#general manager!reader

     Part 1: Welcome to the Team

     Part 2: Altercations

     Part 3: Long Time, No See

     Part 4: The Story

     Part 5: Making the Connections

     Part 6: Put in the Work (Money in the Bank)  

     Part 7: Help From All Sides

     Part 8: Focused on Alignments  

     Part 9: Chance and Consequences

     Part 10: Unfortunate Circumstances (Extreme Rules)

     Part 11: What’cha Got?  

     Part 12: Nothing Has Changed

     Part 13: Not This Time

     Part 14: This Isn’t Over

     Part 15: Hold It High (Summer Slam)

     Part 16: Bigger Problems

     Part 17: Tensions Rising

     Part 18: As It Could Have Been

     Part 19: When Hell Breaks Loose (Hell in a Cell)

     Part 20: Handling It

     Part 21: Your Catastrophe  

     Part 22: A Turn of Events

    *Series Disclaimer  

     Part 23: Sunday is Set

     Part 24: Shattered (TLC)

     Part 25: Trick or Treat (Evolution)

     Part 26: Missing

     Part 27: Powerhouses

     Part 28: Not a Total Loss (Survivor Series)

     Part 29: A Dangerous Road

     Part 30: Challenge Accepted

     Part 31: Sending a Message

     Part 32: Holiday Havoc (Clash of Champions)

     Part 33: Getting Involved

     Part 34: Double Trouble

     Part 35: Secrets

     Part 36: Choices

     Part 37: Planning the Rumble and Beyond

     Part 38: Squirrels in a Row (Royal Rumble)

     Part 39: Misplaced Second Chances

     Part 40: Sorta Forgiven

     Part 41: Fall Short (Elimination Chamber)

     Part 42: Business as Usual

     Part 43: It’s Official

     Part 44: Last Ambrose Standing (Fastlane)

     Part 45: Oncoming Storm

     Part 46: At the Worst

     Part 47: Resigning

     Part 48: WrestleMania 

     Part 49: Wrapped Up

Oh. What that all? You doubted it.

You walked towards the ring, nodding at Paige as she sat on the ropes for you. “Really? Just one more trade.” You cocked your head to one side. “That’s very generous of you, in theory. Who did you have in mind?”

Paige knew she had you. “It’s two people actually, but I’m sure you’ll be happier about one of them.”

At that, again the stage lit up. With white rolling orbs that spelled out the name of the Swiss Cyborg. A second later, the sighting of Jörmungandr made your heart flip. Sheamus and Cesaro went through their entrance and waltzed down to the ring. The smirk on Sheamus’s face matched yours. But something was troubling you.

As the Bar circled around you to stand with Paige, you again lifted your mic. “That’s very generous of you. But what’s the catch?”

“What, you don’t trust me?”

“Not an inch.”

Paige forced a smile. Then she shrugged and slipped into one more natural. And foreboding. “That was probably smart. But really, Y/N, I just want one person from your roster. Just one.” She watched the wheels turning in your head as you tried to figure out if the Bar was worth Seth Rollins or Roman or Rhonda Rousey. “It’s not who you think.”

You were about to ask her what she meant when the Titantron lit up one last time. The mix of the motorcycle revving and the guitar riff sent an icy rod up your spine.

No.

No, no, no.

Dean strutted out. His shoulders rotated like any other Monday, but the movement was stiff. Almost guilty. By the time he made it to the ring, you were at the ropes trying to keep him out. He gently pushed on your shoulder so you could step back and give him enough room to enter. Paige closed the distance by handing him a mic.

“What is this?” you demanded. Looking between them, Dean was obviously not looking at the Smackdown manager. “This was decided a long time ago, wasn’t it? Dean?”

He ran his knuckles down his jaw. “Last week actually. I called her.” Before you could rant at him with a flurry of arm motions, he caught your shoulders. “Y/N. It’s okay.” He sighed as you knocked the mic from both your hands. You stepped back against the ropes, mind reeling.

“Why are you doing this? I don’t get a choice. A say?”

“No.”

It hurt. One word and your heart was ash.

“I’m not going to let people keep controlling you because of me. If I move, you won’t have to choose between me and the roster. I thought you’d be happy.”

“Happy? I just got you back. Twenty years of waiting and almost pushing you away for good because of petty mistakes, and I thought…” The words failed to come. “I messed up. Again.”

Dean bit back a smile. “No! No.” He chuckled and flicked your nose. “What is all this? I’m not dead. I’m not going anywhere. Just next door. I’ll still see you at the pay per views and such. And hey,” he lightly tapped your jaw with his fist, “who knows. Maybe Ambrose versus Ambrose two-point-oh at Survivor Series this year?”

“It won’t be the same.”

He nodded. “I know. But I’m not leaving you alone.” The last part was said loud enough for Sheamus to hear. They met at the back of the ring with the three of you and the Universe looking on. Their low words were just mumbles. “You take care of her.”

“Of course. I wouldn’t ‘ave agreed to this if I wasn’t ready to do t’at.”

Dean grit his teeth. “It’s more than that. Besides the obvious, you’ll figure it out. Just… she’s a good listener. But you need to get her to talk. I’m not good at it either, but you and Cesaro seem to do it okay, so I need you to know what she’s thinking. And protect her decisions.”

“I will.”

“And,” he leaned close, grabbing the collar of Sheamus’s jacket, “if you break her heart? I’ll speak for Seth and Roman and say the Shield has no problem reforming to shatter your kneecaps.”

Sheamus gulped. “Yes, sir.”

“Good man.”

They stepped apart. Then Dean walked the Celtic Warrior to your side, catching your hand to place it in his. With a nod from Dean, Cesaro walked over to stand by Sheamus, and Dean went to stand by Paige.

She looked at everyone. “We good?”

Cesaro picked up your mic so you could respond. “Yeah. We’re good.”

To her music, she and your cousin left the ring. At the top of the ramp, Dean looked back. You were flanked by the Bar, with Sheamus’s hands on your shoulders. You had one arm bent so you could hold one of them. Over your head, Sheamus nodded. You were in good hands. Not that you needed them, but the backup was going to be nice. Dean returned the sentiment with a curt nod, gave the arena one last grin, and left the arena.

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Camera crew members hurried to catch up to the chaos erupting backstage. Tamina had caught Sarah Logan alone. Pinned into a corner, Sarah had nowhere to go and nothing to do except to receive the attack. Referees rushed onto the scene to break them apart. Just as Tamina was made to walk away, another fight broke out further down the hall.

This time it was Alicia Fox taking her skills to Liv Morgan, who was being held back by Ruby Riott. “Let me go,” Alicia shouted. “I’m not done with her! Viva la Alicia and Mickie!” She was still being dragged away when the cameras flipped back to the pre-show table.

Newly arrived, Bayley and Sasha Banks were snickering at the destruction. David Otunga was flabbergasted. “You don’t seem surprised to see all this. Care to explain?”

Sasha giggled and shared a look with her tag partner. “Of course we aren’t surprised. If anything, that was the plan. Our title match tonight is an open challenge. But we,” she motioned between herself and Bayley, “won’t know who it is until the bell rings. Anybody could challenge us up to that moment.”

“You see,” Bayley added, “it’s no secret that Sasha and I haven’t always gotten along. All this year we have done our best to rip each other to shreds to find out who is the better woman. We put that aside so we could win the first ever Raw Women’s Tag Team Championships, and we’re not letting them go until the rest of the locker room shows us what, or who, they’re willing to rip apart to take these from us.”

With a nod, Sasha agreed. Sorta. “Not that it’s going to happen tonight, or any time soon. If any of those ladies think they can take our championships away on the grandest stage of them all, they’ve got another thing coming.”

The champions left, leaving the announce team to hurry and get their pre-show opinions in order.

***

The first official match was the Andre the Giant Battle Royal. All of the participating wrestlers were in the ring, and at the bell, they each found an opponent. Several men flipped over the ropes, and a couple under them. It took about forty-five minutes to make it down to the final five. It was Mojo Rawley, EC3, Jeff Hardy, R-Truth, and Cesaro.

After a few more minutes, it was down to Mojo and Cesaro. The Swiss Cyborg was just going over the ropes when the missing wrestlers appeared from under the ring. The rough hype came to a standstill as he recognized his old partner and the man with the longest losing streak. Zack Ryder kept a close eye on him as Curt Hawkins followed him into the ring. It was two versus one, but Mojo succeeded in throwing both of them off. He tossed Hawkins through the ropes and set to tipping Ryder over the top. Struggling, Ryder was able to wriggle onto the apron.

Curt rolled backing into the ring, restarting the fight. It was Mojo who ended up going over the topes, but he took Ryder with him, despite Curt’s death-grip on his friend’s wrist. Mojo had a grip around Ryder’s waist. If Ryder fell, he fell. And Hawkins was the only lifeline. The duo started to slip backward, Hawkins’s grip failing. Zack smiled. “It’s all you, man.” Then he let go.

The bell rang. Rawley and Rider had been eliminated, and Curt Hawkins had won the battle royal. And, he had ended his streak.

***

Behind you on a screen, Ryder was celebrating with Hawkins in the ring. You were too busy arguing with a flurry of women to watch it. “Ladies, enough! There isn’t time to add another preshow match. As much as I hate that you are fighting backstage, I can’t give you a tornado tag match. Bayley and Sasha’s opponents will just have to bide their time and strike when they can. Whoever they are. Now please, I’ve got things to do.”

Begrudgingly, the women left your office. You were rubbing your temples when there was a hesitant knock at your door. “I thought I made myself clear- oh.” Large hands gripped your shoulders, working out the stressed kinks. “You’re going to get us in trouble.”

“Only if we get caught,” Sheamus chuckled. He succeeded in wrapping his arms around you before kissing the top of your head. It was enough to help you release a long, deep breath. Suddenly his touch was gone.

“Can I have a moment with my cousin?” Dean asked, calmly staring Sheamus down from the doorway. After your red-head gave you a reassuring pat between your shoulder blades, the men sidestepped each other.

Hey, Dean,” you whispered.

He stepped in rubbing the back of his head. “Hey, Ladybug. I know you’re busy, but I need to get something off my chest.”

“Go for it.” Easy to say. The tightness of your chest claimed otherwise.

He nodded. “I get it. I understand. And I’m sorry for the ride through hell to get there.” His hand shot up to stop you from putting yourself down again. “It was an impossible choice. Either Roman and I were going to lose Seth again, or I was going to have to give up… everything. I mean, we just got him back. And I just got you back… and there was nothing you could do.” Dean set his shoulders, but his eyes couldn’t meet yours. “I should have been willing to listen. Then maybe we could have found a way to avoid all this.”

You were on the verge of tears. He booped your nose, forcing you to smile. “Roman keeps telling me I have nothing to worry about.” You wiped away a tear. “And I have complete faith in both of you-“

“But?”

“But Brock is dangerous. Past the stupid stipulations. He’s… just about everybody ends up bloody or worse-“

“And I’m prepared for that.” He rested his hand lightly on your shoulder. “I’ve been preparing for a lot of things, actually.” His voice dropped out. Neither of you wanted to point out the two worst case scenarios again. “That was all I needed to say. Keep up the managing thing. You’re good at it… and I couldn’t be prouder of you.” He let you catch him in a tight hug, stroking the top of your head. Then he wrenched himself free and rushed out of your office.

***

The women’s battle royal was just as dramatic, if not more so, than the guys’. Of the final five, two women took the center of the ring. Zelina Vega, Asuka, and Nikki Cross huddled in corners, waiting to see what would happen. Natalya and Rhonda stared each other down. Not six months ago they were the best of friends, battling for the same goals but with handshakes after every altercation. Now they were cold. Unmoved by each other’s goals or aspirations.

They set to punches and head blows that rocked the ring. Unfortunately, in their haste and determination to eliminate one another, both women ended up landing on the apron after twisting over the ropes. Then the other three women sprang into action. It took all of them to launch the women off onto the floor. Thus, eliminating them both. Then Nikki and Asuka set on knocking each other out of the match. Zelina came bouncing off the ropes, succeeding in twisting Nikki over the top.

Now it was down to two. Zelina rushed not to lose her momentum. Bu Asuka wasn’t going to make it easy. Twice, three times one of them would stumble through the ropes. The Empress of tomorrow did everything she could to take the victory today. They both ended up on the apron. Taking a risk, Zelina jumped and grabbed hold of Asuka’s head, dropping with it. Asuka’s face bounced off the edge, and her body followed. Zelina fell back into the ring, running her hands through her hair. She’d won. After the referee raised her hand, she left the ring and stood by the trophy. Her trophy.

***

Roman marched down to the ring. He paced from ropes to rope like a caged lion, ignoring the continued mixed welcome from the crowd. When the lights finally dimmed for Dr. M’s entrance, he kneeled in one corner with his back against the turnbuckles. Dr. M grinned and eventually met him, standing toe to toe. Even though Roman towered over him, the trepidation in Roman’s eyes made the doctor smug. And gave him an edge.

Not waiting for the bell, Dr. M rushed forward. He caught Roman unawares, knocking him to the canvas. The rain of punches and kicks didn’t stop until Dr. M stepped back. He laughed. “You aren’t ready to defend yourself. How could you ever think you could keep me from healing the WWE? From healing Y/N?” His smile flickered away as Roman struggled to his feet.

They went at it again. Dr. M still had the upper hand, despite Roman’s mostly effective offense. His prior attacks had created several openings for future hits. Roman’s ribs and throat were easy targets. If he couldn’t breathe, he couldn’t fight. And he wouldn’t win. But Dr. M had forgotten one very important thing.

No one messes with his family.

“You know, Roman,” Dr. M said into his ear while controlling him with a headlock, “Y/N really is such a perfect puppet for Hunter and Stephanie. Maybe they won’t mind if Sister Abigail borrows her vessel for a while, hmm. And why not bring Dean into the family too? I’d hate to break them apart again. Though I would have to break through their fevers by any means necessary.”

With a roar, Roman broke free and headbutted Dr. M. The man staggered back, fighting to shake free the blurriness in his vision. By the time it was back, so was Roman with a spear. Dr. M groaned and gasped as Roman walked away and gripped the top rope. The tape whined under his grip, and the referee took several steps back. Dr. M was eventually back on his feet. He dodged the first spear, but the second after Roman bounced off the far ropes. One, two, and three seconds later Dr. M was nowhere close to getting back up. Roman gave him an extra series of kicks to get him out of the ring, then swayed on his feet. He left the arena as the rest of WrestleMania started.

***

***

“Ladies and gentlemen, Elias.”

Inside the circle of light, Elias strummed his guitar. The crowd was deathly silent until he finished, then they started the ‘walk with Elias’ chant. He smiled at them. “It’s great to finally be recognized at the greatest concert of them all. Even if the arena is filled with disgusting rabble like you.” He waited for their shift in mood to die down a little before playing his song. It was dedicated to the dirt people of Brooklyn, punctuated with the occasional jab at Drew McIntyre. He was met with thunderous applause as he finished. “Finally. No interruptions.” He strummed to start another song, but he’d spoken too soon.

Soon enough, Drew was in the ring, dark and foreboding. He handed the Intercontinental title to the referee, glaring at Elias while the title match was announced.  Elias only let go of his guitar long enough to get rid of his mic and his scarves. Once the bell rang, the instrument whistled through the air, just barely missing Drew’s head. The champion slid out of the ring to quickly arm himself. Steel chairs, tables, and another guitar hidden in the bell box (after the first one was broken) came into play. The ring was littered with bamboo strips and fractured tables. Still, both men eluded the count.

A third guitar came out from under the ring. “How many guitars does Elias have?” Corey asked, flabbergasted. No matter how many more were hidden under the ring, it was the last one Elias needed. He scaled a turnbuckle and jumped. Drew turned just in time to catch the hit on his shoulder, collapsing as it splintered. Elias pinned him, even with chunks of wood jabbing into his own body. It had taken almost a year, but Elias was finally the Intercontinental champion once again.

***

It was time to see who won the backstage battle to face Bayley and Sasha Banks for the Raw Women’s Tag Titles. Renee had kept up with the results better than anyone else. “The last people we saw standing were Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan of the Riott Squad. Right before Roman’s match against Dr. M, they had gotten the jump on Natalya and Rhonda.”

Corey shrugged. “I don’t think any of us really thought that team was going to face the champions. They had quite a moment during the women’s battle royal. And it cost them.”

“But now it’s Boss and Hug time,” Cole said as the champions came down the ramp. The women waited patiently in the ring to see who their opponents were going to be. They bumped each other’s shoulders as the aforementioned team came out to the stage. Sarah and Liv cackled, proud of themselves for having won the moment. They were just about to take a step forward when they were hit from behind. Not waiting for them to get up, Alicia Fox and Mickie James rushed down the ramp. If they could make it to the ring and survive until the bell, the match was theirs. They made it, jumping and hugging one another while Sasha and Bayley stood back and golf-clapped.

The partying didn’t last long. It was time for the match. And it was a showstopper. Alicia and Mickie had years of experience on their side, years of being glossed over, years of waiting to step up only to be stepped over. Sasha and Bayley had the legacy NXT’s four horsewomen behind them and the rebuilt strength of their friendship. They had the championship buffer as well. That helped a lot when Mickie knocked Sasha out of the ring. She was willing to wait for the count, taking her time to roll around, but Alicia raced around the ring and shoved the champion back into the ring. Caught off-guard, Mickie was too busy mocking Bayley to sense the danger behind her.

Bayley ran across the ring to spear Alicia off the apron so Mickie could be pinned. Their titles retained, they stood together, ushering the new era of women’s wrestling.

***

The guys’ tag match didn’t go as smoothly for the champions. At first, it looked like they had everything under control. Rezar started the match against Sami Zayn. Behind him, Akam shouted what to do, and when to move away from the ropes when it looked like Kevin Owens was about to try something. Eventually, the tags switched and the process was the same. But as the match progressed, battle lines were drawn. Akam took a particularly teasing hit from Sami, who was good at dodging his grasp. Kevin was able to keep up with Rezar and keep him on his toes. The fight extended to ringside, and that’s when things got… broken.

No limbs, thankfully. But things definitely fell apart. Rezar was ringside meeting Owens blow for blow, toss for toss, and was mid-roar after throwing Owens into a barricade when Sami came running by. Akam was quick on his heels, but the champions zigged when they should have zagged. The two massive bodies colliding sent both men flying back the way they came. Sami and Kevin had recovered, and it took both to toss Akam back into the ring. With Rezar still reeling and unable to help, Sami made the pin. The victors met in the center of the ring, falling to their knees and accepting their new tag championship. They met again at the top of the massive ramp and held their titles high.

***

The last singles match of the night was for the Raw Women’s Championship between Ruby Riott and Alexa Bliss. As hostess, Alexa directed the biggest entrance of the night worthy of her talent, and arguably her ego. Ruby took a simpler entrance. Not that she needed anything bigger. Having the championship around her waist, and then on her shoulder, was stunning enough.

Alexa brought out all the stops. An unspoken goal had been for her team to hold all the Raw women’s titles. But with Mickie and Alicia coming up short, it was up to her to take up the slack. Ruby was similarly in mood. Her tag-mates had been denied their match. If she could retain, the Riott Squad had hope to rise again. Ruby accepted Alexa’s attack, then rerouted it for her own mission. A Twisted Bliss was narrowly avoided, and the stunned Alexa was easy to catch in a submission while Ruby caught her breath. Several more dives from the top ropes happened, but it was a Riot Kick to one of Alexa’s leaps that finished the match. Ruby retained, screaming into the night air with her title in her hands.

***

Now was the main event.

“This match is a Universal Championship triple-threat match set for one fall. The competitor who is pinned will have to leave the WWE forever.”

Dean nervously looked between Seth and Brock Lesnar. And the title. He bit back the urge to look towards the ramp as if you were there. Backstage, you were just as nervous. Roman was hovering by the tv too, but from a distance, so he could run to the ring as soon as the match was over. Sheamus stood right behind you, holding the hand you had resting on your shoulder.

At the bell, Seth and Dean instantly rushed to attack Lesnar in one swoop. He was laughing before they reached him. With his two large hands, he caught each around the throat. First, Lesnar tossed Seth one way and between the ropes. He threw Dean back towards the center of the ring, then caught him with the first suplex of the match. Seth pulled Dean to the floor and slid in, starting the attack he planned. His quick movements kept confusing the Beast. And they were wearing him down. A well-placed Frog-Splash caught Lesnar in the ribs, but he twisted Seth into a submission. Dean rushed back in to break it up before his brother had to tap out.

Seth remained huddled in the corner, nursing his arm while Dean and Lesnar faced off again. This time Dean was successful in dodging the harder blows and the attempted suplexes. He managed to drop him with a Dirty Deeds and instantly tried for a pin. Which instantly failed. Dean knew he couldn’t let up on the attack, but Lesnar’s low laugh was unnerving.

“I don’t care which one of you I pin,” he chuckled. “It’s all the same to me. No, what will matter after this match, is how your little cousin survives with me as champion.” They both rose to their feet, circling each other. “Maybe I do care. If my reign is going to be a bit more hands-on, I’d rather not have you in the way.” Behind them on the floor, Paul Heyman nodded, grinning ear to ear. Seth heard too and used the ropes to get back to his feet.

Lesnar was flanked on both sides. E wasn’t bothered by that until the timing of brothers kicked in. If he thought keeping up with Rollins or stomping down Ambrose was hard, it was nigh impossible to keep tabs on both. Dean was wildest of the two. The threat was enough to send him boarder-lining on several mistakes. Those close calls got him suplexed across the ring, several of which sent him hurtling to the floor. Still, it distracted the Beast enough from Seth’s darting attacks. Alone, the plan might have worked. With both of them working against Lesnar? It was becoming a sure match.

Then Lesnar fell out of the ring, just as Dean and Seth found themselves on opposite sides of it.

Backstage, you shook your head. “No.” You whispered. “Don’t do it guys.”

They looked at one another, and to where Brock was out of sight. Seth launched half a second before Dean did, catching him in the chest and taking him to the canvas. The referee was just swooping in to count when Seth jolted back. The price came to mind. And it was too high. With another shared look, they rolled through the ropes and set on bringing Lesnar back onto the canvas. With both of them then leaning on his chest, the referee kneeled to count. Dean backed away before he started, watching as all three seconds went by.

The screen erupted with the cheers of the crowd, but you were frozen. Sheamus shook your shoulders. “What’s wrong? They won.”

“If this had been the original contract, Dean would have just given up his career… of his own free will.”

Roman was already gone. You hurried out the door to follow him. By the time you made it to the ramp, Dean was already enveloped in a Roman-sized bear hug. You took over, hugging Dean with all your strength. Seth was still in the ring, showing off his retained Universal title at each ring post. Brock Lesnar and his advocate came up the ramp, both of them panting. Dean’s back was still turned to them. Unaware of the danger. You pushed him and Roman back and stood between them and the advancing party. Lensar paused, amused that you thought he’d give an effort now that he was done with the company. He was long gone by the time Seth caught up.

The brothers in arms shared a victory hug. One that you watched from a distance. You couldn’t hear what they were saying to one another, but that was okay. It wasn’t for you to hear. When the huddle broke, Dean caught you around the shoulders the same way Roman caught his, and they led you backstage.

Seth Rollins looked out over the crowd. A sold-out arena all shouting ‘slay the beast’. Because he had. With the biggest smile on his face in a long time, he lifted the red and gold belt above his head. It was theirs; he’d won it for them. And he’d defend it for them, no matter what it took.

Part 49: Wrapped Up

Series Masterlist 

Masterlist 

Forever Tags: @blondekel77 @hallemichelles @laochbaineann @ramblingsofabourbondrinker @savmontreal @southsidebucky @tinyelfperson @chwehansol98

“Too young and inexperienced. That’s my diagnosis. Hunter and Stephanie knew a puppet when they saw one. And in turn, you have played and pulled the heartstrings of the athletes of this company to direct them to your whim. To the whim of the ghost of the Authority. Because of it, you almost lost the one person you were trying to protect. You might lose him still.”

“Stop.”

He grinned, knowing he’d won. “You can’t refuse the medicine when it’s the truth.”

Panting, you shoved him away. He lunged forward to say more but was speared out of sight. Through your fingers, you saw Roman beating him into the floor. Dr. M eventually worked his way free. He ran off, giving you a smug glance over Roman’s shoulder.

The Big Dog turned to you. “Are you okay?”

You couldn’t answer. Not at first. “Why are you protecting me? I don’t really deserve it.”

Roman tightened his wrist guard. “If I’ve learned anything about working with an Ambrose… miscommunication isn’t a sin. It means that he needed someone to watch his back for people wanting to kick him when he’s down. I’m just extending the favor.” He sighed, lightly placing a hand on your shoulder and guiding you to sit on a crate. “I see what you were trying to do. I don’t approve… but I see it. I see you. Protecting your family in the only way you thought you could. Dean’ll be fine on Sunday. He’ll have Seth. Either one of ‘em could kick Lesnar’s ass by himself. Between the two of them, Lesnar doesn’t stand a chance.”

“I’m not so sure,” you muttered. “I still haven’t seen what the rewritten contract look likes. He could still lose everything. And I-”

Just then, Dean and Seth walked up. You cousin plopped down next to you, missing how fake your smile was. “So… when I asked about a match last week, you said something along the lines of ‘who and how many?’ Is that still on the table?”

“Yep,” Roman answered for you. “You guys up for a tag match versus Dr. Wyatt and his protégés, Authors of Pain?” He grinned as Dean and Seth agreed. He turned his attention to you. “We just hadn’t figured out when.”

You had to chuckle. Give the guys a match and all was right with the world. WrestleMania wasn’t until Sunday, and the contract to be signed wasn’t a bubble of worry. “Give me time to alert your opponents, it’s tonight.”

“Great!” Dean slung his arm over your shoulders and beamed up at Seth. “My favorite time for a match.” He bumped his head against yours.

***

There would be a couple of matches before theirs, though. Up first was the tag-team battle royal to find out the first opponents of whoever won the titles at WrestleMania.

“I don’t know what Dr. M was talking about,” Renee said, watching the teams as the bell rang, “look at this match Y/N set up.” She nodded as Michael Cole rattled off the team names: Ascension, B-Team, Gable and Roode, Heavy Machinery, Lucha House Party (with Kalisto on the floor), Slater and Rhyno, Titus World Wide, and one more. “Do Tyler Breeze and Dana Brooke have a name for their team yet?”

“If they did, Cole would have said it,” Corey suggested.

As teams were eliminated (by one member getting thrown over the top rope to the floor) the competition was whittled down to a surprising few. Lince Dorado dodged and tossed out Tucker Knight, eliminating Heavy machinery and bringing it down to his team against Slater and Rhyno, and the team of Breeze and Brooke. Dana matched the luchador flip for flip, cartwheeling him into a corner. With Slater’s help, they threw him over. Breeze drop-kicked Rhyno, guffawing that it hadn’t made the man budge. It took Dana knocking Slater to the canvas and helping Breeze to do the same to Rhyno to give them enough edge to eliminate them both.

They jumped and cheered. Come even as soon as the Monday after WrestleMania, Tyler Breeze and Dana Brooke were going to have a tag title chance.

***

Drew McIntyre waited impatiently for his opponent. On social media, he’d called out Elias to meet him in the ring like a man. When Baron Corbin’s music hit instead, Drew gripped the top rope like it was the last strand of is sanity.

“Sorry to disappoint you, Drew,” Baron drawled, “but no one has seen heads or guitar of your WrestleMania opponent.” He grinned. “The way I see it, you can’t go into WrestleMania without a match. Blindly or otherwise. The Intercontinental deserves to be represented.”

“Get to the point,” Drew growled without a mic. He stood to his full height.

Taking big clomping steps, Baron made his way down the ramp. “I can solve both problems. How about this? We have a match tonight since Elias hasn’t shown up. When I beat you, I get to replace him in Sunday’s match. You get to defend your title. I get to take it from you. And nobody has to listen to that awful guitar. Everybody’s happy.” He stopped at the bottom, giving Drew a shrug.

Drew nodded, motioning for the referee to ring the bell. The match was on. With everything in place, the lone wolf was set on adding another title to his wall. And Drew was suffering the consequences of the drive. Baron sucker punched him, instantly regretting it as Drew turned to face him like nothing had happened. The match switched. Maybe not having a match at WrestleMania wasn’t such a bad idea. More secure. But he didn’t doubt Elias would show up then; he wouldn’t miss his greatest concert.

Maybe if Drew hadn’t been thinking about Sunday so early, he would have heard the swell from the crowd before the guitar cracked over his back. The match disqualified, Elias beat a hasty retreat. Baron followed him as far as the ropes, kicking Baron to the side.

“I hope you bring that guitar on Sunday,” he shouted. “You’re going to need it. Sanctioned or not, our match just became a no disqualification match. And you’re going to be stuck in the ring with me!”

Elias simply grinned. “Why not make it an extreme rules match? Go all the way for the grandest stage of them all?”

***

Finally, it was time for the match Roman technically set up. He and Dean and Seth marched down to the ring, ready for battle. Dr. M flanked by Akam and Rezar took his own sweet time getting to the ring. You groaned, watching a backstage screen. There was a schedule to keep!

The match went quickly though. Frequent tags. Flash pairings of opponents. But a pattern emerged. Dr. M wasn’t using most of his attention on Roman like you thought he would. It was still there, but mostly he wanted to fight Dean. He pinned your cousin to a ring post from the floor while the ref was occupied with the other four.

“She’s going to lose you. And be all alone again. Just like when you abandoned her the first time.”

“I didn’t abandon her!”

“Yes, you did. You didn’t fight hard enough. How can you fight hard enough on Sunday with your brother’s career on the line? You’re going to have to choose, Dean. Seth or Y/N. And I can bet which one it won’t be.”

“You son of a-“

That caught Seth’s attention, and he left Roman to knock Akam out of the ring and almost pin Rezar. By the time your team was reunified, Dr. M was back in his corner, reaching for a tag like nothing had happened. He circled inside the ring with Roman, muttering other worst case scenarios. “Hard to protect your family, isn’t it Roman? Hard to see the infection of power from the inside. It’s almost like you’ve lost your edge, if you ever had it. What will you do if you lose both of them on Sunday? With Seth and Dean gone, I doubt there’ll be any fight left.”

He caught a Superman punch for his troubles. And then a three count.

Backstage, you listened to a techie, the blood rushing from your face. You hurried towards the ring.

Akam and Rezar helped Dr. M escape the ring. He laughed. Dean looked conflicted. Roman looked defeated. And Seth looked angry to the point of unstable.

He was gone by the time you made it to the stage. You froze in your steps as Triple H’s music followed you. The hand that landed on your shoulder was uniquely heavy. And you resented it already. Hunter followed you into the ring, tossing you a mic from his jacket pocket. The guys went for some as well, trying to catch their breaths.

Seth gained control of his heaving first. “Of course you would come out here right after a match. It’s your way,” he said, looking at Hunter.

“If you guys know what’s good for you, you’ll leave this ring. And you can resign the contract backstage.”

Roman shook his head. “We’re not leaving. And we’re especially not leaving you out here with her.” Seth and Dean nodded. Their stances shifted. Ready for another fight.

You were half a step away from being frantic. “Dean, you need to get out of the ring. Now.”

“Why? Do I ruin his perfectly crafted plans by being here? In the place I earned?” Dean smiled at Hunter and stepped to him, pushing you behind him. “Didn’t train this one as well as you did the last one, did ya? She’s got too good a heart. Guess that’s what happens when you take the best of us and try to twist them to your plans, Trips. You fail. You’ll always fail. And Vince’s command over this company will always overshadow yours. You’ll never be good enough for him.” He twisted as Hunter punched him in the jaw.

It took Roman and Seth to keep you from rushing forward.

Your cousin waved you away. “Don’t worry. He’s hit me harder than that. Just a warning shot. Or evidence that the Game is going soft.”

Panic made your voice crack. “Please. Dean. If I can only help one of your tonight, it’s going to be you. Sorry, guys.” Seth sent you a sympathetic nod. “You don’t have much time.”

Hunter chuckled. “You never had time. And now, because of what you chose, you’ll never have it.”

He’d ripped your heart from your chest. And it was all your fault. You sucked in a breath. The music that followed knocked it back out.

The Beast had arrived.

He marched down the ramp with Paul Heyman in tow. At the bottom, he paused just long enough to give the booing audience a smug smile. As they entered the ring, Hunter went to the other side and called for the contract. Seeing the leather folder made you sick to your stomach.

“Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Paul Heyman.” He smirked while all of you except Brock, even Hunter, cringed to hear him speak. “And I am the advocate for the Beast Incarnate, the former Universal Champion, the destroyer of each man standing opposite here, Brock Lesnar!” He gave you a little wave. “And the bane of Y/N Ambrose’s existence. Not the most important accolade, but a fun one, none the less.”

You stuck your arm out to keep Dean from taking Heyman out right then.

Tapping the folder with a pen, Hunter moved to stand between everyone. “Since the events of last week, the contract has changed, returning to Y/N’s original plan. Only the competitor pinned will have to leave WWE. For good. Now, we really need to make sure we all sign on the proper lines this time. I’d hate to have to cancel this match because of a technicality. Especially since some of you,” he looked pointedly at Dean, “went through so much to get here.”

“Heh, and some so little,” Roman chuckled, nodding at Lesnar.

“Roman, this does not concern you.” Hunter flipped open the folder and passed the pen to Lesnar. Once he had signed, he passed the folder to Dean, hesitating with the pen. It was snatched out of his hand. Dean made a point of making sure Hunter could see where he was signing, and Seth did the same. Then he turned to you. “You should do the honors of signing as witness. It was your idea after all.”

Again, the pen was snatched out of his hand. But you hesitated to sign. Putting pen to paper felt like hammering a nail into a coffin. By signing that sheet of paper, you possibly condemned Dean in one way or the other at WrestleMania. Possibly. You hung onto that word as you handed the folder back to Hunter. “Satisfied?” You held your breath while he checked it.

Wrapping his arm around your shoulder, he nodded. Hunter led you out of the ring, with Heyman sitting on the ropes so you could get through. It wasn’t until you were on the floor that you realized that only the three of you had left. You turned. Brock was staring down Roman, Seth, and Dean. Hunter caught hold of your shoulder again before you could take a step.

“Let it happen,” he warned.

So you had to watch. Roman acted first, immediately jumping with a Superman punch. Brock took it, then caught Roman and flipped him with a suplex. Quickly, he knocked Dean out of the way and did the same to Seth. He returned to Dean when he was finally on his feet. Together, they tried to stand up to rally a combined attack, but Lesnar didn’t give them that chance. He took turns attacking them individually until each man was unable to move. Lesnar turned from Seth’s body. Before he could step towards his next target, you wretched yourself away from Hunter and slid into the ring. The Beast paused when you suddenly appeared before him, blocking his path to Dean.

On the canvas, Dean tried to get up. His arms gave out.

You flinched as Lesnar laughed. He poked at your shoulder. Over your head, he saw Dean growl. “You’ve got some balls, little girl. But you’ll know better than to stand in my way after Sunday. After I rip apart your family.” He snorted. But he left, jerking his head to make Paul Heyman follow. Hunter smirked at you and followed them. But not before motioning to the carnage around you.

If you were to ever get one wish, it would have been to end that moment like the end of Summer Slam. The Shield standing tall and behind you. Instead, time ticked on and the show had to go on.

***

Backstage, Curt Hawkins was bouncing on his toes. His friend and former teammate, Zack Ryder, watched from his bench seat. “What are you doing?”

“Warming up my muscles.”

Zack slowly nodded. “Okay. What for? Neither of us has a match tonight.”

“Just because we don’t have a match doesn’t mean we can’t make something of tonight. Getting the blood pumping in my body is going to help me think while we plan for the Andre the Giant Battle Royal.”

Jumping to his feet, Zack did his best to catch his bouncing friend. “Wait. Hold up. You’re entering the battle royal? Since whe-“

Curt stopped jumping long enough to catch Zack’s shoulders. “We both are. If we work together, we have better odds of making it to the final two. I can promise you now, I won’t eliminate you until then… if you promise the same to me?” He held out his hand.

Zack looked at the outstretched hand, tilting his head to do so. With a sigh that morphed into a smile, he took it. “Deal. Until then, what do we do?” He yelped as Curt abruptly made him sit down. Enraptured, he listened as the first bits of a jangled plan was laid out.

***

The stage lit up in flashing purple, then in bright neon as Sasha Banks and Bayley entered the arena. They hurried to the stage, excited to make their announcement. Sasha spoke into her mic first.

“Another week as champions, and I still can’t believe it.” She stroked at the white and gold around her waist. The lump in her throat was too much, so she nodded at Bayley.

She wasn’t doing my better in checking her emotions, and her voice cracked. “It’s bee a long hard road. Not just for us, but for the women’s division. Last week we said that the Riott Squad accomplished what they set out to do. They defended the titles often and well, and they brought them to the forefront of the company. This may be only our second week holding these championships, but we don’t want them not to be defended on the grandest stage of them all.”

Now that the conversation was back to business, Sasha had control of her voice again. She nudged shoulders with her partner. “At the moment, we don’t have just one team that stands out above everyone else. So, if we could please have all of the women’s tag teams come out here, we have a proposition for you.”

It didn’t take long for the groups to file out. Alexa Bliss came out too to stand with Mickie James and Alicia Fox. Nia Jax and Tamina dominated one side of the stage. The Riott Squad commanded the other. As for the tea of Natalya Hart and Rhonda Rousey… they stood on opposite sides of the stage. Something all the woman noticed and averted their eyes from.

“It would be easy to give all the teams a chance at these titles,” Sasha smirked. “But we have to admit, that doesn’t really give a lot of a chance to Bayley and I. We don’t have to be the ones pinned, we don’t even have to be in the ring. And that’s not right. So instead, we’re going to leave it up to you.”

“Next week,” Bayley said, “we don’t really care you come to the decision, but only one team is going to face us at WrestleMania. Only one team is going to get their moment.”

Sasha cocked her head. “And nothing is official until that bell rings. Best of luck to you all. We’ll be ready for whoever steps up.” She unhooked her belt, with Bayley mirroring her. They held the championships up, showing them off to a whole stage full of possible opponents.

***

Corey did not approve as the women filed out of the arena. “That’s just like Sasha. So manipulative. And she’s sunk Bayley with her.”

“I think it’s smart,” Renee offered. “The Boss n’ Hug Connection can focus on retaining their titles, while everyone else will have to watch their backs until it’s time to enter the arena. Or even the ring. I guess getting attacked last minute on the stage is still possible too.”

“But that’s still not till next week.” Michael Cole did his best to pull them to the present match. “This week, Ruby Riott will be defending her time at WrestleMania. If she beats Alexa Bliss tonight, she can relax and back up her squad. If she loses, she will have to face Little Miss Bliss for the Raw Women’s Championship.”

The women came out one by one; first Alexa, then Ruby. As the match started, it was obvious that Ruby’s plan was to toy with Alexa as much as she could. She tested her height and her patience. Two things that bothered Alexa, but only one that she could control. Ruby snickered as Alexa huffed. Then she winced, doubling in pain as Miss Bliss hurdled into her attack.

It was getting close to end the show and both women were exhausted. Alexa was stumbling around on wobbly feet. Ruby was still smugly smiling, but it was drawn and overly forced. It was time for the plan. She knocked Alexa down to the canvas, hard. The referee counted to two while the bottom woman was trying to get her breath back. Then Ruby pulled Alexa up. Ending the count. Alexa’s head bounced off the canvas as Ruby let her go. Confused, both the official and Alexa twisted to watch Ruby leave the ring.

The referee began to count to ten.

Ruby continued up the ramp, walking backward. She gave Alexa a little wave as the count ended, also ending the match. While the championship couldn’t be won by count-out, ruby ensured her WrestleMania moment with one. And she ensured that neither woman was leaving the ring until she couldn’t kick out, or until she admitted being the lesser woman and submitting. Realizing this, Alexa growled. Brilliant strategy, but she hated that she hadn’t thought to use it first.

Part 48: WrestleMania

Series Masterlist 

Masterlist 

Forever Tags: @blondekel77 @hallemichelles @laochbaineann @ramblingsofabourbondrinker @savmontreal @southsidebucky @tinyelfperson @chwehansol98

“Thank you.” He bit his lip. “All of last night, all everything it took to get here, and the only words I can find… are thank you.” Taking a deep breath, he continued. “Thank you, for watching my back, for watching my story, and for sticking around through all the highs and lows. Last night could have been a big low. I could have lost everything. My career… my brother.” He choked back before he could say ‘Dean.’ Then it would be too real. Seth slapped on a smile. “But we slayed the beast. And the best part about last night? He is never coming back.”

That earned a big cheer, as it should.

Taking a few steps around the ring, Seth worried his fingers through his beard. “Now, that was last night. And tonight, like with any night, any time, any place, I am going to continue to show that I am a fighting champion. After all… I am the reigning, defending, beast-slaying, Universal Champion. Nobody back there has enough aces on me to even consider taking this from me, much less the skill to do so. Unless there’s someone back there who wants to prove me wrong.”

He didn’t have to wait long. Another smile, soft and knowing, spread across his face as Finn Balor made his entrance.

“Seth, Seth, Seth. First of all, congratulations.” That much needed to be said and briefly applauded. “But you’re wrong about a few t’ings.”

“Really?” Seth leaned forward on the ropes. “Enlighten me.”

Finn stepped to the top edge of the ramp. “There is someone who has the skill to beat you, and someone who ‘as the aces. There is no ring, no accolade of yours that can protect the Universal from me. Clash of Champions was a fluke. An’ it was weighed down with the Intercontinental championship. I tried chasin’ after that, tryin’ to see what the fuss was about. But nothing is goin’ to be like holding that title there,” he pointed at the Universal on Seth’s shoulder. “I will give you tonight. Slaying the beast was a lot. But I will ‘ave my Universal back. And then I’ll have it fer keeps.”

“Is that so?” Seth nodded, curling down the sides of his mouth. “I will accept your gracious gift of not having to defend against you tonight. Thank you.” He encouraged the applause. “But when do you want it back? Might I suggest… Backlash?”

Now it was Finn’s turn to nod. “Backlash sounds great. What about being a defending champion?”

“Oh, I’m still going to defend it. But I’m not going to deny others a chance. No, no, no, no, no. After I beat you at Backlash, I’m going to need a number one contender. Or several, but I doubt there’s even going to be one.”

“So be it.” Finn bowed, then turned on his heel and left.

***

“Nia, Tamina,” Charly caught up with the two women just outside Gorilla. “Last night you two were taken out fairly early in the preshow. You didn’t even make it to the arena for the challenge-“

Knocking the mic away from her face, Nia took a second to compose herself. “Look, our moment wasn’t in WrestleMania. That’s fine. Last night wasn’t the last one ever.”

“If anything,” Tamina added, “it means that Sasha and Bayley are weakened. They’ve been saying since they got those titles that they’ve been friends for life despite their tiffs. But those “tiffs” always seem to hit when gold is on the line. It’s about time for one of them to turn on the other again.” She was cut off by the sound of Sasha Bank’s music.

In the arena, Bayley’s followed, and they walked down to the ring together. They both took a mic, circling back to the center.

Tapping her fingers on her thigh, Bayley talked first. “We did it. The Boss n’ hug Connection had their WrestleMania moment.” She bent with a smile. “How awesome is that?”

“But we know some people,” Sasha popped the ‘p’ and smiled, “are upset that they missed theirs. We don’t need the Universal champion’s well-earned week off. We can and will face anyone who missed their moment. And you ladies might want to catch it quick. Because next week is the shake-up, and who knows where these titles might go.”

Dropping their mics to techies, Bayley and Sasha waited to see who would answer, though they had a good idea. Fulfilling that guess, Tamina and Nia Jax came to the stage, and then to the ring to answer the challenge. The match that followed was worthy of the inaugural WrestleMania weekend. The women put it all out in the ring, sparing nothing. Not their bodies, their voices, or their lungs. By the time it came down to the wire, they were all panting and heaving to suck in enough oxygen to continue.

Tamina came around the corner and clotheslined Sasha. She flipped through the air, landing hard enough for Bayley to hear it. The Hug part of the Connection turned away to check on her friend. Nia took advantage, ripcording Bayley and nearly felling her. But the lithe form was quick, and Bayley reversed the hold into a pin, kicking off the floor until the count of three. Even though they’d lost, Nia and Tamina left the arena smiling. They were smiling because Sasha and Bayley were not. And Sasha was not letting Bayley comfort her. All according to plan.

***

Another tag match followed. Last Monday, the team of Tyler Breeze and Dana Brook won the tag battle royal. They earned their match as the number one contenders and they weren’t going to wait another week to use it.

The new champions met them in the ring, happily handing their titles to the referee to hold up. The victory made them blissfully proud. And blind. Dana’s first offense caught them by surprise. Sami was on his back and Kevin was out of the ring before they could blink. Throughout the match, they didn’t know what to do about here. Breeze, they had fought at one time or another. And beaten. Dana? Did they treat her like a woman, with softer hits and gentler moves? She wasn’t giving them the same charity.

By the end, after several close calls, they made their decision. Dana was a wrestler. She was fighting in this division because she could handle it, receiving and dishing it out. After the bell rang with Kevin’s pin on Breeze, they circled back to where Dana was helping him stand back up.

“This isn’t over,” Sami said, holding out his hand. “If we challenge you to a rematch…?”

The partners shared a look. Breeze took his hand. “We’ll accept.”

***

Roman caught Seth in a big hug. “I know I said it last night, but congratulations, man.” He chuckled as Dean gave their brother a slight hit to his chin.

“Thanks. It was rough though.”

Dean agreed, eyebrows arching with the memory. “Yeah.”

“I wish I could have been in the match. It’s been a while since it’s been just the three of us ripping it up.”

“I’m kinda glad you weren’t.” Seth laid his title aside. “If it had been the three of us, there’s no way Hunter would have changed the stipulation back. Two of us would be out of a job, and the last one would be… devastated. No title is worth that.”

Dean kept his eyes on the floor, flitting around to the sides and checking the hall so they weren’t disturbed. “You don’t think he’ll try to control her again, do you?” Suddenly, the tape on his hands was very interesting. “I mean, we were all almost in the palm of his hand there for a second. If he gets control of Y/N-“

“That won’t mean that he controls us.” Both men patted his shoulders and the back of his head, and Seth continued. “Even when he did have her under his thumb, she’s a fighter. An Ambrose. And now she knows what to look out for. You don’t have to worry about her. Trust me.”

Roman caught the rest of his worried expression. “And I handled Dr. M. I have a feeling he’s not going to focus on her again any time soon. He’s gonna have Braun chasing him down for not holding up his end of the ‘bargain’ in getting his title back.” He jutted his chin at Seth. “You and Finn might need to watch your backs.”

As the conversation fizzled and the two of them wondered away, Dean couldn’t help but keep picking at his tape. He’d been wrong before, but life never wrapped up with this nice of a bow. If he was right, and he was afraid he was, if you were in danger then they were all threatened. With that in mind, he walked way in the opposite direction for some isolation.

***

Corey laughed. Inside the ring, Curt Hawkins faced off against No Way Jose. “What does Hawkins think he’s doing? One lucky win doesn’t mean anything.”

“How can you say that?” Renee gasped. “That ‘lucky win’ was in the Andre the Giant Battle Royal. Don’t be such a jerk, Corey. What if this is the start of a new streak for Hawkins?”

“What if this is the start of the second losing streak for him?”

After a hard throw that sent him to the far corner, Curt crawled into a seated position against the corner. He glanced to his trophy sitting by the bell box. Nodding, he psyched himself up to his feet and went back into the fight, catching Jose unawares. The dancing, neon-braided wrestler knew what this match meant to him, but he wasn’t going to give it away either. If anything, Jose worried that if he lost that the losing streak might pass onto him. Superstitious, yes. But he didn’t want to risk it.

Jose almost ran into the referee. He stopped in his tracks, apologetic. Curt took the moment to sweep him up from behind, holding him down for a pin like his life depended on it. He survived the three count. The referee had to catch up with him to raise his hand. It was going to take some getting used to, sticking around for that part of a match. Especially if this really was the start of better days.

***

In the next match, Natalya had requested some time to work out what happened in the battle royal with Rhonda. Not five minutes before then, Rhonda had requested time to work out the problems they had backstage before then against the other tag teams. When they met in the ring, it wasn’t to talk. The bell rang instead, and the referee did his best to stay out of the way.

Someone who also wanted to stay out of the way was Ruby Riott. But she wanted a close seat. She took a chair from the bell box and planted it outside the ring. At the commentary table far up on stage, Corey snorted. “She’s not here because she’s worried. Look at her! She’s enjoying this.”

“But of course. Who doesn’t like a good fireworks show,” Renee asked.

Ruby remained unmoved as the match collapsed outside the ring. Natalya was sprawled on her stomach by the stairs. Rhonda was on her back, the only sign that she was still alive was her chest rising and falling with a stutter. The referee counted to ten, ruling a double loss by count-out. The champion shrugged and took to the ring. She held her title overhead as if claiming their broken friendship as her genius plan.

“Where’s Ruby’s Squad? It’s unlike them not to help her cackle over fallen victims.”

***

They were backstage. Hunting. Mickie James and Alicia Fox tried to go the other way, but they were caught by their shoulders and then their hair.

“Where are you going?”

“Yeah, we just want to talk.”

The captured women yelped as they were thrown into crates and the wall and to the floor.

“Not so hot now, are ya?” Sarah kicked at Mickie’s stomach.

Liv picked Alicia up again and tossed her over her tag partner’s body just as security ran up. As they were being separated, she shouted, “you’re going to for stealing our moment!” They shook themselves loose and hurried down the hallway. On the ground, Alicia and Mickie held onto their heads and their bruised sides.

***

“Ladies and gentlemen: the new Intercontinental Champion, Elias.” Sitting smugly with his rewon title around his waist, Elias set to strumming an upbeat tune. The crowd started to clap along, but as soon as they got off rhythm, he ended it.

He shook his head. “Was there any doubt that I would once again save the WWE from McIntyre’s mediocrity? If you just have faith, you will see that I am the light in this business. I can lead you through the rabble and the dim-witted that fill the locker rooms of both Raw and Smackdown.” He laughed. “Yes, I am already planning far ahead. While I do not have the power to decide who moves between the brand next week, (even though I should; I would do so much better than Y/N or Paige in rearranging the rosters), I can name who I think would be a worthy opponent. Not that’s much to pick from.”

Strumming his guitar once again, Elias began to rattle off names of who he wanted to face in the coming months. Some names like Jeff Hardy and Aleister Black got a cheer. Others, like Samoa Joe and Daniel Bryan, received boos laced with awe at the thought. “And any of these are more worthy of my time because Drew is home, too cowardly to face me instead of licking his wounds. Or perhaps he is avoiding the Brooklyn slime.”

While the crowd was booing the dig on their city, the stage erupted with flames and music. Baron Corbin waltzed out. The crowd immediately shifted their hate to the Lone Wolf. He twiddled his mic. “You know what I dislike about you the most, Elias? It isn’t your misplacement at the top of this business, or even your tuneless music; it’s that you can’t see the real talent that should hold that championship.” He shrugged. “I didn’t hear my name on that list.”

Elias shrugged back. “That’s because one: you’re not on Smackdown. And two: you are also not worth my time.”

That made Baron’s blood boil. But he breathed the comment away, continuing to the ring. “And yet, I’m here. Right here and now. And none of those guys are, if they ever will be. Who knows. Maybe nothing will change. I wouldn’t put it past our managers to throw that curveball.”

“I’m going to stop you right there. You are not worming your way into a match.”

Baron paused at the bottom of the ramp. “I’m not worming my way in. It’s official. Looks like you’ve fallen out of favor with Y/N.” To emphasize his point, a referee slid into the ring and shrugged.

“So be it.”

Elias tossed his headset and his scarves outside the ring, but he set up his guitar in the corner. He had planned to use it. It was the perfect target to throw Baron through. But Baron caught himself on the ropes before kicking back into Elias’s chest. Kicking it from its perch, Baron paused with his boot raised above it. Elias lurched forward, but his boots slipped. The guitar crunched and Elias roared. It was a short rage and pride-fueled match after that.

The referee struggled to hold up Elias’s wrist, but the champion snatched it away. He circled Baron, growling while he rolled around on the canvas. Elias seized him by the shoulders and pushed him away.

It was supposed to be a ripcord of sorts. But as Baron was pulled in, he dodged the raised knee and caught Elias around the neck and waist. The momentum was enough to help reverse into a Deep Six. The ring bounced as Elias fell. Stunned, Baron took in the view.

After not even a second’s more hesitation, he snatched the title off the canvas and rolled out of the ring. He didn’t look back until he was at the top of the ramp. Then he hurried backstage through the side entrance leading to the garage.

***

That was where you caught up with him. “Baron. Baron!”

“What?”

“You have to give it back.”

He curled his grip tighter over the Intercontinental title. “No, I don’t. The way I see it, I’m the one that walked out of that ring. I had the last say, the right to take this championship-“

“You lost the match. And you went over my head in the first place. Hunter signed off on this, not me.” You blocked his path and crossed your arms. “If this had been the other way around, you’d be screaming bloody murder.” Taking the initiative, you reached up to take the title. Probably a mistake.

Baron backed away with a snarl. He readied a fist to fly towards your face. While you were prepared to defend yourself, someone else stepped in between you. Dean puffed up his chest against Baron’s and kept you safely behind him. The arrival of the elder Ambrose sparked Baron’s memory.

“I don’t know why you’re so eager to stop me, Y/N. Your cousin did the same exact thing with Seth Rollins a few years ago. He beat him in a match, with Roman’s help, and then ran off with the WWE heavyweight championship. How can you ‘call me out’ if your own blood has done the same thing?”

That stopped you cold. It was a good point. Dean didn’t think so. “I at least won my match.”

“Let him go.”

Dean whipped around, his brow creased. “What?”

You stepped forward, pushing your cousin behind you and maintaining eye-contact with Baron. “He does have a point. Not to put Seth down or anything, but I think Elias is going to be a lot less patient to get his championship back. So, you should probably run.” It took no small effort not to grin as Baron’s face fell. He was soon gone, allowing you the space to chuckle. Until you saw Dean’s face. “What?”

“That’s supposed to be my question. What was that about?”

You shrugged. “He made a good point. And really, I’m not too worried about it. Elias will make him pay for it.”

Dean grumbled. “You were about to pay for it. One Corbin knuckle sandwich, order up for Y/N Ambrose,” he added teasingly.

Looking down and away, it didn’t make you smile. “I have a lot to pay for.”

“No, you don’t. It’s… we’re past that. It’s done, finished, signed, sealed, and wrapped with a bow. You did what you set out to do. Lesnar’s gone and-“

“And it almost cost you everything.”

“But it didn’t. Seth is still champion. And I’ve still got a place here. Now I’m always ready to kick Baron in the teeth, but you don’t have anything else to pay for. You never did. Not in my book.” As he’d spoken, your head dipped lower and lower into your chest. Dean flicked your nose to make you look up. “And I’ll be damned if anyone tries to use that against you. Okay?”

“Okay.”

“Okay,” he said resolutely. “Alright. Now come on, great important manager of Raw. Seth owes us food. Let’s go.” He wouldn’t take no for an answer, so you let him sling an arm over your shoulder and guide you down the hall. A few steps down, he kissed the top of your head and you felt ten pounds fall off your shoulders.

You were forgiven. And now you could be a family again.  

Part 50: One Last Time (Finale)

Series Masterlist

Masterlist 

Forever Tags: @blondekel77 @hallemichelles @laochbaineann @ramblingsofabourbondrinker @savmontreal @southsidebucky @tinyelfperson @chwehansol98

Just thinking the name summoned a guitar strum. Drew stumbled in his attack as he heard the guitar and saw Elias circle the ring. Elias wasn’t singing, just strumming, but it was enough to distract Drew from a series of coordinated moves. He roared and shifted his focus back. Calmly, Elias watched as Drew took control of the match again, eventually pinning Lashley.

McIntyre’s knuckles paled with his grip on the ropes as he stared down at Elias. It made his blood boil that Elias wasn’t even bothered to react. As the drifter walked away, Drew swore that he was going to regret every note and strum.

***

Lashley and Ziggler weren’t even out of the ring yet when Sami Zayn came out to the ring. He danced his way down the ramp, then took a mic. “How would you all like to see me put my life on the line?” It wasn’t what everyone thought he was going to say, but they welcomed the thought anyway. “Alrighty then.”

With a smart click of his heels, he turned to face the stage. “I’ve got something to get off my chest. Now I’m an NXT grown wrestler myself, and I’ll be the first to admit that moving up to the main roster isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, but when it comes to the ‘Authors of Pain’,” he said with quotation fingers, “I don’t see champions. I see puppets. First Paul Ellering. Then Drake Maverick. And now… Dr. M, whatever that means. So, I’m calling out you, AOP. Not your puppet master. I say that you can’t defend those titles without help. That you are not champions. And that you are cowards that hide behind someone else. That you hide because there are not two strategic brain cells between you-”

He shivered as their music interrupted. But he smiled. Everything was going to plan. They marched to the ring, circling it. They stood on the apron on the opposite side of the ring. Sami’s back was to the stage when the lights went out. When they came back up, Dr. M. was behind him inside the ropes.

“Those are some strong words, Sami,” his voice made Sami whip around. “But I know you meant every word. And I understand. You are a hypocrite. A coward that would never speak your mind out loud without Kevin Owens watching your back.” Slowly, Dr. M turned and faced Kevin Owens, who was just finishing his stealth climb into the ring. Unbothered, he turned back around. “You can lead a man to a hospital, but you can’t force him to medicine. So be it. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have other patients to see to.” Giving a strong eye to Kevin, he left the ring. He snapped and AOP entered the ring, dragging in a referee.

The match that followed was rough. Akam and Rezar did not appreciate Sami’s opinion of them, nor Kevin’s attempt to attack their manager. At the same time, Kevin and Sami were standing by their proof. Without someone telling them what to do, AOP was stalling before attacks. A lucky hit took Kevin to the canvas, where he was pinned. They left celebrating like NXT days, then slipped back into their more serious mood before leaving the arena.

***

Deep in thought, you weren’t watching where you were going. You collided with something hard and tall. Something that turned out to be a someone.

“No, Seth. I can’t talk about this.” You tried to move past him, but Roman stepped in to block your path too.

“We have to talk about something.” Roman let go of your shoulders, give you range to turn back to Seth.

“Whatever they’ve offered you, it’s not worth it. Trust me.” Seth pleaded with his eyes. You avoided looking at them and focused on anything else in the hallway.

“I didn’t do it for the money or the fame. Your story was lesson enough.” Your voice dropped, weary. “That’s not what they’ve got on me.”

Seth titled your chin up. “What are you talking about? Whatever it is, we can help you.”

“No, you can’t.” Why was it so hard to breath? “It’s my fault and I have to do what I can to work around it.” The statement distracted them enough for you to get by, but Roman caught you again.

He leaned down and did his best to look you in the eye. “Y/N?”

No oxygen. No thoughts. Just the words you didn’t want to say. “It’s a contract. I pitched it to Stephanie and Hunter and thought they liked it. But they added things. Things that would rip Dean apart and-“ You broke away from his grasp. “I can’t talk about this. I’ve said too much already. You’re just going to have to let me be.”

They stayed for a minute while you practically ran down the hallway. Blinded by the boil of emotions, you ran into someone else.

“Y/N, we need to talk.” Baron loomed overhead.

“I can’t. I’m busy.” You hissed as his arm flashed out to block your way.

“Make time. I want a match. Tonight. Now would be good.”

You sighed and looked behind you when you heard footsteps. Roman saw Baron and knew why he was there. He gave you a nod, which didn’t exactly please you, but it got both men out of the way so you could think. “Fine. You and Roman have a match tonight. Now.” You stood still while Baron gloated. He dropped his arm with a chuckle, giving you room to finally escape.

***

Both men weren’t going to give an inch. Even as their energy waned, the crowd was enjoying the display of power. Roman fell into the ropes on one side, trying to catch his breath. As he got back up and looked off into the crowd, Dr. M popped up in front of his face. Startled, he fell back into Baron’s next attack. He quickly recovered but was shaken. Dr. M had disappeared. Eerie laughter came from one corner, though nobody was there.

Baron fell to the canvas. Roman geared up for a spear. Dr. M appeared over his shoulder. Roman saw him on the Titantron and spun around to attack. Baron swooped in as Roman missed with a swing, beating him to the canvas and finally winning the pin. Then he got the hell out of the ring. No need to stick around when Dr. M was doing his thing. Dean and Seth ran by him on the ramp. They circled around Roman’s kneeling form.

With his eerie laugh in full force, Dr. M left the ring. He stood at the base of the ramp. And then he was gone.

Seth and Dean helped Roman to his feet and out of the ring. “Don’t worry about me,” he said, shrugging them off. “You guys have enough to worry about tonight. I haven’t seen him, but if Brock does show up, you need to be focused.”

Seth sighed. “I take that to mean you won’t be at the signing?”

“No.”

“Then what will you be doing?” Dean asked. He read the expression on Roman’s face. And disagreed. “Really?”

“I’m going to be watching Y/N’s back. Same way I watch yours.” He tried to walk on his own but limped up the ramp.

***

Ruby had issued another open challenge. With WrestleMania not even two weeks away, in her eyes, no one was going to be able to take the title from her. She laughed with Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan in the ring while waiting for her opponent. They all froze as “I’m not like most girls,” played through the speakers. Ruby was mostly silent, and she didn’t appreciate her girls’ giggles as they wished her luck.

Their giggles turned to worried hints and tips as Ruby struggled. Nia was taking no prisoners. Several times, the bell box readied to announce a new champion. Each time, Ruby desperately kicked out. The counts got closer and closer to three. Sarah and Liv jumped up onto the apron, ready to spring at a moment’s notice. Nia moved to knock them off. The referee was checking on Ruby, giving the Squad room to attack her without repercussions. Ruby saw her fall and took advantage, retaining her title.

Like a pack of hyenas, the women laughed all the way backstage.

***

Alexa Bliss inched around a corner. She breathed a sigh of relief and proudly took a step forward without looking. She bumped into Ruby, fresh out of her match. “Well hello there, Alexa!” she tried to dart away, but Ruby tossed an arm over her shoulder. “Didn’t Liv and Sarah tell you I was looking for you?”

Alexa gulped. Then disgusted, she removed Ruby’s arm from her shoulder. “Yeah. So?”

“Well, you kept harping on ‘unfinished business’… and I have to agree,” she sighed. “We’re not done. Now I just beat Nia, since you missed it lurking around backstage, and I am still without a match for WrestleMania. And it sucks, but you don’t have one either.” She talked over Alexa’s sputtering. “I know you’re going to be busy hosting, but why don’t we help each other out? I mean, I could always beat you up here and now, or I’ll just destroy you there. But you’ll have a chance. You game?”

As Ruby caught her forearm in a vice-grip, Alexa grimaced and grit her teeth. “What do you have in mind?”

Ruby smiled dangerously. “We have a match next week. Either way, you’re going to WrestleMania. But if I win, I pick the stipulation and you don’t know until the match starts. And if you win… well, I’ll still beat you but at least you’ll have a say in which way. Sound good? Great. See you next week.”

She was off like a shot, leaving Alexa to rub some feeling back into her arm.

***

As the new Raw Women’s tag champions, Bayley and Sasha Banks had a few things to say about the former champions. “They did what they set out to do,” Sasha said. “They brought our new tag titles to the forefront of the business. Last week they had the main event of Raw. They were dominant, beating any team that came their way. And the Riott Squad proved time and time again that the women’s division was something to pay attention to.”

Bayley nodded in agreement. “Having said that, they forgot one little thing. Nothing lasts forever. The women’s division is constantly moving forward. Evolving. Growing stronger and building momentum. Getting better and better. Their time is over. We are the future. We have been through NXT, Smackdown, Raw. The future is now. And it is standing here in this ring.” They held their titles up, then dropped them and fell into a fighting stance.

With their music, Natalya and Rhonda Rousey walked onto the stage. “That may be so,” Natalya said, “but as you said, nothing lasts forever. Prove that you are the so-called best of the business.” She motioned between herself and Rhonda. “You ladies up for a challenge?”

The Boss n’ Hug Connection shared a smile. Sasha nodded. “Sure. Are you?”

During the match that followed, Bayley and Sasha showed off. The high was still real, and they were capable of riding the adrenaline without making too many mistakes. Rhonda and Natalya, on the other hand, were struggling. Both were dominant in the ring. But when it came time to tag or to work together, cracks turned into fissures. One would reach for a tag, and the other would be missing. Then Rhonda was thrown from the ring. It took her eight seconds to wobble back to the ring. At nine seconds, she was reaching for the roes to pull herself up. At ten, she couldn’t get into the ring. Furious, she stepped back, dragging Liv Morgan out from under the ring.

On the other side, Sarah Logan attacked Natalya, knocking her to the ground. The former champions disappeared as quickly as they’d appeared. Thus freed, Natalya and Rhonda met back in the ring while Sasha and Bayley rolled out and watched from the ramp. The two women began to blame one another. Defending themselves truthfully to the Riott Squad’s interference, but neither was listening. The referee pushed them apart before it turned into another brawl. Natalya stomped off, breaking through Sasha and Bayley on her way by.

***

You focused on not letting your anxiety show. The ring had never felt so large an empty. Or so foreboding. It was time to address the WWE universe. “As you all know, in just thirteen days, WrestleMania will finally be here.” Their response made your cheeks twitch with a small smile. “There are one or two spots that haven’t been filled yet, but we’ve still got two weeks. That brings us to tonight. And to a contract signing.” You took a breath to call Seth and Dean to the ring, but Stephanie McMahon and Triple H’s intros interrupted in turn.

They calmly walked down to the ring. Stephanie carried the leather folder in one arm. She sent you a perturbed smile after stepping through the ropes. “Y/N, I found this in your office and figured you might need it. It’s kinda hard to have a contract signing without the contract.”

“Oops,” you halfheartedly gulped.

Hunter stepped into the ring too. You moved to the other side, using the space like an invisible barricade. “I would like to think otherwise, but it almost looks like you don’t want this match to happen as planned. Don’t you think Dean is mad at you enough?”

“Leave him out of this.”

Speak of the devil, Dean’s music sounded. You closed your eyes. This was a bad dream. Seth followed him out to his own music. And he had questions. “So, I noticed a large absence backstage. Care to explain that, Hunter?” He joined Dean on the far side of the ring, forcing you to stand in the middle.

“That’s right, Seth,” he mocked, “Brock Lesnar isn’t here. How observant of you. No, Brock signed the contract already, as witnessed by Paul Heyman. I’ll be signing as your witness.”

You stammered, “witnessed?”

The explanation was handed off to Stephanie. “Well, given the specifics of this match, we need to make sure that the competitors are willing to endure the consequences. And that they are doing this of their own free will.”

“Consequences? Free will?” Dean shared a look with Seth, then looked at you with a growl. “What is she talking about, Y/N?”

“Go on, Y/N, tell them what this is.” Stephanie waved the leather folder in her hand. Then handed it to you. Hunter stood behind her, daring you to rebel.

You swallowed. Hard.

“It’s a contract. For a triple threat match at WrestleMania for the Universal Championship.” The crowd initially cheered, but it faded into confusion. “You two against Brock Lesnar, and against each other.”

Dean and Seth shared a look. Seth shrugged. “So? This sounds like another one of your great ideas.”

“It was.” If you could keep your breathing even for a few more minutes, maybe you wouldn’t stutter. “When I pitched it to management,” you gestured towards Stephanie and Hunter, “it was a normal match with room for a no disqualification clause. But they… it developed into more. Another clause was added.” You licked your lips desperately.

“Keep going, Y/N. You’re just now getting to the best part.” Hunter stepped closer and patted you on the shoulder to encourage you. It did nothing but make you shiver.

“As the contracts stands, whoever loses the match has to leave WWE. Forever.” The crowd gasped, though Dean and Seth were still confused. “It’s not just whoever gets pinned, which was the original idea. It’s both of the competitors who lose.” The words began to pour out. “This means, Dean, that even if you pin Lesnar, Seth would have to leave too. Or you would if he pins Lesnar. Or both of you. The original plan was to create an opening to finally get rid of the Beast. I thought… I knew between the two of you that you could beat him. I thought…” you turned back to look at the Authority. “I thought I was doing what… what was best for business.”

Stephanie barked out a laugh. “What’s best for business? Brock Lesnar is one of our biggest assets. Why would we ever give you a chance to ruin that for WWE?”

“You guys are wasting your money to pay him to do nothing. Lesnar is not a champion. He may have had the title and the crown, but like an absent king, everybody knows where the real power lies. In the people.” Rage boiled in your veins.  “Dean and Seth are some of the best here. They just don’t grovel at your feet like you’d like them too.” The word hung in the air, freezing over under Hunter’s scrutiny.

Stephanie stepped closer. “No matter how many times you use that argument, Y/N, it’s not going to change anything. Now. Seth. Dean. The contract?”

You jumped as Dean placed his hand on your shoulder.

“It’s okay, Y/N,” he whispered.

“Please,” you shook your head, mic at your side, “don’t do this. It’s a trap. Please, no.” Your shoulders slumped as he kissed the top of your head and took the contract out of your hands.

Hunter smirked as Dean twiddled with the pen. Dean looked back, asking Seth if he was in it too. Seth accepted the pen as his answer, signing after looking at Dean’s signature. You covered your face and rubbed your temples, missing any silent conversation they exchanged. Seth handed the contract back to Hunter to finalize.

“See,” Hunter said, signing blindly, “that wasn’t so hard.” He took Stephanie by the arm and gave you the contract on their way out of the ring. You glanced at the signatures, resigned to hate that you had just-

Wait.

You looked up at Dean, who was smirking. Seth too.

“Mr. Helmsley?” Your voice caught in your throat for a second. “Are you sure you want this contract to go through?” Hunter stared you down as you fought not smiling. “You see…um. You signed the wrong line. You signed as one of the competitors.” A laugh escaped you. This had just gotten interesting. “As this contract states,” you flipped back a page, “any wrestler who competes under this contract and loses must leave the World Wrestling Entertainment company forever. If you beat Seth, who signed in the right place, Brock would have to leave and you…” you shrugged. “The lawyers could read through this and double check how much of this would apply to you, but at the base understanding, you would not be able to wrestle again. No more WrestleMania moments, no more inserting yourself into matches. And, at the worst, you would also have to leave the administration.”

Behind your smile, it felt like your whole being was glowing. You held the folder out to him.

“I may make the matches, but you still outrank me. You can dissolve this contract.”

Hunter snatched the folder away and looked closely at the signature and the clause he added. He pulled it out of the folder, flipping through and scanning for any way out. The crowd was deathly silent as he considered all angles.

They went wild as he tore the contract in half.

“We’re not done, Y/N,” he said, pointing at you.

“I understand, sir.” The threat could not defeat the proud smile on your face. Or the matching ones on Dean and Seth. Dean picked you up and spun you around once they were gone. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to get you into this mess.”

He ruffled your hair, despite your protest. “What else is family for?” He lightly tapped his fist against your cheek. “Can I get a match next week?”

“Against whom and how many?”

Part 47: Resigning 

Series Masterlist 

Masterlist 

Forever Tags: @blondekel77 @hallemichelles @laochbaineann @ramblingsofabourbondrinker @savmontreal @southsidebucky @tinyelfperson @chwehansol98 

***

The placements of the NXT move-ups were still finalizing, but Heavy Machinery wanted to prove that they belonged on Raw. They had challenged the well-established team of Heath Slater and Rhyno.

“If they win this match,” Cole mused, “do you think they’ll challenge AOP?”

Renee thought for a second, then said, “it’s a possibility. Depending on how tonight goes, I think they’ll do great. I’m more worried what will happen to them if they lose this match.”

“Don’t jinx them, Renee,” Corey sputtered. They digressed into a disagreement as the bell rang.

Hunter beamed as he watched from a backstage tv. Occasionally you glanced up from your clipboard to catch Slater dropping Knight. Or Dozovic triumphantly grinning as Rhyno bounced off of him.

The referee had a surprisingly difficult time keeping up with both teams. The tags were frequent but displaced enough to show off each wrestler and their skills. Rhyno engaged Knight on the floor, keeping him from entering the ring to help his partner. His back was turned as the upper hand switched to Dozovic, who did the worm before dropping on Slater. Knight escaped and doubled teamed just long enough to help his partner set up a pin, then kept Rhyno from saving him. Heavy Machinery won the match, already cheering with the fans like Raw was home.

***

Later in the show, there were going to be three matches for the women’s elimination chamber match. Bayley and Natalya were backstage talking about their matches when Alexa walked up. “Well look at you two being all buddy-buddy.”

“Keep walking Alexa,” Natalya shot. Bayley wrapped her arm across her shoulders, holding her from stepping to Alexa.

Miss Bliss gasped and fluttered hand to her chest. “I was just making an observation.”

Bayley stepped between them. “I doubt that. But I’m willing to give you the benefit of a doubt. Any other observations before you… go away?” Bayley stared at her pointedly. Patiently.

Just into Alexa’s plans. She smiled sweetly. “Well, I’m more confused than anything. Sasha and Bayley being in the chamber match sorta makes sense. But, Natty, if you and Rhonda are such good friends, why are you fighting each other tonight? Only one of you can have the spot.” When all Natalya did was growl, she turned her attention back to Bayley and hopped to sit on a crate. “Come on, help a girl out. You know better than anyone how delicate friendship is. It’s the reason you’re holding on so tight to Sasha, right?”

In a split second of pause, Natalya was the one ready to hold back her friend. “Sure, like you’ve never turned on anyone, Alexa. Turn before you get dropped, right? Fine. As the one on the other side of that exchange, yes, Sasha hurt me. But I am still my own woman. My own power. Hell in a Cell proved that. Still, we’ve got something working here. It’s not perfect, but it’s what I’ve got. So, yeah. I’m going to stick to Sasha. Partially to watch my back, and partially to watch hers. Because that’s what friends do. You have to do what you have to do. You can’t wait for your opportunities, you have to make them.”

Natalya guided Bayley away as her voice weakened towards the end. But Alexa kept going, pushing for all she could.

“Speaking of opportunities, Bayley,” Alexa shifted in her seat, “can you explain why both you and Sasha are going after the women’s championship? I mean, aren’t you guys already number one contenders for the tag titles? Sounds like you’re spread yourselves a little thin. Especially for such a delicate friendship.”

Bayley smirked. “Well, as far as either of us can tell, there hasn’t been a woman holding double titles. Sasha and I would like to try for it. The Riott Squad can wait.”

Alexa tilted her head. “Do you think that’s a good idea? Making them wait so you two can go after different titles? I don’t know, Bayley. Sounds greedy and poorly planned if you ask me.”

“Well then it’s a good thing we didn’t ask you, isn’t it?”

Natalya stepping into Alexa’s face inspired the small blonde to retreat from her seat. “And when did this turn into a Moment of Bliss?”

Alexa put up her hands in defense. “I was just curious. Geeze.” She walked away, leaving the other women to process what Bayley had said.

***

Braun already had his spot in the Universal elimination chamber, but he wanted a match anyway. So you gave him one with Bobby Lashley. He was running on a high. Lio Rush was flipped several times outside of the ring, no matter how fast he ran. As for in the ring, Lashley was putting the monster among men through his paces. He had a goal to gain himself.

“We’ve just been told that if Bobby Lashley wins this match, then Y/N will give him another chance to get into a chamber match. Well, how about that?” Cole said.

“Sounds nice of her.” Renee mused. “Except for the part where giving him another opportunity takes it away from someone else.” Corey cut off her next words by telling her to hush and to watch the almighty Lashley perform.

Either way, the second chance was not to be. Braun had enough. He caught a second wind, using it to break Lashley down. And with Lio already out of the picture, there was no one to cause a shift with a distraction. As Braun’s arm was lifted in victory, Dr. M’s laugh sounded over the speakers. He did not appear. But his presence and approval were clear.

***

Behind you, Stephanie and Hunter had nodded their heads in approval of the match, though Hunter did question the double chance even with someone as talented as Lashley. “Agreed, both powerhouses here on Raw. But why such favoritism, Y/N? I thought you were better than that?”

You sputtered. “It’s not supposed to be. Braun is a great wrestler, but he needs something to do every week or things can get a little… destructive. And I knew I could convince Lashley to fight if I promised another chance for the chamber, either of them. Maybe the promise was a little underhanded, but both wrestlers got what they wanted. Braun his match. Lashley his chance, which motivated him during the fight. And the crowd got what they wanted.”

“All around a successful addition to the show,” Stephanie finished. “A great job, Y/N.”

“Thanks.” The word stuck like glue in your throat. You let out a sigh of strangled relief as Seth and Dean walked into the space. “Hey, Seth. Dean. What can I help you guys with? Can’t promise much, but I’ll see what I can do.”

Seth shifted the Universal title on his shoulder. “What do you mean you can’t offer much? You’re the general manager.”

Stephanie spoke up before you could. “And as such, she deserves respect-“

You flinched. “Don’t fire me for saying so, but didn’t you guys say you were going to be my shadows? I didn’t think shadows gave their opinions.” Inside your chest, your heart froze in place. Stephanie’s expression froze too, then slithered into a smile that she shared with her husband.

Hunter’s cheek twitched a smirk. “We did say that. Our apologies. Please continue.”

With a nod and a shuddering breath, you did. “Yeah, I’m GM, but the show is pretty set. There’s not room for another match. So if that’s what you’re here to ask about-“ Their disappointment was immediate. “Um, but there’s some chamber tournament matches soon. Seth, why don’t you join commentary. Get a front row seat for your possible future opponent?”

“Opponent? You mean opponents? I’m the champion. I’m in the elimination chamber match, right?”

The fire in his eyes frightened you, especially with your shadows watching. “Rollins, can we discuss details later? I don’t have room for a match for you tonight. Commentary or nothing?” you shrugged. He looked past you to Hunter and Stephanie, then gave you a nod. You focused on Dean. “I’m sorry, there’s nothing I’ve got for you this week, Dean. But maybe next week? I’m still working on it.”

Dean did the same thing as Seth, glancing over your shoulder. With a grumble, he said, “fine.”

“I’m doing the best I can, Dean.”

“I know.” He rotated his shoulders and looked at Seth. “You heading to commentary?” When he nodded, Dean tapped his forearm. “I’ll walk with you.”

You watched them leave as Hunter complimented you on how you handled it. “You did good. It was a simple no, and they took it well. Who’s been helping you stand up for yourself?”

Over your shoulder your tossed, “Sheamus and Cesaro. They’ve been training me how to deal with guys bigger than myself.” With a huff, you finished, “though I never thought I’d have to use it with either of them.”

They talked amongst themselves like nothing had happened. “I need some coffee. Catering?” Stephanie asked. Hunter agreed. “You need anything, Y/N?”

Pinching the bridge of your nose, you turned to face them. “No, I’m good. Thank you.” Hunter gave you a heavy pat on your shoulder on their way out. This whole thing was starting to make you nervous.

***

The Riott Squad fought a local team, easily squashing them. Charly caught up with Sasha and Rhonda at a backstage tv for an interview. “The Riott Squad is proving themselves to be very dominant. How do both of you think your chances of becoming tag champions are going to go tonight? Especially you, Rhonda, since you’re fighting Natalya tonight?”

Sasha snickered as Rhonda stumbled looking for something to say. “We’re going to be fine. We’ve fought in the past for the Raw women’s title before. Beaten each other for it. Working together is just obvious. We’re two of the best in the business. Why have dozens of matches against one another when we could work together. I mean, Sasha and Bayley are doing the same thing.”

The other woman shrugged. “You could see it like that, I guess.”

“Guess?”

“Yeah. I mean, I’m teaming with Bayley because it means she’s not fighting me for a title. I get to compete for a title, she gets one too as part of the set, and we stay out of each other’s hair.”

Charly grimaced. “So, teaming with Bayley… is a means to an end.”

Again, Sasha shrugged. “You said it, not me. But if I win the elimination chamber, maybe I can go my own way again.” Rhonda looked at her with a grimace, not liking that stance at all.

In the background, Alexa walked by having heard everything. She looked between the women, unnoticed, and then carried on her way.

***

Also backstage, Dolph flipped his vest over his shoulder and rounded a corner. He bumped off a tall torso, smiling when he saw it was Drew McIntyre. The Scotsman growled, “I told you to stay out of my way.”

Dolph shouldered past him. “I don’t know why you’re so irritated. You’re still champion, aren’t you? For now. Don’t get your kilt in a twist.”

Drew roughly grabbed his upper arm. “If you think I’m going to let you hold your actions last week over my head for more than this moment, you’ve got another thing coming.” He glared at him until Dolph raised his hands in surrender. Adding a bit of a shove, he released him. “Where are you going so happily?”

“To challenge an old friend for a spot in a well-deserved opportunity. For your title, come to think of it. See you in the Elimination Chamber.” He chuckled and left for Gorilla as his music started.

A few minutes later, Tyler Breeze entered the arena with Dana Brook at his side. She stayed ringside for the match, giving Breeze notes and helping him watch his back. This addition to the match was not in Dolph’s plan. Her attention for detail was making the match more difficult for him. And his attention to her was making it easier for Breeze to land punches and kicks. Dolph shook his head, refocusing. He flipped the match around, sending Breeze into defense-mode. A zig-zag finished the match.

All according to plan.

***

Two weeks ago, Zack Ryder had failed to place in the Universal elimination chamber. This week he was fighting his former partner, Mojo Rawley, for a place in the Intercontinental elimination chamber. For all of Mojo’s effort, Ryder made good use of his second chance. He won this match. Wrist in the referee’s hand, he missed the way Mojo stared daggers into his back from his huddle in a corner.

***

A pair of Universal placements happened next. Chad Gable and Bobby Roode, while tag partners, both wanted to try to win a spot. Seth sat on commentary. He was talkative, but he dodged any mention of the earlier argument with you. Gable faced Jinder Mahal, accompanied by the Singh brothers. Although he had Roode in his corner, cheering him on, Jinder won the match and the spot. Seth wasn’t bothered. He’d fought and beaten Jinder before. No matter what was going to happen in a few Sundays, Seth said he could handle him.

Gable rolled out of the ring and gave his teammate an ego boosting pat on the back as No Way Jose entered. The second match was more friendly than the first. And as such, when Roode turned on the heat, Jose wasn’t ready. Roode gave his defeated opponent a handshake, then accepted the bear hug from Gable as Jojo announced his spot in the elimination chamber. Seth welcomed this possible opponent too. He hadn’t faced Roode in a while.

“This could be interesting,” he said.

***

Baron stormed into your office, ignoring your groan as your moment of isolation was broken. “I know what you promised Elias,” he said, low and threatening. “Has he picked his WrestleMania match yet, or do you have to tell him which one he can pick?”

It took a moment to breathe down your bristling. “Mr. Corbin, Elias had the same chance as anyone. Including yourself.”

“No, he didn’t. You gave him a better spot because he beat me before the Rumble.”

“And why are you just now getting angry about that match? It was two weeks ago.” You licked your lips, stalling. “I have a feeling that’s not why you’re here.” You crossed your arms and waited for his answer.  

He snickered. “I want a spot in the Intercontinental elimination match. And if you don’t give me at least a match to ‘earn my way in’, well, Stephanie and Hunter are here. I’m sure they’d love to hear how you’ve been abusing power around here.”

Honestly, that didn’t really scare you. Part of you knew they’d probably chew him out more than you’d be in trouble. Still. You sighed and rolled your shoulders back. “Mr. Corbin, tonight I was approached by a local wrestler looking for an opportunity. He just got one. Congratulations, you’ve got a chance.” Baron smirked and started to leave. “Oh, and by the way, if he beats you tonight, he takes your place on the roster and in the Intercontinental elimination chamber… and you’re out of a job.”

He spun around to face you. “You can’t do that.”

You smiled sweetly at him, a face you had picked up from Alexa. “Yes, I can. The McMahons trust me as general manager more than they ever did with you, and as such, I have been given special liberties. Unless you would like to be fired now for attempted blackmail?” Baron balanced on the balls of his feet, seconds away from attacking. Rolling his eyes, he stepped back. “Fantastic. Head to the ring. I’ll send for your opponent.”

With a growl, he left your office. As soon as he was gone, you let out a shuddering breath. You sent a text to Gorrilla, letting them know who needed to be where. When you looked up, Dean was standing there. “Dean! Please don’t scare me like that.”

“How is it Baron gets a match tonight, but I don’t? Or Seth?”

“Dean-“

“What are you doing, Y/N? This isn’t like you.” Before you could answer, he spun on his heel and left. You struggled to regain some composure, despite the pain in your stomach.

***

The match was about to start when Dean’s music hit. He waved at the ring, sniggering as the local wrestler waved back, then walked over to join the commentary table. “Hey, Renee. Cole. Corey.” Like Seth, he avoided any discussion about your earlier conversations. But he was more than happy to make snarky comments about Baron’s style and lack of control. “It’s like he’s lost his marbles out there.”

To his defense, everyone watching the match agreed with him. Baron was unfocused. The local wrestler was gleefully using this to his advantage. It was a close match. The pin falls reached critical mass with Baron struggling to kick out before anything earlier than two-and-a-half. Thinking he was joining the roster, the wrestler tossed Baron out of the ring and began to celebrate.

“That’s not going to be good,” Dean noted.

Baron swung back in and caught him in a Deep Six. He made sure the other man wouldn’t be able to kick out by picking him up and dropping him in an End of Days. Growling in a mixture of irritation and relief, he got to his feet and let his hand be raised.

Grinning, he waved at Dean. He was going to Elimination Chamber. And so far, Dean was not.

***

The last three matches of the night were for three spots in the elimination chamber for the Raw women’s championship. Well, to become the number one contender for the title, since Ember wasn’t going to be in the match. Bayley entered the ring, pumped and ready. She groaned as Nia Jax’s music played next. The Irresistible Force entered the arena with Tamina at her side. Bayley gave a small sigh of relief as Nia sent her backstage. Their match was going to be between just them.

Or, it should have been.

Bayley was winning the upper hand. She had been able to keep Nia on her knees or at least unstable on her feet. Then Liv Morgan swung into the ring when the referee was checking on Nia and attacked the hugger. By the time he turned around, Liv was again out of sight and Nia was more than happy to take the win. She left the arena triumphantly, laughing as Liv rolled back in a went in to attack Bayley again.

Liv was forced to retreat as Sasha rushed out. Apparently, the only woman who was allowed to beat up Bayley was her, and heaven help any woman who tried otherwise. Sasha made sure Bayley made it safely out of the arena and waited for her opponent.

Several minutes later, Alicia Fox won a similar victory against Sasha. She had to fight harder before Sarah Logan got involved because Sasha was determined to not waste her opportunity. But there was no one to save her like she’d saved Bayley. So just after Alicia’s hand was raised, Sarah and Liv swarmed the ring and launched an attack. They didn’t leave until Sasha was unable to fight back. Then they left cackling, promising that they would give her another dose of damage in their next tag match.

***

Natalya entered the arena. She was all smiles, but it was strained. It quickly turned into a frown as Alexa’s music struck. Miss Bliss was followed by a techie crew who quickly set up for a Moment of Bliss.

“I hope you don’t mind Natty, but I’ve got some questions. For you too, Rhonda!” she called over her shoulder. “And hey, you should be thanking me for postponing your match a bit.” As Rhonda walked out and took a seat she added, “I can’t imagine either of you are eager to fight one another.” When neither woman answered, she continued. “This is a talk-show, ladies. It means you have to talk. What happens if one of you wins the Raw women’s championship after the Elimination Chamber? What happens to the-” she gestured between them, “the friendship?”

“Nothing.” Rhonda squirmed in her seat. “I’ve been here for almost a year. Natalya is my closest friend here.” She faced Natalya. “Why can’t we try one of those things where we help one of us get the title, then we’re the first challenge? Between the two of us, we could either rack of title reigns or help one another ensure long, successful ones.”

Not it was Natalya’s turn to squirm in her seat. “Rhonda, I’ve been in this business my whole life. I’ve seen-“ She sighed. “You know those don’t actually work, right? Someone always wants to be the best. They can’t be that if they’re always in their friend’s shadow.”

Alexa’s eyes glowed in triumph, even as she kept her mouth shut. Well, mostly. “That’s very interesting stances from both of you. I think it’s time we saw that match then. May the best woman win.”

As Alexa’s music played for her exit, the competitors walked down the ring together. There was hesitation from both of them at the start. Rhonda continued to hesitate. What Natalya had said was nothing she’d expected. Natalya sprung forward, beginning her attack. They could work this out later. Right now, she had to make her own opportunity. “Take what you can get,” she muttered. Rhonda heard and faltered in her steps. She caught a kick to the face that put her in the perfect position for a Sharpshooter. Natalya released her as soon as the referee told her Rhonda had tapped.

After all the mixtures of emotions, the women’s elimination chamber was set. Ruby Riott, Nikki Cross, Lacey Evans, Nia Jax, Alicia Fox, and now Natalya would have their chance for gold.

***

Hunter shook your head after he helped Stephanie back into the limo. “Well done, Y/N. I have no doubts now that this is going to work out perfectly.”

You flexed your hand like it burned as the limo pulled away.

Part 40: Sorta Forgiven 

Series Masterlist 

Masterlist 

Forever Tags: @blondekel77 @hallemichelles @laochbaineann @ramblingsofabourbondrinker @savmontreal @southsidebucky @tinyelfperson @zuni21798 

While Tamina was keeping the two occupied, Nia ran around to take care of Ruby. Liv disengaged and left the ring to help, leaving Sarah alone. Tamina was distracted as Liv attacked Nia, jumping on her back, and tried to go after her. Sarah used that to her advantage and won the pin.

The Riott Squad had retained.

***

To officially begin the Royal Rumble, the men’s Rumble match was first. The crowd counted down to each wrestler’s entrance. At the number six spot, Dean’s music hit then shifted to Curt Hawkins’s theme. Their match on Monday had ensured a better entry for Dean, but how much better remained to be seen until the fortieth spot. Again, there was a switch of music until Dean came out. About that time, Hawkins was finally eliminated. Dean gave him a salute on his way by before sliding into the ring. R-Truth entered last thanks to his win with Carmella in the Mixed Match Challenge.

Dean had his focus on a group of Smackdown wrestlers trying to toss him from the ring. Samoa Joe was leading the attack. Your cousin grinned as Elias approached, thinking he was there to help. Instead, Elias tipped Dean and two of the group over the ropes, eliminating them. And bringing the match down to the final five of him, Finn Balor, Mustafa Ali, Andrade, and Samoa Joe. Mustafa went for Joe and was assisted by the rest of the group to send him over. He tried to get back in the ring and retaliate, but the referees prevented him. Four to go. Finn rind the ring of Andrade after a show-off of power and ring acrobatics. Mustafa returned the favor, flipping onto Finn to weaken him, then accepting help from Elias to eliminate him.

It was down to Elias from Raw and Mustafa from Smackdown. Grappling against speed. And both capable of keeping their feet on the ropes instead of the canvas. Mustafa tried to flip onto Elias like he had with Finn, but Elias came up with a high knee. Exhaustion almost brought the match to a halt. They wobbled to their feet and gave each other an approving nod. Mustafa ran at full speed towards Elias hanging onto the ropes. The Drifter dropped, taking the top rope with him. Mustafa went over but landed on the apron. A hard shoulder finished the match.

Elias was going to WrestleMania. But for which championship?

***

Now the first of the Raw championships was up for grabs. Ember Moon stalked down to the ring, glaring at Rhonda Rousey already in the bottom corner. They started with a stare-down, muttering threats at each other. Threats only one of them was going to be able to live up to. Rhonda attacked first, taking the upper hand. Ember had to retreat until she was able to break free and make her own offense. From corner to corner, then around the ring, they fought tooth and nail. When the referee’s ten-counts got to close for comfort, Rhonda rolled into the ring and out, breaking them. A count-out or disqualification would give Ember the win. Which seemed to be the champion’s strategy.

Often, Ember would let Rhonda trap her in the ropes or in a corner, where the referee would threaten Rhonda with a disqualification if she didn’t back down. Each one made her more and more irate. Her last fuming around the ring ended as she breathed herself down, then turned just in time to catch a Total Eclipse. One, two, and three. Ember retained her championship fair and square. Give or take messing with Rhonda’s head.

***

The Raw men’s tag titles match was also a mental minefield. But not because either side had ahold of the controls. Both the Authors of Pain and the team of Chad Gable and Bobby Roode had power and great minds for strategy. Either side could win the titles and no one in the crowd would feel cheated of a good show. But this is WWE. Since when is anything easy?

Rezar slumped off his feet in a corner. The referee was busy on the other side trying to break apart Gable and Akam. Roode rushed at full speed towards Rezar. As he reached the corner, Braun Strowman jumped up onto the apron and roared. Startled, Roode fell back and Rezar caught his legs for a roll-up pin. By the time the referee turned, Braun was gone; he counted to three. The bell rang. As it’s echo came to an end, it was replaced with laughter. AOP and Maverick rushed to the ropes, shocked to see Dr. M with the bell mallet in hand.

“Congratulations,” he said with a bow. He took the tag titles to the ropes and handed them to the referee to hand to them. Then he left with Braun, slowly backing up the ramp until he was sure that they knew who had helped them win. And why.

***

Heading towards the end of the show, the triple threat for the Intercontinental Championship was up next. Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, and Dolph Ziggler eyed each other from various sides of the ring. They stepped left and right, both trying to make the first move and to keep away from the others. Dolph nodded towards Seth, looking at Drew. The Scotsman shook his head. Not tonight. Not ever. Seth made to grab at Dolph. Drew grabbed him before he made a step. Dolph laughed as they fought and left to recline in a corner. He was ready with a near-zig-zag the second Seth was able to rid the ring of Drew.

When Drew was able to stagger his way back up to the apron, Seth and Dolph shared a look. As one they gave him a kick to the jaw. He crumpled outside the ring, giving them space to continue one-on-one. Dolph won control of the ring for about ten seconds, which he spent gloating instead of watching his back. Seth gladly took a breather as the two former teammates tore each other apart. He quickly rejoined them as Drew went for a pin, breaking it with a double fist between Drew’s shoulder blades. Sometimes all three were involved in a show of strength, each trying to push one man from the locked group in the center of the ring. Dolph was thrown wide, his back arching around a ring post. Seth turned from the view to a Claymore kick that dropped him for the pin.

There was a new Intercontinental champion. Drew kneeled, looking at his title, then stood tall and held it high, smug and proud.

***

It was a given that Carmella was going to enter last. But the presence of Alexa Bliss was a welcome surprise. The second appearance of Rhonda a little less so, but she wanted another chance. And she was willing to fight for it. Unfortunately for the both of them, neither made it to the final five. Alexa did have the pride and privilege of eliminating Rhonda before then, but she was eliminated by Lacey Evans. Who in turn was eliminated by Mickie James with a smile. She was tipped out of the ring by Bayley.

The final five women in the ring stood in a circle. From Raw, Ruby, Natalya, and Bayley stared down Sonya Deville and Carmella from Smackdown. The flurry of activity whittled down the group to just two: Ruby and Sonya. They ran and bounced off the ropes, colliding in the middle and falling to hold their torsos. With the fight that continued, the commentators wondered how the wrestling universe would change if Sonya left Mandy and joined the Riott squad. Or if they both left their teams to form a new one. The thoughts were thrown out the window as each woman refocused on breaking the other one down enough to throw her over the ropes. Sonya was standing on the apron. Ruby went to elbow her in the face, but Sonya used that momentum to send her flying over and onto the floor.

The ladies’ WrestleMania moment belonged, well deserved, to Sonya.

***

***

Monday Night Raw – January 28, 2019

“With the Royal Rumble out of the way, now everyone has to focus on the Elimination Chamber. It’s one of the last chances to get into a WrestleMania match.” Cole side eyed Corey as he scoffed. “Something to add, Graves?”

“Yeah. The Royal Rumble could have gone better for several people if there weren’t elimination Chamber matches before it. General manager Y/N might have ruined people’s chances!”

Renee piped up, defending you. “I don’t agree with that at all, but look at it this way. They’ve still got the Elimination Chamber and Starrcade to make it onto the card. We’re on the road, but it’s not done yet. And starting the show is the first of those opportunities for the Raw women’s championship. Mickie James and Lacey Evans are going to start us off. It should be interesting considering Mickie eliminated Evans from the Rumble last night.”

It was. Mickie continued to avenge Alexa’s elimination and worked to finish the fight she’d started between them. Lacey took it all in stride. She sneered and knocked Mickie to the canvas, daintily walking over her with a yawn. Cole noted that it was experience versus class, though Renee didn’t agree with the description of class. Lacey’s mask of control began to slip as Mickie refused to stay down and take the pin. She grew frustrated. And Mickie took advantage. She rolled up her opponent, bracing her feet on the ropes out of the referee’s view, winning the match and her spot in the Elimination Chamber.

Lacey Evans left the arena fuming. She showed up on Smackdown on Tuesday and did not come back to Raw.

***

Finn Balor searched backstage, bouncing off Elias’s shoulder at one point until he found Drew waiting to enter the arena. “There ya are. Was beginnin’ ta think that Seth was too much for ya,” he joked.

“What do ya wan’, Finn?” Drew didn’t look at him, instead focusing on a smudge on his white and gold title.

“I’m here to receive my end of the deal. Ya do remember our deal, right?” Finn crossed his arms and grinned.

Drew grinned back. “I do. An’ I remember that it was for the Universal, not the Intercontinental. And that you would only get a chance for keeping Dolph off my back. Which you didn’t. I handled ‘im myself. So, really, why are you here? I mean, the challenge is open, but you’ll probably have to beat someone else to it.” In the background, Drew’s music started. He smirked at Finn, then turned his back to enter the arena.

In the ring, Drew took his time parading around and raising his new title at each of the corners. Mostly he was met with boos, which he ignored. “Finally!” He smirked and raised the title in the middle of the ring before dropping it to his shoulder. “It’s about time this title was worn by someone deservin’ of it. Someone whose attention isn’t divided. Someone who will wear it pro’dly like the gold it is and not as ‘nother win for the lists. The WWE has a true Intercontinental champion now. And I am going to erase the reign of Seth Rollins with my own long stay as champ.”

He growled as Seth’s music struck. “That might be a little difficult, Drew. I mean, I was a pretty good champ. I defended it for over eighty days. And you’re barely going to hold it for twenty-four hours.”

“And what makes ya think t’at, Rollins? Automatic rematches are a thing of the past.”

Seth shrugged. “I know. But really, I’m just trying to help you out. You see, our match wasn’t one-on-one. Which didn’t bother either of us, but I have a feeling that a certain former teammate of yours will make a claim. Are you going to let Dolph hold it over your head that you couldn’t beat me by yourself? Have to admit, that doesn’t sound like you.”

The side of Drew’s mouth twitched with a sneer. He looked past Seth, waiting for Dolph’s music to hit on cue. Or Finn’s, considering the earlier conversation. When it didn’t, he nodded. “Alr’ight Rollins, I hear yer point. Let’s get a ref out to here settle it. But… when I beat you. That’s it. I don’t want to see you followin’ me like some sad puppy trying to get a second chance.”

With a grin, Seth walked down the ramp. “Fair enough.”

They started like always, staring each other down from the other side of the ring. Drew ran for the attack, but Seth scaled the turnbuckles and was ready with a jump that turned into a Northern Lights Suplex. That set the pace for the rest of the match. With the way it went, people were going to talk about it for months.

It came to a screeching halt when Dolph in a black hoodie dropped the camera chords he’d been holding and slid into the ring. He toppled Seth, hitting him about the face and head. Drew tugged him off and threw him into a corner. “Winner by disqualification, Seth Rollins!” Jojo announced. “But still your Intercontinental champion, Drew McIntyre.” Drew glared at Dolph, who only smiled back.

Seth was making it to his feet when you rushed out to the stage. He saw you coming and motioned for a mic. “Don’t, Y/N. There’s not use restarting this.” He nodded respectfully at Drew. “It’s the way things happen around here. No matter what you try to do. And besides, we agreed. I only had one chance.” He stretched out his arm, nodding again as Drew accepted his handshake. Seth left the ring, Dolph scurried out, and Drew was left to hold his defended title high.

***

She was sitting on a crate. To a quick glance, Bayley looked like she was just waiting for the show. But her shoulders were slumped deeper and her head hung a little lower looking over her phone. You gently sat beside her and leaned your back against the wall. With a soft smile, you turned your head to look at her. She sighed. “How’d you know?”

“You’re one of my wrestlers. I do try to pay attention to how you guys are feeling.” You fiddled with the hem of your blouse. “Are you okay to talk it over with me?”

Bayley looked both ways through the hallway. “You aren’t busy?”

“Nope. I’ve got all the time you need, sweetie. Is here okay to talk, or would you like to do it in my office?”

“No,” she rushed. “Your office is too… official. Here’s fine.”

You turned slightly to give her your full attention. “Alrighty. What’s up?”

There was a moment of silence while she gathered her thoughts. “I don’t know what to do. Sasha and I are just this side of hating each other’s guts. But we both hate seeing the Riott Squad with the tag titles. On the other hand, I don’t… we’re not-“

“You feel that because you guys aren’t friends, you don’t feel like you should hold the tag titles either.”

She sighed. “Yeah. I don’t trust her. Probably never will again. What kind of a team is that?”

Drumming your knees, you let the conversation lapse. “Would you rather be involved in the single’s title matches? You’d probably have to face Sasha in matches again, but you can go after your own goals then. I’m sure Ember would be glad to face you.”

Bayley chuckled. “I actually don’t mind Ember as champion. She’s doing a great job. And I really don’t want to have to fight Sasha again.” She couldn’t find much more to say. “I guess that leaves us at an impasse.”

“Not necessarily.” You tapped your collarbone, finalizing your thoughts. “The Riott Squad beat Nia and Tamina last night.  The Riott Squad will be looking for their next challenge. What better way to grab their focus than to beat who they beat? For all your disagreements, you and Sasha work well together. And you’re a threat. Ask any team or woman here. Fight them tonight. If you win, you and Sasha are the number one contenders for the tag titles. I assume your teammate will be okay with that. Lose, we can talk about your next step. Sound okay?”

Nodding, Bayley’s cheeks twitched with a small smile. “That sounds nice.” She bumped her shoulder into yours. “Thanks for listening.”

“No problem. You can come talk to me anytime. Or text me that we need to have another travel crate session. Whichever you need,” you jokingly added. She thanked you again as you left. You were only a few feet down the hall when Seth got caught up to you. “Hey. I really am sorry about your match.”

He waved away your words. “It was going to happen either way. Having said that…” He pulled you to one side of the hallway. “Miss manager of Monday Night Raw, you better get your ducks in a row or the consequences will keep coming.”

“I don’t have ducks; I don’t have a row. I have squirrels. They are everywhere, and their names are Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose, and apparently Dolph Ziggler. And depending on the week, there’s another monstrous one named Braun Strowman.” You grinned tight at him. “If you want my job dealing with his moods for a week, be my guest. I’ll split my paycheck with you.”

It was getting harder and harder to keep yourself from bubbling over. And Seth knew it. He was standing his ground, but at a split second’s notice, he could be out of the way. So, you licked your lips and kept talking, trying to use up your oxygen.

“Though you guys do come in handy sometimes. People come to see you, they fill the seats. Management is happy. They pay me so I can pay off college. I get to have fun putting you guys in crazier match after crazier match. And for the most part, the show runs smoothly. And the cycle continues as long as I keep them,” you motioned toward the arena and crowd, “entertained.”

“So, you do all of this… because it’s best for business.”

You froze and swallowed hard, looking at the ground knowing what he was referencing. “Yes, I suppose so.”

Seth let out a deep breath. “If you mean it… you have to say it.”

Looking up, you set your shoulders broadly. “Fine. Yes. I do all of this: the ego-deflating, the stressful match setting, the rules and the stipulations, the wrestler wrangling, all of it,” you swallowed and tried to make your voice as strong as it could be, “because it’s best… for business.”

He nodded. “That’s all I needed to hear.” Seth walked around you and left you alone. You refused to look over your shoulder, missing the look of knowing pity he gave you.

***

After a commercial break, Renee announced that a tournament for the Intercontinental championship’s chamber matches had been set up. First up was Apollo Crews and Jinder Mahal, who begrudgingly agreed to send the Singh brothers to the back during the match. For the majority of the match, it looked like Jinder was going to the elimination chamber. He had Apollo wobbling on his feet and barely rolling back into the ring before the end of a ten-count. But Apollo was faking it. He caught Jinder in a flurry of hits, dropping him. It was a struggle to hold him down, but Apollo managed it, winning his spot.

***

The next match was just for the opportunity to get into the elimination tournament, this time for the Universal Championship. Dean and Baron Corbin met in a flurry of hits that didn’t let up until Dean lost ground. He caught himself on the ropes, springing forward to hit Baron. They continued trading blows and throwing each other from the ring. Baron tried the most for pins. And each time Dean was able to kick out. Dean didn’t try for one until after a Dirty Deeds, a method that was successful. Renee cheered that Dean would have another match for an elimination spot soon.

***

“Ready for round two, Baron?” Dean blocked Baron from continuing down the hallway. “Where are you headed so angrily?”

Baron growled, “to see your cousin and to give her a piece of my mind. You should come with me. Our match was filler, and you know it. She’s hiding something. She’s been hiding something for weeks. And if she doesn’t come clean soon, she’s going to have to start watching her back.”

Dean placed his hand on Baron’s chest to keep him from walking around. “Watch what you say about Y/N. It was a fair opportunity. She wouldn’t have put me in the match if it wasn’t.”

“You sure about that? Seems like Elias gets more chances than you and look where he’s going. Oh. To WrestleMania. All he had to do was stay in your way. Or didn’t you notice?” Baron shouldered past him, but only made it about a step before Dean snagged his shoulder.

“Baron, stay away from Y/N. She’s doing a lot better job at managing than you ever did. Stop being such a jerk about it and move on or you’re the one who’s going to have to watch their back.” He nodded for Baron to go back the way he came. He didn’t let go of Baron’s shoulder until he was sure that’s where the lone wolf was headed. Once he was gone, Dean sat down on a crate and began to think about the last several weeks.

***

The crowd chanted along to EC3’s theme, ‘top one percent!” He made his way to the ring, snagging a mic off the stairs on his way in. “Well hello, Phoenix.” He grinned. “I think it’s about time I introduced myself. As you all just heard, I am the top one percent of this business. The strongest. The fastest. The most willing to do anything to win. The best. Now, when they asked me to join Monday Night Raw, I wasn’t so sure I wanted to join. Then I took a closer look at the line-up. There’s the heavy hitters: Rollins, Balor, Ambrose… Ambrose-es, the like. Heavier hitters like Strowman. Then there are several middle-grade wrestlers. Too many.” He titled his head. “That made my decision for me. Raw is desperate for a talent like me. And congratulations, now it’s got one.” He looked towards the stage, confused, as Bobby Lashley’s music hit.

“Woah, woah, woah,” Lio Rush said, popping out from behind Lashley. “You seem to have forgotten one very important person on your ‘heavier hitters’ list.”

EC3 shrugged. “I really don’t think so. You’re not even on my,” he leveled his hand closer to the ground, “easy prey list.”

“Har-har,” Lio sniped. “You don’t have to worry about me anyways. I’m on 205 Live… if any of you were looking for ya boy.” He shook his finger. “No, no, no. You forgot the one and only Bobby Lashley. You may be the top one percent, but he is the top of that. And if you don’t believe us, he’ll prove it when he pins you tonight for that spot in the Universal champion elimination spot.”

Unimpressed, EC3 backed up against the ropes. “Then what is he waiting for? Except for you to shut up. Get him down here so I can prove him wrong.”

Considering it was his first full match on the main roster, in hindsight EC3 may have wanted an easier opponent. He’d faced big guys before on NXT, but Lashley also had the skill built up from years of wrestling in multiple rings, squared and octagonal. Still, he rose to the occasion. Thanks to a botched distraction from Lio, he caught Lashley in a lucky hit that dropped him and won the pin. He left the ring quickly, headbanging to his theme along with the audience.

***

Next was another round for the women’s elimination chamber: Nikki Cross versus Dana Brooke, who was accompanied by Tyler Breeze. They both flinched as Nikki entered the ring in her usual high-velocity way. Breeze quickly dropped to the floor, giving Dana a thumbs-up as the bell rang. Dana’s superior strength could do little against Nikki’s speed and resilience. Though she did get in several hits that showed off her gymnastic skills. But in the end, it was Nikki Cross who was going to the Elimination Chamber. Breeze reassured Dana, reminding her that they had a chance to go in the tag teams.

***

Speaking of the tag teams, the defending champions, the Authors of Pain, made their way to the ring with Drake Maverick to celebrate their win on Sunday. They were barely in the ring when Dr. M appeared at the bottom of the ramp.

“No!” Drake said, rushing to the ropes. “What are you doing out here? Where’s Braun?” he added twisting around to check the other end of the ring.

Dr. M smiled. “He is in another wing of the arena… preparing the next dose of the plan. Why I am here, is to ask the powerhouses of the tag division if they have learned what they needed? And, if they are ready to begin the healing process.” He lowered his mic and waited patiently.

In the ring, Drake’s brow creased. He shook his head, trying to figure out what the man meant. Then he was lifted into the air by Akam and Rezar. He bounced across the floor, where Dr. M stepped over him. He watched, jaw dropped, as Dr. M kneeled in the center with AOP flanking him at his shoulders. “It has begun!” he shouted.

The Titantron came alive, showing what was going on backstage. Finn sailed through the air into a pile of boxes. Braun roared and picked him up, throwing him again, this time into a group of poles that clanged as they hit the ground.

In the background, Elias tweaked his guitar strings, struggling to hear them over the ruckus.

A few referees were able to make Braun step away so they could check on Finn.

Back in the arena, Renee shrugged. “I think he’ll be fine. Finn already has a spot in the elimination match for the Universal. He beat McIntyre, Mahal, and Mojo Rawley for it a couple weeks ago.”

Adding his two cents and then some, Corey talked over what else she had to say. “I bet he’s still thinking about holding both titles. Balor might be a bit jealous of how Rollins was able to do that for so long. I think he needs to focus on one title at a time though. But none of that explains why Braun attacked him.”

“Sure it does. Braun took the second spot before the Rumble. Honestly, Corey, your memory is very selective.” She giggled. “Too many Mean Girls quotes,” Renee quipped.

“Hey!”

***

The women involved in the tag match entered, ready to prove themselves. Tamina and Nia laughed to see Bayley and Sasha actively avoiding one another as they came down the ramp. They stopped laughing after the bell rang. As you’d noticed, despite their differences the women made a great team. They knew each other’s in and outs, their strengths, and their tells for when exhaustion was creeping in. As such, Sasha was able to keep Tamina occupied outside the ring, and Bayley was able to pin Nia. Sasha slid into the ring to celebrate like it was old times but just for a second. Bayley pulled her in for another longer hug as the defeated stared daggers into the women’s happiness.

***

Ember Moon entered the ring next, her defended title bright on her shoulder. “Well, that’s another match over. It doesn’t matter how many more there are in the future, my next step is winning the Elimination Chamber, which I will be competing in. As champion, it is my right and my privilege to be in that match, being the champion that you all deserve. Here and active.” She groaned as Ruby entered the arena.

“Are you sure you can be that champion?” Ruby mewled. “We all saw your match last night. It was close. Too close. Had Rhonda been the wrestler management thinks she is, we’d have a different woman in the ring right now.” She sauntered down the ramp. “No matter. It doesn’t matter which one of you won. What matters, is that I’m going to beat you tonight.”

With a chuckle, Ember asked, “Oh, really? And just how are you going to do that?”

Ruby entered the ring and stepped to Ember, making her take a step back. “I just talked with Y/N. We’ve got a match right here, right now, for your spot in the Elimination Chamber. That is… unless you’re too scared to compete. Or too tired.”

Ember swallowed. “Fine. Where’s the ref?”

The bell had barely rung when Ruby knocked ember over. She was quick to keep her off her feet, targeting the places Rhonda injured her on Sunday. It worked quickly. Ruby crowed triumphantly as the referee raised her arm in victory. She rolled out of the ring and was almost at the stage when you came out.

“I have to say well done, Ruby.” You gave her a clipped grin. “But there is one little thing I forgot to mention… possibly because I didn’t think I’d have a reason to… but because you have taken the champion’s spot, you will be starting the match at Elimination Chamber. I hope that isn’t a problem”

You gulped as she got in your face and took your mic. “I welcome it. And really, why would that be a big deal?” She twisted her head to look at Ember still in the ring. “A competent champion would be able to do it. A competent champion would be in that spot anyway. I’m just speeding up my duties as Champion.” She held the mic back out to you, then dropped it before you could take it. Cackling, she left the arena.

***

Charly Caruso rushed to catch up with Elias as he headed toward the garage. “Wait. Elias. Just a moment.” She caught her breath as he finally turned and waited for her question. “We’ve barely seen you just after you won the Royal Rumble. Which title do you have in mind to go after at WrestleMania?” She lifted the mic closer to him and waited.

Elias looked over her head where Drew McIntyre was leaving too. Drew glared, but gave him a nod, acknowledging the potential match and rolling his shoulder under the Intercontinental. The rolling of suitcases sounded behind Elias, and all three of them looked back to see Seth gathering the last of his things, placing the Universal title on top.

“Well?” Charly tried.

He looked forward, thinking. Then he shrugged and continued on his original path.

Part 39: Misplaced Second Chances 

Series Masterlist 

Masterlist 

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