Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Eleven ( Chapter 11 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Branslav finally gets Betty alone.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.24.2009 | Pages: 6 | Words: 4.0K | Visits: 166 | Status: Completed
Branslav finally gets Betty alone.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.24.2009 | Pages: 6 | Words: 4.0K | Visits: 166 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter ElevenBy Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav pulled to a parking spot right in front of the restaurant. The neon sign, which was partially burnt out, proclaimed the name of the place as Lucky's. Betty didn't like the rundown looks of the place nor did she like the looks of the scummy people hanging out in front. The facade of the building looked dirty and old, the windows filthy and smudged.
“ So. This is the place? “ She asked hesitantly.
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah. “
“ Great, “ She tried to sound positive.
“ It really is a good place, “ Branslav said. “ They have great food. “
Betty nodded but said nothing. The place looked like a greasy spoon to her. She opened her door and got out, Branslav getting out on his side. She walked around to the front of the car, garnering a cat call from one of the sleazy looking guys hanging around the front door.
Branslav and Betty got out of the car, Branslav using the key chain remote to lock the doors. The chirp of the car alarm attracted the attention of some of the guys hanging around the door. They looked like greasy biker punks and they eyed Betty like a pack of hungry wolves. One of them whistled and Branslav shot him a dirty glare.
“ Hey baby! Were you hatched that way? “ Another sleazy guy called as Branslav walked to her side and put his arm around her shoulders.
“ Ignore them, “ Branslav pulled her tight to his side and practically drug her inside. Once they were in, he didn't let go of her. Instead, he scouted out a corner booth and guided her towards it. “ Sit. “
Betty did as she was told when Branslav took his arm from around her, sliding into the booth. Branslav slid in across from her as a haggard looking waitress walked up. Her dyed dry blonde hair was pulled back in a sloppy ponytail and her uniform looked grimy. She reeked of cigarette smoke and sour sweat.
“ What can I get you to drink? “ She asked then coughed.
“ I'll have a beer, “ Branslav said.
“ I'll have a diet... “ Betty started.
“ We don't have anything 'diet' here. Either you get water, tea, a pop or a beer. That's what we've got, “ The waitress cut her off.
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ A tea then. Unsweetened. “
“ A beer and a tea, “ The waitress repeated then walked away.
Branslav grabbed the menus from behind the napkin holder and offered one of them to Betty, “ Here. “
She took it then got a napkin and started wiping at it. " What's wrong? " Branslav asked when he noticed.
" The menu's greasy, " Betty muttered then tossed the napkin aside. She sighed, " I guess that's as good as it's going to get. "
" Don't worry about that. Order whatever you'd like, " Branslav gave her a smile. He hoped it would help her uneasiness. " I get you anything your heart desires. "
She opened it then menu and said, " Hmm. Pretty straight forward. There's four kinds of steak, seven types of hamburgers and plain or spicy fried chicken. "
" Yeah but that's a good thing about this place, " Branslav said.
" I guess so, " Betty muttered as she looked the menu over again. She furrowed her brow then looked at Branslav. “ So. What do you recommend? “
“ Anything but the chicken, “ Branslav said. “ I ate it once. Only once. “
Betty sat back a little and frowned at what his tone implied, “ Oh. “
The waitress returned with their drinks, “ So what do you want? “
Branslav put the menu down, “ The t-bone. “
“ Well or rare? “ The waitress asked.
“ Well, “ Branslav replied.
The waitress then turned to Betty, “ What will you have? “
“ I think I'll have the same, “ Betty said. “ On my salad I want... “
“ We ran out, “ The waitress said. “ It just comes with the loaded baked potato tonight. “
Betty nodded once, “ Okay then. “
“ Well or rare? “ The waitress asked.
“ Can I have it medium well? “ Betty asked.
“ We can try, “ The waitress said. “ Is that all? “
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah. “
The waitress walked away and Betty started looking around. Branslav noticed she was looking around and started looking around as well. He noticed a few very scantily clad women sitting at the booth on the other side of the room, girls he had seen there before. They looked bored to death and like they didn't want to be with there, as always.
There was a sleazy looking black haired man sitting with them and he looked rather dangerous. He was always with them and was there every time Branslav was there it seemed. He looked around some more then stopped when Betty moved her hand. He looked at her as she got her glass to take a drink.
Betty took a drink of her tea and nearly gagged. She glared at the glass, " Ick. Too strong. "
" We'll get a glass of water when the waitress comes back around, " Branslav offered. " I should have warned you. "
" It's okay, " Betty sighed. She set her glass down and started glancing around again.
Branslav leaned forward a bit. “ So. We're finally alone. “
Betty nodded as she glanced around at the other patrons in the small, poorly lit restaurant, “ Yeah. “
“ I'm so sorry about all that with Robert, “ Branslav said. “ I had no idea he was going to have such a crisis. I'm his only friend here so I guess he thought I could help. “
“ Oh it's okay, “ Betty said. “ It would have been heartless not to help him out yesterday. He was a wreck. “
“ Tell me about it, “ Branslav sighed. “ He hasn't gotten drunk in a couple of years as far as I know. He quit drinking for his kid right before he left for Taos. “
“ Really? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah, “ Branslav said.
“ Oh, “ Betty nodded.
Some movement from the booth across from them caught their eyes, Betty and Branslav looking towards it. A man walked over or at least Branslav assumed it was a man because he had a hat pulled down and his coat collar pulled up to hide his face. They watched the man in the coat talk to the dangerous looking guy. After a few minutes, the man in the coat handed the dangerous man an envelope.
The dangerous man opened it and smiled, tapping one of the scantily clad women on the shoulder. The woman got up and left with the man in the coat. Betty looked at Branslav but said nothing. " Ignore it, " Branslav said. " That happens a lot. "
" Really now? " Betty asked. She almost seemed scared.
" Yeah but I just ignore it. It's their business, not mine. I just come here to eat, " Branslav said.
" Good, " Betty nodded, still looking uneasy.
“ Anyway, about Robert's drinking. I'm not sure what happened but we woke up on his front lawn with Pauline yelling at us that she was embarrassing her in front of the whole neighborhood, “ Branslav let out a strained laugh. “ I guess I had passed out as he was getting me out of the car and I fell on him. “Betty smiled and chuckled. The story had been much funnier when Robert told it but she wasn't going to tell Branslav that. He proceeded to start telling her another story she had heard the night before and she pretended to listen though she just wanted to leave.The scantily clad woman that left with the man in the coat returned and took her seat again as Branslav talked. Betty realized just what was going on across the room as another man went to the table and repeated the process the man in the coat had done. She then looked at the door, fighting the urge to bolt for it. Branslav noticed, stopping the story he had started to tell, a story Robert had told her the night before.
“ Is there something wrong? “ Branslav asked. He had been trying to think of another way to make conversation but he was coming up dry.
Betty looked at him, “ I don't think this place is safe, Branslav. “
“ It's perfectly safe, “ Branslav frowned. “ I've never felt unsafe here. The cops come here all the time so it can't be that bad. “
“ If you say so, “ Betty said. She took a sharp breath and looked at the table.
Branslav leaned into her, " What now? "
" I think the pimp in the corner just winked at me, " Betty said quietly
“ Just pay attention to me and nothing else and it'll be okay, “ Branslav said. “ Okay? “
" I'll try, " Betty muttered.
" Now, where was I? " Branslav tried to remember the story he had been telling.
**
Branslav followed the directions from the GPS. After a very awkward dinner, he set out to take Betty home. She had been very quiet after a few minutes and he found out why. She had fallen asleep after getting in the car and putting her address in the GPS.
Branslav decided to let her rest, silently berating himself for being so selfish when she had told him how tired she had been. Their dinnertime conversation had been a disaster, Branslav was unable to think of anything to say so he told stories. Betty acted like her mind was somewhere else the entire time as well. It seemed they had covered everything they had in common the night before and even trying to talk about those things wasn't working very well.
She didn't act anything like he had assumed she would after reading her stories. He had speculated she would be a very loud brash woman with attitude and bravado. He had imagined her to have a larger than life personality and to be rough around the edges. His preconceived notions were all destroyed when he found out Melissa was the hard working busser he had defended.
It left him feeling lost and floundering for what to think of the painfully shy creature that was sleeping in his front seat. He took the turn the GPS told him to take, glancing at Betty as he did. He sighed, admiring how angelic she looked as she slept. He followed the rest of the directions to her house, pulling to a stop behind her little hybrid economy car when he turned into her driveway.
~Well she's got a cute little car, ~ Branslav mused. He saw a building in front of the car and wondered if it was the house. It looked like a mobile home and a small one at that. He shut off his car and put his hand on her shoulder.
" Wake up sleepy head. We're here, " He whispered as he shook he gently.
Betty stirred then yawned, " We are? "
" Yeah, " Branslav nodded. " Do you want me to walk you to your door? "
" If you want, " Betty said. She looked around then frowned, " Damn. The porch light is burnt out again. "
" You mean that's not your house? " Branslav pointed to the building the car was parked in front of.
Betty shook her head, " No. Would you like to see what's in there? "
Branslav shrugged, “ I guess if you want to show me. “
Betty got her purse and pulled out a flashlight, " We'll need this. "
Branslav nodded, " No really? "
Betty unbuckled her seatbelt then got out, trying not to react to his comment. Branslav followed suit, waiting for her as she came around the back of the car. She turned on the flashlight and walked towards the building. She got her keys out after digging around for them for a second.
Branslav watched as she unlocked the door and pushed it open. She reached inside and flipped a light switch, a bright overhead light coming on. He looked at the exercise equipment then at her, “ You got a brother? “
Betty arched an eyebrow, “ No. Why? “
“ I was just wondering since you have this stuff, “ Branslav said.
Betty shook her head, “ It's my exercise equipment. “
“ You workout? “ He looked surprised.
Betty nodded, “ Yes. Of course I do. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said, not sure how to react to the revelation so he didn't. He changed the subject because an awkward silence set in again. “ May I still walk you to your door? “
Betty shrugged as she shut the light out and pulled the door shut. “ If you want to. “
“ I do, “ Branslav said as he put his hand on her arm. " You're so sleepy, I'm afraid you might trip. "
" I'll lead the way then, " She said.
" Okay, " Branslav said.
Betty glanced at him then his hand on her arm, " Could you loosen up just bit? That kind of hurts. "
" Oh. Sorry, " Branslav said, loosening his grip. He followed Betty as they walked up the path. When they reached the house, Betty shook Branslav's hand from her arm so she could get her house key. " If you'll wait here, I'll get you my extra flashlight so you can find your way back to the car. "
" Don't I get to come in? " Branslav looked puzzled. He wanted to see her house. He was curious to see what it looked like on the inside.
" It's late, " Betty tried not to sound too uncomfortable as she unlocked the door. " Maybe some other time okay? "
Branslav frowned, " Did you make Robert wait out here earlier today? "
" No but that wasn't at a quarter till two either, " Betty replied. Branslav was trying to get to know her and she was trying to make a good impression on him. She was afraid that inviting him in so late at night would give him the wrong ideas about her. She could sense he already had a preconceived notion of her and she wasn't matching it.
" Well you've been in my house, " Branslav countered. He thought it was only fair that he get to see her house since she had seen his. " So why can't I see yours? "
" Because, " Betty stopped as she thought about it and sighed. " Oh alright. You can come in so we're even. "
Branslav waited for her to go inside first and turn on a light then followed her. She shut the door after he was inside. He looked around as Betty went to the living room to turn on another light. He marveled at the sheer amount of art that hung on the walls.
" Would you like a drink? " Betty asked as she took off her black leather jacket. She hung it on a hook just across from the front door.
" No, " Branslav said as he looked around at everything.
" I'll give you the grand tour if you want, " Betty said. She figured if she let him see the main parts of the house, he'd be satisfied. Her goal was to get him out as quickly as possible so she could go to bed.
" It's kind of small, " Branslav noted. He had expected her to live in a bigger place, being a bestselling author and all. He decided that being a writer didn't pay as much as he assumed.
" Yes but it's home, " Betty forced a smile. " So do you want the tour? "
Branslav nodded, " Sure. "
Betty walked towards the back of the house, " The kitchen and dining room are back here. "
Branslav followed her into the room as she switched the lights on. It wasn't that special and a little cramped for his tastes. " Where does that door go? " He pointed to a door to the left of the refrigerator as he got next to her.
" That's the laundry room, " Betty said. She took a step away from Branslav because he was sticking too close. She didn't like it when people stood closer than half an arm length. She had made an exception about Robert because he needed comfort and she had developed an attraction to him but unnecessary closeness agitated her to no end.
" And that door? " Branslav pointed to a door directly across from the sink as he stepped closer again.
" That goes up to the attic, " Betty explained, stepping away again. She struggled to make small talk in spite of her agitation, “ It's almost big enough to be a second story. The stairs are a pain though. They're only half as wide as regular stair steps. “
" Ah, " Branslav nodded as he wondered why she was talking about the attic like it was interesting. He had noticed she had moved again and wondered why she kept moving away from him.
She walked to the door that led out of the kitchen into a narrow hallway that was only half as wide as the entry side hallway. It ended up back in the living room. " And this is the living room. "
" Yeah, " Branslav said as he put a hand on Betty's arm again. " I saw it from over there. What's with all this stuff? "
Betty arched an eyebrow at her mother's things being called 'stuff' and the unwelcome touch. " This 'stuff' is my mother's artwork. There's twice as much up in the attic. Sometimes I rotate it around for a change of scenery. "
" Oh, " Branslav said. " This stuff is nice. Your mother is a good artist. "
" Was, " Betty corrected him as she stepped away yet again. His closeness was starting to suffocate her. " She passed away thirteen months ago. "
Branslav looked at her, " Oh. Sorry to hear that. "
Betty nodded, " It's okay. "
" Where do you sleep? " Branslav asked. He stepped closer again.
" In my room, " Betty pointed to a little alcove where there was three doors. " Mine is the one on the right, the bathroom is in the middle and my mom's old room is on the left. "
" Can I see your bedroom? " Branslav asked as he put his hand on her right shoulder. Since she seemed not to like having her arm touched, he decided to try there instead.
Betty couldn't believe he was being so forward, resisting the urge to slap the Hell out of him for it. She turned to face him and detected something in his eyes. After the way he had clung to her, she was afraid it was something bad. She sensed a predatory air about him she hadn't noticed before and she felt like she would be in danger if she showed him her bedroom.
Betty turned to face him. She looked at him, her eyes slightly narrowed. " No. "
“ What's wrong? “ Branslav found Betty expression unreadable.
She shook her head as she thought of a good excuse for him not to see her room, " I'd rather you not. It's a mess. "
Branslav nodded, " Okay. Maybe I can see it another time. "
They were quiet for a long moment then Betty yawned. " I'm so sorry. I'm not kicking you out but I'd really REALLY like to get to bed before it gets any later. "
" That meeting with you manager... " Branslav said.
" Is at nine so I need my sleep, " Betty replied. " I didn't get much sleep this morning so I have to make up for two days instead of one. "
Branslav thought it was funny she kept stressing that. When he had looked in on her, she had been sleeping pretty deeply. He put his hands up, " No problem. "
Betty walked over to a side table next to the couch. She reached behind the lamp and brought out a flashlight. " Here's the extra. Just give it back the next time I see you. "
Branslav took it. He took comfort in the fact she said she would see him again. The way things had went, he was scared she wouldn't. " Thanks. I will. "
Betty walked back over to the door and opened it, " Thanks for inviting me to the game. I'll get a ticket on my own and come see you guys when you get back next Friday. "
" That'd be nice, " Branslav nodded. " Sorry about Martin though. I know he treated you badly. "
" That's why I'm getting my own ticket, " Betty said. " He was too occupied with the game but beforehand I was really uncomfortable. I felt he was rather rude personally. "
" Everyone does, " Branslav sighed. " He thinks he can be since he's got all that money I guess. "
" Yeah, " Betty nodded. " So. "
" So, " Branslav nodded then realized that Betty was telling him to go. " Oh. Yeah. Goodnight. "
" Goodnight, " Betty said. " See you later. "
Branslav walked over to the door, stopping for a moment. He then looked at Betty and smiled before grabbing her up in a hug. He held her for a few moments but she was stiff like she hadn't want him to touch her at all. He pulled back and looked into her face, seeing she was glaring at him rather intensely.
“ What's wrong? “ Branslav asked her.
Betty arched an eyebrow, feeling the corner of her right eye twitch as she did. He leaned closer but she pulled back when she realized he was trying to kiss her goodnight, “ Branslav, “ She said evenly.
“ Yes? “ He said.
“ Go home, “ Betty replied.
He let her go and walked out the door slowly, Betty shutting it behind him. He stopped on the porch to turn on the flashlight, hearing the locks on the door click into place behind him. He then walked back to his car, wondering what he was doing wrong.
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav pulled to a parking spot right in front of the restaurant. The neon sign, which was partially burnt out, proclaimed the name of the place as Lucky's. Betty didn't like the rundown looks of the place nor did she like the looks of the scummy people hanging out in front. The facade of the building looked dirty and old, the windows filthy and smudged.
“ So. This is the place? “ She asked hesitantly.
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah. “
“ Great, “ She tried to sound positive.
“ It really is a good place, “ Branslav said. “ They have great food. “
Betty nodded but said nothing. The place looked like a greasy spoon to her. She opened her door and got out, Branslav getting out on his side. She walked around to the front of the car, garnering a cat call from one of the sleazy looking guys hanging around the front door.
Branslav and Betty got out of the car, Branslav using the key chain remote to lock the doors. The chirp of the car alarm attracted the attention of some of the guys hanging around the door. They looked like greasy biker punks and they eyed Betty like a pack of hungry wolves. One of them whistled and Branslav shot him a dirty glare.
“ Hey baby! Were you hatched that way? “ Another sleazy guy called as Branslav walked to her side and put his arm around her shoulders.
“ Ignore them, “ Branslav pulled her tight to his side and practically drug her inside. Once they were in, he didn't let go of her. Instead, he scouted out a corner booth and guided her towards it. “ Sit. “
Betty did as she was told when Branslav took his arm from around her, sliding into the booth. Branslav slid in across from her as a haggard looking waitress walked up. Her dyed dry blonde hair was pulled back in a sloppy ponytail and her uniform looked grimy. She reeked of cigarette smoke and sour sweat.
“ What can I get you to drink? “ She asked then coughed.
“ I'll have a beer, “ Branslav said.
“ I'll have a diet... “ Betty started.
“ We don't have anything 'diet' here. Either you get water, tea, a pop or a beer. That's what we've got, “ The waitress cut her off.
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ A tea then. Unsweetened. “
“ A beer and a tea, “ The waitress repeated then walked away.
Branslav grabbed the menus from behind the napkin holder and offered one of them to Betty, “ Here. “
She took it then got a napkin and started wiping at it. " What's wrong? " Branslav asked when he noticed.
" The menu's greasy, " Betty muttered then tossed the napkin aside. She sighed, " I guess that's as good as it's going to get. "
" Don't worry about that. Order whatever you'd like, " Branslav gave her a smile. He hoped it would help her uneasiness. " I get you anything your heart desires. "
She opened it then menu and said, " Hmm. Pretty straight forward. There's four kinds of steak, seven types of hamburgers and plain or spicy fried chicken. "
" Yeah but that's a good thing about this place, " Branslav said.
" I guess so, " Betty muttered as she looked the menu over again. She furrowed her brow then looked at Branslav. “ So. What do you recommend? “
“ Anything but the chicken, “ Branslav said. “ I ate it once. Only once. “
Betty sat back a little and frowned at what his tone implied, “ Oh. “
The waitress returned with their drinks, “ So what do you want? “
Branslav put the menu down, “ The t-bone. “
“ Well or rare? “ The waitress asked.
“ Well, “ Branslav replied.
The waitress then turned to Betty, “ What will you have? “
“ I think I'll have the same, “ Betty said. “ On my salad I want... “
“ We ran out, “ The waitress said. “ It just comes with the loaded baked potato tonight. “
Betty nodded once, “ Okay then. “
“ Well or rare? “ The waitress asked.
“ Can I have it medium well? “ Betty asked.
“ We can try, “ The waitress said. “ Is that all? “
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah. “
The waitress walked away and Betty started looking around. Branslav noticed she was looking around and started looking around as well. He noticed a few very scantily clad women sitting at the booth on the other side of the room, girls he had seen there before. They looked bored to death and like they didn't want to be with there, as always.
There was a sleazy looking black haired man sitting with them and he looked rather dangerous. He was always with them and was there every time Branslav was there it seemed. He looked around some more then stopped when Betty moved her hand. He looked at her as she got her glass to take a drink.
Betty took a drink of her tea and nearly gagged. She glared at the glass, " Ick. Too strong. "
" We'll get a glass of water when the waitress comes back around, " Branslav offered. " I should have warned you. "
" It's okay, " Betty sighed. She set her glass down and started glancing around again.
Branslav leaned forward a bit. “ So. We're finally alone. “
Betty nodded as she glanced around at the other patrons in the small, poorly lit restaurant, “ Yeah. “
“ I'm so sorry about all that with Robert, “ Branslav said. “ I had no idea he was going to have such a crisis. I'm his only friend here so I guess he thought I could help. “
“ Oh it's okay, “ Betty said. “ It would have been heartless not to help him out yesterday. He was a wreck. “
“ Tell me about it, “ Branslav sighed. “ He hasn't gotten drunk in a couple of years as far as I know. He quit drinking for his kid right before he left for Taos. “
“ Really? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah, “ Branslav said.
“ Oh, “ Betty nodded.
Some movement from the booth across from them caught their eyes, Betty and Branslav looking towards it. A man walked over or at least Branslav assumed it was a man because he had a hat pulled down and his coat collar pulled up to hide his face. They watched the man in the coat talk to the dangerous looking guy. After a few minutes, the man in the coat handed the dangerous man an envelope.
The dangerous man opened it and smiled, tapping one of the scantily clad women on the shoulder. The woman got up and left with the man in the coat. Betty looked at Branslav but said nothing. " Ignore it, " Branslav said. " That happens a lot. "
" Really now? " Betty asked. She almost seemed scared.
" Yeah but I just ignore it. It's their business, not mine. I just come here to eat, " Branslav said.
" Good, " Betty nodded, still looking uneasy.
“ Anyway, about Robert's drinking. I'm not sure what happened but we woke up on his front lawn with Pauline yelling at us that she was embarrassing her in front of the whole neighborhood, “ Branslav let out a strained laugh. “ I guess I had passed out as he was getting me out of the car and I fell on him. “Betty smiled and chuckled. The story had been much funnier when Robert told it but she wasn't going to tell Branslav that. He proceeded to start telling her another story she had heard the night before and she pretended to listen though she just wanted to leave.The scantily clad woman that left with the man in the coat returned and took her seat again as Branslav talked. Betty realized just what was going on across the room as another man went to the table and repeated the process the man in the coat had done. She then looked at the door, fighting the urge to bolt for it. Branslav noticed, stopping the story he had started to tell, a story Robert had told her the night before.
“ Is there something wrong? “ Branslav asked. He had been trying to think of another way to make conversation but he was coming up dry.
Betty looked at him, “ I don't think this place is safe, Branslav. “
“ It's perfectly safe, “ Branslav frowned. “ I've never felt unsafe here. The cops come here all the time so it can't be that bad. “
“ If you say so, “ Betty said. She took a sharp breath and looked at the table.
Branslav leaned into her, " What now? "
" I think the pimp in the corner just winked at me, " Betty said quietly
“ Just pay attention to me and nothing else and it'll be okay, “ Branslav said. “ Okay? “
" I'll try, " Betty muttered.
" Now, where was I? " Branslav tried to remember the story he had been telling.
**
Branslav followed the directions from the GPS. After a very awkward dinner, he set out to take Betty home. She had been very quiet after a few minutes and he found out why. She had fallen asleep after getting in the car and putting her address in the GPS.
Branslav decided to let her rest, silently berating himself for being so selfish when she had told him how tired she had been. Their dinnertime conversation had been a disaster, Branslav was unable to think of anything to say so he told stories. Betty acted like her mind was somewhere else the entire time as well. It seemed they had covered everything they had in common the night before and even trying to talk about those things wasn't working very well.
She didn't act anything like he had assumed she would after reading her stories. He had speculated she would be a very loud brash woman with attitude and bravado. He had imagined her to have a larger than life personality and to be rough around the edges. His preconceived notions were all destroyed when he found out Melissa was the hard working busser he had defended.
It left him feeling lost and floundering for what to think of the painfully shy creature that was sleeping in his front seat. He took the turn the GPS told him to take, glancing at Betty as he did. He sighed, admiring how angelic she looked as she slept. He followed the rest of the directions to her house, pulling to a stop behind her little hybrid economy car when he turned into her driveway.
~Well she's got a cute little car, ~ Branslav mused. He saw a building in front of the car and wondered if it was the house. It looked like a mobile home and a small one at that. He shut off his car and put his hand on her shoulder.
" Wake up sleepy head. We're here, " He whispered as he shook he gently.
Betty stirred then yawned, " We are? "
" Yeah, " Branslav nodded. " Do you want me to walk you to your door? "
" If you want, " Betty said. She looked around then frowned, " Damn. The porch light is burnt out again. "
" You mean that's not your house? " Branslav pointed to the building the car was parked in front of.
Betty shook her head, " No. Would you like to see what's in there? "
Branslav shrugged, “ I guess if you want to show me. “
Betty got her purse and pulled out a flashlight, " We'll need this. "
Branslav nodded, " No really? "
Betty unbuckled her seatbelt then got out, trying not to react to his comment. Branslav followed suit, waiting for her as she came around the back of the car. She turned on the flashlight and walked towards the building. She got her keys out after digging around for them for a second.
Branslav watched as she unlocked the door and pushed it open. She reached inside and flipped a light switch, a bright overhead light coming on. He looked at the exercise equipment then at her, “ You got a brother? “
Betty arched an eyebrow, “ No. Why? “
“ I was just wondering since you have this stuff, “ Branslav said.
Betty shook her head, “ It's my exercise equipment. “
“ You workout? “ He looked surprised.
Betty nodded, “ Yes. Of course I do. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said, not sure how to react to the revelation so he didn't. He changed the subject because an awkward silence set in again. “ May I still walk you to your door? “
Betty shrugged as she shut the light out and pulled the door shut. “ If you want to. “
“ I do, “ Branslav said as he put his hand on her arm. " You're so sleepy, I'm afraid you might trip. "
" I'll lead the way then, " She said.
" Okay, " Branslav said.
Betty glanced at him then his hand on her arm, " Could you loosen up just bit? That kind of hurts. "
" Oh. Sorry, " Branslav said, loosening his grip. He followed Betty as they walked up the path. When they reached the house, Betty shook Branslav's hand from her arm so she could get her house key. " If you'll wait here, I'll get you my extra flashlight so you can find your way back to the car. "
" Don't I get to come in? " Branslav looked puzzled. He wanted to see her house. He was curious to see what it looked like on the inside.
" It's late, " Betty tried not to sound too uncomfortable as she unlocked the door. " Maybe some other time okay? "
Branslav frowned, " Did you make Robert wait out here earlier today? "
" No but that wasn't at a quarter till two either, " Betty replied. Branslav was trying to get to know her and she was trying to make a good impression on him. She was afraid that inviting him in so late at night would give him the wrong ideas about her. She could sense he already had a preconceived notion of her and she wasn't matching it.
" Well you've been in my house, " Branslav countered. He thought it was only fair that he get to see her house since she had seen his. " So why can't I see yours? "
" Because, " Betty stopped as she thought about it and sighed. " Oh alright. You can come in so we're even. "
Branslav waited for her to go inside first and turn on a light then followed her. She shut the door after he was inside. He looked around as Betty went to the living room to turn on another light. He marveled at the sheer amount of art that hung on the walls.
" Would you like a drink? " Betty asked as she took off her black leather jacket. She hung it on a hook just across from the front door.
" No, " Branslav said as he looked around at everything.
" I'll give you the grand tour if you want, " Betty said. She figured if she let him see the main parts of the house, he'd be satisfied. Her goal was to get him out as quickly as possible so she could go to bed.
" It's kind of small, " Branslav noted. He had expected her to live in a bigger place, being a bestselling author and all. He decided that being a writer didn't pay as much as he assumed.
" Yes but it's home, " Betty forced a smile. " So do you want the tour? "
Branslav nodded, " Sure. "
Betty walked towards the back of the house, " The kitchen and dining room are back here. "
Branslav followed her into the room as she switched the lights on. It wasn't that special and a little cramped for his tastes. " Where does that door go? " He pointed to a door to the left of the refrigerator as he got next to her.
" That's the laundry room, " Betty said. She took a step away from Branslav because he was sticking too close. She didn't like it when people stood closer than half an arm length. She had made an exception about Robert because he needed comfort and she had developed an attraction to him but unnecessary closeness agitated her to no end.
" And that door? " Branslav pointed to a door directly across from the sink as he stepped closer again.
" That goes up to the attic, " Betty explained, stepping away again. She struggled to make small talk in spite of her agitation, “ It's almost big enough to be a second story. The stairs are a pain though. They're only half as wide as regular stair steps. “
" Ah, " Branslav nodded as he wondered why she was talking about the attic like it was interesting. He had noticed she had moved again and wondered why she kept moving away from him.
She walked to the door that led out of the kitchen into a narrow hallway that was only half as wide as the entry side hallway. It ended up back in the living room. " And this is the living room. "
" Yeah, " Branslav said as he put a hand on Betty's arm again. " I saw it from over there. What's with all this stuff? "
Betty arched an eyebrow at her mother's things being called 'stuff' and the unwelcome touch. " This 'stuff' is my mother's artwork. There's twice as much up in the attic. Sometimes I rotate it around for a change of scenery. "
" Oh, " Branslav said. " This stuff is nice. Your mother is a good artist. "
" Was, " Betty corrected him as she stepped away yet again. His closeness was starting to suffocate her. " She passed away thirteen months ago. "
Branslav looked at her, " Oh. Sorry to hear that. "
Betty nodded, " It's okay. "
" Where do you sleep? " Branslav asked. He stepped closer again.
" In my room, " Betty pointed to a little alcove where there was three doors. " Mine is the one on the right, the bathroom is in the middle and my mom's old room is on the left. "
" Can I see your bedroom? " Branslav asked as he put his hand on her right shoulder. Since she seemed not to like having her arm touched, he decided to try there instead.
Betty couldn't believe he was being so forward, resisting the urge to slap the Hell out of him for it. She turned to face him and detected something in his eyes. After the way he had clung to her, she was afraid it was something bad. She sensed a predatory air about him she hadn't noticed before and she felt like she would be in danger if she showed him her bedroom.
Betty turned to face him. She looked at him, her eyes slightly narrowed. " No. "
“ What's wrong? “ Branslav found Betty expression unreadable.
She shook her head as she thought of a good excuse for him not to see her room, " I'd rather you not. It's a mess. "
Branslav nodded, " Okay. Maybe I can see it another time. "
They were quiet for a long moment then Betty yawned. " I'm so sorry. I'm not kicking you out but I'd really REALLY like to get to bed before it gets any later. "
" That meeting with you manager... " Branslav said.
" Is at nine so I need my sleep, " Betty replied. " I didn't get much sleep this morning so I have to make up for two days instead of one. "
Branslav thought it was funny she kept stressing that. When he had looked in on her, she had been sleeping pretty deeply. He put his hands up, " No problem. "
Betty walked over to a side table next to the couch. She reached behind the lamp and brought out a flashlight. " Here's the extra. Just give it back the next time I see you. "
Branslav took it. He took comfort in the fact she said she would see him again. The way things had went, he was scared she wouldn't. " Thanks. I will. "
Betty walked back over to the door and opened it, " Thanks for inviting me to the game. I'll get a ticket on my own and come see you guys when you get back next Friday. "
" That'd be nice, " Branslav nodded. " Sorry about Martin though. I know he treated you badly. "
" That's why I'm getting my own ticket, " Betty said. " He was too occupied with the game but beforehand I was really uncomfortable. I felt he was rather rude personally. "
" Everyone does, " Branslav sighed. " He thinks he can be since he's got all that money I guess. "
" Yeah, " Betty nodded. " So. "
" So, " Branslav nodded then realized that Betty was telling him to go. " Oh. Yeah. Goodnight. "
" Goodnight, " Betty said. " See you later. "
Branslav walked over to the door, stopping for a moment. He then looked at Betty and smiled before grabbing her up in a hug. He held her for a few moments but she was stiff like she hadn't want him to touch her at all. He pulled back and looked into her face, seeing she was glaring at him rather intensely.
“ What's wrong? “ Branslav asked her.
Betty arched an eyebrow, feeling the corner of her right eye twitch as she did. He leaned closer but she pulled back when she realized he was trying to kiss her goodnight, “ Branslav, “ She said evenly.
“ Yes? “ He said.
“ Go home, “ Betty replied.
He let her go and walked out the door slowly, Betty shutting it behind him. He stopped on the porch to turn on the flashlight, hearing the locks on the door click into place behind him. He then walked back to his car, wondering what he was doing wrong.