HEALING HANDS (Bayley x OC)

1.5 - First Mania after Injury (One Year Later)

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric. Thousands of fans packed the arena, their cheers reverberating through the walls as the camera panned over the crowd. Signs held high declared their love for Bayley, their hero who had made one of the most remarkable comebacks in WWE history. The stage was set for the biggest event of the year—WrestleMania.

Backstage, Bayley stood before a mirror, adjusting her wrestling gear, taking a moment to center herself. The past year had been a whirlwind—a journey of recovery, triumph, and personal growth. Since her injury and the months of rehabilitation that followed, she had fought her way back to the top of the division. Her name was once again on everyone's lips, but this time it wasn't just about her in-ring persona.

Her phone buzzed on the counter, and Bayley glanced down at the screen. It was a message from Jade.

Jade: "Whatever happens tonight, I'll be right here, cheering you on. You've got this. ❤️"

A smile tugged at Bayley's lips as she quickly typed a reply.

Bayley: "I know. You always have my back. ❤️"

The last year hadn't just been about Bayley reclaiming her spot in the ring; it had also been about building something more meaningful outside of it. Her relationship with Jade had flourished. They had navigated the challenges of their demanding careers, finding balance between Bayley's intense travel schedule and Jade's long hours at the hospital. Despite the obstacles, their bond had only grown stronger.

A soft knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. It swung open, and there stood Jade, a wide smile on her face. She was dressed casually, her hospital scrubs traded in for jeans and a simple T-shirt, but her presence had the same calming effect on Bayley as always.

"I had to come wish you luck in person," Jade said, walking in and wrapping her arms around Bayley's waist.

Bayley chuckled, pulling her close. "You always know how to calm me down right before a big match."

Jade leaned back slightly, looking up into Bayley's eyes. "You don't need calming. You're ready for this. You've worked so hard, and you're going to crush it out there."

Bayley felt a swell of emotion as she kissed Jade softly. "Thanks. I wouldn't be here without you."

Jade smiled, running her fingers through Bayley's hair. "You would have found your way here, one way or another. But I'm glad I get to be part of the journey."

There was a moment of quiet between them, the noise of the arena a distant hum compared to the stillness of their shared space. Bayley cupped Jade's face gently, her thumb brushing along her cheek.

"I love you," Bayley whispered, the words carrying a weight of gratitude, affection, and something deeper—something that had been growing between them all year.

Jade smiled, her eyes softening. "I love you too. Now go out there and show them what you're made of."

With one final kiss, Jade slipped out of the locker room, leaving Bayley with the calm confidence she always brought. Bayley took a deep breath, grabbed her jacket, and headed toward the entrance tunnel. This match was the culmination of everything she'd worked for—not just in the ring, but in life.

As she stepped out onto the ramp, the roar of the crowd hit her like a wave. The lights, the noise, the energy—it all filled her with an exhilarating sense of purpose. She was fighting for herself, for her career, and for the future she was building with Jade.

The match itself was a war—an epic battle between Bayley and one of the toughest competitors in the division. The back-and-forth exchanges, the near falls, and the high-risk moves had the crowd on the edge of their seats. Every hit, every slam, every maneuver was a testament to Bayley's resilience. The old injury didn't slow her down; in fact, it fueled her drive to prove that she was stronger than ever.

The climax of the match came when Bayley, bruised and exhausted, climbed to the top rope. The crowd was chanting her name, the entire arena united in anticipation. With one final burst of energy, she leaped into the air, delivering her finisher with precision. The crowd erupted as the referee counted to three, and Bayley lay on the mat, breathing heavily, but victorious.

She had done it.

The referee raised her hand in victory, and as Bayley stood in the center of the ring, soaking in the adoration of the crowd, her eyes scanned the sea of faces until she found the one she was looking for. Jade stood in the front row, clapping and cheering with the biggest smile on her face.

Bayley's heart swelled with pride. She had always been driven by her passion for wrestling, but now, she had something even more powerful pushing her forward—love. Jade's support had been her anchor, her strength during the toughest moments, and now they were celebrating this victory together.

Later that night, after the lights had dimmed and the crowds had left, Bayley found herself backstage again, her body sore but her spirit soaring. Jade was waiting for her in the hallway, leaning against the wall with a soft smile on her face.

"Champion of the world," Jade teased as Bayley approached, her arms open for a hug. "You were incredible out there."

Bayley grinned as she wrapped Jade in her arms. "I couldn't have done it without you."

Jade laughed softly, pulling back just enough to meet Bayley's gaze. "Maybe, but you're the one who got in the ring. You earned this."

They stood there for a moment, simply enjoying the quiet after the storm of the night. Bayley leaned in, pressing her forehead against Jade's.

"What do you say we take some time off after this?" Bayley asked, her voice soft. "I'm thinking a vacation—just the two of us."

Jade's eyes lit up, and she smiled. "I'd love that."

As they stood there, the promise of a future together hanging in the air, Bayley realized just how far she had come. She wasn't just Bayley the wrestler anymore—she was Bayley, a woman with a life full of love, purpose, and endless possibilities. And with Jade by her side, she knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.

For the first time in a long time, Bayley felt like she had everything she'd ever wanted. And the best part? This was just the beginning.