{Chapter 1}

“I know,” Shelly said with a sigh as she listened to her friend sobbing. “You let it all out, Karen.” She hugged her and rubbed her back as she cried on her shoulder.

“You should just dump his ass,” ODB said as she shadowboxed in the corner.

“Jess, that’s not helpful,” Shelly scolded, shaking her head. Sometimes she wondered what her long time friend Greg ever saw in the woman. She was brash and spoke her mind, taking pride in never sugar coating things.

“Just puttin’ in my two cents, Shell,” ODB said smirking. “No need to jump down my throat.”

“Yeah, well just walking away from nearly ten years of marriage with two kids isn’t really going to solve a whole lot right now,” Shelly hissed.

“Would get rid of a big headache,” ODB mumbled. Shelly glared at her.

“He was never like this before,” Karen sobbed, ignoring the exchange between the two women. “Kurt’s never been this cold to me.”

“He’s stressed, Karen,” Shelly offered, trying to console her. “You know that Joe’s got him all worked up. Christian and Nash aren’t helping matters either.”

Just then there was a knock on the door and AJ Styles poked his head in. “Hey…uh…Karen,” he said smiling, not waiting to be invited in as he closed the door behind him.

“Come on in, AJ,” Shelly sighed, knowing he was not going to help matters.

“I heard you and Kurt arguing,” he said taking her hand and sitting down on the bench next to her.

“You and half the Impact Zone,” Shelly muttered. ODB snickered as she took a sip from her ever present flask.

“Would you stay out of this,” Styles growled. “This is between Karen and me. Why are you even here?”

“Um…AJ…you’re in Frankie’s locker room,” Shelly pointed out, slapping him upside the head. “And for your information Karen and I were talking before you even got here.”

“Oh…right,” Styles replied, rubbing his head. “Well, maybe Karen and I should go somewhere and talk.” He stood offering his hand to Karen.

“Sit down, pretty boy,” ODB chuckled. “Karen ain’t goin’ anywhere with you.”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean,” Styles growled, glaring at her.

“It means…” Shelly stepped between the two before they could come to blows.

“It means, AJ, shut up and sit down,” Shelly said pointing to the bench. He obeyed, sitting down and taking Karen’s hand. Shelly turned her attention to ODB. “Jess, don’t you have a match? I’m sure Gail and Kong are looking for you.”

ODB smirked. “I keep forgetting you do all the grunt work for Cornette,” she said clapping Shelly on the back, making her wince. “You’re right. I need to find Kong and Gail.” She turned her attention to Styles. “You got lucky. I could have used you as a warm up.” With that she left.

“What the HELL does Greg see in her,” Styles grumbled, shaking his head.

“Big tits and a great ass,” Shelly replied with a smirk. “That and she’s pretty fun to be around.”

Karen had sat silently through the whole exchange, tears slipping down her cheeks. The latest fight with Kurt running through her mind. She finally spoke up. “Jess isn’t all bad, AJ,” she said softly, sniffling.

“Look, Karen, give Kurt some time to cool down,” Shelly said taking a seat next to her and slipping an arm around her shoulders. “Maybe Greg can talk some sense into him.”

*~*~*

“You’re gonna wear a hole in the floor,” Greg said watching as Kurt Angle paced, grumbling to himself. “Little help, Frankie.” He looked to Frankie Kazarian, who just shrugged.

“I’m just here because Shell asked me to be,” he replied.

“Maybe one of us should talk to him,” Jeremy Borash suggested.

Greg looked from one man to the other, both shaking their heads no. Greg sighed shaking his head as he stood and headed over to Angle. “Kurt,” he said placing a hand on the older man’s shoulder. “Why don’t you sit down and take a breath.”

Angle rounded on him, his intense blue eyes boring into him. “Sit down and take a breath,” Kurt said. “How can I take a breath when Karen is being such a raving bitch!”

“Hey, Kurt, that’s not nice,” Frankie scolded. Angle glared at him. “Just saying, it’s not nice to talk about your wife that way.”

“Don’t anger him,” Borash hissed at Kazarian.

“Kurt, she does have a valid point,” Greg said gently. “You’ve been more focused on your career than you have been on her. When was the last time you did something romantic for Karen?”

“Valentine’s Day,” Kurt replied. “And as I recall Joe and Nash stripped me and that little shit Styles ‘married’ my wife.”

“Can you blame AJ for taking advantage of that opening,” Borash said smirking. “I mean…hell…I would.”

“JB, don’t help,” Kazarian said with a sigh. “Look, Kurt when Shell and I have a fight…”

“You guys fight,” Greg interjected. “I didn’t think you let the poor woman up for oxygen.”

Kazarian glared at him. “When Shell and I have a fight we take a breather and then I bring her flowers and take her out for a nice romantic dinner.”

“Flowers and a romantic dinner,” Kurt repeated, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Why are you even here?”

“I was wondering that myself,” Kazarian replied with a sigh and stood. “If I’m not needed I have a match to warm up for.” He headed toward the door, but Greg shoved him back, motioning for him to take a seat next to Borash.

“Kurt, we’re here as friends,” Greg replied. “Things with Karen aren’t going well. That’s why you need to work on your relationship.”

“My…my relationship is fine,” Kurt replied. “She pulls this shit all the damn time.”

“Maybe that’s because you treat her like hired help,” Kazarian muttered.

“Frankie,” Borash hissed when Kurt cast a glare his way. “Don’t anger Kurt. He’ll kill you.”

“That’s it,” Kazarian grumbled. “I’m outta here. Kurt, good luck with your situation. Greg, don’t ask me for help next time.” With that he exited Angle’s locker room.

“Maybe you should listen to Frankie,” Greg suggested. “Flowers and a romantic dinner couldn’t hurt. What do you say, Kurt.”

Angle sighed, shoulders slumping. “Fine,” he grumbled. “I’ll talk to Karen later. For now I have to worry about taking on Christian.”

*~*~*

Kazarian returned to his locker room and found Styles and Shelly chatting. Karen was nowhere in sight. He plopped down on the bench between them with a sigh. He looked to Shelly and shook his head.

“That good, huh,” she asked with a smile.

“Kurt has his head too far up his ass to know what he has,” he replied, raking a hand through his chestnut locks. “Can you believe he called Karen a raving bitch?”

“He did WHAT,” Styles said jumping to his feet. “I’m gonna go straighten him out.” Before he could get very far Shelly grabbed his belt and yanked him back down to the bench. He fell into Kazarian’s lap and then was shoved onto the floor.

“Stay there,” Shelly said, trying not to laugh as Styles rubbed his sore bottom. “Frankie, he says things like that all the time.”

“Doesn’t make it right,” Kazarian fumed.

“No, but it doesn’t mean that he means it either,” Shelly replied. “We all say things we don’t mean.”

“No, he means it,” they all heard Karen say. She was just coming out of the bathroom.

“Karen,” Styles said jumping to his feet and going to her side.

She shook her head and waved him off. “Not now, AJ,” she said sniffling. “I think I just want to be alone. I’m going for a walk.” With that she headed out of the locker room.

Kazarian and Shelly exchanged glances and turned their attention to Styles, who looked like a lost puppy. He raked a hand through his hair, debating internally if he should chase after her. He let out a sigh and hung his head.

“I think I’ll go see if she’s all right,” he said rushing out of the locker room.

“Of course you will,” Kazarian muttered frowning. “I have to go get ready for my match,” he said after a moment’s silence, leaning over and giving Shelly a kiss on the cheek.

“Yeah, I should see if Cornette needs anything,” she said following him out of the locker room.

{Chapter 2}

Karen sighed, hugging her arms around herself as she walked the halls. She had a lot to think about. She had been so ecstatic when Kurt told her they would be renewing their vows, but that turned out tragic. She hadn’t expected Styles to kiss her the way he had. It left her feeling light headed and it wasn’t because she had knocked her head on the ring mat.

It hadn’t exactly been easy when after what would be the first of many fights with Kurt on the subject Styles had taken her out for a ‘honeymoon’ to Gator World of all places. What was even more shocking was that she had actually enjoyed herself. At the end of the night when he left her with an innocent kiss on the cheek she felt her heart fluttering. It was a feeling she hadn’t felt since her first year of marriage to Kurt.

Karen had been so deep in thought as she walked that she collided with a brick wall. Well, that was what it felt like. In actuality it was Tomko she collided with. She stumbled back, falling unceremoniously on her rear, landing with a resounding oof.

“Shit! Karen,” Tomko said helping her up. “You all right?”

Before she could respond Styles found her. “What the hell did you do? You knocked her down, you big ogre,” he growled, helping Karen up.

“She walked into me,” Tomko replied, glaring at his tag partner.

“You should have been watching where you were going,” Styles replied. “Karen, are you all right?” Karen opened her mouth to speak, but Styles cut her off. “Don’t mind Tomko. He’s all muscle and no brains.”

“AJ, if you want to live to defend the tag titles I’d suggest you shut your mouth,” Tomko growled.

“Apologize to the lady,” Styles demanded, ignoring Tomko’s threat.

“What,” Tomko exclaimed. “She slams into ME and I have to apologize?”

“AJ,” Karen said, holding the shorter man back. “Tomko’s right. I wasn’t watching where I was going. He was helping me up when you found us.” She turned her attention to Tomko. “I’m sorry. I should have been watching where I was going.”

“It’s all right, Karen,” he replied, his hardened glare softening when he shifted his attention to her. “Just as long as you’re all right.” She nodded. He looked at Styles and scoffed before walking off.

“Yeah, you better walk away,” Styles called. “Before I kick your ass.”

Tomko stopped in his tracks, growling under his breath. “Tomko,” Shelly said finding him. “Cornette needs to see you.”

“Lucky for AJ,” he said through gritted teeth.

“Just ignore him,” she said patting his shoulder. “You know how he gets when he’s around Karen.” Tomko nodded, casting a scathing look behind him at Styles before stalking off to find Cornette.

Shelly made her way over to Karen and Styles. “AJ, you have GOT to stop letting your mouth write checks your ass can’t cash,” she sighed. “What are you gonna do when one of us isn’t around to reel Tomko in?”

“Get his ass handed to him,” Greg as he strolled up to them. “How you holdin’ up, Karen?” She shrugged, biting her bottom lip.

“Any luck talking to Kurt,” Shelly asked. Greg shrugged.

“Let me guess,” Karen said. “He needs to concentrate on his match with Christian tonight. Is that what he said?”

“Not exactly,” Greg replied, chuckling nervously.

“Anyone ever tell you that you’re a horrible liar,” Shelly asked.

“It’s fine,” Karen said. “I need some air.” She headed toward the exit, Styles on her heels.

“Jesus, what does she have some invisible leash she’s pulling him along on,” Greg asked watching the two.

“Done with my match,” ODB said finding Greg. “Come on, Babycakes. We got a hotel room waiting for us.” She smacked his ass before walking off.

“Well, duty calls,” Greg said flashing a goofy smile at Shelly before following her.

Shelly groaned wishing she hadn’t seen or heard that exchange. With a sigh she headed off to find Angle. Perhaps she could talk some sense into him.

She found Borash coming out of Angle’s locker room. “JB, Kurt in there,” she asked.

“You got a message from Cornette for him,” Borash asked. “I’ll deliver it for you.”

“Actually I need to talk Kurt,” Shelly replied. Borash stood in front of the door, not letting her pass. “JB, move.”

“Kurt needs to focus on his match,” he replied shaking his head no.

“JB, move before I move you,” she replied. He was about to protest, but something in her eyes told him not to argue.

“Fine,” he replied. “But if Kurt asks I was nowhere in sight. He told me not to let anyone in.”

“Just get out of the way, Borash,” Shelly growled. He scurried off and Shelly knocked on the door, not waiting to be beckoned inside. “Kurt we need to talk.”

“Great,” Angle groaned as he warmed up for his match. “You here to talk about Karen too? Because I’m not interested in talkin’.”

“Good,” Shelly said crossing her arms across her chest. “You can listen then.”

“What the hell makes you think I’ll listen to you,” he replied, taking a seat on the couch to fix his socks.

“Because, Kurt, I know you’re not as stupid as you’d have us all believe,” she replied. “You don’t want to lose Karen. I know you don’t. I saw your face when you were about to renew your vows. Your face lit up when you looked at Karen. You love her, Kurt. I know you do.”

“Do you have a point,” Kurt demanded.

“My point is Karen thinks you don’t love her anymore,” she replied.

“She knows how I feel,” he replied.

“Kurt,” Shelly said slapping his head. “Wise up.”

“I think you need to mind your own business,” he replied, glaring at her for slapping him. “What goes on between Karen and I is not your concern.”

“It becomes my concern when she comes to me crying her eyes out,” she replied. “You’re gonna lose her if you keep it up.”

“You said what you needed to say,” Kurt replied, taking her hand and dragging her to the door. “Now go.” He opened it and shoved her out into the hall.

“You know I’m right, Kurt,” she yelled through the door.

When she turned around Kazarian was standing there. He had just come from the ring and was mopping his brow with a towel. “Trying to talk some sense into Kurt,” he asked. She nodded with a frown. “Didn’t work, did it?”

“I have never met such a stubborn man,” she grumbled. “I just want to knock his bald head off!”

Kazarian chuckled. “Why don’t you check with Cornette to see if you can leave,” he suggested. “We can go back to the hotel and relax.” She nodded going to find her boss.

*~*~*

“Karen, why don’t you let me take you back to the hotel,” Styles suggested.

“AJ, I don’t think that’s a good idea,” she replied softly. It was then that a light bulb went off inside her head. “You know, I don’t really have a room to stay in.”

“You can stay with me,” Styles said smiling. “I’ll take the floor.”

“It might get awfully cold down there,” she replied, snuggling up to him.

“I’ll be all right,” he said smiling, wrapping an arm around her. “Come on. Let’s go back to the hotel.

*~*~*

Shelly and Kazarian had just exited the elevator when they caught sight of Styles and Karen. Shelly arched an eyebrow when she saw Karen was all over Styles. “This can’t be good,” she muttered.

Karen shoved Styles up against the door to his room, capturing his lips in a fiery kiss. “No, that can’t be good at all,” Kazarian replied.

“Karen,” Shelly said approaching the two. Karen broke the kiss stepping away from Styles. “Why don’t you come share the room with me. Frankie can stay with AJ. Right, honey?”

“Uh…sure,” Kazarian replied.

“Great, let’s go, Karen,” Shelly said grabbing the older woman’s hand and leading her away.

“I think I need a shower,” Styles said to Kazarian pulling out the key card. “A very, very cold shower.” Kazarian shook his head, snickering a bit as he followed Styles into the room.

“What the hell were you thinking, woman,” Shelly demanded of Karen as they entered their room for the night. “Kissing AJ?”

“At least he treats me like I’m special,” Karen replied plopping down onto the bed.

Shelly sighed, rubbing her temples. It had been a long night and the next night wouldn’t be any easier. “Karen, Kurt loves you. You have to believe that,” she said.

“Whatever,” Karen replied tiredly. “I’m tired.” She got up and gathered her things before heading into the bathroom to change for bed.

Shelly fell back onto the bed. If the Angles didn’t make up soon she was going to lose her mind. Between Kurt being stubborn and Karen pulling tactics to make Kurt jealous it would be a miracle if she got through this sane. If she didn’t love the two of them so much she’d have washed her hands of them long ago.

{Chapter 3}

“Frankie,” Styles said, propping himself up on his elbow so that he could look down at where Kazarian had chosen to bunk for the night.

“What,” Kazarian groaned, having the feeling he wouldn’t be getting any sleep that night.

“Do you think Karen and Shell are all right,” he asked.

Kazarian grumbled something under his breath as he rolled onto his side and glared up at his roommate. “I think they’re probably sleeping, which is what I’d like to be doing right now.” He stifled a yawn. “Just stop worrying about the girls and get some sleep, AJ.”

“I just think that maybe I should check on Karen,” Styles said sighing. “I mean she was really upset.”

“I’m sure Karen is sleeping,” Kazarian yawned.

“Maybe I can just go check,” Styles said.

“GO TO SLEEP, AJ,” Kazarian growled. “It’s been a long day and tomorrow will be even longer. We need to SLEEP.”

“I’m just worried,” Styles replied with a sigh, falling back onto the pillows. “That’s all.”

“Oh for the love of…Would it make you feel better if I called to check on them,” Kazarian asked.

“Would you? That’d be great, Frankie,” Styles replied all smiles.

Kazarian grumbled as he dragged himself up off the floor and found his phone where it was charging. He dialed Shelly’s number and waited for someone to answer. It rang several times before Kazarian sighed and hung up.

“There’s no answer,” he said to Styles.

“WHAT! Something’s wrong,” Styles exclaimed. “I have to go check on them.”

“AJ,” Kazarian said catching him and tossing him back on the bed. “They’re fine. Shell doesn’t answer her phone when she’s sleeping.”

“You don’t know that! They could be hurt,” Styles fumed.

“You’re right, AJ,” Kazarian replied with a groan. “I’ve only been with Shell for what…oh a year and a half, but I don’t know my girlfriend at all.”

“Really? You should sit down and talk with her. She’s a great woman,” Styles replied. Kazarian growled, slapping him upside the head. “OW!”

“The girls are FINE, AJ. Go to sleep,” Kazarian grumbled, crawling back under his covers.

“GREG! Greg can help me,” Styles said. “He can give me advice.”

“Sure, AJ, I’m sure Greg would LOVE to give you advice,” Kazarian replied tiredly. “He’s in his room with his woman, but I’m sure he’d take time out for your problem. He’s right next door. Go on, AJ, go ask him for help.”

“Fine, I will,” Styles replied getting out of bed and heading for the door.

“You do that. I’ll take the bed. Shell has got to stop volunteering me for shit,” Kazarian muttered climbing into the bed and falling to sleep the moment his head hit the pillow.

*~*~*

Styles headed to the room next door and knocked on the door. He listened; hearing muffled voices from inside, but no one came to answer the door. He knocked again, harder this time.

“WHAT THE FUCK,” ODB growled from inside.

Styles could hear the muffled voices once again and the sound of someone headed toward the door. The door opened just wide enough for Styles to see Greg standing there with the bed sheet around his waist. “What,” Greg growled. “Styles, you better have a DAMN good reason for interrupting me and Jess.”

“Is that Styles,” ODB called from behind him. “I’m gonna kick his motherfuckin’ pretty boy ass!”

“Let me handle this, honey,” Greg called, not turning his glare away from Styles.

“Oh…you were…wow…um…sorry,” Styles said rubbing the back of his neck nervously.

“What do you want, AJ,” Greg growled, growing more and more impatient.

“Well, I’m worried about Karen,” Styles replied. Greg groaned, rolling his eyes.

“She’s married, numbnuts,” ODB called. She came into view, wearing one of Greg’s shirts. “Do yourself a favor, AJ. Go get laid and forget about Karen!”

“I wish I could,” Styles whined. “She just so…” Greg slapped a hand over Style’s mouth before he could continue.

“I don’t need to listen to the wonder that is Karen Angle again,” Greg grumbled. “Yes, she’s a great woman. She’s smart and pretty and all that. She’s also MARRIED to KURT ANGLE. Seriously, AJ, of all the women to have a crush on…why KURT’S wife?”

“I don’t know,” Styles whined, sagging against the wall. “I just can’t stop thinkin’ of her.”

“Try harder,” ODB replied. “Goodnight, AJ.” With that she dragged Greg back into the room, slamming the door in Styles’ face.

With a sigh Styles headed back to his room and realized he had forgotten his key card. He knocked on the door. “Frankie? Frankie, let me in,” he called. There was no sound from inside the room. “Frankie, I forgot my key.” Inside the room Kazarian slumbered, not hearing Styles beckoning him.

*~*~*

“Who the hell is calling me,” Shelly groaned, lifting her head from the pillow. She fumbled on the nightstand in the dark until she found her phone. Lifting it to her bleary eyes she saw that it said one missed call from Kazarian.

Yawning she sat up and returned the call, only to find it went straight voicemail. “Odd,” she mumbled setting the phone aside. “Must have called to say goodnight or something.”

It was then that she realized Karen wasn’t in bed next to her. The two women had gone to bed at the same time, but now she was alone. Glancing around the room she caught sight of Karen sitting by the window, staring up at the moon.

“Karen,” she called, getting the older woman’s attention.

“I heard your phone ringing,” Karen replied softly. “Couldn’t get back to sleep.”

Shelly sighed, getting out of bed and going to sit with her friend. “Why don’t we see what’s on TV? Maybe watching something will get your mind off of things.”

Karen nodded and the two women settled into bed. It wasn’t long before there was a knock at the door. The women exchanged glances before Shelly got up and went to the door, peering out the peephole.

“You have got to be kidding me,” she groaned.

“Who is it,” Karen asked.

Instead of answering Shelly opened the door to reveal Styles standing there. “Sorry to disturb you ladies so late,” he said softly. His eyes lit up when he caught sight of Karen standing there.

“I thought you were rooming with Frankie,” Shelly said crossing her arms across her chest.

“I was, but I stepped out and locked myself out,” Styles replied blushing. “Frankie won’t open the door.”

Shelly stifled a snicker. “That’s because he’s probably sound asleep,” she replied smiling. “World War Three could be going on around him and he won’t wake up.”

“I need a place to stay for the night,” Styles said, giving Shelly the sad puppy dog eyes.

Shelly sighed raking a hand through her dark brown locks. “All right, AJ,” she finally replied. “BUT you sleep on the floor.”

“That’s fine,” Styles replied smiling. “I’ll sleep better knowing Karen is all right.” He realized what he had just said and quickly added. “And you…I’ll sleep better knowing you and Karen are all right.”

“Good save, Styles,” Shelly replied snickering. “Karen and I were just about to watch some TV until we fall asleep.”

Styles nodded accepting the spare blanket and pillow Karen handed him. He made up his bed on the floor and settled in to watch some television. It wasn’t long before all three of them were sound asleep.

*~*~*

“Damn it,” Angle growled rolling over in bed and finding Karen’s side empty and cold. He had grown so accustomed to her being there that it was hard to sleep without her. With a sigh he sat up, running a hand over his smooth scalp. “Maybe Shell and Frankie were right. I need to talk to Karen. Flowers and a romantic dinner…couldn’t hurt.”

With another sigh he laid back on the pillows. His thoughts drifted to the Valentine’s Day Impact. Karen had looked breathtaking in her wedding gown. Shelly was right; his eyes had lit up when he saw her that night. She was the most beautiful woman there.

He growled as his thoughts drifted to how the night ended. Styles kissed Karen and now things were just one big mess. “I should have broken that little shit’s ankle when I had the chance,” Angle yawned, closing his eyes. He soon drifted off to sleep, a smile curling his lips as he thought of all the ways to torture Styles.


{Chapter 4}

When Shelly awoke the next morning she could hear whispering and smell coffee and eggs. Rolling onto her back with a groan she sat up, grinding the sleep out of her eyes. She glanced over at the small table where Karen and Styles were talking softly and giggling.

“About time you woke up,” Styles said pouring a cup of coffee and putting in cream and two sugars before bringing it over to her. “We were debating whether we should head over to Devine’s room and borrow his air horn to wake ya.”

“If you even dare you’d be heading to the hospital to have it surgically removed,” Shelly grumbled accepting the coffee.

“Told you,” Karen snickered. “Want any breakfast?” Shelly crinkled her nose, shaking her head as she sipped her coffee.

“You sure,” Styles asked, holding out a slice of toast to her. “It’s the most important meal of the day.”

Before Shelly could respond there was a knock at the door. With a sigh she set her cup aside and tossed the blankets off, getting out of bed to answer it. Kurt Angle was standing there, a small bouquet of wild flowers clutched in his hand.

Shelly smiled. “I see you’ve decided to take Frankie’s advice,” she said before turning her attention back to the room. “Karen, it’s for you.”

Karen set down her slice of toast and headed over to the door. Styles was close behind, but Shelly dragged him back to the table, making him sit down. He glared up at her as she retrieved her cup of coffee and took a seat at the table, picking at some eggs.

“Who was it,” Styles asked, munching on his toast.

“Kurt,” Shelly replied. Styles groaned. “AJ, you really need to focus your energy on someone who is single.”

“I know,” he groaned, sinking into his seat.

*~*~*

“Kurt,” Karen said seeing the flowers. “Are those for me?” He nodded. “They’re beautiful.”

“Karen,” Kurt said and then cleared his throat. “Karen, come back to the room with me.”

“Kurt…I don’t know,” she replied biting her bottom lip. “Bringing me flowers is sweet, but it doesn’t solve…”

“I know,” Kurt replied taking her hand and kissing the back of it. “I was hoping we could spend some time together today before the Impact tapings tonight. Maybe check out Universal by ourselves instead of with the kids.”

Karen smiled, seeing the Kurt she had fallen in love with so many years ago shining through. “All right,” she said. “Let me just tell Shell I’m going.” He nodded leaning up against the wall to wait for her.

*~*~*

“Why don’t you ask Gail out,” Shelly suggested as she nibbled on some toast. Styles sighed. “Oh come on, AJ. I know she’s not Karen, but Gail’s very pretty and smart and funny. She’s also single.”

“I guess,” Styles replied sighing as he tossed the crust of his toast onto his plate. “I think maybe I should go see if Frankie’s up. I need a shower.”

Just then Karen entered the room all smiles. In her hand she held the bouquet of flowers from Kurt. “I’m going to spend some time with Kurt,” she said happily, grabbing her things. “See you guys at the Impact taping tonight.” With that she was gone.

“Now I’m depressed,” Styles said frowning.

“AJ,” Shelly said sighing and shaking her head. “Go shower and find Gail. I’m sure you can show her a good time.”

He nodded and exited the room going to see if Kazarian was awake to let him into the room. As he walked the hall he could hear Karen giggling. He felt the jealousy brimming inside of him, but pushed it down.

He finally made it to his room and knocked. Kazarian answered the door, freshly showered and wide awake. “Where were you,” Kazarian asked. “I woke up and you were gone?”

“Spent the night with Karen and Shell,” Styles replied.

“Figures,” Kazarian muttered.

“Well, you wouldn’t let me in,” Styles exclaimed, shoving him aside so he could enter the room. “Now if you’ll excuse me I have to shower and go find Gail.” Kazarian arched a brow at him. “Shell told me to ask her out.”

“Well, good luck with that,” he replied, grabbing his bag. “I’ll leave you to it. Maybe I can actually spend some time with my girlfriend before she gets called into work.” With that he left the room, leaving Styles alone.

Heading out into the hall Kazarian could hear loud giggling from the room next door. “Guess Greg and Jess are awake,” he muttered before heading off before could hear more of his friends’ activities than he wanted to.

*~*~*

After showering and debating for a long while on what to say Styles finally made his way down the hall toward Gail’s room. He stood outside her door for a good while willing his nerves to settle down. “It’s just a date,” he muttered to himself. “The worse she can say is no.” With a sigh he knocked on the door.

“Hi, AJ,” Gail said smiling when she opened the door. “What’s up?”

“I was…uh…wonderin’ if you’d like to go out to lunch with me,” he replied nervously.

“AJ Styles are you asking me on a date,” she asked with a smirk.

“Yes. So, you interested?” Part of him hoped she’d say yes, but a bigger part of him hoped she’d say no.

“Sure,” she replied smiling. “How about we take a walk around Universal? Grab something to eat. Maybe check out a few attractions.”

“Sounds good,” Styles replied smiling. This had been easier than he thought it would be. “When would you like to go?”

“How about now,” Gail asked grabbing her purse.

“Great,” Styles said forcing a smile. He offered her the crook of his arm and she gladly accepted it. He hoped he could get through this day without making Gail hate him.

*~*~*

“Kurt, this has been really wonderful,” Karen said smiling as she leaned her head on his shoulder while they sat on a bench. They were resting before going to see more of the park. Despite it being packed they had managed to visit some attractions without many fans bothering Kurt for autographs or pictures.

“I’m glad you’re having a good time,” he said kissing her temple. “I know things between us have been…”

“They’ve been really fucked up, Kurt,” Karen said with a sigh. She met his gaze and smiled. “Today is a step in the right direction for us.”

“I sure hope so,” he replied sighing. “You know I’m no good at all this mushy, touchy feely shit.”

“I know,” Karen smiled with a shake of her head. “Why don’t we get some ice cream?” He smiled and nodded, taking her hand and leading her over to the ice cream.

*~*~*

“I’m having such a good time, AJ,” Gail said smiling as she nibbled on her cotton candy. “I am SO gonna need to hit the gym extra hard after this.”

“Nah,” Styles replied smiling. “You look just fine, Gail.”

“Oh you are so sweet,” she said giving him a kiss on the cheek. “I can’t believe you actually asked me out. I mean…not when you’re still pining over Karen.”

“She’s a married woman,” Styles said. “I think I need to focus on the SINGLE lovely ladies.” Gail smiled looping her arm through his and leaning her head on his shoulder as they walked.

They walked around the park until Styles spotted Kurt and Karen. He groaned internally seeing them. They were feeding each other ice cream and he wanted nothing more than to go over to sit with them.

“Isn’t that Kurt and Karen,” Gail asked catching sight of the couple.

“Is it? I hadn’t noticed,” Styles lied.

“Come on, let’s go say hi,” Gail said dragging him along behind her. “Hey, Kurt, Karen,” she happily chirped.

“Hi, Gail,” Karen replied smiling. She then caught sight of Styles. “AJ.” He nodded to her and glanced nervously at Kurt, whose smile had vanished the moment Karen had mentions Styles’ name. His intense blue eyes bore holes into him.

“Can you believe it? AJ asked me out on a date,” Gail said taking a seat next to Karen.

“Just make yourself at home,” Kurt muttered.

“Uh...Gail, Kurt and Karen are obviously tryin’ to have some alone time,” Styles said detecting Kurt's tone of sarcasm. “Maybe we should let them.”

“I am so sorry,” Gail said realizing that she had indeed been intruding on the couple. “We’ll just leave you two alone.”

Gail took Styles’ hand and led him away, chattering about what attraction to visit next. Karen watched them leave, unable to shake a feeling of sadness at the departure. She turned her glance to Kurt and saw that he was studying her. She forced a smile and reached out to touch his hand, letting him know she was happy to be there with him.

Styles cast a glance over his shoulder as he followed Gail. He could see Karen leaning in to kiss Kurt softly and couldn’t help the sad sigh that escaped his lips. With a shake of his head he forced himself to focus on the woman he was there with. Karen had Kurt and he had to get over it no matter how hard it would be.

{Chapter 5}

“Is it safe for me to come in,” Kazarian called as he entered the room he was supposed to share with Shelly the night before.

“Yes,” she chuckled coming out of the bathroom. She had showered and was dressed already.

He eyed her up and down and groaned, dropping his bag. “Don’t tell me Cornette called you in already,” he whimpered.

She sighed and nodded going over to him and placing a kiss on his lips. “He has meetings all afternoon and then tonight is the tapings,” she replied. He groaned again.

“Have I told you how much I hate AJ,” he asked watching as she grabbed her bag and jacket.

“You don’t mean that,” she chuckled.

“No, I mean it,” he sighed. “Because of his shit I couldn’t spend last night with you. Do you know how much it sucks waking up alone?”

“Do you know how much it sucks waking up to AJ and Karen giggling,” she retorted. “Hopefully last night was the only time we’ll have to spend apart. All right?” She went over to him, wrapping her arms around his neck. “Tonight after Impact it will be just you and me. I promise.”

“I’m holding you to that,” he said wrapping his arms around her waist, pulling her closer to him as he captured her lips with his.

Her cell phone began to ring and she groaned, reluctantly breaking the kiss. With an apologetic smile to him she checked the number. “It’s Cornette,” she said. “Gotta go.” She gave him a quick kiss before heading out of the room as she answered the phone. “I’m on my way now, Mr. Cornette.”

*~*~*

“Do you have to go,” ODB pouted as she watched Greg fixing himself.

“Jess, honey, I have to meet with Jay and Sonjay,” he said. “You had me all to yourself all morning and all night.” She smiled at the memories. “I’ll see you at the arena at the tapings. Right now I have to run through some things for my match tonight.” She nodded reluctantly and watched him go.

*~*~*

Kazarian, Shelly, Greg and ODB were standing around chatting when Styles arrived at the Impact Zone with Gail that night. They watched as she giggled and gave him a kiss on the cheek before heading off on her own. With a sigh he headed over to his friends. It was obvious he was not happy.

“Date didn’t go so well, AJ,” Shelly asked, noting his posture and facial expression.

“Oh it went great,” Styles sighed. “Until we spotted Karen and Kurt having ice cream.” He slouched against the wall with a groan. “Do you have ANY idea how hard it is to concentrate on Gail’s chatterin’ when you have Karen on the brain?”

“Can’t say that I do,” Kazarian replied slipping an arm around Shelly’s waist. “I don’t often fantasize about married women, especially when…”

“Frankie, you make me barf with what you’re about to say and I’ll have to kick your ass,” Greg said smirking.

“Oh and you and Jess playing tonsil hockey all over the place isn’t barf-worthy,” Kazarian replied. Greg opened his mouth to reply bit Kazarian didn’t let him. “Or how about you guys groping each other? Hell, half the time I wonder if I’ve stepped into a fucking soft core porn when you're around.”

“Don’t be mad because we have more passion than you and Shell,” ODB said snickering.

“Pa…passion,” Kazarian exclaimed. “We have plenty of passion. We just choose to show it in privacy.”

“Sure you do,” ODB snickered.

“Can we get back to my problem,” Styles called getting everyone’s attention.

“AJ, you just need to try to keep your mind off of Karen and concentrate on Gail,” Shelly suggested. “Did you have a good time with her before you ran into Karen and Kurt?”

“Yes, but…”

“If you say ‘but she’s not Karen’ I swear I will kick your ass, Styles,” Kazarian said. “No one else is Karen. You have to get over that. She’s married, AJ.”

“And unless Kurt does something mega-stupid she’s going to stay married,” Greg added.

“Karen and Kurt are trying to keep their marriage alive and you following her around like a puppy dog isn’t helping, AJ,” Shelly said with a sigh. “Maybe you should stay away from her for a while.”

“How the hell is he supposed to do that when he’s part of the Angle Alliance,” ODB asked.

“Jess,” Shelly groaned.

“She does have a point,” Styles said. “I mean, Kurt calls meetings all the time. How can I avoid Karen when she’s always around?”

“I don’t know,” Shelly groaned. She then heard Cornette bellowing for her. “I have to go. Just try to concentrate on Gail, AJ. She’s a sweet woman and I think you two will make an adorable couple.”

*~*~*

Later that night Styles and Tomko were getting ready for their match when Karen entered the locker room. Tomko took one look at her and groaned, running a hand over his bald head and down his face. He loved tagging up with Styles, he was very gifted in the ring and it was a great privilege to be tag champs with him, but his school boy crush on Karen Angle was enough to drive Tomko up the wall.

“Kurt would like to see you two,” Karen said, ignoring Tomko’s obvious disdain for her.

“Thanks, Karen,” Styles said and went back to pulling on his kick pads. “Tell him we’ll be there in a few minutes.”

Karen stood there stunned for a moment. Usually Styles rushed over to greet her with a hug. Tonight he had barely even looked at her. Though the attention had caused a rift in her marriage she enjoyed it. It made her feel special. “All right,” she said casting one last glance at Styles before leaving.

Tomko too noticed the change and stared at his tag partner for a long while. Styles felt his eyes on him as he finished pulling on his elbow pads. “What,” he asked.

“You just ignored Karen,” Tomko said.

“Yeah, so?”

“Do you feel all right, AJ,” Tomko asked placing a large hand on Styles’ forehead. “You’re not getting sick on me are you?”

Styles swatted his hand away and glared at him. “No, I’m not sick,” he replied. “She’s married to Kurt. The way I’ve been actin’ is wrong. I know that. The feelings I have for her…I need to let her alone and focus on someone single.”

Tomko smiled, clapping him on the back. “I’m proud of you, AJ,” he said. “Of course I know you had help coming to that conclusion, but I’m still proud of you for being the bigger man here.”

“Whatever,” Styles said shrugging Tomko’s hand off. “Come on. We have to meet with Kurt.”

*~*~*

After the meeting with Angle was over Karen lingered in the locker room. When Kurt and Tomko were gone she pulled Styles aside. “What’s wrong,” he asked.

“Did I do something wrong,” she asked.

“No,” Styles replied, confused by her question.

“Then why were you so cold to me earlier,” she demanded. “Usually I get a hug or a kiss on the cheek. You didn’t even look at me.”

Styles sighed. “Karen, look…I’m not gonna lie to you...I have feelings for you, but…you’re married to Kurt. You have a family with him. My feelings are wrong. I know that and you know that.”

“We’re friends, AJ,” Karen said.

“Yes, we are,” he replied smiling. “But I can’t be around you too much, Karen, because…it breaks my heart that I can’t have you.” He sighed, knowing he had said too much. “I gotta go before Tomko starts lookin’ for me.”

Karen watched him leave, her heart breaking at his words. She had no idea how deep his feelings for her ran. She thought it was just a crush. With a sad sigh she headed toward the door, only to find Kurt there, a devilish glint in his eyes.

“What’s with you,” she asked forcing a smile.

“Oh nothing,” he replied closing the door and locking it behind him. “Just thought that since my match isn’t until later…”

“Kurt,” Karen giggled. “You can’t be serious. I mean, there are people walking around outside the door.”

“I locked it,” he replied pulling her to him and capturing her lips with his. She melted into him allowing him to lower them down to the couch.

*~*~*

“Damn it,” Styles grumbled stopping in his tracks as he followed Tomko to the tunnel.

“What,” Tomko asked loosening up.

“I forgot my crown,” Styles replied. “I got time. Be right back.” He jogged off before Tomko could object.

He made it to Kurt’s locker room in record time and grasped the knob, finding it locked. He knocked, not thinking anything of it. “Kurt? I forgot my crown,” he called. From inside he heard Karen giggling, followed by Kurt murmuring something. Styles groaned realizing what was going on. Slowly he walked away from the door.

“Where’s your crown,” Tomko asked when Styles returned.

“I don’t need it,” Styles replied as their music blasted. “Come on. We got a match.”

{Chapter 6}

Later in the evening Shelly was just wishing Kazarian luck before he headed to the ring when Karen and Kurt joined them. Both had huge smiles on their faces. Kurt whispered something in Karen’s ear and she giggled giving him a long kiss before he headed to the ring.

“Looks like a little afternoon alone time was good for the two of you,” Shelly said joining Karen.

“Yeah,” Karen replied with a sigh, unable to wipe the smile off her face. “It’s been great.”

“Someone got lucky,” Shelly said in a sing song manner. Karen giggled shaking her head. “Don’t deny it. I know that smile! You got lucky in the locker room!”

“Would you keep it down,” Karen exclaimed wrapping an arm around Shelly’s shoulders, her hand clamping down over the younger woman’s mouth as they walked away from the tunnel.

“What’s the matter Karen,” ODB asked with a smirk as she fell into step beside the women. “Don’t want everyone to know you got a little locker room lovin’?”

Shelly began to snicker, prying Karen’s hand away. “Not everyone is as open as you. The whole world knows when you and Greg go at it, Jess.” ODB flipped her off and she retaliated by sticking out her tongue at her.

“Would you two stop,” Karen said blushing.

“Relax, Karen,” ODB chuckled. “You think Shell is embarrassed when I rib her about gettin’ some?”

Karen turned her attention to Shelly. “You and Frankie have…in the locker room?”

“It was ONE time,” Shelly replied shoving ODB, who was snickering. “And It wasn’t MY idea.” ODB snickered louder. “Wasn’t my fault Frankie forgot to lock the door and Greg walked in.” ODB finally lost it, leaning up against the wall for support.

“What’s so funny,” Tomko asked happening upon the women.

“Karen got herself some in the locker room,” ODB blurted out.

“Jess,” Karen exclaimed, turning three shades of red.

“Well, that explains it,” Tomko replied.

“Explains what,” Shelly asked, having a feeling she knew what he would say.”

“AJ forgot his crown in Kurt’s locker room before our match,” Tomko replied. “He ran back to get it, but came back without it. He seemed pretty upset, but I let it go. He’s been in a mood since then.”

“Can I please slap some sense into that boy,” ODB asked.

Karen was silent, guilt replacing the giddiness she had originally felt. Why was AJ affecting her this way? “I should go talk to him,” she said.

“No,” Shelly replied shaking her head. “Let me. No offense, Karen, but you’re the reason he’s in a mood to begin with.” Karen sighed loudly, but nodded. “Any idea where he is, Tomko?”

“He said he needed some air,” he replied with a shrug.

“Thanks,” Shelly said jogging away. She knew where Styles went when he needed some air. Finally arriving at her destination she saw Styles leaning against the back wall of the arena. “Fancy meeting you here,” she said joining him.

“You can go back inside,” he said not looking at her. “I just wanna be alone.”

“AJ, what happened to giving Gail a try,” she asked.

“I’m not interested in Gail,” he replied. “I tried, but she’s not my type and I’ll explain that to her later. Now would you please just leave me alone?”

“Not happening,” Shelly replied. He let out an exasperated groan. “I know your type, AJ and she’s taken. Get over it! This has to stop and you know it.”

“Maybe I don’t want it to stop,” he growled. “Maybe if Karen sees what a dick Kurt really is…”

“She’ll what? Throw herself at you? Leave him and go to you,” Shelly demanded.

“It could happen,” he replied.

“And what happens to their kids? What about Kyra and Kody, AJ? Would you really feel good about breaking up a family,” she demanded. He didn’t reply. “You’d feel like an ass and you know it.”

“I didn’t ask for your advice or your opinion,” he replied, knowing that her words were true.

“I’m trying to knock some sense into you,” Shelly said with a tired sigh. “Before you wind up getting hurt, but I can see that I’m wasting my time.” With that she headed back into the building.

“Talk went that well, huh,” Tomko asked when he saw Shelly’s face.

“That boy is too stubborn for his own good,” she grumbled.

“Don’t I know it,” he replied shaking his head. “You tried. That’s all you can do, Shell. He’ll come around sooner or later…I hope.”

“I give up,” she said. “I can’t keep saying the same things over and over again.”

“I understand,” Tomko said placing a hand on her shoulder. “But I know you. You’ll be there when he finally realizes the truth. It’s just the way you are.” She nodded, giving him a weak smile.

“Looks like Frankie’s match is over,” she said excusing herself.

“You look happy,” Kazarian said seeing her heading his way.

“Get showered and dressed fast,” she said. “I’m letting Cornette know I’m leaving.”

Kazarian smiled. “You weren’t kidding when you said we’d have some alone time later, huh?”

“I’m not in the mood for kidding, Frankie,” she replied. “We’re going back to the hotel and unless someone is on fire we’re not coming out of that room for the rest of the night.”

“Screw the shower,” he said with a wide smile as he headed toward his locker room.

*~*~*

A half hour later the couple exited the elevator and headed to their room. “Baby, you’ve been awfully quiet,” Kazarian said as he opened the door and tossed aside his bag. Shelly sighed and slumped down to the bed. He took a seat next to her, taking her hand.

“Just stress,” she replied.

“Well, let’s see what we can do about that,” he replied smiling, his hands massaging her shoulders. She sighed, leaning into his touch, though the tension in her muscles didn’t ease. He leaned forward, placing feather light kisses on her neck.

“I’m sorry, Frankie,” she said after a while. “This isn’t working.” She pushed him away.

“What’s going on,” he asked, disappointed.

“It’s AJ,” she said. He groaned loudly, raking a hand through his hair. “He’s just so blinded by his crush on Karen.”

“Can we not talk about AJ tonight,” he asked. “You promised it’d just be you and me tonight.” He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close to him.

“Frankie,” she said pulling away from him and standing. “I’m worried about our friend.” She began to pace. “How can you not care?”

“Of course I care about AJ. He’s one of my best friends,” Kazarian replied, going to her and stopping her from pacing. “It’s just…I really don’t have sympathy for him right now. He’s infatuated with a married woman. If he gets hurt then he brought it on himself.”

“That’s a terrible thing to say,” Shelly replied, pushing him away. “I think I need to go for a walk.” She headed toward the door.

“No, Shell, please don’t,” he called, but she was gone before he could say more. With a groan he threw himself onto the bed. “I am going to kill AJ when I see him.”

*~*~*

Shelly took a walk around the block before heading back into the hotel, but decided against going back to the room. With a sigh she took a seat in the lobby. She was soon joined in the sitting area.

“Shouldn’t you be up in your room with Frankie,” he asked with a smirk. When she didn’t reply he leaned forward. “What’s going on?”

“I needed some air,” she replied not elaborating.

“What’d Frankie do wrong,” Tomko asked.

“It’s not him,” she replied with a groan. “It’s AJ. I’m worried about him.”

“Shell, don’t do this to yourself. He’s gotta learn and if it’s the hard way then it’s the hard way. You have more important things to worry about than AJ acting like a stupid schoolboy around Karen.”

Shelly sighed, nodding. “You’re right,” she replied. “Thanks, Tomko.” She stood and gave him a quick hug before heading toward the elevators.

“Now if only talking sense into AJ was that easy,” he muttered shaking his head.

*~*~*

When Shelly got back to the room it was dark. Kazarian had decided to call it a night while she was gone. She could see him lying in bed in the sliver of moonlight that dimly illuminated the room.

Kicking off her shoes Shelly crawled into bed beside him. She hadn’t been gone very long and knew he wouldn’t be in a deep sleep. He stirred feeling her hands on his shoulders.

“I thought you needed to go for a walk,” he said, not wanting to let her know he was enjoying the gentle massage she was giving him.

“I did,” she replied kissing his neck. “And now I’m back.”

Kazarian rolled onto his back, turning on the bedside lamp. “You weren’t gone long,” he said.

“Had a talk with Tomko,” she replied with a small smile. “He put things in perspective for me.”

“Yeah? Like what?”

“This,” she replied leaning in to kiss him softly. His arms snaked around her pulling her closer to him. “How about we have that night just for us like we planned,” she asked when the kiss was broken.

“I thought you’d never ask,” he replied with a small smile as he turned off the bedside lamp.

{Chapter 7}

Incessant knocking woke Styles out of a wonderful dream he was having. With a groan he pulled himself from the bed and headed to the door. He threw it open not bothering to look through the peephole to see who it was.

“Morning,” Gail chirped happily. She didn’t wait to be invited in as she lugged a picnic basket into the room and set it down on the table in the corner. She began to unpack it.

“Gail, what are you doing,” Styles asked as he shut the door.

“I thought I’d surprise you with breakfast,” she replied smiling wide. “You were so sweet yesterday and I wanted to do something special for you.”

“That’s really sweet, Gail, but…um…look, we need to talk,” he said rubbing the back of his neck.

“About what,” she asked as she served him a plate of eggs and bacon.

“You see…the thing is…a friend put me up to askin’ you out,” he replied.

“What are you saying, AJ,” Gail asked, hurt swimming in her eyes.

“Gail, you’re a wonderful woman,” he said setting aside the food she had just handed him. “You’re just…not…my type.”

“I see,” Gail replied. “Not your type. As in I’m not married to Kurt Angle. Right? Is that it, AJ?”

“Gail, please…” He didn’t get to finish his statement as she slapped him hard across the face. He held his now red cheek and blinked a couple of times unable to believe she had just hit him.

“You’re an ass, AJ,” she said gathering up the food and putting it back into the basket. “I can’t believe I actually wasted my time on you.” With that she stormed to the door.

“Gail, wait. Don’t be mad,” he said following her to the door.

“Just a bit of information you need to know, AJ,” Gail said glaring at him. “Karen will NEVER be yours. She’s playing you for a fool, AJ, but you’re too fucking stupid to even realize it.” With that she left, slamming the door behind her.

Styles groaned and sunk down onto the bed. “Well, that went well,” he muttered to the empty room. With a sigh he crawled back under the covers intent on going back to sleep for the rest of the morning.

*~*~*

“Hi Gail,” Shelly said seeing the woman coming toward her. “You taking breakfast to AJ?”

“AJ? AJ is a complete jerk,” Gail growled. “I can’t believe I ever considered going out with him!”

Shelly groaned. “What’d he do,” she asked, pinching the bridge of her nose.

“Wasted my time,” Gail huffed. “I mean…honestly, if he wasn’t over Karen why the HELL would he ask me out?”

“That’s easy,” ODB said smirking as she joined the two women. “Shell, here told him to.” Gail glared at Shelly.

“Thanks, Jess,” Shelly muttered. “Look, Gail…I was hoping that when he saw how charming you are he’d forget about Karen. I’m sorry. I didn’t know he’d be such a jerk.”

“Whatever,” Gail said with a sigh. “I’m over it. If you see AJ…tell him I said drop dead.” With that she stormed off.

“Damn, she’s pissed,” ODB said with a chuckle.

“Ya think,” Shelly asked walking ahead of her.

“Where ya goin’,” ODB asked jogging to keep up with her.

“To give AJ a piece of my mind,” she replied banging on Styles’ door.

“Go away,” the heard Styles call from inside the room.

“You’re not getting off that easy, AJ,” Shelly called, banging on the door again. “Get your ass out here now!”

“WHAT,” Styles growled throwing open his door.

“You’re an idiot,” Shelly replied.

“That seems to be the consensus this morning,” he muttered crossing his arms. “Is that all you have to say? ‘Cause if you don’t mind I’d like to crawl back under the covers and wallow in self pity.”

“No, you’re not,” Shelly replied. “Shower and get dressed. Frankie and Greg will be by to get you in a little while.”

“They will,” ODB asked arching a brow at her.

“Yes, they will,” Shelly replied, taking ODB’s hand and leading her away from the room. “Be ready or they’ll drag you out in your jammies.” With that she dragged ODB away.

“Shell, slow down,” ODB yelled yanking her hand free. “What the hell are you planning?”

“I don’t care what they have to do, but Frankie and Greg are going to take AJ out and take his mind off of Karen. Maybe even find him someone new to obsess over.”

“That’s easier said than done,” ODB said shaking her head.

“Are you gonna stand there or come help me convince the guys,” Shelly demanded.

“Oh, I’m comin’, but only because I could use a good laugh,” ODB replied.

*~*~*

“I got worried that Cornette asked you to work today,” Kazarian said when Shelly and ODB returned to the room. “You all right?” He noticed how upset Shelly was. ODB began to snicker as she took a seat on the bed.

“Stop snickering and tell Greg to get his ass over here,” Shelly said to her. ODB shrugged and pulled out her cell phone, hitting speed dial.

“What’s going on,” Kazarian asked.

“I’ll explain everything when Greg gets here,” Shelly replied. No sooner had she said the words than she heard a knock at the door. She motioned for Kazarian to sit down as she answered it. “Good, you’re here,” she said letting Greg in.

“Yes, why am I here,” Greg asked going to his girlfriend and taking a seat next to her on the bed.

“That’s what I’d like to know,” Kazarian muttered.

“Guys, I need a HUGE favor,” Shelly began. Greg groaned, knowing she was going to ask him to do something he didn’t want to do. “I need you guys to take AJ out for the day.”

“What,” Kazarian groaned. “Babe, we’ve hardly spent any time together aside from last night.”

“Why the HELL would I want to spend the day with AJ,” Greg agreed. “I can think of much better use of my time.”

“So can I,” ODB giggled.

“Frankie, baby, if you do this for me…”

“No,” Kazarian replied crossing his arms and shaking his head emphatically. “I’m not doing it.”

“Good for you, Frankie,” Greg said. “Stick to your guns.”

“Frankie, can I speak to you in private,” Shelly asked sweetly, motioning toward the bathroom. Kazarian sighed loudly, but followed her into the bathroom.

“Oh no,” Greg groaned. “That’s a dirty trick!”

Moments later the couple emerged from the bathroom and Kazarian looked flustered. “Come on, Greg,” he murmured. “Let’s go get AJ.”

“FRANKIE! What happened to sticking to your guns,” Greg demanded following the older man to the door.

“She has her ways of convincing me to see things her way,” Kazarian replied with a shrug. “Let’s just say that I enjoy spending alone time with my girlfriend and if doing this will get me more of that then I can bite the bullet for an afternoon.”

“Sweet Jeebus you’re whipped,” Greg groaned.

“You’re one to talk,” Kazarian replied. “Jess cracks the whip and you come running like a puppy.”

“Men,” ODB said snickering with a shake of her head. “They’re so easily convinced when we use our secret weapons.”

Shelly nodded with a chuckle. “That was actually easier than I thought it would be,” she said. “Why don’t we have a girls day? Head to the mall. Do some shopping, maybe manis and pedis or a movie?”

“Sounds like a plan to me,” ODB said smiling.

*~*~*

“I can’t believe I’m doing this,” Kazarian said as he knocked on Styles’ door.

“WE’RE doing this,” Greg corrected. “I never did thank you.” He punched Kazarian hard in the arm.

“Fuck,” Kazarian groaned rubbing his now sore arm.

“Be thankful I didn’t punch you in the nuts,” Greg grumbled, leaning against the wall. “Where the hell is he?”

Kazarian knocked again, harder this time. “AJ, come on,” he called through the door. “We know you’re in there.”

When there was no answer Greg shoved Kazarian out of the way and banged on the door, making it rattle. “Styles get your ass out here now,” he yelled through the door.

“All right,” Styles yelled back throwing open the door. “Why can’t everyone just leave me alone?”

“Just shut your trap and let’s go,” Greg replied. “You think we’re doing this because we want to?”

“Gee, thanks,” Styles replied rolling his eyes. “You make me feel so loved.”

“AJ, let’s just get this over with,” Kazarian said with a tired sigh.

“It’s obvious you both don’t wanna do this,” Styles replied. “How about I go back in my room and you and Greg go have a nice little afternoon of bonding?”

“Yeah, you’re not getting out of this that easily,” Kazarian replied grabbing Styles by his shirt collar. “Come on. We’re gonna go have a good time and do some bonding. All right?”

“How about I do whatever you want me to do for a month,” Styles replied, pulling himself free of Kazarian’s grasp. “Bet that’s better than anything Shell promised you. You have your own slave, Frankie.”

Greg began to snicker. “AJ, unless you enjoy the man flesh I don’t think that offer will stand up to what Shell has planned for Frankie boy.”

“Ew, Greg,” Kazarian said shuddering at the thought. “I don’t swing that way.”

“This is what I’m sayin’,” Greg replied. “Pay attention. So, shut the fuck up and let’s go, Styles.”

“Fine,” Styles replied, shoulders slumping in defeat. “But don’t expect me to have fun.”

“Aw, AJ, we’re the three amigos,” Greg said slinging his arm around Styles’ shoulders. “Of course we’ll have fun.” With that the three men headed toward the elevator bank.

Chapter 8}

“This is your idea to get AJ’s mind off of Karen,” Kazarian asked as the three men walked through the front door. “A strip club?”

“Tell me honestly, Frankie, would you be able to remember Shell after some time here,” Greg asked with a smile in he took in the sights before him.

“Yes,” Kazarian replied.

“Liar,” Greg replied. “AJ, my man, take your pick. You can have some hot chocolate.” He motioned toward a half naked, busty African American woman gyrated on the pole. “Or some sweet caramel.” He pointed toward a Hispanic woman taking a drink order.

“It’s really disturbing that you’re referring to these women as flavors,” Styles said frowning. “Why are we here?”

“Because you needed to forget about Karen,” Greg said yanking Styles behind him by the shirt collar. “Sweetheart,” he called to a brunette woman nearby. “My friend would like a lap dance.” He waved a wad of bills in her face.

“Today’s your lucky day, darlin’,” she replied smiling. She took Styles’ hand and led him into a private room.

“So, Frankie,” Greg said slinging his arm around Kazarian’s shoulders. “Can I get you a lap dance as well?”

“No,” Kazarian replied shrugging Greg’s arm off. “Shell will kill me if she even knew I was here.” Just then his phone began to vibrate in his pocket. He pulled it out and checked the Caller ID, groaning.

“That’s her isn’t it,” Greg snickered.

“Shut up,” Kazarian growled, answering the phone. “Hey, babe,” he said trying to sound as innocent as possible.”

“I can hardly hear you,” Shelly said. “Where are you?”

“Oh…you know…a club,” Kazarian replied. Just then Warrant’s Cherry Pie began to blast in the background.

“By club do you mean strip club,” Shelly asked hearing the music and the sounds of cat calls in the background.

“No, baby, I wouldn’t be in a strip club,” Kazarian replied, chuckling nervously. “What makes you think that I’m in a strip club?”

“For one, I just heard someone say please welcome Honey Delight,” Shelly replied. “Frankie, seriously, if you’re in a strip club with the guys you can tell me the truth. I’m not gonna be mad. I know you’re just trying to cheer AJ up. So, is it working?”

“I don’t know,” Kazarian replied with a sigh. “Greg just got him a lap dance.”

“All right, well, have a good time,” she said. “But not too good of a time.”

“Ah baby you know none of these silicone infected wannabes are my type,” he replied with a smile.

“You’re pathetic,” Greg said once Kazarian had hung up.

“Sorry if I’m not as adventurous as you and Jess,” Kazarian replied rolling his eyes. “Think maybe we should check on AJ?”

Greg shrugged and nodded, slipping a bill into a blonde’s G-string. He motioned Kazarian to follow him and led the way to the room the brunette had taken Styles to. He poked his head in a moment before grabbing Kazarian and yanking him into the room.

“And I know I shouldn’t be so infatuated with her, but…”

“You have GOT to be kidding me, AJ,” Greg growled. The stripper was sitting across from styles, filing her nails while he prattled on about Karen. “I paid this lovely young lady to give you a lap dance.”

“I know but…”

“Seriously, AJ,” Kazarian said shaking his head. “She’s supposed to be making your head explode not listening to you whine.”

“This was a bad idea,” Styles said with a sigh. “Candy, thanks for listenin’.” With that he exited the private room. Greg and Kazarian were right behind him.

“Guess that was a bust,” Kazarian said. “But my idea you just can’t possibly shoot down. Come on.” He led the way to the car, sliding behind the wheel.

A half hour later they pulled into a parking spot. Kazarian killed the engine and got out, smiling wide. Greg and Styles got out of the car exchanging glances and then looking at where Kazarian had brought them.

“Frankie,” Greg asked. “Are you serious?”

“Come on, it’ll be great,” Kazarian replied. “How can you NOT have fun at a carnival? The ferris wheel, the cotton candy, the games. It’s a blast just waiting to happen!”

“Yeah, if you’re twelve,” Styles replied.

“Seriously, Frankie, you need to get laid more often,” Greg replied shaking his head.

“Tell Shell that…but that’s besides the point,” Kazarian replied leading the way into the carnival. “Come on. Let’s go get some junk food and play some games.”

An hour later they stood at the ring toss. Greg grumbled as he tossed his rings missing every target. Kazarian had managed to win a small stuffed dog, which he intended to give to Shelly. Styles stood stunned. Every ring he had tossed had been a bullseye.

“You get your choice of any of the large stuffed animals,” the carny said.

“I’ll take the big dog,” Styles said smiling. “Karen is gonna LOVE this!”

“No,” Kazarian said slapping his forehead. “You’re not supposed to be thinking about her! For God’s sake, man!”

“Well, who the hell else am I supposed to give it to,” Styles demanded taking the large stuffed dog from the carny.

“How about Gail,” Greg replied. “As a peace offering.”

Styles sighed. “I suppose,” he muttered. “I just have this horrible image of her ripping the dogs head off and hurling it at me.”

Greg snickered. The image of Gail Kim ripping a stuffed animal’s head off and then tossing it at Styles cracked him up. Soon Kazarian was snickering as well.

“Laugh it up,” Styles said tucking the dog under his arm as he stalked off ahead of them.

“Hey, AJ, wait up,” Kazarian called. “How about we leave this place and go to a movie. We’ll let you pick.”

*~*~*

“I’m tellin’ ya, Shell, Frankie is gonna die when he sees that sexy little nighty you bought,” ODB said smiling as she and Shelly exited the elevator on their floor.

“Speaking of Frankie, I haven’t spoken to him in a while,” Shelly said pulling out her cell phone. “I should see how things are going with the guys.” The line went straight to voice mail. “Hmmm…he has his phone off. Oh well, guess I’ll just have to wait until Frankie gets back to see how things went.”

“Well, I could use a hot bath,” ODB said stretching. “Hope Greg gets back soon.”

“I’m sure they’ll be back soon enough,” Shelly said smiling. “In the meantime a hot bath sounds great.” The women said their goodbyes both intent on relaxing in the tub.

*~*~*

“Admit it, AJ, you had a good time today,” Greg said as they rode the elevator up to their floor.

“I did,” Styles replied with a sigh. “Thanks guys.”

“You’re welcome,” Kazarian replied with a smile. “What are friends for?”

The doors dinged open and they came face to face with Gail Kim. She took one look at Styles and huffed. “I’ll take the stairs,” she said and stalked off.

“Gail, wait,” Styles called as he jogged to keep up with her. “Look, I know I hurt you this morning and I’m sorry.” She stopped walking, but didn’t face him. “I won this for you…as a peace offering.” He held the dog out to her.

She slowly turned around and eyed the stuffed dog and then Styles. With a sigh she reached out and accepted the gift. “I should just tear this up and throw it at you,” she said. “But it’s too cute to do that to.”

“So, I’m forgiven,” Styles asked. “We’re still friends?”

“You’re forgiven for now,” Gail replied. “And yes we’re still friends.” Styles breathed a sigh of relief. “I meant what I said this morning though. You need to wise up about Karen, AJ. The sooner you do the better off you’ll be.” With that said she headed off.

“See ya in the morning, AJ,” Kazarian said patting the younger man on the back as he passed him on the way to his room.

“See ya, Frankie,” Styles replied. He turned his attention to Greg. “Wanna come to my room and watched some movies or somethin’?”

“Nah,” Greg replied tiredly. “I need to crawl into bed with my woman and get some sleep.” He too patted Styles on the back as he passed on the way to his room.

Styles stood in the hall shoulders slumped. He was all alone now that the guys had gone to their women. “Guess it’s off to bed for me,” he muttered sadly as he pulled out his keycard and opened his hotel room door.

{Chapter 9}

A week later Shelly had been checking on things in the women’s locker room when she heard arguing coming from the hall. With a groan she poked her head out just in time to se Karen stalking away from Kurt. Sighing she rushed to catch up with the older woman.

“Karen,” she called falling into step beside her friend. “What’s going on?”

Karen huffed, raking a hand through her long, chestnut locks. “He’s such a jerk,” she said, tears brimming in her eyes.

“What’d Kurt do now,” Shelly asked, rubbing her temples. She had been back to work for no longer than a half hour and already she could feel a migraine starting.

“He won’t let me come to ringside with him,” Karen fumed.

“Did he say why,” Shelly asked. “Maybe he has his reasons.”

“He said he needs to concentrate on Kevin Nash and doesn’t need to worry about me,” Karen replied. “I can handle myself at ringside.”

“Karen,” Shelly said watching as Karen began to pace. “Maybe Kurt’s just worried that with Joe and Christian lurking about they’ll do something to you to get to him.”

“Yeah, that’s what he’s worried about,” Karen scoffed. “He’s just worried about that precious damn belt of his.” With that she stormed off to get some air leaving Shelly to stare after her.

“God, I hope she doesn’t run into AJ in that state,” she murmured before going back to work.

*~*~*

Greg and Kazarian were chatting with Styles as all three men waited for their respective matches that night. It was then that Styles caught sight of a distraught Karen. She stopped near the men, leaning against the wall as she sobbed.

“Karen,” Styles said softly, going to her. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s Kurt,” she sobbed, allowing him to pull her into his arms, resting her head on his shoulder. “He was so mean to me, AJ.”

“You want me to go talk to him,” Styles asked.

“Yeah, ‘cause that’ll go over well,” Greg muttered.

“AJ, maybe you should stay out of this,” Kazarian said, agreeing with Greg.

“No,” Styles replied. “He makes Karen cry way too much. I’m goin’ to give him a piece of my mind.” He handed Karen over to Kazarian and stalked off to find Angle. Greg was close behind.

With a sigh Kazarian patted Karen’s back. “Come on, Karen, let’s see if Shell is busy.”

*~*~*

“AJ, think about this,” Greg begged. “Kurt’s getting ready for his match with Nash. Do you really want to bother him.”

“He needs to stop treating Karen like trash,” Styles replied knocking on Angle’s door and not waiting to be invited in.

“What do you want,” Angle demanded of Styles.

“It’s about Karen,” Styles replied.

“Of course it is,” Angle growled. “What about her?”

“She’s crying, Kurt,” Styles replied. “You made her cry.”

Angle rolled his eyes. “You really are dumber than you look,” he grumbled. “Of course she’s crying. She didn’t get her way. She pulls this shit all the time.”

“I think you need to go apologize to her,” Styles said ignoring Kurt’s comments.

“Apologize?” Angle began to chuckle. “That’s cute, AJ. Yeah, apologize. That’s just what she wants. I’m not gonna give in to what she wants. She’s a spoiled brat. She doesn’t get her way and she bitches me out and then runs off to cry. She’s a bitch.”

Greg cringed seeing Styles’ face when Angle called his wife a bitch. “Oh no,” he mumbled. “Here comes the shitstorm.”

“You take that back,” Styles demanded shoving Angle.

Angle again began to chuckle. “That’s real cute, AJ,” he said dusting himself off. When he saw the Styles was serious he sneered at the younger man and grabbed him by the shirt collar, pinning him up against the wall. “I think you’ve been poking your nose into my marriage for long enough, Styles.”

“Kurt, don’t kill him,” Greg said prying Angle off of Styles.

Angle began to chuckle again, this time shaking his head. “You know, you really had me going for a minute there, AJ,” he said patting the younger man’s chest. “Take it back,” Angle chuckled. “That was a good one.” With that he grabbed his title and left.

“Did your life flash before your eyes,” Greg asked straightening Styles’ shirt. “Because it flashed before mine and boy do you need to live a little.”

“Shut up,” Styles growled before stalking away.

*~*~*

It soon came time for Angle’s match against Nash. Karen had been sitting with Shelly and ODB watching the show. No one knew where Styles had wandered off. He hadn’t been seen since his talk with Angle.

Karen stared at the screen blankly, not really paying much attention to the action. It wasn’t until Angle speared the turnbuckle and fell to the floor outside the ring that Karen snapped out of her daze. She noticed Kurt grabbing his neck and gasped, jumping to her feet.

“I’m sure he’s fine,” ODB stated.

“Jess, Kurt has a history of neck problems,” Shelly lightly scolded.

Before either woman could say another word Karen was rushing down to ringside to tend to Kurt. The women watched as their friend fawned over her husband trying to see if he was all right. Then as if in slow motion the women watched as Kurt shoved Karen aside and jumped back into the ring.

“She’s not moving,” Shelly gasped.

“Who’s not moving,” the women heard Styles ask.

“Karen,” ODB replied. “She went down to check on Kurt when he took a nasty bump and he just shoved her aside.”

“I think she hit her head,” Shelly said unable to shake the worry from her voice. “AJ, you have to go check on her.”

“I can’t be out there,” he replied watching the monitor, worry swimming in his blue eyes. The Angle Alliance had been banned from ringside during Kurt's match.

“You can’t help Kurt,” Shelly corrected. “You’re going out to get Karen. She needs medical attention.”

“Right,” Styles said, shaking his head. It was all the encouragement that he needed to rush down to the ring.

“How could Kurt do that to her,” Shelly asked, watching as Styles tended to Karen. To her disgust Angle used a low blow to get the upper hand on Nash before pinning him. He celebrated in the ring completely oblivious to Karen’s unconscious body being carried out by Styles.

*~*~*

Styles had just left with Karen to take her for X-rays when Angle finally came to the back. Kazarian, Shelly, Greg, ODB and Tomko were all standing there when he arrived. He smiled at them, completely unaware that his wife had been taken to the hospital.

“Come to congratulate me,” he asked. “No need.”

“You’re an ass,” Shelly said slapping him across the face.

“Shell, why don’t we head back to the hotel,” Kazarian said ushering her away before Angle could retaliate. He shot Angle a dirty look before disappearing with Shelly.

“What the hell is her deal? She on the rag or something,” Angle asked mopping his brow.

“Kurt, do you notice anyone missing,” Greg asked, he was trying to restrain ODB, who wanted to claw his eyes out.

Angle eyed everyone present before he shrugged. “AJ’s missing,” he replied.

“And,” Greg asked. Angle looked at him completely puzzled.

“Karen, you dick,” ODB growled. “You’re fuckin’ wife!”

“Oh yeah,” Angle replied. “What’d she head off to the hotel?”

“No, Kurt,” Tomko said scrubbing a hand down his face. “You shoved her pretty hard out there. She knocked her head and was bleeding. AJ took her for X-rays.”

“Oh,” Angle replied with a shrug. “Then she’s in good hands.” With that he walked off to shower and change before heading to the hotel.

“That’s it,” ODB fumed. “That’s all he’s got to say? His fuckin’ wife might be seriously hurt and that’s all he has to say?”

Tomko sighed. “No one ever accused him of being the sharpest tool in the shed,” he muttered shaking his head.

“Or the most sensitive guy in the world,” Greg added.

*~*~*

“AJ, I feel dizzy,” Karen said as he helped her into his room.

“I know,” he replied, helping her over to the bed. “Just get some rest. Everything will be better in the morning.”

Karen’s eyes filled with tears and she shook her head as he sat her down. The room began to spin and she groaned, rubbing her temple. “I think things are about to get a lot worse,” she sighed.

“Come on,” he said taking her shoes off and putting her legs up on the bed. “Get some rest.”

“AJ, will you hold me,” she asked, looking up into his eyes.

The look on her face broke his heart. He knew she would never truly be his, but in that moment that didn’t matter. “Of course,” he replied smiling softly.

He crawled into bed beside her and pulled her into his arms. She snuggled close to his side, resting her head on his chest. It wasn’t long before she had drifted off to sleep. Her even breathing lulled Styles into slumber soon after.

{Chapter 10}

“AJ, how’s Karen doing,” Shelly asked. It had been a few days since the incident on Impact and no one had heard from Karen at all. Shelly had finally decided to call Styles.

“I don’t know,” Styles replied sounding very down.

“What do you mean you don’t know,” Shelly demanded. “Isn’t she still with you?”

“No,” Styles replied sighing. “When I woke up in the morning she was gone. I haven’t heard from her since. I’ve left messages, but she won’t call back.”

“I’ll call Kurt and see if she’s with him,” Shelly replied. “Try not to worry, AJ.”

“Easier said than done,” Styles replied. “Let me know if you find anything out.”

“I will,” Shelly replied before ending the call. She dialed Kurt’s number, raking a hand through her hair as she waited for him to pick up.

Kazarian returned from the gym and saw her impatiently waiting for someone to answer. “Still no word from Karen,” he asked. She motioned for him to be quiet as Kurt finally answered the phone.

“Kurt, I was just calling to see…”

“You better have a good excuse for interrupting my training,” Kurt growled into the phone.

“I was calling to check on Karen,” Shelly replied. “How is she?”

“Huh? Karen…oh right. She came home and picked up Kody and Kira and wen to a hotel,” Kurt replied. “It’s been great. I can train all I want with no distractions.”

Shelly’s blood was boiling at his comments. “Did she leave you a number,” she asked trying to keep her temper in check.

“Uh…nope,” Kurt replied. “Are we done here? ‘Cause I need to get back to training.”

“Yeah, we’re done, but if…” She didn’t get the chance to finish the sentence as Kurt hung up. “Jackass,” she growled into the phone before slamming it back onto the cradle.

“What’d Kurt say,” Kazarian asked.

“It was like he couldn’t get her out of there fast enough,” Shelly fumed. “He said Karen took the kids to a hotel, but he doesn’t have a number.” She sighed slumping into a chair. “Is it too much to ask to know how my friend is doing?”

“Honey,” Kazarian said going to her and massaging her shoulders. “I’m sure Karen is fine. If she has the kids then she’s gonna be all right. You’ll probably see her at the pay-per-view this weekend.”

“Oh don’t remind me about that,” Shelly groaned, burying her face in her hands. “Cornette is stressing about it already, which of course has me stressing.”

“I think I know what you need,” he said smiling taking her hand and pulling her up to her feet.

“Frankie, now is not the time to be thinking about getting lucky,” Shelly grumbled, but she didn’t fight him as he pulled her into the bedroom.

“I wasn’t thinking of getting lucky,” he said taking her into the bathroom and starting a hot bath. He picked up the lavender scented bath salts and sprinkled some into the steaming water. “I was just thinking of a relaxing hot bath.” She smiled. “And if I get lucky in the process…”

“Oh you,” she chuckled, smacking his arm. She leaned over and tested the water before shutting it off. “What are you waiting for? Get those clothes off.” He smiled and nodded, more than happy to oblige.

*~*~*

It soon came time for the Destination X pay-per-view. No one had heard from or seen Karen Angle since the Impact that she had gotten injured. Shelly had been sitting in Cornette’s office going over some paperwork when Styles snuck in.

“Shell, have you heard from Karen,” he asked, startling her.

“No,” she replied with a frown. “Kurt said she’s been staying at a hotel. He didn’t have a number for her though.”

“I’m going crazy not knowin’ how she’s doin’,” he groaned.

“I know, AJ,” Shelly replied with a sigh. “She’ll get in touch with one of us when she’s ready. Until then you have to focus. You guys have a match against Christian, Joe and Nash. It’s not gonna be easy on any of you.”

“I know,” Styles replied raking a hand through his dark hair.

Before either could say anything else Shelly’s cell phone rang. Fishing it out of her pocket she checked the Caller ID. “It’s Karen,” she said.

“Put it on speaker,” Styles said frantically. Shelly nodded and put the phone on speaker. “HI KAREN,” he yelled, practically deafening Shelly.

“The phone is on speaker, shit for brains,” Shelly grumbled, rubbing her sore ear. “She can hear you just fine.”

“AJ, stop yelling, sweetie,” Karen giggled.

“Sorry,” Styles replied blushing. “How are you, Karen?”

“I’m fine,” she replied with a sigh. “I know you guys must have been so worried when I didn’t call for so long. I’m sorry. I just needed to get my head on straight.”

“I left you messages,” Styles said pouting.

“I know, AJ,” Karen replied. “I’m sorry I didn’t return any of your calls.”

“Karen, you know you could have come to stay with Frankie an I,” Shelly said.

“That would have been great if it was just me, but I have Kira and Kody with me. I couldn’t impose,” Karen replied.

“You could have stayed with me,” Styles offered.

“AJ, you’re so sweet,” Karen chuckled. “Listen, I just wanted to call Shell because I need to let Cornette know something.”

Shelly grabbed a pad and a pen in case there was some information she needed to jot down. “Shoot, Karen,” she said.

“I need Cornette to know that I have a big announcement to make and if it’s all right with him I need some time on Impact to confront Kurt,” Karen replied. Crying could be heard in the background. “I have to go. Kody needs me. I’ll see you guys at Impact.” With that she hung up.

“Wonder what this announcement is,” Styles said frowning.

“I think I know,” Shelly sighed. “I better go let Cornette know what Karen had to say.” She stood and left the office.

“Shell! Wait! What do you mean you think you know,” he called following her out of the office.

*~*~*

“And she didn’t say what the announcement was,” ODB asked Shelly. Along with Kazarian and Greg they were crowded around a monitor watching the main event, The Angle Alliance vs. Christian, Joe and Nash.

“No,” Shelly replied, leaning back into Kazarian. He wrapped his arms around her. “Think about it though. Their marriage has been pretty rocky lately. Then there was the stunt Kurt pulled a couple of weeks ago. Hell, it seems like he doesn’t even realize he has a wife.”

“You really think Karen’s gonna ask for a divorce,” Kazarian asked.

“I think that’s exactly what she’s gonna do,” Shelly sighed. She watched as the Angle Alliance lost the match. “And only when Kurt loses that precious title will he realize what he’s really lost.”

“A shrew of a wife and two whiny little kids,” Greg joked. ODB slapped him hard upside the head.

“Now is not the time for your fuckin’ jokes,” she growled.

“Sorry,” Greg exclaimed rubbing his very sore head. “Just trying to lighten the mood.”

“Well, I for one do not want to be around when the guys get back from the ring,” Kazarian said, nudging Shelly.

“Agreed,” Shelly sighed. “Let’s head back to the hotel.”

“We’re right behind you,” ODB said grabbing Greg’s shirt collar and dragging him behind her.

*~*~*

“I can not believe you fucking tapped,” Angle growled at Tomko.

“Fuck you, Kurt,” Tomko replied, holding his aching back. He had no idea how much Joe’s rear naked choke hurt. “I didn’t see you anywhere in sight to help me out, did I?”

“Kurt, ease up on Tomko,” Styles said. “We were all taken out by those…those…”

“ASSHOLES,” Kurt yelled knocking over some chairs.

“Kurt,” Tomko yelled, dodging the chair that skittered toward him. “Calm down. So, they won. It doesn’t mean anything.”

“Doesn’t mean anything? Do you realize that Joe has the momentum heading into my match with him at Lockdown,” Angle growled.

“Kurt, don’t worry about it,” Styles said. Angle was about to turn his fury on him, but he quickly added, “Joe’s not gonna take the title at Lockdown. Victory is as good as yours.”

Angle thought this over and smiled. “I knew there was a reason I recruited you to the Alliance,” he said clapping Styles on the back. He turned his attention to Tomko, his eyes going cold. “Maybe you could learn a thing or two from your tag partner.” With that he stalked off to shower and change.

“One of these days,” Tomko grumbled. “One of these days I’m gonna royally kick his ass.”

“Mind if I join you,” Styles asked dryly. Tomko nodded, placing a hand on Styles’ shoulder and giving it a little squeeze. “Let’s get showered and head out of here before we have to hear more of Kurt’s mouth.”

“Right behind ya, buddy,” Tomko replied.

Chapter 11}

At that week’s Impact everyone except Kurt nervously awaited Karen’s arrival. When she finally arrived at the building she took a back entrance, hoping to avoid being seen by anyone in order to gather her thoughts for what she planned to do later that night. Unfortunately Jeremy Borash caught sight of her and cut her off before she could make it out of sight.

“Karen,” he called jogging up to her. “How are you? You look great.”

“Thanks, JB,” she replied forcing a smile. “I really can’t talk right now.”

“Karen, wait,” he said cutting her off as she attempted to walk around him. “Come on, we’re friends. You can tell me what this big announcement is.”

“Nice try, JB,” she replied patting him on the shoulder. “I really need to go.” With that she walked around him and headed off to her own private locker room.

She had almost made it when she ran into Shelly and ODB. “Girls, please,” she begged, just wanting to get out of sight before anyone could see her. “I just need to be alone.”

“Karen,” Shelly sighed, hooking her arm through Karen’s on one side. ODB did the same on the other side. “You should know by now that that just won’t work on us.”

“Face it, honey, we’re nosy bitches,” ODB chuckled.

Karen chuckled in spite of herself. “If you weren’t my friends I’d probably be bitching the two of you out by now,” she said.

“Cornette set up this room for you,” Shelly said leading the way to Karen’s private room. Once the women were inside Shelly made Karen sit down. “Are you sure you want to do this, Karen,” she asked.

“Of course I don’t want to do this,” Karen said with a sigh. “I love Kurt, but…”

“But what,” ODB asked.

“But I wonder if he even remotely cares about me anymore,” Karen replied.

“Karen you knew how he was when you married him,” Shelly replied though her heart went out to her friend. This decision she had made couldn’t have been an easy one to come to.

“Yes, but…he’s changed since then,” she replied softly. “I can’t explain it. He’s just different now.”

Shelly’s cell phone began to vibrate in her pocket and she sighed, fishing it out and checking the number. “Cornette needs me. Will you be all right?”

“Yeah,” Karen replied. “You go. I’ll be all right.”

“I don’t mind keepin’ ya company,” ODB said smiling. “I got nothin’ to do until my match later.”

“It’s all right,” Karen said. “You don’t have to stay, Jess. I’m sure your future X Division champion would appreciate some alone time with his girl.”

“All right,” ODB said with a shrug as she followed Shelly out of the room.

*~*~*

“Ready for your match with Kurt,” Shelly asked Kazarian as he loosened up by the tunnel. She had tended to Cornette's problem and had enough time to spend with Kazarian before his match. She was giving Karen some much needed space and trying to keep her mind off of worrying about her friend.

“Is anyone ever really ready for Kurt,” Kazarian replied with a smirk. “I'm as ready as I'm gonna be.”

“You’ll do great. I know you will. You’re the K-A-Z,” she said chuckling as she quoted one of his past promos.

“I’m so lucky to have my very own cheerleader,” he replied, pulling her into his arms and kissing her softly.

“That’s your music,” she said breaking the kiss and spinning him around to face the tunnel. “Go knock ‘em dead!” With that she smacked his bottom and he chuckled heading up the tunnel.

*~*~*

Karen hadn’t been alone long when there was a knock on the door. With a sigh she opened it and groaned at the sight of Jeremy Borash standing there. “JB, I told you I’m not telling you anything about my announcement,” she said crossing her arms across her chest.

“Karen,” Styles asked poking his head in. His eyes lit up when he saw the object of his affection. “It’s so good to see you!” He shoved Borash out of the way and entered the room, enveloping Karen in a hug.

“It’s good to see you too, AJ,” Karen said smiling wide. “I promise we’ll talk later, but for now I have something I need to do.” She could hear Angle’s music blaring and knew that he was on his way to the ring. She wanted to get in place so that she could confront him after his match.

“All right,” Styles said smiling. “I’m holdin’ ya to that.”

“All right, AJ,” Karen said chuckling. “I’ll see you later.” With that she headed to the tunnel to await her cue to confront Kurt.

*~*~*

Kurt had just beaten Kaz in a hard fought battle. As Kaz was being helped out of the ring by the referee Angle’s music began to play. Kurt, who had been celebrating his victory, paused turning his attention to the ramp.

“Great match, Frankie,” she whispered as Kazarian was helped past her.

“Thanks,” he replied, wincing as he attempted to put some weight on his ankle. He knew it’d be sore for a while that night and he didn’t relish the trip back to the hotel with it in this condition.

“What do you want,” Kurt demanded as Karen stepped through the ropes.

“Kurt, I have something that I need to tell you,” Karen said, ignoring her husband’s tone.

“What,” Kurt demanded, not happy that his wife had interrupted his shining moment.

“Kurt, I came here tonight to tell you…no…to demand a separation,” she replied. The crowd erupted at Karen’s words.

Kurt took in what she said for a moment and then smiled wide. “That’s great,” he replied. Karen’s heart broke at his words. “You’ll take the kids, right?” He chuckled, unable to wipe the smile off his face. “That’s great, Karen. I can train all I want with no distractions!”

Karen was unable to hide the tears as she dropped the mic and ran from the ring. She headed up the ramp and down the tunnel. In the heels that she wore and the fact that tears blurred her eyes it was a wonder that she didn’t fall. She rushed past Shelly, who was fawning over Kazarian’s injured ankle.

“Go,” he said when she looked from her friend to her injured boyfriend and back toward Karen again. “I’ll have Greg help me to the locker room. I think she needs a shoulder to cry on.” Shelly nodded, placing a kiss on his cheek before rushing to keep up with Karen.

“Karen wait,” she called.

Karen finally stopped running, sagging against the wall sobbing. Styles was there before Shelly could catch up, pulling Karen into his arms. She buried her face in chest as Styles stroked her back, whispering comforting words to her.

“Don’t you dare tell me to leave her alone,” he said to Shelly when she finally made it to them.

“I won't, AJ,” she said softly, rubbing Karen’s back. “I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but she needs you right now.”

“He didn’t care,” Karen sobbed. “I said I wanted a separation and he didn’t even care.”

“It’s all right,” Styles crooned softly. “Everything will be all right, Karen.”

“Come on, AJ,” Shelly said leading the way to Karen’s private room to grab her things. “Let’s get her back to the hotel.” Styles nodded, not letting go of Karen as he followed Shelly.

*~*~*

There was a knock on Angle’s locker room door, but the person didn’t wait to be invited in. The door swung open and Tomko entered the room. Greg and Kazarian were close behind him. Though his ankle still bothered him Kazarian was able to walk on his own.

“What do you three want,” Angle demanded as he continued to dress.

“Boy, you really fucked up this time, Kurt,” Tomko said shaking his head.

“What the hell are you talking about,” Angle demanded.

“Did you not hear what Karen said to you tonight,” Greg asked.

“Yeah, she wants a separation,” Angle replied with a shrug. “She knows how important my match against Joe is and she’s giving me space to train.”

“Jesus Christ, Kurt,” Kazarian exclaimed. “Are you that fucking dense?”

“Shouldn’t you be getting X-rays on your ankle,” Angle retorted smirking.

“Don’t be such a dick,” Kazarian growled. “You might be losing your wife and kids and you don’t even care! Real classy, Kurt.”

“What the hell are you talking about,” Angle demanded, growing tired of the three men before him. “Karen will be back once I beat Joe at Lockdown. Now if you’ll excuse me I need to get back to the hotel and rest up. I have a busy day of training ahead of me.” With that he zipped up his bag and shoved past the three men out of the locker room.

“That settles it,” Tomko sighed. “He’s a fucking moron.”

“And you chose to align yourself with him, big man,” Greg said clapping him on the back.

“Don’t remind me,” Tomko muttered as the three men exited the locker room. “I guess AJ’s got Karen.”

“Yeah,” Kazarian said limping along behind them. “Shell called me. She’s gone with them to the hotel. Karen’s pretty broken up about this whole thing.”

“Can you blame her,” Greg asked. “I mean, Kurt’s like a big brother to me, but damn…he’s just…”

“Hard headed, idiotic, completely fucking oblivious,” Tomko rattled off. “Let me know if I’m getting close.”

“I think you hit the nail on the head with all of them,” Kazarian said groaning as he took another step.

“Come on, Frankie,” Tomko said slinging Kazarian’s arm around his shoulders. “Let’s get you back to the hotel so you can rest that ankle.”

{Chapter 12}

“All right, Shell,” Styles said walking Shelly to the door of Karen’s suite. “You can go now. Karen’s in good hands.” He opened up the door and motioned that she could leave.

Shelly began to chuckle, shaking her head. “Yeah, nice try, AJ,” she said. “You think I’m just gonna head off and leave you alone with Karen?”

“I was hopin’, yeah,” Styles said motioning out into the hall again.

“Not happening, AJ,” Shelly replied crossing her arms across her chest. “Karen is vulnerable right now. Now is when she’s most likely to make a mistake that could change her life forever.”

“I know that,” Styles replied closing the door with a huff. He realized that getting Shelly out of the suite would be harder than he thought. “Do you honestly believe that I would take advantage of Karen when she’s in a state like this?”

“Yes,” Shelly replied. “You take the couch. Karen and I will take the bed.”

“Shouldn’t you be takin’ care of your boyfriend,” Styles replied. “He’s injured.”

“Frankie’s gonna be just fine,” Shelly replied. “Right now he’s got Greg and Tomko with him.”

“Oh that’s reassuring,” Styles murmured. “Don’t you think Frankie would appreciate some TLC from his lovin’ girlfriend?”

“AJ, you’re not going to be left alone with Karen no matter how much guilt you try to lay on me,” Shelly replied. “Frankie’s a big boy. He doesn’t need me there to baby him.”

“Of course he doesn’t need you there to baby him, but don’t you want to be there for him,” Styles asked. With a sigh Shelly leaned forward and bopped him on the nose. “OW! What the hell was that for?!”

“When a dog is doing something bad you’re supposed to bop them on the nose with a rolled up newspaper,” she replied with a shrug. “I didn’t have newspaper.”

“You’re comparing me to a dog,” Styles demanded.

“You certainly have a one track mind like one,” Shelly replied. “Now, AJ, sit. Stay. Good boy.” With that she headed into the bedroom of the suite.

“I’m not a dog,” Styles called and sighed as Shelly shut the door to the bedroom as a signal for him to shut up. “I am not a dog,” he mumbled, flopping onto the couch pouting.

*~*~*

At the next Impact taping Styles showed up to the arena with a smile on his face, humming a happy tune. “Hey, Tomko,” he said as he happily unpacked his bag preparing for his match that night.

“Why are you so happy,” Tomko asked arching a brow at him.

“Oh…no reason,” he replied.

“Look, AJ, just because Karen and Kurt have separated doesn’t mean that she’ll choose you over him. They have history,” Tomko said.

“And Karen and I have chemistry,” Styles replied unable to wipe the smile off his face.

“AJ,” Tomko began, but stopped and shook his head. “I just hope you don’t wind up hurt in the end.”

“No worries, big man,” Styles said changing. “I’m happier than I’ve been in a long time.”

*~*~*

“Hey, stranger,” Shelly said giving Karen a hug when she saw her in the hall. “How have you been?”

“Good,” Karen replied. “I have the kids staying with my parents for now.”

“How are they taking things,” Shelly asked as the women walked over to the catering table grabbing some water.

“Well, Kody’s too young to know what’s going on, but Kira,” she stopped talking and sighed sadly. “She misses her dad.” Tears welled up in her eyes. “I just wish I could tell her that her dad misses her.”

“I’m not gonna make excuses for Kurt anymore, Karen,” Shelly replied. “I just don’t know how he can act like nothing’s changed.” Both women sighed.

“Hey girls,” ODB chirped. She took one look at both women and frowned. “Who died?”

“No one, Jess,” Shelly replied shaking her head. “We were just talking about…”

“Oh, yeah, Karen, how you enjoyin’ single life,” ODB asked.

“She’s not single yet, Jess,” Shelly corrected.

“Eh…formalities,” ODB replied shrugging. “It’s just a matter of time, right?”

“Jess, you’re not helping,” Shelly sighed.

“Hey, who’s side are you on here,” ODB demanded. “After the way Kurt’s been acting you still want her to stay with the dick?”

“I want Karen to do what’s best for her and the kids,” Shelly replied.

Karen scoffed. “And just how is staying with Kurt good for the kids,” she demanded. “You’ve seen how he’s treating me, Shell. He’s even worse to the kids! He ignores them. Tell me what am I supposed to tell Kira when she asks me why daddy doesn’t love her?”

“Karen…I…I only meant that…”

“I know what you meant,” Karen said sniffling and dabbing her eyes dry. “You don’t want me to make a hasty decision.”

“Yeah,” Shelly replied. “I just…I hate to see you going through this and…”

“It’s all right, Shell. You don’t have to explain anything,” Karen said. “I need to go find AJ. He wants me to sit ringside for his match tonight.”

*~*~*

“You ready for this match,” Tomko asked watching on the monitor as Booker paced in the ring.

“I’m more than ready,” Styles said smiling wide. “I can’t wait to get out there.” His music blasted and he gave Tomko one last wide smile before heading up the tunnel and down to the ring.

Once out there he grabbed a mic and pointed out a chair at ringside that had a reserved sign on it. Happily he welcomed Karen back and took her hand, leading her over to the chair. He kissed the back of her hand before heading into the ring to battle it out with Booker.

During the course of the match Sharmell made her way down to the ring to cheer her husband on. Soon Payton Banks appeared and the two women began to fight. Booker became distracted and exited the ring to separate the women. The ref threw out the match as Booker dragged his wife to the back.

Styles looked over to where Karen had been sitting, his wide smile falling when he found her chair empty. He exited the ring and rushed to the back in the hopes of finding her. When he made it out of the tunnel Tomko greeted him.

“She’s gone, man,” he said.

“What? Why,” Styles asked looking very dejected.

“She said something about needing some time away with her friends,” Tomko replied. “I think she went to get Shell and Jess.”

“Great,” Styles mumbled.

“Come on, man,” Tomko said slinging his arm around the shorter man’s shoulders. “How about we get Greg and Frankie and have ourselves a guy’s night? What do you say?”

“Will there be alcohol,” Styles asked.

“Of course,” Tomko replied. “Come on. Let’s go round up the boys.”

*~*~*

“I appreciate this girls,” Karen said as the three women entered the bar that Storm had told them about. “I just needed some girl time, ya know?”

“Absolutely,” ODB said smiling. “We’re gonna get our drink on and then dance our asses off and have a good old time. We don’t need men tonight.”

“Never thought I’d hear those words come out of your mouth, Jess,” Shelly teased.

“Shut it before I shut it for ya,” ODB said with a smirk before turning to the bartender and ordering some drinks for the ladies.

*~*~*

“You sure this is the place that Storm told you about,” Kazarian asked Tomko as the guys entered the bar. “He said it was nice.” The bar looked like a hole in the wall to him.

“This is nice to Storm,” Greg replied. “He said his Pub Crawlers highly recommend the place for the…character.”

“Jesus, would you two shut the fuck up,” Tomko grumbled. “Who the fuck cares what the place LOOKS like when you’re just plannin’ on getting shitfaced?”

“Good point,” Greg said with a shrug.

The guys took seats at the bar ordering themselves beers. They sipped their drinks in silence as they soaked in the astmosphere of the place for a while. It wasn’t long before the sound of a group of women giggling rang through the bar.

Styles’ eyes darted to the table in the corner and sighed. Karen sat with Shelly and ODB laughing and chattering away. It was clear that the women had a few drinks in them. Tomko followed Styles’ gaze and sighed.

“AJ, we came here to forget her for tonight,” he said. “If you wanna leave just say the word.”

“Nah,” Styles replied sipping his beer. “It’s fine.”

“Should we join them,” Kazarian asked.

*~*~*

“Of all the damn hole in the wall bars,” Shelly groaned seeing the men at the bar.

“What,” ODB asked.

“The guys are here,” Karen said sighing. “So much for girls’ night.”

“Eh…the more the merrier,” ODB replied. “YO! Come on over boys.” She waved the guys over.

“This should be interesting,” Shelly said downing the rest of her drink as the men made their way over. “Hey, babe,” she said when Kazarian took a seat next to her.

“Fancy meeting you ladies here,” Greg said smirking.

“Let me guess, you spoke to Storm,” Tomko asked.

“How’d you know,” Shelly replied, her voice dripping with sarcasm. Tomko chuckled, shaking his head.

They all settled into comfortable conversation as they continued to drink. By the end of the night ODB and Greg had decided to catch a cab back to the hotel. Kazarian and Shelly split a cab with Tomko. In their alcohol haze they hadn’t realized that they had left Styles to get a very drunk Karen back to the hotel.

{Chapter 13}

“AJ,” Karen giggled as he helped her into the cab. Though he had been drinking he wasn’t quite as drunk as everyone else had been. “I think I’m drunk.”

“What gave you the first clue,” he replied with a smile as he told the cabbie the address of the hotel.

“The slurred words,” she replied with a sigh. “You’re such a sweet guy, AJ.” She leaned her head on his shoulder. “You’re nothing like Kurt. You treat me like I’m someone special.”

“You are, Karen,” he said resting his head on hers. “You’re very special to me.”

“That’s so sweet,” Karen said her eyes welling up. “It’s been so long since Kurt’s said anything like that to me. He just doesn’t appreciate me, but you do, don’t you?”

“Of course,” Styles replied, leaning forward to pay the fare when the cab pulled in front of the hotel. “Come on, Karen. Let’s get you up to your room.”

He helped her out of the cab and into the hotel. In the elevator she snuggled up to him, nuzzling his neck and nipping it. “AJ,” she said in a breathy whisper.

“Yes,” he replied softly, unable to speak any louder. She was driving him insane and he feared his voice would betray him.

“Tonight, I’m going to show you how much I appreciate you,” she replied looking up into his eyes with a smirk.

“Wh-what do you mean,” he asked.

The elevator stopped and the doors dinged open. Karen smiled up at him, taking his hand and leading him down the hall to her room. She pulled the keycard out of her purse. “You’re going to be a very lucky boy tonight,” she said smiling as she opened the door and led him inside.

She shoved him down onto the bed and motioned for him to stay as she headed into the bathroom. This was the moment that Styles had been waiting for since he met Karen Angle. He should have been ecstatic…excited even, but he couldn’t shake the guilt that seemed to settle on his shoulders.

When the bathroom door opened his breath caught in his throat. Karen stood in nothing but her black lace bra and matching panties. “Like what you see,” she asked smiling. He nodded, unable to speak. “Good.”

She walked over to the bed and shoved him down onto his back, straddling his lap as she brought her lips to his. Styles’ hands tangled in her hair as he savored the kiss and the warmth of her body. He wanted nothing more than to completely ravage this woman, but the guilt weighed heavily on him.

Her hands slid under his shirt, slipping it up his well muscled abs and chest. She broke the kiss long enough to slide it over his head and toss it away. Her lips once again found his as her hands slid down his stomach to his belt, making quick work of it.

Her hand was just slipping inside his jeans when Styles finally stopped her. “Karen, I can’t,” he said gasping for air.

“That’s not what little AJ is telling me,” she said pressing her hand to the bulge in his jeans.

He groaned and removed her hand, sitting up and setting her on the bed next to him. “Karen, you’re drunk,” he said softly. “I..I can’t do this. Not like this.” He stood, fixing his belt and picking up his discarded shirt and slipping it back on.

“You don’t want me,” she asked.

“It’s not that at all,” he said sitting down next to her and taking her hands in his. “I want you more than anything in this world, but now’s not the right time.”

“AJ,” she said sniffling. “You’re such a gentleman.” She hugged him, giving him a lingering kiss. “Thank you.”

Before he left for the night he made sure she was safely in bed and sleeping before heading back to his own room. He quietly closed the door and sighed, unable to believe he had the willpower to do what he had just done. He was going to need a nice long and extremely cold shower before he’d get any sleep that night.

*~*~*

Shelly awoke to the shrill ring of her phone. Kazarian stirred in bed next to her. Both were hung over from the night before and the phone ringing was not helping matters.

“If that’s Cornette tell him you quit,” Kazarian said, his voice muffled by the pillow he had his face buried in.

Shelly finally found the strength to get out of bed and hunt down her phone. “It’s not Cornette,” she said frowning as the ringing stopped. She had missed the call. The voice mail tone began to play and Kazarian grumbled, pulling the pillow over his head. “It was Karen,” she said as she listened to the voice mail. “Apparently she needs some time away from TNA to really focus on herself and the kids. She has a lot of thinking to do and she can’t do that here with distractions.” Shelly listened to remainder of the voice mail and gasped.

“What,” Kazarian asked pulling the pillow off his head. “What happened?”

“She said she did a very stupid thing last night,” Shelly replied. “Frankie, we all left her alone with AJ.”

“You don’t think that…I mean, AJ wouldn’t…do you think,” he asked. “I know he wants her and all, but she’s still a married woman…at least for the time being.”

“I don’t know,” she replied with a sigh. Quickly she dialed Styles’ number. It went straight voice mail and she frowned. “Honey, I need you to go talk to AJ.”

“Why is it always me,” he groaned. “Can’t you call Tomko and have him talk to AJ?”

“Frankie, please,” Shelly asked.

“Can’t you do it,” he whined.

She sat down next to him, placing a hand on his bare chest. “If you do this for me you’ll be rewarded for it later,” she said her fingers trailing down his skin to settle in the sheet pooled in his lap.

“It’s not gonna work,” he said shaking his head. He inhaled sharply when her hand disappeared under the sheet. “Ba..baby, you…oh God,” he stammered. “You promise to do anything that I want to do?”

“Anything,” she said, her mouth just inches from his ear.

“I..I’ll do it,” he stammered as she continued her slow torture on him.

“Good boy,” she said kissing him.

He groaned when she stopped and stood heading into the bathroom. “You weren’t done,” he whined.

“I’ll finish when you get back,” she replied winking at him before she closed the bathroom door.

Kazarian fell back onto the pillows with a loud groan. “I was afraid you’d say that!”

*~*~*

Incessant knocking brought Styles out of his slumber. Groaning he headed over to the door, using the peephole. “What the..oh come on,” he groaned as he threw open the door. “Frankie, what do you want?”

“May I come in,” Kazarian asked.

“Sure,” Styles muttered stepping out of the way.

“Shell got a message from Karen this morning,” Kazarian said not wanting to waste any time getting the information he needed to get. “She said she’s taking time away from TNA to concentrate on herself and the kids.”

Styles sighed and nodded. He had expected that would be her decision come morning. He didn’t blame her. She had a lot think over.

“She also said that she did something stupid last night,” Kazarian continued. “AJ, you didn’t sleep with Karen did you?”

“Do you think I’d be in my room alone if I did, Frankie,” Styles replied. He sighed loudly when Kazarian didn't reply. “Lord I wanted to sleep with her,” he admitted. “She looked amazing and she wanted me, but I…couldn’t.”

“You mean…you couldn’t launch the rocket,” Kazarian asked.

“NO,” Styles exclaimed, glaring at his friend. “I mean I couldn’t take advantage of her like that. It wasn’t right and I just couldn’t do it.”

“Oh,” Kazarian replied. “Well, then what was she talking about?”

“I don’t know,” Styles replied. “Maybe the fact that she threw herself at me.”

“All right, well, you’re a bigger man than I am,” Kazarian said. “I wouldn’t have been able to resist that temptation if I were in your place.” He headed to the door. “Sorry to have bothered you for nothing. If you’ll excuse me I have something I need to take care of.”

“Tell Shell not to worry,” Styles said as Kazarian opened the door. “And to stop sendin’ you to do her dirty work. If she wants to know something tell her to come see me directly.” Kazarian chuckled and nodded before leaving the room, intent on holding Shelly to her promise.

{Chapter 14}

The weeks leading up to Lockdown passed with little to no communication with Karen. Shelly had left her a few messages, but gave her the much needed space she had asked for. Styles hadn’t even attempted to call her. He knew that if he did he’d beg her to come back so that they could be together and she didn’t need that. He was trying to be the bigger man.

Kurt showed no signs of missing his wife or kids. Week in and week out he invited various athletes from the mixed martial arts field to spar with him as he prepared for his match against Samoa Joe. He even sparred with Tomko and Styles. Tomko earned a black eye and a gash above his eye for his troubles. Angle’s only focus was retaining his title and nothing else mattered.

When it finally came time for Lockdown Styles paced nervously in the locker room. “Would you sit your ass down before you wear a hole in the floor,” Tomko growled. “Save your energy for our match.”

“Sorry,” Styles muttered sitting down with a sigh.

“Haven’t heard from Karen, huh,” Tomko asked. Styles shook his head no. “AJ, listen…”

“Tomko, I’m fine,” Styles replied. “I just want this match over with already.”

“Lethal Lockdown is next, guys,” Shelly said knocking as she appeared in the doorway.

“Thanks, Shell,” Tomko said standing.

“About damn time,” Styles grumbled, pushing ahead of Tomko. “What the hell took Frankie so damn long?”

“He was doing his job,” Shelly replied not liking Styles’ tone. “He wasn’t the only man in the match, AJ.”

“Whatever,” Styles grumbled and exited the locker room.

“Don’t mind him,” Tomko said with a sigh. “He hasn’t seen or spoken to Karen in a long while.”

“Me either,” Shelly replied walking with him to the tunnel. “I left her a couple of messages, but I think she needs to do some soul searching and take care of her kids.”

“I agree and I think to an extent so does AJ. I think that’s why he’s in the mood he’s in,” Tomko said.

“It’s not easy being the bigger man, huh,” Shelly asked.

Tomko nodded. “Something like that,” he said. “Time to go get my brains bashed in.”

“Have fun,” Shelly said chuckling as she watched the rest of Team Tomko gathering to make their entrance to the ring.

*~*~*

Later that night Shelly, Kazarian, Tomko and Styles sat around a monitor to watch Angle take on Samoa Joe. Joe had just made his way down to the ring and entered the six sides of steel when ODB and Greg made an appearance, their championship belts slung over their shoulders.

“Hey champs,” Shelly said smiling to the two. Greg smiled, polishing his X Division belt.

“Just so you know, Champ,” Kazarian said fixing Greg with a glare. “You’re just keeping that belt warm for me.”

“Bring it on, bitch,” Greg replied.

Kazarian stood, still glaring at Greg, but he soon smiled wide. “Congratulations, man,” he said shaking Greg’s hand and clapping him on the back. “So, do I get first crack at the champ?”

“Talk to your girlfriend and have her put in a good word with Cornette,” Greg replied.

Kazarian turned his attention to Shelly. “No,” she replied. “There’s a pecking order, Frankie, and you know it. Besides you’ve been in the title picture for the Heavyweight title.”

“Oh yeah,” Kazarian said smirking. “How could I forget that?”

“And if tonight goes the way I think it’s going to go the title picture is gonna get very interesting,” Shelly said.

Tomko arched a brow at her. “You’re kidding, right,” he asked. “You sit in on all the meetings and shit, don’t you?”

“I don’t know the outcomes of matches,” Shelly replied. “That’s for creative meetings and I don’t get to sit in on those.”

“So, you think Kurt’s gonna lose,” Styles finally piped up.

“I think it’s a very distinct possibility,” Shelly replied.

“Everyone shut up,” ODB said taking a seat with Greg. “The match is about to start.” Everyone quieted down to watch the match.

*~*~*

The Lockdown main event turned out to be everything it had promised to be. Both men were bloodied and battered by the end of the match, but it was Samoa Joe standing tall with his new championship belt held high. Angle kneeled on the mat, face buried in his hands.

The group in the back watched on the monitor. Most were extremely happy for Joe. Shelly on the other hand had mixed feelings. While she knew Joe had finally gotten his much deserved chance in the spotlight she also knew that Kurt wasn’t done crashing and burning and this worried her. Styles too had mixed emotions. He knew all too well that now would be the time that Angle would want his wife and children.

“I’m goin’ back to the hotel,” Styles said standing and heading off before anyone could stop him.

“Come on, baby,” Greg said taking ODB’s hand. “We have some celebrating to do. You guys coming with us? Drinks on me.”

“You’re paying,” Kazarian said. “Hell yeah we’re coming!”

“You’re gonna be sorry you said that, kid,” Tomko chuckled.

“You go ahead,” Shelly said to Kazarian. He quirked a brow at her. “I want to talk to Kurt. See if he’s all right.”

“Are you sure you want to do that,” Kazarian asked. “I mean…he’s gonna be in a mood.”

“I can handle Kurt,” she replied. “He won’t hurt me. You go have fun with Greg and I’ll meet you guys there.” She gave him a kiss and headed off to wait for Kurt in his locker room.

*~*~*

When Angle finally arrived in his locker room he was just pulling down the straps on his singlet when Shelly made her presence known. “Rough night, huh,” she asked.

He jumped a mile and spun around, thankful he hadn’t removed the singlet completely. “What the hell are you doing here,” he demanded not in the mood to have any company.

“I just wanted to talk,” she replied.

“Not interested,” he replied. “Bye.”

Shelly shook her head no. “Not leaving that easily, Kurt,” she replied.

“What do you want from my life,” he demanded sinking to the couch. “Haven’t I been through enough tonight? I just lost my title to Samoa Joe!”

“You’ve lost more than that before tonight, Kurt,” Shelly replied. “What about Karen, Kira and Kody?”

Angle sighed scrubbing a hand down his face. “They’ll be back,” he replied.

“Are you sure of that,” Shelly asked. “Have you heard from Karen at all since she moved out?”

“No, but…what are you getting at,” he demanded.

“I just want you to think about what you’ve truly lost,” she replied standing. “Think long and hard about it, Kurt.” With that she left.

“Are all women so fucking melodramatic,” he demanded heading in to take a shower.

*~*~*

Once Angle got back to his hotel room he sighed dropping his bag and sinking down onto the bed. He reached for his wallet, pulling out the family photo he kept there. It was the last time that he had actually had the time to sit with his family and pose for a picture just the four of them.

He ran a finger over his daughter’s smiling face, a small smile curling his lips. Kira, his little angel. It had been so long since he’d seen her or heard her angelic little voice. He then turned his attention to Kody. He chuckled. His little man, always copying everything that daddy did. A sigh escaped his lips when his eyes trailed to Karen’s smiling face. It had been so long since he had seen that genuine smile from her.

“Oh Karen,” he sighed. “How did I let things get this bad? How could I have been so damn blind?” With a sad sigh he put the picture away and kicked his shoes off, crawling under the covers hoping that sleep would take over quickly.

{Chapter 15}

When Angle awoke the next morning he found the bed cold and empty. He groaned sitting up and grinding the sleep out of his eyes. This was not the way he wanted to wake up for the rest of his life. He missed Kira jumping on the bed. He missed Kody calling to him to be helped up on the bed so he could join his sister. With another groan Angle dragged himself out of bed to dress and head down for some breakfast.

When he arrived at the little diner near the hotel he spotted Kazarian, Shelly, Greg and ODB in a booth toward the back. Greg spotted him and waved him over. “Kurt, come join us,” he called. ODB slapped him upside the head.

“I am NOT eating with that dick,” she said loud enough for Angle to hear.

“Jess, come on,” Greg pleaded with her. “It’s just breakfast.”

“That’s all right, Greg,” Angle said. “I’ll just sit at the counter.”

“No you won’t,” Greg said, still waving him over. Angle sighed, knowing Greg wouldn’t take no for an answer.

“I’ll see you guys at the hotel,” ODB said sliding out of the booth, glaring at Angle a moment before stalking out.

“You gonna go after her,” Kazarian asked.

“Trust me, Frankie, it’s best to let Jess alone when she’s in that mood,” Shelly said. “Last time he went after her he wound up with a black eye and nearly lost three teeth.”

“Four, but who’s counting,” Greg replied. “She’s just passionate.”

“And violent,” Kazarian said. “Thank God all Shell does is rip me a new asshole verbally when we fight.”

Greg snickered. “Yeah, she’s worse than a truck driver when she goes on a tangent.”

“Shut up,” Shelly said tossing a wadded up napkin at him.

Angle listened to all this silently. If it wasn’t for the fact that he didn’t want to go back to his empty hotel room he would have walked out and not even looked back. The three continued to bicker lightheartedly as he just stared off into space.

“Kurt, you all right, man,” Kazarian finally asked, noticing how lost in space Angle looked.

“Huh? Yeah, I’m fine,” Angle replied.

“Well, I think I’ll head to the gym,” Kazarian said sliding out of the booth.

Shelly was about to slide out of the booth too, but Angle leaned forward and grasped her wrist. “Something wrong, Kurt,” she asked, surprised by his action.

“I need to speak to you,” he said. “Alone. Please.” He slid out of the booth allowing Greg to slide out before taking a seat again. Shelly nodded to the guys that it was all right for them to leave. With a shrug both men left the diner.

“So, what can I do for you, Kurt,” she asked when they were finally gone.

“You were right,” he said after a moment of silence passed between them.

“I often am,” she replied. “Now, what was I right about?”

Kurt groaned. “Do you really need me to say it?”

“Yes,” Shelly replied, relishing in the thought that she was making the former world champion squirm.

“You were right about me losing Karen and the kids,” he finally said. “I..I have to get them back.”

“That’s not gonna be so easy, Kurt,” Shelly said.

“I know, but I have to do it, Shell. I just have to,” Kurt replied. “I’ve been so stupid. I know now that I’ve royally fucked up.”

Shelly sighed. “Maybe not,” she replied reaching out and placing her hand over his. “Let me see if she’ll answer my call and I’ll let you know if you should talk to her.”

“You do that,” Kurt said sliding out of the booth. “In the meantime I have someone I need to speak to.” With that he left the diner and headed back to the hotel.

When he got to his destination Angle took a deep breath and knocked on the door. The door opened and he stood face to face with Styles. “Kurt…what can I do for you,” Styles asked nervously.

“I need to speak to you man to man, AJ,” Angle replied. “May I come in?”

“Yeah,” Styles replied stepping aside so that Angle could enter the room. He watched as Angle took a seat at the foot of the bed and perched himself on the dresser across from him. “What’d you wanna talk to me about, Kurt?”

“I know you’ve developed feelings for Karen,” Angle said. He fixed Styles with his intense blue eyes, letting the younger man know he was dead serious about what he was about to ask. “I need to know, AJ, if you’ve…had a physical relationship with my wife.”

“No, Kurt,” Styles replied. “The most we’ve done is kiss. I promise you that’s as far as it ever gotten.”

“I hope you’re being completely honest with me, AJ,” Angle replied.

“I won’t lie to you, Kurt, I wanted to make love to Karen in the worst way,” Styles replied. Angle clenched his jaw, the words making his blood boil. “I just couldn’t do it when it came down to it though.”

“Styles, what the hell are you talking about,” Angle demanded, trying desperately to keep his temper in check.

“A couple of weeks ago we all got pretty drunk,” Styles explained. “Everyone left and it was just Karen and I. I brought her back to her room and she…Kurt, she was REALLY drunk and she threw herself at me, but I turned her down. I made sure she was asleep before I left. That’s all that happened. I swear.”

Angle shook his head and let out a low chuckle. This action made Styles extremely nervous. He knew what kind of temper Angle had and did not want to be on the receiving end of an Olympic beatdown. When Angle stood Styles braced himself.

“Relax, AJ,” Angle said patting him on the back. “I believe you.”

“Kurt,” Styles said as Angle headed toward the door. The older man turned to face him. “You don’t have to worry about me going after Karen. Under different circumstances I’d love to be with her, but…you guys have a family and that should come first.”

“Thanks, AJ,” Angle said smiling. “The decision is up to Karen though. If she chooses you then I’ll bow out gracefully. Lord knows I’ve given her more than enough reason to chose you over me.” With that he left the room.

“There you are,” Shelly said finding Angle exiting Styles’ room. “Please tell me you didn’t hurt AJ.”

“We only talked,” he replied scrubbing a hand down his face. “Jesus, does everyone think I’m some monster who goes around beating the snot out of people.”

“You have been pretty scary lately,” she admitted, hooking her arm through his and leading him down the hall toward his own room. “I got hold of Karen. It took some convincing, but she’s willing to listen to what you have to say.”

“But,” Angle asked sensing she had more to add to it.

“She said she can’t promise anything will change,” Shelly replied.

“I figured as much,” he replied. “Will she talk to me if I call her?”

“I guess so, I mean she didn’t tell me to set things up so I guess that means you can do it yourself,” Shelly replied as they stopped outside Angle’s door.

“Thanks, Shell,” he said. “I have a phone call to make.” She nodded giving his hand a squeeze before leaving him.

*~*~*

Angle paced the hotel lobby nervously. It was a few days later and he was waiting for Karen to arrive with the kids. He had managed to convince her to meet with him to talk things out.

“Kurt, why don’t you just sit down,” Tomko asked looking up from the magazine he was reading.

“Yeah, you’ve got nothin’ to be nervous about,” Styles said.

Angle sighed and took a seat, keeping his eyes on the door to the lobby. “Kurt, relax,” Shelly said leaning forward to give his arm a reassuring squeeze. “She agreed to come see you. That’s a good sign.”

“Not necessarily,” Kazarian said, earning him an elbow in the ribs. “I’m just saying…”

“Why don’t you just say it somewhere else,” Shelly replied glaring at him. “Kurt’s nervous enough.”

“Since when did you become such a killjoy,” Greg asked, slapping him upside the head. Kazarian flipped him off, rubbing his sore ribs. ODB snickered, though she said nothing to Angle or Kazarian at all.

“It’s all right,” Angle said. “Frankie’s right. Just because she’s coming to meet with me doesn’t mean she’ll come home.” He frowned at the thought.

“DADDY,” they heard Kira exclaim. Angle stood, a wide smile replacing the frown catching his daughter as she launched herself at him.

“Daddy’s missed you so much, baby,” he said holding her close to his chest and showering her face with kisses. Karen soon came into view carrying Kody, who began reaching for his father when he caught sight of him. Angle took the toddler from Karen, lavishing the boy with kisses as well.

“They’ve missed you,” Karen said softly.

“I’ve missed them so much,” Kurt replied setting both children on their feet. “I’ve missed you too.”

Karen kept her face unreadable, turning her gaze to her children. She bent down to Kira. “Honey, mommy and daddy need to talk,” she said.

“We’ll take care of the kids,” Shelly said to Karen, beckoning Kira and Kody over. Happily Kira jumped into Shelly’s lap. Kody toddled over to Kazarian, who scooped him up.

“Thanks,” Kurt said offering Karen his hand. “I thought we could go someplace a little more private to talk.”

“I’m not going to your room, Kurt,” Karen replied, crossing her arms across her chest.

“No, I was thinking more like the hotel restaurant,” Kurt replied, his hand still extended to her. With a sigh she relented, taking his hand and allowing him to lead her away.

Kira looked up at Shelly. “Is mommy still mad at daddy,” she asked.

“I don’t know, honey,” Shelly replied.

“I hope not,” she pouted. “I miss daddy.”

“I know you do,” Shelly said hugging the child.

{Chapter 16}

“How about we take you guys up to our room to watch a movie,” Kazarian suggested, tickling Kody’s belly. “Maybe get you some ice cream?”

“ICE CREAM,” Kira exclaimed clapping happily.

“Have fun with that,” Greg said waving as the couple headed to the elevator bank.

“You could offer to help out,” Kazarian called.

“Nah, that’s all right,” Greg replied. “Besides it’ll be good practice for you two.”

“Don’t go getting ahead of yourself there, Skippy,” Shelly called. “You don’t see a ring on this finger, do you?” Snickering could be heard from Greg and ODB as the couple entered the elevator.

*~*~*

Kurt and Karen took seats in the back of the restaurant, ordering coffee when the waitress made her way over to their table. “I’m glad you agreed to come,” Kurt said smiling. “I really have missed you.”

“Are you sure you mean me and not your stupid title,” Karen retorted.

“No, I mean you, Karen,” Kurt replied calmly. He had anticipated this reaction from her. “The title is gone and I can honestly say I’m glad. It was…like a drug, Karen and I couldn’t see what I was losing until it was finally taken from me.”

“And what were you losing, Kurt,” she demanded.

“You and the kids,” he replied, reaching out and taking her hand. “I miss waking up with you in my arms, Karen. I miss hearing my sweet little angel’s laugh. I miss rocking Kody to sleep.”

Tears filled Karen’s eyes, but she fought them back. “You have no idea how long I’ve wait to hear you say those things, Kurt,” she replied, a lone tear slipping down her cheek.

“I know,” he replied leaning forward to brush the tear away with the pad of his thumb. “I love you more than anything in the world, Karen.” She scoffed, brushing some more tears away. “I know it didn’t seem like it, but it took nearly losing you to make me realize it.”

“You didn’t nearly lose me,” Karen replied, the tears falling faster now. “You DID lose me.” Kurt hung his head hearing her words, his heart sank. “You see, I had some time to really think about things, Kurt. Your words don’t change your actions. Who’s to say you won’t act the same way if you get another title reign?” She choked back a sob. “I can’t live through that again.” With that she stood and walked away without giving him a second glance.

Angle watched her leave, his heart breaking. He had lost her and there was nothing he could do about it. With a sad sigh he tossed some money on the table for the coffee and left the restaurant.

*~*~*

“I’ll get it,” Shelly called hearing a knock at the door. Tomko, Styles, Greg and ODB wound up hanging out in the room to help out with the kids. “Karen,” Shelly said surprised to see her so soon. “How did it go?”

“Fine,” Karen lied. “Kira, Kody, let’s go.”

“But…you promised we could see daddy,” Kira whined.

Karen sighed, a stray tear slipping down her cheek. “You’re right,” she said sighing. She turned her attention back to Shelly. “I just can’t face him again.”

“It’s all right, Karen,” Kazarian said taking Kira and Kody’s hands. “I’ll take them to Kurt if you want.”

“Thank you, Frankie,” she said. “Be good for daddy,” she called as the children left.

“I think we should head out,” Tomko said to Greg and Styles. “The women need to talk.” The guys nodded and filed out of the room.

“Karen, what happened,” Shelly asked.

“He didn’t say anything I haven’t heard before,” Karen sighed going into the bathroom to splash some cold water on her face. Shelly offered her a towel to dry her face. “Don’t look at me like that, Shell. You know what I’ve dealt with. It’s too little too late.”

“But…” Karen raised a hand to wave her off.

“It’s too little too late,” she repeated. “I’m going to my room. Kurt can drop the kids off whenever he’s ready.” With that she exited the room.

Shelly sank down to the bed, shoulders slumping in defeat. ODB patted her on the back. “You tried, honey,” she said softly. “You had to know that Karen would react like this though.”

“I just thought…I don’t know what I thought,” Shelly groaned. “I just really wanted them to work things out.”

*~*~*

Once out in the hall Karen leaned up against the closed door trying to compose herself before heading off to her room. She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Styles standing there. “Not now, AJ,” she said sniffling.

“Karen, I just…I think you’re making a mistake leaving Kurt,” he said, forcing himself to say the words. She opened her mouth to protest, but he silenced her. “I care about you, Karen. I’ve made that known for a while now. I care enough about you to tell you that you should give Kurt another chance. If not for yourself than do it for your kids.”

“AJ…”

“He’s truly sorry for the way he treated you, Karen,” Styles said. “He does love you, despite what you think. Give him another chance.” With that said he walked away leaving her staring after him, shocked by his words. She had to make a decision, but found her mind just muddled as she headed toward her room.

*~*~*

“Honey, we’re going to be late,” Kazarian called to Shelly. “We’re supposed to be at the church in…” He glanced at his watch. “Ten minutes. We have to haul ass.”

“Relax,” Shelly said as she exited the bathroom. “We have plenty of time. Zip me up.” She turned around so he could zip up her dress. Once that task was finished she grabbed her clutch and they exited the room.

“Look how nice you two clean up,” ODB called as she walked down the hall with Greg.

“You don’t look half bad yourselves,” Shelly replied with a smirk. “You look almost…normal,” she said to ODB, who stuck her tongue out at her in response to the comment.

“Yeah, yeah, we all look good,” Greg said ushering everyone into the elevator. “Let’s get going already. The sooner we get this over with the sooner I can lose the monkey suit.”

The couples made it to the church with two minutes to spare. They filed into the pew next to Tomko and Styles, who was holding Kody. Just moments later Angle made an appearance. He looked nervous as he headed down toward the minister.

He turned his attention to the back of the church as the wedding march began and Kira proudly made her way down the aisle, sprinkling handfuls of petals as she went. Angle smiled wide seeing his daughter and seemed to relax.

His smile only widened when he saw his bride making her way down the aisle. She was more beautiful than he had ever remembered her being. He wanted to memorize every detail of this vision before him.

“Karen looks so beautiful,” Shelly said wiping some tears from her eyes.

“She really does,” Styles agree, handing her some tissues.

Kurt took Karen’s hands when she finally made it to the altar. “I love you,” he mouthed.

“I love you too,” she mouthed back as they turned their attention to the minister.

Karen had thought long and hard on Styles’ words when she got to her room that afternoon. When Kurt had brought the kids back that night and stayed to put them to bed she had a long talk with him. When all was said and done Karen realized that she truly didn’t want to give up on her marriage and agreed to give Kurt another chance. They had decided to renew their vows, for real this time, just a few weeks later.

*~*~*

“All right,” Karen called to the small reception. “Bouquet time. All the single women line up.”

“That means you too,” ODB said dragging Shelly to the line.

“She said single,” Shelly protested.

“I don’t see a ring on your finger,” ODB retorted as Karen tossed the bouquet. “Heads up!” Shelly threw her hands up out of instinct, the bouquet landing in her outstretched arms.

“Oh shit! That’s a sign if ever there was one, Frankie boy,” Greg teased, clapping him on the back.

“Shut up,” Kazarian said glancing over at Shelly, who met his gaze and chuckled holding up the bouquet. Kazarian smiled and went over to her.

Greg glanced around the reception smiling. He could see Tomko slow dancing with his wife, a smile plastered to his face. ODB was at the bar getting them some drinks. His gaze then fell on Styles. “I’ll be damned,” he muttered. Styles was sitting with Velvet Sky and Angelina Love, very openly flirting with the two of them.

“Having a good time,” Angle asked joining Greg.

“Yeah, Kurt,” he replied. “Did you see this? AJ thinks he’s a fuckin’ pimp.”

“He could do worse,” Angle replied, smiling wide seeing Styles chatting up the women. “Have a good time, man.”

“Yeah you too, Kurt,” Greg replied shaking his head as he pulled his gaze from Styles. “But not too of a good time. Unless you want Kody and Kira to have a little brother or sister.” Angle chuckled as Greg walked away to find his girlfriend.

*~*~*

Karen excused herself from Shelly and Kazarian when she saw Styles leave the women he had been chatting up and head over to the bar. “Hi, AJ,” she said softly. He turned his attention from the bartender and smiled wide at her.

“Hey, Karen,” he replied. “You look beautiful.”

“Thank you,” she replied, blushing. “AJ, I mean that. Thank you. If you hadn’t…” He silenced her with a wave of his hand.

“No need to thank me, Karen,” he replied. “It was the right thing to do.” He saw Angle watching them and motioned toward him. “I think Kurt’s waiting for you.”

Karen turned her gaze to Kurt and gave him a smile. “Whichever one you wind up with, AJ, she’ll be one lucky woman,” she said motioning to where Angelina Love and Velvet Sky were waiting for Styles to return. She gave him a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek before going to join her husband.

THE END