Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ All Star Dreams (Ver. 3) ❯ Chapter Forty Three ( Chapter 43 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: bekka_mouri_hibiki 
Robert arrives back in Reno. Branslav decides to go looking for Robert for advice. Robert surprises Betty.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 06.05.2009 | Pages: 11 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 171 | Status: Completed
Robert arrives back in Reno. Branslav decides to go looking for Robert for advice. Robert surprises Betty.
Miscellaneous: Original Stories Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Sports / Romance / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 06.05.2009 | Pages: 11 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 171 | Status: Completed
All-Star Dreams: Chapter Forty-Three
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© 2007 Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
Robert woke up as he felt the bus pull to a stop. He blinked a couple of times then wiped the sleep out of his eyes before looking out the window. He found the team had arrived in Reno and checked his watch. " Right on time, " He muttered when he saw it was six thirty am.
The other guys started to stir around, some getting out of their seats to stretch. Coach Hooker stood up from his seat at the front of the bus holding a notepad, " Listen up for your bunk assignments! "
Robert listened as the others got their assignments then Coach Hooker turned to open the bus doors. Robert realized he hadn't got an assignment, wondering why. Coach Hooker wasn't usually forgetful of anything. He wondered what was up but didn't want to say anything until the others had left.
He waited for the others to file out, Coach Hooker still obviously oblivious to the oversight. He got up and made his way to the front of the bus when everyone else was off, stopping when he reached Coach Hooker. The older man looked puzzled, " Do you need something my boy? "
" Who am I bunking with? You didn't give me an assignment, " Robert motioned towards the notepad. " Did you skip my name for some reason? "
Coach Hooker nodded his head, " Yes I did. You're going to bunk with me but I didn't want to say it in front of the others. "
" What? How come? " Robert furrowed his brow.
" The hotel's management said you would have to be under close supervision or we wouldn't be allowed to come back, " Coach Hooker explained.
" That's crazy, " Robert felt insulted. " It's not like I'm going to... "
" Just calm down, " Coach Hooker put his left hand on Robert's right shoulder. " Now, I know and you know you won't do it again but the hotel just wants that assurance. "
Robert thought it over then sighed, " Okay. Whatever. "
Coach Hooker looked at his watch, " Now. Let's go get our things then you're free to do whatever you want until practice. "
" Whatever I want huh? " Robert arched an eyebrow. Standard procedure was for players to stay around the hotel until it was time to head off for practice. " You mean like around here, right? "
" No, " Coach Hooker shook his head. " You need to go have a good time after that horrible day you had yesterday. Just as long as you're back by practice, I don't care what you do. "
" But where can I do that around here? " Robert asked. " I don't have a car and there's nothing close by that I want to do. "
Coach Hooker smiled a little bit, " There's twenty-four hour car rental office just across the street You know, in case there's anywhere you want to go you can't get to on foot. Don't you have friends you want to see? "
The look Coach Sweet was giving him told Robert he was hinting at something, " Well yeah. There is someone I want to see but they live on the outskirts of town. "
Coach Hooker patted Robert's shoulder, " Then you'd better get a move on. I'll see you at the arena at one. "
" What about my stuff? " Robert asked.
Coach Hooker waved his hand, " Don't worry. I'll take it up for you. You just go on and I'll see you later. "
Robert nodded, " Yes sir. "
Coach Hooker stepped aside and let Robert get off the bus. He looked around, finding that the rental office was indeed across the street and he headed for it, shoving his hand in his jacket pockets as he went...
**
Branslav stared at the ceiling. After a night of unrestful sleep, he felt just as bad as he had when he went to bed. The things he had overheard in Carson City were still weighing heavy on his mind. He needed to talk to someone and soon or he felt like he was going to lose his mind.
He looked at the clock on the bedside table, finding it was almost seven. He wondered if the Turquoise were already in town and contemplated going to their hotel to find Robert. He was pretty sure Robert didn't want to see him but he was his closest friend. He knew he would have to apologize for his behavior but he was prepared to do whatever he needed to get his friend back on his side.
He reached for his cell phone, hoping Daniel wouldn't be too angry with him for calling so early but he needed someone else there. He felt having the younger man along would somehow keep Robert from refusing to talk to him. Besides that, they were both involved and both would need advice. He dialed Daniel's number then waited for him to answer.
" Hullo? " Daniel answered sounding sleepy.
" Daniel. It's me, " Branslav said quietly.
Daniel sighed, " What is it man? Do you know what time it is? "
" Yeah but I need you, " Branslav said.
" What for? " Daniel sounded wary.
" I... " Branslav started then stopped, not sure how he was going to tell Daniel. He sighed, " I want to go see Robert and talk to him. "
Daniel still sounded wary as he asked, " Talk to him? "
" Um yeah, " Branslav said. " I just want to go to the hotel his team stays at and talk to him. I need to tell someone or I'll go crazy. "
" Are you calling me to talk you out of it? " Daniel asked.
Branslav shut his eyes, " No. I wanted you to go with me. "
" Branslav, " Daniel said.
" No listen, " Branslav opened his eyes. " I have to. I didn't sleep again last night and I need to get this out. "
" You can't. You said it yourself, " Daniel cut him off. " We can't tell anyone about this. What if your sister finds out? "
Branslav frowned as he thought about it. He sighed, " I know. We won't tell him about the blackmailer. We'll just tell him about Martin threatening to cut us from the team. "
Daniel was silent for a long moment then asked, " I guess we could just tell him that. He's been nagging you about why you were acting all weird, right? "
" Yeah, " Branslav said. He looked at the floor, " I think that much will be enough. "
Daniel sighed, " Okay. Why do we have to do it at seven the morning though? "
" Because I need to get it out now, " Branslav said. " I don't want to wait. "
Daniel sighed, " Fine man. Fine. Just let me get dressed and I'll be over there as soon as I can. "
" Thank you, " Branslav said quietly.
" No problem, " Daniel sighed. " See you in a bit. "
**
Robert pulled in behind Betty's car in her drive, turning off the engine of the rental he had gotten. He got out of the car and started up the walk. He knew it was going to be a big surprise for Betty since he said he wasn't going to see her until Sunday. He stepped up on the porch, hoping she was awake.
He got to the screen door and knocked on it. He waited for a few moments then knocked again. He was just about to get his cell phone out to call Betty when he heard the door locks clicking. He smiled, waiting for the door to open.
He frowned when the door didn't open, wondering what was going on. He got out his cell phone and dialed Betty's number. She answered on the second ring, " Hey baby. "
" Robert? " Betty sounded puzzled.
" What's wrong honey? " Robert furrowed his brow.
" Um nothing, " Betty said. " It's just that... "
" You okay? " Robert cut her off.
Betty took a sharp breath then whispered, " I think someone's trying to get into my house. "
Robert looked around, " From where? "
" The front door, " Betty replied. " I just locked it to keep them out. "
Robert frowned, puzzled by her answer. He sighed, " Baby. It's me. I'm on the porch. "
" It's you? " Betty asked. " You're here? But you said... "
" Yeah I know I did, " Robert said. " Things worked out another way though. "
" Hold on, " Betty said. A few moments later, the door locks clicked again and Betty opened the door. She still had her phone to her ear but she dropped it when she saw Robert. " Oh my God, " She whispered, putting her right hand over her mouth.
Robert snapped his phone closed and put it in his jacket pocket. He then stepped forward, putting his arms around Betty and holding her to him. She was trembling and it concerned him. " What's got you so freaked out? " He whispered into her hair.
" I got a little scared, " Betty whispered as she clung to Robert. She let the crutch under her left arm fall and she put that arm around him.
" I'm sorry baby. I didn't know it would freak you out so bad, " He murmured and stroked the back of her head.
Betty took a shuddering breath then stammered out, " You must think I'm crazy. "
Robert held her tighter, " Not at all. I just wanted to surprise you. "
Betty took another breath, " Let's get inside. It's cold out here. "
" Sure, " Robert said. " Anything you want baby. "
" Come on, " Betty said and let him pull away. She waited as he got her crutch and took it when he handed it to her. She put it under her arm, stepping aside to let him into the house.
Robert shut the door behind him, " I can't apologize enough. "
" No, " Betty shook her head. She was starting to feel a little foolish for reacting so badly. " I should have looked out before I locked the doors. "
" I'm still sorry, " Robert ran a hand through his hair. " I guess you haven't had good experiences with surprise visits. "
Betty took another sharp breath as she looked at him. Robert's comment touched a nerve. She looked towards the bedroom, " My dad never announced when he was coming over. He'd just show up and wreak havoc. "
Robert let out a heavy sigh, " Sorry baby. You didn't tell me. "
" I know and I'm not mad at you, " Betty shook her head. " More at myself for being so scared after all these years. "
Robert knew it had to have been quite some time since she had to worry but she was reacting like the last time had been recently. He figured she was just shell-shocked from so many years of turmoil. " I guess I should have called before I got here. "
Betty shook her head, " It's not your fault. Stop it. Just stop. "
Robert nodded. He didn't want to agitate Betty more than she already was. He figured he had startled her awake and she was feeling bewildered. He put his hands up, " Okay. "
Betty took a step towards the bedroom, still trying to get herself together. She sighed, " Come on. Let's go to my room to talk. "
" Sure, " Robert followed her, still feeling bad he had scared her. It was the last thing he wanted to do. They walked into the bedroom and Betty sat down on the bed, setting the crutch between the bed and the night table.
She looked at him, " So. "
" So, " Robert replied. He had planned on their reunion being happy but the way it had gone left him at a loss for words. He tried to think of something to say then thought of the early hour. He couldn't detect that anything had been cooked so he asked, " Have you eaten yet? "
Betty shook her head. She didn't want to worry him by telling she hadn't gotten much sleep at all since he had left, " No. I haven't. I just woke up. "
Robert gave her a half smile, " Why don't I take you out to breakfast then? You can get dressed and we can spend some time together before I have to go to practice? "
Betty thought about it and sighed, " Sure. What could it hurt? "
" I can help you get dressed if you want, " Robert walked over to the dresser the TV was on. During the course of his earlier stay, he learned she kept her jeans in it. " Just tell me what you want to put on and I'll get it for you. "
" Anything will do, " Betty said as she untied her robe. Her hands still trembled a bit. She tried not to think of the background check. Though she tried to remain objective, some of the things still made her feel wary of Robert.
" Sure baby, " Robert turned and opened a drawer. He pulled out a pair of plain blue jeans and turned to show them to her. " How about these? "
" Those will do, " Betty looked towards the window.
Robert walked over to the bed and set the pants down, " Any particular top you want to wear? "
" Not really, " Betty glanced at him. " You pick. "
Robert frowned, " What's wrong? "
" Nothing, " Betty shook her head. " I guess I'm still tired. "
Robert stayed by the bed, " Is there something you're not telling me? Did you fall again? "
Betty bit her lip but said nothing as she cast her eyes to the floor. Robert sighed and got on his knees in front of her. He brought his hands up and put them on either side of her head, making her face him. He stroked her temples with his thumbs as he looked into her eyes.
" Please tell me baby, " He whispered. " I won't get mad. I promise. Did you get hurt again? "
Betty looked into his eyes, tears coming to hers. She sobbed, " I... "
" Go on, " Robert whispered as he brought his hands down so he could wipe away her tears.
" I need to know something, " Betty whispered.
Robert furrowed his brow, " What's that? "
" Tell me about this, " Betty reached over to the bedside table. She picked up the papers Mr. Hollister had faxed her. She had folded them up so they would fit on the table.
Robert took his hands from Betty then took the papers. He unfolded them
**
Branslav pulled into a parking space not far from the Turquoise's bus, not for sure how he'd find Robert. It was something he hadn't thought about. He looked at Daniel, finding he was looking at him. " What? " Branslav asked.
" We're here, " Daniel said. " What now? "
" We find Robert so I can talk to him, " Branslav replied as he looked towards the hotel.
" How do we do that? " Daniel looked towards the hotel as well.
Branslav sighed, " I didn't think about that. "
Daniel sighed, " Branslav... "
" Let's just hang out in the lobby until we see someone from the team and ask them, " Branslav said as soon as the idea popped into his head.
Daniel frowned then nodded, " Okay. I guess that'll work but who? "
" Anyone from the team, " Branslav ran a hand through his hair. " I'm sure they'd know. "
" Then let's go, " Daniel opened his door. " The sooner we find him the sooner this will be over. "
Branslav opened his door and got out as Daniel got out of his side. Once they were out, Branslav locked the doors and met Daniel at the back of the car. They stood there for a long moment before going towards the hotel. Branslav felt like each step was a thousand miles until they reached the doors that led into the lobby.
The doors slid open, Branslav and Daniel only going a few feet inside when they came across a man that looked very familiar. He was on a pay phone and looked up, giving Branslav and Daniel a nod of acknowledgement. The man was about six foot tall, had short cropped blond hair and was dressed like a ranch hand in a southwest patterned cotton shirt and tight jeans.
" Yeah mom, we made it okay. No problems whatsoever. Yes mom, " The man sighed. " Yes mom. I'll keep warm. Love you too. "
Branslav waited as the man hung up the phone then said, " Uh hey. "
" Hey there Korbel. What brings you to this neck of the woods? " The man said. He looked over at Daniel, " Hey Hill. "
" Hey, " Daniel gave the man a slight wave.
Branslav furrowed his brow, " I'm sorry. I forgot your name. "
" It's William James, " The man put his hand out.
" Oh yeah, " Branslav nodded and shook his hand. He had seen William with the Turquoise but wasn't sure what position he played. He always seemed to be on the bench, usually playing with his chewing gum during the games.
William let go of Branslav's hand and waited a few moments. He then cocked his head to the side, " So why are you here? "
" I'm looking for Robert, " Branslav said. " Have you seen him? "
" Not since we got here, " William said. " Coach didn't give him a bunk assignment so he stayed on the bus. I guess it was to ask Coach what was going on and that was the last I saw of him. "
" Is he in the hotel? " Branslav asked.
William shrugged, " I don't know. Like I said, he stayed on the bus. I haven't seen him since. "
" Oh, " Branslav sighed. " Then can you tell me where your coach is? "
William looked around the lobby, " He grabbed some breakfast from the breakfast bar so... Oh yeah, he's sitting over there. "
Branslav scanned the seating area, finding Coach Hooker was sitting at the furthest corner table. He glanced at Daniel, " Let's go. "
Daniel lingered for a moment after Branslav took off then looked at William, " Uh thanks. "
" No problem, " William nodded.
Daniel followed Branslav into the dining area, catching up as he reached Coach Hooker's table. The older man looked up from his food, furrowing his brow, " Oh. I didn't expect to see you here Korbel. "
" Where's Robert? " Branslav asked.
Coach Hooker shrugged, " He had a hard day yesterday so I told him he could do anything he wanted until practice. He left a little while ago. "
" Did he say where he was going? " Branslav put his left hand on the table.
Coach Hooker shook his head, " No. Why don't you call him and ask him yourself? "
Branslav frowned, " I can't. "
" I thought you two were good friends, " Coach Hooker looked puzzled. " Did something happen? "
" It's none of your business, " Branslav said. " Just tell me where he is. "
" I don't know where he went, " Coach Hooker said firmly. " He never set foot in the hotel. "
Daniel put his right hand on Branslav's left shoulder, " The man doesn't know. Let's just leave. "
" Then I'll wait here until he comes back, " Branslav said sharply.
" He's not coming back here, " Coach Hooker stood up. " Didn't you hear what I just said? He's going to be away until practice. "
Daniel pulled on Branslav's shoulder again, " We'll just go with our other plan, Branslav. Let's go. "
Branslav growled and turned, looking over his shoulder at Coach Hooker after he took a few steps. " Tell Robert I'm looking for him. "
" I'll be sure to, " Coach Hooker said.
**
Robert held Betty as she slept, his chin buried in her hair. She was spent from telling him what had happened to make her so upset and had fallen asleep in his arms shortly after he had crawled into the bed. He was seething on the inside. He wanted to give Mr. Hollister a piece of his mind for prying into his background.
He would have told the man anything he wanted to know if he had only asked. Robert then decided it wouldn't have mattered because Mr. Hollister probably would have thought he was lying. He could tell the older man distrusted him in spite of the fact he barely knew him. It made him wonder just what he thought his motives were or if he was being paranoid.
He frowned when he felt his telephone start to vibrate in his back pocket. He slowly took his left arm from around Betty and fished it out. He looked at the caller ID, finding it was Coach Hooker. He flipped the phone open and answered quietly, " Hughes. "
" Robert, " Coach Hooker said. " Where are you? "
Robert looked at Betty, " At a friend's house. What's up? "
" Korbel and Hill just came up here looking for you, " Coach Hooker replied.
Robert furrowed his brow, " To the hotel? "
" Yes, " Coach Hooker said. " I told them I didn't know where you were. "
" And? " Robert arched an eyebrow.
" They left but said they were going to come up to practice later, " Coach Hooker said. " What's going on? "
Robert sighed, " I wish I knew. We stopped talking to each other a few days ago. Did he say what he wanted? "
" Korbel seemed very agitated and looked like he hadn't slept, " Coach Hooker said.
Robert looked out the window, " That's weird. "
" It did seem odd. He may be nervous about the scout coming, " Coach Hooker still sounded like he was puzzled.
" He might be, " Robert sighed.
" Well I hope you aren't nervous, " Coach Hooker said.
" I'm not, " Robert said. " I don't know why but I feel like I got it under control. "
" Okay, " Coach Hooker said. " Between you and I, I think you have the better chance of getting picked up. "
Robert felt his heart still for a slight second. He still wasn't for sure where things would go with Betty if that happened. He looked at her, " Thank you sir. "
" No problem, " Coach Hooker replied. " I'll see you later. "
" Later, " Robert snapped his phone closed. He looked at the clock on the bedside table then decided to stay with Betty until he absolutely had to leave.
By Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
© 2007 Bekka Mouri-Hibiki
Robert woke up as he felt the bus pull to a stop. He blinked a couple of times then wiped the sleep out of his eyes before looking out the window. He found the team had arrived in Reno and checked his watch. " Right on time, " He muttered when he saw it was six thirty am.
The other guys started to stir around, some getting out of their seats to stretch. Coach Hooker stood up from his seat at the front of the bus holding a notepad, " Listen up for your bunk assignments! "
Robert listened as the others got their assignments then Coach Hooker turned to open the bus doors. Robert realized he hadn't got an assignment, wondering why. Coach Hooker wasn't usually forgetful of anything. He wondered what was up but didn't want to say anything until the others had left.
He waited for the others to file out, Coach Hooker still obviously oblivious to the oversight. He got up and made his way to the front of the bus when everyone else was off, stopping when he reached Coach Hooker. The older man looked puzzled, " Do you need something my boy? "
" Who am I bunking with? You didn't give me an assignment, " Robert motioned towards the notepad. " Did you skip my name for some reason? "
Coach Hooker nodded his head, " Yes I did. You're going to bunk with me but I didn't want to say it in front of the others. "
" What? How come? " Robert furrowed his brow.
" The hotel's management said you would have to be under close supervision or we wouldn't be allowed to come back, " Coach Hooker explained.
" That's crazy, " Robert felt insulted. " It's not like I'm going to... "
" Just calm down, " Coach Hooker put his left hand on Robert's right shoulder. " Now, I know and you know you won't do it again but the hotel just wants that assurance. "
Robert thought it over then sighed, " Okay. Whatever. "
Coach Hooker looked at his watch, " Now. Let's go get our things then you're free to do whatever you want until practice. "
" Whatever I want huh? " Robert arched an eyebrow. Standard procedure was for players to stay around the hotel until it was time to head off for practice. " You mean like around here, right? "
" No, " Coach Hooker shook his head. " You need to go have a good time after that horrible day you had yesterday. Just as long as you're back by practice, I don't care what you do. "
" But where can I do that around here? " Robert asked. " I don't have a car and there's nothing close by that I want to do. "
Coach Hooker smiled a little bit, " There's twenty-four hour car rental office just across the street You know, in case there's anywhere you want to go you can't get to on foot. Don't you have friends you want to see? "
The look Coach Sweet was giving him told Robert he was hinting at something, " Well yeah. There is someone I want to see but they live on the outskirts of town. "
Coach Hooker patted Robert's shoulder, " Then you'd better get a move on. I'll see you at the arena at one. "
" What about my stuff? " Robert asked.
Coach Hooker waved his hand, " Don't worry. I'll take it up for you. You just go on and I'll see you later. "
Robert nodded, " Yes sir. "
Coach Hooker stepped aside and let Robert get off the bus. He looked around, finding that the rental office was indeed across the street and he headed for it, shoving his hand in his jacket pockets as he went...
**
Branslav stared at the ceiling. After a night of unrestful sleep, he felt just as bad as he had when he went to bed. The things he had overheard in Carson City were still weighing heavy on his mind. He needed to talk to someone and soon or he felt like he was going to lose his mind.
He looked at the clock on the bedside table, finding it was almost seven. He wondered if the Turquoise were already in town and contemplated going to their hotel to find Robert. He was pretty sure Robert didn't want to see him but he was his closest friend. He knew he would have to apologize for his behavior but he was prepared to do whatever he needed to get his friend back on his side.
He reached for his cell phone, hoping Daniel wouldn't be too angry with him for calling so early but he needed someone else there. He felt having the younger man along would somehow keep Robert from refusing to talk to him. Besides that, they were both involved and both would need advice. He dialed Daniel's number then waited for him to answer.
" Hullo? " Daniel answered sounding sleepy.
" Daniel. It's me, " Branslav said quietly.
Daniel sighed, " What is it man? Do you know what time it is? "
" Yeah but I need you, " Branslav said.
" What for? " Daniel sounded wary.
" I... " Branslav started then stopped, not sure how he was going to tell Daniel. He sighed, " I want to go see Robert and talk to him. "
Daniel still sounded wary as he asked, " Talk to him? "
" Um yeah, " Branslav said. " I just want to go to the hotel his team stays at and talk to him. I need to tell someone or I'll go crazy. "
" Are you calling me to talk you out of it? " Daniel asked.
Branslav shut his eyes, " No. I wanted you to go with me. "
" Branslav, " Daniel said.
" No listen, " Branslav opened his eyes. " I have to. I didn't sleep again last night and I need to get this out. "
" You can't. You said it yourself, " Daniel cut him off. " We can't tell anyone about this. What if your sister finds out? "
Branslav frowned as he thought about it. He sighed, " I know. We won't tell him about the blackmailer. We'll just tell him about Martin threatening to cut us from the team. "
Daniel was silent for a long moment then asked, " I guess we could just tell him that. He's been nagging you about why you were acting all weird, right? "
" Yeah, " Branslav said. He looked at the floor, " I think that much will be enough. "
Daniel sighed, " Okay. Why do we have to do it at seven the morning though? "
" Because I need to get it out now, " Branslav said. " I don't want to wait. "
Daniel sighed, " Fine man. Fine. Just let me get dressed and I'll be over there as soon as I can. "
" Thank you, " Branslav said quietly.
" No problem, " Daniel sighed. " See you in a bit. "
**
Robert pulled in behind Betty's car in her drive, turning off the engine of the rental he had gotten. He got out of the car and started up the walk. He knew it was going to be a big surprise for Betty since he said he wasn't going to see her until Sunday. He stepped up on the porch, hoping she was awake.
He got to the screen door and knocked on it. He waited for a few moments then knocked again. He was just about to get his cell phone out to call Betty when he heard the door locks clicking. He smiled, waiting for the door to open.
He frowned when the door didn't open, wondering what was going on. He got out his cell phone and dialed Betty's number. She answered on the second ring, " Hey baby. "
" Robert? " Betty sounded puzzled.
" What's wrong honey? " Robert furrowed his brow.
" Um nothing, " Betty said. " It's just that... "
" You okay? " Robert cut her off.
Betty took a sharp breath then whispered, " I think someone's trying to get into my house. "
Robert looked around, " From where? "
" The front door, " Betty replied. " I just locked it to keep them out. "
Robert frowned, puzzled by her answer. He sighed, " Baby. It's me. I'm on the porch. "
" It's you? " Betty asked. " You're here? But you said... "
" Yeah I know I did, " Robert said. " Things worked out another way though. "
" Hold on, " Betty said. A few moments later, the door locks clicked again and Betty opened the door. She still had her phone to her ear but she dropped it when she saw Robert. " Oh my God, " She whispered, putting her right hand over her mouth.
Robert snapped his phone closed and put it in his jacket pocket. He then stepped forward, putting his arms around Betty and holding her to him. She was trembling and it concerned him. " What's got you so freaked out? " He whispered into her hair.
" I got a little scared, " Betty whispered as she clung to Robert. She let the crutch under her left arm fall and she put that arm around him.
" I'm sorry baby. I didn't know it would freak you out so bad, " He murmured and stroked the back of her head.
Betty took a shuddering breath then stammered out, " You must think I'm crazy. "
Robert held her tighter, " Not at all. I just wanted to surprise you. "
Betty took another breath, " Let's get inside. It's cold out here. "
" Sure, " Robert said. " Anything you want baby. "
" Come on, " Betty said and let him pull away. She waited as he got her crutch and took it when he handed it to her. She put it under her arm, stepping aside to let him into the house.
Robert shut the door behind him, " I can't apologize enough. "
" No, " Betty shook her head. She was starting to feel a little foolish for reacting so badly. " I should have looked out before I locked the doors. "
" I'm still sorry, " Robert ran a hand through his hair. " I guess you haven't had good experiences with surprise visits. "
Betty took another sharp breath as she looked at him. Robert's comment touched a nerve. She looked towards the bedroom, " My dad never announced when he was coming over. He'd just show up and wreak havoc. "
Robert let out a heavy sigh, " Sorry baby. You didn't tell me. "
" I know and I'm not mad at you, " Betty shook her head. " More at myself for being so scared after all these years. "
Robert knew it had to have been quite some time since she had to worry but she was reacting like the last time had been recently. He figured she was just shell-shocked from so many years of turmoil. " I guess I should have called before I got here. "
Betty shook her head, " It's not your fault. Stop it. Just stop. "
Robert nodded. He didn't want to agitate Betty more than she already was. He figured he had startled her awake and she was feeling bewildered. He put his hands up, " Okay. "
Betty took a step towards the bedroom, still trying to get herself together. She sighed, " Come on. Let's go to my room to talk. "
" Sure, " Robert followed her, still feeling bad he had scared her. It was the last thing he wanted to do. They walked into the bedroom and Betty sat down on the bed, setting the crutch between the bed and the night table.
She looked at him, " So. "
" So, " Robert replied. He had planned on their reunion being happy but the way it had gone left him at a loss for words. He tried to think of something to say then thought of the early hour. He couldn't detect that anything had been cooked so he asked, " Have you eaten yet? "
Betty shook her head. She didn't want to worry him by telling she hadn't gotten much sleep at all since he had left, " No. I haven't. I just woke up. "
Robert gave her a half smile, " Why don't I take you out to breakfast then? You can get dressed and we can spend some time together before I have to go to practice? "
Betty thought about it and sighed, " Sure. What could it hurt? "
" I can help you get dressed if you want, " Robert walked over to the dresser the TV was on. During the course of his earlier stay, he learned she kept her jeans in it. " Just tell me what you want to put on and I'll get it for you. "
" Anything will do, " Betty said as she untied her robe. Her hands still trembled a bit. She tried not to think of the background check. Though she tried to remain objective, some of the things still made her feel wary of Robert.
" Sure baby, " Robert turned and opened a drawer. He pulled out a pair of plain blue jeans and turned to show them to her. " How about these? "
" Those will do, " Betty looked towards the window.
Robert walked over to the bed and set the pants down, " Any particular top you want to wear? "
" Not really, " Betty glanced at him. " You pick. "
Robert frowned, " What's wrong? "
" Nothing, " Betty shook her head. " I guess I'm still tired. "
Robert stayed by the bed, " Is there something you're not telling me? Did you fall again? "
Betty bit her lip but said nothing as she cast her eyes to the floor. Robert sighed and got on his knees in front of her. He brought his hands up and put them on either side of her head, making her face him. He stroked her temples with his thumbs as he looked into her eyes.
" Please tell me baby, " He whispered. " I won't get mad. I promise. Did you get hurt again? "
Betty looked into his eyes, tears coming to hers. She sobbed, " I... "
" Go on, " Robert whispered as he brought his hands down so he could wipe away her tears.
" I need to know something, " Betty whispered.
Robert furrowed his brow, " What's that? "
" Tell me about this, " Betty reached over to the bedside table. She picked up the papers Mr. Hollister had faxed her. She had folded them up so they would fit on the table.
Robert took his hands from Betty then took the papers. He unfolded them
**
Branslav pulled into a parking space not far from the Turquoise's bus, not for sure how he'd find Robert. It was something he hadn't thought about. He looked at Daniel, finding he was looking at him. " What? " Branslav asked.
" We're here, " Daniel said. " What now? "
" We find Robert so I can talk to him, " Branslav replied as he looked towards the hotel.
" How do we do that? " Daniel looked towards the hotel as well.
Branslav sighed, " I didn't think about that. "
Daniel sighed, " Branslav... "
" Let's just hang out in the lobby until we see someone from the team and ask them, " Branslav said as soon as the idea popped into his head.
Daniel frowned then nodded, " Okay. I guess that'll work but who? "
" Anyone from the team, " Branslav ran a hand through his hair. " I'm sure they'd know. "
" Then let's go, " Daniel opened his door. " The sooner we find him the sooner this will be over. "
Branslav opened his door and got out as Daniel got out of his side. Once they were out, Branslav locked the doors and met Daniel at the back of the car. They stood there for a long moment before going towards the hotel. Branslav felt like each step was a thousand miles until they reached the doors that led into the lobby.
The doors slid open, Branslav and Daniel only going a few feet inside when they came across a man that looked very familiar. He was on a pay phone and looked up, giving Branslav and Daniel a nod of acknowledgement. The man was about six foot tall, had short cropped blond hair and was dressed like a ranch hand in a southwest patterned cotton shirt and tight jeans.
" Yeah mom, we made it okay. No problems whatsoever. Yes mom, " The man sighed. " Yes mom. I'll keep warm. Love you too. "
Branslav waited as the man hung up the phone then said, " Uh hey. "
" Hey there Korbel. What brings you to this neck of the woods? " The man said. He looked over at Daniel, " Hey Hill. "
" Hey, " Daniel gave the man a slight wave.
Branslav furrowed his brow, " I'm sorry. I forgot your name. "
" It's William James, " The man put his hand out.
" Oh yeah, " Branslav nodded and shook his hand. He had seen William with the Turquoise but wasn't sure what position he played. He always seemed to be on the bench, usually playing with his chewing gum during the games.
William let go of Branslav's hand and waited a few moments. He then cocked his head to the side, " So why are you here? "
" I'm looking for Robert, " Branslav said. " Have you seen him? "
" Not since we got here, " William said. " Coach didn't give him a bunk assignment so he stayed on the bus. I guess it was to ask Coach what was going on and that was the last I saw of him. "
" Is he in the hotel? " Branslav asked.
William shrugged, " I don't know. Like I said, he stayed on the bus. I haven't seen him since. "
" Oh, " Branslav sighed. " Then can you tell me where your coach is? "
William looked around the lobby, " He grabbed some breakfast from the breakfast bar so... Oh yeah, he's sitting over there. "
Branslav scanned the seating area, finding Coach Hooker was sitting at the furthest corner table. He glanced at Daniel, " Let's go. "
Daniel lingered for a moment after Branslav took off then looked at William, " Uh thanks. "
" No problem, " William nodded.
Daniel followed Branslav into the dining area, catching up as he reached Coach Hooker's table. The older man looked up from his food, furrowing his brow, " Oh. I didn't expect to see you here Korbel. "
" Where's Robert? " Branslav asked.
Coach Hooker shrugged, " He had a hard day yesterday so I told him he could do anything he wanted until practice. He left a little while ago. "
" Did he say where he was going? " Branslav put his left hand on the table.
Coach Hooker shook his head, " No. Why don't you call him and ask him yourself? "
Branslav frowned, " I can't. "
" I thought you two were good friends, " Coach Hooker looked puzzled. " Did something happen? "
" It's none of your business, " Branslav said. " Just tell me where he is. "
" I don't know where he went, " Coach Hooker said firmly. " He never set foot in the hotel. "
Daniel put his right hand on Branslav's left shoulder, " The man doesn't know. Let's just leave. "
" Then I'll wait here until he comes back, " Branslav said sharply.
" He's not coming back here, " Coach Hooker stood up. " Didn't you hear what I just said? He's going to be away until practice. "
Daniel pulled on Branslav's shoulder again, " We'll just go with our other plan, Branslav. Let's go. "
Branslav growled and turned, looking over his shoulder at Coach Hooker after he took a few steps. " Tell Robert I'm looking for him. "
" I'll be sure to, " Coach Hooker said.
**
Robert held Betty as she slept, his chin buried in her hair. She was spent from telling him what had happened to make her so upset and had fallen asleep in his arms shortly after he had crawled into the bed. He was seething on the inside. He wanted to give Mr. Hollister a piece of his mind for prying into his background.
He would have told the man anything he wanted to know if he had only asked. Robert then decided it wouldn't have mattered because Mr. Hollister probably would have thought he was lying. He could tell the older man distrusted him in spite of the fact he barely knew him. It made him wonder just what he thought his motives were or if he was being paranoid.
He frowned when he felt his telephone start to vibrate in his back pocket. He slowly took his left arm from around Betty and fished it out. He looked at the caller ID, finding it was Coach Hooker. He flipped the phone open and answered quietly, " Hughes. "
" Robert, " Coach Hooker said. " Where are you? "
Robert looked at Betty, " At a friend's house. What's up? "
" Korbel and Hill just came up here looking for you, " Coach Hooker replied.
Robert furrowed his brow, " To the hotel? "
" Yes, " Coach Hooker said. " I told them I didn't know where you were. "
" And? " Robert arched an eyebrow.
" They left but said they were going to come up to practice later, " Coach Hooker said. " What's going on? "
Robert sighed, " I wish I knew. We stopped talking to each other a few days ago. Did he say what he wanted? "
" Korbel seemed very agitated and looked like he hadn't slept, " Coach Hooker said.
Robert looked out the window, " That's weird. "
" It did seem odd. He may be nervous about the scout coming, " Coach Hooker still sounded like he was puzzled.
" He might be, " Robert sighed.
" Well I hope you aren't nervous, " Coach Hooker said.
" I'm not, " Robert said. " I don't know why but I feel like I got it under control. "
" Okay, " Coach Hooker said. " Between you and I, I think you have the better chance of getting picked up. "
Robert felt his heart still for a slight second. He still wasn't for sure where things would go with Betty if that happened. He looked at her, " Thank you sir. "
" No problem, " Coach Hooker replied. " I'll see you later. "
" Later, " Robert snapped his phone closed. He looked at the clock on the bedside table then decided to stay with Betty until he absolutely had to leave.