note back in the envelope as I open the gate. I can’t wait to show Declan all of this, though I have a feeling he won’t be as amused by it as I am.
“Honey, I hate to suggest this considering Preston was like a son to me when the two of you were together, but perhaps you should let Declan handle this. I wasn’t aware Preston would resort to all of this”
I roll my eyes as I walk up to the door, ready to head back inside.
“Yeah, neither was I. But, all he’s doing is playing stupid mind games. He thinks it’s going to work, but it’s not. I don’t have time for any of this. I can’t be worrying about it, and I’m not going to have Declan go out of his way to handle it right now. Look, I have to get back inside to talk to Declan. We’ll talk again later, okay?”
“Okay. But, honey, don’t shrug all of this aside for too long. I can see how much Declan cares for you, and he only wants the best for you. And that wasn’t just aimed at this situation with Preston, either. The Marquee Championship. Really think about that, too.”
“I know. And I will. I’ll talk to you later, okay.”
“Okay, sweetie. Love you.”
I crack a smile as I walk inside the door.
“Love you, too, Mom.”
I end the call a few moments later, letting out a sigh as I set my phone down. I look down at the envelope once again, letting out a laugh as I head down the hall searching for Declan.
“Two weeks. That’s how long I have had to process the fact that, despite how confident I was walking into the ladder match, I didn’t walk out as the new Breakout Champion. Kenzi Grey did. But, even despite that, we all put on one hell of a match. So much so, that I hear it is being touted as Match of The Year worthy.
Every single one of us fought tooth and nail to get that title. We took risks to prove that we have what it takes to be the champion. Even if the others try and deny feeling the effects of such a hard fought match, for days I might add, I’d know they were lying because I went through it and I’m not denying at all how much I was hurting after it. Mentally and physically. And I think mentally speaking, I walked away more wounded than anyone.
I had the title in my hands. It was right there and all I had to do was get it away from Kenzi. But I let her outsmart me and get the better of me, and now she is the champion and I’m not. And while everyone else is happy to move on and get over it, because there is an opportunity much bigger being granted to us, I’m fighting to do the same. I’m giving people a huge weakness they can use against me, and I only have one week to figure it out, otherwise, it’ll all end up holding me back.
The Marquee Championship is, from what I hear, considered the number two championship in the company. I don’t know how true that is, because I’ve never been one to rate titles, but if it’s the truth, that means, as Declan told me after Night of Glory, that if I were to move on to face Crystal Hilton and defeat her, I’d be the number two woman in the company. I’d be considered more important than Kenzi Grey. That sounds pretty appealing now that I think about it.
A champion is a champion, sure. I’m not going to deny that much. I’m giving Kenzi credit where credit is due, but I’m also not going to sit here and focus on someone I’m not even facing in this match. Last time, she was an opponent. This go around, she’s not. She shouldn’t even be on my radar, but seven other women should be. Three of which I am already more than familiar with inside of the ring.
This is normally the part of the promo where a person goes through the list of their opponents, addressing each and every one of them, right? I’m fairly sure several of the ladies I’m up against this week will do just that, but what is the point? What is really the point of addressing seven ladies, one by one, trying to batter them down and trash them simply because you’re supposed to.
I mean, I suppose I could do what so many others do, and will do this week, and just completely destroy Sam Tolson. I know her reputation. I know what everyone thinks about her, and I also know how she feels about many others in LAW. Well, at certain few that I’m all too familiar with, myself. But I won’t do that. Sam Tolson was the Chaos Champion for a reason. I won’t deny that.
But I also won’t make that a reason people will think she stands more of a chance than I do. There is one very big weakness in this match for her, one that will probably get in her way, but I know she won’t give up without a fight. And if Sam has anything to do with it, she’s going to try to eliminate at least two people in this match. If only for her satisfaction.
And Etsuko Mitzusaka, the former Breakout Champion, herself. I can’t sit here and completely throw to waste everything she has accomplished here in LAW. True, she didn’t defend the title much during her reign, but I’m sure that wasn’t entirely her fault. Maybe she’ll walk into this match and fight harder because of everything she lost at Night of Glory.
Just like Roxy Cotton. Love her or hate her, which most if not all probably hate her, she, too, was a champion. And she’s hungry for more gold hungry for that glory. That attention. But she’s also got a seething hatred for Sam Tolson, so those two will no doubt will eliminate each other somehow.
And then there is Stacy Jones and Kayla Winters. Two women just as hungry for gold as anyone else. Two women who are proving their worth in LAW Two women who, if I’m honest, I am looking forward to squaring off against. I have no doubt in my mind those two are future champions, and I have nothing but respect for them.
The same can’t be said for Maria and Milisandre, as most are aware. Maria, of course, remains as silent as ever. I could sit here and bash her all I want, and until I’m blue in the face, but where would that get me? Besides on Maria’s hypothetical hit list. Maria can try all she wants, but unless she shows like she gives a crap about this match, she’ll be the first one eliminated.
And that is something I don’t see happening to Milisandre, regardless of how I feel about her. For as long as she has been in LAW, and as long as I have known her, she’s been clawing her way to what she feels she deserves. What she, perhaps, truly does deserve. To be in title contention. To be a champion. But, she’s also been trying to shit all over my life and use it against me every chance she gets. So, you’d think after all of that, that I would sit here and just degrade her as much as she chooses to degrade me every chance she gets.
No. I won’t do it. Because, right now this isn’t about any of them. This isn’t about any of their faults, or the feelings I have against any of them. That...I will save for next week. This week...today...right now. I’m proving to myself and everyone else that this battle royal is my chance. It’s my chance to make up for failing in the ladder match two weeks ago.
When one door closes, another door opens and this is a door I’m not going to let shut without achieving something great. There is a reason I didn’t win the Breakout Championship at Night of Glory. There is a reason I’m a part of this battle royale and I’m going to make the most of it. I’m going to shine bright like I do each and every match...like I did in the ladder match.
Only this time, I’m going to walk out with the win. And I WILL be moving on to face Crystal Hilton for the Marquee Championship.
My beef with Kenzi Grey will just have to wait...for now.
“I was wondering when you were going to show up. Don’t worry, though. I’m fine. Or I’ll be fine.”
”Oh, honey! That was hard for me to watch, but I’m so relieved you’re okay.”
I immediately drop the ice pack and lift my head just enough to look at my mother, shocked to see her.
”Mom? W-what are you doing here?”
My mother walks up to my side, checking me over as a mother would, and should do.
”I was watching in the audience and I had to make sure you were okay after that. I know you’ve been upset with me, honey, but I had to be here.”
”No, it...it’s fine. I just...I thought you were someone else, that’s all.”
I lay back down, bringing the ice pack back to my head and my mother grins.
”I suppose you thought I was that new man in your life? Declan, is it?”
The door opens, and, speak of the devil, it's Declan. He's bearing a couple bags of food and other hallmarks of awesome boyfriendry, but his face is curious at the sight of my mother.
”You'll be…”
My head shoots up again, and my mother turns to face Declan- eyeing him up and down curiously. I remain awkwardly quiet, having expected their first meeting to be under different circumstances.
”Liza Sinclair. Nova’s mother. I guess that makes you Declan.”
His face remains slightly curious, but intentionally noncommittal.
”It would.”
”Ugh...this is not how I wanted the two of you to meet.”
I let my head drop back down.
”Pleasure to meet you, Declan. It looks like we both shared the same concern for her following that match.”
”We did. Nova's my gem. I'm not going to let anything keep her down.”
He pulls out for me a bag from All-American Burger, passing me a coke and a burger. He tenderly kisses my forehead, the picture of a great boyfriend. I slowly push myself up, keeping the ice pack on my head. I take the burger and then take a sip of the coke.
”You’re a lifesaver, baby.”
My mother watches the two of us for a moment, quietly deciding in her mind how she feels about Declan. That is until she blurts out the only thing on her mind.
”But she’s not your only gem, right?”
I nearly choke on her coke and I stare at her, horrified.
”Mother!”
Declan smiles sardonically, never pleased to defend his love life. And I am becoming more aware of how frustrating it can be.
”You know, she was actually receptive to the whole thing when I TOLD her. TELLING people is really very effective.”
”Mom, if this is going to turn into some sort of argument about my life with Declan and the other girls, you might as well just leave.”
She holds up her hands defensively.
”Now hold on, I didn’t mean it like that. I’m just simply trying to understand this whole...situation.”
”Oh, so you're wanting Nova to tell you about her relationship, the way you wouldn't.”
She folds her arms, scowling at Declan.
”I had fully intended to tell Nova about my relationship when the time was right. Don’t try and judge me just because you are able to reveal everything right from the start. I admire your openness with my daughter, but pardon me for just being concerned about it all as well.”
”You really don’t need to be concerned about any of it, Mom. I’m happy with Declan. And with Amy and Kendra. There’s no reason for you to try and pick any of it apart.”
I take another sip of coke and then take in a deep breath. A jolt of pain shoots up my back, and it shows on my face.
”Can we just not argue about any of this right now?”
Declan gives my mother a look of thinly veiled contempt, before turning to me.
”You lay down...doesn't do to get your heart rate up, we want to keep that down in case you have a concussion.”
”He’s right. And I’m sorry for coming across the way I did. It’s just that you’re my little girl, so I’ll always worry about you.”
I grin a little and do as I am told and lay back down.
”A concussion would have been worth it if I’d actually won. But I failed out there, and now Kenzi is the new champion.”
”The only failure is failure to learn. Did you learn anything? Are you different, however minutely, than you were when you came into that match?”
I crack a smile.
”Yeah. Next time I’ll make sure to headbutt Kenzi before she can hit me with the title.”
My mother manages to let out a laugh and she places a hand on my shoulder.
”I’m not sure that’s what he meant by that, but regardless, you did great out there. You had your hands on that title and you deserve it just as much as she does, if not more.”
”And you're a logical future contender for it. Among...other belts…”
”Oh I’m not through with Kenzi yet. Not by a long shot.”
”You are for now, kiddo. Grabbed your check and your booking sheet…”
He hands me a small folder with both paperclipped in. I look up at him, curiosity written all over my face.
”Thanks, but I don’t think there’s anything that will stop—”
My voice trails off as I glance at the list of matches for LAW 73. My eyes widen, and my mother looks more worried than before.
”What? What is it?”
”I’m..I’m in the battle royal to determine the replacement contender for Crystal’s Marquee Championship.”
”And your focus has to be on it if you're looking to win.”
I plant the palm of my hand against my forehead, and let out a sigh.
”And what if I’m not?”
”What? Why wouldn’t it be?”
He kisses my lips, not even caring that my mother's watching.
”Get the win you have in front of you, then we can focus on the one you wish you could have.”
”If I win that battle royal, go on to face Crystal and then beat her for the Marquee Championship, that’s only going to push off how long it’ll be before I get my hands on Kenzi.”
I take in a deep breath, struggling with the decision in my mind, even though I know Declan is right.
”Don’t hold yourself back from achieving something greater, Nova.”
”Once you have the Marquee Championship around your waist, you'll have an easier time getting the matches you want.”
”Not a match for the Breakout Championship.”
”You wouldn't need it. You'd be the number two woman in the company.”
”And that just means you’ll be a greater champion than Kenzi.”
I drop my hands in frustration.
”I understand all that, but...I had the title in my hands! I should be the Breakout Champion right now. Not her.”
”You've got to let it go! You can't succeed if you dwell on stuff like this.”
I cover my eyes with the ice pack and take in a few deep breaths. I reach for Declan’s hand, taking it in mine and I try to calm herself down.
”I’m sorry. I know that for whatever reason you see the good in Kenzi. I’ll try not to let it hold me back.”
”Try not to even worry about any of it anymore right now. You just need to relax for a while. How are you feeling?”
I let out a laugh.
”Like I was hit by a bus…”
”Here, have your burger. Make you feel a lot better.”
I sit up again with help from Declan, and my mother watches closely. Before taking a bite of the burger, I look to my mother.
”See...Declan isn’t a bad guy, mom.”
She nods.
”No, I suppose he isn’t. He’s much different than Preston, too.”
”I would hope.”
”Speaking of Preston. You...you haven’t seen or heard from him lately, have you?”
I take another bite of my burger, looking directly at my mother. She shake her head.
”Not a word, actually. I know he’s taken this break up rather hard, so I tried checking on him but I haven’t heard a thing. Why?”
”We rather think he might be...endangering her safety.”
She seems surprised to hear this as she looks at the both of us.
”I can’t imagine why he’d ever do that. He’s been in love with her for the last seven years. They’ve been through...alot.”
Her voice trails off as she stares at me.
”It’s ok. I told him about the baby.”
She nods, but remains silent.
”And we’re not one hundred percent sure, but he showed up after the last show and just seemed like he was trying to intimidate me. I don’t think he’d be that stupid, but then again, it looks like I don’t know him as well as I thought I did.”
”You also thought you saw him close to our home.”
”Thought being the key word, Declan.”
”Well, I hope for everyone’s sake that he hasn’t gone off the rails and would do anything to hurt you. I’ll try and get a hold of him again when I get back home to Boston and I will let you know.”
”And if you speak to him, please make it clear. If I hear word, and I will hear word, that he's in the same STATE as Nova ever again?”
His voice drops to a low growl that is downright chilling.
”He will be erased.”
My mother’s jaw drops, temporarily at a loss for words. She looks at me, as if quietly asking my opinion of that, and I just shrug and nod slightly in approval.
”Well..alright. Like I said, I hope it doesn’t get that far.”
I finish my burger and set the crumpled wrapper next to me.
”Alright, now that all of that is established, I think I’d like to get out of here. And you should probably get back to Jocelyn, Mom…”
”I will take that as my cue to leave the two of you alone. Declan, it was nice to finally meet you.”
Declan looks at her with a measured gaze.
”Likewise.”
My mother gives me a gentle yet quick hug before turning and making her leave. I sigh and look to Declan with an amused smile on my face.
”That went well…”
”I'd say so.”
Declan, with some difficulty, clambers onto the exam table with me, cradling me in his arms.
”Not that I’m complaining or anything, but I’m fine, Declan. I knew I’d be hurting after this match.”
”I know. I just wanted to lay with you. Tell you I love you.”
Declan looks around conspiratorially, a glint of laughter in his eyes.
”Think we could do stuff on here and not get caught?”
I laugh and look towards the door.
”The door has a lock on it. But I must say, I’m surprised you’re even suggesting that given what I just went through. Again, not that I’m complaining because with you...it’s worth it.”
He kisses my forehead.
”Better not risk it. Besides. I like this, anyway.”
He cradles me gently as this part of the story comes to an end.
Declan and I returned to our home in San Clemente the following day. Declan, not thinking it safe for me to travel just yet, wanted to wait an extra day before we left, but I insisted I was fine. I had been cleared and it was ruled I hadn’t suffered a concussion, despite still suffering from a nagging headache thanks to Kenzi Grey. But I powered through it. I just wanted to get home and rest.
And that is what I’ve been doing for most of the week following Night of Glory. The aches and pains I suffered are slowly started to subside, but the biggest pain of them all- the loss I suffered- still remains. That will remain for quite some time I’m sure. I have always told myself I wouldn’t let a loss drag me down. We win some. We lose some. But this one...Well, I’m finding it much easier said than done.
I want nothing more than to go for a run this morning. Not only would it clear my head, but a bit of cardio training wouldn’t hurt, either. Especially considering the battle royale to determine Crystal Hilton’s next challenger is coming up in a few weeks, and I will be involved in said battle royale. However, due to the fact that my body is still recovering from the ladder match, running isn’t a very good idea today.
So instead, I’ve decided to go for a long walk.
After my last run, alone, I had told Declan about the fact I may or may not have seen Preston outside our home. I’ve persuaded myself it was just my mind playing tricks on me, as I haven’t seen or heard from Preston since, and I’m hoping it stays that way. But even still, I take Declan’s concerns to heart and I grab the taser he gave me. Just in case.
The weather has just a slight chill to it. Not enough to really wear a light jacket, but I put one on anyway and put the taser in my pocket. It’s a bit bulky, but it fits, and then I plug my earphones into my phone and go through my favorite music playlist. I put it on shuffle and then put my earphones in as I start my walk. I really love San Clemente and the entire surrounding area, and while my decision to move in with Declan might have seemed soon to most, I don’t regret it. And I never will.
I walk at a leisurely pace, listening to my music and trying to get the thoughts that try and invade my mind out of my head. Like remembering the last few moments of the ladder match. The moment in which I eliminated Milisandre from the picture and shoved her off the ladder, leaving only Kenzi and I. We both grabbed a hold of the title and as I was trying to figure out a way to get the title for myself, Kenzi went with a cheap shot and hit me over the head with the title.
I feel my eyes narrow as I think about how it didn’t knock me out. Even after falling from the ladder, I was conscious the entire time, though a bit dazed. I listened as the bell rang. I watched as Kenzi used the ladder to keep herself from falling right off of it, as exhausted as the rest of us. I stared at her as the trainers and medical staff rushed to the ring to check on all of us, and it made my stomach curl.
It made my stomach curl even now. So much so I am unaware that I have started walking faster, causing my the aches and pains in my body to remind me they’re still there. I shake my head, trying to erase the image of looking back at Kenzi clutching the Breakout Championship in her hands as the trainers lead me backstage before her. I have to forget it. I have to shove it out of my mind, even if only temporarily.
Kenzi isn’t a priority. At least not anymore. I had completely forgotten that they were looking to find a suitable replacement contender for Crystal Hilton’s Marquee Championship after what happened with Sarah Lacklan. The Marquee Championship wasn’t even on my radar lately as I was too busy focusing on the Breakout Championship and doing just that...Being the Breakout star of LAW and representing as the Breakout Champion. But things quickly change, don’t they? As Declan and my mother both pointed out to me on Sunday, and Declan tried to get me to realize just how important this is for me.
But Kenzi Grey...Ugh! I stop walking, realizing how short of breath and hurting I am, and I yank my headphones out. I stop my music and very nearly throw my phone in frustration, but manage to hold myself back from doing that as having to explain that to Declan might make him think I have a bit of an anger management problem. I drop to the ground, taking in a few deep breaths and clutching my phone in my hand. As I sit on the ground, my phone suddenly rings. It startles me and I nearly drop it, and when I see it’s my mother calling I quickly answer it.
“Hey...Mom. How...are you?”
“Nova? Honey, are you okay? Why are you out of breath? Oh, God...Please tell me you and Declan didn’t just--”
I burst out laughing and shake my head. It takes me a few seconds to finally get my breath before I’m able to answer her.
“No, mother. We didn’t. If we had, I would have waited to answer the phone. I decided to go for a walk.”
“And that is why you’re out of breath? Walking shouldn’t get you out of breath, honey.”
“Yes, I realize that, Mom. But I’m still feeling the effects of that ladder match, and I started walking faster than I had intended. I’m in a little bit of pain right now, which is why I was out of breath. Among other reasons.”
I dust myself off and push myself back to my feet. I look around, still being cautious and expecting to see Preston anywhere in the area, but I don’t see him anywhere, so I shove that thought to the back of my mind.
“Well that is why I called, sweetie. I wanted to check on you and see how you were feeling, but I guess that answers my question. Is Declan taking good care of you.”
I grin and shake my head, wishing she could see it.
“Of course he is, Mom. Declan has been nothing less than amazing since I have known him. You really have nothing to worry about.”
“I will always worry, Nova. He might not be as bad as I originally thought, but he does have two other girlfriends and I am sure he leaves you to go--”
I let out a frustrated growl loud enough so she can hear it.
“We, mother. We have two other girlfriends. And yes, occasionally Declan spends time with them alone, but I’m not going to stand here and explain the details of how we make all of this work. Just understand that we make it work, and I’m happy with it. I am happy with them, and that is not going to change. And not that it is any of your business, or that I really want to be telling you this, but with me still recovering from this ladder match on Sunday, Declan and I haven’t really wanted to--”
“Okay, okay, okay…I get the picture, Nova. Again, I’m sorry. I’m just trying to understand all of this, because it was never the sort of lifestyle I saw you getting involved with. I’m happy if your happy, but I’ll always worry, especially considering that this is something people will try and use against you any chance they can get.”
I nod and take in a deep breath.
“Look, it’s not a lifestyle I ever saw myself as being a part of either, but things happen. Things are brought into our lives that we never expected. I never expected you to hook up with my best friend, either, but you did. If you love Jocelyn, fine. I will accept that. And I won’t give you any problems about it as I try and get used to the idea. But you have to do the same for me. You have to accept the fact that I love Declan. I love Rainie and GoGo. And, if she will let me, I will love Dani, too.”
“Dani?”
“I’ll explain later if I need to. The point is, I love them. And they love me. If people want to use my life against me then I’ll just have to figure out a way to get past it. I’m not going to let their words against me change who I am just because they don’t like it. Hell if that were the case, I’d probably be running with the hashtag Cool Kids by now, trying to fit in with them because they apparently think their opinion is the only one that matters.”
I hear my mother chuckle on the other end of the phone and I roll my eyes.
“You’ll figure something out, I’m sure. And if it helps, I won’t question it anymore. Just know that you can talk to me about anything. Anytime you want.”
“I know. Thank you. And I’m sorry if I ruined your Thanksgiving. Declan wanted to invite you and Jocelyn, but I just wasn’t ready. And I had so much going on with that ladder match coming up.”
“I know, sweetie. I understand. I was a little upset, I will admit, but you had every reason to be angry with me. And with Jocelyn. We didn’t tell you what was going on and we should have.”
I take in another deep breath and shake my head as I start walking again. I’ve been out long enough and I don’t want Declan to worry so I start heading back.
“It’s...fine. The two of us getting angry at each other was bound to happen sooner or later. I just didn’t think it was going to be about you being in a lesbian relationship with my best friend. I still think it’s weird, but if she does anything to hurt you, I’ll have to hurt her.”
She laughs on the other end.
“I don’t think that will happen, so don’t worry. But let’s not talk about that anymore. Have you taken Declan’s advice? Are you going to drop all of this mess with that Kenzi woman for now and focus on winning that battle royale and then that other championship?”
I wrinkle my nose and the mention of Kenzi’s name makes my stomach curl all over again. But I try and relax my nerves and take in a deep breath as I walk towards home.
“I’m going to try my hardest, but I can’t make any guarantees. The longer I’m in LAW, the more I start to get used to everything and it changes my original plan. I’m still trying to stay true to who I am, but I guess it’s coming across all wrong sometimes. It’s okay, though. I’ll figure sometime out. I’ll roll with--”
My voice trails off and I freez in place as I approach the gate leading to the front entrance of home.
“Nova? Are you still there? What is it?”
I stare at the gate. More specifically, I stare at the manila envelope stuck to it, addressed with my name on it. And it’s Preston’s handwriting.
“There’s an envelope left on the gate outside the house. It’s...it’s from Preston.”
I don’t grab it right away. Instead, I spin around, looking to see him anywhere. But, like last time, he is nowhere to be seen. It doesn’t make any sense.
“What is it? What’s inside?”
“I have no idea. I don’t know if I even want to find out. Have you heard from him at all?”
I slowly and carefully take the envelope, trying to get a feel for what he left inside. I shouldn’t even bother opening it, but I know I will.
“Haven’t heard a word, honey. I tried calling him, but the call went straight to his voicemail.”
I stare at the envelope for a few moments, too nervous to open it right away. My mother remains silent, waiting for me to say something. I finally let curiosity get the best of me and I start opening the envelope. There are pictures inside, along with a short, handwritten note.
“You’re boyfriend is cheating on you.”
I place the note behind the pictures, getting a look at the first picture he’s left for me. I immediately burst out laughing, which I think confuses my mother.
“Oh for God’s sake, Nova. What is so funny?”
“Preston! He’s such a dumbass! He’s apparently trying to find a reason for me to break up with Declan because he left pictures of Declan with Rainie and GoGo. Yeah, Preston. I realize he’s with other women. So am I, you idiot. Nice try.”
I shove the pictures and the note back in the envelope as I open the gate. I can’t wait to show Declan all of this, though I have a feeling he won’t be as amused by it as I am.
“Honey, I hate to suggest this considering Preston was like a son to me when the two of you were together, but perhaps you should let Declan handle this. I wasn’t aware Preston would resort to all of this”
I roll my eyes as I walk up to the door, ready to head back inside.
“Yeah, neither was I. But, all he’s doing is playing stupid mind games. He thinks it’s going to work, but it’s not. I don’t have time for any of this. I can’t be worrying about it, and I’m not going to have Declan go out of his way to handle it right now. Look, I have to get back inside to talk to Declan. We’ll talk again later, okay?”
“Okay. But, honey, don’t shrug all of this aside for too long. I can see how much Declan cares for you, and he only wants the best for you. And that wasn’t just aimed at this situation with Preston, either. The Marquee Championship. Really think about that, too.”
“I know. And I will. I’ll talk to you later, okay.”
“Okay, sweetie. Love you.”
I crack a smile as I walk inside the door.
“Love you, too, Mom.”
I end the call a few moments later, letting out a sigh as I set my phone down. I look down at the envelope once again, letting out a laugh as I head down the hall searching for Declan.
“Two weeks. That’s how long I have had to process the fact that, despite how confident I was walking into the ladder match, I didn’t walk out as the new Breakout Champion. Kenzi Grey did. But, even despite that, we all put on one hell of a match. So much so, that I hear it is being touted as Match of The Year worthy.
Every single one of us fought tooth and nail to get that title. We took risks to prove that we have what it takes to be the champion. Even if the others try and deny feeling the effects of such a hard fought match, for days I might add, I’d know they were lying because I went through it and I’m not denying at all how much I was hurting after it. Mentally and physically. And I think mentally speaking, I walked away more wounded than anyone.
I had the title in my hands. It was right there and all I had to do was get it away from Kenzi. But I let her outsmart me and get the better of me, and now she is the champion and I’m not. And while everyone else is happy to move on and get over it, because there is an opportunity much bigger being granted to us, I’m fighting to do the same. I’m giving people a huge weakness they can use against me, and I only have one week to figure it out, otherwise, it’ll all end up holding me back.
The Marquee Championship is, from what I hear, considered the number two championship in the company. I don’t know how true that is, because I’ve never been one to rate titles, but if it’s the truth, that means, as Declan told me after Night of Glory, that if I were to move on to face Crystal Hilton and defeat her, I’d be the number two woman in the company. I’d be considered more important than Kenzi Grey. That sounds pretty appealing now that I think about it.
A champion is a champion, sure. I’m not going to deny that much. I’m giving Kenzi credit where credit is due, but I’m also not going to sit here and focus on someone I’m not even facing in this match. Last time, she was an opponent. This go around, she’s not. She shouldn’t even be on my radar, but seven other women should be. Three of which I am already more than familiar with inside of the ring.
This is normally the part of the promo where a person goes through the list of their opponents, addressing each and every one of them, right? I’m fairly sure several of the ladies I’m up against this week will do just that, but what is the point? What is really the point of addressing seven ladies, one by one, trying to batter them down and trash them simply because you’re supposed to.
I mean, I suppose I could do what so many others do, and will do this week, and just completely destroy Sam Tolson. I know her reputation. I know what everyone thinks about her, and I also know how she feels about many others in LAW. Well, at certain few that I’m all too familiar with, myself. But I won’t do that. Sam Tolson was the Chaos Champion for a reason. I won’t deny that.
But I also won’t make that a reason people will think she stands more of a chance than I do. There is one very big weakness in this match for her, one that will probably get in her way, but I know she won’t give up without a fight. And if Sam has anything to do with it, she’s going to try to eliminate at least two people in this match. If only for her satisfaction.
And Etsuko Mitzusaka, the former Breakout Champion, herself. I can’t sit here and completely throw to waste everything she has accomplished here in LAW. True, she didn’t defend the title much during her reign, but I’m sure that wasn’t entirely her fault. Maybe she’ll walk into this match and fight harder because of everything she lost at Night of Glory.
Just like Roxy Cotton. Love her or hate her, which most if not all probably hate her, she, too, was a champion. And she’s hungry for more gold hungry for that glory. That attention. But she’s also got a seething hatred for Sam Tolson, so those two will no doubt will eliminate each other somehow.
And then there is Stacy Jones and Kayla Winters. Two women just as hungry for gold as anyone else. Two women who are proving their worth in LAW Two women who, if I’m honest, I am looking forward to squaring off against. I have no doubt in my mind those two are future champions, and I have nothing but respect for them.
The same can’t be said for Maria and Milisandre, as most are aware. Maria, of course, remains as silent as ever. I could sit here and bash her all I want, and until I’m blue in the face, but where would that get me? Besides on Maria’s hypothetical hit list. Maria can try all she wants, but unless she shows like she gives a crap about this match, she’ll be the first one eliminated.
And that is something I don’t see happening to Milisandre, regardless of how I feel about her. For as long as she has been in LAW, and as long as I have known her, she’s been clawing her way to what she feels she deserves. What she, perhaps, truly does deserve. To be in title contention. To be a champion. But, she’s also been trying to shit all over my life and use it against me every chance she gets. So, you’d think after all of that, that I would sit here and just degrade her as much as she chooses to degrade me every chance she gets.
No. I won’t do it. Because, right now this isn’t about any of them. This isn’t about any of their faults, or the feelings I have against any of them. That...I will save for next week. This week...today...right now. I’m proving to myself and everyone else that this battle royal is my chance. It’s my chance to make up for failing in the ladder match two weeks ago.
When one door closes, another door opens and this is a door I’m not going to let shut without achieving something great. There is a reason I didn’t win the Breakout Championship at Night of Glory. There is a reason I’m a part of this battle royale and I’m going to make the most of it. I’m going to shine bright like I do each and every match...like I did in the ladder match.
Only this time, I’m going to walk out with the win. And I WILL be moving on to face Crystal Hilton for the Marquee Championship.
My beef with Kenzi Grey will just have to wait...for now.