A/N: WOOHOO!!! I'm finally updating this story!! GO ME!!! Well, this
chapter is very packed full of sad stuff. You thought the last one was
sad? It's nothing compared to this one. This chapter takes place Monday
September 10, 2001 and on word. So I'm sure you can guess what's in it. I
got a lot of the stuff from the Hardy Boyz book, on what the WWE did and
how the guys felt and stuff like that. Plus it has a lot of how I was when
I first heard about it. Like I basically thought it was all a joke cause
we didn't hear about it until like almost 11 am. I was at school at the
time, goin to my Chem class actually. And I remember passing my friend
Jessy in the hall and singing the song I used in here. Cause I only heard
it from other kids who aren't very reliable. So of course I was gonna
think it to be a joke. I actually didn't really believe it until they let
us turn the tvs on later that day. So, yeah.
****************
Her long sleeved Marilyn Manson shirt, she had bought at Ozzfest that summer, covered her hands, only her fingers and thumbs showed through the cuts in the sleeves. Her long tan legs protruding out from the boxes she had worn to bed. Her purple and blue hair flew about her head, no longer in the ponytail it was once in the nite before. She yawned before pouring herself a cup of coffee made by the singing wonder that was showering at the moment. She relaxed on her couch that was made up as a bed for her visitor the nite before, although they didn't get to bed till about 3 in the morning. She wasn't there long when she heard a knock on her apartment door. She stood, setting her cup on the coffee table, and walked towards the door, stepping over sketches and failed designs. Looking through the peep hole she smiled and opened the door.
"Hi Sean," she spoke as he bent down to kiss her.
"Hey Bade," he smiled as she let him into her apartment.
"What are you doing here so early? I wasn't expecting you till later," Hope said as he gripped her hands in his.
"Yeah, I got an earlier flight so I could come see your apartment," he said looking around the large one bedroom apartment. The place was a mess. She'd been living there for a week and already it was unlivable. Boxes of pizza were skewed around the kitchen and dinning room, half empty bottles of soda were left all around the place, clothes were left on the furniture, and basically just looked like a tornado had thrown up in her home. "Damn, what'd you do? Have a party here last nite?"
"Oh, no," she shook her head leading him into the living room.
"Well, I think you had better hire a maid," he laughed.
"Are you making jokes about my house cleaning abilities, O'Haire?" she smirked at him.
"Oh, I would NEVER do that," his tone sarcastic. All of a sudden, the shower singer began to sing louder, and more off key. His song annoyingly familiar and made her cringe when she heard it. "Who's here? Matt or Jeff?"
"I wish," she sighed. "No, Shane was over last nite so I could make him a new top. His old one wasn't fitting him right. So by the time we finished it was like 2 am so I just suggested he spend the nite."
With a look of shock on his face, Sean asked, "Wasn't his girl upset?"
"His girl?!" Hope exclaimed.
"Yeah, Helms has a girlfriend. Didn't you know that?"
"No, I didn't. Who is it?"
"Lisa Moretti."
"Ivory?!" she exclaimed. He just nodded. "Isn't she like, OLD?!"
He laughed and responded, "Late 30's."
"DAMN!!" Hope laughed just as the bedroom door opened and Shane emerged wearing one of Hopes towels around his waist.
"Good morning all," Shane smiled sounding more chipper than necessary.
"Morning, geriatric lover," Hope remarked with a smile.
"Excuse me?" Shane asked pouring himself a cup of coffee.
"What's this I hear about you dating someone 10 years older than you?"
"Oh, um, hmm, yeah, I was gonna tell you about Lisa, but didn't feel like it," he smiled.
"How long have you two been together?" Hope inquired.
"Oh, about a month," Shane estimated.
"Wow," she shook her head.
"Well, you haven't told your brothers about dating O'Haire here. So just keep your mouth shut or Matt'll know instantly," Shane threatened walking back into the bathroom to change back into his clothes.
"That boy has a death wish," she growled.
"What is it between you two?" Sean asked curiously.
"You try being one of the only girls in their wrestling company and having him tease your ass every five seconds," Hope explained simply.
"Point taken," he laughed. "You packed to go to Houston?"
"Yeah, just let me change and we can get out of here and maybe get an earlier flight so we can like hang out or something," she said standing.
"Is Shane coming with us?"
"Um, I believe so. Why?"
"Just curious," Sean said before kissing her cheek.
"Hey butt munch!" she yelled to Shane through the bathroom door.
"What dumb butt?" he replied.
"You comin to the airport with Sean and I? Or goin with your cradle robbing girlfriend?" she joked.
"Haha, very funny Bade!" Shane said opening the door. "I'm coming with ya'll."
"Alright. I'm goin to get dressed and then we're out of here," she smiled before disappearing into her room.
******************
They had arrived in Houston about 2 hours earlier than originally planned, having gotten an earlier flight. Neither Shane nor Sean were needed for RAW that nite. And Shane's girlfriend was at home, so the three of them hung out at the Marriott they had opted to stay in. For fear of her brothers finding out about her relationship with Sean, Hope had convinced him that sharing a room wouldn't be a good idea. So down the hall from her was Sean's room. Early in the morning, Matt, Amy, and Jeff had finally arrived in Houston from their long drive from San Antonio. Having only just gotten to sleep herself, Hope didn't go to meet them at the Hilton like they had originally planned.
Tuesday morning Hope was woken up by the hotel phone ringing. She groaned but answered it anyways, figuring it was Matt or Jeff, checking up on her. Instead Shane was on the other end. She looked at the clock before saying anything, it was 8:00 am Central time and 9:00 am Eastern time, that time will stay in her mind forever.
"Hello," she answered her voice sounding very groggy.
"Hope, turn on the tv," Shane instructed.
"Shane, it's too early for this shit. Go back to sleep," she ordered.
"I can't. Hope, Lisa just called me and informed me that planes are flying into buildings in New York and Washington DC. Just turn the tv on," he explained.
She laughed at him like he was crazy, "Shane, you're off your rocker. You've been watching one too many space invasion movies or something. Now let me get some sleep."
"Hardy, listen to me. I'm serious."
"Right, so should I be singing, 'It's the end of the world as we know it. It's the end'?" she continued to joke.
"Why don't you just turn on the damn tv?" he said angrily hanging up on her.
"Ass, wakes me up and gives me orders, then hangs up on me?! Who does he truly think he is?!" she laughed though she was compelled to turn the tv on anyways. She had just reached for the remote when her phone rang again. "Hello?!"
"Hope, have you seen?" Sean said his voice shaky.
"Oh not you too!" she exclaimed.
"Huh?"
"Shane just called me, ordering me to turn the tv on cause apparently planes were flyin into buildings."
"Bade, baby, do what he said," Sean said hanging up on her as well.
"One more person hangs up on me and I'll kill them!" she cried turning the tv on. The sight on the tv was enough to bring fear into the bravest person. She covered her mouth with her hands and closed her eyes tightly. A plane was shown hitting the World Trade Center, not one, but two. The phone rang once again and she slowly moved to answer it. "Hello?" her voice was weak.
"Sweetie, you saw?" Jeff asked his voice just as weak sounding as her own.
"What's goin on?!" she exclaimed.
"Get dressed, come over to the Hilton, and I'll meet you in the lobby," he said. "Are you alright?"
"Yeah, I'll be there in a few," she sighed.
"I love you kid," Jeff replied before they hung up. Hope quickly changed into a pair of lounge pants and a tank top. She ran out of her room and down the hall. She knocked on a door and it quickly opened. He wrapped her up into his arms and held her.
"You alright?" Sean asked.
"Yeah, I'll be fine. I'm goin to the Hilton to meet up with my brothers," she said keeping her head close to his bare chest.
"I'll see you later?" he asked. She looked up at him and smiled, nodding slightly. He bent down and kissed her soft pink lips. "Bye baby."
"Bye," she said leaving him to watch her walk away.
She trudged down the streets watching the skies in hopes that she was just dreaming or hoping that she wouldn't be attacked right then and there. Despite what was going on in the US, the sky was a beautiful blue, the sun was shining brightly, and there wasn't a cloud in sight. The air was warm and there was a slight breeze. Just an over all perfect day. Well, as perfect as it could be. She spotted Jeff the second she stepped into the hotel. He was in a pair of raggy old jeans, a white wife-beater, and just socks. His multi-colored hair was pulled back and hidden from the baseball cap he wore. He looked to her and beckoned her to come to him.
"Jeff, I don't understand what's goin on," she sighed as he wrapped his arms around her in a hug. He took a deep breath and they pulled apart.
"We don't really know what's goin on either. Come on, Matt and Ames are waiting for us," Jeff smiled slightly, though looking forced. He draped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her into the elevator with him.
"Did Shane call you too?" she asked.
"No, Beth did."
"Oh. I guess you didn't think it was a joke then, huh?"
"No, not at all."
"So I'm the only one that thought it was one of Shane's lousy jokes. Great," she said pretty much talking to herself. The doors opened and they walked down the hall together. Knocking on the door, Jeff released his twin sister from his grip, just as Matt answered the door.
"Oh Kiddo. I'm so glad you're here!" Matt said bringing her into his body. She relaxed into his arms and held onto him tightly. Jeff moved passed them and sat on the floor in front of the bed and tv. Matt picked her up and carried her into the room, in the same position they were in when they greeted each other. He set her down and looked at her. "Some of the guys are coming over. They've been waiting at the airport but all of the airports have closed all out going flights now. So since we have pretty big rooms and the bar and restaurant downstairs Amy and I suggested they come here."
"Do we know what happened?" Hope asked sitting on the bed just as Amy walked out of the bathroom still dressed for bed.
"Terrorists," she said simply sitting next to Hope. Matt sat behind the two girls and rubbed Amy's shoulders while Hope laid back and rested her head in his lap.
"Terrorists?" Hope questioned.
"Yeah, they hijacked the planes and flew them into the buildings. The first tower is already collapsing," Matt sighed.
"What about all those people on the planes and in the buildings?" Hope wondered.
"Depending on where in the buildings they were, they're probably dead. And as for the people on the planes, well, I'm sure you can figure that out," Matt replied.
"That's horrible. Why do these people hate us so much?" she asked.
"Because we believe in something they don't believe in. Like all of our rights, and women being free, and our religions," Jeff answered.
"That's stupid," Hope muttered as there was a knock on the door. Jeff jumped up to answer it and the room filled with about 5 wrestlers, Jay, Adam, Chris Irvine, Andrew, and Stacy.
"Hey all," Chris said slumping into one of the chairs as the others all found seats.
"Hey man. What's up dude?" Jeff asked.
"Wondering what the hell is goin on," he chuckled.
"Yeah, join the club," Hope said sitting up, noticing Adam was standing by the door. "Look, Adam, I know we have some problems, but let's throw them out of the window for today. It's all right." He nodded at her and sat on the bed with them, watching the horror that was taking place on the tv screen.
***************
Much to everyone's dislike, Vince had decided to do Smackdown on September 13th. Most protested, but he had made a very inspirational speech and they all had decided that if the crowd wanted to be there, then they would put on the best show possible. It was decided that Lillian would sing the national anthem that nite and that everyone on the roster would walk out and watch, standing around the ring and on the ramp. Just packing into whatever spot they could find. Hope had snuck out with her brothers, Amy, Shane, and Sean so she could be apart of it all. She stood between Jeff and Sean, holding both their hands. As soon as Lillian opened her mouth tears began to roll down cheeks, everyone stood, and showed their respect. Hope moved into Sean's body and he wrapped his arm around her. Jeff looked over at the couple, shocked, but smiled anyways. Lillian stopped singing and the roof almost flew off the arena with all the cheers and celebration that was going on. The wrestlers, and Hope, paid their last respects and walked to the back, to get ready for what they would hope to be one show that the fans would remember for eternity.
"Bade, can I talk to you for second?" Jeff asked pulling his sister to the side as they walked through the halls.
"Make it fast, okay? I have to help Shane paint his face," she smiled.
"What's up with you and Sean O'Haire?" he questioned crossing his arms.
"Sean O'Haire? I'm sorry, I don't know who that is," she replied trying to escape the explanation that would have to come from this conversation.
"Right, well, um, if you don't tell me now, I'll go to Matt and talk to him about it," Jeff smirked.
Hope gasped and glared at him. "You wouldn't."
"Oh, I think we both know I would."
"Ass."
"Bitch."
"Fine! I DARE you to talk to Matt," Hope smirked at Jeff and walked off, leaving him with a dumbfounded look on his face. He marched off, in search of someone with answers. When the only person he came across was Matt, he decided to take matters into his own hands.
"Matt, bro, how about this new relationship of Hope's, huh?" Jeff said. Matt whipped his head around, causing it to crack slightly.
"What are you talking about Jeffrey?" Matt asked.
"Oh, you haven't heard?" Jeff questioned digging through his bag.
"No, obviously I haven't, but apparently you have," Matt replied crossing his arms.
"Hey guys, wasn't that a great tribute?" Shane smiled walking into the locker room. He looked at Matt and Jeff, recognizing the looks on their faces he decided to back off a bit. "Um, yeah, so I'm just gonna get ready for my match now."
"Shane, what do you know about this new relationship Hope is in?" Matt asked.
"Oh, good, she told ya'll. Yeah, Sean and her have been together for like a week now. They're a really cute couple," Shane answered.
"Sean? O'Haire?" Matt asked his eyes wide.
"He didn't know?" Shane whispered to Jeff. Jeff grinned and scrunched up his face as he shook his head no. Shane cringed and nodded. Matt growled before storming off to find Sean. "Why didn't you tell me he didn't know?"
"Cause I like seeing the look on his face when things like this are dropped on his head," Jeff laughed. "You'd better get your make-up done from Hope, cause I have a feeling she may not be able to do it for much longer." Shane shook his head and jumped up.
Matt searched the halls and the other locker rooms. Sean was no where to be found. Matt stepped into catering and sitting next to Mark Jindrak was Sean, snacking away on some kind of sandwich. Matt walked up to him and tapped his shoulder. Sean turned around and smiled.
"Hey man, what's up?" Sean asked reaching out his hand to shake Matt's. When all Matt did was cross his arms, Sean had an idea about what this meeting would be about. Sean sighed and thought of what to say to keep himself from getting killed. "Look, I really like your little sister. And I think she really likes me. I don't want there to be any bad blood between us, but I'm not going to break up with her."
"Why my sister?" Matt asked sounding as if he had ignored all that Sean had just said to him.
"Because she's unique, beautiful, sweet, talented. I mean, what's there not to like about her?" Sean said.
"How?"
"How? Like how did we start dating?"
"Yeah, what started this whole attraction to each other?"
"Well, I went to get a pair of my trunks let out and there was no one there but Hope. She was just working on some sketches, so I asked if she minded doing my trunks for me. And she said not at all. We got to talking, I asked her to dinner that nite, and the rest is history," Sean explained standing up to throw away his trash.
"Dude, I like you, really I do, but if you hurt my sister in any way, I'll kill you," Matt threatened walking out of the room.
"For such a small guy, he's quite intimidating," Mark smiled.
"You're not kidding," Sean chuckled patting his friend on the back.
"Alright, so why the hell didn't you tell me?!" Matt burst into the wardrobe room exclaiming.
"Excuse me?" Hope asked turning away from Shane. She set the paints down to look at her fuming older brother.
"Why didn't you tell me about you and Sean?" he asked more clearly sitting in a chair next to them.
"That asshole told! I can't believe he actually did it!" Hope laughed.
"Who?" Matt asked.
"Jeff, I guess he caught me and Sean during the anthem and threatened to tell you. So I dared him to. I never actually thought he'd turn me in though. What a little snake!" she replied.
"First off, you should know better than to dare Jeff. Second, Jeff didn't tell me. Third, it was Shane who informed me about your little fling with Sean," Matt smiled. Hope gave Shane a look of complete hatred as he tried to sit there looking as innocent as possible.
"Look, I didn't mean to spill the beans. I thought he already knew. They tricked me!" Shane said throwing his hands in the air. Hope growled slightly and picked up her paints to continue doing up Shane's face.
"Can we talk about this later?" she asked blowing a stray piece of hair out of her face.
"Yeah, in the car. We'll have plenty of time to talk about it on our drive home tomorrow morning," Matt left smirking at her.
"You're gonna die," Hope smiled sarcastically at Shane.
"And I'm going with them too!" Shane muttered quietly.
***************
For at least the beginning of the ride home, it was silent. They were all passed out. Well, except for Matt who was determined to set some sort of new driving record. Jeff and Hope kind of leaned on each other as they slept, while they had thrown Shane in the back with all the luggage. Amy just sat up front, trying to keep Matt awake, or at least the rest of them alive. Hope slowly woke up from her uncomfortable sleep and rubbed her neck. Matt was still at the wheel and she was most unimpressed with that idea. She knew he couldn't last for much longer without sleep.
"Bro, why don't you let someone else drive for a bit?" she asked leaning forward.
"No, I can do this myself. I don't want anyone else driving," he yawned.
"Right, so you'd rather drive us into a ditch. Makes perfect sense," she smiled.
"Thought you'd think so," he laughed. "So, like to share with me why you didn't tell me about Sean?"
She took a deep breath, rolling her eyes. "I suppose I hafta, huh?"
"It'd be greatly appreciated."
"Alright, I was afraid you'd go off the deep end or something. Like you have with all my other boyfriends. Threatening their lives and what not," she replied.
Matt shook his head at himself, remember that he had done just that to a guy he knew truly wouldn't hurt Hope in anyways. "Alright, I can understand that. But you didn't tell Jeff either."
"Nope, and that's cause he likes to rub things in your face. So I figured he'd come out with it in-verdantly."
"Yeah, he'd do that. He always does," Matt laughed. "I like Sean, I do. And yes, I'll be looking after you while you're with him, but I do like him."
"I know," Hope smiled squeezing Matt's shoulder. She leaned back in her seat and sighed. "You know Shane's dating someone 10 years older than him?"
"Is he really?!" Jeff laughed sitting straight up in his seat.
"Uh-huh," Hope grinned.
"Hope, you suck," Shane groaned from the back.
"Pay back's a bitch, sweet heart," Hope replied.
About 16 hours later, they had made it home safe and sound. Hope, Matt, and Amy dragged themselves into the house, tired and worn out from the drive. Their father was waiting in anticipation for their arrival and they were just as happy to see him.
"I'm so glad you kids are safe," he said hugging his eldest son. He looked at his daughter and held her in his arms. "I don't know what I would have done if I had lost anyone of you!"
"We love you Dad," Hope sniffled as tears fought to fall.
"I prayed for your safe arrival. I prayed that you'd be spared from the jaws of those evil men, and I'm happy to see that it worked. Thank God for your mother watching over you," Gil smiled as Matt walked over and hugged both him and Hope.
"I'm going to head home and call my mom. I'm sure she's worried sick about me. I'll see you all Sunday," Amy smiled as Matt left his family to say goodbye to his girlfriend.
"Where's your brother?" Gil asked Hope as they moved into the living room.
"Home. He wanted to spend time with Beth. Just to calm her nerves. She was a little razz led," Hope replied.
"I know. I've spoken to her many times. Shannon and Lizzie as well," Gil said as Matt joined them.
"It's so good to be home," Matt smiled flopping down on the couch.
"Dad, we're not going to war are we?" Hope asked.
"Oh I don't know sweetie. It almost sounds like we will," he answered sadly.
"None of the guys will have to go, will they?" Hope worried.
"I'm sure we have enough men to go over there for us," Matt said.
"Good, cause I don't want to lose anyone," Hope shook her head as Shannon and Lizzie burst into the house.
"I'm so glad you're home!" Shannon cried as both he and Lizzie engulfed Hope in a tight hug.
"Guys, can't breathe!" Hope gasped. The two pulled away and Hope took a deep breathe.
"I was so worried! I couldn't remember where ya'll were gonna be, and I thought well hell, maybe they were in New York, or maybe they were on one of those flights. You can't even imagine how that felt!" Shannon exclaimed.
"Try flying out the day before all this happens and then thinking, damn that could have been me if I had waited a day," Hope said.
"I'm so glad you didn't wait a day! What the hell would I do without my girl?!" Lizzie exclaimed.
"You'd have me!" Shannon snapped sounding hurt.
"Oh, yeah, well, I suppose I'd have him," Lizzie spoke lowly rolling her eyes as she nodded her head towards him.
"Well, I'm fine. I'm safe. Petrified of planes now, but I'm good," Hope finished with a laugh.
"I'm sure flying will be just as safe as it was before," Matt said casually. Everyone looked at him as if he had 10 heads.
"Yes, no worries about terrorists or anything like that," Shannon joked.
"Well, it's not like security hasn't been heightened," Matt shrugged.
"I'm not takin any chances. I'm driving to the next show," Hope nodded at herself.
"By yourself?!" Matt laughed.
"No, with Jeff," she replied.
"And how are you getting back to Connecticut?" Matt questioned.
"Um, well, I hadn't thought about that yet," Hope sighed. "I hope you know I hate you."
"Yeah, I know, but it's always such a pleasure to hear it time and time again," Matt smirked.
"Well, in that case, I hate you too Matt," Lizzie said.
"That's good to know Lizzie. Thanks," Matt said walking up to his room.
"So where's Jeffy?" Lizzie asked.
"With his GIRLFRIEND!!!" Hope exclaimed.
"Why? I can give him more pleasure than she can!" Lizzie smiled.
"Oh Lord," Shannon rolled his eyes as he sat where Matt had just been.
"Hope, your bag is ringing," Lizzie said staring at the bag that sat on the floor making noise. Hope pulled out her cell phone and answered it happily.
"Hey baby," she smiled. Lizzie and Shannon shot each other looks of curiosity as they listened in closely to Hope's call.
"Hi," the low voice spoke in return. Sean smoothed back his hair as he held the phone in his hand. "You made it back alright?"
"No, Matt got us into an accident from falling asleep at the wheel and I'm now in the morgue. And this is my spirit talking to you," she replied sarcastically.
"Is everything a joke with you?" he asked with a laugh.
"Nah, but I'm feeling frisky tonite," she replied. "Nah, I just got home, but I'm safe and sound. So that's all that matters."
"You bet that's what matters. Well, to me anyways."
"Awe, you're so sweet!" she giggled slightly.
"Did Bade just giggle?" Shannon asked.
"Yeah, sounded that way to me," Lizzie replied quietly.
"Listen, I gotta go, but I'll talk to you tomorrow?" Hope questioned swatting away her friends so she could have a heartfelt goodbye with her boyfriend.
"Alright, I'll be waiting," Sean replied. "Hope?"
"Yeah?"
"I think I love you," he said thoughtfully.
"I think I love you too," Hope laughed.
"Bye." They hung up and Hope slouched down in the plush recliner.
"Alright, what the hell do I NOT know?!" Lizzie asked.
"I didn't tell you?" Hope asked with a devious smile as she stood to walk into the kitchen. Shannon and Lizzie following closely.
"Apparently you haven't!" Shannon answered.
"Hmmmm, must have just simply slipped my mind," she replied continuing to smile.
"Oh cut the crap and just tell us what's goin on!" Lizzie exclaimed.
"Alright, I'm dating Sean O'Haire," Hope said excitedly.
Lizzie and Shannon's jaws dropped to the floor. Lizzie glared at Hope before slapping her friend's arm. "Why the hell didn't you tell me!?"
"I didn't tell anyone. Well, Shane knew but he's a nosey son of a bitch," Hope replied.
"You tell me everything! Why didn't you tell me at least?!" Shannon said hurtfully.
"Like I said, NO ONE knew," Hope laughed. "Listen, it's not that big of a deal. You know now, so just be happy bout that."
"I'll try, but I'm not making any promises," Lizzie frowned as the three of them walked into the living room to watch a movie.
****************
Her long sleeved Marilyn Manson shirt, she had bought at Ozzfest that summer, covered her hands, only her fingers and thumbs showed through the cuts in the sleeves. Her long tan legs protruding out from the boxes she had worn to bed. Her purple and blue hair flew about her head, no longer in the ponytail it was once in the nite before. She yawned before pouring herself a cup of coffee made by the singing wonder that was showering at the moment. She relaxed on her couch that was made up as a bed for her visitor the nite before, although they didn't get to bed till about 3 in the morning. She wasn't there long when she heard a knock on her apartment door. She stood, setting her cup on the coffee table, and walked towards the door, stepping over sketches and failed designs. Looking through the peep hole she smiled and opened the door.
"Hi Sean," she spoke as he bent down to kiss her.
"Hey Bade," he smiled as she let him into her apartment.
"What are you doing here so early? I wasn't expecting you till later," Hope said as he gripped her hands in his.
"Yeah, I got an earlier flight so I could come see your apartment," he said looking around the large one bedroom apartment. The place was a mess. She'd been living there for a week and already it was unlivable. Boxes of pizza were skewed around the kitchen and dinning room, half empty bottles of soda were left all around the place, clothes were left on the furniture, and basically just looked like a tornado had thrown up in her home. "Damn, what'd you do? Have a party here last nite?"
"Oh, no," she shook her head leading him into the living room.
"Well, I think you had better hire a maid," he laughed.
"Are you making jokes about my house cleaning abilities, O'Haire?" she smirked at him.
"Oh, I would NEVER do that," his tone sarcastic. All of a sudden, the shower singer began to sing louder, and more off key. His song annoyingly familiar and made her cringe when she heard it. "Who's here? Matt or Jeff?"
"I wish," she sighed. "No, Shane was over last nite so I could make him a new top. His old one wasn't fitting him right. So by the time we finished it was like 2 am so I just suggested he spend the nite."
With a look of shock on his face, Sean asked, "Wasn't his girl upset?"
"His girl?!" Hope exclaimed.
"Yeah, Helms has a girlfriend. Didn't you know that?"
"No, I didn't. Who is it?"
"Lisa Moretti."
"Ivory?!" she exclaimed. He just nodded. "Isn't she like, OLD?!"
He laughed and responded, "Late 30's."
"DAMN!!" Hope laughed just as the bedroom door opened and Shane emerged wearing one of Hopes towels around his waist.
"Good morning all," Shane smiled sounding more chipper than necessary.
"Morning, geriatric lover," Hope remarked with a smile.
"Excuse me?" Shane asked pouring himself a cup of coffee.
"What's this I hear about you dating someone 10 years older than you?"
"Oh, um, hmm, yeah, I was gonna tell you about Lisa, but didn't feel like it," he smiled.
"How long have you two been together?" Hope inquired.
"Oh, about a month," Shane estimated.
"Wow," she shook her head.
"Well, you haven't told your brothers about dating O'Haire here. So just keep your mouth shut or Matt'll know instantly," Shane threatened walking back into the bathroom to change back into his clothes.
"That boy has a death wish," she growled.
"What is it between you two?" Sean asked curiously.
"You try being one of the only girls in their wrestling company and having him tease your ass every five seconds," Hope explained simply.
"Point taken," he laughed. "You packed to go to Houston?"
"Yeah, just let me change and we can get out of here and maybe get an earlier flight so we can like hang out or something," she said standing.
"Is Shane coming with us?"
"Um, I believe so. Why?"
"Just curious," Sean said before kissing her cheek.
"Hey butt munch!" she yelled to Shane through the bathroom door.
"What dumb butt?" he replied.
"You comin to the airport with Sean and I? Or goin with your cradle robbing girlfriend?" she joked.
"Haha, very funny Bade!" Shane said opening the door. "I'm coming with ya'll."
"Alright. I'm goin to get dressed and then we're out of here," she smiled before disappearing into her room.
******************
They had arrived in Houston about 2 hours earlier than originally planned, having gotten an earlier flight. Neither Shane nor Sean were needed for RAW that nite. And Shane's girlfriend was at home, so the three of them hung out at the Marriott they had opted to stay in. For fear of her brothers finding out about her relationship with Sean, Hope had convinced him that sharing a room wouldn't be a good idea. So down the hall from her was Sean's room. Early in the morning, Matt, Amy, and Jeff had finally arrived in Houston from their long drive from San Antonio. Having only just gotten to sleep herself, Hope didn't go to meet them at the Hilton like they had originally planned.
Tuesday morning Hope was woken up by the hotel phone ringing. She groaned but answered it anyways, figuring it was Matt or Jeff, checking up on her. Instead Shane was on the other end. She looked at the clock before saying anything, it was 8:00 am Central time and 9:00 am Eastern time, that time will stay in her mind forever.
"Hello," she answered her voice sounding very groggy.
"Hope, turn on the tv," Shane instructed.
"Shane, it's too early for this shit. Go back to sleep," she ordered.
"I can't. Hope, Lisa just called me and informed me that planes are flying into buildings in New York and Washington DC. Just turn the tv on," he explained.
She laughed at him like he was crazy, "Shane, you're off your rocker. You've been watching one too many space invasion movies or something. Now let me get some sleep."
"Hardy, listen to me. I'm serious."
"Right, so should I be singing, 'It's the end of the world as we know it. It's the end'?" she continued to joke.
"Why don't you just turn on the damn tv?" he said angrily hanging up on her.
"Ass, wakes me up and gives me orders, then hangs up on me?! Who does he truly think he is?!" she laughed though she was compelled to turn the tv on anyways. She had just reached for the remote when her phone rang again. "Hello?!"
"Hope, have you seen?" Sean said his voice shaky.
"Oh not you too!" she exclaimed.
"Huh?"
"Shane just called me, ordering me to turn the tv on cause apparently planes were flyin into buildings."
"Bade, baby, do what he said," Sean said hanging up on her as well.
"One more person hangs up on me and I'll kill them!" she cried turning the tv on. The sight on the tv was enough to bring fear into the bravest person. She covered her mouth with her hands and closed her eyes tightly. A plane was shown hitting the World Trade Center, not one, but two. The phone rang once again and she slowly moved to answer it. "Hello?" her voice was weak.
"Sweetie, you saw?" Jeff asked his voice just as weak sounding as her own.
"What's goin on?!" she exclaimed.
"Get dressed, come over to the Hilton, and I'll meet you in the lobby," he said. "Are you alright?"
"Yeah, I'll be there in a few," she sighed.
"I love you kid," Jeff replied before they hung up. Hope quickly changed into a pair of lounge pants and a tank top. She ran out of her room and down the hall. She knocked on a door and it quickly opened. He wrapped her up into his arms and held her.
"You alright?" Sean asked.
"Yeah, I'll be fine. I'm goin to the Hilton to meet up with my brothers," she said keeping her head close to his bare chest.
"I'll see you later?" he asked. She looked up at him and smiled, nodding slightly. He bent down and kissed her soft pink lips. "Bye baby."
"Bye," she said leaving him to watch her walk away.
She trudged down the streets watching the skies in hopes that she was just dreaming or hoping that she wouldn't be attacked right then and there. Despite what was going on in the US, the sky was a beautiful blue, the sun was shining brightly, and there wasn't a cloud in sight. The air was warm and there was a slight breeze. Just an over all perfect day. Well, as perfect as it could be. She spotted Jeff the second she stepped into the hotel. He was in a pair of raggy old jeans, a white wife-beater, and just socks. His multi-colored hair was pulled back and hidden from the baseball cap he wore. He looked to her and beckoned her to come to him.
"Jeff, I don't understand what's goin on," she sighed as he wrapped his arms around her in a hug. He took a deep breath and they pulled apart.
"We don't really know what's goin on either. Come on, Matt and Ames are waiting for us," Jeff smiled slightly, though looking forced. He draped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her into the elevator with him.
"Did Shane call you too?" she asked.
"No, Beth did."
"Oh. I guess you didn't think it was a joke then, huh?"
"No, not at all."
"So I'm the only one that thought it was one of Shane's lousy jokes. Great," she said pretty much talking to herself. The doors opened and they walked down the hall together. Knocking on the door, Jeff released his twin sister from his grip, just as Matt answered the door.
"Oh Kiddo. I'm so glad you're here!" Matt said bringing her into his body. She relaxed into his arms and held onto him tightly. Jeff moved passed them and sat on the floor in front of the bed and tv. Matt picked her up and carried her into the room, in the same position they were in when they greeted each other. He set her down and looked at her. "Some of the guys are coming over. They've been waiting at the airport but all of the airports have closed all out going flights now. So since we have pretty big rooms and the bar and restaurant downstairs Amy and I suggested they come here."
"Do we know what happened?" Hope asked sitting on the bed just as Amy walked out of the bathroom still dressed for bed.
"Terrorists," she said simply sitting next to Hope. Matt sat behind the two girls and rubbed Amy's shoulders while Hope laid back and rested her head in his lap.
"Terrorists?" Hope questioned.
"Yeah, they hijacked the planes and flew them into the buildings. The first tower is already collapsing," Matt sighed.
"What about all those people on the planes and in the buildings?" Hope wondered.
"Depending on where in the buildings they were, they're probably dead. And as for the people on the planes, well, I'm sure you can figure that out," Matt replied.
"That's horrible. Why do these people hate us so much?" she asked.
"Because we believe in something they don't believe in. Like all of our rights, and women being free, and our religions," Jeff answered.
"That's stupid," Hope muttered as there was a knock on the door. Jeff jumped up to answer it and the room filled with about 5 wrestlers, Jay, Adam, Chris Irvine, Andrew, and Stacy.
"Hey all," Chris said slumping into one of the chairs as the others all found seats.
"Hey man. What's up dude?" Jeff asked.
"Wondering what the hell is goin on," he chuckled.
"Yeah, join the club," Hope said sitting up, noticing Adam was standing by the door. "Look, Adam, I know we have some problems, but let's throw them out of the window for today. It's all right." He nodded at her and sat on the bed with them, watching the horror that was taking place on the tv screen.
***************
Much to everyone's dislike, Vince had decided to do Smackdown on September 13th. Most protested, but he had made a very inspirational speech and they all had decided that if the crowd wanted to be there, then they would put on the best show possible. It was decided that Lillian would sing the national anthem that nite and that everyone on the roster would walk out and watch, standing around the ring and on the ramp. Just packing into whatever spot they could find. Hope had snuck out with her brothers, Amy, Shane, and Sean so she could be apart of it all. She stood between Jeff and Sean, holding both their hands. As soon as Lillian opened her mouth tears began to roll down cheeks, everyone stood, and showed their respect. Hope moved into Sean's body and he wrapped his arm around her. Jeff looked over at the couple, shocked, but smiled anyways. Lillian stopped singing and the roof almost flew off the arena with all the cheers and celebration that was going on. The wrestlers, and Hope, paid their last respects and walked to the back, to get ready for what they would hope to be one show that the fans would remember for eternity.
"Bade, can I talk to you for second?" Jeff asked pulling his sister to the side as they walked through the halls.
"Make it fast, okay? I have to help Shane paint his face," she smiled.
"What's up with you and Sean O'Haire?" he questioned crossing his arms.
"Sean O'Haire? I'm sorry, I don't know who that is," she replied trying to escape the explanation that would have to come from this conversation.
"Right, well, um, if you don't tell me now, I'll go to Matt and talk to him about it," Jeff smirked.
Hope gasped and glared at him. "You wouldn't."
"Oh, I think we both know I would."
"Ass."
"Bitch."
"Fine! I DARE you to talk to Matt," Hope smirked at Jeff and walked off, leaving him with a dumbfounded look on his face. He marched off, in search of someone with answers. When the only person he came across was Matt, he decided to take matters into his own hands.
"Matt, bro, how about this new relationship of Hope's, huh?" Jeff said. Matt whipped his head around, causing it to crack slightly.
"What are you talking about Jeffrey?" Matt asked.
"Oh, you haven't heard?" Jeff questioned digging through his bag.
"No, obviously I haven't, but apparently you have," Matt replied crossing his arms.
"Hey guys, wasn't that a great tribute?" Shane smiled walking into the locker room. He looked at Matt and Jeff, recognizing the looks on their faces he decided to back off a bit. "Um, yeah, so I'm just gonna get ready for my match now."
"Shane, what do you know about this new relationship Hope is in?" Matt asked.
"Oh, good, she told ya'll. Yeah, Sean and her have been together for like a week now. They're a really cute couple," Shane answered.
"Sean? O'Haire?" Matt asked his eyes wide.
"He didn't know?" Shane whispered to Jeff. Jeff grinned and scrunched up his face as he shook his head no. Shane cringed and nodded. Matt growled before storming off to find Sean. "Why didn't you tell me he didn't know?"
"Cause I like seeing the look on his face when things like this are dropped on his head," Jeff laughed. "You'd better get your make-up done from Hope, cause I have a feeling she may not be able to do it for much longer." Shane shook his head and jumped up.
Matt searched the halls and the other locker rooms. Sean was no where to be found. Matt stepped into catering and sitting next to Mark Jindrak was Sean, snacking away on some kind of sandwich. Matt walked up to him and tapped his shoulder. Sean turned around and smiled.
"Hey man, what's up?" Sean asked reaching out his hand to shake Matt's. When all Matt did was cross his arms, Sean had an idea about what this meeting would be about. Sean sighed and thought of what to say to keep himself from getting killed. "Look, I really like your little sister. And I think she really likes me. I don't want there to be any bad blood between us, but I'm not going to break up with her."
"Why my sister?" Matt asked sounding as if he had ignored all that Sean had just said to him.
"Because she's unique, beautiful, sweet, talented. I mean, what's there not to like about her?" Sean said.
"How?"
"How? Like how did we start dating?"
"Yeah, what started this whole attraction to each other?"
"Well, I went to get a pair of my trunks let out and there was no one there but Hope. She was just working on some sketches, so I asked if she minded doing my trunks for me. And she said not at all. We got to talking, I asked her to dinner that nite, and the rest is history," Sean explained standing up to throw away his trash.
"Dude, I like you, really I do, but if you hurt my sister in any way, I'll kill you," Matt threatened walking out of the room.
"For such a small guy, he's quite intimidating," Mark smiled.
"You're not kidding," Sean chuckled patting his friend on the back.
"Alright, so why the hell didn't you tell me?!" Matt burst into the wardrobe room exclaiming.
"Excuse me?" Hope asked turning away from Shane. She set the paints down to look at her fuming older brother.
"Why didn't you tell me about you and Sean?" he asked more clearly sitting in a chair next to them.
"That asshole told! I can't believe he actually did it!" Hope laughed.
"Who?" Matt asked.
"Jeff, I guess he caught me and Sean during the anthem and threatened to tell you. So I dared him to. I never actually thought he'd turn me in though. What a little snake!" she replied.
"First off, you should know better than to dare Jeff. Second, Jeff didn't tell me. Third, it was Shane who informed me about your little fling with Sean," Matt smiled. Hope gave Shane a look of complete hatred as he tried to sit there looking as innocent as possible.
"Look, I didn't mean to spill the beans. I thought he already knew. They tricked me!" Shane said throwing his hands in the air. Hope growled slightly and picked up her paints to continue doing up Shane's face.
"Can we talk about this later?" she asked blowing a stray piece of hair out of her face.
"Yeah, in the car. We'll have plenty of time to talk about it on our drive home tomorrow morning," Matt left smirking at her.
"You're gonna die," Hope smiled sarcastically at Shane.
"And I'm going with them too!" Shane muttered quietly.
***************
For at least the beginning of the ride home, it was silent. They were all passed out. Well, except for Matt who was determined to set some sort of new driving record. Jeff and Hope kind of leaned on each other as they slept, while they had thrown Shane in the back with all the luggage. Amy just sat up front, trying to keep Matt awake, or at least the rest of them alive. Hope slowly woke up from her uncomfortable sleep and rubbed her neck. Matt was still at the wheel and she was most unimpressed with that idea. She knew he couldn't last for much longer without sleep.
"Bro, why don't you let someone else drive for a bit?" she asked leaning forward.
"No, I can do this myself. I don't want anyone else driving," he yawned.
"Right, so you'd rather drive us into a ditch. Makes perfect sense," she smiled.
"Thought you'd think so," he laughed. "So, like to share with me why you didn't tell me about Sean?"
She took a deep breath, rolling her eyes. "I suppose I hafta, huh?"
"It'd be greatly appreciated."
"Alright, I was afraid you'd go off the deep end or something. Like you have with all my other boyfriends. Threatening their lives and what not," she replied.
Matt shook his head at himself, remember that he had done just that to a guy he knew truly wouldn't hurt Hope in anyways. "Alright, I can understand that. But you didn't tell Jeff either."
"Nope, and that's cause he likes to rub things in your face. So I figured he'd come out with it in-verdantly."
"Yeah, he'd do that. He always does," Matt laughed. "I like Sean, I do. And yes, I'll be looking after you while you're with him, but I do like him."
"I know," Hope smiled squeezing Matt's shoulder. She leaned back in her seat and sighed. "You know Shane's dating someone 10 years older than him?"
"Is he really?!" Jeff laughed sitting straight up in his seat.
"Uh-huh," Hope grinned.
"Hope, you suck," Shane groaned from the back.
"Pay back's a bitch, sweet heart," Hope replied.
About 16 hours later, they had made it home safe and sound. Hope, Matt, and Amy dragged themselves into the house, tired and worn out from the drive. Their father was waiting in anticipation for their arrival and they were just as happy to see him.
"I'm so glad you kids are safe," he said hugging his eldest son. He looked at his daughter and held her in his arms. "I don't know what I would have done if I had lost anyone of you!"
"We love you Dad," Hope sniffled as tears fought to fall.
"I prayed for your safe arrival. I prayed that you'd be spared from the jaws of those evil men, and I'm happy to see that it worked. Thank God for your mother watching over you," Gil smiled as Matt walked over and hugged both him and Hope.
"I'm going to head home and call my mom. I'm sure she's worried sick about me. I'll see you all Sunday," Amy smiled as Matt left his family to say goodbye to his girlfriend.
"Where's your brother?" Gil asked Hope as they moved into the living room.
"Home. He wanted to spend time with Beth. Just to calm her nerves. She was a little razz led," Hope replied.
"I know. I've spoken to her many times. Shannon and Lizzie as well," Gil said as Matt joined them.
"It's so good to be home," Matt smiled flopping down on the couch.
"Dad, we're not going to war are we?" Hope asked.
"Oh I don't know sweetie. It almost sounds like we will," he answered sadly.
"None of the guys will have to go, will they?" Hope worried.
"I'm sure we have enough men to go over there for us," Matt said.
"Good, cause I don't want to lose anyone," Hope shook her head as Shannon and Lizzie burst into the house.
"I'm so glad you're home!" Shannon cried as both he and Lizzie engulfed Hope in a tight hug.
"Guys, can't breathe!" Hope gasped. The two pulled away and Hope took a deep breathe.
"I was so worried! I couldn't remember where ya'll were gonna be, and I thought well hell, maybe they were in New York, or maybe they were on one of those flights. You can't even imagine how that felt!" Shannon exclaimed.
"Try flying out the day before all this happens and then thinking, damn that could have been me if I had waited a day," Hope said.
"I'm so glad you didn't wait a day! What the hell would I do without my girl?!" Lizzie exclaimed.
"You'd have me!" Shannon snapped sounding hurt.
"Oh, yeah, well, I suppose I'd have him," Lizzie spoke lowly rolling her eyes as she nodded her head towards him.
"Well, I'm fine. I'm safe. Petrified of planes now, but I'm good," Hope finished with a laugh.
"I'm sure flying will be just as safe as it was before," Matt said casually. Everyone looked at him as if he had 10 heads.
"Yes, no worries about terrorists or anything like that," Shannon joked.
"Well, it's not like security hasn't been heightened," Matt shrugged.
"I'm not takin any chances. I'm driving to the next show," Hope nodded at herself.
"By yourself?!" Matt laughed.
"No, with Jeff," she replied.
"And how are you getting back to Connecticut?" Matt questioned.
"Um, well, I hadn't thought about that yet," Hope sighed. "I hope you know I hate you."
"Yeah, I know, but it's always such a pleasure to hear it time and time again," Matt smirked.
"Well, in that case, I hate you too Matt," Lizzie said.
"That's good to know Lizzie. Thanks," Matt said walking up to his room.
"So where's Jeffy?" Lizzie asked.
"With his GIRLFRIEND!!!" Hope exclaimed.
"Why? I can give him more pleasure than she can!" Lizzie smiled.
"Oh Lord," Shannon rolled his eyes as he sat where Matt had just been.
"Hope, your bag is ringing," Lizzie said staring at the bag that sat on the floor making noise. Hope pulled out her cell phone and answered it happily.
"Hey baby," she smiled. Lizzie and Shannon shot each other looks of curiosity as they listened in closely to Hope's call.
"Hi," the low voice spoke in return. Sean smoothed back his hair as he held the phone in his hand. "You made it back alright?"
"No, Matt got us into an accident from falling asleep at the wheel and I'm now in the morgue. And this is my spirit talking to you," she replied sarcastically.
"Is everything a joke with you?" he asked with a laugh.
"Nah, but I'm feeling frisky tonite," she replied. "Nah, I just got home, but I'm safe and sound. So that's all that matters."
"You bet that's what matters. Well, to me anyways."
"Awe, you're so sweet!" she giggled slightly.
"Did Bade just giggle?" Shannon asked.
"Yeah, sounded that way to me," Lizzie replied quietly.
"Listen, I gotta go, but I'll talk to you tomorrow?" Hope questioned swatting away her friends so she could have a heartfelt goodbye with her boyfriend.
"Alright, I'll be waiting," Sean replied. "Hope?"
"Yeah?"
"I think I love you," he said thoughtfully.
"I think I love you too," Hope laughed.
"Bye." They hung up and Hope slouched down in the plush recliner.
"Alright, what the hell do I NOT know?!" Lizzie asked.
"I didn't tell you?" Hope asked with a devious smile as she stood to walk into the kitchen. Shannon and Lizzie following closely.
"Apparently you haven't!" Shannon answered.
"Hmmmm, must have just simply slipped my mind," she replied continuing to smile.
"Oh cut the crap and just tell us what's goin on!" Lizzie exclaimed.
"Alright, I'm dating Sean O'Haire," Hope said excitedly.
Lizzie and Shannon's jaws dropped to the floor. Lizzie glared at Hope before slapping her friend's arm. "Why the hell didn't you tell me!?"
"I didn't tell anyone. Well, Shane knew but he's a nosey son of a bitch," Hope replied.
"You tell me everything! Why didn't you tell me at least?!" Shannon said hurtfully.
"Like I said, NO ONE knew," Hope laughed. "Listen, it's not that big of a deal. You know now, so just be happy bout that."
"I'll try, but I'm not making any promises," Lizzie frowned as the three of them walked into the living room to watch a movie.