I believe in....? Joe Hendry/OC/Alex Shelley Chap 2
Thank you for the love on the first chapter so here number 2!
Warnings: Fluff and flashback
In a cozy, sunlit living room filled with boxes and nostalgia, Beth and Alex are in the midst of sorting through forgotten treasures and memorabilia from their past lives. Amidst the boxes, they come across an old, dust-covered box labeled "Beth’s Indie Stuff." The handwriting is faded, the box clearly untouched for years, evoking a past Beth has long since packed away.
Alex turned to his fiancé “Hey, what's this one? Can I open it?"
He reaches for the box, but Beth quickly interposes herself, her expression suddenly tight and protective. "It’s just old stuff from my managing days... from the indie circuit." Beth mumbled
Alex notices the sudden change in her demeanor and frowns, his curiosity deepening. "Is this from when you used to manage Joe? Why haven’t you shown me any of this before?"
Beth sighs, her hands resting nervously on the box, a mix of nostalgia and discomfort flickering across her face. “I haven’t opened that box since... since Joe and I broke up. It’s full of old memories. Let’s just put it aside, okay?"
Alex, sensing her discomfort but also wanting to share in all parts of her life, wraps an arm around her shoulders and gives her a gentle kiss on the lips. "It’s your past, Beth, and it’s okay. Maybe it’s time to revisit it. It might even help you move on, you know?"
He smiles reassuringly, and with a reluctant nod from Beth, he gently lifts the lid of the box. Inside, they find old ring gear, faded Joe Hendry merch, and other memorabilia. Each piece seems to carry the weight of memories. As they dig deeper, Alex pulls out a stack of old photos—many of them featuring a younger Beth and Joe, smiling broadly, arms around each other, clearly more than just manager and wrestler. As Alex sifts through the photos, he comes across a small, velvet ring box. Curious, he picks it up.
Alex look curious of the box” What’s this, Beth?"
Beth’s face goes pale as she sees the box, her heart skipping a beat. She quickly reaches out to take it, trying to mask her sudden anxiety. "It’s nothing, just... it got mixed up in there. It’s my Nan’s old ring."
She opens the box to show Alex, revealing a simple yet elegant promise ring. Alex, unaware of its true significance, nods and hands it back to her.
Alex smiled "It’s beautiful. Your Nan had good taste."
Beth nods absently, her fingers tracing the contours of the ring, lost in a flood of memories. Alex watches her, then leans in to kiss her forehead gently. “Whatever happened, it’s all part of what made you the amazing person you are today. I love all parts of you, Beth."
Beth looks up, caught off guard by the affection and understanding in Alex’s eyes. She holds the ring in her hand, feeling its weight as a symbol of a past chapter.
Alex asked curiously “How did you and Joe actually get together? I mean, I know you managed him, but what was the start like?"
Beth wrapped her arm around Alex and laid her head on his shoulder “Well…”
Inside the bustling pub, the air is thick with the aroma of ale and the sound of raucous laughter. Wrestlers and fans alike are celebrating a night of intense matches. Beth and Joe are seated at a crowded table with Grado, Noam Dar, and several other wrestlers, their conversations filled with technical talk and friendly jibes.
Grado jeered "Joe, mate, that dropkick tonight—outta nowhere! Crowd went mental, didn’t they?"
Joe laughed deeply “It felt good, but it was Beth's idea to add that twist at the end. Turned out pretty solid."
Noam grinned “Solid? It was bloody brilliant! And Beth, managing to keep this lug in line—you deserve a medal."
Beth smirked taking a sip of her beer “Oh, it’s all part of the job. But seriously, Joe’s the one taking the bumps."
As they banter, Joe catches Beth’s eye with a grateful look, their mutual respect palpable. Amid the laughter,
Beth leans closer to Joe. "Think we could sneak out for a bit? It’s so loud in here, and I could really use some fresh air."
Joe smiled “Yeah, great idea. Let’s grab a smoke."
They start to stand, gathering their jackets. As they do, one of the other wrestlers at the table, noticing their move, starts to rise as well. "Mind if I join you two for that smoke?"
Before Beth or Joe can reply, Grado, who has been observing the dynamic between Joe and Beth with a knowing grin, chimes in, winking at Joe. "Nah, mate, let them have a wee moment. We’ve got some planning to do for the next show, remember? Let’s give 'em some space, eh?"
The wrestler nods, settling back down, as Grado gives Joe a subtle nod, his expression saying clearly, "Go on, then."
The crisp night air mixes with the warmth emanating from the bustling pub as Beth and Joe find a quiet spot under the dim glow of a street lamp. They light their cigarettes, the orange glow briefly illuminating their faces, creating an intimate space away from the raucous energy inside.
Beth looked to the night sky "It’s nice to catch a break from the crowd, isn’t it? Just to have a moment of quiet."
Joe put his arm around her shoulder “Absolutely. I like the noise, the chaos... but this is nice too. Especially with you."
Their conversation meanders from wrestling to personal aspirations, reflecting the comfort and trust they’ve built as friends and colleagues.
Joe’s gaze lingers on Beth, admiration evident in his eyes. "You know, Beth, watching you manage tonight, it reminded me how incredible you are. Not just at what you do, but who you are."
Beth: smiled shyly “Thanks, Joe. Means a lot, coming from you."
The air between them shifts as they inch closer, the distance closing under the pretense of sharing warmth. Joe hesitates for a moment, then makes a decision, driven by the emotions building throughout the night.
Joe took a deep breath “Beth, there’s something more, something beyond just being great partners... I've felt it for a while now."
Before Beth can respond, Joe leans in, and their lips meet in a tentative kiss that quickly deepens with their pent-up longing and affection. Beth responds eagerly, her hands finding their way to Joe’s neck, pulling him closer. The kiss grows more passionate, their bodies pressing together as if trying to close any space left between them.
As they pull away briefly, breathless, the intensity in their eyes matches the fervor of their embrace. Beth, caught up in the moment, bites her lip and smiles. “Joe, I... I didn't realize—"
Seeing the mutual desire in their eyes, Joe leans in again, this time with a boldness fueled by her response. The kiss is fervent, filled with the release of their long-contained emotions. Beth’s hands roam over Joe’s back, pulling him even closer, their bodies molding together under the streetlamp’s soft glow.
The passion escalates, and Joe whispers against her lips, barely audible over their quickened breaths.
“Beth, come back with me tonight?"
Beth nods, her eyes sparkling with a mix of excitement and nerves. She takes his hand, and they break apart just enough to regain composure. With one last deep kiss that promises more, they turn and walk quickly back into the pub. They weave through the crowd, their hands clasped tightly, electric with the new energy between them.
Grabbing their jackets and belongings without stopping for conversation, they give quick excuses to Grado and Noam, who throw knowing glances their way. Smiling, they rush out of the pub, eager to explore the depths of their new connection away from the public eye.
I believe in....? Joe Hendry/OC/Alex Shelley Chap 1
New Fic
Please Like If you want more
Bound For Glory 2022
Beth is backstage, lacing up her boots and mentally preparing for her upcoming match with her fiancé Alex and his tag team partner Chris. She adjusts her knee pads, focusing on the routine that keeps her grounded. The buzz of excitement in the locker room catches her attention.
Beth mumbled to herself ‘What's going on out there?’
Say his name and he appears….
Taya ran up to her out of breath followed by your best friend Jess. ‘Beth, you won't believe it! Joe Hendry is back!’
‘Joe? Joe Hendry?’ She eyes went wide as Jess grabbed her hand.
The girls moves closer to get a better view. Joe Hendry stands in the ring, soaking in the crowd's reaction, his presence commanding attention. Beth's heart skips a beat as memories flood back.
‘Holy fuck Joe...’ Beth felt a lump in her throat. She steps back from the curtain, her mind racing. She tries to shake off the emotions welling up inside her, but it's difficult.
‘You two were pretty close, weren't you?’ She frowned when she turned to me ‘shouldn’t you be happy he is back.’
Jess glared at Taya ‘Joe is her ex boyfriend. He up and left TNA 2 years ago, just leaving her here’
Beth ran a hand in her hair ‘It just feels like a lifetime ago.’
Beth takes a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. She knows she has a match to focus on, but the sight of Joe has thrown her off balance.
Taya smiled ‘Maybe it's a good thing he's back. A chance to reconnect?’
Beth groaned at her excitement ‘Maybe... We'll see. I should gol finishing getting ready I got to manage the boys after this’
Jess gave you a side hug ’Good luck out there, Beth. And with Joe.’
Beth smiling faintly. Trying to hide her emotions ‘Thanks. I think I'll need it.’
Beth walks back to her gear, her mind still replaying the moment she saw Joe. She knows this is just the beginning of a complicated journey, one that might change everything.
———————————————————
After Beth's intense match, she walks backstage, still catching her breath from the adrenaline rush. She spots Joe standing by the locker room area, waiting for her. There's a mix of surprise and hesitation in her eyes as she approaches him.
Beth softly spoke ‘Joe... I didn't expect to see you here.’
Joe turns around, his expression a blend of nostalgia and regret. ‘Beth... Can we talk?’ he said grabbing her hand.
Beth looked hesitant ‘Sure. What's on your mind?’
They move to a quieter corner of the backstage area, away from the hustle and bustle of the post-match action.
Joe starched the back his head nervously ‘I... I need to tell you something, Beth. I've been thinking a lot about us, about what we had.’
Beth started to rant off ‘Joe, we've been through this before. You left, and...’
Joe stopped her ‘I know, Beth. I made a mistake, a big one. But I never stopped loving you. I still do.m
Beth looks at Joe, her heart conflicted. She knows she still has feelings for him, but the pain of his departure lingers. She starts to feel emotional ‘You hurt me, Joe. You left without a word, and I... I had to pick up the pieces. We were best friends and you did the one thing you promised me you wouldn't.’
Joe sighed running a hand through his blonde locks ‘I know, and I'm sorry. I never meant to hurt you. But seeing you again, Beth, it's like... nothing has changed for me. I still want us to be together.’
Before Beth can respond, Alex appears behind her, his presence casting a shadow over the tender moment between Beth and Joe. He strides up confidently, his demeanor a mix of possessiveness and charm.
Alex smiled casually ‘Hey, babe. There you are. Joe, right?’ Alex stuck his hand out.
Joe nods tersely, his jaw clenched as he meets Alex's gaze. He shook Alex hand firmly ‘Yeah, Joe Hendry. Nice to meet you.’
Alex steps closer to Beth, wrapping an arm around her waist possessively. ‘You were incredible out there. I'm proud of you.’ he placed a kiss on her lips softly a gesture that feels more like a statement of possession than affection. Joe watches, his expression unreadable.
Beth forcing a smile ‘Thanks, babe.’
Alex turned to Joe ‘Well, we should let Beth get ready. We got Dinner plans, babe right?’ He playful smacked her ass
Beth squealed ‘Yeah, I'll see you around, Joe’ Alex gives Joe a dismissive nod before leading Beth away.
Alex grabbed her hand ‘You seem pretty shaken up. What did Joe say to you?’
Beth tried to sound unbothered ‘Nothing much. We just... talked. It's been a long time since we last saw each other.’
Alex looked suspiciously at her ‘Just talked, huh? You sure he wasn't trying to stir up old feelings?’
Beth suddenly got defensive ‘Alex, it's not like that. We're just friends now. It's been years.’
Alex narrowed his eyes ‘Friends? Beth, I saw the way you looked at him. There's more to it than that, isn't there?’
Beth turned to face Alex and sighed ‘Look, seeing him again was a surprise. That's all. You're the one I'm with, Alex. I'm committed to you.’
‘You better be.’ Alex smiled his charming smile. ‘Just remember, you're going to be my wife soon.’
Alex pulls Beth into a possessive embrace, his hands firm on her waist. He leans down and kisses her deeply, almost as if marking his territory.
Beth pulled back breathless ‘Alex I swear you will be the death of me’ she smiled running her hand down his chest.
Alex smirked ‘Just making sure everyone knows you're mine.’ he pulled her into another kiss.
From a distance, Joe watches the scene unfold, his heart heavy. He clenches his fists, his eyes filled with a mix of regret and determination.
A/N: this is my first fic in a while so I'm rusty but please enjoy
Amsterdam, Saturday, 13 April 2024
Liz sprinted down the corridor of the bustling venue, her manager Sophie hot on her heels. The sound of their hurried footsteps echoed off the walls.
"We are so late," Liz panted, glancing back at Sophie as they approached a door.
Sophie swung it open, and they slipped inside just as Francis, the tour manager, was addressing the acts. He turned and spotted them. "Just in time, UK," he remarked, his tone a mix of relief and mild reprimand.
Liz offered a sheepish smile. "Sorry, my plane got delayed, so we came straight here.
Scanning the room, she noticed Bambie and Marko had saved her a seat between them. She quickly made her way over, grateful for the familiar faces.
"Got your usual," Bambie whispered, handing her a coffee cup as Francis continued with the briefing.
"Thank you, you're a star," Liz murmured back, taking a quick sip of the much-needed caffeine.
Francis's voice cut through the low murmurs. "Right, next up after Ireland is Miss Late, UK," he said, eliciting a wave of chuckles from the room. "And then last will be Amsterdam himself, Joost."
Everyone's attention shifted to the front where a tall, blonde guy stood. His hair was a mess under a sideways cap, and he wore a white long-sleeve undershirt with a pink top over it. "This is your first show, so make sure to say hello to everyone if you can. Meeting's over, guys. Go chill and get ready; you have three hours until curtain up."
Liz leaned over to Bambie. "He's kind of cute."
Bambie rolled her eyes. "You said that about Marko too."
"They are right," Marko chimed in with a laugh.
"Yeah, but you're like a brother to me now," Liz retorted with a grin. "Elizabeta is like my sister; we even have the same name."
Marko laughed. "You two are like twins. You just like blondes, don't you?"
"She has a type," Bambie added, giggling.
"Shut up, you two," Liz said, playfully hitting Marko's arm. "I'm going to our dressing room, Bambie."
——————————————————————-
The backstage area at the Eurovision pre-party show was a whirlwind of activity. Contestants from various countries mingled, producers scurried about, and the buzz of excited conversations filled the area. Liz stood quietly in a corner, trying to stay out of the spotlight. Her heart raced with nerves as she mentally rehearsed her performance, hoping to avoid any awkward encounters.
She tugged at the hem of her dress, taking deep breaths to calm herself. Just then, a lively figure caught her eye. Joost, was moving through the crowd with an infectious energy. His laughter rang out as he greeted fellow contestants, his presence impossible to ignore.
Suddenly, Joost’s gaze locked onto hers from across the room. He paused, his smile broadening. Intrigued by her quiet demeanor amidst the chaos, he decided to make his way over to her. With an easy confidence, he weaved through the crowd, never taking his eyes off her.
“Hey there,” he said, his voice warm and inviting as he finally reached her. “You’re the UK entrant, right?”
She looked up, startled by his direct approach. “Y-yes, that’s me,” she replied, her cheeks flushing. “I’m really looking forward to your performance,” he continued, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest. “I’ve heard great things.”
“Thank you,” she managed, feeling a mix of shyness and flattery. Joost’s presence was both overwhelming and oddly comforting. His enthusiasm was contagious, and she found herself relaxing slightly.
“I’m Joost, by the way,” he introduced himself with a charming smile. “Not that you wouldn’t know, but formalities, right?”
She laughed softly, appreciating his attempt to lighten the mood. “I’m Liz,” she replied, her voice gaining a bit more confidence.
“So, Liz,” Joost said, leaning in a bit closer, “how are you feeling about tonight? Excited? Nervous?”
“A bit of both,” she admitted, glancing down at her feet. “It’s all so overwhelming.”
Joost nodded, his expression understanding. “I get it. This whole thing is pretty intense. But hey, from what I’ve seen, you’ve got nothing to worry about. Your voice is incredible, and your performance style is so unique.”
She looked up at him, surprised by his genuine compliments. “You’ve seen my rehearsal?”
“Of course,” he said, his grin widening. “I wouldn’t miss it. You’ve got real talent, and I’m not just saying that.
Her cheeks grew warmer at his praise, but she felt a flicker of confidence. “Thank you, Joost. That means a lot coming from you.”
Joost’s interest in her became increasingly apparent. He leaned in closer, his eyes never leaving hers. “You know,” he said softly, “I’ve met a lot of people through this contest, but there’s something special about you, Liz.”
Her heart fluttered at his words, and she looked up at him, her shyness giving way to curiosity. “Special? How so?”
Joost smiled, his expression earnest. “You’re genuine. You’ve got this quiet strength and authenticity that’s really inspiring. It’s not just about your talent; it’s about who you are.”
She felt a warmth spread through her at his words, and for the first time that evening, her nerves seemed to melt away. “Thank you, Joost. That means more than you know.”
Just then, an announcement echoed through the backstage area, calling for the UK entrant to prepare for her performance. Joost gave her hand a gentle squeeze, his eyes full of encouragement. “You’re going to be amazing out there. I’ll be cheering for you from the sidelines.”
With a final, lingering look, Joost smiled at her, his presence a comforting reassurance. She nodded, feeling a newfound surge of confidence as she turned to head to the stage. As she walked away, her heart was light and full, knowing that someone as wonderful as Joost believed in her.
———————————————————————
"Hey," he said, his Dutch accent adding a delightful lilt to the word. "Great performance out there. You were amazing."
She smiled back, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Thanks, Joost. You were fantastic too."
He took a step closer, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest. "I was wondering... I mean, if it’s not too forward, could I get your number? I'd love to stay in touch, maybe share some tips on surviving the madness of Eurovision."
The reader felt her cheeks warm, flattered by his attention. "Of course," she said, pulling out her phone. They exchanged numbers, and she felt a thrill as their fingers brushed briefly.
Joost looked at her, his smile turning a bit playful. "You know, there's this great little café not too far from here. If you're not in a rush, maybe we could grab a coffee before your flight home?"
She bit her lip, considering the offer for only a second before nodding. "I'd love that."
"Perfect," Joost said, his grin widening. "I know just the place."
——————————————————————-
"Star sign?" Liz asked with a playful smile, sipping her coffee.
"Scorpio," Joost replied with a laugh. "What about you?"
"Taurus," she said, her eyes twinkling. "My birthday is the 22nd."
"Got any special plans?" Joost inquired, leaning a little closer.
"I'll be starting rehearsals that day," Liz explained, a hint of excitement in her voice. "Flying in late on the 21st and then straight to the stadium. But I think Bambi and Marko might be cooking up a surprise."
"I arrive on the 20th with my crew," Joost said, chuckling. "Wait till you meet them. They're a handful."
"If they're anything like you, I'm sure we'll get along just fine," Liz winked, her smile turning a touch more mischievous.
Joost's eyes sparkled with interest. "Well, maybe we can sneak in some time before the madness begins. I'd love to show you around."
"That sounds like a plan," Liz replied, her tone suggestive. "Just make sure you're ready to keep up with me."
"Oh, I'm always ready for a challenge," Joost teased, his grin widening. "Especially one as intriguing as you."
Beth Foley was not that good with love. Maybe because her best friend Jake Hager always had a problem with her relationship even though he had been married for 10 years. When Max wants to join the inner circle, Beth’s world turns upside down when she meets Wardlow. But how will Jake feel when he sees his worse enemy and best friend flirt and maybe more?
Please note: spelling and grammar aren’t the greatest. Enjoy.
____________________________________________
I sat on the arm of the sofa next to Santana to her right. Me and inner circle were celebrating Jericho's win. Champagne in my hand as I laughed with the boys. I was wearing a black strapless dress.
‘Will Mick be coming next week?’ Chris smiled
‘No, Father Foley says he couldn’t come your anniversary party’, I smiled.
‘I love your dad’, Jake laughed. ‘He was the weirdest but nicest guy.’
‘He will take that as a compliment’, I laughed as the door opened in walked MJF in a suit and signature scarf. Then his bodyguard Wardlow was in a black tank top.
Max starts to speak, ‘Uh oh, what's going on guys, big party. Cool.’ he turned to Chris. ‘Chrissy, how's it going, bro?’
‘Max, how are you?’ Chris looked confused.
‘I’m great, man. I’m coming here bearing gifts, pretty excited about it because I want to congratulate you on your big win tonight,’ Max stopped me from opening it. ‘Really, I got it, gorgeous, I got it’, he shot me a wink.
‘Ewww, don't call me that’, I mumbled, causing Wardlow to hide his laughter with a cough.
‘Okay, here we go.’ He smiled proudly. ‘What do you get all right, numero Uno? Let's see who this one's for,’ he mumbled, showing off to the camera.
‘Ladies, First,’ Max smirked, handing me the jacket he got made for the inner circle. ‘We made it shorter and more low cut. Show you can show off that body.’
I heard a growl. I turned to see Wardlow glaring at Max from behind. I frowned as my eyes connected with Wardlow. He sent a wink my way.
Max continued, ‘Hager, big man, there's yours, okay.’
Jake looks not that pleased. He was glaring a hole through Wardlow.
‘Let’s see what else we got here, uh oh uh,
Ortiz, there you go, big man, it's a killer.’ Max threw two jackets at the boys next to me. ‘Santana, my dude, fresh jacket.’
Max smiled and handed one to Chris. ‘We got le champion, Chris Jericho’ then dove back to the box ‘and then we got.....’
Sammy looked pissed as Max turned to his bodyguard. ‘Wardlow, what's going on here, man? I know that I got one for him. What's going on here? Was it there for you to pack in the box’
Wardlow just shook his head.
‘Oh my god, this is so ridiculous’, Max mumbled to himself, then spoke up. ‘Um, Sammy, I want you to know from the bottom of my heart this was not intentional. On my mother, I swear on my mother's life.’
‘Whatever, Max. No, no, no, no, no, whatever, man.’ Sammy spat, ‘What are you doing in here, huh? What the hell are you doing in here?’
Chris butted in, ‘Hold on, hold on, hold on. Whatever Max. What are you doing here?
‘What the hell are you doing in here? Well?’ Sammy spat
Max looked insulted. ‘Whoa, whoa, whoa, guys, I am simply here to congratulate you on your victory.’
‘It’s just like I said. I mean, well, I mean, we appreciate this. You came in. You walked in the door. You've been following us around. These jackets are great, by the way. Thank you so much, but I asked you a question a long time ago, and I'm kind of picking up what you're laying down here right, so I'm going to ask you again.’ Chris took a deep breath. ‘Do you want to join the inner circle?’
‘Chris, you know I don't want to be rude here, but I asked you a question a long time ago, and it was quite simple. You never got back to me.’ Max sighed ‘Do you want me to join the inner circle?’
I listened to them bicker between themselves until I saw Jake and Wardlow start to get in each other faces. I got up and got between them.
‘No need to fight, boys,’ I said, my eyes flicking from both of them.
Jake started to advance towards me. ‘Hager!’ I snapped, causing the room's eyes to turn to me. ‘Back it up.’
Jake glared as I felt Wardlow place a reassuring hand on my back.
I looked up to see him send a wink my way.
Jericho stepped in. ‘Stop it. Listen, we appreciate the gifts. They look great. Very classy move. It's a very MJF move.’
Max smiled. ‘Thank you for that. You know what? it's a very Chris Jericho move of you to notice that class, of course, and all I want to say before I leave is I'm so excited for you, man.’ He adjusted his scarf ‘30 years in this amazing sport, and it's been a legendary run, sir. It's been an absolutely legendary one.’
‘Thank you’ Chris smiled.
‘So we're going to head on out. You guys have a great night. Enjoy those jackets I hope you like them. Max backed away ‘they're great. Come on, war dog.’
Wardlow grabbed my hand in his. My eyes connected with his as he kissed the back of my hand. He sent a little wink my way before joining Max to leave. I stood there frozen as I blushed, heavily painted on my face.
‘Okay, see you later, max. Peace out, buddy,’ Jericho waved. ‘Don’t say so much next time, Wardlow’
‘What a loser’, Sammy hollered
‘Whoa,’ Chris said. ‘Perhaps he's not.’
‘Chica,’ Santana placed a hand on my shoulder, causing me to come out of my trance. ‘Are you ok?’
I took a deep breath and composed myself. ‘Yeah, I’m good’, I smiled.
‘Want me to talk to that asshole about touching you?’ Jake glared.
‘No, it’s fine.’ I smiled as Chris looked concerned. ‘I handled worse. Just wasn’t excepting it.’
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