Sheamus paced back and forth across the airport terminal. He looked up at the boarding sign for the seventh time. The flight from Denver was in.
He had been without Kimber since they had returned from Europe three days ago.
It had been the longest three days of his life.
He wanted her beside him. There. Now. He wanted to look into her beautiful face. Touch her soft body.
He had never considered himself to be sentimental. Certainly never reacted so strongly to a woman.
But it was all different when it came to her. She called forth something primal within him. He couldn't touch her enough. Couldn't get enough of her smell. Couldn't look his fill of her.
He had been able to make love to her once more, in Europe, before they had been forced to part. In hindsight it was probably a mistake because he craved her. He wanted her again. And soon.
"Excuse me, Sheamus?"
The Irishman turned around, spying a man and his son, about nine-years-old from what he could tell, standing there and looking up at him expectantly.
"I was wondering if you could sign an autograph for my son, Patrick. Please?" the father inquired, "He's a huge fan."
Sheamus offered the boy a warm smile and extended his hand, "Sure. Good to meet ya, Patrick."
"Good to meet you, too." the boy shook his hand, staring up at him in awe.
Kimber made her way through the tunnel, entering the terminal. Her eyes scanned the room, looking for her boyfriend.
Boyfriend. The word caused her to smile.
Lover. That word made her blush.
She closed her eyes briefly and sighed, remembering back on their two nights together. They had been amazing. Both romantic and passionate. He was such a considerate lover. She couldn't remember ever feeling so safe and secure before.
Her blush deepened. Or feeling such a high. The man was amazing. He made her feel things that she couldn't even put into words. He took her to heights she had never climbed before.
As she opened her eyes her smile grew. She had finally spotted him, talking and laughing with a father and son.
Warmth flowed through her as she took him in. He was so handsome. He was dressed in a black dress shirt, gray vest and dark denim. A gray soft cap sat atop his head.
She waited until the father and son moved on-she knew how important the fans were to him-and began to make her way over.
Sheamus gave the pair a wave goodbye before turning back to the gate. He suddenly paused as he spotted her, eyes raking over every inch of her body.
He took in the way her eyes lit up, the bounce that was in her step, and he couldn't help but feel proud. He had helped to do that.
He made his way over to her in a few quick strides, grabbing her and lifting her high into his arms. She laughed as she held him tightly to her, so happy to see him once more.
"Ah missed you." he rumbled before his lips captured hers in a thorough kiss.
Eventually they pulled back and he sat her down, keeping an arm around her shoulders.
"I have a surprise for you." she told him lovingly.
"Oh yeah?" he quirked an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips as he murmured in a low voice, "Is it you naked in me bed."
Kimber's eyes widened and she laughed, "Wow, are you ever eager."
"Ah'm horny." he told her, proudly shameless, "Think you can help me wit' that, lass?"
"Possibly." the reporter grinned, "But, no, that's not the surprise I was talking about."
She refused to say anymore and they made their way back to the hotel.
He allowed her to enter first and Kimber made her way over to the bed, propping her suitcase onto it. She opened it and started to remove her surprise when she felt him at her back, one arm sliding around her waist while his other hand cupped her breast. His lips found their way to her neck where he planted nibbling kisses.
Kimber's eyes slide closed and she tilted her head back, issuing a low moan, "What about your surprise?"
"It can wait." he muttered as he continued to trail kisses up and down her neck.
"Please, Sheamus?" she breathed, fighting to keep from losing control, "It's really important to me."
That was enough to get him to stop. He reluctantly pulled back and sat on the bed like a good boy, watching her expectantly.
She gave him a 'thank you' smile and returned to her case. She pulled out a large gift, wrapped in colorful Christmas wrapping paper.
"I never got to give you your gifts at Christmas." she explained as she handed it over to him.
"That's not true." he told her with a deep smile, "You gave me my gift in Ireland."
Kimber ducked her head and smiled, blushing. It was a gift for both of them.
"Charmer." she giggled, joining him on the bed.
He raised the present to his ear and shook it, grinning at her. She laughed and motioned for him to hurry up; the anticipation was killing her.
He sat it back on his lap and tore at the paper like he was five-years-old again. He balled it up and tossed it over his shoulder without a backwards glance as he opened the box.
Kimber reached behind him and collected the paper. She turned and tossed it into the nearby wastebasket. As she turned back she paused, taking in his reaction. He was gazing into the box with absolute awe, his eyes filled with tenderness.
The present actually consisted of a few gifts. Two new soft caps in the colors of brown and black.
What looked to be a CD of songs she had found and burned herself.
He picked it up and studied it: All of his favorite bands. Plus a few New Kids on the Block songs for laughs. But it was the last two songs that drew his attention:
Falling by Keri Noble and Kissing by Bliss.
They were the two songs they had danced to. And while that had touched him it was the last present that really captured his heart.
A first edition of Fairy and Folk Tales of the Irish Peasantry by W.B. Yeats. That had to have come dear to her.
He reached out and gently picked up the book, his thick fingers carefully running over the green cloth cover and gilt lettering.
Sheamus turned to her, at a loss for words. She knew how much his heritage meant to him. For her to have gotten a gift like that, it was like she truly knew him.
"I hope you like them." she murmured with a small smile.
She was nervous. Oh, she had been sure he would like them, but she really hoped he would love and get their meanings. Especially with the final two presents.
He placed the book back into the box and carefully sat the box on the bed. When he turned back to her he reached for her and pulled her into his lap. His hands grasped her face as he ravaged her mouth.
Kimber whimpered, her hands curling around his neck as she met the frenzied kiss.
When it was over they were both breathless. He pulled her in close for a hug.
"Thank you." he murmured, placing a kiss against her neck, "Thank you for the presents, angel. Ah love them."
Kimber beamed as she nuzzled his shoulder. She was so happy that he did.
"Want one more present?" she asked as she pulled back, her tone teasing.
The Irishman began to grin, "Only if it's you."
"Go ahead and unwrap me." the reporter murmured against his lips.
He chuckled, the sound making her toes curl, "Just what Ah wanted. The gift that keeps on givin'."
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Raw was in full swing that night. Kimber was standing backstage, watching on with a few of the other Superstars and Divas as Sheamus competed in a match against Dolph Ziggler.
It wasn't long until the Celtic Warrior had his opening and planted his big boot in Ziggler's face.
The group backstage cheered, Kimber loudest of all. She continued to beam brightly as the Irishman got the win and celebrated in the ring.
She reluctantly had to leave to conduct an interview with Damien Sandow. She wasn't exactly looking forward to it. The man was such an arrogant know-it-all.
Sheamus slipped backstage, his eyes scanning the corridor for his girlfriend. He was unable to spy her and instantly figured she must be working.
He couldn't wait till they could get back to the hotel room to have their own private celebration. At the thought he found himself shaking his head and grinning. He was in love all right.
He headed right to his locker room to get shower and change. Then it was off for a round of interviews.
He finally managed to corral her long after the show had ended. She had patiently waited for him to finish up with the local media.
The pair greeted one another warmly, Kimber instantly going into his arms.
"Congratulations." she told him lovingly as she pulled back, "That was an amazing match against Ziggler."
"It wasn' too bad." the Celtic Warrior agreed with a grin, "All finished up here?"
"Hey, I was waiting for you." the reporter teased, bumping his hip with her own, "I wasn't the one sitting through about a hundred interviews with the media."
Sheamus grinned with embarrassment and ducked his head, his face reddening slightly, "Yeah, sorry about that. Still don' know why they wanted to chat with me, though."
"Because you're amazing." his girlfriend answered as she reached out and cupped his cheek, catching his eye, "And why shouldn't they? I would interview you all day long if I could."
"Yeah, but yer a bit biased, angel." the wrestler chuckled before taking her hand and planted a kiss on it, "Feel like gettin' out of here? I wanna take you back to the room and celebrate properly."
Kimber shivered at his words and the intense look in his eyes. She felt her own face begin to flush and her body start to respond.
It was amazing, how he could evoke such feelings from her from just a mere look. In the short time they had been together, he had managed to school her body into anticipating when his next touch or kiss was coming. It was indescribable. She had never felt that way before.
"Sure." she murmured, her eyes beginning to darken with desire.
Wordlessly he took her hand in his and began to lead the way towards his rental car.
They hadn't gone far, though, when Bobby came running up to them. The crewmember was red-faced and slightly out of breath.
"Glad I caught you." he stated as he reached them, turning his attention to Kimber, "Hunter wants to talk to you. Something about branching out One Week With. . .I'm not exactly sure what that entails."
"Oh." Kimber sent an apologetic look to Sheamus, "I'm sorry, Sheamus. This sounds like it could be really important."
"That's no problem." he shrugged a shoulder good-naturedly, "Ah can wait."
"He said it might take a while." Bobby interjected, "He's on a call right now with Mr. McMahon, and you know how much he likes to go on. I could take her back to the hotel, if you don't mind."
Kimber looked up at the Irishman and shrugged, indicating that she didn't care if he didn't. Sheamus wasn't as quick to go along. It made sense, he supposed. But still, he didn't like the idea of leaving her.
He couldn't place the reason for it so he simply chalked it up to missing her and wanting to be by her side.
He at last sighed and relented, "All right, if you insist. Ah'll see you back at the hotel."
Kimber offered him a sweet smile and reached up to kiss him.
"I'll see you soon." she murmured as she pulled back slightly, her voice low so that only he could hear, "Then we can celebrate your victory."
Sheamus began to grin, "Ah'll hold you to that, lass."
He gave her one last kiss before turning and heading off. Kimber watched after him with a wistful sigh.
"Uh, Kimber?" Bobby spoke up, breaking through her thoughts, "Hunter's waiting."
The reporter blinked and turned back to face him, offering an embarrassed laugh, "Right. I'm sorry."
"No problem." the crewmember grinned and led the way through the back corridors.
"So your show has really taken off." he stated as they made their way towards the back offices.
"It's doing pretty well." Kimber nodded, "I've been having a lot of fun hanging out with the Superstars and Divas. It's been interesting getting to see another side to them."
"Think you'd ever get to branch out and do shows on the crew?" Bobby asked with a wink.
Kimber grinned at him, "Now that you mention it, I have been kicking around that very idea. I think the viewers would love to take a peek into the lives of the men and women who work backstage. I know I'd find it fascinating."
"Well if you get the go ahead to do it," the crewmember gave her another wink, "Let me be your first guest."
"You're on." Kimber told him with a cheerfully laugh.
He led her towards one of the back offices and opened the door for her, motioning for her to enter. She gave him a grateful smile and stepped inside.
And instantly frowned, confusion welling up in her eyes.
The office was completely empty. Triple H was nowhere to be seen.
"Bobby?" Kimber turned around to face the crewmember as he stepped into the room, "Did Triple H step out?"
Her confusion slowly grew into uneasiness as he closed the door behind him and leaned back against it. He regarded her with intense eyes , his features hardening slightly. His breathing, too, seemed to pick up.
"Bobby?" Kimber's voice came out weakly and she took an involuntary step backwards.
He reached into the pocket of his jacket before removing an envelope. The moment Kimber saw it she knew.
Oh God. . .she thought in horror.
"Here." he stated as he straightened and started to make his way over to her.
Kimber quickly scurried away from him in fear, her wide eyes. Bobby drew to a stop and took in her reaction with alarm. His eyes slowly began to narrow as anger filled them.
"What are you doing?" he demanded, taking another step towards her, "Why are you afraid of me?!"
"I'm sorry." the reporter said automatically, "I wasn't. . .You just surprised me, is all."
"This is for you." the crewmember approached her slowly, envelope in his outreached hand, "Take it."
Hand shaking, Kimber reached out and reluctantly took the envelope. She turned it over and noted the elegant scrawl of her name. At the sight of it she wanted to cry.
"Open it." it wasn't a request.
She glanced over at him in disbelief. Bobby. Kind, sweet, always-in-the-background Bobby. . .
Kimber opened the envelope and pulled out the letter:
Dearest Kimberlynn,
The time has come, my darling. I find I can no
longer sit back and allow you to make mistake
after mistake. I now know that I must make my
presence known. I was hoping you would finally
come to me. But I see that now I must come to
you.
It's our fate that we be together, my darling
Kimberlynn. And we mustn't turn our backs on
fate.
I'm finally here to claim you. To save you from
yourself. Don't worry, my darling. We can finally
be together. I am the one who will bring you to
ecstasy. I cannot wait until I have you beneath me
in my bed, withering in rapture. And you will, my
darling Kimberlynn. You will.
I'm always watching.
Robert.
Kimber looked up to find Bobby watching her with an almost euphoric expression on his face.
"I can't hold back any longer." he stated with a bright smile, completely oblivious to the madness coming from him.
His features grew troubled, a frown beginning to form on his lips, "I tried to get you to notice me. Again and again I tried. But you wouldn't take the hint. You just wouldn't see me."
"I-I didn't know." Kimber took a slow step away from him, "I'm sorry I didn't see you then. But I see you now."
"I've always seen you." Bobby stated, his smile returning as he took a step towards her, "Every time you interviewed one of those idiots, every episode of One Week With. . .I watched you. I'm always watching you."
"I. . .I'm flattered." Kimber's mind was reeling. She still couldn't believe that Bobby of all people had been the one behind the notes.
Looking at him now, she could see just how unstable he was. She knew she had to get out of there. Hopefully there were still some crew left in the building. It was a long shot, given the hour, but there was still a chance and that gave her hope.
How she wished Sheamus was there. She needed him now more than ever.
But he wasn't. She was alone in this. She might not have the strength to physically fight the crewmember off, but she could still think. And if she could out think him. . .
She made herself smile, "I know it's late, but would you like to go out to dinner with me? We could get a bite to eat and. . .talk."
Bobby blinked, stunned by her words, "You mean it?"
"Of course." Kimber made herself take a step towards him, her movements slow and easy, "Why wouldn't I want to go to dinner with the man who wrote me such beautiful letters."
The crewmember slowly began to grin, "I. . .I'm surprised. I thought you and Sheamus-"
"That was before I knew about you." she moved sideways, coming to slide along the front of the desk, "Had I known about you I never would have given Sheamus a second look."
Though the words she spoke were a lie, though they were only said to gain his trust and hopefully her freedom, it still hurt her; still tasted bitter on her tongue. Her thought again returned to her boyfriend, wishing she was with him now.
You can do this, she told herself, Just get him to let his guard down long enough for you to get away.
He began to make his way to her and it was all she could do not to jolt like a startled rabbit. She forced herself to remain against the side of the desk, to offer him a warm smile.
He reached out and caressed her cheek and inside she recoiled. As he trailed his fingers through her hair she fought not to duck away from his touch.
Just a little bit longer, she told herself, Hang on. Hang on.
He leaned in even closer and his eyes slowly began to close. Kimber watched him carefully as she reached behind her, her fingers wrapping around the receiver of the nearby telephone. Gritting her teeth, she turned and swung it with all of her might, connecting with the side of his head.
Bobby let out a bellow of pain and it was like a starting pistol going off. Kimber instantly shoved him away and took off out of the office and down the corridors.
She ducked into a dark corridor and forced herself to slow her steps, so they couldn't be heard on the cement floor. As she made her way along she pulled her cell phone out of her pocket and quickly punched in Sheamus' number.
She brought the phone to her ear but paused, confusion knitting her brow. As she pulled the phone away a groan escaped her lips.
No signal.
"No." she whispered, head shaking adamantly, "No, no, no."
She moved further up the corridor, trying in vein to get a signal.
But no such luck.
Suddenly she felt a hand clamp down on her arm. She was violently spun around and came face-to-face with an enraged Bobby.
"Why did you do that?!" he roared, giving her a shake.
"I-I'm sorry!" Kimber cried out in fear, "I'm sorry. I was afraid. I didn't mean to!"
Practically growling, the man turned and began to storm back down the corridor, dragging the terrified reporter after him.
Kimber stumbled, grabbing onto him to keep from falling. He paid her no heed, though, as he continued to stalk back into the arena.
As he dragged her along she kept a tight grip on her phone, which was hidden at her side, her eyes continually darting to it for signs of life.
.
.
.
.
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Sheamus entered the lobby of the hotel just as John and AJ exited the elevator. The pair were holding hands, the young Diva beaming brightly up at the Cenation leader.
They spotted him and went to meet him, John looking around, "Where's Kimber?"
"She had to stay a few minutes more." Sheamus explained, "Hunter wanted to talk to her about something."
John blinked, confusion welling up in his blue eyes, "He's back?"
"What do you mean?"
John shrugged, "Nothing. It's just that I saw Triple H leave early tonight. I didn't think he was coming back."
Everything in Sheamus went still. Realization finally hit him like a blow to the back of the head.
"Bobby." he practically growled the name, causing AJ's eyes to widen.
"What do you mean?" the Diva questioned with confusion.
"Bobby has her." Sheamus turned to John, "He's the one who sent her the notes."
"Are you sure?" John didn't look entirely convinced.
"Why else would he lie to keep her at the arena, fella?" the redheaded man pressed.
Without another word he turned and hurried back out of the hotel. John and AJ were right on his heels.
"Hey!" John called out to him, motioning him to follow, "We'll take my rental."
Sheamus nodded and the trio quickly climbed in. John started the car and they were soon racing off back towards the venue.
"I can't believe that Bobby would do this." AJ shook her head in disbelief, "I mean, he's always so quiet. So polite."
"It takes all kinds." John muttered as he continued to drive.
Sheamus' phone suddenly began to ring. He seized a hold of it and turned it on, bringing it to his ear.
Before he could even speak he heard Kimber's voice, frightened, "Bobby! Bobby, please don't do this! Please stop it. Please, please let me go."
A growl tore through the Celtic Warrior's throat, causing AJ to spin around and look at him in alarm and John's startled eyes to find his face in the review mirror.
"That bastard has her!" Sheamus growled, "Hurry, John!"
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.
.
.
.
"Bobby, please!" Kimber continued to plead with him as he led her through the corridors, "Please, you don't want to do this. I know you don't."
"Shut up!" the crewmember snarled, "What do you know about what I want? You never cared about me! You never even gave me a chance! You'd rather spend time with that brainless, muscle bound animal than me!"
He suddenly turned her around, slamming her back against the wall behind her. Kimber let out a cry as pain shot over her back. Bobby seized her wrists and roughly brought them up on either side of her head. He loomed over her, dangerous and breathing heavily, brown eyes wild.
"I love you." he ground out, "I love you so much! How could you even think of being with someone like Sheamus when I was always standing right here?!"
Kimber blinked, her mind racing. She fought to get a hold on her rising fear, forcing it down. She couldn't give in to her terror. Not now. No, she had to keep her head. Keep him talking. If she could do that then maybe she could get him to let his guard down; she could escape or even, by chance, get him to let her go.
"You're right." she whispered suddenly.
The irate man stopped, surprise washing over him, "What?"
"You're right." her gaze softened, as did her voice, "I was mistaken. I-I. . .I didn't know. I had no idea you felt this way about me. I wish you would have come to me and told me. I wish I would have known. I would have been with you."
Cringing inside, she forced herself to press against him and offer what she hoped passed for a seductive smile. Bobby blinked, caught off guard by her sudden forwardness.
"Yeah?" a hazy look came to his eyes, his voice sounding small and vulnerable.
"Yeah." Kimber nodded, giving him a beaming smile, "Bobby, I've always been attracted to you. But I never thought, never dreamed, that you would be interested in me, too."
"Really?" he began to grin as he slipped his arms around her waist and pulled her to him,, "Oh, my darling Kimberlynn. You don't know how happy this makes me. I knew it! I knew if you would just open your eyes and see. . ."
Whatever else he was going to say faded away as he gripped the back of her head and yanked her to him in a painful, ravaging kiss. Kimber gasped, fighting not to cry as his lips bruised hers, his tongue thrusting into her mouth.
Realizing she had an opening, the reporter suddenly let out a harsh cry and drove her knee into his groin. He released her immediately, staggering back in pain.
He gripped the offended area and leaned against the wall, breathing heavily. Kimber wasted no time and took off down the hall, desperate for escape.
"Kimberlynn!" he roared as he forced himself to straighten and hobble after her in pursuit.
She could see the entrance to the arena up ahead and her feet hurried along the cement floor. Hopefully there was still somebody there. Somebody who could help her.
But as she slipped into the open space her hopes were dashed. The arena was vacant and bare, not a soul to be seen.
Unfortunately her pause was her undoing. Bobby came up behind her and caught her easily, hauling her around to face him.
He gave her a brutal shake, yelling in her face, "Why did you do that?! Why don't you love me?!"
Kimber struggled, but it did no good. His grip was like iron. Practically snarling, he kept a tight hold on her arm and dragged her deeper into the arena.
"You're mine!" he bellowed as he spun her back around to face him, "Do you hear me? You. Are. Mine!"
He once again yanked her to him and ground his mouth over hers. Kimber screamed and cried, struggling and fighting to free herself. He gripped her blouse and ripped it, the sound seemingly echoing over the silent venue. She could feel his hands clawing at her chest and fresh tears sprung to her eyes.
In the chaos she managed to punch him in the jaw. That momentarily caused him to loosen his grip and she again tried to make a break for it.
He had just grabbed hold of her when Sheamus, John and AJ came tearing into the arena.
"Sheamus!" Kimber cried out, tears of relief flowing down her cheeks.
Bobby quickly spun around, holding her close to his body as the thee entered the arena.
Sheamus let out a growl and started to go for them when John grabbed his arm to hold him back. Sheamus turned rage filled eyes on the other man but John kept hold of him.
"He's got Kimber." Cena spoke carefully, "You take one step towards them and there's no telling what he'll do to her."
Sheamus turned away, teeth grit in rage. As much as he hated to admit it, he was right.
When John was sure that the Irishman wasn't going to make a move he finally released him.
"Bobby?" he called out evenly, "Bobby, it's over, man. Okay? The police are on their way. Just let her go, all right?"
Bobby shook his head, holding onto the reporter tighter. Sheamus followed his hands with his eyes and it was all he could do to keep himself rooted to the spot. The bastard had one arm locked around her waist. The other was gripping the collar of her blouse.
It was then that he noticed that her blouse was torn. There were scratches marring her tan skin at her collarbone. Her lips were red and swollen, as though she had received a bruising kiss.
The Irishman's rage threatened to boil over. When he got his hands on the bastard he was going to kill him.
He just needed the opportunity.
"Bobby," John went on, trying to reason with him, "Look, man, you don't want to do this. You don't want to hurt Kimber. You like her, right? The last thing you want to do is hurt her."
Bobby pulled the reporter closer, if that were possible, and he began to nuzzle the side of her head with his nose and lips.
Sheamus growled, taking a step closer. John reached out and clamped a hand on his shoulder, though. That did the trick and the Irishman stopped. His gaze burned on Kimber's face, watching as tears pooled in her eyes and she cringed against the unstable crewmember.
He would kill him.
But first he needed to get him to let his guard down and hopefully let Kimber go.
"Ah don' understand." he spoke up, fighting to keep his voice steady though there was an undercurrent of rage laying below the surface, "You helped me, fella. You came and got me when Natalya showed that picture of Kimber."
Bobby began to laugh, the sound unnerving, "I didn't do it to help you, you idiot! I told you so that you'd go down to the ring and beat the living hell out of that bitch. Then Kimber would see you for the animal you are and have nothing more to do with you!"
Sheamus had to clamp his teeth together before he snarled that he would show him what kind of animal he was. He knew that it wouldn't help anything and could only lead to Kimber possibly being hurt.
The idea of that happening caused a pain to go through his gut and his temper to rise.
As much as it pained him to do so, he forced himself to look away from the woman he loved. He needed to be calculating and detached, to see his chance and take it, and he couldn't do that if he looked upon her face.
Kimber noticed his movements and something clicked in her mind. She didn't know if Bobby would believe her, but she needed to try one last time. If anything, maybe she could get him to let his guard down just a little. And, hopefully, in that moment she could either escape or Sheamus could stop him.
The reporter looked sideways at Bobby and murmured, "You're right."
All eyes landed on her as Bobby regarded her with doubt, "You're lying. You're just trying to trick me again."
"I'm not." she shook her head and forced herself to look away from the man she loved to the man she feared, "You've made me see. You've made me realize that I don't want Sheamus. I want you."
Hand trembling, she reached out and caressed his cheek, giving him a watery smile. Bobby gasped at her touch and his eyes involuntarily closed. His grip loosened and she knew that was her chance.
Kimber managed to stumble out of his grasp. She took off, falling off balance as she ran blindly. She wanted to reach Sheamus. She knew she would be safe in his arms. Instead it was John who caught her, keeping her face pressed against his chest.
Because he didn't want her to see the carnage that was taking place behind her.
The moment Kimber had gotten free Sheamus had seized the opportunity. Bellowing with an animal-like roar, rage coursing through his body, he had charged at the other man and began to beat him senseless. Violent blows rained down on the smaller man's face and body.
The Celtic Warrior heard the sounds of one of his ribs breaking and an evil grin momentarily graced his lips. He continued his assault, though, blackening his eye, bloodying his nose, busting his lip.
Bobby tried to fight back, but it was all in vein for the large Irishman couldn't be stopped.
It finally got the point where Sheamus had the other man slammed into one of the arena chairs, hands tightly pressed around his throat. He squeezed tightly, enjoying the sounds of the other man's sputtering breath escaping his damaged lips.
That was finally when the others tried to intervene.
"Sheamus," John called out, voice low but on edge, "Come on, man. You got him. You got him, you can stop now."
Sheamus continued to throttle the other man. Whether he didn't hear John or he just didn't care, it was unknown.
John felt a deep uneasiness well up in his chest. The man he was looking at now wasn't his friend, the guy who shared a laugh with him or went out with him to a pub to get a beer. No, this was the warrior who had viciously planted him through a table during their contract signing for TLC a little over two years ago.
He had always wondered if he'd ever see that guy again. He had hoped to God he wouldn't. But he was seeing him now. The man before him was going to destroy the spineless, unstable guy in front of him and probably do so with absolutely joy.
Kimber pulled away from John and took a step towards Sheamus. She could see him trembling with fury. Could see his blue eyes, those beautiful blue eyes that usually regarded her with love and warm, now cold and filled with crazed wrath. His mouth, the one that could form a smile that would make her blush or her heart flutter, was now twisted into an ugly snarl.
He was no longer Sheamus, the only man to ever capture her heart. This was Sheamus, the cold, vindictive barbarian who had hit Triple H in the back of the head with a steel pipe.
But the thing was, she didn't fear him. She knew with complete certainty that he wouldn't hurt her. Seeing him like that, at his most primal, it didn't deter her or make her love him any less. If anything, it made her want to fight to bring him back even more. Because she knew the kind of man he was now. Knew the kind, good man who resided inside of him. That was her man. And she wanted him back with her.
"Sheamus," she spoke up, her voice wavering slightly, "Sheamus, please stop."
She closed her eyes and willed herself to remain calm. She could do this. She wouldn't lose him.
Sheamus could hear the fear in her voice and he issued a low growl, tightening his hold on the crewmember's neck. Bobby's face began to redden underneath the bruising. His good eye widened as he struggled to get much needed air into his lungs.
"Sheamus!" AJ was unable to stay silent any longer, the young Diva crying out his name in panic.
She had never seen him so vicious before and it frightened her.
John reached out and took her hand, trying to ease her distress.
Kimber took another step towards her boyfriend, coming into his line of vision. He kept his dark glare on Bobby, though he did see her out of the corner of his eye.
"Sheamus." the reporter called out, fighting to keep her tone steady, "Let him go."
"He hurt you." the Irishman growled, his hold on the crewmember tightening.
Bobby stared up at him, fear etched across his features. He was too scared to move, too scared to speak. He was absolutely frozen on the spot.
Kimber swallowed as she continued to look up at the Celtic Warrior. She knew she had to tread carefully. The wrong word and she feared that he would snap and do something he might regret.
Or worse yet, do something that he wouldn't regret at all.
"But I'm safe now." she stated, her tone gentle, "You saved me. It's over. The police are on their way and Bobby will go to jail. He can't hurt me again."
He continued to hold onto the other man. And though he didn't squeeze any harder at his throat, he didn't relent his grip, either. His eyes, dark and dangerous, continued to glower down at the crewmember. At that moment they had never conveyed the term 'if looks could kill' more.
Kimber stared up at him, silently imploring him to release the unhinged man. She was at a loss, not sure what else to say to reach him.
Suddenly something clicked in her mind. Maybe this was the only way. . .
"Is tú mo ghrá." she whispered, voice filled with conviction.
Sheamus blinked, her words hitting him hard in his chest. At last he slowly turned to her, blue eyes raking over her face, the darkness in them receding. She stared back up at him, her own eyes full of tears. But her expression only reflected back love and devotion. And an ease with knowing that she was safe.
He shoved Bobby away with a snarl before turning and going to the reporter. He grabbed a hold of her and held her tightly against his chest. Kimber wrapped her arms around his waist and buried herself against him. She was shaking. She could feel him shaking, as well. But it didn't matter. He was there and she was safe.
"I knew you'd come for me." she whispered as she looked up at him lovingly.
He didn't say anything, the Irishman too overcome to speak. He simply held her tightly against him, thanking God that she was all right.
The police arrived a short time later, as did a few of WWE's officials. Bobby was led away in handcuffs while Kimber, Sheamus, John and AJ gave their statements to the police.
Blissfully, at last, everyone was allowed to leave.
The four piled into John's rental and he drove them back to the hotel. He peered in the review mirror and caught sight of the couple sitting in the back. Kimber was on Sheamus lap, arms around his neck. Her head was buried in his shoulder and for a moment John wondered if she was sleeping. The Irishman's own face was buried in the crook of her shoulder, his arms tightly wrapped around her.
Cena glanced over at AJ, catching his eye. She gave him a gentle smile and reached out, squeezing his hand. He returned it as he drove along.
They at last reached the hotel and everyone filed out. Sheamus kept Kimber close, his arm possessively wrapped around her tiny shoulders. They stayed huddled together on the ride up the elevator to their floor.
The bell dinged and the pair finally released one another. Kimber gave both John and AJ hugs and Sheamus shook John's hand. They bid the other couple goodnight and stepped out, walking over to their room.
Silence remained between them as Sheamus unlocked the door and allowed her to enter. They stepped inside and Kimber turned to him, hesitant and tired.
He regarded her tenderly as he took her hand and led her into the bathroom. He gently turned her around to face him and reached down, beginning to unbutton her ruined blouse. To his immense relief she didn't flinch or shy away from his touch. She instead seemed to lean into it, taking great comfort from it.
He unbuttoned her blouse and slid it from her shoulders before balling it up and tossing it into the nearby wastebasket. He drew closer to her and reached around, undoing the back of her skirt. He could feel her pressing her face into his chest, nuzzling the muscles there.
Once the garment was undone and pooling around her feet he took a step back and gently lifted her up and out of it. He went to his knees at that moment, removing her shoes carefully.
Kimber placed her hands on his massive shoulders, raising first one foot and then the other. She looked down at him with love, moved by the depths of his consideration.
He looked up and stared into her eyes, never breaking contact, as he slowly lowered and removed her panties. Standing, he unclasped the front clasp of her bra and gently slipped it over her shoulders and down her arm.
He reluctantly left her side to start the shower. As he waited for the water to warm up he quickly removed his own clothes.
Once that task was completed he reached for her hand. She took in without hesitation and he brought her into the shower.
He came to stand behind her, reaching out for a washcloth and some body gel. He squirted a generous amount into the cloth and worked up a lather. He then began to lovingly wash her back. As he did so she heard her gasp, felt her flinch, and he paused. He pulled back the cloth, his eyes landing on the bruise that was forming on her back.
Anger and love warred within him as he leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss against it.
Kimber closed her eyes, and sniffed back the tears that threatened to fall. When she felt him rise she instantly leaned back against him. A sigh of safety and contentment flowed out of her as she felt his large, strong arms wrap around her shoulders and hold him tightly to her.
She turned her head slightly, nuzzling against him.
They stayed that way for several moments, each taking comfort in the other's body, before he eventually pulled back and continued to tenderly wash her.
He gently turned her around and knelt down, starting with her feet. He felt her small hands on his shoulders and he leaned over, planting a kiss on each before going on. He ran the cloth up and down both of her legs before finally rising.
He continued his ministrations, running the cloth over her tummy. He took great care in washing her breasts.
When he got to the scratches at her collarbone he paused, fingertips coming out to brush across them.
Kimber closed her eyes and bowed her head, trying not to cry. She knew she should feel better, she was safe and with the man she loved, after all. But she could still feel Bobby's hands on her, could still feel his lips against her own.
She shivered, causing Sheamus to look up at her sharply.
"Are you afraid of me, angel?" he asked softly.
Kimber's eyes opened and she immediately turned to him, shaking her head, "No. No, I just. . .I can still feel him."
He didn't say anymore. Instead, he leaned down and began to press tender kisses against the marks, loving them with his lips and tongue.
He continued to do that for several moments before straightening and shutting off the water. He helped her out of the tub and wrapped her up in a fuzzy towel. He gently dried her off before swiping his own towel over his body.
Taking her hand, he led her out of the bathroom and over to the bed. She climbed in with him coming after. The moment he got settled he reached for her. Kimber curled up against his side, head pillowed on his chest. Sheamus was staring absently at the far wall, his fingertips slowly trailing up and down her spine. He could see it all again in his head. Him, ferociously beating Bobby; his hands tightening around the other man's neck. He could still feel the blows he inflicted. Could still feel his neck from where he squeezed.
She tilted her head and looked up at him, taking in the knit of his brow, the brooding in his eyes. She raised up on her elbow, giving him her full attention.
"Come back to me." she whispered as she reached out, stroking his cheek.
Sheamus blinked, coming out of his thoughts. He turned to her briefly before looking away. He couldn't face her. Not after what he had done. What she had seen him do.
He was ashamed. He didn't think he was that man anymore. The one who was vicious and cruel. Who did whatever he wanted because he could. Who took pleasure in hurting others.
And he had taken pleasure in hurting that bastard.
What would she think of him? What could she think of him?
He pulled away, sitting up. He swung his legs over the side of the bed, hands gripping the mattress below him. He kept his back to her, the Celtic Warrior unable to face her.
He bowed his head, his words gruff, "Ah'm sorry you had to see me that way."
Kimber slowly sat up, staring at his back. She ached for him, knowing how much what he had done troubled him now.
She reached out and placed her hand against his back and he stiffened, flinching at her touch. It was almost as though he was too ashamed to have her touch him.
Kimber wouldn't be deterred, though. He had been there for her when she needed him. Now it was her turn.
She came to rest behind him, her legs flush with his. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned against him, face nuzzling against his back. She began to plant loving kisses there, offering him the comfort of her body.
Sheamus groaned at the feeling of her against him. He grit his teeth and reached for her hands, meaning to pull them away from him. But the second he touched her he found he couldn't let go. His grip tightened over her hands as he held them against his body.
"I wasn't afraid of you." she breathed against his back, "I am not afraid of you. I know you would never, could never, hurt me. I trust you. I love you. That will never change."
He reached around, hauling her into his lap. His lips crashed against hers in a kiss that was both passionate and desperate. Kimber clung to him, returning the embrace with just as much fervor.
He eventually pulled back and gazed down at her. Hand shaking, he stroked her cheek. She closed her eyes and leaned into his touch, a soft smile on her lips.
He couldn't believe the depths of her trust in him. It meant more to him than he could say.
Kimber opened her eyes and brushed her lips against his in another kiss.
"Make love to me." she whispered against his mouth, "I need you. I need to feel your hands and lips on me. I need you to take away the memory of what Bobby did. Please."
She pulled back to look up at him, silently pleading. He could see that she was still haunted by what that bastard had done to her and he'd do anything to take away those visions.
He cupped her face and gently, so gently that it brought tears to her eyes, kissed her. Soft and tender, his lips brushed against hers again and again before settling. He deepened the kiss, his tongue brushing across her own, curling and caressing.
He made his way along her jaw, trailing his lips over her cheek and coming to her neck. He laved at the pulse point there, lips stroking her skin. He heard Kimber whimper and it was like music to his ears.
She ran her hands along his broad shoulders and up and down his strong arms. She couldn't get enough of his touch, of his mouth on her.
She couldn't get enough of him.
The reporter turned her head, her lips sweeping over his shoulder. She could feel his erection pressing impatiently against her thigh.
One of Sheamus hands snaked it's way up her back while his other came around to cup one of her breasts. His thumb brushed across the sensitive tip again and again, causing a moan to escape his girlfriend's lips.
He continued to blaze a trail, settling over the scratches that marred her collarbone. He loved them tenderly, trying to take away the memory of Bobby's hands on her.
Kimber turned her head slightly, pressing a kiss into his temple.
"My beautiful warrior." she sighed in his ear.
Her words pierced his heart and went right to his very soul. She accepted that part of him. Wasn't afraid of that part of him. It did more for him than he could say.
He raised her up on her knees and leaned over, his mouth capturing one of her breasts. He placed open mouthed kisses against it before his tongue came out to curl around her nipple. His teeth grazed the sensitive tip and Kimber whimpered, her hands going up to his hair. She gripped it, holding him close to her.
He continued his loving treatment, trailing kisses to the valley between her breasts before capturing the other in his hot mouth.
Kimber's head tilted back, her eyes momentarily opening to gaze up at the ceiling. Her green eyes slowly slide closed as a moan fell from her lips.
While he loved her breasts his hand trailed down, knuckles brushing across her stomach until his fingers found themselves at her opening. He parted her folds and slipped one finger inside, finding her already wet.
Kimber whimpered against his temple. Her whimpers turned into a moan as he slipped two fingers inside of her, moving them in and out. She felt his thumb begin to run slow circles over her responsive nub and she felt the pressure begin to build.
"Sheamus." she found herself breathing his name as her body started to tremble in pleasure.
He pulled back from her breasts, his eyes blazing as they took in her features. He wanted to see her go over the edge.
He continued what he was doing, watching with an almost fascination as her breathing grew shallower and her features filled with gratification. She was soon panting, her hips bucking at his movements. His name drifted from her lips over and over again in a sort of chant. Her response was turning him on more and more.
"Tar dom, aingeal." he commanded, spurring her on.
Suddenly the pressure inside her erupted, causing her back to arch and her neck to fall back. She let out a long moan, shaking as her orgasm hit her hard.
His arms came up around her, holding her as she fell apart. Her head fell forward, forehead braced on his shoulder as she struggled to breath.
He turned his head slightly, pressing soothing kisses against her cheek.
"Yer so beautiful." he rumbled against her ear.
Kimber's eyes opened as her body still trembled with wonderful aftershocks. She meet his look, her own filled with desire and love. She leaned forward, kissing him deeply.
His hold on her tightened as his tongue surged into her mouth. Their kiss was fueled with passion and fire, neither one able to get enough.
Kimber found the memory of Bobby's attack vanishing from her mind as her lover continued to lavish his tender attention on her.
She pulled back and looked him in the eye, telling him silently that it was time. She again raised up, taking him in hand. Sheamus' eyes slammed shut at the feeling of her hands wrapped around him. He grit his teeth, trying to keep himself from bucking against her embrace.
She reached over and picked up the condom package, opening it and sliding the latex over his pulsing member.
Sheamus opened his eyes when he was sheathed, their gazes locking as she lowered herself onto him.
A groan escaped his throat; she was tightly wrapped around him like a glove. Though they had made love just that morning it very well could have been a million years ago. Each time with her felt just as exciting; just like the very first time.
Her hands clasped his shoulders as she began to raise and lower herself. One of his arms banded around her waist while his other came behind him, braced on the bed. He thrust into her and soon they found their rhythm, moving as one.
His lips once again found hers, his tongue mimicking the actions of his body. He couldn't get enough of her taste.
Their tempo increased as they climbed higher and higher. It wasn't too far off now. Kimber could feel the pressure beginning to build again and her neck tilted back, gasps escaping her. Sheamus' lips once again locked onto her exposed throat, suckling and nipping at her flesh.
Soon she was falling headlong into the abyss, lights flashing behind her eyes as her climax overtook her. He felt her deliciously tight around him, milking him, and he thrust once, twice, a third time. His own climax hit him hard and he left out a groan of satisfaction as his body stiffened before going lax.
Kimber slumped against him, as weak as a newborn kitten. He eased them both back down on to the bed, her on top. His arms came around her, one buried in her hair. The other stroked her from back to hip. His breathing was harsh and labored, his body spent.
They remained that way for a few, long minutes, their pants drifting over the otherwise silent room.
He was the first to stir, opening his eyes to look down on her with affection.
He pressed a kiss to the top of her head before he found himself murmuring, "Do ya wanna go again?"
She moaned before giggling, the Irishman issuing a boisterous laugh of his own. His arms tightened around her and Kimber snuggled closer to him.
She couldn't remember ever feeling so safe, so loved, so cherished before.