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Post by Annie on Mar 27, 2006 14:13:41 GMT 3
Chapter 16
Spread out on the bed, Marat and Daniela’s suitcases dominated the area of the mattress. They had spent the last day in Dubai shopping and sightseeing, but this morning was their last in Dubai. As Daniela continued to stuff clothes in her overflowing suitcase, Marat closed his bag and placed it near the door.
While waiting for Daniela to finish, Marat heard his cell phone ring and answered it.
“Hello?” Daniela heard Marat answer.
When she heard nothing more from him, Daniela turned around to find a perplexed and surprised Marat. He was no longer relaxed but looked tense and uncomfortable.
“Who is it?” Daniela mouthed at Marat.
Shaking his head, Marat walked quickly into the bathroom and closed the door behind him. Daniela was left standing in the room by herself with only her thoughts to accompany her. Who was on the phone? And why did Marat have to go to another room to talk?
Pulling her heavy suitcase off the bed, Daniela rolled her bag to Marat’s and leaned up against the wall. Daniela stared at the bathroom door for about five minutes until Marat exited. He no longer appeared uncomfortable but guilty.
“Is something wrong?” Daniela asked as Marat took his suitcase and opened the hotel room door.
“Nothing’s wrong,” Marat answered avoiding Daniela’s face.
“Who was it then?”
“No one, just some business matters,” Marat said and pushed the button for the elevator. “Did you have fun in Dubai?”
“You didn’t answer my question. Why are you so eager to change the subject, Marat?”
“It’s business, it’s boring. I don’t see why we have to talk about it,” Marat said as they walked into the elevator.
“Okay, I get the hint.”
Raising one eyebrow at Daniela, Marat leaned against the back wall as Daniela faced him with her back to the elevator doors.
“So, I’ll see you at Indian Wells?” Marat asked checking on their plans.
“I won’t be there,” Daniela answered.
“What do you mean? Indian Wells? Big tournament?” Marat tried to remind her.
“Marat, I need to get my head on straight. And I’m going to need time for that,” Daniela said matter of factly.
“When were you going to tell me this?”
“I thought I did.”
“No, you didn’t,” Marat snapped as the elevator doors opened.
Turning on her heels, Daniela made a beeline for the doors to the hotel. Marat followed right after her and stopped behind her. Since their car wasn’t there yet, Marat and Daniela’s conversation continued.
“So, why didn’t you tell me?” Marat asked.
“I must have forgotten. I did have a lot on my mind when I came here,” Daniela snapped back at him like he had done in the elevator.
“Don’t blame this on me. You had all day yesterday, and it turned out that nothing even happened,” Marat returned.
“Maybe to you it was nothing,” Daniela muttered under her breath.
“What?”
“I said the car’s here.”
Gathering their suitcases, Marat and Daniela handed them to the driver and climbed into the car. Daniela scooted far to the left and tried to make the spot between them larger. As the car drove away from the hotel, Daniela stared wistfully out the back window at the hotel. So many happy and unhappy memories would always be there.
“Remember Belgium? You said you’d promise to give me a head’s up the next time,” Marat reminded Daniela breaking the aggravating and uncomfortable silence.
“I know, but Marat, no matter what happened in Valencia, it still hurts,” Daniela said looking over at him.
“I never meant to hurt you.”
“You never meant for me to find out,” Daniela corrected him.
“I’m stupid and weak. You have to forgive me,” Marat said reaching for Daniela’s hand and pulling her closer to him.
“I will forgive you, but it will take some time,” Daniela said settling into his arms.
“I understand that, but I’m still going to try to make the process faster,” Marat said trying to make Daniela smile. “Are you going to Monte Carlo?”
“Eventually, but first I’m visiting my parents,” Daniela answered.
“You really are close to your family.”
“I am, but I’m especially attached to my brother. I miss him so much.”
“You’ll get to see your brother, and I’ll get to see Dinara,” Marat said as they pulled up at the airport.
Making their way into the airport, they got in line to pick up their airplane tickets. The line went quickly, and they had their tickets and were through security in no time.
“Let me see your ticket,” Marat said as Daniela passed him her ticket. “Great, our terminals are on opposite sides of the airport.”
“That’s life,” Daniela said taking back her ticket.
Reaching for Daniela, Marat embraced her in a long, never ending hug. Scrunched up against his chest with her face flattened, Daniela cracked up laughing observing the faces of those who passed them in the busy airport.
“Marat, I’ve got to go,” Daniela said regretfully.
“You’re right,” Marat said letting her go.
“I’ll call you when I get to Bratislava,” Daniela said as she walked away.
“Daniela?”
“Yes?”
“I lo-,” Marat began but was cut off by Daniela’s hand on his mouth.
“Marat, not right now. Even if you do mean it, I’m not ready for those words just yet,” Daniela explained to Marat as she removed her hand from his mouth.
“It’s not because I’m guilty, I really do mean it,” Marat said.
“Marat, it’s not the right time. Really soon, okay? You won’t give up on me, will you?”
“Of course not,” Marat answered and kissed Daniela’s hand goodbye. “I’ll just say I really, really like you.”
“That’s better. I really, really, really like you too,” Daniela said smiling at Marat.
Parting in the busy airport, Marat and Daniela went to make their planes. The whole way to Bratislava and Moscow, Marat and Daniela thought of nothing but each other. But Marat also had to think about the call he had received.
*****
Marat was now in Indian Wells after meeting Peter in Moscow. Preparing for the tournament, Marat and Peter were on the practice courts hitting balls from one side to the other.
“How did the conversation with Daniela go?” Peter asked during a break.
“She’s okay, but it’ll take a little while before she’ll be completely comfortable again.”
“I’m surprised she took it so well,” Peter remarked. “Wait, did you tell her the truth?”
“I told her what I thought she could take,” Marat said looking away from Peter.
“Marat! She needs to know the whole truth!” Peter told Marat sternly. “She’s going to find out.”
“No, she won’t. I made a mistake, but I won’t make it again. Why should she have to go through it?” Marat asked. “Besides, she’ll never meet the girl.”
“Don’t you feel guilty?”
“I can’t even tell you how bad I feel, but I’m actually protecting her. I love her, Peter. I really do, and I don’t want to lose her,” Marat said to Peter. “But I do worry about the girl from Spain.”
“Why?”
“She called my cell phone when Daniela and I were leaving Dubai. Daniela was in the room and I had to go to the bathroom to finish the call,” Marat explained.
“Why didn’t you just hang up?” Peter asked.
“And make the girl mad? Why? So she can find Daniela and ruin everything we have?”
“Marat, you’ve really dug yourself into a hole. This isn’t going to disappear,” Peter reminded Marat.
“I know that. I’ll think of something. Let’s finish practice and get some lunch,” Marat said changing the subject and getting up off the bench.
*****
“Igor, wake up,” Daniela said shaking her brother in his bed.
“In a minute,” Igor muttered into his pillow.
“When I decided to stay with you instead of mom and dad, I thought I’d have more fun here. But I guess I was wrong,” Daniela teased her brother.
“Okay, I’m up,” Igor groaned and sat up in bed. “What do you want to do?”
“Let’s go get some lunch,” Daniela suggested.
“Lunch?”
“It’s two in the afternoon, Igor,” Daniela said pointing to the clock.
“How much did I drink last night?” Igor asked rubbing his forehead.
“A lot. I had to take care of you last night,” Daniela gloated.
“Well, thank you,” Igor said getting out of bed and patting his younger sister on the top of her head.
“Your welcome. I’ll see you in the car in ten minutes,” Daniela said and left his bedroom.
Right on time, Igor opened the door of the car ten minutes later. Turning on the car, Igor pulled out into the street and headed towards the busy part of town. A few minutes later, Igor parked the car on the side of the street, and they walked towards their favorite café since they were teenagers.
“So, who’s the new boyfriend?” Igor asked as they walked idly down the sidewalk.
“Marat. You’ve heard of him,” Daniela answered.
“Yes, I’ve heard he has a temper,” Igor said waiting to get a reaction.
“So do you,” Daniela shot back.
“Fair enough. Is it serious?”
“He almost told me he loved me a few days ago.”
“Almost?”
“I told him not to say it yet.”
“So, you’re not as serious about him as he is about you,” Igor assumed opening the door to the café for Daniela.
“No, I’m very serious about him. That’s why I’m not rushing it,” Daniela corrected.
“You’re afraid to get hurt, aren’t you?” Igor asked as they sat down at a table in the back.
“Love is a scary thing.”
“So you are in love,” Igor said leaning back in his chair.
“I am,” Daniela said shyly and stared down at the scratched surface of the table.
“Daniela?” Igor said awaiting his sister’s attention.
“Yes?” Daniela said looking up.
“I’m really happy for you,” Igor said patting Daniela’s hand.
“No wise remark?”
“No, I’m truly happy for you.”
“And I’m happy you’re growing up,” Daniela joked.
“When’s the wedding?” Igor asked breaking the seriousness of the moment.
“I knew it wouldn’t last!” Daniela exclaimed punching her brother from across the table.
“Love you, too,” Igor said as they enjoyed the rest of their lunch in their own little corner of their favorite café.
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Post by Annie on Mar 27, 2006 14:23:15 GMT 3
Chapter 17
The weather outside was cool and clear, very much Monte Carlo between winter and spring. From inside her comfortable house, Daniela could hear the sounds of people walking down the sidewalk in front of her home. Instead of enjoying the last cool days of winter, Daniela had holed herself up in her house.
Pulling, pushing, and kicking a small sofa across the room, she finally managed to set it in front of the window overlooking the street. Sighing deeply, she collapsed on the sofa into the plush and cozy pillows that covered it. Noticing she hadn’t brought her book with her, Daniela looked longingly at the book resting on the coffee table. Even though the book was only a mere feet away, she was too tired and lazy to get up.
For the last two days since she had arrived back in Monte Carlo, Nigel had physically and mentally challenged her. When he had told her she had the day off, Daniela almost cried for joy. Instead of doing what she needed to do, such as clean the inches of dust off the furniture, Daniela decided to just lounge around.
Forgetting her book, Daniela stared out the window at the passing people. From their faces alone, Daniela saw a wide range of emotions she had never noticed before. Without sound or vocalization, Daniela began to understand how much a person revealed without their knowledge. She continued to people watch until the phone began to ring.
Pulling herself off the couch, she scrunched her face in pain as she noticed the tight feeling in her muscles.
“Hello?” she said as she answered the phone.
“Guess who it is?”
“Dominic! Oh, I’m so glad you called!” Daniela answered knowing very well who it was.
“Dominic? Who’s Dominic?”
“Duh, my boyfriend!”
“Well, this is your other boyfriend, Marat.”
“Oh, oops! So, how are you?” Daniela continued to tease.
“Oh, no you don’t!”
“You know you’re my favorite,” Daniela teased.
“Yes, because I’m the one and only,” Marat mockingly boasted.
“Of course, you’re very special,” Daniela said between laughs.
“I’m so special that I won my match.”
“Congratulations! I heard the rain there is terrible!”
“It is. We had so many rain delays. You would have hated it. You should be glad you didn’t come.”
“You don’t have to make me feel better about not going. I wish I was there; even if I was just there to support you,” Daniela said sullenly.
“You could still come. There’s week two left.”
“No, I need to practice. I think I’m making progress,” Daniela said encouragingly.
“Great! How was your family?” Marat asked.
“They’re fine. I stayed with my brother, and he never stopped asking questions about us,” Daniela answered.
“Protective older brother?”
“Afraid?”
“No, I respect what he’s doing,” Marat explained.
“Of course you do. You’re always reminding Dinara to be careful around men.”
“Men? More like boys! That’s why I don’t trust them. Too many hormones,” Marat said defending himself.
“You were once like that,” Daniela reminded him.
“Once, but that stage is over,” Marat said. “Daniela, I’ve got to go.”
“That’s fine. I, uh, I guess I’ll go back to people watching.”
“Isn’t there someone you can hang out with?” Marat asked.
“All the tennis players are gone, playing tennis,” Daniela answered sitting down on the sofa in front of the window.
“I’m sorry I can’t be there. But I never do well at this tournament. So maybe I’ll see you soon,” Marat comforted.
“I don’t want you to lose for my benefit. That’s not what a relationship should be about, one person giving more than the other. Do you see what I mean?”
“I understand. I, never mind. I’ll talk to you soon,” Marat said.
“Alright, God knows it won’t be hard to find me. Bye,” Daniela said making fun of herself as she hung up the phone.
“Bye,” Marat said as he closed his cell phone.
Looking over at Peter, Marat turned away ignoring him. Peter had been mouthing the words “Tell her!” the entire phone conversation. Tapping his foot impatiently, Peter tried to get Marat’s attention again.
“Dinner?” Marat asked.
“Marat! Honesty is the best policy,” Peter reminded.
“Yeah, I’ll keep that in mind,” Marat said opening the door to his hotel room. “So are we going to dinner or not?”
“Yeah, let me call Don, and we’ll go,” Peter said and went to his room down the hall.
Entering his room, Marat put his bags in the closet and walked to his bed. Falling down on the mattress, he shut his eyes and waited for Peter and Don to come to his room. But instead of being greeted by sleep, the words of Daniela and him swam inside his head.
“Let’s see. We’re both professional tennis players who travel constantly. We spend a lot of time training and not with our boyfriend or girlfriend. Because I care so much about you, I don’t want to start something serious and then break up and never talk again.”
“We’re not talking or looking at each other, when we know we want the same thing. Daniela, I’m just going to go ahead and say it. I want to be with you.”
“You’re right. But we’re both adults, and we know long-distance relationships can be hard, but we can do it. It’s just a matter of trust and patience.”
“We do have this handled.”
“I don’t want anything. I have you.”
“I’ve got to tell her before she finds out.”
All these things were true, but they contradicted themselves repeatedly. How could they have expected a doomed relationship to work? Were they strong enough? Would Daniela ever trust him again if she found out? But most importantly, was love enough?
Before he could try to answer his questions, Marat heard the knocking of Peter and Don at the door. Standing up from the bed, Marat walked to the door and opened it.
“Dinara! What are you doing here?” Marat asked greeting his sister.
“I thought I’d come to dinner with you guys,” Dinara said.
Joining in with the group, Dinara was just another one of the guys with Marat, Don, and Peter. Instead of leaving the hotel, they decided to eat at the hotel restaurant. But as they were being seated, Dinara took Marat aside. Leading him towards the bathrooms, Marat followed Dinara as confused as he had ever been.
“What’s going on?” Marat asked when they stopped in the alcove where the bathroom doors were.
“We need to talk,” Dinara answered sternly.
“About what?”
“The magazine,” Dinara answered crossing her arms across her chest.
“Not you too!” Marat exclaimed.
“You didn’t tell her the truth, did you?”
“Did Peter put you up to this?”
“Someone has to knock some sense into you!” Dinara said almost shouting. “So, what did happen?”
“I’m not going to talk to you about this,” Marat said and began to walk to the table.
“This can go on all night, Marat,” Dinara said following behind him.
“Then I’m going to bed. I don’t need this, neither does Daniela!” Marat shouted and left the restaurant.
Ignoring the confused looks of other customers, Marat stomped out of the room and banged on the elevator buttons with his fists. The elevator seemed to take an eternity, and with every second he got madder and madder. Eventually the lift came and he stepped inside.
Watching the doors close, Marat banged his head against the elevator walls. He didn’t even feel the pain of the action, only the pain he felt inside. He had betrayed Daniela, and he had lied to her. For the first time in his life, he had no idea what he was going to do.
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Post by Annie on Mar 27, 2006 14:31:09 GMT 3
Chapter 18
Last night had been one of worst nights in his life. Lying in bed, Marat wondered how many people knew what was going on. Was Daniela the only one who didn’t know she had been lied to? All he could do was hope no one spilled the beans to Daniela. Rolling on his side, Marat stared at the alarm clock on the bedside table.
He now had half an hour to get ready and leave the hotel. It was time for his second round match against Carlos Moya. Needless to say, a match against Moya was the last thing he needed. But pulling himself together, Marat got out of bed and started to get ready.
Twenty minutes later, Marat was almost ready, and Peter was knocking on the door. After Marat finished tying his shoes, he walked to the door and let Peter in. Instead of greeting Peter, Marat turned away and busied himself by organizing his racket bag. Peter understood and didn’t try to start a conversation; Marat would come along in his own time.
Hoisting his bag on his shoulder, Marat gestured toward the door, and Peter followed. The journey to the elevator to meet Don was as quiet as their descent to the lobby in the elevator. Each man stayed to themselves as they drove to the stadium.
“Marat?” Peter asked on the way to the stadium.
“What?” Marat asked tiredly.
“I’m sorry I told your sister, but…”
“Who else did you tell?”
“Only your sister and Don. I mean, Don had to know. It’s his job to help you,” Peter answered.
“With my personal fitness, not my personal life!” Marat exclaimed throwing his hands in the air.
“I’m sorry. I only wanted to help,” Peter said dejectedly.
“Peter, I’m sorry I snapped at you. I also need to apologize to Dinara for shouting at her. But at the moment, I need to concentrate on Moya,” Marat explained.
“Apology accepted,” Peter said as the car stopped at the stadium entrance. “Let’s get this done.”
Walking to the locker room, Marat, Peter, and Don were once again a team. But for Marat, the dilemma with Daniela still echoed through his mind.
*****
“Stop thinking about it! Stop!” Marat screamed in his head as he sat in his chair during the change over.
He had just lost the first set to Moya. The whole set he had been thinking about his conversations with Dinara and Peter. Now more than ever, his conscience was weighing on him in ways it never had. But he was going to forget about it for now, win the match, and finally tell Daniela the truth.
*****
“He won the match! He won the match!” Daniela screamed in her living room.
Sadly, there was no one in the room to share in her excitement. Looking glumly around the empty room, Daniela missed Marat even more. It was insane how much time she spent staring at the charm bracelet he gave her. She had even rented Heat so she could remember their time in Moscow.
“Jeez! I need someone to talk to at night!” Daniela growled and walked into the kitchen.
Daniela had yet to do any housework, but it was definitely needed. The dishes were stock piling in the sink, and the dirty laundry was stinking up the upstairs. Sighing to herself, Daniela turned on her iPod and got to work.
Shoveling the dirty clothes into her arms, while music blasted through her ears, Daniela never heard her home phone ring. She also never heard her cell phone ring. Settling a rhythm, Daniela finally finished her housework two hours later and went to bed.
*****
“C’mon, Daniela! Pick up the phone!” Marat said out loud waiting for Daniela to pick up the phone.
Marat had tried calling her since he had arrived back at the hotel. After straightening his head out, Marat had won the match against Moya. Only now, Marat had to face an even greater opponent. While wrapped in his thoughts, Marat heard the sounds of someone knocking at his door. Getting up from the bed, Marat answered the door.
“Hey, Marat. Can I come in?” Dinara asked.
“Yes, please do. I owe you an apology, Dinara,” Marat said letting his sister into the room.
“Apology accepted,” Dinara said and sat down in a chair.
“You don’t even know why I’m apologizing.”
“Oh, I know. I’m still reeling from the verbal attack,” Dinara said smiling at her brother as he sat down on the edge of the bed.
“Of course you know why, but please let me explain.”
“The floor is yours,” Dinara said gesturing towards the space between them.
“I made a horrible mistake in Spain, a mistake I will leave among the girl, myself, and Daniela,” Marat began.
“You already told Daniela?” Dinara asked in disbelief.
“Let me finish. I realized during my match tonight that I need to tell Daniela. I tried to call her a few minutes ago, but she didn’t answer her phone. As soon as I get a hold of her, I’m going to tell her the truth,” Marat explained.
“I’m happy you’ve come to that realization. Good thing that girl lives in Spain and not Monte Carlo; Daniela hasn’t had a chance to run into her,” Dinara pointed out. “What was her name anyway?”
“Corinne,” Marat answered.
“Doesn’t sound very Spanish. Wait, what does she look like?” Dinara asked almost frantically.
“You’ve seen the pictures. She has dark brown hair, brown eyes, and she’s short.”
“I didn’t see her face in the pictures. Does she have any distinctive facial marks? Like a beauty mark?” Dinara prodded.
“Now that you mention it, she had a beauty mark on her…”
“Right cheek?” Dinara asked gloomily.
“Yes. How did you know?” Marat asked suddenly alarmed.
“Marat, Corinne works in Valencia, but she has family in Monte Carlo. I’ve met her many times at the tennis club where her family frequents. Wow, you sure know how to pick gold diggers. She’s awful,” Dinara sighed staring at her brother.
“Do you think she could be there now? In Monte Carlo?” Marat asked standing from the bed.
“I remember this same time last year being in Monte Carlo; she was there, Marat,” Dinara whispered. “Marat, you’ve got to call Daniela before Corinne gets to her first. I only talked to Corinne briefly, but… she’s definitely not an angel to put it lightly.”
Walking away from the bed, Marat stood in front of the hotel window and stared out into the night. From the reflection of the glass, Dinara could see her brother’s face. He looked like he had seen a ghost. A short, dark-haired ghost.
*****
The afternoon had only begun and so had Daniela’s practice with Nigel. They were once again at the upscale tennis club in Monte Carlo. Marat’s third round match against Davydenko would show later that night on TV, and Daniela couldn’t wait.
“Looking good, Daniela,” Nigel called to Daniela from the net. “How about a break?”
“I wouldn’t dream of passing up a break,” Daniela said laying her racket on the bench. “I forgot my water bottle, so I’m going to grab something. I’ll be right back.”
Walking around the practice courts, Daniela headed to the indoor refreshment stand. The little area was a sort of milling place for the daughters of rich businessmen who hated to sweat, but they would gladly sit around and gossip. Stepping into the cool building, Daniela was not surprised to find it crowded by Chanel sunglasses, Marc Jacobs purses, and Versace clothes.
Strolling up to the counter, Daniela asked politely for a fruit juice and leaned up against the counter to wait. While she was waiting, one of the daughters got up from her seat and joined her at the counter. She was wearing crystal-adorned sunglasses, a Calvin Klein dress, and strappy Jimmy Choo sandals; she was way too dressed up for tennis.
“You’re Daniela Hantuchova, aren’t you?” she asked.
“Yes, I am. I don’t think I know you though,” Daniela answered.
“I’m Corinne, pleasure to meet you,” she said stretching out a bony hand with bright red fingernails.
“Same,” Daniela said and shook her hand.
“I believe I know your boyfriend as well,” she said as they took their hands back.
“Do you? Well, he does live here.”
“No, I met him in Valencia.”
“Were you two good friends?” Daniela asked pleased to meet one of Marat’s friends.
“Oh, more than that, chérie,” Corinne said with an evil smirk.
“Did you use to date?”
“Not exactly, but we did have a little fun in February while he was in Valencia.”
“February? This February?” Daniela managed to croak out.
“Yes, why is there something wrong?” Corinne asked innocently.
“Marat and I’ve been dating since January,” Daniela said staring out the doors of the building to the courts.
“Well, Marat never mentioned a girlfriend. I suppose he was too preoccupied with moi,” Corinne boasted up at Daniela through her long, fake eyelashes.
“You’re that girl, from the magazine,” Daniela said still in a daze.
“That seems to be the thing I’m famous for these days.”
“Why did you come over here?” Daniela said facing Corinne.
Now that Daniela was facing her, she could tell that Corinne’s designer clothes were covering an ugly apparition of a human being. Corinne’s hair was dark brown, but half of it was extensions. Her make-up was an inch thick and she needed heels to even attempt to look Daniela in the eye. These cover-ups could disguise a girl easily in a dimly lit club.
“I thought you might want to know the truth about your boyfriend,” Corinne said obviously now intimidated by Daniela. “He seems to love them and leave them.”
The color rose in Daniela’s cheeks, but she couldn’t scream at Corinne. Corinne was the only one she could get the truth from now.
“You had better tell me what happened, and that’s not a request,” Daniela told Corinne curtly as she paid for her juice and walked to a corner table. Corinne followed behind her like a dog with its tail between its legs.
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Post by Annie on Mar 27, 2006 22:19:17 GMT 3
Chapter 19
Sitting down at the table, Daniela made herself sit up straight to match the posture of the girl sitting before her. But the truth was she also wanted to intimidate Corinne. Taking a gulp of her drink, Daniela finished and gestured for Corinne to begin.
“Well, you see, I’ll tell you what happened but not everything. I’m not the kind of girl who gives details into her personal life,” Corinne began.
“What would you call this?” Daniela snapped between clenched teeth.
“You’re right,” Corinne shrugged and continued. “I met Marat at a club, and we hit it off. Of course, I approached him, because he was in such a sullen mood. I didn’t want him to be lonely.”
“Yeah, thanks,” Daniela said taking a bigger gulp of juice to keep from blasting Corinne out of the club with a verbal attack.
“Anyway, he bought me a few drinks. After awhile, we decided to dance. I’m really well known around Valencia for my dancing,” Corinne bragged.
“And other things I’m sure,” Daniela commented and smiled back at Corinne.
“He just couldn’t keep his hands off of me, so I asked him to take me to his place. He had no objections, and we left hand in hand. But you already saw that in the pictures.”
“Continue. I’m sure that’s not all.”
“We got to his hotel room and started to make out. I suppose you don’t want to hear what happened next.”
“So, you slept with him?” Daniela asked in utter disbelief. She should have expected it, but she didn’t want it to be true.
“Yes, and we hung out the next day until I left. He gave me his number.”
“Did he ever mention he had a girlfriend?”
“No, he actually acted like a bachelor on the prowl. That’s why I felt the need to warn you,” Corinne answered pretending to act like she cared.
“Warn me! About girls like you!” Daniela exclaimed.
“He was the one who bought me drinks, took me to his hotel room, made out with me, and slept with me. Maybe you should worry about men like Marat.”
“Have you talked to him since?” Daniela asked rubbing her forehead.
“We talked about a week ago.”
“Long conversation? Anything since?”
“Well, no. I guess he’s busy trying to trip you up.”
“He’s ignoring you, isn’t he?” Daniela asked realizing Corinne’s true motives.
“You know, dear. Maybe if you wouldn’t play so hard to get, Marat wouldn’t stray from you,” Corinne said trying to change the subject.
“He’s ignoring you, and you want revenge,” Daniela said.
“Oh please! There are many men out there who wouldn’t mind my company. I don’t need Marat,” Corinne defended.
“You don’t deserve, Marat!”
“Listen to yourself! He doesn’t deserve you! Get over him! If I were you, I’d be thanking me and be kicking Marat’s butt!” Corinne said trying to make a point.
“It’s people like Marat and you that made me doubt my self-worth. Thank you so much, you piece of…” Daniela began shouting.
“Daniela! What’s going on? What’s wrong with you?” Nigel asked running to the table.
Staring at Nigel, Daniela could see that he thought she was crazy. Corinne looked pleased with herself, and the other girls in the room were completely bewildered. Standing up from the table quietly, Daniela walked out of the building ignoring Nigel’s cries.
Making her way to their court, Daniela started to pack her things as Nigel arrived. As she packed her rackets into a bag furiously, Nigel watched Daniela with a questioning glance.
“What happened in there?” Nigel asked quietly.
“Well, that girl I was sitting with, Corinne, is the girl from Valencia. She decided to inform me that Marat had lied to me. Marat had slept with her, Nigel. I guess that’s what happened,” Daniela said calmly and walked away.
Daniela had walked to the tennis club earlier that morning and was doing the same now. She was not mad, nor sad. Daniela felt no emotions at all. The entire way home was spent in utter solitude reflecting on why she had ever trusted Marat.
When she got home, she threw her bags in her room and went for a walk. Daniela never noticed where she was headed until her sneakered feet made contact with sand. Daniela had walked to where Marat and her had gone for one of their first unofficial dates, the beach.
In Monte Carlo, it was now evening and people were heading home for dinner. Clutching her arms with her hands, Daniela walked down the deserted beach. The sunset was amazing, but severely contrasted with Daniela. Sitting down at the far end of the beach, Daniela stared out at the water.
“Why did I ever trust him? How could I have been so stupid?” Daniela shouted into her chest.
The water was rising closer to her as she sat on the moist sand. Instead of getting up to avoid being rushed by water, Daniela braced herself for the cool water. It eventually made it to her ankles and bottom as she sat there motionless. Unfortunately, the cold water didn’t spring her from her emotionless purgatory.
But all that changed when she looked up at the setting sun. Like the descending sun below the horizon, her relationship with Marat was setting too. It was too much for her to take, and she cried out with grief. With tears pouring down her cheeks and cold water surrounding her, Daniela sobbed for the love she had lost before she had found it.
“Marat, why did you do it? You didn’t even give us a chance!” Daniela cried out into the rushing sea.
As the night surrounded her, Daniela finally got up from her place in the sand. She was certainly a sight to see. Dripping wet from head to toe, Daniela slumped her way back down the beach to her house. Ignoring the worried glances of passersby, Daniela walked down the streets and into her house.
*****
The next morning, Nigel walked into Daniela’s unlocked house. On the floor, a trail of saltwater led to the stairs and up. Roaming around the house, Nigel noticed the blinking message machine in the kitchen. Falling to his curiosity, Nigel pressed play for the awaiting message.
“Daniela, darling. Pick up the phone. There’s something I need to talk to you about. Please call me back, sweetheart. Miss you.”
“A little late,” Nigel said to himself and deleted the message for Daniela.
Following the trail of water, Nigel went to find Daniela. He found her in her bedroom, wet like a sewer rat. Nudging her gently, she opened her eyes. Daniela’s eyes were bloodshot, and her face was pale.
“Daniela, you need to get out of these wet clothes. You’re turning white,” Nigel said soothingly as if Daniela was a little child. “I’ll get out some sweatpants and a t-shirt.”
Nigel went to find the clothes while Daniela sat up in bed. Looking around the room, Daniela noticed the trash bin in the corner was overflowing with alcohol bottles.
“That would explain the headache,” Daniela said rubbing her head and swollen eyes.
“Here you go,” Nigel said as he threw her clothes on the bed. “You change into these while I make you something to eat.”
Alone again in her bedroom, Daniela sighed and did as Nigel had instructed. Stumbling into the kitchen, Daniela sat down at the table and rested her head on the cool, wood surface.
“I decided against food, but here’s some coffee,” Nigel said handing her a hot cup of coffee. “I saw the trash bin. Quite a night?”
“What did you expect?” Daniela asked sipping the scorching liquid. “Thank you.”
“Of course, I’m going to go clean up the puddles,” Nigel said and left the kitchen.
Feeling through the hallways, Daniela entered the brightly lit room where her window sofa was situated. Curling up against the pillows, Daniela closed her eyes and listened to the sounds of Nigel cleaning.
Poking through the cushions, Daniela found her stereo’s remote control. Turning on the stereo, Daniela pressed play on a CD she hadn’t listened to in a long time.
“We all begin with good intent Love was raw and young We believed that we could change ourselves The past could be undone But we carry on our backs the burden Time always reveals In the lonely light of morning In the wound that would not heal It's the bitter taste of losing everything That I've held so dear.
I've fallen... I have sunk so low I messed up Better I should know So don't come round here And tell me I told you so...”
Listening to the haunting lyrics and melody, Daniela began to break into tears again. Burying her face in the pillows, she cried softly until she fell asleep from exhaustion.
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Post by Annie on Mar 28, 2006 10:14:20 GMT 3
Chapter 20
“Daniela? Wake up, dear,” Nigel said softly.
“What’s going on?” Daniela asked sleepily.
“Nothing’s going on. I finished cleaning up, and here’s the newspaper,” Nigel answered handing Daniela the newspaper. “Take it easy for the rest of the day. I’ll come by tomorrow and see how you’re doing.”
“Thanks, Nigel. Your family is lucky to have you,” Daniela said giving Nigel a hug.
After Nigel left, Daniel tore through the newspaper. Discarding the front page on the floor, Daniela found the sports section. Scanning the pages, Daniela found the tennis scores. Marat had won his third round match against Davydenko and was on to the fourth round.
“Well, I’m happy he’s not affected. All this time he’s been lying to me, and I believed him,” Daniela said to herself as she threw the newspaper on the floor.
Her hang-over had ended, but her limbs still ached from being engulfed by icy water. Rolling off of the sofa, Daniela made herself climb the stairs to her bedroom. Nigel had emptied the trash bin of any alcoholic remains and changed the sheets on the bed.
“I need to get out,” Daniela said to herself as she entered the bathroom. “And the sooner the better; it’s Marat’s day off. He’s bound to call.”
*****
“Hello?” Marat answered his hotel phone.
“I’m calling to remind you to call Daniela,” Dinara replied.
“You don’t think I haven’t been up for the last two hours trying to get a hold of her? I even left a message.”
“You don’t think she’s already bumped into Corinne, do you?” Dinara asked.
“I don’t know. But I have a hunch that not being able to reach her is a red flag,” Marat answered. “Hopefully, she’s really busy with training.”
“But if she’s busy training, that means she’s at the tennis club.”
“Corinne didn’t seem like the kind of girl who got sweaty on the tennis courts everyday.”
“It’s not about tennis for most of the people who join the tennis club. It’s a status quo,” Daniela corrected.
“What am I to do? We’re on two different continents. If she’s already met Corinne, our relationship is over,” Marat said gloomily while rubbing his temples.
“Don’t say that Marat. You just have to explain your actions. Daniela is not unreasonable,” Dinara comforted.
“I guess we’ll find out. Oh, Dinara! This is killing me! I have to talk to her!” Marat exclaimed in frustration.
“Soon, Marat, soon. How about you come with me to practice? Your fourth round match is tomorrow,” Dinara offered.
“Anything to get me out of this room,” Marat accepted. “I’ll see you in the lobby.”
“Bye.”
*****
“You didn’t have to go to practice today,” Nigel said to Daniela as they returned from the courts later the next day.
“I desperately needed something to keep my mind off of you-know-who,” Daniela said as she got a drink from the refrigerator.
“Do you want to talk about it?” Nigel asked from the kitchen table.
“What’s to talk about? As soon as I get the nerve, I’m going to call Marat and tell him it’s over,” Daniela said as she shrugged her shoulders.
“Is that what you really want?” Nigel asked.
“Who cares what I want? Marat made that decision for us in February with Corinne,” Daniela answered.
“I understand that, but you didn’t answer my question. Is that what you want?” Nigel asked again.
“No, of course not. For the first time in my life, I believed that love truly existed. All this time it was only lies and lust.”
“Do you want me to get that?” Nigel asked when they heard the phone ring.
“Sure. I’m in no mood to answer it,” Daniela answered and took a sip of her drink.
Removing himself from the table, Nigel walked to the phone and answered it. From his first facial expression, Daniela knew it was Marat.
“Hi, Marat,” Nigel said nervously.
“Please tell me Daniela’s there,” Marat said pleadingly.
“Hold on a second,” Nigel said and looked at Daniela while covering the phone. “What do you want me to say?”
“I’m not here. Nigel, I can’t talk to him yet. Please, Nigel! One little white lie,” Daniela begged.
“Don’t you think it’s time to get this over with?” Nigel asked still covering the phone.
“At this moment, I can’t even think straight. If I talked to him now, all I would do is scream at him,” Daniela explained with pleading eyes.
“Fine,” Nigel said. “Marat, Daniela’s not here.”
“What do you mean she’s not there? Why would you be there if she wasn’t?” Marat asked agitatedly.
“What I meant was she’s in the shower,” Nigel lied.
“Could you tell her I’m trying to get a hold of her and I’ll see her soon?” Marat asked.
“Sure, but you’ll see her soon? I don’t catch your drift,” Nigel answered.
“I lost my match. I’m on my way to Miami. You’re going to Miami, right?” Marat asked.
“Yes, we’re leaving early tomorrow morning,” Nigel answered.
“Great, I’ll see you guys at the airport. Bye,” Marat said and hung up.
“Marat, wait!” Nigel said, but he was too late. “He left a message for you to call him.”
“Maybe later,” Daniela said as she watched her bewildered coach pace the kitchen floor. “What’s wrong?”
“I hope you’re ready to talk to Marat,” Nigel answered looking at Daniela.
“Why?”
“Because he’ll be at the airport to pick us up.”
“In Miami?!” Daniela asked in disbelief.
“Looks like tomorrow is dooms day,” Nigel confirmed.
“In an airport? Nigel, there will be a scene. I won’t be able to look at him with out wanting to kick him in the…” Daniela exclaimed.
“I get it, but you’re going to have to hold off on the soap opera until we get to the hotel.”
“Nigel! There has to be something we can do!” Daniela exclaimed banging her head on the kitchen table.
“There’s nothing…I’ll get it,” Nigel said as he heard the phone ring. “Hello?”
“Nigel? This is Marat again. I forgot to ask when the plane’s coming in,” Marat said waiting for an answer.
“He wants to know what time the flight’s coming in,” Nigel said to Daniela.
“Tell him a time a few hours later than the actual time. That way I can get to the hotel and find him,” Daniela said.
“Marat?” Nigel asked. “Our flight will come in at four o’clock.”
“Good, thank you,” Marat said and hung up again.
“Okay, so we arrive at one o’clock and we get to the hotel as soon as possible,” Nigel said checking their plans.
“That sounds right,” Daniela nodded. “Oh, Nigel. This is too much!”
“I know, but you said it has to be done,” Nigel said.
“Right. It has to be done.”
*****
The next morning, Nigel and Daniela were flying over the Atlantic Ocean to reach Miami. Nervously tapping her fingers on the arm rest, Daniela looked over at her equally worried coach.
“I promise this won’t effect my game,” Daniela said. “If anything, I’ll have a lot of aggression to take out on my opponents.”
“I’m not worried about your tennis. I’m more worried about your sense of self,” Nigel corrected squeezing Daniela’s hand. “Sometimes love is worth the fight, Daniela.”
“Please, Nigel. Now more than ever, I know love means nothing.”
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Post by Annie on Mar 28, 2006 10:14:58 GMT 3
Chapter 21
The afternoon sun in Miami gleamed through Daniela’s airplane window. With the vibrant rays dancing on her face, Daniela opened her eyes and looked around. Many of her fellow passengers were awake and preparing for the landing. But unlike everyone else, Nigel was slumped in his seat snoring loudly.
“I’m pleased one of us slept well,” Daniela said to herself.
She had been asleep for the past three hours, but it wasn’t a restful sleep. Images of Marat with Corinne flashed through her dreams, or rather nightmares. In one nightmare she had even been chased by Corinne’s long, red fingernails. That nightmare she couldn’t explain and she didn’t want to try.
“Nigel, wake up,” Daniela said nudging her coach. “You need to put your seatbelt on. We’re about to descend.”
“Oh, thanks for the warning,” Nigel said groggily.
“You’re welcome.”
“I bet you’re excited to land,” Nigel commented buckling his seatbelt.
“I’ve always wanted to fly straight into hell,” Daniela chided.
“I think it’s Marat who should be frightened, not you,” Nigel replied.
“Who said I was afraid?” Daniela asked.
“I would be if I was visiting hell on earth,” Nigel answered closing his eyes for the impending fall.
“I’m not afraid of him, but I am aggravated and ready to knock him to next week.”
“I wouldn’t do that to your fist. We wouldn’t want you injured,” Nigel joked.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” the flight attendant sounded over the intercom, “let me be the first to welcome you to Miami, Florida. The time is 12:55 in the afternoon, and the temperature is 75 degrees. Thank you for flying and we hope to see you again.”
“Here we go,” Nigel said as the plane began to dive.
*****
“Uh, I hate airplanes,” Nigel complained as they waited to get their bags.
“You hate planes? Try being in one with 44 inch legs. It’s terrible!” Daniela exclaimed.
“How long do you think we’ll be in baggage claim?” Nigel asked.
“Forever,” Daniela answered bluntly waiting for the baggage carousel to begin moving. “Our luggage should be first since we got to the airport late.”
“It’s moving! Thank the Lord, it’s moving!” Nigel exclaimed when bags began to rotate out.
“I’ll get our bags,” Daniela offered and walked to the crowded baggage carousel.
“That’s right girl! Get some of that agitation out on the good people of Miami!” Nigel cheered as she walked away.
Elbowing her way to the carousel, Daniela spotted her suitcase first. Grabbing the handle of her rolling suitcase, Daniela heaved the bag off the carousel and out of the crowd. Setting the suitcase next to Nigel, Daniela rolled up her sleeves and shoved her way back to the carousel. Ah, travel! What a trip! Finally, Daniela was able to get Nigel’s suitcase and exited the abrasive crowd.
“Ready to go?” Daniela asked as she placed Nigel’s suitcase in front of him.
“After you,” Nigel said as Daniela walked out of the airport.
A car arranged by the tournament was waiting for them when they got outside. Putting their bags in the trunk, Daniela and Nigel climbed in. The trip to the hotel was unsettling for Daniela as she went from confident to unsure.
“We’re here,” Nigel said waking Daniela from her daze.
“Great, I’m going to put my bags in my room and find Marat,” Daniela said getting her suitcase from the trunk.
“Give me a call,” Nigel said as she walked away. “I want to make sure you’re okay.”
Waving behind her, Daniela quickly went to her hotel room. Remembering she didn’t have Marat’s room number, she picked up her cell phone.
“Hello?” Marat answered.
“What’s your room number?” Daniela asked bluntly.
“208. But wait….” Marat began.
“I’ll be there in a minute,” Daniela said and hung up.
Stomping her way through the halls, Daniela reached Marat’s door. But Daniela couldn’t knock, she just stood there. Staring at the keyhole, Daniela’s breath stopped. Marat was right behind the door, with all his lies. Raising her hand, she rapped her knuckles on the wooden door.
In a flash the door was opened by a surprised Marat. Smiling down on her, Daniela wanted to puke. She wanted to blast him into the next century. She didn’t even want to look at him.
“Daniela! Your flight’s not due for another two hours!” Marat exclaimed reaching to hug her.
“Don’t touch me!” Daniela snapped. “Can we take this into your room?”
“Daniela, I, what’s wrong?” Marat asked as Daniela pushed past him into the room.
“Marat, don’t even pretend to be innocent! I can’t believe I listened to your lies! I found out the truth Marat! And not from you!” Daniela screamed.
“Daniela, please….” Marat said.
“No! You slept with her! You told me you didn’t even hold hands! We had only been dating for a month!” Daniela shouted.
“Daniela, let me explain,” Marat pleaded.
“Explain? EXPLAIN?! The last time you explained I didn’t get the whole truth. Why should I listen now? Marat, I thought I loved you. I had never been in love before. Why did you do that to me?” Daniela yelled as she began to cry.
“Daniela, I didn’t want to hurt you. I love you, too,” Marat said trying to wipe the tears from her face.
“Get off me!” Daniela sobbed slapping his hand away. “I don’t want anything to do with you! If you didn’t want to hurt me, you would have never slept with that piece of trash Corinne!”
“I was drunk, and I was mad at you! You left me while you went to Monte Carlo,” Marat explained.
“Is that your excuse? You were lonely?! That’s part of a long distance relationship, Marat!” Daniela exclaimed.
“Well maybe I’m not suitable for a long distance relationship!” Marat screamed.
“You said we could make it work,” Daniela said as tears rolled down her red cheeks.
“I lied,” Marat said bluntly.
“That’s not unusual for you!” Daniela snapped.
“Leave if you don’t like it. I don’t need this shit!” Marat snapped back. “I don’t have time to deal with an insecure little girl!”
“I’m insecure? What about you? You need to have sex with every girl in Europe to feel good about yourself! Why did I ever waste my time on you?”
“Because you could never do any better,” Marat shot back.
“What did you say?” Daniela asked still reeling from the verbal hit.
“You heard me!”
“I hate you! I hate you! I never want to see you again!” Daniela yelled and ran out of the hotel room.
Standing alone in his hotel room, Marat’s anger slowly drained from his body. He was left with a sinking feeling in his stomach that turned into deep sadness. Rubbing his eyes, Marat felt a few tears fall down his cheeks. Marat was crying, and he hadn’t even realized it.
Running to the hallway, Marat looked up and down the long corridor. Daniela was no where to be seen.
“I have to find her,” Marat said to himself as he began to search for Daniela.
For the next half hour, Marat tried to reason with the front desk to give him Daniela’s room number, but they wouldn’t. Cursing under his breath, Marat went back to the elevators to search the halls. But when the doors of the elevator opened, Marat saw his first glimmer of hope all day.
“Nigel! You don’t know how happy I am to see you!” Marat exclaimed.
“Marat, if you know what’s good for you, you’ll leave me alone,” Nigel warned walking away from the elevators.
“What do you mean? Nigel, wait! I need your help!” Marat said catching up to Nigel.
“I don’t know what you mean? Marat, what you did and said to Daniela was unforgivable! She is upstairs in her room crying like it’s the end of the world!” Nigel said raising his voice.
“That’s why I need to know her room number. I lost it up there. I have to talk to her!”
“I wish you would have never talked to her. You’re unbelievable. She’ll never forgive you, Marat. It’s over,” Nigel said and walked out of the lobby.
Staring after him, Marat’s only chance left him. How would he get Daniela back? Was it even possible? Turning on his heels, Marat went back to his room for the rest of the day.
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Post by Annie on Mar 29, 2006 10:38:03 GMT 3
Chapter 22
“Daniela!” Nigel said raising his voice. He had been waiting on the other side of Daniela’s door for ten minutes. “Daniela, open the door. Marat’s still roaming the hallways, and if he sees me he’ll know your room number.”
At that last statement, Daniela opened the door to her hotel room. Nigel stared back in amazement at Daniela’s appearance. Daniela’s hair was tangled and stringy, and her face was lined with mascara. From her blood shot eyes and the dark spots underneath them, Nigel could tell she hadn’t slept and had been crying since yesterday.
“Stop staring and get in here,” Daniela snapped and pulled him into the room.
It took Nigel several minutes before his eyes adjusted to the light, or lack there of. The room was almost pitch black, and the heavy curtains were drawn across the large picture window. The bed was unmade, and the sheets were tangled in a heap at the end.
“Have you slept lately?” Nigel asked concerned.
“No, I’ve been thinking,” Daniela said falling on her bed.
“About what?”
“I’ve been thinking about my future,” Daniela said closing her eyes.
“What do you see happening?” Nigel asked hoping she saw something worth while.
“I see myself as an old maid, sitting on my sofa near the window, with my cats,” Daniela said.
“Well, I’m glad we’re thinking positively,” Nigel joked.
“What else is there to think about?”
“What did you used to think about before Marat?”
“My career,” Daniela answered.
“You see! That’s what you need to focus on now,” Nigel declared encouragingly.
“But I also thought about having a boyfriend,” Daniela said ruining the moment.
“Forget about having a boyfriend! Worry about yourself! Go practice! Spend time with friends! Anything but this,” Nigel said taking Daniela’s hand.
“Who would want to hang out with me right now?”
“I might not be a party animal, but I am your coach. Let’s go take some of that frustration out before it gets too dark,” Nigel said pulling Daniela out of bed.
“Practice? Now?” Daniela asked skeptically.
“There’s no better time than the present,” Nigel encouraged and pushed Daniela into the bathroom. “I’ll see you in the lobby in 30 minutes.”
“Alright,” Daniela said and closed the bathroom door.
*****
“Are you feeling alright?” Nigel asked as they practiced.
“I came to courts, didn’t I?” Daniela asked back.
“Right,” Nigel said and looked at his watch. “Why isn’t she here yet?”
“Who?” Daniela asked.
“Hi, Daniela,” someone greeted from behind her.
“Ai!” Daniela screamed and hugged her friend.
The mystery guest was Ai Sugiyama. Daniela and Ai had been doubles partners for a long time, and they had done very well recently.
“I’m so glad you’re here!” Daniela said as they pulled apart. “So much has happened since we last talked.”
“Nigel already gave me the low down, but I’d rather hear it from you,” Ai said.
“Nigel? Can we call it a day?” Daniela asked visibly happier.
“Of course, you two have fun,” Nigel agreed patting Daniela on the back.
“The hotel has a great restaurant! We should go there,” Ai suggested as they left the courts.
“That sounds great! I’m so hungry!” Daniela exclaimed. “The last time I ate was before I left for Miami!”
“We better hurry then before you disappear!” Ai joked.
*****
“Hey, Marat!” Carlos Moya called to Marat as he was unlocking his hotel room door.
“Hey, Carlos,” Marat said walking to his room.
“Ancic and I are going out to the clubs. Do you want to come?” Carlos asked.
“No, thanks,” Marat said.
“I heard about Daniela and you. That’s too bad, dude. But come on, stop sulking around and get out. There are plenty other fish in the sea,” Carlos reasoned.
“Who told you about Daniela and me?” Marat asked furiously.
“The news is spreading like wildfire around the courts,” Carlos answered.
“What are they saying?”
“They’re saying that Daniela and you are done, caput.”
“They might be right,” Marat mumbled.
“If it’s over Marat, it’s over. Let’s go out and have some fun. It’s Daniela’s loss,” Carlos declared. “You’re not going to let her rule your life, are you?”
“No, of course not. She’s the unreasonable one. Let’s find some girls, Carlos,” Marat said and left with Carlos and Mario.
*****
“This place is awesome! Thanks for bringing me!” Daniela shouted above the music to Ai.
“You needed to get out,” Ai said. “I see the girls over by the bar. Let’s try to make our way over there.
After a long conversation in the restaurant of their hotel, Ai had suggested they go out to the popular Miami club, Mansion. Mansion was decorated with lighted archways, red upholstered coaches, and dancing lasers. As usual, the club was busting at the seams with the young and rich of Miami.
Standing by the bar waiting for Ai and Daniela were Iveta Benesova, Na Li, and Gisela Dulko. They were all very surprised to see that Ai had gotten Daniela to leave her hotel room.
“Daniela! We’re so happy you came out!” Gisela greeted.
“Forget about Marat! He isn’t worth the tears!” Iveta cut in.
“Isn’t this place awesome?” Na asked.
“Wow! Too many questions at one time!” Daniela exclaimed. “I’m really excited to be out.”
“There are so many cute guys here,” Gisela commented looking around.
“I agree,” Daniela said as she ordered a drink.
“I think they feel the same way about you,” Ai said to Daniela as she noticed the glances being thrown at her friend.
Leaning against the bar, Daniela’s legs were showcased under the hem of her dress. For the first time in two days, Daniela had showered and curled her hair in soft, cascading layers. Daniela’s dress was nothing extravagant, but it was simple and gorgeous. White with spaghetti straps, the hem of the dress was right on her knees and allowed her favorite pair of Dolce & Gabbana shoes to take center stage.
“They are looking at me,” Daniela said in disbelief. “Why? Is there something in my teeth?”
“No, you look beautiful,” Gisela said.
“What should I do?” Daniela asked.
“Talk to one of them!” Iveta exclaimed.
“Which one?”
“How about Andy?” Ai suggested. “He seems interested.”
“Andy? Andy Roddick? Isn’t he dating Sharapova?” Daniela asked uneasily.
“All speculations,” Ai said.
“Besides, I don’t see Maria anywhere,” Iveta said with an evil grin. “And he’s staring at you.”
“Okay, wish me luck!” Daniela exclaimed as she walked over to Andy.
“Nice haircut, Andy,” Daniela greeted the fellow tennis player.
“Thank you. I like it,” Andy said rubbing his shaved head. “How are you?”
“I’m better since Ai found me,” Daniela said gesturing towards her friend at the bar.
“I’m sorry about Marat,” Andy said apologetically. “Marat can really be a jerk, I should know. He’s been publicizing this beef between us like it’s everyone’s business.”
“I can’t believe he would make such a big deal about it to the press,” Daniela said.
“Not all guys are like that, Daniela,” Andy said pushing a piece of hair away from Daniela’s face. “Some of us are still gentlemen.”
“Daniela, I need to steal you away for a second,” Ai said grabbing Daniela’s elbow.
“Excuse me, Andy,” Daniela said with a smile.
“As long as you promise to come back,” Andy teased.
“I promise,” Daniela said as Ai dragged her off.
“Daniela, we have a problem,” Gisela immediately said when Ai and Daniela arrived back at the bar.
“What’s wrong?” Daniela asked looking at Ai for an answer.
“You’ll see. Look to your left and then up to the platform near the dance floor,” Ai said into Daniela’s ear.
Following Ai’s instructions, Daniela looked to the platform where exclusive tables were set up. At first she didn’t see anything wrong until her eyes met a pair of green, smoldering eyes. Staring at her, Marat looked angry and shocked that Daniela was there flirting with other men.
“Why is he looking at me that way?” Daniela said turning back to her friends. “What did he expect?”
“He wanted you to be crying over him,” Na said with disgust.
“Maybe we should leave,” Ai said.
“No!” Daniela said surprising everyone. “It’s a free country, and I’ve met a really nice guy. I’m not leaving!”
“That’s a girl!” Iveta cheered.
“If you need me, I’ll be talking to Andy,” Daniela said and walked back over to Andy. All the while, Daniela could still feel Marat’s eyes burning through her.
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Post by Annie on Mar 29, 2006 10:39:02 GMT 3
Chapter 23
Marat couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Daniela was only 50 feet away from him flirting with Andy Roddick. Carrying her drink in her delicate hand, Daniela was smiling and laughing with ease. Marat could feel his blood boiling underneath his skin. She knew he hated Andy and all his fakeness.
“Well, have a look at that,” Carlos said from behind him. “So that’s what you’ve been staring at for the last ten minutes.”
“Daniela certainly doesn’t waste any time,” Mario added.
“And to think, you were going to stay in your hotel room tonight,” Carlos commented. “Looks like Daniela prefers Americans.”
“I need a drink,” Marat exclaimed and sat back down at their table.
“Like I said earlier,” Carlos started as he sat down with Marat and Mario, “she’s not worth it.”
“Hi, I’ve never seen you here,” a girl said offering her hand.
“I’ve never been here,” Marat said shaking her hand. “My name is Marat.”
“My name is Francesca,” she answered.
“You’ll have to excuse Mario and me,” Carlos said. “It’d be faster if we went to the bar to order our drinks.” Leaving the table, Mario and Carlos winked at Marat as they left.
“Please, sit down,” Marat said to Francesca standing uncomfortably on her three inch heels.
“Thank you,” Francesca said as she sat down.
“What do you do Francesca?” Marat asked.
“At the moment, I’m trying to figure out what I want to do,” she answered.
“How do you pay your bills?”
“My father’s very successful. He co-owns the Miami Heat basketball team.”
“Do you play basketball?” Marat asked.
“No, but I love to dance,” Francesca answered.
“Would you like to dance?” Marat asked.
“I’d love to!” Francesca exclaimed grabbing Marat’s arm and pulling him to the dance floor.
*****
“I’m glad you decided to come back,” Andy whispered in Daniela’s ear. “I hope it was nothing serious that tore you away.”
“It was nothing,” Daniela said and shrugged.
“Remember last year at Indian Wells when we did the charity event?” Andy asked trying to jog Daniela’s memory.
“I do remember that night,” Daniela said with a smile. “You were hilarious!”
“It was fun playing doubles with you,” Andy added. “Would you like to play sometime?”
“I’d love to play with you sometime,” Daniela said touching his arm affectionately.
“We can play doubles together, but I’m not going to play against you,” Andy responded with a smile.
“What? Are you afraid?” Daniela teased.
“I’m man enough to say it: I’m afraid you’ll kick my butt,” Andy confessed.
Laughing uncontrollably, Daniela glanced over at the busy dance floor just feet away. Dancing closely with a tall, red-haired girl, Marat seemed to be enjoying himself. Daniela could feel her stomach rising, and her eyes began to tear up.
“Would you like to dance?” Andy asked.
“Huh?” Daniela said snapping back to reality.
“You looked like you wanted to dance,” Andy said gesturing to the floor. “I promise not to step on your feet.”
“Right, that’s sounds like fun,” Daniela said as Andy led her to the dance floor.
*****
Back at the bar, Ai, Iveta, Na, and Gisela watched together as Andy led a smiling Daniela to the dance floor.
“She looks so happy,” Iveta commented.
“They’re such a cute couple,” Gisela said as Andy playfully twirled Daniela.
“They just met, Gisela!” Ai said. “Daniela will only be here for a maximum of two weeks.”
“Yes, but she can have fun while it lasts,” Iveta added. “Andy does play tennis. They could have a fun little traveling relationship.”
“Last time she tried that Marat cheated on her,” Na corrected Iveta.
“Wait a second! Is that Marat with the red head?” Ai asked squinting at the dance floor.
“It is and they’re right next to Daniela and Andy!” Iveta confirmed.
Dancing without a care, Daniela hadn’t noticed Marat only a foot away. Waving their hands in the air desperately, the girls tried to warn Daniela, but she didn’t notice them.
“You’re a great dancer,” Daniela complimented Andy.
“Thank you, you’re not bad yourself,” Andy said taking Daniela’s hands.
“Oops, excuse me!” Daniela said as she backed into a nearby girl.
“Don’t worry about it,” she said and returned to her dance partner.
Daniela stopped dancing as she saw Marat dancing with the girl. Their eyes met for an instant before Francesca reached for Marat’s face. Pulling his neck down, Francesca placed a drunken kiss on Marat’s surprised face. Shocked and growing red in the cheeks, Daniela walked off the dance floor.
“Daniela!” Andy shouted taking her wrist. “Are you okay?”
“I’m sorry about that,” Daniela apologized. “Marat was right next to us dancing with another girl.”
“Did he say something to you?” Andy asked worriedly.
“No, I just want to avoid him,” Daniela said rubbing Andy’s hand. Andy looked visibly concerned for Daniela as he stared at Marat in disgust.
“Do you want me to take you back to your hotel?” Andy asked.
“I’d really appreciate the gesture. Thank you,” Daniela said, and she waved goodbye to her friends.
*****
Back on the dance floor, Francesca had continued to force kisses on Marat’s lips. But Marat couldn’t complain; he was a bit intoxicated himself.
“You never told me what you do,” Francesca said.
“I play tennis professionally.”
“I bet that makes you rich,” Francesca commented slurring her words.
“It pays nicely,” Marat agreed.
“What hotel are you staying at?” Francesca asked.
“The one down the block,” Marat answered.
“I’d love to see it,” Francesca hinted playing with Marat’s hair.
“Let’s go then,” Marat said taking Francesca by the arm and leading her out of the club.
*****
“You’re a really great guy, Andy,” Daniela said as they arrived at her hotel door. “I wish we had more time in Miami.”
“Are you free tomorrow?” Andy asked.
“I have to practice with Ai. She’s my doubles partner,” Daniela said regretfully.
“If you don’t mind, I could bring James, and we could play against you,” Andy suggested. “You can practice kicking butt.”
“I’d like that a lot,” Daniela said as she placed a kiss on Andy’s cheek.
“Goodnight,” Andy said as Daniela closed her hotel room door.
Standing alone in her room, Daniela gasped at the bleakness of her room. Putting her hair in a ponytail, Daniela made the bed and opened the curtains. Although it was night outside, the city lights of Miami glittered across Daniela’s hotel room.
After she had succeeded in cleaning her room, Daniela changed into her sweats and wiped the make-up off her face. Sighing to herself, she noticed how thirsty she was and left the room to find a vending machine.
But as she walked down the halls, she heard a familiar voice around the corner in the next hall. Tiptoeing to the corner and peeking around, Daniela saw Marat standing at his hotel room door fidgeting with the key. Draped on his shoulder playing with his long hair was the girl from the dance floor.
The girl was undeniably beautiful. She had long red hair that spiraled all the way to her shoulder blades, and her face was adorned by a pair of icy, gray eyes. Looking down at her own figure, Daniela felt self-conscience against the girl’s curvy body.
“Can’t you go any faster,” the girl whined.
“Believe me, I’m going as fast as I can,” Marat said with a devilish grin.
Uncomfortable and leaning against the corner for support, Daniela watched as Marat finally opened the door and nibbled the girl’s earlobe. Mumbling something incoherent, they stumbled into the room and closed the door behind them.
Once the door had closed, Daniela’s breath slowly came back to her. With her back against the wall, Daniela’s knees gave in, and she slid to the floor. Gasping for air on the floor, a wave of emotions struck Daniela’s heart. They were a mix of betrayal, jealousy, and despair.
“He doesn’t belong to you anymore,” Daniela told herself. “Stop kidding yourself.”
Making herself get up, Daniela rushed back to her room. She was no longer thirsty but extremely tired. Lying in bed that night, Daniela repeated the words “get over him” in her mind until she fell asleep.
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Post by Annie on Mar 30, 2006 10:54:02 GMT 3
Chapter 24
The light gleamed unmercifully across Marat’s face. Opening his eyes, he felt a sharp blade of pain drive through his head. Next to him laid a sleeping girl with her head under the covers. Was it Daniela? Pulling back the sheets, he was met by a tangle of red hair and porcelain skin. It wasn’t Daniela.
Laying his head back on the pillow in disgust, Marat cleared his throat intentionally loud. Stirring from sleep, Francesca looked up at him with blank, eyes. She tried to lie against his chest, but Marat pushed her away.
“It’s morning,” Marat said rubbing his eyes.
“So what?” she asked defiantly.
“I have to practice, and you need to leave.”
“Fine,” Francesca said and got out of bed. “You don’t have to be so rude about it.”
“I’m not being rude. I have a job, sweetheart,” Marat said sarcastically as he got out of bed himself.
“How about lunch later?” Francesca asked as she pulled her dress over her head.
“No,” Marat said bluntly.
“Dinner?”
“No,” Marat said once again as he walked her to the door.
“Then, we could…” Francesca began but never finished, because Marat closed the door on her face.
Relieved that he had finally disposed of Francesca, Marat sighed deeply and fell back into the comfort of his bed. Staring at the ceiling, Marat remembered how good it had felt to wake up with Daniela in his arms. But those days were over. When Marat had seen her with Andy last night, he knew she was never coming back to him.
Reaching for his cell phone on the bedside table, Marat dialed Peter. Keeping the conversation short and the details shorter, Marat and Peter agreed to meet in the lobby to go practice.
“How are you feeling?” Peter asked over the phone.
“I have a hang over. You do the math,” Marat snapped rubbing his sore forehead.
“Are you sure you want to practice?”
“It’s the only thing I can do to keep Daniela off my mind,” Marat admitted.
“Alright then. I’ll see you in a few minutes,” Peter said as he hung up.
*****
Miami was notorious for its persistent yellow sun and sparkling blue waters. As Marat and Peter entered the courts, Marat saw many people practicing including Rafael Nadal. But as he placed his bags down by their court, he heard a familiar laugh resonant across the courts. Looking in the direction it came from, Marat’s knees almost doubled under him when he confirmed who it was.
Only a few courts away, Ai Sugiyama and James Blake were playing mixed doubles with Daniela and Andy. After a successful point for Andy and Daniela, Andy swept Daniela in his arms and carried her around in victory. Daniela laughed hysterically and tried to get down.
“Oh, no you don’t,” Marat heard Andy say to Daniela.
Reaching around his arms, Daniela began to tickle him until Andy fell to the ground laughing, taking Daniela with him. Sitting on the hard court together, Daniela and Andy continued to laugh while Ai and James looked on.
“Marat, we can leave,” Peter said from behind him.
“No, I’m not leaving,” Marat said looking away from Daniela and taking a racket from his bag.
“Alright,” Peter said uneasily as they began to practice.
The first few shots Marat took were controlled, but as the laughing got louder, his strokes got worse. After a few minutes, every one of his shots went straight into the net or spiraled into the unknown. Yelling in frustration, Marat threw his racket down onto the court. The sound of the racket breaking was so loud that it caught the attention of everyone practicing.
Glancing over Daniela’s court, Marat saw her worried look and Andy’s smug expression. Andy knew this was killing Marat to see Daniela with him. Beneath Marat’s skin, he could feel his blood rush to his face and his fists. Marat was ready to deliver a few choice words to Andy, along with a few hits.
As he walked to Daniela’s court, he saw Daniela inch closer to Andy’s body. Comforting her the best he could, Andy wrapped a protective arm across Daniela’s waist. Marat could see Daniela trembling, and his heart sank in his chest. Daniela had no reason to be afraid of him; it was Andy who should be afraid.
Finally arriving at Daniela’s court, Marat’s eyes aimed straight for Andy’s face. Stopping smack in front of their cowering figures, Marat stared at Andy for some time.
“Get your hands off my girlfriend!” Marat shouted.
By this time, everyone on the courts had stopped practicing and were staring at the soap opera before them. No one dared to speak for fear that Marat’s wrath would fall on them. Andy seemed to regain some type of composure as he fastened his arm tighter around Daniela’s waist and looked Marat square in the eye.
“What do you mean take his hands off me?” Daniela shouted back. “I don’t belong to you anymore!”
“You never belonged to him, Daniela,” Andy said. “People are not possessions to be played with.”
“Oh, that’s rich coming from you, Andy. You’ve slept with a new girl every city!” Marat shouted at him.
Marat’s breath had grown ragged, and his whole body had turned red. He could feel his hands making fists at his sides. This wasn’t going to end peacefully.
“Don’t listen to him, Daniela,” Andy said giving her hips a gentle squeeze. “He’d say anything to get you away from me.”
“Because you don’t deserve her!” Marat exclaimed.
“Oh, and I suppose you think you deserve me! You slept with another woman while we were dating!” Daniela screamed. “You didn’t seem too remorseful last night.”
“What do you mean by that?” Marat asked loudly.
“Watch your tone of voice with her,” Andy warned.
“I saw you take that girl to your room last night. You’re no innocent Marat!” Daniela answered.
“Are you stalking me?” Marat asked stepping closer to Daniela.
“You need to back up,” Andy growled at Marat pulling Daniela back
“And what are you going to do about it?” Marat asked.
“I’ll have to make sure you back up myself,” Andy said pushing Marat’s chest.
At that gesture, Marat’s anger ran above the boiling point. His fists were no longer under his control. Marat couldn’t even see the people around him, only Andy’s face. Taking his fist back, Marat lunged at forward at Andy’s face. Pushing Daniela away, Andy narrowly missed being hit. As Andy began to throw his own punch, James ran forward and grabbed Andy’s arm.
“Stop!” James shouted. “You two are making a scene!”
“Shut up! You’re just trying to save your friend’s ass!” Marat snapped at James.
“Lay off him!” Andy snapped back.
Before Marat could answer that with another punch, Rafael Nadal ran over to restrain Marat’s arms. With Marat and Andy being held off by James and Rafael, Peter came over to drag Marat away.
“Marat, let’s go,” Peter said firmly.
“I’ll say when I’m ready to go!” Marat yelled. “F*** you, Andy! Same to you Daniela, to all of you.”
Stomping off the court, Marat roughly grabbed his bags and left the courts cursing. Rafael returned to his court as Peter ran after Marat. Daniela was still in shock by Marat’s actions and defensive nature towards her. The whole scene had been too much for her as she broke out in tears.
“Daniela,” Andy said softly as he embraced Daniela. “It’s okay; he’s gone.”
“Why did he have to do that?” Daniela wailed between sobs.
“I don’t know why. He’s an asshole, Daniela,” Andy comforted. “But don’t worry, he’s a lousy fighter.”
Pulling Daniela away from his chest, Andy smiled down at her affectionately. Showing her he had no bruises; Andy thought he had solved the reason why she was crying. But deep inside her head, Daniela knew the real reason why she was crying. Through all the strong words and actions, Daniela had seen how much Marat loved her.
“But love is not enough,” Daniela said to herself.
“Did you say something?” Andy asked softly.
“Can you take me back to my room?” Daniela lied.
“Of course I can,” Andy said reassuringly. “I’ll get our bags.”
After Andy had secured their bags on his strong shoulders, they walked to his car and drove to the hotel. Feeling safe and secure, Daniela rested her head on Andy’s shoulder during the trip to the hotel. But as she leaned against him, the only person she could think of was Marat.
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Post by Annie on Mar 31, 2006 9:35:54 GMT 3
Chapter 25
“What were you thinking?!” Peter yelled at Marat.
Sitting on the edge of his bed, Marat’s head hung between his shoulders lifeless. Peter was pacing back and forth in front of him. Peter was sweating profusely with anger and frustration. How could Marat lose it like that?
“Where’s your head at?” Peter started again. “If you hadn’t missed, you would have been kicked out of the tournament for sure!”
“The tournament was the last thing on my mind,” Marat said quietly still with his head down.
“There were people everywhere, Marat! They saw you lose your temper!” Peter continued. “She’s moved on, Marat.”
“I won’t believe that,” Marat said defiantly.
“You have no choice!” Peter exclaimed. “You made that choice a month ago.”
“Peter, I never thought….” Marat began but was cut off.
“You never thought she’d find out? Daniela is a great girl. She’s beautiful, smart, talented, and you lost her. You have no one to blame but yourself.”
“I know Peter, and I’m so sorry. I want her back so much it hurts!” Marat said in anguish.
Softening after Marat’s cry, Peter stopped pacing the carpet. Sitting down next to Marat on the bed, Peter patted Marat on the shoulder reassuringly.
“You really love her, don’t you?” Peter asked sympathetically.
“I loved her more than any woman I’ve ever met.”
“Then maybe she’s worth the fight,” Peter said.
“Do you think so?” Marat asked searching his coach’s eyes.
“I think you need to let things cool down before you proceed,” Peter warned.
“By then, Andy will have his claws in her.”
“If she truly loves you, it won’t matter. She’ll come back to you if you’re willing to make it up to her,” Peter said.
“Do you think she still loves me?” Marat asked.
“After you left, I looked over at her. She was crying.”
“She was probably worried about Andy,” Marat said sadly.
“Maybe to the untrained eye it would appear that way, but I saw something different,” Peter said.
“What?”
“Love.”
“I’m going to get her back Peter,” Marat said and stood up from the bed.
“Wait a little while,” Peter said.
“I will, but I’m not promising a long stretch of time,” Marat said and closed the bathroom door.
*****
Back at Daniela’s hotel room, Andy put her bags away in the closet. Joining Daniela by the window, Andy placed a calming hand on her shoulder. Smiling at her, Daniela smiled back but with sadness in her eyes.
“You look tired,” Andy commented tracing the lines on her face.
“I am a little exhausted.”
“Want me to tuck you in?” Andy asked sweetly.
“That’s very nice of you,” Daniela said as Andy followed her to the bed.
Lying down, Andy pulled the covers up to Daniela’s chin and smiled at her. Patting her hand, Andy walked away from the bed.
“Andy,” Daniela said weakly.
“Yes?” Andy asked turning around.
“You don’t have to go,” Daniela said.
“I’ll only stay if you want me to,” Andy said as he walked to her bed.
“I want you to stay,” Daniela said pulling him to the bed. “I need you to stay.”
Closing the distance between them, Andy positioned his face in front of Daniela’s. Andy placed a soft kiss on her forehand and on her cheek. Placing her hand on his neck, Daniela pulled him down closer. Seizing her lips with his, Andy’s kiss numbed her lips.
Daniela scooted over in bed to accommodate Andy’s body. Rolling on top of her, Andy nibbled on Daniela’s delicate earlobes. Busying herself with his strong jaw, Daniela lightly kissed along the sleek lines of his face. Sighing together in unison, Andy gently stroked her face while Daniela lightly scratched his muscled back.
Looking into Andy’s large, brown eyes, Daniela smiled to herself. Andy was very handsome, but was a different type of handsome than Marat. Andy was cute in that all-American way, but Marat’s features were more striking and dangerous.
Pulling at her shirt, Andy lifted it over Daniela’s chest and then her head. Doing the same for Andy, Daniela was now in her bra against Andy’s bare chest. Could she do this? Did she want to do this? She never made that decision, because Andy undid her bra as she thought.
After that, Daniela became lost in the tangle of sheets and bodies. Andy was nurturing and gentle, but Daniela couldn’t help but wish Marat was the one she was with. With each touch of his body against hers, Daniela wished harder that Marat was there next to her.
*****
At long last, Daniela and Andy lay in bed together side by side. Rubbing her thigh through the thin bed sheet, Andy placed long, soft kisses on her neck. Reveling in the wave of emotions she was feeling, Daniela reached for his mouth and kissed Andy till he was out of breath.
“You’re so beautiful,” Andy complimented looking into her sparkling green eyes.
“You’re making me blush,” Daniela said smiling sheepishly.
“It’s the truth,” Andy said kissing the tip of Daniela’s nose.
“Are you hungry?” Daniela asked.
“I’m starving,” Andy exclaimed. “I could go pick us up some food. There’s this great Mexican restaurant that offers pick up.”
“That sounds delicious,” Daniela agreed.
“I’ll be back soon,” Andy said kissing Daniela on the lips.
Getting out of bed, Andy put on his pants, shirt, and shoes, but left his jacket on the bed. Following him to the door in her underwear and Andy’s discarded jacket, Daniela gave him a final kiss as he left.
But as she watched him leave, Daniela saw Marat staring at them down the hall. Looking back at Daniela, Andy gestured for her to go back to the room. But Daniela was too startled and guilty to move. It was obvious from her messed up hair and sparse clothing what they had done.
“Daniela,” Andy said. “Shut the door.”
But Daniela never had to, because when they looked back to Marat he was gone. Had it been their imaginations? No, Marat had been right there only a moment ago. Shuddering to herself, she nodded at Andy and closed the door.
*****
An hour later, Daniela was still wrapped in Andy’s coat when she heard a knock at the door. Looking through the peep hole, Daniela saw Andy holding bags of food. Opening the door, Andy handed her a bag and walked into the room.
“A bedroom picnic,” Daniela commented wistfully.
“Romantic, huh?” Andy joked.
Sitting together Indian-style on the bed, Daniela and Andy ate and laughed over burritos, corn chips, guacamole, and rice. Chewing a chip, a glitter of light caught Andy’s eyes in the corner.
“What’s that?” Andy asked pointing the floor.
“I don’t know,” Daniela said staring where he was pointing.
“I’ll find out,” Andy said getting up from the bed. “It’s a bracelet, a charm bracelet. Is it yours?”
Staring at the bracelet in Andy’s hand, Daniela felt like she had seen a ghost. It was the charm bracelet with the three expensive charms dangling on it. She had thrown it when she had arrived back in her room after breaking up with Marat. Seeing the bracelet brought back a wave of emotions.
“It’s a charm bracelet,” Marat explained.
“There are no charms,” Daniela said holding it up.
“Which explains this,” Marat said as he took a diamond, tennis racket charm from his pants pocket.
“Oh, Marat. It’s so beautiful,” Daniela said attaching the charm and placing the bracelet on her slender wrist.
“Another one? It’s beautiful! Aw, it’s a little heart for Valentine’s Day,” she cried out holding up the ruby red charm for her bracelet. “You suck.”
Staring at the three charms on her bracelet, Daniela’s new favorite was the one they just bought. The charm was a sun, almost identical to Marat’s new tattoo. But instead of being decorated by ink, the circle of the sun was a yellow diamond surrounding by small topazes for the rays.
“Daniela?” Andy asked as Daniela came back down to earth.
“I’m sorry,” Daniela said. “A friend gave it to me a while back.”
She knew it was time to get rid of the bracelet, but she couldn’t let go. Daniela decided she had to return it to Marat, before it was too hard.
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Post by Annie on Mar 31, 2006 9:36:36 GMT 3
Chapter 26
Marat stared blankly out his hotel window. Why didn’t he just wait to find Daniela? If he had, he would have never seen her with Andy. Marat would have never seen them kissing, or known they had been having sex moments before. He couldn’t believe she had actually gone through with it.
Marat and Daniela had known each other longer and had dated for two months. Daniela had made them wait, but with Andy she went for it. Totally abandoning their relationship, Daniela had sealed the deal.
Deep in his thoughts, Marat heard a knock at his hotel door. Sighing to himself, Marat figured it was Peter and strolled to the door. Opening his door, Marat stepped back in surprise.
“I think this belongs to you,” Daniela said handing him the charm bracelet.
“What would I want with it?” Marat asked defensively.
“You bought it; it doesn’t belong to me,” Daniela said pushing the bracelet at him.
“I gave it you. Keep it!” Marat said raising his voice. “Or does it bother your new boyfriend?”
“Who?”
“You don’t consider Andy your boyfriend?” Marat asked teasingly. “It looked that way.”
“My personal life is none of your business anymore,” Daniela shouted.
“It’s funny how you wouldn’t have sex with me but with Andy it was okay,” Marat said. “I know you only did it to get revenge.”
“How dare you?! Andy is a gentleman and would never hurt me,” Daniela shouted as she defended Andy.
“We’ll see in a few weeks when he gets tired of you,” Marat sneered.
“Discards me?”
“Yeah.”
“Well, I’m used to being discarded after what you did!” Daniela yelled in his face. “First Corinne, then the red-head. One night stands seem to be your forte.”
“What can I say?” Marat gloated. “Women are drawn to me. Just look at you.”
“I hate you!” Daniela screamed and turned on her heels.
But before she could get away, Marat grabbed her arm in a firm grasp. Turning her head to face him, Daniela shot him a deadly glance. But instead of letting go, Marat’s grip only tightened.
“Let go,” Daniela said through gritted teeth.
Defying her command, Marat pulled her to his chest so they were facing each other eye to eye. Before Marat realizes it, he bends his neck and takes Daniela’s lips with his. Instead of resisting, Daniela surrendered to the passion of his kisses. Standing breathless and hot, Marat and Daniela stared at each other for minutes.
The tears began to rush back to Daniela’s eyes as she continued to stare at Marat. She loved him so much that it hurt, but it could never work. Turning around, Daniela ran away from Marat. Marat was left standing in the hallway confused and speechless. Looking down at the floor, Marat noticed her charm bracelet lying on the floor.
Scooping the precious piece of jewelry off the floor, Marat cradled it in his hand as he walked back into his hotel room. Glancing around the room, he smiled to himself. From that one kiss, Marat could tell that Daniela was still in love with him.
*****
When Daniela arrived back in her room, she fell on her bed in horror of her actions. Why had she kissed him back? Daniela lay on her bed trembling. She was so afraid, because she knew Marat was who she truly loved. But how could she forgive him? Marat’s actions had been irresponsible and showed little respect for her.
Throwing the covers over her body, Daniela’s trembling subsided. In the sanctuary of her room, Daniela felt safe but not for long. Daniela remembered that Marat now knew her room number.
“Please, Marat,” Daniela whispered. “Don’t come to my room.”
But her prayers were not answered as she heard dreaded knocking on her hotel room door. Screaming in agony, Daniela contemplated not answering it. What if it was Marat? But beyond her better judgment, Daniela answered the door. Sighing with relief, Daniela fell into the arms of her coach.
“I’m glad to see you, too,” Nigel said smoothing Daniela’s hair. “I heard what happened.”
“How many people know about it?” Daniela asked as they walked into the hotel room.
“The rumors are spreading like wildfire,” Nigel said. “Everyone thinks Marat’s lost it.”
“Oh, poor Marat,” Daniela said out loud before she could stop herself.
“What did you say?” Nigel asked in surprise.
“Marat deserves it,” Daniela lied.
“No, you didn’t say that. You said: Poor Marat!” Nigel repeated.
“No I didn’t,” Daniela defended.
“You’re lying,” Nigel said. “You still love him. What about Andy? What about all the things Marat has done to you?”
“I don’t know, Nigel,” Daniela shouted breaking into tears. “I don’t know what I want. I’m so lost.”
“Oh, Daniela. Come here,” Nigel said opening his arms.
“What am I going to do?” Daniela asked.
“You’re going to get some sleep,” Nigel said ushering her to bed.
“But I have to deal with this,” Daniela whined as Nigel put her to bed.
“Tomorrow, you’re too confused right now,” Nigel said. “I’ll come by early tomorrow morning.”
“Goodnight,” Daniela said sheepishly.
“Night,” Nigel returned and left the room.
But as Daniela’s head hit the pillow, her nostrils picked up the scent of Andy’s cologne. The smell of his skin was all over her bed. She was no longer hurting herself and Marat, but now she was hurting Andy. Stumbling out bed, Daniela walked to the armchair and fell asleep there instead.
*****
The next morning, Daniela showered and got dressed in preparation for Nigel. But when she heard knocking and opened the door, Andy stood there instead. Leaning in for a kiss, Daniela stood there and gladly accepted the gesture. She was too confused to know how she felt about it.
“How are you this morning?” Andy asked as he entered her room.
“Hungry,” Daniela said.
“Great minds think alike,” Andy commented. “Do you want to go to breakfast?”
“How could I resist?”
Grabbing her purse from the bedside table, Daniela followed Andy out the door. As they walked to the elevator, Andy reached for Daniela’s hand. They remained holding hands as they walked through the lobby and out the door. Andy was taking Daniela to one of his favorite restaurants in Miami.
“You’ll love it,” he said as they walked down the street. “It’s right by the ocean.”
“That does sound beautiful,” Daniela agreed.
Arriving at the restaurant, Andy and Daniela found a table on the outside facing the blue waters and warm, morning sun. Humming to herself as she looked through the menu, Daniela didn’t have an appetite anymore. Sitting across from Andy, Daniela felt guilty about the kiss with Marat. Did Andy have any idea?
Looking across the table over her menu, Daniela stole a glance. Andy looked perfectly content and nothing seemed to bother him. Shrugging her shoulders, Daniela put down her menu and stared out at the water. It reminded her of Dubai when Marat had taken her to the hotel restaurant.
“What are you having?” Andy asked.
“I’m not sure,” Daniela answered.
“Would you like me to order for you?”
“I’d appreciate it.”
After the waitress had come and took their order, Andy and Daniela tossed around a few topics of conversation until they finally settled on one.
“I’m not usually this fast in my relationships,” Daniela admitted.
“I’m not either,” Andy agreed. “But we have so little time together in one place. Why not go for it?”
“I wish I was always that brave,” Daniela said.
“Life’s meant to be lived,” Andy lectured. “Sometimes you have to do things you’re not sure of, or you fear.”
“Like loving someone?”
“Especially love,” Andy answered.
When their food arrived, Andy set to work, but Daniela picked through hers. She thought about Andy’s words. Why didn’t she just let her inhibitions go? But who would she choose? Andy or Marat?
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Post by Annie on Mar 31, 2006 15:25:59 GMT 3
Chapter 27
“What a draw!” Peter exclaimed.
Only a few minutes earlier, Peter had been sitting in his room on his laptop computer. Searching through the official site of the NASDAQ-100 Open, Peter had been relieved the draws were finally up. But that enthusiasm did not last long when he saw Marat’s first four rounds.
Arriving at Marat’s hotel room, Peter knocked briskly on the door. A few moments later, Marat answered the door in a pair of sweatpants with his hair a tangled mess on top of his head.
“Good morning,” Peter greeted. “You look better today.”
“Thank you, I feel better,” Marat said showing Peter into his room.
“Looking forward to talking with Daniela I assume?”
“Already did that,” Marat said turning away from his shocked coach.
“I thought you were going to give her some time,” Peter blurted out.
“I was, but she was the one who came to my hotel room.”
“She did?” Peter asked with his mouth hanging open.
“Not under the best circumstances,” Marat answered. “I had seen Andy leave her room earlier while she was barely dressed.”
“Daniela slept with Andy?”
“Yes, but that’s not the whole story,” Marat continued. “She came to my room to return the charm bracelet I gave her. When I saw her, I couldn’t help but test the waters. I seized her by the arm and kissed her.”
“What did she do to you?” Peter asked engulfed in the account.
“Surprisingly, she kissed me back,” Marat said with a smile radiating across his angular features. “Do you know what this means Peter?”
“What?”
“She still loves me!” Marat exclaimed giving his coach a hug.
“What about Andy?” Peter asked while accepting the astounding hug.
“He was just a tool for revenge. She was hurt and needed someone to comfort her,” Marat explained.
“Whatever you say,” Peter commented.
“Why did you come over?” Marat asked.
“Oh, the draws are out. It doesn’t look good Marat,” Peter said sadly. “You have Henman for your first round opponent, Hewitt in the second, Scrichapan or Hrbaty in the third, and Roddick in the fourth.”
“You weren’t kidding,” Marat said gloomily. “I need to stay in the tournament, Peter. As long as it takes to get Daniela back, I’ll be here.”
“I hope so,” Peter said. “Are you hungry?”
“Not really, but I’ll go with you,” Marat said going to get dressed. “Did you see Daniela’s draw?”
“She’s got a first round bye,” Peter began. “Second round will be a qualifier of Marta Domachowska.”
“I see,” Marat said coming out of the bathroom dressed. “Ready to go?”
“Let’s go,” Peter said as they walked out the door.
When Marat and Peter arrived in the lobby, they made their way to the hotel doors. But as Marat looked to the doors, he stopped straight in his tracks. Entering the hotel with Andy’s arm draped on her shoulders was Daniela.
Marat couldn’t move; he stood there waiting for the collision. When Daniela looked up, her eyes instantly collided with Marat’s. Daniela stopped, making Andy jerk back in surprise. Four sets of eyes stared at one another. No one said anything, no one dared to. All around the lobby, fellow guests stared at the unfolding scene.
“Marat, let’s go,” Peter said tugging at Marat’s arm.
“Good idea, Peter. Come on, Daniela,” Andy said trying to pull Daniela away from where she stood.
But neither listened to their companions and stayed frozen where they were. Marat’s eyes burned into Daniela’s eyes. In his eyes was the message: I know you still love me. Daniela’s mouth dropped and her eyes betrayed her. All through her eyes was the message: I want to be with you.
“Daniela,” Andy said sternly and tugged Daniela away.
Turning around, Marat watched as Andy and Daniela entered a pair of open elevator doors. Daniela looked like she was being held captive. She almost appeared to want to jump out of the elevator and run to Marat.
“Marat, I’m hungry. Can we go?” Peter asked.
“Yeah, I’m sorry about that,” Marat said turning back to Peter. “Did that really happen?”
“Yes, and you were right,” Peter answered.
“Right about what?”
“You can see it all over her face,” Peter began, “She still loves you.”
“Now you know why it’s so important that I stay in Miami.”
*****
When Andy and Daniela entered her hotel room, Andy turned her to face him. Looking at her with large eyes, Andy searched for something, anything. Hiding her emotions in her heart, Daniela appeared to be as cool as a cucumber.
“Are you okay?” Andy asked.
“I’m fine,” Daniela answered.
“I’m sorry I have to leave you after that, but I’ve got a Lacoste photo shoot in an hour,” Andy explained. “And after that, I have an appearance to make at a Lacoste store.”
“I need to practise,” Daniela assured him.
“I have reservations at Nobu for eight o’clock,” Andy said. “I’ll see you there.”
Kissing her passionately before he left, Andy let out a sigh and exited the room. Running her fingers through her hair, Daniela walked to her bed. Lying down, Daniela pulled the covers over her head with her clothes still on. But not for long, because a knock came to her door minutes later.
“Practice?” Nigel asked immediately when Daniela answered the door.
“Nice to see you, too,” Daniela greeted sarcastically.
“I thought that was our plan for today,” Nigel said. “Is Andy here?”
“No, he has promotional work until eight tonight. I’m supposed to meet him at Nobu for dinner afterwards.”
“Supposed to? Are you going?” Nigel asked entering the room.
“I don’t know,” Daniela answered. “We saw Marat and Peter in the lobby today.”
“How did it go?”
“If Andy’s arm had been around me, I would’ve run straight into Marat’s arms.”
“Then why are you still with Andy?”
“It’s not as easy as it looks, Nigel.”
“Yes it is. Both Marat and you are letting your pride get in the way,” Nigel lectured.
“Marat has a lot of pride.”
“So do you. Are we going to practise or not?”
“Yeah, let me get ready.”
*****
An hour later, Daniela was wrapped up in her practice session. Hitting the ball well, Nigel’s confidence in his player grew. But out of the corner of his eye, he saw a potential complication. Only two courts away, Dinara had started practice with her mother and her coach. Noticing Daniela, Dinara put away her racket and walked over to her court.
“Hi, Daniela,” Dinara called from the net.
“Hi, Dinara,” Daniela greeted nervously.
Before Daniela could think, Dinara strolled over to Daniela and gave her a big hug. Daniela hugged back but not very tightly. Daniela still had many questions for Dinara.
“Dinara?” Daniela asked. “Did you know the truth?”
“That’s a hard question to answer.”
“No, it’s not. Did you or did you not know Marat was lying to me?”
“I knew Marat was lying to you, but I didn’t know the truth,” Dinara explained. “I tried to get him to tell you.”
“But he wouldn’t, would he?”
“He wanted to protect you. He did try to get a hold of you before you found out. He was going to tell you.”
“I don’t believe that,” Daniela said.
“Well, believe it.”
“I can’t talk about this right now. I’m done practising for the day,” Daniela said to Nigel and Dinara.
Picking up her bag, Daniela gestured for Nigel to do the same. Nigel obliged and followed behind her.
“You’re not leaving because you don’t believe her,” Nigel said catching up to Daniela. “You’re leaving because you do believe her.”
“I know that,” Daniela answered gravely and walked away from her coach.
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Post by Annie on Mar 31, 2006 15:40:22 GMT 3
Chapter 28
It was seven o’clock when Daniela woke up. After she had abandoned Nigel, Daniela went straight to her hotel and passed out. Everything seemed to take too much out of her these days. Rubbing her sleep-crusted eyes, Daniela heard a light tap at the door. Stumbling to the door, she answered it to find a young bellboy.
“Miss Hantuchova?” the bellboy asked.
“Yes?”
“I have a package for you,” the bellboy answered handing her simply wrapped box.
“Thank you,” Daniela said accepting the box. “Who sent it?”
“There was no message, ma’am,” the bellboy said and left.
Closing the door, Daniela walked to the armchair and began to open the package. As she unwrapped the package, Daniela wondered who had sent it to her. But the secret was soon discovered when Daniela looked inside the box. Inside the box, jeering back at her, was the charm bracelet Marat had given her.
Holding up the charm bracelet to her eye level, Daniela stared at the new charm. Dangling from the bracelet were two new charms: an “M” for Marat and a “D’ for Daniela. Smiling briefly, Daniela forgot about the turmoil that surrounded them. Slipping the bracelet on her wrist, she admired the five charms now on it.
“Oh, crap! I need to get ready for Nobu!” Daniela exclaimed jumping up from the armchair.
Forgetting the bracelet on her wrist, Daniela got ready for her date with Andy. Finishing her make-up, Daniela looked herself up and down in the mirror. Daniela wore embroidered jeans, a silky, blue top, and a pair of high-heeled sandals. Blowing a kiss playfully at the mirror, Daniela ran out of her room and out of the hotel.
*****
Daniela had managed to arrive at the restaurant only ten minutes late. Excited to see her, Andy forgot about how late she was and kissed her. Staring at her outfit, Andy whistled playfully as Daniela slapped his chest. As they sat down to dinner, Daniela looked down at her wrist.
Hanging from her wrist was the charm bracelet. In the hurry to get ready, Daniela had forgotten to take off the bracelet. Glancing at Andy, Daniela saw that he was involved with the expansive menu.
“Do you like the restaurant?” Andy asked.
“It’s very modern,” Daniela commented. She didn’t elaborate, because she was too busy twiddling with the two new charms.
“Is everything alright?”
“Everything’s fine,” Daniela said still not looking up from the charm bracelet.
“Isn’t that the bracelet we found earlier?” Andy asked.
“Yeah,” Daniela said absentmindedly.
“Are those two charms new?” Andy asked touching the “M” and the “D”.
“They stand for “mom” and “dad”,” Daniela explained quickly before Andy could think of anything else.
“Oh, that’s sweet,” Andy said smiling at Daniela. “Are you close to your parents?”
“Very close, but I don’t get to see them a lot,” Daniela answered regretfully.
“I have the same relationship with my parents,” Andy added squeezing Daniela’s hand.
Staring at her hand in his, Daniela wished desperately that Marat’s hand was covering hers. Marat had the nicest hands with long, delicate fingers. Andy’s hand wasn’t as impressive. There was an accumulation of hair on one side of his hand, and his fingernails were gnarled and chewed. Sighing to herself, she shook off the thoughts and continued her conversation with Andy.
*****
“This is a nice restaurant,” Dinara commented to Marat. “Thank you for inviting me.”
“It’s my pleasure. Nobu is the best restaurant in Miami,” Marat explained.
“Is that Roger Federer over there?” Dinara asked pointing to another booth.
“Yes, it is. Nobu is the place to be seen.”
“How did you get reservations?” Dinara asked.
“I made them over a month ago,” Marat answered then looked down at his hands. “I was going to bring Daniela here.”
“I’m sorry, Marat. I saw her today at the courts. Her practice session looked good.”
“Did you talk to her?” Marat asked hopefully.
“I did but not for long. She asked me if I had known the truth,” Dinara explained.
“I’m sorry, Dinara.”
“Why are you sorry?” Dinara asked.
“Because Daniela is now mad at you,” Marat explained.
“She’s not mad at me. I told her you tried to get a hold of her before she found out.”
“Did she believe you?”
“Daniela said she didn’t, but I know she did. She loves you so much, Marat,” Dinara said. “You have no idea how hard this is for her.”
“Wait!” Marat exclaimed. “Roger isn’t the only tennis star here.”
“What do you mean?” Dinara asked.
“Look,” Marat said and pointed to a table across the room.
“Oh my God!” Dinara exclaimed. “What are you going to do? She’s with Andy.”
“I think I have to use the bathroom,” Marat said with a devilish smile.
“Marat! What are you going to do?” Dinara asked her brother.
“Look at her wrist,” Marat instructed.
“She’s wearing your charm bracelet. But I thought she gave it back to you?”
“She did, but I sent it back to her with two new charms,” Marat said with a smile.
“Oh, sneaky,” Dinara joked.
Getting up from the table, Marat winked at his little sister. Walking to Daniela’s booth, Marat couldn’t help but smile evilly. If he wanted Daniela back, he would have to fight ugly. Stopping in front of their booth, Marat almost laughed at Andy’s surprised expression.
Daniela did not looked surprised, but slightly happy to see him. Before he had arrived, Daniela had been bored to tears with Andy’s conversation about American football. Staring at Andy and back at Marat, Daniela kept down an approaching laugh attack. Could her life get anymore dramatic?
“Hello, Andy,” Marat greeted coolly. “Daniela, good to see you.”
“I don’t know if I feel the same way,” Daniela replied.
“Really? I thought you would have been pleased to see me,” Marat commented.
“No, I have nothing to say to you,” Daniela said defiantly.
“No “thank you” for the charm bracelet and new charms?” Marat asked.
Andy’s eyes almost bulged out of his head. Staring at Daniela, Andy searched her face for an explanation.
“Did Marat give you that bracelet?” Andy asked hoarsely.
“A long time ago, Andy,” Daniela said patting Andy’s hand.
“What about the new charms?” Andy continued.
“You didn’t tell him?” Marat asked. “They stand for Daniela and Marat, not Daniela and Andy.”
“Asshole!” Andy shouted. “Get the hell away from our table!”
“Fine, fine. I’m leaving,” Marat said, winked at Daniela, and went back to his table.
“How did it go?” Dinara asked eagerly.
“I think Andy’s a little upset,” Marat said picking up his menu.
“What did you say?”
“I made note of Daniela’s charm bracelet,” Marat answered.
“You’re so evil,” Dinara said to her brother.
“It’s all to get her back,” Marat said. “She might need a tiny push in the right direction”.
Marat and Dinara glanced at Andy and Daniela’s booth. Daniela was desperately trying to explain to Andy, but he looked unconvinced. After a few minutes, Andy and Daniela left the restaurant without eating.
“I think I succeeded,” Marat commented.
“Either that or Daniela did,” Dinara added.
“Huh?”
“Maybe they decided to have some time alone,” Dinara answered. “We’ll find out tomorrow.”
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Post by Annie on Apr 3, 2006 14:19:20 GMT 3
Chapter 29
Waiting for the elevator to arrive in the hotel lobby, Andy tapped with foot on the hard marble floor. When the elevator appeared, Daniela and Andy waited for the doors to close before they spoke.
“Why are you wearing his bracelet?” Andy shouted.
“It was an accident,” Daniela explained.
“An accident? Do you still love him?” Andy continued. “He treated you like dirt!”
“I know he did,” Daniela replied.
The elevator stopped abruptly. Another guest hopped on before they could finish their argument. Waiting quietly, Daniela’s mind ran in ten different directions. How was she going to explain this? When the passenger got off, Daniela turned to Andy. His face was red with anger, and his fists were clenched tightly.
“Andy, I’m sorry,” Daniela said. “But you have to believe me. It was an accident.”
“Bullshit,” Andy yelled and pushed the elevator door button. “I’m not listening to this crap anymore. I’ll call you later.”
Before Daniela could explain any further, the elevator doors opened, and Andy got off. Alone in the elevator, Daniela leaned her tired head against the wall behind her. Why did she even try to explain the situation to Andy? She wasn’t in love with him; she was in love with Marat.
Making her way to the hotel room, Daniela stopped in front of Marat’s door. He wouldn’t be back to the hotel for another hour. Sighing desperately, Daniela proceeded to her room. Undressing and wiping off her make-up, Daniela put on her sweatpants and an oversized hooded sweatshirt.
Pulling the sheets back on her bed, Daniela climbed in and lay down. The humming of the air conditioner was the only sound in the room. Daniela turned from side to side trying to find a comfortable position, but nothing worked. Staring at her bedside table, Daniela’s eyes went instantly to the phone.
The phone seemed to be teasing her to dial Marat’s room. Several times, Daniela found her hands reaching for the phone, but she held back. But as the hours went by with no sleep, Daniela finally grabbed the receiver and dialed Marat’s room number.
“Hello?” Marat answered groggily.
“I hope I’m not interrupting a late night romp,” Daniela said.
“Daniela?” Marat asked.
“How could you do that to me?” Daniela asked.
“He needed to know the truth,” Marat answered.
“That’s a new one coming from you,” Daniela remarked. “I’ll decide what happens in my relationships, Marat.”
“You don’t want to be in a relationship with Andy!” Marat exclaimed.
“Says who?”
“Everyone knows you still love me,” Marat said. “Even Andy knows the truth now.”
“I might still love you, but I won’t let it happen.”
“Why not?”
“Because you cheated on me, and then you lied!” Daniela shouted.
“Calm down,” Marat pleaded.
“It’s your entire fault. I can’t even sleep right now,” Daniela admitted.
“Let’s talk about something else. How does tennis sound?” Marat suggested.
“I’ve heard about your draw,” Daniela said calming down. “Tough luck.”
“I’m sure you don’t feel the least bit sorry for me,” Marat said with a smile.
“You deserve it,” Daniela said as Marat began to laugh.
The conversation lasted for hours until the early morning sun peeked through their windows. Marat was ecstatic he had kept Daniela on the line for so long. This was a step in the right direction, and he knew it.
“I can’t believe it’s morning!” Daniela said in astonishment.
“I want to see you,” Marat said out of nowhere.
“Marat, I don’t…”
“Then it’s settled! I’ll be over in your room in a minute,” Marat said and hung up.
“Marat!” Daniela screamed, but he had already hung up. “Oh, no!”
Daniela knew that if he came over she wouldn’t be able to control herself. The love she had for him was stronger than the mistakes he had made. Hearing the knock at the door, Daniela bit hard on her lower lip. Opening the door, she stared back at Marat.
“Daniela, admit it,” Marat said. “We belong together.”
Daniela wrapped her hands around Marat’s neck and pulled him down to her face. Kissing his soft lips, Marat’s mustache tickled her nose. Smiling between kisses, Daniela laced her fingers through his curly hair. Picking Daniela up in his arms like a bride, Marat walked into her room and shut the door behind them.
Dropping Daniela softly on the bed, Marat followed suit beside her. Taking off her sweatshirt, Marat threw it half way across the room. Nibbling her collarbone, Marat’s hands lightly caressed her stomach. Without a care in the world, Daniela basked in the touch of his hands. Taking the hem of his shirt in her hands, Daniela tugged the garment off his chest and over his head.
“Anxious, are we?” Marat asked playfully.
Taking Marat’s face in her hands, Daniela stared into his eyes. Kissing his entire face, Daniela stopped and returned to staring into his expressive eyes.
“Marat, I love you,” Daniela declared for the first time.
“You don’t know how happy that makes me,” Marat said placing a kiss on her lips. “I love you, too.”
After their declarations, Marat and Daniela struggled awkwardly to remove their pants. Tug after tug, they finally kicked their pants to the floor. Staring at Daniela, Marat began to leave a trail of kisses down her stomach. Daniela sighed with pleasure that continued for the rest of the time.
*****
Waking up to Marat’s strong arms wrapped around her, Daniela sighed happily and scooted closer to his chest. It felt so right to be with him again. Her night with Andy wasn’t remotely close to the one Daniela had just had with Marat that morning. The main reason was because she hadn’t loved Andy.
“Are you awake, sunshine?” Marat asked pressing his lips to her forehead.
“I am, but I’m not sure if it was all a dream,” Daniela said.
“It wasn’t a dream,” Marat said lovingly. “We are back together.”
“What about Andy? The media? Everyone else?” Daniela asked confused.
“Forget about them,” Marat declared and wrapped his arms tighter around her slender body.
“I don’t know if I can face them,” Daniela said.
“I’ll take care of them,” Marat comforted.
“What should I say about Andy?”
“You can say he is a good friend that helped you at a difficult time,” Marat answered.
“Uh,” Daniela groaned.
“What is it?” Marat asked smoothing her hair out of her eyes.
“The dinner for the tournament is tonight,” Daniela explained. “I’m Andy’s date.”
“Do you still think he’ll show up after last night?”
“It’s a possibility,” Daniela said. “Either way, I need to get ready.”
Placing one last kiss on Marat’s lips, Daniela got out of bed and walked to the bathroom. Marat stayed in bed and went back to sleep. An hour later, Daniela exited the bathroom and cooed at Marat’s sleeping figure. At that moment, she heard a knock at the door.
“Hello,” Andy greeted when she opened the door. “Are you ready?”
“I’m surprised you came,” Daniela commented not moving from the door.
“I forgive you,” Andy said simply and placed a kiss on her cheek. “May I come in?”
“No, I mean, I’m ready to go,” Daniela explained in time.
“Let’s go then,” Andy said and offered Daniela his arm.
Walking down the hall together, Daniela looked back to her door. She wished she was still in bed with Marat, but that wasn’t possible tonight. Smiling over at Andy, she only felt a friendship with him, nothing more.
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Post by Annie on Apr 3, 2006 14:29:12 GMT 3
Chapter 30
Arriving at the awards ceremony for tennis, Daniela squeezed Andy’s arm for support. Camera bulbs flashed and reporters screamed as Daniela and Andy stepped on the red carpet. Letting go of Andy’s arm, Daniela made her way down the walk of doom alone. The last thing she needed was any further speculation about her personal life.
Smiling wider and brighter than she felt, Daniela gave off a stellar performance. Laughing and sharing light conversation with reporters, Daniela appeared to not have a care in the world. But in the back of her crowded mind, Daniela could only think of Marat alone in her hotel room. Finally, she entered the building where the dinner was being held.
“Wait up,” Andy called.
“Sorry, I wanted to get away from the media as soon as possible,” Daniela explained when Andy arrived next to her.
“I understand,” Andy said leading Daniela to their table.
“Why did you forgive me?” Daniela asked curiously.
“I know how it feels to go through a break-up. You’re confused right now and maybe a little forgetful,” Andy teased referring to her excuse the night before.
“Andy, I need to talk with you,” Daniela said as they sat down at their table.
“Later,” Andy said looking around their crowded table.
“Fine, but it has to be done,” Daniela said adamantly.
“You sound so serious,” Andy laughed.
“It’s a serious subject.”
“Okay, okay. Calm down,” Andy said trying to kiss Daniela. But at the last second, Daniela turned her face and felt a kiss on her cheek. “Are you feeling alright?”
“Maybe a little nervous,” Daniela answered.
“Ai and you are nominated for best female doubles team, aren’t you? You’ll win. I’m positive,” Andy complimented.
Dinner started and Daniela found that Andy eating wasn’t the best conversation partner. Turning to her left, Daniela chatted with Feliciano Lopez. Daniela was thrilled to use her Spanish speaking skills. She badly wanted to visit Spain. Any vacation from tennis would be welcomed.
When the awards began, Daniela stretched her neck and searched for Ai among the other circular tables. After a few minutes, Daniela spotted Ai at a corner table watching the acceptance speeches. Waving her arms over her head, Daniela got Ai’s attention quickly. Holding up crossed fingers, they waited for the best female doubles team to be announced.
Gasping with surprise, the presenter revealed that Ai and Daniela had won. Walking up together, Daniela and Ai accepted their award with short and sweet speeches. After the ceremony had ended, Daniela wanted nothing more than to return to the hotel. But Andy insisted they go out with the rest of the nominees.
“Welcome back to Mansion,” Andy said as they entered the hotel.
“Not for long,” Daniela muttered.
“What did you say?”
“I’m not feeling very well,” Daniela lied.
“Let’s stay a bit longer,” Andy said. “You won an award. You should be celebrating!”
“Can we talk?” Daniela asked.
“Yeah, I’ll find a table,” Andy said looking around the club. “Over here.”
Bumping and pushing their way through the crowds, Andy and Daniela jumped at the table before another group could take it.
“What is it you need to talk to me about?”
“It’s about you and me,” Daniela started but stopped when a waitress arrived.
“Can I get you anything?” the waitress asked.
“I’ll have a beer. Daniela, do you want anything?” Andy asked.
“No, I’m not in the mood for a hang over,” Daniela answered.
“Thanks, that’s all,” Andy said to the waitress.
“As I was saying, you’ve been an amazing friend. You’ve looked after me, and that’s really sweet,” Daniela continued.
“It was nothing,” Andy said with a comforting smile.
“I think we’re on different tracks though. You’ve got the wrong idea about us,” Daniela finished when the waitress returned.
“I’m sorry to interrupt, but I didn’t get what kind of beer you wanted,” the waitress apologized and looked to Andy.
“A Miller Lite, please,” Andy confirmed to the waitress and returned his gaze to Daniela.
“Do you remember what I said?” Daniela asked.
“Yes, I do. But I think we’re on the same track. I understand our relationship perfectly,” Andy explained.
“You do? I’m so glad you understand,” Daniela said hugging Andy.
“I don’t think we’re just friends. I am serious about you, Daniela,” Andy continued showing he had no idea what she was talking about.
“No, Andy. Maybe you don’t understand,” Daniela said until she felt a hand on her shoulder.
“Hey, girl!” Gisela greeted. “Here again?”
“Hi, Gisela,” Daniela said. “Do you need something?”
“Nope, I just wanted to congratulate you,” Gisela answered. “Where’s Ai?”
“I think she went to the hotel,” Daniela said.
“Well, I’m gone,” Gisela said. “I’ll leave you two love birds alone.” Andy laughed at the comment, but Daniela cringed.
“Now, Andy…” Daniela tried to say but was cut off by Andy.
“Wait, I got you something,” Andy said rummaging through his coat pocket. “I thought you needed a replacement for your old charm bracelet.”
Finally finding what he was looking for, Andy revealed a small plastic bag. Inside the clear plastic was diamond tennis bracelet. Taking the bracelet out of the bag, Andy clasped it around Daniela’s wrist. Daniela’s mouth still hung open after it was dangling from her arm.
“Andy, I really don’t deserve this,” Daniela began. “I can’t accept this.”
“I got it for you after our fight in the elevator,” Andy explained.
“It must have been expensive,” Daniela commented staring at the glittering diamonds.
“You’re worth it,” Andy replied.
“No, I’m not,” Daniela murmured. “You have no idea.”
“What?”
“Nothing, it was nothing,” Daniela lied. “I’m going back to the hotel.”
“Are you okay?”
“No, I feel sick.”
“Do you want me to take you back?” Andy asked.
“No, you stay and have fun,” Daniela said kissing Andy on the cheek.
“Call me when you get there,” Andy said as Daniela walked away.
Entering the warm night air, Daniela raced to the hotel. Her stomach was doing flip-flops, and she felt like she was going to puke. Arriving at the hotel, Daniela took off the bracelet and threw it in her purse. Pushing into her room, she prayed Marat would be there.
Going straight to her bed, Daniela sighed with relief to see Marat still asleep. Throwing off her dress and heels, Daniela put on Marat’s tee-shirt and got into bed. Snuggling up to his chest, Daniela felt his arms curl around her.
“Did you win?” Marat asked sleepily.
“We won,” Daniela answered.
“How was your date?”
“Don’t you feel weird asking me that?” Daniela said looking up at Marat.
“Very weird,” Marat answered.
“I tried to tell him the truth, but he thought I was saying I wanted to be with him,” Daniela explained. “It was so frustrating.”
“He has to know the truth,” Marat said.
“I know, I know,” Daniela said. “You don’t know how difficult this is for me.”
“Oh, I understand,” Marat said with a laugh.
“Oh, yeah. I almost forgot.”
“That’s a good thing,” Marat said kissing Daniela’s forehead.
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