I was sore.
Really sore.
It's been awhile since I've stepped into the ring, let alone the main event against someone as talented as Aquila. To say that he pushed me to my limits would be an understatement. For the condition I'm in now, he pushed me about as far as I could go. It simply came down to who would make the first mistake, and fortunately for me, it was him. I think it's safe to say that I've earned at least a little respect from quite a few people Monday night. If not... Well.. Fuck.
Needless to say, I was feeling it though. My back hurt, my neck hurt, my legs were sore, everything just seemed to be cramping up on me. Maybe I didn't stretch properly before the match? I don't know but it hurt. Even after hitting the gym I didn't feel like this, but it would pass in time. My body would adjust to being back in the ring. Winning my returning match was worth it and I'd do it exactly the same way again.
We never said we'd take it easy on each other.
I had checked the fan response on the web for the show on Monday, and everything was looking good. All the matches were praised and everyone seemed to enjoy the show, and that is what this is all about. It's not about us, it's not about the brass. Believe it or not, this is a customer service industry in the entertainment form. We are providing the service of entertainment, so making sure that everyone is happy with whats going on is a must. Getting paid is nice, yeah, but my main concern is putting on a show for everyone - and it seemed like everyone on the card accomplished that goal.
Apparently Wade Mason not being in control is ruffling some feathers. I guess it's a good thing that I'm a little bit removed from the situation. I see fan posts speculating about all kinds of things, but I haven't heard anything that would confirm or deny it. Drugs? Alcohol? Loose woman? People really let their minds run amuck sometimes. Frankly, I'm not even exactly sure what is happening right now but i was never very good with the behind the scene stuff. I usually end up finding out more information from the websites than I do at shows or memos or whatever. Crazy right?
I just sat there going through page after page of love, hate, opinions, and ideas. The laptop was running hot on my lap, but the coffee table was too low to put the thing on so I dealt with it. I didn't want to move from the couch since pain ran through me even with the slightest movement - but I was getting restless. I didn't know much about my new home, but there had to be something to do somewhere. But what?
Every muscle in my body screamed whenever I took a breath, what could I possibly do?
Then I came across a forum post about me, a flattering one in a creepy way.
i wish i could rub natty down with oilz all nite long.... u guyz have no idea.. id let her slam me any time!!!!!!!! you guyz no!
-SuplexMazter_1210Weird, but thanks to this internet rico suave, I knew what I wanted.
A massage.
I didn't know where I could get one, but I was determined to find out. Sushi wasn't that hard and this is SoCal. The city had to be riddled with places to get pampered. I felt I deserved it after my performance Monday night. Trust me, you would to. Winning never hurt so good.
Beach bunnies and tanned hunks were every where you looked, no doubt they were getting rub downs every so often.
SuplexMaster made me realize I was on the web too long at that point, and I decided to fight the pain and begin my search. After some serious stretching to hopefully limber up and lessen the ache, I changed out of my PJs and headed downstairs. My new apartment was still pretty bare, I did get my paycheck and everything - but given the situation, I still wasn't quite sure what I was going to do with the place. Although, Damari didn't give me many options.
It wasn't the usual guy downstairs, Sean I think his name was. This time it was a female, bleached blond hair, too much make up. Exactly what you would expect from SoCal. I can't say I was overly impressed with her, in fact, I found it quite pretentious. I could tell by the look she gave me that she felt the same way. I guess tattoos and dyed hair that isn't blond wasn't her thing. She put on her fake smile as I approached.
"Can I help you?" She said in her valley girl way, sounding upbeat and ditzy at the same time.
I smiled half heartily, "You look like you could help me..." I paused and she tilted her head, "What's up?" She asked.
"If I was a tall, dark and handsome masseuse where would I be?" I could tell I was talking more her speed now, she looked like she would know exactly where to go.
"Oh, let me tell you! You have no idea, like, theres this place right down the road, well, you'll need a cab, but it's really good and the guys there are sooooooo! cute! Like seriously, it's the place to go, it's called Ringos and ask for Jakey." She was speaking so fast I could hardly keep up with her. She was still going on but I gave up; smile and nod.
"Okay!" I cut her off, "thanks." And I rushed for the door. I think she was still trying to enlighten me on how great "Jakey" was and how good I would feel after. I didn't really know how to get a cab around these parts, the area was pretty sprawling and you weren't able to walk everywhere like you could back East. That was the major difference, but what are ya gonna do?
My legs were tense and I wasn't about to start walking the direction she told me, even though I'm sure she knew where the place was. She seemed like a regular. The streets were busy, cars roaring passed and all that, but it was rare that one was a cab - and when it was the occupied light was always on. I quickly realized that the east coast tactics of hailing a cab didn't work out west. So I resorted to calling information and being transferred to a cab company to have a car come pick me up.
In reality, it didn't take too long for the cab to arrive. But due to my circumstances it felt like a life time. My knees felt weak and my back was throbbing. Getting into the cab was a chore in itself, moving slowly and awkwardly trying to avoid pain seemed to just make matters worse. Everything seemed to be okay with the slow movements, but ya know how it is, one odd tweak and pain would ache through your body. Yeah, that's what I was dealing with. What the hell did Aquila do to me?
I informed the cabbie of my destination and he glared at me via the rear view. I wasn't quite sure at first, until we drove for maybe two minutes and he pulled up in front of Ringos. The girl at the desk was very wrong as to the distance, or maybe she was just lazy and would never dream of walking the quarter mile to get here. I was slightly embarrassed, but at the same time - there was no way I was walking that. Even if it was literally, the next street down.
I paid my dollar and fifty cent fair with a five, and let him keep the change. It was the least I could do given he obviously felt that I wasted his time. Again, I slowly exited the cab and made my way inside the establishment.
It seemed like a utopia. Very modern, very sleek, plants in the corner looking very lush, everyone working in clean white polo shirts and black pants. The place was nice, so far, the beach bunny hadn't steered me in the wrong direction.
I walked up to the counter where another bleached blond was working, you couldn't get away from them out here. Lay of the land I guess. "Welcome to Ringos, how can I make your day great?" She wasn't nearly as annoying as the one back at the apartment complex.
"I really need a massage. I was told.. Jakey," I felt awkward calling him that, "was the man to look for." The girl smiled, "He is one of the best," She replied, "he's in with another guest right now, but if you'd like - we have a smoothie bar you are more than welcome to while you wait." She gestured off through a doorway that was down a path with in door ponds on either side, I nodded. "Right through there, you can't miss it. Can I just have your name and I'll send Jake to you as soon as he's ready."
I gave her my name, at the time, I didn't even think about asking a price. Which was probably a horrible mistake. I didn't care at this point though, it was the last thing on my mind. I needed this. I wasn't selfish very often, but today was for me. I earned it!
I made my way to the smoothie bar and had a seat. The guy behind the counter had tan skinned and was ripped. He looked like he could have been a wrestler himself. He looked to be in perfect condition, and honestly, he was very attractive. I could get used to this.
"How's it going?" He asked, he smiled. His teeth were so white they could have blinded you.
"Better once I get a rub down." I tried not making a fool out of myself as I attempted to get onto the bar stool.
"Did you request someone?" He asked as he started making a drink before I even ordered, "Jake." I said quickly. He smiled and nodded, "all the first timers ask for Jake."
It didn't dawn on me til a moment later that he knew I hadn't been here before, I just assumed he worked a lot and knew pretty much everyone. But at the same time, the place couldn't have been that exclusive. I was able to walk right in, there wasn't a line or anything, and get an appointment. Maybe I was missing something.
"I'm Greg. Pleasure to meet you." He placed the drink in front of me, "On the house."
I smiled, "Natasha, and thank you very much." I took a sip, it was fantastic. "This is really good, what's in it?"
He laughed lightly, "Secret recipe."
I shrugged and took another long sip of the smoothie. I knew it had mango in it, that much I was sure of. But other then that, I had no clue. It seemed like it changed flavor with every sip, I tasted different fruits, berries, extracts, I couldn't pin point the others but I was in heaven. Maybe it was a placebo effect, but I began to forget that my body was aching.
Greg was pretty stand offish after he had given me my smoothie, but I chalked it up to him just being busy. He was cleaning up the bar, putting things away and the like. It was pretty early in the day still, I thought maybe they did the bulk of their business later in the evening. Ya know, when all wives got off work and stuff. I don't know, the culture out here was so much different than what I was used to.
There was bulky guys all around, cleaning, folding towels, all of them seemed to have a purpose... They all also seemed to be bursting out of their polo shirts, it was a nice view from where I was sitting.. Then I noticed one come down the path, I knew it was Jakey coming to fetch me for my massage. He had a smile on his face, his arms were toned, his brown hair was slicked back.
This was going to be good. Really good. I could feel it.
"Natasha?" He asked, I nodded. "I'm Jake, I'll be servicing you today." I was fluttering, this guy was cute. The bunny knew what she was talking about. "Great." Was all I could muster, I was fluttering. "If you would just follow me, we can get started on making your day a great one." He seemed sincere, I wanted to believe he was, but I knew it was his job.
I didn't even realize that Vincent wasn't even crossing my mind. It was the first time since his passing that this had happen. I don't think its cold or unusual, it's part of the healing process. At least that's what I told myself.
I followed Jake down another path at the other end of the bar, there was doors with bamboo doors lining the hall which was dimly lit. It was very calming. I didn't even notice that my body was screaming at me, I was taking long strides to keep up with Jake.
He made small talk as we walked. Asking where I was from, how long I'd been in San Diego, all that good stuff that I knew he didn't really care about, but I was in the moment and he was a great actor. I let the cynical side of me go, and just relished the moment. I followed him into one of the rooms, where there was a bath rope draped over the massaging table.
"I'll give you a moment to get ready." He said very sensually. I just smiled as he exited the room, before closing the door he poked his head in - "Don't worry, I'll be right back."
I took a second and let out a long sigh. As I began to undress, an awkward feeling came bearing down on me. I didn't understand it at first, but I knew something wasn't right. Something felt wrong about this whole situation. Not like I was in danger or anything like that, but my old instincts were kicking in. Like this was too good to be true. Sure it was just a massage, but you have to understand, it's the little things that matter.
I put on the robe slowly, trying to figure out exactly what was wrong and then....
"Why hello, Natasha."
God no. I knew it.
I knew something would ruin this.
Fucking Corbin Damari.
I swung around to find him standing in the door way, I didn't know how long he had been there, but I knew I was pissed.
"What the fuck are you doing here?" I spat in anger. My blood was boiling. I couldn't believe this was happening. I just wanted one day, one HOUR to myself.
"Such anger.." He said calmly, "I thought you would be happy to see me." A devilish grin crossed his face.
"The one time I want to spoil myself, and I can't even have that. Can't this wait?" Anger manifested itself in despair, and I felt like I was pleading with him.. Maybe I was.
"It can't actually." He took a seat in the corner of the room.
"What then?" I whirled in anger, my back to him. I was almost fighting back tears. "Jake is waiting, you know..."
I heard him chuckle, "Actually he isn't." My heart sank. "What.."
"I recently acquired Ringos in a business transaction. Jake is no longer with us."
What the FUCK was going on...
Hi everyone!!
It's Natasha but I bet you all knew that already. Why else would you be on my blog!?
Things have been crazy. I moved out to San Diego, had my first match and won! I hope you all were happy with the match. We did our best to put on the best show possible for everyone, and I thought we put on one helluva show? What did you guys think? I'd love to hear from you.
San Diego is pretty crazy. Living here and visiting are so different. I mean, I've been here a bunch of times and everything, but actually being in the thick of everything has really made me miss some things about back home, and not so miss others hehe.
I've had some pretty crazy boy troubles the passed couple days, things have been pretty weird in that department. Don't jump the gun though, I still miss and love Vincent very much - but it's other stuff. I'll keep you guys posted on that soon. I have a feeling it's going to play a key part in my career very soon... And I don't know if thats a good thing or a bad thing.
Ugh, I hate putting on this mask for my blog. I wish I could just say how I really feel sometimes. Price you pay I guess.
It was good to get back into the ring. I was a little rusty, I'm sure you guys saw a few mistakes here and there. Saw some openings I didn't. But it will all come back to me. I know it will. Aquila really banged me up in that match, I was so sore the next day you wouldn't even believe. I didn't want to move! I tried finding a massage, but it that didn't happen. Crazy stuff, lemme tell you.
.
It's so hard playing the face role sometimes... Crazy stuff.. Fucking out of control stuff is more like it.
I'm booked again for the next show. I can't wait. The ring rust is gone and I'm going to be putting everything out there. Everything on the line this time. I refuse to hold back. I'm gonna hit the gym, spar my ass off, and be more ready than I ever could be. It's a triple threat match, so I have to watch out for two opponents instead of one this time. These matches are always the hardest. Unfortunately you can't trust anyone in this type of match, you have to be able to take advantage of any opening you see. So alliances are a weak bond that last sometimes seconds.
I'm still getting to know everyone in the promotion, but I think I'm starting to get a feel. I'm not quite sure what to expect out of either of these guys, but I'm sure they are going to be strong opponents. I have a little more research to do on both of them, and I'm sure the emails will come flying in with tips from you guys. Trust me, that stuff really helps and I appreciate it. You don't know how many times I've come out on top in a match because of a weakness that a fan exposed to me, and I've been able to capitalize on it.
It will be hard. Triple threats are never easy, but as long as everyone has faith in me and I have faith in myself - we'll be fine. We'll continue the ball rolling straight to the top. I have no doubt about that. With all you guys at my back, we can't go downhill, you guys won't let me fall. I won't let any of you down. Vincent wouldn't want it that way, and I sure as hell don't either. If it wasn't for all of you, I wouldn't be where I am today.
Jake Gooddard and French Montana. It's going to be interesting. French sounds like he can be a real jerk, but who can't. It's business. He's from Newark, not too far from where I'm from so I kinda get it. It's not the nicest place around, and I'm sure he didn't live the dream while he was there. Just cut him some slack and don't feed him any energy, positive or negative. Believe it or not, he probably thrives for that kinda thing. Just don't give him the satisfaction.
From what I heard, Jake has a gambling problem. That sucks. He should probably go to a meeting or something and get some help. I'd hate to see him squander everything he's earned here. It's just not right. Maybe a push in the right direction or knocking him sense into him will be just what he needs.
Who knows!
I just can't wait to get back into the ring and put on another show. It's what I live for these days. It seems like it's all I have.
I do this all for you guys.
love,
nm