Post by Deleted on May 18, 2015 10:38:52 GMT -6
Family, everyone’s got one. Whether it be parents, a significant other, children, hell some people call their pets family. That was always a weird concept to me, but who am I to judge. Al Envy claims that he has a family of one, a woman that he loves so much he would do anything for her. Including get almost completely naked for a crooked doctor to see. She loved that attention. You could see it in her eyes. The way he looked her up and down, stroked her shoulder. The desire in his eyes to be deep inside of her. You could take the slut off the streets but you couldn’t take the slut out of the girl. Shelby loves the attention of other men, and Al is feeding into that by allowing her to get naked.
It was obvious the good doctor would do anything to get in her pants. He would have seen her in that sun dress and felt the same way, but she needed to take it off, let him see her goods. She needed that, because as satisfied as she may be with Al, she always wanted more. Her demons were becoming clear to me. She craved attention. Her daddy didn’t love her enough, or maybe he loved her too much. She needed the approval of men. She needed men to tell her she looked good. Maybe it was because she was a fat girl in high school. I’ve seen the yearbook photos. She was a little butterball in her band uniform. Sure she grew up to be a gorgeous lady, but inside she was still that fat girl that nobody wanted.
My family? My family was gone. My father disowned me since running out on the Olympics, getting arrested, rehab, it was obvious even when I did get together with my family that he had no interest in me. He never said a word. I was ok with that. He was a coward. He could have gone to college to play football, could have gone pro, but he wanted to stay home and be a lowly farmer. He was scared of change. He tried living vicariously through my accomplishments, and when they weren’t how he wanted, he threw a hissy fit. I didn’t need him, didn’t need his approval, and didn’t need his love.
My mother, bless her soul, was too proud. She tried to make my father see the greatness I have become. An adoring grandmother to my daughter Haylee, who she now didn’t get to see, she had lost interest. If I wasn’t providing her the grandchild she wanted then I was of no use to her. Her love was never unconditional. It was always dependent upon me being something I’m not. A settled man. I cannot be like my father, and just stay put my whole life in an unhappy life, avoiding my dreams. I am better than that, and I have lived to prove that.
The plane I was on was jostling as I sat here thinking. The turbulence was almost relaxing to me. It was like a sign of my life. Turbulent, unsettled, but always gets to where it’s going. Everything I have set my sights on in life I have achieved. It was maybe a round about way, but I always got there.
In high school I was an undersized wrestler. I was told that I’d never be a top heavyweight my freshman year because I wasn’t big enough. By my senior year I was the best Amatuer wrestler in the country. I was being compared to the likes of Kurt Angle, Rulon Gardner, and Dan Gable. Three of the best US Olympic wrestlers ever. Which led me to the University of Minnesota where I was taught by one of the greatest coaches in NCAA History, J. Robinson. So much for being too small.
I was a gym rat. A workout warrior. Constantly learning, perfecting, getting better. I overcame the stigma of “too small.” Steph Curry was too small. Look at him. He’s on the cusp of winning an NBA Championship. John Randle was too small. He wasn’t even drafted, and he’s a hall of famer. He was one of the best Defensive Tackles in NFL history. I will go down as the best pure wrestler in professional wrestling by the time I retire. You overcome, you adapt, and you succeed. I lost to a lesser wrestler in Father Nathan. It was a match I wasn’t familiar with, that took me out of my elements. I wasn’t able to wrestle my style. I had to adapt, and I didn’t. That will not happen again. I am ready, and I will not make a mental mistake like I did last time.
I finally drifted off to sleep. The rocking of the plane, the hum of the engine, rocking me like a lullaby. It was a comfort.
----------------------------------
Jill Mathews: I think that’s it I think it’s over!!!!!
Vince Walters: My god did you see that Left Hand Of God?
Jill Mathews: I sure did holy cow Austen took a big risk there and it did not pay off.
Vince Walters: Let’s get a camera angle on the grave come on people!
Jill Mathews: THERE IT IS THE CASKET IS BURIED UNDER THE DIRT AND THE REF IS SIGNALING FOR THE BELL!!!!!
DING!!!!!
DING!!!!!
Tom Davis:Here is your winner and STILL THE REIGNING DEFENDING N.E.W CHAMPION FATHER NATHAN!!!!
------------------------------
I shot up in my seat. The image was still so clear in my head. Playing out in slow motion. The thought in my head as I stood over that grave. I knew it was a bad idea. It was a risk. But you have to take risks to get your reward. I went with my gut, and for the first time, my gut instinct was wrong. I paid for it. Broken ribs, a concussion, and now a pill problem.
My mind was racing with uncertainty. I was on a plane, a cornucopia of germs, putting myself at risk of becoming ill before the biggest match of my career. Possibly my last shot at grabbing that brass ring, and cementing myself as a somebody in this game. If I don’t then what? I go on to terrordome, where the odds are vehemently against me? In a clusterfuck of a match that will come down to sheer dumb luck and not skill to win? I need to grab it now or forever live as Davey Dynamo’s failed “experiment.” His young protege who failed to capitalize on everything he had earned. I wasn’t handed anything, I worked my way up, I fought my ass off for everything I had. Losing was not an option.
The plane tipped forward as the captain announced we would be landing. “Wonderful” I thought. Let’s get into Montana. A all the way across the country from New York City. Again Jesse Styles was showing his influence. Sending me out here, forcing me to travel all over, while Al got to stay in New York. I shook my head. I couldn’t think that way. It is not anyone’s fault. Nobody is going to win or lose this match for me. It was all on me.
The plane touches down roughly, and slowly taxis to the terminal. I grab my bag, body shaking. I needed my pills, but couldn’t get to them stowed in the overhead bin. I got off the ramp and into the terminal, flung my bag off my shoulders, and quickly popped three pills, swallowed hard, and then walked out. In the baggage claim stood a man holding a cardboard sign with my name on it.
“You with the TV Station?” I ask, looking the guy over. He was dressed in blue jeans, cowboy boots, a blue flannel shirt and a white cowboy hat.
“Yes sir, you ready?” He asks.
“Ready as I will ever be I guess.” The uncertainty in my voice was obvious but he chose not to explore it. He struck me as the silent type, and I was ok with that.
I followed the man out to the parking ramp. We stopped beside a big blue mid 90s F150. “They couldn’t even send a limo or a nice car to pick me up,” I thought, but didn’t say anything. I hopped into the truck, and just sat back. I pulled my phone from my pocket, and flipped off Airplane mode. Instantly it began lighting up with messages.
“Call Me,” one read, followed by two more that read “Right away,” and “Urgent.”
The messages were from my friend Rudy, a private investigator. I had hired him to keep an eye on Dazi. I know we weren’t dating, but a friend of hers told me there was somebody causing problems for her and she had drove off in tears at a recent event. I needed to make sure she was safe. I still loved her, even if we weren’t together.
I quickly punch in Rudy’s number, and press send. The phone rings twice, and then I get an answer.
“Rudy?” I ask.
“Austen, where the hell were you?” He asks.
“I was on a plane to Montana. Jesse has me doing some morning show out here, so I had to fly out this afternoon so I could be up right away in the morning. What’s going on?”
“Well, I think Dazi is seeing someone else.” He said. My heart sank. “So soon?” I thought, I fought back the urge to cry. The girl that I loved, moving on so quickly, as if I was nothing to her. I shook it off, I couldn’t let it cloud my judgement.
“Any idea of who it is?” I ask, not sure I want to hear the answer.
“No clue, I’m trying to dig up some information, but he’s a tough nut to crack. He’s not in any criminal databases, so he seems clean, he’s not registered anywhere. Its like he just appeared out of nowhere.”
“Well, keep digging, keep an eye on her, and make sure she’s safe. I couldn’t bear the thought of something happening to her.”
“You got it buddy. I’ll keep searching.”
“Thanks for the heads up.” I hang up the phone, and stare out the window, the anger inside of me beginning to grow.
“What troubles you?” The driver asks, looking over at me.
“Nothin, woman troubles, nothing a good drink won’t handle. Any good bars in Helena?”
“Oh we got a few, what are you lookin for?” He asks.
“Hot women and strong drinks.”
“The Rialto in downtown is probably your best bet. It’s a bit of a college bar. All the college kids frequent there, and they have some great drinks and micro brews. Not really my atmosphere, too much loud music, but I think you’ll enjoy it.”
“Thanks for the tip.”
I look at my phone, and punch in Dazi’s number. I hit dial, but quickly hang up. I can’t do it right now. I need to stay focused on my match. She distracted me last time, and I lost. I was out of my own head, and I lost sight of why I was in that match. I can’t do that again.
Finally the truck pulled to a stop outside a small hotel. It looked like it was pretty historic, I shrugged, a bed and a shower are all I need. I shook the driver’s hand and opened the door.
“I’ll be here around 4:30 tomorrow morning to pick you up. You go on at 7:00.”
“Thanks uh…”
“Hank.”
“Thanks Hank. See ya in the morning.”
I walk into the hotel. It looked really nice, a nice old world feel, but really fancy. I was feeling alright about it. I checked in, and got my room key. I was surprised. It was an actual key, not one of those silly credit card things that always seem to stop working midway through your stay. I walked up the staircase to my room, and opened the door. The room was amazing. A king sized bed, a kitchenette and a jacuzzi. They spared no expense on this suite. Maybe Jesse was giving me a sign of thanks for going to this shit state.
I put my bag down, and just then realized I was still in my smelly workout clothes. I quickly jumped in the shower, and washed the stink off. I tried to remember why I was so nasty for my flight. Then it came roaring back. Destroying the locker room, a bar fight, and then running to the airport. It was like one bad dream. I don’t even fully remember the goings on of a few hours ago.
I step out of the shower and dry off, wrapping the towel around my waist. I look in my bag and realize all I had packed were my jeans and tshirt, and a pair of brown boots. No fresh underwear, no fresh socks, and none of my ring gear.
“Son of a bitch,” I threw my bag against the bed. I paced my room wrapped in just a towel for twenty minutes processing what I would do. I grab my phone.
“Yes, I need an order delivered to Trump Towers NYC Hotel by Monday.”
“There is no way we can do that sir,” The voice on the other end replies.
“You need to do it. This is Austen Impact. I am in an NEW Title match, I don’t have my ring gear, and I need boots and a singlet.”
“The only thing we can do is ship out an instock singlet and boots.”
“That’s fine, what do you have, anything red white and blue?”
“Yes, we have a red white and blue with a star in the middle of the front.”
“Fine, send that, and some blue boots, I’ll make that work.”
“Ok sir, that will be 373.33, do you want to pay by card?”
“Sure,” I quickly give my card info, and finish paying. One stress out of the way. Now I need something for my interview tomorrow. I get dressed, and go downstairs.
“Excuse me,” I lean on the counter, getting the attention of the receptionist.
“Yes, can I help you?” She smiles, and looks at me. She was quite attractive for a plain gal.
“Yes, I need to find a menswear store, is there one close?”
“Oh yes, Shoney’s just down the road has some very nice suits and menswear.”
“Thank you,” I smile at her, and walk out the door and down the street.
The sign on the front door was pretty unimpressive, just small lettering that said Shoney’s, but when I walked in there were suits galore. All sorts of mens suits, and sports coats. I was greeted by an older gentleman, who came slowly walking from the back of the store.
“Hello sir, how can I help you?” He extends his arthritic hand towards me, and I gently grasp it, as he squeezes. He had a shockingly firm shake for a man with hands as mangled as his.
“Well, I need a suit by tomorrow. I’m appearing on the morning show here in town, and in my haste to pack my bags I forgot to pack my suit.”
“You’re in luck. I have the best tailor in the state of Montana working here. He can get you fixed up by this evening.”
“It’s already 4 PM, how can he have one ready?”
“He’s that good.”
I shook off the skepticism, I wasn’t in a position to argue, and quickly grabbed a very nice tan suit with a tan and black tie. I was sized and fitted and out the door in about 15 minutes.
“Come back around 6:30, and I’ll have that ready for you.”
I shrugged, “Can you have it sent to the hotel down the street please? I am going to get some dinner and have a few drinks to unwind, I’m not sure I’ll be back by then.”
“Sure thing, it will be waiting at the check in.”
“Thank you so much sir.”
I left the store, and began walking. I saw the sign for the Rialto instantly. I took a deep breath and walked in. The crowd was crawling with gorgeous coeds. I bellied up to the bar, and quickly ordered a Jack and Coke. I turned around on my stool, looking at the dark concoction in my glass. I knew this was a bad idea, but with all the shit running through my head, it felt necessary. I quickly gulped and threw back the glass in one sip, surveying the room, looking for a young lady to take back to my hotel. I didn’t need to search long as a very attractive young lady in a very short, strapless blue pencil dress comes up to me. Her breasts were fighting a battle to break free, and it looked as though the dress was losing.
“You’re that professional wrestler guy aren’t you?” She says, inching in between the two bar stools, leaning on the bar, our bodies nearly touching.
“Yes, Austen Impact, how are you m’lady?” I kiss her hand, a gesture my father assured me was a deal sealer. It had never failed me in the past.
“I am Elizabeth, I am here with some girlfriends, I just broke up with my boyfriend. He loved wrestling, and I think it would make him insanely jealous if he saw us sitting with a wrestler.”
I wasn’t one to meddle in other people’s relationships, but I looked at the group of girls and every single one was gorgeous, so I complied.
She brought me across the bar, and we sat down at the booth where the ladies were all sitting.
“Ladies, this is Austen, he’s a professional wrestler.”
Elizabeth ran her fingers across my chest as I sat there. I raised my hand to the bartender and a server came with another round of drinks. I threw back my Jack and Coke quickly and motioned for another. I felt a brushing against my leg and soon realized one of the ladies across the table was running her foot up my leg. I looked across at her and she was just staring at me.
I felt like Odysseus trapped in a Siren’s song. These beautiful women fawning on me. I could feel three of them touching my body in some form or another, undressing me with their eyes. I ordered more drinks, and began throwing back drink after drink, getting more and more uninhibited as the night rolled on. I had forgotten everything and was enjoying dancing with the gorgeous women, three of them grinding against my body at a time.
It was amazing. I felt their bodies, wrapping my arms around them, feeling them up, and having a very fun time. I hadn’t had this much fun since I quit drinking. Pounding back drink after drink, I felt myself ready to go. I whispered in one of the ladies ears, she smiled at me, and all three left with me. We walked down the street to my hotel. Drunk and stumbling the whole way and laughing each time. The receptionist at the checkout desk stopped me and handed me my suit.
I carried it upstairs, and hung it up, ladies still all over me. One of them pushed me backwards on the bed, pulling up my shirt as all three started kissing my chest and stomach. I began pulling up the blouse of one of the ladies and she slapped my hand.
“We’re in control, you just enjoy the ride.”
The ladies began pulling my pants off, and playing. One of them wrapped her lips around me, and suddenly my phone rang.
“God dammit.”
“Just ignore it baby.” One of the ladies said, taking off her skirt, and pulling off her blouse.
I try to put the ringing out of my head, but my drunken mind wanders to my phone, worrying about who’s calling me. The ringing ends, and I begin getting into the mood again, as the women take turns on me, but the phone rings again.
“Jesus Christ, I have to take this I guess.”
I grab my phone from my pants pocket and it’s Rudy.
“Not a good time Rudy.”
“Look buddy, I’m...Are you drunk?” He asks, stopping himself mid sentance.
“So what if I am,” I reply, girls giggling in the background.
“Who’s with you?”
“Some beautiful ladies, now let me be.”
“I sent you a text message, you may wanna see it.”
“I don’t need a dirty pic, I have three dirty girls trying to work a number on me.”
“It’s about Dazi.”
“Fine.” I pull up my text messages and the picture pops up on my screen. Dazi, in Aaron Mercer’s arms, him kissing her neck. I hurl the phone across the room, enraged.
“GET OUT!” I yell pointing to the ladies.
“What?” one of them asks.
“I SAID OUT!”
“But…”
“OUT!” I grab the TV and hurl it into the Jacuzzi, sparks flying as it hits the water. The lights flicker, and the ladies start to shuffle out, not completely dressed.
I pace the room, anger swelling inside me. I start out of the hotel, trying to clear my head, but I am still drunk and enraged. A cop pulls up beside me.
“Going somewhere?”
“Just a walk officer, promise.”
“Look son, you’re quite drunk, maybe you should go home and get some rest.”
“I don’t need rest, I need a fucking walk.”
The officer steps out of his car, and approaches me. My judgement not fully there, I grab him and slam him hard against the concrete. His partner jumps out, gun pointed directly at me.
“DO IT!” I yell, “I have nothing to live for. My wife and daughter are gone, my parents disowned me, my best friend died, my girlfriend left me and is seeing another man. All I have is my lousy career. Just end it now.”
“Don’t take another step.”
I do take another step, and instantly I feel a jolt run through me. I feel my body tighten, but I don’t go down. Then I’m hit with another jolt. My body tenses more, the pain heavy. Finally I stumble to the ground, and am instantly pounced on and cuffed.
My whole body aches, side effects of being tazed mixed with the hangover, as I sit in a lone jail cell. I hear the keys begin to rattle, and the door swing open. In walks Jesse Style’s former assistant and Light’s Out Commentator Andy Dirks.
“You’ve caused quite a mess here Mr. Impact. In the span of a day you’ve destroyed the NEW locker room, got into a bar fight, sending three men to the hospital, and assaulted a police officer. Mr. Styles has thought about just releasing you from your contract, but realizes the draw of Austen Impact versus Al Envy, and this close to Ignite he cannot switch the card, so you are coming with me. We are flying back to New York City, and you will be under house arrest until Ignite. No booze, no going out, you will be in your room, guarded by two guards, and you will not leave until you get to ignite.”
Sobering up I realize this is really the only option I have. I am walked out of the room, I check out, get my personal effects, and meet Andy outside. He already has my bag and suit picked up from the hotel.
“You realize that you will not be getting paid for your title match. There are far too many damages to clean up. Your entire check and the next two are going towards repayment for your transgressions.”
“Thats fair,” I mutter quietly, embarrassed by my actions. I reach into my bag and reach around. I can’t find my bottle.
“These?” Andy shakes the pill bottle at me.
“Give them here you little shit.” I reach across the limo towards Andy as he pulls them away.
“No can do, you are restricted to two a day. Doctors orders.”
“I need them.”
“No you don’t, you think you need them.”
I lean my head back, frustrated. Arrested, house arrest, no pills, no booze, and I didn’t even get laid. I punch the seat in anger.
The limo moves down the runway of the airport and drops us off right at Jesse Styles private plane, guarded by two air marshals. I walk on behind Andy, and the Marshals follow me. I sit down in my seat, and the plane takes off.
I quickly drift to sleep, exhausted and in pain.
------------------------
Jill Mathews: I think that’s it I think it’s over!!!!!
Vince Walters: My god did you see that Left Hand Of God?
Jill Mathews: I sure did holy cow Austen took a big risk there and it did not pay off.
Vince Walters: Let’s get a camera angle on the grave come on people!
Jill Mathews: THERE IT IS THE CASKET IS BURIED UNDER THE DIRT AND THE REF IS SIGNALING FOR THE BELL!!!!!
DING!!!!!
DING!!!!!
Tom Davis:Here is your winner and STILL THE REIGNING DEFENDING N.E.W CHAMPION FATHER NATHAN!!!!
------------------------
I snap awake, breathing heavily, as the plane touches down. I can’t let Al Envy win this match. I must win, and I must show the world, that I am not a failure. I’ve let everyone down in my life, and I will not do it again.
My focus was drawn away by the voice of Andy.
“I just spoke to Mr. Styles. You’re going to have a drug and alcohol counselor accompany you everywhere you go. We can’t have any more incidents. We’ve had too many legal issues in the past. Any transgressions and you are out. We can’t afford to lose one of our top stars.”
“That’s fine,” I mumble, knowing it’s for the best. I’m not a user, I’m not a drunk, I’m Austen Impact. The best damn wrestler in the world. I must conquer my demons, and prove to my family that I did this for a purpose, prove to my father that I can do this, that the Olympics were nothing compared to being the top champion. Prove to my mom that I am worth more than just a kid. Prove to Sarah and Haylee that the sacrifices they made for my dream were not in vain. To prove to Dazi that I’m not just some drug addled schmuck. I am Austen Impact. I’m a good man, and a better wrestler. I may not have family now but I will have a family after Ignite. My family will be the past NEW Champions. I will be held in that echelon of elites that held the title. I will be the legend I set out to be.
It was obvious the good doctor would do anything to get in her pants. He would have seen her in that sun dress and felt the same way, but she needed to take it off, let him see her goods. She needed that, because as satisfied as she may be with Al, she always wanted more. Her demons were becoming clear to me. She craved attention. Her daddy didn’t love her enough, or maybe he loved her too much. She needed the approval of men. She needed men to tell her she looked good. Maybe it was because she was a fat girl in high school. I’ve seen the yearbook photos. She was a little butterball in her band uniform. Sure she grew up to be a gorgeous lady, but inside she was still that fat girl that nobody wanted.
My family? My family was gone. My father disowned me since running out on the Olympics, getting arrested, rehab, it was obvious even when I did get together with my family that he had no interest in me. He never said a word. I was ok with that. He was a coward. He could have gone to college to play football, could have gone pro, but he wanted to stay home and be a lowly farmer. He was scared of change. He tried living vicariously through my accomplishments, and when they weren’t how he wanted, he threw a hissy fit. I didn’t need him, didn’t need his approval, and didn’t need his love.
My mother, bless her soul, was too proud. She tried to make my father see the greatness I have become. An adoring grandmother to my daughter Haylee, who she now didn’t get to see, she had lost interest. If I wasn’t providing her the grandchild she wanted then I was of no use to her. Her love was never unconditional. It was always dependent upon me being something I’m not. A settled man. I cannot be like my father, and just stay put my whole life in an unhappy life, avoiding my dreams. I am better than that, and I have lived to prove that.
The plane I was on was jostling as I sat here thinking. The turbulence was almost relaxing to me. It was like a sign of my life. Turbulent, unsettled, but always gets to where it’s going. Everything I have set my sights on in life I have achieved. It was maybe a round about way, but I always got there.
In high school I was an undersized wrestler. I was told that I’d never be a top heavyweight my freshman year because I wasn’t big enough. By my senior year I was the best Amatuer wrestler in the country. I was being compared to the likes of Kurt Angle, Rulon Gardner, and Dan Gable. Three of the best US Olympic wrestlers ever. Which led me to the University of Minnesota where I was taught by one of the greatest coaches in NCAA History, J. Robinson. So much for being too small.
I was a gym rat. A workout warrior. Constantly learning, perfecting, getting better. I overcame the stigma of “too small.” Steph Curry was too small. Look at him. He’s on the cusp of winning an NBA Championship. John Randle was too small. He wasn’t even drafted, and he’s a hall of famer. He was one of the best Defensive Tackles in NFL history. I will go down as the best pure wrestler in professional wrestling by the time I retire. You overcome, you adapt, and you succeed. I lost to a lesser wrestler in Father Nathan. It was a match I wasn’t familiar with, that took me out of my elements. I wasn’t able to wrestle my style. I had to adapt, and I didn’t. That will not happen again. I am ready, and I will not make a mental mistake like I did last time.
I finally drifted off to sleep. The rocking of the plane, the hum of the engine, rocking me like a lullaby. It was a comfort.
----------------------------------
Jill Mathews: I think that’s it I think it’s over!!!!!
Vince Walters: My god did you see that Left Hand Of God?
Jill Mathews: I sure did holy cow Austen took a big risk there and it did not pay off.
Vince Walters: Let’s get a camera angle on the grave come on people!
Jill Mathews: THERE IT IS THE CASKET IS BURIED UNDER THE DIRT AND THE REF IS SIGNALING FOR THE BELL!!!!!
DING!!!!!
DING!!!!!
Tom Davis:Here is your winner and STILL THE REIGNING DEFENDING N.E.W CHAMPION FATHER NATHAN!!!!
------------------------------
I shot up in my seat. The image was still so clear in my head. Playing out in slow motion. The thought in my head as I stood over that grave. I knew it was a bad idea. It was a risk. But you have to take risks to get your reward. I went with my gut, and for the first time, my gut instinct was wrong. I paid for it. Broken ribs, a concussion, and now a pill problem.
My mind was racing with uncertainty. I was on a plane, a cornucopia of germs, putting myself at risk of becoming ill before the biggest match of my career. Possibly my last shot at grabbing that brass ring, and cementing myself as a somebody in this game. If I don’t then what? I go on to terrordome, where the odds are vehemently against me? In a clusterfuck of a match that will come down to sheer dumb luck and not skill to win? I need to grab it now or forever live as Davey Dynamo’s failed “experiment.” His young protege who failed to capitalize on everything he had earned. I wasn’t handed anything, I worked my way up, I fought my ass off for everything I had. Losing was not an option.
The plane tipped forward as the captain announced we would be landing. “Wonderful” I thought. Let’s get into Montana. A all the way across the country from New York City. Again Jesse Styles was showing his influence. Sending me out here, forcing me to travel all over, while Al got to stay in New York. I shook my head. I couldn’t think that way. It is not anyone’s fault. Nobody is going to win or lose this match for me. It was all on me.
The plane touches down roughly, and slowly taxis to the terminal. I grab my bag, body shaking. I needed my pills, but couldn’t get to them stowed in the overhead bin. I got off the ramp and into the terminal, flung my bag off my shoulders, and quickly popped three pills, swallowed hard, and then walked out. In the baggage claim stood a man holding a cardboard sign with my name on it.
“You with the TV Station?” I ask, looking the guy over. He was dressed in blue jeans, cowboy boots, a blue flannel shirt and a white cowboy hat.
“Yes sir, you ready?” He asks.
“Ready as I will ever be I guess.” The uncertainty in my voice was obvious but he chose not to explore it. He struck me as the silent type, and I was ok with that.
I followed the man out to the parking ramp. We stopped beside a big blue mid 90s F150. “They couldn’t even send a limo or a nice car to pick me up,” I thought, but didn’t say anything. I hopped into the truck, and just sat back. I pulled my phone from my pocket, and flipped off Airplane mode. Instantly it began lighting up with messages.
“Call Me,” one read, followed by two more that read “Right away,” and “Urgent.”
The messages were from my friend Rudy, a private investigator. I had hired him to keep an eye on Dazi. I know we weren’t dating, but a friend of hers told me there was somebody causing problems for her and she had drove off in tears at a recent event. I needed to make sure she was safe. I still loved her, even if we weren’t together.
I quickly punch in Rudy’s number, and press send. The phone rings twice, and then I get an answer.
“Rudy?” I ask.
“Austen, where the hell were you?” He asks.
“I was on a plane to Montana. Jesse has me doing some morning show out here, so I had to fly out this afternoon so I could be up right away in the morning. What’s going on?”
“Well, I think Dazi is seeing someone else.” He said. My heart sank. “So soon?” I thought, I fought back the urge to cry. The girl that I loved, moving on so quickly, as if I was nothing to her. I shook it off, I couldn’t let it cloud my judgement.
“Any idea of who it is?” I ask, not sure I want to hear the answer.
“No clue, I’m trying to dig up some information, but he’s a tough nut to crack. He’s not in any criminal databases, so he seems clean, he’s not registered anywhere. Its like he just appeared out of nowhere.”
“Well, keep digging, keep an eye on her, and make sure she’s safe. I couldn’t bear the thought of something happening to her.”
“You got it buddy. I’ll keep searching.”
“Thanks for the heads up.” I hang up the phone, and stare out the window, the anger inside of me beginning to grow.
“What troubles you?” The driver asks, looking over at me.
“Nothin, woman troubles, nothing a good drink won’t handle. Any good bars in Helena?”
“Oh we got a few, what are you lookin for?” He asks.
“Hot women and strong drinks.”
“The Rialto in downtown is probably your best bet. It’s a bit of a college bar. All the college kids frequent there, and they have some great drinks and micro brews. Not really my atmosphere, too much loud music, but I think you’ll enjoy it.”
“Thanks for the tip.”
I look at my phone, and punch in Dazi’s number. I hit dial, but quickly hang up. I can’t do it right now. I need to stay focused on my match. She distracted me last time, and I lost. I was out of my own head, and I lost sight of why I was in that match. I can’t do that again.
Finally the truck pulled to a stop outside a small hotel. It looked like it was pretty historic, I shrugged, a bed and a shower are all I need. I shook the driver’s hand and opened the door.
“I’ll be here around 4:30 tomorrow morning to pick you up. You go on at 7:00.”
“Thanks uh…”
“Hank.”
“Thanks Hank. See ya in the morning.”
I walk into the hotel. It looked really nice, a nice old world feel, but really fancy. I was feeling alright about it. I checked in, and got my room key. I was surprised. It was an actual key, not one of those silly credit card things that always seem to stop working midway through your stay. I walked up the staircase to my room, and opened the door. The room was amazing. A king sized bed, a kitchenette and a jacuzzi. They spared no expense on this suite. Maybe Jesse was giving me a sign of thanks for going to this shit state.
I put my bag down, and just then realized I was still in my smelly workout clothes. I quickly jumped in the shower, and washed the stink off. I tried to remember why I was so nasty for my flight. Then it came roaring back. Destroying the locker room, a bar fight, and then running to the airport. It was like one bad dream. I don’t even fully remember the goings on of a few hours ago.
I step out of the shower and dry off, wrapping the towel around my waist. I look in my bag and realize all I had packed were my jeans and tshirt, and a pair of brown boots. No fresh underwear, no fresh socks, and none of my ring gear.
“Son of a bitch,” I threw my bag against the bed. I paced my room wrapped in just a towel for twenty minutes processing what I would do. I grab my phone.
“Yes, I need an order delivered to Trump Towers NYC Hotel by Monday.”
“There is no way we can do that sir,” The voice on the other end replies.
“You need to do it. This is Austen Impact. I am in an NEW Title match, I don’t have my ring gear, and I need boots and a singlet.”
“The only thing we can do is ship out an instock singlet and boots.”
“That’s fine, what do you have, anything red white and blue?”
“Yes, we have a red white and blue with a star in the middle of the front.”
“Fine, send that, and some blue boots, I’ll make that work.”
“Ok sir, that will be 373.33, do you want to pay by card?”
“Sure,” I quickly give my card info, and finish paying. One stress out of the way. Now I need something for my interview tomorrow. I get dressed, and go downstairs.
“Excuse me,” I lean on the counter, getting the attention of the receptionist.
“Yes, can I help you?” She smiles, and looks at me. She was quite attractive for a plain gal.
“Yes, I need to find a menswear store, is there one close?”
“Oh yes, Shoney’s just down the road has some very nice suits and menswear.”
“Thank you,” I smile at her, and walk out the door and down the street.
The sign on the front door was pretty unimpressive, just small lettering that said Shoney’s, but when I walked in there were suits galore. All sorts of mens suits, and sports coats. I was greeted by an older gentleman, who came slowly walking from the back of the store.
“Hello sir, how can I help you?” He extends his arthritic hand towards me, and I gently grasp it, as he squeezes. He had a shockingly firm shake for a man with hands as mangled as his.
“Well, I need a suit by tomorrow. I’m appearing on the morning show here in town, and in my haste to pack my bags I forgot to pack my suit.”
“You’re in luck. I have the best tailor in the state of Montana working here. He can get you fixed up by this evening.”
“It’s already 4 PM, how can he have one ready?”
“He’s that good.”
I shook off the skepticism, I wasn’t in a position to argue, and quickly grabbed a very nice tan suit with a tan and black tie. I was sized and fitted and out the door in about 15 minutes.
“Come back around 6:30, and I’ll have that ready for you.”
I shrugged, “Can you have it sent to the hotel down the street please? I am going to get some dinner and have a few drinks to unwind, I’m not sure I’ll be back by then.”
“Sure thing, it will be waiting at the check in.”
“Thank you so much sir.”
I left the store, and began walking. I saw the sign for the Rialto instantly. I took a deep breath and walked in. The crowd was crawling with gorgeous coeds. I bellied up to the bar, and quickly ordered a Jack and Coke. I turned around on my stool, looking at the dark concoction in my glass. I knew this was a bad idea, but with all the shit running through my head, it felt necessary. I quickly gulped and threw back the glass in one sip, surveying the room, looking for a young lady to take back to my hotel. I didn’t need to search long as a very attractive young lady in a very short, strapless blue pencil dress comes up to me. Her breasts were fighting a battle to break free, and it looked as though the dress was losing.
“You’re that professional wrestler guy aren’t you?” She says, inching in between the two bar stools, leaning on the bar, our bodies nearly touching.
“Yes, Austen Impact, how are you m’lady?” I kiss her hand, a gesture my father assured me was a deal sealer. It had never failed me in the past.
“I am Elizabeth, I am here with some girlfriends, I just broke up with my boyfriend. He loved wrestling, and I think it would make him insanely jealous if he saw us sitting with a wrestler.”
I wasn’t one to meddle in other people’s relationships, but I looked at the group of girls and every single one was gorgeous, so I complied.
She brought me across the bar, and we sat down at the booth where the ladies were all sitting.
“Ladies, this is Austen, he’s a professional wrestler.”
Elizabeth ran her fingers across my chest as I sat there. I raised my hand to the bartender and a server came with another round of drinks. I threw back my Jack and Coke quickly and motioned for another. I felt a brushing against my leg and soon realized one of the ladies across the table was running her foot up my leg. I looked across at her and she was just staring at me.
I felt like Odysseus trapped in a Siren’s song. These beautiful women fawning on me. I could feel three of them touching my body in some form or another, undressing me with their eyes. I ordered more drinks, and began throwing back drink after drink, getting more and more uninhibited as the night rolled on. I had forgotten everything and was enjoying dancing with the gorgeous women, three of them grinding against my body at a time.
It was amazing. I felt their bodies, wrapping my arms around them, feeling them up, and having a very fun time. I hadn’t had this much fun since I quit drinking. Pounding back drink after drink, I felt myself ready to go. I whispered in one of the ladies ears, she smiled at me, and all three left with me. We walked down the street to my hotel. Drunk and stumbling the whole way and laughing each time. The receptionist at the checkout desk stopped me and handed me my suit.
I carried it upstairs, and hung it up, ladies still all over me. One of them pushed me backwards on the bed, pulling up my shirt as all three started kissing my chest and stomach. I began pulling up the blouse of one of the ladies and she slapped my hand.
“We’re in control, you just enjoy the ride.”
The ladies began pulling my pants off, and playing. One of them wrapped her lips around me, and suddenly my phone rang.
“God dammit.”
“Just ignore it baby.” One of the ladies said, taking off her skirt, and pulling off her blouse.
I try to put the ringing out of my head, but my drunken mind wanders to my phone, worrying about who’s calling me. The ringing ends, and I begin getting into the mood again, as the women take turns on me, but the phone rings again.
“Jesus Christ, I have to take this I guess.”
I grab my phone from my pants pocket and it’s Rudy.
“Not a good time Rudy.”
“Look buddy, I’m...Are you drunk?” He asks, stopping himself mid sentance.
“So what if I am,” I reply, girls giggling in the background.
“Who’s with you?”
“Some beautiful ladies, now let me be.”
“I sent you a text message, you may wanna see it.”
“I don’t need a dirty pic, I have three dirty girls trying to work a number on me.”
“It’s about Dazi.”
“Fine.” I pull up my text messages and the picture pops up on my screen. Dazi, in Aaron Mercer’s arms, him kissing her neck. I hurl the phone across the room, enraged.
“GET OUT!” I yell pointing to the ladies.
“What?” one of them asks.
“I SAID OUT!”
“But…”
“OUT!” I grab the TV and hurl it into the Jacuzzi, sparks flying as it hits the water. The lights flicker, and the ladies start to shuffle out, not completely dressed.
I pace the room, anger swelling inside me. I start out of the hotel, trying to clear my head, but I am still drunk and enraged. A cop pulls up beside me.
“Going somewhere?”
“Just a walk officer, promise.”
“Look son, you’re quite drunk, maybe you should go home and get some rest.”
“I don’t need rest, I need a fucking walk.”
The officer steps out of his car, and approaches me. My judgement not fully there, I grab him and slam him hard against the concrete. His partner jumps out, gun pointed directly at me.
“DO IT!” I yell, “I have nothing to live for. My wife and daughter are gone, my parents disowned me, my best friend died, my girlfriend left me and is seeing another man. All I have is my lousy career. Just end it now.”
“Don’t take another step.”
I do take another step, and instantly I feel a jolt run through me. I feel my body tighten, but I don’t go down. Then I’m hit with another jolt. My body tenses more, the pain heavy. Finally I stumble to the ground, and am instantly pounced on and cuffed.
My whole body aches, side effects of being tazed mixed with the hangover, as I sit in a lone jail cell. I hear the keys begin to rattle, and the door swing open. In walks Jesse Style’s former assistant and Light’s Out Commentator Andy Dirks.
“You’ve caused quite a mess here Mr. Impact. In the span of a day you’ve destroyed the NEW locker room, got into a bar fight, sending three men to the hospital, and assaulted a police officer. Mr. Styles has thought about just releasing you from your contract, but realizes the draw of Austen Impact versus Al Envy, and this close to Ignite he cannot switch the card, so you are coming with me. We are flying back to New York City, and you will be under house arrest until Ignite. No booze, no going out, you will be in your room, guarded by two guards, and you will not leave until you get to ignite.”
Sobering up I realize this is really the only option I have. I am walked out of the room, I check out, get my personal effects, and meet Andy outside. He already has my bag and suit picked up from the hotel.
“You realize that you will not be getting paid for your title match. There are far too many damages to clean up. Your entire check and the next two are going towards repayment for your transgressions.”
“Thats fair,” I mutter quietly, embarrassed by my actions. I reach into my bag and reach around. I can’t find my bottle.
“These?” Andy shakes the pill bottle at me.
“Give them here you little shit.” I reach across the limo towards Andy as he pulls them away.
“No can do, you are restricted to two a day. Doctors orders.”
“I need them.”
“No you don’t, you think you need them.”
I lean my head back, frustrated. Arrested, house arrest, no pills, no booze, and I didn’t even get laid. I punch the seat in anger.
The limo moves down the runway of the airport and drops us off right at Jesse Styles private plane, guarded by two air marshals. I walk on behind Andy, and the Marshals follow me. I sit down in my seat, and the plane takes off.
I quickly drift to sleep, exhausted and in pain.
------------------------
Jill Mathews: I think that’s it I think it’s over!!!!!
Vince Walters: My god did you see that Left Hand Of God?
Jill Mathews: I sure did holy cow Austen took a big risk there and it did not pay off.
Vince Walters: Let’s get a camera angle on the grave come on people!
Jill Mathews: THERE IT IS THE CASKET IS BURIED UNDER THE DIRT AND THE REF IS SIGNALING FOR THE BELL!!!!!
DING!!!!!
DING!!!!!
Tom Davis:Here is your winner and STILL THE REIGNING DEFENDING N.E.W CHAMPION FATHER NATHAN!!!!
------------------------
I snap awake, breathing heavily, as the plane touches down. I can’t let Al Envy win this match. I must win, and I must show the world, that I am not a failure. I’ve let everyone down in my life, and I will not do it again.
My focus was drawn away by the voice of Andy.
“I just spoke to Mr. Styles. You’re going to have a drug and alcohol counselor accompany you everywhere you go. We can’t have any more incidents. We’ve had too many legal issues in the past. Any transgressions and you are out. We can’t afford to lose one of our top stars.”
“That’s fine,” I mumble, knowing it’s for the best. I’m not a user, I’m not a drunk, I’m Austen Impact. The best damn wrestler in the world. I must conquer my demons, and prove to my family that I did this for a purpose, prove to my father that I can do this, that the Olympics were nothing compared to being the top champion. Prove to my mom that I am worth more than just a kid. Prove to Sarah and Haylee that the sacrifices they made for my dream were not in vain. To prove to Dazi that I’m not just some drug addled schmuck. I am Austen Impact. I’m a good man, and a better wrestler. I may not have family now but I will have a family after Ignite. My family will be the past NEW Champions. I will be held in that echelon of elites that held the title. I will be the legend I set out to be.