Disclaimer : I do not own any of the characters mentioned herein. This is pure fiction, written for entertainment only.

Thank you for the reviews!

It's hard resisting the urge to bring Mark in each chapter. I like him playing the protective role to Jeff but I always messed up because I know he will wind up cutting the rest off if he makes his appearance. *sigh* I have to try to keep him out but his muse is playing with my mind. Lets take this one chapter at a time, shall we?

Chapter 7

"Tell me, why should I help you? What do I get to gain?" Hunter was lounging lazily against the couch. His guests were none other than Adam and Randy. They had turned up outside his hotel room a few minutes ago and requested to speak to him in private.

"What everyone in the WWE wants, a championship title shot! You do me this favor and I'll give up my title shot ….. to you." Adam was pleased to see that he had caught Hunter's full attention now.

He leaned forward eagerly. "You're sure about this? You're willing to give it up to me if I do this for you?"

Hunter was actually taken aback by the offer. Title shots didn't just drop into anyone's lap. Currently, Adam was in the fore running for the next title shot and for him to trade it away casually for a simple favor like getting Vince to turn down Matt's request to put Jeff on the same brand as him, seemed to him to be somewhat of an unfair trade. But who was he to argue since he was gaining the upper hand in the situation.

Adam nodded and said, "I think I just made myself crystal clear. So, how about it? Do we have a deal or not?"

Randy was struck speechless. He never expected Adam to sacrifice his title shot. He was beginning to realize just how desperate Adam wanted to be near Jeff again and was wondering if he had just made the biggest mistake of his life by agreeing to his plan. Adam had proven he was tenacious when he wanted something really bad. His action just showed that he was prepared to give up a lot to keep Jeff on the same brand, without his brother's interference. He took in a deep breath and let it out slowly, already regretting his decision. He glanced at Adam uneasily. Having worked with him closely, he knew Adam was fiercely competitive and a man not to be taken lightly. It was too late to back out now. He decided to keep a close eye over things and make sure he didn't end up losing Jeff to him.

Hunter stared at Adam with disbelief. His mouth slowly curved into a smile. He put out his hand and Adam grasped it and both men sealed the deal with a firm handshake. "You just got yourself a deal!" Hunter said with a huge grin on his face.

Adam released his hand and said, "Once you come through with your part of the deal, I'll talk to Vince myself. Now, you have to excuse us. Randy and I have some other business to take care of," and got to his feet. Randy followed suit, wearing a thoughtful look on his face.

Hunter looked over at him and frowned. "It's not really my business but how does Randy come into the picture?" he asked Adam.

Adam let his gaze fall on Randy. Both men stared at each other and Adam spoke, without taking his eyes off him, "Both of us are after the same thing and for the time being, we need to work together."

Randy knew then that his fears had been confirmed. He had to be very careful around Adam. Adam would not hesitate to go through him to get to Jeff.

Sensing the tension between the two men, Hunter hesitated before saying, "Look, I feel like I've cheated you on the deal. Tell you what, if you need help on anything else, just let me know."

Adam's eyes travelled towards Hunter and a smile broke across his face. "As a matter of fact, I do need your help on something else."

Hunter motioned for them to sit back down and waited for Adam to speak.

"Matt, Randy and some of the guys got into a brawl last night with Scott and his friends," Adam started to say but Randy cut him off, "Adam, I don't think we should go there," he said on a warning note. Vince would have their heads if he found out they were fighting in public. It was bad publicity and would tarnish the company's image.

Adam hesitated, realizing he could get everybody into trouble if he wasn't careful. But Hunter assured them, "Listen, every word that you say stays in this room. I won't say anything to Vince."

Seeing their relieved faces, he pressed on, "You mentioned Scott, as in Scott Levy, Raven?" When Adam nodded, he asked, "What happened?"

Adam turned to Randy and said, "Maybe you should tell him, I wasn't there when it happened."

Randy decided that he might as well. Hunter could probably be the best person who could help them deal with Scott. He related the bomb that Scott had dropped on them about Jeff when he was in TNA and how they had pummeled the man and his two friends mercilessly outside a club for the outrage and humiliation. He exchanged looks with Adam, unsure if they should mention anything about Jeff's suicide attempt. But Adam took over and told Hunter everything. He revealed that they just got back from the hospital after spending the night there to help Matt keep vigil over Jeff.

"Scott and his friends aren't going to leave things alone. I foresee him causing major problems for Jeff and I'm afraid, he's going to make life very difficult for him and for some of us too," he informed Hunter.

Hunter absorbed everything quietly and finally said, "It seems odd to me that the both of you are getting yourselves embroiled in a situation that, in the first place, has got nothing to do with you. Is there something here that I should about?" and waited for their response. He could actually feel the waves of tension flowing off the two men.

For once, Adam remained silent but Randy spoke up. "Jeff and I are together. He's with me!" he reiterated firmly, fixing Adam with a steady look, challenging him to dispute his claim.

Hunter looked from one man to another and realized they were having a confrontation. Both men wanted Jeff but they were forced to work together to keep Jeff on the same show. "This is getting more interesting by the minute! Hmm … I wonder how long they can keep it together before they're at each other's neck!" he mused silently to himself.

The long silence ensued until Hunter broke it, "Do you need my help to deal with Scott?"

He was more than willing to help. He didn't like what Scott was doing to Jeff. He remembered how trusting and easy going Jeff used to be back then until his drug issue became a stumbling block. And upon his recent return, he had noticed that Jeff had been keeping a very low profile. The news that he and Randy was an item took him by complete surprise. He hadn't seen Jeff hanging out with anyone. But what threw him off was that Adam had made the ultimate sacrifice by putting his title shot on the line to help Jeff. It could only mean one thing, and that was, Adam had fallen hard for the young Hardy boy!

Adam broke the stare and gave Hunter a half grin, "We would appreciate any help forthcoming. We need to stop Scott from spreading those vicious rumors about Jeff and we don't want him harassing Jeff, now or ever!"

Hunter nodded. "You don't need to go and see him personally to deliver your message across. He's not going to listen to you and you don't want to get arrested for putting your hands on him. He can press charges against you. Leave him to me. I know what to do to get him to leave Jeff alone."

Adam and Randy were startled by Hunter's readiness to help. What they didn't know was that he never liked Scott. He was a man who took great pride in his work and worked hard to get where he was. Many people said that he used his family connection to the McMahons by marriage to Stephanie to get to those numerous title shots. He knew that people would always talk regardless of the truth and chose to ignore them. He knew exactly where he stood within the company. He was grateful for everything they had done for him thus far. But Scott, on the other hand, had never shown any respect or gratitude for what the company did for him in the past. After his release, he had the gall to sue the company for cheating him of healthcare and other benefits. Vince had made it very clear that he would never take Scott back.

"What are you going to do?" Adam couldn't help asking.

Hunter smirked. "I have my ways. Let me know if you need anything else. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to make some calls."

Both men thanked him and took their leave and Hunter got down to business. WWE and TNA would always be rivals in the business but he considered TNA healthy competition. They might be rivals in the public eye but Hunter still kept in touch with some of his buddies over at TNA. But, he wasn't going to admit that to anyone, especially, not to Vince. Lifting the phone, he called his good friend, Jeff Jarrett, owner of TNA. Just one phone call and Scott would be dealt with. Either he did as told or he would be fired. It was that simple. After exchanging pleasantries with Jarrett, Hunter explained the reason for the call, relating what Randy and Adam told him without mentioning their names. He asked Jarrett for his help.

"Jeff has only been back for about three months and now he's in the hospital because Scott pushed him over the edge with his vicious slander. He's deliberately making things difficult for the young man. What can you do to help?"

"Jeff's a good kid. He's a real hard worker, quietly passionate about the business but easily disillusioned. I heard about the rumors back then and I was skeptical until I saw the cuts and bruises on him. But, he didn't come forward and I couldn't do anything to help him. So, Scott is after him again. That man had a control issue! I've to do something about it this time! I'll speak to him. You have my word that he won't go anywhere near Jeff!"

"Thanks man, I owe you one! If you need anything from me, just let me know." Once again, Jarrett had come through for him, just like he did for the other Kliq members, Kevin Nash and Scott Hall. They still remained close knitted till this day.

"I'll take you up on the offer some other time. I'll call Scott right away and deal with him. Catch up with you later," and Jarrett hung up.

Hunter sat back with a pleased look on his face. He felt good about himself. He had just won himself a title shot by doing something good for a change. Nothing underhanded, just lending a helping hand to those who needed it. His thoughts went to the triangle relationship of Randy, Adam and Jeff and somehow, he couldn't help chuckling. It would be interesting to see how that would turn out. And then, an idea hit him. He played it in his mind and he saw the potential in that storyline.

"Need to talk to Vince and sell it to him. I got this feeling that he's going to love it!" Hunter chuckled to himself before picking up the phone. But first things first, he had to talk to Vince about Matt's request. Matt had called him earlier, just before Randy and Adam turned up, requesting his help to talk Vince around to letting the Hardy Boyz stay together. Hunter couldn't see that happening and had told Matt that Vince wouldn't go for it. He didn't know that Jeff was lying in the hospital at that time. Matt didn't mention it because he knew how vulnerable Jeff was. The less people knew about his suicide attempt, the easier it would be for Jeff to face them. Now that Hunter knew about the circumstances surrounding Matt's request, he couldn't help feeling sorry for Jeff. But, he consoled himself that he had made it up to him by ensuring that Scott kept his distance from him. Jarrett was a strict enforcer and Hunter had faith that he would keep Scott in line.

He spoke to Vince about Matt's request and as anticipated, it was a no go. But Vince said he would consider teaming the brothers up from time to time to face tag team competition across the brands. Hunter heaved a sigh of relief. He had done his part, that title shot was as good as his! He then sold his new found idea to Vince who was over the moon with it. But, before he built it into the storyline, he insisted that DX face Rated RKO and headline the main event at the next pay per view. Hunter agreed to it, knowing it was bound to happen. He was looking forward to finishing their feud with Rated RKO and start working towards getting the singles championship gold. Vince told him to get in touch with Shawn and check if he could return earlier. They needed to work out the scripts for the next few weeks to build up towards the next main event at New Year's Resolution.

After promising that he would get on it immediately, he hanged up. He called Shawn next and was glad to hear that his dad was recovering well. Shawn assured him that he would be returning to work at their next show in his hometown, San Antonio, Texas. Everything was settled. Hunter was pleased to hear that things were moving along as planned. Now, all he had to do was to call Adam and let him know that he had kept his part of the deal. His face turned somber at the thought of telling Matt that his request was turned down.

~*~

Shannon couldn't help fussing around Jeff. Matt had just brought him back from the hospital and decided that Jeff was to stay with them until he made arrangements for Chris to room with him. Hunter had called him a few minutes ago and left him utterly disappointed. But Hunter said something that got Matt thinking that he knew something was going on. He told him that if he or Jeff needed help in any way, he could call on him anytime. Setting his thoughts aside for the moment, Matt got Jeff settled down. Shannon was dispatched to get Jeff's stuff from his room. He wanted to have a heart to heart talk with his brother.

As soon as Shannon left, Matt sat his brother down in front of him and told him in a stern voice. "I want you to listen to me real good, Jeffro. God knows how much I love you but trying to end your life is something you better not try again! Daddy worked himself to the bone to raise us and you'll only break his heart if you leave this way. I want you to promise me that you won't try anything like that again!"

Jeff hung his head down in shame and a lonely tear rolled down his cheek. Matt let out a sigh and softened his tone, "I know you're hurting but it's not the end of the world. I'm worried about you. I don't know what I'll do if something happens to you. What am I supposed to tell Daddy? He's getting along in years. I don't think he can take the blow. Please, promise big brother you won't do it again!"

Jeff lifted his head and Matt could see the sorrow in his eyes. He reached forward and hugged him. "Whatever it is, I will always be here for you. You can talk to me." He released him to study his face closely and added, "Give Randy some time to come around. I've already explained to him what Scott did to you back then. If he wants to be with you, he'll come back to you. If not, then it is better to break off before you get deeper into the relationship."

Jeff leaned his head against his brother's shoulder and whispered, "I know. I don't blame him, I don't blame anyone! I did it in a moment of despair. I'm really sorry, Matty. I promise I won't do it again."

At Jeff's words, a sense of relief washed over him. Matt squeezed him gently and said, "I'm really glad to hear you say that. I enlisted Hunter's help to convince Vince to put us together but Vince said no. Even though we can't be together, you know you can always call me anytime. And Jeff, I read your note. Don't ever feel that you're a burden cos' you're not! You're my precious baby brother and I'll do anything for you! And don't forget, you can always go to Chris if you have any problems."

Jeff nodded silently. At that moment, Shannon came back. He made his way towards them and said, "He seems pretty lonesome lying on the bed, waiting for you to return," he said as he handed Cookie Monster over to him.

Jeff hugged it tightly to him and gave Shannon a grateful smile. Shannon sat down beside him and put his arm around Jeff. "We've been best friends since elementary school. You could have called and told me you were upset. I would have dropped everything and come to you, Jeffy." There was a hurt look on his face.

"Oh Shanny, I'm sorry. It won't happen again," Jeff apologized and hugged his friend.

Shannon gave him a small smile and said, "It's okay but don't ever do it again. I was frantic when Matt told me what you did."

"I'm truly sorry for making everyone worried," Jeff said forlornly.

"Shall we just put this behind us? Now, are you hungry? You want to go out and eat? But, if you're not up to it, we could always order take in," Shannon suggested.

"I'm not hungry. I'll just stay here and rest for a bit. You and Matt go on ahead without me," Jeff said.

Matt kissed him fondly on the cheek and got up. "I'm not hungry either. I want you to stay here and rest. Shannon will stay and keep you company. I have to go talk to Chris and make arrangement for you to stay with him. I'll bring back food for all of us later."

After Matt left, Shannon lay down beside Jeff and watched him play listlessly with his comfort toy. He could read Jeff's moods and knew he was still feeling depressed.

"Are you going to be okay?" he asked in a worried tone. He wished Jeff would tell him what was wrong. Matt had yet to fill him in.

Jeff feigned a smile and said, "I'll be fine. Don't worry about me, okay?"

"You're lying to me. I'm feeling so guilty right now. To think I was enjoying myself while you were so upset last night! You want to tell me what's wrong? You may feel better after talking about it. I don't like seeing you like this. It reminds me of the time when you came back from TNA. You hardly spoke and everyone was worried about you. What's wrong Jeff? You know you can tell me anything. We are best friends." To his dismay, Jeff's eyes welled up with tears.

"Please don't cry, I didn't mean to get you all upset!" Shannon reached out to thumb his tears away.

Jeff choked out, "It hurts so much!"

Shannon's eyes narrowed, "Was Randy mean to you?"

Jeff struggled to compose himself and managed to speak in a quavering voice, "I was foolish to think that anyone would love me."

"Oh Jeff, what makes you say that? You're a lovable guy! If you're not my best friend, I would jump you within a heartbeat!" and gave him a cheeky grin, trying to lighten the mood. He was trying to figure out what was going on. He guessed that Randy must be the root of the problem.

"It's Randy, isn't it? What did he do to upset you?" he asked, his cheeks puffing up with anger.

"Scott told him and everyone that I was the locker slut back in TNA," Jeff choked out as hot tears rolled furiously down his face.

Shannon's mouth gaped open with shock. So, that was what happened! No wonder Jeff was so upset! His eyes narrowed with fury and he hissed, "I swear that if I see that sonabitch, I'm going to put a bullet between his eyes and cut out his black heart! Why the hell can't he leave you alone? Hasn't he done enough?"

"All this time and he's not done tormenting me. It's too late anyway. Randy and the others would never see me the same way again" and Jeff buried his face in the pillow and cried. Cookie Monster lay squashed underneath him, clutched tight against him.

Shannon tried his best to comfort him. "If Randy feels that way, it's his loss! You deserve someone who loves you for who you are. You did nothing wrong. Scott was the one who abused you. Did you tell Randy what happened? I'm actually surprised that he would believe the things Scott said because I can see he really likes you. What did he say to you?"

Jeff turned to give him a sorrowful look. "Nothing. He didn't say anything. He let go of me like I was unclean or something and gave me this look. I … I just couldn't face him and ran away."

"Oh Jeff, you shouldn't have! I mean, he must be in shock. Give him time. He'll come around once you explain everything to him. I'm sure he'll understand," Shannon said.

"You think so?" Jeff asked, with a tinge of hope in his voice.

Shannon gave him a reassuring smile. "Anyone can see that Randy adores you. And you know what? Matt is not going to admit it but he likes Randy. He's reserving his judgment until he knows him better."

Jeff let out a shuddering breath. It wasn't often that his brother took to someone so quickly. Matt had always been a good judge of character and Jeff valued his opinions. It was good to hear that his brother liked Randy. Maybe Shannon was right. There was still hope for him that Randy would come around in due time.

Shannon was glad that he was getting through to Jeff. "Come on, try to think positive. You've been through a lot and I don't blame you for feeling depressed, but talk to someone about it instead of beating yourself up with it. Things aren't really that bad once you talk about it."

Jeff realized that he did feel better after confiding his fears to his best friend. "Thanks Shanny, for putting things in perspective for me."

"No problem, that's what friends are for." He suddenly let out a huge yawn and rubbed his eyes. "Why don't we both take a nap? I'm all tuckered out!"

"You must have been very busy last night," Jeff gave him a wan smile.

Shannon grinned wickedly at him, "You can say that again! Carlito is a beast in bed! He kept me up all night!"

Jeff couldn't help letting out a small giggle. "You're a horn dog! I bet you enjoyed every minute of it!"

Shannon nodded emphatically. "You bet! Guess what? He told me he wants to see me again! We have a date tonight! Want to come along? I'm sure he won't mind."

Jeff shook his head, "I don't want to spoil your little party. I'll just stay in and sketch or something."

"You need to get out, Jeff. Don't let what people say and think put you down. Go out and have fun! There are plenty of decent guys around. I tell you what. I'll ask Carlito to bring his cute friends along and we can have a group outing instead. He told me that Morrison wants to get to know you better but he's keeping his distance because of Randy. Come on, say you'll come. It would be fun!"

"I really don't feel comfortable with anyone right now. I don't know what the others think of me after last night. And Randy may think the worse of me if he sees me going out with another guy."

Eyes twinkling mischievously, Shannon said, "Serves him right for not having faith in you! Come to think of it, I think it's a great idea! We can gauge if he is genuinely serious about you. If he gets jealous, then we know he has feelings for you. But if he turns a blind eye, then, you might as well forget him. No point mooning over him if he isn't interested.

Jeff looked undecided and Shannon pressed on. "Come on, Matt and I will be leaving tomorrow. Just spend the night with us."

That did it. Jeff sighed and nodded reluctantly. "Okay, but it's just an outing. Don't try to fix me up with anyone. You promise?"

Shannon grinned and unbeknownst to Jeff, whilst keeping his fingers crossed at his back, he swore, "Scout's honor!"

………………

Later that evening ……….

The group met at the hotel lobby. The plan was dinner, bowling and then drinks at a bar and then to bed. Matt and Shannon were leaving at ten in the morning. Jeff would move in to stay with Chris that night.

Jeff tried to be inconspicuous by hanging at the back. Carlito had brought John and Morrison along with him and Matt and Chris joined them as well. John could tell how awkward Jeff felt and made his way to his side.

"Hey, glad to see you can join us," he greeted him with a warm friendly smile. Jeff glanced at him shyly, returning his smile.

On a spur of the moment, John reached out impulsively and put his arm around Jeff's waist. "Come on, we don't want to get left behind" and guided him forward to the front.

He realized that Morrison was gawking at them and took pleasure in seeing the envious look on his face. He smirked and then noticed that both Matt and Chris were watching him closely as well. The smirk disappeared as nervousness took over. He felt uncomfortable under their eyes. They were watching his every move. John felt empathy towards Jeff. He couldn't understand why Randy chose to distance himself from him right now. In spite of what they heard from Scott, John highly doubted the truth of his words. He had never seen the enigma mingling freely with anyone. He believed Scott was out to cause trouble and he wanted to lend Jeff his support. Mustering up his courage, he ignored the attention he was getting and leaning towards Jeff, spoke quietly into his ear, "Please don't feel awkward. You have nothing to fear. You are among friends," he reassured him.

He stopped when Jeff turned to give him a grateful smile. He could feel him relaxing under his arm.

"Don't worry. No one here is judging you. If anyone has a problem with you, let me deal with him!"

The genuine smile that lit up Jeff's face encouraged him to grow bolder. He drew him closer and said, "Will you do me a favor?" and when Jeff gave him a quizzical look, he said, "If anyone asks if we're together, tell them yes because I feel so fine right now with you on my arm!" and winked at him. His dimples deepened as he grinned broadly at him.

Jeff couldn't help liking him. He found himself feeling more at ease. It was time he started mingling with his co-workers. "Thanks for making me more comfortable. I really appreciate it, John."

John's face lit up with pleasure. Finally, he had broken down his barriers!

"No need to thank me. We're drawing attention if you haven't noticed. We make a handsome couple, if I may say so myself!" making Jeff blush to his roots. He was feeling damn proud of himself. Randy was a fool to believe Scott's words. John saw it as an opportunity to step in and be a friend to the quiet, soft-spoken enigma. If Randy didn't see fit to stand by him, he decided he would take his place. He wasn't going to let anyone intimidate Jeff!

As they were heading towards the exit, Randy stepped out from the lift and his eyes narrowed at the sight of John's arm around Jeff's waist. In a few quick strides, he covered the distance and from behind, pulled Jeff from John's grasp by his arm.

"Let go of him right now!" Randy hissed as he drew Jeff possessively to his side. The company halted at the commotion.

John put up his hands to placate him and said, "Woah there! Take it easy, Randy. I'm not doing anything!"

"It sure as hell didn't look like you weren't doing anything! You had your hands on him!" Randy rasped out angrily. He felt a hand clasped his shoulder. He whipped around to face Matt.

"I thought I told you not to come near Jeff until you're sure about this relationship," Matt said quietly.

Randy turned to Jeff. "I've been so stupid! I should have known better than to doubt you, Jeff. Please forgive me?"

Jeff was overwhelmed and was about to tell him all was forgiven when Shannon drew him back and put himself between them. He glared up at the ex-Evolution member who stood half a foot taller than him.

"Just like that, you get to choose if you want him back? That's it? I don't think so!"

Randy's mouth twitched, and so did some others. It was quite an amusing sight to see the puny North Carolinian standing up to one of the most intimidating figure in the WWE. Carlito looked on proud. His fiery lover had a fighting spirit that would put most to shame.

Jeff tried to get Shannon's attention by tugging on his friend's arm but he brushed him away. He continued his tirade. "You may be one of the biggest superstars in this company but it doesn't give you the right to treat people poorly! So, now you decide that you want him back! Do you really expect him to come running to you?"

Shannon let out a low laugh, "Not so easy, buster!" and put his hands on his hips. He was pleased with the results but he had no intention of letting Randy get away so easily. His only concern was that Jeff would intervene and spoil his fun.

John couldn't control his amusement and finally, snickers escaped him. Carlito turned to glare at him. John put his hands up in apology and turned away but the quaking of his shoulders gave him away. Chris and Morrison were on the verge of spluttering with laughter. As for Matt, well … he was glad that Randy finally came through. He never doubted him but he wasn't going to tell him that.

"Look, I'm really sorry. Tell me what I can do to make it up to you, Jeff. I'll do anything! Just give me another chance," Randy pleaded with him.

Shannon was about to list out the things he would have to do to earn Jeff's forgiveness when Adam pushed his way through. "Come on, Randy. Stop playing games with these people. They're smarter than they look. You can't fool them."

Randy stared aghast at him. And then, it dawned on him what Adam was trying to do. "I know what you're trying to do, but it's not …" but Adam cut him off in mid speech and spoke on his behalf, "Look, everyone makes mistakes. Randy here knows he has wronged Jeff. Give him a chance because I've worked with him and I can vouch for him. He's a good man."

Randy looked at him stupefied. It was only when Matt spoke that he realized Adam's real intention.

"Come on, Jeff, you don't need this. Lets get out of here!" and urged his reluctant brother along. The others followed quickly and as soon as they were out of sight, Randy turned his anger on Adam. "Damn you for your interference! Look what you did!"

Adam shrugged carelessly and said, "I warned you before. I want Jeff and I'm not going to let you take him from me!" and sauntered away.

Randy raked his fingers through his hair in exasperation. Adam had Matt doubting him now. What was he going to do?

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