Kimber blinked. Suddenly everything seemed to slow down and go silent. Everything save for her breathing, which suddenly seemed very loud to her ears.

Fired. . .

"Vince-" Triple H looked over at her in alarm, "Look, if you need someone to blame for this, then blame me-"

"Don't start with me, Paul." the WWE owner all but snarled, "I meant it. Kimber, you're fired. Pack up your things and get the hell out of the arena. Now!"

And with that the call was disconnected.

Triple H let out a sigh as he hung up the phone, raking a hand through his short hair. He turned to Kimber, at once sympathetic.

"Kimber, I'm sorry." he shook his head, in disbelief over the events, "I can't believe that he would go to such extremes."
She nodded, eyes hazy, as she murmured almost absently, "I understand."

"Look, the guy's a hard ass, I'll give him that." the Executive Officer went on, "It's just that he's under a lot of stress right now with Punk and Heyman."

He exhaled, shaking his head, "Just give me some time, all right? I'll try and talk to him after he's calmed down. I don't know, maybe I can get him to change his mind. I'll get Steph on it, too. She can sometimes pull more weight with him than I can."

"Sure." the young woman murmured, "Thank you. I-I should be going."

She started to go for the door when she felt him clasp her shoulder. She involuntarily flinched at the touch and Triple H quickly removed his hand.

"I really am sorry." he expressed, "Just hang in there, all right?"

She couldn't quite meet his eyes as she nodded. He opened the door for her and she left the office.

Kimber stepped out into the hall and began to make her way back. She was in a daze, completely stunned by what had just happened.

Fired. She was fired. She had never been fired from anything in her life and here she was fired from her dream job. . .

As she rounded a corner she spied Sheamus coming from the other end. He was wheeling his bag behind him, a huge grin on his face.

He looked so happy. Just seeing him like that, it was all she could do not to cry.

As the Irishman drew closer to took in his girlfriend's expression. Her face was drawn and tense. And she kept looking at the ground or wall. She wouldn't meet his gaze.

"What is it?" he questioned as he dropped his bag and made his way over to her, placing his hands on her shoulders, "Kember, what's goin' on, angel?"

"We, um. . ." she offered him a watery smile, fighting back the tears that threatened to come forth, "We should go back to the hotel."

"Not until you tell me what's goin' on." the redheaded man was adamant.

Before she could say another word Triple H rounded the corner. He spotted them and made his way over.

"Hunter, what's goin' on?" Sheamus demanded as he released his girlfriend and took a step towards the Executive Officer.

"Kimber hasn't told you yet?" he surmised with a sigh, "Vince called. He was. . .less than thrilled over her taking the initiative to get on the mic tonight.

"Look, I love the guy. He's family, after all. But you know what a control freak he is." the blonde explained, "He needs to be a part of every little detail. And when he's not, well he takes it as a personal affront. He, uh. . .He just called and fired Kimber for jumping on commentary without his approval."

"What?" Kimber flinched at the sound of the Irishman's voice.

Sheamus turned rage filled eyes to his girlfriend before swinging back around to face the other man.

"He can' fire her!" he erupted, "She didn' do anythin' wrong!"

He yanked out his cell phone and started to punch in a number, "The hell he's gonna fire you."

"Whoa!" Triple H jumped forward and grabbed his hand, halting his call, "Sheamus, believe me, you don't want to challenge him like this. Not right now."

"Ah don' care!" the Celtic Warrior snarled, "Let him fire me, too!"

"No!" that snapped Kimber out of her daze and she rushed forward, also grabbing a hold of his arm, "Sheamus, don't! Don't! You worked so hard! You've got a match with Big Show coming up. You can't just throw all of that away!"

Breathing heavily, the Irishman looked back and forth between the pair. Triple H was trying to get him to calm down. Kimber simply looked up at him pleadingly.

It was her expression that did the most to calm his growing rage.

He shoved the cell phone back into the pocket of his jacket, jaw tense and narrowed eyes cast to the ground. He felt Kimber's hand slip into his own and he squeezed it, but he couldn't meet her gaze. He was too irate.

"Just hang in there." Triple H told Kimber, "Give me a few days. When Vince has had a chance to calm down I'll try talking to him again. Okay?"

Kimber nodded, but she didn't feel very confident.

"Thank you." she told him sincerely.

"Um," the Executive Officer cleared his throat, "I already have your departure flight booked for Denver. You fly out tomorrow morning, around ten."

"Jaysus," Sheamus turned away, scrubbing his hands angrily over his face, "You don' waste any time, do ya?"

"Sheamus, please." Kimber sighed. This was already hard enough for her.

"I'm sorry." Triple H told the both of them.

He patted her hand and gave her a cheerless smile. He also patted Sheamus on the back as he turned and made his way back to his office.

"Come on." Kimber murmured as she made her way back up the hall to collect her bags.

Sheamus stared after her in disbelief. She looked like she had already given up!

He angrily seized his bag and walked after her. He walked passed her and grabbed her bags before she had a chance to. Silently raging, he turned and led the way to his rental car.

Kimber trailed after him, eyes on the floor before her. Her mind was slowly shutting down. She felt like she was going numb or, worse, going into shock.

She didn't say a word as she climbed into the passenger seat. She did flinch, however, when he got behind the wheel and slammed the door closed.

Fuming, he smashed the key into the ignition and started the car. With a squeal of tires, he sped out of the parking garage and made his way back to the hotel.

As he drove he kept glancing over at her. Her hands were tightly clasped in her lap, sad eyes looking out the passenger side window.

"Ah can' believe Vince would do this to ya." he grumbled as he turned back to the road, "You didn' do anythin' wrong! Bleedin' control freak! Ah bet he buys out toilet paper factories and fires the lot of them if the paper chafes his wrinkled arse."

The now former reporter remained silent, allowing him to vent.

He glared at her, "And why aren' you angry about this?"

"I am." Kimber stated as she turned to him with a frown, shrugging, "But what can I do? Being angry won't help the situation. What's done is done."

She looked out the window and murmured sadly, "I took a chance and I lost."

Sheamus blinked, realization hitting him.

He reached out and took hold of both of her hands in one of his, his tone apologetic, "Kember, lass, Ah'm sorry. Ah'm sorry for all of this. This is all me fault. If Ah hadn' pushed you to do it-"

"No." Kimber wheeled on him, at once determined, "No, you have nothing to apologize for. You didn't push me to do anything. And you were right. This business is about taking chances, grabbing your moments. I know that.

"I never would have forgiven myself if I hadn't tried." she admitted quietly.

She gave his hand a squeeze, one he readily returned. They continued on the rest of the way in silence.

The silence stayed with them as they parked in front of the hotel and went up to their room. They undressed quietly and climbed into bed, Kimber rolling onto her side. She felt Sheamus at her back and it wasn't long before he had his strong arms wrapped around her, pulling her back against his chest. They laid there for several moments, neither speaking.

It was finally then that everything seemed to hit her. Misery welled up inside of her and soon her shoulders were shaking as sobs began to wrack her body.

Sheamus felt a pain go through his heart as his arms tightened around her, pulling her closer. He leaned down and pressed kisses against the back of her head, wishing there was something he could say to ease her grief.

It went on for several minutes, Kimber crying out her anguish and him silently offering the support of his body. Soon her sobs subsided, turning to quiet tears. It was only then that she rolled over to face him. He looked at her in sadness, reaching out his large hand to tenderly brush away her tears.

She shook her head and sighed, "I'm sorry."

"Don' be." he replied soothingly, "You've got nothin' to be sorry for, angel."

"It's just. . ." her eyes scanned the room before coming back to him, "I'm going to miss all of this. The excitement come show time. The fans. The crew. The Superstars and Divas."

Pain filled her eyes as she added with a choked whisper, "You."

He pulled her closer to him, his arms tightening around her as he planting loving kisses onto her forehead.

"You still have me." he murmured as he pulled back, pressing his forehead to her own, "Ah'll see you on me days off. And you're gonna come stay wit' me. That's not a request, lass."

Kimber found herself smiling, though bittersweet, over his comments.

"I'd like that." she nodded, sniffling.

He kissed her forehead once more before reaching down to brush his lips against her own. She practically clung to him, returning the kiss with an almost desperation.

God, she was going to miss him so much. This big, beautiful, brave man who had captured her heart not so long ago.

What was she going to do? How was she going to survive without waking up to him every morning? Without traveling on the road with him? Seeing his beautiful smile. Feeling his strong arms around her.

She drew back with a shuttered sigh before snuggling closer to his chest. Exhaustion soon claimed her, causing her eyelids to grow heavy and close. It wasn't long before her breathing grew deep and even and sleep overcame her.

Sheamus exhaled, pulling her tighter against him. He leaned his head down and once again pressed his lips to the top of her head, keeping them there.

Emotions warred deep inside him: Rage. Pain. Helplessness.

Guilt. Above all, guilt.

She might not have blamed him but he surely blamed himself. It was his idea for her to jump on commentary. He was the one who had talked her into it.

And it had cost her her job.

He closed his eyes, teeth grit against the burst of fury rising up within him. He couldn't let it end like this. She was too good, had too much passion for this business, to be forced out. There had to be a way to get Vince to chance his mind.

But how?

He opened his eyes, instantly taking in the sleeping features of the beautiful woman who had claimed his heart. From the very beginning, if he were being honest with himself.

He couldn't imagine not seeing her almost every day. Her sweet smile. Her bright, excited green eyes. Talking with her. Laughing with her. Sharing in his triumphs with her. His losses. Holding her. Making love to her.

It couldn't end like this. He would get her job back.

Somehow.

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Kimber slowly opened her eyes and yawned, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

Recognition hit her, knocking the air from her lungs, and the deep seeded sadness from the night before came over her.

She wiped a stray tear from her cheek and looked to her right, her eyes instantly landing on her boyfriend. His back was to her, his shoulders rising and lowering in sleep.

She wanted nothing more than to curl up against that back and hold him close. All day, if permitted.

But she knew that wasn't to be. She had a flight to catch soon.

Kimber carefully rose from the bed, trying hard not to wake the sleeping giant beside her, and began to pull out some clothes. She stepped into her jeans, zipping and button them. She was just about to put on her shirt when she felt warm, strong arms wrap around her. Instantly she was pulled back against a rock hard chest and Sheamus' face was buried in her neck.

"Hi." she whispered, offering a small smile, "I tried not to wake you."

"Why?" he murmured, his warm breath ghosting her skin, "You weren' thinkin' of slippin' out, were ya?"

In fact, that very idea had been on her mind. She didn't want a painful goodbye at the airport. She didn't know if she could take that.

She turned her head slightly, nuzzling against his own, "You don't have to take me to the airport."

He straightened and gently turned her around in his arms, his expression adamant, "Ah'm goin' wit' you. Just let me get changed."

She knew better than to argue. He would win, anyway.

They were soon dressed. Silently, hand-in-hand, they made their way down to the lobby.

Word must have gotten out because as they stepped off the elevator they discovered a few of the Superstars, Divas and crew waiting for them.

At the sight of them Kimber felt tears rush to her eyes. She cleared her throat and blinked furiously to clear the moisture away. She couldn't do this. Not now. If she could just hold it together until she got on the plane she'd be all right.

Layla and Kaitlyn, both women looking miserable, came forward for a hug. Kimber embraced them, fighting not to cry. Those two have become so dear to her in the past few months.

"This isn't goodbye." Layla informed her, "We're going to meet up sometime soon. Lunch and a shopping spree."

"Definitely." Kimber laughed, blinking back her tears.

"See you soon." Kaitlyn promised.

"Yes." the former reporter nodded.

They walked away and Joel came up, enveloping her in a hug. Kimber returned the embrace, squeezing her eyes tightly shut. They had gotten to be so close in the past few months. Partners in crime, as it were, as they went after stories together.

"Take care of you." his warm voice found it's way to her ear.

"And you stay out of trouble." Kimber grinned as she pulled back.

He patted her shoulder and turned, heading off. Josh passed him and walked over to Kimber. At the sight of him the young woman found fresh tears come to her eyes. The pair held onto each other, both loathe to let go.

"How are you feeling?" she asked him softly.

Josh sighed, face pressed to her neck, "I would be better if you were staying here. I am so proud of you, Kimmy. I got to watch the show back early this morning and you were incredible."

Kimber wiped at her eyes and pulled back, giving him a watery smile, "Too bad I had to share the table with JBL. I wish it had been you instead."

Sheamus turned away, his eyes closing. He couldn't stand this.

She gave her dear friend another hug before stepping away from him, "I'll call you."

"You better." he warned, pointing at her, "Or I'll call you."

"Deal." Kimber laughed lightly.

She grew poignant as she cast her eyes around the lobby. Friendly, encouraging and sad faces met her.

She let out a sigh, her sorrow slowly returning. This was it. Time to say goodbye.

"I. . .I just wanted to say thank you, all, for your kindness and support." she stated as she blinked back tears, "You guys are the greatest group of men and women I've ever known. Truly. And it has been my honor to work and travel alongside you."

She took a breath, laughing weakly, "So go out there, kick some ass and I'll see you on T.V."

The group gave her another round of hugs, goodbyes and promises to see or talk to her later. Kimber received them all with a kind smile, somehow managing not to cry.

As they began to file out she felt a hand take her own. She turned around to see Sheamus standing behind her, gazing down at her lovingly. She gave him a bittersweet smile before they collected the bags and headed out to his rental car.

The drive to the airport was done in silence, each heavy with their thoughts. No words were spoken as they reached the airport and climbed out of the car, making their way inside. No words were spoken as they approached the desk and got Kimber's travel information before heading to the proper gate.

They sat side-by-side, staring out over the terminal. Sheamus was leaning forward, elbows on his knees and hand rubbing his chin. His eyes were narrowed, brows low with equal parts contemplation and anger. Kimber was leaning back in her seat, fingers fidgeting in her lap.

It was soon time for her flight to board and she instantly closed her eyes, willing herself not to cry. She could do this. She could be strong.

But when she opened her eyes moisture was pooling in the green depths. She rose to her feet and looked away, quickly wiping at them.

"Oi." Sheamus voice, soft and full of tenderness, called out as he reached out and turned her to face him, "You don' have to hide yer feelin's from me."

She didn't sob. The night before had taken care of that. But two, silent tears escaped from her lashes to fall down her cheeks.

She braved a look up at him and found her own emotions mirrored back at her: anger, sadness, defenselessness.

He drew her to him, leaning down until his forehead was pressed against her own.

"This isn' over." he promised her, "Ah don' care what Ah have to do, yer gettin' yer job back. Ah promise you. Ah promise you this."

"Always my hero." Kimber pulled back and offered him a small smile, "You saved me from the Big Show that night I interviewed him. You saved me, again, during our tag match. And you. . ."

She took a deep breath when her voice began to grow strained with emotion, "You saved me from the memories that have haunted me for the past five years. Do you have any idea how wonderful you are? How amazing? Because you are, my beautiful warrior."

Suddenly she was crushed against him, his mouth ravaging hers. She returned the heated kiss, desperate to make it last despite the lateness of hour.

"Ah love you." he growled against her lips.

"I love you." Kimber whispered.

She sniffed and made herself pull back, wiping at her eyes. She gave him a reassuring smile, though it wavered somewhat. He tried to return it, but his eyes still looked sad and angry.

"Soon." he promised her.

"Soon." she confirmed.

Reluctantly she pulled away from him and picked up her carryon. She made her way towards the tunnel and drew to a stop, looking back at him. He was watching her sullenly, clearly wanting to stop her but knowing that he couldn't. He raised his hand in a half-hearted wave and she nodded, giving him another tiny smile.

Kimber took a deep breath and willed herself to turn around. One foot in front of the other. Just keep walking.

Soon she was making her way through the tunnel and gone from view.

Sheamus continued to watch, even after she had disappeared. He wanted to go after her, drag her back with him. The need to do so was burning in his gut, fiery and all consuming.

Instead he forced himself to turn and walk away.

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Reeeally short chapter. But an important one, I think. Don't worry, I promise a longer one next time. And to make up for the length in this one you guys get smut in the next one. ;) What can I say? I'm a giver. :P

Also, Elimination Chamber, anyone? Holy moly! God, I hope our guy is all right. It looked like his head accidentally hit that small table in the time keeper's corner. Ouch!