Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Twenty Seven ( Chapter 27 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Robert tried to help Betty relax after she gets stressed out about being on television. Afterward, he gets a call from Jakob.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 05.12.2009 | Pages: 9 | Words: 4.2K | Visits: 181 | Status: Completed
Robert tried to help Betty relax after she gets stressed out about being on television. Afterward, he gets a call from Jakob.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 05.12.2009 | Pages: 9 | Words: 4.2K | Visits: 181 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Twenty-Seven
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Robert followed Betty down the hallway, listening as she spoke. “ And they'll be here early Wednesday morning so they can have it on in the seven o'clock hour. “
“ So how early is early? “ Robert asked as they moved down the hallway slowly.
“ My manager said five, “ Betty stopped and glanced at him. “ We'll have to get up at four to get ready. “
“ I think we can do that, “ Robert nodded. “ Are you going to tell Branslav? “
“ I don't know how he'll be able to see it, “ Betty had already thought about that. She knew the team wouldn't be staying in any hotel on the road trip. “ He said the team is sleeping on the bus for this trip. “
Robert frowned, “ Oh yeah. Maybe we ought to record it for him then. “
“ Sounds good, “ Betty started to crutch down the hall again. She sighed as she walked, " God. I feel so anxious about this. "
“ Were you this nervous when you interviewed with Vivacious? “ Robert followed her. He was certain she had been anxious since it seemed to be her nature.
Betty shook her head as they reached her door, “ No but it's just a regional magazine. The whole country will see me with this interview. “
“ Oh, “ Robert nodded. He had forgotten that Vivacious had limited circulation. As far as he knew, it was only for sale in the Southwestern states. “ It IS different then. “
“ Yeah, “ Betty nodded. She crutched into her room and over to the bed. She turned around and let herself down to the bed slowly, Robert watching her the whole time in case she fell, she was sure.
He gave her a gently serious look, “ You just need to relax. It'll be okay. “
“ It's just that it'll be new for me and I'm afraid I'll mess up, “ Betty said.
Robert rolled his eyes, “ You'll do fine. “
“ If you think so, “ Betty said.
“ I know so, “ Robert could tell she was really tore up about it. “ You need to just relax and get some rest right now. “
“ How am I supposed to relax? I'm going to be wound up until then and I'm so tense, I'll be a mess when it happens, “ Betty almost whined. She seemed even more upset than Robert had originally thought. He attributed the most of the anxiousness to the concussion and he wanted to comfort her somehow.
“ Now, now. Stop thinking like that, “ Robert put his hands up. " Just think everything will be fine and it will be. It may not be as bad as you think it will be. Just relax. "
“ But how am I supposed to? “ Betty asked.
Robert gave her a tiny smile, “ I can give a pretty good shoulder massage. “
Betty bit her lip then sighed, “ If you think it'll help. “
“ It will help, “ Robert said. “ You'll wake up sore if you don't get rid of some of that tension, drugs or not. “
“ Even if I take two Vicodin? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ You still have a concussion. I don't think it would be such a good idea to take more that one of those until you're over it, “ Robert said. “ You could overdose and put you in some real trouble considering you're already compromised. “
Betty looked at the floor, “ Okay. I guess you're right. “
Robert walked to the bed, taking her crutches. He set them aside before mounting the bed, going to her back and kneeling behind her. He kept his knees a inch behind her backside, trying to keep as much distance between them so he could keep it together. Though he was going crazy inside, he willed himself to stay under control.
He put his hands on her shoulders and started to knead her muscles. “ Jesus baby. You're as tight as a spring, “ He was surprised by how tense she was, more than he expected.
Betty didn't say anything as she let him work her. A few moments later, he stopped then sighed. “ What's wrong? “ She asked without looking at him.
“ You need to relax some. I'm just going to hurt you if you stay so tight, “ Robert said.
“ It's just that I've never had anyone rub my shoulders before, “ Betty sighed. " I don't know how to relax. "
Robert furrowed his brow, “ Oh. Well then. I'll help you with that. Take a deep breath. “
Betty did so and let it out when Robert told her to. “ Now what? “
“ Do it again slowly, “ Robert said. “ Just concentrate on your breathing. Clear you mind and don't think of anything else but relaxing. “
Betty didn't know if she could clear her mind. She had so many things going on in it. She was worried about the interview, wondering how things would work out with Branslav and how she'd be able to be in the house with Robert for three days alone. She wasn't sure how he really felt, his actions keeping her guessing.
“ Slowly, “ Robert said when she took a breath too quickly. “ Breathe like you do when you're going to sleep at night. “
Betty tried to do as she was told, making herself breathe as slowly as she could. “ What now? “ She asked after a few moments.
“ Let me try now, “ Robert started on her shoulders again. He was unsure of how much longer he could take touching her. He was starting to think he had made a bad move by suggesting the shoulder rub in the first place. Even though the satin was between him and her skin, he could still feel her warmth.
He remembered why he suggested it, knowing giving her any more than what the doctor had told her to take meant taking a huge risk. He worked her shoulders a little bit, arching an eyebrow when she let out a tiny gasp. He quirked his mouth, “ Does that feel good? “
“ Uh-huh, “ Betty murmured, continuing to melt into his touch. “ Where did you learn to do that? “
“ College, “ Robert said as he continued to work her. “ My major was in physiology. I was going to be a physical trainer if I couldn't get to play any sports. “
“ Wow, “ Betty let out another gasp because it felt so good. “ You must have been the top of your class. “
“ Why thank you. I was, “ Robert said. He was trying not to think about how most of his 'shoulder rubs' used to end in college. He had offered his services to Betty in earnest, not to accomplish anything.
“ I can tell, “ Betty murmured.
Robert stopped, lifting her hair up with his right hand. “ This is in the way baby. “
“ Oh, “ Betty grabbed her hair and pulled it over her shoulder. “Is that better? “
“ Yeah, “ Robert said as he moved his hands closer to her neck. He carefully pulled the collar of her robe down then massaged the upper trapezius muscles, causing her to let out another gasp. The little noises she made as he worked her chipped at his composure. He shut his eyes, trying to stay focused.
He moved his hands from her neck, trailing them down her back. He felt the muscles there and sighed. “ What's wrong? “ Betty asked.
“ You're just a mass of knots honey. Your shoulders are fine now but the rest of your back will be killing you if you go to sleep with it like this, “ He said. “ Do you mind? “
“ Oh. No, “ Betty said. Her back had been killing her and she already knew what he could do with his hands. He didn't seem to have any ill intentions towards her so she decided to let him.
Robert got off the bed but didn't look at her. “ Can you lay face down? “
Betty nodded, “ If you help me. “
“ Okay, “ Robert said and leaned down to get her behind the knees. He helped her as she pulled her legs into the bed and watched as she rolled over. She let out a frustrated growl when she got on her front. “ What? “
“ Help me get my robe untangled, “ Betty pulled at the garment. “ It's all twisted up. “
Robert reached for it but couldn't get it to loosen at all. “ Can I suggest something? “
“ What? “ Betty said as she continued to pull at it.
“ Take it off, “ Robert internally shuddered at the prospect. “ I'll need under it anyway. “
“ What? “ Betty furrowed her brow.
“ So I can massage your back, “ Robert said.
Betty nodded hesitantly, “ Oh. Okay. “
Robert watched as she sat up but she didn't untie her robe. “ What? “
“ I don't know about this, “ Betty said. “ I don't have much on. “
Robert rolled his eyes, “ I don't want to do anything bad to you. I just want to help you relax some. “
Betty thought about it. She was pretty certain he would have done something sooner if it had been his intention but it didn't seem it was. “ Could you turn around then? “ Betty asked as she looked at the floor.
“ Oh, “ Robert turned his back to her. “ Like this? “
“ Yeah. I'll tell you when I'm finished, “ Betty said as she untied her robe.
Robert shut his eyes as he heard her moving around behind him. She was so shy and it was turning him on terribly. He wasn't even for sure he could massage her back after all. He mentally kicked himself for even suggesting it considering the effect she had on him.
“ I think I'm set, “ Betty said finally. She was scared to death, her nervousness over the interview replaced with nervousness over what would happen next. She had written plenty of scenes where something innocent had escalated into something steamy. She convinced herself to take it as it came, hoping she would be able to speak up if things got too dangerous.
She trusted Robert though. She wouldn't have dared to go so exposed around anyone else, not even Branslav. She felt Robert cared about her and would never do anything to hurt her while Branslav had an air about him that made her wary. She had hoped it would wane the longer she spent around him but so far it hadn't. “ You can turn around now, “ She told Robert.
Robert turned around to find her laying on the stomach on the bed, swallowing hard when he saw her in her pajamas. She wore a black camisole top, which he already knew she had on, and a pair of matching shorts. She wasn't looking at him, instead resting her chin on her folded hands as she stared at the wall in front of her. He could tell she was apprehensive but wouldn't have gone so far unless she trusted him.
He took a deep breath to calm his nerves, “ Well now. Let's get started. “
Betty held her breath as Robert came the side of the bed so he was over her sideways. Her bed was the raised kind with a set of drawers beneath it so it was high off the floor, putting her at the perfect height for him to do his work. His hands trembled a little as he reached for her back, massaging her lightly at first. She shivered a little at his touch as he increased the pressure he was using.
Robert fought the urge to look her over as he massaged her back. The thought of the satin pajamas being the only thing between his hands and her skin ate at his mind. Betty let out a little gasp then said, “ That kind of hurts. Let up a little. “
Robert realized he had been massaging her a little harder than he had intended, his distraction causing him to do so. Robert let up. He continued to massage her, his heart pounding loudly in his ears. “ Sorry. Is this better? “
“ Yeah, “ Betty said. “ That feels nice. “
“ Thank you, “ Robert smiled a little bit at Betty's compliment. He looked up to the back of her head. “ I'm glad you like it. “
Betty took a sharp breath and looked over her shoulder at him. Robert wasn't sure why until he realized he didn't feel fabric under his fingers any more. He looked at her back to find the camisole had ridden up and he was touching her bare skin. “ Oops, “ He smoothed the top back down.
Betty put her head back down. She didn't like the silence after a while so she decided to speak, “ Tell me more about the scout thing. You have to be nervous... Ah!... too. “
Betty's sharp gasp sent a jolt of lust through Robert but he was determined not to lose his control. “ Oh. A little bit. I've played in front of scouts before though so I can concentrate on my game. “
“ Ah! “ Betty gasped again. She then put her face down, “ Sorry. That felt good. “
“ It's supposed to, “ Robert teased as he moved his hands up her back. He massaged her there for a few moments, Betty letting out another gasp that sounded vaguely sexual. The sounds she was making as he touched her made him think all the wrong things and it was eating away at his control. He knew if he continued, he would be in trouble.
He stopped massaging Betty and stepped away from the bed, thinking of an excuse to leave the room. “ I think I hear my phone ringing. “
Betty looked at him, “ I don't hear anything. “
Robert looked towards the door, “ I guess it stopped. “
Betty grabbed her robe as she sat up, covering herself. Having Robert's hands on her had made her heart race and her imagination run wild. She felt a little disappointed that nothing had happened but relieved too. “ Thank you for the massage. “
“ No problem, “ Robert focused on a white tiger stuffed animal that sat right behind Betty. He couldn't look at her with her robe clutched to her chest and her hair still draped over her shoulder. She appeared to be a little flushed and looked breathtaking sitting there on the bed He wanted to snatch the robe away and lay her down so he could do as he pleased until he was finished with her.
“ I need to go out for a minute. I need to go get my phone in case someone calls, “ Robert took a step towards the door. “ With everything that's going on, it could happen. “
“ Oh. Okay, “ Betty nodded. She noted he wasn't looking right at her and wondered what was going on. She didn't have the nerve to ask though. “ I guess so. “
“ I'll be back in a bit, “ Robert said and left the room. He walked back out to the kitchen then to the dining room, finding his phone where he had left it. He reached for it and it started to ring. He picked it up and saw Jakob's number.
He flipped it open, “ Hughes. “
“ Robert, “ Jakob said. “ I have some bad news. “
“ What kind of bad news? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
“ I just got a call from Cowboy, “ Jakob referred to William by his nickname again.
“ And? “ Robert could sense apprehension in Jakob's voice.
“ He said everyone got out okay but, “ Jakob stopped short.
“ Everyone got out okay from where? “ Robert furrowed his brow.
Jakob took a deep breath, “ Your house burned down. “
“ What? “ Robert felt his blood run cold. “ How? “
“ I don't know, “ Jakob sighed. “ William was there and he said Pauline got Alex out alright but some guy was there with her. He said he looked like a toad. “
“ That would be her boyfriend, “ Robert said quickly. “ Did you say Alex got out okay? “
“ Everyone did, “ Jakob said. “ But the house is a total loss. “
Robert sighed heavily. “ Great. “
“ I thought I'd call you and let you know. Did you have anything left over there? “ Jakob asked.
Robert shook his head, “ Not anything I can't replace. “
“ Oh. Okay, “ Jakob said. “ Sorry man. “
“ It's okay. I wasn't going to keep the place anyway, “ Robert had been seriously considering giving the house to Pauline. He knew the house would be unbearable to live in all by himself. There were too many memories of Alex and happier times.
“ Are you still coming back Thursday? “ Jakob inquired.
“ Yeah, “ Robert sighed. “ I have to show up in court and fight her. If I don't, they might rule against me. “
“ Oh. Okay, “ Jakob said. “ Then I guess I'll see you then huh? “
“ Yeah, “ Robert nodded.
“ Okay, “ Jakob sighed. “ I'll see you then. Later. “
“ Later, “ Robert said and snapped his phone closed after Jakob hung up. He put his phone in his back pocket then glanced towards the dining room. He walked to it, picking up the plates from the table. He brought them back to the sink and started to wash them.
He couldn't believe the house had burned down. He wondered if Pauline had done it out of spite but decided it wasn't. Pauline knew he would get the insurance money so it would have been stupid for her to do something so destructive. His mind jumped to Richard, contemplating if his wife's paramour had done it without the knowledge Robert's name was the only name on the deed.
He shut his eyes, trying to figure out what else could have caused the fire. He wondered if maybe it was an accident, like an electrical short. It really didn't matter how the fire occurred though, Robert would still be getting the money. It would provide him with a big enough cushion if he couldn't play but he couldn't see any reasons that would prevent him from doing so once his hand healed completely.
He finished washing the dishes and put them in the drainer to dry. He got a paper towel and dried his hands. He then took the bandages off the left so he could put clean ones on his wound. He walked out to his gym bag in the living room, opening up the end with the supplies he had bought to care for his hand. .
He zipped the end up, tending to his hand as he tried not to think of Betty. He thought he could handle giving her the massage but he was wrong. Touching her had only made him more uncomfortable.
He wondered what had possessed him to even think that he could put his hands on her and not react. He really didn't want her taking anymore drugs than necessary, unsure of how much would be too much in her state. He didn't want her making herself sick or, even worse, killing herself by accident. She had enough problems as it was without complicating things.
He looked at his hand, frowning. He had worked up quite a sweat doing the odd jobs and he really needed a shower. He stood up, walking to Betty's room. He found she had gotten back on her back and under the covers while he was away.
“ Hey, “ He said without really looking at her. He didn't think he could without thinking about the things that had been tormenting his thoughts or the condoms in his bag..
“ What is it? “ Betty asked. She didn't really look at him either.
“ I'm going to take a shower, “ Robert motioned to the bathroom. “ I really worked up a sweat taking care of that stuff this morning. “
“ I bet, “ Betty nodded. She then looked towards the bathroom door in her room. “ I'll need one of those sooner or later. I haven't had one since Saturday. “
Robert had a vision of them showering together but quickly shook it. “ We'll get on that later. You need to rest some. “
“ Yeah, “ Betty said. “ I'm tired from going to the kitchen. That took a lot out of me. “
“ I bet. So do you need anything else? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty shook her head. She couldn't think of anything, “ No. Thank you. “
“ You're welcome, “ He said. “ I'll check on you when I get finished. “
“ Okay, “ Betty nodded. The thought of Robert in her shower sent a jolt of electricity through her. She knew what he looked like half naked but dared not to think of him completely so.
Robert went back to his bag and getting out his toiletries bag. He also got a clean pair of boxers and jeans. The shirt wasn't so bad since he had only put it on before getting Betty for breakfast so he decided to wear it again. He went to the bathroom door, stopping when Betty called to him.
“ What baby? “ He replied..
“ Come here, “ Betty said.
He steeled himself and walked into her room He didn't look right at her, “ What? “
“ I forgot. It's time for my next pill, “ Betty looked at the bathroom. Robert had put the pills in there when he was getting her settled earlier in the morning. “ Could you get me one? “
“ Sure, “ Robert said. He walked into the bathroom, setting his things down before getting her pill bottle. He saw a cup on the sink and filled it with water so she could take her pill.
He went back into the room, handing her the bottle. She opened it and took out a pill. She then took the cup, putting the pill in her mouth before washing it down with the water. She handed the cup back to him, “ Thanks. “
“ No problem baby, “ Robert gave her a half smile. “ I'll check on you when I get out, okay? “
“ Okay, “ Betty nodded.
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Robert followed Betty down the hallway, listening as she spoke. “ And they'll be here early Wednesday morning so they can have it on in the seven o'clock hour. “
“ So how early is early? “ Robert asked as they moved down the hallway slowly.
“ My manager said five, “ Betty stopped and glanced at him. “ We'll have to get up at four to get ready. “
“ I think we can do that, “ Robert nodded. “ Are you going to tell Branslav? “
“ I don't know how he'll be able to see it, “ Betty had already thought about that. She knew the team wouldn't be staying in any hotel on the road trip. “ He said the team is sleeping on the bus for this trip. “
Robert frowned, “ Oh yeah. Maybe we ought to record it for him then. “
“ Sounds good, “ Betty started to crutch down the hall again. She sighed as she walked, " God. I feel so anxious about this. "
“ Were you this nervous when you interviewed with Vivacious? “ Robert followed her. He was certain she had been anxious since it seemed to be her nature.
Betty shook her head as they reached her door, “ No but it's just a regional magazine. The whole country will see me with this interview. “
“ Oh, “ Robert nodded. He had forgotten that Vivacious had limited circulation. As far as he knew, it was only for sale in the Southwestern states. “ It IS different then. “
“ Yeah, “ Betty nodded. She crutched into her room and over to the bed. She turned around and let herself down to the bed slowly, Robert watching her the whole time in case she fell, she was sure.
He gave her a gently serious look, “ You just need to relax. It'll be okay. “
“ It's just that it'll be new for me and I'm afraid I'll mess up, “ Betty said.
Robert rolled his eyes, “ You'll do fine. “
“ If you think so, “ Betty said.
“ I know so, “ Robert could tell she was really tore up about it. “ You need to just relax and get some rest right now. “
“ How am I supposed to relax? I'm going to be wound up until then and I'm so tense, I'll be a mess when it happens, “ Betty almost whined. She seemed even more upset than Robert had originally thought. He attributed the most of the anxiousness to the concussion and he wanted to comfort her somehow.
“ Now, now. Stop thinking like that, “ Robert put his hands up. " Just think everything will be fine and it will be. It may not be as bad as you think it will be. Just relax. "
“ But how am I supposed to? “ Betty asked.
Robert gave her a tiny smile, “ I can give a pretty good shoulder massage. “
Betty bit her lip then sighed, “ If you think it'll help. “
“ It will help, “ Robert said. “ You'll wake up sore if you don't get rid of some of that tension, drugs or not. “
“ Even if I take two Vicodin? “ Betty arched an eyebrow.
“ You still have a concussion. I don't think it would be such a good idea to take more that one of those until you're over it, “ Robert said. “ You could overdose and put you in some real trouble considering you're already compromised. “
Betty looked at the floor, “ Okay. I guess you're right. “
Robert walked to the bed, taking her crutches. He set them aside before mounting the bed, going to her back and kneeling behind her. He kept his knees a inch behind her backside, trying to keep as much distance between them so he could keep it together. Though he was going crazy inside, he willed himself to stay under control.
He put his hands on her shoulders and started to knead her muscles. “ Jesus baby. You're as tight as a spring, “ He was surprised by how tense she was, more than he expected.
Betty didn't say anything as she let him work her. A few moments later, he stopped then sighed. “ What's wrong? “ She asked without looking at him.
“ You need to relax some. I'm just going to hurt you if you stay so tight, “ Robert said.
“ It's just that I've never had anyone rub my shoulders before, “ Betty sighed. " I don't know how to relax. "
Robert furrowed his brow, “ Oh. Well then. I'll help you with that. Take a deep breath. “
Betty did so and let it out when Robert told her to. “ Now what? “
“ Do it again slowly, “ Robert said. “ Just concentrate on your breathing. Clear you mind and don't think of anything else but relaxing. “
Betty didn't know if she could clear her mind. She had so many things going on in it. She was worried about the interview, wondering how things would work out with Branslav and how she'd be able to be in the house with Robert for three days alone. She wasn't sure how he really felt, his actions keeping her guessing.
“ Slowly, “ Robert said when she took a breath too quickly. “ Breathe like you do when you're going to sleep at night. “
Betty tried to do as she was told, making herself breathe as slowly as she could. “ What now? “ She asked after a few moments.
“ Let me try now, “ Robert started on her shoulders again. He was unsure of how much longer he could take touching her. He was starting to think he had made a bad move by suggesting the shoulder rub in the first place. Even though the satin was between him and her skin, he could still feel her warmth.
He remembered why he suggested it, knowing giving her any more than what the doctor had told her to take meant taking a huge risk. He worked her shoulders a little bit, arching an eyebrow when she let out a tiny gasp. He quirked his mouth, “ Does that feel good? “
“ Uh-huh, “ Betty murmured, continuing to melt into his touch. “ Where did you learn to do that? “
“ College, “ Robert said as he continued to work her. “ My major was in physiology. I was going to be a physical trainer if I couldn't get to play any sports. “
“ Wow, “ Betty let out another gasp because it felt so good. “ You must have been the top of your class. “
“ Why thank you. I was, “ Robert said. He was trying not to think about how most of his 'shoulder rubs' used to end in college. He had offered his services to Betty in earnest, not to accomplish anything.
“ I can tell, “ Betty murmured.
Robert stopped, lifting her hair up with his right hand. “ This is in the way baby. “
“ Oh, “ Betty grabbed her hair and pulled it over her shoulder. “Is that better? “
“ Yeah, “ Robert said as he moved his hands closer to her neck. He carefully pulled the collar of her robe down then massaged the upper trapezius muscles, causing her to let out another gasp. The little noises she made as he worked her chipped at his composure. He shut his eyes, trying to stay focused.
He moved his hands from her neck, trailing them down her back. He felt the muscles there and sighed. “ What's wrong? “ Betty asked.
“ You're just a mass of knots honey. Your shoulders are fine now but the rest of your back will be killing you if you go to sleep with it like this, “ He said. “ Do you mind? “
“ Oh. No, “ Betty said. Her back had been killing her and she already knew what he could do with his hands. He didn't seem to have any ill intentions towards her so she decided to let him.
Robert got off the bed but didn't look at her. “ Can you lay face down? “
Betty nodded, “ If you help me. “
“ Okay, “ Robert said and leaned down to get her behind the knees. He helped her as she pulled her legs into the bed and watched as she rolled over. She let out a frustrated growl when she got on her front. “ What? “
“ Help me get my robe untangled, “ Betty pulled at the garment. “ It's all twisted up. “
Robert reached for it but couldn't get it to loosen at all. “ Can I suggest something? “
“ What? “ Betty said as she continued to pull at it.
“ Take it off, “ Robert internally shuddered at the prospect. “ I'll need under it anyway. “
“ What? “ Betty furrowed her brow.
“ So I can massage your back, “ Robert said.
Betty nodded hesitantly, “ Oh. Okay. “
Robert watched as she sat up but she didn't untie her robe. “ What? “
“ I don't know about this, “ Betty said. “ I don't have much on. “
Robert rolled his eyes, “ I don't want to do anything bad to you. I just want to help you relax some. “
Betty thought about it. She was pretty certain he would have done something sooner if it had been his intention but it didn't seem it was. “ Could you turn around then? “ Betty asked as she looked at the floor.
“ Oh, “ Robert turned his back to her. “ Like this? “
“ Yeah. I'll tell you when I'm finished, “ Betty said as she untied her robe.
Robert shut his eyes as he heard her moving around behind him. She was so shy and it was turning him on terribly. He wasn't even for sure he could massage her back after all. He mentally kicked himself for even suggesting it considering the effect she had on him.
“ I think I'm set, “ Betty said finally. She was scared to death, her nervousness over the interview replaced with nervousness over what would happen next. She had written plenty of scenes where something innocent had escalated into something steamy. She convinced herself to take it as it came, hoping she would be able to speak up if things got too dangerous.
She trusted Robert though. She wouldn't have dared to go so exposed around anyone else, not even Branslav. She felt Robert cared about her and would never do anything to hurt her while Branslav had an air about him that made her wary. She had hoped it would wane the longer she spent around him but so far it hadn't. “ You can turn around now, “ She told Robert.
Robert turned around to find her laying on the stomach on the bed, swallowing hard when he saw her in her pajamas. She wore a black camisole top, which he already knew she had on, and a pair of matching shorts. She wasn't looking at him, instead resting her chin on her folded hands as she stared at the wall in front of her. He could tell she was apprehensive but wouldn't have gone so far unless she trusted him.
He took a deep breath to calm his nerves, “ Well now. Let's get started. “
Betty held her breath as Robert came the side of the bed so he was over her sideways. Her bed was the raised kind with a set of drawers beneath it so it was high off the floor, putting her at the perfect height for him to do his work. His hands trembled a little as he reached for her back, massaging her lightly at first. She shivered a little at his touch as he increased the pressure he was using.
Robert fought the urge to look her over as he massaged her back. The thought of the satin pajamas being the only thing between his hands and her skin ate at his mind. Betty let out a little gasp then said, “ That kind of hurts. Let up a little. “
Robert realized he had been massaging her a little harder than he had intended, his distraction causing him to do so. Robert let up. He continued to massage her, his heart pounding loudly in his ears. “ Sorry. Is this better? “
“ Yeah, “ Betty said. “ That feels nice. “
“ Thank you, “ Robert smiled a little bit at Betty's compliment. He looked up to the back of her head. “ I'm glad you like it. “
Betty took a sharp breath and looked over her shoulder at him. Robert wasn't sure why until he realized he didn't feel fabric under his fingers any more. He looked at her back to find the camisole had ridden up and he was touching her bare skin. “ Oops, “ He smoothed the top back down.
Betty put her head back down. She didn't like the silence after a while so she decided to speak, “ Tell me more about the scout thing. You have to be nervous... Ah!... too. “
Betty's sharp gasp sent a jolt of lust through Robert but he was determined not to lose his control. “ Oh. A little bit. I've played in front of scouts before though so I can concentrate on my game. “
“ Ah! “ Betty gasped again. She then put her face down, “ Sorry. That felt good. “
“ It's supposed to, “ Robert teased as he moved his hands up her back. He massaged her there for a few moments, Betty letting out another gasp that sounded vaguely sexual. The sounds she was making as he touched her made him think all the wrong things and it was eating away at his control. He knew if he continued, he would be in trouble.
He stopped massaging Betty and stepped away from the bed, thinking of an excuse to leave the room. “ I think I hear my phone ringing. “
Betty looked at him, “ I don't hear anything. “
Robert looked towards the door, “ I guess it stopped. “
Betty grabbed her robe as she sat up, covering herself. Having Robert's hands on her had made her heart race and her imagination run wild. She felt a little disappointed that nothing had happened but relieved too. “ Thank you for the massage. “
“ No problem, “ Robert focused on a white tiger stuffed animal that sat right behind Betty. He couldn't look at her with her robe clutched to her chest and her hair still draped over her shoulder. She appeared to be a little flushed and looked breathtaking sitting there on the bed He wanted to snatch the robe away and lay her down so he could do as he pleased until he was finished with her.
“ I need to go out for a minute. I need to go get my phone in case someone calls, “ Robert took a step towards the door. “ With everything that's going on, it could happen. “
“ Oh. Okay, “ Betty nodded. She noted he wasn't looking right at her and wondered what was going on. She didn't have the nerve to ask though. “ I guess so. “
“ I'll be back in a bit, “ Robert said and left the room. He walked back out to the kitchen then to the dining room, finding his phone where he had left it. He reached for it and it started to ring. He picked it up and saw Jakob's number.
He flipped it open, “ Hughes. “
“ Robert, “ Jakob said. “ I have some bad news. “
“ What kind of bad news? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
“ I just got a call from Cowboy, “ Jakob referred to William by his nickname again.
“ And? “ Robert could sense apprehension in Jakob's voice.
“ He said everyone got out okay but, “ Jakob stopped short.
“ Everyone got out okay from where? “ Robert furrowed his brow.
Jakob took a deep breath, “ Your house burned down. “
“ What? “ Robert felt his blood run cold. “ How? “
“ I don't know, “ Jakob sighed. “ William was there and he said Pauline got Alex out alright but some guy was there with her. He said he looked like a toad. “
“ That would be her boyfriend, “ Robert said quickly. “ Did you say Alex got out okay? “
“ Everyone did, “ Jakob said. “ But the house is a total loss. “
Robert sighed heavily. “ Great. “
“ I thought I'd call you and let you know. Did you have anything left over there? “ Jakob asked.
Robert shook his head, “ Not anything I can't replace. “
“ Oh. Okay, “ Jakob said. “ Sorry man. “
“ It's okay. I wasn't going to keep the place anyway, “ Robert had been seriously considering giving the house to Pauline. He knew the house would be unbearable to live in all by himself. There were too many memories of Alex and happier times.
“ Are you still coming back Thursday? “ Jakob inquired.
“ Yeah, “ Robert sighed. “ I have to show up in court and fight her. If I don't, they might rule against me. “
“ Oh. Okay, “ Jakob said. “ Then I guess I'll see you then huh? “
“ Yeah, “ Robert nodded.
“ Okay, “ Jakob sighed. “ I'll see you then. Later. “
“ Later, “ Robert said and snapped his phone closed after Jakob hung up. He put his phone in his back pocket then glanced towards the dining room. He walked to it, picking up the plates from the table. He brought them back to the sink and started to wash them.
He couldn't believe the house had burned down. He wondered if Pauline had done it out of spite but decided it wasn't. Pauline knew he would get the insurance money so it would have been stupid for her to do something so destructive. His mind jumped to Richard, contemplating if his wife's paramour had done it without the knowledge Robert's name was the only name on the deed.
He shut his eyes, trying to figure out what else could have caused the fire. He wondered if maybe it was an accident, like an electrical short. It really didn't matter how the fire occurred though, Robert would still be getting the money. It would provide him with a big enough cushion if he couldn't play but he couldn't see any reasons that would prevent him from doing so once his hand healed completely.
He finished washing the dishes and put them in the drainer to dry. He got a paper towel and dried his hands. He then took the bandages off the left so he could put clean ones on his wound. He walked out to his gym bag in the living room, opening up the end with the supplies he had bought to care for his hand. .
He zipped the end up, tending to his hand as he tried not to think of Betty. He thought he could handle giving her the massage but he was wrong. Touching her had only made him more uncomfortable.
He wondered what had possessed him to even think that he could put his hands on her and not react. He really didn't want her taking anymore drugs than necessary, unsure of how much would be too much in her state. He didn't want her making herself sick or, even worse, killing herself by accident. She had enough problems as it was without complicating things.
He looked at his hand, frowning. He had worked up quite a sweat doing the odd jobs and he really needed a shower. He stood up, walking to Betty's room. He found she had gotten back on her back and under the covers while he was away.
“ Hey, “ He said without really looking at her. He didn't think he could without thinking about the things that had been tormenting his thoughts or the condoms in his bag..
“ What is it? “ Betty asked. She didn't really look at him either.
“ I'm going to take a shower, “ Robert motioned to the bathroom. “ I really worked up a sweat taking care of that stuff this morning. “
“ I bet, “ Betty nodded. She then looked towards the bathroom door in her room. “ I'll need one of those sooner or later. I haven't had one since Saturday. “
Robert had a vision of them showering together but quickly shook it. “ We'll get on that later. You need to rest some. “
“ Yeah, “ Betty said. “ I'm tired from going to the kitchen. That took a lot out of me. “
“ I bet. So do you need anything else? “ Robert arched an eyebrow.
Betty shook her head. She couldn't think of anything, “ No. Thank you. “
“ You're welcome, “ He said. “ I'll check on you when I get finished. “
“ Okay, “ Betty nodded. The thought of Robert in her shower sent a jolt of electricity through her. She knew what he looked like half naked but dared not to think of him completely so.
Robert went back to his bag and getting out his toiletries bag. He also got a clean pair of boxers and jeans. The shirt wasn't so bad since he had only put it on before getting Betty for breakfast so he decided to wear it again. He went to the bathroom door, stopping when Betty called to him.
“ What baby? “ He replied..
“ Come here, “ Betty said.
He steeled himself and walked into her room He didn't look right at her, “ What? “
“ I forgot. It's time for my next pill, “ Betty looked at the bathroom. Robert had put the pills in there when he was getting her settled earlier in the morning. “ Could you get me one? “
“ Sure, “ Robert said. He walked into the bathroom, setting his things down before getting her pill bottle. He saw a cup on the sink and filled it with water so she could take her pill.
He went back into the room, handing her the bottle. She opened it and took out a pill. She then took the cup, putting the pill in her mouth before washing it down with the water. She handed the cup back to him, “ Thanks. “
“ No problem baby, “ Robert gave her a half smile. “ I'll check on you when I get out, okay? “
“ Okay, “ Betty nodded.