Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Fourteen ( Chapter 14 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Betty goes to see Branslav play on her own.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.30.2009 | Pages: 18 | Words: 7.4K | Visits: 191 | Status: Completed
Betty goes to see Branslav play on her own.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 04.30.2009 | Pages: 18 | Words: 7.4K | Visits: 191 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Fourteen
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav watched the arena from the tunnel. He had rushed to get dressed so he could stand in there and watch as the people came in to watch the game. “ You're supposed to be in the locker room Branslav, “ A voice from behind startled him.
He turned and looked down, finding his tiny stepsister standing there. Lotte Korbel stood five foot even though she wore high heels to make her a few inches taller. She had on a steel gray suit, the fabric looking stiff and unyielding, much like she was. Her platinum blonde hair was cut in a no nonsense bob, each hair perfectly in place.
Her expression was stern as she looked up her stepbrother, her pretty face concealing her true nature. She glared at him with her piercing ice blue eyes, “ Why are you out here anyway? “
“ I'm looking for someone, “ Branslav returned her critical glare.
“ Someone eh? “ Lotte arched an eyebrow. “ Is it a girl? “
Branslav shrugged, “ It could be. “
“ Well if she's coming she'll still be there for the warm up. Coach Sweet is looking for you, “ Lotte grabbed his arm. She was much stronger than she looked and could drag Branslav where ever she wanted when she had the notion to.
“ Tell him I'll be there in a minute, “ Branslav shook her off and turned to look towards the court again. His heart jumped in his throat when he saw Betty come into the arena then stop. She was looking at her ticket but seemed confused.
She wore a black leather swing coat, a dark blue crushed velvet sweater and black jeans. Branslav took a step to go out to greet her but Lotte grabbed his arm again. “ Come on I said, “ Lotte growled. “ Coach Sweet is waiting on you. “
Branslav turned to face Lotte and sighed, “ Oh alright. I'll just catch my friend later. “
Lotte looked towards the court, “ So she's here? “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav said. He didn't get a chance to see where Betty was sitting because Lotte had distracted him before he could see where she had walked to.
“ Where is she? “ Lotte asked as she put her hand on Branslav again but he shrugged her hand off. As he walked away, she said sharply “ You come back here and tell me who she is this instant! “
Branslav ignored her and walked into the locker room...
**
Betty walked into the arena, looking at her ticket. She couldn't figure out where her seat was so she looked for someone that could help her. She spotted a blonde haired guy that was about six foot tall and he was wearing a black shirt that said 'Usher' on it. She walked over to him, “ Excuse me? “
“ Yes ma'am, “ The man turned around and looked up at her, his blue eyes showing a bit of surprise. He looked her over for a moment then said, “ Can I help you? “
Betty nodded, “ I can't find my seat. “
“ Let me see, “ The blonde haired usher took the ticket and smiled. “ Oh wow. You got a good ticket. This is over there by the Supernovas locker room. It's two rows behind the basket on that side of the court. “
Betty frowned, knowing Martin would see her if she were that close. “ I see. “
“ Is there anything else? “ The man asked.
“ No. I'm good, “ Betty said and headed for her seat. She glanced around nervously, hoping Martin wasn't going to pop up from out of nowhere. She reached the seat and sat down, still looking around.
She had been in the seat for maybe two minutes when her cell phone started ring. She pulled it out of her coat pocket, finding it was Robert. “ Hey there, “ She said when she answered.
“ Hey yourself. You haven't called me so I thought I'd check up on you, “ Robert said.
“ I didn't know if it was okay to call you so I didn't. I figured you'd be busy, “ Betty said.
“ I'm never too busy for you, “ Robert cut her off. “ It's a two way street, baby. You make time for me so I can make time for you. I'm not that selfish. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. When she thought about it, it made sense. “ Okay. “
“ So where are you? “ Robert asked.
“ I'm at the arena, “ Betty said. “ I came to see Branslav play. “
“ Really? “ Robert was slightly surprised. “ After what happened last week I wasn't sure if you'd see him again. “
Betty sighed, “ I thought I'd give him another shot. After all, I usually don't make my mind up about anyone until I've known them at least for six weeks. “
“ Oh. I guess that's a good policy, “ Robert said. “ First impressions can sometimes be wrong. “
“ Exactly, “ Betty said. “ Maybe he was just nervous when he was doing that stuff. I know I was, “ Betty said. “ I think he had decided I was the way I wrote I guess. “
Robert knew part of that was true. Branslav had admitted that he felt she would be more like the characters in her stories. “ Yeah. Some times that happens, “ Robert said.
“ I guess I was a little guilty too. I was pushing him away because he was nothing like I thought he'd be either, “ Betty said.
“ What did you think he'd be like? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty thought about it then sighed, “ Oh I don't know. I guess I thought he'd be a gentleman since he was so kind at the banquet. “
Robert sighed, “ Yeah well he has a sense of fairness and you weren't being treated fairly so he stepped up. He can be a good guy when he wants to be. “
“ Oh, “ Betty sighed.
“ Let's change the subject, “ Robert offered. “ You're going to worry too much if we keep talking about Branslav. “
“ True. So where are you tonight? “ Betty asked what she was wondering.
“ I'm in Flagstaff, “ Robert replied. “ The guys were too loud in the locker room so I came out here to call you. “
“ So are you playing? “ Betty furrowed her brow. She didn't think Robert was healed up enough to. “ Aren't your hands still hurt? “
“ I'm not playing but I have to be with the team since I'm on the injured list. If I had gotten the leave of absence, I'd be at Jakob's watching TV in my boxers, “ Robert chuckled.
Betty took a sharp breath, thinking about how it would look. Since she had seen him in such a state, she had a good idea. “ It's better that you stay busy, “ She said as she tried to banish the image from her mind.
“ Yeah. It'll keep my mind off stuff, “ Robert said.
“ How are things going there anyway? “ Betty asked quietly.
Robert sighed, “ The court date is set for a week from today. Pauline refused to sign the papers and filed a petition of her own. Do you know she has the nerve to demand child support? “
“ How can she get that if Alex isn't yours? “ Betty asked.
“ She still thinks Alex is mine and I'm trying to pull something, “ Robert said. “ She wants another more extensive DNA test too. The judge will have to rule if that's necessary. My lawyer says he might because I took her sample without her permission. “
“ How did you get her sample if you didn't ask? “ Betty was perplexed.
“ I got Pauline's from her hairbrush, “ Robert said. “ Since she didn't agree to the test, she's demanding another one. “
“ Wasn't that one enough for her? “ Betty asked.
“ Nope. I think she's just trying to find a way to stall, “ Robert sighed.
“ Sounds like it, “ Betty scoffed. “ But doesn't she have someone else now? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. Like I said, I think she's just trying to stall. Maybe she thinks if she annoys me enough, I'll break down and give her what she wants. “
“ But you have no obligations to her since Alex isn't yours. Am I right? “ Betty said.
“ You're right. I don't, “ Robert said. “ It's too bad I can't sue her to give me back the last five and a half years of my life or I would. “
“ Well you're still young, “ Betty said. “ You can start over once you get her off your back. “
“ I intend to, “ Robert said. “ I started by taking her name off the bank account Wednesday. She's going to be pissed off when she finds out. “
“ I bet she'll be livid, “ Betty said.
“ Oh yeah. I can hear her now. Well, that is if I even pick up when I see it's her calling. I may just let her go to voice mail and delete the messages without listening to them, “ Robert said.
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ Nasty. “
“ She got nasty first so hey, “ Robert said and shrugged.
" True, " Betty nodded. " That's very true. "
There was a silence then Betty could hear some voices in the background. “ Hey. I got to run now, “ Robert said. “ The warm up is starting and I have to be out there. “
“ Okay, “ Betty said. “ Tell the other guys I say good luck for the game. “
“ Awww, “ Robert whined playfully. “ Don't I get a 'good luck' too? “
“ Of course you do, “ Betty giggled. “ Good luck for everything you have to do too. “
Robert chuckled, “ I'll need it. Later baby. “
" Later, " Betty smiled at being called 'baby' and listen as he hung up. She snapped her phone closed and sighed. She went to put her phone up when a hand fell on her shoulder, startling her. “ Oh my, “ She said and turned around in her seat. “ Hello. “
“ Hello, “ The woman behind her said. She was a short blonde with a bob haircut. She wore a stiff looking suit that was steel gray and she had piercing blue eyes.
“ Can I help you? “ Betty asked after she started feeling uncomfortable with the way the woman's stare seemed to bore into her.
The woman put out her delicate right hand, “ I am under the impression that you know my brother. “
“ Who's your brother? “ Betty scanned the woman's face but she couldn't see a resemblance to anyone she knew. She didn't look like Branslav or Daniel and she was relatively certain none of Robert's siblings even lived in America.
“ Branslav Korbel, “ The woman said. “ I am his sister, Lotte. “
“ Oh. Oh yeah, “ Betty took Lotte's hand and shook it. “ I'm sorry. It's just that I didn't know he had a sister. “
“ Oh, “ Lotte's handshake was limp and cold. “ That doesn't surprise me. He tends not to mention me. I'm also his manager. “
“ Really, “ Betty nodded. She noticed she was still staring at her pretty intently. “ Is there something wrong? “
“ Have I seen you somewhere before? “ Lotte cocked her head to the side. “ Have you been in a magazine? “
“ I was in Vivacious a couple of months ago and in several newspapers, “ Betty offered.
“ Vivacious eh? “ Lotte arched an eyebrow. “ As in the men's magazine that keeps the girls covered up enough to sell on regular newsstands? “
“ Yeah but I wasn't in lingerie or anything like that, “ Betty put her hand up. “ The closest thing I had on was a lace top that was lined and showed a little cleavage. “
Lotte nodded once, “ I see. “
“ And then the newspapers were for the reviews for my books, “ Betty said.
Lotte snapped her fingers, “ That's who you are. I knew it. You're that writer from here in town. Melissa French, correct? “
Betty nodded, “ Yes. “
“ My brother had his nose buried in your books all summer, “ Lotte said with a tone of derision “ I tried to read one but it disgusted me by the third chapter. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said as she tried to not to be offended. She knew it had to have been the murder mystery for it had been rather violent and bloody. “ I hope you put it down then. “
“ I did, “ Lotte said sharply. “ I tried to get my brother to do so as well but he refused. He said he liked them. “
“ Well yes. He wrote me to tell me how much he liked them, “ Betty said.
“ So I assume that is how you met then? Through a fan letter? “ Lotte arched an eyebrow.
Betty nodded, “ Yes. “
“ I see, “ Lotte nodded. “ Do you make it habit to meet your fans? “
“ Not really. My manager just forgot to edit my e-mail address out of my response. He was so nice I didn't want to fluff him off, “ Betty said. “ We talked a bit then he asked me to meet him. He assured me he was perfectly harmless so I agreed. “
“ Ah-ha, “ Lotte nodded once.
Betty nodded but said nothing. She thought of something then looked around. “ Say. Is Martin Richardson here tonight? “
“ No. He's away on business, “ Lotte said sharply. “ I'm his eyes and ears tonight. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ I was just wondering. “
Lotte frowned, “ Is there anything else you want to ask me? “
“ Not if you haven't got anything else to ask me, “ Betty replied.
“ I don't, “ Lotte said. She glared at Betty, “ Watch yourself. If I think you're bad for my brother, you WILL see me again. “
“ Yes ma'am, “ Betty said.
Lotte walked out of the row after that and headed back to the locker room. Betty felt like she could relax a bit since Martin wasn't around. She was just about to turn back to the court when she saw the Supernovas start to funnel out of the tunnel. They walked onto the court and went to a rack of basketballs.
Betty watched as they each got one and started dribbling and shooting. Branslav dribbled a bit but his eyes weren't on the ball. It looked like he was scanning the seats as he slowly wandered around the Supernovas half of the court. The opposing team was on the other half of the court warming up and he didn't walk to their side.
Daniel dribbled a bit then shot a basket, his eyes locking with Betty's as he retrieved the ball. He smiled and gave her a little wave. Betty waved back then waved him over. He looked puzzled but came over, “ Yes ma'am? “ He asked.
“ Could you tell Branslav I'm over here? “ Betty said. “ He looks like he's looking for something. “
“ Sure, “ Daniel said. “ I'll go get him. “
“ Thanks, “ Betty said. She watched Daniel trot away, hoping she hadn't made a mistake. She watched as Daniel went over to Branslav and told him where she was at, pointing her way. Branslav looked over and saw her.
She waved at him shyly and he gave her a quick wave in return. Branslav put the ball under his arm and walked slowly over to the baseline before walking over to the seat directly in front of Betty's. She stood up, “ Hey. “
“ Hey, “ Branslav replied. He put his right hand behind his neck and rubbed it for a second as he thought of something to say. He sighed, “ Um, I'm really sorry about last week. I wanted to it to turn out better. “
“ It's okay, “ Betty said. “ It was kind of awkward for me too. “
“ I was afraid I wouldn't see you again after the way I behaved, “ Branslav said. “ I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. “
“ The whole thing was kind of weird, “ Betty sighed. “ That's why I want to give it another go. I want to see if we can start over and get on the right foot this time. “
Branslav nodded, “ Okay. Can we get together next Tuesday? “
“ No, “ Betty sighed. “ I'll be out of town. I'm leaving for a two week road trip on Monday. “
“ That quick? “ Branslav was shocked.
“ It's been in the works for a while now, “ Betty said. “ I just picked up my plane tickets and my agenda before I got here. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. He looked like he got an idea and looked at her, “ What are you doing tomorrow? “
“ I'm packing for the trip but nothing after that, “ Betty said. “ Why? “
“ Maybe we could get together and do something tomorrow then? “ Branslav said.
Betty bit her lip as she thought about it. It was short notice but she wouldn't see him otherwise until she came back. “ I guess so. What do you have in mind? “
Branslav looked a little nervous then said, “ I want you to teach me how to cook. “
Betty thought about it then nodded, “ Sounds easy enough. I guess I could. “
“ Great, “ Branslav said. “ What should we cook? “
“ Let me think about it and I'll get back to you, “ Betty said.
“ I'll think about it too and come up with some ideas too, “ Branslav said.
Betty nodded, “ You do that. “
“ Branslav! Get back to warming up! “ A man had slipped up unnoticed. He didn't sound pleased that Branslav was talking to Betty instead of shooting baskets.
“ I just wanted to talk to her for one more minute, “ Branslav held up his right index finger.
“ No, The man said. “ You get out there. She'll be here after the game. “
Branslav sighed, “ Yes Coach. “
Branslav walked away, starting to dribble the ball again. Betty turned to see who was behind her, finding an average looking older man with red hair and green eyes that was a couple inches shorter than her standing there. He was in a dark blue suit, wearing a light blue and white striped tie that matched his light blue shirt. He smiled at her, “ Hello. “
“ Uh hi, “ Betty said.
“ I don't believe we've met formally, “ The man put his right hand out to her. “ I'm Fox Sweet. I'm the head coach. “
“ Oh, “ Betty shook his hand. “ I'm... “
“ Oh I know your name, “ Coach Sweet smirked. “ It's Betty. Betty Rogers-Skogan. Am I correct? “
“ Yes sir, “ Betty replied. She was a little surprised he knew her name. “ How do you know? “
Coach Sweet smiled, “ February my dear. February. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said as she let go of his hand. She realized he did look familiar but couldn't think of where until he said.
“ Martin sent me to find out your name from your manager at the hotel, “ Coach Sweet continued to smile.
Betty nodded, “ I see. “
Coach Sweet looked her over, “ You don't go to many basketball games, do you? “
Betty shook her head, “ No. It's just my third one in two weeks. “
“ You're a busy girl aren't you? “ Coach Sweet said. He furrowed his brow, “ Weren't you here with Robert Hughes last week? “
“ Yes, “ Betty said.
“ I see, “ Coach Sweet nodded once. He then looked towards Branslav, “ And you're here for him this week? “
“ No. I came on my own. I wanted to see another game, “ Betty replied.
“ If I remember correctly, you were supposed to come back to the locker room to see the team last week but you ran off before we could bring you in. Am I correct? “ Coach Sweet arched an eyebrow.
Betty nodded, “ Yes. “
“ Would you like to come in tonight and meet the team? After all, they are your hometown team, “ Coach Sweet said.
“ I guess I could, “ Betty said.
“ Good. I'll come get you after the game then. Don't move from this spot and I'll get you once the guys are dressed, “ Coach Sweet looked at his watch after he spoke. “ Oh look at the time. I have to get to the bench. “
“ Nice to meet you, “ Betty said. She shivered after he walked away, something about the way he had been looking her over giving her the creeps. It was like he was undressing her with his eyes. She sat back down and waited for tip-off...
**
" The Supernovas fell to the Carson City Civet Cats by ten points in overtime, the game being intense up until the extra five minutes when the visiting team went on a 10-0 run to come out on top of The Supernovas, " The commentator on the recap show said as Robert watched the television in the locker room.
The other guys weren't really paying attention. They were too busy getting their things together. Robert had left his things on the bus so he didn't have anything else to do except watch TV. Coach Hooker didn't want him lifting anything so he couldn't even help his friends carry their stuff or any equipment.
" Ouch, " He muttered. The camera switched to the Supernovas' arena where cleaning crews were starting to sweep up. A few people still lingered in the stands, one person looking rather familiar as the on-scene commentator droned on about the game. Robert got up and got out his cell phone, dialing Betty's number as he walked out of the locker room and headed for the bus.
Betty answered on the second ring, " Hey again. "
“ Hey yourself, “ Robert said. “ You looked pretty bored so I decided to call you. "
" Am I on TV again? " Betty asked.
" Yeah, " Robert nodded. " We won again. “
Betty nodded, “ So what's that make for you guys now? “
“ Let me see, “ Robert said. “ Firehawks, Supernovas, Civet Cats, Helena Hellcats and Firehawks again. It looks like five wins and no losses so far. “
“ Did you go to Helena or did they come to you? “ Betty asked.
“ They came to us, “ Robert got on the bus and went to the far back, his usual seat. “ That was Wednesday then we left for Flagstaff right after the game. “
“ When are you going back to Taos? “ Betty asked.
“ We're heading out as soon as we get everything packed up. Luckily, it's a relatively short drive, “ Robert sighed. “ It's eight hours. Sometimes we're on the bus for more than twenty. “
“ Ouch, “ Betty said. “ Where are you now? “
“ I'm on the bus. Coach doesn't want me touching anything so there's nothing else for me to do, “ Robert said.
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ Are you going to call me when you get home? “
“ Nah. It'll be late. I'll call you when I get up tomorrow afternoon. What are you doing then? “ Robert said.
“ Branslav asked me to teach him how to cook, “ Betty sighed.
Robert slapped his forehead. “ Please tell me he didn't. “
“ He did, “ Betty said. “ Why? “
“ He's terrible at it, “ Robert said.
“ He already told me he couldn't cook. A lot of guys aren't good at it so, “ Betty started.
“ Yeah but he's the worst, “ Robert cut her off. “ He got kicked out of his apartment complex for being a fire hazard. I was there. “
“ Really? “ Betty asked.
“ He cooks EVERYTHING on high, “ Robert said. “ He started a grease fire when we were cooking bacon the time I was trying to teach him how to cook. “
“ Oh my, “ Betty said.
“ Yeah. I had to get the fire extinguisher. He managed to catch his shirt on fire so I had to get him as well as the pan, “ Robert said.
“ Was he hurt badly? “ Betty sounded concerned.
“ No, I got him out before he could get badly burned. He had a first degree burn on his lower stomach. He thought the hair would never grow back down there, “ Robert said. “ When the landlord saw what had happened, he kicked Branslav out. Luckily, he was in the final stages of buying the house he's got now. He was just waiting on the family there to move out so he could move in. “
“ I bet that was scary, “ Betty said.
“ Scared us both shitless, “ Robert said. He chuckled then, “ I kind of laughed about it a little afterwards. When I was finished using the fire extinguisher on him, he looked like The Abominable Snowman. Branslav didn't like me laughing at him though. “
Betty laughed and snorted, “ Oh my. “
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. “ I couldn't help it though. He looked hilarious. “
“ Well then, “ Betty sighed. " I guess I'd better rethink my plans for what we're going to cook. "
“ If you do teach him to cook, have him cook something that won't burn easily and watch him like a hawk, “ Robert warned.
“ I'm thinking about having him bake something now, “ Betty said. “ Something with a lot of moisture that can still be saved if it gets over cooked a bit. “
“ Good game plan, “ Robert said. “ Do a casserole or lasagna. If the top gets dry, you can still eat the middle. “
Betty got quiet for a moment then said, “ I assume you can cook? “
“ Yes. Yes I can, “ Robert said. “ I'm quite good at it too. “
“ Excellent, “ Betty said. " Then I'll take your advice. "
" You sound like you're moving, " Robert noted the change in background noise.
" I'm heading for the locker room, " Betty said. " Branslav should be out soon. They're shutting the lights off out here.
**
Branslav walked out of the locker room, surprised to see Betty sitting across from the door and on the phone. He was freshly showered, his black hair wet and slightly curling at the ends. He chosen to wear a black sweatshirt and a pair of stone washed jeans to look nice for Betty.
She looked up and saw him, " Oh. Branslav's out. I got to go. Yeah, later. "
" You're here, " Branslav couldn't think of anything else to say.
Betty snapped her phone closed, “ Sorry about that. Someone called while I was waiting for you. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. “ I was just coming out to get you. “
“ Coach Sweet said he was going to bring me in after everyone was decent but I got antsy waiting out there. They were starting to shut off the lights too so I didn't want to stick around for them to be turned off completely. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav frowned. “ I guess he forgot after we lost. He was yelling at us for a long time. “
“ I figured, “ Betty said. “ He was still yelling when I got back here. “
Branslav nodded, “ I bet so. After he was finished, we just wanted to leave. I tried to get ready as fast as I could though in case you decided to go. “
“ I wouldn't have done that, “ Betty said. “ If I was going to leave, I would have left when they started turning the lights off. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav realized that made sense.
“ So have you decided what you want to cook tomorrow? “ Betty asked.
Branslav looked away, “ I didn't even think about it. Sorry. “
“ It's okay, “ Betty sighed. “ How do you like lasagna? “
Branslav shrugged, “ It's okay. I like it. “
“ Okay then, “ Betty said. “ I'll show you how to fix that. “
“ Sounds good, “ Branslav gave her a sheepish smile. “ I don't have anything to cook with though. “
“ It's okay. I have plenty of dishes at my house. I'll just bring some over and we can use them. I'll just run them through the dishwasher... “
“ About the dishwasher, “ Branslav put his right hand behind his neck again, rubbing it.
“ It doesn't work does it? “ Betty said.
Branslav shook his head, “ I think it does. It's just that I've never used it so I don't know how it works. “
Betty waved her hand, “ I'll figure it out. “
“ I don't have any of that powder stuff for it, “ Branslav said, trying to think of what the powder was called. He didn't want call it soap.
“ Detergent? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ Uh yeah. That stuff, “ Branslav said.
Betty sighed then smiled a little, “ I guess I'll bring some of that too. “
“ Thanks, “ Branslav smiled. He furrowed his brow, “ Do you want me to get the stuff we'll need? “
“ Do you know what we'll need? “ Betty asked.
Branslav didn't have the faintest clue so he shook his head, “ No. “
“ Then I'll take care of it. You just be there when I get there and be prepared to learn, “ Betty said.
“ What time are you going to show up? “ Branslav asked. He needed to know so he could be ready.
“ Since I do everything from scratch, I guess I'll be there at eleven. Is that okay with you? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ We don't have to play again until Monday so I can rest Sunday.. “
“ Excellent, “ Betty nodded. “ I guess I'll be seeing you at eleven then. “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. He offered his hand to her, “ May I help you to your feet? “
Betty eyed his hand for a moment then took it, “ Sure. “
Branslav pulled her to her feet, “ May I walk you to your car? “
Betty nodded, “ If you want. “
“ I do, “ Branslav said.
Betty looked towards the court and frowned. “ I guess we can't go that way. the lights are all off now. “
Branslav smiled, “ I have something of yours. “
Betty arched an eyebrow then smiled, " Oh yeah. My flashlight. "
“ Yeah, “ Branslav got it from the end of his gym bag. He turned it on, “ There. “
Betty looked at the locker room, “ Isn't there a way out that way? “
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah but it'll put you opposite of the parking lot you're in. We're better off going through the arena. You did come in on the 'away' side right? “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. How did you know? “
“ I saw you when you came in. I had to go back to the locker room before I saw where you sat down though. Coach Sweet wanted to see me. “
“ Oh. That makes sense, “ Betty said. " You scared me for a moment because I didn't know how you knew. "
" I just figured, " Branslav said.
" Oh, " Betty nodded.
“ Let's go then, “ Branslav said after he decided she wasn't going to say anything else.
“ Right, “ Betty replied. They started walking towards the court.
Branslav walked slowly next to her, trying to think of something to talk about. He desperately wanted to make small talk but couldn't think of anything but the things he had talked about before. She hadn't been interested in covering those subjects again the week prior so he didn't want to bring them up again. “ So. “
“ So, “ Betty said as they reached the other side.
“ Where are you going on your road trip? “ Branslav asked.
“ New York, Boston, and Pittsburgh, “ Betty said. “ There's a few other stops in between but those are the major cities. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. “ We're heading West. We have games in San Diego, San Fransisco and then we stop in Carson City before we come back here after that game Thursday. “
“ So when do you leave for San Diego? “ Betty asked.
“ Monday morning very early, “ Branslav said. “ We'll get there in the afternoon and have a quick practice then play. After that, We drive up to San Fransisco after the game so we can play The Gold Miners on Tuesday. “
“ Oh. Then? “ Betty asked. She knew it was almost a nine hour trip to San Diego and another eight or so to San Fransisco.
“ We drive across to Carson City to play them Thursday and then we come home, “ Branslav said. “ We'll rest Friday and then we play the Turquoise Saturday. “
“ So you guys just sleep on the bus huh? “ Betty asked.
Branslav nodded, “ Sometimes and then we sleep in the arenas when we get there. Most of the teams do it that way. Most of us really don't have a budget for hotels. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. " I guess you guys get by then. "
" Yeah, " Branslav nodded. " We manage. It's not so bad but it makes getting home that much better. "
" How's that? " Betty asked.
Branslav smiled, " It makes being in a real bed feel like heaven. "
Betty giggled, " I bet does. "
They made it to the parking lot after a long silence. Branslav switched off the flashlight and offered it to Betty since the lights were on in the lot. “ Here, “ He said.
Betty took it, “ Thanks. “
“ So is that car comfortable? It looks small, “ Branslav motioned towards Betty's car. It looked like cars he had seen when he had visited Italy and France, only big enough for the driver and a passenger.
“ I had to have the seat set back a little when I got it but otherwise it's okay since it's just me. Strangely enough, I like things that are small and cute. I guess it's because I'm so big and not so cute, “ Betty said.
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. He wanted to tell her he thought she was cute but he didn't want to scare her again.
“ It's a good car, “ Betty said.
Branslav nodded, “ I suppose. “
They reached the car and Betty unlocked the doors. She opened the passenger side door and threw her purse in before looking at Branslav again, “ Well then. I guess this is goodnight then. “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ I guess so. “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. “
They stood there for a long awkward moment then Branslav put an arm out, leaning forward. He was surprised when Betty put her hand in the middle of his chest, holding him back. “ What? “
“ You hugged me too tight last time, “ Betty said. “ Let's just go with a handshake for now, okay? “
Branslav stepped back, “ Oh. Okay. “
Betty out her hand out and he took it, shaking it. “ So I'll see you at eleven. “
“ Eleven, “ Branslav repeated as Betty let go of his hand. He stepped back so Betty could get in her car. Once she was in, he watched her put on her seatbelt. “ Would you like me to shut your door for you? “
“ Sure, “ Betty said, “ Thanks. “
Branslav shut the door as gently as he could manage, stepping away as Betty started the car. She waved at him then pulled out of the parking spot. He stood there until he could no longer see her tail lights then headed for the player's garage.
He reached his car, finding someone was waiting there for him. He rolled his eyes, " Lotte. "
" I saw your friend, " Lotte was frowning.
" Good for you, " Branslav said as he used his key chain remote to unlock the doors.
" Haven't I seen her before? " Lotte stepped in front of Branslav's door.
Branslav rolled his eyes, " Yes. She's been in Vivacious and the newspapers. "
" Vivacious huh? " Lotte arched an eyebrow at that. " Isn't that the mens magazine that just keeps the girls covered up enough to be on regular newsstands? "
" That would be the one, " Branslav nodded. " But she wasn't in lingerie. She was fully clothed. "
Lotte nodded, " I see. And the newspapers? "
" For her book reviews, " Branslav opened the door next to Lotte and threw his gym bag in the backseat. " She's a writer. "
" It wouldn't be that woman that wrote that garbage you had your nose buried in all summer, would it? " Lotte slammed the door shut.
Branslav's frown deepened, " Yes and her books aren't garbage. They wouldn't be bestsellers if they were. "
Lotte crossed her arms over her chest, " How did you meet her? "
" I e-mailed her and she e-mailed me back, " Branslav said.
" Does she make it a habit to meet her fans? " Lotte still frowned.
Branslav sighed and ran a hand through his still damp hair, " That's not it. It was a mistake I got her actual e-mail address but she was nice enough to let me keep e-mailing her. I've been talking to her all summer on the computer. "
" I see, " Lotte nodded once. " I think she looks familiar from somewhere else though. "
Branslav looked at the ground, " I don't have time for this. Let me go home. "
" I'll let you go home when I'm done with you, " Lotte said. " She looks like that girl that was being so rude to Martin at the banquet. "
" So what if she is? " Branslav growled. " She did nothing wrong. "
" Right, " Lotte took a step away from the driver's side door.
" Are we done here? " Branslav asked sharply.
" I supposed so, " Lotte sighed. " But I'm going to watch her. I don't trust her. "
" No one asked you to, " Branslav said as Lotte walked to her car.
Lotte gave Branslav a dirty look over her shoulder then got in her car. Branslav watched as she started it and drove away. He then got in his car, deciding not to let his sister bother him. He had more important things to focus on.
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav watched the arena from the tunnel. He had rushed to get dressed so he could stand in there and watch as the people came in to watch the game. “ You're supposed to be in the locker room Branslav, “ A voice from behind startled him.
He turned and looked down, finding his tiny stepsister standing there. Lotte Korbel stood five foot even though she wore high heels to make her a few inches taller. She had on a steel gray suit, the fabric looking stiff and unyielding, much like she was. Her platinum blonde hair was cut in a no nonsense bob, each hair perfectly in place.
Her expression was stern as she looked up her stepbrother, her pretty face concealing her true nature. She glared at him with her piercing ice blue eyes, “ Why are you out here anyway? “
“ I'm looking for someone, “ Branslav returned her critical glare.
“ Someone eh? “ Lotte arched an eyebrow. “ Is it a girl? “
Branslav shrugged, “ It could be. “
“ Well if she's coming she'll still be there for the warm up. Coach Sweet is looking for you, “ Lotte grabbed his arm. She was much stronger than she looked and could drag Branslav where ever she wanted when she had the notion to.
“ Tell him I'll be there in a minute, “ Branslav shook her off and turned to look towards the court again. His heart jumped in his throat when he saw Betty come into the arena then stop. She was looking at her ticket but seemed confused.
She wore a black leather swing coat, a dark blue crushed velvet sweater and black jeans. Branslav took a step to go out to greet her but Lotte grabbed his arm again. “ Come on I said, “ Lotte growled. “ Coach Sweet is waiting on you. “
Branslav turned to face Lotte and sighed, “ Oh alright. I'll just catch my friend later. “
Lotte looked towards the court, “ So she's here? “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav said. He didn't get a chance to see where Betty was sitting because Lotte had distracted him before he could see where she had walked to.
“ Where is she? “ Lotte asked as she put her hand on Branslav again but he shrugged her hand off. As he walked away, she said sharply “ You come back here and tell me who she is this instant! “
Branslav ignored her and walked into the locker room...
**
Betty walked into the arena, looking at her ticket. She couldn't figure out where her seat was so she looked for someone that could help her. She spotted a blonde haired guy that was about six foot tall and he was wearing a black shirt that said 'Usher' on it. She walked over to him, “ Excuse me? “
“ Yes ma'am, “ The man turned around and looked up at her, his blue eyes showing a bit of surprise. He looked her over for a moment then said, “ Can I help you? “
Betty nodded, “ I can't find my seat. “
“ Let me see, “ The blonde haired usher took the ticket and smiled. “ Oh wow. You got a good ticket. This is over there by the Supernovas locker room. It's two rows behind the basket on that side of the court. “
Betty frowned, knowing Martin would see her if she were that close. “ I see. “
“ Is there anything else? “ The man asked.
“ No. I'm good, “ Betty said and headed for her seat. She glanced around nervously, hoping Martin wasn't going to pop up from out of nowhere. She reached the seat and sat down, still looking around.
She had been in the seat for maybe two minutes when her cell phone started ring. She pulled it out of her coat pocket, finding it was Robert. “ Hey there, “ She said when she answered.
“ Hey yourself. You haven't called me so I thought I'd check up on you, “ Robert said.
“ I didn't know if it was okay to call you so I didn't. I figured you'd be busy, “ Betty said.
“ I'm never too busy for you, “ Robert cut her off. “ It's a two way street, baby. You make time for me so I can make time for you. I'm not that selfish. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. When she thought about it, it made sense. “ Okay. “
“ So where are you? “ Robert asked.
“ I'm at the arena, “ Betty said. “ I came to see Branslav play. “
“ Really? “ Robert was slightly surprised. “ After what happened last week I wasn't sure if you'd see him again. “
Betty sighed, “ I thought I'd give him another shot. After all, I usually don't make my mind up about anyone until I've known them at least for six weeks. “
“ Oh. I guess that's a good policy, “ Robert said. “ First impressions can sometimes be wrong. “
“ Exactly, “ Betty said. “ Maybe he was just nervous when he was doing that stuff. I know I was, “ Betty said. “ I think he had decided I was the way I wrote I guess. “
Robert knew part of that was true. Branslav had admitted that he felt she would be more like the characters in her stories. “ Yeah. Some times that happens, “ Robert said.
“ I guess I was a little guilty too. I was pushing him away because he was nothing like I thought he'd be either, “ Betty said.
“ What did you think he'd be like? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty thought about it then sighed, “ Oh I don't know. I guess I thought he'd be a gentleman since he was so kind at the banquet. “
Robert sighed, “ Yeah well he has a sense of fairness and you weren't being treated fairly so he stepped up. He can be a good guy when he wants to be. “
“ Oh, “ Betty sighed.
“ Let's change the subject, “ Robert offered. “ You're going to worry too much if we keep talking about Branslav. “
“ True. So where are you tonight? “ Betty asked what she was wondering.
“ I'm in Flagstaff, “ Robert replied. “ The guys were too loud in the locker room so I came out here to call you. “
“ So are you playing? “ Betty furrowed her brow. She didn't think Robert was healed up enough to. “ Aren't your hands still hurt? “
“ I'm not playing but I have to be with the team since I'm on the injured list. If I had gotten the leave of absence, I'd be at Jakob's watching TV in my boxers, “ Robert chuckled.
Betty took a sharp breath, thinking about how it would look. Since she had seen him in such a state, she had a good idea. “ It's better that you stay busy, “ She said as she tried to banish the image from her mind.
“ Yeah. It'll keep my mind off stuff, “ Robert said.
“ How are things going there anyway? “ Betty asked quietly.
Robert sighed, “ The court date is set for a week from today. Pauline refused to sign the papers and filed a petition of her own. Do you know she has the nerve to demand child support? “
“ How can she get that if Alex isn't yours? “ Betty asked.
“ She still thinks Alex is mine and I'm trying to pull something, “ Robert said. “ She wants another more extensive DNA test too. The judge will have to rule if that's necessary. My lawyer says he might because I took her sample without her permission. “
“ How did you get her sample if you didn't ask? “ Betty was perplexed.
“ I got Pauline's from her hairbrush, “ Robert said. “ Since she didn't agree to the test, she's demanding another one. “
“ Wasn't that one enough for her? “ Betty asked.
“ Nope. I think she's just trying to find a way to stall, “ Robert sighed.
“ Sounds like it, “ Betty scoffed. “ But doesn't she have someone else now? “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. Like I said, I think she's just trying to stall. Maybe she thinks if she annoys me enough, I'll break down and give her what she wants. “
“ But you have no obligations to her since Alex isn't yours. Am I right? “ Betty said.
“ You're right. I don't, “ Robert said. “ It's too bad I can't sue her to give me back the last five and a half years of my life or I would. “
“ Well you're still young, “ Betty said. “ You can start over once you get her off your back. “
“ I intend to, “ Robert said. “ I started by taking her name off the bank account Wednesday. She's going to be pissed off when she finds out. “
“ I bet she'll be livid, “ Betty said.
“ Oh yeah. I can hear her now. Well, that is if I even pick up when I see it's her calling. I may just let her go to voice mail and delete the messages without listening to them, “ Robert said.
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ Nasty. “
“ She got nasty first so hey, “ Robert said and shrugged.
" True, " Betty nodded. " That's very true. "
There was a silence then Betty could hear some voices in the background. “ Hey. I got to run now, “ Robert said. “ The warm up is starting and I have to be out there. “
“ Okay, “ Betty said. “ Tell the other guys I say good luck for the game. “
“ Awww, “ Robert whined playfully. “ Don't I get a 'good luck' too? “
“ Of course you do, “ Betty giggled. “ Good luck for everything you have to do too. “
Robert chuckled, “ I'll need it. Later baby. “
" Later, " Betty smiled at being called 'baby' and listen as he hung up. She snapped her phone closed and sighed. She went to put her phone up when a hand fell on her shoulder, startling her. “ Oh my, “ She said and turned around in her seat. “ Hello. “
“ Hello, “ The woman behind her said. She was a short blonde with a bob haircut. She wore a stiff looking suit that was steel gray and she had piercing blue eyes.
“ Can I help you? “ Betty asked after she started feeling uncomfortable with the way the woman's stare seemed to bore into her.
The woman put out her delicate right hand, “ I am under the impression that you know my brother. “
“ Who's your brother? “ Betty scanned the woman's face but she couldn't see a resemblance to anyone she knew. She didn't look like Branslav or Daniel and she was relatively certain none of Robert's siblings even lived in America.
“ Branslav Korbel, “ The woman said. “ I am his sister, Lotte. “
“ Oh. Oh yeah, “ Betty took Lotte's hand and shook it. “ I'm sorry. It's just that I didn't know he had a sister. “
“ Oh, “ Lotte's handshake was limp and cold. “ That doesn't surprise me. He tends not to mention me. I'm also his manager. “
“ Really, “ Betty nodded. She noticed she was still staring at her pretty intently. “ Is there something wrong? “
“ Have I seen you somewhere before? “ Lotte cocked her head to the side. “ Have you been in a magazine? “
“ I was in Vivacious a couple of months ago and in several newspapers, “ Betty offered.
“ Vivacious eh? “ Lotte arched an eyebrow. “ As in the men's magazine that keeps the girls covered up enough to sell on regular newsstands? “
“ Yeah but I wasn't in lingerie or anything like that, “ Betty put her hand up. “ The closest thing I had on was a lace top that was lined and showed a little cleavage. “
Lotte nodded once, “ I see. “
“ And then the newspapers were for the reviews for my books, “ Betty said.
Lotte snapped her fingers, “ That's who you are. I knew it. You're that writer from here in town. Melissa French, correct? “
Betty nodded, “ Yes. “
“ My brother had his nose buried in your books all summer, “ Lotte said with a tone of derision “ I tried to read one but it disgusted me by the third chapter. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said as she tried to not to be offended. She knew it had to have been the murder mystery for it had been rather violent and bloody. “ I hope you put it down then. “
“ I did, “ Lotte said sharply. “ I tried to get my brother to do so as well but he refused. He said he liked them. “
“ Well yes. He wrote me to tell me how much he liked them, “ Betty said.
“ So I assume that is how you met then? Through a fan letter? “ Lotte arched an eyebrow.
Betty nodded, “ Yes. “
“ I see, “ Lotte nodded. “ Do you make it habit to meet your fans? “
“ Not really. My manager just forgot to edit my e-mail address out of my response. He was so nice I didn't want to fluff him off, “ Betty said. “ We talked a bit then he asked me to meet him. He assured me he was perfectly harmless so I agreed. “
“ Ah-ha, “ Lotte nodded once.
Betty nodded but said nothing. She thought of something then looked around. “ Say. Is Martin Richardson here tonight? “
“ No. He's away on business, “ Lotte said sharply. “ I'm his eyes and ears tonight. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ I was just wondering. “
Lotte frowned, “ Is there anything else you want to ask me? “
“ Not if you haven't got anything else to ask me, “ Betty replied.
“ I don't, “ Lotte said. She glared at Betty, “ Watch yourself. If I think you're bad for my brother, you WILL see me again. “
“ Yes ma'am, “ Betty said.
Lotte walked out of the row after that and headed back to the locker room. Betty felt like she could relax a bit since Martin wasn't around. She was just about to turn back to the court when she saw the Supernovas start to funnel out of the tunnel. They walked onto the court and went to a rack of basketballs.
Betty watched as they each got one and started dribbling and shooting. Branslav dribbled a bit but his eyes weren't on the ball. It looked like he was scanning the seats as he slowly wandered around the Supernovas half of the court. The opposing team was on the other half of the court warming up and he didn't walk to their side.
Daniel dribbled a bit then shot a basket, his eyes locking with Betty's as he retrieved the ball. He smiled and gave her a little wave. Betty waved back then waved him over. He looked puzzled but came over, “ Yes ma'am? “ He asked.
“ Could you tell Branslav I'm over here? “ Betty said. “ He looks like he's looking for something. “
“ Sure, “ Daniel said. “ I'll go get him. “
“ Thanks, “ Betty said. She watched Daniel trot away, hoping she hadn't made a mistake. She watched as Daniel went over to Branslav and told him where she was at, pointing her way. Branslav looked over and saw her.
She waved at him shyly and he gave her a quick wave in return. Branslav put the ball under his arm and walked slowly over to the baseline before walking over to the seat directly in front of Betty's. She stood up, “ Hey. “
“ Hey, “ Branslav replied. He put his right hand behind his neck and rubbed it for a second as he thought of something to say. He sighed, “ Um, I'm really sorry about last week. I wanted to it to turn out better. “
“ It's okay, “ Betty said. “ It was kind of awkward for me too. “
“ I was afraid I wouldn't see you again after the way I behaved, “ Branslav said. “ I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. “
“ The whole thing was kind of weird, “ Betty sighed. “ That's why I want to give it another go. I want to see if we can start over and get on the right foot this time. “
Branslav nodded, “ Okay. Can we get together next Tuesday? “
“ No, “ Betty sighed. “ I'll be out of town. I'm leaving for a two week road trip on Monday. “
“ That quick? “ Branslav was shocked.
“ It's been in the works for a while now, “ Betty said. “ I just picked up my plane tickets and my agenda before I got here. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. He looked like he got an idea and looked at her, “ What are you doing tomorrow? “
“ I'm packing for the trip but nothing after that, “ Betty said. “ Why? “
“ Maybe we could get together and do something tomorrow then? “ Branslav said.
Betty bit her lip as she thought about it. It was short notice but she wouldn't see him otherwise until she came back. “ I guess so. What do you have in mind? “
Branslav looked a little nervous then said, “ I want you to teach me how to cook. “
Betty thought about it then nodded, “ Sounds easy enough. I guess I could. “
“ Great, “ Branslav said. “ What should we cook? “
“ Let me think about it and I'll get back to you, “ Betty said.
“ I'll think about it too and come up with some ideas too, “ Branslav said.
Betty nodded, “ You do that. “
“ Branslav! Get back to warming up! “ A man had slipped up unnoticed. He didn't sound pleased that Branslav was talking to Betty instead of shooting baskets.
“ I just wanted to talk to her for one more minute, “ Branslav held up his right index finger.
“ No, The man said. “ You get out there. She'll be here after the game. “
Branslav sighed, “ Yes Coach. “
Branslav walked away, starting to dribble the ball again. Betty turned to see who was behind her, finding an average looking older man with red hair and green eyes that was a couple inches shorter than her standing there. He was in a dark blue suit, wearing a light blue and white striped tie that matched his light blue shirt. He smiled at her, “ Hello. “
“ Uh hi, “ Betty said.
“ I don't believe we've met formally, “ The man put his right hand out to her. “ I'm Fox Sweet. I'm the head coach. “
“ Oh, “ Betty shook his hand. “ I'm... “
“ Oh I know your name, “ Coach Sweet smirked. “ It's Betty. Betty Rogers-Skogan. Am I correct? “
“ Yes sir, “ Betty replied. She was a little surprised he knew her name. “ How do you know? “
Coach Sweet smiled, “ February my dear. February. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said as she let go of his hand. She realized he did look familiar but couldn't think of where until he said.
“ Martin sent me to find out your name from your manager at the hotel, “ Coach Sweet continued to smile.
Betty nodded, “ I see. “
Coach Sweet looked her over, “ You don't go to many basketball games, do you? “
Betty shook her head, “ No. It's just my third one in two weeks. “
“ You're a busy girl aren't you? “ Coach Sweet said. He furrowed his brow, “ Weren't you here with Robert Hughes last week? “
“ Yes, “ Betty said.
“ I see, “ Coach Sweet nodded once. He then looked towards Branslav, “ And you're here for him this week? “
“ No. I came on my own. I wanted to see another game, “ Betty replied.
“ If I remember correctly, you were supposed to come back to the locker room to see the team last week but you ran off before we could bring you in. Am I correct? “ Coach Sweet arched an eyebrow.
Betty nodded, “ Yes. “
“ Would you like to come in tonight and meet the team? After all, they are your hometown team, “ Coach Sweet said.
“ I guess I could, “ Betty said.
“ Good. I'll come get you after the game then. Don't move from this spot and I'll get you once the guys are dressed, “ Coach Sweet looked at his watch after he spoke. “ Oh look at the time. I have to get to the bench. “
“ Nice to meet you, “ Betty said. She shivered after he walked away, something about the way he had been looking her over giving her the creeps. It was like he was undressing her with his eyes. She sat back down and waited for tip-off...
**
" The Supernovas fell to the Carson City Civet Cats by ten points in overtime, the game being intense up until the extra five minutes when the visiting team went on a 10-0 run to come out on top of The Supernovas, " The commentator on the recap show said as Robert watched the television in the locker room.
The other guys weren't really paying attention. They were too busy getting their things together. Robert had left his things on the bus so he didn't have anything else to do except watch TV. Coach Hooker didn't want him lifting anything so he couldn't even help his friends carry their stuff or any equipment.
" Ouch, " He muttered. The camera switched to the Supernovas' arena where cleaning crews were starting to sweep up. A few people still lingered in the stands, one person looking rather familiar as the on-scene commentator droned on about the game. Robert got up and got out his cell phone, dialing Betty's number as he walked out of the locker room and headed for the bus.
Betty answered on the second ring, " Hey again. "
“ Hey yourself, “ Robert said. “ You looked pretty bored so I decided to call you. "
" Am I on TV again? " Betty asked.
" Yeah, " Robert nodded. " We won again. “
Betty nodded, “ So what's that make for you guys now? “
“ Let me see, “ Robert said. “ Firehawks, Supernovas, Civet Cats, Helena Hellcats and Firehawks again. It looks like five wins and no losses so far. “
“ Did you go to Helena or did they come to you? “ Betty asked.
“ They came to us, “ Robert got on the bus and went to the far back, his usual seat. “ That was Wednesday then we left for Flagstaff right after the game. “
“ When are you going back to Taos? “ Betty asked.
“ We're heading out as soon as we get everything packed up. Luckily, it's a relatively short drive, “ Robert sighed. “ It's eight hours. Sometimes we're on the bus for more than twenty. “
“ Ouch, “ Betty said. “ Where are you now? “
“ I'm on the bus. Coach doesn't want me touching anything so there's nothing else for me to do, “ Robert said.
“ Oh, “ Betty said. “ Are you going to call me when you get home? “
“ Nah. It'll be late. I'll call you when I get up tomorrow afternoon. What are you doing then? “ Robert said.
“ Branslav asked me to teach him how to cook, “ Betty sighed.
Robert slapped his forehead. “ Please tell me he didn't. “
“ He did, “ Betty said. “ Why? “
“ He's terrible at it, “ Robert said.
“ He already told me he couldn't cook. A lot of guys aren't good at it so, “ Betty started.
“ Yeah but he's the worst, “ Robert cut her off. “ He got kicked out of his apartment complex for being a fire hazard. I was there. “
“ Really? “ Betty asked.
“ He cooks EVERYTHING on high, “ Robert said. “ He started a grease fire when we were cooking bacon the time I was trying to teach him how to cook. “
“ Oh my, “ Betty said.
“ Yeah. I had to get the fire extinguisher. He managed to catch his shirt on fire so I had to get him as well as the pan, “ Robert said.
“ Was he hurt badly? “ Betty sounded concerned.
“ No, I got him out before he could get badly burned. He had a first degree burn on his lower stomach. He thought the hair would never grow back down there, “ Robert said. “ When the landlord saw what had happened, he kicked Branslav out. Luckily, he was in the final stages of buying the house he's got now. He was just waiting on the family there to move out so he could move in. “
“ I bet that was scary, “ Betty said.
“ Scared us both shitless, “ Robert said. He chuckled then, “ I kind of laughed about it a little afterwards. When I was finished using the fire extinguisher on him, he looked like The Abominable Snowman. Branslav didn't like me laughing at him though. “
Betty laughed and snorted, “ Oh my. “
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. “ I couldn't help it though. He looked hilarious. “
“ Well then, “ Betty sighed. " I guess I'd better rethink my plans for what we're going to cook. "
“ If you do teach him to cook, have him cook something that won't burn easily and watch him like a hawk, “ Robert warned.
“ I'm thinking about having him bake something now, “ Betty said. “ Something with a lot of moisture that can still be saved if it gets over cooked a bit. “
“ Good game plan, “ Robert said. “ Do a casserole or lasagna. If the top gets dry, you can still eat the middle. “
Betty got quiet for a moment then said, “ I assume you can cook? “
“ Yes. Yes I can, “ Robert said. “ I'm quite good at it too. “
“ Excellent, “ Betty said. " Then I'll take your advice. "
" You sound like you're moving, " Robert noted the change in background noise.
" I'm heading for the locker room, " Betty said. " Branslav should be out soon. They're shutting the lights off out here.
**
Branslav walked out of the locker room, surprised to see Betty sitting across from the door and on the phone. He was freshly showered, his black hair wet and slightly curling at the ends. He chosen to wear a black sweatshirt and a pair of stone washed jeans to look nice for Betty.
She looked up and saw him, " Oh. Branslav's out. I got to go. Yeah, later. "
" You're here, " Branslav couldn't think of anything else to say.
Betty snapped her phone closed, “ Sorry about that. Someone called while I was waiting for you. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. “ I was just coming out to get you. “
“ Coach Sweet said he was going to bring me in after everyone was decent but I got antsy waiting out there. They were starting to shut off the lights too so I didn't want to stick around for them to be turned off completely. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav frowned. “ I guess he forgot after we lost. He was yelling at us for a long time. “
“ I figured, “ Betty said. “ He was still yelling when I got back here. “
Branslav nodded, “ I bet so. After he was finished, we just wanted to leave. I tried to get ready as fast as I could though in case you decided to go. “
“ I wouldn't have done that, “ Betty said. “ If I was going to leave, I would have left when they started turning the lights off. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav realized that made sense.
“ So have you decided what you want to cook tomorrow? “ Betty asked.
Branslav looked away, “ I didn't even think about it. Sorry. “
“ It's okay, “ Betty sighed. “ How do you like lasagna? “
Branslav shrugged, “ It's okay. I like it. “
“ Okay then, “ Betty said. “ I'll show you how to fix that. “
“ Sounds good, “ Branslav gave her a sheepish smile. “ I don't have anything to cook with though. “
“ It's okay. I have plenty of dishes at my house. I'll just bring some over and we can use them. I'll just run them through the dishwasher... “
“ About the dishwasher, “ Branslav put his right hand behind his neck again, rubbing it.
“ It doesn't work does it? “ Betty said.
Branslav shook his head, “ I think it does. It's just that I've never used it so I don't know how it works. “
Betty waved her hand, “ I'll figure it out. “
“ I don't have any of that powder stuff for it, “ Branslav said, trying to think of what the powder was called. He didn't want call it soap.
“ Detergent? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ Uh yeah. That stuff, “ Branslav said.
Betty sighed then smiled a little, “ I guess I'll bring some of that too. “
“ Thanks, “ Branslav smiled. He furrowed his brow, “ Do you want me to get the stuff we'll need? “
“ Do you know what we'll need? “ Betty asked.
Branslav didn't have the faintest clue so he shook his head, “ No. “
“ Then I'll take care of it. You just be there when I get there and be prepared to learn, “ Betty said.
“ What time are you going to show up? “ Branslav asked. He needed to know so he could be ready.
“ Since I do everything from scratch, I guess I'll be there at eleven. Is that okay with you? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ We don't have to play again until Monday so I can rest Sunday.. “
“ Excellent, “ Betty nodded. “ I guess I'll be seeing you at eleven then. “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. He offered his hand to her, “ May I help you to your feet? “
Betty eyed his hand for a moment then took it, “ Sure. “
Branslav pulled her to her feet, “ May I walk you to your car? “
Betty nodded, “ If you want. “
“ I do, “ Branslav said.
Betty looked towards the court and frowned. “ I guess we can't go that way. the lights are all off now. “
Branslav smiled, “ I have something of yours. “
Betty arched an eyebrow then smiled, " Oh yeah. My flashlight. "
“ Yeah, “ Branslav got it from the end of his gym bag. He turned it on, “ There. “
Betty looked at the locker room, “ Isn't there a way out that way? “
Branslav nodded, “ Yeah but it'll put you opposite of the parking lot you're in. We're better off going through the arena. You did come in on the 'away' side right? “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. How did you know? “
“ I saw you when you came in. I had to go back to the locker room before I saw where you sat down though. Coach Sweet wanted to see me. “
“ Oh. That makes sense, “ Betty said. " You scared me for a moment because I didn't know how you knew. "
" I just figured, " Branslav said.
" Oh, " Betty nodded.
“ Let's go then, “ Branslav said after he decided she wasn't going to say anything else.
“ Right, “ Betty replied. They started walking towards the court.
Branslav walked slowly next to her, trying to think of something to talk about. He desperately wanted to make small talk but couldn't think of anything but the things he had talked about before. She hadn't been interested in covering those subjects again the week prior so he didn't want to bring them up again. “ So. “
“ So, “ Betty said as they reached the other side.
“ Where are you going on your road trip? “ Branslav asked.
“ New York, Boston, and Pittsburgh, “ Betty said. “ There's a few other stops in between but those are the major cities. “
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. “ We're heading West. We have games in San Diego, San Fransisco and then we stop in Carson City before we come back here after that game Thursday. “
“ So when do you leave for San Diego? “ Betty asked.
“ Monday morning very early, “ Branslav said. “ We'll get there in the afternoon and have a quick practice then play. After that, We drive up to San Fransisco after the game so we can play The Gold Miners on Tuesday. “
“ Oh. Then? “ Betty asked. She knew it was almost a nine hour trip to San Diego and another eight or so to San Fransisco.
“ We drive across to Carson City to play them Thursday and then we come home, “ Branslav said. “ We'll rest Friday and then we play the Turquoise Saturday. “
“ So you guys just sleep on the bus huh? “ Betty asked.
Branslav nodded, “ Sometimes and then we sleep in the arenas when we get there. Most of the teams do it that way. Most of us really don't have a budget for hotels. “
“ Oh, “ Betty said. " I guess you guys get by then. "
" Yeah, " Branslav nodded. " We manage. It's not so bad but it makes getting home that much better. "
" How's that? " Betty asked.
Branslav smiled, " It makes being in a real bed feel like heaven. "
Betty giggled, " I bet does. "
They made it to the parking lot after a long silence. Branslav switched off the flashlight and offered it to Betty since the lights were on in the lot. “ Here, “ He said.
Betty took it, “ Thanks. “
“ So is that car comfortable? It looks small, “ Branslav motioned towards Betty's car. It looked like cars he had seen when he had visited Italy and France, only big enough for the driver and a passenger.
“ I had to have the seat set back a little when I got it but otherwise it's okay since it's just me. Strangely enough, I like things that are small and cute. I guess it's because I'm so big and not so cute, “ Betty said.
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. He wanted to tell her he thought she was cute but he didn't want to scare her again.
“ It's a good car, “ Betty said.
Branslav nodded, “ I suppose. “
They reached the car and Betty unlocked the doors. She opened the passenger side door and threw her purse in before looking at Branslav again, “ Well then. I guess this is goodnight then. “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ I guess so. “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. “
They stood there for a long awkward moment then Branslav put an arm out, leaning forward. He was surprised when Betty put her hand in the middle of his chest, holding him back. “ What? “
“ You hugged me too tight last time, “ Betty said. “ Let's just go with a handshake for now, okay? “
Branslav stepped back, “ Oh. Okay. “
Betty out her hand out and he took it, shaking it. “ So I'll see you at eleven. “
“ Eleven, “ Branslav repeated as Betty let go of his hand. He stepped back so Betty could get in her car. Once she was in, he watched her put on her seatbelt. “ Would you like me to shut your door for you? “
“ Sure, “ Betty said, “ Thanks. “
Branslav shut the door as gently as he could manage, stepping away as Betty started the car. She waved at him then pulled out of the parking spot. He stood there until he could no longer see her tail lights then headed for the player's garage.
He reached his car, finding someone was waiting there for him. He rolled his eyes, " Lotte. "
" I saw your friend, " Lotte was frowning.
" Good for you, " Branslav said as he used his key chain remote to unlock the doors.
" Haven't I seen her before? " Lotte stepped in front of Branslav's door.
Branslav rolled his eyes, " Yes. She's been in Vivacious and the newspapers. "
" Vivacious huh? " Lotte arched an eyebrow at that. " Isn't that the mens magazine that just keeps the girls covered up enough to be on regular newsstands? "
" That would be the one, " Branslav nodded. " But she wasn't in lingerie. She was fully clothed. "
Lotte nodded, " I see. And the newspapers? "
" For her book reviews, " Branslav opened the door next to Lotte and threw his gym bag in the backseat. " She's a writer. "
" It wouldn't be that woman that wrote that garbage you had your nose buried in all summer, would it? " Lotte slammed the door shut.
Branslav's frown deepened, " Yes and her books aren't garbage. They wouldn't be bestsellers if they were. "
Lotte crossed her arms over her chest, " How did you meet her? "
" I e-mailed her and she e-mailed me back, " Branslav said.
" Does she make it a habit to meet her fans? " Lotte still frowned.
Branslav sighed and ran a hand through his still damp hair, " That's not it. It was a mistake I got her actual e-mail address but she was nice enough to let me keep e-mailing her. I've been talking to her all summer on the computer. "
" I see, " Lotte nodded once. " I think she looks familiar from somewhere else though. "
Branslav looked at the ground, " I don't have time for this. Let me go home. "
" I'll let you go home when I'm done with you, " Lotte said. " She looks like that girl that was being so rude to Martin at the banquet. "
" So what if she is? " Branslav growled. " She did nothing wrong. "
" Right, " Lotte took a step away from the driver's side door.
" Are we done here? " Branslav asked sharply.
" I supposed so, " Lotte sighed. " But I'm going to watch her. I don't trust her. "
" No one asked you to, " Branslav said as Lotte walked to her car.
Lotte gave Branslav a dirty look over her shoulder then got in her car. Branslav watched as she started it and drove away. He then got in his car, deciding not to let his sister bother him. He had more important things to focus on.