Paul "Triple H" Levesque, aka Hunter Hearst Helmsley, was sitting in his living room looking out the window watching the rain hit the window pane. A dreary fall day in Stamford. The clock on the wall ticked in unison with the water dripping on the window pane. He was awaiting his new fitness coach and ready to get back in the ring. Hunter was healed from his quad injury and cleared to start training. He had two months left before his return to the ring. A single man with his whole career ahead of him. His friend Stephanie had helped him through the surgery but, Steph was pregnant now with her first baby with her husband Chris Jericho. Hunter always thought Chris was arrogant but, he knew Chris loved her. Steph and Hunter had dated for a short period but, quickly found they were just too different.
Hunter was married to the job. Steph wanted a fairytale romance. They remained friends but there was just no love between them. Aside from the fake storyline, her father put them into not long ago. Their connection just didn't go beyond friendship. Hunter was still close to her father and his boss Vince McMahon. Vince expected Hunter to one day take over the company for him.
He started wiping the steam from the window when the phone rang. Hunter picked up his cell phone and saw Steph's name. He rolled his eyes.
"What?"
"Hey Grouchy. What's going on?" Steph said cheerfully.
"Waiting for the new trainer. I got to get ready for my come back. These past few guys were just not cutting it." Hunter flopped down in the big black leather armchair near the window drinking from his water bottle.
"Cool. I have big news! I'm having a girl." She cheered.
"That's great Steph. Congrats. I'm sure Chris is happy." Hunter smiled knowing his friend wanted a girl.
"He is. You need to settle down already. Find a woman. These bimbos you hang with are idiots." She joked.
"Bimbos? I only hang with the top of the class." He chuckled. He knew the girls who were always hitting on him were bimbos. And, at times he would fall for it.
"Sure if strippers and ring rats are your idea of the top of the class. Why don't you let me set you up?" Steph sounded hopeful.
"Hell no! The last girl you set me up with was like talking to a rock. She was an idiot Steph." Hunter huffed. "Seriously, the girl thought dogs had little legs on their backs so they could roll over the rest of the way."
Steph laughed, "Well, she was pretty. Stupid but, pretty."
"A shiny rock is still a rock, not a gem. You date her. I don't need set up. I do fine on my own. I don't need a woman to complete me. I'm not shutting out the thought of finding someone. I'm just as happy being me right now. Trying to get back to being The Game and, get in that ring."
"Ugg...Hunter. This is why we didn't work out. All you think about is wrestling and working for my dad. I'm a McMahan and I don't even think about it that much. I actually think I may take time off. Spend time with my baby for a year or so." Steph rubbed her belly.
"That's great for you though. You always wanted to be a mom. But, I'm in no rush." Hunter rolled his eyes.
"Oh please. You love kids. You use to talk about how you wanted kids all the time. Now your just a grouchy old bore. Work, work, work."
"A bore?! I'm a delight. I do want kids Steph. If it's not meant for me, I can live with that. Can't make a whore out of a housewife, right? Ring rats, strippers and all. According to you, that's all I know. By-the-way evil princess, I don't date strippers. I went to one club with Chris for his bachelor party and you have ridden my ass ever since. It was a party Steph. Get over it. He needed a real bachelor party. Not a tea party." Hunter sat flipping through tv channels.
"Well, he puked on my wedding dress that night and, there was a stripper sleeping in my bed with one of your friends the next morning." She scoffed. "I should have kicked your ass for allowing it. You don't drink, so it was all funny to you."
"It was. I have to have some fun. Besides Chris didn't even touch any strippers. He was too scared the Billion Dollar Bitch would have his head on a platter." Hunter knew how to get to her.
"I hate when you call me that. One day I'm going to pay a couple of big guys to kick your ass." Steph scolded.
"You tried that when we broke up. It didn't work then. Taker, Kane and I split the cash and went on vacation on your dime." He was laughing so hard he could hardly breathe.
"You big jerk. Shut up. It would have worked if you didn't overhear us." Steph tried not to laugh.
"Well, don't be so damn loud next time, big mouth. They are my friends. Did you actually think they would really kick my ass? Especially since I didn't do anything wrong." He rubbed his beard.
"Well, ya. My dad's their boss."
"And that princess is really why we didn't work out. That daddies little rich girl crap. Who gives a shit who your dad is? You would think by now you would realize it just pisses people off when you throw that up. Especially me." Hunter got annoyed.
"OK! I get it. But, we just didn't get along anyway. You know it. As friends we are great. As lovers...heck no. You get on my nerves. I can only tolerate you in small doses. Your obsession with working out and healthy food is boring to me. And, you have too big of a cocky ego." Steph knew he was right about being a daddy's girl.
"Ego I may have but, I have the shit to back it up. Your damn voice was like nails on a chalkboard. That didn't help much. Seriously, record yourself sometimes. It's annoying. Listen, I have to go. I think I heard a car pull up." Hunter stood to head to the front door.
"K. Hope he is a jerk of a trainer and beats you up every day. Have fun. Bye, butthead. Love Ya!" Steph giggled.
"Bye brat. Congrats on the baby. I'll pray it doesn't have your voice. Well, then she would have Chris's and that's not much better." Hunter chuckled and hung up. He went to the front door and looked out to greet his guest.
The rain was getting harder and a dark figure in black trench coat and umbrella emerged from the small sports car. "HEY BUDDY! NICE RIDE! HURRY AND GET IN HERE IT'S POURING!" The person ran for the door and past Hunter into the entryway. "Don't worry about the water. It will dry. Here let me take your coat." The person handed him the umbrella and Hunter turned to place it in the coat stand. "Weather is crazy, isn't it. The tropical storm is hitting us hard. So...you're Sam?"
The person turned and removed the hood from the coat, "Yes, I am. Nice to meet you, Mr. Levesque."
"Woow. You're a chick!" He stepped back.
"Last I checked, yes. I am a woman. Not a chick. Chicks are in barnyards. I guess you were expecting a male trainer." Sam removed her coat handing it to him.
"Well, ya. Your name is Sam." Hunter was confused. As he watched her remove her scarf and noticed how fit and naturally pretty she was. His eyes veered down to her cleavage and she quickly noticed.
"If you are done checking out my breast, can we get on with this consultation. And, it's Samantha, not Sam. Sam is just what my friends call me." She stuck out her hand to shake his.
He cordially shook her hand. "I'm sorry miss but, I need a male trainer. I work out hard and need someone who is not afraid of heavy lifting."
"Well, I'm what you got. Take it or leave it. From what I hear, since your injury, you have gone through a lot of sports trainers. Your options are getting very thin. No one wants to work with you. You're arrogant, stubborn, and think you know more than the people you hire. Let's get this clear right off. I'm THE best. Better than any male trainer you can find. I was trained by some of the top guys in the industry. One of which sent me here, Dave Palumbo. He is busy and he sent his best trainer. THAT, Mr. Levesque, is me. Now, you can choose to not let me help you but, the way I see it, you are out of options. If you plan on getting back in that ring anytime soon, I suggest you let me do my job. By the way, I may look like a barbie to you. I'm small compared to all the muscle heads your use to training with but, I'm tough." Sam stood with her arms crossed frowning.
"Well, ok. You are right. I don't have time to keep going through trainers. I need someone now. Full time. Which means that person will need to be here helping me finish recovery and get me in top fitness shape. Tell, you what. Let's start over. Why don't we go into the living room and chat? If I think you can handle it, we will give it a try."
"IF...I can handle it?" She laughed. "Ok, you are cocky but, I've e dealt with Diva's before."
Hunter shook his head. This girl is tough. Maybe as cocky as he is too. "Well, by all means. Let's chat and see what I am in for." He led her to the living room. "Coffee, water?"
"I'm fine. Thank you," She smiled.
"Well, look at that. She smiles and can be polite." Hunter smiled back.
"I apologize, Mr. Levesque. I get guys like you all the time. They all think I'm weak and not capable of my job. I get it I'm short and not some big bodybuilder body as you are used to. I come off a little aggressive because frankly, it gets tiresome. I don't like to have to keep proving myself over and over." She sat on the couch.
"I just wasn't expecting a girl. Let's start over." He reached out his hand. "I'm Paul but, everyone calls me Hunter." He smiled sweetly.
She took his hand, "Samantha, nice to meet you, Hunter. Again, I'm sorry if I was rude."
"No. No. It was me. Let's talk about this. I need someone who can work at least about 5-6 hours a day. Not consecutively of course. I don't want to risk more injury. But, I need to hit it hard this last few months."
"Alright, I need a list of any medications you take, doctor's orders, that sort of thing. I do NOT work with anyone who does steroids. If you do. That's a deal breaker. Not assuming you do, since WWE has a strict policy on that." She handed him a training list of rules and requirements from her bag.
"Not a problem. I eat clean, work clean. No meds either. Took my last meds from the surgery a month ago. The doctor says I'm clear to train. No limits." Hunter sat down in his big armchair looking over the list.
"That's great. But, I still need your work up on that. I have people roid out on me before. I'm not risking someone flipping out on me again. It almost cost me my life once. The guy was crazy and, I won't go there again," She looked serious.
"I get that. I can have my doctor forward you the info. Great, you work clean. I like that. You look in great shape. Do you compete or just train. You look really familiar."
"I do. We actually met last year at the Arnold Classic. I hate to admit this to celebrity clients but, I'm a huge fan of WWE and you. You signed my competition award and, we posed for some media stuff. I was more tan and had blonde hair then. Went back to my natural."
"That was you? Oh wow. Had I realized, I would not have just assumed you couldn't handle it. I saw you lift in a deadlift competition. You smoked those other girls." He smiled.
"That was me. Seeing that, can you agree I am no lightweight? I don't lift heavy all the time. I don't want to look like a guy. I want to keep my girly shape. But, competition time I really hit hard."
"I agree. Can't maintain that show body all the time. Not good for you. But you look great even now. How did you do this year?" Hunter was truly interested. He loved talking fitness.
"Good. I had an injury myself recently so I was not as ready as I would have liked. I use to be overweight and really out of shape. Lost over 100 pounds and got into bodybuilding. I was sick a lot and my health was bad. Now fitness is my life." Sam started to feel more comfortable and relaxed back into her seat.
"That's amazing. I was a skinny little kid. No muscle. Let me ask you this. Dave mentioned you know a lot about diet too. I gained a little from not being active from the injury. Can you help there? I really need someone to help with meals. I don't eat crap, but I need some more choices. I can cook but, I'm no chef." Hunter admitted.
"Oh yes, I actually would be glad to. I love cooking and teaching diet. I've changed a lot of things myself and I think you would be interested in that. I understand you are looking for a full-time person to be here on your estate until your return to work?" She was nervous at the thought.
"Yes, that a problem? It's not only fitness, diet, and training. I need someone to help me work with doctors and work with the WWE trainers. I understand you are looking for work with WWE. This would be a good way to get into that."
"I do. I have worked with football players, wrestlers, dancers, celebrities, everything really. I think I have had a good opportunity to learn from that. I also have experience in the ring. So I will expect you to get in the ring and hit the ropes with me, so I can make sure your leg injury isn't affecting your balance. After all, that's why I'm here."
"You wrestle?" Hunter looked confused.
"Yes, I thought Dave told you? That's why he chose me. I use to work with ECW before they shut down. I was a low-level wrestler for a while. Black matches. No TV time. Nothing major. I mostly worked as a trainer. I loved it. I just was no Triple H." She smiled.
"Well, maybe we can help each other. I can show you some things if you like." Hunter smiled.
"Really?! That would be nice. Thank you." Sam blushed. "So far? What do you think?"
"Well, we have a lot in common. Don't know many girls who are into things I am. Surprising really. Most girls think bodybuilding is boring. Chyna was the only girl I knew who enjoyed the gym as much as me." Hunter looked out the window. Remembering her was hard. They had a bad breakup and since then it was not the same for him with women.
"Funny you mention her. The two of you are what made me get fit. You both inspired me. I have your book and her fitness video. Her video helped me lose the weight." She looked over noticing him uncomfortable. "Sorry, don't mean to talk about your past."
"No, I brought it up. That's flattering actually. I'm glad I inspired you. Chyna was a powerhouse. So I can see you looking up to her." Hunter looked back with a serious look. "I do have one worry."
"What's that?" She shifted her weight.
"You're attractive. I can't say I can deny that. But, I'm not looking for a relationship. I don't think that is the intent at all. But, I just want to ask you. Have you had problems with clients before?"
"I don't date clients if that's what you're asking. I love men and, you are attractive as well. But, this is my job. That is first. We can be friends but, I have no intent on falling for you. You will see in that list, that is one of my top rules." She rolled her eyes. "Men. Seriously. You are cocky as they say. I think I can control my overwhelming womanly urges to not fawn over you." She rolled her eyes laughing.
"HaHa. Funny. That was a real question. I just don't want it to get weird."
"Not even an option. I just don't get why guys I train always ask me that. Or they hit on me right out of the gate. Do I look like some bimbo?" Sam looked annoyed.
"Sorry, I didn't mean…"
"Yes, you did. I get it. But, I'm not like that. So as long as we are clear and you NEVER say that crap again. We will get along fine."
"Agreed. So, when can you start?" Hunter asked.
"You have a gym here?"
"I do. In the basement."
"Well, Hunter. You look dressed and ready. Let's do a test run. See where you're at." She jumped up and grabbed a clipboard from her bag.
He got up laughing inside at her perky yet bossy demeanor. He was thinking he would give her a try but, didn't think she would work out. Hunter showed Samantha to the gym. Making her way inside she was impressed. It was a full gym with everything they would need.
"Ok, nice. Well, let's just go over your normal routine so I can make notes. Just tell me what your normal, week is like. Then we will do some strength test." She looked seriously at him. He shrugged and sat on the bench patting next to him inviting her over. He went over his regular routine for each day.
"Wow, Hunter, that's impressive. I wish some of my other clients were as dedicated. This all looks good. I have a unique way of looking at fitness. I try all sorts of different things to get you out of your comfort zone. You ok with that?" Sam asked.
"Sure, like what?"
"That will be a surprise. You will see this week. A few things you are seriously going to think I'm crazy. But, it's fun and moves muscles you may have not worked in a while. It will get you out of the house too. I'm sure you are sick of being homebound from being hurt."
Hunter agreed, "You have no idea."
"Ok, let's do some strength test and, tonight I will draw up a plan for you and, we can get started tomorrow."
"Sounds great. We can try this for a week. See how it goes. I'm not doubting you. I just know it goes better if we get along. Ok?" Hunter got up to start working out.
"Agreed. I rather work with someone I can have fun with and laugh than someone who l don't click with." She patted his arm. "Let's get started."
They worked together for about an hour and Samantha showed Hunter some modifications she thought he could do. Ones that would be easier on his knee joints after his injury. He could already feel the difference in the movements with her tips. They agreed she could move in the guest room the next day and get started early.
As Hunter showed her to the door they were chatting about his work out. He opened the front door and in walked Steph as Sam was grabbing her coat. Stephanie got behind her and smiled really cheesy pointing at her looking at Hunter. She raised her eyebrows mouthing the words 'Who's that?' Motioning she was hot waving her hand over her face.
Hunter rolled his eyes, "Steph, this is Samantha. My new trainer."
"Wow! Hi Samantha. I'm Stephanie. Hunters bestie," she laughed.
Sam smiled and shook her hand. "Hi. Nice to meet you, Mrs. Jericho. Or is it still McMahan?"
"McMahan. Oh cool. You know me? You a WWE fan? Just Steph is fine."
"I am a fan. Sorry, I really must be going. It was great meeting you. Hunter, see you first thing in the morning. We have a long workout day tomorrow," She waved bye.
"See you tomorrow. Thanks for coming," Hunter glared at Steph. Sam left and he rolled his eyes shutting the door. "DON'T start Steph!"
"She's cute Hunter. Don't you think?" She skipped following him.
"I told you, don't start." He walked into the living room.
Steph prancing behind him, "Don't you think she is pretty? Classy looking. Not like your hoe train."
"Steph, it's about work and getting me in shape. Not about getting me laid. You want something to drink?"
"Who said anything about getting you laid,? Pervert. Juice. NO...water...no...milk!" Steph smiled following him to the kitchen. She sat at the kitchen island resting both fists under her chin like a kid. "Soooo? You think she's pretty?" She said sweetly batting her eyelashes.
"Why? Are you looking for a girlfriend? I think she's into dudes though." He grabbed two glasses.
"Hunter, don't be a jerk. Do you think she's pretty?" Steph asked again.
"Good grief Steph! Yes, ok. She is pretty. Satisfied." He poured her milk and his juice.
"I want juice now." He huffed and switched glasses. She looked at him still smiling like a Cheshire cat.
He let out a huff, "What?"
"You think you could start to like her?"
"Steph it's about work. We already laid out ground rules on that. No dating." He sat next to her.
"So...you talked about it? So you thought she was hot and got all...Oh, I'm not dating act." She mocked him trying to look like a big monster. "I'm big grouchy, Hunter. I have no heart. Work work work. Grumble Grumble."
"Steph, do we have to do this? Get off it. I have to focus if I want to get back in that ring." He got up drinking down his milk and putting the glass in the dishwasher.
"Just saying. You have the right to have fun. You're having her stay here, right? Like the guys were?" She drank her juice.
"Yes. In the guest room. She seems very professional. So don't get any ideas. No snooping around. Got it?!"
Steph huffed, "Oh fine. You really can't be alone forever."
"Watch me." He walked out and went to the living room. Steph put away her glass and saw the dishwasher was full.
"You need a woman or a dang maid." She turned on the washer. She went and flopped on the couch. He was watching an old gangster movie. "Boring." She grabbed the remote and changed the channel.
"HEY! I was watching that." Hunter frowned taking it back, "Don't you have a husband to annoy?"
"Yep. But he is out with his band practicing. I want a pizza. Let's watch Dirty Dancing."
Hunter ran his hand over his face. "Steph. Go home."
"Ok. Ok. I'm going. But, she's cute! I may pay her a visit this week." Steph got up. Hunter stood and took her arm guiding her to the door.
"Out! Leave her alone. No playing matchmaker."
"OOH M&M's!" She stopped by the candy jar gabbing some.
"Out. Here take the jar. GO!"
"Fine grumpy. See ya tomorrow!" She smiled popping candy in her mouth.
Hunter just rolled his eyes. He led Steph out and locked the door. She knocked on the door looking through the small window on the side. "Hunter!" (knock knock knock) "Hunter!" (knock knock knock) "Hunter!" (knock knock knock) He turned to look at her peeking through the window. "You should call her. Ask her to dinner. Just casual. It would be a nice gesture to welcome her."
"Steph. Go away!" He heard her giggling. "Annoying brat."
