Crazy For You

by sophia0401

Mickie and Randy have history, both good and bad. Mickie is drafted back to Raw and they act like sworn enemies. Will they be able to get past their dark history, or will they let it control their relationship forever? Randy/Mickie

37. Revelations

"Ted hurry up! Taking forever to get ready is supposed to be Mickie's thing!" Cody shouted at the bathroom door.

He and Randy had arrived at our room about fifteen minutes ago, and now Cody was waiting impatiently to go as Randy merely lounged on my bed watching TV.

"Yeah! So stop stealing my thing you female," I added.

The door opened and Ted came strutting back into the room, "God can't a person get ready in peace?"

"No!" Cody and I shouted at the same time.

Ted merely muttered about how annoying we were, but didn't offer us an actual coherent reply as he set about the room collecting his necessities for the evening.

He was walking towards the table at the same moment Randy got to his feet, and he ended up bumping into the Viper as Randy stared down at him without a hint of amusement.

"Oh you're a big guy hey! What are you gonna do? Beat me up… get over it… like really it was only once… so is this how we're– okay, okay! I'm sorry, I won't do it again!" Ted exclaimed.

I chuckled to myself… Randy hadn't said a word but had merely stared at Ted and managed to make him crack under his scrutinizing gaze. Ever since we left the arena Randy had taken every opportunity he could to glare at Ted. He claimed it was because Ted forcing himself on me was rude, but I got satisfaction from knowing he was maybe a little jealous.

"Hey champ… that sounds so wrong in reference to someone other than John Cena…" I broke away from my thoughts to receive a glare from Randy, "…no offence."

"I don't care. Fact is, Cena isn't champion anymore… as a matter of fact, he won't be for a long time or ever if I have anything to say about it," he said, taking a seat on the bed again.

"As an official Legacy member it's in my contract to applaud and agree with you," I teased.

"Oh I'm sure that's the only reason, not that you're so infatuated by me or anything," he said airily.

"Oh yes Randy! However did you know…? I thought it was my little secret!" I said theatrically.

"Pff a secret the whole world knows," Ted scoffed behind me.

I whirled around, sending him a death glare, "It was a joke… moron!"

"God what is with all of this hostility towards me?" he pouted.

"I believe Mickie has already answered your question. Does the word moron ring a bell?" Cody spoke, rolling his eyes.

"I'm going to see if Maria is ready, I'll meet you jerks in the lobby," Ted muttered, slamming the door behind him. A moment later he poked his head back in, "Seriously guys don't take forever… please!" he pleaded, before closing the door again.

I giggled. I love it when Ted does that! He gets so angry and does this huge dramatic entrance before coming back in to tell us something else.

"I love harassing him, he gets so riled up," Cody said with a grin.

"Not gonna lie, it's become one of my favourite past times," I admitted, sitting down on the chair to pull my shoes on.

Ted has always been an amusing person, but when he gets irritated be becomes flustered and dramatic – the easiest entertainment anyone could ask for. I knew he wouldn't take it seriously just like the rest of us didn't when we were the target – yes we each had our own day to be one we just didn't know when that was going to be.

"So should we go? Is Eve coming?" I asked Cody.

He scratched the back of his head in a show of discomfort, "Yeah she wants to go separately than everyone else, you know for privacy…" he chuckled lightly.

I tilted my head a bit and offered him a smile, "Cody you don't have to lie to us. We know why she wants to go separately. Look, how about you guys go with Ted, Maria and whoever else, and Randy and I will meet you there."

"No I don't want to put you guys out, really it's fine."

"Cody man, I don't want to have to make the journey with any of the other superstars or divas. You're doing me a favour," Randy spoke up.

"Yeah his anti-social ness and all… besides who knows who he might attack this time," I said matter-of-factly, "it's best to keep him away from civilians."

"Oh you guys act like I'm some sort of animal," he complained.

"Vipers shouldn't be let free to slither the streets, they're dangerous," I winked at him.

"Clever," he said sarcastically.

Cody chuckled, "It was actually. Okay if you insist then we'll meet you two there. See you in a bit." A moment later he was out the door as it closed behind him.

"Are you ready to go?" I asked Randy while putting my dangly earrings in.

"We don't have to go you know. We could stay and do… other things," he raised his brows suggestively.

I chuckled, "Oh as tempting as that sounds, everyone is expecting us. Apart from that we are celebrating Legacy's dominance… it'll be fun." I surveyed him before taking a seat on the edge of the bed.

A person can only take so much before it becomes too much.

I turned my head slightly to the left. No matter how hard I tried I couldn't get the thoughts from before off my mind. Being in the same room as Randy, didn't help with the task either.

I can't be in this… depressing relationship okay! Not everything is about you, did you ever think about me once?

The words echoed in my head, as if they were trapped there. I hated the reminders; I just wish they could be permanently removed from my mind because they were too painful. Just remembering the look of despair on his face was enough to do the job, because I was the cause of it.

"Hey you here?' Randy snapped his fingers in front of my face.

I shook my head, "Yeah I'm fine."

"Mickie you've been spacing out ever since we left the arena. What's going on with you?"

"Nothing, just excited I guess," I chuckled nervously. Damn his ability to see through every lie!

"Stop lying, I can see right through it." God can he read my mind?

"Mickie," he sighed, "I thought we got past this…"

I turned my head again, averting my eyes as I climbed to my feet. Walking towards the table, I remained silent for a moment. Was I really going to discuss with Randy what was on my mind?

"Mickie?"

I allowed a small sigh to escape my lips before turning back to find Randy now perched on the edge of the bed.

"Was I, was I really awful to you, you know after… after everything?" I asked quietly.

Any sign of amusement fell off his face; his expression went blank as he averted his eyes this time. The room was silent save for the noise coming from the television. Maybe it was a bad idea bringing up the past.

After another moment of uncomfortable silence, he pushed himself to a standing position and finally… he looked at me.

"You weren't pleasant but I guess… I deserved it," he spoke.

I shook my head, "No you didn't, I was so… selfish in the way I treated you," I said truthfully.

"Past is past Mickie–"

"Yeah and it's also something a person has to live with for the rest of their lives… it's not something you just forget. I'm not that kind of person," I said in reference to how bitter I acted those last six months, "and that feeling of hopelessness was so foreign to me, I just didn't know how to handle it. So I pointed the finger at the person closest to me and unfortunately that was you," I said. "God I would never wish that darkness upon anybody because it's truly something that you never get over."

"You need to let it go Mickie," he spoke quietly.

"Oh because you've done such a good job of letting it go!" I spat. Half a second later, "I'm sorry that came out… wrong. Just… forget I said anything."

"No I haven't let it go Mickie, but I don't think about it all the time either. It makes me angry and bitter and I'm tired of feeling that way… its exhausting," he said.

"You're preaching to the choir. I'm sorry for bringing this up right now of all times. I just couldn't stop thinking about it. It's like… Ted – doesn't shut up until you pay attention to him," I attempted a joke.

"Its fine," he chuckled. "So that's what this was about. Ted didn't actually try to make out with you did he?"

"No thank god! Um one kiss was enough, I'm disturbed for life," I exclaimed.

"He's really lucky, I was so close to wanting to kill him… you know because he was taking advantage of you," he shrugged effortlessly. "Anyway I'm used to it… the past has been coming up a lot lately," he admitted.

"It has hasn't it? And we've been trying all these years to avoid it," I said.

"Unresolved issues, it seems, don't go away."

There was another brief silence before I broke it. "Can I ask you one more question?" I asked uneasily. "I've been curious for years."

"I don't think I'd be able to stop you," he sighed, "so why not?"

I thought carefully on how to word what was on my mind, "When I came to your hotel that night, and… begged you to take me back… I think we had a, a decent goodbye you know, at least better than before when you stormed out after asking me to empty the room as you might need it."

I paused briefly, "So why were you so bitter and resentful? I gave you what you wanted…"

There was a much longer silence this time around and I knew the question had made him uncomfortable. But to my surprise he answered, honestly.

"First things first, that wasn't what I wanted, I never wanted to give you up – I just figured it was the right thing to do. I thought I could get over you… turns out I wasbeen wrong." He sighed, "Mickie I blamed you for me not being able to move on. There's a reason I became the supposed 'lady thriller', I never even attempted another relationship because I couldn't get over the past. It all seemed so easy for you."

"Randy I had friends. You cut everyone out. But it was never easy for me," I told him.

He shrugged his shoulders, "Yeah well, not much we can do about it now is there?"

"Yeah I guess… um is this going to be awkward?" I asked stupidly.

"Only if we make it so… let's just put this aside. We had this discussion, we aren't going to forget it, but let's get past it. If anything, we should learn from our past mistakes."

"Hmm that just might be the smartest thing you've said… ever," I said with a chuckle.

"And what you should learn from your past is how not funny you are," he told me without any amusement.

"I happen to think I'm hilarious," I said with a smile.

"And we call Ted delusional," he muttered.

I giggled, "Come on let's head out," I grasped his hand and gave a gentle tug. "Wait how do I look? That's what I was going to ask you before the whole 'champ' and John Cena debacle."

Tonight I settled on a simple black strapless dress with a belt around my waist, a pair of nude pumps and matching clutch. My hair was in loose curls, and teased for a bit of definition.

"You look good… as usual. Why do you ask that every time?"

"I don't know… would you want to go in public looking like a mess without knowing?" I asked.

"You never look like a mess. I'm beginning to think that maybe that's impossible," he said.

I smiled, "Are you trying to suck up to me?"

"Is it working?" he smirked.

I chuckled this time, "Not in the least, now let's go."

I lead the way to the door before turning around abruptly to face him once more.

"We're going to have fun tonight… right?" I asked sternly.

"Define fun," he retorted.

"Well dancing, enjoying the moments with your friends, indulging in a few drinks, laughing, checking out women, and enjoying yourself," I listed. "And that's just off the top of my head."

"Laughing?" he inhaled sharply for effect, "I don't know if I can do that."

I playfully hit him on the shoulder, "I'm serious… for Legacy."

Without another word I guided the way out of the room and onto the elevator to start our night of celebration. Apart from Ted, Cody and their dates I wasn't sure exactly who else from the roster was going to be there. I hadn't had a chance to talk with anyone other than the guys, but Maria was the one who invited us to go out with her so I imagine other superstars will be there.

Instead of taking a cab we decided it was nice enough to walk the fifteen minutes to our destination. It was a nice feeling being a part of the night life in this French-Canadian city. It had been awhile since I'd been out to a club in Canada and honestly I've had nothing but good experiences. The weather was perfect out, a light breeze, but it was evident that autumn was on its way.

"Look at the line-up, they're lucky it's warm out," I said in reference to those waiting outside.

"And unlucky they aren't me," he said smugly.

"Unlucky?" I questioned, "No… I think that would make them lucky."

"Mickie would you please tell me where you get all your lines?" he spoke sarcastically. "I've just never met anyone as clever as you!"

"Wow is that sarcasm for the sake of a joke coming from the Viper?" I said in mock surprise.

He merely sent me a smirk as we approached the bouncer, who let us in immediately, and entered into the club to start the Pay-Per-View after party.

We pushed our way through the crowd that was gathered in front of the entrance – which to be honest didn't involve a lot of 'pushing' as everyone kind of… gravitated out of the way. I guess Randy just had that attitude about him… something I kept forgetting these days. He was different with me and sometimes that slipped my mind.

I leaned into Randy, "You see Ted anywhere?" I asked.

"Don't see any idiotic flailing around, so I'm guessing he hasn't gotten that far into the alcohol," he commented.

I chuckled, "The night is still young, don't get ahead of yourself. Come on," I linked my arm through his, "let's go find our friends and hope they aren't amongst a group of those hostile towards us."

"Us? I think you mean me," he responded.

"No…" I said slowly, "I mean us. Being around you brings that on me," he went to protest but I pressed on, "And I don't mind it. I know you a lot better than I know a lot of these people, same goes for you to me. It's an easy choice. Apart from Melina you're the oldest friend I have."

"I guess that makes sense, but I don't want you to cut yourself off from other people because they don't like me. I may not care for them either but unlike them I won't judge you for hanging out with anyone else."

I smiled, "And everyone thinks you're a bad person. Come on let's go make sure Ted doesn't get drunk."

"That sounds like a chore, not a celebration," he groaned.

Only offering a smile as a response, I guided us both over to the bar to buy our first drinks of the night. After Randy paid the bartender, a flirty redhead, we turned our attention to other areas of the bar as well as the dance floor in search of Ted and Cody.

After five minutes of scanning, my eyes rested on a table in the corner that housed a group of familiar faces – Melina, Kelly, Dave, John, Maryse, Mike, Evan, Brie, Nikki and Zack. To my surprise, two thirds of the occupants had their heads angled in my direction.

"We have an audience," I forced a smile and lifted my arm in a waving gesture.

The group, obviously not having realized I caught them staring, all shuffled around awkwardly to send me back a greeting. This was going to be a long night.

"Who cares, come on I see Ted and Cody over there," he pointed in the opposite direction and grabbing my hand, lead us to a smaller table overlooking the dance floor where the boys were sitting with their respective dates.

I walked forward until I was behind a sitting Ted and wrapped one arm around his neck, "Miss me?" I whispered seductively in his ear before giggling.

"Damn," he turned around, standing to his feet, "if you were anyone else I would invite you back to my… our room."

"…is that an insult?" I questioned.

"You're my BFF, I don't want to ruin our relationship," he shrugged his shoulders before leaning in, "Glad you came you saved Maria and me. Eve's in a pissy mood again."

I rolled my eyes, "So what's new these days?"

Cody stood up to greet us as did Maria, but Eve remained in her seat staring angrily at her drink. Did she ever let things go? I imagine she's pissed of because she was forced to be company to Ted. How could anyone, apart from the three of us, possibly have anything against my dear Ted?

"Hey Eve how are you?" I asked politely.

She looked up, "Just peachy," she said without a hint of amusement before standing up and walking off, completely forgetting her drink.

Cody sent me an apologetic glance, but I only waved him off as he rushed away after his girlfriend.

"Sorry about that. She and I are best friends but sometimes I really wish she would get over things," Maria spoke.

I smiled, "Don't worry about me, its Cody I feel bad for. He doesn't deserve to be treated that way."

"No of course not. I didn't have much confidence in him when she first agreed to go out with him, but he proved me wrong and ever since he's been a great boyfriend. He doesn't get angry with her which is crazy because sometimes even I want to shake her and tell her to grow up," she chuckled quietly.

"They seemed happy together, before anyways. I think they'll get through it," I said with confidence.

She smiled and nodded in agreement as the four of us took a seat at the now empty table and immersed ourselves in conversation. After a few minutes of Maria and me having a very entertaining conversation about Zack Ryder (Woo Woo Woo You Know It) she begged me to dance with her as 'Dynamite' was resounding throughout the club.

A few of the other divas – Nikki, Brie and Maryse – joined us on the dance floor and I had to admit I had a great time dancing to the next few songs, laughing and enjoying myself. Honestly I don't know why I don't hang out with Maria more often. Granted that would mean more Eve, and she's shaping up to be one of those people I'm going to try and avoid, but Maria was such a great person to be around. She hated drama and rarely ever voiced her criticisms. She liked to have fun and it was as simple as that.

"You think Randy would be okay with dancing?" Maria shouted over the music.

"Why are you going to ask him?" I asked, confused.

She giggled, "No! I mean with you, I'm going to ask Ted."

I smiled, "Let's go and see."

Grasping her hand firmly, we bade farewell to the other divas, and I lead us through the maze of other dancers, finally breaking free and setting course to where we left the boys. As we approached them, I observed that neither Cody nor Eve were anywhere in sight.

"Hey Ted, you wanna dance?" Maria asked excitedly.

"Hell yeah. I've been waiting for you to ask all night," he grasped her outstretched hand, sent us a grin and allowed her to pull him to the dance floor.

I looked down at Randy expectantly, "What do you say?"

He stared back at me and I was sure he was going to say no, but he stood to his feet and gripped my hand. "We're supposed to be having fun right?"

I grinned up at him, "Right."

He directed us towards the dance floor and pushing us through the throng of partiers, we arrived in the middle of the dance floor before he turned to face me. Moving my hips to the beat of the music, I gathered his hand in mine again, lifting it above us and moving my body closer to his. The lights flashed around us, as everyone else on the dance floor moved along in tune to the music. I felt so free; dancing was always such an exhilarating experience. I moved closer to Randy again and locked eyes with him.

"Everyone is watching," he said with a smirk, waiting expectantly to see how I would react. Looking around I realized more than one familiar face from the roster were watching us – including those who were supposed to be my good friends.

Feeling a surge of defiance I turned my attention back on Randy, "I don't care," and placing my hand on the back of his neck I pulled him down and forced my lips on his. I could tell he was surprised by my action, but a moment later his hand became tangled in my hair while the other was placed on the small of my back, pulling me into him.

A moment later I pulled away and looked back up at him, feeling a bit childish.

A smirk grew on his face, "Did you just use me to prove a point?"

"Maybe, is that a problem?" I asked.

"I'm not accustomed to being used."

"Sorry the opportunity presented itself. I'm so sick of being the center of gossip!" I exclaimed just as I felt a blow to my back, forcing me forward.

Randy caught me in his arms before we turned to see the cause of it. A man, mid twenties apparently, was trying to force his way through the crowd and had carelessly shoved me out of the way. A second later Randy had his hand around the guys arm and wrenched him around to face us.

"Dude what's your problem?" he shouted.

"My problem? You just shoved her out of the way. I believe you owe her an apology," Randy hissed.

"I don't owe anyone shit. She was in my way," he retorted.

Randy took a step forward as his eyes darkened.

"Randy it's not worth it, come on," I placed my hand on his arm.

"Yeah why don't you listen to your bitch, she's giving you some good advice. Just walk away," the guy said.

I had to use all my strength to restrain Randy this time as he attempted to hit the guy.

"Randy," I grunted, placing my hands on his chest trying to force him backwards. "Stop! I'm not offended. Besides, you could get in shit with management if they find out about you fighting!"

Randy stopped struggling to look down at me and nod his head before I turned to face the guy who now had a smug look plastered on his face.

"You need your girlfriend to fight your battles?" he shouted.

Rolling my eyes I took a step forward, "One I'm not his girlfriend, two he would make you his bitch in a second and three…" I grabbed his drink out of his hand and threw the contents in his face, "learn some manners or you're going to be pathetic and single the rest of your life."

Without waiting for a response I seized Randy's hand and lead us off the dance floor over towards the bar. I finally turned my attention on him as he grinned down at me.

"What?" I asked, not being able to withhold my own grin.

"That was so much more entertaining than what I wanted to do to him," he informed me.

"Let me guess, a kick to the skull was sounding good to you?"

"You know me," he shrugged his shoulders. "But your way was much better, granted now everyone thinks I need a woman to fight my battles."

"All they need to do is tune into Monday nights to see you are more than capable of backing up your words. You aren't champ for nothing," I told him.

"Very true. Order us some drinks, I gotta take a leak," he said.

"Thanks for the over share, I've got a great mental image floating in my mind now," I said sarcastically as I gestured for him to go.

I leaned over placing my elbows on the counter and waited patiently for the bartender to make his way over to me. So far I was having a great night that not even Eve or a random douche bag could ruin. And despite the audience of friends who I was apparently more interesting to than usual, I wasn't giving two shits what anyone else thought. I wasn't affecting anyone else, and therefore my decision to maintain this 'relationship' with Randy could not be seen as a selfish one.

I ordered two beers for the both of us and took a seat on the stool to wait for him to return from the washroom.

"Is this drink for me?" I turned to find an unfamiliar man had taken the stool next to mine, and before I could respond he picked up one of the beers in one swift motion and took a swig of it.

"No that was my… friends," I sighed. "Can I help you?"

"Just came to enjoy a drink with a pretty lady," he responded. "How about we take this party to the dance floor."

"Um no sorry I'm waiting for someone," I said politely.

"While we're waiting how about it?"

"I said no, there's an entire room full of other women, why don't you ask one of them?" I offered. This reminded me of the road trip to New York a few months ago, except this guy was about two times bigger than that guy had been.

"Because I'm asking you… you're special," he said, and I swore I could detect a hint of danger in his voice.

"Look I said no politely. Please just move along," I said impatiently, looking away and hoping he would take my advice.

He stood up and moved closer to me, "I really think we should go and dance… now!" he ordered.

"Excuse me?" I said jumping to my feet. "Where do you get off telling me what I should do?"

"Feisty… I like that," he grabbed my arm and tried to pull me along but I stood my ground and wrenched my arm out of his grasp.

"The more you resist the harder it is for–" but he was cut off as Randy came up behind the guy and nudging me backwards, he resumed the position I had previously been in, going face to face with this guy who had taken a few steps back. They were roughly the same height, but the man had at least fifty pounds on Randy. He wasn't fit; he had more of a beer gut if anything.

"No you just made it harder for yourself," Randy hissed. "I've had to deal with your kind more times than I would like to remember. When a woman says no, it means no. It's not her fault you're so desperate to get laid."

"Walk away buddy, this doesn't concern you. I don't want to embarrass you in front of the lady," he said smugly.

"Yeah it does concern me; she's my responsibility as a friend. And second, the only one who's going to be embarrassed is you when you hit the floor after I kick your skull in," Randy warned. So he got to use his threat after all.

The guy only chuckled loudly as he looked over Randy's shoulder. I turned slightly to find two guys approaching us. One of them was just as big as his buddy and the other was… familiar. It was the guy from the dance floor, wet shirt and all. Randy put his arm out to force me behind him again as the three men lined up in front of us.

"I should've known," Randy spoke. "Did you send your buddy into get something started… to provoke us?" he said to the man from the dance floor who compared to his two friends was looking pretty small.

"Maybe," he responded smugly.

I took a step to position myself beside the Viper ignoring his best efforts to keep me positioned behind him. I glanced up briefly at him to see he had a smirk on his face.

"Am I supposed to be intimidated?" he said.

"Randy, remember how this went last time?" I hissed quietly.

"Mickie they're morons, I'm hardly scared," he spoke loud enough for them to hear.

"I bet we could do a good amount of damage to both of you before security stepped in," the guy from the bar spoke.

Randy glanced down at me and I could tell from his expression that he was worried for me, but he kept his poker face on and the three men didn't see his slight concern show through.

They all took a step forward but stopped immediately as the smiles faded off their faces. I looked sideways, to see what had stopped them, to find John had taken position beside Randy.

"Problem here?" the Cenation leader looked back and forth between us and them as a smile grew on my face. Randy hid the surprise and focused on the three in front of us again.

"This your buddy?" the big guy asked Randy gesturing to John.

"No I hate him, actually I just kicked his ass in a match tonight to retain my title," Randy said smugly.

I nudged him as John rolled his yes, "Is now really the time for that?" he asked, keeping his eyes focused forward.

"It's always the time," Randy responded as the guys looked on, confused.

"So are you here to help him or not?" the smaller guy asked edgily.

"I hate the guy because he's a dick. But she," he gestured to me, "is my best friend and if he's defending her, I got his back."

"Awe Cena I've got tingling sensations from your touching declaration of support," Randy said sarcastically.

"Orton will you stop being an asshole for five minutes?" John turned to face Randy now.

"That's next to impossible," I scoffed.

"Thanks for that Mickie, I mean I'm about to get my ass kicked for defending you, but please feel free to insult me," he spoke sarcastically.

"I totally could've handled this on my own," I said defiantly.

"No you think you could've handled this on your own, just like you do with everything else, but low and behold I always have to step in to help–" Randy started but was rudely interrupted.

"Shut up!" the guy from the dance floor shouted, "God this is like watching a damn soap opera." He turned to the guy from the bar, "Johnny we can still take them."

The other two nodded and were about to come forward when they stopped abruptly once more. Someone forced me backwards and when I looked up, I seen the forms of Ted and Cody had taken my place next to Randy as Dave, Evan, Mike, Zack, and John Morrison had taken their place on John's left. Kelly, Melina, Maria, Maryse, Nikki and Brie had taken their place behind the superstars and beside me.

I could see how intimidated the three standing in front of them were as they all took a couple of steps back obviously wondering what the hell was going on.

"Are these your friends?" the smaller one asked Randy, trying to appear tough.

"Yeah we are!" Ted shouted enthusiastically as all the superstars, including Randy, turned to stare at him. "Okay me and him are," he gestured to himself and Cody quietly.

I smiled to myself as I forced my way through a gap between John and Randy, the latter trying to stop me but I insisted that I would be okay.

"Thanks guys," I muttered to all the superstars before turning my attention back on the problem in front of us. Ignoring the crowd that had gathered out of curiosity I said, "You see, what you happened to stumble upon is a room full of WWE superstars."

"You mean that fake stuff?" the second bigger guy asked sceptically.

"That explains the soap opera shit," the smaller guy spoke.

"Yeah, yeah I thought they looked familiar," the guy named Johnny said.

"First of all," I said harshly, "it's not fake, it's scripted. Last time I checked, getting thrown across the ring wasn't like landing on a pillow. And getting suplexed off the top rope doesn't feel so great either."

"Hell yeah and getting kicked in the skull," I turned to see Dave had shot a look towards Randy, "doesn't create pleasant sensations."

"He's right; the WWE being scripted doesn't change the fact that all of us work out five days a week or more. We are all in excellent shape, including the lovely ladies standing behind us. The lot of us are faster, stronger and could run circles around you while you stopped to catch your breath," I said. "Not only are we in shape but we are trained to defend ourselves."

I paused for a brief moment, "So despite the fact that each of us has our own issues with one another, we have a couple things in common. We can't stand those who have no respect for our friends and we can't stand those who insult our business and passion. So I'm going to advise you to take your exit… for your own good."

"But you guys could get in trouble for it… I heard you telling him that on the dance floor," the one guy said, gesturing to Randy.

"True, but do you really think we would actually stand around and allow you to beat on us?" John spoke. "There's a little thing called self defence."

We all stared at them, awaiting their next move but before any of them could speak a word, a group of security guards had approached us.

"Is there a problem here?"

I crossed my arms and kept my eyes on the three in front of me, "I don't know… is there?"

They exchanged glances with one another before turning to face security, "No, no problem," the small one finally said, and without looking at us they backed up and took their leave.

I shook my head and grinned to myself as I turned around to face my colleagues. Some were already heading off except for Ted, Cody, Maria, Randy, John, Dave, Melina and Kelly.

"Yeah Micks way to take care of business," John called out and held his hand out for a high five.

I reciprocated the gesture, "Guys just get intimidated by me," I shrugged my shoulders playfully.

Dave chuckled, "You're a beast I'll admit."

I punched him in the arm, "It's why you're afraid of me."

"Yeah afraid you might do some damage to my shins from way down there," he responded.

I rolled my eyes, "Good one. Thanks for the help guys."

"Anytime Micks, talk to you later," John said as he and Dave sauntered off.

"You okay?" Kelly asked.

"Definitely," I smiled and wrapped an arm around her shoulders, "I'm a tough bitch. I handle my business," I said arrogantly.

Her and Melina laughed at me, "Okay tough bitch, don't be trying to handle 'business' yourself," Melina advised me. "I don't want anyone laying a hand on that pretty face of yours," she pinched my cheek attempting to annoy me.

"No one wants to mess with Mickie James, so we won't have a problem there," I said.

They both giggled and then promised to talk to me later before leaving me with my Legacy team mates and Maria.

"Damn James, you sure put those freaks in their place," Ted shouted out enthusiastically as he opened his arms.

I walked into him and wrapped my arms around him as he did the same. "I told you DiBiase, nobody wants a piece of me… I'm intimidating!"

"Yeah about as intimidating as my grandmother," Cody scoffed.

We turned to face him as Ted slung an arm over my shoulder, "Excuse you, but you should be thanking her. She did you a favour, those guys would have made quick work of you," he said, looking Cody up and down in a judgemental gesture.

I smiled, "That's why our friendship never would've worked out. Ted is more supportive!"

"Maybe I'm still bitter about your betrayal; did you ever think about that?" Cody asked, crossing his arms.

"Awe I'm sorry!" I rushed forward to try and hug him, but he dodged out of the way. "I'll get you sometime Cody!"

"Not if I have any say in it. But I better take my leave to try and find my girlfriend," he sighed and then walked off.

If Eve didn't smarten up, I was going to confront her myself and tell her to stop acting so immature. It might make matters worse, but Cody does not deserve her attitude. Ted and Maria drifted off to the dance floor, and I watched them leave before turning back to Randy.

"Really Mickie, how many times am I going to have to come to your rescue?"

"Pff I had it under control," I said airily.

"You have a knack for attracting trouble," he commented as we took seats at the bar.

"I could have told you that," I gestured to him, "You are the perfect example. Trouble seems to follow me."

He chuckled and nodded his head, "We were both in trouble the moment I came through that door after successfully defending my intercontinental title."

I smiled, "Oh yes I remember meeting the four of you, god I was so damn nervous!"

"I remember too, what was that… oh 'Randy's so pretty'," he mimicked me.

I narrowed my eyes playfully, "God I wish Dave never would have told you that!" That was said in confidentiality! And ever since you've been irritatingly arrogant."

"Who are you kidding? I was arrogant long before that," he said in amusement.

"Yeah you're right," I smiled before turning to the bartender to order more drinks.

"Tequila Mickie?" Randy asked sceptically.

"Why not? Fun remember?" I passed him one of the shot glasses. "We were good friends hey?" I asked after finishing mine.

"Yeah it was something I was good at. It just seemed so effortless I guess," he admitted.

"Do you think we made a mistake entering into a relationship?" I asked him. "Maybe we could have avoided everything if we just remained… friends."

After a moment he shook his head, "There was always something… more between us. You know what I mean? I never took a second thought to putting you before everyone else. You were always the first person I wanted to see in the morning. I think no matter what we would've gone down the relationship path."

I looked over at him, "I still remember the first time I saw you, when you shook my hand… and the feeling that I got. It was like, for the first time I was in the right place at the right time. The sense of comfort I got in those five seconds… I've never forgotten," I admitted.

He looked back at me, "Because you were in the right place. I wouldn't say I enjoyed the pain, but it was all worth it with you. Every moment we shared… every moment we share is special in its own right, and I've never felt that with anybody else."

I was surprised at his openness on the subject, and in a way glad that he willingly shared it with me. It made me feel closer to him, knowing we had the same views on the subject.

"Yeah… I guess you're right."

"Of course I am," he shrugged his shoulders.

I rolled my eyes playfully, "Do you ever get tired of complimenting yourself?"

"What kind of question is that?"

"One that I thought, up until five seconds ago, was a pretty legitimate one, but I forgot I already know the answer."

"You get smarter by the week," he responded.

I shook my head, "And it appears that you, much like you think about me, never get funnier."

"You just aren't used to being around someone who actually is funny," he said.

"Yeah… that's it," I said sarcastically.

"Besides I don't believe I said you never get funnier, I said you aren't funny… or at least that's what I meant to imply."

I laughed sarcastically in response, as he emitted a chuckle. We sat in silence for awhile with our backs to the bar as we surveyed the rest of the club. A few brave women approached Randy asking to dance, but each time he declined much to their disappointment.

"I don't understand, I mean I do, but I don't. You look scary, to others, why approach you?" I asked.

"Because I'm handsome, funny, and confident – women are attracted to confidence.

"Yeah but we hate arrogant, which is what you are," I told him.

"It doesn't matter. I'm, for the most part, very hard to read… which in a sense makes me mysterious, however lame that sounds. Women are attracted to a man of mystery, and that combined with confidence, well… I get what I want. Women love me, or they do until I'm done with them… some of them even still do afterwards."

"Ugh I can't believe I willingly have sex with you," I crossed my arms.

He merely chuckled, "You can't resist my charm. If anything it works on you more than anyone," he replied.

"Oh yeah, how's that?"

"Every bad thing that's happened in our history, which is obviously a lot, and you can't seem to stay away. I have a hold on you like nobody else," he stated smugly.

"Yeah you do, but that goes both ways Orton, and you can't deny that. Not even Laura can claim," I grinned.

He just stared back at me for a moment, no amusement on his face before opening his mouth to speak only to be interrupted by Cody who plopped down on the stool next to his. He didn't say anything but only placed his head in his hands.

"Um Cody? You okay?" I asked.

He shook his head and then finally looked up at us, "Eve won't let anything go? How can you go from being so happy with someone to miserable?"

Randy cleared his throat, took a sip of his beer and exchanged a brief knowing glance with me.

"You're preaching to the choir buddy," I sighed.

"Just dump her," Randy said bluntly, shrugging his shoulders.

I elbowed him in the side, "She's still mad about my party?"

"Yeah but its worse. Anything I say is always the wrong thing. It's like she wants me to agree with her opinions on you guys. And when I tell her she doesn't know you, she just gets angrier. I've never felt so helpless!" he exclaimed.

I reached over and patted him on the arm, "You guys will work it out. I could talk to her if you'd like."

"That's probably not a good idea… she hasn't had very many nice things to say, and with the whole you and Randy thing becoming public… just, it's best to stay clear of her. She'll come around… I hope."

"I don't understand why people think it's their business to give their opinion on my choices!" None of us said anything for a moment before I sighed, "You two will be okay Cody."

"I sure hope you're right. The one time I take a chance on a relationship in years... Well it damn well better."

"Is she still here?"

"No she left with Maryse."

"Good, come on let's go dance. Randy do you mind?"

"Are you kidding? Have fun Cody," he said smugly, happy that he wasn't the one being dragged onto the dance floor.

"No I don't feel–" Cody started but I cut him off.

"I didn't ask Rhodes," and before he could respond, I grabbed his hand and forced him to the dance floor.

We danced to about four songs and by the time we headed back over to Randy, Cody had a smile on his face once more. Even though he had advised me not to, I was going to have a little chat with Eve. Cody was my best friend, and no one was going to get away with treating him like that. He had been nothing but a gentleman, and she was being downright childish.

"Are you having fun sitting here alone?" I asked Randy.

"Well I wasn't alone for the whole time. There was an attractive brunette who pounced on me the moment you two left… she wasn't my type," he said simply.

"Oh really? A girl who wasn't your type… miracles do happen!" I teased.

"Yo what up DiBiase Posse… hey I like the sound of that. We should change our group name to that!" Ted called out as he and Maria approached us.

"Yeah sure if we want the Legacy to lose its credibility," Randy spoke.

"If we were to change our name it should become… the James gang!' I said enthusiastically.

"That's even worse," Randy said.

"Yeah really, at least mine rhymes," Ted said childishly.

I poked my tongue out at him and grabbed Maria's hand, "Bathroom time. And possibly on the way we might engage in story time," I said threateningly.

"You wouldn't dare," he said, narrowing my eyes.

"Wouldn't I?" I said threateningly as I lead the way to the bathroom.

"What stories?" Maria enquired.

"Ted takes nude pictures of himself," was the first thing to come to mind. "One time I walked in on it – I'm scarred for life by the way – and he was doing a photo shoot. He kept saying 'fierce' at the camera."

Maria looked at me questioningly before exploding into laughter.

I chuckled along with her, "Ted's a good guy Maria."

She smiled genuinely, "I know, from what I can tell anyway. He's a good friend too. All his stories are Mickie this, me and Mickie that…"

"Friends is all we are," I emphasized.

She offered another smile, "I know. It's actually nice how close you two are. I find it very refreshing and in now way am I intimidated. I would never have a problem with it, nor would I ever ask him to change his relationship with you."

"Good," I said softly. "Ted is a huge support system in my life. I need and value him as a friend, but in no way would I let that interfere in any relationship you two may engage in," I promised her.

"Can I be honest?" she asked softly.

"Of course," I assured her.

"Eve would probably kill me for this… but I think that's why she's so angry with him. She's finally realized how big of a role the three of you play in Cody's life… how close the four of you are. I guess, selfishly so, she wants to be the only important thing in his life."

"But that's so silly. He cares about her so much and has for such a long time. Cody will always put her first, but if she keeps insisting he stay away from us, or that he should have the same low opinion of us that she does, than she will lose him," I explained. "You think that may sound arrogant, but it's not… I'm certain of it. Cody, Ted, Randy and me have a bond that… well that I've never felt in a friend way before. It's something we are going to have forever, and I haven't been more convinced of anything in my life."

"I believe it. I think she'll come around. She loves Cody, so don't think she doesn't. She just needs to get used to the fact that you guys are a package deal," the redhead said.

I laughed, "I like that… it's a good way of describing us."

"I find myself entertained by the four of you. The good times that you can have, just seem to come so simply and naturally. I've never been in a relationship like that before," she admitted.

"We're a weird bunch alright," I acknowledged proudly.

She waited as I used the washroom quickly and after washing my hands, we were out the door and on our way back to the guys who were still near the bar. We walked up to find, not so surprisingly, that Ted and Cody were engaged in another of their many petty arguments.

I took the stool next to Randy, "So what's it about this time?"

Before he could answer Ted turned to face me, "Mickie who do you think would win if we had a hot dog eating contest?"

"Really Ted? You actually… willingly entered into this argument? I'm sorry but you set yourself up for failure on this one," I told him, shaking my head in disappointment.

"I tried to tell him but he told me to shut up," Randy said, apparently still surprised Ted had dared to tell him to do so.

"How did I set myself up for failure?" the fortunate son asked, crossing his arms.

"Ted," I stood up to move closer to him, "We're talking about Cody here. He orders half the menu every time we go out to eat, and manages to finish before us most of the time."

Cody looked on proudly as Maria stood off the side, seemingly amused by the situation that was taking place in front of her. I backed up to take my seat on the stool again waiting for Ted's reaction.

He appeared deep in thought, 'Damnit! I so do not have my thinking cap on tonight!" he pulled his wallet out and handed Cody two twenties which the brunette took smugly. "I'll get you next time Rhodes."

"Fat chance of that," he said confidently.

I laughed to myself before looking over their shoulders to see my blonde diva friend approaching us rapidly – as John, Dave and Melina rushed after her.

I jumped off my stool once more and took a few steps forward, "Hey Kel what's–"

"When were you planning to tell me?" she shouted in my face.

I was confused, "Tell you what?"

She crossed her arms, "That you had sex with my boyfriend!"

I was taken aback at her accusation but not so much as the three guys behind me.

"What?" they all shouted as the same time.

I sent them all a 'shut up' look before turning back to face John.

"You told her?" I asked. I hadn't thought about that night in years.

"She… overheard me talking about it. I've had a few drinks… it slipped out," he admitted shamefully.

"I asked you a question," Kelly hissed.

I sighed, forcing myself to stay calm and explain myself. I wasn't guilty of anything as far as I was concerned.

"Never Kelly, I was never planning to tell you."

"You weren't planning to tell me you slept with my boyfriend?" she shouted.

"He wasn't your boyfriend at the time Kel, in fact you barely knew him," I explained. "That was almost three years ago. I don't see why you're angry about it."

She scoffed, "You lied to me!" she shrieked. "Melina and I asked you more than once, and you told us you never had."

They had asked me and I had declined on two occasions. But Melina did know about it as she always seemed to be able to get anything out of me – Kelly just wasn't around at the time. I turned my gaze on my raven-haired friend who merely shot me a sympathetic glance before shrugging her shoulders. I focused my attention on the pissed off blonde in front of me.

"I didn't tell you because it wasn't a big deal then nor is it one now. John and me are and have only ever been friends. It was a mistake… Kelly you know how messed up I was after everything happened with Randy. I was drunk and… and it happened. I'm sorry I lied," I said sincerely.

"Oh what a surprise, blame your problems on Orton. That's getting a little old. I was there for it Mickie and that was three years ago, but you are still blaming your issues on him. Get over it already, I'm sick of hearing your sob story," she spoke harshly.

I was stunned at her words, literally. Kelly had never spoken to me like that before. I didn't know how to respond. Searching John's, Melina's and Dave's faces, they were just as shocked as I was. Looking back at Kelly she didn't even seem remorseful.

"Kelly, how could you… say that?" I whispered. "You know what that did to me. How much of a wreck I was…"

"How much of a wreck you were? You are a wreck Mickie. Letting him use you the way you do, you're pathetic!" she spat. "I'm not the only one who thinks it. Where's your self respect?" she hissed.

Randy's POV

"Enough!" I snarled, standing to my feet having heard enough from Kelly's mouth. I stepped forward and placed my arm protectively around Mickie's waist and for the first time John didn't step forward to Kelly's defence. I think he was still too stunned at what had just taken place. Kelly didn't need his help though as there seemed to be no intimidation from her this time as she stared directly up at me.

As for myself, I was genuinely surprised at this new revelation but I didn't understand why Kelly was angry. She didn't have anything to do with John back then.

"I'm going to say this once more and you better listen this time," I looked at the four of them in turn. "What goes on between Mickie and me is none of your fucking business. You act like you care about her, but where the hell have you been the last four months? Ted especially, Cody and myself are the ones who have been here for her for the most part since she got back, so you have no right to be judging her."

I surveyed their faces again, "Does it surprise you that I can admit to caring about her? Well it shouldn't considering I have since the moment I met her, but that's also none of your goddamn concern."

I paused and focused on Kelly once more as Mickie turned her body into mine, "You have no right to talk!" I said, my gaze boring into hers. "The only pathetic one here is you for caring about something that happened three years ago before you barely knew any of us. Hell I have more reason than you to be pissed off about this and yet, I'm not. So get over yourself. And if you use pathetic in reference to her one more time I'll make sure it's the last thing you say," I hissed.

John took a step forward to place his hand on Kelly's arm, "Come on let's go," he muttered.

She wrenched her arm free of his grasp and looked back at Mickie, "Eve was right about the four of you. No wonder she has such an issue, I can honestly say I don't blame her. He really did a number on you didn't he? Stay away from my boyfriend," she snarled before turning and storming off.

John shook his head shamefully, "I'm sorry Mickie, I'm just… sorry," he said quietly before turning and following after his girlfriend.

Mickie's POV

Melina looked tortured glancing back and forth, "I don't know why she said those things Mickie. I certainly haven't been discussing any of it with her. I would never call you pathetic, I hope you know that. Hey," I looked up at her as she grasped my hand, "I know you've been through a lot of rough times, I'll never hold it against you. And I know it may not seem like it but Kelly doesn't either."

Randy scoffed, "Yeah because that was evident in her choice of words."

Melina looked up at him, "She cares about Mickie and she's worried about her. We all are, can you blame us?" she spoke fiercely.

"I'm not the one who's making her feel down all the time," Randy responded, "Not anymore."

"How long will that last? Are you planning on starting a relationship again? Where is this going?"

"That's none of your business," Randy said.

"Mickie is my business. She's like a sister to me,' Melina spoke defiantly. "We may not have been around all that often for the last few months but we were there for her three years ago!"

Looking up at Randy, I noticed for the first time someone other than me had rendered him speechless.

I shook my head, "I, I don't want to get into this," I finally found my voice.

Melina offered me a sympathetic glance, "I'm sorry sweetie," she pulled me away from Randy and into her arms. "I'm really sorry for what she said. I don't know where it came from and I don't know why she's mad over something so silly. I'll talk to her okay?"

I merely nodded my head and muttered good bye's to her and Dave after he offered me a hug of his own.

Ted came forward soon after and pulled me into his arms as I ignored the looming threat of tears. The day had started off so good until I forced those memories to the surface, and everything kind of went downhill from there.

"Are you okay? Cody will allow you to insult him endlessly for an hour if it will make you feel better," Ted offered.

"Yeah definitely, anything," Cody spoke up.

"And we both know how easy it is to insult that tool, starting with his goofy looking face!" Ted exclaimed.

"Buddy, I said her not you!" Cody spoke up.

I laughed weakly, "I'll think about it." I pulled out of the hug to find all three guys and Maria staring at me cautiously.

"Do you want to leave?" Randy asked hesitantly.

"No," I spoke.

"What do you want then?" Ted enquired.

I was silent for a moment before responding, "Tequila," I said without any hint of amusement. My best bet was to numb the pain I was feeling.

"Mickie," Randy sighed, "Do you think that's a good idea?"

"Why not? It's nothing new for me and we're supposed to have fun… right?"

Randy's POV

"Oh my gosh! I never knew how good of a singer Teddy was!" Mickie exclaimed excitedly.

Cody and I exchanged looks, "You're kidding right?" he asked her.

"No! Our best friend is so talented, I'm jealous!" she shouted, clapping her hands together, as she rushed forward to join Ted a top the table and shout the lyrics to the music that was playing.

"Okay this was a bad idea allowing them to get up there," Maria spoke from her position to the right of me.

"You think?" Cody spoke sarcastically. "I'm actually wishing we had gotten into that bar brawl earlier. Chances are we wouldn't be in this situation right now if we had."

"Next time I'm going to punch the guy in the face… to provoke him. Nothing is worth this torture or embarrassment," I added, gulping back the remainder of my beer. Of course back then I hadn't known that the night was going to come to this. And I guess if I had to choose between this torturous singing, or the possibility of Mickie getting hurt I would choose the former.

Over the last forty-five minutes, Mickie and Ted (who insisted because he felt bad for Mickie) had been tipping back drinks – mostly shots – left and right. The result – they were both pissed drunk. Mickie drunk, okay that's fine, easily dealt with, but Mickie and Ted (of all people)… well this was going to be a long ass night.

I watched the two in horror until a moment later Ted nudged Mickie a little too hard and she fell off the table to the floor.

"I guess she was stealing his spotlight," Cody muttered before I rushed forward to help her up while he and Maria forced Ted off the table.

"Are you okay?" I asked her.

She giggled, "Of course I am silly! Ted never meant to do that, right Ted?" she shouted.

"What?" he asked with a grin.

"You never meant to push me right?"

"Yeah I did," he shouted back. "You were stealing my thunder!" he leaned in, "I'm trying to impress my date you know," he whispered loud enough that Maria heard, causing her to giggle with amusement.

"Oh," Mickie said before smiling, "That's okay! I understand! I'll take one for the team. Hey I need to pee. Randy can we go pee?" she looked up at me expectantly. I chuckled to myself and looked to Maria who smiled and nodded her head.

"Come on Mickie, I'll take you," she said.

"Yay a girls trip!" she clapped her hands again, and Maria had to jump forward to keep her from falling.

I laughed in amusement as I watched them go, keeping a careful eye on Mickie until she disappeared into the bathroom.

Ted nudged me, "Maybe if you learn some of my dance moves and singing skills, you can get somewhere with your date."

"Ted if I want to repel a date, then I'll come to you for advice. You're lucky Maria is as accepting as she is," I replied.

"I sense some jealousy," Ted sang. "Maybe it's because Mickie thoroughly enjoyed the kiss we shared earlier," he poked me in the chest.

I glared down at him, "Ted if you touch me again I'll break your finger off. And to put it bluntly, if you attempt to kiss Mickie again I will take great pleasure in killing you."

"You need another drink Mr. Grumpy pants! Seriously Mickie must be into the brooding bad boy thing… except then why would she sleep with John? Really she must be confused. I mean is it Randy or John, John or Randy. Or maybe she has a thing for Ted DiBiase… Jr, considering what happened earlier I would safely place my bet on that. But it could also be Co–"

"Ted!" Cody and I shouted at the same time.

"Yeah you're right, who, other than the crazy Eve, would ever, in their right mind, be attracted to Cody," he chuckled to himself.

"Ted," Cody said threateningly.

"Jeesh it was just a joke. Talk about a buzz kill… hey!" he laughed, "I just fully understand what that means!"

"Oh fuck, I just want to kill myself," Cody groaned.

"No! Cody you are never allowed to die. Mickie and I may think you're a loser, but it wouldn't be Legacy without you!" he threw his arms around an unsuspecting Cody.

Once Cody managed to pry him of, "You and Mickie think I'm a loser?" he asked, clearly surprised.

"Ted! That was a secret we promised we wouldn't tell him so we could avoid hurting his feelings!" Mickie exclaimed as her and Maria approached us.

"Sorry it slipped out," he explained.

Mickie turned to face Cody, "Don't worry at least you aren't a bitch like Kelly," she spoke, apparently trying to comfort him.

I guess it probably wasn't a good idea letting Mickie mask her problems with a bunch of tequila shots but she just didn't want to take no for an answer. Maybe she wouldn't remember any of the pain she felt. She didn't deserve it and I couldn't help but feel guilty about the pain that I was causing her.

"Randy!" Mickie whined, "Ted hit me for saying the 'b' word."

"Ted," I said sternly, "I will break your bones without hesitation."

Mickie poked her tongue out at him as he pushed Cody forward, "Come on Cody fight my battles."

"No dude," Cody said, stepping away.

"No fair my dog is a little bitch," Ted whined.

"Ha-ha my dog is the toughest dog on the street!" Mickie shouted back.

"Excuse me?" I said turning to look at her.

She grinned, "I mean… my friend is tough."

"He's also a psycho," Ted shouted back.

"You're jealous because he's better than you! He's the Viper and can silence a person with one look. That's power Ted, something you don't know anything about," she stated smugly.

I chuckled again as Ted narrowed his eyes, "I've seen him in the shower, he's nothing special."

"Dude!" Cody said.

"What? I'm clearly bigger than he is."

"I think I would know better than you Ted," Mickie said, "And Randy happens to be very gifted in that area."

"Oh really you want to bet?" Ted challenged.

"Can you not?" I asked.

"I know I'm bigger, let's check–"

"No!" Cody, Maria and I shouted, stopping Ted from unbuckling his belt.

"God Ted you're so stupid!" Mickie shouted.

"Me? You're the one who wanted to go to the registries place to ask for a License to kill, and they laughed at us before they realized we were serious! How embarrassing!" he retorted, getting right in her face.

"You agreed that it was a good idea!"

"I lied! I just didn't want you to feel stupid because that's how good of a friend I am," he said.

"I hate you, you're mean," she pouted, folding her arms across her chest.

"I hate you too!"

They both stared at one another before their expressions softened.

"I'm sorry! I love you Ted, I hate fighting with you!" Mickie exclaimed, throwing her arms around him.

"Me too! I think you are the smartest friend I have," he responded.

"Awe that's so sweet of you," she cried. "You are a much better friend than Kelly!"

"I know," he said arrogantly. "She was so nasty to you. I would never say things like that."

"I know Teddy. Now I wanna dance," she turned to me and grabbed my hand, "Dance with me."

She stumbled her way to the dance floor and after pushing a path through the crowd she turned around to face me and moving her body to the rhythm she pressed her body against mine as we danced in tune to the music.

After a couple minutes she threw her arms around my neck, "Randy did I say thank you for sticking up for me against Kelly?"

"No, but you don't have to. No one should treat you like that, you're too special," I replied, pulling her closer to me.

"I wish everybody knew how you are around me, things would be easier because I hate when people call you an asshole. Like really, no one knows you like me, Ted and Cody do."

"I don't mind it. I don't trust anyone but you three… and of course my family."

"…and Laura," she added.

"And Laura," I repeated before sighing.

"I think I would like to face Laura in the ring one on one," she said thoughtfully.

I chuckled, "I'm thinking you would win considering she doesn't have much experience."

"That would be more fun for me," she said with a grin.

"That's also never going to happen," I informed her.

"Awe you're such a buzz kill! Ha-ha I fully get what that means now," she continued laughing.

I rolled my eyes and smirked, "You and Ted really are best friends aren't you?"

"Of course we are. He's my best friend in the whole world. He's always good to me… except when he checks me out because that's creepy!"

I didn't say anything in response. Ted was always good to her, it was the truth. He was a much better friend than me… because he wasn't selfish.

"I think it's time to head back to the hotel," I told her.

"I'm only agreeing if we find Ted first. I miss him," she whined.

"You saw him five minutes ago," I said.

"Five minutes too long… duh!" she pulled me through the throng of people.

"You won't be saying that tomorrow morning," I said.

"Don't be silly! Of course I will be. You should appreciate Ted more! Come on," she pulled me through the throng of people.

"Ted… Teddy… Ted!" she shouted.

"Mickie you don't need to shout," I told her as a few people turned to stare.

"I think he's playing hide and seek!" she exclaimed.

"I doubt– well actually I wouldn't be surprised at this point," I admitted, hoping to god Cody had a handle on him.

"Exactly. Ooh I love this game… why did we ever stop playing it?"

"Because we became mature?" I said.

"That's no fun, can I have another drink?" she asked.

"No, no way. You're hammered Mickie, you've had enough," I said sternly.

"Don't you want me to feel better?" she asked.

"Yeah I do but–"

"Then let me have another drink," she said again.

"I said it's not a good idea," I said but more in a pleading tone, hoping she would understand.

"Randy!" she pouted, crossing her arms, "You said you wanted me to feel better… I think you were lying. What kind of friend lies like that? Now I need two more drinks! If you don't let me have them, I'll know you aren't looking out for my well being."

Okay she was looking at this from the wrong way but damn she was good at being manipulative.

"Fine," I exclaimed, "You can have one."

So one drink turned into two shots and a drink, the last of which the bartender insisted upon as he was clearly attracted to Mickie and even asked for her phone number after she mentioned I wasn't her boyfriend. I had to use all my will power not to lunge across the bar at him and instead focused on dragging Mickie away. I had to remind myself it wasn't my place to be jealous.

"Randy what if Ted is lost! He's not the smartest person in the world, he wouldn't know how to handle the big world outside of Mickieville!" she said seriously as I fought hard not to laugh.

"Mickie, Ted is fine, he's with Cody… I hope," I muttered the last part to myself.

"Mickie, Randy!" I heard our voices being called.

I turned around to find Cody and Maria dragging a drunken Ted in our direction. Cody sent me an eye roll and Maria seemed to be thoroughly enjoying herself. Wow, the redhead is very tolerant.

"Teddy!" Mickie cried out, stumbling forward and throwing herself at Ted who had to be held upright by Cody.

"I was sooo worried about you! I thought you fell down a hole or something!" she exclaimed.

"Well…" Ted started, "I did fall a few times… and to be honest I'm feeling a little sore, but I would never fall in a hole and leave you!"

"Awe Ted DiBiase you are my favourite person ever!" Mickie said excitedly, embracing him one more time before turning to me, "Except for you," she tried whispering but failed miserably at it.

"That was a low blow Mickie!" Ted pouted.

"No offence Ted but I don't have sex with you," she informed him.

"Oh… right but I would sooo be better at it."

Mickie started laughing, "Who are we kidding? Randy isn't known as the lady thriller for nothing my dear Ted," she patted him on the shoulder as if consoling him.

Truth be told I hated that nickname. It made me sound so… trashy I guess you could say. Sure I was rather confident in my abilities, but it's been awhile since I slept with any of the divas or strangers for the matter.

"Yeah well you wouldn't know Mickie, we've never been together," Ted retorted.

"Oh Ted I know," she said airily. "Words cannot describe how good Randy can make me feel! … Wait should I be saying this?" she asked, suddenly concerned.

I chuckled, "No you shouldn't be."

"Yeah well it's not my fault I'm not a manslut!' Ted shouted, crossing his arms for good measure.

I rolled my eyes, "Okay it's time to go… now!"

"Thank god, I want to jump off the nearest bridge," Cody exclaimed. "I'm the youngest out of us, and I swear I'm the most mature."

"Come on Ted, let's leave these party poopers in the dust," Mickie said before linking her arm with his and heading away from us but not before sending a glare in Cody's direction.

"I thought them two were annoying sober!" he cried out.

"Let's go before they get themselves in another fight," I said and then followed after Ted and Mickie while the other two followed me.

"Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah, ah roma, roma, ma, gaga, ooh la, la, want your bad romance!" Mickie was singing as her and Ted strutted down the street.

Did I ever mention that I hate Lady Gaga?

"I want your love and I want your revenge you and me could write a bad romance!" Okay wait Ted likes Lady Gaga? Oh great, this night got considerably worse, and my opinion on Ted has dropped.

"I want your love and all your love is revenge you and me could write a bad romance!" Mickie continued.

"Seriously guys, I'm going to launch myself in front of a car. My girlfriend won't talk to me and my best friends are an embarrassment. Could life get any worse?" Cody said from my right.

Maria giggled from the other side of me, "I think it's cute, although we seem to be getting more attention than usual."

"Cute?" Cody and I scoffed at the same time.

"What? It's different than what I'm accustomed to," she replied.

"Yeah exactly! You don't have to be around them all the time," Cody complained.

Maria merely emitted another giggle as we continued after the other two. I couldn't believe I was thinking it, but I was taking a liking to the redhead. She didn't seem to like gossip or be a magnet for drama; it was so unlike a lot of the other divas.

"I want your horror, I want your design, cause you're a criminal as long as you're mine I want your love! Love, love, love I want your love!"

"Okay I know the chorus to that song because it's so overplayed, but Ted knows all of it?" I questioned in disbelief.

"It's Ted; do you need anymore of an explanation?" Cody muttered.

"Okay stop!" Mickie shouted, planting her feet without warning to Ted who continued forward and ended up dragging both of them to the ground.

I rushed forward to make sure Mickie was okay before pulling her to her feet.

"Okay we have got to coordinate Ted!"

"Tell me about it," he grumbled as Maria helped him to his feet. "I have got to stop falling. Fans are going to think I got my ass kicked over the weekend with all the bruises I'm probably going to have!"

"Fans? What fans?" Cody scoffed causing Ted to try and hit him, but ended up missing entirely.

Mickie stopped brushing herself off as her eyes rested on Maria. She surveyed her for a moment, not saying a word.

"Mickie?" I questioned.

"Guys we need to have a conference," she pulled me over to the edge of the sidewalk, and when Ted and Cody didn't follow, she motioned them over impatiently.

"Mickie what are we doing?" Cody asked.

"I think we should allow Maria into… what's our– oh Legacy! Yeah we should allow her to join our little group," she told us.

I looked over to Maria, who obviously heard Mickie's attempt at whispering and was giggling quietly to herself.

"Little group?" Cody scoffed, shaking his head in irritation. "Please kill me Randy, I'm begging you."

"Okay Cody you are starting to get just as annoying as them," I responded and then turned to face Mickie, "No Mickie, Maria may be alright but she can't join Legacy and Ted… god I can't look at you after the Lady Gaga fiasco."

"What?" he shrugged his shoulders, "She's a cool lady… but I agree with Mickie, Maria is the shit!" he exclaimed.

I merely rolled my eyes, "Let's go," I ordered before grasping Mickie's hand and leading her down the street as Cody followed, and Maria linked her arm with Ted's.

After a fifteen minute walk – of which we stopped countless times to talk to random strangers (hopefully they aren't fans of the WWE so they don't know who we are) and having to drag Ted away from trying to 'hitchhike' – we were finally back at the hotel and on our way up to our rooms via the elevator.

"So now what?" Cody asked.

"They need to be separated," I said, taking a glance over at Mickie and Ted who were thinking up ways to get revenge on Kelly. "So I'll take Mickie to her room and stay with her and–"

Cody's eyes grew wide, "No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no! I am not putting up with Ted tonight! That is so unfair… no I call Mickie."

I merely smirked back at him, "So how will your girlfriend feel about you spending the night with Mickie of all divas?" The smirk faded as I realized my words.

But it had worked on Cody, "Damn it! Just great! Another sleepless night," he sighed. "Never again are we going out the night before Raw, regardless of whether it's a pay per view or not!"

"Hey I won't say no to that," I admitted. "We're supposed to drive to Toronto, imagine how pissy these two are going to be." At my reminder, Cody grumbled with frustration.

The elevator doors opened up onto the second floor as Maria stepped off and turned back to face us.

"So good night guys," she offered a smile.

"Good night Maria," I said quietly.

"Thanks for the… help?" Cody added.

"It was my pleasure. So have fun… both of you," she winked playfully before the doors closed once more.

"So why couldn't we have pawned Ted off on her?" Cody asked.

"Isn't she sharing a room with Eve? I'm sure she would have loved that," I said sarcastically.

Cody nodded his head, "Yeah I probably shouldn't give her more reason to hate you guys."

I turned to face him, "Cody, we don't care whether she likes us or not, that's her issue… Mickie– all of us just care if you're happy."

"Yeah Cody, seriously buddy, dude, ex-best friend, if Eve doesn't stop being so mean, I might just have to teach her a lesson," Mickie said as she wrapped her arms around Cody's neck from behind him. I didn't know they had been listening.

The doors opened up but none of us moved.

"Yeah really, and I'll help. I've got a black belt in hair pulling," Ted offered.

I shook my head in embarrassment before leading Mickie off the elevator, as Cody chuckled to himself.

"Glad to know I have such supportive friends," he said, amused.

"Supportive, loyal, good looking–" Mickie started.

"…very good looking, intelligent and psycho," Ted added the last part obviously in reference to me.

"Annoying," I offered, pointing at him.

"Now Randy, I think you should apologize. Ted was only speaking the truth," Mickie said sternly.

"Yeah and so was I," I said.

Cody chuckled as Mickie looked on, confused as to what I was talking about.

"Okay but you are psycho… which is cool, it completely suits you and you don't mind… I think…? But Ted doesn't mean to be annoying, it's a disorder," Mickie explained.

"Yeah that's right– hey! I'm not annoying," Ted exclaimed.

"Who are we trying to fool here Ted?" I asked. "The three people on the planet who know you best are standing in this hallway."

"Maryse is here?" he said, looking around frantically.

Mickie smacked the back of his head, "Get Maryse out of your head, or I'll smack her out of you."

"I believe you just tried… didn't work," he said.

"Want me to try again?" she threatened.

"No," he pouted, "That hurt."

"Awe I'm sorry, I'll kiss it better," she offered.

I grabbed her hand before she could walk forward, "No you can worry about that tomorrow. Let's get back to the room before you two decide to do something stupid that'll get us kicked out. Have fun," I said to Cody with a smirk as he merely grumbled about sleeping in the hall.

I tried leading Mickie away but she stomped her foot, "No! I want to stay with Teddy!"

I contemplated the situation for a fraction of a second, "No!" I nearly shouted.

She took a step back, "You're not my boss!"

"No I'm merely the one who's been babysitting you all night," I muttered.

"It's okay Mickie, I got this," Ted said in a professional voice as he strolled up to us and linked her arm through his.

He looked up at me, "Sorry sir, we can't be separated, we're conjoined twins. Don't you see the resemblance?"

"I fucking hope not, I'm actually attracted to Mickie," I said.

"Hey Ted, if you two are conjoined you'd have a pretty hard time staring at Mickie's ass all the time," Cody spoke up, a grin forming on his face.

Ted's smile faded, "That might actually be a problem…" he said more to himself than to anyone else.

I glared down at him for a moment until he realized I was doing so, "I mean… Cody jeesh man why the heck would that be an issue?" he said quickly.

"See we are staying together," Mickie said matter-of-factly.

"Great! You can take them both!" Cody said excitedly.

Okay there was no way in hell I was putting up with these two drunken asses all night. It was time to put the charm I hold over Mickie to good use.

"Mickie," I said in a charming tone, "If you leave Ted with Cody and come to your room with me I'll make it worth your while," I said, putting my face up in front of hers, hoping to create the effect I would on any other day.

She dropped her arms to her side and without shifting her eyes from mine, "Bye Ted," she said quietly and took a step towards me – entranced.

"Hey that's not fair, I can't do that!" Cody complained.

"Mickie you traitor!" Ted hissed.

"It's not me Ted, I swear! It's my hormones!" Mickie exclaimed.

"Yeah well your hormones are putting a dent in our friendship!" he said dramatically, "I can tolerate it no longer!" He put his nose in the air and walked a few steps before stopping to face Mickie once more, "Seriously James, I love you! I'm glad one of us is getting some now that Maryse blew me off!"

Mickie giggled, "I'll get enough for the both of us," she assured him.

"Um, am I supposed to be turned off by that?" I asked Cody who merely shrugged his shoulders.

"Night man," he muttered before turning to head to his room. "Ted no! You can't knock on people's doors…" he said as he was chasing after him.

This night had turned out much differently than I ever expected it to. Especially having to chase Ted and Mickie around like little children. They should not get drunk together; in fact it is now my job to make sure it never happens again. I'm sure all I'll have to think about, to give me incentive to do so, is the god awful 'Bad Romance' duet… I cringe thinking about it.

Mickie took a hold of my hand and pulled me down the hall towards her room which we entered a moment later. I placed her clutch that I was carrying – my how the mighty have fallen – on the dresser and put my jacket alongside it as Mickie took a seat on the edge of her bed. Striding across the room, I knelt down in front of her.

"Are you alright?" I asked.

"I'm upset about Kelly. Do you think all the superstars and divas think that?" she asked quietly.

"Mickie I don't know why you care if they do or not, but if you must know, no I don't think they do. Everyone loves you around here. It's me they're judging not you, and a little more judgement I can take… seeing you upset is what I can't take. I keep trying to shield you from everything but I seem to always fail," I muttered.

She put a hand on each side of my face, "That's not your job anymore Randy, but you've been doing a good job of it regardless. You can't protect those you care about from everything."

She's got that right, and the worst part is that I can't protect her from the real harm – myself.

I stood up, "Come on, let's get you ready for bed."

Pulling her to her feet, I helped her over to her suitcase as she was stumbling quite a bit, and after pulling on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt I helped her with going to the washroom. After brushing her teeth, because she insisted, I helped her back to the bed and under the covers. I removed my jeans and t-shirt, before climbing into bed beside her so she could curl up against my body and rest her head on my shoulder as my arm wrapped around her.

We laid in silence for quite awhile, until I heard soft breathing coming from her telling me she was now sleeping. All of a sudden my phone started ringing and quickly grabbing it up off the bedside table I hit the silence button so as not to wake her. Making sure she hadn't been disturbed, I checked the caller ID to find out the call had been from Laura – no doubt wondering why I hadn't called her after the show.

I rubbed my hand down my face before allowing a sigh to escape my lips. No matter how hard you tried to avoid it, reality always seemed to find you. I tried so hard to protect Mickie when the only one she need protecting was from me. I don't know why I let this continue with her… considering I wasn't only hurting her, but Laura as well. I was betraying the only two women I ever loved and I couldn't stop myself.

I made a promise to myself after I started dating Laura again that I would put an end to whatever this was with Mickie, but I couldn't do it. We had come too far and there was no turning back now. I was a monster, a selfish one at that, and I couldn't stop the damage that was going to come from this – the situation was too far gone and for what?

"I love you…" Mickie muttered, and for a moment I thought she had woken up but no, she was still asleep, "…Randy."

My first feeling was that of happiness, to hear her mutter those words again, sleeping or not, after so many years still made me feel like it did then. But a moment later the guilt had come, and I knew that I had been playing her, not purposely, all these months.

How could I have been so stupid? I knew from the get go that this was what was going to happen but I disregarded every instinct telling me so. I had been trying to ignore these feelings… but I could no longer do that, especially given that I knew Mickie was struggling with the same ones. I guess I knew the reason why I let this continue all along… this wasn't supposed to happen! In fact this was everything I wanted to avoid, and yet I allowed it to ensue.

"I love you too Mickie," I sighed knowing that I meant it with every fibre of my being, but also knowing that that was the problem entirely.

So here is chapter 37… told you there would be drama! I think past here, everything is kind of set in motion.

Please review and let me know what you think :) Thanks for all the reviews from last chapter, you all are so awesome!

So Kelly found out about something that happened three years ago… think she has reason to be mad? Well personally if it happened in real life, I would share Mickie's opinion.

And what do you think of Eve? What should Cody do? Friends or girlfriend?

And uh oh… Randy does have a girlfriend, but a lot of you already guessed that. But he does love her, and he loves Laura… he's in a tough position, but I guess that doesn't condone him lying to Mickie.

So next chapter… another Monday night, and Trish is the guest host :) I'm not going to pay much attention to guest hosts, but I have to with Trish because I love her! She is my favourite diva of all time, not just because she's Canadian, but because of how much she did for the women's division. She was always adding to her move set, and sure there were divas who could outwrestle her easy, but she was the total package in terms of being able to wrestle, being great on the mic and how she interacted with the fans.

Survivor Series prediction – Randy Orton retains. John Cena, of all things, is a man of respect. And I think that comment Randy made on Monday (if John screws him over, he will be disrespecting every prior champion) really got to John, so I guess we will see. Nattie I think will finally win in three weeks… fingers crossed! Everyone catch Lita on Monday? Too short of a time period… but it was good seeing her. Miss her like crazy!

My dear poor Ted (whom I LOVE so much) keeps getting the short end of the stick… I wish the WWE would use him better… he has so much potential, and will be a huge star within a year or two.