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Oh, Frankie would give anything to be able to get in the ring with Stephanie. Her ass would be covered there, and she could cause as much damage as she pleased. The problem? Stephanie would make sure a match like that never happened, and Frankie knew that the egotistical neobaby wasn't worth the risk of never being able to walk again. As badly as she wanted it. A heavy sigh escaped her, and her entire posture relaxed once more. As if the dump of adrenaline was enough to exhaust her. And maybe these days, it was. Too many things to manage and not enough time to wrap her head around it. That was what it could be blamed on.

When Gia emerged, Frankie took the chance to get a good look. She was pretty, but unsure of herself. Not something that she would have associated with Hunter but then again, Frankie wasn't one to judge. Unless it came to Shawn's attempts to so call woo her. Thought for another time. Gia didn't look like one who could fully hold her own here. The risk of sending her out there was heightened.

"No, it's fine. Stephanie will be like a damn bullshark with blood in the water right now. Security will likely be at all the entrances and exits. Better for you to stay here until I figure something out." Hunter might have her head if anything happened anyway. Running a hand through her hair, she motioned for Gia to make herself comfortable. "Hunter can handle himself. Don't go worrying about that. And he has plenty of people to back him should it be needed. But, you wouldn't be the one causing trouble anyway. Stephanie gets a stick up her ass from the wind blowing the wrong way. Spoiled and used to getting what she wants, when she wants it." Frankie waved it all off.

There was a silence for a moment as Frankie continued to try and sort out what she could do. It was possible she could call someone and have them escort Gia somewhere safe. But that would require someone that she trusted and that Hunter trusted too. Unfortunately, that number felt nonexistent.

"I'm sorry that was your first experience at a show. Not exactly the tone he was hoping to set, I'm sure." Another pause. "You'll learn how to handle her. It's a lot of bluster for the most part honestly. And there are ways to work around her."

@[xoxoitsgia]

Gia followed Frankie's direction without hesitation and hid in the blind corner behind the cabinet. From there, she watched Frankie getting up and preparing to kick ass. Yeah, that was the perfect metaphor to describe it, because she sure looked ready for a fight, and Gia found it not only inspiring but low-key impressive.

Obviously, Hunter knew who to trust in those corridors and Frankie was one of those people, she didn't need to know her to instantly like her too simply because she trusted Hunter's judgement. He would have never sent her to someone who'd harm her. Plus, despite that, Frankie had a determination in her eyes that made Gia feel instantly safe.

Gia hid, staying as quiet as a mouse while listening to the conversation. Loads of what was said felt like private information about Frankie's background, she didn't know - but it was clear she and Stephanie already didn't like each other. How many people shared that sentiment around there? It's not like Gia was savvy; she barely started to understand wrestling, but ever since meeting Hunter, even though there were people literally out for each other's blood there, Stephanie seemed to be one of the most hated people, and with reason. Abusing power was definitely one of those.

When they were finally left alone, Gia hesitated to step forward, still holding herself in her arms, more than shaken. "Thank you," she cleared her voice, "I mean, you didn't have to do that for me. But know I am grateful." Gia's gaze fell on the door, but her thoughts clearly travelled much further than that. "She is going to give Hunter problems, I know it. Feel like it's my fault." Bringing her attention back to Frankie, she pushed out a small smile. "But that isn't your problem, I understand. I know you are probably busy - maybe I can wait a minute and then slip away, go wait for Hunter back at the hotel?" Yeah, that sounded like the safest option. Though it was the coward's way out. And even though she just got away, Gia hardly felt like a winner.

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"Maybe not," she agreed. "But at least I know what to expect. Guess that's better in a lot of ways than being completely new to it." Experience created expectations. Expectations meant being able to game plan. Being able to game plan meant that she was able to handle the situation and not have a break down or be caught off guard. It was a flow that she had accepted early on and one that had allowed her to move through time despite some of the things that she had been through. Cassy much preferred knowing what was to come than the unknown and unexpected. More often than not, unexpected meant pain she didn't always know how to cope with. At least this doctor wasn't as cold and sterile as some of the others. Or looked at her like she had ten heads, judging each and every second of her existence. Nova also took her seriously, something that Cassy instantly appreciated.

A small wince came, a hissing sound of pain issued through clenched teeth before she could contain it as the gentle touch still sent a shockwave of pain through her face.

"As long as it won't knock me loopy, do what you gotta do." She wasn't one to fight doctor's orders. Too much. At the same time, she much preferred having her senses and mind with her. Medication that dulled it was far too dangerous in he opinion. Hands grasped thighs as she took a few slow breaths through her mouth to try and calm down the throbbing that had kicked up.

Her eyes widened almost comedically so, the reaction far more than she typically gave. Boyfriend? Who the hell was saying that? Even so, there was a light tinge to her cheeks, likely still easy to pick up on through the blood that made her look more like something out of a horror movie than a wrestler. How the hell did she respond to that? Finally, she ended up shaking her head.

"It uh, it isn't anything like that at all." The words stumbled out, feeling awkward. Hands rubbed against her thighs, eyes darting away from Nova. Nerves. A clear sign of some nerves and finally the discomfort that had been hidden. Only magnified now. It wasn't anything against Kane. Cassy had never felt more like she belonged when she was with him. But the relationship wasn't that. "We're friends is all. He's helped me out so I don't mind helping him out." The unspoken fact that they were about all the other had felt heavy in the air. And then finally, Nova was speaking what Cassy had been trying to avoid in order to not make herself look a fool.

"I mean, yeah. Not really one for backstage gossip but that one was a little hard to avoid. Not to make you conscious of it or anything but it's definitely the talk of just about everyone...." She realized how it sounded and tried to backtrack a little bit. "But they are all worse then middle school girls. I'm sure the next thing will come around and grab their attention by next week. What's it to any of them what the two of you have going on? If you're happy, you're happy." She shrugged as if it wasn't a big deal. Yeah, she might not have been intimidated by Kane but something about Undertaker sent a chill down her spine. Slightly familiar and yet enough for Cassy to give the man a wide berth and a healthy dose of respect. Though, maybe with the fight that the brothers had going on, she might not be able to maintain that.

She held her breathe just a little bit in preparation of the sting of the anesthetic.

@[chicanova]

"Cassy will do just fine. It's nice to meet you," Nova smiled softly, encouraging Cassy to be still while she cleaned the blood off her face with a gauze soaked in disinfectant solution. "I can see that," she observed, still smiling. She'd never get over how these people were so used to being hurt that it became something they brushed off so easily. Guess it came with the trade, just as much as she was able to keep her cool in front of most bad injuries. "Your being used to it doesn't make it any better, I am afraid, but I admire the guts in a girl." Nova winked at the other, appreciating the much-gained liberty in the conversational and behavioural code she acquired ever since starting work there, something she didn't have while working in the emergency service.

After, Nova leaned closer, examining the fracture. "I might have to reset your nose," She probed Cassy's sore skin around the sinuses and, very gently, over the bridge of her nose, feeling the situation. "I guess you know the drill, that won't be nice, but I promise it'll last only a moment. I'd advise you to let me use a local anaesthetic?"

Nova smiled at Cassy's words, knowing well, by now, how that world worked. It was the world of fighters, crazy to begin with, and even crazier were the crowds following it, but since she was dating Death, there were very few things that surprised her now. "Helping your boyfriend?" Nova dared to ask, sending a more than curious look to the other. No need to be shy now that they exchanged a few words. It was hard to believe Cassy wouldn't know who Nova was, considering - despite her not being allowed to ask or know more - T and Kane were still brothers and hated each other. And everyone knew that. "Brave of you to take a chair to the face for him. If I have to guess, he will be fuming about it." Because Taker would if she ever dared to put herself in danger, even for him. Nova wondered how much the brothers could be similar. Surely, some similarities must exist since Cassy seemed the only woman around there not scared shitless of Kane - just like she was with T.

"Not massively busy, no, so far you are the worst," Nova threw her bloodied gloves off, washed her hands, regloved and then started to set up a small tray with the necessary equipment to finish mending Cassy. "I guess some lucky bastard is going through trying to help your-" Nova had to contain herself not to say beast, which was generally the term used around there for Kane, "Man." She said instead, deciding to be polite because she liked Cassy. Nova smiled. "Sorry, I really don't mean to be inappropriate. Tell me to mind my business and I will," small pause, "It's just... I mean, you must know who I am? Who I am with?"

Taker would have hated to know she was making friends with someone that close to his brother.

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Cassy didn't register that Kane had pulled up to his feet, didn't register that he was reaching out. No, she was lost in a sea of thoughts that threatened to drag her under and drown her in their weight. Feelings long fought off and hidden under lock and key. Ones never meant to see the light of day, around anyone or anything. Thoughts meant to be her own. No one cared about them anyway. She had been alone in this world from moment one. It was silly to think that she could have anything but a singular existence. The friends she had made in the indies could only fill so many gaps. And they never got it. Didn't understand. Facsimiles of what she really needed. Never quite close empigh to soothe the ache that was ever present. One hidden behind the kind smiles and willingness to help others.

A deep weariness seemed to wash over her in that moment. She had thought maybe. But it was foolish to hope and think. She could survive and be strong but it was always on her own. That lesson had been taught early in life. Hoping only led to disappointment.

Before she could move too far, her body was yanked in the opposite direction and she found herself crushed against the solid wall of muscle that was Kane's body. One that was bare and still slightly damp from his shower, a thought her treacherous mind would have conjured up if she hadn't spiraled so far so quickly. Confusion reigned for a few seconds before the apology reached her ears. Never a bother? She wanted to believe that but she wasn't so sure. Still, a shuddering breath came, Cassy desperate to try and calm herself down.

Once more, she was wrapped in the soothing warm and comfort that came from his sheer presence, intensified with the touch. Practically smothered in it now. It took a second longer before her arms lifted and wrapped around him in return. Clinging almost desperately, despite how she had tried to control herself. Was there much thought given to the entire situation? No. Not in the least if she was honest about it. But there was that draw there that had never been felt before in her life. The lingering taste of comfort, of safety, of belonging that had been teased had been enough to leave her desperate for more. Even at the risk of her own sanity over it.

Opening up even a little almost always ended in pain, the sort that sent her to a mental place thaf was difficult to recover from. It didn't feel like that risk was there when it came to whatever this was. An odd sort of friendship she supposed?

Her face buried against his chest, she didn't risk looking up or in any way at him. For fear of losing what little composure she still managed to maintain. Crying in front of anyone was simply not an option. Never an option. She might not have been able to help herself if she did properly look at the man.

"You sure?" Voice far more shaky than she would have liked. He had to have better things to do. Her cheeks burned as embarrassment coursed through her. Well done making a fool of yourself, she thought. Was he comfortable with it? Or was he just being kind? "I'm sorry..."

@[thedevilsfavouritedemon]

Kane learned very soon in his life not to care about anyone but himself, and that had become a pretty easy habit to live with throughout his very long, very lonely existence. Selfishness and apathy were required to be able to survive brutalities such as the ones he had seen and experienced. Never once did he find himself second-guessing it. Never before had he been so touched by someone else's well-being to consider changing that trait. Until Cassy.

She had the power not only to get his attention, but to make him care so deeply he needed to turn the world around just to know she was ok. Poor her, what a horrible destiny, and yet, he couldn't fight it. He tried. He hid from her at first. And tried to stay away after they met, but just couldn't assert control over it when she was so close. Trying to make her understand she was better off without him was the most painful thing he had ever done, and yet, her not being willing to let him was even scarier.

He wasn't used to feeling, let alone feeling that much. His emotional maturity was extremely simple, much too simple to understand the deeper connotation of his interest towards her. And surely he didn't know how to deal with all of those emotions the second he realised he was the one hurting her. The switch in her behaviour, from convinced and stubbornly trying to get him to see what she saw in him, to hurt was devastating.

No people, she said.

How could that be? How could she have no one? And how could he ever let her go now that he knew that much? Did she go through the same anguish he had to, walking alone every day? Did she miss the idea of someone taking care of her just like he did? Did she need that the same way? Did it hurt?

"No," Kane ordered, and before she could turn away from him, he got up and grabbed her, maybe too rudely, pulling her into a hug he couldn't keep himself from giving, acting out of instinct and pure emotion. The need to keep her safe, to keep her close, was bigger than knowing he should have broken her heart and let her go. He squeezed her small frame to his chest, shaking his head. "I am sorry," his voice fell to a soft whisper. "You are no bother. Never a bother. Don't think that,"

If someone walked in now, they would have seen the demon at his most vulnerable point, holding his only true weakness.

"Stay," he brushed the edge of his mask over her head. It was too late for her to disdain or refuse him. "As long as you like."

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Was part of the worry and the need to check on her simply due to the fact the bar was crowded? Maybe. Was it a level of worrying that someone was going to come and harass her? Yeah, that did play a factor into it. Hunter wasn't one to examine his feelings too closely. So, he didn't want to bring to light the feeling that he didn't like being too far from her. This was a woman that he had met that evening. She couldn't be allowed to throw his entire world into a tailspin. Yet, there was something there that was so entirely different from everyone and anything else. A sense of connection that he had with only a small handful of other people. An important thing that couldn't be overlooked. Not when it felt bigger than simply this very moment.

Hunter shook his head at the tease, leaning back in his head and placing a hand over his heart, as if she had wounded him with the very notion of it all. To be this free and relaxed, to be able to goof around was not a privilege that everyone had. A fact that she could not have known about and he wasn't about to enlighten her to the fact.

"I bring you here to save you from jumping out a window and this is how you repay me? Insulting my good name and trying to say I'm robbing the cradle. I don't know what I'm going to do. Evening ruined. This is what I get for being nice." There was no way to stop the smile that remained, entirely cutting any risk of the words being taken seriously. A long pull of his beer was taken as a means to soothe the anguish. "Being called old. A man's ego will never recover. I'll just have to give up my job and go into hiding now. Never to be seen again." Barely was he able to restrain the laughter that threatened to ruin the end of the sentence. Though, he did outright laugh as she tried the offended route herself.

"Cocktails and wine are boring," he offered with a playful smile. "We'll get you living life yet. Don't worry. The cheap beer and greasy burgers will create a whole new palate for you." There was something so satisfying about the combination. Maybe because it was a bit of a cheat meal. Maybe because it was simplistic. Maybe because it was just down right good. Whatever it may be, Hunter was more pleased to be enjoying it now compared to ever before and that was down to the company he was keeping.

"Well, certainly a hell of a lot cheaper than therapy for sure." He paused and really thought about the best way that he could explain it. In a way that made sense. That was perhaps the biggest challenge. After a second, he seemed to settle on it. "Was always into sports growing up. Actually played some basketball and baseball, believe it or not. Got into bodybuilding as a teenager and things sort of spiraled from there after a few competitions. Met some wrestlers and decided it was what I wanted to do. Didn't want to do the whole college thing. Guess I got lucky that it worked out. Turns out, I'm pretty damn good at punching people in the face." At least it was an honest answer. He didn't feel the need to try and inflate it for her sake, to try and impress. It felt more organic and natural to give her the real reason. Inherently knowing she would appreciate that more.

Any sort of follow up was cut short by the drunk ass that bumped into the table. Almost instantly, Hunter was wound tighter than a spring, ready to intervene. It was with immense restraint that he initially held himself back, knowing that a fight wouldn't do any good, especially since the guy hadn't done anything just yet. But the creep wasn't taking any cue. Too drunk to realize. Or too much of an asshole to care. Either way, Hunter was not going to let him get away with that behavior. His beer set aside, the gentle touch to his forearm was more than enough needed.

"She isn't interested. Now, I think it would be best if you wandered back over to your friends, don't you?" The tone left little room for arguments, even a daft drunk would be able to pick up on that. He shifted his chair just a hint closer, sizing the guy up. No doubt there would be some false bravado there and he was ready to handle it. Already, he was inching slowly out of his seat, ready to stand. And after a few seconds, he did just that, not afraid to attempt to Intimidate the drunk to get him to scurry off and leave them to their evening.

@[xoxoitsgia]

That entire situation was peculiar, and everything tying her up to Hunter was even stranger. There was a feeling there, something she didn't recognise that knotted up in her abdomen, making her heart beat fast and her cheeks flush anytime her dreamy eyes fell on the man. And whatever that tie was, it felt like it was getting them closer and closer each second.

Gia had learned very quickly not to miss people, loneliness, absent family and being touch-emotionally starved since she was a child was much easier to deal with when she pretended she didn't need anyone. But, in the brief minute Hunter left the table to go order, she found herself realising she immediately missed his company. Absurd, in itself, and yet, so plain and simple, it was devastating. She wanted to be by his side, and anything else seemed so unimportant.

She was well aware reality would have knocked at their door sooner rather than later, but, for now, she was willing to ignore it. Was it worth remembering she had another identity and responsibilities to go back to when she had never felt alive before she walked into this stranger's car?

"Oh, I am sure you do," she giggled, tapping her index finger on her lower lip, pretending to examine him, studying his features. "I was wondering if you aren't too old for me," a cheeky smile popped on her lips as she openly teased him.

"Sir," Gia followed up, pretending to be utterly offended at his question. She knew he wasn't judging her, but it was just fun to be having fun with him. "I'll have you know I am the classic fine wine girl, or, if the occasion requires it, a cocktail. But, this place doesn't suggest any of that, right? And I must blend in. Plus, god, that sounds so boring said out loud." She giggled, shaking her head. Then, she leaned closer, unafraid and unbothered by the complicity growing between them. "So, tell me, how did you get into wrestling?" She had many more questions, devoured by her need to know everything about him. "Punching people in the face all day beats therapy, I guess." He surely had the look of someone who could, potentially, make you regret crossing him. But, with her, he looked nothing but gentle, and she felt safe around him, more than with any other good-for-nothing bloke she crossed before for sure. "Must be a hell of a life you live," she continued, "For all the good reasons." Freedom, for one.

Then, suddenly breaking their moment, a drunken guy walked into her and lost balance, stumbling on their table. "Oop, fuck, sorry," the hazed attention of the guy fell on Gia first and never moved, as a slimy smile grew on his lips. "Oh, wow, you are a pretty one, uh?" He mumbled, words slurred by too much alcohol, possibly. No attention was paid to Hunter whatsoever. He drew closer, causing her to instantly freeze. Gia tried to move away, but the space on her chair wasn't enough. "What's your name? Wanna come have fun with my friends?" His gaze fell oll over her, making her feel extremely uncomfortable. Gia reached over the table, grabbing at Hunter's forearm, both a plea and to feel the reassurance that he was close. "No, thank you," she expressed politely, knowing the guy's attention wasn't about to dissipate that easily.

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Hunter flipped Shawn off, playfully as he chuckled around his beer. It was just the sort of relationship that the men had. The back and forth playfulness was the core of what it had been built on. A foundation that remained strong even through all the shit that they had to deal with in the business and with the outside world. The one comfort when shit got too crazy to understand or deal with. Shawn was a constant and one that Hunter wasn't willing to lose. No matter what happened outside of them. Though the depth of that was not something that he acknowledged even to himself.

Nor was he about to tell Shawn that he had only slept with Gia once so far. Having that relationship not built on just the physical pleasure, on just sex, was a new thing but had felt right when it came to what had developed between them. He hadn't wanted her just for the sake of her body. It was all new to him. Well, most things more than a one night stand or a casual, benefits sort of relationship was new to him.

Hunter's brow rose at the Bret Hart comment. It made absolutely no sense for him and he felt that there was a story there that was probably worth exploring. Just before he could open his mouth and ask, to get more information for the puzzle, the two girls showed up. And Shawn's reaction was the final nail in the coffin. He had known he was serious. That much had been established. But seeing Shawn turn down the eager attention of two willing women was enough for Hunter to know that there wasn't any turning back. Frankie was either going to change the course of Shawn's life like Gia had done with him or she would entirely destroy him.

His eyes remained locked on the scene before him until the girls wandered away with a giggle. Hand remained wrapped around the glass so he didn't accidentally reach out and checking Shawn for a temperature. There was no doubt about it. Frankie had Shawn wrapped around her finger without realizing it. And something was going to need to be done to ensure that the man across from him wasn't entirely destroyed.

It was a matter of how he went about that. That was the real question and one that Hunter would have to put a little thought into in order to come up with something that wouldn't backfire right in his face. Not his strongest suit but he would have to get it figured out.

"And you called me completely tossed. You two aren't even together and you are turning girls down." Did he need to point it out? No. But, maybe they could talk this out a bit and figure something out. Even if it was through some teasing. Hunter finished off his beer and shook his head a bit. "What's really the plan here, Shawn?"

He ordered them around round of drinks, knowing that they would be needed if they were going to broach this subject and try to make some sort of headway on it all. Hunter wasn't able to deal with the idea of his friend being broken or missing a chance at happiness. Frankie certainly could offer that. She had the attitude to be able to handle Shawn. Even if it was the cause of the problem right now. She was stubborn though, as much as Shawn could be. Getting her to see something other than what she already had was the biggest challenge.

@[theheartbreakkid]

Shawn was truly happy for his best friend, but there was a hidden layer of jealousy and pride he wasn't willing to acknowledge that stung anytime he thought Hunter was so happy with Gia and he had been left out. Part of him so wished it to be simply because he had a crush on a girl that didn't want him and was feeling emotional over Hunter's luck, but, deep down, he knew that wasn't it. Not entirely.

But he wasn't about to start thinking about that now; he had already enough heartbreak on his plate. He could deal with being rejected by a girl - barely. But he surely couldn't deal with that if it involved Hunter. Easier to pretend nothing was there.

"You give my regards to your pretty girl, yeah?" Shawn hid his slick smile behind his beer, sending the other a clear, cheeky look. "How are you going to cope on your own? Gonna run to her as soon as you get a moment free?" Shawn's annoying grin didn't disappear, eyebrows lifted up high on his forehead, clearly alluding to anything dirty that could be hidden between the lines. And with him, there always was.

His body language changed drastically when the conversation veered toward Frankie. From open, warm and joking, Shawn stiffened under his visible discomfort, suddenly feeling uncomfortable under his own skin. That damn girl had him ticking like no other ever did. "I know that," he shrugged, "But there are some things I can't change. I can try and be more considerate. But you know how I am, and I can't pretend to be something different. Not if I want her to like me for me." Shawn drew a thin smile, shaking his head. "Can't pretend to be fucking Bret Hart when I am HBK you know?" That, somehow, was supposed to make sense even though Hunter couldn't have an idea of what Shawn was on about.

While the two talked, a couple of blonde girls in skimpy outfits, clearly out to have some fun, stumbled to their table. The two giggled, holding each other's arms, and looked at the two of them with big smiles. "So," one of them started as the other giggled, standing real close to Shawn. "We saw you from across the bar and wondered if you boys needed company?"

"She just broke up with her boyfriend, you see?" The one closer to Shawn ran her hand on his arm, flirty all over from her voice to her gaze, to the way her body leaned against him. "She needs the fun." The girl close to Shawn looked over to Hunter, offering a tempting smile.

Up to a few weeks ago, the two of them wouldn't have hesitated to delve into the fun, ending up giving the girls what they asked and more, maybe sharing them. They surely were smoking hot. And yet, despite everything in Shawn's nature tending to respond to that prompt positively, he still cringed under the girl's touch, finding it unwanted.

He had never refused a girl before, but he did it now.

He had learned pretty quickly that Frankie had cursed him in that department too. No woman was her, and no matter the amount of sex he had, it never truly satisfied his need. Plus, she had been clear last time they spoke: she didn't want to be another notch in the bedpost, and he didn't want her to be either - that much was clear enough now.

"Ladies," he raised his hands peacefully, diffusing their clearly unwanted attention. "Two boys like us can't feel anything but fluttered, but I am afraid you picked the wrong night." He still melted into his most charming smile - some things couldn't be helped. "Don't let us keep you from having actual fun, uh?"

The girls giggled, so under his spell they were willing to do as he asked, not even perceiving it as a refusal. "We certainly will." They both purred.

"Good girls," Shawn nodded, encouraging them to move on and not paying the slightest attention to them as soon as they left his field of vision.

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@attitude-erarp

♠️.

[darknessembrxced-archive]

The shift equally affected both. He wasn't unaware of the fact. An entirely new perspective to be looking at life with, whether human or immortal, it hardly mattered. The very ground beneath their feet had shifted, and what was once known now seemed to be in question. Taker had thought he would have been destined to walk the Earth alone. Something he had contented himself with, even if there had been other ideas toyed with over the years. Nothing could last, nothing would last. It hadn't been worth the trouble. Then along came Nova, who threw everything on its head in such a jarring way. Surely, the same way that she had felt, he acknowledged in his mind.

The physical closeness, the actual touch, was far better than what they had been sated with while in the realm of dreams. Reflexively, his fingers against her hip tightened just a bit. It was a deep internal struggling, fighting against the knowledge that his time was up here with his abilities, and the need to stick around, to keep close, and give assurance. Perhaps more. He finally had her properly, right where she belonged and it had to be cut short.

Taker had never been a weak man. In any aspect of this life. But in that very moment, the length of her body pressed against his with the soft touches she was giving certainly made him feel that way. He wanted to be able to give her what she wanted. As much sway as he had over her, it would become obvious to her that same sort of sway was held over him.

He couldn't deny her. The soft smile that she gave, gentle, caring was something he would do anything and everything to see. The look that should always be there. He may have been darkness, encompassing everything about it, but that smile was a ray of light he wouldn't stamp out.

Then the words came out as almost a small challenge. One that he couldn't back down from. The hand against her cheek slid slowly down to her neck, grasping lightly but leaving little doubt that she could move. Eyes searched hers for just a moment, ensuring it was indeed what she wanted. There was no doubt reflected back at him. Only want. Something that made that pull to leave that much harder on him.

Leaning him, he pressed his lips against hers, giving her exactly what she had wanted. Taker didn't restrain himself this time. It wasn't meant to be soft or slow. It was meant to give her exactly what she needed to let her know how serious he was about it, to give her that reason to follow him. It was meant to give them both something to hold onto. Emotions that hadn't been present if ever before in his life.

That familiar feeling of his powers reaching a bit of a limit. The ability had been used for far too long and he knew he didn't have much more time. Even if he wanted to make it last. There was only so much that even he could do.

@[chicanova]

Nova's anger died down in a second. More than having a point to prove, and certainly more than wishing to demonstrate how she was a strong, independent woman who needed nobody, the idea of being separated took her entire focus.

Who was he? He had been cryptic and yet devastatingly clear on his identity, and she knew he wasn't lying, but her need to know him went beyond identity or history, it went beyond the simple flesh. It wasn't only a matter of his name; it depended on knowing why he made her feel like her centre of gravity had changed, from the floor to him. How could she feel so safe, so deserving and belonging? The idea of being found by him, like he did, didn't scare her. It relieved her. It revived her. Like she had waited for it to happen her entire life.

And the way she needed him close was devastating. So strong that she was willing to forget how mad at him she could be, or how infuriating his ways were, just to have another second in his presence. Just to feel his touch, to have his attention.

Her soft, hazel gaze crossed his features, studying his face, ingraining into her memory to make sure she wouldn't forget anything. Not a single inch, not a single second. Fated, he had said, and nothing had made as much sense to her as that. She knew it, deep down. She may still not know who he was and what he wanted from her, but she knew instinctively he was hers and trying to fight it would have been like trying to defile the laws that kept the universe together.

Why did gravity exist? Why did time flow? How was life created? How could anything make sense in her existence without him?

As his fingers traced her cheek, Nova moulded herself into his touch and didn't refuse how he pulled her close. Her heart pounded violently in her chest, so strong she felt it in her stomach.

Her hands slid around his waist, at first attentively, taking their time to explore that foreign body, but then, she felt daring, wrapping her arms around him. She released a soft sigh as he kissed her forehead, finding his soft care something precious to keep. Something only hers. His large body pressed against her intimately and radiated a pleasant warmth that seeped into her skin. She had desired nothing else ever since the first moment she saw him.

Her hands explored his back, testing the feel of his solid muscle running up the column of his spine, while she rubbed her face into his chest like a cat, inhaling his scent deep into her lungs. The need to nuzzle directly onto his naked skin was sudden and ravaging, leaving her breathless.

Nova looked up at him, and a soft, tempting smile crossed her lips. "It's not enough," she finally said, deciding to be brave like never before - and yet not afraid to jump into the void. "Kiss me." She challenged him, "Kiss me properly. Give me something worth making me leave my life for you." Not that she thought she had that choice anymore, but he didn't need to know she gave in that easily.

[darknessembrxced-archive]

She stopped all movement. Not eyeing him like a cornered animal, weary and waiting for him to snap. No, there wasn't any of that there. What happened instead was almost a brief look of understanding. Cassy respected the distance that had established almost immediately, hand once more finding the brace and fidgeting with it. An outlet for some nervous energy. Kane didn't make her nervous in any sense of harm or unease. But more because there was something so uncommon there for her. Something that she had such little experience with but selfish wanted to cling so desperately to that it couldn't slip away. There were so few moments that she had known peace, true unencumbered peace. Yet, his presence seemed to quiet it all down and offer a glimpse of that.

"No, I suppose I don't really know you," she conceded. "But, I like to think myself a decent judge of character. There are monsters out there. And I've met some. But you aren't one of them." She shook her head, as if adding a sense of conviction to the words. There wa a knowledge there though that the words would likely fall short. A failure she would have to accept. That still didn't change the game plan of ensuring that he was repaid with something that he enjoyed.

No place. While it hadn't been said with malice or any sort of cruel intentions, those words unintentionally cut deep. Logically, she knew that he meant it in a self-deprecating fashion. But, words she had heard too often, from far too many people, held a great effect over her. A near flinch, face falling before she could stop it, shoulders curling in on themselves unconsciously. As if she was trying to hide right where she stood.

The follow-up comment just seemed to pour salt into the wound. Eyes dropped, and a sad smile appeared. Yeah, guess she didn't quite belong here either.

"There, uh, there aren't people." Nobody here. Certainly not within the company she worked for. The few friends she had through the others, they were scattered and doing their own thing. "I get it, and I'm sorry. I won't be a bother again." She stepped back, still curled in on herself and shifted to head to the door.

@[thedevilsfavouritedemon]

When Cassy moved closer, Kane couldn't help but react to her. He stiffened, at first moving back, as if to put distance between them. His entire body felt her. He was extremely aware of every breath she took, of her weight on the floor, of her warmth on his exposed skin.

He wanted her to leave. He wanted her to want to leave. To be scared of him enough to see in what kind of trouble she was. In what kind of danger? He knew what he needed to do, but he didn't have the strength. Looking up, hiding his exhaustion and weakness behind his mask, Kane just looked at her.

How could she be so courageous? So convinced?

"You don't know me." He exhaled, almost scared to talk. Hadn't she heard the stories? Hadn't she seen anything of what he was capable? And yet, she was right on something. He could have hurt her as easily as he did everyone else, but he would have never done that. Not willingly. She was too precious and kept reconfirming herself as the creature with the most gentle heart. Who would dare to show him compassion? Or sympathy? She did it so freely, because she wanted to, not because she was forced into it or expected anything.

She may never know how much that meant to him.

Kane's gaze fell on his hands, watching them, inspecting them like he would with weapons. Because that's what they were. Centuries of brutality weren't cancelled because he did one good thing for one person. "You are all goodness." He declared with a nod. An unbreakable fact. "You have no place around me."

He was used to being alone. She could be a pleasant memory to carry around. That was how things were supposed to work.

"Go back to your people," he hinted softly, looking back up at her and wishing he never did. She made him so weak without even trying. Not defeated, not exhausted, but removed of hate. His always burning anger was calm around her. He smiled softly under his mask without even realising, sending her a small nod of encouragement, letting her go.

[darknessembrxced-archive]

Panic. There was no other way to describe the look that streaked across the woman's face as she was desperate for Frankie to lower her voice. That sort that really left her feeling like she wanted no part of whatever it was that was going on. The issue came when the name fell from the woman's lip. Gia. Hunter. Yeah, the man had thankfully given her a heads up that he was bringing someone to the show and having them backstage. It sort of went in one ear and out the other, though. Hunter had a habit of throwing information like that at her during some of the worst possible times. Generally when she was focused on ten other things that at least in the moment were deemed far more important.

Before Frankie could respond or even offer a bit of a laugh at the off handed comment, a familiar voice shrieked in the hall. Ah, now everything was falling into place. Confusion dropped instantly. Frankie shifted, feet plopping down to the floor from where they had been propped. The woman, Gia, was only behind the door. Not the best of places.

"Move behind that cabinet," she murmured and motioned to the one in question. There should have been just enough room for Gia to slip behind it and be completely hidden. If Stephanie was on the war path for the current refugee, well Frankie would gladly play misdirect.

A lot of people said that Frankie and Stephanie were alike. And, there were a lot of people who deserved to have their teeth knocked down their throat in Frankie's opinion. The similarities were bare minimum. It pretty much stopped at two. Their fathers both ran wrestling companies, and they were both raised in the business. As far as Frankie was concerned, however, that was where it all ended. Frankie learned the business and respected it. Deeply. Stephanie had not and certainly didn't. Frankie had worked for everything, having not been given a free pass by her father. Stephanie had not. Frankie didn't view this place as a playground or pushed her own ambitions beyond everyone else's. Stephanie did. Simply put, they were two very different people and the youngest McMahon was someone that Frankie could not stand. Had no respect for. Would gladly fuck with any opportunity presented. Just like this very moment.

Standing up, she rolled her neck and stretched her back a bit, waiting for the impending knock. If she was lucky. More than likely Stephanie was going to barge through. As if Frankie might not have one of the guys on the table.

"Okay, princess. Let's play the game," she murmured, staring at the door. And as if on cue, Stephanie came barging right in. Two security stood right at the door behind her. Something that had Frankie wanting to roll her eyes. Christ, the woman really got off on a power trip. Just another reason to dislike her. "You know better than to barge in here like that, Stephanie. I coulda had one of the guys on the table. Now, mind telling me what's got you so worked up you forgot that fact? Could hear the commotion in here." Arms crossed her chest, Frankie stood her ground. However, it wasn't out of the ordinary. A common stance taken when she was interrupted as she had been. Especially by the raging psycho before her.

"Don't play coy with me," Stephanie began. "Or do you forget that my father is the one signing your paychecks?" By the skin of her teeth, Frankie managed to bite her tongue. A slow, deliberate breath, one that wasnt fully obvious but the slight tick of her jaw was a give away. "Where is she?"

"Who?" Frankie had to keep composure. It was essential to this working. "I've been in here all night with a steady parade of guys in and out for their tune ups. Haven't seen a single one of the women, though Chyna is scheduled to be here in about twenty. So, I don't know the she that you're referring to." Frankie's gaze remained locked on Stephanie. Even as the other woman looked around.

"I know she came in here." The room appeared empty though. "She didn't vanish into thin air."

"Again, no one besides the guys and now yourself have come in here this evening. Whoever you're looking for isn't here." The lie flowed so easily. As if Frankie was bored by the whole thing already. Selling it as such, she settled back down and picture her book back up. "Have fun looking around the small space I have here. As far as vanishing in thin air, you do know we have several guys well and truly capable of that shit." She chuckled with the words as her eyes fell onto the book.

"Don't think this is over. If I find out you hid her, there's going to be hell to pay. I'll make you regret every coming out of that sorry excuse, backward, hick shit show your father pretends to run." Frankie stood for a lot but a jab to her family was a cut that ran deep. She was white knuckling the book now.

"You come and tell me when that happens, okay? Sounds good. Now, if you'll excuse me..." it was nearly on bated breath that she waited before Stephanie and the goon squad finally cleared out, the door falling shut. Frankie wasn't about to ask Gia to come out. Not yet. They needed at least two minutes before she could shift from her hiding spot. Just to be safe.

That entire time, her eyes remained locked on the door. As if daring Stephanie to come again come raging inside like a bull in a China shop. But it never happened. Cautiously, she got up and moved to the door. No sounds, no talking. They were likely in the clear.

"You can come out now. We should be good from the....what did you call her earlier? A harpy? Not a bad comparison. But I digress, we should be good for the rest of the night. I would say that you could hang in here but I do have someone coming in." Hunter had to be close to being done with whatever he was facing that night, right? She sighed and scrubbed a hand over her face. "For now, you can hang until we figure out a better plan. "

@[xoxoitsgia]

Gia was new to all of that. When she took a holiday before, she was used to going on a shopping trip to Milan, or going sunbathing at a poolside in some Hollywood villa, or in some remote, exclusive island in the South Pacific. But she never knew the gritty taste of life on the road, hotel room after hotel room, eating mostly diner food, one American city after the other, without the time to be a tourist. Most importantly, without the pressure of being Regina. And it was exhilarating.

Ever since she met Hunter, her life became a beautiful lie. But was she supposed to consider it so when what she felt for him was so real? Was it still fake when everything he offered was all she had craved her entire life, feeling alive for the first time?

No. She didn't think so. Nothing of what she offered to Hunter was faked besides that small, insignificant white lie everyone was willing to ignore.

Now, from the backstage, Gia watched eagerly from one of the live-stream TVs as Hunter walked out to the ring, still learning how wrestling worked, getting used to dating a fighter. His and Shawn's music echoed loudly in the arena as the crowd exploded, welcoming them with enthusiasm. Gia smiled proudly. Hunter looked good in his gear.

"Excuse me?" Gia's attention got dragged away from the screen and to the closing-in young woman who marched to her. The other had a sharp smile on her lips that didn't affect her cold gaze. Where did she see her already? "Why are you here?"

"Uh," Gia felt like she was caught doing something wrong for a moment. Her cheeks flushed as panic settled in. Then, she remembered the pass Hunter gave her that gave her access to pretty much anywhere backstage. "I'm Gia," she bubbled, pushing out a sweet smile, hoping to win the other woman's sympathy.

"Yeah, I know who you are." The woman rolled her eyes.

"Sorry," she offered the other woman a look at her pass, "I'm a guest of Triple H," she cleared her voice, trying to remember how he instructed her. He didn't mention that she couldn't stand freely around there. "I-I didn't know I couldn't be here, is there a designated area or-"

The other woman looked at her for a long moment, disgust and hatred not at all hidden on her face. Then, she burst out into a sour laughter, shaking her head. "You must be kidding me." The other switched from being entertained to disappointed in a moment as every trace of a smile left her. "Hunter surely likes jokes," The way the woman spoke made Gia feel extremely uncomfortable under her skin. "Look, don't take this personally, but you aren't his type. And I will do us both a favour now and kick you out. You aren't welcome here."

"I beg your pardon?" Gia was shocked.

The other smiled hatefully. "Men like Triple H don't end up with girls like you. Hunter, specifically, we need him single. Have you seen him? Well, of course you have. So, you understand he attracts girls. We can't have him running after a little thing like you. So, get out of my arena."

Her words hit Gia harder than she wished to admit. She wasn't that naive not to know the other was wrong or was trying to get to her with plain bullying, but part of her couldn't help but wonder where did it come from?

"You cannot do that." She tried to reason, shaking her head. Panic raising. That conversation didn't only involve her being in the wrong place, it involved her being with Hunter.

And then she remembered. The Gala. That's where she was the woman before. She was at the Gala parading Hunter around. When they ran away together, he ran from her, among other things.

"Wanna bet?" the other smiled again, this time, it was dangerous, "I can do that and more. I can do what I want, considering this is my gig. So, c'mon, get out of here before I get security."

Gia raised her chin. "I am sorry, but no. You cannot do this," She crossed her arms, stubbornly looking up at her. "And, for the record, I am exactly Hunter's type - if you care to know. I dare you to try and have this conversation with him."

The other chuckled, annoyed, clearly not liking someone talking back at her - especially Gia. "I'll make you regret it. Now wait here, I'll go get security."

The hell she would.

As soon as the woman turned around and placed some distance between them, Gia was already running in the opposite direction. She didn't know the backstage very well, but she remembered Hunter's instructions. If she ran into any trouble, she needed to find a certain Frankie, a physiotherapist, in the medical quarter. And that's exactly what she did without hesitation.

Ignoring the commotion behind her, Gia heard the woman screaming at her to stop and continued, putting some distance between them, enough to turn the corner and throw herself into the examining office without them seeing where she went exactly. Gia didn't even catch her breath before flattening herself in the corner behind the door, just now raising her gaze into the room. "Please," she whispered, hinting at the girl on the other side of her desk to lower her voice. "I'm Gia, I'm with Hunter? Uh- Triple H?" God, she sure hoped that made sense to the other girl. "I am currently being chased down by a crazy harpy who's trying to kick me out. I guess I stole her favourite toy or whatever," it was a little funny but Gia didn't wait to see if Frankie found it as funny, "I-please, let me hide here? Please?"

When the other woman's voice approached outside the office, in the corridor, Gia quieted down, remaining very still. Her eyes pleaded as she looked over to Frankie.

[darknessembrxced-archive]

Oh, the doc had a sharp sense of humor. That was good. It would help her in this industry for sure. There were surely, grouchy, aggravated guys abound. Worse so when there was injury and they had to be looked at. Cassy probably would have been that way with her dislike of doctors, but it wasn't in her DNA. She had to really dislike someone to keep them at arms length and come close to being snappy. Giving her best grin through the blood, she shrugged as if talking about the weather and not receiving yet another beating.

"Cassy Jane, but feel free to call me Cassy, Cassy Jane, CJ. Honestly, I'll probably respond to most variations or semblance of my name. Not sure about tough, but I'll take it." A small shrug of her shoulders was given. "To be honest, it's not the first time that I've had my nose busted. And I'm sure you can see I've had a share of stitches." She hated them. They always itched. Always felt weird. But, it wasn't like there was any other way to get herself fixed up.

Cassy didn't let on that medical staff and personal freaked her out a bit. The woman was warm and kind and that sort of comment would surely be seen as insulting. It wasn't warranted for someone being so kind. Normally, the staff were professional but not quite this welcoming. And the commanding presence that had been felt was still there but seemed to ease significantly. Something she wouldn't complain about.

"Well, ya see...." She started with a small laugh. There was something about the other woman that but her at ease a bit. She didn't feel that clawing, insistent sense of discomfort or unease around her like she did with most. No, the interaction felt genuine. She seemed genuine. Cassy's instincts rarely proved her wrong. And there wasn't anything there telling her otherwise when it came to the woman that was carefully cleaning the blood off of her face. "Turns out that some people around here really don't like it when you try to help someone they are beating on."

So far, so good. She had yet to put her foot into her mouth and say something she shouldn't. A mental pat on the back was allowed before Cassy decided to elaborate a little further for the doctors benefit.

"And as shocking as it seems, the human face isn't so great against metal." Life lesson learned? Hardly. Cassy would do it again. As often as needed if it meant helping Kane. Consequences be damned. Not that she would say such things aloud in front of Nova. That seemed like too much. So she hid a bit behind the comments but remained polite all the same. She may have felt a bit more comfortable but that didn't mean that she knew the woman. While it didn't feel like she had to have her guard up, there was always that lingering hint of needing to protect herself until she really knew someone. Even that was fairly quiet but just lingering at the edges of her consciousness. Probably a good thing, otherwise she might have just embarrassed herself by saying something ridiculous.

"Been a busy night?" At least hearing the woman speak would help keep her at ease. Uncomfortable and awkward silences were a thing of torture but Cassy didn't like being the one that filled the space with new people. Kane was the one exception to that rule. There was a dull throb starting through her entire face and extending to the back of her skull, likely courtesy of the blows and the busted facial features.

@[chicanova]

Nova didn't mind change. She was one of those people who'd appreciate a certain level of routine and structure, but more like a novelty, not a habit. She was the one with the plans; always ready for anything in case her life would change instantly. Settling into the new came quickly and naturally to her, always. It had always been that way, ever since she was a child. Ever since her dad died and nothing felt certain again.

They say a child shouldn't know death. Well, not only did she know death - the thought was almost hilarious nowadays -, but she had known how to carry everyone's grief on her shoulders, becoming her family point of reference at an age where kids should only be concerned about school grades, college choices and parties. Pretty quickly, when she was a young teenager, Nova had learned to become an adult prematurely.

Now? Nothing scared her, ever. She could take anything life threw at her. Even leaving the life she built in Chicago, changing career path and falling desperately for the Reaper himself. It's not like she had truly rooted and settled down over there. Sure, she liked Chicago, and sure, she would have used that argument against T anytime she felt like arguing, but she knew a life on the road was just as good as any.

Plus, ultimately, T had turned out to be right. Besides the benefits coming from their proximity, and, now that Nova was getting deeper and deeper in it, she knew she didn't truly have a choice. Ever since their paths crossed, her place was nowhere else but by Taker's side. But she was also someone who grew up with six brothers and countless cousins watching wrestling. So, it came naturally that she loved working for WWF, patching up the guys and following the action from the sidelines.

When she told her brothers she was going full-time, they all died of envy.

When the new emergency came in, Nova was surprised to find a beaten woman. Generally, it was only the men who'd be in bad shape - women tended to take it easier. Not this one. Nova decided pretty quickly she was gonna like her. She apparently threw herself into the fight to help Kane - T's brother, whom Nova wasn't allowed to ask about.

"That would be me," she explained with a smile, taking a moment to observe the girl's face. She was in bad shape, but something told Nova she saw it worse. Her smile warmed. "Oh, nonsense, I think this is a perfect set-up to make friends. And you can say that not everyone is as friendly or as willing to be looked after."

Before doing anything else, Nova proceeded with a quick, superficial exam to make sure the blow she took to the head didn't cause a concussion. "Good news, you aren't concussed. Bad news, now we gotta fix that nose, and it won't be pleasant. I am very good at what I do though, so I promise I'll be gentle." Nova moved away only a moment to go grab some gauze, disinfectant solution and saline to wash the dried-up blood off the girl's face. "I am Nova, by the way. You are Cassy, right? You are pretty tough, I like it."

Nova didn't say anything, not yet, but her curiosity lingered. People talked. People talked a lot in those corridors. Nova knew most people around there considered her crazy for her closeness to T; some even speculated he must have manipulated her into it, because who would sanely choose to be so close to their most dangerous man? But, pretty much the same gossip was going around about Cassy following Kane around. She wondered how much of what she heard was true. Probably none of it, considering the gossip going around about her and Taker was all exaggerated and useless.

"What did you do?" She wondered in the end.

[darknessembrxced-archive]

Patiently waiting, Hunter could almost see the rush of thoughts that were running through her head. But, he was polite enough not to point it out and just stand there, hands pressed to the back of the chair, waiting. It wasn't like they were in a rush anyway. If she was lost in thought and it took an extra moment or two for her to respond, then so be it. This right here? It was supposed to be about relaxing and getting out of any and all expectations. Hunter was free of it, so therefore, she had to be as well.

Beer and fries. Easy enough. He had mentioned burgers. At least, he thought he had. Most of the gala, besides meeting her at the bar, had been blocked out already. No need for it to take up any space. A low chuckle came along with a nod at the enthusiastic request. He couldn't even bring himself to tease her about it and risk making her feel self conscious.

"Cold beer and hot fries it is. Making this too easy on me," he offered, unable to completely help but tease a little. With the mission set, he easily picked his way through the crowd of bodies towards the bar, temporarily leaving his new companion. It was easy to place the order, but he had to wait a few moments for the beers. Eyes glanced towards Gia occasionally, making sure that she wasn't being harassed or anything of the like. Each time, she remained by herself. A fact that settled him. There was no denying that Gia was a gorgeous woman and could easily catch the attention of any of the guys here at the bar. Something Hunter really did not want to be dealing with when it was meant to be relaxing.

Besides, he was fairly certain that a bar fight and possible subsequent arrest wouldn't leave a good impression on Gia. And it certainly would cause him one hell of a headache come tomorrow and work.

Returning, he settled into his chair and slid her beer to her. Actually relaxing. His shoulders were down and his body resting in the chair. There was no need to be on alert here. Of course, he was mindful of the surroundings but he wasn't about to be pounced here compared to the gala. Hunter raised his glass before laughing.

"Don't go worrying. I just fall into that category." A smile lit up his features, genuine enjoyment over it. He hadn't provided a clear answer for her to the question. Where would the fun in that be. He raised his glass and lightly clacked it against hers to finish the toast before taking a long pull from the cold, still slightly foamy beer. "You said first beer?" Surely that couldn't be real. Then again, not everyone was him or Shawn.

It was a safe question to answer since it didn't venture into the topic that she had requested be off limits. At least, he hoped it was now that it was out in the open. No taking that back. He had seen her drink at the gala, just not beer. His attention was focused on her, though he remained aware of the rest of the surrounding bar. Still waiting and watching for someone to get too close.

@[xoxogia]

Gia giggled, not daring to protest. She liked being spoiled more than she would admit. It was a great misconception that girls like her were tremendously spoiled. That might very well be true, but Gia didn't feel spoiled, not in a real sense. She just wanted to be looked after. She wanted to be noticed for who she was, for once. And he was giving her exactly that.

Plus, it didn't happen often that she found herself in that scenario. No, it never happened, actually. A boy buying her a drink? Surprisingly uncommon in the upper-upper class. Their parties were sophisticated, with open bars for the most part, and if it happened she went out for drinks, it never felt close to that same level of pride accepting for a boy to pay for her. Hunter did it for the joy of it, clearly not expecting anything out of it - not like what she was used to. When men had been nice to her in the past, they all wanted the same thing.

No, that setting reminded her of the innocence of romantic teen movies. And she loved every second of it. "Ok, fine, you can have the first round." Gia smiled, watching him ease into that place. It suited him. And the more relaxed he became, the more she felt a pull towards him. "I want a beer," she surprised even herself. She had been trained to like expensive wine, but now, she felt like she had the freedom to do what she wanted. "A cold one, whatever you like." Her eyes widened as her heart swelled. "And I want fries," she nodded eagerly.

She was hungry. For the first time, allowing herself to feel it like a real need she needed to look after other than a pain gnawing at her stomach she'd have to get used to. How long had it been since the last time she allowed herself to eat anything that wasn't blended greens or a cube of cheese anytime she felt like fainting?

She was free, truly. No one was there judging her. No one knew her. No one ever needed to know about it, and she just knew she could let go of all the set of harsh control she imposed on herself at all times to survive under the pressure of her life.

He didn't know it yet, but their escape may have saved her life. Or, at least, it made her feel that way.

She watched him go order. A content, warm smile was printed on her lips as her eyes stayed glued on his back as she curiously just watched him for the fun or seeing him move. Her attention soon turned to the rest of the place as she took in every detail about it. The chattering was loud but not overpowering, and it mixed with the background music. The room was hot, and the air was made denser by the smoke and the smell of food, but, again, it wasn't something bothering her senses. If anything, Gia truly loved it.

When Hunter came back, Gia welcomed the beer he brought with an excited giggle and immediately raised it to cheer with him. "My first beer requires a toast," she confessed, "To being just a couple of thirty-something-year-old strangers going eighteen for one night." As she thought about it, a sudden doubt that couldn't wait crossed her mind. "How old are you?"

[darknessembrxced-archive]

Yeah, maybe be was fucked. Completely and totally. But, it wasn't something he really cared about. Let it be the case. The feelings for Gia were genuine and deep. There couldn't have been any denying that. Unconsciously, it helped soothe over the denied feelings that were constantly present right at the edges of awareness. Clawing and prodding. Demanding to be felt no matter how hard Hunter tried to push them away, no matter how he refuses to examine or acknowledge them. If he didn't, then they simply didn't exist. Oblivious to the fact that it was causing the both of them harm or held the risk of coming back and biting them both in the ass.

"Yeah, I got that, asshole," he chuckled and shook his head, taking a long pull of his beer. "Don't need to be told. Already realize that." And it was the truth. Things were so different that Hunter already had the idea that he was so far screwed that there wasn't any fixing it. Nor did he want to. He would happily give up whatever may be needed in order to keep Gia in his life.

Oh, that was even a deeper reaction, and Hunter couldn't keep the frown off of his face for a split second, letting the worry that was felt seep through. All before he could wipe it away and instead try to focus on which strategy would work best here. Shawn tonguetied was a rare sight and a feat that very few on this Earth were able to manage. Hunter knew that his friend was twisted up about this, but seeing him unable to form a coherent thought, to be so lost in what he was feeling over a woman? It was something that was new and far deeper than what he wanted to say. Hunter rubbed a hand over his face before taking another pull of his beer. It gave a few seconds to gather thoughts and know what to say in response. Finally, a small nod in response and he managed to give a small smile. Maybe this could end up being good for him. If Frankie could give him a chance.

"Well, then, make it happen." As if it was a simple as that. "Though, ya might have to chance up your tactics a bit if the usual hasn't worked so far. Frankie's been in this business her whole life." A gentle reminder. "If you're serious about it, then make sure she knows that you're serious about it." Hunter could read between the lines enough to know.

@[theheartbreakkid]

Shawn watched avidly as emotions streamed on Hunter's face. He was so easy to read. And damn - he was toasted. Shawn saw it perfectly on his face; no need for Hunter to be sentimental or delve into detail. The way his eyes lit up thinking about his girl was enough. Hunter cared enough to be respectful. Bragging about conquests and exchanging detailed stories wasn't new to them, but Hunter keeping to himself was new. "Easy", he said, but he may as well have dropped on his knees and burst into a serenade. Shawn knew him well; no girl made him smile like that.

Shawn's jealousy grew painfully, gnawing at his chest, even though he did everything in his power to swallow it back and ignore it. "I am happy for you." There was a trace of melancholy lingering in his smile. "You deserve to be happy." He landed a heavy hand on Hunter's shoulder, breaking eye contact soon after and shrugging all of those feelings off himself. "Fuck it. Enough with this romantic bullshit," Shawn hid behind his pint of beer, taking a big gulp. "You are completely toasted, I hope you are aware. You got that smile about you,"

When the conversation switched to him, and Hunter brought up his friendly suggestion, Shawn froze completely, breaking eye contact. Every trace of a joke left his face. "No." He simply said, shaking his head. "I mean, of course, I know I have to snap out of it, I have no intention to become a creep. Got a reputation to protect," He puffed his chest pretending to be unfazed. How could he explain to Hunter that it went beyond playing, it went beyond chasing, he just wanted to feel her attention, even for a moment. To the point he was willing to be considered desperate, and he didn't care. "But I also have no intention of giving up that easily, not until I'm absolutely certain she doesn't want to have anything to do with me," he released a small sigh. "I mean, she did make it abundantly clear," Shawn avoided eye contact, "but I... She's just so..." Words died down, he didn't know how to explain it, and, for the first time in his life, he felt shy to open up because, for the first time, it meant something. "I can't give that up. I want her." There, he said it, and as he did, he finally looked back at Hunter.

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There was aome relief when the words were finally uttered. Albeit soft. But that hardly mattered. He knew that he wouldn't hurt her, not if he could help it. Everything in him promised that. And while he knew that she knew it on some level, the admission meant she was conscious of it. Like a weight that had been lifted off of his chest, one that had settled when she almost seemed resigned through the anger that he might have been there to take her soul. There had been a small part of him that had been worried that he would have had to work to ensure that she accepted the fact that he wouldn't do such a thing. There was still much to go over, and surely there were questions that she wanted ask.

The anger that once more overtook her was something that probably shouldn't have amused him, but there was no stopping the obvious hints of amusement. The wry smile that slowly appeared, not bothering to hide it. Taker knew it would only fuel those feelings and likely cause the fury to deepen, the words to come out with a faster pace and far more force.

His touch remained, unwilling to break it. Like it would bring him physical harm if he did. The contact was soothing, the sort of balm that had been long needed but never realized. She would realize just what he had done soon enough. Fight against it as she may. She wouldn't have been the one meant for him if she didn't. The whiplash didn't end there though as she dropped from the anger back to an unsteady footing.

"No, it won't be." That was a guarantee. No more time than necessary would be spent away from her. Not after tonight. "After this, it will be easier. I know you feel the pull. Know you feel the need. It is hardly crazy and you aren't insane. It is meant to be. Fated. I promise more will be explained later." The plea worked through him, making him feel far more weak than he ever had. Years walking this Earth, countless time of existence, and it had never occured before. As if the very core of his strength had been robbed from him. Fingers moved over her cheek slowly. Memorizing every inch, the soft swell of the curve, wanting to brand it with his touch as a reminder for her as well as himself. Nothing had felt so soft below his fingers. While it wouldn't be long until they were back together, it certainly felt like it would be centuries.

Lips pressed softly to her forehead, an action that delt foreign and yet necessary. Trying to make a promise that meant and felt more meaningful than simple words. Taker wanted nothing more than to stay. Could he? Despite the feeling of needing to go, he found that he couldn't. His other hand moved to her side, finding itself home lightly against her hip and bringing the space between them to zero, pressing her body against the length of his. She fit perfectly.

@[chicanova]

Nova knew she probably was supposed to be scared. She was supposed to feel doubtful and sceptical. She was supposed to want to run from a stranger who entered her house uninvited. There was a whole set of emotions she thought she'd be prepared to feel in such a situation, but her survival instinct hadn't kicked in. If anything, she felt nothing but safe around him. She may have got startled or panicked, but not because she was actually scared of him.

And the universal truth about that entire situation was that she wanted him to be there. It was undeniable how much she was under his spell. She hadn't thought about anything else for days. That man had captivated her, and their first interaction was too brief, leaving her desiring nothing but to see him again. The difference was that she didn't think it would happen, not so soon. Not like that.

How was it possible that she fell head over heels for The Reaper?

"I know," she admitted with a small nod. She had so many questions, so many things to tell him. And yet felt like knowing the details wouldn't have changed how she felt. The pull that clawed to her stomach, making her entire being need to hover close to him, was inescapable.

And yet, despite it all, she was still able to get enraged. The burst of anger and the space he left her to feel it were confirmation that she wasn't being manipulated, what she felt was real, and he was truly honest. Nevertheless, his smug assumption on knowing he knew better than her what was best still angered her. "What do you mean!?" It took her a second, but Nova read through the lines without him having to mention it. It must have been the permanent paramedic position going into WWF. She eyed it for a while but didn't dare to submit, unsure if she could commit to a life on the road. "Oh no," she waved a finger into his face, "you cannot do this, Mr!" The more he spoke, the angrier she got. "How do you expect me to drop my entire life to just blindly follow you around? Better job or not, we both know it isn't about the job, and if I accept, you'll own me." It came out wrong, she was aware and yet couldn't help it. "If I wanted the job, I would have asked for it. I don't need you to be my master and take care of me. What is this? The 50s?" She sent him a crossed look.

As he mentioned he was running out of time, Nova broke eye contact, scoffing. "Of course, you are. This is all a girl is gonna get, uh?" Now she wasn't only angry about the job, but she was also frustrated because he was going to leave her, again. "Is this how it's going to be? You showing up only for a few minutes? Coming and going when you please?" Why was she suddenly hurting? "I don't even know you. Do you understand what you just asked of me? You gave me a bunch of information, and I still feel like I got nothing out of you. What part of this is real? The job you got me without me asking for it?" Nova shook her head, feeling more stupid now than ever. How could she feel so much for a man she barely knew? "What the hell, right?" she looked back up at him, "You know what's the worst part? I want it. You are a stranger in my house who says to be the angel of death, whom I happened to pop a plaster on one day, and I want you. I want to know you." She released a tired chuckle, shaking her head. "This is insane. I am losing my mind."

When he dared to brush his fingers on her cheek, Nova felt the fight leave her as the world stopped spinning so quickly. She relaxed against his soft touch and part of her hated that she needed nothing more, while another side of her just accepted it. "Don't go," she whispered, looking up into his eyes, "Please?"

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It took several long moments of an almost uncomfortable silence between them for Cassy to come back to her senses a bit. Her mind had raced to figure out what she might have done wrong to upset the man, and in that time, her body had been frozen. A habit that had been long ago broken, but apparently decided to rear its head when the moment had meant something. At least, she had wanted it to. Even when the original plan hadn't been to let him see her. Berating herself mentally for the slip, Cassy turned to look at him upon hearing the sigh. The sort of sound that caused her gut to twist. The sort of sound that shouldn't have come from him. Defeated, beaten. The entire situation almost felt like a slap to the face. But it doubled the determination to make things right.

Afraid? Why the hell would she be afraid? Almost unconsciously, she took a few steps closer to the man in response. As if to prove that she wasn't and wouldn't be. Was the man large? Could she see what might make him intimidating? His size mainly. But there had been nothing that had actually caused her pause.

"Why would I be scared?" It was almost as rhetorical question. She hadn't expected him to answer. Her eyes stayed locked on him, even when Kane wasn't looking up. He had saved her from a beat down. Had stayed with her when she was getting looked at. While bits she couldn't remember in their entirety. But she knew he had been there when he hadn't needed to be. If anything, she felt more comfort and peace around him than she had ever felt with anyone in her life. Something that was dangerous to admit. One she wouldn't aloud just yet.

She could feel the rumble of that deep timber within her chest. A pleasant sensation. Those thoughts needed to be brushed aside for now.

"You aren't a monster." There was conviction, no doubt in the words as they left her. No, she had met monsters in her life, and Kane did not fit that bill. In the least. "You kept me safe last week. You've given me no reason to be afraid. And I don't think you will." Another assured statement. The space had been closed between them once more, and while the small hints of a lingering blush remained on her cheeks, her focus had entirely shifted to try and correct whatever this train of thought was.

@[thedevilsfavouritedemon]

Kane waited a second for her to move. He couldn't watch her leave; he just knew if he did, he would have grabbed hold of her again, sending all sorts of mixed signals. That wasn't ideal. There was no other way; she had to go out of there and out of his life. And he must let her do it. It was how it was supposed to be. It was the right thing. She had a life ahead of her, and he was supposed to go back to being lonely in his torment. Their crossed paths meant nothing. Humans did it all the time.

And still, he knew, deep down, that it wasn't true; it meant something. She touched him deeply, more than any other human ever did, making him wish so desperately to be like her, to be human. Making him miss so much of everything he never had, making him feel more things than usual. But imposing his troubled, monstrous self on her would have been the worst kind of selfish. He wasn't like her. And she didn't deserve to get stuck with such a burden.

Yet, when she didn't hint at moving, Kane felt a sense of dreaded relief pervading him. There it was again, the feeling of warmth swirling into his stomach she gave him with the utmost ease, not in the slightest worried about consequences. Despite his best efforts, Cassy stubbornly went against his will, and he wasn't even mad at her. He couldn't.

Kane released a deep sigh and then dropped himself heavily on the bench. He let his arms fall on his knees, bending his back, exhausted under her soft but pressing gaze. He was defeated.

The only other thing he could think to do to get her to get away from him was to hurt her. And he would have never done that. Never. Not willingly.

"Why aren't you afraid?" He wondered, trying his best to express himself with broken words. He didn't look up. His eyes stayed planted on the floor, like he was trying to hide from her attention - feeling seen now more than ever before in his life. "You must be scared of me." His voice was a deep rumble rolling out of his chest, but his tone was as soft as he could conjure. "I am a monster."

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@attitude-erarp : w/ Nova

A trip back to see the medical staff had not been in the plans for the evening. It never really was but some days, it was just obvious that there wouldn't be any avoiding it like there could be on other days. Tonight was just one of those evenings where it seemed unavoidable, despite best efforts and attempts. Both from herself and from Kane. Cassy knew that the man wasn't thrilled with her. It had been made clear that he wanted her out of harms way and while the sentiment was appreciated, it couldn't be accommodated. Cassy wasn't all that used to having someone looking out for her wellbeing. At least not the way that Kane did. Yeah, she had some close friends coming up through some other companies but not like this. Nothing that ever felt comfortable, wanted, or right. Even if she had been on good terms with those friends.

Tonight, well, she was sure that she was teasing every possible limit of the patience that he had shown her. It wasn't like she could have left him out there to defend himself when chairs were involved and the numbers weren't in his favor. Yeah, she knew that he was bigger, and far stronger than those that had surrounded him. That, unfortunately, didn't always mean a win, especially when the numbers were against anyone. So, she had run out there in an attempt to provide some backup. While the attention had shifted from him, it had put her in a tight spot. One that ended up with her facing a face full of the championship belt, likely breaking her nose as well as busting the bridge of it open. The bleeding mainly came from her brow though, where she had been forced into the metal rather than have it swung at her that second time.

Seeing through the blood hadn't been all that worrisome for her and while Cassy tried to wave off the help, there was only so much that could be done. But they had insisted and it left her feeling trapped, uncomfortable, and lost in a memory she would have soon rather forgotten. At least Kane only taken a few shots by the time she had come out and then security after that.

Through it all, she had realized that the new doc was in the room with her. The same one that she had seen hang around the Undertaker. That had piqued her interest of course, but she wasn't about to stick her nose where it didn't belong. Least she end up stirring up something that wouldn't do anyone any kind of good. Settling on the small table, she offered the woman a friendly smile. Cassy wasn't fond of doctors but she had to at least be polite. And this woman seemed to know how to command the room as the others were letting her do what she needed. Interesting indeed.

"You must be the new doc," she offered, even though she could barely recognize her on voice at the moment with the distortion from her broke nose. Don't ask about the Undertaker. Don't ask. Casey hoped she could keep herself from inserting her foot right into her mouth. How did the old adage go? Curiosity killed the cat. She sat still and was pretty much the model patient as the doctor started the exam. No, she didn't suffer a concussion. The room wasn't spinning unlike the last time.

"Sorry we had to meet with you stitching me up. I'm sure you're staying on your toes though with this lot to take care of."

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@attitude-erarp : w/ Gia

Another evening, another line of wrestlers in and out of the room after a long morning of training. To some, it might have seemed monotonous. To Frankie? It was as close to the job of a lifetime as she would get. As she settled into the role more, it became more comfortable, and her sense of confidence grew. There were guys she got along with better than others and there were ones that ahe couldn't stand. None of that was new or unexpected though. It was just sort of how it went in the business. No one got along with everyone. It was just impossible. Those that she didn't get on with? It was a few respectful words in passing and all business. Those she did? She found herself enjoying the small chats and relaxed nature that came with it.

Tonight was one of those nights were it had mainly been guys that she knew and got along with well. Overall, fairly pleasant. No one was seriously injured and most of what she had been needed for entailed maintenance. The sort that ease muscle pain and cramping. Those were her favorites, if she had to be honest. There was just am ease that came with it. The guys didn't complain and were often just a tad more thankful for what she could do.

Space cleaned up and not expecting anyone, any time soon, Frankie settled in with a book and kicked her feet up. The plan was to simply relax in the room, avoiding the crowds, avoiding some of the other guys, but maybe specifically avoiding Shawn. The talk that Hunter had with her was still circling her head. Nonstop. No matter what she did. It felt odd, feeling a bit bad for how she had treated Shawn despite the obnoxious, persistent, arrogant attitude that the man consistently displayed. A firm line had to be drawn in the sand and while she didn't want to believe that he was serious, Hunter seemed pretty set on the idea. Enough so that he felt it necessary to ambush her with the information. And smack her upside the head with it.

The book lay open in her lap, feet propped against one of the table, but Frankie wasn't able to focus on it. Not properly anyway as she read the same sentence over three times but retaining none of it. Giving Shawn a chance was like asking to be put in the pit with the tiger. You knew the outcome but were somehow convinced to go ahead and do it anyway. The resolve hadn't fully broken yet and she wasn't ready to cave. Not yet. Shawn himself had yet to show her anything that said he was actually serious. Maybe beside the last bit of conversation that they had when she had Bret rescue her.

All thoughts flew from her mind when the door opened up and inside stepped an unfamiliar woman. Quickly. As if she was running away from something or someone. Frankie's brow furrowed, book now entirely forgotten.

"Can I help you?" Was this some fan that escaped to the back? No, it couldn't have been given the badge that made itself know when the woman turned around. The question still stood, but at least Frankie knew that ahe wasn't dealing with some crazed lunatic. She could read some sense of unease and unsteadiness. Whether that was a good or a bad thing remained to be seen. "This room is really only supposed to be for the wrestlers." Something about her seemed familiar but Frankie wasn't able to place it right away.