Kimber's hand slipped into Sheamus', her fingers growing cold with fear. Her boyfriend gave it a reassuring squeeze but kept his eyes, growing more and more narrowed by the moment, on the Executive Officer.
Triple H continued to regard the former reporter evenly as he slowly began to approach the five.
Sheamus unconsciously moved to stand in front of his girlfriend, body ridged and shoulders squared. He was prepared to fight tooth and nail for her if that's what took.
The Executive Officer finally reached them, pensive gaze hitting the Celtic Warrior before swinging to the nervous woman standing partially behind him.
"Kimber, I must say I'm very surprised to see you here." he stated coolly.
Kimber swallowed, willing herself to step around Sheamus to look the Executive Officer in the eyes, "I know but I needed to come here and support Sheamus."
"Hmm, looks like that's what you're doing all right." he looked down at her t-shirt before meeting her gaze.
The former reporter took a shaky breath, preparing herself for whatever was to come. She just hoped that Sheamus wouldn't do anything to ruin his own opportunities. She couldn't forgive herself if he did.
Triple H studied her, his face unreadable. The air was thick with tension, nobody speaking. It were as though they were too afraid to utter a sound.
Kimber's chin went up a notch, her back straightening. If she was going to face it, she wasn't going to do it shaking like a frightened child. They regarded each other for several long moments.
Suddenly the Executive Officer began to grin, "Good to see you again. Enjoy the show."
Kimber blinked, stunned. She found herself breathing a sigh of relief as Triple H shook Sheamus' hand.
"I'll try and keep the old man as busy as I can before show time." the blonde man nodded, "Just make sure she's not back here after that."
"You have me word." Sheamus promised him.
Hunter gave Kimber another smile and wave and turned, walking away.
"So let's go." Sheamus grinned as he took her hand, leading her through the backstage area.
As they walked various crew and talent greeted Kimber warmly, offering her a 'hello' or a hug. She felt her smile growing. Maybe everything would be okay.
They rounded a corner and her steps picked up as she spotted Josh up ahead. He noticed her approach and rushed to greet her, the two friends hugging.
"I was hoping you would be here." the SmackDown announcer stated as he embraced the young woman.
"I hadn't planned on it." Kimber admitted as she pulled back, "But luckily Sheamus talked me into it."
"I'm glad." Josh grinned, "I really miss you around here, Kimmy."
"Me, too." the former reporter sighed, wistful.
Sheamus presented his sister and grandmother for introductions. Josh smiled warmly and shook both of their hands. When it was Cassidy's turn to be presented the young man paused, a goofy smile slowly appearing on his face.
Cassidy, usually so outgoing and ornery, was suddenly uncharacteristically quiet. And she was blushing, much to Kimber's shock and amusement.
She looked over at Sheamus with a smirk, the Irishman giving her a grin and a wink.
"Josh, I don't think you've met my best friend, Cassidy." Kimber gave the other woman a small shove to get her to move up a step, "Cass, my other best friend, Josh."
"Hello." Cassidy murmured as she extended her hand.
"Hi." Josh was practically blushing as he grasped her hand, "I, uh, I'm glad to meet you."
The pretty blonde bit her lip and smiled, "You, too. I. . .I really like listening to you on SmackDown. How are you feeling, by the way? Better, I hope."
"Oh yeah." Josh nodded vigorously, "Yeah, couldn't be better, thanks."
"You know, Josh," Kimber slipped an arm around his shoulders, "That's really too bad because Cass here is a nurse. I'm sure she'd have no qualms about checking you out if you still have any lingering aches or pains."
Cass shot her best friend a death glare before turning back to Josh, all smiles, "I would be happy to take a look."
"Well you know," Josh, who still hadn't released the young woman's hand, ran his other hand over his hip, "I do still have a twinge in my hip. If you don't mind taking a look at it some time."
"Sure." Cassidy sounded a little too eager and she promptly cleared her throat, adding nonchalantly, "I mean, sure, if you don't mind."
"No!" Josh spoke up quickly, chuckling nervously, "I mean, no, I don't mind at all."
The pair continued to grin at one another. Kimber could only shake her head and smirk. Well it looked like Josh had finally gotten the girl. About time, too.
"Do you mind?" the rough and pretentious voice of Wade Barrett suddenly rang out over the hallway, "Last time I checked, this corridor was for Superstars. Not their little groupies to take up space and get in everyone's way."
The group turned to find the British man standing a few ways up the hall. Dressed in jeans and his Barrett Barrage sleeveless shirt, Wade regarded them with a sneer.
"Oi!" Siobhan spoke up, eyes narrowing, "Ah didn' realize you owned the hallway, ya pompous arse."
Wade blinked, surprised by the young woman's sudden burst of bravado. For a second irritation danced in his blue-green eyes before a sly smile came to his lips. He slowly ran his gaze up and down Siobhan, taking in every inch of her.
To her credit she appeared unaffected, simply crossing her arms over her chest and glaring at him. Her expression silently dared him to say another word.
"Well," the Intercontinental Champion murmured, scratching his jaw, "I'll say this for you, Sheamus. Your sister seems to have more guts than you do."
The Irishman started to make a break for him when Kimber and Siobhan jumped forward, holding him back.
He continued to glower at Wade, though, rumbling, "Ah'll show you guts, fella. Preferably yers."
"Don' you have to go pick that ridiculous coat of yers up from the dry cleaners or somethin'?" Siobhan muttered.
"I didn't know you watched my entrances so closely, sweetheart." Wade quipped, tone low and smooth, "I'm flattered."
Siobhan scoffed but said nothing. It would appear that the arrogant man had rendered her speechless.
"Barrett-" Sheamus growled, just itching to bury his boot in the other man's face.
"Don't worry, Sheamus." Wade chuckled as he gave the other man his back and headed off, "I have better things to do than stand around here and trade witty repartee with your beautiful little sister."
Siobhan started, clearly stunned by the sudden compliment. Her cheeks began to redden at the British man's words. She stared after him in shocked silence until he disappeared around a corner.
"Ah've never seen such a rude, arrogant man in all me life." Granny stated before adding with a sigh, "But he sure is a handsome fella."
"Yeah." Siobhan muttered sourly, "And he knows it, too."
Kimber dared a look at Sheamus. He still appeared less than thrilled over the run-in with Barrett.
She stepped in front of him, placing her hands on his shoulders. It was only then that he allowed himself to look at her. She smiled gently up at him and he sighed.
"Don't worry about him." she stated, massaging his shoulders, "He's not even worth a second thought, okay?"
Sheamus nodded, though he still looked a little ticked off. He slipped am arm around her waist and pulled her close, giving her a kiss.
After a few moments he reluctantly pulled back, announcing a little sadly, "Ah have to go get ready."
Kimber cupped his cheek and grinned, "I'll see you out there. I'll be the girl in the first row, cheering loudly."
Sheamus grinned at that before giving her another kiss.
He grudgingly released her and the four women bid him and Josh goodbye before starting to walk off. Kimber went a few steps before she turned and hurried back to him. He grinned and picked her up, holding her tightly.
"No matter what happens out there," she whispered in his ear, "I am so proud of you. And I always will be."
His arms tightened and he buried his head in the crook of her neck. Against her skin he muttered, "Ah don' know what Ah did to deserve you. Jaysusknows Ah haven' always been the best man. But Ah must be doin' somethin' right if it got me you."
Kimber blinked back tears as she gave him a squeeze and a kiss on the cheek.
He sat her down but kept his arms around her for a few more moments. Then, reluctantly, he let her go. She pressed a kiss to her fingers before placing them against his cheek. Giving him an encouraging smile she backed away before, at last, turning around and heading off. He watched after her for a few moments, his expression poignant.
Soon she was gone from view and it was just him alone. He leaned back against the wall, scrubbing his hands over his face. As he slowly lowered them his features instantly filled with conviction and determination.
This was it. His last chance. If he couldn't put Big Show down now. . .
He slowly sank down the wall, crouching, elbows sitting on his knees and chin in his clasped hands. His vacant eyes bored into the far wall, but he didn't really see it. Now, with it being so close to match time, the gravity of what was about to take place and all that it meant to him was starting to hit him.
He closed his eyes, exhaling. He was never usually one to give in to self-doubt, but he found it rearing it's ugly head at that moment. Was he just fooling hisself? He had tried twice now and both times he had failed. Maybe he just didn't have what it took to put the big man down.
And if he didn't, then what? For so many months he'd been consumed with trying to get his title back. If he couldn't, where did that leave him?
His hands began to clench into fists, his anger and frustration over the past few months finally coming to a head. He surged to his feet and began to pace the length of the corridor, raking his hands through his hair.
He drew to a stop, hands clenched in the red spikes and eyes constricted. He wasn't going to do this. He was more than just a man chasing a title. If he didn't win it he would do what he had always done: pick himself up and move on.
A dark smirk began to tug at his lips. Besides the rules had changed. For him to lose Show was going to have to make him say 'I quit'. As sure as he was breathing, he would never utter those words. So he was going to keep coming and keep inflicting pain until it was that arrogant arsehole who was begging for him to stop.
A new sense of drive and determination filled the Irishman. Feeling better than he had moments ago, he turned and headed back to his locker room, ready to face whatever came his way. . .
.
.
.
.
.
The four women made their way to their ringside seats. As they got situated Siobhan leaned across Cass to talk to Kimber.
"How're you feelin', lass?" she asked the former reporter.
"Nervous." Kimber admitted with a weak laugh, "You would think I was the one in a match tonight."
"Sheamus'll be just fine." Granny spoke up, "Don' you worry about him, darlin'. He's a strong boy, both of body and heart. There's nothing' Big Show can do to him to make him say 'I quit'."
That's what Kimber was most worried about. What exactly Big Show could do to him. If he were to be seriously injured. . .
She shivered at the thought and willed herself to try and put it out of her mind. Better said than done, though.
Soon the show began, a dark match up first. It was the guys from NXT in a mini rumble. The winner would go on to get a spot in the real Royal Rumble later that night.
As they began to make their way down to ringside Kimber blinked, eyes narrowing in confusion. A couple of them were wearing black t-shirts with the saying 'Free Kimber' embossed in white on the front. A couple others were donning black armbands with the initials 'F.K.'
She blinked as realization hit her. Her hand went to her open mouth as a gasp escaped her. She glanced over to find the three women looking at her and smiling.
"Did you know?" she asked them.
"I didn't." Cass admitted.
"Ah did." Siobhan smirked, "Sheamus told me he had somethin' planned but he wouldn' say what. Guess we know now."
"I can't believe he would do this." Kimber turned back to the ring and shook her head, "That they would do this. I just. . .I'm just. . ."
She couldn't find the words to convey just how touched and honored she felt.
The mini rumble took place, Bo Dallas winning. From there the show kicked off at full force.
During various matching other Superstars and Divas would come out wearing the 'Free Kimber' shirts or armbands.
Layla and Kaitlyn came out, donning the gear. They spotted Kimber and pointed at her, grinning. Kimber pointed back, the smile never leaving her face.
Josh was even sporting an armband during his interviews.
The former reporter felt tears well up in her eyes, completely overwhelmed over the depths of support from her friends and former co-workers. She couldn't believe they would do such a wonderful thing for her.
"It's a shame that they lost their head.
A careless man who could wind up dead.
You wear your sin like it's some kind of prize.
Too many lies, too many lies."
The women rose to their feet, their eyes automatically going to the entrance. Kimber's heart began to speed up when Sheamus stepped out onto the stage and the arena erupted with cheers.
She watched on, both proud and touched, as the Irishman made his way down to the ring. Beneath the Celtic cross he wore around his neck was a 'Free Kimber' t-shirt. His features were tense and filled with resolve. It was clear just how serious this match was for him.
Sheamus made his way into the ring, walking over to the far ropes. He beat his fist against his chest before throwing his arms out and bellowing.
"That's my grandson!" Granny cheered proudly.
"Let's go, Sheamus!" Siobhan joined in.
Sheamus' eyes locked on Kimber. She mouthed the words 'I love you' and he nodded, the Celtic Warrior still somber.
He walked over to the far corner and removed his cross. He kissed it before passing it down to a member of the crew. As he removed his shirt the women in attendance began to whoop and cheer, begging for him to throw it to them.
Instead he raised it to his lips, pressing a kiss into Kimber's name before also passing it to the crewmember. The woman in question gasped, tears welling up in her eyes as her hand went to her mouth.
She felt a hand on her arm and she turned to see Cass grinning at her, "That one. Is definitely. A keeper."
Kimber nodded, turning back to her boyfriend. She continued to gaze up at him even as Big Show's music hit and the conceited champion began to make his way down to ringside. The crowd booed him but he paid them no mind, all of his attention on the challenger.
Sheamus regarded him silently, watching as Big Show made his way into the ring and to the opposite corner.
The two men glared across from each other as Justin Roberts began the introductions, "Ladies and gentlemen, this contest is for the World Heavyweight Championship!"
The crowd cheered it's approval.
"For a man to win he must get his opponent to either say 'I quit' or incapacitate him so that he's unable to answer a ten count." Justin went on, "And now, introducing first, the challenger from Dublin, Ireland, weighing 270lbs. . .Sheamus!"
The fans were on their feet as the Celtic Warrior took a few steps out into the middle of the ring and raised his fingers up in the air. He continued to keep his eyes on the Big Show as he backed into his corner.
"And his opponent, standing at seven feet tall," Justin continued, "Weighing 441lbs, he is the current World Heavyweight Champion. . .the Big Show!"
Boos, and a few cheers, rained down as the Big Show made his way out to the center of the ring, belt held high in his hands and trash talking the Irishman. Sheamus, too, advanced, wanting to show the champion that he didn't intimidate him.
The ref got in between them and Big Show turned his attention to the crowd, telling them he was the champion and that he would stay the champion.
"Boo!" Granny hissed up at the large man, "Boo, ya bleedin' muppet!"
Siobhan put a restraining hand on her grandmother's arm but couldn't help but boo up at the large man, as well.
Big Show turned back around to face Sheamus, practically snarling. Sheamus regarded him coldly, concentration written across his face. He knew Show was just trying to get at him but he wasn't going to allow him to do so. He backed into his corner, loosening up and awaiting the sounds of the bell.
Kimber gripped the barricade, her knuckles practically white, as she took her seat. Cass reached out, clasping one of her hands and drawling it away. Kimber turned to see her best friend smiling sympathetically at her, giving her hand a pat for good measure.
"Are you sure you want to watch this?" the blonde gently questioned her.
Kimber turned back to Sheamus and nodded, her eyes never leaving him, "Yes. Yes, I have to be here."
"Okay." Cass gave her hand another pat and released it.
The former reporter let out a shaky sigh, hands tightly clasping in her lap. As the bell sounded she found herself flinching at the sound.
The Irishman rushed out to meet the champion, bellowing as he delivered kicks and punches into the larger man's massive body.
"That's my grandson!" Granny jumped up and cheered, "Show him what for, lad!"
Siobhan grabbed her grandmother's hand and yanked her back down, "Granny, calm down, would ya?"
Sheamus continued to plow blows upon the other man, but soon Show began to answer. He got a particularly vicious shot to his gut, causing Sheamus to fall to his knees. Kimber cringed as she heard the sound of the punch connecting.
Show grabbed the redheaded man up by his hair before driving giving him a headbutt and knocking him back to the canvas.
Big Show dragged him over to a corner and raised his hand, meaning to deliver a devastating slap but Sheamus ducked out of the way at the last second. He spun the larger man around and hammered him again. Big Show managed to deliver another hook and the Irishman staggered back.
The champion followed after him, giving him another headbutt for good measure. Sheamus hit the mat with a 'thud' pain shooting through his back. He fought through it and rolled onto his hands and knees, struggling to get to his feet.
Big Show grabbed a hold of him, yanking him up, only to plow him with a brutal clothesline and knock him back to the ground.
"Come on, Sheamus!" Siobhan yelled, beating her hands against the padded barricade, "Come on!"
"Get up and fight, lad!" Granny joined in.
Sheamus managed to get onto his hands and knees, crawling over to the ropes. He used them for leverage as he pulled himself up. Unfortunately for him Big Show was right there, herding him into a corner. He slapped his massive palm down across the man's chest, the sound ripping over the arena.
Sheamus grunted with the force of the blow, teeth grit, and he staggered along the ropes. Show met him in the other corner, giving him another blow to the gut. Sheamus grunted, stooping over and his arm going over his injured middle.
Show grabbed him by the throat and shoved him over the corner, his hand once more slapping across his chest. Sheamus flinched and tried to move away but the champion kept him in place. He issued another slap and the challenger gasped, the air suddenly leaving his lungs. His chest felt like it was on fire and he was pretty sure he had stopped breathing for an instant.
"Ask him!" Show demanded to the ref.
The referee swallowed before lifting his microphone, "Sheamus, do you want to quit?"
He pointed the microphone at the Celtic Warrior, awaiting his answer.
Sheamus looked up at Big Show and offered a shaky laugh, stating, "Me granny hits harder than that, fella!"
"That's right, Ah do!" Granny jumped up, pointing a finger at the champion.
Practically growling, the Big Show grabbed a hold of Sheamus' arm and whipped him across the ring and into the opposite corner. Sheamus hit it with a grunt, the air once again being knocked from his body.
With a yell, Show came barreling towards him, slamming his back into the other man's chest. Sheamus grunted with the force of the blow but miraculously stayed on his feet.
The champion careened himself off of the ropes, meaning to come back for another blow. But Sheamus, with surprising quickness, pushed out of the corner and took off for the other man, taking out his knee in a flying tackle. Both champion and challenger hit the mat.
They were slow getting to their feet, Sheamus getting there first. He shot at the other man, hammering him with a double ax handle. Show went rocking back into the ropes and Sheamus jumped on him, hammering his head with a few punches.
He paused, taking notice of how Show's arms were laying over the ropes. With an evil smirk the Irishman began to tie him up in the ropes, leaving him defenseless. From there he beat him about the head and chest with his fists a few times before slipping out onto the apron. He came up behind the other man and momentarily looked out over the crowd.
He turned his attention back to the other man and, snarling, he began to drive his fist into Big Show's chest.
"One! Two! Three! Four! Five! Six! Seven! Eight! Nine! Ten!" the fans counted along, Granny loudest of all.
Sheamus turned to the ref and growled, "Ask him!"
The ref raised his mic and questioned, "Do you quit, Big Show?"
Show weakly shook his head 'no'.
Wrong answer because the Celtic Warrior once again grabbed a hold of him and proceeded to plow him with another round of blows.
One! Two! Three! Four! Five! Six! Seven! Eight! Nine! Ten!
He went back into the ring, going to the far side. He began to size the other man up and instantly Kimber was on her feet, her eyes wide as she realized what he was planning to do.
The crowd seemed to sense it, too, because they also jumped up and began to chant, "Brogue! Brogue! Brogue!"
The Celtic Warrior beat his fist against his own chest a few times before launching himself across the ring.
At that last second Big Show managed to get himself loose and he rolled out of the ring. Sheamus stopped himself short, glaring at the other man. Without wasting any time he climbed out onto the apron and dove off, landing on Big Show and knocking him to the ground. He came down with him, punching him again and again as the crowd cheered.
"Get 'em!" Granny leaned over the barricade and yelled down at her grandson, "Knock the piss outta him!"
"Granny!" Siobhan took hold of her grandmother and pulled her back a step.
Kimber was on her feet, clutching at the barricade as she watched her boyfriend a few feet away from her, pounding his fist into the Big Show's face. With each blow that landed she couldn't help but cringe. Though, she also couldn't help the way her heart slammed against her chest in excitement.
Somehow Show managed to shove Sheamus away and crawl back into the ring. The Irishman climbed to his feet and went after, intent on doing more damage. He climbed onto the top rope, getting himself centered. The second Show turned around he was airborne, aimed at the other man.
Big Show got his bearings at the last second and hit the Celtic Warrior with a midair spear just seconds before Sheamus could land.
Kimber cried out in alarm, hands going to her mouth, as she watched her boyfriend hit the canvas. Cass reached out and put her hand on her arm, her eyes also on the fallen redhead.
Sheamus rolled onto his back with a groan, arms loosely wrapped around his ribs. They were burning from the spear.
Show came out onto the floor while the Irishman ended up rolling out of the ring, hitting the mat.
Kimber tried in vein to look around the ring and see her boyfriend. Heart pounding, she found she could only watch on in horrified silence and wait.
"He'll be all right." she heard Siobhan murmur to herself, "He'll be all right."
Big Show came around the side of the ring and took hold of the smaller man's arm, bringing him up. He suddenly whipped him around, sending him careening into the steel steps.
"No!" Kimber cried out in alarm.
"Sheamus!" Siobhan gasped and Granny put an arm around her granddaughter.
"He'll be all right." the older woman stated, eyes on her fallen grandson, "Don' you worry, darlin'. There's nobody tougher than our Sheamus Michael."
Big Show leaned against the apron for a few moments, trying to regain his bearings. He turned to the ref and ordered, "Ask him! Ask him now!"
The ref kneeled down by Sheamus and tentatively asked him, "Sheamus, do you want to quit?"
He brought the microphone down and Kimber could hear her boyfriend's pants, the sounds tinted with pain. It made her heart lurch.
Sheamus opened his eyes, teeth grit as he tried to fight through the pain that was coursing through his shoulder. He looked from the ref to Big Show and narrowed his eyes.
With his teeth grit, he ground out loudly, "No!"
The fans went ballistic, chanting, "Sheamus! Sheamus! Sheamus!"
Clearly frustrated, Show took hold of the Irishman and rolled him into the ring. He followed after and dragged him up by his neck before scooping him up and slamming him into the mat. He started to circle the Irishman, glaring down at him, the wheels in his mind turning.
Hand clenched in his red spikes, he raised the other man up to his knees. Sheamus suddenly let out a bellow, driving his fist into Big Show's gut. The champion grunted, but wasn't felled. He simple came back with a headbutt, knocking Sheamus back.
The Celtic Warrior rolled over to the ropes, his back against them. As the World's Largest Athlete drew closer he growled and punched him. Show staggered back a step but jammed his knee into Sheamus' temple, causing the other man to hit the canvas.
Kimber watched him fall, everything in her crying out for her to go to the ring and do something. Try and stop Big Show or shield Sheamus. Anything! Sitting there, being unable to help him, was killing her.
Sheamus blinked, his hand slowly coming up to rub across his eyes. He tried to focus but everything appeared so blurry.
"Ask him!" he heard Big Show yell.
"Sheamus," the ref's voice called down to him, "Do you wanna quit?"
"N-No." he grunted, shaking his head to clear the cobwebs.
He felt himself being hauled to his feet before Big Show slammed his elbow onto the Irishman's bicep. Sheamus gripped the injured limb, breath hissing through his teeth. Big Show did it again and the Celtic Warrior cried out in agony.
Kimber had to duck her head, blinking at the tears that began to well up in her eyes. She quickly wiped at them, fighting not to let her emotions get the best of her. She had to be strong. She had to give Sheamus her support.
She took a few deep breaths and looked up. Then cringed as Big Show sent Sheamus shoulder first into the turnbuckle. He hit the ground, struggling to ride out the pain in his shoulder.
He let out a roar of agony as Show stepped on his chest before stepping over him. He sat up, arm wrapped around his middle as he struggled to breathe. He felt Show stalking him and he struggled to turn around. Determination and the deep seeded need to fight flowed through him as he swung out at the larger man.
Unfortunately he missed, falling onto the canvas. Show stepped back up to him, taunting him,
"Come on, fella." the champion snarled, "Come on and hit me!"
Anger began to course through the redheaded man as he fought to get to his knees. He again swung out, this time barely catching the other man in the gut. Regrettably it wasn't enough and Show came back, pounding on the Irishman's back and knocking him to the ground.
Sheamus breathed heavily as he struggled onto his hands and knees. He sat back, features twisted in pain and rage. Show delivered another vicious blow to his back and he again went down.
"Come on, Sheamus!" Kimber cried out, hands gripping the barricade as she leaned forwards, eyes locked on her boyfriend, "Come on, you can do this!"
Sheamus grunted and groaned, again going to his knees. Big Show seized him by the hair, yanking him to his feet. Another headbutt and he was again hitting the mat.
The World Heavyweight Champion snickered coldly as he again walked on top of Sheamus. As his massive girth came off of his chest, the Irishman began to thrash about, crying out in pain.
Shite that one had hurt! He struggled to breathe, trying in vein to shove the pain aside and get back to his feet.
He suddenly found himself up, Big Show hauling him to an upright position. But then the larger man had him up in the air, against his chest, with his thick arms tightly wrapped around the Irishman in a massive bear hug.
"Agh!" Sheamus ground out as he felt the air being forced from his lungs, Show's tight squeeze adding to the pain in his ribs.
Big Show's arms constricted a little more and the Celtic Warrior cried out again. His hands were shaking as he fought to hold on and not give in to the painful hold.
"Ask him!" Show bellowed, "Ask him!"
"Do you quit, Sheamus?" the ref questioned him.
"Quit!" the champion demanded, "Say it! Quit!"
Sheamus had to struggle to breathe, let alone get the words out. Not an easy task with such an excruciating hold.
"N. . ." Sheamus took a few deep breaths, shaking his head vigorously, "No!"
The fans were on their feet, cheering him on, begging for him to fight back.
"Come on, Sheamus!" Kimber was also up, pounding on the barricade, "You can do this!"
"Come on, Sheamus Michael!" Granny joined her, "Kick his giant arse!"
"Quit, you pasty faced, ginger snap!" Big Show snarled, "Quit, you potato eating Irishman! Quit! You'll never beat me! Say it! Say you quit!"
Sheamus blinked as he began to focus on what the Big Show was saying. His brows lowered, his eyes narrowed and his face began to redden with untapped anger instead of excursion.
Shaking with rage, he turned to the larger man. With a bellow he suddenly slammed his forehead into Big Show's. The larger man grunted, but his hold didn't break. The Irishman did it again and he felt Big Show's grip loosen. He did it a third time and suddenly the champion released him.
As Sheamus feet hit the mat he didn't waste any time, throwing hooks into the other man's massive body. Somehow Show was able to fight through the shots, shoving the pale man away.
Sheamus hit the canvas and rolled, coming to rest by the ropes. Before he could get up, though, the champion was back on him, pressing his neck down across the middle rope, cutting off his air supple.
Sheamus thrashed, trying to free himself. Somehow he managed to slip out from between the ropes, coming onto the apron. Big Show went to grab for him when Sheamus let out a yell, driving his shoulder into the larger man's gut. He quickly stood up and grabbed Show by the neck, jumping off the apron. Show's neck snapped across the top rope, knocking the World Heavyweight Champion back a few steps.
The Irishman quickly climbed back onto the apron, launching himself over the top rope and hitting Big Show with a battering ram. The larger man staggered back a few steps but somehow managed to stay on his feet.
Sheamus ran across the ring, taking-off from the ropes in a bid to bring the big man down. Unfortunately Show saw him coming and raised his massive boot, hitting the Celtic Warrior square in the chest and knocking him to the ground.
The Irishman blinked, staring up at the arena lights. He tried to sit up but his shaky limbs just wouldn't cooperate yet. Suddenly he heard the sounds of feet running, of the ring shaking, and the next thing he knew Show was dropping his considerable weight down on his chest.
"Agh!" Sheamus rolled onto his side, struggling to breathe.
Shaking, he one way or another managed to get to a sitting position. In that instant the Big Show was back on him, grabbing his arm and locking his meaty hand on the spot where his neck and shoulder met. He applied more pressure, causing Sheamus to wince and grunt in pain.
"Ask him!" Big Show ordered the ref.
"Sheamus, do you quit?"
The champion squeezed harder, earning a bellow from the Irishman. Air hissed between his teeth and his face screwed up in pain as he tried to push the hurt aside and get some kind of offense.
"Sheamus, do you quit?" the ref repeated.
"No!" Sheamus roared before somehow finding the strength to surge to his feet.
"Get 'em!" Granny cheered her grandson on, "Murder the bastard!"
Kimber found she could only stare on silently. She wanted to cheer him on, she really did. But she could see just how much pain he was in and that only made her want them to stop.
How much more could he take? What if he never quit?
She closed her eyes briefly, visions of the man she loved laid up in a hospital bed flashing in her mind. The thoughts left her cold with terror. She shivered and forced herself to push those fears aside.
As she opened her eyes she watched on as the Irishman began to drive his fist into the Big Show's forehead. He hit him seven times before the champion finally released his grip.
The Celtic Warrior came off the ropes, ready to do more damage, when the Big Show suddenly unleashed his WMD. It hit the challenger square in the jaw and Sheamus instantly crumbled to the mat.
"No!" Kimber screamed in horror, her hands flying to her mouth.
"Oh!" Siobhan gasped, grabbing a hold of Granny's hand, her wide, frightened eyes on her downed brother.
Big Show leaned back against the corner and began to grin.
"One!" the ref started to count.
"Come on, Sheamus." Kimber breathed, eyes locked on her boyfriend, "Move. Move."
She said it not so that he could beat the count but so that she could be sure he was all right. Unfortunately he remained unmoving.
"Two!" the ref continued.
Still nothing from the challenger.
"Three!"
Show's grin began to grow.
"Four!"
"Let's go, Sheamus!" Siobhan pounded on the barricade.
Granny joined in, "Let's go, Sheamus! Get up, grandson!"
"Five!"
Big Show began to laugh.
"Six!"
"Please." Kimber whispered, "Please open your eyes. Come on, my beautiful warrior, you can do it."
Unexpectedly Sheamus opened his eyes, blinking. Everything was hazy, his vision blurred. He closed them again, rubbing his shaky hand over them.
"Seven!"
The ref's call broke through the fog in his head and, groaning, the Celtic Warrior tried to sit up.
Big Show's smile began to fade as he stared at the other man in disbelief.
"Eight!" the ref continued to count and the fans cheered the Irishman on.
"Get up!" Siobhan yelled to her brother, "Sheamus, you have to beat the count!"
Sheamus managed to roll onto his hands and knees, limbs shaking with the effort.
"Nine!" the ref continued.
Suddenly the Celtic Warrior surged to his feet, his body leaning on the ropes for support. He scrubbed his hands over his face as he fought through the haze.
Show practically growled as he left the ring and jumped to the ground. He stalked around the side of the ring, yanking the apron up. He began to root around until he finally straightened. In his hands was the massive steel chair he had used at TLC.
Kimber's eyes widened at the sight of it. She instantly looked to her boyfriend and she felt her spirits begin to plunge. He was still leaning against the ropes, hand rubbing over his eyes as he tries to clear the cobwebs.
Big Show climbed back into the ring. He began to grin evilly as he raised the chair in front of him and lined up his shot. Suddenly he let out a yell and charged across the ring, meaning to nail the Celtic Warrior with the chair and knock him out of the ring.
Everyone let out screams and cheers as, moment before the Big Show could make contact, Sheamus spun around and landed a perfect Brogue Kick. His boot hit the chair, which slammed back into Show's face.
The champion fell backwards, the chair clattering to the canvas beside him.
"Yes!" Kimber found herself crying out in joy.
Sheamus sank to his knees, panting heavily, as he watched the Big Show laid out a few feet away from him.
"One!" the ref began his count.
"Two!" Kimber, Cass, Siobhan and Granny joined in.
"Three!" the fans also got into the act.
The Big Show didn't look like he was planning on moving for a long time.
"Four!"
Sheamus continued to glare at the fallen man, watching him closely. Should Show get to his feet he was going to grab that giant chair and bate seven shades of shite outta him.
"Five!" the ref continued.
Suddenly Show began to stir. He didn't sit up, or even open his eyes, but his hand slowly fell across his face.
"Six!"
Sheamus rose to his feet, looking from the champion to the chair and back again.
"Seven!"
Show slowly rolled onto his stomach, groaning.
"Eight!"
Big Show rolled out of the ring onto his feet on the floor. He staggered over to the announce table, leaning heaving on it as he tried to get his bearings.
Sheamus started to go for the chair when he paused, slowly looking back to the Big Show. Suddenly a sinister light came to his eyes and a cold smirk came to his lips.
The fans rose to their feet and watched on as he slipped out of the ring and began to hammer Big Show with blows to his back. Show cried out, trying to get away. Only for him, getting away meant climbing onto the announce table. Sheamus followed after him and suddenly had him up, ready to deliver White Noise.
"No! No!" Show, eyes wide and now fully alert, began to cry out, "I quit! I quit! I quit!"
Sheamus glared down at him for an instant. Kimber saw the look in his eyes and she began to cringe, knowing what was coming.
She barely finished the thought before he preformed the move, slamming them both onto the announce table. It collapsed under them and the arena erupting in cheers.
The bell sounded and Sheamus surged to his feet. Eyes wild, he threw his arms out at his sides and bellowed in triumph.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Justin Roberts announced, "Your winner, and new Heavyweight Champion. . .Sheamus!"
Kimber let out a cheer, her own arms going up in the air in celebration. She was shaking with the release of emotions.
Sheamus climbed back into the ring and leaned against the ropes, yelling out at the crowd. His eyes landed on her and he began to grin. Not wasting a moment he jumped onto the floor and hurried over to her.
"I love you!" Kimber cried out as his arms came around her, picking her up and holding her close.
"Ah love you." the Celtic Warrior growled with conviction seconds before his lips claimed hers.
All around them the fans cheered the couple on. Siobhan beamed while Cass let out a whoop. And even Granny was applauding her grandson and his girl. Backstage various Superstars, Divas and crew did the same.
It wasn't long before Sheamus pulled back but he didn't release her. Instead, he kept his arms tightly around her as he lifted her over the barricade and out onto the floor. Kimber found she could only look up at him, openmouthed, as he took her hand and led her back into the ring.
At the sight of her a few of the fans began to call her name, a couple more chanting 'Welcome back!'. Kimber couldn't hear them, though, as she remained focused on the man before her.
Sheamus kept her hand firmly in his own, both because he couldn't get enough of touching her and because a part of him was worried she would run away. He took a microphone and stared out over the crowd.
"Ah want to thank all of you for bein' here wit' me tonight as Ah reclaimed my World Heavyweight championship." he began, tugging Kimber closer as he added, "Ah especially want to thank the beautiful woman at me side. Wit'out her love and support Ah don' know. . ."
He turned to her, at a loss of just what to say. There was so much he wanted to tell her, to tell the world. But words had never come easy for him. And especially not now, when they were about the woman who meant as much to him as his own family.
Kimber seemed to understand, though, as she gave him a tender smile and squeezed his hand.
"Some of you might know what's goin' on, some of you might not." Sheamus exhaled and cleared his throat, "For those who don' know, Kember was fired two weeks ago by Vince McMahon because she stepped in for her friend, Josh Mathews, when he got hurt on SmackDown."
This was met with the sounds of booing and protests from the WWE Universe.
"That's why yer seein' a lot of us tonight wearin' 'Free Kember' t-shirts and arm bands." the Irishman went on, "We want to show our support for this woman, like she's done for us since she came here."
"Free Kimber!" a group of fans began to chant and clap, "Free Kimber!"
"Free Kimber!" Cass, Siobhan and Granny joined in.
Sheamus looked out over crowd and began to grin. Raising his girlfriend's hand in the air he started to chant as well, "Free Kember! Free Kember!"
The fans' cheering grew as John, AJ, Layla, Kaitlyn and Josh made their way out onto the stage.
"Come on, let's hear it!" John announced, "Free Kimber! Free Kimber!"
Kimber looked around in surprise, tears pooling in her eyes as she took in the scene. Her gratefulness grew as more of the Superstars, Divas and crew joined the five out on the stage and took up the chant.
She glanced up to see Sheamus smiling down at her. He slipped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer.
"I can't believe you planned this." she breathed as she looked up at him in wonder, "I just. . ."
She shook her head, wiping at the tears that threatened to fall from her eyes. He continued to grin, appearing at that moment both very boyish and very charming. It only made her love for him grow.
"Ah told you this wasn' over." he winked.
"All right, knock it off!" came an enraged voice, "I said knock it off, dammit!"
Sheamus and Kimber looked to the stage as Vince McMahon came tearing out from behind the curtain.
He glared at the people on the stage before turning his attention to the couple in the ring.
"Just who the hell do you think you are?" he demanded as he stormed off down the ramp and towards the ring, "How dare you disrupt my pay-per-view for this! Sheamus, get out of that ring right now or I'll have you striped of the title! Kimberlynn, I should have you thrown out of this building and arrested!"
Kimber involuntarily took a step back and shook her head. No! No, this couldn't be happening.
"Try it." Sheamus all but snarled as he came to stand in front of the former reporter, "If anyone even thinks about touchin' her Ah'll kick their arse."
"Sheamus, no." Kimber reached out and placed a hand on his arm, "Don't. Look, I'll just go, all right?"
He wheeled on her, glaring down at her, "It's not all right! Yer not goin' anywhere."
"What can I do?" Kimber threw her hands up in the air, "It's his company. He's holding all the cards."
She reached out and clasped his cheek, giving him a bittersweet smile, "Thank you for trying. It means more than I can say."
She started to walk away when she felt his hand close around her wrist, keeping her in place. She turned back to him, protesting. He wouldn't hear of it though as he turned his attention back to Vince.
"You think you've won, huh, fella?" Sheamus began to grin, but there was no warmth in his expression.
"Oh, I know I have." Vince smirked, voice dripping with conceit, "I am Vince McMahon, after all."
Sheamus continued to grin as he looked down at the canvas and rubbed the back of his neck. Kimber could see the wheels in his mind turning and she wondered what he was thinking.
The Irishman turned back to Vince and shrugged, "Well you have me there, fella. You are Vince McMahon, owner of the WWE. And if you don' want Kember in yer company you have the right to say so."
"Thank you so much for your approval, Sheamus." Vince replied sarcastically.
"But that doesn' mean that she can' go work somewhere else." Sheamus' grin grew and a mischievous light came to his eyes, "In fact, from what Ah heard, Impact Wrestlin's already made her quite a nice offer to join them. They want her to be a commentator on their show."
"Good for her." Vince tried to appear uninterested but his eyes told another story, "I'm sure she'll be very happy there."
Kimber looked up at Sheamus sharply. Where was he going with this?
"Yeah, Ah thought so, too." Sheamus nodded, "And ya know, fella, it got me to thinkin'. See, me contract is almost up here in the WWE and, well. . ."
He reached over and took Kimber's hand, drawing her close, "Ah'm sure Dixie Carter wouldn' object to me goin' to Impact to be wit' Kember. In fact, she'd probably like it a lot."
He pretended to ponder something before going on, "And, hey, aren' there quite a few lads and lasses up there who's contracts are gettin' ready to expire? Wouldn' that be somethin' if they decided to join us down in Florida."
Vince swallowed, visibly nervous, as he cast his eyes back up to the stage. His gaze particularly landed on John Cena, who simply beamed and waved.
He turned back to Sheamus, face red, and he began to bellow, "Shut up! If you think you can blackmail me into giving Kimberlynn her job back-"
"Maybe he can't, but I can."
Everyone turned to the stage and watched on as Stephanie, followed by Triple H, made her way down the ramp and towards her father.
"Dad, I am surprised at you." Stephanie looked up at her father in disbelief, "All of my life, you've always taught me to do what was best for business. And according to the response Kimber got from her commentary on SmackDown she's good for business."
The Billion Dollar Princess shook her head, "But instead of rewarding her you decided to fire her just because it wasn't your idea to put her on the air? What kind of message does that send out, Dad?"
She looked pointedly at him as she added, "And especially what kind of message does that send to your granddaughters?"
Vince, realizing where she was going with this, paled, "My granddaughters?"
"Yeah." Stephanie nodded, "You know, Dad, I don't think I want my children to be around a man who would have such disregard for women."
Vince actually looked wounded by that. He turned to Triple H, hoping to find an ally, but the Executive Officer only shrugged.
"Sorry, Pop." he stated, sounding anything but, "But I have to go with my beautiful wife on this. No offense, but I'm much more scared of her than I am of you."
The WWE owner looked from his daughter and son-in-law back to Sheamus and Kimber, pondering. His eyes began to narrow as he realized he couldn't win this one.
"All right!" he roared in anger, "All right, you win! Kimberlynn, you're rehired! Now get out of my ring so we can continue the pay-per-view!"
The Superstars, Divas, crew and fans erupted in cheers over the news. Kimber's eyes and mouth widened as she watched the WWE owner storm off backstage. Had she really just heard him correctly? Had he actually just given her her job back?
Sheamus let out a howl of joy and grabbed a hold of her, raising her high in his arms as he embraced her.
"Ah told you this wasn' over!" he grinned at her before giving her another squeeze.
"I can't believe it." the now rehired reporter found herself laughing in disbelief.
They eventually pulled back and he slowly sat her on her feet. He kept his arms around her waist, though, wanting her close.
"How can I ever thank you?" she asked him, gazing up at him with equal parts wonder and love, "You never gave up. You always fought for me. For us. How can I ever thank you for that? How can I ever tell you, show you, enough how much that means to me?"
"You already did." Sheamus grinned down at her as he cupped her cheek, "You do every day, angel."
Her hand covered his as she smiled sweetly up at him.
"So you got yer job back." the Celtic Warrior winked at her, "What are you goin' to do now?"
"Kiss the World Heavyweight Champion." Kimber murmured as her hands slid up his chest, "Then take him back to his hotel room to help him celebrate his victory."
"Lucky fella." Sheamus chuckled, low and sensual, as he slowly lifted her into his arms before pressing his lips to hers in a long, slow kiss that made her toes curl.
And all around them, the WWE Universe cheered.
The End
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I just want to give a HUGE thank you to everyone who read, favorited, reviewed and liked this story. It truly means so much to me. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I seriously have THE BEST readers in the world. Bar none. :)
I don't really know what else to say. Oh, wait, there is one thing. . .SEQUEL! Yep, I am planning a sequel entitled When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. I don't know when the first part will be posted, yet, though. (I'm jumping right back into Beauty and the Beast - next part of that coming out in a week). All I can say is look for it.
Until next time, y'all. ;)