Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Twenty ( Chapter 20 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Daniel and Branslav have to stay after practice. Betty has a dream and Robert comes to check on her.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 05.08.2009 | Pages: 14 | Words: 5.9K | Visits: 177 | Status: Completed
Daniel and Branslav have to stay after practice. Betty has a dream and Robert comes to check on her.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 05.08.2009 | Pages: 14 | Words: 5.9K | Visits: 177 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Twenty
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
“ This is bullshit man, “ Daniel muttered as he waited for Branslav to shoot a free throw. After talking to Martin and Lotte, Coach Sweet had told Branslav and Daniel to come back after lunch. They were to work on their three point shots and free throws until they completed a certain number. After that, Daniel would be free to go while Branslav still had to go to dinner with Lotte and Martin.
“ One hundred fifty six, “ Branslav muttered when the free throw went in. He glanced at Daniel, “ I know it is. “
“ I mean shit. We are the two best guys on the team so why is it we're always getting punished? Those other slackers need to be in here, not us. I had things to do today, “ Daniel said then shot his free throw and Branslav went to get his ball.
“ You should calm down a bit. You keep missing because you're pissed, “ Branslav said when the shot didn't go in. “ And we're not being punished. We have to perform well in front of the scout. “
Daniel rolled his eyes and went to get his ball. He came back and muttered, “ I know. “
“ One fifty seven, “ Branslav muttered as he hit another shot. Once he got to two hundred, he had to start working on his three pointers. Daniel was stuck at one forty since he had started griping and was missing shots. He went to get his ball then looked at Daniel, “ You get caught up or I'll have to go to the other side of the gym so you can concentrate. “
Daniel nodded and set up his shot, firing it. It went in, rolled around the rim and popped back out. “ Shit, “ He muttered and got the ball. He tried again, it going in that time. “ Finally. “
Branslav smiled, “ Good. Sixteen more like that and we'll be caught up. “
“ So what are you doing tonight when you get out of here? “ Daniel said. He took a deep breath then focused on the rim before he shot another shot that went in.
“ I have a meeting with my manager tonight. We're going to dinner, “ Branslav sighed. “ She said it was important. “
Daniel came back with the ball, “ Oh. I guess it's a good thing Robert came out to help with Betty then huh? “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ I guess it is. This stuff would have come up and she would have been alone after all. “
“ Did you ever figure out how he got his shit together so quickly? “ Daniel asked.
Branslav shook his head, “ No. I'll have to ask him when I get home tonight. “
“ Stop talking you two! “ Coach Sweet called from the door of the gym. He had been his office but had walked up unnoticed by either man. “ Get to work or you'll have to be here two hours before everyone else tomorrow. “
Branslav growled the shouted, “ Yes sir. “
“ Yes sir, “ Daniel sighed.
**
Robert walked over to the fridge, grabbing a couple of beers from it. They had just finished eating dinner and Branslav still wasn't home. “ Let's go to the living room baby. I'm not ready to take you back upstairs yet, “ He said.
“ Okay, “ Betty grabbed her crutches. Robert carried the beers and followed her to the living room, then got in front of her. She let him lead her to the couch, sitting down as he sat down with her. He took her crutches and put them off to the side before taking one of the beers, popped it open and handed it back. “ There you go. “
“ Thanks, “ Betty said and took a sip. She didn't want to drink too much with her painkillers. She had to take another dose as soon as Robert took her back up.
Robert opened his beer, taking a big swig before looking at her. He smiled, “ So you never told me what you were thinking last time. “
Betty blushed when he said it because she knew what he was talking about. “ Uh oh, “ She muttered.
“ I'm not letting you off this couch until you tell me, “ Robert smirked.
“ I don't know if I can tell you, “ Betty said. The playful way he smirked made her wonder if he was really serious or just playing with her.
“ Then tell me which story it's the most like and I'll go re-read it, “ Robert said.
Betty shook her head, “ No. It's not like any of my stories. “
“ Then tell me, “ Robert took another drink of beer.
“ I... “ Betty started.
Robert took her left hand in his right, “ Come on. Tell me. “
Betty looked at her can of beer, “ I was thinking about what it would be like to lick beer off of your chest. “
“ Really? “ Robert looked a little surprised. “ Lick beer off my chest huh? “
Betty nodded, “ Among other things. “
“ Well then. Now we're getting somewhere. Were you just going to lick it off my chest or would you go further? “ Robert really seemed interested.
“ I don't know. Where would you want me to stop? “ Betty asked. She could tell he was serious since he was pursuing the question.
Robert smiled, “ Would you lick it off my stomach? “
“ I guess so, “ Betty said. “ I've thought about doing other things too. “
“ Like what? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
“ A lot of things. Like things from my stories type things, “ Betty felt the blush on her cheek get deeper. “ Everything imaginable. “
“ Wow. Hearing that is making me... “ Robert said then stopped. He looked away then shook his head, “ It's making me... This is so hard to say because I don't want to make you uncomfortable. “
“ What's it making you? What? “ Betty asked.
Robert looked her in the eye, “ Hearing that is making me unbelievably hard. “
Betty laughed in shock, “ No way. “
“ Yes way. If we weren't sitting here on my best friend's couch, I would tear your clothes off right now and screw you until dawn. “
“ No! “ Betty said but she was still laughing from shock. She wasn't sure if she was supposed to be offended or flattered.
“ Yes! “ Robert sounded very enthusiastic at the prospect.
“ Would you lick beer off of me too? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ Yeah! “ Robert nearly shouted. “ I'd lick beer off every inch of you then screw you, stop for five minutes and do you again! “
“ It'd be on like Donkey Kong huh? “ Betty said.
Robert nodded vigorously, “ Yeah! “
Betty grabbed his beer, “ That's it. I'm cutting you off. You've had enough to drink. “
“ Give me that back! I'm fine! “ Robert grabbed for the beer. He then grabbed Betty's, “ Fine. I'll just take yours. “
“ Give that back! You don't need anymore beer! “ Betty said. They fought over the beer for a few moments before they lost their balance and fell off the couch.
They hit the floor with a hard thud, Betty landing right on top of Robert. She tried to push herself up but he pulled her down to him again. She blushed when she realized his left leg was between her legs and she straddled it, her right leg resting against something she could have gone without feeling. She could tell he hadn't lied about what he had told her.
“ Well this is an interesting development, “ Robert said.
“ Robert, “ Betty whined “ Let me up. “
“ Oh no, “ Robert whispered. He pressed his leg upwards, smiling at the deep breath Betty drew in and the increase of color in her cheeks. “ Sensitive? “
“ Please don't do that, “ Betty curled her fingers against the carpet. She let out another sharp breath when he pressed against her again. He then drew his leg back, the pressure against her crotch easing considerably.
“ Okay, “ Robert said.
“ Thank you, “ Betty breathed then squeaked when Robert rolled them over, putting her under him. “ Robert! Please let me up. “
“ Not until you kiss me, “ Robert said as he looked deep into her eyes. “ I've been dying to kiss you since I got in the car at the airport. I couldn't though with Branslav hanging around. “
“ Robert, “ Betty whispered. She couldn't bring herself to say 'no' because she had felt the same way.
“ Yes baby? “ He whispered then kissed her forehead.
“ I wanted to kiss you too, “ She whispered.
“ I knew you did, “ He murmured against her brow. He brought his right hand up, placing it on her left side. He then brushed his lips along her nose before hovering over her lips. He pushed his leg against her crotch again.
“ Robert! “ She gasped as he covered her mouth with his. She moaned against his mouth while he kissed her. He pulled away, wiggling his leg between hers. She grabbed at the carpet underneath her and panted, pretty sure she'd go crazy if he didn't do something soon...
**
Robert went into the guest room quietly as he could manage, finding Betty was still asleep. He was about to leave to let her rest when he heard her murmuring in her sleep. It sounded like she had called his name so he stepped back into the room. He looked at her a little longer than he had before and saw her cheeks were a bit flushed.
He wondered if she had fever and stepped closer to the bed to wake her so he could check her temperature. She murmured his name again, her voice husky as she let out a little moan. Robert's eyes got wide when he realized she was dreaming about him. He glanced down at her chest, seeing her nipples were pushing against the fabric of her pajama top.
From the looks and the sound of things, he discerned she was having a pretty hot dream about him. He quirked his mouth, wondering just what was going on inside of her head. Her hands gripped at the bed, her fingers curling and uncurling as she panted. Her hips bucked a little and she tossed her head to the left, her panting getting louder.
Robert backed away, knowing if he watched her any longer, he would be in worse trouble than he was already in. He reached behind himself to feel for the door, wrapping his hand around the edge as he continued to move backwards. He stepped out into the hall then shut the door, shutting his eyes as he did. He had to settle down, his heart racing again like it had earlier in the afternoon.
~Does she want me as bad as I want her? ~ He thought. ~Is that why she's dreaming about me like that? ~
He backed away from the door, deciding to give her a little while to stop dreaming before he woke her to check on her. Knowing her, she'd be embarrassed to death if she knew he knew about the dream. As he walked away from the door, his cell phone rang. He got it out of his back pocket and answered without looking at the caller ID.
“ Hughes, “ He said.
“ You bastard, “ Pauline hissed. “ Do you know what I just went through? “
Robert was pretty sure, “ Yeah. They frisked you, took mug shots and locked you in a cell with a bunch of big ugly guys staring at you. “
“ It was awful, “ Pauline said. “ Some of those animals stuck their hands through the bars to grab me. I had to huddle up in the farthest corner of the cell and wait for my lawyer. “
“ Aw what a shame. I almost feel like giving a shit, “ Robert said. “ You get any phone numbers for when Richard gets tired of you? “
“ Robert Ashley Hughes! “ Pauline shouted.
“ I believe that is what my parents named me yes, “ Robert said.
“ Robert! I am in not in the mood for this! “ Pauline shouted.
“ I'm not in the mood to deal with you, “ Robert said. “ If you don't stop calling me, I'm getting a restraining order as soon as I get back to Taos. “
“ You mean you aren't in town? “ Pauline asked.
“ Nope, “ Robert said.
“ Then where are you? “ Pauline asked.
“ Like I would tell you, “ Robert said. “ How hard is it for you to understand I want you out of my life? “
“ Well I'm not leaving you alone until I have what I want, “ Pauline said.
“ Whatever you want you're not getting it. You lost all rights to it when I found out Alex wasn't mine, “ Robert said. “ Goodbye. “
Robert snapped his phone shut then reopened it to block the number Pauline had called him from. Once that was finished, he realized he was still standing in the hall just down from the guest room. He was pretty certain he had woke Betty up with his yelling so he decided to check on her again. He went back into the room and found she was still sleeping.
He walked back to the door, fixing to leave again when he heard his name again. He glanced over, expecting to see Betty still sleeping but she wasn't. She had woke up and was looking at him with a confused look on her face. “ Oh hey, “ Robert said.
“ Hey, “ Betty said. She was a little dazed and groggy from being asleep and looked surprised to see Robert in the room. “ You shaved. “
Robert nodded as he rubbed his chin, “ That scrub was getting on my nerves. “
“ Oh, “ Betty nodded. She thought he had looked really sexy with the stubble. “ So why are you here? “
“ I just came to check on you but it hasn't been long enough since I checked on you last so I was leaving, “ Robert flipped his phone around in his hand to have something to focus on beside Betty.
“ Oh. Was that Branslav on the phone? “ Betty looked at the item in question. She wondered if he had walked in while she was having her dream or just as she was waking up.
Robert looked down at it. He hadn't told her about Branslav's meeting and he couldn't tell her he had watched as she dreamed. “ Uh yeah. Something came up and he has to go to a meeting with his manager and Martin tonight so he won't be home until late. “
“ Ah, “ Betty nodded then looked a little disappointed. “ I guess I'll just have to wait until he gets back from the road trip to spend time with him. “
“ I hope you don't take this the wrong way but you two are having a hard time getting together to do anything at all, “ Robert said. He tried to stay looking as clueless as possible because Betty kept scanning his face like she expected to see something.
“ I know, “ Betty sighed and looked away. She was starting to feel frustrated with all the roadblocks they had experienced. She ran a hand through her hair, “ And then when we do get together, it's so weird we don't know what to do and then he crowds me. “
“ Tell him to step back, “ Robert said. “ He'll listen. He's a little dense so you have to spell things out for him. “
“ That's nice to know, “ Betty sighed. “ I just wish it wasn't so awkward. “
“ You're both nervous I guess, “ Robert said. “ You two need to get more comfortable with each other. “
“ How do we do that though? “ Betty asked.
Robert shook his head, “ I really don't know. You have to figure that one out on your own. “
Betty sighed then looked like something was troubling her. She looked at Robert then at the bed again. “ Can I talk to you? I mean really talk to you on a personal level. “
Robert nodded, “ Sure. I talk to you on a personal level so why do you think I wouldn't talk to you? “
“ I've been thinking lately, “ Betty started.
“ About Branslav? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. “
“ And how things are just messed up between you? “ Robert asked gently.
“ Yeah. I was thinking about that before I decided I wanted to go see Branslav again, “ Betty looked at the bed. “ It's starting to feel like that spark we had at the banquet was just that, a spark. Sparkle and fade, you know? “
“ I saw that spark and I thought there'd be something there too, “ Robert said. He dared not to mention that he had felt a little something as well. “ He wouldn't shut up about you for a week afterwards. “
“ I know. You told me, “ Betty nodded. “ I wrote a bunch of little stories about how I'd meet him again and how things would go. “
“ I guess none of it has matched up for you either huh? “ Robert took a step towards the bed. He knew none of the things Branslav had thought about Betty had matched up. Branslav had told Robert a lot of things he had thought about Betty like how he thought she'd be a wildcat in bed and probably had men beating down her door.
“ You mean he had ideas about me too? “ Betty looked surprised.
Robert nodded, scrambling in his head for an answer. “ Uh yeah. After he read your books he thought you'd be all wild and stuff. I told you all about it, remember? “
Betty furrowed her brow, “ Um no. “
Robert hunched his shoulders when he realized he hadn't said a word to her about it, “ Shit. I didn't did I? “
“ He really thought I was like those girls in the stories? “ Betty asked. “ Like in what way? “
Robert shut his eyes, “ He didn't elaborate. He just said he thought you'd be more like them. “
“ Oh, I suppose that would disappoint him since those girls are nothing like me. Of course, he was nothing like I thought he'd be. You remember me telling you how I thought he'd be, right? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah. And I told you he is a nice guy, just nothing like you assumed he would be. My mother always said you should never assume, “ Robert said but Betty cut him off.
“ Because it just makes an ass out of you and me, “ Betty finished the quote.
Robert smiled, “ Did your mom tell you that one too? “
“ Yup, “ Betty nodded. “ I guess I didn't mind her advice very well then huh? “
“ No more than I minded my mother, “ Robert said. “ I always assumed my life would be just peachy once I got married and started a family of my own. I guess that's why I'm taking this so hard. “
Betty nodded, “ I guess a lot of people think that life will be perfect once they fall in love. “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. They just fail to remember life still goes on after you do. “
There was a long awkward silence before Betty looked at Robert again, “ So I guess we're eating take out for dinner. “
“ I guess so, “ Robert nodded. He had been waiting perhaps for her to say she had thought about him too after they had met. However, she seemed too shy to come out and admit it. He noted she still looked a little flushed, “ Are you feverish? “
“ What? “ Betty furrowed her brow.
“ Your face is flushed, “ Robert pointed out. “ Are you feeling okay? “
Betty looked down at the bed, the color of her cheeks deepening a bit, “ Oh. I think I am. I thought maybe it was just a little hot in here but I could be. “
“ Can I check your temperature? “ Robert offered.
“ Do you have thermometer? “ Betty glanced at him.
Robert shook his head, “ But I did raise a kid. I know how to check without one. May I? “
“ How? “ Betty furrowed her brow.
Robert smiled a little, “ With my lips on your forehead. Is that okay with you? “
Betty looked a little uneasy for a moment then nodded, “ Okay. “
She watched him walk over to the bed, stopping next to her and sitting on the edge of the bed She took a sharp breath as he leaned forward then gently brushed her bangs away from her forehead and put his lips to it.
After a few moments, he pulled back. He looked into her eyes, “ You're a little warm. Let me check your stitches. “
Betty nodded slowly, “ If you think you need to. “
Robert looked at the wound closely but doing his best not to touch it. It seemed to be draining okay with no signs of even a mild infection. “ It's good. You might want to clean it in a few days though. “
“ They told me not to get it wet for a couple of days, “ Betty said.
“ I've had them before. I'm surprised they didn't put a bandage on them for the first twenty four hours, “ Robert said.
“ They said it was in an awkward spot and they couldn't, “ Betty sighed. “ They put a liquid bandage on it and said not to wash it off for a day at least. “
“ Oh. That makes sense, “ Robert said. “ Did they send any of the liquid bandage with you? “
“ No. They told me I could get it at the pharmacy, “ Betty said. “ When they found out I didn't have insurance, they treated me like crap. “
“ That's terrible, “ Robert wasn't surprised. He had seen many people get treated badly for that reason while he was dealing with Alex's health problems. Alex had been in the Emergency Room several times as an infant because of various things so Robert had witnessed a lot of situations like that. “ I hope you complained. “
“ I'll make a formal complaint when I go to pay the bill, “ Betty said. “ I'm paying it in cash so I figure it'll have a little more force behind it. “
“ You should wear a fur coat and diamonds too, “ Robert teased. “ Even if they're fakes, it'll still make you look rich. “
Betty laughed a little, “ You're crazy. I'm not that rich. “
“ No really. I went to pay one of Alex's bills once and this rich looking woman was there the same day and she ripped the hospital a new one. As it turned out, she had been there the same night I had been with Alex but she looked like crap. Her kid had gotten sick in the middle of the night and she didn't have time to do anything but pull on a pair of jeans with her nightshirt, “ Robert said. “ No time for hair or make-up or anything. “
“ And she didn't have insurance? “ Betty asked.
“ Hell no. She didn't need it, “ Robert said. “ Her husband owned a casino down in Las Vegas and she was up here visiting the kid's grandparents. “
“ Well damn, “ Betty said. “ I ought go in there looking a like a million dollars then. ”
“ You should, “ Robert said. “ They have no right to treat people like that. “
“ No they don't, “ Betty said. “ Branslav even picked up on how they were treating me and he tried to defend me a little bit. “
“ He did? “ Robert arched an eyebrow. “ That was good of him. “
“ He got really pissed because they were going to throw me out if I had somewhere to go or not. That's how come I ended up here, “ Betty glanced around the room.
“ They were going to discharge you with a head injury whether you had someone to watch you or not? “ Robert was a little shocked. “ Bastards. “
“ Well they just thought I was some degenerate so they treated me like one, “ Betty sighed. " They figured I could manage. They didn't even bat an eyelash when I said I had a manager. I guess they thought I was making stuff up. "
“ I guess Branslav really didn't have a choice then, “ Robert said.
“ Not really, “ Betty said.
They were quiet for a long moment when Robert snapped his fingers. “ Oh shit. I nearly forgot. “
“ What? Was it important? “ Betty looked concerned.
“ What would you like for dinner? “ Robert asked.
Betty shook her head, “ Here I thought it was something urgent. “
“ Eating is pretty important, “ Robert said. “ I don't want you to starve. “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. Starving would be bad. “
“ So what would you like? “ Robert said.
“ I don't know, “ Betty sighed. “ Whatever you want. “
Robert furrowed his brow, “ I'm asking you. I'll eat a little of whatever you decide you want. “
“ I don't know what to order though, “ Betty said. “ I hardly ever eat take-out. “
Robert shut his eyes, “ Come on. There has to be something you want. “
Betty thought about it then looked at him, “ Does Chang Wang's deliver? “
Robert opened his eyes slowly, “ Yes. Yes they do. “
“ Then get something from there, “ Betty said. I really liked that Kung Pow. “
Robert smirked, “ Now we're getting somewhere. Should I ask for forks or do you want to use chopsticks again? “
“ I don't know about you but I think I can use chopsticks, “ Betty said.
“ Will you feed me again if I have trouble? “ Robert had a teasing edge to his voice.
“ If you have that much trouble then yes I guess so, “ Betty let out a very put-on sigh to tease him since he was teasing her.
Robert smiled at that, “ Awesome. I'd better go order it now. They're usually backed up on deliveries so it'll take an hour or so to get it here. It's be faster to pick it up but I obviously can't do that. “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. You can't leave me alone. “
Robert thought of something then smiled, “ Do you feel like going for a ride? They just said you couldn't be left alone, they never said you couldn't go out, right? “
Betty thought about it then shook her head, “ They didn't say I had to stay home no. “
Robert smiled and rubbed his hands together, “ Excellent. Good. Good. “
“ But what am I going to wear? “ Betty picked at her pajamas. “ All Branslav got for me was the pajamas. “
Robert tilted his head to the side, “ I think I can fix that. “
“ How? “ Betty looked puzzled.
“ We're about the same size, “ Robert eyed her. In fact, she looked like she weighed less than him.
“ Wait. Are you suggesting I wear your clothes? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. “ Let me go grab something and we'll try. “
Betty nodded, “ Okay. “
Robert got up and walked to the door, “ I'll be right back. “
“ I'm not going anywhere, “ Betty called as he shut the door.
Robert zipped down the stairs, going to the living room. He got out everything from his gym bag, setting aside a pair of jeans then looked through the shirts he had brought. He picked one that was one of his favorites, a black rib knit one with a tribal pattern down the arms. He then zipped back up the stairs, going to the guest room.
“ Wow. That was fast, “ Betty said. She looked surprised he had ran so fast just for her.
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. He offered the clothes to her, “ Here. “
Betty took them, looking at the tag in the jeans. “ Yeah, these'll do. “
“ How about the shirt? “ Robert motioned to it. “ All I have is extra large. “
Betty held it up, “ I guess it'll be okay. “
“ Great. Now, can you do this stuff on your own or do I need to help you? “ Robert asked. He didn't know how Betty had gotten into her pajamas or out of her other clothes for that matter. He was pretty sure she had done it by herself since she seemed so uncomfortable around Branslav.
“ I can manage but you need to give me the bag from the hospital, “ Betty pointed at it. “ I need something out of there. “
“ I'll get it. What do you need? “ Robert grabbed the bag.
“ I'll get it out, “ Betty said.
“ No. I'll get it, “ Robert said. He opened the bag, noticing her black bra was right on top. He looked for a moment, seeing the tag was sticking out where he could see it. “ Oh wow, “ He muttered.
Betty blushed, “ That's why I wanted to get it. “
Robert held the bag out to her, “ Have at it. “
Betty took the bag, “ You can go now. “
“ Yeah. I think I will, “ Robert headed for the door. “ Uh, just call me when you're done. “
“ I will, “ Betty said.
Robert went out into the hallway, going across the hall and leaning his head against the wall. Seeing Betty's bra size had done nothing for his straining composure. He could could see her chest was big but seeing that she wore a double 'E' cup put things into perspective. He ran his hands through his hair, ~Don't think about it... don't think about it, ~ He told himself.
He waited there for a few minutes, trying to think of anything but Betty changing in the room behind him. Finally, she called for him. He went back to the guest room and stopped in the doorway. He looked her over, “ Whoa. “
“ Was this the biggest shirt? “ Betty motioned towards it. It fit her closely, hugging her body tightly. It was especially tight across her chest.
Robert nodded then motioned lamely at her, “ Uh yeah. I'm sorry. You've just got a little more up... there than I do. “
Betty blushed then sighed after she thought about it, “ That's true. I'll have a jacket on so I guess it'll be okay. “
Robert looked down, “ Still with the socks huh? “
“ I could wear one boot but it would look retarded so I just stuck with them. I'm not going in so what does it matter right? “ Betty said.
“ Right, “ Robert said. “ Let's boogie. “
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
“ This is bullshit man, “ Daniel muttered as he waited for Branslav to shoot a free throw. After talking to Martin and Lotte, Coach Sweet had told Branslav and Daniel to come back after lunch. They were to work on their three point shots and free throws until they completed a certain number. After that, Daniel would be free to go while Branslav still had to go to dinner with Lotte and Martin.
“ One hundred fifty six, “ Branslav muttered when the free throw went in. He glanced at Daniel, “ I know it is. “
“ I mean shit. We are the two best guys on the team so why is it we're always getting punished? Those other slackers need to be in here, not us. I had things to do today, “ Daniel said then shot his free throw and Branslav went to get his ball.
“ You should calm down a bit. You keep missing because you're pissed, “ Branslav said when the shot didn't go in. “ And we're not being punished. We have to perform well in front of the scout. “
Daniel rolled his eyes and went to get his ball. He came back and muttered, “ I know. “
“ One fifty seven, “ Branslav muttered as he hit another shot. Once he got to two hundred, he had to start working on his three pointers. Daniel was stuck at one forty since he had started griping and was missing shots. He went to get his ball then looked at Daniel, “ You get caught up or I'll have to go to the other side of the gym so you can concentrate. “
Daniel nodded and set up his shot, firing it. It went in, rolled around the rim and popped back out. “ Shit, “ He muttered and got the ball. He tried again, it going in that time. “ Finally. “
Branslav smiled, “ Good. Sixteen more like that and we'll be caught up. “
“ So what are you doing tonight when you get out of here? “ Daniel said. He took a deep breath then focused on the rim before he shot another shot that went in.
“ I have a meeting with my manager tonight. We're going to dinner, “ Branslav sighed. “ She said it was important. “
Daniel came back with the ball, “ Oh. I guess it's a good thing Robert came out to help with Betty then huh? “
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ I guess it is. This stuff would have come up and she would have been alone after all. “
“ Did you ever figure out how he got his shit together so quickly? “ Daniel asked.
Branslav shook his head, “ No. I'll have to ask him when I get home tonight. “
“ Stop talking you two! “ Coach Sweet called from the door of the gym. He had been his office but had walked up unnoticed by either man. “ Get to work or you'll have to be here two hours before everyone else tomorrow. “
Branslav growled the shouted, “ Yes sir. “
“ Yes sir, “ Daniel sighed.
**
Robert walked over to the fridge, grabbing a couple of beers from it. They had just finished eating dinner and Branslav still wasn't home. “ Let's go to the living room baby. I'm not ready to take you back upstairs yet, “ He said.
“ Okay, “ Betty grabbed her crutches. Robert carried the beers and followed her to the living room, then got in front of her. She let him lead her to the couch, sitting down as he sat down with her. He took her crutches and put them off to the side before taking one of the beers, popped it open and handed it back. “ There you go. “
“ Thanks, “ Betty said and took a sip. She didn't want to drink too much with her painkillers. She had to take another dose as soon as Robert took her back up.
Robert opened his beer, taking a big swig before looking at her. He smiled, “ So you never told me what you were thinking last time. “
Betty blushed when he said it because she knew what he was talking about. “ Uh oh, “ She muttered.
“ I'm not letting you off this couch until you tell me, “ Robert smirked.
“ I don't know if I can tell you, “ Betty said. The playful way he smirked made her wonder if he was really serious or just playing with her.
“ Then tell me which story it's the most like and I'll go re-read it, “ Robert said.
Betty shook her head, “ No. It's not like any of my stories. “
“ Then tell me, “ Robert took another drink of beer.
“ I... “ Betty started.
Robert took her left hand in his right, “ Come on. Tell me. “
Betty looked at her can of beer, “ I was thinking about what it would be like to lick beer off of your chest. “
“ Really? “ Robert looked a little surprised. “ Lick beer off my chest huh? “
Betty nodded, “ Among other things. “
“ Well then. Now we're getting somewhere. Were you just going to lick it off my chest or would you go further? “ Robert really seemed interested.
“ I don't know. Where would you want me to stop? “ Betty asked. She could tell he was serious since he was pursuing the question.
Robert smiled, “ Would you lick it off my stomach? “
“ I guess so, “ Betty said. “ I've thought about doing other things too. “
“ Like what? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
“ A lot of things. Like things from my stories type things, “ Betty felt the blush on her cheek get deeper. “ Everything imaginable. “
“ Wow. Hearing that is making me... “ Robert said then stopped. He looked away then shook his head, “ It's making me... This is so hard to say because I don't want to make you uncomfortable. “
“ What's it making you? What? “ Betty asked.
Robert looked her in the eye, “ Hearing that is making me unbelievably hard. “
Betty laughed in shock, “ No way. “
“ Yes way. If we weren't sitting here on my best friend's couch, I would tear your clothes off right now and screw you until dawn. “
“ No! “ Betty said but she was still laughing from shock. She wasn't sure if she was supposed to be offended or flattered.
“ Yes! “ Robert sounded very enthusiastic at the prospect.
“ Would you lick beer off of me too? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ Yeah! “ Robert nearly shouted. “ I'd lick beer off every inch of you then screw you, stop for five minutes and do you again! “
“ It'd be on like Donkey Kong huh? “ Betty said.
Robert nodded vigorously, “ Yeah! “
Betty grabbed his beer, “ That's it. I'm cutting you off. You've had enough to drink. “
“ Give me that back! I'm fine! “ Robert grabbed for the beer. He then grabbed Betty's, “ Fine. I'll just take yours. “
“ Give that back! You don't need anymore beer! “ Betty said. They fought over the beer for a few moments before they lost their balance and fell off the couch.
They hit the floor with a hard thud, Betty landing right on top of Robert. She tried to push herself up but he pulled her down to him again. She blushed when she realized his left leg was between her legs and she straddled it, her right leg resting against something she could have gone without feeling. She could tell he hadn't lied about what he had told her.
“ Well this is an interesting development, “ Robert said.
“ Robert, “ Betty whined “ Let me up. “
“ Oh no, “ Robert whispered. He pressed his leg upwards, smiling at the deep breath Betty drew in and the increase of color in her cheeks. “ Sensitive? “
“ Please don't do that, “ Betty curled her fingers against the carpet. She let out another sharp breath when he pressed against her again. He then drew his leg back, the pressure against her crotch easing considerably.
“ Okay, “ Robert said.
“ Thank you, “ Betty breathed then squeaked when Robert rolled them over, putting her under him. “ Robert! Please let me up. “
“ Not until you kiss me, “ Robert said as he looked deep into her eyes. “ I've been dying to kiss you since I got in the car at the airport. I couldn't though with Branslav hanging around. “
“ Robert, “ Betty whispered. She couldn't bring herself to say 'no' because she had felt the same way.
“ Yes baby? “ He whispered then kissed her forehead.
“ I wanted to kiss you too, “ She whispered.
“ I knew you did, “ He murmured against her brow. He brought his right hand up, placing it on her left side. He then brushed his lips along her nose before hovering over her lips. He pushed his leg against her crotch again.
“ Robert! “ She gasped as he covered her mouth with his. She moaned against his mouth while he kissed her. He pulled away, wiggling his leg between hers. She grabbed at the carpet underneath her and panted, pretty sure she'd go crazy if he didn't do something soon...
**
Robert went into the guest room quietly as he could manage, finding Betty was still asleep. He was about to leave to let her rest when he heard her murmuring in her sleep. It sounded like she had called his name so he stepped back into the room. He looked at her a little longer than he had before and saw her cheeks were a bit flushed.
He wondered if she had fever and stepped closer to the bed to wake her so he could check her temperature. She murmured his name again, her voice husky as she let out a little moan. Robert's eyes got wide when he realized she was dreaming about him. He glanced down at her chest, seeing her nipples were pushing against the fabric of her pajama top.
From the looks and the sound of things, he discerned she was having a pretty hot dream about him. He quirked his mouth, wondering just what was going on inside of her head. Her hands gripped at the bed, her fingers curling and uncurling as she panted. Her hips bucked a little and she tossed her head to the left, her panting getting louder.
Robert backed away, knowing if he watched her any longer, he would be in worse trouble than he was already in. He reached behind himself to feel for the door, wrapping his hand around the edge as he continued to move backwards. He stepped out into the hall then shut the door, shutting his eyes as he did. He had to settle down, his heart racing again like it had earlier in the afternoon.
~Does she want me as bad as I want her? ~ He thought. ~Is that why she's dreaming about me like that? ~
He backed away from the door, deciding to give her a little while to stop dreaming before he woke her to check on her. Knowing her, she'd be embarrassed to death if she knew he knew about the dream. As he walked away from the door, his cell phone rang. He got it out of his back pocket and answered without looking at the caller ID.
“ Hughes, “ He said.
“ You bastard, “ Pauline hissed. “ Do you know what I just went through? “
Robert was pretty sure, “ Yeah. They frisked you, took mug shots and locked you in a cell with a bunch of big ugly guys staring at you. “
“ It was awful, “ Pauline said. “ Some of those animals stuck their hands through the bars to grab me. I had to huddle up in the farthest corner of the cell and wait for my lawyer. “
“ Aw what a shame. I almost feel like giving a shit, “ Robert said. “ You get any phone numbers for when Richard gets tired of you? “
“ Robert Ashley Hughes! “ Pauline shouted.
“ I believe that is what my parents named me yes, “ Robert said.
“ Robert! I am in not in the mood for this! “ Pauline shouted.
“ I'm not in the mood to deal with you, “ Robert said. “ If you don't stop calling me, I'm getting a restraining order as soon as I get back to Taos. “
“ You mean you aren't in town? “ Pauline asked.
“ Nope, “ Robert said.
“ Then where are you? “ Pauline asked.
“ Like I would tell you, “ Robert said. “ How hard is it for you to understand I want you out of my life? “
“ Well I'm not leaving you alone until I have what I want, “ Pauline said.
“ Whatever you want you're not getting it. You lost all rights to it when I found out Alex wasn't mine, “ Robert said. “ Goodbye. “
Robert snapped his phone shut then reopened it to block the number Pauline had called him from. Once that was finished, he realized he was still standing in the hall just down from the guest room. He was pretty certain he had woke Betty up with his yelling so he decided to check on her again. He went back into the room and found she was still sleeping.
He walked back to the door, fixing to leave again when he heard his name again. He glanced over, expecting to see Betty still sleeping but she wasn't. She had woke up and was looking at him with a confused look on her face. “ Oh hey, “ Robert said.
“ Hey, “ Betty said. She was a little dazed and groggy from being asleep and looked surprised to see Robert in the room. “ You shaved. “
Robert nodded as he rubbed his chin, “ That scrub was getting on my nerves. “
“ Oh, “ Betty nodded. She thought he had looked really sexy with the stubble. “ So why are you here? “
“ I just came to check on you but it hasn't been long enough since I checked on you last so I was leaving, “ Robert flipped his phone around in his hand to have something to focus on beside Betty.
“ Oh. Was that Branslav on the phone? “ Betty looked at the item in question. She wondered if he had walked in while she was having her dream or just as she was waking up.
Robert looked down at it. He hadn't told her about Branslav's meeting and he couldn't tell her he had watched as she dreamed. “ Uh yeah. Something came up and he has to go to a meeting with his manager and Martin tonight so he won't be home until late. “
“ Ah, “ Betty nodded then looked a little disappointed. “ I guess I'll just have to wait until he gets back from the road trip to spend time with him. “
“ I hope you don't take this the wrong way but you two are having a hard time getting together to do anything at all, “ Robert said. He tried to stay looking as clueless as possible because Betty kept scanning his face like she expected to see something.
“ I know, “ Betty sighed and looked away. She was starting to feel frustrated with all the roadblocks they had experienced. She ran a hand through her hair, “ And then when we do get together, it's so weird we don't know what to do and then he crowds me. “
“ Tell him to step back, “ Robert said. “ He'll listen. He's a little dense so you have to spell things out for him. “
“ That's nice to know, “ Betty sighed. “ I just wish it wasn't so awkward. “
“ You're both nervous I guess, “ Robert said. “ You two need to get more comfortable with each other. “
“ How do we do that though? “ Betty asked.
Robert shook his head, “ I really don't know. You have to figure that one out on your own. “
Betty sighed then looked like something was troubling her. She looked at Robert then at the bed again. “ Can I talk to you? I mean really talk to you on a personal level. “
Robert nodded, “ Sure. I talk to you on a personal level so why do you think I wouldn't talk to you? “
“ I've been thinking lately, “ Betty started.
“ About Branslav? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. “
“ And how things are just messed up between you? “ Robert asked gently.
“ Yeah. I was thinking about that before I decided I wanted to go see Branslav again, “ Betty looked at the bed. “ It's starting to feel like that spark we had at the banquet was just that, a spark. Sparkle and fade, you know? “
“ I saw that spark and I thought there'd be something there too, “ Robert said. He dared not to mention that he had felt a little something as well. “ He wouldn't shut up about you for a week afterwards. “
“ I know. You told me, “ Betty nodded. “ I wrote a bunch of little stories about how I'd meet him again and how things would go. “
“ I guess none of it has matched up for you either huh? “ Robert took a step towards the bed. He knew none of the things Branslav had thought about Betty had matched up. Branslav had told Robert a lot of things he had thought about Betty like how he thought she'd be a wildcat in bed and probably had men beating down her door.
“ You mean he had ideas about me too? “ Betty looked surprised.
Robert nodded, scrambling in his head for an answer. “ Uh yeah. After he read your books he thought you'd be all wild and stuff. I told you all about it, remember? “
Betty furrowed her brow, “ Um no. “
Robert hunched his shoulders when he realized he hadn't said a word to her about it, “ Shit. I didn't did I? “
“ He really thought I was like those girls in the stories? “ Betty asked. “ Like in what way? “
Robert shut his eyes, “ He didn't elaborate. He just said he thought you'd be more like them. “
“ Oh, I suppose that would disappoint him since those girls are nothing like me. Of course, he was nothing like I thought he'd be. You remember me telling you how I thought he'd be, right? “ Betty asked.
“ Yeah. And I told you he is a nice guy, just nothing like you assumed he would be. My mother always said you should never assume, “ Robert said but Betty cut him off.
“ Because it just makes an ass out of you and me, “ Betty finished the quote.
Robert smiled, “ Did your mom tell you that one too? “
“ Yup, “ Betty nodded. “ I guess I didn't mind her advice very well then huh? “
“ No more than I minded my mother, “ Robert said. “ I always assumed my life would be just peachy once I got married and started a family of my own. I guess that's why I'm taking this so hard. “
Betty nodded, “ I guess a lot of people think that life will be perfect once they fall in love. “
Robert nodded, “ Yeah. They just fail to remember life still goes on after you do. “
There was a long awkward silence before Betty looked at Robert again, “ So I guess we're eating take out for dinner. “
“ I guess so, “ Robert nodded. He had been waiting perhaps for her to say she had thought about him too after they had met. However, she seemed too shy to come out and admit it. He noted she still looked a little flushed, “ Are you feverish? “
“ What? “ Betty furrowed her brow.
“ Your face is flushed, “ Robert pointed out. “ Are you feeling okay? “
Betty looked down at the bed, the color of her cheeks deepening a bit, “ Oh. I think I am. I thought maybe it was just a little hot in here but I could be. “
“ Can I check your temperature? “ Robert offered.
“ Do you have thermometer? “ Betty glanced at him.
Robert shook his head, “ But I did raise a kid. I know how to check without one. May I? “
“ How? “ Betty furrowed her brow.
Robert smiled a little, “ With my lips on your forehead. Is that okay with you? “
Betty looked a little uneasy for a moment then nodded, “ Okay. “
She watched him walk over to the bed, stopping next to her and sitting on the edge of the bed She took a sharp breath as he leaned forward then gently brushed her bangs away from her forehead and put his lips to it.
After a few moments, he pulled back. He looked into her eyes, “ You're a little warm. Let me check your stitches. “
Betty nodded slowly, “ If you think you need to. “
Robert looked at the wound closely but doing his best not to touch it. It seemed to be draining okay with no signs of even a mild infection. “ It's good. You might want to clean it in a few days though. “
“ They told me not to get it wet for a couple of days, “ Betty said.
“ I've had them before. I'm surprised they didn't put a bandage on them for the first twenty four hours, “ Robert said.
“ They said it was in an awkward spot and they couldn't, “ Betty sighed. “ They put a liquid bandage on it and said not to wash it off for a day at least. “
“ Oh. That makes sense, “ Robert said. “ Did they send any of the liquid bandage with you? “
“ No. They told me I could get it at the pharmacy, “ Betty said. “ When they found out I didn't have insurance, they treated me like crap. “
“ That's terrible, “ Robert wasn't surprised. He had seen many people get treated badly for that reason while he was dealing with Alex's health problems. Alex had been in the Emergency Room several times as an infant because of various things so Robert had witnessed a lot of situations like that. “ I hope you complained. “
“ I'll make a formal complaint when I go to pay the bill, “ Betty said. “ I'm paying it in cash so I figure it'll have a little more force behind it. “
“ You should wear a fur coat and diamonds too, “ Robert teased. “ Even if they're fakes, it'll still make you look rich. “
Betty laughed a little, “ You're crazy. I'm not that rich. “
“ No really. I went to pay one of Alex's bills once and this rich looking woman was there the same day and she ripped the hospital a new one. As it turned out, she had been there the same night I had been with Alex but she looked like crap. Her kid had gotten sick in the middle of the night and she didn't have time to do anything but pull on a pair of jeans with her nightshirt, “ Robert said. “ No time for hair or make-up or anything. “
“ And she didn't have insurance? “ Betty asked.
“ Hell no. She didn't need it, “ Robert said. “ Her husband owned a casino down in Las Vegas and she was up here visiting the kid's grandparents. “
“ Well damn, “ Betty said. “ I ought go in there looking a like a million dollars then. ”
“ You should, “ Robert said. “ They have no right to treat people like that. “
“ No they don't, “ Betty said. “ Branslav even picked up on how they were treating me and he tried to defend me a little bit. “
“ He did? “ Robert arched an eyebrow. “ That was good of him. “
“ He got really pissed because they were going to throw me out if I had somewhere to go or not. That's how come I ended up here, “ Betty glanced around the room.
“ They were going to discharge you with a head injury whether you had someone to watch you or not? “ Robert was a little shocked. “ Bastards. “
“ Well they just thought I was some degenerate so they treated me like one, “ Betty sighed. " They figured I could manage. They didn't even bat an eyelash when I said I had a manager. I guess they thought I was making stuff up. "
“ I guess Branslav really didn't have a choice then, “ Robert said.
“ Not really, “ Betty said.
They were quiet for a long moment when Robert snapped his fingers. “ Oh shit. I nearly forgot. “
“ What? Was it important? “ Betty looked concerned.
“ What would you like for dinner? “ Robert asked.
Betty shook her head, “ Here I thought it was something urgent. “
“ Eating is pretty important, “ Robert said. “ I don't want you to starve. “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. Starving would be bad. “
“ So what would you like? “ Robert said.
“ I don't know, “ Betty sighed. “ Whatever you want. “
Robert furrowed his brow, “ I'm asking you. I'll eat a little of whatever you decide you want. “
“ I don't know what to order though, “ Betty said. “ I hardly ever eat take-out. “
Robert shut his eyes, “ Come on. There has to be something you want. “
Betty thought about it then looked at him, “ Does Chang Wang's deliver? “
Robert opened his eyes slowly, “ Yes. Yes they do. “
“ Then get something from there, “ Betty said. I really liked that Kung Pow. “
Robert smirked, “ Now we're getting somewhere. Should I ask for forks or do you want to use chopsticks again? “
“ I don't know about you but I think I can use chopsticks, “ Betty said.
“ Will you feed me again if I have trouble? “ Robert had a teasing edge to his voice.
“ If you have that much trouble then yes I guess so, “ Betty let out a very put-on sigh to tease him since he was teasing her.
Robert smiled at that, “ Awesome. I'd better go order it now. They're usually backed up on deliveries so it'll take an hour or so to get it here. It's be faster to pick it up but I obviously can't do that. “
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. You can't leave me alone. “
Robert thought of something then smiled, “ Do you feel like going for a ride? They just said you couldn't be left alone, they never said you couldn't go out, right? “
Betty thought about it then shook her head, “ They didn't say I had to stay home no. “
Robert smiled and rubbed his hands together, “ Excellent. Good. Good. “
“ But what am I going to wear? “ Betty picked at her pajamas. “ All Branslav got for me was the pajamas. “
Robert tilted his head to the side, “ I think I can fix that. “
“ How? “ Betty looked puzzled.
“ We're about the same size, “ Robert eyed her. In fact, she looked like she weighed less than him.
“ Wait. Are you suggesting I wear your clothes? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. “ Let me go grab something and we'll try. “
Betty nodded, “ Okay. “
Robert got up and walked to the door, “ I'll be right back. “
“ I'm not going anywhere, “ Betty called as he shut the door.
Robert zipped down the stairs, going to the living room. He got out everything from his gym bag, setting aside a pair of jeans then looked through the shirts he had brought. He picked one that was one of his favorites, a black rib knit one with a tribal pattern down the arms. He then zipped back up the stairs, going to the guest room.
“ Wow. That was fast, “ Betty said. She looked surprised he had ran so fast just for her.
“ Yeah, “ Robert said. He offered the clothes to her, “ Here. “
Betty took them, looking at the tag in the jeans. “ Yeah, these'll do. “
“ How about the shirt? “ Robert motioned to it. “ All I have is extra large. “
Betty held it up, “ I guess it'll be okay. “
“ Great. Now, can you do this stuff on your own or do I need to help you? “ Robert asked. He didn't know how Betty had gotten into her pajamas or out of her other clothes for that matter. He was pretty sure she had done it by herself since she seemed so uncomfortable around Branslav.
“ I can manage but you need to give me the bag from the hospital, “ Betty pointed at it. “ I need something out of there. “
“ I'll get it. What do you need? “ Robert grabbed the bag.
“ I'll get it out, “ Betty said.
“ No. I'll get it, “ Robert said. He opened the bag, noticing her black bra was right on top. He looked for a moment, seeing the tag was sticking out where he could see it. “ Oh wow, “ He muttered.
Betty blushed, “ That's why I wanted to get it. “
Robert held the bag out to her, “ Have at it. “
Betty took the bag, “ You can go now. “
“ Yeah. I think I will, “ Robert headed for the door. “ Uh, just call me when you're done. “
“ I will, “ Betty said.
Robert went out into the hallway, going across the hall and leaning his head against the wall. Seeing Betty's bra size had done nothing for his straining composure. He could could see her chest was big but seeing that she wore a double 'E' cup put things into perspective. He ran his hands through his hair, ~Don't think about it... don't think about it, ~ He told himself.
He waited there for a few minutes, trying to think of anything but Betty changing in the room behind him. Finally, she called for him. He went back to the guest room and stopped in the doorway. He looked her over, “ Whoa. “
“ Was this the biggest shirt? “ Betty motioned towards it. It fit her closely, hugging her body tightly. It was especially tight across her chest.
Robert nodded then motioned lamely at her, “ Uh yeah. I'm sorry. You've just got a little more up... there than I do. “
Betty blushed then sighed after she thought about it, “ That's true. I'll have a jacket on so I guess it'll be okay. “
Robert looked down, “ Still with the socks huh? “
“ I could wear one boot but it would look retarded so I just stuck with them. I'm not going in so what does it matter right? “ Betty said.
“ Right, “ Robert said. “ Let's boogie. “