It Comes In Three's

Chapter 63

Lotties POV

As we step out of the car, a mixture of excitement and apprehension washes over me. The atmosphere around the venue is heavy with anticipation, and the distant sound of the crowd grows louder with each step we take.

Ales’s hand tightens around mine the second that I am within arms reach, providing a reassuring anchor amidst the whirhind of emotions I was feeling…

I glance up at him, catching his determined gaze. He’s focused on the task ahead, and his eyes hold a wild look in them. If I didn’t know any better… I would say he enjoyed being in this environment?

I squeeze his hand back, silently conveying my gratitude for his unwavering support – earning a small smile before he leads the way.

The dimly lit corridor–being one of the many doors in the warehouse is stairs leading us down towards the large arena.

The corridors are dirty, rusted and tight for space as we squeeze past some drunk dudes on the walk down

I take a deep breath and remain close to Alex‘ back, summoning my inner strength as I try my upmost hardest to not freak out… I can do this!

As we approach the entrance to the arena, two of Alex’s men stand guard as 1 recognise them from the house.

Their presence alone was a reminder of the strict security measures that had been put in place which made me feel more secure. They inform us that Jason, Holden, and Tommy are already in their designated dressing room and that their every move will be monitored until the Eight begins.

Knowing this, it brings a small measure of comfort, as I feel a glimmer of control in this seemingly chaotic situation.

Alex turns to face us, his gaze shifting between Anna and me. His voice is filled with a mixture of determination and protectiveness as he speaks, his words ringing with conviction. “Stay close to lace and Anna. They Il be with you every step of the way. And remember, no matter what happens, you’re safe. We’ve got your back and it will be over before you know it doll!” Alex tells me confidently, before leaving a lingering kiss on my lips.

I nod, my nervousness still present but tempered by his reassuring words. I look to Anna, who offers me a supportive smile as she hooks her arm in mine. She understands the magnitude of this moment for me, having been through her fair share of battles herself. I’m grateful to have her by my side, a source of strength that can tap into….

Alex leads the way towards our designated area, which sits at the top of some more rusty steps as we enter through the door which leads into a balcony like area (similar to the book at a theatre).

The echoes of cheering and the loud music fill the air, heightening the adrenaline coursing through my veins – I cant begin to imagine how Alex feels.

“This is where I leave you doll… be safe… I’ll be back before you know it!” He flashes me a smile, before I rush to hug him quickly before he leaves….

As I turn my attention back to the balcony area, I find lace and Anna waiting for me, face gives me a nnd, a silent message to say that he’s got my back, while Anna places a comforting hand on my shoulder as we take a seat.

“We’re here for you, Lottie,” Anna says softly, her voice filled with sincerity, “You’re not alone in this. together! This content belongs to Nô/velDra/ma.Org .

We’re a team, and we’ll face whatever comes next

I take a deep breath, drawing strength from their unwavering support. Thank you,” I reply, my voice steady despite the suffocating nerves that still linger. “I couldn’t ask for better friends seriously! I’m sorry for things having to go this far but I do really appreciate your help… more than you both realise.” I tell them genuinely, as face nods and offers me a brief smile.

“The second that I found you on the streets, I promised to help you out! I won’t break that promise Lottie – you WILL be happy!” Anna states firmly, as I smile at her determination.

She seriously was a blessing in disguise for me…

From here, we have a clear view of the entire arena, the ring illuminated by spotlights in the center. The crowd buzzing with excitement, their cheers and shouts blending into the current song-

As the other fights commence, my heart races with each blow exchanged in the ring. This whole sport is awfult Who enjoys this?

R

The adrenaline surges through me, a mix of both fear and sadness looming over me. I watch as the fighters showcase their skills, each one embodying strength, resilience, and a desire for victory.

It’s both intimidating and inspiring knowing they most likely trained and worked hard for this moment….

Jace and Anna keep a watchful eye on me, their presence a comforting reminder that I’m not alone.

Time seems to both crawl and fly by, the minutes stretching into eternity as we wait for Alex’s turn…

The anticipation builds with each passing second, and I find myself gripping the edge of my seat, my knuckles turning white. I remind myself to breathe, to stay grounded, adamant to keep control of my emotions tonight.

Finally, the moment arrives, as the crowd erupts into a roar as The Devil is announced as the next fight..

*Tonight… for one night only… The Devil will take on not one… but three opponents one right after the other! The stakes are higher than ever before, both teams blood thirsty for the win… make some noise everybody… for Alex… THE DEVIL! The announcer drags out the introduction, seeming to successfully hype up the crowd as people jump and scream.

A bright spotlight turns on, following Alex as he emerges from a corner – climbing into the ring. He puts on a show, flexing his large and strong muscles to the crowd as he circles the space – showing off

His knuckles are wrapped in white tape – no g

gloves

as he holds up a number one with his finger which causes the crowd to erupt for him again.

He loves this… I watch him in fear, as Anna reaches over to grab my quivering hand

“Before the first fight… let’s introduce you to his three challengers… TOMMY, JASON AND HOLDEN! The announcer gives a shorter introduction, but the crowd cheer nonetheless as the large spotlight shifts to the other corner–revealing the this….

I instantly pale and sink back into my chair, watching their smug arrogant faces saunter through the crowd–waving.

Anna gives my hand a squeeze, before I hear her curse under her breath from the sight of them…

This was real… this was happening right before my eyes… how was Alex expected to take on all three of them? This plan was ridiculous…

My breathing catches in any throat, as Anna pulls me to her and instructs me to breath and count to ten…

I do as I’m told, closing my eyes to rid their faces from my mind for a few brief seconds, allowing for me to calm myself back down ever so slightly, They all step into the ring, as Alex glares holes through the three of them as they all seem to size him up… he was larger both in height and in muscle.

“Now… as part of the conditions….I would like to ask miss Lottie to stand and give us a wave from the balcony… winner takes the prize!” I could have died when I heard my very own name be announced next, as the crowd shifts to look up at us the bright spotlight following

Anna helps me to my feet, as I stand awkwardly – shaking under her hold,

“Do a small wave and they will leave… Anna whispers, as I immediately lift my quivering hand and move it from side to side.

Like she had said, the spotlight leaves my face seconds after allowing me to adjust back to the arena below as my eyes meet Tommy’s for the first time…

His smirk widens, as my kne

knees buckle beneath me – Anna catching me before I hit the floor.

“Shh Lottle it’s ok… you don’t have to do anything now… they just had to see that you where actually here before they fight! Anna hushes me and rubs my back soothingly, as lace also comes to my aid and places a firm protective hand on my shoulder,

“They can’t get you up here don’t worry.” Jace informs me, as they both help me back up to my seat – Anna wiping away at my wet cheeks.

Please God… let this be over sooner rather than later.