Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Forty ( Chapter 40 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Robert heads home. Branslav overhears another conversation between Martin, Coach Sweet and someone he never suspected was involved.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 06.02.2009 | Pages: 17 | Words: 7.7K | Visits: 172 | Status: Completed
Robert heads home. Branslav overhears another conversation between Martin, Coach Sweet and someone he never suspected was involved.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 06.02.2009 | Pages: 17 | Words: 7.7K | Visits: 172 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Forty
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav looked in the mirror in the restroom as he brushed his teeth. He had woke up before the rest of the team after a night of fitful sleep. He was worried about Lotte's involvement in the scheme he had uncovered. He knew he was going to be in trouble if she was involved and heard any of his conversation with Daniel.
He leaned down to rinse out his mouth. As he did so, he heard someone come into the locker room. Fearing the worst, he dashed to the shower area and crouched behind the half wall that surrounded it. His hands had barely hit the floor when the person started talking to someone else.
“ So what have you found out? “ It was Martin. He was talking loud like he was certain no one else was around.
“ Nothing, “ Lotte's voice sent a shiver down Branslav's spine. “ I went to the area the phone calls were traced down to and I saw no one I recognized or acting suspicious. I even followed a few people but I found nothing out. “
“ You followed people? “ Said Coach Sweet.
“ Yes. With the listening device Martin gave me. I never got close enough so they knew I was there. I was very careful, “ Lotte explained. She sighed, “ Any luck with tracing the phone number? “
“ No, “ Martin replied. “ My technology geek says the calls are coming from disposable cell phones. Perhaps I should have foresaw that and asked you to look through some trash cans. “
“ If the blackmailer's even throwing them away in that area, “ Lotte said. “ He might just be waiting until he gets somewhere else to dispose of them so he isn't found out. “
“ So what do we do now? “ Coach Sweet said. " We haven't made any headway at all. "
“ We can only wait until we get back to Reno. The blackmailer will have the money by then though, “ Martin hit a locker, Branslav could tell from the sound. “ I can't let him win. “
“ It's just five million. You'll make that back in a week, “ Coach Sweet started.
“ I'm not worried about the money! “ Martin shouted. “ I want that information back so I can destroy it! I'm afraid he may just have more than the information on the bribes I paid to those three referees. “
~Three? ~ Branslav thought. He realized that Daniel had been on the right track with Rich Holland but he had no clue who the other two referees were. It made him feel even worse, wondering if all three had been at the final game and that was the reason why everything had gone their way.
“ Settle down, “ Lotte said. “ All hope isn't lost yet. Perhaps we can lure the blackmailer to the arena Saturday and we can trap him then. “
“ I've already thought about that, “ Martin growled. “ Do you think he'll be that cocky to show up? He'll smell a set-up. He's obviously not an idiot from what we've seen. Disposable cell phones, a heavily encrypted bank account and the ability to discover information I thought had been destroyed. “
“ I smashed the hard drive with all that information with a hammer, “ Coach Sweet defended himself. “ It must have happened before I did it. Perhaps the server was hacked into before I disconnected the drive. “
“ Well of course it was! “ Martin said sharply. “ I think we've already deduced that or we wouldn't be in this mess. “
“ Honestly, “ Lotte said. “ Do you think the blackmailer will still give over the information even after he gets the money? “
There was a long silence then Martin growled, “ That's what I don't know. If I had some idea of who was doing this to me then I'd know how much they hate me. If they really hate me that much, they just might not give it over once they get the money. “
“ Won't they have to reveal themselves to the prep league commission? “ Coach Sweet asked.
“ Not if they are anonymous in revealing the information, “ Lotte said sharply. “ Fox, do you even think before you open your mouth? “
“ Don't talk to me like that you bitch, “ Coach Sweet replied just as sharply. “ If it weren't for your brother, we wouldn't be in this mess. “
“ If it weren't for YOUR shitty coaching skills, WE wouldn't be in this mess. Branslav has nothing to do with it! “ Lotte shouted. The sound of someone being slapped soon followed.
“ You little bitch! “ Coach Sweet shouted. “ I dare you to hit me again! “
“ I will, “ Lotte shot back.
“ Stop! We don't need this right now! “ Martin stopped the arguing. “ We need to worry about the blackmailer right now. You save your petty fighting for another time. “
“ Fine, “ Lotte huffed.
“ Fine. But what do we do? “ Coach Sweet sounded like he still wanted to hit Lotte.
“ Keep working, “ Martin sighed. “ We just need to hope our little friend gets sloppy. “
There was a murmur of agreement then Martin said, “ Have you seen Branslav since you got back, Lotte? “
“ Of course I have, “ Lotte replied. “ Why? “
“ I think he might be suspicious that something is going on, “ Martin said. “ He's giving me more dirty looks than usual and he's getting belligerent towards Coach Sweet and myself. I don't know if it is because of the talk we had with him before we headed out for this trip or if it's something else. “
Lotte sighed, “ He's been obsessing about that woman. Perhaps he's being that way because you don't want him to have anything to do with her. He's determined to get with her by any means possible. “
“ Well perhaps, “ Martin agreed. “ However, I want you to watch him closely and if he does know ANYTHING at all, he'll have to be dealt with. “
The grave and coldly threatening tone of Martin's voice made Branslav's gut seize up. He hoped Martin meant sending him home but another possibility seemed a lot more likely. He broke out in a cold sweat, praying Lotte hadn't heard anything. “ And Daniel? “ Lotte asked as Branslav thought of his friend.
“ Since the two of them are always together, I fear he will have to be dealt with as well but only if they know anything. They have both been behaving the same way so I'm suspicious of them both, “ Martin said.
“ Well you did tell them both they were going home if they couldn't prove themselves, “ Lotte pointed out.
Martin sighed, “ Well yes I did and I suppose that's why they're fighting so hard to win now. At any rate, watch them closely and do your best to keep them away from me unless I want to see them. The sooner we can get this over with without anyone finding anything out the better. This matter is between the three of us and our little friend, whomever he may be. “
Branslav listened as they left, waiting a few more moments to make sure he was really alone. He then stood up, wondering how he would warn Daniel.
**
Robert slowly opened his eyes, the ringing of an unfamiliar phone reaching his ears. He felt Betty stir next to him so he glanced at her, “ You awake baby? “ He whispered.
“ Yeah, “ Betty murmured. “ Barely. “
“ What's ringing? That doesn't sound like your land line, “ Robert said as he sat up.
“ It's my fax, “ Betty said without opening her eyes. “ But my manager's the only one with the number for it. “
“ Do you want me to go get it? “ Robert asked.
“ Sure, “ Betty yawned. “ I don't feel like I'm ready to get up yet. “
Robert nodded, “ Okay. I'll be right back with it. “
“ Okay, “ Betty whispered.
Robert slipped out of the bed, grabbed his boxers then walked to the hallway where the phone and the fax were. He pulled on his boxers as the fax started to print. A note written on it said it was a rough draft of a schedule for Betty to look over. Robert took the page when it was finished and was about to walk away when another page started to print out.
He furrowed his brow at the fax, skimming it to see what it was for. He stopped, not wanting to pry into Betty's private affairs. ~She'll tell me if she thinks I need to know, ~ He told himself as a third page started to print. He waited for the fax to click off then gathered the papers, heading for the bedroom again.
Robert stopped when he got to the door. Betty still had her eyes closed so he took a moment to look her over. He loved the way she looked as she slept, like an angel. She was so beautiful just looking at her made his heart race and his mouth go dry.
His fingertips tingled with the memory of how her skin felt under them. She was so soft, so smooth and yielding to his touch. He could hear faint whispers in his head of her sighs and the way she would whisper his name as he touched every inch of her. He shut his eyes, trying to control his imagination and his desire to have her one more time.
He sighed, not sure how he'd be able to leave her. He had less than two hours before he was supposed to leave for the airport. He looked at the floor, trying to find his voice so he could wake her. “ Baby, “ He was finally able to say quietly.
“ Hmmm? “ Betty replied sleepily.
“ It's from your manager, “ Robert felt kind of stupid saying it since Mr. Hollister was the only person that had her fax number. “ It looks like a schedule and a letter. “
“ Letter? “ Betty cracked her eyes open finally.
Robert walked into the room, “ Yeah. “
“ Give it here, “ Betty said as she sat up. “ Turn on the light too. “
Robert walked over to the bed and turned on the bedside lamp. He handed Betty the papers. He watched as she looked over the schedule before setting it aside. She then read the letter, looking at him when she was finished.
“ What? “ Robert didn't like the look on her face. She looked a little mad but the look soon faded. “ Betty? “
“ It's nothing, “ Betty finally said, looking past him. She had been debating whether or not to tell him what the letter contained. In it, her manager briefly explained the schedule then he informed her that he had ran a background check on Robert. He offered to fax it to her once he left if she wanted to see it and expressed a desire for her not to get any more involved with him if she could help it.
She felt angry Mr. Hollister was taking his role of looking after he so far but she didn't want to show it in front of Robert. She knew he'd ask questions if he saw her upset. She folded the papers and put it on the bedside table, “ It's just explaining the schedule. “
“ What's with that guy anyway? “ Robert motioned towards the letter. “ He's already making arrangements and you're not cleared for travel yet. “
“ Don't worry about, “ Betty waved her hand. “ He was the same way with my mother when he was her manager. “
“ He was your mom's manager too? “ Robert asked.
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. Before she died, she asked him to look after me and make sure I took care of myself. When my books got accepted, he offered to be my manager so I wouldn't have to go looking for one. “
“ Ah. I get it why he's watching you like a hawk then, “ Robert said. “ So I guess he was the first person you told? “
“ I called him second, “ Betty said and let out a strained chuckle. “ I told my old boss at the hotel first. I really didn't have anyone else to tell. “
“ Oh, “ Robert said.
“ So what time did you say you had to be on the plane? “ Betty asked after another silence filled the room.
“ Noon but it can't go anywhere without me, “ Robert looked at the clock on the bedside table and sighed. “ I'd better start getting my things together. It's already past ten. “
Betty nodded, " Okay. "
Betty looked at Robert, a shiver running through her. She dreaded him leaving her but she knew he couldn't stay. In the back of her mind, she wondered if she had made a mistake falling so hard and fast for him. She had always dreamed of meeting the perfect guy and giving her virginity to that man on her wedding night, not giving it to the first guy that showed any interest in her.
Robert noticed she was staring at him, a bewildered look on her face. “ What's wrong honey? “
“ Nothing, “ Betty shook her head. “ I was just thinking about you leaving me. “
Robert gave her a gentle smile, “ Are you going to miss me? “
Betty nodded slowly, “ Yeah. I think so. “
Robert sat down on the edge of the bed and put his right hand on Betty's left cheek. He stroked her cheekbone with his thumb, “ I'm going to miss you too. I'm going to do everything I can to see you as much as possible though. Believe it. “
“ I want to but, “ Betty's voice trailed off.
“ But what? “ Robert cocked his head to the side. The way Betty's eyes looked made him wonder if she was going to cry.
“ Our schedules, “ Betty started then choked on the lump in her throat. She couldn't fight the tears any longer. She felt them, hot and heavy, stream down her cheeks.
“ Don't cry baby. We'll make it happen, “ Robert said firmly. “ Don't think this was just some fling. I want to be with you. I want to get to know you even more, to find more things to love you for. “
Betty leaned into his hand, unable to stop the flow of tears from her eyes. She wanted to believe him but she couldn't see how it would happen. So many miles lay between them and she couldn't see how they'd see each other. “ I just... “ She sobbed.
Robert took his hand away from her cheek before leaning down and wrapping his arms around her. He pulled her tight to him. He stroked her hair as she sobbed in the hollow between his shoulder and his neck. “ Shh, baby. We can work it out. “
Betty cried for a long time, clinging to Robert as he held her. Finally, he slowly pulled away and smiled gently before taking her lips in his. Her lips were moist from breathing against his skin and flavored with the salt of her tears. She let out a tiny gasp of surprise then returned his kiss intensely.
Robert hadn't expected her to kiss him as hard as she did but he liked it. Her trembling hands went to his shoulders and she held them like she never wanted to let him go again. He moved his hands to her waist, slowly pushing down the blanket and top sheet that covered her chest. He shuddered at the feel of her bare flesh pressed against him, a surge of lust running through him.
They separated for air, panting as they stared into each others eyes. Robert was enchanted by the dark fire Betty's eyes burned with, the heat of her gaze reaching straight to his heart. He looked at her with the same intensity, the unsaid question answered instantly. Robert kissed her deeply again as he eased her back onto the pillows, determined to have her one last time before he had to go.
**
“ So what we suspected is the truth after all? “ Daniel asked. Branslav and him had gone to a church a scant mile away from the arena.
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ We can't let on we know. “
“ Did she say we knew anything? “ Daniel was trying very hard not to look scared but he knew it wasn't working. Branslav looked scared as well and it wasn't helping him keeping a blank facade. “ I mean, she came in while we were talking... “
“ No but she may have been protecting us, “ Branslav shook his head.
“ So what do we do now man? “ Daniel asked, a worried whine tainting his voice.
Branslav looked around then looked at Daniel again, “ We stay out of it. We act like we never knew. “
“ But we do know. What if this thing gets out after all? “ Daniel said.
“ Just what I said, “ Branslav said. “ Maybe they'll take pity on us if we act oblivious. None of us should know and we might skate by. “
“ But you have to go back to Slovenia either way, “ Daniel reminded Branslav.
Branslav gave Daniel a deathly serious look, “ If we let on we know, I'll be going home in a box. You will too, Daniel. “
Daniel turned pale, “ What? “
“ Martin is suspicious we know and he told her to 'take care' of us if we did, “ Branslav's tone was grave. " I think he means for her to kill us. "
“ Fuck, “ Daniel muttered and leaned back against the pew. “ I don't want to die. “
“ I don't either, “ Branslav shook his head. “ So just be quiet and act normal. This is almost over and maybe it will pass. “
“ How can I act normal now? How do we know your sister isn't going to shoot us dead as soon as we get back to the arena? “ Daniel asked.
“ We don't, “ Branslav said. “ We'd better get back though. They might get suspicious if we are gone much longer. “
Daniel nodded, “ Yeah. “
**
Robert stared out the plane window. He wasn't watching the scenery, his mind elsewhere. He had been lost in thought for most of the flight from Reno to Taos. He went between thinking about how he had wished Betty was with him and how he would have to face Pauline in less than a day.
He didn't know how he would be able to face her without becoming angry. He thought about all the lies and ways she had made him miserable. He felt foolish for trying for so long to keep it together for Alex when the child wasn't even his own flesh and blood. He didn't regret the time had spent with the child, recalling the good times he had with the child in Alex's short life.
His thoughts strayed to Betty. After the three hour delay and the four hour flight, he could still smell her like she was right next to him. They had hugged when he left her, holding her for a very long while before he forced himself to let her go. He shut his eyes, trying to remember how she felt against him.
“ Mr. Hughes? “ The pilot's voice brought Robert back to reality. Since it was a small plane, Robert was sitting close to the cockpit.
“ Yes? “ Robert looked at the back of the man's head. He was an older gentleman with salt and pepper hair.
“ We'll be landing soon, “ The pilot said. “ The landing crew said you have visitors at the airstrip. “
“ Visitors? “ Robert furrowed his brow. He was only expecting one visitor.
“ Yes, “ The pilot nodded. “ Mr. Shaver and Coach Hooker are waiting for you along with a man named Nicholas Reiss. “
“ Really? “ Robert asked. He had called Mr. Reiss as he got on the plane but was puzzled over the presence of Mr. Shaver and Coach Hooker.
“ Yes sir, “ The pilot said. “ Please make sure your seat belt is buckled. I'm going to bring her down in a few minutes. “
Robert checked his seat belt then waited as the pilot landed the plane. As soon as it was on the ground and coming to a stop, he unbuckled his seat belt. He saw the three men waiting in the hangar, still not too sure why the other two were there. The pilot turned the engine off and the landing crew approached the plane.
Robert was on his feet as soon as the door was open, grabbing his gym bag and heading towards the exit. He glanced towards the hangar as the crew rolled the stairs up to the side, anxious to get off the plane. He took the stairs two at a time, getting to the bottom quickly. He flew into the hangar, stopping in front of Mr. Shaver and the others.
“ Ah, “ Mr. Shaver smiled. “ It's good to see you my boy. How was the flight? “
Robert nodded, " It was good. I could have done without the delay though. "
" Yes. I heard there was some bad weather between here and there, " Mr. Shaver frowned. " Luckily, it cleared off or you wouldn't have been able to make it in today. "
" Yeah, " Robert said. " God only knows what would have happened if I didn't show up for court tomorrow. "
" I would have asked for a reschedule, " Mr. Reiss interjected.
" At any rate it's good to have you back here, " Coach Hooker said.
“ Thanks, “ Robert said. He noticed Coach Hooker was eyeing him closely. He looked at him, “ What? “
Coach Hooker eyed Robert's left hand, “ How is your injury? It looks like you haven't as much gauze on it today. “
“ I ran out and didn't have time to get more, “ Robert lifted the hand. “ The wound a lot smaller than it was though. “
Coach Hooker nodded, “ Good. Are you planning on playing Saturday? “
“ We'll worry about that later Jack, “ Mr. Shaver cut him off. “ There are more important things to discuss right now. “
Mr. Reiss cleared his throat, “ Mr. Hughes. “
“ Yes sir? “ Robert directed his attention to the lawyer again.
“ We still need to discuss tomorrow, “ Mr. Reiss said. He motioned to Coach Hooker and Mr. Shaver. “ When you're finished with them, we'll discuss it. “
“ Sure, “ Robert nodded and watched as Mr. Reiss walked out of the hangar.
“ Well then, “ Mr. Shaver said after Mr. Reiss left. “ Tell us about your trip my boy. How is your friend? “
“ She's still recovering but she doesn't have to be watched any more, “ Robert said.
Mr. Shaver nodded once, “ Very good. I assume she's getting around better as well? “
“ Yeah. The doctor says she'll be fine, “ Robert replied. “ She had an appointment yesterday after her interview. “
“ We saw her on television, “ Coach Hooker said.
“ Yes. She looked very nice yesterday, “ Mr. Shaver smiled. “ The whole team watched it. It was all they could talk about at practice when they got there.“
“ I thought they would watch, “ Robert wasn't surprised. He knew the team liked Betty a lot.
Coach Hooker looked at Mr. Shaver then at Robert, “ I guess you're wondering why we're here. “
“ Yeah I am curious, “ Robert nodded. He noticed both men looked a little concerned. “ What's up? " He furrowed his brow.
Mr. Shaver looked at the ground then looked at Robert in the eye, “ Some of the companies that you do commercials for want to end your contracts in light of what's been going on. “
Robert furrowed his brow. The commercials he did for local companies helped boost his income, making his salary bigger than if he were just playing. It was what helped him live a little more comfortably and satisfy Pauline's expensive tastes and kept him pretty busy when he wasn't playing. “ What? “ He said.
“ It's all about your image, “ Coach Hooker said. “ The companies found out about you trashing the hotel room and your wife's allegations in her divorce papers and they don't want that kind of image. “
Robert took a sharp breath, “ But she made that stuff up. I've been nothing but good since I married her. “
“ The companies still want to be careful, “ Mr. Shaver said. " They have their images to maintain as well. "
“ So they're going to treat me like all that shit is true? “ Robert asked. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. He had done nothing to earn a bad reputation ever and now he was being treated like some kind of bad boy over a couple of things, one of which wasn't even the truth.
Coach Hooker nodded slowly, “ Yes. That's pretty much it. “
Robert shut his eyes, “ Fuck. “
“ It's only about half the companies though, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ The other half said they would wait to see what happened before they made any decisions about you. “
“ Great, “ Robert sighed. “ Why didn't you call me about this sooner? “
“ The companies decided to pull out today while you were on the way back, “ Coach Hooker looked at his watch. “ In fact, we just found out about it ourselves an hour or so ago. “
Mr. Shaver looked at Coach Hooker then at Robert again, “ I assume you know what your wife has claimed in her divorce papers? “
“ I called Mr. Reiss, “ Robert growled. “ He told me a lot of it. “
“ We don't believe a word of it if that makes you feel any better, “ Coach Hooker said. He patted Robert on the shoulder, “ I know you would never hit a woman. “
“ As do I, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ If it comes down to it, we will testify she was the abusive one. “
Robert shut his eyes, “ If anyone will believe it. No one would believe it looking at her. “
“ We'll do our best to make them believe it, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ We'll even testify that you've never looked at another woman to counter those other claims she made. “
“ How did you find out about what she had in the papers anyway? “ Robert asked.
Mr. Shaver sighed, “ A local tabloid website managed to get a copy of the papers and posted them this morning. “
Robert wanted to hit something, “ Damn it. And I know how they got them too. “
“ We do as well, “ Coach Hooker nodded. “ It has Pauline's name written all over it. “
“ Why can't she just leave me alone? “ Robert tried to control the anger that was welling up inside of him. He clenched his fists at his sides and started shaking.
Mr. Shaver grabbed Robert's shoulders, “ Now don't get angry son. This is what she wants. She can't get anything from you so she's trying to make you miserable. “
“ She's trying to ruin my life, “ Robert growled. “ I've worked so hard to get this far and she's going to destroy it. “
“ Only if you'll let her, “ Coach Hooker said. “ Look, I know things look bad right now but we'll help you make it through. “
Robert took a deep breath, realizing the older men were indeed his best allies in his fight. “ Just think son, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ She knows she can't win and that's why she behaving this way. “
Robert sighed and nodded, “ True. “
“ Now, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Mr. Reiss needs to talk to you. “
“ Does he know about all of this stuff that happened today? “ Robert asked.
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ We called him and he told us to tell you ourselves, “ He said. “ He figured you'd take it better from us than him. “
Robert nodded slowly, “ Okay. I'll go deal with him now. “
**
Branslav stared at the floor in the locker room. He was dressed and ready to hit the floor for shoot around but he couldn't keep his mind on the impending game. All he could think about was where is sister's true allegiance were. Daniel was sitting next to him, looking nervous as well.
Branslav reached into his gym bag and got out his phone. A thought of Betty had crossed his mind and he remember she was alone. Daniel furrowed his brow when he saw the phone. “ What? “ Branslav asked as he flipped it open.
“ What are you doing? “ Daniel asked quietly.
“ I'm calling Betty. I just want to check on her since she's been alone for so long. I'm worried, “ Branslav dialed Betty's number. He put the phone to his ear, frowning when he got her voice mail instantly. “ Her phone's off. “
" She's probably resting, " Daniel pointed out. " She told you she needs her rest, right? "
Branslav sighed, " Yeah. I'll try later. "
Daniel looked towards the locker room door when it opened. “ Shit, “ He said under his breath when he saw Lotte walk in. The other players paid her no mind as she walked over to where Branslav and Daniel were. She stopped a couple of feet from them, putting her hands on her hips.
She arched an eyebrow when she saw Branslav had his phone out, “ Calling someone? “
Branslav snapped his phone closed, “ Yes but their phone is off. “
Lotte scoffed, “ I don't blame her. I'd leave my phone off if someone was calling me ten times a day. “
“ I only did that once and it was when her phone was dead, “ Branslav countered. " I was scared for her. "
“ Whatever, “ Lotte rolled her eyes. She glanced at Daniel then returned her attention to Branslav, “ So have you got plans for how you're going to play tonight? “
Branslav thought his heart stopped when Lotte asked the question. His blood ran cold, “ What? “
“ Coach Sweet said you two have been making all the game plans for the last two games and they've worked out well, “ Lotte looked puzzled by the look on Branslav's face.
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. “ Yes. We have and they've worked great. We figure we'll run the same plays tonight. “
Lotte nodded once, “ I see. I just hope you have more than one set of plays. If you've been running them since I was away, the other team may have seen tapes and might anticipate your moves. “
“ Well we'll change them up some to keep them guessing, “ Daniel's voice sounded a little shaky and he looked paler than usual.
Lotte nodded again, “ Good idea. “
“ Thanks, “ Daniel said.
Lotte furrowed her brow, “ Are you okay Daniel? “
Daniel nodded vigorously, “ Yeah. I'm a little nervous. This team beat us before so... “
“ Don't let them see your fear, “ Lotte said sharply. “ They will eat you if they know you are scared. “
Daniel looked at Branslav and Branslav nodded. “ She's right you know. You need to go out there with your game face on and don't let on you're scared. “
Daniel took a deep breath to steady his nerves then gave Branslav a terse smile, “ I'll be okay. “
“ Good, “ Branslav gave him a terse smile in return. “ We need you out there. “
“ And you as well, “ Lotte said. She reached over and patted Branslav on the shoulder. She gave him a tiny smile, “ Knock 'em dead out there. “
Branslav almost detected something with the word 'dead' but figured he was reading too much into it. “ I have been but thank you. “
Lotte gave Branslav a sideways look then looked at Daniel, “ You too. “
“ Yes ma'am, “ Daniel replied. He watched as she turned and left the locker room before looking at Branslav. “ Shit. I thought she had us. “
“ I did too but I'm glad she just meant the plans we've been playing with lately, “ Branslav nodded. He patted Daniel on the shoulder, “ Let's get going. “
“ Yeah, “ Daniel said. “ Coach Sweet will be in here yelling in a minute if we don't go. “
**
Betty picked at the cold pizza she had gotten out for dinner. Robert had ordered an extra the day before her interview so she would have food she didn't have to cook. She wasn't really interested in it, her mind wandering to the letter her manager had faxed to her. She hadn't got the nerve up to call him for the background check, not wanting to know what it contained.
She looked up from the pizza when the phone in the hallway rang. She grabbed her crutch and scooted out of the chair she was sitting in. She moved as quickly as she could to the hallway, frowning when she saw the number. She picked up the phone, “ Mr. Hollister. “
“ I hadn't heard from you so I thought I'd better check. Didn't you get the fax I sent you? “ Mr. Hollister asked sharply.
“ Yes I did, “ Betty said.
“ And the letter? “ Mr. Hollister said.
Betty sighed, “ Yes. That too. “
“ Good, “ Mr. Hollister said. “ I assume that Hughes didn't see it then? “
“ He brought the fax to me but he didn't look at it, “ Betty said. She was pretty certain he hadn't looked since he had returned so quickly with the papers.
“ How do you know he didn't see it? “ Mr. Hollister asked sharply.
“ Because I think he respects my privacy a little more than you give him credit for, “ Betty replied just as harshly.
“ Don't take that tone with me, “ Mr. Hollister scolded Betty. “ I'm just looking out for your best interests here. “
“ But that doesn't give you the right to run a background check on Robert, “ Betty said. She shut her eyes, “ He's not a bad guy. “
“ You might think differently when you see his background check, “ Mr. Hollister said. He sounded like he was rustling papers, “ I assume he's told you about himself. “
“ A bit yes, “ Betty opened her eyes. She knew where he grew up and he had hinted to her about how his life in college had been before marrying Pauline. She didn't know a lot of things but she figured she'd learn them along the way as their relationship grew.
“ I see, “ Mr. Hollister then paused. “ You are aware that he is married then? “
“ Yes, “ Betty said. “ He's getting a divorce though. “
“ Oh, “ Mr. Hollister replied flatly. “ Has he told you this? “
“ Yes, “ Betty said. “ He called me when he filed the papers. “
Mr. Hollister was quiet again then said, “ Has he told you what he makes a year? “
“ No, “ Betty said. She hadn't remembered asking or even caring. She knew it had to be enough to keep him comfortable.
“ From what I see on this paper, you might want to reconsider your relationship with him. At least be on your guard, “ Mr. Hollister said.
Betty narrowed her eyes, “ You really think he's after my money? “
“ Well you are worth quite a lot between your mother's estate and your own earnings, “ Mr. Hollister started listing things. " Even with the stipulation she put in her will, you're quite a wealthy woman and you'll be even more so once the movie deals go through. "
“ He doesn't know anything about those or mom's will, “ Betty cut him off. “ I can't touch my mother's money until I'm thirty anyway. You know that. “
“ Betty, “ Mr. Hollister said sharply. “ She was a well known artist. How could he not know? “
“ Look, “ Betty said. “ He doesn't. I'm sure. He would have said something if he knew. “
“ But what about your money then? “ Mr. Hollister said. “ I'm sure he had an inkling that you're no pauper. “
“ He doesn't care, “ Betty said firmly. She was sure it wasn't an issue because of he refused to let he pay for anything while he was there.
“ I'm just looking out for your best interests so just listen to me. You're very naive and I don't think you know what you're getting into. He's a man on the rebound and that never ends well, “ Mr. Hollister said.
“ Are you saying you think he's using me? “ Betty asked.
Mr. Hollister sighed, “ He very well could be using you to get some kind of petty revenge on his wife for betraying him. “
“ You think too much, “ Betty muttered. “ You always think people have another motive. “
Mr. Hollister let out a heavy sigh, “ When you're worth as much as you are, you have to be a little more paranoid. Look how your father took advantage of... “
“ Robert's a good guy though, “ Betty cut him off before he could mention her father. “ I'm not going to break it off with him just because you think he's using me. You don't know what I know and I trust him. “
“ So he told you about his history in Colorado Springs? “ Mr. Hollister asked.
Betty furrowed her brow, recalling that was where Robert had gone to college. “ What do you mean? “
“ I have five police reports from there, “ Mr. Hollister started shuffling the papers. “ Two are for DUI, two are for drunken and disorderly conduct but I'm not really concerned about those. “
“ What are you concerned about then? “ Betty asked.
“ There's one here about a domestic problem he had with his wife, “ Mr. Hollister said. He was quiet again, probably scanning the paper for the most damning piece of evidence. He then said, “ She was pregnant and they had an altercation that ended with her getting a concussion. “
Betty's blood ran cold, “ He said he had experience with concussions but he just said it was with his wife. “
“ Yes, “ Mr. Hollister said. “ The report says she was the one at fault for the injury but that could have been coerced. The way the events look, it's highly unlikely the account is true. “
“ What does it say? “ Betty whispered.
“ It says that she was injured after demanding something she was craving and Mr. Hughes refused to go get it so she attacked him. He attempted to restrain her but she got away and tripped, hitting her head. The report describes her as a petite blonde, “ Mr. Hollister said.
“ She is. She's about five feet tall and maybe a hundred pounds, “ Betty muttered. “ I met her. “
“ And Mr. Hughes is your height and very athletic. Now, how could a woman that size be at fault? “ Mr. Hollister asked.
“ You don't know her, “ Betty said. “ She's a little demon. “
“ You know this from your own experience or what Hughes has told you? “ Mr. Hollister sounded suspicious.
“ A little bit of both, “ Betty said. “ Look, I'll find out the truth... “
“ If Hughes will even tell it to you. Betty, I know how your father was and I don't want you to end up with an abuser, “ Mr. Hollister's voice took on a tone of concern. “ You need to stop being so stubborn and listen. I don't think he's going to be good for you. “
Betty looked at the floor, “ I'll decide that. “
“ I can still fax these papers over if you want to look at them, “ Mr. Hollister offered.
Betty shut her eyes, “ I'll look at them but I'll make up my own mind thank you. “
“ Have it your way, “ Mr. Hollister said. “ I'll fax them right now. “
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© Bekka Mouri-Hibiki 2007
Branslav looked in the mirror in the restroom as he brushed his teeth. He had woke up before the rest of the team after a night of fitful sleep. He was worried about Lotte's involvement in the scheme he had uncovered. He knew he was going to be in trouble if she was involved and heard any of his conversation with Daniel.
He leaned down to rinse out his mouth. As he did so, he heard someone come into the locker room. Fearing the worst, he dashed to the shower area and crouched behind the half wall that surrounded it. His hands had barely hit the floor when the person started talking to someone else.
“ So what have you found out? “ It was Martin. He was talking loud like he was certain no one else was around.
“ Nothing, “ Lotte's voice sent a shiver down Branslav's spine. “ I went to the area the phone calls were traced down to and I saw no one I recognized or acting suspicious. I even followed a few people but I found nothing out. “
“ You followed people? “ Said Coach Sweet.
“ Yes. With the listening device Martin gave me. I never got close enough so they knew I was there. I was very careful, “ Lotte explained. She sighed, “ Any luck with tracing the phone number? “
“ No, “ Martin replied. “ My technology geek says the calls are coming from disposable cell phones. Perhaps I should have foresaw that and asked you to look through some trash cans. “
“ If the blackmailer's even throwing them away in that area, “ Lotte said. “ He might just be waiting until he gets somewhere else to dispose of them so he isn't found out. “
“ So what do we do now? “ Coach Sweet said. " We haven't made any headway at all. "
“ We can only wait until we get back to Reno. The blackmailer will have the money by then though, “ Martin hit a locker, Branslav could tell from the sound. “ I can't let him win. “
“ It's just five million. You'll make that back in a week, “ Coach Sweet started.
“ I'm not worried about the money! “ Martin shouted. “ I want that information back so I can destroy it! I'm afraid he may just have more than the information on the bribes I paid to those three referees. “
~Three? ~ Branslav thought. He realized that Daniel had been on the right track with Rich Holland but he had no clue who the other two referees were. It made him feel even worse, wondering if all three had been at the final game and that was the reason why everything had gone their way.
“ Settle down, “ Lotte said. “ All hope isn't lost yet. Perhaps we can lure the blackmailer to the arena Saturday and we can trap him then. “
“ I've already thought about that, “ Martin growled. “ Do you think he'll be that cocky to show up? He'll smell a set-up. He's obviously not an idiot from what we've seen. Disposable cell phones, a heavily encrypted bank account and the ability to discover information I thought had been destroyed. “
“ I smashed the hard drive with all that information with a hammer, “ Coach Sweet defended himself. “ It must have happened before I did it. Perhaps the server was hacked into before I disconnected the drive. “
“ Well of course it was! “ Martin said sharply. “ I think we've already deduced that or we wouldn't be in this mess. “
“ Honestly, “ Lotte said. “ Do you think the blackmailer will still give over the information even after he gets the money? “
There was a long silence then Martin growled, “ That's what I don't know. If I had some idea of who was doing this to me then I'd know how much they hate me. If they really hate me that much, they just might not give it over once they get the money. “
“ Won't they have to reveal themselves to the prep league commission? “ Coach Sweet asked.
“ Not if they are anonymous in revealing the information, “ Lotte said sharply. “ Fox, do you even think before you open your mouth? “
“ Don't talk to me like that you bitch, “ Coach Sweet replied just as sharply. “ If it weren't for your brother, we wouldn't be in this mess. “
“ If it weren't for YOUR shitty coaching skills, WE wouldn't be in this mess. Branslav has nothing to do with it! “ Lotte shouted. The sound of someone being slapped soon followed.
“ You little bitch! “ Coach Sweet shouted. “ I dare you to hit me again! “
“ I will, “ Lotte shot back.
“ Stop! We don't need this right now! “ Martin stopped the arguing. “ We need to worry about the blackmailer right now. You save your petty fighting for another time. “
“ Fine, “ Lotte huffed.
“ Fine. But what do we do? “ Coach Sweet sounded like he still wanted to hit Lotte.
“ Keep working, “ Martin sighed. “ We just need to hope our little friend gets sloppy. “
There was a murmur of agreement then Martin said, “ Have you seen Branslav since you got back, Lotte? “
“ Of course I have, “ Lotte replied. “ Why? “
“ I think he might be suspicious that something is going on, “ Martin said. “ He's giving me more dirty looks than usual and he's getting belligerent towards Coach Sweet and myself. I don't know if it is because of the talk we had with him before we headed out for this trip or if it's something else. “
Lotte sighed, “ He's been obsessing about that woman. Perhaps he's being that way because you don't want him to have anything to do with her. He's determined to get with her by any means possible. “
“ Well perhaps, “ Martin agreed. “ However, I want you to watch him closely and if he does know ANYTHING at all, he'll have to be dealt with. “
The grave and coldly threatening tone of Martin's voice made Branslav's gut seize up. He hoped Martin meant sending him home but another possibility seemed a lot more likely. He broke out in a cold sweat, praying Lotte hadn't heard anything. “ And Daniel? “ Lotte asked as Branslav thought of his friend.
“ Since the two of them are always together, I fear he will have to be dealt with as well but only if they know anything. They have both been behaving the same way so I'm suspicious of them both, “ Martin said.
“ Well you did tell them both they were going home if they couldn't prove themselves, “ Lotte pointed out.
Martin sighed, “ Well yes I did and I suppose that's why they're fighting so hard to win now. At any rate, watch them closely and do your best to keep them away from me unless I want to see them. The sooner we can get this over with without anyone finding anything out the better. This matter is between the three of us and our little friend, whomever he may be. “
Branslav listened as they left, waiting a few more moments to make sure he was really alone. He then stood up, wondering how he would warn Daniel.
**
Robert slowly opened his eyes, the ringing of an unfamiliar phone reaching his ears. He felt Betty stir next to him so he glanced at her, “ You awake baby? “ He whispered.
“ Yeah, “ Betty murmured. “ Barely. “
“ What's ringing? That doesn't sound like your land line, “ Robert said as he sat up.
“ It's my fax, “ Betty said without opening her eyes. “ But my manager's the only one with the number for it. “
“ Do you want me to go get it? “ Robert asked.
“ Sure, “ Betty yawned. “ I don't feel like I'm ready to get up yet. “
Robert nodded, “ Okay. I'll be right back with it. “
“ Okay, “ Betty whispered.
Robert slipped out of the bed, grabbed his boxers then walked to the hallway where the phone and the fax were. He pulled on his boxers as the fax started to print. A note written on it said it was a rough draft of a schedule for Betty to look over. Robert took the page when it was finished and was about to walk away when another page started to print out.
He furrowed his brow at the fax, skimming it to see what it was for. He stopped, not wanting to pry into Betty's private affairs. ~She'll tell me if she thinks I need to know, ~ He told himself as a third page started to print. He waited for the fax to click off then gathered the papers, heading for the bedroom again.
Robert stopped when he got to the door. Betty still had her eyes closed so he took a moment to look her over. He loved the way she looked as she slept, like an angel. She was so beautiful just looking at her made his heart race and his mouth go dry.
His fingertips tingled with the memory of how her skin felt under them. She was so soft, so smooth and yielding to his touch. He could hear faint whispers in his head of her sighs and the way she would whisper his name as he touched every inch of her. He shut his eyes, trying to control his imagination and his desire to have her one more time.
He sighed, not sure how he'd be able to leave her. He had less than two hours before he was supposed to leave for the airport. He looked at the floor, trying to find his voice so he could wake her. “ Baby, “ He was finally able to say quietly.
“ Hmmm? “ Betty replied sleepily.
“ It's from your manager, “ Robert felt kind of stupid saying it since Mr. Hollister was the only person that had her fax number. “ It looks like a schedule and a letter. “
“ Letter? “ Betty cracked her eyes open finally.
Robert walked into the room, “ Yeah. “
“ Give it here, “ Betty said as she sat up. “ Turn on the light too. “
Robert walked over to the bed and turned on the bedside lamp. He handed Betty the papers. He watched as she looked over the schedule before setting it aside. She then read the letter, looking at him when she was finished.
“ What? “ Robert didn't like the look on her face. She looked a little mad but the look soon faded. “ Betty? “
“ It's nothing, “ Betty finally said, looking past him. She had been debating whether or not to tell him what the letter contained. In it, her manager briefly explained the schedule then he informed her that he had ran a background check on Robert. He offered to fax it to her once he left if she wanted to see it and expressed a desire for her not to get any more involved with him if she could help it.
She felt angry Mr. Hollister was taking his role of looking after he so far but she didn't want to show it in front of Robert. She knew he'd ask questions if he saw her upset. She folded the papers and put it on the bedside table, “ It's just explaining the schedule. “
“ What's with that guy anyway? “ Robert motioned towards the letter. “ He's already making arrangements and you're not cleared for travel yet. “
“ Don't worry about, “ Betty waved her hand. “ He was the same way with my mother when he was her manager. “
“ He was your mom's manager too? “ Robert asked.
Betty nodded, “ Yeah. Before she died, she asked him to look after me and make sure I took care of myself. When my books got accepted, he offered to be my manager so I wouldn't have to go looking for one. “
“ Ah. I get it why he's watching you like a hawk then, “ Robert said. “ So I guess he was the first person you told? “
“ I called him second, “ Betty said and let out a strained chuckle. “ I told my old boss at the hotel first. I really didn't have anyone else to tell. “
“ Oh, “ Robert said.
“ So what time did you say you had to be on the plane? “ Betty asked after another silence filled the room.
“ Noon but it can't go anywhere without me, “ Robert looked at the clock on the bedside table and sighed. “ I'd better start getting my things together. It's already past ten. “
Betty nodded, " Okay. "
Betty looked at Robert, a shiver running through her. She dreaded him leaving her but she knew he couldn't stay. In the back of her mind, she wondered if she had made a mistake falling so hard and fast for him. She had always dreamed of meeting the perfect guy and giving her virginity to that man on her wedding night, not giving it to the first guy that showed any interest in her.
Robert noticed she was staring at him, a bewildered look on her face. “ What's wrong honey? “
“ Nothing, “ Betty shook her head. “ I was just thinking about you leaving me. “
Robert gave her a gentle smile, “ Are you going to miss me? “
Betty nodded slowly, “ Yeah. I think so. “
Robert sat down on the edge of the bed and put his right hand on Betty's left cheek. He stroked her cheekbone with his thumb, “ I'm going to miss you too. I'm going to do everything I can to see you as much as possible though. Believe it. “
“ I want to but, “ Betty's voice trailed off.
“ But what? “ Robert cocked his head to the side. The way Betty's eyes looked made him wonder if she was going to cry.
“ Our schedules, “ Betty started then choked on the lump in her throat. She couldn't fight the tears any longer. She felt them, hot and heavy, stream down her cheeks.
“ Don't cry baby. We'll make it happen, “ Robert said firmly. “ Don't think this was just some fling. I want to be with you. I want to get to know you even more, to find more things to love you for. “
Betty leaned into his hand, unable to stop the flow of tears from her eyes. She wanted to believe him but she couldn't see how it would happen. So many miles lay between them and she couldn't see how they'd see each other. “ I just... “ She sobbed.
Robert took his hand away from her cheek before leaning down and wrapping his arms around her. He pulled her tight to him. He stroked her hair as she sobbed in the hollow between his shoulder and his neck. “ Shh, baby. We can work it out. “
Betty cried for a long time, clinging to Robert as he held her. Finally, he slowly pulled away and smiled gently before taking her lips in his. Her lips were moist from breathing against his skin and flavored with the salt of her tears. She let out a tiny gasp of surprise then returned his kiss intensely.
Robert hadn't expected her to kiss him as hard as she did but he liked it. Her trembling hands went to his shoulders and she held them like she never wanted to let him go again. He moved his hands to her waist, slowly pushing down the blanket and top sheet that covered her chest. He shuddered at the feel of her bare flesh pressed against him, a surge of lust running through him.
They separated for air, panting as they stared into each others eyes. Robert was enchanted by the dark fire Betty's eyes burned with, the heat of her gaze reaching straight to his heart. He looked at her with the same intensity, the unsaid question answered instantly. Robert kissed her deeply again as he eased her back onto the pillows, determined to have her one last time before he had to go.
**
“ So what we suspected is the truth after all? “ Daniel asked. Branslav and him had gone to a church a scant mile away from the arena.
“ Yeah, “ Branslav nodded. “ We can't let on we know. “
“ Did she say we knew anything? “ Daniel was trying very hard not to look scared but he knew it wasn't working. Branslav looked scared as well and it wasn't helping him keeping a blank facade. “ I mean, she came in while we were talking... “
“ No but she may have been protecting us, “ Branslav shook his head.
“ So what do we do now man? “ Daniel asked, a worried whine tainting his voice.
Branslav looked around then looked at Daniel again, “ We stay out of it. We act like we never knew. “
“ But we do know. What if this thing gets out after all? “ Daniel said.
“ Just what I said, “ Branslav said. “ Maybe they'll take pity on us if we act oblivious. None of us should know and we might skate by. “
“ But you have to go back to Slovenia either way, “ Daniel reminded Branslav.
Branslav gave Daniel a deathly serious look, “ If we let on we know, I'll be going home in a box. You will too, Daniel. “
Daniel turned pale, “ What? “
“ Martin is suspicious we know and he told her to 'take care' of us if we did, “ Branslav's tone was grave. " I think he means for her to kill us. "
“ Fuck, “ Daniel muttered and leaned back against the pew. “ I don't want to die. “
“ I don't either, “ Branslav shook his head. “ So just be quiet and act normal. This is almost over and maybe it will pass. “
“ How can I act normal now? How do we know your sister isn't going to shoot us dead as soon as we get back to the arena? “ Daniel asked.
“ We don't, “ Branslav said. “ We'd better get back though. They might get suspicious if we are gone much longer. “
Daniel nodded, “ Yeah. “
**
Robert stared out the plane window. He wasn't watching the scenery, his mind elsewhere. He had been lost in thought for most of the flight from Reno to Taos. He went between thinking about how he had wished Betty was with him and how he would have to face Pauline in less than a day.
He didn't know how he would be able to face her without becoming angry. He thought about all the lies and ways she had made him miserable. He felt foolish for trying for so long to keep it together for Alex when the child wasn't even his own flesh and blood. He didn't regret the time had spent with the child, recalling the good times he had with the child in Alex's short life.
His thoughts strayed to Betty. After the three hour delay and the four hour flight, he could still smell her like she was right next to him. They had hugged when he left her, holding her for a very long while before he forced himself to let her go. He shut his eyes, trying to remember how she felt against him.
“ Mr. Hughes? “ The pilot's voice brought Robert back to reality. Since it was a small plane, Robert was sitting close to the cockpit.
“ Yes? “ Robert looked at the back of the man's head. He was an older gentleman with salt and pepper hair.
“ We'll be landing soon, “ The pilot said. “ The landing crew said you have visitors at the airstrip. “
“ Visitors? “ Robert furrowed his brow. He was only expecting one visitor.
“ Yes, “ The pilot nodded. “ Mr. Shaver and Coach Hooker are waiting for you along with a man named Nicholas Reiss. “
“ Really? “ Robert asked. He had called Mr. Reiss as he got on the plane but was puzzled over the presence of Mr. Shaver and Coach Hooker.
“ Yes sir, “ The pilot said. “ Please make sure your seat belt is buckled. I'm going to bring her down in a few minutes. “
Robert checked his seat belt then waited as the pilot landed the plane. As soon as it was on the ground and coming to a stop, he unbuckled his seat belt. He saw the three men waiting in the hangar, still not too sure why the other two were there. The pilot turned the engine off and the landing crew approached the plane.
Robert was on his feet as soon as the door was open, grabbing his gym bag and heading towards the exit. He glanced towards the hangar as the crew rolled the stairs up to the side, anxious to get off the plane. He took the stairs two at a time, getting to the bottom quickly. He flew into the hangar, stopping in front of Mr. Shaver and the others.
“ Ah, “ Mr. Shaver smiled. “ It's good to see you my boy. How was the flight? “
Robert nodded, " It was good. I could have done without the delay though. "
" Yes. I heard there was some bad weather between here and there, " Mr. Shaver frowned. " Luckily, it cleared off or you wouldn't have been able to make it in today. "
" Yeah, " Robert said. " God only knows what would have happened if I didn't show up for court tomorrow. "
" I would have asked for a reschedule, " Mr. Reiss interjected.
" At any rate it's good to have you back here, " Coach Hooker said.
“ Thanks, “ Robert said. He noticed Coach Hooker was eyeing him closely. He looked at him, “ What? “
Coach Hooker eyed Robert's left hand, “ How is your injury? It looks like you haven't as much gauze on it today. “
“ I ran out and didn't have time to get more, “ Robert lifted the hand. “ The wound a lot smaller than it was though. “
Coach Hooker nodded, “ Good. Are you planning on playing Saturday? “
“ We'll worry about that later Jack, “ Mr. Shaver cut him off. “ There are more important things to discuss right now. “
Mr. Reiss cleared his throat, “ Mr. Hughes. “
“ Yes sir? “ Robert directed his attention to the lawyer again.
“ We still need to discuss tomorrow, “ Mr. Reiss said. He motioned to Coach Hooker and Mr. Shaver. “ When you're finished with them, we'll discuss it. “
“ Sure, “ Robert nodded and watched as Mr. Reiss walked out of the hangar.
“ Well then, “ Mr. Shaver said after Mr. Reiss left. “ Tell us about your trip my boy. How is your friend? “
“ She's still recovering but she doesn't have to be watched any more, “ Robert said.
Mr. Shaver nodded once, “ Very good. I assume she's getting around better as well? “
“ Yeah. The doctor says she'll be fine, “ Robert replied. “ She had an appointment yesterday after her interview. “
“ We saw her on television, “ Coach Hooker said.
“ Yes. She looked very nice yesterday, “ Mr. Shaver smiled. “ The whole team watched it. It was all they could talk about at practice when they got there.“
“ I thought they would watch, “ Robert wasn't surprised. He knew the team liked Betty a lot.
Coach Hooker looked at Mr. Shaver then at Robert, “ I guess you're wondering why we're here. “
“ Yeah I am curious, “ Robert nodded. He noticed both men looked a little concerned. “ What's up? " He furrowed his brow.
Mr. Shaver looked at the ground then looked at Robert in the eye, “ Some of the companies that you do commercials for want to end your contracts in light of what's been going on. “
Robert furrowed his brow. The commercials he did for local companies helped boost his income, making his salary bigger than if he were just playing. It was what helped him live a little more comfortably and satisfy Pauline's expensive tastes and kept him pretty busy when he wasn't playing. “ What? “ He said.
“ It's all about your image, “ Coach Hooker said. “ The companies found out about you trashing the hotel room and your wife's allegations in her divorce papers and they don't want that kind of image. “
Robert took a sharp breath, “ But she made that stuff up. I've been nothing but good since I married her. “
“ The companies still want to be careful, “ Mr. Shaver said. " They have their images to maintain as well. "
“ So they're going to treat me like all that shit is true? “ Robert asked. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. He had done nothing to earn a bad reputation ever and now he was being treated like some kind of bad boy over a couple of things, one of which wasn't even the truth.
Coach Hooker nodded slowly, “ Yes. That's pretty much it. “
Robert shut his eyes, “ Fuck. “
“ It's only about half the companies though, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ The other half said they would wait to see what happened before they made any decisions about you. “
“ Great, “ Robert sighed. “ Why didn't you call me about this sooner? “
“ The companies decided to pull out today while you were on the way back, “ Coach Hooker looked at his watch. “ In fact, we just found out about it ourselves an hour or so ago. “
Mr. Shaver looked at Coach Hooker then at Robert again, “ I assume you know what your wife has claimed in her divorce papers? “
“ I called Mr. Reiss, “ Robert growled. “ He told me a lot of it. “
“ We don't believe a word of it if that makes you feel any better, “ Coach Hooker said. He patted Robert on the shoulder, “ I know you would never hit a woman. “
“ As do I, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ If it comes down to it, we will testify she was the abusive one. “
Robert shut his eyes, “ If anyone will believe it. No one would believe it looking at her. “
“ We'll do our best to make them believe it, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ We'll even testify that you've never looked at another woman to counter those other claims she made. “
“ How did you find out about what she had in the papers anyway? “ Robert asked.
Mr. Shaver sighed, “ A local tabloid website managed to get a copy of the papers and posted them this morning. “
Robert wanted to hit something, “ Damn it. And I know how they got them too. “
“ We do as well, “ Coach Hooker nodded. “ It has Pauline's name written all over it. “
“ Why can't she just leave me alone? “ Robert tried to control the anger that was welling up inside of him. He clenched his fists at his sides and started shaking.
Mr. Shaver grabbed Robert's shoulders, “ Now don't get angry son. This is what she wants. She can't get anything from you so she's trying to make you miserable. “
“ She's trying to ruin my life, “ Robert growled. “ I've worked so hard to get this far and she's going to destroy it. “
“ Only if you'll let her, “ Coach Hooker said. “ Look, I know things look bad right now but we'll help you make it through. “
Robert took a deep breath, realizing the older men were indeed his best allies in his fight. “ Just think son, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ She knows she can't win and that's why she behaving this way. “
Robert sighed and nodded, “ True. “
“ Now, “ Mr. Shaver said. “ Mr. Reiss needs to talk to you. “
“ Does he know about all of this stuff that happened today? “ Robert asked.
Mr. Shaver nodded, “ We called him and he told us to tell you ourselves, “ He said. “ He figured you'd take it better from us than him. “
Robert nodded slowly, “ Okay. I'll go deal with him now. “
**
Branslav stared at the floor in the locker room. He was dressed and ready to hit the floor for shoot around but he couldn't keep his mind on the impending game. All he could think about was where is sister's true allegiance were. Daniel was sitting next to him, looking nervous as well.
Branslav reached into his gym bag and got out his phone. A thought of Betty had crossed his mind and he remember she was alone. Daniel furrowed his brow when he saw the phone. “ What? “ Branslav asked as he flipped it open.
“ What are you doing? “ Daniel asked quietly.
“ I'm calling Betty. I just want to check on her since she's been alone for so long. I'm worried, “ Branslav dialed Betty's number. He put the phone to his ear, frowning when he got her voice mail instantly. “ Her phone's off. “
" She's probably resting, " Daniel pointed out. " She told you she needs her rest, right? "
Branslav sighed, " Yeah. I'll try later. "
Daniel looked towards the locker room door when it opened. “ Shit, “ He said under his breath when he saw Lotte walk in. The other players paid her no mind as she walked over to where Branslav and Daniel were. She stopped a couple of feet from them, putting her hands on her hips.
She arched an eyebrow when she saw Branslav had his phone out, “ Calling someone? “
Branslav snapped his phone closed, “ Yes but their phone is off. “
Lotte scoffed, “ I don't blame her. I'd leave my phone off if someone was calling me ten times a day. “
“ I only did that once and it was when her phone was dead, “ Branslav countered. " I was scared for her. "
“ Whatever, “ Lotte rolled her eyes. She glanced at Daniel then returned her attention to Branslav, “ So have you got plans for how you're going to play tonight? “
Branslav thought his heart stopped when Lotte asked the question. His blood ran cold, “ What? “
“ Coach Sweet said you two have been making all the game plans for the last two games and they've worked out well, “ Lotte looked puzzled by the look on Branslav's face.
“ Oh, “ Branslav said. “ Yes. We have and they've worked great. We figure we'll run the same plays tonight. “
Lotte nodded once, “ I see. I just hope you have more than one set of plays. If you've been running them since I was away, the other team may have seen tapes and might anticipate your moves. “
“ Well we'll change them up some to keep them guessing, “ Daniel's voice sounded a little shaky and he looked paler than usual.
Lotte nodded again, “ Good idea. “
“ Thanks, “ Daniel said.
Lotte furrowed her brow, “ Are you okay Daniel? “
Daniel nodded vigorously, “ Yeah. I'm a little nervous. This team beat us before so... “
“ Don't let them see your fear, “ Lotte said sharply. “ They will eat you if they know you are scared. “
Daniel looked at Branslav and Branslav nodded. “ She's right you know. You need to go out there with your game face on and don't let on you're scared. “
Daniel took a deep breath to steady his nerves then gave Branslav a terse smile, “ I'll be okay. “
“ Good, “ Branslav gave him a terse smile in return. “ We need you out there. “
“ And you as well, “ Lotte said. She reached over and patted Branslav on the shoulder. She gave him a tiny smile, “ Knock 'em dead out there. “
Branslav almost detected something with the word 'dead' but figured he was reading too much into it. “ I have been but thank you. “
Lotte gave Branslav a sideways look then looked at Daniel, “ You too. “
“ Yes ma'am, “ Daniel replied. He watched as she turned and left the locker room before looking at Branslav. “ Shit. I thought she had us. “
“ I did too but I'm glad she just meant the plans we've been playing with lately, “ Branslav nodded. He patted Daniel on the shoulder, “ Let's get going. “
“ Yeah, “ Daniel said. “ Coach Sweet will be in here yelling in a minute if we don't go. “
**
Betty picked at the cold pizza she had gotten out for dinner. Robert had ordered an extra the day before her interview so she would have food she didn't have to cook. She wasn't really interested in it, her mind wandering to the letter her manager had faxed to her. She hadn't got the nerve up to call him for the background check, not wanting to know what it contained.
She looked up from the pizza when the phone in the hallway rang. She grabbed her crutch and scooted out of the chair she was sitting in. She moved as quickly as she could to the hallway, frowning when she saw the number. She picked up the phone, “ Mr. Hollister. “
“ I hadn't heard from you so I thought I'd better check. Didn't you get the fax I sent you? “ Mr. Hollister asked sharply.
“ Yes I did, “ Betty said.
“ And the letter? “ Mr. Hollister said.
Betty sighed, “ Yes. That too. “
“ Good, “ Mr. Hollister said. “ I assume that Hughes didn't see it then? “
“ He brought the fax to me but he didn't look at it, “ Betty said. She was pretty certain he hadn't looked since he had returned so quickly with the papers.
“ How do you know he didn't see it? “ Mr. Hollister asked sharply.
“ Because I think he respects my privacy a little more than you give him credit for, “ Betty replied just as harshly.
“ Don't take that tone with me, “ Mr. Hollister scolded Betty. “ I'm just looking out for your best interests here. “
“ But that doesn't give you the right to run a background check on Robert, “ Betty said. She shut her eyes, “ He's not a bad guy. “
“ You might think differently when you see his background check, “ Mr. Hollister said. He sounded like he was rustling papers, “ I assume he's told you about himself. “
“ A bit yes, “ Betty opened her eyes. She knew where he grew up and he had hinted to her about how his life in college had been before marrying Pauline. She didn't know a lot of things but she figured she'd learn them along the way as their relationship grew.
“ I see, “ Mr. Hollister then paused. “ You are aware that he is married then? “
“ Yes, “ Betty said. “ He's getting a divorce though. “
“ Oh, “ Mr. Hollister replied flatly. “ Has he told you this? “
“ Yes, “ Betty said. “ He called me when he filed the papers. “
Mr. Hollister was quiet again then said, “ Has he told you what he makes a year? “
“ No, “ Betty said. She hadn't remembered asking or even caring. She knew it had to be enough to keep him comfortable.
“ From what I see on this paper, you might want to reconsider your relationship with him. At least be on your guard, “ Mr. Hollister said.
Betty narrowed her eyes, “ You really think he's after my money? “
“ Well you are worth quite a lot between your mother's estate and your own earnings, “ Mr. Hollister started listing things. " Even with the stipulation she put in her will, you're quite a wealthy woman and you'll be even more so once the movie deals go through. "
“ He doesn't know anything about those or mom's will, “ Betty cut him off. “ I can't touch my mother's money until I'm thirty anyway. You know that. “
“ Betty, “ Mr. Hollister said sharply. “ She was a well known artist. How could he not know? “
“ Look, “ Betty said. “ He doesn't. I'm sure. He would have said something if he knew. “
“ But what about your money then? “ Mr. Hollister said. “ I'm sure he had an inkling that you're no pauper. “
“ He doesn't care, “ Betty said firmly. She was sure it wasn't an issue because of he refused to let he pay for anything while he was there.
“ I'm just looking out for your best interests so just listen to me. You're very naive and I don't think you know what you're getting into. He's a man on the rebound and that never ends well, “ Mr. Hollister said.
“ Are you saying you think he's using me? “ Betty asked.
Mr. Hollister sighed, “ He very well could be using you to get some kind of petty revenge on his wife for betraying him. “
“ You think too much, “ Betty muttered. “ You always think people have another motive. “
Mr. Hollister let out a heavy sigh, “ When you're worth as much as you are, you have to be a little more paranoid. Look how your father took advantage of... “
“ Robert's a good guy though, “ Betty cut him off before he could mention her father. “ I'm not going to break it off with him just because you think he's using me. You don't know what I know and I trust him. “
“ So he told you about his history in Colorado Springs? “ Mr. Hollister asked.
Betty furrowed her brow, recalling that was where Robert had gone to college. “ What do you mean? “
“ I have five police reports from there, “ Mr. Hollister started shuffling the papers. “ Two are for DUI, two are for drunken and disorderly conduct but I'm not really concerned about those. “
“ What are you concerned about then? “ Betty asked.
“ There's one here about a domestic problem he had with his wife, “ Mr. Hollister said. He was quiet again, probably scanning the paper for the most damning piece of evidence. He then said, “ She was pregnant and they had an altercation that ended with her getting a concussion. “
Betty's blood ran cold, “ He said he had experience with concussions but he just said it was with his wife. “
“ Yes, “ Mr. Hollister said. “ The report says she was the one at fault for the injury but that could have been coerced. The way the events look, it's highly unlikely the account is true. “
“ What does it say? “ Betty whispered.
“ It says that she was injured after demanding something she was craving and Mr. Hughes refused to go get it so she attacked him. He attempted to restrain her but she got away and tripped, hitting her head. The report describes her as a petite blonde, “ Mr. Hollister said.
“ She is. She's about five feet tall and maybe a hundred pounds, “ Betty muttered. “ I met her. “
“ And Mr. Hughes is your height and very athletic. Now, how could a woman that size be at fault? “ Mr. Hollister asked.
“ You don't know her, “ Betty said. “ She's a little demon. “
“ You know this from your own experience or what Hughes has told you? “ Mr. Hollister sounded suspicious.
“ A little bit of both, “ Betty said. “ Look, I'll find out the truth... “
“ If Hughes will even tell it to you. Betty, I know how your father was and I don't want you to end up with an abuser, “ Mr. Hollister's voice took on a tone of concern. “ You need to stop being so stubborn and listen. I don't think he's going to be good for you. “
Betty looked at the floor, “ I'll decide that. “
“ I can still fax these papers over if you want to look at them, “ Mr. Hollister offered.
Betty shut her eyes, “ I'll look at them but I'll make up my own mind thank you. “
“ Have it your way, “ Mr. Hollister said. “ I'll fax them right now. “