Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Thirteen ( Chapter 13 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Branslav and Robert talk about the date with Betty amongst other things.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.24.2009 | Pages: 10 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 178 | Status: Completed
Branslav and Robert talk about the date with Betty amongst other things.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.24.2009 | Pages: 10 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 178 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Thirteen
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav watched at the city limit sign for Boise City passed the bus. He had he thought about his date with Betty repeatedly, trying to figure out what he had done so wrong. Daniel was sitting next to him, playing a hand held video game. He muttered a cuss word periodically, letting Branslav know the game wasn't going well.
He sighed, bringing his hand up to draw in the moisture his breath left on the window when his cell phone rang. Branslav reached into his jacket and got it, Daniel noticing the movement in his side vision. He pulled one of his earphones out of his ear, “ Is it a girl? “ He asked as he looked at the caller ID.
Branslav turned the phone so only he could see it, “ No. It's Robert. “
“ Robert? What's he calling you for? “ Daniel arched an eyebrow.
Branslav shrugged as he flipped his phone open and answered, “ Hey. What's up? “
“ Hey buddy, “ Robert said. “ Just checking in. How are things? “
Branslav glared at Daniel, the younger man getting the message. “ Damn it. Why have I always got to be the one that has to move? “
“ Because I'm on the window side, that's why. Now, go. “
“ Damn it, “ Daniel got up and sat down three rows away where there was an empty seat. He put his earphone back in his ear and went back to playing his video game.
“ So are you alone now? “ Robert asked after hearing the exchange.
“ As alone as I can get on a bus with fifteen people, “ Branslav replied.
“ So I guess since you made your Siamese twin detach, you want to talk to me in private? “ Robert inquired.
“ You could say that. I need some help here, “ Branslav sighed. “ Things didn't go well Friday and I don't know what I did wrong. I don't think Betty likes me at all. “
“ It was just one date, “ Robert said calmly. “ Just tell me what happened so you can fix it next time. “
“ If there is a next time, “ Branslav scoffed. “ It was terrible. I took her to dinner and she acted like she wanted to leave the entire time. I don't even think she was listening to me when I talked. “
“ Where did you take her to eat? “ Robert asked though he knew. He had finished with the lawyer and was sitting in a diner not far from Jakob's apartment complex. He had ordered food but hadn't touched it because he didn't feel hungry.
Branslav ran a hand through his hair, “ Uh. It was really late and not many places were open so I took her to... “
“ You took her where? “ Robert prodded when Branslav let his voice trail off.
“ I couldn't think of any other place to take her to, “ Branslav still tap danced around the answer. He knew Robert wasn't going to approve of his dining choice.
Robert growled, “ You didn't take her where I think you took her did you? “
“ I couldn't think of anywhere else. I didn't want to waste time so I just took her to Lucky's, “ Branslav said quickly.
“ Please tell me I just didn't hear Lucky's, “ Robert tried to sound disappointed though he already knew the answer.
“ You did, “ Branslav said sharply. “ I told you why too. “
" And was the pimp there? " Robert picked at his French fries.
" Yes but that doesn't have anything to do with it, " Branslav answered. " I ignored him like I always do. "
" So how was dinner? " Robert asked.
" I already told you, " Branslav sighed. " It was a disaster. "
Robert sighed, “ Okay then. So how did it go after you got out of Lucky's? “
“ I took her home, “ Branslav said. “ She fell asleep in the car after she put the address in the GPS. “
“ Okay, “ Robert said. “ There had to be more than Lucky's to make you think she doesn't like you. “
Branslav grumbled, “ I don't know what it was. “
“ Just tell me what happened when you took her home, “ Robert said.
“ I asked her if I see her house, “ Branslav said.
“ You asked her if you could go in on the first date? “ Robert arched an eyebrow. Betty hadn't told him that.
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah. She's been in my house. “
“ She was in your house because she passed out of your front porch. I don't think you would have left her there, “ Robert reminded him.
“ What about when she spent the night then? “ Branslav said.
Robert growled, “ What? Did you think she was going to sleep in the car? “
“ No, “ Branslav muttered. “ And you got to go in. “
“ We weren't on a date. Did you think I was going to sit out in the car while she got changed? “ Robert countered.
“ Well you still got to go in, “ Branslav said.
“ So did she let you in? “ Robert asked. Betty had only told him that Branslav had walked her to the door so he figured Branslav would tell him 'no'.
“ After I told her that it was only fair I got to see her house since she had seen mine, “ Branslav said.
Robert furrowed his brow, “ She actually let you in? “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav said.
Robert shut his eyes. He had noted Betty had answered a little too quickly when he had asked and knew why, “ Branslav. “
“ What? “ He replied.
Robert shook his head, “ Never mind. So you got to go inside. What happened then? “
“ She showed me around the house. Her place is tiny, “ Branslav said. “ I stayed close to her and she acted all weird like she didn't want me close to her. “
“ How close? “ Robert asked then took a drink of his tea.
“ I tried to keep as close as I could and she kept stepping away, “ Branslav said.
Robert set his glass down, “ Branslav... “
“ Her house is tiny, “ Branslav repeated. “ I had to stay close. “
Robert rolled his eyes as he recalled how had tried to keep as much distance between Betty and himself. Except for the times she had let him into her space, he had kept at least three feet between them. “ I managed to keep space between us. So what else happened? “
“ I wanted to let her know it was okay so I put my hand on her arm but she still pulled away, “ Branslav said. “ I've never had a girl act like that towards me. My other girlfriends like that stuff. “
Robert covered his eyes with his hand. Branslav thought of himself as quite the ladies man and usually dated girls that were of the easy sort. He often saw several girls at the same time as well. Their adoration had given him an inflated sense of himself.
“ Not all girls like that stuff though, “ Robert sighed. “ How many times did you put your hand on her? “
“ A couple, “ Branslav said then thought about it. “ A few. She kept shaking it off though. “
“ I could see how that could have made her uncomfortable with you, “ Robert said. He picked up his glass if tea to take another drink. “ What else happened? “ He asked then put the glass to his lips.
“ After she showed me the kitchen and the living room, I asked if I could see her bedroom, “ Branslav said. He decided not to say anything about touching her again. In hindsight, he realized it wasn't his smartest move after she had kept shrugging him off.
Robert nearly dropped his glass, “ Tell me you didn't. “
“ I was curious to see where she slept. Didn't you get to see it? “ Branslav asked.
Robert shut his eyes and covered them. He had gotten to see the bedroom and so much more besides. He recalled how he had watched Betty after she had gotten out of the shower. He forced his eyes open before his imagination really got away with him, “ No. “
“ No? “ Branslav asked.
“ No. I parked my ass on the couch and didn't move, “ Robert scratched the side of his neck.
“ Really? “ Branslav was surprised.
“ Really, “ Robert replied.
“ What were you two doing while I was at practice anyway? You two were acting a little strange at lunch. “
Robert leaned on the table a little, “ How were we acting weird? “
“ The way you were flirting. She was paying more attention to you than she was to me, “ Branslav pointed out.
“ First off, you could have spoke up any time instead of pouting like you were and second, we were just playing around. It's called having fun, “ Robert responded.
Branslav growled, “ So I guess I've messed up huh? “
“ Not so bad you can't fix it. Unless she said she never wants to see you again then yeah, I'd say you messed up, “ Robert said.
“ What do I need to do to make this right then? “ Branslav asked. “ What do I do if she comes to the game on Friday like she told me she would? “
“ Apologize your ass off, “ Robert said. “ Look, I know you feel like you fell for her at first sight but the reality is you're going to have to earn a place in her heart. I don't know if you noticed but she's not an extrovert like those girls you're used to. “
“ I'm slowly realizing that yes, “ Branslav sighed. “ I thought she'd be... “
“ You thought she'd be what? “ Robert asked.
“ I thought she'd be different, “ Branslav shut his eyes. “ I assumed she'd be like those girls in her stories. “
“ Never assume things, Branslav. When you assume, “ Robert said.
“ Yeah yeah. You make an ass out of you and me, “ Branslav sighed. He opened his eyes and arched an eyebrow, “ I get that one right? “
“ For once, “ Robert smiled.
“ So what do I do? Beside apologize my ass off, “ Branslav said. “ How to I bring back that chemistry we had back at the banquet? “
Robert thought about it. He wasn't sure if he wanted to tell Branslav how to get Betty to like him. He tried to tell himself he'd be happy if they did hit it off but he was doubting it. After the way Branslav had behaved, he wasn't going to be surprised if Betty pushed him away completely.
He sighed, “ You need to find something to bond over. “
“ Bond? How do you mean? “ Branslav arched an eyebrow.
Robert rolled his eyes, “ Jeez. You're a dense one. “
“ Just tell me! “ Branslav said sharply.
“ Okay. We've bonded, “ Robert said. “ You know, hanging out and doing stuff together. “
“ Oh. I know what you mean now, “ Branslav said. “ How should I do that? “
Robert shook his head, “ You hopeless git. Find something she likes to do and do it with her. “
“ I don't know what she likes, “ Branslav said.
“ Oh come on. She had to of mentioned something while you were together, “ Robert said.
Branslav shook his head, “ She hardly said anything. She was really quiet. “
“ Think damn it, “ Robert started to get frustrated. He knew Betty hadn't been completely silent. She had talked about a lot of things at the steakhouse.
Branslav thought for a long moment then recalled something. “ She said she likes to cook and she'd teach me some time. “
“ No, “ Robert said sharply. “ Remember what happened when I tried to teach you how to cook? “
Branslav noticed the bus was slowing down and he looked out the window to find they had arrived at the arena. “ Yeah. Look, I hate to do this to you but I got to run. We're at the arena. “
“ Okay, sure. But figure something else out to do with her, “ Robert said hurriedly.
“ Yeah, yeah. I will. Later, “ Branslav said then hung up.
Robert shook his head and snapped his phone closed. “ Hopeless as ever, “ He muttered as he looked at his hamburger and fries. He had thought about eating but decided he didn't feel like it. He had barely eaten anything since leaving Reno but he hadn't been hungry, the things on his mind killing his appetite.
The waitress walked up, “ Is there something wrong with your food sir? “
Robert shook his head but didn't look at her. “ Nah. I'm just not hungry. Could you just bag it up so I can take it home? “
“ Sure, “ The waitress took the plate. “ I'll bring you your check when I bring it back. “
“ Thanks, “ Robert said. Once she was gone, he leaned over the table a little and thought about Alex. He shut his eyes, trying not to cry again as he thought of the sweet little child. To think of him as anything else but his son was surreal.
He took a few deep breaths to get himself together as the waitress came back. She gave him his doggy bag and his check, “ Here you go sir. “
“ Thanks, “ He muttered without opening his eyes. After she walked away, he opened them slowly. He got his wallet out and took out a twenty dollar bill, not really caring about getting the change. He left it with the check and took the doggy bag before standing up.
He walked out to his car, unlocking the door and getting inside, putting his phone in the cup holder. He set the doggy bag on the passenger seat before buckling his seatbelt. He started the car and backed out of the parking space, heading for the out side of the lot. He thought about the hospital again but it wasn't to see Alex.
He wanted to see if Pauline was still there. He headed back, scanning the parking lot for her burgundy SUV once he got there. It was unique because of some pinstripe detailing she had gotten on the back doors. He saw it, deciding to head for his house.
He drove to his neighborhood, pulling the car into the drive. He looked around as he headed for the front door. He got his key out and it slid into the lock, turning it. He pushed open the door, looking over his shoulder when he heard a car to make sure Pauline wasn't pulling up.
Robert then walked into the house, two things on his mind. He wanted to get his clothes from the closet and dresser first then leave Alex his presents he had gotten for him. The child liked die cast toy race cars so Robert always got him two, one for Alex and one for Roger, his teddy bear. He went to Alex's room first, setting the two cars on his bedside table.
Robert turned to leave, trying his best not to look at the child's room. He knew he'd break down and cry again if he did. He then headed for the master bedroom. He walked in, going to the closet.
He open the doors and started pulling his clothes from the rack, laying them on the bed. He then went to the dresser, emptying all of his drawers. He got out his other two suitcases, jamming everything he could into them. Once he had everything packed, he hefted them to the stairs.
He kicked them down the steps, following them down as he heard a car pull up. He panicked a bit, wondering who it was. He crept up to the door and looked out the peephole to see it was a white van with 'locksmith' painted on the side in huge black letters.
He let out a sigh of relief, waiting as the driver came to the door. He let the scruffy looking dark haired guy ring the bell and he opened the door. The guy looked Robert over warily, “ Uh hi. We're here to change the locks. “
“ Great, “ Robert smiled. “ I was just on my way out. Why don't you get to work and I'll be back later. “
The guy nodded, “ Uh sure. Go ahead. “
Robert grabbed the suitcases, carrying them out to the convertible. He popped the trunk, putting the bags inside. He slammed the trunk closed then he got in the car, starting it before pulling out of the driveway. He was about halfway to Jakob's apartment when his cell phone rang.
He picked it up from the cup holder. He quirked his mouth when he saw the picture for the caller ID. He answered, “ Yes? “
“ Well finally. I've been trying to get a hold of you all afternoon. I thought you had call waiting, “ Pauline said.
“ I turned it off, “ Robert said sharply. “ What do you want? “
“ I want to know what you're trying to pull, “ Pauline said. " What are these papers you gave me? "
“ Test results dear, “ Robert replied. “ It's why my blood type doesn't match his. Alex isn't my child. “
“ This looks like it could have been printed up down at the office supply store, “ Pauline said.
“ Well it wasn't. Call the number at the top if you don't believe me, “ Robert said. “ What do you care anyway? It looks like you've already found yourself a playmate. “
" Robert! You're jumping to conclusions! " Pauline shouted. " If you would have asked, I would have told you. He's a friend of mine that volunteered to give blood for Alex. "
Robert scoffed, " Oh really now? How do you know him? "
Pauline snorted, " His daughter is in play group with Alex. "
Robert sneered at Pauline's lame excuse. He might have believed it if he hadn't overheard their conversation as he walked in. " So is that why he tried to kiss you? "
Pauline sputtered, " What? "
" What? You don't think I saw that? " Robert asked. " Honey, I was standing in the doorway for a few minutes before you knew I was there. I heard you telling him to come over while I was gone. You can't talk your way out if it. "
“ Hypocrite, “ Pauline said. “ You found someone else so why can't I have someone else? “
“ Damn it woman! Would you get off it? I've been true to you for the five and a half years we've been married whether you want to believe it or not. I've suffered two years being completely and totally celibate because you didn't want me and you have the nerve to accuse me of cheating on you, “ Robert growled.
Pauline scoffed, “ Yeah right. “
“ Don't you 'yeah right' me. At least I didn't show up to my son's surgery with another woman. What did you tell Alex when he showed up? “ Robert shouted.
“ Richard showed up after Alex went into surgery thank you, “ Pauline shouted back.
“ It's doesn't make any difference. I told you I was coming, “ Robert said.
“ Then why weren't you there like you were supposed to be for check in? “ Pauline asked.
“ Because I was picking up the test results and trying to get myself calmed down enough to face you, “ Robert said. “ You already made up your mind I wasn't coming back otherwise you wouldn't have called a locksmith. “
“ Locksmith? I didn't call a locksmith, “ Pauline sounded surprised.
“ They were at the house when I drove by earlier, “ Robert said.
“ I didn't call a damn locksmith, “ Pauline said.
Robert couldn't help but let out a chuckle, “ Oh shit. Then who was that at the house? “ He taunted Pauline.
“ I have to call the police now, “ Pauline said. " We're probably getting robbed. "
Robert listened as she hung up, rather pleased with himself. There was nothing in the house Robert really cared about anyway. Most of the stuff, outside of his clothes and a few DVDs, belonged to Pauline. He had very few possessions, all of which he could replace with little effort.
He finally reached Jakob's apartment complex, pulling into a space next to Jakob's pick-up truck. He got out, popping the trunk so he could get his clothes. Once he had gotten the bags out, he went to the apartment. He set the bags down again to get out his key, unlocking the door before opening it and heading inside after picking the bags up again.
“ Yo, “ Jakob waved from the other couch. He had two in his tiny living room, the one that folded out and the other, which didn't and was the one he was sitting on. He arched an eyebrow, “ Going somewhere? “
“ No, “ Robert said as he kicked the door shut. “ These are the rest of my clothes from home. “
Jakob furrowed his brow, “ That doesn't bode well does it? “
“ Nope, “ Robert hefted the bags behind the empty couch. “ Looks like it's going to be an extended stay. “
Jakob shrugged, “ Oh well. Want a beer? “
“ Sure, “ Robert said. “ I could use one. “
“ We can get you something to put your clothes in later. I'm sure we can get you a cheap dresser somewhere, “ Jakob got up and went to the kitchen. " Like that thrift store down the street. They always have nice stuff. "
“ I'm going to look for a place once we get back from the road trip so don't think I'm going to camp out here forever, “ Robert said. “ I just needed more clothes. “
“ You're coming along? “ Jakob asked as he got the beer out of the fridge.
“ Of course, “ Robert started untying the bag. “ I'm just injured. I have to come along. “
“ Oh, “ Jakob came out of the kitchen and offered the beer to Robert. “ That's right. So is Melissa coming to the game we're playing in Reno next Saturday? “
Robert took the beer, “ No. She's going to be on a signing tour. “
“ Aw man, “ Jakob sighed. “ I was looking forward to seeing her again too. “
“ So was I, “ Robert nodded. “ So was I. “
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav watched at the city limit sign for Boise City passed the bus. He had he thought about his date with Betty repeatedly, trying to figure out what he had done so wrong. Daniel was sitting next to him, playing a hand held video game. He muttered a cuss word periodically, letting Branslav know the game wasn't going well.
He sighed, bringing his hand up to draw in the moisture his breath left on the window when his cell phone rang. Branslav reached into his jacket and got it, Daniel noticing the movement in his side vision. He pulled one of his earphones out of his ear, “ Is it a girl? “ He asked as he looked at the caller ID.
Branslav turned the phone so only he could see it, “ No. It's Robert. “
“ Robert? What's he calling you for? “ Daniel arched an eyebrow.
Branslav shrugged as he flipped his phone open and answered, “ Hey. What's up? “
“ Hey buddy, “ Robert said. “ Just checking in. How are things? “
Branslav glared at Daniel, the younger man getting the message. “ Damn it. Why have I always got to be the one that has to move? “
“ Because I'm on the window side, that's why. Now, go. “
“ Damn it, “ Daniel got up and sat down three rows away where there was an empty seat. He put his earphone back in his ear and went back to playing his video game.
“ So are you alone now? “ Robert asked after hearing the exchange.
“ As alone as I can get on a bus with fifteen people, “ Branslav replied.
“ So I guess since you made your Siamese twin detach, you want to talk to me in private? “ Robert inquired.
“ You could say that. I need some help here, “ Branslav sighed. “ Things didn't go well Friday and I don't know what I did wrong. I don't think Betty likes me at all. “
“ It was just one date, “ Robert said calmly. “ Just tell me what happened so you can fix it next time. “
“ If there is a next time, “ Branslav scoffed. “ It was terrible. I took her to dinner and she acted like she wanted to leave the entire time. I don't even think she was listening to me when I talked. “
“ Where did you take her to eat? “ Robert asked though he knew. He had finished with the lawyer and was sitting in a diner not far from Jakob's apartment complex. He had ordered food but hadn't touched it because he didn't feel hungry.
Branslav ran a hand through his hair, “ Uh. It was really late and not many places were open so I took her to... “
“ You took her where? “ Robert prodded when Branslav let his voice trail off.
“ I couldn't think of any other place to take her to, “ Branslav still tap danced around the answer. He knew Robert wasn't going to approve of his dining choice.
Robert growled, “ You didn't take her where I think you took her did you? “
“ I couldn't think of anywhere else. I didn't want to waste time so I just took her to Lucky's, “ Branslav said quickly.
“ Please tell me I just didn't hear Lucky's, “ Robert tried to sound disappointed though he already knew the answer.
“ You did, “ Branslav said sharply. “ I told you why too. “
" And was the pimp there? " Robert picked at his French fries.
" Yes but that doesn't have anything to do with it, " Branslav answered. " I ignored him like I always do. "
" So how was dinner? " Robert asked.
" I already told you, " Branslav sighed. " It was a disaster. "
Robert sighed, “ Okay then. So how did it go after you got out of Lucky's? “
“ I took her home, “ Branslav said. “ She fell asleep in the car after she put the address in the GPS. “
“ Okay, “ Robert said. “ There had to be more than Lucky's to make you think she doesn't like you. “
Branslav grumbled, “ I don't know what it was. “
“ Just tell me what happened when you took her home, “ Robert said.
“ I asked her if I see her house, “ Branslav said.
“ You asked her if you could go in on the first date? “ Robert arched an eyebrow. Betty hadn't told him that.
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah. She's been in my house. “
“ She was in your house because she passed out of your front porch. I don't think you would have left her there, “ Robert reminded him.
“ What about when she spent the night then? “ Branslav said.
Robert growled, “ What? Did you think she was going to sleep in the car? “
“ No, “ Branslav muttered. “ And you got to go in. “
“ We weren't on a date. Did you think I was going to sit out in the car while she got changed? “ Robert countered.
“ Well you still got to go in, “ Branslav said.
“ So did she let you in? “ Robert asked. Betty had only told him that Branslav had walked her to the door so he figured Branslav would tell him 'no'.
“ After I told her that it was only fair I got to see her house since she had seen mine, “ Branslav said.
Robert furrowed his brow, “ She actually let you in? “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav said.
Robert shut his eyes. He had noted Betty had answered a little too quickly when he had asked and knew why, “ Branslav. “
“ What? “ He replied.
Robert shook his head, “ Never mind. So you got to go inside. What happened then? “
“ She showed me around the house. Her place is tiny, “ Branslav said. “ I stayed close to her and she acted all weird like she didn't want me close to her. “
“ How close? “ Robert asked then took a drink of his tea.
“ I tried to keep as close as I could and she kept stepping away, “ Branslav said.
Robert set his glass down, “ Branslav... “
“ Her house is tiny, “ Branslav repeated. “ I had to stay close. “
Robert rolled his eyes as he recalled how had tried to keep as much distance between Betty and himself. Except for the times she had let him into her space, he had kept at least three feet between them. “ I managed to keep space between us. So what else happened? “
“ I wanted to let her know it was okay so I put my hand on her arm but she still pulled away, “ Branslav said. “ I've never had a girl act like that towards me. My other girlfriends like that stuff. “
Robert covered his eyes with his hand. Branslav thought of himself as quite the ladies man and usually dated girls that were of the easy sort. He often saw several girls at the same time as well. Their adoration had given him an inflated sense of himself.
“ Not all girls like that stuff though, “ Robert sighed. “ How many times did you put your hand on her? “
“ A couple, “ Branslav said then thought about it. “ A few. She kept shaking it off though. “
“ I could see how that could have made her uncomfortable with you, “ Robert said. He picked up his glass if tea to take another drink. “ What else happened? “ He asked then put the glass to his lips.
“ After she showed me the kitchen and the living room, I asked if I could see her bedroom, “ Branslav said. He decided not to say anything about touching her again. In hindsight, he realized it wasn't his smartest move after she had kept shrugging him off.
Robert nearly dropped his glass, “ Tell me you didn't. “
“ I was curious to see where she slept. Didn't you get to see it? “ Branslav asked.
Robert shut his eyes and covered them. He had gotten to see the bedroom and so much more besides. He recalled how he had watched Betty after she had gotten out of the shower. He forced his eyes open before his imagination really got away with him, “ No. “
“ No? “ Branslav asked.
“ No. I parked my ass on the couch and didn't move, “ Robert scratched the side of his neck.
“ Really? “ Branslav was surprised.
“ Really, “ Robert replied.
“ What were you two doing while I was at practice anyway? You two were acting a little strange at lunch. “
Robert leaned on the table a little, “ How were we acting weird? “
“ The way you were flirting. She was paying more attention to you than she was to me, “ Branslav pointed out.
“ First off, you could have spoke up any time instead of pouting like you were and second, we were just playing around. It's called having fun, “ Robert responded.
Branslav growled, “ So I guess I've messed up huh? “
“ Not so bad you can't fix it. Unless she said she never wants to see you again then yeah, I'd say you messed up, “ Robert said.
“ What do I need to do to make this right then? “ Branslav asked. “ What do I do if she comes to the game on Friday like she told me she would? “
“ Apologize your ass off, “ Robert said. “ Look, I know you feel like you fell for her at first sight but the reality is you're going to have to earn a place in her heart. I don't know if you noticed but she's not an extrovert like those girls you're used to. “
“ I'm slowly realizing that yes, “ Branslav sighed. “ I thought she'd be... “
“ You thought she'd be what? “ Robert asked.
“ I thought she'd be different, “ Branslav shut his eyes. “ I assumed she'd be like those girls in her stories. “
“ Never assume things, Branslav. When you assume, “ Robert said.
“ Yeah yeah. You make an ass out of you and me, “ Branslav sighed. He opened his eyes and arched an eyebrow, “ I get that one right? “
“ For once, “ Robert smiled.
“ So what do I do? Beside apologize my ass off, “ Branslav said. “ How to I bring back that chemistry we had back at the banquet? “
Robert thought about it. He wasn't sure if he wanted to tell Branslav how to get Betty to like him. He tried to tell himself he'd be happy if they did hit it off but he was doubting it. After the way Branslav had behaved, he wasn't going to be surprised if Betty pushed him away completely.
He sighed, “ You need to find something to bond over. “
“ Bond? How do you mean? “ Branslav arched an eyebrow.
Robert rolled his eyes, “ Jeez. You're a dense one. “
“ Just tell me! “ Branslav said sharply.
“ Okay. We've bonded, “ Robert said. “ You know, hanging out and doing stuff together. “
“ Oh. I know what you mean now, “ Branslav said. “ How should I do that? “
Robert shook his head, “ You hopeless git. Find something she likes to do and do it with her. “
“ I don't know what she likes, “ Branslav said.
“ Oh come on. She had to of mentioned something while you were together, “ Robert said.
Branslav shook his head, “ She hardly said anything. She was really quiet. “
“ Think damn it, “ Robert started to get frustrated. He knew Betty hadn't been completely silent. She had talked about a lot of things at the steakhouse.
Branslav thought for a long moment then recalled something. “ She said she likes to cook and she'd teach me some time. “
“ No, “ Robert said sharply. “ Remember what happened when I tried to teach you how to cook? “
Branslav noticed the bus was slowing down and he looked out the window to find they had arrived at the arena. “ Yeah. Look, I hate to do this to you but I got to run. We're at the arena. “
“ Okay, sure. But figure something else out to do with her, “ Robert said hurriedly.
“ Yeah, yeah. I will. Later, “ Branslav said then hung up.
Robert shook his head and snapped his phone closed. “ Hopeless as ever, “ He muttered as he looked at his hamburger and fries. He had thought about eating but decided he didn't feel like it. He had barely eaten anything since leaving Reno but he hadn't been hungry, the things on his mind killing his appetite.
The waitress walked up, “ Is there something wrong with your food sir? “
Robert shook his head but didn't look at her. “ Nah. I'm just not hungry. Could you just bag it up so I can take it home? “
“ Sure, “ The waitress took the plate. “ I'll bring you your check when I bring it back. “
“ Thanks, “ Robert said. Once she was gone, he leaned over the table a little and thought about Alex. He shut his eyes, trying not to cry again as he thought of the sweet little child. To think of him as anything else but his son was surreal.
He took a few deep breaths to get himself together as the waitress came back. She gave him his doggy bag and his check, “ Here you go sir. “
“ Thanks, “ He muttered without opening his eyes. After she walked away, he opened them slowly. He got his wallet out and took out a twenty dollar bill, not really caring about getting the change. He left it with the check and took the doggy bag before standing up.
He walked out to his car, unlocking the door and getting inside, putting his phone in the cup holder. He set the doggy bag on the passenger seat before buckling his seatbelt. He started the car and backed out of the parking space, heading for the out side of the lot. He thought about the hospital again but it wasn't to see Alex.
He wanted to see if Pauline was still there. He headed back, scanning the parking lot for her burgundy SUV once he got there. It was unique because of some pinstripe detailing she had gotten on the back doors. He saw it, deciding to head for his house.
He drove to his neighborhood, pulling the car into the drive. He looked around as he headed for the front door. He got his key out and it slid into the lock, turning it. He pushed open the door, looking over his shoulder when he heard a car to make sure Pauline wasn't pulling up.
Robert then walked into the house, two things on his mind. He wanted to get his clothes from the closet and dresser first then leave Alex his presents he had gotten for him. The child liked die cast toy race cars so Robert always got him two, one for Alex and one for Roger, his teddy bear. He went to Alex's room first, setting the two cars on his bedside table.
Robert turned to leave, trying his best not to look at the child's room. He knew he'd break down and cry again if he did. He then headed for the master bedroom. He walked in, going to the closet.
He open the doors and started pulling his clothes from the rack, laying them on the bed. He then went to the dresser, emptying all of his drawers. He got out his other two suitcases, jamming everything he could into them. Once he had everything packed, he hefted them to the stairs.
He kicked them down the steps, following them down as he heard a car pull up. He panicked a bit, wondering who it was. He crept up to the door and looked out the peephole to see it was a white van with 'locksmith' painted on the side in huge black letters.
He let out a sigh of relief, waiting as the driver came to the door. He let the scruffy looking dark haired guy ring the bell and he opened the door. The guy looked Robert over warily, “ Uh hi. We're here to change the locks. “
“ Great, “ Robert smiled. “ I was just on my way out. Why don't you get to work and I'll be back later. “
The guy nodded, “ Uh sure. Go ahead. “
Robert grabbed the suitcases, carrying them out to the convertible. He popped the trunk, putting the bags inside. He slammed the trunk closed then he got in the car, starting it before pulling out of the driveway. He was about halfway to Jakob's apartment when his cell phone rang.
He picked it up from the cup holder. He quirked his mouth when he saw the picture for the caller ID. He answered, “ Yes? “
“ Well finally. I've been trying to get a hold of you all afternoon. I thought you had call waiting, “ Pauline said.
“ I turned it off, “ Robert said sharply. “ What do you want? “
“ I want to know what you're trying to pull, “ Pauline said. " What are these papers you gave me? "
“ Test results dear, “ Robert replied. “ It's why my blood type doesn't match his. Alex isn't my child. “
“ This looks like it could have been printed up down at the office supply store, “ Pauline said.
“ Well it wasn't. Call the number at the top if you don't believe me, “ Robert said. “ What do you care anyway? It looks like you've already found yourself a playmate. “
" Robert! You're jumping to conclusions! " Pauline shouted. " If you would have asked, I would have told you. He's a friend of mine that volunteered to give blood for Alex. "
Robert scoffed, " Oh really now? How do you know him? "
Pauline snorted, " His daughter is in play group with Alex. "
Robert sneered at Pauline's lame excuse. He might have believed it if he hadn't overheard their conversation as he walked in. " So is that why he tried to kiss you? "
Pauline sputtered, " What? "
" What? You don't think I saw that? " Robert asked. " Honey, I was standing in the doorway for a few minutes before you knew I was there. I heard you telling him to come over while I was gone. You can't talk your way out if it. "
“ Hypocrite, “ Pauline said. “ You found someone else so why can't I have someone else? “
“ Damn it woman! Would you get off it? I've been true to you for the five and a half years we've been married whether you want to believe it or not. I've suffered two years being completely and totally celibate because you didn't want me and you have the nerve to accuse me of cheating on you, “ Robert growled.
Pauline scoffed, “ Yeah right. “
“ Don't you 'yeah right' me. At least I didn't show up to my son's surgery with another woman. What did you tell Alex when he showed up? “ Robert shouted.
“ Richard showed up after Alex went into surgery thank you, “ Pauline shouted back.
“ It's doesn't make any difference. I told you I was coming, “ Robert said.
“ Then why weren't you there like you were supposed to be for check in? “ Pauline asked.
“ Because I was picking up the test results and trying to get myself calmed down enough to face you, “ Robert said. “ You already made up your mind I wasn't coming back otherwise you wouldn't have called a locksmith. “
“ Locksmith? I didn't call a locksmith, “ Pauline sounded surprised.
“ They were at the house when I drove by earlier, “ Robert said.
“ I didn't call a damn locksmith, “ Pauline said.
Robert couldn't help but let out a chuckle, “ Oh shit. Then who was that at the house? “ He taunted Pauline.
“ I have to call the police now, “ Pauline said. " We're probably getting robbed. "
Robert listened as she hung up, rather pleased with himself. There was nothing in the house Robert really cared about anyway. Most of the stuff, outside of his clothes and a few DVDs, belonged to Pauline. He had very few possessions, all of which he could replace with little effort.
He finally reached Jakob's apartment complex, pulling into a space next to Jakob's pick-up truck. He got out, popping the trunk so he could get his clothes. Once he had gotten the bags out, he went to the apartment. He set the bags down again to get out his key, unlocking the door before opening it and heading inside after picking the bags up again.
“ Yo, “ Jakob waved from the other couch. He had two in his tiny living room, the one that folded out and the other, which didn't and was the one he was sitting on. He arched an eyebrow, “ Going somewhere? “
“ No, “ Robert said as he kicked the door shut. “ These are the rest of my clothes from home. “
Jakob furrowed his brow, “ That doesn't bode well does it? “
“ Nope, “ Robert hefted the bags behind the empty couch. “ Looks like it's going to be an extended stay. “
Jakob shrugged, “ Oh well. Want a beer? “
“ Sure, “ Robert said. “ I could use one. “
“ We can get you something to put your clothes in later. I'm sure we can get you a cheap dresser somewhere, “ Jakob got up and went to the kitchen. " Like that thrift store down the street. They always have nice stuff. "
“ I'm going to look for a place once we get back from the road trip so don't think I'm going to camp out here forever, “ Robert said. “ I just needed more clothes. “
“ You're coming along? “ Jakob asked as he got the beer out of the fridge.
“ Of course, “ Robert started untying the bag. “ I'm just injured. I have to come along. “
“ Oh, “ Jakob came out of the kitchen and offered the beer to Robert. “ That's right. So is Melissa coming to the game we're playing in Reno next Saturday? “
Robert took the beer, “ No. She's going to be on a signing tour. “
“ Aw man, “ Jakob sighed. “ I was looking forward to seeing her again too. “
“ So was I, “ Robert nodded. “ So was I. “