Okay. Time for a disclaimer. I own none of the talented wonderful men in this story. If I did... Well I wouldn't just be writing about it that's for sure! I'm honestly not sure where it's headed but I feel it might be a more realistic story. Probably will be a slow-burn for the main couple, if I'm able to resist. At this point, until things are more written out, it's an OC/? story. I think I'm leaning to Roman, but Dean will definitely be involved even if he's not the ending choice!

Authors note: Sooooo... Guys, there's a few feels and some pretty cool epicness here too. =]

Random note: Anyone else notice The Miz looks like a young (9 1/2 weeks) Mickey Rourke?


"Leecie, just let us do this," Amanda cajoled softly, rubbing her thumb over Leecie's hand.

"Mom, it's- I don't take breaks, you know that," Leecie huffed.

Her upper lip was pinned painfully between her teeth as tears danced in her eyes. This was too much to take in all at once.

"Calm down Lee, just listen. We'll bring her back on Christmas morning. You'll have six days to yourself. Do whatever you want. We want to spend more time with her. In addition to this, I've brought your gift from your father and I," she said.

Leecie met her mom's green eyes warily, gasping when Amanda pulled out a check.

"It's not as much as we'd like to give, but that's only because the other part of it is going to your father's friend Derek, the lawyer, who is going to push as hard and fast as he can to get that no good low down scum of the earth paying for his daughter's needs," Amanda said.

Leecie swallowed hard as her eyes danced over the check. Two thousand. Two fucking thousand dollars. That was four times what they usually gave her.

"Why?" Leecie asked, wincing as her voice cracked.

"We know things are difficult right now. You are doing your best but everyone needs help once in a while, and your useless baby daddy isn't doing his part, so we want to help. Plus, isn't that what Christmas is about? Giving?"

"I-I can't give you anything," Leecie whispered.

Then the dam broke and she fell into her mom's arms, sniffling hard to keep the tears to a minimum.

"You gave us Rose Leecie, that is more than we need. That child is just like you, you know?" Amanda said, running her hand over Leecie's red locks.

Leecie nodded and sniffed, wiping her eyes with the palms of her hands.

"I've just never been away from her for more than two or three days, and even on those days I go nuts," Leecie explained breathlessly.

Amanda smiled and cupped the younger mom's face, offering up her advice.

"Go out, use some of the money to relax and have fun, go possibly find yourself another man, a good man," she stressed.

Leecie smiled weakly and said, "I had a date earlier during lunch, this guy I went to high school with."

"Oooh, was he cute?! It's been so long since we've been able to have boy talk. Tell me all about him!"

Laughing lightly, Leecie's smile strengthened and she sat back with a small shrug.

"He was funny, smart, geeky, just like I remember him. The only difference now is he's lost the acne, and gotten taller and a bit bulkier. He's still really nice though."

Amanda had a smile on her face and said, "He sounds like a good guy, but it doesn't seem like he's really caught your interest."

Chewing on her lip, Leecie shrugged. She knew her mom was right, but her lack of enthusiasm wasn't for a very good reason.

"It's stupid. You know how I'm all wrapped up in wrestling?"

Amanda nodded and her brows furrowed in obvious curiosity as her daughter blushed and toyed with her finger nails.

"Well, when Rose and I went discount halloween shopping, we ran into Roman Reigns and ended up having pizza with him and Dean."

"Is Roman that lunatic you like?"

Leecie snickered and said, "No, he's the Samoan. Dean is the one nicknamed the Lunatic Fringe."

"Ohh, the tall, dark, and handsome one. You met him?! Lord child, how did you manage pizza with him?!" Amanda asked, eyes glimmering, "You can hardly talk to people you see on a daily basis."

"I know!" Leecie cried in complete agreement, "But Rose helped a lot. His daughter is about Rose's age and they got along amazingly. Dean did amazing with her too. But anyway, the stupid thing is that he gave me his number and we've talked a bit, and I really, really like him. But I know I have no chance because not only is he gorgeous and famous, he's married."

Amanda took a breath and nodded.

"I see. That is a problem. What about that Dean fellow? You like him too right?"

"Of course. I'd chase him too, but he's also with someone. That blonde interviewer Renee," Leecie explained sighing, "It sucks Mom."

Her mom rose and pulled Leecie into a hug, rubbing her back comfortingly.

"You'll figure things out eventually sweetie. So, can we-"

The door opening interrupted her and Rose stormed in with a squeal.

"Memaw!" Rose screamed.

The small fiery haired figure sped into Amanda's arms and jumped excitedly up and down. Leecie watched on in amusement as her daughter and mom chatted about the school day and Christmas, until Amanda popped the question.

"Mama, can I?" Rose breathed, eyes wide.

Leecie could hardly ever say no to her, so thus she relented with a nod.

"Yes! Yay! Memaw, I get to come with you! Oooh, does papa still have those witches from Halloween?"

Amanda made a confused face as she answered yes.

"Good, I can practice my turkey slaying skills then! See, the turkeys didn't revo-revo- attack on Thanksgiving so I'm sure they will on Christmas," Rose said, stepping back and putting her fists on her waist with a grin, "Wanna help me slay them memaw?"

The eldest red head glared at Leecie who shrugged with a blushing grin.

"Kids will be kids," she said.

"Alright kiddo, you ready? Your papaw and I bought you a whole bunch of new things at the house so you don't even have to bring anything," Amanda said.

Leecie was suddenly tackled in a hug by a giggling little Rose.

"Thank you for letting me go mama, I can't wait to be back and see you," she said as she pulled back.

"Miss you already sweetie, love you," Leecie said.

"Love you too mama."

Leecie said goodbye to her mom and watched them through the door as they left. Emotions ran rampant through her body and she sighed, unable to break herself from the glass until her phone rang. She scrambled over quickly and answered without looking at the number.

"You're stupid enough to get a lawyer?!"

Eyebrows furrowed in confusion, she pulled the phone away and looked at the name. Chuck.

"I didn't get a lawyer, my father did. Why? Afraid the law will prevail and you'll have to support your child?" she asked snarkily, "I'm about done with your shit Chuck."

"Oh you're just pissed off I didn't love you or your puss," he said with a coughing laugh, "You played too hard and weren't worth it."

"Fuck. Off. Literally, go jump into a sea or something. Until this whole deal is settled and done, I don't want to hear from you and neither does Rose."

"I call bullshit Lace," he said, "You know you would come crawling back to me if I asked. And that kid is just as emotionally incompetent as you are. She'd take me back as daddy in a heart beat. She-"

"Keep talking about her like that and I will cut your fucking shrimp dick off Chuck Saunders. I don't give a damn if you don't feel towards her like a real father should, but you don't get the right to talk about her. Now, please, go fuck off and die. You've scarred us both enough for three life times over. Leave me alone. Go fuck your disease ridden whore!"

Without thinking, she threw her phone into the wall and let out a scream. It fell into pieces on the floor and she couldn't help but compare it to her life. Sobs broke through her tightly sealed lips as she fell to her knees.

"Shit, guess I got here just in time."

"Mother fucker!" she screamed in fright, scrambling back until she hit the wall.

Her eyes never wavered from the tall, sandy haired brunette.

"D-Dean, what? How'd you get- When-?"

"I'll save you the trouble toots. The when? I got here probably a few seconds after you answered the phone. Guess you were too heated to hear me knock and come in. The how? Your door was unlocked. Should really start locking that from now on."

Her bottom lip trembled from the emotions tearing at her, but she managed to keep a lock on her tears, sniffling instead.

"You should really not sneak up on people. I thought that was Roman's thing," she muttered, trying to lighten the mood.

He smirked and came over, crouching in front of her drawn up knees.

"Yeah, well, the big guy taught me well. Now, are you okay? I only heard your side but that shit sounded vicious. Do you need to cry on my shoulder or something?" he offered.

His words sounded genuine but his face read complete discomfort. She lifted her mouth in a partial smile and shook her head.

"No, that's sweet of you, but I'll be okay."

Blue eyes looked over her until he nodded curtly and stood.

"So I made a deal with your little spitfire that I'd come by before Christmas, where is she?" Dean asked.

Leecie sighed and ran a hand through her hair, wincing.

"Sorry about that, I didn't know. She just left with my mom until Christmas day."

"Hmm," he said in reply.

She went to stand and he was quick to grab her arms and steady her.

"I'm fine, thank you," she murmured softly, blushing at the immediate feelings his fingers stirred in her body.

"Well I hadn't planned on her being gone, but that's fine too. We're going shopping. Get ready," he said, gesturing to the stairs.

Blinking dumbly, she stared at him before cocking her head.

"Huh?"

He groaned and said, "I thought you were smart firecracker. Go get showered or dressed or whatever you need to do then we're going shopping. I got some stuff I gotta get and since little one left, you're gonna come with me so I'm not bored."

"Er... okay?"

Still confused, she went up to her room and sorted through her closet. She ended up grabbing a low cut blouse with thick blue and white stripes, a yellow cardigan, dark wash faded jeans, and dark brown low heeled booties. After brushing out her hair, she drew on some kohl liner and clear chapstick and ran down.

"I hope I didn't take too long," she said, hurrying into the living room.

She had to smile when she saw him looking at the pictures on the mantle, most of her and Rose. Some involved her parents, and other family members, but none had Chuck. He didn't deserve a place on display.

"Nah, actually I think you broke a record for women everywhere," he said with a snicker.

"Well that's good," she joked.

He spun and she had to blush when his eyes roamed up and down over her form.

"Damn firecracker, you look hot," he said.

That grin with dimples came across his face and she felt her cheeks turn even darker red.

"Uh, thanks," she said softly.

She still was bad at taking any compliments. He stepped forward and her breath was lost when he cupped her chin.

"Stop looking all awkward, it's just a compliment," he said.

His tone was gentler and she found herself unable to reply due to how close he was; the pounding of her heart in her ears blocked out all common sense. As he if knew what she was thinking, he smirked and leaned down as he tilted her face up. Oh lord, what was he doing?

"Cat got your tongue?"

Damn it! Where was her smart mouthed sass? She was looking like a complete fool in front of him. Her thoughts made her anxiety kick up another level until suddenly it went all away with the press of his lips on hers. Her mind went blank and her body froze. She was dreaming. That was it. He pulled back barely, just enough to brush his lips across hers until she reacted, throwing her arms around his shoulders.

"That a girl," he whispered.

If this was a dream, she sure as hell was going to live it up. Their mouths slid together, his more with ease while she fumbled with the lack of practice over the months. A hand met the middle of her back and ran down until it rested in the dip right above her butt. She knew she needed to breathe but his kisses were intoxicating and she ignored the urge, choosing the attention over air. Finally he pulled back and she slumped against him, breathing raggedly.

"Fuck firecracker, you lookin' to pass out on me?" he asked, breath slightly labored but nowhere near hers.

"I- I don't have a good reason," she admitted, hiding her face in her elbow.

"I'm just the damn good huh?" he teased.

"Yes," she murmured.

A hand cupped the back of her head and pulled her away gently. She didn't want to meet his baby blues but knew not doing so would make things even more awkward. When she did, he was looking at her with something she couldn't read in his eyes. Not making fun of her like she expected, not laughing at her, not teasing her.

"We need to go shopping so I don't end up trying to jump you here and now," he grumbled, turning around and yanking on her hand.

She let him lead her to his car, unable to really form a thought for herself due to the events that had happened.

"I just can't believe it's true! Like, I know you said it in interviews and stuff, but I thought you were lying," Leecie said, gaping at Dean who was pushing the cart through the aisle.

He snapped his gum and grinned.

"Nope, s'true. Hurt like a motherfucker but it was better than the hospital," he said.

She shook her head and bit her lip, watching him closely as he grabbed a pack of beer off the shelf.

"You can't drive after drinking," she pointed out.

"Was gonna ask to crash at your place. My alternative was a hotel," he said, shrugging.

Holy. Fuck. Dean wanted to stay at her house? Really? She noticed he had stopped and was staring at her with his eyebrows lifted.

"So?" he asked.

"W-Well of course you can stay," she said quickly.

"Heh, kinda hoped so."

"Why?"

He whistled and headed to the wine cooler section.

"Cause I wanna know you better. You're basically Roman's boothang, and I like you quite a bit too," he said, throwing her a wink.

Dean just said boothang. She thought she was going to die from holding in laughter, but it died as she realized the implications of his words. She blushed and reached into the display to grab hard lemonade, setting it in the cart carefully while her attention was caught by a familiar voice.

"Leecie."

"What a weird name for a broad. Sounds like a dog's name or something bro."

"Nah, she's a woman."

That sounded like Blake, and it had to be since her name was involved in the conversation.

"And she's a mom? What, is she like forty?"

"Dude, no, she's twenty three and still hot as fuck. A young MILF if I've ever seen one. Can't wait to tear that ass up."

Leecie stopped and clenched her teeth together. Really? It was flattering and yet completely creepy. Her face flushed as she saw Dean glaring at the wall of alcohol separating them from Blake and his friend.

"You're going out for lunch again right, what makes you think you'll fuck her?"

Valid point random stranger.

"She's a single mom man, she can't get much action. Single moms are always desperate."

Leecie thought she was going to be sick. So that's why he asked her out. Suddenly Dean was on the move.

"Dean!" she called out.

It was too late. She pushed the cart quickly around the corner and saw Dean holding tightly onto Blake's shirt, pulling them nose to nose.

"You're a fucking disgrace to the male gender everywhere you little punk. Keep her fucking name out of your mouth or you won't have teeth to speak with. Got it?!"

Blake sent a look her way and she saw realization flash in his eyes.

"Leec-"

"Don't, you don't deserve to speak to her! Now get out of my sight and clean yourself up. Fuckin' pissed all down your pants ya coward."

When Dean let him go, she saw that he was right and had to let out a laugh of disbelief. He had pissed his pants, in public nonetheless! More laughter peeled from her and she doubled over, barely able to see him and his friend run away as Dean made his way back.

"You seriously went on a date with that little twink?" Dean grunted as she rose.

"Yeah, lunch earlier today. Obviously that was a mistake," she said, shrugging.

She focused on steering the cart beside him as her mind tumbled. He thought she was desperate enough to fuck him, that was the reason he wanted to go on a date with her. Sighing, she shook her head in disappointment.

"For the record toots, Rome and I both know you're not desperate. I mean, I want to fuck you, but not for the reasons that little prick did. I happen to think you're more than just hot."

Blushing, she fumbled with a reply until she said, "Thank you Dean."

He flashed her a winning smile and said, "No problem firecraker. Now, you got dip at home?"