Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Forty Two ( Chapter 42 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Robert heads off to court. Branslav is a mess from not sleeping all night.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 06.02.2009 | Pages: 11 | Words: 4.5K | Visits: 146 | Status: Completed
Robert heads off to court. Branslav is a mess from not sleeping all night.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 06.02.2009 | Pages: 11 | Words: 4.5K | Visits: 146 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Forty Two
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© 2007 Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
Robert looked at his phone as Mr. Reiss drove to the courthouse. Since his office was close to the arena, he decided it would be better to ride with his lawyer than have to go across town to his apartment once the hearing was over. He had already packed his bag for the trip and it was waiting for him in the trunk of his convertible. He wanted the rest of the day to go as smoothly as possible since he was facing a difficult morning.
He had tried to call Betty a couple of times but she hadn't answered. Mr. Reiss looked over from the driver's seat, “ Who are you trying to call Mr. Hughes? “
Robert slipped the phone into his suit jacket and shook his head, “ My friend. She's probably sleeping though. She said she'd have her phone on for me so I could call her. “
“ Ah, “ Mr. Reiss nodded once. “ Would that be the friend you were taking care of? “
Robert nodded then tugged at his shirt collar, “ Yeah. I'll try her land line in a few minutes. “
“ I see, “ Mr. Reiss nodded again. “ You looked worried. That's why I asked. “
Robert glanced at him, “ I'm worried about a lot of things but she is first on my list. “
“ Going to court this morning should be first, “ Mr. Reiss said as he took a left turn.
“ Okay then. She's next, “ Robert sighed. “ It's just for her not to answer my call makes me wonder if she's okay considering. “
“ Yes considering but there's not much you can do from here, “ Mr. Reiss said.
“ True but I'm still worried, “ Robert said. He pulled at his tie, “ Did I really have to wear a suit? I hardly ever wear this thing and I'm not used to it. “
“ Court dress code, “ Mr. Reiss stated simply. “ Suit and tie. “
Robert tried to loosen his tie a little bit. He felt like he was suffocating, anxious to see how things would go. “ How long do you think we'll be there? “
Mr. Reiss sighed, “ Probably not long today. All the judge is deciding today is if there needs to be another DNA test since Mrs. Hughes didn't consent to the first one. Once the results come back, we'll go from there. “
“ Well I already know how that's going to turn out. What do we do after that? “ Robert got his tie loose, deciding to tighten it back up once he got to the courthouse.
“ Then the actual divorce can proceed and we have to argue over who gets to keep what, “ Mr. Reiss glanced over. “ Fix your tie. “
“ I will when we get there, “ Robert sighed. “ Just let me have some air before I have to go in there. I just feel like Pauline's going to make a big scene or do something to upset me. “
“ From what you told me and what I know, you're not wrong in feeling that way. Just fix it before we get into the courthouse, “ Mr. Reiss sighed. “ We're almost there. “
Robert reached into his jacket and got out his phone again, “ I'm going to try her on land line now. “
“ Make it quick, “ Mr. Reiss said firmly. “ We'll be there in less than five minutes. “
Robert dialed Betty's home number, worried when her machine got it. He sighed as he listened to her greeting message then said, " Hey baby. It's me. Call me when you get this. "
"Was she not home? " Mr. Reiss asked after Robert hung up the phone.
" She should be, " Robert felt a little uneasy. " She's not supposed to be going anywhere. Maybe she's asleep. "
“ Maybe, “ Mr. Reiss said as he took another turn, the one that led to the courthouse parking garage. “ You can call her again when we get out of the courthouse. “
Robert waited as Mr. Reiss pulled into the garage and found a spot. He parked the car just as an all too familiar burgundy SUV pulled into the parking spot next to them. “ Ah shit, “ Robert muttered. “ Here comes trouble. “
“ What was that? “ Mr. Reiss looked at Robert and arched an eyebrow.
“ Pauline just pulled in next us, “ Robert put his hand up to shield his face as he heard the SUV's driver side door open. Mr. Reiss' windows were tinted quite dark but he still didn't want her to see him. He didn't want to look at her until he had to.
“ We will wait here until she's walked away, “ Mr. Reiss said then furrowed his brow when the sound of the back driver side door of the SUV opening reached his and Robert's ears.
Robert noticed the look and looked in the side view mirror. His heart stopped in his chest when he saw Pauline set Alex between the cars after had lifted him out of his car booster seat. He looked well considering he was barely two weeks out from surgery. Robert had to choke back a lump in his throat when he heard the child's voice.
“ Mommy, where's daddy? You said he'd be here, “ Alex looked up at Pauline as she shut the passenger door. He was wearing a little leather jacket, a black beanie, a heavy white sweater and blue jeans.
“ He's in that big building honey, “ Pauline replied flatly. “ You'll see him in a little bit. “
Robert watched in the mirror as Richard came around from the other side of the SUV. He looked down at Alex then at Pauline. “ Do you think it was such a good idea to bring him after all? “
“ I couldn't find anyone to take care of him, “ Pauline replied. She stepped up to shut the driver's side door. “ And we couldn't leave him alone at the hotel. “
Richard ran a hand through his thinning hair, “ No but I could have stayed with him. “
“ But I need you here with me, “ Pauline said. “ I can't do this alone. “
“ But what if you two get into it here, in front of... “ Richard pointed at Alex.
“ Would you just be quiet? We'll deal with it when it happens, “ Pauline snapped. She took Alex's tiny hand in hers, “ Let's just go already. We're going to be late. “
Robert watched as they walked away in the direction of the courthouse. Once they disappeared out the exit of the garage, he glanced over at Mr. Reiss. “ Can you believe she brought him? “
“ It happens and you heard her, “ Mr. Reiss shrugged. “ Just try not to let her get to you. “
“ I'll try, “ Robert said. “ Can I have a minute to get my mind set for this? “
Mr. Reiss sighed heavily and looked at his watch, “ I suppose so. Let me get my things from the trunk. “
Robert took a deep breath then let it out as Mr. Reiss opened his door, “ I don't know if I can do this with Alex here. I know she's going to start shit now and Alex gets so upset when we fight. I can't put him through it... not again. “
“ She can't bring him into court so just try to keep it together until he's not in the room. The age he is, the judge will send him to his quarters with someone. Stop worrying, “ Mr. Reiss tried to comfort Robert.
“ But she might not wait that long. I know her. I know how she works, “ Robert said.
Mr. Reiss gave Robert a stern look, " You need to remain calm though. Do your best not to let her get to you. "
Robert took another deep breath and let it out. He took one more then sighed, " Let's do this. The sooner it's over with the better. "
**
Daniel looked up from tying his shoes when Branslav came into the locker room. He sat up as Branslav sat down on the bench next to him. “ You look like Hell, “ Daniel said. It was the best way he could describe it anyway since Branslav looked like he hadn't slept all night nor bothered to shave.
“ I feel like Hell, “ Branslav muttered.
" Coach'll pitch a fit when he see that stuff on your face, " Daniel couldn't think of anything else to say.
" Yeah he might, " Branslav sighed as he ran his hand over the stubble on his cheek and frowned deeply. He glanced at Daniel, “ You got a razor? “
“ I might, “ Daniel grabbed his gym bag. He glanced at Branslav as he open the bag, “ What did you do after you got out of here last night? “
“ I went home, “ Branslav almost snapped. He had but hadn't gotten any sleep. The fact his sister was under orders to 'take care of him' had made it hard to rest.
“ Whoa there cowboy, “ Daniel put his hands up. He had found a razor and he had it in his right hand, “ I was just asking. You look like you stayed up all night, that's all. “
“ I did, “ Branslav took the razor when Daniel offered it to him.
Daniel glanced around then looked at Branslav again, “ Were you scared about that thing? "
Branslav nodded, " Yeah. I was. Weren't you? "
Daniel nodded, " Yeah. I had to take something to get to sleep but then I had nightmares all night. "
Branslav sighed, " At least you got some sleep. "
" It wasn't much, " Daniel shook his head. He gave Branslav a serious look, " Do you think she would? "
Branslav shook his head, " I don't know. That's why it's so scary. "
“ Man, “ Daniel shook his head. “ I don't know how we're going to keep it together for the game knowing what we know. "
“ We'll have to, " Branslav returned the serious look. " If we let on we know anything we're dead. "
" For sure, " Daniel muttered. He looked around, " We'd better stop talking about it. "
" Yeah, " Branslav looked around as well. " I'm going to go shave now. "
The locker room door swung open, Coach Sweet coming in and eyeing everyone critically. “ Alright you slackers, get your asses out on the floor. We have a lot of work to do today if we're going to beat the Turquoise tomorrow. “
Branslav set the razor down as Coach Sweet walked back out of the locker room, “ I guess this can wait. I need to get changed. Tell Coach I'll be there in a minute. “
Daniel stood up, “ Sure. “
Branslav watched as the rest of the team left then started to take his clothes off. As he got out his practice jersey, his hand brushed against his phone. He had tried to call Betty several times but she hadn't answered. ~I'll go by later when I get out of here to check on her, ~ He thought to himself as he continued to change.
**
Robert walked out of the courthouse with Mr. Reiss. They had been in court for less than an hour, the judge ordering another, more extentsive DNA test before proceeding with the divorce hearing. Everything had gone as Mr. Reiss had predicted but Robert was still on his guard, not sure when Pauline would swoop down on him like a harpy. She had given him dirty looks the entire time they had been in the courtroom and he knew she was stewing.
Mr. Reiss glanced over at Robert when he kept looking around, " Mr. Hughes? "
" Yeah? " Robert said, still unsure of when Pauline would appear.
" When do you have to leave for your game? " Mr. Reiss looked at his watch.
Robert looked at his own, " I have to be back at the arena by twelve at least so we can get our things on the bus. "
Mr. Reiss nodded, " And when will you be back? "
Robert had to think. The team was going on a three game road trip. After playing Reno on Saturday, they were going to play Carson City to play Monday then go across to Sacramento for a game two days later. " Six days from tomorrow, " Robert said once he had it figured out in his head.
Mr. Reiss frowned, " I see. We need to coordinate with your wife's lawyer so we can make an appointment for the DNA lab. The results will take at least four weeks to come back. "
" Yeah. I know, " Robert nodded. " I looked it up online. That's the short turnaround time. "
" So when do you want to do it? " Mr. Reiss asked.
Robert shrugged, " I guess when I get back from Sacramento. "
Mr. Reiss got out his PDA, looking at the calendar. " Six days from tomorrow is next Thursday. Is that alright? "
Robert shrugged, " Yeah whatever. It's the soonest I can do it. "
" Good then, " Mr. Reiss nodded. " I'll call your wife's lawyer and set it up. "
The two men had just reached the curb when a child's shout drew their attention. The hair stood up on the back of Robert's neck because he recognized the voice. Out of instinct, he turned to see Alex running from the courthouse with Pauline in close pursuit. He ignored her, squating down to catch Alex as he reached him.
" Daddy! " Alex shouted as he jumped up and wrapped his arms around Robert's neck.
Robert hugged him tightly, " Hey champ. Long time no see. "
" I missed you daddy, " Alex said as he clung to him.
Robert shut his eyes and fought back a lump in his throat. Hearing the child call him 'daddy' stabbed him in the heart, making the truth all that more painful. He took a breath then whispered, " I missed you too. "
The rapid click of high heels on the pavement let Robert know Pauline had arrived. He steeled himself as she growled, " Let go of my son. "
" Let him hug me, " Robert said without looking at her. He looked past her and found Richard had opted to hang back quite a bit. The older man was doing his best not to look at Robert, instead looking at the ground. " Can't you see he missed me? "
Pauline put her right hand on Alex's shoulder, " Come on honey. We have to go. "
Alex gripped Robert tighter, " No! I missed daddy! "
" Alexander Ashley Hughes, " Pauline sounded very stern. " I said we have to go. "
" I don't want to leave daddy! " Alex shouted. Robert felt tears wet his neck and realized Alex was crying.
" Just leave him alone, " Robert said. " You know he won't let go until he's ready. "
Pauline growled again, " I don't see why you care when you say he's not even your... "
" You shut up, " Robert leveled a glare at Pauline as he spoke evenly. He tried to control his voice and not shout. " Don't you even say it! Not in front of him! "
Alex sniffled, " Please don't fight with mommy. Daddy, please don't. "
Robert continued to glare at Pauline, " Okay. I won't. I have to go though champ. I have to go play some games but I'll see you when I get back. "
Alex sniffled, " Okay daddy. "
Robert felt like he was losing part of himself as Alex reluctantly let go of his neck and stepped back. He gave the child a gentle smile as he wiped his tears away with his thumbs, " You need to be a big boy and not cry, okay? "
Alex nodded then wiped his cheeks with the backs of his little hands, " Okay daddy. "
Pauline grabbed the child's left hand as she glared daggers at Robert, " Let's go. "
Alex said nothing as Pauline pulled him across the street, Richard following behind them. Robert turned and watched until they were out of sight. Mr. Reiss put a hand on his shoulder, " We'll wait here until they've left before we go back to my car. "
" Sure, " Robert nodded. " That sounds good. "
**
Branslav sat in the training room, waiting for Daniel to come back from getting lunch. The team had practiced but Coach Sweet cut it half an hour short, saying he was 'treating' the team to an early lunch. Branslav found it suspicious because Lotte had come into practice and whispered something to Coach Sweet before he called for the early break. He wondered if something was going on but dared not to fathom what.
He looked at the clock on the wall and wondered what was taking Daniel so long to get back. The place he was going to get lunch from wasn't that far from the arena and Branslav decided he'd go look for him. He got to his feet just as the training room door opened. " What took you so long? " Branslav asked as he turned to the door.
" Oh? Were you expecting me? " Martin arched an eyebrow as he walked into the training room.
Branslav frowned, " No. I was waiting on Daniel. What do you want? "
Martin remained in the doorway, " I just wanted to let you know that I'm forbidding guests for tomorrow's game. Everyone needs to be in top form and I don't want any distractions. "
" But, " Branslav started.
Martin put his hand up, " No buts. No distractions. "
Branslav frowned, " I was going to invite someone. "
" Betty? " Martin arched an eyebrow. " Don't look so surprised. She's all you've been talking about since you met back up with her. "
" But I really want her to be here, " Branslav tried not to get angry.
Martin gave Branslav a cold smirk, " Is that so? "
" Yes, " Branslav said. He furrowed his brow, " Why are you looking at me that way? "
" If she shows up, I'll have her escorted out. I said no distractions and I mean it, " Martin said sharply.
Branslav clenched his fist tighter as Daniel walked up to the doorway, " Jesus man. You should have seen the line for take out orders. I thought I'd never get our lunches, " He said then really looked at Branslav. " Whoa buddy. What's with the face? "
" Why hello Mr. Hill, " Martin said, causing the young man to jump. " I was wondering where you were since it seems you two can't go anywhere without the other. "
Daniel looked at Martin, " I didn't know you were in here. You scared me. "
" I just letting Branslav know there aren't going to be any visitors allowed at tomorrow's game. You weren't inviting anyone were you? " Martin asked.
Daniel shook his head, " Nope. I don't have anyone to invite. "
" Well then, " Martin said. " I guess I didn't need to tell you. I'll let you boys eat your lunch now. "
Daniel watched as Martin walked out of the room then looked at Branslav again. " What did he say to you? You look like you're ready to hit something. "
" I am, " Branslav said. " He came to tell me about the visitor ban. "
Daniel frowned, " So that's why you were all pissed off when I walked in? "
Branslav nodded, " Yeah. You came in at the right time or I would have hit him. "
Daniel nodded once, " You looked like you were. "
Branslav shook his head, " Let's just forget him. I'm starving. I'll figure out a way to get her in to see me. "
**
Robert sat down in his seat on the bus, waiting for the others to board. After going back to Mr. Reiss' office and getting his car, he had headed for the arena. After getting his things loaded, Coach Hooker told him to get on and wait for everyone else. As he waited, he decided to call Betty and see if he could get her.
He had just gotten his phone out when it rang. He flipped it open, “ Hello? “ Robert answered.
“ Robert? “ Betty sounded worried.
“ Oh hey baby, “ Robert said. “ I tried to call you earlier on your cell and you didn't answer. I tried you land line too but got your machine. Are you okay? “
“ Uh yeah, “ Betty said. “ I couldn't sleep last night so I was up until dawn then I was able to sleep. "
“ Oh, “ Robert replied. “ Why couldn't you sleep? “
“ I don't know. I just had too much energy I guess. I think it's because I'm starting to feel better. How are you? “ Betty asked.
Robert sighed, “ I'm okay. I was only in court for thirty minutes. The judge said she wants another DNA test before the proceedings can go on. “
“ I see, “ Betty said quietly. " You were expecting that though. "
“ Yeah I was, “ Robert muttered.
“ So how long is that going to take? “ Betty asked.
Robert sighed, “ I have to go in and do it when I get back from this road trip. The results will take at least four weeks. “
“ Okay, " Betty said. " It'll be a while then, huh? "
“ Yeah, “ Robert nodded. " I can't even guess how long it will take. "
“ I'll be here for you no matter how long it takes, “ Betty said.
“ Thanks baby, " Robert smiled. " That means a lot to me. "
“ You're welcome, " Betty said. " I'll do my best to help you. "
“ I know you will baby, “ Robert replied. He sighed, " Oh God. I can't wait to see you tomorrow. "
“ About that, “ Betty said quietly.
“ What? “ Robert asked. He didn't like the tone Betty's voice took on. She had sounded rather happy until he had mentioned his former friend.
Betty took a deep breath, “ I'm still not for sure how I'm going to tell him. “
“ I'll be there with you if you want, " Robert replied.
“ Will you? " Betty asked.
" Sure, " Robert said. " I'll be there. “
" So how am I getting there? " Betty asked. " I don't know if I want to drive yet. "
Robert sighed, " I'll find a way to get you after practice tomorrow. We can spend a little time together then go to the arena. “
" Okay, " Betty said. " That sounds good. "
" We're playing Carson City Monday so I could get a car and come out Sunday, " Robert offered as a plan came together in his mind. " We just have a short practice in the morning and the rest of the day is ours. We can have more time together then. "
" That sounds good too, " Betty replied though she didn't sound too enthusiastic about it.
Robert nodded, " Yeah it does. "
" Hey, " Betty sighed. " I got to go. I need something to eat. "
" Okay then, " Robert replied. " I'll see you tomorrow. "
" Yeah, tomorrow. Bye now, " Betty said.
" Bye baby, " Robert said then listened to Betty hang up before hanging up himself.
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© 2007 Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
Robert looked at his phone as Mr. Reiss drove to the courthouse. Since his office was close to the arena, he decided it would be better to ride with his lawyer than have to go across town to his apartment once the hearing was over. He had already packed his bag for the trip and it was waiting for him in the trunk of his convertible. He wanted the rest of the day to go as smoothly as possible since he was facing a difficult morning.
He had tried to call Betty a couple of times but she hadn't answered. Mr. Reiss looked over from the driver's seat, “ Who are you trying to call Mr. Hughes? “
Robert slipped the phone into his suit jacket and shook his head, “ My friend. She's probably sleeping though. She said she'd have her phone on for me so I could call her. “
“ Ah, “ Mr. Reiss nodded once. “ Would that be the friend you were taking care of? “
Robert nodded then tugged at his shirt collar, “ Yeah. I'll try her land line in a few minutes. “
“ I see, “ Mr. Reiss nodded again. “ You looked worried. That's why I asked. “
Robert glanced at him, “ I'm worried about a lot of things but she is first on my list. “
“ Going to court this morning should be first, “ Mr. Reiss said as he took a left turn.
“ Okay then. She's next, “ Robert sighed. “ It's just for her not to answer my call makes me wonder if she's okay considering. “
“ Yes considering but there's not much you can do from here, “ Mr. Reiss said.
“ True but I'm still worried, “ Robert said. He pulled at his tie, “ Did I really have to wear a suit? I hardly ever wear this thing and I'm not used to it. “
“ Court dress code, “ Mr. Reiss stated simply. “ Suit and tie. “
Robert tried to loosen his tie a little bit. He felt like he was suffocating, anxious to see how things would go. “ How long do you think we'll be there? “
Mr. Reiss sighed, “ Probably not long today. All the judge is deciding today is if there needs to be another DNA test since Mrs. Hughes didn't consent to the first one. Once the results come back, we'll go from there. “
“ Well I already know how that's going to turn out. What do we do after that? “ Robert got his tie loose, deciding to tighten it back up once he got to the courthouse.
“ Then the actual divorce can proceed and we have to argue over who gets to keep what, “ Mr. Reiss glanced over. “ Fix your tie. “
“ I will when we get there, “ Robert sighed. “ Just let me have some air before I have to go in there. I just feel like Pauline's going to make a big scene or do something to upset me. “
“ From what you told me and what I know, you're not wrong in feeling that way. Just fix it before we get into the courthouse, “ Mr. Reiss sighed. “ We're almost there. “
Robert reached into his jacket and got out his phone again, “ I'm going to try her on land line now. “
“ Make it quick, “ Mr. Reiss said firmly. “ We'll be there in less than five minutes. “
Robert dialed Betty's home number, worried when her machine got it. He sighed as he listened to her greeting message then said, " Hey baby. It's me. Call me when you get this. "
"Was she not home? " Mr. Reiss asked after Robert hung up the phone.
" She should be, " Robert felt a little uneasy. " She's not supposed to be going anywhere. Maybe she's asleep. "
“ Maybe, “ Mr. Reiss said as he took another turn, the one that led to the courthouse parking garage. “ You can call her again when we get out of the courthouse. “
Robert waited as Mr. Reiss pulled into the garage and found a spot. He parked the car just as an all too familiar burgundy SUV pulled into the parking spot next to them. “ Ah shit, “ Robert muttered. “ Here comes trouble. “
“ What was that? “ Mr. Reiss looked at Robert and arched an eyebrow.
“ Pauline just pulled in next us, “ Robert put his hand up to shield his face as he heard the SUV's driver side door open. Mr. Reiss' windows were tinted quite dark but he still didn't want her to see him. He didn't want to look at her until he had to.
“ We will wait here until she's walked away, “ Mr. Reiss said then furrowed his brow when the sound of the back driver side door of the SUV opening reached his and Robert's ears.
Robert noticed the look and looked in the side view mirror. His heart stopped in his chest when he saw Pauline set Alex between the cars after had lifted him out of his car booster seat. He looked well considering he was barely two weeks out from surgery. Robert had to choke back a lump in his throat when he heard the child's voice.
“ Mommy, where's daddy? You said he'd be here, “ Alex looked up at Pauline as she shut the passenger door. He was wearing a little leather jacket, a black beanie, a heavy white sweater and blue jeans.
“ He's in that big building honey, “ Pauline replied flatly. “ You'll see him in a little bit. “
Robert watched in the mirror as Richard came around from the other side of the SUV. He looked down at Alex then at Pauline. “ Do you think it was such a good idea to bring him after all? “
“ I couldn't find anyone to take care of him, “ Pauline replied. She stepped up to shut the driver's side door. “ And we couldn't leave him alone at the hotel. “
Richard ran a hand through his thinning hair, “ No but I could have stayed with him. “
“ But I need you here with me, “ Pauline said. “ I can't do this alone. “
“ But what if you two get into it here, in front of... “ Richard pointed at Alex.
“ Would you just be quiet? We'll deal with it when it happens, “ Pauline snapped. She took Alex's tiny hand in hers, “ Let's just go already. We're going to be late. “
Robert watched as they walked away in the direction of the courthouse. Once they disappeared out the exit of the garage, he glanced over at Mr. Reiss. “ Can you believe she brought him? “
“ It happens and you heard her, “ Mr. Reiss shrugged. “ Just try not to let her get to you. “
“ I'll try, “ Robert said. “ Can I have a minute to get my mind set for this? “
Mr. Reiss sighed heavily and looked at his watch, “ I suppose so. Let me get my things from the trunk. “
Robert took a deep breath then let it out as Mr. Reiss opened his door, “ I don't know if I can do this with Alex here. I know she's going to start shit now and Alex gets so upset when we fight. I can't put him through it... not again. “
“ She can't bring him into court so just try to keep it together until he's not in the room. The age he is, the judge will send him to his quarters with someone. Stop worrying, “ Mr. Reiss tried to comfort Robert.
“ But she might not wait that long. I know her. I know how she works, “ Robert said.
Mr. Reiss gave Robert a stern look, " You need to remain calm though. Do your best not to let her get to you. "
Robert took another deep breath and let it out. He took one more then sighed, " Let's do this. The sooner it's over with the better. "
**
Daniel looked up from tying his shoes when Branslav came into the locker room. He sat up as Branslav sat down on the bench next to him. “ You look like Hell, “ Daniel said. It was the best way he could describe it anyway since Branslav looked like he hadn't slept all night nor bothered to shave.
“ I feel like Hell, “ Branslav muttered.
" Coach'll pitch a fit when he see that stuff on your face, " Daniel couldn't think of anything else to say.
" Yeah he might, " Branslav sighed as he ran his hand over the stubble on his cheek and frowned deeply. He glanced at Daniel, “ You got a razor? “
“ I might, “ Daniel grabbed his gym bag. He glanced at Branslav as he open the bag, “ What did you do after you got out of here last night? “
“ I went home, “ Branslav almost snapped. He had but hadn't gotten any sleep. The fact his sister was under orders to 'take care of him' had made it hard to rest.
“ Whoa there cowboy, “ Daniel put his hands up. He had found a razor and he had it in his right hand, “ I was just asking. You look like you stayed up all night, that's all. “
“ I did, “ Branslav took the razor when Daniel offered it to him.
Daniel glanced around then looked at Branslav again, “ Were you scared about that thing? "
Branslav nodded, " Yeah. I was. Weren't you? "
Daniel nodded, " Yeah. I had to take something to get to sleep but then I had nightmares all night. "
Branslav sighed, " At least you got some sleep. "
" It wasn't much, " Daniel shook his head. He gave Branslav a serious look, " Do you think she would? "
Branslav shook his head, " I don't know. That's why it's so scary. "
“ Man, “ Daniel shook his head. “ I don't know how we're going to keep it together for the game knowing what we know. "
“ We'll have to, " Branslav returned the serious look. " If we let on we know anything we're dead. "
" For sure, " Daniel muttered. He looked around, " We'd better stop talking about it. "
" Yeah, " Branslav looked around as well. " I'm going to go shave now. "
The locker room door swung open, Coach Sweet coming in and eyeing everyone critically. “ Alright you slackers, get your asses out on the floor. We have a lot of work to do today if we're going to beat the Turquoise tomorrow. “
Branslav set the razor down as Coach Sweet walked back out of the locker room, “ I guess this can wait. I need to get changed. Tell Coach I'll be there in a minute. “
Daniel stood up, “ Sure. “
Branslav watched as the rest of the team left then started to take his clothes off. As he got out his practice jersey, his hand brushed against his phone. He had tried to call Betty several times but she hadn't answered. ~I'll go by later when I get out of here to check on her, ~ He thought to himself as he continued to change.
**
Robert walked out of the courthouse with Mr. Reiss. They had been in court for less than an hour, the judge ordering another, more extentsive DNA test before proceeding with the divorce hearing. Everything had gone as Mr. Reiss had predicted but Robert was still on his guard, not sure when Pauline would swoop down on him like a harpy. She had given him dirty looks the entire time they had been in the courtroom and he knew she was stewing.
Mr. Reiss glanced over at Robert when he kept looking around, " Mr. Hughes? "
" Yeah? " Robert said, still unsure of when Pauline would appear.
" When do you have to leave for your game? " Mr. Reiss looked at his watch.
Robert looked at his own, " I have to be back at the arena by twelve at least so we can get our things on the bus. "
Mr. Reiss nodded, " And when will you be back? "
Robert had to think. The team was going on a three game road trip. After playing Reno on Saturday, they were going to play Carson City to play Monday then go across to Sacramento for a game two days later. " Six days from tomorrow, " Robert said once he had it figured out in his head.
Mr. Reiss frowned, " I see. We need to coordinate with your wife's lawyer so we can make an appointment for the DNA lab. The results will take at least four weeks to come back. "
" Yeah. I know, " Robert nodded. " I looked it up online. That's the short turnaround time. "
" So when do you want to do it? " Mr. Reiss asked.
Robert shrugged, " I guess when I get back from Sacramento. "
Mr. Reiss got out his PDA, looking at the calendar. " Six days from tomorrow is next Thursday. Is that alright? "
Robert shrugged, " Yeah whatever. It's the soonest I can do it. "
" Good then, " Mr. Reiss nodded. " I'll call your wife's lawyer and set it up. "
The two men had just reached the curb when a child's shout drew their attention. The hair stood up on the back of Robert's neck because he recognized the voice. Out of instinct, he turned to see Alex running from the courthouse with Pauline in close pursuit. He ignored her, squating down to catch Alex as he reached him.
" Daddy! " Alex shouted as he jumped up and wrapped his arms around Robert's neck.
Robert hugged him tightly, " Hey champ. Long time no see. "
" I missed you daddy, " Alex said as he clung to him.
Robert shut his eyes and fought back a lump in his throat. Hearing the child call him 'daddy' stabbed him in the heart, making the truth all that more painful. He took a breath then whispered, " I missed you too. "
The rapid click of high heels on the pavement let Robert know Pauline had arrived. He steeled himself as she growled, " Let go of my son. "
" Let him hug me, " Robert said without looking at her. He looked past her and found Richard had opted to hang back quite a bit. The older man was doing his best not to look at Robert, instead looking at the ground. " Can't you see he missed me? "
Pauline put her right hand on Alex's shoulder, " Come on honey. We have to go. "
Alex gripped Robert tighter, " No! I missed daddy! "
" Alexander Ashley Hughes, " Pauline sounded very stern. " I said we have to go. "
" I don't want to leave daddy! " Alex shouted. Robert felt tears wet his neck and realized Alex was crying.
" Just leave him alone, " Robert said. " You know he won't let go until he's ready. "
Pauline growled again, " I don't see why you care when you say he's not even your... "
" You shut up, " Robert leveled a glare at Pauline as he spoke evenly. He tried to control his voice and not shout. " Don't you even say it! Not in front of him! "
Alex sniffled, " Please don't fight with mommy. Daddy, please don't. "
Robert continued to glare at Pauline, " Okay. I won't. I have to go though champ. I have to go play some games but I'll see you when I get back. "
Alex sniffled, " Okay daddy. "
Robert felt like he was losing part of himself as Alex reluctantly let go of his neck and stepped back. He gave the child a gentle smile as he wiped his tears away with his thumbs, " You need to be a big boy and not cry, okay? "
Alex nodded then wiped his cheeks with the backs of his little hands, " Okay daddy. "
Pauline grabbed the child's left hand as she glared daggers at Robert, " Let's go. "
Alex said nothing as Pauline pulled him across the street, Richard following behind them. Robert turned and watched until they were out of sight. Mr. Reiss put a hand on his shoulder, " We'll wait here until they've left before we go back to my car. "
" Sure, " Robert nodded. " That sounds good. "
**
Branslav sat in the training room, waiting for Daniel to come back from getting lunch. The team had practiced but Coach Sweet cut it half an hour short, saying he was 'treating' the team to an early lunch. Branslav found it suspicious because Lotte had come into practice and whispered something to Coach Sweet before he called for the early break. He wondered if something was going on but dared not to fathom what.
He looked at the clock on the wall and wondered what was taking Daniel so long to get back. The place he was going to get lunch from wasn't that far from the arena and Branslav decided he'd go look for him. He got to his feet just as the training room door opened. " What took you so long? " Branslav asked as he turned to the door.
" Oh? Were you expecting me? " Martin arched an eyebrow as he walked into the training room.
Branslav frowned, " No. I was waiting on Daniel. What do you want? "
Martin remained in the doorway, " I just wanted to let you know that I'm forbidding guests for tomorrow's game. Everyone needs to be in top form and I don't want any distractions. "
" But, " Branslav started.
Martin put his hand up, " No buts. No distractions. "
Branslav frowned, " I was going to invite someone. "
" Betty? " Martin arched an eyebrow. " Don't look so surprised. She's all you've been talking about since you met back up with her. "
" But I really want her to be here, " Branslav tried not to get angry.
Martin gave Branslav a cold smirk, " Is that so? "
" Yes, " Branslav said. He furrowed his brow, " Why are you looking at me that way? "
" If she shows up, I'll have her escorted out. I said no distractions and I mean it, " Martin said sharply.
Branslav clenched his fist tighter as Daniel walked up to the doorway, " Jesus man. You should have seen the line for take out orders. I thought I'd never get our lunches, " He said then really looked at Branslav. " Whoa buddy. What's with the face? "
" Why hello Mr. Hill, " Martin said, causing the young man to jump. " I was wondering where you were since it seems you two can't go anywhere without the other. "
Daniel looked at Martin, " I didn't know you were in here. You scared me. "
" I just letting Branslav know there aren't going to be any visitors allowed at tomorrow's game. You weren't inviting anyone were you? " Martin asked.
Daniel shook his head, " Nope. I don't have anyone to invite. "
" Well then, " Martin said. " I guess I didn't need to tell you. I'll let you boys eat your lunch now. "
Daniel watched as Martin walked out of the room then looked at Branslav again. " What did he say to you? You look like you're ready to hit something. "
" I am, " Branslav said. " He came to tell me about the visitor ban. "
Daniel frowned, " So that's why you were all pissed off when I walked in? "
Branslav nodded, " Yeah. You came in at the right time or I would have hit him. "
Daniel nodded once, " You looked like you were. "
Branslav shook his head, " Let's just forget him. I'm starving. I'll figure out a way to get her in to see me. "
**
Robert sat down in his seat on the bus, waiting for the others to board. After going back to Mr. Reiss' office and getting his car, he had headed for the arena. After getting his things loaded, Coach Hooker told him to get on and wait for everyone else. As he waited, he decided to call Betty and see if he could get her.
He had just gotten his phone out when it rang. He flipped it open, “ Hello? “ Robert answered.
“ Robert? “ Betty sounded worried.
“ Oh hey baby, “ Robert said. “ I tried to call you earlier on your cell and you didn't answer. I tried you land line too but got your machine. Are you okay? “
“ Uh yeah, “ Betty said. “ I couldn't sleep last night so I was up until dawn then I was able to sleep. "
“ Oh, “ Robert replied. “ Why couldn't you sleep? “
“ I don't know. I just had too much energy I guess. I think it's because I'm starting to feel better. How are you? “ Betty asked.
Robert sighed, “ I'm okay. I was only in court for thirty minutes. The judge said she wants another DNA test before the proceedings can go on. “
“ I see, “ Betty said quietly. " You were expecting that though. "
“ Yeah I was, “ Robert muttered.
“ So how long is that going to take? “ Betty asked.
Robert sighed, “ I have to go in and do it when I get back from this road trip. The results will take at least four weeks. “
“ Okay, " Betty said. " It'll be a while then, huh? "
“ Yeah, “ Robert nodded. " I can't even guess how long it will take. "
“ I'll be here for you no matter how long it takes, “ Betty said.
“ Thanks baby, " Robert smiled. " That means a lot to me. "
“ You're welcome, " Betty said. " I'll do my best to help you. "
“ I know you will baby, “ Robert replied. He sighed, " Oh God. I can't wait to see you tomorrow. "
“ About that, “ Betty said quietly.
“ What? “ Robert asked. He didn't like the tone Betty's voice took on. She had sounded rather happy until he had mentioned his former friend.
Betty took a deep breath, “ I'm still not for sure how I'm going to tell him. “
“ I'll be there with you if you want, " Robert replied.
“ Will you? " Betty asked.
" Sure, " Robert said. " I'll be there. “
" So how am I getting there? " Betty asked. " I don't know if I want to drive yet. "
Robert sighed, " I'll find a way to get you after practice tomorrow. We can spend a little time together then go to the arena. “
" Okay, " Betty said. " That sounds good. "
" We're playing Carson City Monday so I could get a car and come out Sunday, " Robert offered as a plan came together in his mind. " We just have a short practice in the morning and the rest of the day is ours. We can have more time together then. "
" That sounds good too, " Betty replied though she didn't sound too enthusiastic about it.
Robert nodded, " Yeah it does. "
" Hey, " Betty sighed. " I got to go. I need something to eat. "
" Okay then, " Robert replied. " I'll see you tomorrow. "
" Yeah, tomorrow. Bye now, " Betty said.
" Bye baby, " Robert said then listened to Betty hang up before hanging up himself.