Breakdown 9-9-2020
{{Sunday, July 26th
Minneapolis}}
I want to get the fuck out of here.
I can't believe it. I can't fucking believe that asshole has my title. I left ringside, I couldn't stand to watch the Helms' assholes stand there and celebrate and smile and kiss and everything else. I could have prevented that, it was supposed to be me and Dom doing that to end this show.
But I fucked up. And I want to fucking leave.
Scott and I get through the curtain and I am set on getting to my locker room, getting my shit, and leaving this fucking arena. But we are stopped by someone from medical.
“Excuse me Miss Lancaster, we need to-”
“You need to get out of my way! I am fine and I am leaving.”
“I'm sorry ma'am, we need to examine-”
I glare. “Did you not fucking hear me?! I. Am. Fine!”
I start to walk off, but Scott grabs my arm. “Breezy. The man is just trying to do his job. You know SCW always checks everyone post match at big shows. Just-”
“I am fine goddammit!!”
The medic gets in front of me, stopping me from walking off. The bastard even put his hand up to stop me. I glare harder.
“Again I'm sorry, but we can't let you leave without being examined. It wasn't very long ago you suffered a concussion, and you just took two pretty hard head shots.”
“I didn't need to be reminded, thanks.”
“Then you know I can't let you leave.”
I groan in aggravation. “I will sign a waiver or something, I want to get out of here!”
“You can't do-”
Scott puts his hand up to the medic and shuts him up, then turns to me. “Listen to me. The faster you let this man do his job, the faster we can leave.”
“But I am-”
“Bree!”
I blink. Scott only calls me my actual name when he's mad at me. It's not often. I scowl. I hate when he's right. “Fine!”
The medic leads us to a medical room. He gives me all the usual concussion checks, I apparently passed the preliminary ones because I didn't get the impact test app thingy.
“Looks like you're all good.”
“I told you I was fine!”
“We had to be sure. You're clear to leave.”
I just stormed out without saying anything else. Scott has a hard time keeping up with me as I go down the hall to my locker room. I walk in, take a deep breath intending to scream as loud as I possibly can... but stop. Dom is sitting there on a bench. Instead of screaming, I just slam the door. Scott was going to get the rental anyway.
“Oh... hi.”
“Hey babe... are you okay?”
“Perfectly fine. Medical insisted on giving me a once-over.” I walk to my bag to start throwing my stuff into it.
“That's not what I meant, and I think you know that.”
I sigh, closing my eyes for a second, then turn to him. “Yes. I am fine. Shit happens. I want to leave.”
I stuff my clothes I changed out of earlier into my bag, then dig to pull out track pants and a t-shirt. I pull them on over my gear.
“Don't you want to clean up first?”
“No! I want to get the fuck out of here.” Dom looks at me a little stunned that I yelled. “Sorry... I just don't want to be here any more.”
He nods, and stands up. “Okay.”
I grab my bag and walk out. Dom follows me. We meet up with Scott near the talent exit and leave.
At our hotel, I throw my bag into the room in the direction of the end of the bed and start peeling my gear off. I probably should have showered at the arena but I wanted, needed to get out of there. I go into the bathroom and start the shower. I hear Dom moving around, likely putting my bag away and maybe changing. In the shower, I have the water as hot as it will go, which isn't actually very hot since it's a hotel. And I just stand there, leaning against the wall, the water beating my side and running down. I just stare at the tub bottom, watching my feet get red from the hot water – maybe it's hotter than I thought. I can't really feel it. All I can really see though is everything I had worked for this year going down the drain with the water. I beat everyone put in my path, I finally claimed the top spot in this company, which I have been trying to do for years.... and now it was all over. After everything that happened, all the bullshit David Helms pulled, everything I called him out on... and he's the one celebrating tonight while I'm in here as the failure.
Yeah, I said it. I failed.
I failed the company. I failed the World Championship. I failed myself. I failed Dom.
That thought made my knees weak and I slide down the wall, now sitting in the tub, the water hitting my face and I don't even care. With my knees up and my arms on top, I cover my face and cry. Everything is gone, it's over. I'm sure I look a hot mess but at least I'm in the shower where the tears and snot will just wash away. Down the drain, with everything else. My hard work, my reign, my promises ,my credibility... all of it. Gone. Because that asshole got the better of me. I don't even have any excuses. I just wasn't good enough and he beat me.
I don't even notice the frustrated scream that comes out of me through my crying until I hear the bathroom door open.
“Bree?! Are you okay? Did you fall?”
Dom pulls the curtain back. I can't look up. “No. I... I'm okay. Please just leave me alone.”
“Not after that sound I heard coming from you.”
“I said I'm fine. Just let me finish in here.”
“You are not fine, you're crying. Look at me.” I shake my head, not raising it. The water turns off. “Babe.”
I take a few breaths, then look up. I couldn't hide the fact he was right about my crying if I wanted to. Dom is sitting on the toilet, the lid down. He looks worried.
“Why won't you just let me be alone?”
“I heard you scream, I thought you hurt yourself.”
“I didn't. I just want to be alone.” I put my head back down onto my arms.
“I get that, okay? You're upset. But in here by yourself in this mood isn't the best idea. Why don't you-”
“No! You don't get it! I can't be in the room with you, I can't look at you, I failed you!” And now I'm crying again. I feel his hand on my shoulder, but I pull away. I can't imagine he could see me in the same way after I fucked up so badly.
“You did no such thing, that's absurd.”
I make myself look up again. “Is it? I did everything I could to keep this from coming between you and him, he didn't give a shit. I made a federal case out of the fact he turned his back on you and let you down. You took my side, you literally-” I wave my left hand around, even though it currently isn't adorned with a pretty ruby ring. “-chose me over your blood, and I couldn't even hold my end up and beat him. I'm the one who let you down in the end...” I lower my head again, my voice cracked and I'm still crying. I feel his hand on me again, but I don't have the energy to pull back again.
“That's ridiculous, Bree. You didn't do that at all. In fact its the opposite, I'm proud of you.”
“That's impossible. No one can be proud of a failure.”
“Then I guess that proves you're not one, cause I am proud. You do know that your worth isn't defined by a piece of leather and gold, right?”
I make myself take a few calming breaths again, and raise my head, wiping my face off. Which was futile cause my hands are still wet. “It's not even about that. I mean, it is... but... it's him. I stood up for you after the way he treated you and it wasn't enough. He's gonna rub this in my face and claim I'm the one using you and did you hear his stupid video talking about when you were in L.A. as if I didn't know you'd spoken, like you wouldn't have told me? He's going to think he won and I don't mean the fucking title!”
“Yeah I heard it. You don't really think I'm going to buy his shit about you just because he beat you earlier, do you?”
When he put it that way, it sounds utterly absurd. But.... I look away. “I don't know. I don't know what you talked about then. All I know is I fucking failed. I'm the one who let you down, I-”
“Stop it. Look at me.” I look up, wiping my face again. “Champion or not, you could never let me down just doing your job to the best of your ability. Tonight doesn't make him better than you overall, only for roughly ten seconds.”
“And that was eight seconds too much, when it mattered most. It doesn't matter how you spin it baby, I still failed!” I hear my own whine and I hate it. I wipe my face again and sniffle. I feel like a child.
“Let me ask you something. Did you feel let down last year when Ex Pats bombed?”
“No, of course not! That wasn't your fault, you did amazing!”
“Okay, and this wasn't your fault either. You gave it everything, I know you did.” I start to say something but he continues, not giving me the chance. “But you took two head shots practically back to back, no one would have gotten up from that. I know you're hard headed-” He smirks a little. “-but you're not superhuman.”
“No, but I should have-”
“You did everything you could. That's why I'm proud of you, the title doesn't matter to me.”
“It matters to me!” I didn't meant to yell, but I can't help it.
Dom closes his eyes for a second, I think he's trying to stay calm to calm me down. “I know it does, and I care about it because it's important to you, but to me it doesn't matter, it doesn't change who you are.” He leans over to reach for and grab my hand. “Listen to me, you've dominated this company for the whole year, you held two championships at once for fucks sake. I know it's got to feel like shit right now and like everything you worked for is gone, but this isn't the end. It's just a stumble. You'll get back up, you'll get it back. That's what you did with the US, and you'll do it with the World, too.”
“You really believe that?”
“Of course I do, I know you can. You're the most driven and stubborn person I know. You won't quit until you do.” Despite myself, that makes me grin, and laugh a little. I am pretty stubborn. Dom smiles. “That's better. You should probably finish up in here. I'll get out of your hair.”
It was just then I realized that I'm actually still sitting in the tub, naked and half wet.
“Okay. Thanks.” I grin again. Dom gets up and leans over, kissing the top of my head. He starts to walk out. “Wait...” He turns. “What about you and David? I mean... if I fight him again?”
“Don't worry about that.”
“But I mean, it's already bad enough-”
“At this point in time? There is no me and David. And it's not even fully about you, it's about what he did while I was doing my job promoting the film. You worry about getting your title back. I'll deal with the rest.”
Dom walks out before I can say anything else.
Everything I had been afraid of happening, actually happened. This match ruined their relationship. I'm not the World Champion anymore, for now anyway. I can fix my part, but I don't know if Dom can fix his. It doesn't sound like he wants to. I sigh and stand up to turn the shower back on. I need to actually clean up and get out of here. I'm exhausted in every possible way and I want to go to bed.
{{Tuesday, July 28th
Kenner}}
We got home from Minneapolis yesterday afternoon. The flight was quiet, despite the fact there were four people on the plane. Scott knew to leave me alone when I was in a bad mood, Jaina was wrapped up in her phone, probably talking to Reece and also giving me space. And Dom? I'm not sure but he looked like he had a lot on his mind. Since Saturday night when he took my ring from my right hand and put it on my left, we hadn't really talked about it again. I had told Sienna, of course. Jaina noticed this morning and asked me, so I told her. I made them both promise not to say anything. Other than that though it wasn't discussed. I had been so focused on my match and then so upset about losing it that I hadn't had much time to really contemplate what I actually agreed to. The flight home gave me that chance though., and despite the fact I'm more than slightly terrified, it was a welcome distraction from dwelling on the fact I was going home with lighter luggage.
I'm getting married. Again.
I don't even know where to start with this. There was a lot to figure out, the fact that he asked in his own way and I agreed was just the beginning. I only know two things for certain: It's not going to happen in ten days like my last wedding, and it's not going to be in a church – he isn't a believer. Everything else? I have no idea. And as much as it seems out of character for me, I'm not really in a rush to figure everything out. Everything about when I married Blake was all wrong. The way I let him talk me into it when I had been so determined to be done with him. The way we rushed it less than two weeks after I said yes. He said he didn't want to waste any more time after he'd messed things up, but looking back I think maybe he didn't want to take the chance I would change my mind. Not that I protested, maybe subconsciously I thought the same thing, I didn't want him to change his mind, again, either. And then we pretended we were perfect for a few months before everything fell apart.
This is so different though. There's no pressing need to rush into anything. My nervousness about it might have something to do with that, but I'm also comfortable with it, if that makes any sense at all. We were friends a long time before we were really together, we've had tests and gotten through them all. Most importantly? Dom and I don't have to pretend. We've never had to, it always felt so easy with him. Even when we first met, the first thing I noticed and loved about spending time with him was I didn't have to keep up appearances, or try to be what I was expected to be, I could just be myself.
Right now myself is slightly depressed, angry at myself for what happened at Rise to Greatness. Dom's talk to me helped, but I'm still upset. I think he knows that, and even after the somber flight and getting home, both he and Jaina pretty much left me to my own devices for the rest of the day yesterday and earlier this morning. They're both gone right now, Jaina went to her mom's and Dom went to meet with Lisa. They were going over numbers for the movie over the weekend. He told me it did pretty good, number 3 I think? I'm not sure what else they're discussing but he said he'd be back later in the afternoon. That left me home by myself, but rather that sit in bed or in the library all day, I did have something to take care of, that I promised Jaina I would do. I needed to talk to Reece.
After getting dressed and making sure Donatella was taken care of, I walk next door and stop at Reece's side door, the one that opens into the kitchen that I usually go to. I know he's home, I see his truck in the driveway. I haven't talked to him since the day I walked in on him and Jaina in my den, about two minutes away from me seeing something indecent. I yelled, over reacting as usual. Jaina and I had talked things out, but I had to do the same with Reece. I had honestly been more mad at him than Jaina, because I thought he lied to me. But he didn't, and now I have to apologize. I hate being wrong. I take a deep breath and knock on the door. I hear Benson barking, and a few seconds later, the door opens. Reece looks surprised to see me.
“Bree....”
“Hi. Can we talk?”
“Yeah.... yeah, come in.”
I follow him in and we sit at the island in his kitchen. Benson seems happy to see me, I give him a few head scratches. He then trots away, satisfied. I smile, then look up at Reece.
“I suppose you know why I'm here.”
“I have a pretty good idea, but I think I'm gonna let you say what you came to say before saying anything myself.”
“Okay. Firstly, I am sorry. I was a bitch the last time I saw you, and I was wrong.”
“So you believe I didn't lie to you?”
“Yes, I do. I've talked with Jaina, it's all cleared up. More than that, I know I over reacted. That's kind of a thing I do. A lot.”
“I remember you warning me about that.” He grins.
“Just because I know I do it doesn't mean I can stop myself in the moment. I think it would have been less... dramatic, if someone had told me rather than me seeing... what I saw. But regardless, I have no place or right to protest or object or anything like that. I told Jaina and I am telling you, I will back off. You're both adults.”
“I appreciate that. I know you have concerns, mainly because of our ages, and I respect that. But I'm also gonna point out again what you just said. She's an adult. A very smart and mentally mature one.”
“I know that. Better than you do, she's always been that way. She had to grow up faster than most as a kid. Her mom-”
Reece stops me. “I know. She's told me a little bit about it. In talking about why she moved in with you. To be completely honest with you, most of the time I actually forget she's just eighteen, she acts and speaks so much more mature than that. In fact at first I did think she was a few years older. I'll admit to being a little off put when she told me, but it doesn't really matter.”
This conversation is weirding me out, but I tell myself I have to get used to it. “You're right, it doesn't. It's none of my business or anyone else's. And that's what I wanted to tell you. I'm sorry I yelled at you and accused you of lying... and that I am going to back off and let you two be.”
“Thank you.”
I harden my look at him, I have to say this now before I officially back down or I will never be okay with this. “That said... I am putting my trust in you, Reece. I wouldn't be the protective aunt that I am if I didn't say this. If Jaina gets hurt, in any way? You will answer to me. And if it's especially bad, I'll just turn you over to my brother.”
Reece grins. I don't think it's in amusement. “Yeah, I got it. I'm not worried, I have no intentions of hurting her. We're just-”
“No one ever intends to hurt someone they get involved with. But things happen anyway, and I'm just saying it right now so that if anything ever comes up where she could potentially be hurt? You'll remember what I said and choose your actions very carefully.”
Reece seems slightly intimidated. Good. That's my intention. “Listen, I know you love her and you're just trying to look out for her, but these threats really aren't necessary.”
“It is to me. I have been through some serious pain because of men who once promised they would never hurt me. I don't want her to ever go through anything even close to what I have.”
“I understand that. Honestly I have no idea how serious or not any of this is. It's new. But I do know that you don't have anything to worry about. I promise.”
“I take that word very seriously. Don't say it to me if you can't or won't keep it.”
Reece leans on the counter to make sure he's looking me in the eyes. “I promise. Okay?”
I nod. “I'm choosing to trust that. Don't make me regret it.” Reece nods. “After I leave here today, please assume that things are back to normal. We're friends, you're more than welcome to come over, hang out, we'll take our runs, walk the dogs... all of that. Nothing's changed, we're good. I won't mention this again. But I want you to remember what I've said. I'll repeat it... don't make me regret trusting you.”
“Understood. Thanks for coming by.”
That's a very polite way of asking me to leave. But I get it. I smile. “Of course. I'll let you get back to whatever you were doing.” I get up from the island.
“Before you go... can I say something about the weekend? Your show?”
“That's a bit of a raw nerve, but sure.”
“You're still better than that guy. Don't let him make you think you're not.”
“I won't. No one is better than me.” I throw a smirk before turning to leave.
As I walk back to my house, I see both Jaina and Dom got home while I was gone. I enter the kitchen from my own side door, and Jaina is there, leaning on the counter.
“I saw where you just came from.”
“Yeah. I told you I would talk to him and I did. We had a good talk.”
“So everything is cool?”
“It's fine.”
“Really? No comments or objections or-”
“No. None of that. I told you both I was backing off, it's not my business or my place. You know I keep my word.”
Jaina smiles and walks around the counter, then hugs me. I hug her back. “Thanks Aunt Bree. I don't even know how much of a thing it is or will be, but I don't like it when you're upset with me.”
I pull back to look at her. “It wasn't you I was upset with. But it's okay now. Really. I hope things work out in whatever way you want it to.”
She smiles again, and grabs her small purse from the counter. “Thanks. I'm just gonna go over there, he's kinda expecting me.”
I nod, and she leaves. I wonder if Reece will tell her about my not at all subtle threats. I don't care if he does.
I turn to go into the fridge to get some tea, and see Dom standing in the den doorway. The look on his face tells me he heard that. “I know that was hard for you.”
“Harder than you probably think.”
“Are you sure it's the right play, backing off and leaving them be?”
I scoff. “No. I told him I trust him but I'm not really sure if I do. Not that I think he'll do something bad on purpose. But... you know?”
Dom nods and walks over, putting his arm around me. “Yeah, I get it. You want me to talk to him, too?”
“No, I think I threatened him enough. I just think it's more important that Jaina trusts me, and knows I'm here for her if anything does happen, than to just push her away and more towards him by acting like her parents.”
“That's probably the best way to look at it.”
“I just hope it doesn't come back to bite her, or me, in the ass.”
“He's really a good guy, cakes, I think it'll be fine. It may fizzle out in a few weeks anyway. Just step back and see what happens.”
“That's the plan.”
He hugs me, and we go into the den, sitting comfortably together on the couch.
“Now, tell me everything Lisa said.”
Dom fills me in on the movie's progress so far, and some promotional things he needs to do next week. I may be on a break from work but he isn't. I asked if I needed to go and he said no, Lisa only booked him and Kennedy, so that I would be protected from being asked about Rise to Greatness. I made a mental note to send her flowers with a thank you card.
{{Friday, July 31st
Somewhere over the East Coast}}
After Dom got home from the promotional things he and Kennedy had to do – some TV spots and a few interviews for magazines, both published and online – I told him I made a decision while he was gone. I wanted to take a trip. Last year after Rise to Greatness we went to Paris almost immediately after the show. This year, I obviously wasn't in the mood right away. But I thought about it and decided it was silly to not go just because things didn't go my way at the show. It's not like we had nothing at all to celebrate, right? He didn't even have to think about it to agree. So we made plans and we left late this afternoon, so we'd arrive at a reasonable time in Paris. I trusted Jaina to stay at the house by herself. More than likely Reece would be there, and probably Kelsai. And all of that was fine with me. She's responsible. I wasn't even worried about it at all by the time my plane was airborne.
It's been about two hours since we took off, we're getting close to being over the Atlantic. Pete, my pilot, said he would let us know once we were over water. Dom and I have just finished a light meal we brought with us, and are sitting in the back, me on the divan and him in the seat across from it. Donatella is asleep in her seat/bed. It's not often we have the plane to ourselves. I like the quiet, the privacy. We talked light chit chat up until now, but there has been things on my mind about this whole engagement thing I've been meaning to ask. What better time than now, when we have hours yet to fly?
“So... are you in the mood for serious talk?”
“What about?”
I wave my left hand in the air, wiggling my fingers. “This.”
Dom chuckles a little. “I was wondering when you were going to bring that up.”
“You were?”
“Yeah... I didn't want to try to discuss things when you were still in a bad mood.”
I grin. “I appreciate that. I can't say my mood is a hundred percent better, but there are some things we should probably decide fairly soon.”
“Like what? Timing?”
“God no. I don't even want to think about that yet. I meant like... telling people.”
“Oh... yeah, that's probably something to discuss. Have you told anyone?”
“Just Sienna and Jaina. And Jaina was only because she noticed my ring moved. Have you?”
“No. I figured we'd go see Mom sometime in the next few weeks and tell her in person.”
“Good idea. What about Lisa?”
Dom shakes his head. “I'm debating that. She'll want to use it for publicity and I don't want to do that. In fact... I've been thinking it might be best if we keep it under wraps for a while. At least to the public.”
I grin. “Oh really? Is that really because of the media, or is it because you're really not completely sure?” I made sure to have a grin on my face so he wouldn't think I was serious. He grins back.
“Very funny.”
“I thought so.” I laugh.
“Look, I know you're joking, I do. But I also want to make it crystal clear that I am absolutely certain about this.”
“I know, baby, I was being silly.”
“I know you were. But this is also something that's been rattling around my brain, and I need you to hear it.” I sit up straighter and nod, waiting. “I know it seems like I changed my mind about all this pretty abruptly, but that's not really the case.”
“It isn't? I mean, the abruptness doesn't bother me. I know you really do want it.”
“No, it's not. When all of this was talked about at Mom's, it hit me that I'd actually been thinking about it for a while. Maybe even since that interview where you randomly brought up that you weren't doing it again. What was that, October?”
“Something like that.”
“I guess I just told myself “no, you don't need that, remember?” every time it came to mind. Almost as if I didn't really believe that anymore, and I was just talking myself out of considering it just because it was what I always thought.”
“I can understand that. Old thought patterns can be hard to break, even if you really want to. I mean I kinda did the same thing until I spoke with Father Robert.”
“You did, it was just different for me I think, you'd only been feeling that way a couple of years. I'd said it my whole life. It was like I was afraid to think differently, to change my mind on something that fundamental. Like I'd be a hypocrite or something.”
“Don't be ridiculous.”
Dom grins, a small laugh with it. “I know it sound ridiculous out loud. Once I became aware of it myself I thought so, too. Things just clicked together at the same time. Mom's little speech, you telling me about your change of heart. All of a sudden it was okay for me to admit I'd probably actually changed my mind on it a long time ago. So I just went with it.”
“I'm glad you did.” I smile. Dom gets up and sits next to me on the divan. He pulls me close to lean against him. I pull my feet up and curl my legs, just like we were sitting on the couch at home.
“You know, if you had asked me before I had that talk with Father Robert? I would have probably said yes anyway and then talked to him.”
Dom laughs. “Really?”
“Probably. I can't imagine actually saying no to you.” In the back of my mind I remember telling Blake that I could never say no to him. I think that was more out of fear of not being or doing what he wanted, than actually wanting to give it to him. The front of my mind tells the back of my mind to shut up. I'm not supposed to be comparing this stuff anymore.
“I admit I was a little worried you'd say no, even after you told me you weren't opposed.”
“Why?”
“Because it was so soon after that.”
“That did cross my mind. And I won't pretend like I'm not more than a little scared. But I still want to do it.”
“Good, we can be scared together until the thing is done.”
I laugh, and he hugs me closer. “Yeah... in like a year. Or two.”
“Two? Really?”
“Maybe one. I don't know. That's not important right now. What is... is how quiet exactly do you want to keep it?”
Dom sighs. “Well, I think if we kept certain people in the dark, we'd get yelled at. Like your brother and sister in law for starters.”
“Probably. And your mom.”
“Definitely. Scott?”
“Psht. He probably already guessed and just didn't say anything. He notices everything.”
“Good point. So, I guess we start with your family when we get back from this trip?”
“Okay. And then your mom after that?”
“In a few weeks. I don't want her to think I did this just because she said so.”
“Well... you kinda did...”
He turns to look at me and smirks. “Yeah, kinda... but I don't want her to know that. I'll never hear the end of it.” We both laugh.
Shortly after, Pete paged the back to tell us we were over water now. We got up, I pulled out the divan into the bed, and Dom grabbed the pillows and a blanket from an overhead compartment. We still had a long ways to go, and we were taking a nap. The last thing I remember before dozing off with his arm around me, was Tella jumping over to me and curling up next to me on top of the blanket.
We spent almost two weeks in Paris, just like last year. Went to the Eiffel Tower of course. Did some shopping at local markets and a few high end and designer shops. We both went off the grid other than me tweeting out birthday wishes to Andrew and Amy. Everything about it was relaxing, refreshing, and best of all... private. The French have their ways but they really do know how to leave celebrities alone. When we got home, I felt better about everything, including Rise to Greatness and SCW in general. Dom was right that night, what happened didn't make David Helms better than me. It just meant he had my number that one night, right at the end.. I had all the faith the world that I would learn from it and in another contest, a rematch? I would come out on top. I made plans to lobby for my rematch immediately on SCW starting back up.
{{Saturday, August 15th
Kenner}}
Dom and I got home yesterday morning from Paris. We took the whole day to rest and adjust to the time difference. Tonight, we invited Wyatt, Amy, and Loki over for dinner, and to give them the news. None of them had ever been to this house yet, so it was also partially that. Jaina will obviously be here too, I hope they aren't upset that Jaina already knows. She lives with us so it should be understandable that she'd know first... but I know how they are, especially Amy.
It's early evening when they arrive. I open the door and am nearly knocked down by Loki. He's only 12 and nearly as tall as me. When did this little boy get not so little?
“Aunt Bree! This place looks awesome!”
I hug him back. “Thanks.”
Amy looks around with a smile. “He's not wrong, I'm certainly impressed.”
“So am I.” Wyatt then shakes Dom's hand as Amy gives me a hug. “Good to see you guys. How was Paris?”
“Relaxing.”
“Gorgeous.”
Dom and I spoke at the same time. We grin, neither of us are wrong. Jaina comes in from the kitchen.
“Hey Mom, Dad. Lo!” Jaina hugs her brother before her parents.
“I can't believe you live here. It's huge!”
“You should see my room. I'll show you after dinner.”
I sort of wave everyone towards the dining room. The backyard and the pool can be seen through the windows in there. Loki looks out, it's not dark yet so it's easy to see everything.
“Wow, that looks great!”
“Well, now that you've finally been here and we're not so busy, and everyone is getting along and such, maybe you can come stay a few days and swim with Jay and- uh.... and us.” I nearly said 'and Reece.' I am not about to open that particular can of worms right now. It's bad enough I'm fairly certain he's probably been here most of the time Dom and I were away. Amy smiles.
“I'm sure that wouldn't be a problem.”
Wyatt nods agreement. “Not at all.”
Everyone sits at the table while I get the food from the kitchen. There's baked salmon, roasted potatoes and carrots, and salad. It's one of the few simple meals I can cook myself. After everything is set, we all catch up a bit more while eating. Wyatt and Amy didn't know we invited them here for anything other than a family dinner and so they could finally see the house. After everyone was done and Jaina cleared the dishes (she offered), she sat back down, and Dom and I exchange a look.
“Now?”
“Might as well.”
Amy and Wyatt glance at each other. Loki just looks around at everyone. Jaina seems like she is trying very hard not to giggle.
“What, now?” Amy looks nervous.
“Don't look so worried, it's good.”
“Well, don't leave us in suspense.” Wyatt glances at my hands, which are folded on the table. I think he noticed. I look at Dom. He nods at me. I guess he wants me to say it. They are my family, right?
“Well... it's just that Dom and I sort of, changed our minds about a certain thing.” Amy's eyes widen a little. “We're gonna get married.” I smile.
“Really? I thought you... I mean... that's great!”
“Great news, congratulations!” Wyatt then gives me a look. “So, did you just straight up lie to me after the Hall of Fame, or was this after that?” He smirks. Dom and I laugh.
“Actually, this was later that night. When we got back to the hotel.”
“My question have anything to do with that, maybe?”
“Maybe a little.”
We laugh again. Amy leans on the table towards me. “Well, I'm just absolutely thrilled. I don't mind telling you I was always concerned about you and your stance on never doing it again. I thought you were being really hardheaded and just... closed off. I'm so happy you got past that.”
“Honestly Amy, she wasn't the biggest obstacle. That was me. All my life I never wanted to do this. Not until now anyway.”
Amy smiles, looking back and forth between us. I don't think I've seen her look this happy since her own wedding day. “That's really beautiful.”
Loki interrupts as only a 12 year old could. “So that's really why you asked us over, huh? To tell us this?”
I grin at him. “Yeah, it is. I mean, it was overdue for you guys to come to the new house, but yeah. We wanted to tell you in person. We're kinda keeping it just to family for now. You know how the media is.” Everyone nods, they all know what we've been through with the vultures.
“What about your family, Dom? Have you told them?”
“If you mean my half-brothers, no. I wouldn't exactly say we're on speaking terms at the moment.”
“It's probably a good idea if you don't mention this to Jason.... you know how he can't keep his mouth shut about us.”
“That's probably for the best.”
Amy nods. “I understand. Even if things were better between you all, it still wouldn't be my place to share.”
“Thank you.”
“I do hope you reconsider telling them though. It might be just the thing needed to get the both of them to realize you two are as serious as it gets and it's not going away.”
Dom scoffs. He rarely does that, I give him an odd look. “Nah, Dave knows. Just from when I spoke to him when I was in Los Angeles filming and-” He cuts himself off and glances at me,
“It's okay, baby. They know what went on. I talked to Amy about it.”
He nods, and continues. “Right. Yeah, at that time. If this wasn't the real deal, I'd have bailed out then. Pretty sure that's what Dave wanted me to do.”
“Really? Did he tell you that?” Dom had told me they hung out some and talked during that time, but nothing specific.
“Not in so many words. He just kept stressing that as much as I wanted to give you the time and the chance to figure things out, he didn't think you would. Had no faith whatsoever that you'd have the capacity to understand what I wanted or to do what I needed you to do.”
“So it was more of a backhanded 'cut your losses' kind of thing?” I notice Amy and Wyatt paying close attention to this conversation.
“I guess? He kept saying he hoped you did because I wanted it, but he didn't see it happening.”
I shake my head, and see Amy and Wyatt doing the same. “What an asshole. You know, maybe this is why he was so rude about us all of a sudden, rather than just treating me like a mild annoyance. He thought it was gonna be over and he wouldn't have to deal with me, but I proved him wrong.”
“Maybe. Who knows, it doesn't matter. He'll just have to build a bridge and get over it.”
“If I may?” Dom looks at Amy and nods. “I think he'll eventually accept it. Didn't he react badly when you turned up at his door?”
“Yeah, but that was different. He didn't have much choice but to accept me as his blood, I had proof.”
“Well, it seems to me like he won't have much of a choice about this, either. It's not like you're going to call it it off over his disapproval.”
Listening to this, it hits me that I can't let this continue. It's too much like when my family practically disowned me over Blake. I was stubborn, they were stubborn. I don't want that for Dom. I didn't want it from the start of all of this. I put my hand on his arm.
“Baby... I think maybe your mom was right, and you should try to talk to David.”
He looks at me, stunned. “What? Why would you suggest that, you know I don't want to do that.”
“I know, but listen. Your mom said be the bigger man. I think she's right. It's not your fault things turned out this way but you can be the one to step up and try to fix it.”
Dom glances around the table. “Can we talk about this later?”
Oh, right. Company. “Of course. I'm sorry. I just-”
“It's okay. I'd just rather not have that particular shadow over tonight when we're meant to be sharing good news.” He forces a smile. I give one back, as real as I can make it.
“Okay.”
“For what it's worth man, my sister has a point. It's worth thinking about.”
Dom sighs. “Yeah. Maybe. But not tonight.”
Wyatt nods once, I think he realizes he spoke a little out of turn, just trying to help. I give him a small smile across the table. He gives me the half-grin he's known for.
“Well... in that case, let's get back to the good stuff. Have you guys figured anything out yet? Like when, where?” Amy is trying, I applaud her for that. Dom turns to her.
“Not yet. We're still just letting certain people know, and sort of... getting used to the idea ourselves. It's a kind of big change in our plans.”
“It really is, I'm still shocked. Thrilled.... but shocked.”
“I'll call it pleasantly surprised. Suppose I should formally welcome you to the family.” Wyatt reaches across the table and he and Dom shake hands again.
“Appreciate it, bro. Although I gotta say you guys always made me feel like part of it from the start.”
We spent the rest of the evening explaining how we both came around to changing our minds, laughing about the fact Jaina already knew, and just having a good time. Dom suggested a celebratory drink, then caught himself because of Amy. But she said she could handle one. So I got out the wine for me and her (Jaina declined, I assumed so Loki didn't feel left out), and Dom got some scotch for him and Wyatt. Amy stuck to her one glass while the rest of us had two.
It had been a long time since all of us were together and there was no fighting or shade or anything. Other than the brief discussion about David and Jason? It was a good night.
ON CAMERA
We find Bree Lancaster in a typical setting, seated in an armchair inside a hotel suite, positioned near the sliding door that leads to a balcony. The blinds are drawn, saving the camera from a mid-day lens flare. Bree herself has one leg crossed over the other, dressed in black jeans, black boots, and a black button up halter top. Her expression gives no indication as to what her mood might be, although given the events of Rise to Greatness and more recently at the two previous Breakdowns, it can be assumed that her mood is not great.
It's been nearly three weeks since SCW restarted following Rise to Greatness, and I am glad it hasn't been until now that I've had to sit and do one of these things. I'm sure all of you were who just thrilled to see me fall have gotten the celebrations and cheap shots and whahaveyou out of your systems by now. As for me? I've gotten the anger at myself and at David for kicking me in the fucking head out of my system, so let's just call this a reboot, shall we?
I do want to reiterate what I said at the first Breakdown back... the fact that David is carrying the World Championship now instead of me doesn't for one second mean he is in any way, shape, or form better than me. It simply means he had the upper hand at the right moment. He's still a disrespectful piece of shit who turned his back on his family and friends all in the pursuit of personal greed. I do wonder if he's asked himself yet if any of that was worth it, like I suggested he do. I guess we'll find out, when we see how long it takes for him to start to crack under the realization that even though he's reached the top of SCW, even though he's successfully mounted the kind of return from retirement that most former top stars here can only dream of.... he still got there by stepping on the backs of people who did nothing but support him until he made it impossible for them to do so any more. I wonder how well he sleeps at night knowing that?
Bree shrugs.
Not my problem I suppose.
What is my problem... is the fact that instead of getting the rematch that I clearly deserve, given that I have been pushing everyone out of my way for this entire year and David beat me due to a momentum swing in his favor... I can't get it. Not yet. All thanks to this bitch named Glory Braddock.
Bree shakes her head in disgust.
You know, months ago when Sienna wanted Glory to be an ally to us, be a part of what was once called the Beauty Factory, I didn't trust her. I couldn't explain why, just a feeling I got. She proved me right when she couldn't do what was asked of her and Sienna dropped her on her face. Later, Glory seemed to have realized her mistake, and for Sienna's sake I decided to go along with letting her in as our ally, maybe even a friend. I invited that woman into my home for my afterparty following Cold Blooded when I became World Champion. I tried to be her friend, have her back while she had mine... you saw our talks at Breakdown. And what did I get for my extended olive branch, which I did against my better judgment?
Stabbed in the back out of greed!
Listen, I understand the nature of a Trios contract, I know holders of them are entitled to use it at any time they wish, for any match they wish. But... there's this thing called loyalty. Etiquette. And those things typically mean that one does not get in the way of a supposed ally when they are owed a rematch!
I will state this here and now, trying to work with Glory and be friends with her when it just never felt right... is the last time I am ever going to ignore my instincts to placate someone else. Sorry Sie, I love you, but you made the wrong call here. As for Glory? As I said, I hope she falls on her face again, another Trios won and another wasted. As angry as I am at her for stepping on my toes and getting in my way? Glory is not the person I want to beat to get my World Championship back.
I need to beat the man who beat me.
So David. Babe. Do me a favor... I know, that's not really a thing you're probably interested in, but hear me out. Make sure that you leave Apocalypse with that title. You're not getting rid of me that easily.
Bree pauses and takes a calming breath, then uncrosses her legs and leans forward a bit, signifying she's about to change tracks.
I realize that all of that might not sound as if it has anything to do with my match this week, but I assure you that it does. I'll be stepping into the ring with Tommy Valentine, the only other person on this roster who has an actual earned claim to a World Championship match. He beat David a few weeks before Rise to Greatness. And I think that means he deserves a shot. I was more than willing to give that to him had I left Rise to Greatness as Champion. I don't blame him one bit for walking out there at the start of our return show to call his shot. But he and I have spoken since then, and as I said last week, he agreed to stand aside and allow me my rematch before he gets his shot. I am almost certain he'll say so himself when he gets around to his own little speech about our match.
Tommy. Hi babe.
Bree grins, no condescending finger-wiggle wave for her new friend.
First of all, I want to publicly thank you for being so understanding about this. I know that a lot of people think you're hard-headed, stubborn, unreasonable... but so far you've been the complete opposite with me. I know I've said this to you more than once, but I have always respected you. As a competitor and as a person. There aren't very many people like you and I, who understand that sometimes certain things need to be done to get a point across, or put down someone who deserves to be put down hard.
That said, I also know how Sasha D works. She often doesn't give a damn what sort of agreements the people on this roster make amongst themselves, and will book whatever matches she sees fit, even to the point of purposely standing in the way of allowing people to keep their promises. Look at how long Sienna and I made it clear that we had a pact, whoever was World Champion would give the other a title match. Since then both Sienna and I have held that championship and not once has Sasha allowed us to give SCW the match that we have been wanting to give them. It's been two years!
So, I would not be at all surprised, Tommy, if Sasha has wicked plans to further fuck with me and give you the next shot after Apocalypse, despite the agreement between you and I.
And as much as I respect you, as much as I like to consider us friends, having a common enemy and all... I'm afraid that I'm going to have to come at you with everything I have tomorrow night, and leave no room for Sasha to have any reason to place you ahead of me. I know that nowhere on Breakdown or the card or SCW.com has it been said that our match is to be considered any kind of contendership match, but I think you and I would both be naive if we didn't treat it like a de facto one. You and I are the one's who actually deserve the next shot... unlike the three interlopers at the last Breakdown who made statements that they had their sights set on what they have no claim to. I tried to make it clear that Matt Hodges and Owen Cruze are trespassing onto our territory. Sasha must think that our fourway at Apocalypse – with added Ace Marshall for.... reasons? Is what will help her decide who gets next... but you and I know the truth, Tommy.
The three of them are red herrings, they are bodies to keep me warmed up for when I get my shot to get my championship back.
But you, babe? You are not a warm up. You are the real challenge. You are the only other person, man or woman, who has just as valid a claim as I do. This, you and I? This is the real deciding factor. We'll put on one of the best matches SCW has seen on Breakdown all year, we'll show everyone why we should be the only two names currently in the conversation to face David Helms after Glory Braddock faceplants and crawls back to the mid-card where she belongs, petting her Adrenaline Championship like a lifeline.
I really don't want to be mean or rude to you, Tommy. Not when you've been so understanding and agreeable about the situation we find ourselves in. But I also am determined to ensure that this meeting between us ends just like the last one. I will always acknowledge that you are one of the best talents in this company, even more so than the last time we fought, You've really stepped your game up in recent months, I have to make that clear that I see that and I know what I am up against. I will always acknowledge that you are one of the few who are worthy of stepping up to me, of challenging anyone, for any championship, including the World Championship.
But.... you are not the only one who has stepped up since then. You're not the only one who has had a very successful year so far. So have I. Double Champion. Out of the goodness of my heart I vacated the United States Championship to allow it to have it's own focus... meaning that I never lost it. No one beat me for it. Kim Williams doesn't count, by the way, she took advantage of Scott potentially being injured. I proved that when we fought again and I got that title back from her. So, I suppose I should rephrase.... no one beat me legitimately for it.
Not even you, Tommy.
It's with that in mind that I sit here and give you all the credit, the acknowledgment of your skills, all the respect in the world. But I just can't let you win. I have to beat you, babe. Whatever it takes, any means necessary. There is just too much at stake here for me to not leave our recent alliance and friendship at the curtain.
You've recently beaten one on one the man that I haven't. Yet. I need to prove that I am the best there is in this company, even over you, so that I actually get the shot, the rematch, that you've already said you would stand aside and allow me to have. I'm not asking you to lay down for me, I wouldn't ever want that. I've said over and over again I don't want easy wins. I want to beat everyone at their best, to prove I am the best. So bring me all you have, babe. I want it. So I can beat it.
And after I get my shot and my championship back? I will hold up my side of our deal. I am a woman of my word, after all.
Bree smirks, and brushes her hair out of her face as the shot fades out.