Sting surged into the Tennessee hospital later that night, apprehension coiled deep in his gut like a snake. It grew tighter and tighter, as though it was going to strike out at any moment.
He had driven ten hours to get there. Though Hulk had told him that the accident hadn't been too serious, Sting refused to believe it until he saw with his own two eyes that Dixie was all right.
As he made his way down the main corridor of the hospital he spotted Davy up ahead. The little boy was at a snack machine, feeding quarters into it.
Davy pushed a button and pulled out a bag of chips. He started to make his way back into his mother's hospital room when he noticed Sting approach.
A large smile came to the boy's face and he quickly rushed over to his icon.
"Sting!" he greeted the man warmly, "What are you doing here? Did you hear about Mom's accident?"
"Hey, buddy." Sting ruffled his hair good-naturedly, "Yeah, I came as soon as I heard. How's she doing?"
"The doctor said she was gonna be okay." Davy informed him as he ripped open the bag, "She just has a bump on her head. They're gonna let her out of the hospital tonight."
Sting felt the coil release and tension begin to drain from his body. Thank God she was going to be all right.
"Davy?"
At the sound of the boy's name the pair turned to see Serge walking towards them. He looked back and forth between the two, his face unreadable.
"Why don't you go on ahead." Serge told his son, "I want to talk to Sting for a minute."
"Okay," Davy grinned up at his father before turning back to Sting, "See you later, Sting."
"Yeah see you, buddy." Sting waved and watched as the boy took off down the hall before disappearing into a nearby room.
He turned back to face Serge and the two men shook hands.
"You didn't have to come all this way." Serge told him as he released his hold, "Somebody would have called you, eventually, and let you know that Dixie was all right."
"Hulk did tell me she was okay." Sting admitted, "But I needed to come see it for myself."
"Thanks, Sting," Serge murmured, his voice cool, "But it really wasn't necessary for you to come all this way. She's quite all right and in good hands with the doctor."
"And her family," he added pointedly before grinning, "Besides don't you have Bobby Roode to deal with right now?'
Sting gave him a grin of his own, but the expression held no warmth. Tension tinted his voice as he murmured, "Some things are more important.
"But don't worry," he finished quietly, "I haven't forgotten about Roode."
"Well Dixie is resting right now," Serge informed him, "But I'll be happy to tell her that you stopped by."
Sting didn't buy that for a second but he conceded. Though he wanted to see her he took mild comfort in the knowledge that she really was all right.
"All right, Serge." Sting gave him a nod, "I'll see you later."
He noticed the other man frown at that but he let it go. He turned and began to make his way out of the hospital.
As he stepped back outside and began to walk towards the parking lot he noticed a figure sitting on a stone bench under a willow tree. They let out a sniffle and Sting found himself drawling to a stop as he realized it was Tamara.
He watched her lean back against the tree and wipe her eyes, sniffling again. It was obvious that she had been crying.
Sympathy welled up inside him and Sting wandered over to her.
"Hey, kid." he greeted her gently as he approached, "How are you doing?"
Tamara's head shot up, the teenager surprised to see him. She quickly looked away and wiped at her eyes, demanding, "What are you doing here?"
Sting flopped onto the bench beside her, "I heard about your mom and I wanted to see if she was all right."
"Jeez, are you going for Employee of the Year or what?" Tamara scoffed but still didn't meet his gaze.
"Yeah." Sting grinned at her, bumping her arm lightly, "How'd you guess?"
Tamara finally looked over at him and he could still see the tear tracks on her cheeks. At that moment she didn't look like an unruly teenager. Just a scared little girl in need of comfort.
He felt a wave of fatherly concern come over him and he reached out, wiping away her tears. That only seemed to get her going again and Tamara leaned her head on his shoulder, the girl beginning to cry again.
Sting slipped an arm around her shoulders and held her while she cried.
"Hey," he said gently, "Why the tears? Huh? Your dad said Dixie was going to be just fine."
Tamara pulled back and sniffled, wiping her eyes as she nodded, "She is."
"Then why the tears?" Sting asked her with a smile.
Tamara pulled back and looked up at the night sky. Her eyes were thoughtful and sad.
"She wouldn't have had her accident if she wasn't rushing home to spend time with me and Davy." she admitted softly, "This is all my fault. If I hadn't given my mom such a hard time she would have never thought she had to hurry home."
She sighed, "I always give my mom a hard time. About everything. I don't know why I do it, I just do. Sometimes it's like I can't help it."
She shook her head, grunting, "But she just bothers me some times! It's like she can't see that I'm my own person. She always wants me to do things her way and sometimes I just don't want to do it."
Sting looked down at her and smiled, understanding. He'd had to deal with his own sons' teenage angst and was dreading it coming with his daughter.
"Your mom knows you love her." he told her, "And, yeah, you're not always going to see eye-to-eye. That's natural between a parent and child-"
"Teenager." he quickly corrected himself, grinning slightly before going on, "Parents want the best for their kids. And sometimes they're going to butt heads because the chil-teenager thinks they know what's best for themselves. They end up doing their own thing.
"That's just how kids learn to find their own way." Sting bumped her arm again, "Just remember if you think your mom is giving you a hard time, it's because she cares about you. And only wants the best for you."
Tamara let his words sink in, milling them over. She eventually turned to him and smiled for the first time, "Thanks for being here, Sting."
"No problem." Sting shrugged at her, "And, hey, there's gonna be a time when I'm gonna need to come to you to give me advice about my daughter."
He pretended to cringe, "She's gonna be a teenager soon, herself."
Tamara gigged at him and joked, "Ooh, scary."
"I know." Sting shivered before giving her a grin.
Tamara leaned back and nodded, "Okay, here are a few things."
Sting leaned forward, "I'm all ears. Lay it on me."
Tamara laughed, "Okay, number one. Do not embarrass her in front of her friends. They'll love it because they'll think you're cute and they'll all have crushes on you-"
"You think I'm cute?" Sting teased, pointing to himself, "Moi?"
Tamara stuck her tongue out at him, "I didn't say me. I said her friends."
"Okay." Sting nodded, but couldn't stop grinning.
"Anyway, they'll love it," Tamara continued, "But she'll hate it. Believe me. So don't embarrass her. In fact, just pretend like you don't even know her."
"Pretend like I don't even know her." Sting repeated, "Got it. What else?"
"Okay, well she's going to go through some things," Tamara went on, "Fights with friends, breaking up with boyfriends-"
She saw Sting flinch at the word 'boyfriend' and she couldn't help but smile, "And it's nothing, really. Little stuff. But to her it'll be the worst thing in the world to happen. We teenagers always think whatever is happening right now is the worst or best thing that we'll ever have to go through. Ever.
"So just, ya know, don't make light of it. At least not too much." Tamara told him, "Cause it's going to be important to her."
Sting milled that over, thoughtful, "Good advice."
Tamara shrugged, "What can I say? I'm very wise."
"That you are." Sting agreed and the pair shared a smile.
Tamara grew serious. She glanced down at her hands and bit her lip, contemplating something.
She finally turned back to him and said, almost hesitantly, "Thanks for talking to me."
"Well thank you for the advice." Sting patted her shoulder and rose to his feet, "And don't worry, okay? You're mom is gonna be just fine."
"Did you get to see her?" Tamara asked him.
Sting frowned, shaking his head, "She's resting. But your dad is going to tell her I stopped by."
"Oh. Well you can see her at the party."
"I'm not sure she'll be up for a party after her accident."
Tamara gave him a look, "She's been planning this thing for, like, a month. Believe me, my mom would be there even if she was in traction."
Sting laughed at that. He had to admit she did have a point.
"Okay." he promised her, "I'll see you, and her, there."
.
.
.
.
.
The week flew by and soon it was the evening of the party. The Florida country club, which had been commissioned to hold the event, was beautifully decorated with flowers and lights. All of TNA Enterprises were there and, surprisingly enough, the wrestlers were on their best behavior.
Dixie shook hands with a few of the TNA execs before turning and making her way through the room. As she walked she began to frown, spotting Eric Bischoff and Ric Flair standing a few feet away. The pair were most likely taking full advantage of the open bar.
The moment Dixie had seen Eric she had wanted to kick the former employee out but, unfortunately, he had come as Ric's guest so that meant he could stay.
Her frown turned into a slight scowl as she spied Madison sashay around the room, flirting with various men.
A waiter walked by with a tray of champagne glasses. Dixie took one and stepped into the middle of the room.
"Excuse me." she called out over the din, "Excuse me, may I have your attention."
The room began to quiet down as the partygoers turned their attention to their boss.
Dixie raised her glass and smiled out over the gathering, "I want to raise my glass in a toast. Here is to TNA.
"When I took control of this company nine years ago I was met with a lot of opposition. There were many people who told me that a woman had no business running a wrestling organization. They asked, 'do you even know the difference between a headlock and wristlock?'"
That was met with laughter from the room.
"But they were wrong," Dixie grinned and winked, adding, "It's a Calf Kick and a Dragon Whip that I get mixed up."
The room filled with laughter and a few chuckles once more.
"They said it wouldn't be an easy road. And they were right." Dixie grew serious, "This road has had a lot of speed bumps along the way. A lot of twists and turns.
"But, if anything, those speed bumps and twists and turns have made me stronger. Because of them I've learned to grow. And I've learned what was needed to help make this company grow. And each year TNA gets better and we raise the bar just a little bit higher."
"TNA!" the room chorused, "TNA! TNA!"
"Here is to the amazing and talented men and women who make up the Impact roster." Dixie went on, her words heartfelt, "A few years ago I asked you to give me your full support and you did. You stood by me and supported me even when times looked their darkest."
She noticed Eric Bischoff and Ric Flair standing a few feet away, chuckling. But she paid them no mind. Their time was done, or soon would be. There was nothing to fear from them anymore.
"And to you men and women I can only say this," she went on, raising her glass to the wrestlers, "I find myself learning something new from you each and every day. You have shown me what true courage, true strength, really is. You have helped me to become a fighter."
She found James Storm in the crowd and her smile grew, "And, finally, to our new World Champion, James Storm. Who is the epitome of what a champion should be. And who's new video has gone on to be number one on CMT as of today."
James began to grin and he raised his bottle of beer as the room chorused, "To Storm!"
The party went back into full swing and Dixie began to make her way through the crowd. She came up on her husband, who was talking with a few others from TNA's music department.
"Hi," she slipped her hand onto his shoulder and greeted him with a smile.
Serge glanced over his shoulder at her and nodded, "Hey, Dix."
He turned his attention back to the group and continued with his story, "So then I said to Marty. . ."
Dixie removed her hand and casually walked away, acting as though his brush off hadn't been a brush off and that it hadn't hurt.
But it had.
She ended up wandering out onto the wraparound porch. As she stepped over to the railing she placed her hands onto the rail and looked out over the beautiful scenery.
The night was clear and adorned with about a million stars. She couldn't remember seeing anything so serene. A few feet away stood a beautiful lake. She could see the lights from the club reflecting off of it, shimmering as the water gently lapped.
Dixie watched as two swans suddenly went sailing through the water. And though the stunning sight should have brought a smile to her lips it didn't. She glanced down at the railing and sighed. Even at a party surrounded by countless friends, and even her family, she couldn't have felt more alone.
"Is this a private party or can anyone join?"
At the familiar voice Dixie quickly looked up and turned around. Instantly a big smile brightened her features as a wave of joy came over her. She watched on, thrilled, as Sting made his way across the porch and over to her.
She couldn't believe how happy she was to see him. If felt like years, instead of just a few weeks, had passed since they had said goodbye at the Impact Zone.
She also couldn't help the unknown feeling that came over her as she took in the sight of Sting in his dark suit and ever present shades. She had to admit, he did look very handsome.
Sting made his way across the porch, his eyes never leaving her. He couldn't get over how pretty she looked in her gold dress. Actually beautiful was a more accurate term.
He blinked behind his shades, astounded by the realization that he was attracted to her. Very attracted, if he was going to be honest with himself.
So what? he thought to himself, So you're attracted to her. You always thought she was pretty, that's nothing new. And there's nothing wrong with being attracted to a beautiful woman. It doesn't mean anything.
As he drew closer he was able to spot the bump on her forehead peaking out from under her bangs.
Dixie met him halfway, offering him a big hug. Sting wrapped his arms around her and the pair held each other for a long while, just enjoying being together again.
"I am so happy to see you." Dixie murmured in his ear, causing Sting to grin.
He would have liked to hold her for a little while longer but he reluctantly pulled back, grinning down at her.
"It's good to see you, too, Dixie." he glanced up at the bump and asked, "How are you feeling?"
"I'm okay." she assured him, "Luckily it wasn't too serious."
Sting offered her his arm. Dixie took it and the pair made their way back over to the railing. When they reached it they leaned against the banister and turned to one another.
"So how did it happen?" Sting asked, nodding towards the bruise.
Dixie's hand absently went to the bump and she laughed with embarrassment.
"It's my own fault." she explained, "I was driving too fast and my car skid on a wet patch. I lost control and ended up in ditch, bumping my head on the steering wheel."
She slapped his arm playfully and grinned, "Good thing I'm so hardheaded, huh?"
Sting smiled, but inward he felt so grateful that she was all right.
They lapsed into silence, just glancing at one another. They both realized that after so much time apart they didn't quite know what to say to each other.
"Sting-" Dixie began.
"Dixie-" Sting started to say.
Suddenly they began to grin. Then their grinning turned to laughter over the awkward scene.
"Go ahead." Sting motioned for her to continue.
Dixie grew serious, taking his hand. Sting glanced down at their joined hands and he gave hers a squeeze. He had to admit that he liked the feeling of her hand in his.
"I owe you an apology." Dixie said, causing Sting to quickly glance up at her, "I'm really sorry about how our last phone conversation went. I know you were only trying to look out for my best interests.
"Like always." she added with a soft smile.
"No. I'm the one who should be apologizing." Sting shook his head, "I should have taken your feelings into account. I know why you felt like you had to go. You had to show everyone that you weren't going to buckle under pressure."
"Yes, but you were only trying to protect me." Dixie sighed, instantly feeling guilty, "Something you've had to do too much of, I know."
She glanced away, her eyes falling to the water. She watched on as one of the swans, the bigger one, began to nuzzle the other.
Sting gently swung their joined hands, causing her to turn her attention back to him. He was smiling down at her good-naturedly.
"Hey," he reminded her, "That's not a one way street, Dixie. Or are you forgetting that you were the one who protected me from Roode at Victory Road?"
He glanced towards the open doorway of the country club, his mood immediately darkening.
"Is Roode here tonight?" he demanded and Dixie could feel his hand tensing.
"No," she assured him, "Bobby wouldn't dare show his face here tonight."
"Good." Sting murmured, offering a slight smirk, "I'd hate to have to kick the crap out of him and ruin your party."
Dixie leaned in and confided with a wicked smile, "It would be worth it to see him get his butt kicked."
They shared a laugh at that. Their smiles began to fade, though, as they discovered that they were still holding hands. Sting lightly ran his thumb of the top of her hand, enjoying the softness of her skin.
Dixie blinked, feeling an unexpected spark at the touch. She slowly pulled her hand from his grasp, clasping it in her own. Nervousness began to well up inside her and it took her a few moments before she felt comfortable looking up at him.
"I'm sorry I didn't call you and apologize sooner." she stated, trying to get back to their conversation.
She couldn't keep the hurt out of her voice as she added, "I wish you would have called me-"
"I did call you." Sting cut her off, confused.
Dixie arched an eyebrow, "You did? When?"
"I called you the night you premiered Storm's video and Roode attacked Serge." Sting clarified.
Dixie was stunned, "I had no idea."
Sting gave her a look, "Serge didn't tell you?"
"No." Dixie shook her head.
Her eyes narrowed in thought. Why didn't Serge tell her Sting had called her? She couldn't understand why.
"Of course what with everything that went on that night it must have slipped his mind." she replied slowly, trying to make sense of it.
"Yeah." Sting murmured, "Sure it did."
Something clicked in his mind and he questioned, "So did Serge tell you I came to see you at the hospital?"
Warring emotions came over Dixie at that announcement. On one hand she was touched that Sting had come all that way to see her. On the other she was angry that her husband hadn't bothered to tell her that, either.
"No." she muttered, her irritation coming through, "No, he didn't tell me that, either."
Sting snickered but the sound held no warmth. He turned to glare out over the lake and shook his head. That Serge was quite a guy.
He paused when he felt Dixie once again take his hand. At the touch he turned back to see her smiling up at him warmly.
"I wish I would have known." she replied softly, "Thank you for caring. You really are a good friend."
Some unknown something began to churn in Sting's gut at the sound of her calling him a friend. He was confused by it. He was her friend. In fact, he considered her to be a very good friend.
So why did hearing her call him a friend make him want to hit something? Where was Roode when he needed him?
He pushed the feeling away and gave her what he hoped was a friendly smile, "You're been a good friend to me, too, Dixie. I was just returning the favor."
Dixie released his hand and the pair looked out over the club. She felt a chill come over her and she crossed her arms, shivering a little. Sting noticed and instantly unbuttoned his suit jacket. He came up behind her and slipped it onto her shoulders, rubbing his hands over her arms to warm her up.
His hands lingered on her shoulders for a few moments before he grudgingly removed them and returned to her side at the railing.
"Thanks," she joked, patting his arm, "It's good to see that chivalry isn't completely dead."
There was a moment between them, a long look. That strange, unknown something passed between them again. Dixie found she had to look away and she once again cast her eyes to the lake.
Her smile faded as she noticed Tamara and Garett walking along the lake.
Sting noticed her sudden frown and he followed her gaze.
"I wouldn't worry." he reassured her, "Garett is nothing like his dad. He's a good kid."
He looked at her pointedly, adding for emphasis, "A good kid with a beautiful wife who he's crazy about."
Dixie let out a sigh of relief, happy to hear that.
She turned away, leaning back against the railing and crossing her arms, "I worry about Tamara sometimes. She is just so stubborn."
She gave him a look and a smirk, "You don't need to say it, I know where she gets it from."
Sting grinned at that and held up his hands, "Hey, I wasn't even thinking it."
"I bet." Dixie laughed softly before growing serious, "With Davy it's still so easy. He's still my baby."
She glanced up at him, adding, "Just don't let him hear me say that."
They looked into the country club and noticed that 'her baby' currently had Alex Shelly in a headlock. Dixie cringed before she and Sting began to laugh.
She sought her daughter out once more and sighed, "But Tamara. . ."
She shrugged," Maybe she's too much like me. Or Serge. She's Daddy's Little Girl."
Dixie grew thoughtful and even a little bit sad, "I envy their relationship. He can get through to her when I can't. They have an understanding, a bond, that I can't even begin to grasp."
"Your daughter loves you." Sting told her, placing a hand on her shoulder, "But it's natural for you to butt heads right now."
He took hold of her shoulders and turned her around to face him, "And it's just a phase and it will pass."
Dixie looked up at him, hopeful, "Are you sure?"
Sting thought it over for a second and shrugged, "Maybe."
He gave her teasing grin then and Dixie pulled away, laughing.
"That's better." Sting replied, serious.
Dixie sighed, thinking how much she missed having him around.
She shook her head, smiling guiltily, "Here we are going on about me. How are you?"
"I'm doing good. The doctors say I'll be cleared to wrestle in a few more weeks. And I've been training hard."
"And what about your stunt at Lockdown?" Dixie gave him a knowing look, "Did they clear you to do that?"
Sting grinned, completely unashamed, "Liked that, didja?"
Dixie chuckled, "More than Bobby, that's for sure."
Sting grew slightly serious, "I'm just getting warmed up."
Dixie wondered what he had up his sleeve but she didn't press. She knew he wouldn't tell her anyway.
"There you are."
The pair turned to see Serge approaching at that moment. Though he was smiling, it seemed a little forced. At the sight of him Dixie felt annoyance well up inside her.
The moment he reached them she demanded, "Why didn't you tell me Sting had called the night you were attacked? Or that he came to see me in the hospital."
Serge glanced briefly at Sting before turning back to his wife and saying nonchalantly, "It must have slipped my mind. I was so worried about you that everything else didn't matter."
Sting smirked at that little jab but kept silent.
"I want to make it up to you." Serge stated as he took Dixie's hand, "How about a dance?"
Dixie had to think about that for a minute. The truth was she really needed to talk to him. And this might have been the only way she could get his attention long enough to do it.
She finally turned back to Sting and questioned, "Are you going to stick around for awhile?"
Sting leaned in and replied mysteriously, "Maybe. You never know when I'll pop up."
Dixie smiled at that and reluctantly allowed Serge to start to take her away. Serge stopped, though. He removed Sting's jacket from Dixie's shoulders and handed it back to the other man with a tight smile. He then took Dixie's arm and led her back into the club.
Sting made his way to the doorway and leaned against it, his hands going to his pockets. He watched with a frown as Serge took Dixie into the center of the room and pulled her close for a dance. He couldn't shake the aggravation he was feeling at the sight of them together.
It must have stemmed from the fact that he didn't like Serge. Yeah, that had to be it.
And yet that didn't explain the almost. . .burning he felt in his gut at the sight of them together.
Dixie danced with Serge, but she definitely wasn't happy with him.
"Why didn't you tell me Sting had called or visited." she asked her husband again.
Serge smiled wily, "I told you, Dix, I must have forgotten."
"You didn't forget to tell me when Christy stopped by the hospital to visit." Dixie reminded him.
Serge's smile faded and he began to almost sneer at her as he ground out, "I don't like the way that guy is always hanging all over you, okay. So, yeah, I purposely forgot to mention that he called and came by."
Dixie's eyes widened, "Serge, Sting has never 'hanged all over me'."
"He's always around." Serge countered.
"We work together." Dixie argued, "And he is my friend."
She looked over her shoulder, her gaze falling on Madison who was standing off to the side and laughing with Gunner and Gail Kim.
"If you want to talk about hanging around," she muttered, "What about Madison Rayne?"
Serge followed her look. By that time Madison had stopped talking to the wrestlers and was now watching them with a frown.
Dixie turned back to her husband, a silent question between them. Serge scoffed and pulled away, raking a hand through his hair.
"There is nothing going on between me and Madison." he mumble, defensive, "We're just working together on her new theme music."
"Well then what about the video-" Dixie started to mention but Serge cut her off.
"Not this again!" he snapped, "Look, I only asked her because I thought it would be great publicity. You know, get the Knockouts' name out there. I'm getting really sick and tired of your accusations."
Dixie didn't buy what he was saying but she felt it wise to pick and choose her battles. Besides this was definitely not the place to get into that particular argument.
Serge once more took her into his arms and they continued to dance. But neither could look at the other and there was an obvious tension between them.
The song eventually ended and Serge released her as though he couldn't stand to touch her anymore. Dixie frowned, crossing her arms.
"I really think we need to talk about what's going on between us." she softly told her husband, "Maybe sometime tomorrow I can set up an appointment with a marriage councilor-"
"Not this again." Serge groaned, "This is a party, Dixie. I don't want to deal with this right now."
And with that he stalked off the dance floor. As he stormed off he passed Davy, who watched after his dad with a frown. He looked over at his mom, unsure of what to do.
Dixie turned to leave the dance floor when she paused, surprised. Sting was there before her, smiling kindly.
He had seen what had happened and had instantly wanted to go to her side.
He raised his arms and began to grin, "Care to dance with your former GM?"
"Yeah." Dixie offered a grateful smile and went into his arms.
Sting pulled her close and the pair began to dance as Matt Nathanson and Sugarland began to sing Run.
Dot and Christy, who were off to the side and had seen the whole exchange, looking at one another. Dot gave the other woman a knowing smile.
"Are you all right?" Sting asked Dixie gently.
She looked over his shoulder and shrugged, trying to play it off, "I'm fine. We just had a disagreement. It's no big deal."
She dared a look at him. Because of his shades she couldn't read his eyes but she noticed the slight frown on his lips and knew that he didn't buy it.
She cast her eyes to his chest and sighed, "I don't understand what's happened to us. He's become so distant, so angry, over the last few months. We fight over the stupidest little things. I don't know what do anymore."
"Have you thought about sitting down and talking to someone?" Sting asked her, "You know, couples counseling?"
Dixie nodded, "I've suggested it countless times. And again just now. But every time I bright it up Serge refuses to go. it's like he's already given up on our marriage."
She paused but it was clear that she wanted to say more. Sting remained silent, giving her the opening she needed to continue.
She reluctantly admitted, "Sometimes. . .sometimes I feel like it would be best if we did separate." she quickly looked up at him, "This isn't good for the children. They know how unhappy we are. They feel it, too. They have to."
Dixie bit her lip, hesitant. She didn't know why, but for some reason it felt easier for her to talk to him about what was going on. Maybe she knew it was because she could say anything to him and he wouldn't judge her.
"I haven't been happy for a long time." she confessed sadly, "I thought I could work through our issues but now. . .there are times now when I don't even know if I want to. Sometimes I feel like I'm fighting for something that I'm not entirely sure I want to save."
She bowed her head to his shoulder and whispered, "I'm a terrible person."
Sting took hold of her chin and made her meet his gaze. He shook his head and replied adamantly, "No you're not. You've tried everything you can think of. Maybe you don't have any other recourse.
"Besides, like you said, you need to think about the kids." he went on, and she knew he was talking from his own past experiences, "They know something's up and it's not good for them to be put in the middle of it."
"How did you deal with it?" Dixie hedged, clarifying uncomfortably, "Your divorce, I mean."
"It was hard." Sting told her, "But Sue and I realized that it was better to be apart and happy than together and miserable."
"How are you two now?" Dixie questioned and she felt better when Sting began to smile.
"We're doing okay." he replied with a nod, "We're both happier and the kids are happier. Which is the important thing."
He quickly added, "But my situation was different. Everyone's is. You have to do what's best for you and your kids."
"Yeah I run, run, run, run right into you.." the singer sang out.
They continued to dance and Dixie found herself slowly beginning to smile.
Sting began to grin, "What?"
Dixie shook her head, "Nothing. It's just that. . ."
She regarded him with sincerity, "I really missed you."
Sting smiled at that, "I missed you, too, Dixie."
He cleared his throat, quickly adding, "I've missed everyone. The wrestlers, the fans. Everyone."
For some reason Dixie felt a little let down by that. But she couldn't understand why.
"What a nice little party!" a voice called out over the music and partygoers, "Guess my invitation got lost in the mail!"
The music died down and the groups stopped talking as all eyes went to the front of the room. There stood Bobby Roode, dressed in an impeccable suit and with a cocky grin on his lips.
Sting pulled away from Dixie and came to stand before her. He regarded the other man darkly, his body going rigid with tension.
"You're not welcome here!" AJ Styles called out to the former champion.
Bobby continued to grin, "Why not? I am the face of the company, after all. It's only right I be at the company party."
"Used to be the face of the company." someone else spoke up.
Bobby sneered for a second but the expression was fleeting and his cocky smile slowly returned. He noticed Dixie and Sting in the middle of the room and his grin grew as he started to make his way over to them.
Dixie glanced over at Sting, worry welling up inside her over the fear of what he might do to the younger man. She put a hand on his arm in silent warning.
Sting glanced down at it for a second before fixing all of his attention on Bobby. He didn't make a move towards the other man but he looked ready to should the need arise.
Bobby looked back and forth between Sting and Dixie, his grin growing.
"Well look here," he smirked at the pair, "Did I interrupt the little princess dancing with her knight in shining armor? Sorry about that, Dix."
Sting's jaw tightened and he moved until he was standing directly between Dixie and Roode.
"Aww, isn't this sweet! Big bad protector to the rescue again." Bobby laughed, "But you didn't do much protecting at Victory Road, didja, Stinger? You didn't do much protecting when I had you taped to the ring post."
He turned his attention onto Dixie and added, "Where was your big, bad protector then, huh, Dixie? Where was he when I was dragging you around the ring by your hair?"
Suddenly Davy was by Sting's side. He looked up at Roode angrily and yelled, "Leave my mom alone!"
Dixie instantly grabbed Davy, pulling him close to her side. She put a protective arm around her son and glared up at Bobby Roode.
"You need to leave." she told him, her voice shaking with fear and anger, "Now. You're not welcome here."
"No way, Dix." Bobby chuckled darkly, "This is a party to celebrate Impact, right? And whether you like it or not, I'm a part of Impact. So I think I'm going to stick around for a while."
"Why don't you just get out of here?" Davy ordered, "Nobody wants you around, you loser!"
Bobby leaned in close and smirked, "I'm a loser? Kid, the only loser around here is your MILF of a mother-"
Whatever else he was going to say was silenced as Sting suddenly punched him, knocking in to the ground. He stared down at Bobby, breathing hard, ready to fight.
"Yeah!" Davy cheered and started to go to Sting's side. Dixie grabbed him once more and pulled him back to her.
Sting glared down at Roode and muttered darkly, "Nobody wants you here, Roode. Now do yourself a favorite, pick your glass jaw up from off the floor, and get out. Now."
Bobby rose to his feet. With murder in his eyes he started to go for Sting when suddenly RVD, Mr. Anderson and Jeff Hardy took hold of him and began to drag him out of the club.
"This isn't over, Sting!" Roode threatened as he was forced out.
Sting turned to Dixie and Davy, his hands going to both of their shoulders as he checked them out.
"Are you two all right?" he asked in concern.
"Man, that was awesome!" Davy breathed, excited, "The way you leveled Roode! Boom! And he goes down! Awesome!"
"Hush." Dixie told her son before assuring Sting, "We're fine. Thank you."
Serge came to their sides at that moment, concerned.
"Are you okay?" he asked, "What happened?"
Sting looked over his shoulder and noticed Madison slip back into the room. She was straightening her hair and checking her makeup. The action only seemed to fuel his anger and he glared at Serge from behind his shades.
"You missed it, Dad!" Davy was telling his father, "Bobby Roode came in and he started saying some mean things about Mom. And then Sting clocked him and knocked him out! Boom! Roode went down like a sack of potatoes! It was great!"
"Oh he did, huh?" Serge offered Sting a slight smile, "Good thing you were still here."
"Where have you been?" Dixie asked her husband.
"I just went to get some air." Serge told her.
He glanced over at Sting and extended his hand, adding almost grudgingly, "Thank you for helping my wife and son. I appreciate it."
Sting looked down at his hand for a moment. A million different moves and holds went through his head but he ruthlessly checked them and instead shook the other man's hand.
He pulled back and looked over at Dixie, "I should be going. Looks like the fun is over for tonight, anyway."
"Are you sure?" Dixie asked, still concerned.
"Yeah." Sting told her quietly, "I'll give you a call sometime this week. See ya, Davy. Serge."
And with that he turned and left the club.
.
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Tamara and Garett drew to a stop before the lake. She looked up at him and smiled shyly. She couldn't believe he was there with her. That they were standing there in the moonlight, in front of a beautiful lake. It was like every one of her fantasies come true.
"I'm really glad you beat your dad at Lockdown." she told him earnestly, "I have to admit, I was really scared for you for a while, though. The way those guys kept hitting and kicking you. I was so afraid they had really hurt you."
"Well it wasn't a cakewalk, that's for sure." Garett grinned and rubbed his ribs, "I think I'm still feeling Gunner's kicks."
"But you were so brave." Tamara replied, taking his hand in both of hers, "The way you fought through the pain and pinned your dad. It was amazing."
Garett looked down at their joined hands, a little embarrassed by both her touch and the way she looked up at him adoringly. The truth was he liked her. She was a good kid. But that was all. She was just a kid. More like a little sister than anything. He just needed to figure out a way to tell her that without hurting her feelings.
"Tamara," Garett smiled and gently removed his hand from hers, "That's really sweet of you."
Tamara slinked closer to him, grinning slyly, "I'm more than just sweet, Garett."
Garett backed away, raising a hand to stop her, "And I'm more than a little flattered. I'm also more than a little married."
Tamara drew to a stop, everything in her going still, "What?"
"I'm married, Tamara." Garett stated as gently as he could, "To a wonderful girl. She was actually my high school sweetheart."
"I. . ." Tamara paused, trying to find the right words, trying not to cry, "I. . ."
She began to laugh, though it broke slightly at the end, "Of course. A guy like you, well I guess I can understand why you'd be married."
Garett reached out and took her hand, giving it a brotherly pat, "You are a great girl. You're smart and sweet. And very pretty. And you are going to make some guy very lucky someday. I hope you know that."
It was Tamara's turn to pull her hand from his grasp. She clasped her hands to her stomach and turned around, blinking back her tears. She prayed he couldn't see them. That was all she needed.
"Yeah, sure." she nodded, wiping at her eyes quickly, "I understand."
Whatever else she was going to say died on her lips as they heard someone making their way up the walk and towards the parking lot. They turned in time to see Bobby Roode storming up the sidewalk, a sneer on his face. The moment he saw them he drew to a stop. Something dark flashed in his eyes and began to stalk over to them.
"Well if it isn't the little princess's little princess." Bobby chuckled menacingly as he approached, "And look, you even have your own big, bad protector. Guess the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree."
"Bobby, why don't you get out of here." Garett sighed, irritated by the older man's behavior.
"What are you talking about?" Tamara asked in confusion.
Bobby stepped up to her, grinning, "I'm talking about how you and your mom are just alike. She's hanging onto Sting's. . ."
He laughed, "Well, let's just say it's not his every word. And here you are, trying to come on to this waste of space. What is with you Carter women and talentless wrestlers, huh?"
Tamara blinked, stunned by his words.
"You don't know what you're talking about." Garett shook his head, "Tamara, don't listen to him."
"No." Tamara murmured, shaking her head, "My mom and Sting-"
"Wake up, cupcake." Bobby leaned in closer, his voice gaining volume, "I just saw your mommy and Stinger out on the dance floor. Now, what they were doing wasn't exactly dirty dancing but it came pretty damned close-"
"Okay that's enough." Garett put his hand on Bobby's chest and started to push him away.
Bobby slipped away and suddenly punched the younger man in the jaw. Garett hit the sidewalk with a grunt, blood beginning to trickle from his lip.
"You two aren't even worth my time." Bobby growled before storming off.
Sting came running up at that moment. He went to Tamara, putting a hand on her shoulder, "Hey, are you all right?"
Tamara yanked free from his grasp and spun around, shooting daggers at him.
"Why do you care?" she yelled, tears beginning to spring to her eyes, "Why are you even out here? Shouldn't you and my mom be out on the dance floor making out?"
"Making out?" Sting repeated, confused, "Tamara, what are you talking about?"
"Come off it!" Tamara yelled, "Bobby Roode just told me everything! He told me you two were out on the dance floor, practically mauling each other!"
"Are you kidding me?" Sting put his hands on his hips and shook his head, "Tamara, don't believe anything Bobby Roode has to say. Believe me, the guy is a cancer. The only thing he knows how to do is tell lies."
"That's what I told her." Garett grunted as he rose on unsteady legs.
"Tamara, there is nothing going on between me and your mom." Sting declared.
"But you want there to be." Tamara accused, tears trailing down her cheeks, "I know you do! I've seen the way you look at her!"
"I would never do that." Sting replied quietly, her words hitting him hard.
"Yes you would!" Tamara screamed, "You would just love it if my mom dumped my dad for you!
"But you can forget it." she snarled, "Because my mom loves my dad. And she would never leave him for a loser like you! She would never give you the time of day! Never!"
And with that she ran off.
Sting let out a sigh, running a hand through his hair. He turned his attention to Garett, clapping a hand on his shoulder as he checked him out.
"Are you all right?" he asked the younger man.
"Yeah, I'll be fine." Garett wiped the blood from his mouth, moving his jaw back and forth, "I better go find Tamar and calm her down."
He placed a reassuring hand on Sting's shoulder before taking off in the direction the teenager had just went.
The tension Sting felt began to bubble up deep inside his stomach. It was churning and burning, threatening to erupt at any moment. He began to pace back and forth, trying to calm his rage.
He was livid. Over Roode. Over Tamara. Over Serge.
But mainly over himself.
He had tried to tell himself that Dixie was only a friend. That there was nothing going on between them. But he knew he was wrong. He said Roode was a liar but really he was the one lying. Had been lying for a long time now.
Lying to Tamara and especially to himself.
He did have feelings for Dixie. Very strong feelings. And he had had them for a long time now.
He drew to a stop, angrily kicking at a nearby rock as he began to berate himself.
What are you doing? he screamed to himself, What are you thinking? She's your boss, man. And your friend. And she's married. Or did you forget that, Stinger?
"Stop it." he growled to himself as he removed his shades and rubbed his hand over his eyes.
He needed to stop thinking about her. He needed to stop feeling what he was feeling.
He had to keep his distance from her. He had to stay away from her until she at least got everything sorted out between herself and Serge.
Serge. . .
At the thought of the other man Sting's rage came rushing back full force.
Here he had a great wife, a great family, and he was throwing it all away. And for what? Madison Rayne?
He could just hear the woman's screeching voice in his head and he flinched.
That was it. He had to go. He had to get out of there before he lost it.
Sting slipped his shades back on and disappeared into the night.