Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Ten ( Chapter 10 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Robert tells his team's owner what's going on and why he's taking a leave.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.24.2009 | Pages: 12 | Words: 7.0K | Visits: 162 | Status: Completed
Robert tells his team's owner what's going on and why he's taking a leave.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.24.2009 | Pages: 12 | Words: 7.0K | Visits: 162 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Ten
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
“ So son, “ Mr. Shaver said after they had sat down in the locker room. “ Can you please tell me what's going on? “
Robert clasped his hand in front of him, “ I need a leave of absence. “
“ I know that much, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ I want to know why. “
Robert glanced at the older man. He decided, since the man was twice his age, he would have better understanding of why than anyone else. “ It's Pauline sir. “
“ I heard she got banned from the games the other night, “ Mr. Shaver nodded. “ Coach Hooker told me she was upset that you invited a girl to the game. “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah but it was someone I owed a favor to and Pauline went crazy. She kicked me out that night after the game. “
“ Okay, “ Mr. Shaver nodded. He knew how volatile Pauline was though Robert tried to tolerate it the best he could. However he had seen Robert's patience starting to wane. “ So I assume that was the last straw? “
“ Not quite, “ Robert said. “ The last straw came yesterday. “
“ Yesterday? “ Mr. Shaver leaned forward. “ What happened yesterday? “
Robert took a deep breath, trying to keep it together. Every time he admitted the truth, he wanted to cry. It was like shoving a knife in his heart just saying the words. “ I found out that Alex isn't my son, “ He said quietly.
“ What was that son? “ Mr. Shaver leaned forward.
“ Please don't make me say it again, “ Robert whispered. “ I don't think I can. “
Mr. Shaver sat back, “ I'm so sorry. I just couldn't believe what I was hearing. I know how much you love that little boy. Are you sure? “
Robert nodded then put his hands over his face, “ I had a test done. It's true. “
Mr. Shaver nodded once, “ Well then. What do you plan on doing? “
“ I want to give her the benefit of the doubt. She might not even know I'm not and I want to wait to show her the test results, “ Robert explained. He was doing his best to keep the rising lump in his throat down. He didn't want to cry in front of Mr. Shaver.
" Then where will you go from there? " Mr. Shaver asked.
Robert took a deep breath then let it out, " I don't know. I've stayed with her for so long because of Alex and now I find out it was all for nothing... "
“ You need to keep your chin up son, “ Mr. Shaver patted Robert on the back when he let out a sob. “ I know you feel like this is the end of the world but you need to buck up. You're still young and you can start over. That would be the best revenge you can get, to be happy after Pauline's made you so miserable. “
“ Do you think so? “ Robert asked though he knew Mr. Shaver was right.
“ Yes, “ Mr. Shaver reached into his jacket and got out his wallet. He pulled out a business card and glanced at it before holding it out to Robert, “ Here son. You'll need this. “
Robert looked up from his hands, furrowing his brow at the card. “ What's this? “
“ It's the number of a real good friend of mine. He's a divorce lawyer, “ Mr. Shaver held the card closer. “ Did you have someone in mind? “
“ No, “ Robert took the card. " I figured I'd just get the phone book once I told Pauline the truth about Alex and pick a lawyer. "
Mr. Shaver shook his head, “ That's not a good game plan. You need to know who you're working with. I know this man and he's a good lawyer. “
“ Yes sir, “ Robert got out his wallet and put the card in it. “ I'll call as soon as I know what I'm going to do. “
“ You do that, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Now, about the leave of absence. “
Robert nodded, “ Will I get it now you know why? “
“ Why don't we just put you on the injured list for now? “ Mr. Shaver said. He motioned to Robert's hands. “ Can I see how bad that is? “
“ Sure, “ Robert said. “ I'll need the trainers to change the bandages at the half anyway. “
Mr. Shaver watched as Robert unwrapped the bandages from his hands, wincing when he saw the worst of the injuries. Robert had a gash across his left palm that started at his index finger and went to the heel of his hand. “ That looks awful, “ He said. “ Doesn't that hurt? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. A lot. “
“ That'll take at least two or three weeks to heal, “ Mr. Shaver looked at the smaller wounds on Robert's left hand then at the ones on his right. “ We'll see where you're at physically and emotionally then. If you still need to take a leave, I'll see what we can do. “
Robert nodded as he re-wrapped his hands, “ Okay then. We'll see. “
“ So I assume you did that to yourself when you trashed that hotel room yesterday? “ Mr. Shaver arched an eyebrow again.
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. “
“ What possessed you to do such a thing boy? “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Do you know the hotel is demanding the team pay for the damages you caused? “
Robert nodded, “ I'm not surprised. I did break everything except the bed. “
Mr. Shaver shook his head, “ I'm going to pay it but you have to promise me that you'll never do it again. “
“ I'm sorry I did it sir. I just lost it when I found out, “ Robert shook his head. “ I just went into a blind rage. “
“ Obviously, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Just say you'll never do it again and I'll never mention again. “
“ I'll never do it again, “ Robert said. “ I swear. “
“ Good. Now, let's watch the game, “ Mr. Shaver looked up at the monitor. “ My, my. We're ahead by five. “
Robert looked up and smiled, “ I knew the guys could do it without me. “
“ It's still the first quarter. We'll see how things play out, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ You know it's the last five minutes that really matter. “
Robert nodded, “ True. “
They watched the game, Robert sitting up a little bit each time the camera passed the Supernovas' bench. He wondered how Betty was doing and if Martin was harassing her in his sneaky way while she tried to watch the game. Mr. Shaver glanced at him, “ Who's the girl you're with tonight? “
“ Betty? “ Robert said. “ Branslav invited her. She's the girl I invited to the game the other night too. “
“ Oh? The one Pauline got so tore up over? “ Mr. Shaver arched an eyebrow. “ How come Branslav knows her? “
Robert realized Mr. Shaver had been on business trip and hadn't been around for the game Betty had been to. “ Do you remember that mess at the banquet in January? “
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ Yes. It was one of Martin's shining moments of assholism. “
“ Do you remember the girl he was yelling at though? “ Robert said. “ The busser girl in the waiter's uniform. “
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ She was quite a big one if I recall. I wonder whatever became of her? “
“ Martin got her fired, “ Robert said. “ He filed a big complaint with the hotel and they canned her. “
“ You don't say, “ Mr. Shave nodded. He looked at the TV again when the camera went past the Supernovas' bench. “ But why did you bring her up? “
“ Because that's her, “ Robert pointed at the television as the camera lingered on Martin for a long moment as he argued a call against the Supernovas.
Mr. Shaver blinked, “ Really? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. I couldn't believe it when I saw her. She's a bestselling author now. “
Mr. Shaver smiled, “ Well it's nice to know that things worked out for her. “
“ It is, “ Robert said. He looked at the floor “ She's also been my shoulder to cry on. She's been really great to me these last couple of days. “
Mr. Shaver looked at him, “ Oh really now? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. She really kind hearted. She listened to me when I needed someone to just listen. I got really drunk last night to forget the stuff that was bothering me... “
“ That doesn't work boy, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ When you sober up, the problems are still there. “
“ I know, “ Robert said. “ She was there to listen when I started to sober up and everything fell in on me again. “
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ That was nice of her. “
The conversation dwindled as the game got more heated towards the middle of the second, the conversation stopping completely. Robert didn't mind though. He had talked about everything he had wanted to with Mr. Shaver. The older man had been as much help as Robert had hoped he'd be and he was happy with that.
**
The game ended, The Turquoise beating the Supernovas by twenty points. Robert was glad the rest of the guys could deliver in spite of his absence. He had also noted that the Supernovas had become very sloppy with the exception of Branslav and Daniel. Mr. Shaver had noticed as well, commenting on it a few times during the last quarter.
" Let's go meet the guys in the tunnel, " Mr. Shaver stood up. " They did quite well tonight. "
Robert nodded, " They were excellent. "
Robert followed Mr. Shaver to the hallway and they high-fived everyone as they came in. Robert also slapped everyone on the back as they went past. Jakob stopped when he got to Robert. " Hey man. Is Melissa still going to hang with us? "
" Yeah, " Robert looked towards the arena. " Let me go find her. "
" Sure, " Jakob said then went into the locker room.
" Where are you going? " Mr. Shaver asked as Robert started to walk towards the court.
" I have to go get Betty, " Robert said. " She said she was going to hang out with us until we leave for Carson City. "
" Oh, " Mr. Shaver nodded. " Do you want me to go with you in case Martin gives you trouble? "
" I think I can handle it, " Robert said. Robert had decided he would just snatch Betty and bring her back over as quickly as he could. If Martin was there, he wouldn't have a chance to say anything.
" Right. Well I'll be here when you come back then. Come get me if he gives you any problems, " Mr. Shaver said then went into the locker room.
Robert walked out to the court and saw Martin's seat was empty. The seat where Betty had been was empty too. He frowned and walked towards the Supernovas' locker room, wondering where Betty had disappeared to in such a short amount of time. When he got to the tunnel, he saw her waiting outside the locker room. He noted she had a post game report in her hand already.
" Hey there, " He said and smiled when she looked at him. She looked nervous but relieved when she saw Robert approach.
Betty walked over, " Hey yourself. "
" That was some game huh? " Robert said, unable to think of anything else to say. He pointed at the post game report, “ Did Martin give that to you? “
" No, he threw it on the floor before he went into the locker room and I picked it up. Your team did really well tonight, " Betty nodded as she looked at the paper. She knew by the way Martin had been behaving that The Supernovas were doing poorly and the results of the game showed it. Branslav and Daniel had been the only two players in double digits and the Supernovas had only shot forty-two percent from the floor.
The Turquoise, on the other hand, had all five starters in double digits and had shot fifty-two percent from the floor. Their free throw percentages had been much better as well. Betty didn't know much about basketball but the numbers didn't lie. The Turquoise seemed to be a much better team even with their star player out.
" Let me see that, " Robert said as he moved to Betty's side so he could see the paper as well.
" I don't know much about this stuff but your team looks to be the better one, " Betty commented as Robert scanned the stats.
" Yeah they did great even without me. So are you going to hang out with us until we have to get on the bus? " Robert asked. " The guys are already asking me where you're at. "
Betty looked around then nodded, " Yeah I can come over for a few minutes. "
" Great, " Robert said and took her by the hand. “ Let's get out of here before... “
Martin came out of the locker room. He already looked angry but seeing Robert really made him look even more pissed, " What do you think you're doing? "
Robert looked at Martin, " Taking my friend to the other locker room. Why? "
" She belongs over here, " Martin said. He eyed the post game report in her hand, “ No one said you could see that. “
Betty held it out to him, “ Do you want it back? “
“ No. I didn't want it in the first place. That's why I threw it away, “ Martin took it and crumpled it up. He threw it at a trash can, missing entirely. He frowned then looked at Betty, “ Now, get in here. “
" She has somewhere else to be, " Robert said. “ She promised my team she'd come see them. “
" I see, " Martin looked at Betty. " Do you want me to tell Branslav you're with the 'away' team? "
" Yeah. You tell him that, " Robert said. " He knows she knows I'll give her back. "
Betty let out a surprised squeak as Robert pulled he with him as he strode out of the tunnel quickly not to give Martin a chance to argue any more. She hoped that Branslav wouldn't get angry when he came out to find her gone but she had promised Robert's team she'd see them. " What about Branslav? "
" He lives here and you can see him whenever, " Robert said. " We aren't going to be back for a couple of weeks at least. "
" That does make sense, " Betty replied.
" Of course it does " Robert said. " The guys have to be on the bus in a little while. You won't be there long. "
" I'm not arguing, " Betty said as she walked faster to keep up with him. " You just surprised me. That's all. “
“ Sorry about that, “ Robert said. “ I just wanted to get you away from the lard ass before he latched onto you. “
They got to the 'away' tunnel and Robert stopped at the locker room door. " I'll go let them know you're here. Don't go anywhere. "
" I won't, " Betty said. She watched as he went in. He came back less than a minute later.
" They aren't dressed yet, " Robert said. " They said give them five minutes. "
" Okay, " Betty said.
Robert spied an empty table not far from the locker room. He pointed to it, " Let's sit down until they're ready. "
" Sounds good, " Betty said and followed him to the table. He sat down first and she sat next to him. They were quiet for a long moment before Betty sighed, “ So. “
Robert clasped his hands in his lap and looked at the floor, " About that thing that happened at your house... "
" What about it? " Betty looked at the floor too.
Robert took a deep breath then glanced at her, " I didn't mean to frighten you or anything. I'm just a wreck right now. "
“ I know, “ Betty bit her lip.
Robert sighed, " I hope you don't hate me for it though. I just couldn't help myself. "
" Why would I hate you for kissing me? " Betty asked.
" You got your first kiss from a guy you're not even interested in, " Robert sighed. " I shouldn't have done it. I know that you were supposed to be getting to know Branslav and I've been hogging your time instead. "
Betty looked at her hands. " I don't think we could have avoided it. "
He thought about it and it was true. When their eyes locked, they were both trapped. Robert sighed, " No. I guess not. I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable though. "
Betty blushed as she tried to find her voice. She took a deep breath and said, " You really didn't. I just wish I hadn't freaked out like I did. "
Robert was once again feeling like he'd been smacked with a baseball bat. He was certain Betty hated him for stealing her first kiss. He was sure she had been saving it for someone special, not some emotional wreck that had just had his whole life turned upside down. " I didn't make you uncomfortable? "
" No. It was kind of nice actually, " Betty murmured.
Robert looked at the floor unsure of how to take her admission. He wondered if her compassion for his plight had turned into something else. He looked at her and gave her a tiny smile, " Would you do it again if given the chance? "
Betty took a sharp breath then looked at him as she thought about it. " Do you want to kiss me again? " Betty stammered. " After I freaked out on you and everything? "
Robert nodded, " I can understand why you freaked then but how do you feel right now? "
Betty let out a frustrated sigh, " I don't know what to think right now. "
" I can tell, " Robert said. " Don't be confused. I won't hurt you. I want you to kiss me this time but only if you really want to. "
" If I want to? " Betty looked like she wasn't sure if she did or she didn't.
" Do you? " Robert cocked his head to the side. He hoped he wasn't making her feel trapped or like he expected her to say 'yes'.
" I'm not the best kisser in the world... " Betty said.
Robert sighed and took her right hand in his left, " It's okay if you don't. I really shouldn't be asking anyway. You're Branslav's date. "
The sound of the locker room door opening made them made them separate quickly. Robert let go of her hand and she backed away a bit. Jakob looked at them with a puzzled expression on his face for a moment. He jerked his thumb over his shoulder lamely, " Okay. We're ready in there. "
Robert nodded, " Tell them we're on our way. "
Jakob nodded, " Uh yeah. I'll tell them. "
Robert and Betty watched as Jakob went back into the locker room. Robert let out a heavy sigh. " I guess we should go. "
" Yeah, " Betty sighed. Betty bit her lip then looked at Robert. " Do you think he saw? "
" He'll tell me if he did, " Robert said. " I don't think he'll tell anyone. We were just holding hands so it's not a big deal. "
“ Do they know? “ Betty said.
“ Know what? “ Robert looked puzzled.
“ You know, “ Betty said. " What's going on with you. "
Robert thought for a moment then shook his head. “ No. I just told them I was having some personal problems and left it at that. They don't know anything about what's going on with Pauline and I. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ I guess that makes sense. “
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. “ They don't need to know everything. “
Betty slid off the table but Robert grabbed her hand, stopping her. " What? " She asked.
“ I've been an ass these last couple of days and I would really like to apologize for everything. You know, getting you drunk, touching you while we were dancing in the club like I did and ruining your date with Branslav. I didn't mean to, “ Robert said.
Betty bit her lip and looked down at their hands. She finally looked up at him, “ You didn't ruin anything. I was glad to help you and I had fun. “
" Really? " Robert said.
Betty nodded slowly, " Yes. "
" Would you do it again if I came back to town? " Robert arched an eyebrow.
" I don't know, " Betty said.
Robert smiled and chuckled, " Don't worry about it until I come back then. That should give you plenty of time to figure it out. "
" Okay, " Betty nodded.
Robert patted her shoulder, " Come on. Let's go. Your fan club awaits. "
Betty smirked at the Turquoise being called her fan club and followed Robert into the locker room.
**
Branslav and Daniel walked out of the locker room, Branslav frowning deeply. Martin and Betty had followed the team after their defeat so he thought Betty would be waiting in the tunnel for him. " Where'd she go? " Daniel asked as he looked around.
" That's what I want to know, " Branslav muttered. He was pretty sure though. He had rushed to get ready but Coach Sweet had chewed them all out for playing so poorly and that took up more time than Branslav felt he had.
" Hey boys, " Martin came up from outside the locker room. " Looking for Melissa? " Martin stressed Betty's pen name mockingly. He had lingered in the hallway to intercept Branslav and taunt him some, knowing it would be easy since it seemed his precious Betty was paying more attention to Robert than she had to him.
Branslav glared at him, " Yes sir I am. "
" White Bread came and whisked her away while you two were getting dressed, " Martin made a put-on sigh. " I tried to stop him but he pulled her out saying she had to go see the Turquoise for something. "
Branslav looked at his watch, " They should be leaving here in ten minutes so she should be back here by then. "
" Perhaps, " Martin said.
Branslav looked at him. He tried not to glare as he said, " There's no 'perhaps' to it. She'll have to come back. I'm giving her a ride home. "
" Oh, " Martin said. " She doesn't have a car of her own? "
Branslav shrugged, " I don't know. I've haven't seen it yet but I think she does. "
" What do you know about her? " Martin asked. He could tell Branslav really didn't know much but he wanted him to say it.
" Not much, " Branslav said. " We haven't really talked yet. "
Martin nodded once, " I see. I'd be careful with her then. "
“ What's that supposed to mean? “ Branslav arched an eyebrow.
“ Exactly what I said. You don't know her that well. Who knows what she could really be like, “ martin said then cocked his head to the side. " Judging from her books though... "
“ I think she's okay, “ Branslav cut him off.
“ Just okay? “ Martin arched an eyebrow. “ Have you read that trash she writes? “
“ Yes and it isn't trash, “ Branslav frowned deeply at Martin's tone.
Martin scoffed, “ I know my company would have never published that garbage. How do you think she knows about all of those things she writes about? “
Branslav shrugged, " I don't know. I never thought about it. "
" She probably knows because she'd done those things, " Martin said. " We have a name for women like that in this country. We call them... "
" Is there anything else sir? " Branslav cut him off. He didn't want to know what he was going to call Betty. He knew it would just piss him off.
Martin shrugged, " I guess not. I suppose I'm finished here. "
" Good, " Branslav said. He looked at Daniel, " Come on. "
" Where? " Daniel furrowed his brow.
" We're getting Betty, " Branslav said and headed out towards the court.
Daniel followed, " Uh okay. Don't you think Robert is going to bring her back? "
" I'm sure he would but I don't feel like waiting on him, " Branslav said.
Daniel thought about it and nodded. " Whatever you think is best man. "
They got to the tunnel for the 'away' side of the arena and walked into the locker room. They found no one there. Branslav growled a little before heading towards the bus loading area. He got there and found the Turquoise milling around as they loaded their things into the bus.
Branslav scanned the crowd for any sign of Robert even though he figured his friend had probably put his things on the bus much earlier in the evening As he scanned the area, his locked eyes on Coach Hooker. He came over, " Can I help you? " He asked.
" I'm looking for Robert. He's with this girl, " Branslav said. “ She's his height with waist-length black hair... “
" Yes. I know Betty. Robert is on the bus with her right now, " Coach Hooker said.
Branslav clenched his fist and strode off to the bus without letting Coach Hooker say another word. Daniel paused then looked at Coach Hooker, “ Thank you sir. “
“ No problem, “ Coach Hooker said as he watched the two men head for the bus.
**
" You better be getting off soon, " Robert sighed. He and Betty had retreated to the bus while the others loaded their luggage into the cargo bay so they wouldn't be in the way. He also wanted to have a little more alone time with her to rebuild her trust in him. " Branslav is probably looking for you by now. "
" Probably, " She nodded.
“ Can we talk about him for a minute? “ Robert asked.
Betty furrowed her brow, “ What about? “
Robert sighed and ran a hand through his hair, “ I feel really bad about this. “
“ Really bad about what? “ Betty cocked her head to the side.
“ The way I've acted, “ Robert frowned. He had no clue how to approach the subject.
“ You've already apologized. You don't need to any more, “ Betty was puzzled.
“ Yes I do. I feel like I'm doing something wrong to Branslav. After all, he was the one that helped you all those months ago and he's been dying to see you again, “ Robert started.
“ Really? “ Betty asked. She looked surprised.
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. He wouldn't shut up about you for a week after the banquet. He even went looking for you. “
“ He did? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah, " Robert replied. " They wouldn't tell him anything at the hotel except you weren't there the day he went. "
“ It was probably after I was fired, “ Betty said.
" Probably, " Robert nodded. " I just want to let you know he can be a little over zealous sometimes. He's very spirited when it comes to women. "
“ Okay, “ Betty nodded. “ So what are you getting at? “
Robert looked away, " I'm just saying he might try to monopolize your time. “
“ I'm very busy so he won't be able to do that. He'll just have to accept he can see me when he sees me, " Betty said.
“ Will you be too busy for me too? “ Robert asked.
“ I told you before I'd listen to anything you needed to tell me, “ Betty said. “ I meant it. “
Robert nodded, “ Okay. “
Betty took his hands in hers, " I'm a woman of my word and I'll keep it. I'll make time any time you need to talk. "
" Thanks, " Robert smiled at that.
She took a deep breath, " Something's been bothering me though. "
" What's that babe? " Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty frowned and looked at the floor, " What if I don't like Branslav after all? What if we don't get along and we make each other totally miserable? “
Robert hooked a finger under her chin and made her look at him, “ Don't even think that. You don't know what's going to happen. “
“ I don't know if... “ Betty started.
“ Please, “ Robert said. “ Give it a chance. Don't think about the end before it even starts. “
She sighed, “ Okay. I think I can do that. “
Robert nodded, “ Good. “
“ But we can keep in touch,“ Betty said. “ I mean, we can be just friends. “
Robert nodded, “ Of course. I like being your friend. I would ask for any more unless you want more. “
“ I like being your friend too, “ Betty said. “ That's why I'd still like to talk to you and help you whenever I can. “
“ Can we still flirt? “ Robert asked teasingly.
Betty giggled, “ Of course we can. As long as it doesn't get too out of hand. “
“ I'll try not to get too carried away, “ Robert smiled at that.
“ Will you call me? “ Betty said. “ I don't mean all the time or anything. Just to check in and let me know how things are going. “
“ Sure. I still have your number so I'll give you a call once I get back to Taos, okay? " Robert said. " I'll keep you updated. "
" My cell phone should be fixed by then. It's broken. I don't know if I told you, " Betty said then yawned. She out her hand over her mouth then glanced at Robert, “ Darn. Sorry about that. “
" You tired baby? " Robert asked. He knew that she had probably gotten as much sleep as he had, less than four hours.
" Yeah, " She nodded. " I just barely got to sleeping good when Branslav came in to wake me up this morning. I've been tired all day. "
" Me too, " Robert sighed. " I would have been too tired to play if I could have. "
" When I get home, I'm going to sleep until Monday, " Betty muttered.
Robert chuckled. " Can I join you? " He teased as he cuts his eyes sideway to tease her.
“ If you want, “ Betty smirked.
“ Will you feed me? “ Robert smirked in return.
“ Sure. What do you want to eat? “ Betty had a playful hint to her voice.
“ I'm sure anything you fix will be fine, “ Robert replied. “ Do I have to sleep on the couch or can I sleep in your bed? “
" The bed, " Betty murmured. " Just behave yourself and stay on your side of the bed. "
" I don't know if I could with such a hot babe sleeping next to me, " Robert chuckled again. He smiled when Betty blushed at his words.
" Hush you, " Betty sighed. She moved away from him a little.
" What's wrong? “ Robert was confused by the serious look on Betty's face. He was afraid he had offended her. Since it seemed she didn't have the much experience with men, he was trying to be careful.
" Tell me how things go on Tuesday, okay? " Betty took his left hand in her right hand. " I'll listen if you need to talk. "
" Okay. I'll call, " Robert held her hand tighter. " I'll probably need to talk to you then anyway. "
" Probably, " Betty nodded. " It'll probably be a hard day and I want to know how it goes. "
“ Not probably. I know it will, “ Robert sighed. “ You better go find Branslav now. “
“ Yeah I'd better, “ Betty looked out the window and furrowed her brow when she saw Branslav walk out of the arena. " Speak of the devil. "
Robert looked out the window just as Coach Hooker walked over to talk to Branslav. He frowned then muttered, " The big man is pissed and he's coming this way. "
" I'd better go then, " Betty let go of Robert's hand. " What could have made him that angry though? "
" Martin's probably been messing with him, " Robert said as Branslav climbed onto the bus. “ It's his favorite hobby. “
" There you are, " Branslav said. His frown deepened when he saw Betty and Robert sitting together. " Where have you been? "
" With Robert, " Betty said. " I was just fixing to come find you. "
" Right, " Branslav almost scoffed. " Come on. "
Robert frowned at Branslav's tone, " She was. She just wanted to say goodbye to me and the others before we left. "
" Has she? " Branslav asked sharply.
" Yes, " Robert said. He could tell Branslav was trying to keep his temper. It seemed he had reached his limit for graciousness towards Robert's interloping.
" Then why is she on your bus? " Branslav asked, his voice tainted with suspicion. He could tolerate Betty being with the Turquoise in their locker room since she knew them but to be on their bus made him wonder what Robert was up to.
" We just got on here to get out of the way of everyone else, " Robert said. " We would have been in the way out there. "
" Oh " Branslav said. Robert's explanation made sense to a degree. He looked at Betty, " Come on. "
" Sure, " Betty looked at Branslav then Robert. " Later. "
" Later, " Robert sighed as she stood up. Branslav walked down the aisle and Betty followed, turning to give Robert one last look. He put his hand up in the sign for 'telephone' and mouthed " I'll call you. "
Betty nodded then turned to face Branslav's back again. She followed him off the bus and they walked towards the arena, the rest of Robert's team calling their farewells to her as Daniel brought up the rear. He tried to ignore that though, walking fast so he could get away from the other team.
" Slow down man, " Daniel called. " I can't keep up with you. "
Branslav stopped and let them catch up. When Betty got to his side, he glanced at her. " What would you like to do now? "
Betty looked at her watch, " It's a quarter past eleven. I don't know. What is there to do this late? "
Branslav couldn't believe she was serious then said, " We can go eat dinner and we could go to a club like last night. "
" But aren't you tired? " Betty looked puzzled.
Branslav shook his head. He really didn't feel too tired in spite of playing a game. He figured he had a few good hours left in him before he needed to sleep. He decided they would be best spent with Betty, making up for the night before.
Betty shook her head and let out an exasperated sigh, " I'm still exhausted from yesterday though. I didn't get much sleep and I'm really tired. "
" Oh, " Branslav looked at the floor. " Maybe tomorrow then? "
" I've got things to do tomorrow. My manager wants to meet with me about another promotional tour and I have a bunch of errands to run. Are you doing anything Sunday? "
Branslav frowned deeply, " Yes. We're leaving for a three game road trip and won't be back until next Friday. "
" Ouch, " Betty muttered. " I guess we'll have to figure something else out later. "
" Do you think you've got enough left in you just to go to dinner tonight? " Branslav almost pleaded. “ I just want to take you to dinner at least. “
" Okay. I guess we can go to dinner tonight. I think I can make it, " Betty relented. “ But just dinner, okay? “
" Thank you, " Branslav said. He was relieved that he was finally going to get some alone time with Betty. It might have just been a couple of hours but that was better than what he had gotten.
Daniel cleared his throat then jerked his thumb over his shoulder, " I'm going to boogie now. See you guy later. "
" Later, " Branslav waved his hand. He hadn't even realized Daniel was still standing there.
Betty reached over and patted Daniel's shoulder, " Have a good night. "
" Okay. Thank you ma'am, " Daniel nodded then left.
Branslav watched him leave then looked at Betty. He offered her his arm, " Let's try to have a good night ourselves, okay? "
" Sure, " Betty said and took his arm. She walked with him out to the car, Branslav unlocking the doors and getting hers for her. She climbed in on her side and buckled her seatbelt as Branslav went around to the driver's side. Branslav got in on the driver's side, shut the door and started putting on his seatbelt.
" So do you have any requests? " He looked at Betty. He frowned when she saw she had a bit of a far away look in her eyes. " Hello? "
" Oh, " Betty said. " Did you say something? "
" I asked if you had any requests, " Branslav said. " Is there any place you want to eat? "
Betty thought about it then shook her head, " I really don't eat out much so I don't know where to go. "
Branslav sighed, " Okay. I know a really good place that's open all night and the food's excellent. We'll go there. "
" Sure, " Betty nodded. " Sounds good. "
Branslav started the car and left the players' parking garage. When they reached the first light, it was red and he stopped. He looked at Betty. " Why don't you eat out much? "
" I like to cook, " Betty said. " Can you cook? "
Branslav frowned, " No. I can't. "
" Oh. Sorry, " Betty said. " Maybe I could teach you some time. It's really not all that hard. "
Branslav didn't say anything. It was the best he could do to microwave something and not burn it. He finally sighed, " We'll see. "
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
“ So son, “ Mr. Shaver said after they had sat down in the locker room. “ Can you please tell me what's going on? “
Robert clasped his hand in front of him, “ I need a leave of absence. “
“ I know that much, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ I want to know why. “
Robert glanced at the older man. He decided, since the man was twice his age, he would have better understanding of why than anyone else. “ It's Pauline sir. “
“ I heard she got banned from the games the other night, “ Mr. Shaver nodded. “ Coach Hooker told me she was upset that you invited a girl to the game. “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah but it was someone I owed a favor to and Pauline went crazy. She kicked me out that night after the game. “
“ Okay, “ Mr. Shaver nodded. He knew how volatile Pauline was though Robert tried to tolerate it the best he could. However he had seen Robert's patience starting to wane. “ So I assume that was the last straw? “
“ Not quite, “ Robert said. “ The last straw came yesterday. “
“ Yesterday? “ Mr. Shaver leaned forward. “ What happened yesterday? “
Robert took a deep breath, trying to keep it together. Every time he admitted the truth, he wanted to cry. It was like shoving a knife in his heart just saying the words. “ I found out that Alex isn't my son, “ He said quietly.
“ What was that son? “ Mr. Shaver leaned forward.
“ Please don't make me say it again, “ Robert whispered. “ I don't think I can. “
Mr. Shaver sat back, “ I'm so sorry. I just couldn't believe what I was hearing. I know how much you love that little boy. Are you sure? “
Robert nodded then put his hands over his face, “ I had a test done. It's true. “
Mr. Shaver nodded once, “ Well then. What do you plan on doing? “
“ I want to give her the benefit of the doubt. She might not even know I'm not and I want to wait to show her the test results, “ Robert explained. He was doing his best to keep the rising lump in his throat down. He didn't want to cry in front of Mr. Shaver.
" Then where will you go from there? " Mr. Shaver asked.
Robert took a deep breath then let it out, " I don't know. I've stayed with her for so long because of Alex and now I find out it was all for nothing... "
“ You need to keep your chin up son, “ Mr. Shaver patted Robert on the back when he let out a sob. “ I know you feel like this is the end of the world but you need to buck up. You're still young and you can start over. That would be the best revenge you can get, to be happy after Pauline's made you so miserable. “
“ Do you think so? “ Robert asked though he knew Mr. Shaver was right.
“ Yes, “ Mr. Shaver reached into his jacket and got out his wallet. He pulled out a business card and glanced at it before holding it out to Robert, “ Here son. You'll need this. “
Robert looked up from his hands, furrowing his brow at the card. “ What's this? “
“ It's the number of a real good friend of mine. He's a divorce lawyer, “ Mr. Shaver held the card closer. “ Did you have someone in mind? “
“ No, “ Robert took the card. " I figured I'd just get the phone book once I told Pauline the truth about Alex and pick a lawyer. "
Mr. Shaver shook his head, “ That's not a good game plan. You need to know who you're working with. I know this man and he's a good lawyer. “
“ Yes sir, “ Robert got out his wallet and put the card in it. “ I'll call as soon as I know what I'm going to do. “
“ You do that, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Now, about the leave of absence. “
Robert nodded, “ Will I get it now you know why? “
“ Why don't we just put you on the injured list for now? “ Mr. Shaver said. He motioned to Robert's hands. “ Can I see how bad that is? “
“ Sure, “ Robert said. “ I'll need the trainers to change the bandages at the half anyway. “
Mr. Shaver watched as Robert unwrapped the bandages from his hands, wincing when he saw the worst of the injuries. Robert had a gash across his left palm that started at his index finger and went to the heel of his hand. “ That looks awful, “ He said. “ Doesn't that hurt? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. A lot. “
“ That'll take at least two or three weeks to heal, “ Mr. Shaver looked at the smaller wounds on Robert's left hand then at the ones on his right. “ We'll see where you're at physically and emotionally then. If you still need to take a leave, I'll see what we can do. “
Robert nodded as he re-wrapped his hands, “ Okay then. We'll see. “
“ So I assume you did that to yourself when you trashed that hotel room yesterday? “ Mr. Shaver arched an eyebrow again.
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. “
“ What possessed you to do such a thing boy? “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Do you know the hotel is demanding the team pay for the damages you caused? “
Robert nodded, “ I'm not surprised. I did break everything except the bed. “
Mr. Shaver shook his head, “ I'm going to pay it but you have to promise me that you'll never do it again. “
“ I'm sorry I did it sir. I just lost it when I found out, “ Robert shook his head. “ I just went into a blind rage. “
“ Obviously, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Just say you'll never do it again and I'll never mention again. “
“ I'll never do it again, “ Robert said. “ I swear. “
“ Good. Now, let's watch the game, “ Mr. Shaver looked up at the monitor. “ My, my. We're ahead by five. “
Robert looked up and smiled, “ I knew the guys could do it without me. “
“ It's still the first quarter. We'll see how things play out, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ You know it's the last five minutes that really matter. “
Robert nodded, “ True. “
They watched the game, Robert sitting up a little bit each time the camera passed the Supernovas' bench. He wondered how Betty was doing and if Martin was harassing her in his sneaky way while she tried to watch the game. Mr. Shaver glanced at him, “ Who's the girl you're with tonight? “
“ Betty? “ Robert said. “ Branslav invited her. She's the girl I invited to the game the other night too. “
“ Oh? The one Pauline got so tore up over? “ Mr. Shaver arched an eyebrow. “ How come Branslav knows her? “
Robert realized Mr. Shaver had been on business trip and hadn't been around for the game Betty had been to. “ Do you remember that mess at the banquet in January? “
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ Yes. It was one of Martin's shining moments of assholism. “
“ Do you remember the girl he was yelling at though? “ Robert said. “ The busser girl in the waiter's uniform. “
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ She was quite a big one if I recall. I wonder whatever became of her? “
“ Martin got her fired, “ Robert said. “ He filed a big complaint with the hotel and they canned her. “
“ You don't say, “ Mr. Shave nodded. He looked at the TV again when the camera went past the Supernovas' bench. “ But why did you bring her up? “
“ Because that's her, “ Robert pointed at the television as the camera lingered on Martin for a long moment as he argued a call against the Supernovas.
Mr. Shaver blinked, “ Really? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. I couldn't believe it when I saw her. She's a bestselling author now. “
Mr. Shaver smiled, “ Well it's nice to know that things worked out for her. “
“ It is, “ Robert said. He looked at the floor “ She's also been my shoulder to cry on. She's been really great to me these last couple of days. “
Mr. Shaver looked at him, “ Oh really now? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. She really kind hearted. She listened to me when I needed someone to just listen. I got really drunk last night to forget the stuff that was bothering me... “
“ That doesn't work boy, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ When you sober up, the problems are still there. “
“ I know, “ Robert said. “ She was there to listen when I started to sober up and everything fell in on me again. “
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ That was nice of her. “
The conversation dwindled as the game got more heated towards the middle of the second, the conversation stopping completely. Robert didn't mind though. He had talked about everything he had wanted to with Mr. Shaver. The older man had been as much help as Robert had hoped he'd be and he was happy with that.
**
The game ended, The Turquoise beating the Supernovas by twenty points. Robert was glad the rest of the guys could deliver in spite of his absence. He had also noted that the Supernovas had become very sloppy with the exception of Branslav and Daniel. Mr. Shaver had noticed as well, commenting on it a few times during the last quarter.
" Let's go meet the guys in the tunnel, " Mr. Shaver stood up. " They did quite well tonight. "
Robert nodded, " They were excellent. "
Robert followed Mr. Shaver to the hallway and they high-fived everyone as they came in. Robert also slapped everyone on the back as they went past. Jakob stopped when he got to Robert. " Hey man. Is Melissa still going to hang with us? "
" Yeah, " Robert looked towards the arena. " Let me go find her. "
" Sure, " Jakob said then went into the locker room.
" Where are you going? " Mr. Shaver asked as Robert started to walk towards the court.
" I have to go get Betty, " Robert said. " She said she was going to hang out with us until we leave for Carson City. "
" Oh, " Mr. Shaver nodded. " Do you want me to go with you in case Martin gives you trouble? "
" I think I can handle it, " Robert said. Robert had decided he would just snatch Betty and bring her back over as quickly as he could. If Martin was there, he wouldn't have a chance to say anything.
" Right. Well I'll be here when you come back then. Come get me if he gives you any problems, " Mr. Shaver said then went into the locker room.
Robert walked out to the court and saw Martin's seat was empty. The seat where Betty had been was empty too. He frowned and walked towards the Supernovas' locker room, wondering where Betty had disappeared to in such a short amount of time. When he got to the tunnel, he saw her waiting outside the locker room. He noted she had a post game report in her hand already.
" Hey there, " He said and smiled when she looked at him. She looked nervous but relieved when she saw Robert approach.
Betty walked over, " Hey yourself. "
" That was some game huh? " Robert said, unable to think of anything else to say. He pointed at the post game report, “ Did Martin give that to you? “
" No, he threw it on the floor before he went into the locker room and I picked it up. Your team did really well tonight, " Betty nodded as she looked at the paper. She knew by the way Martin had been behaving that The Supernovas were doing poorly and the results of the game showed it. Branslav and Daniel had been the only two players in double digits and the Supernovas had only shot forty-two percent from the floor.
The Turquoise, on the other hand, had all five starters in double digits and had shot fifty-two percent from the floor. Their free throw percentages had been much better as well. Betty didn't know much about basketball but the numbers didn't lie. The Turquoise seemed to be a much better team even with their star player out.
" Let me see that, " Robert said as he moved to Betty's side so he could see the paper as well.
" I don't know much about this stuff but your team looks to be the better one, " Betty commented as Robert scanned the stats.
" Yeah they did great even without me. So are you going to hang out with us until we have to get on the bus? " Robert asked. " The guys are already asking me where you're at. "
Betty looked around then nodded, " Yeah I can come over for a few minutes. "
" Great, " Robert said and took her by the hand. “ Let's get out of here before... “
Martin came out of the locker room. He already looked angry but seeing Robert really made him look even more pissed, " What do you think you're doing? "
Robert looked at Martin, " Taking my friend to the other locker room. Why? "
" She belongs over here, " Martin said. He eyed the post game report in her hand, “ No one said you could see that. “
Betty held it out to him, “ Do you want it back? “
“ No. I didn't want it in the first place. That's why I threw it away, “ Martin took it and crumpled it up. He threw it at a trash can, missing entirely. He frowned then looked at Betty, “ Now, get in here. “
" She has somewhere else to be, " Robert said. “ She promised my team she'd come see them. “
" I see, " Martin looked at Betty. " Do you want me to tell Branslav you're with the 'away' team? "
" Yeah. You tell him that, " Robert said. " He knows she knows I'll give her back. "
Betty let out a surprised squeak as Robert pulled he with him as he strode out of the tunnel quickly not to give Martin a chance to argue any more. She hoped that Branslav wouldn't get angry when he came out to find her gone but she had promised Robert's team she'd see them. " What about Branslav? "
" He lives here and you can see him whenever, " Robert said. " We aren't going to be back for a couple of weeks at least. "
" That does make sense, " Betty replied.
" Of course it does " Robert said. " The guys have to be on the bus in a little while. You won't be there long. "
" I'm not arguing, " Betty said as she walked faster to keep up with him. " You just surprised me. That's all. “
“ Sorry about that, “ Robert said. “ I just wanted to get you away from the lard ass before he latched onto you. “
They got to the 'away' tunnel and Robert stopped at the locker room door. " I'll go let them know you're here. Don't go anywhere. "
" I won't, " Betty said. She watched as he went in. He came back less than a minute later.
" They aren't dressed yet, " Robert said. " They said give them five minutes. "
" Okay, " Betty said.
Robert spied an empty table not far from the locker room. He pointed to it, " Let's sit down until they're ready. "
" Sounds good, " Betty said and followed him to the table. He sat down first and she sat next to him. They were quiet for a long moment before Betty sighed, “ So. “
Robert clasped his hands in his lap and looked at the floor, " About that thing that happened at your house... "
" What about it? " Betty looked at the floor too.
Robert took a deep breath then glanced at her, " I didn't mean to frighten you or anything. I'm just a wreck right now. "
“ I know, “ Betty bit her lip.
Robert sighed, " I hope you don't hate me for it though. I just couldn't help myself. "
" Why would I hate you for kissing me? " Betty asked.
" You got your first kiss from a guy you're not even interested in, " Robert sighed. " I shouldn't have done it. I know that you were supposed to be getting to know Branslav and I've been hogging your time instead. "
Betty looked at her hands. " I don't think we could have avoided it. "
He thought about it and it was true. When their eyes locked, they were both trapped. Robert sighed, " No. I guess not. I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable though. "
Betty blushed as she tried to find her voice. She took a deep breath and said, " You really didn't. I just wish I hadn't freaked out like I did. "
Robert was once again feeling like he'd been smacked with a baseball bat. He was certain Betty hated him for stealing her first kiss. He was sure she had been saving it for someone special, not some emotional wreck that had just had his whole life turned upside down. " I didn't make you uncomfortable? "
" No. It was kind of nice actually, " Betty murmured.
Robert looked at the floor unsure of how to take her admission. He wondered if her compassion for his plight had turned into something else. He looked at her and gave her a tiny smile, " Would you do it again if given the chance? "
Betty took a sharp breath then looked at him as she thought about it. " Do you want to kiss me again? " Betty stammered. " After I freaked out on you and everything? "
Robert nodded, " I can understand why you freaked then but how do you feel right now? "
Betty let out a frustrated sigh, " I don't know what to think right now. "
" I can tell, " Robert said. " Don't be confused. I won't hurt you. I want you to kiss me this time but only if you really want to. "
" If I want to? " Betty looked like she wasn't sure if she did or she didn't.
" Do you? " Robert cocked his head to the side. He hoped he wasn't making her feel trapped or like he expected her to say 'yes'.
" I'm not the best kisser in the world... " Betty said.
Robert sighed and took her right hand in his left, " It's okay if you don't. I really shouldn't be asking anyway. You're Branslav's date. "
The sound of the locker room door opening made them made them separate quickly. Robert let go of her hand and she backed away a bit. Jakob looked at them with a puzzled expression on his face for a moment. He jerked his thumb over his shoulder lamely, " Okay. We're ready in there. "
Robert nodded, " Tell them we're on our way. "
Jakob nodded, " Uh yeah. I'll tell them. "
Robert and Betty watched as Jakob went back into the locker room. Robert let out a heavy sigh. " I guess we should go. "
" Yeah, " Betty sighed. Betty bit her lip then looked at Robert. " Do you think he saw? "
" He'll tell me if he did, " Robert said. " I don't think he'll tell anyone. We were just holding hands so it's not a big deal. "
“ Do they know? “ Betty said.
“ Know what? “ Robert looked puzzled.
“ You know, “ Betty said. " What's going on with you. "
Robert thought for a moment then shook his head. “ No. I just told them I was having some personal problems and left it at that. They don't know anything about what's going on with Pauline and I. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ I guess that makes sense. “
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. “ They don't need to know everything. “
Betty slid off the table but Robert grabbed her hand, stopping her. " What? " She asked.
“ I've been an ass these last couple of days and I would really like to apologize for everything. You know, getting you drunk, touching you while we were dancing in the club like I did and ruining your date with Branslav. I didn't mean to, “ Robert said.
Betty bit her lip and looked down at their hands. She finally looked up at him, “ You didn't ruin anything. I was glad to help you and I had fun. “
" Really? " Robert said.
Betty nodded slowly, " Yes. "
" Would you do it again if I came back to town? " Robert arched an eyebrow.
" I don't know, " Betty said.
Robert smiled and chuckled, " Don't worry about it until I come back then. That should give you plenty of time to figure it out. "
" Okay, " Betty nodded.
Robert patted her shoulder, " Come on. Let's go. Your fan club awaits. "
Betty smirked at the Turquoise being called her fan club and followed Robert into the locker room.
**
Branslav and Daniel walked out of the locker room, Branslav frowning deeply. Martin and Betty had followed the team after their defeat so he thought Betty would be waiting in the tunnel for him. " Where'd she go? " Daniel asked as he looked around.
" That's what I want to know, " Branslav muttered. He was pretty sure though. He had rushed to get ready but Coach Sweet had chewed them all out for playing so poorly and that took up more time than Branslav felt he had.
" Hey boys, " Martin came up from outside the locker room. " Looking for Melissa? " Martin stressed Betty's pen name mockingly. He had lingered in the hallway to intercept Branslav and taunt him some, knowing it would be easy since it seemed his precious Betty was paying more attention to Robert than she had to him.
Branslav glared at him, " Yes sir I am. "
" White Bread came and whisked her away while you two were getting dressed, " Martin made a put-on sigh. " I tried to stop him but he pulled her out saying she had to go see the Turquoise for something. "
Branslav looked at his watch, " They should be leaving here in ten minutes so she should be back here by then. "
" Perhaps, " Martin said.
Branslav looked at him. He tried not to glare as he said, " There's no 'perhaps' to it. She'll have to come back. I'm giving her a ride home. "
" Oh, " Martin said. " She doesn't have a car of her own? "
Branslav shrugged, " I don't know. I've haven't seen it yet but I think she does. "
" What do you know about her? " Martin asked. He could tell Branslav really didn't know much but he wanted him to say it.
" Not much, " Branslav said. " We haven't really talked yet. "
Martin nodded once, " I see. I'd be careful with her then. "
“ What's that supposed to mean? “ Branslav arched an eyebrow.
“ Exactly what I said. You don't know her that well. Who knows what she could really be like, “ martin said then cocked his head to the side. " Judging from her books though... "
“ I think she's okay, “ Branslav cut him off.
“ Just okay? “ Martin arched an eyebrow. “ Have you read that trash she writes? “
“ Yes and it isn't trash, “ Branslav frowned deeply at Martin's tone.
Martin scoffed, “ I know my company would have never published that garbage. How do you think she knows about all of those things she writes about? “
Branslav shrugged, " I don't know. I never thought about it. "
" She probably knows because she'd done those things, " Martin said. " We have a name for women like that in this country. We call them... "
" Is there anything else sir? " Branslav cut him off. He didn't want to know what he was going to call Betty. He knew it would just piss him off.
Martin shrugged, " I guess not. I suppose I'm finished here. "
" Good, " Branslav said. He looked at Daniel, " Come on. "
" Where? " Daniel furrowed his brow.
" We're getting Betty, " Branslav said and headed out towards the court.
Daniel followed, " Uh okay. Don't you think Robert is going to bring her back? "
" I'm sure he would but I don't feel like waiting on him, " Branslav said.
Daniel thought about it and nodded. " Whatever you think is best man. "
They got to the tunnel for the 'away' side of the arena and walked into the locker room. They found no one there. Branslav growled a little before heading towards the bus loading area. He got there and found the Turquoise milling around as they loaded their things into the bus.
Branslav scanned the crowd for any sign of Robert even though he figured his friend had probably put his things on the bus much earlier in the evening As he scanned the area, his locked eyes on Coach Hooker. He came over, " Can I help you? " He asked.
" I'm looking for Robert. He's with this girl, " Branslav said. “ She's his height with waist-length black hair... “
" Yes. I know Betty. Robert is on the bus with her right now, " Coach Hooker said.
Branslav clenched his fist and strode off to the bus without letting Coach Hooker say another word. Daniel paused then looked at Coach Hooker, “ Thank you sir. “
“ No problem, “ Coach Hooker said as he watched the two men head for the bus.
**
" You better be getting off soon, " Robert sighed. He and Betty had retreated to the bus while the others loaded their luggage into the cargo bay so they wouldn't be in the way. He also wanted to have a little more alone time with her to rebuild her trust in him. " Branslav is probably looking for you by now. "
" Probably, " She nodded.
“ Can we talk about him for a minute? “ Robert asked.
Betty furrowed her brow, “ What about? “
Robert sighed and ran a hand through his hair, “ I feel really bad about this. “
“ Really bad about what? “ Betty cocked her head to the side.
“ The way I've acted, “ Robert frowned. He had no clue how to approach the subject.
“ You've already apologized. You don't need to any more, “ Betty was puzzled.
“ Yes I do. I feel like I'm doing something wrong to Branslav. After all, he was the one that helped you all those months ago and he's been dying to see you again, “ Robert started.
“ Really? “ Betty asked. She looked surprised.
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. He wouldn't shut up about you for a week after the banquet. He even went looking for you. “
“ He did? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah, " Robert replied. " They wouldn't tell him anything at the hotel except you weren't there the day he went. "
“ It was probably after I was fired, “ Betty said.
" Probably, " Robert nodded. " I just want to let you know he can be a little over zealous sometimes. He's very spirited when it comes to women. "
“ Okay, “ Betty nodded. “ So what are you getting at? “
Robert looked away, " I'm just saying he might try to monopolize your time. “
“ I'm very busy so he won't be able to do that. He'll just have to accept he can see me when he sees me, " Betty said.
“ Will you be too busy for me too? “ Robert asked.
“ I told you before I'd listen to anything you needed to tell me, “ Betty said. “ I meant it. “
Robert nodded, “ Okay. “
Betty took his hands in hers, " I'm a woman of my word and I'll keep it. I'll make time any time you need to talk. "
" Thanks, " Robert smiled at that.
She took a deep breath, " Something's been bothering me though. "
" What's that babe? " Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty frowned and looked at the floor, " What if I don't like Branslav after all? What if we don't get along and we make each other totally miserable? “
Robert hooked a finger under her chin and made her look at him, “ Don't even think that. You don't know what's going to happen. “
“ I don't know if... “ Betty started.
“ Please, “ Robert said. “ Give it a chance. Don't think about the end before it even starts. “
She sighed, “ Okay. I think I can do that. “
Robert nodded, “ Good. “
“ But we can keep in touch,“ Betty said. “ I mean, we can be just friends. “
Robert nodded, “ Of course. I like being your friend. I would ask for any more unless you want more. “
“ I like being your friend too, “ Betty said. “ That's why I'd still like to talk to you and help you whenever I can. “
“ Can we still flirt? “ Robert asked teasingly.
Betty giggled, “ Of course we can. As long as it doesn't get too out of hand. “
“ I'll try not to get too carried away, “ Robert smiled at that.
“ Will you call me? “ Betty said. “ I don't mean all the time or anything. Just to check in and let me know how things are going. “
“ Sure. I still have your number so I'll give you a call once I get back to Taos, okay? " Robert said. " I'll keep you updated. "
" My cell phone should be fixed by then. It's broken. I don't know if I told you, " Betty said then yawned. She out her hand over her mouth then glanced at Robert, “ Darn. Sorry about that. “
" You tired baby? " Robert asked. He knew that she had probably gotten as much sleep as he had, less than four hours.
" Yeah, " She nodded. " I just barely got to sleeping good when Branslav came in to wake me up this morning. I've been tired all day. "
" Me too, " Robert sighed. " I would have been too tired to play if I could have. "
" When I get home, I'm going to sleep until Monday, " Betty muttered.
Robert chuckled. " Can I join you? " He teased as he cuts his eyes sideway to tease her.
“ If you want, “ Betty smirked.
“ Will you feed me? “ Robert smirked in return.
“ Sure. What do you want to eat? “ Betty had a playful hint to her voice.
“ I'm sure anything you fix will be fine, “ Robert replied. “ Do I have to sleep on the couch or can I sleep in your bed? “
" The bed, " Betty murmured. " Just behave yourself and stay on your side of the bed. "
" I don't know if I could with such a hot babe sleeping next to me, " Robert chuckled again. He smiled when Betty blushed at his words.
" Hush you, " Betty sighed. She moved away from him a little.
" What's wrong? “ Robert was confused by the serious look on Betty's face. He was afraid he had offended her. Since it seemed she didn't have the much experience with men, he was trying to be careful.
" Tell me how things go on Tuesday, okay? " Betty took his left hand in her right hand. " I'll listen if you need to talk. "
" Okay. I'll call, " Robert held her hand tighter. " I'll probably need to talk to you then anyway. "
" Probably, " Betty nodded. " It'll probably be a hard day and I want to know how it goes. "
“ Not probably. I know it will, “ Robert sighed. “ You better go find Branslav now. “
“ Yeah I'd better, “ Betty looked out the window and furrowed her brow when she saw Branslav walk out of the arena. " Speak of the devil. "
Robert looked out the window just as Coach Hooker walked over to talk to Branslav. He frowned then muttered, " The big man is pissed and he's coming this way. "
" I'd better go then, " Betty let go of Robert's hand. " What could have made him that angry though? "
" Martin's probably been messing with him, " Robert said as Branslav climbed onto the bus. “ It's his favorite hobby. “
" There you are, " Branslav said. His frown deepened when he saw Betty and Robert sitting together. " Where have you been? "
" With Robert, " Betty said. " I was just fixing to come find you. "
" Right, " Branslav almost scoffed. " Come on. "
Robert frowned at Branslav's tone, " She was. She just wanted to say goodbye to me and the others before we left. "
" Has she? " Branslav asked sharply.
" Yes, " Robert said. He could tell Branslav was trying to keep his temper. It seemed he had reached his limit for graciousness towards Robert's interloping.
" Then why is she on your bus? " Branslav asked, his voice tainted with suspicion. He could tolerate Betty being with the Turquoise in their locker room since she knew them but to be on their bus made him wonder what Robert was up to.
" We just got on here to get out of the way of everyone else, " Robert said. " We would have been in the way out there. "
" Oh " Branslav said. Robert's explanation made sense to a degree. He looked at Betty, " Come on. "
" Sure, " Betty looked at Branslav then Robert. " Later. "
" Later, " Robert sighed as she stood up. Branslav walked down the aisle and Betty followed, turning to give Robert one last look. He put his hand up in the sign for 'telephone' and mouthed " I'll call you. "
Betty nodded then turned to face Branslav's back again. She followed him off the bus and they walked towards the arena, the rest of Robert's team calling their farewells to her as Daniel brought up the rear. He tried to ignore that though, walking fast so he could get away from the other team.
" Slow down man, " Daniel called. " I can't keep up with you. "
Branslav stopped and let them catch up. When Betty got to his side, he glanced at her. " What would you like to do now? "
Betty looked at her watch, " It's a quarter past eleven. I don't know. What is there to do this late? "
Branslav couldn't believe she was serious then said, " We can go eat dinner and we could go to a club like last night. "
" But aren't you tired? " Betty looked puzzled.
Branslav shook his head. He really didn't feel too tired in spite of playing a game. He figured he had a few good hours left in him before he needed to sleep. He decided they would be best spent with Betty, making up for the night before.
Betty shook her head and let out an exasperated sigh, " I'm still exhausted from yesterday though. I didn't get much sleep and I'm really tired. "
" Oh, " Branslav looked at the floor. " Maybe tomorrow then? "
" I've got things to do tomorrow. My manager wants to meet with me about another promotional tour and I have a bunch of errands to run. Are you doing anything Sunday? "
Branslav frowned deeply, " Yes. We're leaving for a three game road trip and won't be back until next Friday. "
" Ouch, " Betty muttered. " I guess we'll have to figure something else out later. "
" Do you think you've got enough left in you just to go to dinner tonight? " Branslav almost pleaded. “ I just want to take you to dinner at least. “
" Okay. I guess we can go to dinner tonight. I think I can make it, " Betty relented. “ But just dinner, okay? “
" Thank you, " Branslav said. He was relieved that he was finally going to get some alone time with Betty. It might have just been a couple of hours but that was better than what he had gotten.
Daniel cleared his throat then jerked his thumb over his shoulder, " I'm going to boogie now. See you guy later. "
" Later, " Branslav waved his hand. He hadn't even realized Daniel was still standing there.
Betty reached over and patted Daniel's shoulder, " Have a good night. "
" Okay. Thank you ma'am, " Daniel nodded then left.
Branslav watched him leave then looked at Betty. He offered her his arm, " Let's try to have a good night ourselves, okay? "
" Sure, " Betty said and took his arm. She walked with him out to the car, Branslav unlocking the doors and getting hers for her. She climbed in on her side and buckled her seatbelt as Branslav went around to the driver's side. Branslav got in on the driver's side, shut the door and started putting on his seatbelt.
" So do you have any requests? " He looked at Betty. He frowned when she saw she had a bit of a far away look in her eyes. " Hello? "
" Oh, " Betty said. " Did you say something? "
" I asked if you had any requests, " Branslav said. " Is there any place you want to eat? "
Betty thought about it then shook her head, " I really don't eat out much so I don't know where to go. "
Branslav sighed, " Okay. I know a really good place that's open all night and the food's excellent. We'll go there. "
" Sure, " Betty nodded. " Sounds good. "
Branslav started the car and left the players' parking garage. When they reached the first light, it was red and he stopped. He looked at Betty. " Why don't you eat out much? "
" I like to cook, " Betty said. " Can you cook? "
Branslav frowned, " No. I can't. "
" Oh. Sorry, " Betty said. " Maybe I could teach you some time. It's really not all that hard. "
Branslav didn't say anything. It was the best he could do to microwave something and not burn it. He finally sighed, " We'll see. "