Shelby and Tori share and Epilogue
In the dimly lit locker room of the CFC arena, Tori and Shelby stood together, their birthday marked by a significant event - Shelby's comeback to the world of professional fighting. It was February 2025, and the sisters were now thirty years old.
Tori watched Shelby as she prepared for her match, her fighter's spirit burning bright. The years had passed since her last fight, and it had been five long years since she had stepped into the CFC ring. She had taken a break to start a family with Andre, and now, with determination in her eyes, she was ready to regain her title.
Tori couldn't help but wonder why Shelby had chosen their birthday for this momentous return. "Shelby, why today of all days?" Tori asked, concern etched on her face.
Shelby, wrapping her hands and donning her fighting gear, turned to Tori with a confident smile. "I've been preparing for a year, and this felt like the right moment. I want to prove to myself that I've still got what it takes."
Shelby, now a successful orthopedist, felt a pang of worry. "But, Shelby, it's been so long. Are you sure you're ready for this?"
Shelby chuckled, trying to ease her sister's concerns. "Don't worry, sis. I've been working with bones for years. If that little girl out there manages to break something, at least I'll know how to put myself back together."
Tori didn't find the humor in it. "This is no exhibition, Shelby. It's real, and it's dangerous."
Shelby finished her preparations and gave Tori a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "I know, Tori. But it's something I need to do. I want to see if I can still be the fighter I once was."
Tori sighed, her concern lingering, but she knew her sister well enough to understand her determination. "Just promise me you'll be safe out there. Happy birthday, Shelby."
Shelby flashed a confident smile. "I promise, Tori. And thanks. Here's to a comeback."
As they shared a brief sisterly moment, Shelby stepped out of the locker room, ready to face her challenge and see if she could reignite the fire within her.
As Shelby made her way toward the cage, her footsteps echoing through the corridor, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of nerves. It had been a while since she had been in the spotlight, and the memories of what led her here flooded her mind.
One memory that stood out was when she and her twin sister Tori moved in together into their first apartment. They were both starting new chapters in their lives. Shelby was studying kinesiology at UCLA, while Tori had been accepted into the American Music and Dramatic Academy for her first two years in Los Angeles.
Living together had been an amazing and normal experience. Their shared journey through college life had been filled with laughter, support, and endless adventures. Andre, who was Shelby's boyfriend at the time, often spent the night at their apartment, which occasionally annoyed Tori. Still, they had created a tight-knit, supportive family dynamic.
However, as Andre's music career took off, he had to spend more and more time on the road, and it became increasingly difficult for them to maintain their relationship. Eventually, they decided to part ways, and Shelby found herself grappling with the emotional fallout.
Tori and Andre walked into the apartment laughing and Joking. "You are so whipped Tori, admit it." He said to his best friend as they entered.
"I admit nothing," Tori stated with a chuckle.
"Babe, you so are…" Jade's smooth voice intoned. Then they all paused and looked at the girl studying at the dining table.
Shelby couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. Andre walked in with a tired smile, a guitar case slung over his shoulder. Her sister and her girlfriend had their own weary dispositions, studying at a conservatory seemed to be its own type of draining experience.
"Hey, babe," he greeted her, leaning down to give her a quick kiss.
"Hey," Shelby replied, though her voice held a hint of uncertainty. Jade and Tori looked at each other, and Tori pulled Jade into her bedroom to give the two some privacy. Shelby motioned for him to sit beside her, and he obliged, placing his guitar gently on the coffee table.
"Is something bothering you?" Andre asked, his brow furrowing as he sensed the unease in the air.
Shelby took a deep breath, summoning the courage to say what had been weighing on her heart. "Andre, we need to talk."
He turned to look at her, concern etched across his face. "Okay, what's going on?"
She hesitated, searching for the right words. "It's about us. Our relationship."
Andre's eyes widened as he considered the implications of her words. "Shelby, what's wrong? Is something happening with you? With us?"
Shelby nodded, her gaze fixed on the floor. "You know how busy you've been with your music. The touring, the recording… It's become your entire life, and I get it, I really do. But it's changed things between us."
Andre reached out to gently touch her hand, his concern deepening. "Shelby, I love you. You know that, right?"
Tears welled up in her eyes as she met his gaze. "I love you too, Andre. But I can't ignore the fact that we've been drifting apart. We're on different paths now, and it's not fair to either of us to hold on to something that might not work anymore."
A heavy silence settled between them as Andre absorbed her words. The reality of the situation began to sink in, and the pain of the impending decision became tangible.
Shelby's voice quivered as she continued, "I think it's time for us to go our separate ways, at least for now. You need to focus on your music, and I need to find my own path, too."
Andre nodded slowly, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I don't want to lose you, Shelby, but I understand."
Tears streamed down Shelby's cheeks as she leaned in to kiss him one last time, a bittersweet farewell to a love that had once been so strong.
Their break-up was a painful parting, but it was a necessary one. Both knew they had to follow their own journeys and chase their dreams, even if it meant doing so without each other.
It was during that challenging period that she threw herself into her fighting career, using the cage as a means to cope with the pain and anger. Shelby's determination led to remarkable success in her freshman year, breaking records and establishing her name in the annals of CFC history.
During her sophomore year, Shelby found herself caught in a whirlwind of activity. She was pushing herself to excel in her studies, her fighting career, and her social life. She fought more fiercely in the CFC, securing victory after victory, and her name was becoming legendary in the world of mixed martial arts. To cope with her demanding schedule, she sometimes contemplated using substances like Adderall to stay on top of her game, though she refrained from going down that path.
In her personal life, Shelby dated frequently, and her romantic interests seemed to change almost as often as the seasons. Tori, her twin sister, witnessed a parade of different guys leaving Shelby's room in the mornings throughout that year.
It was a chaotic and unsustainable lifestyle, and it worried her friends and family. Concerned for her well-being, they organized an intervention. Andre, Shelby's former boyfriend, also participated. He admitted that he had never truly stopped loving her, and the intensity of their past relationship still lingered in his heart.
The intervention was the turning point. Mainly because the hole she was trying to fill was Andre-sized. Shelby and Andre found themselves in a quiet corner of the room. The atmosphere was heavy with concern and love from their friends and family. Their eyes met, and an unspoken understanding passed between them. It was time to lay their feelings bare.
Shelby, her voice barely above a whisper, began, "Andre, I... I can't believe you're here."
Andre nodded, his eyes locked onto hers. "I couldn't stay away, Shel. I never stopped loving you. Seeing you like this, it scared me. I don't want to lose you."
A tear welled up in Shelby's eye, and she reached for his hand. "I've been such a mess, Andre. I didn't know how to handle everything, and I thought pushing everyone away was the answer. But it wasn't. I lost sight of what really mattered."
He squeezed her hand gently, his thumb brushing away her tear. "It's okay, Shel. We all make mistakes. I've made my fair share. But I can't stand the thought of you going through this alone."
Shelby's voice quivered as she admitted, "I don't want to be alone. I need you, Andre."
With that, their distance closed, and their lips met in a soft, longing kiss. It was a kiss that spoke of forgiveness, of love rekindled, and of a fresh start. As they pulled away, Andre held Shelby close, his arms encircling her.
"We can make this work, Shelby," he whispered. "We can find a balance, and I'll be right here with you every step of the way."
Shelby rested her head on his shoulder, feeling the warmth of his embrace and the safety of his love. "I believe you, Andre. I love you."
"I love you too, Shelby. And we're going to get through this together."
With that promise, they knew that their love had withstood the test of time and turmoil. It was a fresh beginning, filled with hope and the certainty that they were meant to be together.
That night, Shelby's life took a dramatic turn. Surprised nine months later with the arrival of AJ, their son. Adjusting to motherhood and the responsibilities that came with it was a challenging yet fulfilling journey. She had to put her fighting career on hold and focus on raising their child. It was a whirlwind of sleepless nights, diaper changes, and baby giggles.
Despite the challenges, Shelby and Andre's love only grew stronger. They decided to take their commitment to the next level and got married, sealing their love with vows exchanged in front of their friends and family. Being in the public eye helped them navigate the complexities of parenthood while still pursuing their dreams.
Shelby's determination shone as she juggled her roles as a wife, mother, and student. She continued her education, working towards her degree in kinesiology, despite the additional responsibilities that came with parenthood.
However, life had another surprise in store for the couple. Just six months after AJ's birth, Shelby found herself pregnant once again. This time, they would be welcoming a new member into their family while AJ was still a baby.
The ultrasound room was a space filled with excitement and anticipation as Shelby lay on the examination table, Andre sitting next to her, holding her hand. They were here to get a glimpse of their second child, and the room was abuzz with the sound of the ultrasound machine.
As the technician applied the gel and started moving the wand over Shelby's belly, the image of their baby began to take shape on the monitor. Andre couldn't contain his excitement, his eyes fixed on the screen. Shelby, on the other hand, was feeling a mix of emotions.
The technician suddenly paused, a curious expression on their face. "Hold on a second," they said and adjusted the machine slightly. After a few moments, the image on the screen changed, revealing a second baby.
Shelby's eyes widened, and her grip on Andre's hand tightened. "Wait, there are two?"
The technician smiled and confirmed, "Yes, you're having twins."
Tears welled up in Shelby's eyes as she looked between the two tiny forms on the screen. "Twins? But we already have AJ, and he's such a handful. I haven't even gotten him to sleep through the night." She felt overwhelmed, unsure of whether to be happy or worried about this unexpected twist.
Andre, however, was beaming with joy. "Twins, Shel! That's amazing! We're going to have two more beautiful babies. We'll figure it out, just like we always do."
As they left the ultrasound room, Shelby's heart was filled with a mix of emotions. The road ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: their love and determination would see them through whatever challenges lay ahead. They were a team, and they were about to embark on a new and exciting chapter in their lives as a family of five.
Shelby's life had taken a dramatic turn with the arrival of her twins, Vega and Sirrah, and the birth of AJ. She had to put her career on hold, juggling motherhood and the challenges of raising three infants. It was a daunting and overwhelming experience, and her dreams of becoming a doctor seemed distant.
While Tori was thriving in New York, pursuing her passion for acting, Shelby was left to navigate the complexities of motherhood. The twins were a handful, and AJ's energy seemed endless. The demands of parenting consumed her days and nights, and her dreams of medical school had to be put on the back burner.
It wasn't until the twins turned two and AJ was three years old that Shelby began to reclaim her own life. She started working out, regaining her strength and confidence. As the children grew, she slowly found her footing, learning to balance her responsibilities as a mother with her aspirations.
With unwavering determination, Shelby resumed her studies. Despite the setback, she graduated a year and a half later than planned, earning her bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. But her ambitions didn't stop there. She had her sights set on medical school, and with her family's support, she gained acceptance to pursue her dream.
Shelby's journey had been filled with challenges and sacrifices, but she had never given up on her aspirations. With a degree in hand and a future in medicine beckoning, she was ready to face the next chapter of her life, proving that with resilience and determination, she could overcome any obstacle in her path.
As Shelby stepped into the octagon, the roar of the crowd filled the arena. It was her moment, and the audience was firmly in her corner, their cheers and applause echoing her name. The announcer's voice cut through the noise, and he declared it was a special day, "Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, I have a special announcement to make. Today, we're not just here for a fight; we're here to celebrate a remarkable occasion. It's Shelby Marks' birthday!" The crowd erupted in a spontaneous rendition of "Happy Birthday," and Shelby couldn't help but smile as the melody of well-wishes enveloped her.
The announcer's tone shifted from celebration to speculation. "That's right, Shelby Marks is turning a year older today. And what a way to mark your birthday, inside the CFC octagon. Now, the big question is, is thirty the new sixteen? Can Shelby Marks make a comeback and break some of her own unbreakable records? We're about to find out. So, let's give a big round of applause for the birthday girl, and let the fights begin!"
As the announcer's words provoked a mix of cheers and laughter from the crowd, Tori couldn't help but interject with a playful "Boo!" She might have shared the initial doubt about Shelby's return, but she was certainly not going to let anyone underestimate her sister's strength. Her comment was met with a smattering of supportive chuckles from those around her.
Tori settled into her seat, sandwiched between her nephew AJ and her life partner Jade. AJ was the apple of her eye, and she often indulged him with affection and treats, especially since Shelby and Andre had their hands full with the twins. It was easy to see how much he cherished these moments with his aunt.
Recalling AJ's birth, Tori's thoughts wandered back to those precious times when he had first come into the world. It was the beginning of an incredible journey for her sister and the entire family, one that had its ups and downs but was ultimately filled with love and cherished moments.
In the softly lit hospital room, Tori stood by the window, her heart a whirlwind of emotions. She had been eagerly awaiting this moment for days, ever since Shelby went into labor. He was finally here, and the anticipation had been building up inside her.
Tori stepped closer to the bassinet, her heart aching with love and longing. As she looked at AJ, she couldn't help but think about the future, about the moments she would share with him as his aunt. She was excited to be a part of his life, to watch him grow, and to be there for all the milestones.
But amid the joy, there was a touch of sadness. She knew that Shelby was going to be a wonderful mother, but it also meant that their lives were changing. They had been inseparable for so long, and now, they were stepping into new chapters of their lives. It was bittersweet, the end of an era and the beginning of something beautiful but different.
Tori leaned down and gently kissed AJ's tiny forehead, then lifted him into her arms. ori couldn't help but coo as she cradled AJ in her arms. His tiny fingers reached out, and his bright eyes seemed to focus on her. She leaned closer to his ear and spoke in a soft, soothing voice.
"Hey there, little AJ," Tori whispered, her heart filled with tenderness. "You're just the most perfect little human, you know that? Your Aunt Tori is going to spoil you with love and adventures."
AJ responded with a gurgle, and Tori chuckled. "That's right, you're my little adventure buddy, aren't you? We'll have so much fun together, I promise."
She continued to talk to the baby, telling him about the world outside and the exciting things they would do together. The baby's coos and smiles in response only made Tori's heart melt. As an aunt, she was determined to be the best playmate, confidante, and cheerleader for AJ as he grew and explored the world.
And so, in that hospital room, Tori and AJ began what would be a lifelong conversation, full of love, laughter, and endless possibilities.
"Aunt Tori, is Mom really good at this?" In the midst of their conversation, AJ's innocent question made Tori pause. She gazed down at her nephew, contemplating how to respond.
"Yeah, buddy, your mom is really good at this," Tori replied, her voice gentle and warm. "She's an amazing mom, and she loves you so much."
As Jade leaned closer with a sly smirk, Tori's cheeks flushed, and she couldn't help but chuckle. "You remember our first CFC fight?" Jade teased.
Tori's embarrassment was evident as she stammered, "Not really… I mean… We weren't doing too much watching, were we?"
Jade's laughter rang out, and she wrapped her arm around Tori, pulling her and AJ closer. Tori sighed contentedly, grateful for the happiness and love she found in Jade.
Tori's contented sigh filled the room, and her heart swelled with joy. She was elated to have become Jade's life partner. Their journey started fairly early in their lives, driven by their shared passions and desires for each other. Their connection was undeniable, and it was a bond that felt unbreakable.
Their parents, however, were far from pleased with their decision. They were absolutely livid when they learned that Shelby and Andre were planning their wedding. It was a momentous occasion for both sisters, and Tori and Jade didn't want to be left out. They longed to share this special day together, celebrating their love, and making lifelong commitments.
The room was a swirling vortex of emotions. Tori had been pacing nervously, watching Shelby pack her bags for a weekend trip to Vegas. The tension in the air was palpable, and Tori couldn't suppress her disapproval, voicing her concerns about the sudden departure from their long-standing plan.
"We always said we'd have a double wedding, Shel. Why are you doing this?" Tori protested, her worry etched across her face.
Shelby, equally resolute, rolled her eyes and released a tired sigh. She knew this conversation was inevitable. "Tori, it's important to me that our child isn't born outside of marriage. I hope you can understand that."
As the argument continued to escalate, Jade walked into the room, her face set in a stern expression. She wasn't about to let this escalate into a full-blown sibling dispute.
Tori, in a fit of frustration and feeling unheard, blurted out, "Nobody cares if you're married when the baby's born!"
Jade, not one to back down, reprimanded Tori for her narrow-mindedness. "Tori, this is your sister's life. You don't get to decide what's important to her."
Frustrated and on the brink of tears, Tori turned away from Jade, retreating into the room to gather her thoughts and emotions.
Shelby, aware of her sister's disapproval, explained to Jade what Tori wanted for their life. Jade listened attentively, then turned to follow Tori into the room. Tori lay in bed, clearly upset and conflicted.
Jade spoke up, her voice filled with determination. She looked at Tori with a heartfelt expression and said, "Tori, I have something to ask you."
Tori, caught off guard by the unexpected turn of events, turned her attention to Jade. "What is it, Jade?"
Jade took a deep breath and locked eyes with her girlfriend. "Tori, will you marry me?"
Tori blinked, stunned by the sudden proposal. Her initial frustration and concern over Shelby's decision now seemed to melt away. She looked at Jade, her heart racing, and then at her sister, who had a surprised but hopeful expression on her face.
Tori's voice quivered with emotion as she replied, "Really?" Jade nodded with a soft smile.
"Yes, Jade. I will marry you."
Jade's smile broadened, and she leaned in to kiss Tori deeply. "Now hurry and get packing. We have a double wedding to attend."
The fight began, and the arena was electrified with excitement. Tori sat on the edge of her seat, her eyes fixed on the octagon. She was there to support her sister, Shelby, just as Shelby had supported her through all the phases of their training, including their time in New York for Tori's Broadway debut in the chorus of "Hamilton."
Tori's time on Broadway had been a dream come true. Getting to share that experience with Jade, the love of her life, made it all the more special. From donning corsets to late-night rehearsals, they had poured their hearts into their work and each other. New York was their playground, and their shared experiences had deepened their bond.
Sometimes, it was Tori landing acting jobs, and sometimes it was Jade, but they always found a way to work together and support each other. Shelby had been their greatest cheerleader through it all, and she continued to be, even as she entered the CFC octagon once more.
As the fight raged on, Tori couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the remarkable journey they had undertaken as a family.
Amid the pandemic, the world has changed drastically. Broadway had gone dark, and the bustling streets of New York City had fallen eerily silent. For Tori and Jade, it was an especially trying time. They were the only members of their family living on the East Coast, far from their loved ones back in Los Angeles.
Tori found herself in a grim situation, confined to a hospital bed, battling a severe case of the virus. The isolation and uncertainty had taken a toll on her, making her appreciate the significance of family even more.
Meanwhile, Jade was trapped in their New York apartment, longing for the familiar faces and comfort of her family and friends on the other side of the country. The pandemic had left her feeling isolated, and the city that never sleeps had fallen into an eerie slumber.
In the midst of the pandemic, when uncertainty and fear loomed large, Tori and Jade clung to the virtual connections they could maintain. Their video calls became a lifeline, a way to bridge the physical distance that separated them.
Tori's voice quivered as she spoke to Shelby, who was miles away in Los Angeles. "Shelby, I'm really scared. This virus is relentless, and I'm not sure I can beat it."
Shelby, her eyes brimming with tears, tried to provide comfort and strength from afar. "Tori, don't say that. You're strong, and you have to fight this. We need you here with us."
But the fear was palpable in Tori's eyes as she continued, "I know, but what if... what if I don't make it? What if I leave Jade all alone here in this city?"
Shelby, who had always been a pillar of support for her family, tried to reassure her sister. "Tori, you can't think like that. We're all in this together, and we'll get through it. Jade is strong, too, and we're going to support her. You're not alone in this fight."
Tears streamed down Tori's face as she clutched her phone, feeling an overwhelming mix of love and fear. "I love you, Shel. Please take care of Jade for me."
Shelby nodded, her voice choked with emotion. "I love you too, Tori. We're going to get through this, all of us, as a family."
From Los Angeles to New York and back, they had weathered many storms together, and now they were here, cheering on Shelby as she pursued her dreams once again.
Amidst the cheers and the adrenaline of the fight, Tori found herself lost in thought. Jade's enthusiastic cheer for Shelby snapped her back to reality, and she turned her attention to the intense bout. Shelby had her opponent in a tight lock, and the crowd roared with excitement as the girl struggled to break free.
Beside her, AJ was on his feet, cheering for his mother. Tori couldn't help but smile as she ran her fingers through his curly hair. The support of her sister and her nephew meant the world to her, especially considering the harsh turn her life had taken during the pandemic.
Tori had been one of the unlucky ones, left with lingering "slow COVID" symptoms that had permanently affected her body. Mobility was now a challenge, and her lungs had suffered irreparable damage. It was a harsh reality that she had to come to terms with, but AJ's presence in her life was a silver lining.
She feared that she might never have a family like the one Shelby had with Andre, especially since her life partner wasn't interested in carrying children.
Tori had just returned from a check-up, her spirits lifted by the doctor's reassuring words that they were cleared to resume their intimate life. The mood between her and Jade was affectionate, and they shared a passionate moment together.
As they lay in each other's arms afterward, Jade broke the silence. "You being gone for so long was really tough on me," she admitted, her voice laced with vulnerability.
Tori looked at her, surprised by the confession. "Why didn't you tell me?" she asked.
Jade hesitated for a moment, her fingers tracing patterns on the sheets. "I didn't think it was relevant, given everything you were going through," she confessed softly. "I didn't want to burden you with my loneliness when you were fighting so hard."
Tori reached out, gently tilting Jade's chin to make her meet her gaze. "Jade, you should never think your feelings are irrelevant. We're in this together, remember? And we should share our struggles, no matter how small, because that's what partners do."
Jade nodded, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I'll remember that."
Tori smiled, her fingers tenderly brushing away a tear that had escaped. "Now, tell me what you've been up to."
Jade's face brightened as she shared her exciting news. "I've been writing, a lot. And guess what? One of my scripts got optioned. We're moving back to Los Angeles, Tori."
Tori's eyes widened with surprise, and then a radiant smile crossed her face. "That's amazing, Jade! I'm so proud of you. We're going back home, and we'll start this new chapter together."
Tori and Jade continued their exploration of the new home they were considering in Los Angeles, filled with anticipation and excitement. The spacious basement, with its endless possibilities, caught Jade's attention, and she remarked, "This would make a great playroom for the kids."
Tori's face lit up at the idea, her heart warming at the thought of her nephew, AJ, and her nieces, Vega and Sirrah, enjoying the space during their visits. The prospect of family gatherings in their new home was becoming more real by the moment.
However, as they moved through the house, Tori couldn't help but wonder about the number of bedrooms. She turned to Jade, her expression curious. "But don't you think three bedrooms and a den are a bit excessive?"
Jade's response, though, was unexpected and deeply touching. "Tori, I am not sharing our bedroom with our kids."
Tori was momentarily taken aback. The use of "our" to describe the bedroom ignited a spark of realization within her. She recalled a conversation they'd had not long ago, where Jade had indicated that if they were to have children, Tori would have to be the one to carry them. But this simple yet powerful use of "our" changed everything.
As she paused to process Jade's words, her mind raced. "Our?" she repeated, seeking confirmation.
Jade unfolded her arms, revealing the sincerity and love in her eyes. "You aren't the only one with a uterus, Tori."
Tori's heart swelled with emotion. At that moment, the unspoken promise of Jade carrying their children was crystal clear to her. It was a silent vow, a testament to their love and commitment, and it filled her with profound hope and happiness. They were ready to embark on this new chapter of their lives, hand in hand, and it was a beautiful moment of shared understanding and love.
Tori and Jade faced the arduous journey of IVF with determination, love, and unwavering support for each other. They were now on their third round, and it hadn't been easy for either of them. Tori had watched Jade go through the physical and emotional toll of the fertility treatments, and it weighed on her.
One evening, after another round of hormone injections, Tori held Jade close and whispered, "We'll stop after this one, Jade. I can't bear to see you go through this anymore. We've tried, and we'll find another way."
Jade, her eyes filled with gratitude and love, had nodded. "Thank you, Tori. I love you, and I know we'll find a way to build our family, even if it's not through me."
Their determination to be parents was unyielding, and they had just signed adoption papers for a precious six-month-old baby Selena. This outing was their first as new parents, and the excitement and anticipation were palpable. They were embarking on a new chapter in their lives, filled with love and hope, ready to embrace parenthood together.
Jade sat in the audience at the CFC fight, leaning into her partner Tori. As they watched the intense match unfolding in the octagon, Jade felt a mix of emotions. She had become a parent not too long ago, and leaving their baby, Selena, at home with a sitter was still a new experience.
She wrapped her arm around Tori and glanced at her watch, her face reflecting a sense of nostalgia. "I feel so old. But um... You think Selena is okay?"
Tori smiled, proud of how great a parent Jade had become. "Baby, she's fine. We'll be home in no time."
Jade let out a sigh, but her expression remained somewhat troubled. "Okay..."
Tori noticed Jade's unease and immediately asked, "What's wrong?"
Jade hesitated for a moment before finally admitting, "I... uh... took a pregnancy test before we left."
Tori's eyes widened in surprise. Jade, with her characteristic nonchalant demeanor, shrugged. "Wouldn't it be hilarious if it were twins?"
Tori burst into laughter, the joy and surprise radiating from her. She turned toward Jade, wrapping her in a tight hug and kissing her deeply. "Oh my God... Thank you."
Their hearts swelled with a mixture of emotions—watching a CFC fight, anticipating a potential addition to their family, and the undeniable bond they shared as a couple and now as parents.
The CFC fight continued, with the crowd's energy pulsating through the arena. Tori and Jade watched the match unfold, their hearts still filled with the excitement of Jade's pregnancy revelation.
As the fighters in the octagon exchanged blows and grappled for dominance, Tori couldn't help but steal glances at Jade, who was watching the match with a newfound enthusiasm. She realized that Jade's initial hesitation about another child had given way to a sense of delight.
Tori leaned in and whispered, "You know, whether it's one or two, our family is growing, and it's beautiful."
Jade smiled as Tori placed a hand on her partner's abdomen, where a new life might be growing. "Yeah, it is beautiful. Happy Birthday, Love."
They continued to watch the fight, the noise of the crowd becoming background music to their own shared moment of anticipation and love, knowing that their journey as a family was about to take an exciting new turn.
8 months later
Eight months after the exhilarating CFC fight, Tori and Jade found themselves in a different kind of battleground – the delivery room. The anticipation and excitement had given way to a mix of nervousness and joy as they prepared to welcome their twins into the world.
Jade's strength and determination had brought them to this moment, and Tori couldn't have been more proud of her life partner. She held Jade's hand tightly, offering words of encouragement and comfort as the contractions intensified. In those tense hours, the bond between them felt stronger than ever, and it was a testament to their unwavering love and commitment.
The moment finally arrived, and the cries of their newborn twins filled the room. Tori and Jade exchanged tearful glances, their hearts overflowing with love and happiness. They named their son Preston and their daughter Payton, two unique names for two unique souls who had already brought immeasurable joy into their lives.
As they held their precious babies for the first time, Tori and Jade knew that their family was now complete. The journey they had embarked on, from the CFC octagon to the delivery room, was a testament to their resilience, love, and unwavering support for one another.
With their newborn twins in their arms, Tori and Jade couldn't help but smile, knowing that the future held even more adventures and challenges for their growing family. Together, they were ready to face whatever came their way, hand in hand, as a family united by love.
Selena was cradled in Shelby's arms as they stood just outside the hospital room where her parents, Tori and Jade, were resting after the arrival of their newborn twins. Shelby had brought Selena for a visit, and the little girl was eager to meet her new brother and sister.
With a warm smile, Shelby opened the door, and they walked into the room together. Tori and Jade, their faces filled with anticipation, turned to see Selena entering. Tori spoke softly, "Hey, Selena, come meet your new brother and sister."
Selena, who was a year old now, approached the crib where the twins lay. She gazed at them with wide, inquisitive eyes, her tiny fingers reaching out to touch her baby brother Preston's hand, just as she had done at home. Then, she looked at her baby sister Payton, who was snuggled up in the crib beside Preston.
Shelby and Tori shared an affectionate smile as they watched the special moment unfold. Selena carried in her aunt's arms, had already been a loving big sister to her newborn siblings. This visit marked the beginning of their beautiful journey as a growing family, with Selena being a cherished part of the adventure.
Shelby and Tori shared a lighthearted moment in the hospital room. Shelby couldn't help but tease her sister, saying, "Tori, you're trying to be me with those jokes about starting a family and all."
Tori responded with a playful grin, "Well, at least I waited for the right moment. You, on the other hand..."
They both laughed, and it was a testament to the close bond they shared as sisters. Tori's tone turned more sincere as she said, "Thanks, Shel, for being here through all this."
Shelby nodded, her expression warm and caring. "Of course, Tor. I wouldn't miss this for the world. And, by the way, I have surgery to perform in about an hour, so I'll need to head out soon. Mom and Dad are on their way to pick up Selena."
Tori smiled gratefully, her eyes filled with emotion. "Thanks for everything you've done for me, Shel. I really appreciate it."
Shelby's reply was heartfelt. "And thank you, Tori, for giving me the guts to decide to have a life outside of CFC."
The sisters' lives had evolved in beautiful ways, both in the spotlight and away from it. Their unity had always been their strength, and the love they shared for one another and for their families continued to inspire those around them.
In the end, they had found their victories not only in the ring but also in the warmth of their bonds, the melodies of their laughter, and the joy of a life well-lived. And so, the stories of Tori and Shelby, the fighters with hearts of gold, carried on, forever entwined in the pages of their remarkable journey.
