Chapter II: NXT Debut

Wednesday, November 28th, 2018 - Orlando, FL

Cedric reclined in his bed, his gaze fixed upon the ceiling. For two hours, he had remained in that position, reflecting on his tumultuous journey and marveling at the path that had led him to this very moment. The profound realization that he stood on the precipice of his dreams had awakened his senses and underscored the immense distance he had traveled. Bare-chested, he lay still, attuned to the gentle percussion of raindrops against the windowpane. His head turned, capturing a glimpse of the outside world, before he mustered the strength to rise, casting an observant gaze around the unfamiliar bedroom of the apartment he had just moved into on Monday.

Cedric's thoughts swirled within his mind, creating a whirlwind of unease. Moving into this new apartment had brought both excitement and trepidation. His recent signing with WWE had granted him more creative control than he had ever imagined. The company recognized his worth and promised to honor his name, a name he had painstakingly built and trademarked. It held profound significance to him, symbolizing his journey and accomplishments thus far.

Financially, the contract offered a substantial increase, though not in the realm of millions. Nonetheless, it provided him with the means to pursue his other aspirations. The agreement included a 10% share in merchandise sales and an additional 10% earnings per Premium Event. However, the most critical aspect was the assurance that his character would be booked in a manner befitting his abilities and intellect, unlike the stereotypical portrayal of black wrestlers as mere athletic specimens without technical prowess or ring IQ. Cedric was determined to break that mold.

With a surge of determination coursing through his veins, Cedric resolved to make his mark in the wrestling world. He knew he had the talent, the drive, and now, the platform to showcase his unique style and strategic mind. The thought of leaving a lasting impression on fans and inspiring a new generation of wrestlers fueled his every thought.

As he rose from his bed, Cedric's eyes fell upon the unpacked boxes scattered throughout the unfamiliar bedroom. The sight served as a reminder that this was just the beginning—a fresh start brimming with opportunities. With a steadfast focus, he set out to organize his belongings, mentally preparing himself for the exhilarating journey that lay ahead. Cedric was ready to embrace the challenges, to prove his worth, and to redefine the narrative of his career, one calculated move at a time.

He took a deep inhale and rose up from his comfortable position with a focus on these unpacked boxes.

A few hours had slipped away as Cedric found himself unable to complete the daunting task of unpacking. Recognizing the need to redirect his energy and release the tension that had built up within him, he decided to focus on something familiar and therapeutic—the Iron Paradise, his personal sanctuary.

Leaving the partially unpacked boxes behind, Cedric ventured out of his apartment, the clock showing 7 AM. His destination remained unchanged—the gym within the complex. It was there that he sought solace and the opportunity to channel his emotions into a productive outlet.

Now, the time had ticked forward to 9:35 AM, and Cedric was in the midst of his cardio routine—a morning run. Dressed in a pair of sleek black Nike shorts that cut just above his knees, he paired them with a form-fitting, long-sleeve black compression shirt. His choice of footwear, triple-black Huaraches, completed the ensemble.

As he pounded the pavement, each footfall reverberated with purpose. The rhythmic sound of his breath synchronized with the beat of his steps, creating a harmonious cadence. Cedric's focus sharpened, his mind clearing as the endorphins surged through his veins. The morning air enveloped him, providing a refreshing backdrop for his endeavor.

With each stride, he left behind the weight of his worries, finding solace in the repetitious motion. The world around him blurred, and all that mattered was the rhythm of his body in motion. His muscles worked in unison, a testament to the dedication and discipline that defined him.

As the run continued, Cedric's mind wandered, replaying the promises he had made to himself. He visualized the future matches, the triumphs, and the moments that would define his legacy. The determination he carried propelled him forward, igniting a fire within him that burned brighter with every step.

But these thoughts would momentarily subside when he locked his gaze upon a woman standing on the side of her 2014 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with her hands on her hips looking with irritation across her mug. This made him stop in his tracks and look on with a concerned frown. He took a deep breath and mustered up the courage to waltz over and help her.

"Excuse me ma'am, everything alright?" He asked genuine concern etched on his face as his gaze locked up on her. He couldn't help but stare which she thankfully did not see. She was at a decent height for most women standing at 5'7'' wearing a set of black tights and a training bra with a pair of black and white Nike Free Runs. An extremely attractive woman who seemingly captivated his attention from the dilemma she was in. A woman with an oval shaped face with a clear, flawless cool honey skin tone that seemingly radiated with a natural glow. Her curly and long dark brown hair cascaded down her shoulder. Her eyebrows had a soft angle to them that complimented her natural beauty. Within her right eyebrow a small scar probably from a previous wound. Her lips, full and inviting, possessed a natural pink blush that added a touch of subtle allure to her captivating appearance. Her athletic yet curvy build, a sight to behold. Her shapely legs, adorned with well-defined muscles, convey strength and power and feminine grace. Thick thighs that exuded an undeniable confidence with a slim waist that accentuated her curves leading to a set of washboard-like abs that showed her dedication to fitness. From what he could see she had an image of Medusa on her tricep.

She scoffed as she rolled her eyes, snapping him back into reality. She turned to face him looking at him with a set of beautiful dark brown eyes that held a sense of allure and drew in focus. Her eyes possessed a magnetic hold that seemingly told a story. Now what that story was? He didn't know but if he had it his way he would surely find out.

"Does it look alright?!" She clearly exclaimed out of pure irritation. Cedric was about to say something but shut his mouth to avoid probably say something that would irritate her even more. He just looked over the area of the vehicle she was near to find the source of the problem and his eyes instantly went to her left rear tire.

"I admit that was probably a stupid question but everything's going to be alright, just pop the trunk and I'll do my best to take care of it," He said, offering to try to alleviate her frustration and help her in any way that he possibly could. She looked at him scanning him up and down with a look of skepticism. Her eyes seemed to dissect him, assessing his capabilities and intentions. Cedric stood there, genuine desire to help evident in his expression and posture, hoping he could earn her trust.

After a moment of silence, she let out a sigh, seemingly relenting to his offer. "Fine," she said curtly, her voice laced with a hint of uncertainty. She walked towards the driver seat and opened the door to the vehicle, turning her back to him. Momentarily Cedric's eyes drifted down to her ample backside. He quickly averted his eyes elsewhere despite the urge to look on. The sound of the trunk unlocking echoed through the air like a knife cutting the tension.

Cedric stepped forward, his gaze shifting from her eyes to the open trunk. He noticed a well-organized collection of tools and a jack. With a small nod of acknowledgement, he moved towards the trunk, his mind focused on the task at hand.

After inspecting the flat tire and using the jack to lift the vehicle to the necessary height where he could work. His hands started to move with a practiced ease. Being the son of a mechanic some of this stuff came pretty easy. He could think of those summers and weekends working in his dad's shop for that. He began loosening the lug nuts, his muscles threatening to pop out of his compression shirt with each turn. The sound of metal against metal filled the air, accompanied by the occasional grunt of exertion.

Deciding to break the tension and the awkward silence, Cedric spoke up, getting Mercedes' attention.

"So you from around here?" He asked as he turned to face her. He could see the direction of her eyes locking onto his arms watching as the muscles flexed with each turn of the tire iron. She snapped out of his gaze and looked on a frown.

"Why do you care?" She asked as he just chuckled and looked down at the ground.

"Just trying to make conversation, that's all."

After a period of awkward silence once again, she eased up, taking a deep breath as she spoke.

"I'm from Sarasota. I'm here to visit my brother. He's got tickets to some wrestling show," she said, giving him a little information. More than he expected but he gladly listened.

"What show if you don't mind me asking?" He asked, letting out a grunt afterwards as he pulled the flat tire off the spokes.

She was momentarily distracted by Cedric's question and the way his muscles were being hugged by the thin compression layer of his shirt. Her eyes shifted away from him as she contemplated answering the question or not. She hesitated for just a moment before she finally chose to answer.

"NXT I think," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of confusion on her part, "My brothers a big wrestling fan and he managed to score some tickets and he thought it would be a good brother and sister bonding time. And since I've never been to a wrestling event or show, I figured it was a good idea."

He had to admit his interest was piqued, his muscles tensing as he worked to align the spare with the wheel bolts. Wrestling was his passion, his life's calling but he preferred to keep a little unknown with this woman maybe it would build some intrigue. Cedric tightened the lug nuts, ensuring the wheel was securely fastened, actions being deliberate and precise.

"Well, ma'am I got you all set," he said, taking a step back, wiping the sweat from his brow with the back of his hand.

She looked at the newly replaced tire, then back at Cedric. The skepticism in her eyes seemed to soften, replaced by a glimmer of gratitude. "Thank you," she said, her voice carrying a hint of appreciation.

"Anytime, I never did get your name," Cedric's eyes met hers, his curiosity piqued as he awaited her response. He couldn't help but wonder about the woman who had unexpectedly ran into today.

She hesitated for a moment, contemplating whether to reveal her name. Eventually, she let out a small sigh and offered him a faint smile.

"Keana," she replied, her voice soft yet filled with newfound warmth. Cedric's smile widened, pleased to finally know her name. He hoped that wasn't all he would learn about her but only time would tell.

"Keana, pleasure to meet you, I'm Cedric," he said, extending a hand towards her. She hesitated briefly before reciprocating the gesture., their hands briefly touching in a fleeting connection.

"Likewise," she replied, her voice tinged with sincerity. "Thank you again for your help and the conversation, I guess."

Cedric nodded chuckling, a sense of contentment washing over him.

"You're welcome, Keana. Be safe and have fun." He said preparing to part ways with the young woman. While there was a small tinge of reluctance, their encounter, though brief, left a lot desirable. He found himself hoping their paths would cross again hopefully tonight at NXT.

"Take care," a grateful smile playing on her lips as he nodded along before he turned back and started to lightly jog his way back as she stood there looking on before she got into her jeep and drove off.

Hours had passed and NXT was soon set to begin in the next 3 hours. The man who would make his debut tonight, Cedric Harvey pulled up to the arena sporting an all black ensemble with biker jeans and a Nike hoodie with a blue jean jacket with a rose etched into the back of the jacket with Savage stretching across the back of the jacket. On his feet were one of his favorite silhouettes of the Jordan 3, the "Black Cements''. Over his ears were his custom golden Powerbeats and his brown leather duffle in his grasp, ready to conquer the challenges that were ahead of him.

As Cedric continued his confident stride backstage, he felt a tap on his shoulder, prompting him to remove one of his earbuds. A smile instantly spread across his face as he turned around to find the man who had given him the opportunity of a lifetime, someone he had admired and idolized since childhood—Paul Levesque, also known as Triple H.

"Thank you for coming," Paul greeted Cedric warmly, his voice carrying a sense of genuine appreciation. He extended his hand toward Cedric, a gesture of camaraderie and respect.

Cedric's heart swelled with gratitude as he shook the hand of the legendary 14-time World Champion. The weight of the moment sank in as he spoke, his voice tinged with admiration and sincerity. "I had to take the leap of faith, especially when I have the man I idolized growing up encouraging me to do so. I have to thank you," Cedric expressed, his eyes reflecting a mixture of awe and determination. "You were the one pushing for me to get here."

Triple H's face lit up with a proud smile, his belief in Cedric evident in his eyes. "You've got the talent, the drive, and the potential to make a significant impact," he replied, his tone filled with confidence. "I saw it in you from the beginning, and I'm thrilled that you've joined us."

Their handshake symbolized more than a mere greeting—it represented a connection, a passing of the torch from one generation to the next. Cedric felt a surge of motivation and purpose, knowing that he had the support of someone he had always looked up to.

"Follow me, we got some things to discuss," Paul said as Cedric nodded and followed him through the backstage area to a more secluded area with a few people giving Cedric a mean stare as he did so.

Perched atop the turnbuckle, NXT North American Champion Ricochet prepared to conclude his match against a local competitor. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, eager to witness his signature high-flying maneuver, the 630 Senton.

"SHOCK THE SYSTEM!"

Before he could execute his finishing move and perhaps capture a victory here tonight on NXT. The thunderous entrance theme of The Undisputed Era—Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, Kyle O'Reilly, and Roderick Strong—filled the arena.

The bitter taste of defeat at NXT TakeOver: Wargames still lingered within the ranks of The Undisputed Era. Fuelled by vengeance, they stormed down the ramp, their eyes locked on Ricochet. Adam Cole swiftly ascended the apron, shoving Ricochet off the turnbuckle and into the ring, prompting the referee to signal for the bell.

Sensing the impending danger, the referee quickly retreated from the ring to ensure his own safety. With the match officially concluded, chaos ensued. Fish, O'Reilly, and Strong began a relentless assault on the defenseless Ricochet. Each member took turns delivering brutal stomps, their aggression fuelled by their burning desire for retribution.

Meanwhile, Adam Cole seized the opportunity to introduce a steel chair into the equation. Sliding it into the ring, he reveled in the malicious plan unfolding before his eyes. O'Reilly and Fish, gripping Ricochet's head and neck, forcibly positioned him at Cole's mercy. With a sadistic grin etched across his face, Cole drove the chair into Ricochet's abdomen, eliciting a pained grunt as the high-flier hunched over, clutching his stomach. The chair then mercilessly collided with Ricochet's back, causing him to crash onto the canvas, his body writhing in agony.

The audience erupted in a chorus of boos, their disdain for The Undisputed Era echoing throughout the arena. Unaffected by the crowd's disapproval, Roderick Strong continued to unleash a merciless barrage of stomps upon Ricochet, exacerbating his suffering. Meanwhile, Adam Cole, a twisted satisfaction evident in his expression, approached Ricochet once more, a chair still in his possession.

With a chilling determination, Adam Cole proceeded to secure the steel chair around Ricochet's vulnerable ankle. The crowd's hostility intensified, their indignation at the barbaric assault palpable. The sadistic smile lingering on Cole's face revealed that he was far from finished—his intentions veered into the realm of pure malevolence.

But what shocked everyone was when the lights in the arena turned off. The arena was in pure complete darkness with a black Titantron being the only thing that was visible before an unfamiliar theme song blasted on the PA system as the name, Ced appeared stylized in a red crystalized font with a lion head plastered across the screen.

"Rise of the Young Ones" by Cliff Lin Hits

A light cheer could be heard as a single spot shone on the center of the stage as Ced appeared on the stage clad in a black t-shirt with his roaring lion head logo with his ring name plastered above the lion head in black jeans and boots. Around his neck was his signature steel chain, a weapon he was notorious for using in the indies.

Ced marched down the ramp with purpose as the fans cheered before he slid into the ring to save his old friend as the music faded away. Roderick Strong tried to clothesline Ced first but Ced ducked it and hit O'Reilly in the gut with the chain causing him to drop down to the canvas and roll out of the ring. Fish got knocked down to the mat with a shot to the gut with the chain just like his boy, O'Reilly before Ced dropped the chain looking for an offense in a different style. Strong grabbed Ced by the shoulder and made him turn around and tried to punch him but Ced blocked it and hit him with an uppercut that sent him crashing to the ropes. Ced ran towards Roderick Strong and clotheslined him over the ropes as the fans cheered.

Cole looked around the ring to see all of his group members lying on the floor on the outside in pain. Ced slowly turned around and saw Adam Cole who had a panicked face on. Cole shook his head and ran towards Ced only for Ced to lift him up into the air and spin with him in his grasp before putting him down with a Double C Spinebuster (Spinebuster, Arn Anderson-style).

Somehow Ricochet had managed to kick the chair off of his ankle and use the ropes to help pull himself up. Ced turned around and saw Ricochet before he walked over to him patting him on the shoulder as the fans cheered. Ricochet smiled at his friend coming to his aid. as the referee pushed the title under the bottom rope. Ricochet grabbed the title and walked towards his friend Ced only for Ced to lift him up to his shoulders unexpectedly as the cheers quickly turned to boos.

Ced put Ricochet down flat on the canvas with the Deathbomb. Ced rose up to his feet and walked over to the NXT North American title that Ricochet dropped and looked at it with a smirk as he raised the title over his head looking down at Ricochet as the once cheered hero now soaked in the boos. He then dropped the title over Ricochet's downed body as the crowd booed once again.

He looked around the audience until his eyes caught the same woman he was helping earlier, Keana sitting in the 3rd row from the barricade. He locked his eyes with her making a small smirk snake its way onto his face. He winked at her as she simply rolled her eyes as a small smile came across her lips while Ced turned his attention back to the ring and at the downed Ricochet. He backed up to the ropes stepping out of the ring looking on with a sadistic smile at the destruction he'd caused.

An hour or two had passed since the show had ended and the woman who had her own tire changed by debuting Ced earlier today leaning up against that same Jeep, eyes scanning the area to make sure no one was going to mess with her and for any signs of him walking out from any exits. Her brother, who had accompanied her tonight and had made it possible for this to even happen, had taken an uber home since he had a couple of drinks in his system.

There was a small part of her telling her to go back to her brother's place and just continue on with her life. She hadn't really had a good experience with guys and there was no telling that Cedric would be any different but another part of her was intrigued by him to say the least.

Soon Cedric had emerged from the side entrance in a fresh all-black sweat suit with the same Jordans as before. He scanned around the area, noticing Keana almost immediately. He walked over to her in a slow stride as their eyes locked onto one another.

"Third time's the charm Ms. Keana, I'm starting to think you're following me," he joked earning an eye roll from the beautiful Keana as she sported a pair of black leather jeans that hugged her curves with thigh-high black boots, a white crop-top with a Florida State bomber jacket. Her curly hair expanded down to her shoulders. Her face was dolled up with a foundation that matched her skin tone with a burgundy lipstick with black eyeliner and lashes to accentuate her beauty.

"Fancy meeting you here, I didn't know you were a wrestler, I wish you would've told me earlier instead of blindsiding me here tonight," she said, folding her arms as she looked him up and down with a raised brow.

"Well I didn't think it was important at that time and besides maybe I like keeping you on your toes," he remarked with a quirked brow. Keana shook her head in amusement as her eyes locked onto his.

"Just like how you kept the crowd on their toes tonight. Had everybody thinking you were the hero and then at the snap of a dime, you showed everybody you're the bad guy. Not gonna lie, it looks good on you," she said with a smirk making him smile as he looked down at the ground.

"Why thank you? Listen, this is the 3rd time that we've seen each other today which clearly means the universe is trying to tell us something, so how about this: you let me take you out to dinner tomorrow night?" He said shooting his shot, taking a chance and betting on himself. She smirked as she looked down at the ground before lifting her gaze to meet his once again.

"You know I don't trust people like that and I'm very selective on who I choose to spend my free time with but for sure, I would've gone on that date with you. I don't know you but you seem like someone I would spend my time with. I don't fully one hundred percent trust you yet but I got a good feeling about you. But unfortunately I'm leaving early tomorrow morning to go back to Florida State. I got class in the morning but I can give you my number."

Cedric's smile faltered slightly at the realization that their dinner plans would have to be postponed. Nevertheless, he maintained his composure, understanding that sometimes life's timing didn't align perfectly.

He nodded, a hint of disappointment mingling with understanding. "I appreciate your honesty, I understand what it's like to have commitments, I get it. I'm grateful for that number."

He reached into his pocket, pulling out his sleek iPhone, unlocking it and handing it to her. With a graceful gesture, she grabbed the phone, her eyes locked onto his. "Here's my number. Text me when you're free, and maybe we can figure something out when our schedules align."

Cedric accepted the phone, his fingers lightly grazing hers. "Absolutely, Keana. I'll make sure to reach out when the time is right."

The exchange felt charged with anticipation and potential. Cedric couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement about what the future might hold. As he saved her number, he couldn't help but wonder how their paths had crossed multiple times in a single day, as if the universe was conspiring to bring them together.

Keana's smirk returned, this time tinged with a touch of mischief. "Who knows? Maybe the universe will find another way to bring us back together sooner than we expect. Until then, take care."

He nodded, a soft smile gracing his lips. "You too. Be safe and I'll be in touch." She looked back at him, giving him a wink much like did to her earlier before she opened the door handle and stepped into the jeep. Cedric chuckled as he walked back to his blacked out 2016 Ford F-150 eager to see where his new journey in NXT and his new journey with the lovely Keana would take him.

A/N: Not really going to say too much here other than I have changed his backstory a little bit and I changed the love interest from Kalani Rose to a new OC by the name of Keana Parker who we will learn more about throughout the story.