Post by Bobbi Jackson on Apr 3, 2017 14:45:24 GMT -5
________________________________________________
Hey man, it's been a while
Do you remember me?
When I hit the streets I was 17
A little wild, a little green
I've been up and down and in between
After all these years and miles of memories
I'm still chasing dreams
But I ain't looking over my shoulder
I like the bed I'm sleeping in
It's just like me, it's broken in
It's not old - just older
Like a favorite pair of torn blue jeans
This skin I'm in it's alright with me
It's not old - just older
________________________________________________
{THURSDAY EVENING - 6:04 PM}
The scene opens up in the den of the Showtime Mansion in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bobbi is pacing back and forth mumbling to herself as her husband, Michael Showtime walks into the room and looks at her strangely.
Showtime: Why are you pacing back and forth? What's the matter?
Bobbi stops dead in her tracks and looks up at Michael as she glances down at her fitness watch.
Bobbi: A few reasons, one...your training partner you hired to train with me tonight is late. Two, because she's late I'm pacing back and forth to keep my heart rate up. Three, if I sit down for any long period of time waiting for said trainer to show up I'm not going to want to get back up, I'm going to want to take a nap!
The blonde says in a slight huff, Showtime rubs his forehead a bit slightly frustrated with his beautiful wife decked out in her tight form fitting work out clothes. Blue and white shorts and a matching sports bra. It almost seems to him that the only clothes he's seen his wife wear since coming home from Primetime earlier in the month were work out clothes. She's been training non-stop for her tag match at Final Encounter against the Frost sisters, Dominique and Eliza.
She hasn't really had time to do anything else but train. Michael even went as far the other day to suggest Bobbi fly to New York to hammer out details with Mariah and train with her. But the blonde was too stubborn, or maybe too scared to take his advice. Mariah has wanted to sit down and have a long talk with Bobbi since Primetime was over but Bobbi hasn't left her home since the night she got her tag match granted for the pay per view.
To make matters worse, the company announced the winner of this tag match would go on to compete later on in the evening for the vacated GZWA Vixens Championship. That has only pushed the determined blonde harder to make sure she is as prepared as she can possibly be. After what felt like minutes of awkward silence, Showtime finally breaks it by speaking...
Showtime: Hun look, your training partner will be here any minute. And I promise you, I got you the best one money could buy. You won't be disappointed, but...
The word "but..." stopped Bobbi dead in her tracks as she was back to pacing again after answering Michael as she looks up at him with her big beautiful brown eyes.
Bobbi: But what...?
Showtime sighs a bit and points to the couch.
Showtime: Please...sit down...for me?
Bobbi huffs again as she nods slightly and walks towards to the couch with Michael.
Bobbi: Fine, but this isn't going to be good for me long term...
Showtime: Let me stop you right there.
Showtime says cutting his wife off as the two sit down on the couch, Showtime takes the blondes hands in his and holds them gently but firmly as he speaks to her with sincere concern in his voice.
Showtime: What would be good for you long term, is to take a breather. You've been going non-stop with the training since you decided to step back into the ring. At first at least it seemed like you were pacing yourself so I didn't say anything, but after the last edition of Primetime you have been running yourself ragged. This isn't healthy, you know it...I know it. You need to take a few steps back and relax.
Bobbi closes her eyes and takes a deep breath before slowly exhaling as she opens her eyes and responds.
Bobbi: You have known me long enough to know that I can't relax right now. At Final Encounter I have the chance to not only shut up the Frost sisters, but if I can be the one to score the pinfall or make them tap I have a chance to win the Vixens Championship!
Showtime: So...?
Showtime response wasn't exactly what the blonde wanted to hear.
Bobbi: SO?! Damnit Michael you know how much this means to me! I know to you it's just another match, or just another championship...but to me this is MUCH MORE! This is about vindicating my ENTIRE career! I need this win...THESE WINS...more than ANYTHING else I've ever done in my life!
Bobbi trembles a bit, her lower lip begins to quiver as she speaks with such passion from her heart as tears well up in her eyes a bit.
Bobbi: I NEED THIS! You NEED to understand that! There were points in your career where I damn well know you felt you NEEDED to do something, and you didn't let anyone or anything stop you from accomplishing what you wanted to do. Well now it's MY TURN! My time to solidify in my mind that I am still as great as I used to be! This HAS to be done! And when Final Encounter is over, I promise you...I will take a couple steps back to reflect on things and I will tone down on my training...for for now, this is what I have to do!
A single tear streams down the emotional blondes cheek as Showtime releases one of her hands so he can reach up and wipe it away. He smiles at her warmly to let her know she has his support as he responds.
Showtime: I get it, trust me I do. But I will tell you from my career experience, if you go too hard at something non-stop...the results you seek? You normally don't get them. There has to be a balance for peace of mind. I know you Bobbi, when your mind is clear and you go into the ring refreshed and focused that you can out work anyone. It's when your mind is filled with so much other things, such as anger and doubt that you make simple silly mistakes that you would NEVER make if you went in with a clear head...you know that as well as I do.
Bobbi puts her head down in silence, deep down in her heart she knows that he's right even though she doesn't want to admit it. A day off from all this training would probably do her a world of good, but she just can't bring herself to do it. Bobbi looks back up at Michael and goes to speak but the doorbell rings instead. Michael stands up and lifts Bobbi up to her feet gently by her hands.
Showtime: That's your trainer, let me go let her in. I promise you...You won't be disappointed. But after this training session you need to sit down and have a heart to heart with someone about where your head is at, and if you won't do it with me...maybe you'll do it with her.
Showtime smiles as he walks out of the den to go answer the door as Bobbi stands there confused with her hands on her hips. Why on earth would she have a heart to heart with her trainer? Who does that? Not her certainly! She can hear the door open and mumbling between the trainer and her husband, she tries to perk her own hearing up a bit to make out what they're saying but she can't really make anything out. A few moments later Michael re enters the doorway of the den with a smile on his face.
Showtime: Let me introduce you to your trainer for the evening...Susan Rigger!
Showtime motions Susan to walk in as Bobbi's eyes go wide with shock. Susan walks into view with that trademark smirk on her face wearing her old skimpy black wrestling gear from the height of her run as a heel. The busty britt was Bobbi's long time rival across many wrestling promotions for years, eventually they buried the hatchet and became friends but they haven't seen one another in years. Bobbi quickly wipes her still watery eyes and rushes over to give Susan a big hug.
Bobbi: Oh my gosh I can't believe you're here!
Bobbi says as she wraps her arms about the slightly taller brunette as she peaks over her shoulder to mouth the words "Thank you" to Michael. He nods with a smile and heads up the stairs to go do other things as she breaks the hug with Susan and holds her hands a bit jittery. If anyone could help Bobbi defeat the likes of the Frosts it would be Susan. Hell, Susan tagged with Dominique for many years...no one knows Dominique better than Susan. The busty Britt gently rubs Bobbi's hands and smiles at her warmly.
Susan: I wouldn't miss out on a chance to get paid to tussle in the ring with my favorite rival.
She winks at Bobbi playfully.
Susan: Sounds like you're in for a BIG night, two matches is going to be quite draining. I trust you've been keeping up your cardio.
Bobbi: I have to score the pinfall in the first match to have a chance to compete in the second. But yea, I've been working really hard on my cardio...
Bobbi says with a nod as she can't help but ask.
Bobbi: Dare I ask how much Michael is paying you for this training session?
Susan smirks a bit and raises an eyebrow.
Susan: What, you don't expect to get your money's worth? I'll make SURE it's worth every penny.
She pulls Bobbi closer, sliding her hands up along the blond's sides and down her abs, feeling up the blond's body as she looks ponderous.
Susan: Hmmmmmm...
Bobbi huffs a bit as it's not why she asked that but decides to stop probing about a question that the busty britt clearly doesn't want to answer as she has another question for her anyways...
Bobbi: Hmmm what? What's wrong?
For now Susan avoids the question and quickly changes the subject.
Susan: ...I think we should start by getting in the ring. I'm going to put you through the wringer and we'll see how you do.
She slides an arm around Bobbi's waist and guides her towards the basement stairs.
Susan: I plan to do a thorough job and make sure you are as ready as you possibly can be. And then some.
Bobbi: Well yea, I would expect nothing less from you...I can only do so much training on my own, so to have someone to get in the ring with will be most helpful...
Bobbi opens the door to the basement gym as the two head down for their training session.
{ROUGHLY THREE HOURS LATER}
Much later in the evening a heavily breathing Susan pats Bobbi's back, both women's skin glistening with sweat as Bobbi wipes her brow with a towel, then drapes it over her shoulder as Susan hands her a bottle of water and the blonde just latches onto it, drinking deep as if it's her oxygen.
Susan: Well, in terms of your body you're pretty much all set, though considering how much time you have left that may not be optimal. You're right now at peak performance, but if you try and stay at the peak too long you're going to burn yourself out by over training.
The blonde beauty nods her head, leaning forwards with her hands on her knees as she looks absolutely spent by the three hour ring session on top of how hard she's been pushing herself lately. Susan takes Bobbi's hands in hers as she locks her emerald eyes gaze on Bobbi to make sure she's listening carefully.
Susan: I knew something was up when I first looked at you, the hard cardio work has you slimmed down and the problem there is that your body actually has less energy to burn and when you hit a wall it doesn't have the reserves to push past it and you can end up totally crashing at the worst time.
Bobbi just stares at her breathing heavily, taking nice long breaths as she processes what Susan is telling her. She kinda nods as her head is filled with mixed emotions.
Bobbi: Uh huh....
Susan: You need to ease up and pace yourself better. Take a nice big breather from all of this, get your head straight, cause don't think I didn't notice how rigid you were. You need to loosen up mentally too, I totally gave you openings that you'd usually be RIGHT on top of, but you clearly weren't keeping your eyes open, you were too fixated on whatever you were doing. That's a pretty clear sign of just having too much on your mind and refusing to let go of any of it.
She grabs Bobbi's shoulders, leaning in a bit closer to look deep into her eyes.
Susan: In my professional opinion you need to take a couple days off, refill your physical and emotional energy reserves and only then start ramping the training back up so you'll hit that peak again for your match. If you try and keep up the grind like you're doing now that'll only end up working against you.
Bobbi processes everything Susan tells her, eventually she closes her eyes and lets out a long defeated sigh. Susan is right, of course she's right...she always is. The blondes shoulders slouch a bit in Susan's grip as she replies.
Bobbi: Alright....you win....I'll take a break....
Susan smiles as she gently rubs Bobbi's shoulders through the towel, then pulls the blonde beauty against her, wrapping her arms around her.
Susan: That's a good girl. You know I've gone through this myself, so I know what I'm talking about. If I'd been more self-aware I might had ANOTHER title reign, heh. But it's sometimes hardest to look closely at oneself.
Bobbi sighs a bit and just puts her head on Susan's shoulder, it's amazing where these two are at in their lives when years ago they were heated bitter rivals. Bobbi softly speaks to her...
Bobbi: Do you ever worry about...getting older?
Susan gently rubs Bobbi's back with one hand and slides her fingers through the blondes hair with the other as she nods.
Susan: I'd be lying if I said I didn't, but I think you and me still have a long time ahead before we're past our prime.
Bobbi picks her head back up and looks into Susan's eyes as the blonde responds.
Bobbi: I hope so...
Bobbi pauses for a moment, almost afraid to ask the next question but does so anyways.
Bobbi: Do you think I can beat Dominique?
Susan caresses Bobbi's cheek gently, then plants a kiss on it.
Susan: I KNOW you can. So long as you take my advice, that is.
Bobbi swallows hard...
Bobbi: What about her much younger sister Eliza?
Who clearly deep down Bobbi has been more worried about than Dominique but she doesn't want to admit it. Susan briefly looks ponderous.
Susan: Her style is a worse match-up for you, I think. But so long as you keep your cool your experience should definitely give you the edge on her. She WILL test you on that, so you can not let her get to you.
Bobbi sighs softly. Not exactly the answer she was hoping for but Susan has always been honest with her. She nods...
Bobbi: I will do my best. I need to win this match, it means absolutely everything to me right now.
Susan nods her head as she wraps her arms around Bobbi again, squeezing the blondes glistening body against hers.
Susan: And I've no doubt you can do it. You have what it takes.
Bobbi: Thank you...for real...
Bobbi sniffs slightly.
Bobbi: It means a lot coming from you....And I just know...
Before Bobbi can finish her sentence her cell phone starts to ring and vibrate over in the corner of the ring, playing the ringtone of "Send Me An Angel" so she knows it's Carmen and Giselle calling her. Susan ease her embrace, smiling warmly at Bobbi.
Susan: I'd say a talk with a couple friends might be JUST what the doctor ordered.
Bobbi gently backs up to get the phone as she says to Susan before picking it up.
Bobbi: I'm guessing your day is pretty much booked tomorrow right?
Susan nods her head as she dabs her forehead with her own towel.
Susan: As it happens, I am.
Bobbi nods, figuring as much but didn't want her to feel left out if she was free as she answers the phone to talk with Carmen and Giselle, setting up a get together tomorrow as they haven't seen each other in weeks. After a few minutes Bobbi hangs up and puts the phone back down as she shrugs a bit and looks at Susan.
Bobbi: Well there's no way I'll have time to train tomorrow so I'm doing what you want. Taking a day off.
Susan laughs a bit, leaning her back against the ropes.
Susan: Good. Because I'd BETTER not see you in only one match at Final Encounter or you owe me the price of admission.
She winks at Bobbi playfully as Bobbi kinda laughs.
Bobbi: Well I can't stop Mariah if she's got the match won, and if she goes on to the title match, I'll be happy for her. She's a good friend, she believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. It's why I'm back here doing this all over again.
Susan smiles as she gets off the ropes and walks over to Bobbi, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Susan: Okay, that's the one exception I'll allow. But I WAS promised if I do my job right I'll get to watch you wrestle twice, so I'll give Michael a piece of my mind if he suckered me.
Bobbi: Pretty sure he's just looking out for my best interests and trying his best to make sure I'm happy. He told me that he hired the best trainer money could buy and well...I believe him.
Bobbi places her hand on Susan's opposite shoulder.
Bobbi: Thanks for coming and doing this, in all seriousness...I owe you one.
Susan smiles at her old rival, now dear friend.
Susan: I'm just teasing a bit, but yeah, in seriousness, keep what I said in mind and we're even.
With that Bobbi just kinda lunges in and wraps her arms around Susan tightly. She hugs her with all her might and lets out a soft happy purr thankful that the busty Britt has put her on the right track to Final Encounter as the scene fades out.
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It's good to see your face
You ain't no worse for wear
Breathing that California air
When we took on the world
When we were young and brave
We got secrets that we'll take to the grave
And we're standing here shoulder to shoulder
I like the bed I'm sleeping in
It's just like me, it's broken in
It's not old - just older
Like a favorite pair of torn blue jeans
This skin I'm in it's alright with me
It's not old - just older
________________________________________________
{THE NEXT DAY}
Bobbi got to Carmen and Giselle's house rather early Friday afternoon, she just couldn't help herself. It had been way too long since she has seen her Angels in her mind. Ever since she decided to unretire and step into the ring, her time and schedule has been so busy she hasn't really had much time for a personal life. But between Michael and Susan beating it into her head yesterday...one figuratively and one literally...she finally decided to take a few days for herself before hopping back into the work out routine and balancing it more intelligently going forward.
The three girls decided to make a day out of hanging out together, the three headed to see a movie and then took a stroll walking the streets of Pittsburgh. Eventually Giselle decided to drag Carmen and Bobbi through the Aquarium which they were less than thrilled with but the blonde Angel was happy so they were more than content to oblige her and make sure she's happy.
Afterwards it's gotten later in the afternoon and closer to the evening. They decide to hit up one of their favorite local sports bar for a great dinner and to watch the Pittsburgh Penguins game against the New York Rangers. The three beauties sit in a padded round booth surrounded by TVs as they already have their drinks and are waiting on their food as they talk to one another...Bobbi particularly bubbly because she's so happy to be spending the day with her two favorite women on the planet.
Bobbi: Thank you all for calling me last night, I really needed a day out like this today. Just what the Doctor ordered.
Bobbi says taking a drink of her Pepsi through a straw as she smiles at the silvery blonde and brunette beauties. Carmen licks her lips and goes to take a sip from her Pina Colada, but pauses as Giselle holds her Coke glass towards the Latina Angel. Carmen clinks Giselle's glass with hers and they reach them towards Bobbi.
Giselle: To a lovely day together. Bobbi and her Angels.
Carmen: Yeah and to plenty more in the future. We gotta make sure to set time aside to just enjoy the good times, yeah?
Giselle nods in agreement.
Bobbi: Totally! I was way too buried in my comeback and I need to balance my life better!
The blonde pushes her glass in as the three clink their glasses before putting them back down as Bobbi just can't stop smiling at Carmen and Giselle, but decides to poke a bit at Giselle with a question that's been bothering her all day.
Bobbi: So what's up with the silver in your hair now hun? I mean it's cool and all...but it kinda had me taking a step back from your normal blonde hair color.
Giselle huffs a bit as Carmen smirks and decides to answer on her behalf.
Carmen: Well, you see, one day she noticed a white hair growing from her temple...
Giselle: Hush you!
Giselle reaches out at Carmen who playfully slaps the hands away so they can't stop her from spilling the beans.
Carmen: ...so she plucks it out and the next day she dyes her hair this really platinum blonde shade. I think it looks fine.
Bobbi raises an eyebrow slightly and does her best not to laugh.
Bobbi: I'm not sure I totally believe you....but okay, and of course it looks fine! My Gisy looks beautiful no matter what her hair color is. I was just curious why she decided to change it is all.
Bobbi drinks some more of her Pepsi before letting out a relaxed sigh...
Bobbi: I feel like I've missed so much since I re-joined the GZWA. I never EVER want to be too busy for you two.
Giselle places a hand on Bobbi's.
Giselle: We understand though, it's a big change and those tend to eat up a lot of time and attention.
Carmen gulps down a big sip of her drink before chiming in.
Carmen: That's right, but it's good to know we've been missed.
Bobbi flips her hand around to hold Giselle's hand in hers as she sniffs a bit and smiles.
Bobbi: You all are always missed. I know we've called each other a few times and played phone tag these last few weeks, I was so glad I caught you all last night when you called so we could have this day together.
Giselle smile warmly as she gently squeezes Bobbi's hand.
Giselle: We're glad too. It's been delightful spending time together and I wouldn't be one bit opposed to making something like this a weekly thing.
Carmen: Yeah, like a "get your mind offa stuff and just enjoy the company of your Angels" day.
Carmen laughs a bit at her own joke. Bobbi's smile grows bigger as she nods happily.
Bobbi: Yes! That sounds like a fantastic idea! This upcoming pay per view is stressing me out. Not only do Mariah and I have to face Dominique and her younger annoying sister, IF I get the win in that match I go on to compete later in the evening for the vacated Vixens Championship...It's a lot to take in. You know what I mean?
Bobbi says oddly enough with a sense of calmness in her voice, a far cry from how she sounded trying to explain it yesterday. It's clear to her now more than ever that Susan was right, she needed a day like this to balance out her mind and body.
Giselle: It certainly is, we've been talking about it a lot too. That's a lot of pressure to drop one someone's shoulders in one go.
Carmen: What, you thought we don't keep up with the news concerning our Bobbi?
The brunette Angel winks at Bobbi. Bobbi laughs and sticks her tongue out a bit.
Bobbi: Of course I know you all would keep up with what's going on with me, but I still feel like If I don't tell you all myself I'm keeping things from my Angels and I would never do that.
Moments later the waitress comes to the table and puts their meals in front of the three ladies, they thank the waitress and she leaves as the three start to eat their food. Carmen shakes her head a bit as Giselle struggles a bit with her totally oversized burger, the blonde couldn't resist the temptation of the special menu item, but the darn thing is hard to handle. Carmen snatches a sweet potato wedge from Giselle's plate, dipping it in the cup of spiced ketchup before munching it down and nodding her head approvingly.
Bobbi ordered a porterhouse steak and fries, wanting to keep her protein intake up and plus its just damn delicious here as she cuts off a piece and happily takes a bite as she chews and just stares at Carmen and Giselle smiling. For the first time in a long while, her world feels absolutely whole and complete. She has her friends, her career, her health, her happiness, everything is revolving around her world at the moment and the blonde couldn't be happier.
The girls smile back at Bobbi, always happy to see a smile on their dearest friend's lips, before Giselle bites into her burger and sauce spills out from the other side of the bun and onto her fingers, Carmen laughing a bit at her and offering her some of the extra napkins she was provided along with her plate overflowing with chicken wings. Giselle however just licks her fingers clean and resumes munching on her burger.
Bobbi: So I was kinda hoping...
Bobbi says breaking the silence as she continues to cut off pieces of her steak on the plate.
Bobbi: Susan is going to be in the crowd at Final Encounter, I was kinda hoping you two would make the trip and be there as well...?
The blonde says in a hopeful tone as she puts another piece of steak in her mouth chewing on it as she awaits a reply from the clearly hungry Angels. They both cease eating, Giselle's mouth still full as they glance at one another, then smile and turn to Bobbi.
Carmen: We would LOVE to be there cheering you on.
Bobbi claps her hands together excitedly.
Bobbi: Thank you! I'll make sure you both have tickets to the show, you all don't gotta pay for anything. I'll make sure it's covered, thank you SO much for coming...it means the world to me...
Bobbi slouches in her seat a bit just staring at the two women that she's been best friends with for as long as she can remember since they were kids in Jacksonville, Florida. So many people have come and gone from her life as she's gotten older but Carmen and Giselle have always been there for her, always by her side no matter what...the blonde is eternally grateful. She slowly sits back up straight and picks up her glass of Pepsi and raises it again.
Bobbi: I'd like to propose another toast, to getting older with your best friends...there's nothing better!
Bobbi extends her glass towards the two Angels. Giselle gives a thumb up as she hurriedly chews the big mouthful of burger and gulps it down, then picks her glass up.
Giselle: I'll drink to that.
Carmen: Heh, getting older ain't a choice, but with friends IS the best way to do it.
All three girls clink their glasses together, warm smiles on their lips. In Bobbi's mind, she couldn't ask for more right now. Everything is going perfectly in her life at the moment, she just hopes at Final Encounter things continue to go just as well. They all put their glasses down and continue to eat their dinner in each others loving company as the scene fades out to black.
________________________________________________
I'm not old enough to sing the blues
But I wore the holes in the soles of these shoes
You can roll the dice 'til they call your bluff
But you can't win until you're not afraid to lose
Well, I look in the mirror
I don't hate what I see
There's a few more lines staring back at me
Now the nights has grown a little colder
Hey man, I gotta run
Now you take care
If you see coach T. Tell him I've cut my hair
I've kept my faith
I still believe I'm just...
I like the bed I'm sleeping in
It's just like me, it's broken in
It's not old - just older
Like a favorite pair of torn blue jeans
This skin I'm in it's alright with me
It's not old - just older
________________________________________________
Hey man, it's been a while
Do you remember me?
When I hit the streets I was 17
A little wild, a little green
I've been up and down and in between
After all these years and miles of memories
I'm still chasing dreams
But I ain't looking over my shoulder
I like the bed I'm sleeping in
It's just like me, it's broken in
It's not old - just older
Like a favorite pair of torn blue jeans
This skin I'm in it's alright with me
It's not old - just older
________________________________________________
{THURSDAY EVENING - 6:04 PM}
The scene opens up in the den of the Showtime Mansion in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bobbi is pacing back and forth mumbling to herself as her husband, Michael Showtime walks into the room and looks at her strangely.
Showtime: Why are you pacing back and forth? What's the matter?
Bobbi stops dead in her tracks and looks up at Michael as she glances down at her fitness watch.
Bobbi: A few reasons, one...your training partner you hired to train with me tonight is late. Two, because she's late I'm pacing back and forth to keep my heart rate up. Three, if I sit down for any long period of time waiting for said trainer to show up I'm not going to want to get back up, I'm going to want to take a nap!
The blonde says in a slight huff, Showtime rubs his forehead a bit slightly frustrated with his beautiful wife decked out in her tight form fitting work out clothes. Blue and white shorts and a matching sports bra. It almost seems to him that the only clothes he's seen his wife wear since coming home from Primetime earlier in the month were work out clothes. She's been training non-stop for her tag match at Final Encounter against the Frost sisters, Dominique and Eliza.
She hasn't really had time to do anything else but train. Michael even went as far the other day to suggest Bobbi fly to New York to hammer out details with Mariah and train with her. But the blonde was too stubborn, or maybe too scared to take his advice. Mariah has wanted to sit down and have a long talk with Bobbi since Primetime was over but Bobbi hasn't left her home since the night she got her tag match granted for the pay per view.
To make matters worse, the company announced the winner of this tag match would go on to compete later on in the evening for the vacated GZWA Vixens Championship. That has only pushed the determined blonde harder to make sure she is as prepared as she can possibly be. After what felt like minutes of awkward silence, Showtime finally breaks it by speaking...
Showtime: Hun look, your training partner will be here any minute. And I promise you, I got you the best one money could buy. You won't be disappointed, but...
The word "but..." stopped Bobbi dead in her tracks as she was back to pacing again after answering Michael as she looks up at him with her big beautiful brown eyes.
Bobbi: But what...?
Showtime sighs a bit and points to the couch.
Showtime: Please...sit down...for me?
Bobbi huffs again as she nods slightly and walks towards to the couch with Michael.
Bobbi: Fine, but this isn't going to be good for me long term...
Showtime: Let me stop you right there.
Showtime says cutting his wife off as the two sit down on the couch, Showtime takes the blondes hands in his and holds them gently but firmly as he speaks to her with sincere concern in his voice.
Showtime: What would be good for you long term, is to take a breather. You've been going non-stop with the training since you decided to step back into the ring. At first at least it seemed like you were pacing yourself so I didn't say anything, but after the last edition of Primetime you have been running yourself ragged. This isn't healthy, you know it...I know it. You need to take a few steps back and relax.
Bobbi closes her eyes and takes a deep breath before slowly exhaling as she opens her eyes and responds.
Bobbi: You have known me long enough to know that I can't relax right now. At Final Encounter I have the chance to not only shut up the Frost sisters, but if I can be the one to score the pinfall or make them tap I have a chance to win the Vixens Championship!
Showtime: So...?
Showtime response wasn't exactly what the blonde wanted to hear.
Bobbi: SO?! Damnit Michael you know how much this means to me! I know to you it's just another match, or just another championship...but to me this is MUCH MORE! This is about vindicating my ENTIRE career! I need this win...THESE WINS...more than ANYTHING else I've ever done in my life!
Bobbi trembles a bit, her lower lip begins to quiver as she speaks with such passion from her heart as tears well up in her eyes a bit.
Bobbi: I NEED THIS! You NEED to understand that! There were points in your career where I damn well know you felt you NEEDED to do something, and you didn't let anyone or anything stop you from accomplishing what you wanted to do. Well now it's MY TURN! My time to solidify in my mind that I am still as great as I used to be! This HAS to be done! And when Final Encounter is over, I promise you...I will take a couple steps back to reflect on things and I will tone down on my training...for for now, this is what I have to do!
A single tear streams down the emotional blondes cheek as Showtime releases one of her hands so he can reach up and wipe it away. He smiles at her warmly to let her know she has his support as he responds.
Showtime: I get it, trust me I do. But I will tell you from my career experience, if you go too hard at something non-stop...the results you seek? You normally don't get them. There has to be a balance for peace of mind. I know you Bobbi, when your mind is clear and you go into the ring refreshed and focused that you can out work anyone. It's when your mind is filled with so much other things, such as anger and doubt that you make simple silly mistakes that you would NEVER make if you went in with a clear head...you know that as well as I do.
Bobbi puts her head down in silence, deep down in her heart she knows that he's right even though she doesn't want to admit it. A day off from all this training would probably do her a world of good, but she just can't bring herself to do it. Bobbi looks back up at Michael and goes to speak but the doorbell rings instead. Michael stands up and lifts Bobbi up to her feet gently by her hands.
Showtime: That's your trainer, let me go let her in. I promise you...You won't be disappointed. But after this training session you need to sit down and have a heart to heart with someone about where your head is at, and if you won't do it with me...maybe you'll do it with her.
Showtime smiles as he walks out of the den to go answer the door as Bobbi stands there confused with her hands on her hips. Why on earth would she have a heart to heart with her trainer? Who does that? Not her certainly! She can hear the door open and mumbling between the trainer and her husband, she tries to perk her own hearing up a bit to make out what they're saying but she can't really make anything out. A few moments later Michael re enters the doorway of the den with a smile on his face.
Showtime: Let me introduce you to your trainer for the evening...Susan Rigger!
Showtime motions Susan to walk in as Bobbi's eyes go wide with shock. Susan walks into view with that trademark smirk on her face wearing her old skimpy black wrestling gear from the height of her run as a heel. The busty britt was Bobbi's long time rival across many wrestling promotions for years, eventually they buried the hatchet and became friends but they haven't seen one another in years. Bobbi quickly wipes her still watery eyes and rushes over to give Susan a big hug.
Bobbi: Oh my gosh I can't believe you're here!
Bobbi says as she wraps her arms about the slightly taller brunette as she peaks over her shoulder to mouth the words "Thank you" to Michael. He nods with a smile and heads up the stairs to go do other things as she breaks the hug with Susan and holds her hands a bit jittery. If anyone could help Bobbi defeat the likes of the Frosts it would be Susan. Hell, Susan tagged with Dominique for many years...no one knows Dominique better than Susan. The busty Britt gently rubs Bobbi's hands and smiles at her warmly.
Susan: I wouldn't miss out on a chance to get paid to tussle in the ring with my favorite rival.
She winks at Bobbi playfully.
Susan: Sounds like you're in for a BIG night, two matches is going to be quite draining. I trust you've been keeping up your cardio.
Bobbi: I have to score the pinfall in the first match to have a chance to compete in the second. But yea, I've been working really hard on my cardio...
Bobbi says with a nod as she can't help but ask.
Bobbi: Dare I ask how much Michael is paying you for this training session?
Susan smirks a bit and raises an eyebrow.
Susan: What, you don't expect to get your money's worth? I'll make SURE it's worth every penny.
She pulls Bobbi closer, sliding her hands up along the blond's sides and down her abs, feeling up the blond's body as she looks ponderous.
Susan: Hmmmmmm...
Bobbi huffs a bit as it's not why she asked that but decides to stop probing about a question that the busty britt clearly doesn't want to answer as she has another question for her anyways...
Bobbi: Hmmm what? What's wrong?
For now Susan avoids the question and quickly changes the subject.
Susan: ...I think we should start by getting in the ring. I'm going to put you through the wringer and we'll see how you do.
She slides an arm around Bobbi's waist and guides her towards the basement stairs.
Susan: I plan to do a thorough job and make sure you are as ready as you possibly can be. And then some.
Bobbi: Well yea, I would expect nothing less from you...I can only do so much training on my own, so to have someone to get in the ring with will be most helpful...
Bobbi opens the door to the basement gym as the two head down for their training session.
{ROUGHLY THREE HOURS LATER}
Much later in the evening a heavily breathing Susan pats Bobbi's back, both women's skin glistening with sweat as Bobbi wipes her brow with a towel, then drapes it over her shoulder as Susan hands her a bottle of water and the blonde just latches onto it, drinking deep as if it's her oxygen.
Susan: Well, in terms of your body you're pretty much all set, though considering how much time you have left that may not be optimal. You're right now at peak performance, but if you try and stay at the peak too long you're going to burn yourself out by over training.
The blonde beauty nods her head, leaning forwards with her hands on her knees as she looks absolutely spent by the three hour ring session on top of how hard she's been pushing herself lately. Susan takes Bobbi's hands in hers as she locks her emerald eyes gaze on Bobbi to make sure she's listening carefully.
Susan: I knew something was up when I first looked at you, the hard cardio work has you slimmed down and the problem there is that your body actually has less energy to burn and when you hit a wall it doesn't have the reserves to push past it and you can end up totally crashing at the worst time.
Bobbi just stares at her breathing heavily, taking nice long breaths as she processes what Susan is telling her. She kinda nods as her head is filled with mixed emotions.
Bobbi: Uh huh....
Susan: You need to ease up and pace yourself better. Take a nice big breather from all of this, get your head straight, cause don't think I didn't notice how rigid you were. You need to loosen up mentally too, I totally gave you openings that you'd usually be RIGHT on top of, but you clearly weren't keeping your eyes open, you were too fixated on whatever you were doing. That's a pretty clear sign of just having too much on your mind and refusing to let go of any of it.
She grabs Bobbi's shoulders, leaning in a bit closer to look deep into her eyes.
Susan: In my professional opinion you need to take a couple days off, refill your physical and emotional energy reserves and only then start ramping the training back up so you'll hit that peak again for your match. If you try and keep up the grind like you're doing now that'll only end up working against you.
Bobbi processes everything Susan tells her, eventually she closes her eyes and lets out a long defeated sigh. Susan is right, of course she's right...she always is. The blondes shoulders slouch a bit in Susan's grip as she replies.
Bobbi: Alright....you win....I'll take a break....
Susan smiles as she gently rubs Bobbi's shoulders through the towel, then pulls the blonde beauty against her, wrapping her arms around her.
Susan: That's a good girl. You know I've gone through this myself, so I know what I'm talking about. If I'd been more self-aware I might had ANOTHER title reign, heh. But it's sometimes hardest to look closely at oneself.
Bobbi sighs a bit and just puts her head on Susan's shoulder, it's amazing where these two are at in their lives when years ago they were heated bitter rivals. Bobbi softly speaks to her...
Bobbi: Do you ever worry about...getting older?
Susan gently rubs Bobbi's back with one hand and slides her fingers through the blondes hair with the other as she nods.
Susan: I'd be lying if I said I didn't, but I think you and me still have a long time ahead before we're past our prime.
Bobbi picks her head back up and looks into Susan's eyes as the blonde responds.
Bobbi: I hope so...
Bobbi pauses for a moment, almost afraid to ask the next question but does so anyways.
Bobbi: Do you think I can beat Dominique?
Susan caresses Bobbi's cheek gently, then plants a kiss on it.
Susan: I KNOW you can. So long as you take my advice, that is.
Bobbi swallows hard...
Bobbi: What about her much younger sister Eliza?
Who clearly deep down Bobbi has been more worried about than Dominique but she doesn't want to admit it. Susan briefly looks ponderous.
Susan: Her style is a worse match-up for you, I think. But so long as you keep your cool your experience should definitely give you the edge on her. She WILL test you on that, so you can not let her get to you.
Bobbi sighs softly. Not exactly the answer she was hoping for but Susan has always been honest with her. She nods...
Bobbi: I will do my best. I need to win this match, it means absolutely everything to me right now.
Susan nods her head as she wraps her arms around Bobbi again, squeezing the blondes glistening body against hers.
Susan: And I've no doubt you can do it. You have what it takes.
Bobbi: Thank you...for real...
Bobbi sniffs slightly.
Bobbi: It means a lot coming from you....And I just know...
Before Bobbi can finish her sentence her cell phone starts to ring and vibrate over in the corner of the ring, playing the ringtone of "Send Me An Angel" so she knows it's Carmen and Giselle calling her. Susan ease her embrace, smiling warmly at Bobbi.
Susan: I'd say a talk with a couple friends might be JUST what the doctor ordered.
Bobbi gently backs up to get the phone as she says to Susan before picking it up.
Bobbi: I'm guessing your day is pretty much booked tomorrow right?
Susan nods her head as she dabs her forehead with her own towel.
Susan: As it happens, I am.
Bobbi nods, figuring as much but didn't want her to feel left out if she was free as she answers the phone to talk with Carmen and Giselle, setting up a get together tomorrow as they haven't seen each other in weeks. After a few minutes Bobbi hangs up and puts the phone back down as she shrugs a bit and looks at Susan.
Bobbi: Well there's no way I'll have time to train tomorrow so I'm doing what you want. Taking a day off.
Susan laughs a bit, leaning her back against the ropes.
Susan: Good. Because I'd BETTER not see you in only one match at Final Encounter or you owe me the price of admission.
She winks at Bobbi playfully as Bobbi kinda laughs.
Bobbi: Well I can't stop Mariah if she's got the match won, and if she goes on to the title match, I'll be happy for her. She's a good friend, she believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. It's why I'm back here doing this all over again.
Susan smiles as she gets off the ropes and walks over to Bobbi, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Susan: Okay, that's the one exception I'll allow. But I WAS promised if I do my job right I'll get to watch you wrestle twice, so I'll give Michael a piece of my mind if he suckered me.
Bobbi: Pretty sure he's just looking out for my best interests and trying his best to make sure I'm happy. He told me that he hired the best trainer money could buy and well...I believe him.
Bobbi places her hand on Susan's opposite shoulder.
Bobbi: Thanks for coming and doing this, in all seriousness...I owe you one.
Susan smiles at her old rival, now dear friend.
Susan: I'm just teasing a bit, but yeah, in seriousness, keep what I said in mind and we're even.
With that Bobbi just kinda lunges in and wraps her arms around Susan tightly. She hugs her with all her might and lets out a soft happy purr thankful that the busty Britt has put her on the right track to Final Encounter as the scene fades out.
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It's good to see your face
You ain't no worse for wear
Breathing that California air
When we took on the world
When we were young and brave
We got secrets that we'll take to the grave
And we're standing here shoulder to shoulder
I like the bed I'm sleeping in
It's just like me, it's broken in
It's not old - just older
Like a favorite pair of torn blue jeans
This skin I'm in it's alright with me
It's not old - just older
________________________________________________
{THE NEXT DAY}
Bobbi got to Carmen and Giselle's house rather early Friday afternoon, she just couldn't help herself. It had been way too long since she has seen her Angels in her mind. Ever since she decided to unretire and step into the ring, her time and schedule has been so busy she hasn't really had much time for a personal life. But between Michael and Susan beating it into her head yesterday...one figuratively and one literally...she finally decided to take a few days for herself before hopping back into the work out routine and balancing it more intelligently going forward.
The three girls decided to make a day out of hanging out together, the three headed to see a movie and then took a stroll walking the streets of Pittsburgh. Eventually Giselle decided to drag Carmen and Bobbi through the Aquarium which they were less than thrilled with but the blonde Angel was happy so they were more than content to oblige her and make sure she's happy.
Afterwards it's gotten later in the afternoon and closer to the evening. They decide to hit up one of their favorite local sports bar for a great dinner and to watch the Pittsburgh Penguins game against the New York Rangers. The three beauties sit in a padded round booth surrounded by TVs as they already have their drinks and are waiting on their food as they talk to one another...Bobbi particularly bubbly because she's so happy to be spending the day with her two favorite women on the planet.
Bobbi: Thank you all for calling me last night, I really needed a day out like this today. Just what the Doctor ordered.
Bobbi says taking a drink of her Pepsi through a straw as she smiles at the silvery blonde and brunette beauties. Carmen licks her lips and goes to take a sip from her Pina Colada, but pauses as Giselle holds her Coke glass towards the Latina Angel. Carmen clinks Giselle's glass with hers and they reach them towards Bobbi.
Giselle: To a lovely day together. Bobbi and her Angels.
Carmen: Yeah and to plenty more in the future. We gotta make sure to set time aside to just enjoy the good times, yeah?
Giselle nods in agreement.
Bobbi: Totally! I was way too buried in my comeback and I need to balance my life better!
The blonde pushes her glass in as the three clink their glasses before putting them back down as Bobbi just can't stop smiling at Carmen and Giselle, but decides to poke a bit at Giselle with a question that's been bothering her all day.
Bobbi: So what's up with the silver in your hair now hun? I mean it's cool and all...but it kinda had me taking a step back from your normal blonde hair color.
Giselle huffs a bit as Carmen smirks and decides to answer on her behalf.
Carmen: Well, you see, one day she noticed a white hair growing from her temple...
Giselle: Hush you!
Giselle reaches out at Carmen who playfully slaps the hands away so they can't stop her from spilling the beans.
Carmen: ...so she plucks it out and the next day she dyes her hair this really platinum blonde shade. I think it looks fine.
Bobbi raises an eyebrow slightly and does her best not to laugh.
Bobbi: I'm not sure I totally believe you....but okay, and of course it looks fine! My Gisy looks beautiful no matter what her hair color is. I was just curious why she decided to change it is all.
Bobbi drinks some more of her Pepsi before letting out a relaxed sigh...
Bobbi: I feel like I've missed so much since I re-joined the GZWA. I never EVER want to be too busy for you two.
Giselle places a hand on Bobbi's.
Giselle: We understand though, it's a big change and those tend to eat up a lot of time and attention.
Carmen gulps down a big sip of her drink before chiming in.
Carmen: That's right, but it's good to know we've been missed.
Bobbi flips her hand around to hold Giselle's hand in hers as she sniffs a bit and smiles.
Bobbi: You all are always missed. I know we've called each other a few times and played phone tag these last few weeks, I was so glad I caught you all last night when you called so we could have this day together.
Giselle smile warmly as she gently squeezes Bobbi's hand.
Giselle: We're glad too. It's been delightful spending time together and I wouldn't be one bit opposed to making something like this a weekly thing.
Carmen: Yeah, like a "get your mind offa stuff and just enjoy the company of your Angels" day.
Carmen laughs a bit at her own joke. Bobbi's smile grows bigger as she nods happily.
Bobbi: Yes! That sounds like a fantastic idea! This upcoming pay per view is stressing me out. Not only do Mariah and I have to face Dominique and her younger annoying sister, IF I get the win in that match I go on to compete later in the evening for the vacated Vixens Championship...It's a lot to take in. You know what I mean?
Bobbi says oddly enough with a sense of calmness in her voice, a far cry from how she sounded trying to explain it yesterday. It's clear to her now more than ever that Susan was right, she needed a day like this to balance out her mind and body.
Giselle: It certainly is, we've been talking about it a lot too. That's a lot of pressure to drop one someone's shoulders in one go.
Carmen: What, you thought we don't keep up with the news concerning our Bobbi?
The brunette Angel winks at Bobbi. Bobbi laughs and sticks her tongue out a bit.
Bobbi: Of course I know you all would keep up with what's going on with me, but I still feel like If I don't tell you all myself I'm keeping things from my Angels and I would never do that.
Moments later the waitress comes to the table and puts their meals in front of the three ladies, they thank the waitress and she leaves as the three start to eat their food. Carmen shakes her head a bit as Giselle struggles a bit with her totally oversized burger, the blonde couldn't resist the temptation of the special menu item, but the darn thing is hard to handle. Carmen snatches a sweet potato wedge from Giselle's plate, dipping it in the cup of spiced ketchup before munching it down and nodding her head approvingly.
Bobbi ordered a porterhouse steak and fries, wanting to keep her protein intake up and plus its just damn delicious here as she cuts off a piece and happily takes a bite as she chews and just stares at Carmen and Giselle smiling. For the first time in a long while, her world feels absolutely whole and complete. She has her friends, her career, her health, her happiness, everything is revolving around her world at the moment and the blonde couldn't be happier.
The girls smile back at Bobbi, always happy to see a smile on their dearest friend's lips, before Giselle bites into her burger and sauce spills out from the other side of the bun and onto her fingers, Carmen laughing a bit at her and offering her some of the extra napkins she was provided along with her plate overflowing with chicken wings. Giselle however just licks her fingers clean and resumes munching on her burger.
Bobbi: So I was kinda hoping...
Bobbi says breaking the silence as she continues to cut off pieces of her steak on the plate.
Bobbi: Susan is going to be in the crowd at Final Encounter, I was kinda hoping you two would make the trip and be there as well...?
The blonde says in a hopeful tone as she puts another piece of steak in her mouth chewing on it as she awaits a reply from the clearly hungry Angels. They both cease eating, Giselle's mouth still full as they glance at one another, then smile and turn to Bobbi.
Carmen: We would LOVE to be there cheering you on.
Bobbi claps her hands together excitedly.
Bobbi: Thank you! I'll make sure you both have tickets to the show, you all don't gotta pay for anything. I'll make sure it's covered, thank you SO much for coming...it means the world to me...
Bobbi slouches in her seat a bit just staring at the two women that she's been best friends with for as long as she can remember since they were kids in Jacksonville, Florida. So many people have come and gone from her life as she's gotten older but Carmen and Giselle have always been there for her, always by her side no matter what...the blonde is eternally grateful. She slowly sits back up straight and picks up her glass of Pepsi and raises it again.
Bobbi: I'd like to propose another toast, to getting older with your best friends...there's nothing better!
Bobbi extends her glass towards the two Angels. Giselle gives a thumb up as she hurriedly chews the big mouthful of burger and gulps it down, then picks her glass up.
Giselle: I'll drink to that.
Carmen: Heh, getting older ain't a choice, but with friends IS the best way to do it.
All three girls clink their glasses together, warm smiles on their lips. In Bobbi's mind, she couldn't ask for more right now. Everything is going perfectly in her life at the moment, she just hopes at Final Encounter things continue to go just as well. They all put their glasses down and continue to eat their dinner in each others loving company as the scene fades out to black.
________________________________________________
I'm not old enough to sing the blues
But I wore the holes in the soles of these shoes
You can roll the dice 'til they call your bluff
But you can't win until you're not afraid to lose
Well, I look in the mirror
I don't hate what I see
There's a few more lines staring back at me
Now the nights has grown a little colder
Hey man, I gotta run
Now you take care
If you see coach T. Tell him I've cut my hair
I've kept my faith
I still believe I'm just...
I like the bed I'm sleeping in
It's just like me, it's broken in
It's not old - just older
Like a favorite pair of torn blue jeans
This skin I'm in it's alright with me
It's not old - just older
________________________________________________