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Post by Annie on Apr 3, 2006 14:45:57 GMT 3
Chapter 31
The sheets rustled and the mattress moved up and down. Opening her eyes to the morning light, Daniela glanced around her hotel room. Marat was no longer in her bed. Worried and anxious to be back in his arms, Daniela looked around frantically.
Standing by the window, Marat stared out at the sprawling views of white sand beaches and waters as blue as the sky. His green eyes were transfixed on the glittering horizon. Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, Daniela yawned and stretched luxuriously.
“Marat,” Daniela called softly. “Come back to bed, darling.”
“I wish I could,” Marat said softly staring at Daniela lovingly.
“Where do you have to go that’s more important than me?” Daniela asked jokingly showing off her rows of white teeth.
“I have to go to practice with Peter,” Marat explained walking to the side of the bed where Daniela laid.
“When are you going to meet him?”
“I’m supposed to meet him at the courts at two o’clock,” Marat answered.
“It’s only one o’clock,” Daniela whined. “At least lie down with me.”
“If I do, I know I’ll never be able to leave,” Marat said with a playful smile across his face.
“I promise to be good,” Daniela said with an evil smile.
“I don’t believe you.”
“Pinky promise,” Daniela said and held up her pinky.
“Okay, if you pinky promise,” Marat said.
Walking to other side of the large, comfortable bed, Marat pulled back the sheets and got into bed. Throwing the sheets up to his waist, Marat scooted to Daniela. Daniela rolled her back to rest against Marat’s chest, while Marat wrapped his arms around her. They were close and comfortable in each other’s arms without the world to bother them.
“Is that better?” Marat whispered in her ear.
“Much better, thank you,” Daniela replied.
“What are you going to do while I’m practicing?” Marat asked.
“Oh, I’ll probably visit my other boyfriend. I wouldn’t want him to be jealous,” Daniela joked.
“Are you going to tell him?”
“I don’t know how to,” Daniela admitted. “I don’t want to hurt him.”
“It will be worse if you continue to wait,” Marat reminded Daniela thinking of his own mistakes.
“What if it upsets him before his match? He’s already having enough trouble as it is,” Daniela remarked.
“I know this sounds harsh, but it has to be done today,” Marat said sternly. “If not, maybe we should stay away from each other till it’s done.”
“Marat!” Daniela said in surprise. “You don’t really mean that, do you?”
“I’m serious, Daniela,” Marat said loosening his grip on her. “We can’t be together until Andy is history.”
“Marat, I still want to be friends with him,” Daniela whined as Marat got out of bed.
“It would never work just being friends,” Marat declared irritably.
Mumbling to herself, Daniela threw the sheets off her body. Stepping onto the carpet, Daniela walked to Marat quickly.
“You can’t tell me who to be friends with,” Daniela told him adamantly.
“I don’t care who you are friends with, as long as it’s not Andy Roddick!” Marat exclaimed.
“Why?”
“Because I despise the guy! You’re supposed to care about my feelings,” Marat lectured Daniela as if she was a four-year-old.
“I’m not going to throw him out like trash,” Daniela shouted.
“It’s me or him,” Marat said.
“I’m not going to choose,” Daniela said crossing her arms across her chest.
“Fine! I’ll make it for you! Give me back my shirt!” Marat shouted.
“Why?”
“Because I’m leaving, and I need my shirt,” Marat answered.
Looking down at her chest, Daniela remembered that she had slept in his shirt last night. Tearing the shirt off of her body, Daniela threw the shirt at Marat’s face. Marat took the shirt with a growl, put it on, and left the room. Standing in her underwear, Daniela shivered and went to find her clothes.
*****
“Is my friendship with Andy more important than the love I share with Marat?” Daniela thought to herself as she exited the steaming shower.
Staring at the fogged up mirror, Daniela wiped her hand across the moist glass. The mirror revealed her reflection with stunning magnitude. Before she and Marat had gotten back together, Daniela’s eyes were blank and cold. But now, Daniela’s eyes glittered on her face. An hour later, Daniela had decided what truly mattered to her. Walking through the lobby of the hotel, Daniela scanned the room for Andy. She had tried his room earlier, but he hadn’t been there. Sighing with relief, she saw Andy sitting on a couch in the corner of the lobby.
Gulping loudly, Daniela started to walk over to Andy. She could hear the clicking over her heels against the hard, marble floors beneath her. Andy was reading the sports section of the paper alone.
“Hi, Andy,” Daniela greeted sitting next to him.
“I was about to check on you,” Andy said as he folded the newspaper.
“I want to make this easy,” Daniela said.
“Make what easy?” Andy asked and looked at her wrist. “Where’s your bracelet?”
“It’s in my room,” Daniela explained. “I’ll bring it to you soon.”
“Daniela, I don’t want it back. I gave it to you,” Andy said taking her hand in his. “You mean a lot to me.”
“Same here, but we have different levels of affection for each other.”
“I told you I’m ready for a commitment,” Andy said with a comforting smile.
“That’s great, but…” Daniela tried to say.
As Daniela was trying to finish her sentence, Andy leaned into her body. Daniela tried to move her head back, but Andy’s hand stopped her as it landed on her neck. Kissing her smooth lips, Andy delved deeper till his tongue was in her mouth. Helpless to do anything, Daniela surrendered to his intrusion.
But as the kiss continued, Daniela heard a loud cough in front of them. Opening their eyes and staring upward, Daniela and Andy were surprised to find Marat standing there. With his racket bag swung on his shoulder and sweat dripping down his temples, Marat glared at Andy with jealousy and Daniela with disgust.
“I see you’ve made your decision,” Marat said.
“Marat, wait…” Daniela tried to say.
“She made it a long time ago,” Andy replied for her. “Get out of here!”
“Oh, I’m already gone,” Marat said turning around.
Daniela watched in horror and speechlessness as Marat went back over to his coach. Together Marat and Peter walked to a set of open elevator doors and disappeared inside.
“Can you believe that jerk?” Andy asked Daniela.
“I, I, I think I’m going to be sick,” Daniela said grabbing her stomach.
“Let’s get you to your room quickly,” Andy said helping Daniela stand.
Minutes later, Daniela was crouched over her toilet seat puking. She had never felt so sick in her life, or so heartbroken. Marat had seen something he should have never seen. She didn’t enjoy the kiss; Marat wouldn’t believe her though. Could she have lost him forever?
*****
The first set had gone to Henman easily, 6-3. The second set wasn't going much better. As Marat sat in his chair during a break, he thought of all the reasons he was playing like crap. For one, he was still recovering from his knee injury. Second, Marat had recently discovered Daniela’s true intentions.
Marat had thought they were finally together. He had thought their love was the truest thing on the planet. But as he sulked back to the baseline, Marat realized they would never be together. Daniela had betrayed him like he had betrayed her. Taking his frustration out on a ball, Marat catapulted it out of the stadium. As the ball spiraled out of the stadium and into the night sky, Marat saw his relationship with Daniela do the same.
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Post by Annie on Apr 4, 2006 10:04:05 GMT 3
Chapter 32
“Marat! Pick up the phone,” Daniela hissed as she waited for Marat to answer his hotel phone.
With aggravated relish, Daniela slammed the phone on its holder and let out a great sigh. Daniela had been trying in vain since this morning to contact Marat, but she had yet to get a hold of him. More likely was the fact that Marat wasn’t answering his phone on purpose.
After she had exited the bathroom yesterday, Andy refused to leave her alone. Andy spent the rest of the day holed up in her hotel room administering medication and dotting attention. His round, worried eyes prevented Daniela from throwing him out of her room. At that moment, Andy was the only man she could turn to.
But when she woke this morning, her stomach ache had disappeared and was replaced by an unexplainable emptiness. Daniela knew that turning to Andy for comfort was the last thing she should have done. But that was history now; she had to find Marat. As she sat on her bed perplexed, Daniela heard the ringing of her cell phone.
“Hello?” Daniela answered in anticipation of Marat’s voice.
“Daniela, it’s Nigel. Do you want to practise before your match?”
“Oh, Nigel. Sure, that sounds fine. I’ll meet you in the lobby in ten minutes,” Daniela answered with remorse.
“You don’t sound very happy,” Nigel commented.
Nigel had no idea that Marat and Daniela had gotten back together for that brief time. He also did not know they had broken up. Taking a deep breath, Daniela prepared to explain the situation to Nigel.
“Nigel, do you remember a few nights ago when I went to Nobu with Andy?” Daniela asked.
“Yes, I remember,” Nigel responded.
“Marat was at the restaurant that night. And he made his presence known,” Daniela said.
“Why would he do something like that?”
“A few nights ago, I gave him back the charm bracelet. He returned it to me that night with two new charms on it. Absentmindedly, I put on the bracelet and forgot to take it off,” Daniela explained.
“And when he saw you wearing the bracelet,” Nigel began.
“He commented on it, and Andy got really jealous and angry. Later that night I called Marat to yell at him, but we ended up talking for hours. He came to my room, Nigel,” Daniela said as if she had done something wrong.
“You’re back together? Congratulations, dear! But why are you sad?”
“Because yesterday while Marat was at practice, I went to find Andy to break off our relationship. I found him in the lobby and tried to explain. But he didn’t understand. He kissed me, and Marat walked in at the same time,” Daniela said. “He hates me, Nigel.”
“That would explain his loss last night,” Nigel commented quietly.
“Oh, I forgot all about his match! Was it that bad?”
“He lost in straight sets to Henman,” Nigel explained. “He launched a ball out of the stadium, too.”
“I’m sure it was in my honor,” Daniela said with dark humor. “I’ve got to find him before he leaves!”
“He’s playing doubles with Philippoussis,” Nigel replied. “He’s not playing doubles until Sunday. You have plenty of time.”
“Nigel, how am I going to concentrate?” Daniela asked in vain concerning her second round match.
“You’ll do fine. Marat wouldn’t want you to lose on his benefit,” Nigel comforted.
“I wouldn’t be so certain if I were you.”
“Erase all of this drama from your mind and come to practice,” Nigel instructed.
“Okay, I’ll see you soon.”
Throwing her cell phone in her racket bag, Daniela ran to the bathroom to get ready. As she put her blonde hair into a ponytail, Daniela looked down at the sink counter. Staring back at her were two bracelets: the charm bracelet and the tennis bracelet.
If she wore Marat’s bracelet, there was a chance that Andy could show up at her match and see it. But if she didn’t wear the charm bracelet, Daniela would be betraying her heart. Without a second thought, Daniela snatched the charm bracelet off the counter and clasped it around her wrist. Jewelry wasn’t very practical for playing tennis, but love was never very practical itself.
*****
“I told you could do it, Daniela!” Nigel said to Daniela as he met her outside the locker room.
Daniela had just won her second round against Zuzana Ondraskova. It had taken Daniela three sets, but the important thing was that she won. The final score was 6-3, 5-7, 6-3. In the second set, Daniela had lost her composure when she noticed Andy sitting in the stands.
Andy hadn’t been sitting in her box, but was only a few boxes away from where the cameras focused on Nigel. Remembering the dangling charm bracelet, Daniela swore under her breath. The rest of her service game, Daniela was awkward and then broken by Ondraskova.
As soon as the set ended, Daniela walked to her seat and sneakily removed the bracelet from her wrist and threw it into her bag. Glancing up at Andy, he waved with an encouraging smile. Andy hadn’t noticed the bracelet after all. After he had leaned back into his seat, Daniela looked around to make sure no one had noticed him. With his white Lacoste hat pulled over his eyes, no one had paid attention to him.
“Did you see Andy?” Daniela asked her coach.
“Yes, he was sitting a few boxes away. He found me after the match and told me he’d see you later,” Nigel relied. “He had to go to his doubles match with Robby Ginepri.”
“Good,” Daniela sighed.
“I guess you’re not going to his doubles match,” Nigel joked.
“Not a snowball’s chance in hell,” Daniela responded.
“Ready for your press conference, Miss Hantuchova?” a press official asked.
“Yes, I’m ready. Do I have a choice?” Daniela answered and walked with the woman into a press room.
Gesturing to the table in front of the room, Daniela followed her directions and sat at the long table with a lone chair in the middle. Pushing a piece of her hair behind her ear, Daniela prepared for a steady flow of questions. As the conference began, the questions revolved around her match until the end.
“Is it true you are no longer dating Marat Safin?” a reporter asked.
“I don’t believe my personal life is any of your business,” Daniela responded with a hint of aggression.
“Did he not get in a fight with Andy Roddick over you?”
“I’m flattered you think men would fight over me, but this is not true,” Daniela answered trying to lighten the mood.
“People who witnessed the fight are saying that they were,” the reporter continued to dig.
“If you’re looking for a story, you won’t find one here,” Daniela replied.
“Are you dating Andy Roddick?” another reporter called from the back of the room.
“Once again, my personal life remains personal,” Daniela snapped.
“We’re just curious,” the reporter responded.
“Well, I really don’t care. It’s none of your business,” Daniela said in a matter-of-fact tone. “Thank you, but I believe this press conference is over.”
Pushing her chair away from the table, Daniela got up and walked away from the table. As she passed the confused moderator and questioning reporters, Daniela nodded her head in goodbye and left.
“That went nicely,” Nigel commented when she exited the room.
“I’m tired of being walked over, Nigel,” Daniela said taking her bags from him.
“As long as that aggressiveness comes out on court, I have no problem with this new confidence.”
“Very well. When are Ai and I playing doubles?” Daniela asked as they walked to their car.
“I thought you’d never ask,” Nigel said with a grim smile. “You play tomorrow afternoon.”
“Against who?” Daniela asked throwing her bags in the trunk of their car.
“The team consists of Anastasia Myskina and Dinara Safina,” Nigel revealed.
“You’re kidding, surely,” Daniela said with a loud gulp.
“I wish I was,” Nigel said. “But maybe Marat will be there.”
“He never comes to his sister’s matches,” Daniela said.
“Maybe you’ll get lucky, and he’ll be there,” Nigel winked and got into the car.
*****
“Hello?” Daniela answered her cell phone.
“Congratulations! Nigel told you why I couldn’t be there, right?” Andy greeted.
“Yes, he did. Good job yourself,” Daniela returned. “I heard you won your doubles match.”
“Thank you. I was surprised you didn’t come to my match,” Andy commented.
“I had a rough press conference,” Daniela explained. It wasn’t entirely a lie.
“I’m sorry. I had a lot of those at Wimbledon last year,” Andy comforted. “Would you like to come to dinner with me?”
“I don’t know,” Daniela said hesitantly. “I have a tough doubles match tomorrow.”
“It’s just dinner. I have a singles match tomorrow.”
“I’m going to have to say ‘no, thank you’,” Daniela said.
“Okay, I’ll respect that. Are you coming to my match tomorrow night?”
“Isn’t that a little dangerous?” Daniela asked.
“You can bring a friend and sit in another box,” Andy explained. “I’ll even arrange the tickets.”
“Andy, it seems a bit risky,” Daniela tried to say.
“Please, since you’re not coming to dinner with me,” Andy asked sweetly.
“Oh, alright,” Daniela said.
“I’ll have someone bring you tickets,” Andy said. “Bye.”
“Bye.”
Well this was going to be fun.
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Post by Annie on Apr 5, 2006 8:39:54 GMT 3
Chapter 33
Daniela’s travel alarm buzzed annoyingly on her bedside table. Opening her heavy eyelids, Daniela winced at the unforgiving sun pouring through the window. Letting out a long sigh, Daniela turned off her alarm and sat up in bed. Waiting for her eyes to adjust, she hung her head between her shoulders and stared at the carpeted floors beneath.
Hearing an equally annoying banging at her door, Daniela growled and fell back on her bed. But as the knocking continued, Daniela opened her eyes, got out of bed, and answered the door. Ai stood there with two cups of coffee and a perky smile.
“I hope those two are for me,” Daniela joked as she let Ai in the room.
“No, silly. One for me and one for you,” Ai answered with a smile as she handed Daniela a cup.
“It looks like you’ve already had twenty this morning,” Daniela said taking a sip of the warm coffee and looking at the clock. “Jeez, it’s only eight in the morning!”
“We need to practise before our doubles match,” Ai explained. “We’ll be on court by two o’clock.”
“This is going to be the worst doubles match ever!” Daniela moaned and fell into her bed.
“Why? Oh, yeah. I forgot Dinara is Marat’s sister,” Ai said regretfully.
“You don’t even know the half of it,” Daniela said. “Marat and I got back together.”
“You did! When did this happen?” Ai asked excitedly.
“I think it started three nights ago,” Daniela tried to remember. “These last few days have been a blur.”
“I’m sure they have. But why do you dread playing Dinara? There’s no bad blood between you anymore.”
“Marat saw me kissing Andy when I was trying to break up with him. Andy didn’t understand what I was saying,” Daniela mumbled into her pillow.
“Wow! And now you’re not talking again?” Ai asked.
“I’ve tried calling him so many times. But I think it’s the end,” Daniela said as she started to cry.
“No, Daniela. Don’t cry,” Ai said as she rushed over to her friend. “It’s not over till the fat lady sings!”
“Oh, the fat lady has sang, been booed off stage, and had tomatoes thrown at her,” Daniela said between sobs.
“You two are meant to be,” Ai said reassuringly.
“Not Marat and I,” Daniela croaked. “It seems I’m doomed to be stuck with Andy!”
“Give the guy a break! Andy’s not that bad looking,” Ai joked.
“No, he’s very attractive. But he’ll never mean anything to me. Marat is the one I want to be with!” Daniela exclaimed wiping away the tears from her face.
“Then go out there and fight for him! You surely still have Dinara in your corner,” Ai said handing Daniela a tissue.
“If we win, she won’t be around for the rest of the tournament.”
“But she’ll still have enough time to rely a message to Marat.”
“Should I tell her before or after the match?” Daniela asked blowing her nose.
“Before the match might be the best time. No one is too cheery after they’ve lost,” Ai reminded Daniela.
“Right,” Daniela remembered. “I better stop crying and get ready.”
Struggling away from her bed, Daniela walked awkwardly to the bathroom. Once again as she finished getting ready, her two bracelets stared back at her.
“Sorry, Andy,” Daniela said to herself as she clasped the charm bracelet across her wrist, “but Marat comes first.”
*****
“Ugh!” Marat screamed when he missed a volley.
The ball hit his racket and fell to the net. Marat was practicing with his doubles partner, Mark Philippoussis. The entire practice had been a disaster. Mark groaned in frustration at Marat’s lack of concentration. Before they had started practicing, Marat had told Mark the whole saga with Daniela.
“Marat, I understand you’re going through a hell of a time, but we need to practice,” Mark said walking up to Marat. “Our doubles match is tomorrow.”
“I know,” Marat grumbled. “I’m sorry this is affecting me.”
Just as he said that, Marat heard a familiar voice chatting nearby. Looking to his right, Marat was struck with a wave of nausea. Setting their bags down on the bench next to their court, Daniela and Ai chatted away like teenagers. They were so preoccupied with their conversation that they never noticed Marat and Mark staring at them.
“Exactly what we needed,” Mark said sarcastically.
“Hello, boys,” Ai called from their court.
Daniela turned in the direction her friend was waving and cringed. Taking her stare from Mark and Marat, Daniela placed it on Ai in anger. Ai simply smiled back at her and walked over to Mark. Daniela couldn’t believe what her friend was doing. Was she insane? Had Ai finally lost it?
“Hi, Mark,” Ai greeted the Australian. “How are you?”
“I’m fine,” Mark answered warily. “How about you?”
“I’m great,” Ai returned. “Daniela and I are here to practice.”
“That’s nice,” Mark commented still confused.
“I was wondering if you’d like to play against us. Marat and you against Daniela and me.”
“That’s not going to happen,” Marat declared.
“Actually, that’s not a bad idea,” Mark said to Ai with a wink; he finally figured out what Ai was up to.
“Mark! Think about what you said,” Marat pleaded.
“Marat, I think it’s a great idea. You’re not playing so well right now. Why not?” Mark asked with a mischievous smile.
Marat opened his mouth to deliver a blistering remark, but Mark started walking to the other court with Ai. Helpless to argue further, Marat swallowed hard and followed behind them.
“Hello, Daniela,” Mark greeted Daniela kissing her on the cheek.
“Hi,” Daniela said hesitantly. “What are you two doing over here?”
“Marat and I are going to play against you girls,” Mark answered and pulled Marat from behind him.
“Let’s get started,” Ai said handing Mark two balls. “You serve first.”
Mark nodded in agreement and dragged Marat with him to their side of the court. Ai smiled at Daniela and pushed her to the other side of the court. Before Ai went to her position, Daniela grabbed her elbow and pulled Ai to her side.
“You’re so evil,” Daniela whispered. “But so smart!”
“I know it!” Ai agreed and skipped to her position gleefully.
*****
“OUT!” Ai shouted.
Ai was referring to a ball that Mark hit. The ball had been obviously in, but Ai was trying to have a little fun with the boys. So far, Ai had only succeeded in making Mark laugh while Marat held his stern facial expressions.
“No it wasn’t,” Mark laughed.
“Oh, it was way out!” Daniela laughed back.
“Are you blind?” Marat shouted; this was the first time he had talked the entire match. “It was in by two feet.”
“Nah, it was out,” Daniela responded.
“You’re ridiculous!” Marat yelled; it was evident from his voice he was taking this seriously.
“We’re only joking Marat,” Daniela said.
“You never take anything seriously! You don’t take others’ feelings into consideration!” Marat continued to shout.
“And you always jump to conclusions!” Daniela screamed back walking up to the net.
“Well, when your girlfriend is kissing another man in a hotel lobby, it’s pretty much over!” Marat shouted walking to the net also.
“I’m guessing we’re no longer talking about a line call,” Mark said to Ai as they watched the fireworks.
“Did you ever think it was a mistake?” Daniela asked.
“A mistake?! Please! I’m surprised you could breathe!” Marat yelled.
Marat and Daniela were now pressed against the net. Their faces were mere inches away. Daniela could feel Marat’s hot breath on her forehead as she stared into his eyes. But when she looked in his eyes, she did not see anger but hurt.
“Marat,” Daniela whispered. “Listen to me: It was a mistake.”
“I don’t believe you,” Marat said quietly.
“I would never hurt you like that,” Daniela said. “I love you too much, and you know that.”
“Whatever,” Marat said raising his hands in the air.
Pushing off at the net, Marat turned away from Daniela. Hurrying to his court, Marat threw his racket in his bag and left. Daniela was left at the net, still staring where he had stood only a minute before. Everything and everyone were a blur around her as Mark ran to catch up to Marat, and Ai went to Daniela.
“Don’t worry about it sweetheart,” Ai comforted. “You can still talk to Dinara.”
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Post by Annie on Apr 5, 2006 8:40:47 GMT 3
Chapter 34
Five hours later, Daniela and Ai walked into the locker room. Sitting on a bench near the door, Dinara and Anastasia stopped talking and stared at them. But in particular, their eyes were fastened on Daniela as she put down her bags and turned around to face Dinara.
“Hey, Dinara. Can we talk?” Daniela asked.
Dinara didn’t answer Daniela but looked away. Dinara stared at Anastasia and then down at her shoes. Daniela coughed loudly to get Dinara’s attention, but she wouldn’t respond.
“Dinara, did you hear me?” Daniela asked tapping her foot.
“I heard you, but there’s nothing to talk about,” Dinara answered. “Marat has already told me everything.”
“But Marat doesn’t understand,” Daniela said defensively.
“Oh, he understands. If you’re just trying to make this easier on him, forget it!” Dinara replied.
“I don’t want to break up with him and neither does he,” Daniela explained.
“You can’t have two boyfriends; this isn’t Utah and Marat’s not Mormon,” Dinara said.
“I only want him!” Daniela shouted. “That’s what I tried to tell Andy, but he kissed me! Marat walked in at the wrong time!”
“Maybe we should talk about this after the match,” Anastasia said to both Dinara and Daniela.
“No, wait a minute Anastasia,” Dinara said. “Why didn’t you pull away from Andy?”
“I couldn’t, but I tried to move away. Andy’s arms were all over me; I was trapped,” Daniela explained.
“And then Marat walked in…,” Dinara said.
“And everything went so fast. I’ve tried calling him a million times, but he won’t answer his cell phone or his hotel phone,” Daniela said in exasperation.
“So you picked him over Andy?” Dinara asked.
“Of course! I love your brother. I’ve been wearing the charm bracelet he gave me non-stop,” Daniela said holding up her wrist.
“This is quite a mess,” Dinara said getting up from the bench and walking to Daniela.
“Tell me about it! I feel like we’re all part of some crazy, dramatic fan fiction!” Daniela wailed as Dinara gave her a reassuring hug.
“Um,” a tournament director said. “It’s time to go on.”
“Thank you, they’ll be out in a minute,” Ai said gathering her bag and Daniela’s bag.
“Dinara, you have to tell Marat the truth,” Daniela said as they pulled apart.
“I will,” Dinara comforted.
“Don’t let him shut you out,” Daniela said.
“Oh, honey! He couldn’t if he tried,” Dinara said with a laugh.
*****
“Game, set, match. Hantuchova/Sugiyama over Safina/Myskina, 6-4, 6-2,” the referee called from his chair.
Giving Ai a huge hug, Daniela walked to the net to shake hands with Anastasia and Dinara. But as she reached Dinara, Daniela noticed a familiar face in the crowd. Sitting next to Rausa, Marat stared at Daniela with fascination. Daniela hugged Dinara and whispered in her ear.
“Marat is here,” Daniela said.
“He is?” Dinara asked looking at her box. “Oh, wow. He didn’t come to watch me.”
Daniela’s mouth opened in surprise at the comment. As they walked to their bags, Daniela nudged Ai in the ribs and pointed to Marat. Ai smiled widely and pushed Daniela off the court quickly.
“He’s here for you,” Ai screamed excitedly.
“Should I go find him?” Daniela asked.
“Yes, right now!” Ai said taking Daniela’s bag. “Go, now!”
Running from her friend in anticipation, Daniela pushed past tournament officials and ran to the exits. If Marat hadn’t left already, then he would exit those doors. Standing at the exit near the box he had been sitting in, Daniela leaned her tired back against the cement wall. As her eyes skimmed over the heads, Daniela spotted a curly head of hair high above the others.
“Marat!” Daniela shouted above the crowd. “Wait, Marat!”
Marat stopped in his tracks and turned in Daniela’s directions. But when his eyes settled on Daniela’s, Marat turned around and walked away. Shocked and hurt, Daniela ran after Marat with all the speed she could muster.
“Why are you running away?” Daniela shouted as she reached Marat.
“I can’t even look at you without wanting to…,” Marat tried to say, but it was obvious the emotions were too much for him.
“Marat, it doesn’t have to be like this,” Daniela said touching his arm. “Can we please talk?”
“Daniela,” Marat croaked but then brushed away her hand. “I’ve got to go.”
“Marat,” Daniela shouted but he was already gone.
Daniela stood in the flow of the crowds as she stared after Marat. Soon his tall frame left her view, and she remained stuck in her position. Daniela’s legs were numb, and she found it hard to breathe. She felt a gentle touch on her arm and turned around. Ai was standing there with silent eyes.
“I’m sorry,” Ai said. “You still have Dinara.”
“Can you take me to the hotel?” Daniela asked.
“Of course,” Ai said and ushered Daniela in the opposite direction.
*****
It was eight o’clock in Miami, and Daniela was supposed to be at Andy’s match that would start in thirty minutes. But as she lay in her bed, Daniela fanned the pair of tickets Andy had sent her in front of her face. If she went, Daniela would only dig herself into a deeper hole. But if she didn’t, Daniela couldn’t tell Andy the truth.
“I’m going,” Daniela said to herself. “Andy will know the truth by the end of the night!”
Sitting up in bed, Daniela grabbed her cell phone and called Ai. Ai agreed to go, but didn’t understand why Daniela felt the need to go. Shrugging off Ai’s confusion, Daniela told her to meet her at the stadium in twenty minutes.
Holding to her word, Ai was already at the stadium when Daniela arrived. Hugging quickly, they ran up the stairs to find their seats. Although they weren’t sitting in Andy’s box, Ai and Daniela were still very close. They were so close that John, Andy’s coach, and Doug, Andy’s trainer, didn’t have to shout to say “hi”.
“Are you sure we won’t be seen?” Ai whispered to Daniela as they sat down.
“Andy said the cameras never look over here,” Daniela whispered back.
“Watch, tonight is the one night when they do,” Ai said grimly.
“Way to be optimistic!” Daniela responded.
The match was an easy win for Andy. Andy was confident in his serve and ground strokes. From time to time, Andy would look up at Daniela and smile. Daniela would smile back in reassurance, but every time he glanced at her, she sank lower in her seat and pulled down her hat. Andy won the match against Alberto Martin in straight sets, 6-3, 6-1.
“Nice win for Andy,” Ai said. “Too bad he has to dumped in an hour.”
“It has to be done,” Daniela said as they walked to the locker room. “If he hangs around any longer, he’ll continue to confuse and upset Marat.”
When they finally found Andy, he was chatting with coach and trainer about the success of his match. Brightening visibly when he saw Daniela, Andy reached out to hug Daniela and placed a kiss on her cheek.
“Thank you for coming,” Andy said. “Great win today in doubles!”
“Thank you, same to you,” Daniela said. “Are you going out to dinner with your team?”
“Yes, and I’d like Ai and you to come.”
“Well, Ai has to leave and I have some errands to run,” Daniela explained.
“I do?” Ai asked.
“Yes, you do,” Daniela hissed.
“But it’s free food,” Ai whispered.
“Anyway,” Daniela continued after she shot Ai a deadly glance, “you can come over to my room when you finish.”
“Are you sure?” Andy asked.
“I’m sure, but I’ll see you in an hour or two,” Daniela reassured as she started to walk away.
“Wait,” Andy said and gave her another kiss. “Now you can leave.”
“Thank you for your permission,” Daniela laughed and walked off with Ai.
*****
Once Daniela had said goodbye to Ai in the lobby, she walked to her room leisurely. The hotel was ultra modern and fashionable, but she had been too preoccupied and depressed to notice. Walking into her room, she threw her purse in the closet and grabbed the tennis bracelet off of her bathroom counter.
Pacing the floor with the delicate length of gold and diamonds, Daniela finally sat down in a chair. She had been running on emotional overdrive for the past few days. This week had been the longest week of her life, and she had never felt so tired. But as she attempted to relax, Daniela heard Andy’s familiar tap at her door.
“You got here earlier than I thought,” Daniela greeted as she opened the door.
“I didn’t want to keep you waiting,” Andy smiled.
“Please, come in and sit down. We have to talk about something,” Daniela said as he entered her room.
“I thought we already did,” Andy said.
“Please, this time I need you to listen,” Daniela said as he sat down. “You can talk once I’m finished.”
“Okay,” Andy shrugged and waited for her to begin.
“Andy, I want us to be friends. I don’t feel anything more than friendship for you,” Daniela started out bluntly. “I love Marat more than I understood.”
“Oh, this I didn’t expect,” Andy said. “Are you two already back together?”
“Not in all senses of the word,” Daniela tried to explain. “Here’s your bracelet.”
“Thanks,” Andy said taking it from her hand.
“Andy you’re such a great guy and I love being your friend.”
“I enjoy your company as well,” Andy said sorrowfully.
“So, you agree to still be my friend?” Daniela asked hopefully.
“I’d love to be your friend,” Andy responded. “But I need some time before we speak again.”
“I totally understand that,” Daniela replied. “Thank you for being so understanding.”
“Marat’s a lucky guy. I hope he knows that,” Andy commented as he stood up from the chair.
“It might take him some time to realize that though,” Daniela agreed.
“If you ever need any help convincing him, I’ll be there,” Andy said as he hugged Daniela.
“I’ll call you later,” Daniela promised as he left.
The biggest problem all week was finally dealt with. She hated to think of Andy as a problem, because he’s shown her how much she truly loved Marat. Nothing was going to get in their way of being together, not even Marat himself.
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Post by Annie on Apr 6, 2006 10:03:48 GMT 3
Chapter 35
“Good morning,” Dinara greeted as Marat answered his door.
“Good morning. It’s strange to see you up so early,” Marat commented as Dinara walked into his room.
“My flight is at twelve o’clock this afternoon,” Dinara explained.
“Are you coming to say goodbye then?” Marat asked.
“Yes, but I have something else to discuss with you,” Dinara answered.
“Oh, and what would that be?”
“Daniela,” Dinara said.
As soon as Daniela’s name left Dinara’s lips, Marat’s whole body tensed up. Memories of them together flashed before his eyes, but memories of Daniela and Andy also flashed by him.
“Why did you say her name?” Marat asked furiously.
“Because you’re making a horrible mistake,” Dinara said matter-of-factly.
“She doesn’t love me. She wants to be with Andy. I already told you that,” Marat said.
“You didn’t let her explain. She talked to me before our match.”
“That’s nice of her. Daniela did it to distract you from the match,” Marat declared. “She’s very selfish.”
“No, she’s not selfish. What you saw wasn’t her fault. She was trying to tell Andy it was over, but he didn’t understand and kissed her. His hands were all over her; she couldn’t get away,” Dinara explained.
“Why are you on her side?” Marat asked.
“She’s telling the truth, Marat,” Dinara simply said.
“How can you tell?”
“You can see it in her eyes. I know you’ve seen it,” Dinara said. “But I’m not going to sit here and make you believe anything.”
Getting up from the chair she had been sitting on, Dinara walked over to Marat sitting on his bed. Placing a kiss on his cheek, Dinara left the room to catch her flight.
*****
“Dinara!” Daniela called from the elevator doors.
Dinara was by the hotel doors about to leave. Her suitcases and racket bag were at her feet, and Dinara looked up to see Daniela running towards her.
“Did you talk to Marat?” Daniela asked when she reached Dinara.
“I talked to him before I came down here,” Dinara answered.
“What did he say?”
“I told him what you told me, but he was still uncertain,” Dinara explained.
“Then it didn’t work,” Daniela said quietly.
“Daniela, he will forgive you,” Dinara said taking Daniela’s shoulders in her hands. “He loves you, but he’s hurting.”
“Thank you for trying,” Daniela said giving Dinara a hug.
“Anytime, I’ll see you soon,” Dinara said and left Daniela alone and empty.
Walking to her hotel room, Daniela was about to unlock the door when she heard a sound from behind her. Turning around, Daniela saw her coach waiting patiently.
“Hi, Nigel,” Daniela greeted without even a hint of excitement. “Practice I’m guessing.”
“You’re right,” Nigel replied. “I’ll be out here when you’re ready.”
“Okay,” Daniela said and walked into her room.
It took her only a few minutes to put her things together and place her hair in a ponytail. Daniela exited her room and left with Nigel to go to the courts. In the car ride to the courts, Nigel leaned over to start a conversation.
“You look terrible,” Nigel commented.
“Thank you,” Daniela said. “You have such a way with words.”
“Marat?” Nigel guessed.
“Yes, but I fixed one problem,” Daniela answered.
“And what was that?”
“I broke up with Andy last night.”
“Finally! Now you can win Marat back easily,” Nigel exclaimed.
“I wish it was that simple,” Daniela sighed. “It might take a while.”
“You’ve got plenty of time,” Nigel comforted.
“Not really. If Marat and Mark lose tonight, he’ll leave.”
“You can’t think about that right now.”
“I know I shouldn’t, but I can’t help it.”
*****
Daniela’s third round match ended like many had since the season began. Daniela lost in three sets to Eleni Daniilidou, 3-6, 6-4, 2-6. As she sauntered off court and into the locker room, Daniela was too frightened and too embarrassed to look at Nigel. They had worked so hard, and she had let Marat and her effect the match.
“Daniela,” Nigel said. “Look at me.”
But Daniela couldn’t bring herself to face him. Nigel had so much faith in her, and she continued to disappoint him every tournament.
“I’m sorry, Nigel,” Daniela apologized still not able to look him in the eye.
“I don’t blame you, Daniela,” Nigel said quietly.
“You should be ashamed of me,” Daniela said organizing her bag so they could leave.
“You’re still a great doubles player and an amazing person,” Nigel comforted. “But you need to end this drama with Marat.”
“But…,” Daniela started but was cut off.
“I don’t mean give up on him. If you did, you’d be miserable and never win. Do your best at doubles, and then I want you to rest for awhile and think. Get things organized in your personal life,” Nigel instructed. “I won’t ask you to practice, but work on your relationship with Marat.”
Daniela stared at her coach. She didn’t know if she should be overwhelmed or grateful. She could finally take a break, but that meant she would spend that time getting Marat back. That obstacle would not be an easy one.
“Can you do that?” Nigel asked.
“Yeah,” Daniela said throwing her racket bag over her shoulder.
“Let’s go,” Nigel said. “You have a doubles match late tomorrow.”
“Maybe I should have dinner with Ai to talk over our strategy,” Daniela suggested as they walked to their car.
“That’s a good idea,” Nigel agreed.
“First good idea I’ve had in a while.”
*****
“Thanks for coming out with me,” Daniela said as Ai and her sat down to dinner.
“Anytime, dear,” Ai said. “I love free food!”
Daniela and Ai had found an out of the way seafood restaurant in unpopular part of Miami. It was no Nobu, but the restaurant was quiet and comfortable, and the smells inside were delicious.
“I love this restaurant,” Ai commented looking around. “There are no rich girls with daddy’s credit card.”
“Miami has to be the most superficial city in the world,” Daniela declared looking over her menu.
“It’s all the fake tans,” Ai said. “You might not get skin cancer, but the fumes will screw up your mind.”
“Ai, you’re ridiculous,” Daniela laughed.
“But a good ridiculous,” Ai corrected.
“Is there such a thing?” Daniela asked.
“Oh, yes. Everywhere you look.”
“Hmmm,” Daniela said pondering her menu. “What to have?”
“Did you hear the news?” Ai asked.
“What news?”
“Marat and Mark lost their doubles match,” Ai informed. “I heard the news before I met you in the lobby.”
“He’s out of the tournament!”
“Yeah, that’s what it usually means.”
“Ai, he’s leaving!” Daniela exclaimed.
“What are you going to do?”
“I have to find him!”
“Maybe you should eat something first,” Ai suggested. “He won’t be leaving till tomorrow. It’s hard to get a flight out of Miami.”
“I know, but I’m so nervous. What if he leaves?”
“You’ll get to him eventually,” Ai shrugged. “Let fate handle it.”
“And I suppose you were playing fate yesterday,” Daniela chided.
“At least you know he still loves you,” Ai defended. “We all saw it in his eyes. He wants you back.”
“He’s impossibly stubborn,” Daniela said putting down her menu.
“You already knew that,” Ai responded.
*****
“Stupid card!” Daniela exclaimed as tried to open her hotel room door.
Daniela had just said goodnight to Ai, but she couldn’t get the key to work. Grumbling in frustration, she threw the key to the other side of the hallway and began to kick the hard wooden door with her foot. But this wasn’t the greatest idea with sandals, and Daniela fell to the floor in pain.
Resting her back against the wall, Daniela pulled her knees up to her chest and dropped her head on top of them. Closing her eyes, Daniela thought of all the ways her life sucked at the moment. Hearing someone clear their throat, Daniela opened her eyes and looked up.
“You know,” Marat said, “you pay the hotel to stay in their rooms, not their hallways.”
“Marat,” Daniela said in disbelief.
“Good,” Marat said, “you remember my name.”
“Marat, what are you doing here?”
“I came to give you these,” Marat said.
Holding a bouquet of roses in his hands, Daniela counted the roses. All together, there were two dozen long stemmed roses. As Marat handed Daniela the bouquet of roses, Daniela took in the fragrant smell that wafted around her. Marat helped her off the ground.
“Why did you come back?” Daniela asked.
“I believe that the kiss was a mistake.”
“Is that it?” Daniela asked
“And I love you,” Marat said.
“I love you, too,” Daniela said as she began to cry.
“Don’t cry,” Marat said wiping a tear from her cheek. “We’re back together now.”
“I know, it’s just so, so,” Daniela tried to find the word. “Overwhelming.”
“I’ve got your key,” Marat said. “Let’s get you to bed.”
“Will you move your stuff to my room?” Daniela asked as Marat easily unlocked the door.
“As long as you promise to stop crying,” Marat said opening the door.
“I promise,” Daniela said sniffling.
“I’ll be back soon,” Marat said kissing her forehead.
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Post by Annie on Apr 7, 2006 9:30:35 GMT 3
Chapter 36
Setting the flowers down on the table near the window, Daniela stepped back to admire the arrangement. Fortunately for the sake of convenience, the roses were in a glass vase with a pearlescent ribbon tied in a perfect bow around the center. The roses still had their leaves and were accented by bursts of baby’s breath. Daniela had never received flowers so beautiful in her entire life.
As she pondered her good fortune, Marat knocked on the door. Caught up in his haste to leave and get his stuff, Marat hadn’t completely shut the door when he left. Putting his bags in the closet, Marat walked up to Daniela and wrapped his arms around her waste. Resting his chin on her shoulder, Marat listened to the sounds of her breathing and watched her stare at the brimming vase of roses.
“I’m very romantic,” Marat joked.
“You actually are,” Daniela agreed. “Not bad for a former playboy.”
“Oh,” Marat winced in mock pain, “that hurt.”
“I’m sorry. Where does it hurt?” Daniela said turning around.
“Right here,” Marat said pointing to his heart.
“Let me fix it,” Daniela said kissing his chest through the material of his t-shirt.
“I’m so happy to have you back,” Marat said.
“I couldn’t agree more.”
“Let’s never fight again.”
“We both know that’s not possible,” Daniela commented. “We will have to work on our communication skills.”
“I’ve never been very good at those,” Marat admitted.
“Neither have I. But now we have something to work for,” Daniela said placing a kiss on Marat’s lips.
“I see you wore your charm bracelet at the doubles match.”
“And at my singles match,” Daniela boasted.
“Aren’t we devoted?”
“Hopelessly,” Daniela jokingly swooned.
“Well, I hope you’re not too overwhelmed.”
“Oh, but I am. I can barely walk,” Daniela joked.
“I guess I’ll have to take care of that for you.”
“Huh?” Daniela asked.
Lifting Daniela in the air, Marat swung her over his shoulder and carried her to the bed.
“I wonder,” Marat said still holding her, “if I dropped you on the bed, would you bounce?”
“Not funny, Marat,” Daniela said hitting his back with her fists.
“Ouch,” Marat laughed. “That hurts.”
“You’ll be hurting worse if you drop me,” Daniela warned.
“Really?”
“I’m not bluffing.”
“Let’s find out,” Marat said as he threw Daniela onto the bed.
“MARAT!” Daniela screamed as she fell on the bed.
“You bounced! You bounced!” Marat laughed pointing at Daniela on the bed.
“Oh, you’re so dead!” Daniela declared grabbing hold of Marat’s t-shirt and pulling him to the bed.
“Wow, wow! My knee just got better!” Marat teased as Daniela kicked and hit him.
“Oh, forget your knee!” Daniela said. “You’re such a cry baby!”
“Who was outside of her hotel room curled into a ball because she couldn’t open her door?”
“Those keys are difficult,” Daniela defended.
“Oh, yes. It’s so difficult to slide a card through a slit,” Marat teased. “You shop a lot. I’m sure you know how to use a credit card.”
“I’m a very reasonable shopper compared to my friends,” Daniela said.
“Is that your best reasoning? You’d be a terrible attorney,” Marat declared.
“Enough of this,” Daniela wailed and attacked Marat with a showering of kisses.
“Nice alternative.”
*****
“Daniela! Time for practice!” Ai yelled through Daniela’s door.
Still warm and safe in her bed, Daniela squeezed her eyes shut and burrowed further into Marat and the sheets. Marat’s hand smoothed over her hair and down her neck.
“I think you need to answer that,” Marat whispered in Daniela’s ear.
“But I don’t want to,” Daniela complained.
“We all have to do things we don’t want to do.”
“Fine,” Daniela said throwing the sheets to the bottom of the bed and getting out of bed. “Good morning, Ai”
“Took you long enough to open the door,” Ai returned walking into the room. “What, do you have a man in here? I mean, wow! Marat?”
“Good morning, Ai,” Marat said pulling the sheets up modestly.
“Oops, sorry,” Ai said walking into the bathroom and dragging Daniela with her.
“Surprise!” Daniela joked.
“What did I miss?” Ai asked.
“It happened after we separated last night. He came to my room with a vase of roses,” Daniela explained. “He moved his stuff into my room as well.”
“Why?”
“I suppose it was the conversation he had with Dinara,” Daniela guessed.
“I love that girl!” Ai declared. “You look incredibly happy.”
“I love her, too,” Daniela agreed.
“I know you have Marat Safin in your bed, but can you spare time to practice?” Ai asked.
“Of course, anything for you,” Daniela said. “You kept me sane through all of this.”
“I’ll give you an hour,” Ai said leaving the bathroom. “Meet you at the courts then.”
“Gotcha,” Daniela said and closed the door behind Ai.
*****
A few hours later, Daniela and Ai were stretching in the locker room before their second round doubles match. Laughing and chatting about the past days’ grievances, they didn’t notice Nigel slipping in.
“Daniela,” Nigel said getting her attention. “Marat’s outside in the hallway to wish you luck.”
“Oh, thanks Nigel. Tell him I’ll be out in a minute.”
“Okay, but make it quick,” Nigel instructed. “You two are up in a few minutes.”
“I’ll be back,” Daniela told Ai and followed Nigel out of the locker room.
“Hi, sweetheart,” Marat greeted. “Ready to go?”
“We’re as prepared as we’re ever going to be,” Daniela declared.
“You’ll do fine, but would you like a little extra luck?” Marat asked.
“We’d love some!” Daniela laughed.
“Here,” Marat said taking a four-leaf clover charm from his pocket. “Hold out your wrist.”
“Oh, Marat. It’s so cute,” Daniela admired as he attached the charm to the bracelet.
“I just saw it at a stand around the stadium,” Marat said finishing. “There! It’s perfect!”
“Thank you,” Daniela said standing on her tippy-toes and placing a kiss on Marat’s cheek.
“Daniela,” Ai said. “We’re up.”
“Oh, one second,” Daniela responded. “I’ve got to go.”
“Good luck,” Marat said as Daniela hurried to catch up with Ai.
“I’ve got plenty now,” Daniela shouted holding up her bracelet.
*****
Daniela’s new charm seemed to work it’s magic as Ai and Daniela won their match against Carly Gullickson and Bryanne Stewart. The final score was settled in three sets, 6-3, 2-6, 6-2.
“Looks like we’re not going home yet,” Ai cheered as they walked off the court.
“I’m very excited,” Daniela agreed. “I need to thank Marat for the good luck charm.”
“I don’t think it’s the charm that made you play better,” Ai commented.
“Then what?”
“Not what, but whom. Marat.”
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Post by Annie on Apr 10, 2006 13:48:16 GMT 3
Chapter 37
The hotel room was silent with the exception of Daniela or Marat turning the pages of their book. Sitting in facing chairs, Daniela and Marat resembled an old, married couple relaxing on their front porch. The tranquility of the morning was shattered with the ringing of Daniela’s cell phone.
Sighing loudly at the imposition, Daniela closed her book and placed it on the floor. Walking to the bedside table, she picked up the chirping cell phone. Instantly, Daniela’s ears buzzed with the chattering of a familiar voice.
“Daniela? This is your brother. You have a lot of explaining to do.”
“It’s nice to hear from you, Igor,” Daniela said sarcastically.
“At the moment, I’m too perplexed trying to understand what’s going on in that heart of yours,” Igor replied.
“What do you mean?” Daniela asked.
“Well, the sister I saw in February was madly in love with Marat Safin. Then, I found out he cheated on her, and they are no longer dating,” Igor answered. “Oh, but it gets better. After that, I found out she was dating Andy Roddick. But last night at your doubles match, I saw a certain Russian.”
“Confusing, huh?”
“Confusing? The DaVinci Code was easier to follow. What is going on?”
“I was madly in love with Marat, and I am once again. And he did cheat on me,” Daniela began to explain.
“I’ll kill him!”
“Calm down,” Daniela said. “I almost did myself.”
“Now what’s this about Andy?”
“During the time that Marat and I were separated, I dated Andy briefly as a distraction. He meant nothing,” Daniela reassured.
“From now on, will you promise me something?”
“Anything,” Daniela answered.
“Keep me informed!” Igor shouted over the phone. “I was having a heart attack over here!”
“I’m sorry,” Daniela said hesitantly.
“I’m sorry for yelling. But as your older brother, it is my duty to look after you.”
“I appreciate your loyalty to the job.”
“You’re lucky to have me,” Igor laughed.
“I think it’s the other way around,” Daniela returned.
“Fine,” Igor agreed. “I’ve got to go.”
“Work?”
“Always. Take care of yourself,” Igor said hanging up.
Laughing at the entertaining conversation with her brother, Daniela closed her cell phone and returned it to the bedside table. Turning around, she was met by a set of confused eyes. Marat had listened to the whole conversation, but he had no idea what was going on.
“I’m sorry, dear,” Daniela apologized kissing his cheek. “My brother was a bit lost with all that’s happened in the last two weeks.”
“We’re all in the same boat,” Marat said smiling.
“I need to get ready,” Daniela said heading to the bathroom.
“Already?” Marat asked. “Isn’t it a bit early?”
“I’m meeting Ai early so we can discuss our strategy,” Daniela explained from the bathroom.
“I understand, but I think I’ll see you in the stands.”
“That’s fine. You’re a distraction,” Daniela teased.
“Well, I feel loved,” Marat said resting his body on the door frame of the bathroom.
“Oh, you’re very loved,” Daniela said kissing him.
“You’re just saying that,” Marat whimpered playfully.
“Stop being a baby!” Daniela joked.
“I’m going to get some lunch. I’ll see you soon,” Marat said as he left the hotel room.
Waving out the bathroom door, Daniela heard the door click shut behind him. The room was once again silent, but Daniela didn’t feel alone like she had before. The smell and presence of Marat still drifted around the room as she finished getting ready.
*****
Walking peacefully around the hectic stadium, Daniela admired the steady stream of tennis fans flowing through the sidewalks. It was great to see that tennis was regaining its popularity in the United States. With the addition of James Blake, American tennis no longer seemed exceedingly bleak.
Exiting the warm sunshine and entering the cool darkness of the players’ area, Daniela saw a familiar figure leaning against a wall in the corner. His neck was bent back so that his head was facing upward to see the television. Andy was watching a basketball game that was part of the NCAA Championships. As she continued to stare at him, Andy seemed to sense her gaze and looked in her direction.
At first his eyes were blank, but as if a switch had been turned on inside him, Andy smiled lazily at Daniela and strolled over to her. With each of his steps, Daniela’s breath grew shorter and faster.
“It’s good to see you,” Andy greeted softly as he pressed a kiss on her cheek.
“I’m glad you’re doing alright,” Daniela said as he pulled away. “Thank you for handling it so well.”
“I don’t want to lose you,” Andy replied.
“As a friend, right?” Daniela checked.
“I’ll always want you as a friend.”
“How is practice going?” Daniela asked.
“Good, yours?”
“I have a doubles match with Ai today. She was supposed to be here already,” Daniela complained looking at her watch.
“Maybe she got stuck in traffic,” Andy suggested.
“She’s walking here,” Daniela laughed.
“Foot traffic?” Andy joked.
“Well, I, uh, hmmm,” Daniela said trying to find a topic to discuss with Andy.
“This is stupid,” Andy declared.
“It might be too soon to talk,” Daniela said fidgeting with her hands.
“No, this conversation should tell you something.”
“What?”
“You don’t want to be friends with me.”
“I do, too,” Daniela protested.
“You don’t just want to be friends. I should be the one you hug, kiss, and talk about everything with, not Marat.”
“Andy! I’ve made up my mind!” Daniela asserted.
“He doesn’t care about you. I came here to support you.”
“Marat’s coming to the match. He’s getting lunch before he comes,” Daniela explained angrily.
“Oh, well we wouldn’t want him to think about your feelings,” Andy said sarcastically. “Did he offer to bring you something to eat?”
“No, but I’m not hungry,” Daniela answered.
“It’s the thought that counts. He doesn’t truly care about you,” Andy shouted taking Daniela’s hand.
“Andy, you need to leave. You’re upsetting me,” Daniela croaked as she took her hand back.
“You’ll see soon enough,” Andy whispered as he took his leave.
Feeling the heat and flush of anger on her face, Daniela clasped her hands over her face and sat down on the nearest chair. Before she had seen Andy, her emotions had been in check, and she was ready for her match. But now, she was swimming in confusion and anger. The emotions weren’t pointed at Andy or Marat, but at herself.
How could she have let herself enter a love triangle? These things were for soap operas or Brangelina and Jennifer Aniston.
*****
“Daniela, what happened?” Ai shouted after the match. They had just lost to Mauresmo and Kuznetsova.
“I’m sorry,” Daniela answered.
“I thought all this bullshit with Marat and Andy was over!”
“It was until Andy and I talked while I was waiting for you,” Daniela replied. She had never seen Ai so angry before.
“I wouldn’t have been late if I didn’t get the message you wanted to meet somewhere else, and then you didn’t show up there.”
“Who told you that? And why didn’t you mention it earlier?” Daniela asked.
“Andy told me when I arrived at the player’s lounge,” Ai answered resting her arms across her chest. “I thought it would disturb our connection out there if we were angry. I was wrong.”
“Andy had this all planned,” Daniela whispered in astonishment.
“Planned what?”
“It wasn’t a coincidence he was in the lounge when I was. He hadn’t come to watch the match but to upset me,” Daniela answered as the realization poured over her.
“I suggest you take a vacation, and we’ll talk later,” Ai said as she swung her bag over her shoulder and walked out of the locker room.
Alone and remorseful, Daniela nodded to herself. She was going to take a vacation. No Marat or Andy, but her family. At this moment, Daniela desperately needed the people that knew her better than she knew herself. But there was one little problem. How was she going to tell Marat?
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Post by Annie on Apr 11, 2006 8:19:47 GMT 3
Chapter 38
Daniela picked up her racket bag and exited the empty locker room. Rounding the corner into the next hallway, Daniela saw Marat leaning against a wall waiting for her. Marat’s long, curly hair was down and cascading along the lines of his face. Finally arriving where he stood, Daniela fell into his arms in exhaustion.
“I’m sorry, Daniela,” Marat whispered into her ear as they rocked back in forth.
“It was terrible,” Daniela exclaimed.
“You’re improving with every tournament,” Marat comforted. “It will get better.”
“I think I know how it could get better,” Daniela said looking up at him.
“And how is that?”
“I need a vacation,” Daniela declared. “Both Nigel and Ai have recommended it. Actually, they’ve demanded it.”
“A vacation is a wonderful idea!” Marat exclaimed. “You can come to France with me for Davis Cup.”
“That’s not what I mean Marat.”
“Then what do you mean?” Marat asked.
“I need to go away by myself. I’m not bringing Nigel, or Ai, or you.”
“Where would you go?” Marat asked concerned.
“I’m going to spend time with my family,” Daniela answered. “They deserve to see me once in awhile.”
“I understand.”
“You what? Do you really understand?” Daniela asked in surprise.
“I’m just happy you informed me of your plans. That’s all I ask, Daniela,” Marat answered.
“So you’re not mad?”
“Not at all,” Marat said kissing her forehead. “I’ll miss you though.”
“I’ll miss you too,” Daniela said. “Thank you.”
“Anytime.”
*****
“Are we all set?” Marat asked as Daniela zipped up her rolling suitcase.
It was the next morning, and Daniela had just finished packing her mountains of clothes and shoes. Rolling her suitcase behind her, Daniela followed Marat out the door. Turning around to close the door, Daniela stared into the room where so many things had taken place in the last two weeks. Feeling Marat’s hand on her shoulder, she closed the door and followed him to the elevator.
“Make sure to say hello to your family for me,” Marat reminded Daniela as they waited in the elevator.
“I will. Are you flying straight into Valencia?” Daniela asked as the elevator doors opened to the lobby.
“Yup, and I’m going to drive to Pau for Davis Cup,” Marat answered as they strolled across the lobby floor.
Daniela would have wished Marat good luck, but she noticed Andy on the other side of the room. He had already noticed her and was smiling. Taking her gaze away from his face, Daniela wrapped her arm around Marat’s waist and continued to walk with him to the door. As they went through the doors, Daniela looked back at Andy and waved.
“See how you like that,” Daniela thought to herself and smiled.
“What’s so funny?” Marat asked as they placed their bags in their car. Nigel and his bags were already in the car waiting.
“Nothing, sweetheart,” Daniela said and kissed his smiling lips.
*****
“Miss, wake up,” the flight attendant nudged Daniela. “We’re about to land in Bratislava.”
“Oh, thank you,” Daniela said as she woke up.
It was four in the morning in Bratislava. As Daniela looked out the window, she watched dark gray clouds and fading stars fly past her on the black sky. Soon the plane landed, and she prepared for the mayhem that occurred when a plane unloaded.
Even in first class, passengers were eager to run off the plane. Watching the passengers get out of their seats, she watched as they pushed and shoved to get their bags. When most of the crazy ones had left, Daniela got up and retrieved her carry-on bag.
With a zombie-like gaze in her eyes, Daniela walked out of the terminal in search of her brother, Igor. Daniela was so thankful for her brother’s assistance. Once again, he was picking her up from the airport and letting her crash at his apartment.
“Daniela! Over here!” Daniela heard Igor yell.
“Igor, it’s so good to see you!” Daniela exclaimed jumping into her brother’s arms.
“I’m glad you’re in one piece,” Nigel responded. “Mom and Dad came along.”
“Really? Where are they?” Daniela asked looking around the airport.
“They’re waiting in the car. They hate airports.”
“Don’t we all? Let’s go get my bags and get out of here,” Daniela replied.
*****
“Mom, stop. I’m fine,” Daniela comforted as her mother, Marianna, continued to ask questions about her health.
“What about this new boyfriend?” Marianna asked.
“It’s a long story,” Daniela answered.
“Are you tired?” Marianna asked.
“A little.”
“Well, you’re only a little tired, so you can tell me the story.”
“Let’s go to the kitchen,” Daniela sighed. “I don’t what to bore Dad and Igor with all this girl talk.”
“Thank you for the consideration,” Daniela’s brother called as the two women ran to the kitchen. “Can you believe those two?”
“They’re just being their usual selves,” Daniela and Igor’s father, also named Igor, answered. “Marat is his name, right?”
“Yeah.”
“Have you met him?”
“No, but I’ve heard enough about him to be a little uneasy,” Daniela’s brother answered.
“I think we should meet him.”
“He’s playing in Davis Cup right now. Who knows when we’ll meet him or if we ever will.”
“You don’t think they’ll last?” Daniela’s dad asked.
“I just don’t know about him. You’re right, Dad. We need to meet him.”
Back in the kitchen, Daniela sat down at her brother’s modest dining table. As she stared out the window at the sunrise, Marianna prepared some tea and sat down across from her. Daniela had almost forgotten the details of her mother’s face. It was difficult being apart from a family that was so close.
“You look happy,” Marianna commented.
“I feel tired,” Daniela replied.
“That’s not what I mean. For the last year, it seems like you have had a constant frown in your eyes. But as I look at you now, your eyes glisten even when you’re tired,” Marianna said with a wide smile across her face.
“Why are you smiling like that?”
“My baby is in love,” Marianna exclaimed.
“I am in love. I want you to meet him. He was so understanding when I said I needed to take this trip alone,” Daniela joined in with a smile. “You’d love him. I know you would.”
“He sounds great. Wasn’t he the one you attended the birthday party for in Moscow?” Marianna asked.
“That was him. We started dating officially that weekend.”
“I miss so much of your life. I wish I had more time with you,” Marianna said squeezing Daniela’s hand. “Are you sure you’re only a little tired? I’ve never seen you so tired after a flight.”
“I’ve never felt so tired either. Lately, I’ve been sleeping a lot,” Daniela explained. “I guess I need more sleep.”
“Well, I’m done with my interrogation. How about we get you to sleep?”
“Yes, please.”
*****
A half hour later, Marianna walked out of the guest room and closed the door. Humming to herself, Marianna sat down with her husband and son in the living room.
“She’s asleep,” Marianna announced. “Igor, did Daniela mention she was sick before at the airport?”
“No, Mom. Why?”
“She’s so exhausted,” Marianna said.
“Well, she did finish a tournament yesterday.”
“It’s not only that. She looked a bit green a minute ago.”
“Airline food. Even though it’s first class, it’s still disgusting,” Daniela’s father joked.
“Funny, but I’m being serious,” Marianna responded.
“I think it’s time we leave, dear.”
“Fine. Have your sister call me when she wakes up, Igor,” Marianna called as her husband dragged her out of the apartment.
“Okay, Mom. Night, Dad,” Igor said as his parents left the apartment like a whirlwind.
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Post by Annie on Apr 12, 2006 7:49:08 GMT 3
Chapter 39
Green was all Daniela could see. Her stomach gurgled under the sheets and blankets she was buried below. The digital clock on the bedside table read 8:37 in the morning. Daniela had been up for 20 minutes trying to fall back asleep with an upset stomach.
But as the vile rumble of her dinner moved up her chest, Daniela’s hand flew to her mouth. Jumping out of bed, Daniela ran to the toilet like a bat out of hell. Falling in front of it, she heaved into oblivion. When the exchange of fluids ended, Daniela fell back against the wall. Her ears were ringing and the taste of her mouth made her feel nauseous again.
Standing up from the floor, Daniela rummaged around the sink till she found her toothbrush. Why was she so sick? She hadn’t eaten anything too disgusting. But for some reason, her stomach had been doing flip-flops for a few hours.
“Wait,” Daniela said to herself as she went through her memory. “My stomach’s been weird for a week now. And I’ve been so tired. I didn’t even have my, oh shit!”
This time when Daniela clamped her hand over her mouth, it wasn’t because she was sick. Shocked by her thoughts, Daniela walked out of the bathroom and sat on her bed.
“I can’t be. I can’t be pregnant,” Daniela told herself. “But I haven’t had my period. Oh, God! I’m pregnant!”
How could she have let this happen? But wait, this was only a possibility, not the answer. Getting up from the bed, Daniela walked into the hallway and to the kitchen. Daniela found the phone under a dish towel and called her mother.
“Hello?” Marianna answered.
“Mom, it’s Daniela. I have a question,” Daniela replied.
“What is it?”
“I’ve got a problem. It’s not a problem, but it’s a predicament,” Daniela answered.
“Well, what is it?”
“Are you working today?”
“I’ll be off at five o’clock,” Marianna answered.
“Can you come by and take me to the pharmacy?”
“Of course, darling. I knew you were sick.”
“Maybe not the sick you were thinking,” Daniela mumbled.
“What do you mean?”
“I think I’m pregnant.”
“Oh, dear God!” Marianna exclaimed with a gasp.
“I’ve been tired. I just puked up my dinner from last night. And most important of all, I haven’t had my period,” Daniela explained.
“You could just be sick and that’s why you’re late. Oh, who am I kidding?”
“Mom, what am I going to do if it’s true?” Daniela whimpered.
“We’ll figure that out if it comes to it,” Marianna answered. “I’ll be there at five to pick you up.”
“Alright, thank you,” Daniela said and hung up.
Throwing the dish towel back over the phone, Daniela looked around the kitchen looking for nothing. Her ears were still ringing and her stomach was rumbling.
“You’re up already?” Igor asked as he entered the kitchen.
“I would have preferred to be asleep,” Daniela answered.
“Then why aren’t you asleep?” Igor asked.
“I can’t sleep. I’m going back to my room to wait and hope for sleep.”
“Okay. I’m leaving for work,” Igor replied as his sister left the room.
*****
At five o’clock, Daniela was already waiting outside of the apartment building with her purse and light jacket wrapped around her. Tapping her foot on the sidewalk, she looked up and down the street waiting for her mother. Eventually, Marianna arrived and parked her car on the side of the street.
“The pharmacy is only a block way,” Marianna said as she exited the car. “Let’s walk.”
“That’s fine with me,” Daniela replied and set off down the road with her mother.
The journey to the pharmacy was quiet and uncomfortable. Daniela had no idea what her mother thought of her right now. But most of all, Daniela was too busy trying to figure out what she was going to do if she was pregnant. When they finally arrived, Daniela and Marianna made a beeline for the at-home pregnancy tests.
As they glanced at the boxes, Daniela felt very uneasy. What if someone recognized them? What if a photographer was nearby and caught her purchasing a pregnancy test? Anxious and irritated, Daniela grabbed the nearest box and walked quickly to the register.
Hiding her face under a newsboy cap, Daniela hardly spoke a word as she paid. With the embarrassing box in a plastic bag, Daniela was able to relax as they exited the store.
“It’s nothing to be ashamed about,” Marianna commented as they walked to the apartment. “Women get pregnant every day.”
“Not professional tennis players who are unmarried. Mom, this could potentially ruin my career,” Daniela exclaimed.
“I’ll make sure to put that in your first child’s baby book. Mother’s reaction: This is going to ruin my career!” Marianna joked. “Your child will love that one.”
*****
“What does it say?” Daniela asked after she looked over her mom’s shoulder.
“I don’t know. What are we looking for?” Marianna asked.
“Let me check,” Daniela said scanning the instruction sheet. “If I’m pregnant, there would be two pink lines. One pink line means I’m not pregnant.”
“Well, there are no lines yet,” Marianna answered and put the test back on the counter.
“Ugh,” Daniela moaned.
“Let’s go make something to eat,” Marianna said as she ushered Daniela out of the bathroom and into the kitchen. “When is your brother getting home?”
“He’s going out after work with his friends,” Daniela answered.
“By the time he gets home, we should have the answer,” Marianna said.
“What am I going to do?” Daniela asked rubbing her forehead.
“Your career won’t be over. You can take time off and have the baby. If my calculations are right, you’ll give birth some time in December. Depending on how hard you work, you might be back to work by March,” Marianna explained.
“That’s not even my biggest problem at the moment,” Daniela growled.
“What do you mean?” Marianna asked.
“When I was in Miami, Marat and I were separated for awhile because of a snag in the road,” Daniela answered.
“What type of snag?”
“Over a month ago, he had cheated on me,” Daniela explained.
“Oh, Daniela! That’s the father of my first grandchild?”
“We’re back together. I won’t let him go, and he won’t let me go. Don’t give me that look!” Daniela said feeling her mother’s stare.
“Okay, okay.”
“Anyway, when we were apart, I dated this other tennis player. His name’s Andy Roddick.”
“I’ve heard of him,” Marianna commented.
“He was a great support system while Marat and I were apart,” Daniela continued to explain.
“I see. He was more than just a fling.”
“No, he was a fling. But it was a fling gone wrong,” Daniela corrected. “This sounds horrible, but I don’t know who the father of my baby is.”
“That’s a problem I can’t solve. Who do you want the father to be?”
“Marat, of course!” Daniela answered.
“For now, I believe that he would be the best father,” Marianna said hugging her daughter. “He’s the one you truly love after all.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
“I think that test should be done now,” Marianna said. “Do you want me to look?”
“I can handle it,” Daniela said as she pulled away from her mother.
“I’ll be right outside the door,” Marianna comforted as Daniela entered the bathroom.
Nodding her head, Daniela felt the warmth and support she needed from her mother. Taking the test off the counter, Daniela focused her sight on the small screen where the lines would be. Her emotions swelled and swirled across her mind and body. Staring back at her on the test stick were two pink lines.
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Post by Annie on Apr 14, 2006 14:04:26 GMT 3
Chapter 40
Daniela was lost in a sea of emotions that carried her out of her world and into a fourth dimension. She never heard the calls of her mother on the other side of the door. She didn’t even notice when Marianna barged in and seized the pregnancy test out of Daniela’s shaking hand.
“Daniela! You’re pregnant!” Marianna squealed. “My baby girl is going to have her own little baby to take care of and nurture!”
Marianna threw the test on the bathroom counter and hugged her daughter. The hug was tight and secure. It was as if Marianna was trying to squeeze the life out of her. But Daniela was already long gone. The congratulations from her mother bounced off her ear drums and into the atmosphere.
“Daniela! Wake up, dear,” Marianna called. “You’re going to be a mom.”
Daniela smiled absentmindedly at her mother to pacify her. Daniela had no idea how to feel. In one swift move, her whole life had been turned upside down. How did she feel about the baby? What would Marat say? Was it even his? Daniela’s stomach started to gurgle, and she fell to the floor in front of the toilet.
“More morning sickness?” Marianna asked as she held her daughter’s hair back. “It’ll get better after the third month.”
“I hope you’re right,” Daniela managed between attacks.
“Oh, there’s so much to do,” Marianna said. “We have to tell everybody. Your father, Igor, the father…Oh, that’s a predicament.”
“It’s more than that,” Daniela said standing up from the toilet seat. “Mom, you have to keep this quiet. And before anyone else knows, I need to tell Marat.”
“Yes, of course. The father first. I completely agree. But shouldn’t we tell your father and Igor?”
“I don’t know. I’m already flabbergasted in front of you.”
“We’ll wait then,” Marianna comforted as she placed an arm around Daniela’s shoulders.
“Are you sure you can keep this quiet?” Daniela asked her mother quizzically.
“I swear on all that’s holy.”
“I guess we’ll find out how religious you are.”
*****
The atmosphere of a Davis Cup match was like no other. Tennis fans from all over the world would buy tickets or watch the match from the comfort of their homes. But no matter where they were, the fans would scream so loud you could hear them all the way across oceans.
Marat fed off the cheering from the Russia supporters. It was the quarterfinals of Davis Cup, and Russia was playing France. They were indoors and on a surface similar to that of Bercy. Marat couldn’t have been happier. He was about to wrap up a five set match against the young Richard Gasquet. He could already hear the sound of Daniela’s on the phone.
“Finish the match, Safin,” Marat told himself. “The sooner you finish, the sooner you get to talk to Daniela.”
Her absence over the past few days had been killing him. He knew more than ever how much he needed her, how much he loved her. Marat was willing to be apart from her for a small amount of time so she could be happy again. If Daniela wasn’t happy, neither was he.
“Game, set, match, Safin,” the umpire called from his towering seat.
It was finally over. He had won Russia’s first match. It was up to Davydenko to finish the day off right for Russia. He had done his job and was already making his way to the locker room. After a quick change and an adjustment of his “sun bun”, Marat rummaged through his bag and found his cell phone.
“Hello?” Daniela answered.
“I won,” Marat announced proudly.
“I saw that,” Daniela replied. “My mother and I almost had a heart attack watching your match. Not very nice, Marat.”
“I’m sorry. How can I make it up to you?”
“Hmmm, I’ll have to think about it.”
“I miss you,” Marat said.
“How did I know that was coming up?” Daniela laughed.
“Don’t you miss me?”
“I miss you very much. It’s starting to hurt.”
“If someone listened to our conversations, they would puke from nausea,” Marat joked.
“I’ve done enough of that already,” Daniela mumbled.
“Are you sick?” Marat asked worriedly.
“I’m a little under the weather. Nothing terrible.”
“Are you sure?”
“My family is taking very good care of me,” Daniela assured.
“You have to thank them for me.”
“I’ll tell them that. My mother is sitting right here. Would you like to tell her?” Daniela asked.
“I’d love to,” Marat said as he waited for Marianna to answer.
“Hello?” Marianna said uneasily.
“Mrs. Hantuchova? I’m Marat. I wish our first conversation could have been better than a phone conversation,” Marat responded sweetly.
“Oh, it’s alright. I understand you’ve just made Russia quite the happy country.”
“Very happy, I hope.”
“I hope to meet you soon, Marat. My daughter is very much in love with you,” Marianna teased.
“We are equally in love.”
“That’s very good. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Marianna said winking at her daughter. “I must go. It was a pleasure speaking to you.”
“The pleasure was all mine,” Marat finished as Marianna handed the phone to Daniela.
“That wasn’t so bad,” Daniela said when she picked up the phone.
“Your mother seems very polite,” Marat commented.
“That’s all a disguise,” Daniela laughed. “Wait till you meet her. You’ll be running out of here with your arms flying.”
“You’re too hard on your family.”
“That’s what family is for,” Daniela asserted.
“True,” Marat said. “I need to go support Davydenko, but I’ll talk to you later.”
“Promise?”
“I promise. I love you,” Marat said.
“I love you, too,” Daniela said and hung up the phone.
Closing his cell phone, Marat put it back in his bag and walked back to the court. Sitting next to his childhood friends, Marat watched as Davydenko won against Clement. It was shaping up to be an excellent weekend for Russia.
*****
Marianna had left an hour ago and Igor wouldn’t be home for another hour. Sitting alone on the living room sofa, Daniela sank into the deep cushions and pillows. Daniela finally had a chance to think about the baby.
Daniela loved children, and she was positive she wanted them. The problem with a baby now was that she was unmarried and trying to focus on her career as a professional tennis player. How was she going to play tennis pregnant? Daniela laughed at the image of her bouncing around the court in shorts and a tank top with a huge belly hanging over.
The second problem: she was unmarried. Women had babies all the time without being married. It was a sign of changing times and the liberation of women. But Daniela had always wanted to be married. She wanted the connection with the father of her baby. But it was only a piece of paper.
Shrugging her shoulders, Daniela stared across the room and then down at her hands. One of her hands was placed lightly on a pillow beside her. Her second hand rested on her belly. For the last few minutes, Daniela had been absentmindedly rubbing her stomach.
At the moment, Daniela wasn’t showing at all. Daniela couldn’t even feel a bump. But somewhere inside her, a tiny human life was growing. And as she continued to rub her stomach, she wanted more than ever for the baby to be Marat’s.
Daniela could feel tears building in her eyes. The stinging sensation of excess liquid made her blink. And when she opened her eyes, the tears sprung from her eyes and onto her cheeks. They rolled down her face leaving wet marks and redness.
An hour ago, she had felt emotionless toward the baby; now she loved this child more than anything in the world. The tears that fell down her cheeks weren’t of embarrassment or frustration but of intense happiness and love.
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Post by Annie on Apr 17, 2006 9:18:31 GMT 3
Chapter 41
“We won! Russia is into the Davis Cup semi-finals!” Marat declared over the phone to Daniela.
“Congratulations! Are you staying in Pau to celebrate?”
“No, I’m already on my way back to Valencia,” Marat said.
“How long of a drive is that?”
“It’s about eight hours,” Marat answered.
“Okay, I won’t distract you from the road,” Daniela said twisting a piece of her hair between her fingers.
“You’re not a distraction.”
“You’re supposed to say that I’m right, because I’m so gorgeous,” Daniela teased.
“Oh, I apologize,” Marat laughed. “Are you still coming to watch me play in Valencia?”
“It’ll be so tough to leave my family,” Daniela commented.
“You don’t need to come for the first few days,” Marat reminded.
“Are you sure?”
“I’m positive. You can come Friday. How does that sound?” Marat suggested.
“That sounds wonderful,” Daniela exclaimed. “Thank you.”
“For what?”
“Thank you for being so supportive and understanding. I made the right choice,” Daniela replied.
“Was there ever a contest between Andy and me?”
“Never, but giving him up as a friend was difficult,” Daniela recalled, but then remembered his scheming and cringed.
“Good. I’ll see you Friday. But I want to hear from you in between now and then,” Marat asserted.
“I’ll call you tomorrow after you defeat Andreev.”
“Getting a little ahead of ourselves, aren’t we?”
“The fa-,” Daniela started but shut her mouth instantly.
“What did you say?” Marat asked when she never finished.
“Nothing.”
“No, you were going to say something. What was it?” Marat persisted.
“Marat, I need to tell you something.”
“What is it? Are you okay?”
“I’m fine, but…., oh, never mind,” Daniela hesitated.
“No, tell me.”
“I’ll talk to you about it when I arrive in Valencia,” Daniela assured.
“This doesn’t have anything to do with Andy, does it?” Marat asked.
“No, but…, let’s talk about this later,” Daniela said. “Bye. I love you.”
“I love you, too,” Marat replied as he hung up the phone.
Setting his cell phone down in the passenger seat, Marat continued to drive down the road. He had just driven through the French-Spanish border and was on his way to his temporary home.
“That was strange,” Marat thought to himself as he thought of Daniela’s behavior. “What’s going on?”
But as Marat continued to drive in silence, his conscience got the better of him. Thoughts of Daniela and Andy ran through his head. Was Daniela having regrets about choosing him? She hadn’t denied what she wanted to say was about Andy. That must be it. Daniela was veering back to Andy and Marat was now being left in the dust.
“I can’t believe this!” Marat shouted hitting the steering wheel with his palm. “**** her!”
Drivers that passed Marat’s car stared at him in amazement. There was no traffic, no reason for a grown man to be hitting his steering wheel. Feeling the unwanted gazes, Marat held up his middle finger and drove on.
*****
“Hey, Daniela! Your boyfriend’s match is showing on TV,” Igor called from the living room sofa.
“Oh, I almost forgot! It’s his second round match. Is it live?” Daniela said sitting next to her brother.
“No. It’s already the second round?”
“Yeah, he beat Igor Andreev Monday,” Daniela reminded.
“Are you leaving tomorrow?” Igor asked Daniela.
“Early tomorrow morning,” Daniela answered absentmindedly as she stared at the television set.
“Did you hear what the commentators just said?” Igor asked leaning in closer to the TV.
“No. Turn it up,” Daniela answered and listened.
“Safin is looking great out there. He has a real chance at winning this tournament,” a commentator informed as the screen flashed from Marat to his box. “And over in his box, he has the support of his coach, Peter Lundgren. Oh, and a new girlfriend.”
“What did that guy just say?!” Daniela exclaimed jumping from the couch.
“I could have sworn he was dating Hantuchova a week ago,” another commentator responded.
“Not anymore. Looks like the new girlfriend is Elena Korikova. She’s a Russian actress,” the commentator reported. “Out with the old and in with the new.”
“What an ass!” Igor announced.
“I know. What kind of commentator spreads a bunch of rumors?” Daniela replied.
“I didn’t mean the commentators. I meant Marat,” Igor corrected.
“Marat? No, it’s all a mistake,” Daniela insisted. “She’s probably only a close friend.”
“Daniela, he’s a complete waste of your time, and you know it,” Igor asserted.
“He loves me,” Daniela argued.
“When was the last time he called you?”
“We haven’t talked since Russia won Davis Cup,” Daniela answered knowing he was right.
“That’s about four days. He’s really devoted.”
“Igor, it’s a mistake. It has to be,” Daniela said and ran to the kitchen.
“What are you doing?” Igor asked as he followed his sister.
“I’m going to call him,” Daniela answered finding the phone.
“Daniela, don’t put yourself through it,” Igor commented leaning against the kitchen counter.
“I’m going to prove to you it’s a mistake,” Daniela said turning on the speaker phone. “Listen for yourself!”
“Hello?” a female voice answered Marat’s cell phone.
“Um, sorry. I dialed the wrong number,” Daniela said about to hang up.
“Who is it, Elena?” Daniela heard Marat say.
“Wrong number,” Elena said.
“Wait!” Daniela shouted before Elena could hang up. “Is this Marat’s cell phone?”
“Yes, it is. Who are you?” Elena asked.
“I think the real question is, ‘Who are you?’” Daniela answered.
“Excuse me?”
“This is Daniela, Marat’s girlfriend,” Daniela shouted.
“Girlfriend? Um, Marat,” Daniela heard Elena call.
“Hello?” Marat answered taking the phone from Elena.
“Who the hell do you think you are? Hugh Hefner? I thought you loved me! Do you have a whore in every city?” Daniela shouted.
“Daniela?”
“No, Mother Theresa. How could you do this to me? To us?” Daniela yelled rubbing her belly.
“How could I do this to us? You were about to leave me for Andy!” Marat shouted back.
“What?”
“Don’t be all innocent! I know what’s going on.”
“Nothing is going on!”
“You’re such a hypocrite,” Marat declared.
“I thought you loved me,” Daniela said quietly.
“You know, Daniela. I think it’s best if we never see each other again,” Marat said running his hand through his hair.
“You don’t mean that,” Daniela whispered.
“Bye, Daniela,” Marat said and hung up the phone.
Collapsing to the floor, Daniela fell against the floor in tears. The colors of the room blended, and all she could hear was the sounds of her brother running to her.
“Daniela, don’t cry. He’s not worth it,” Igor said cradling Daniela and wiping her tears.
“Igor, he is worth it,” Daniela cried. “I’m pregnant.”
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Post by Annie on Apr 18, 2006 10:52:01 GMT 3
Chapter 42
As Daniela curled up on the couch in a crumpled heap, Igor paced the carpeted floors in front of her. They were awaiting the arrival of Marianna. Since Daniela was no longer talking to Igor, he called Marianna over for some answers. Twenty minutes later, Marianna knocked on the apartment door.
“Mom, com in,” Igor greeted. “I have a few questions for you.”
“What do you mean-,” Marianna began but stopped.
At first, Marianna hadn’t noticed Daniela but then she noticed the ball of clothes on the sofa. Shocked and concerned, Marianna rushed to the couch and began a series of questions.
“Mom, it’ll do no good,” Igor said walking to the couch.
“What happened?” Marianna asked.
“It’s a long story. A long story that I’m missing parts from.”
“What do you mean?”
“I just found out Daniela is pregnant. But we both just found out Marat has left Daniela for some blonde woman,” Igor answered matter-of-factly.
“Why is he leaving her? How did she find out?”
“I’ll answer that once you answer my questions,” Igor replied.
“Fine,” Marianna sighed rubbing Daniela’s back.
“When did she find out she was pregnant?”
“Almost two weeks ago,” Marianna answered.
“Why didn’t you two tell me?”
“Daniela wanted to tell Marat first. She was going to tell him at Valencia.”
“My God,” Igor said looking at his sister. “Now the father of her child has abandoned her.”
“Well, he might not be the father,” Marianna said wringing her hands.
“What?”
“Andy could be the father as well,” Marianna explained.
“I was under the impression he was only a friend.”
“Not exactly,” Marianna answered before returning to Daniela. Her sobs had gotten louder.
“Daniela, stop crying. For all you know, Marat isn’t the father,” Igor said sitting on the other side of her.
“It’s not just about the baby,” Daniela wailed. “I love him, and now I’ll never see him again.”
“Tournaments for men and women coincide all the time,” Marianna cooed.
“I know that. But how can I face him?” Daniela said looking up at her mother and brother.
“You’re strong. But first, you need to find out if the child is his. If it is, he’ll want to know,” Igor comforted.
“The doctor can’t administer one of those tests until I’m ten weeks along.”
“Well, you’re six weeks now. There’s only four weeks to go,” Marianna commented.
“Mom, I can’t stand this,” Daniela said punching a throw pillow.
“Darling, you need to calm down,” Marianna instructed. “It’s not good for the baby.”
“You’re right. The baby is all I have left.”
“You still have your career,” Igor reminded.
“That’s true, but you’ll have to stop by your second trimester. That’s when you’ll gain a lot of weight,” Marianna explained.
“Maybe you should call Nigel and give him a head’s up,” Igor suggested.
“I’ll do that now,” Daniela said getting up from the couch.
“What are we going to do, Mom?” Igor asked.
“I think what she needs the most right now is to get back to work,” Marianna said staring after her daughter.
“Change the plane ticket for Monte Carlo instead of Valencia,” Igor suggested.
“I’m on it.”
*****
“Thank you for coming with me,” Daniela said to Marianna as they left the plane.
“It’ll be fun,” Marianna commented giving Daniela a hug. “It’s a lot warmer here than it is in Bratislava.”
“You’ll love it here. The architecture is beautiful. The people are carefree. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere.”
“Perfect for a vacation. I don’t see how you get any work done here,” Marianna replied as they exited the airport and walked out into the warm sun of Monte Carlo.
“It’s difficult, but I manage,” Daniela laughed. “Wow that was the first laugh I’ve had in a while!”
“You should be laughing and smiling a lot more. You’re pregnant, not dying,” Marianna joked.
“Well, according to the number of times I visit the bathroom, I might be.”
“Nonsense. I was the same way when I was pregnant with Igor.”
“Igor was a trouble-maker even in the womb,” Daniela teased.
Laughing and chatting, they waited in front of the airport for Nigel to pick them up. Daniela was bubbling with excitement, because it had been so long since she had seen her coach. Yesterday when Daniela had revealed the news, Nigel had ceremoniously understood. He had even laid out a new workout and training regimen to accommodate her pregnancy.
“Daniela!” Nigel greeted.
“Nigel!” Daniela exclaimed hugging her coach tightly. “How are you?”
“No different from yesterday. Was the flight bad with your morning sickness?” Nigel asked taking Marianna’s and Daniela’s bags.
“All I can say is thank God for bathrooms in airplanes,” Daniela laughed as she sat down in the front seat. Marianna sat in the back with the carry-on luggage.
“Well, they’ve had them for awhile,” Nigel teased. “I think we’ll start training tomorrow. We have to leave for Fed Cup on Wednesday.”
“I wanted to start practice today.”
“Today? Aren’t you tired?” Nigel asked in surprise.
“I need tennis to keep my mind off things,” Daniela shrugged.
“It’s better than drowning your sorrows in other things,” Marianna commented from the back seat.
“True,” Nigel replied. “But nevertheless, we’ll start tomorrow. We have five days till we leave.”
“I’m not going to have any luck persuading you, am I?” Daniela asked.
“None at all,” Nigel smiled.
“Then I’ll shut up.”
“Now that’ll be the day.”
*****
Waking up in her own bed, Daniela sighed loudly and looked around the room. She had slept ridiculously late, but that wasn’t the weirdest part. She had awaked to no morning sickness and no feeling of emptiness. Could the heartache from Marat be subsiding? No, it was only taking a rest.
Making her way out of bed, Daniela moved around the room picking up her dirty clothes and put them in the hamper. Returning to her bed, Daniela made the bed meticulously. Standing at her bedroom door, Daniela admired her clean room.
“Great, I’m already nesting,” Daniela laughed and walked out of her bedroom and into the hallway.
Strolling down the hallway, Daniela passed Marianna’s bedroom. The room was abandoned and a mess. Setting to work once again, Daniela tidied the room and entered the hallway again. She was about to step down the stairs when she noticed the other guest room. It was the plainest of the rooms and was a blank canvas.
Stepping off the top step, Daniela walked into the bare room. There was only a bed, a bedside table, and a dresser in the room. The walls were white, and the wood floors beneath her feet needed refinished badly. Since she had purchased the house two years ago, no one had stayed in here. Who could blame them?
“It’s perfect!” Daniela giggled. “It’s absolutely perfect!”
Daniela was only six weeks along, but she already was planning her baby room. The bare guest room would be perfect. It would need paint, new furniture, window treatments, and a visit by a floor expert, but she knew it would look amazing. The bedroom got the most sun out of all the rooms in her house. Her child would wake up every morning to the sun warming its face.
“Daniela, what are you doing?” Marianna asked standing in the doorway.
“I’m planning my baby room,” Daniela smiled.
“In this room? Why not the other room? This one is so plain,” Marianna cringed looking around the room.
“That’s the point. A baby is a new beginning. And this room will have a new beginning as well.”
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Post by Annie on Apr 19, 2006 9:49:54 GMT 3
Chapter 43
“That’s a very profound answer in the morning,” Marianna commented to Daniela as they arrived downstairs in the kitchen.
“My mind is very clear all of a sudden,” Daniela replied pouring a glass of guava juice.
“Does this mean you’ve given up on Marat?” Marianna asked from the kitchen table.
“I’m not even thinking of him,” Daniela said sitting down. “I thought you were supportive of me talking to him.”
“The more I think about it, he doesn’t seem like the best choice for my only daughter.”
“What if he’s the father?” Daniela asked taking a sip of her juice.
“Although I don’t know how to feel about him, he deserves to know,” Marianna answered.
“Maybe I should go ahead and tell him I’m pregnant,” Daniela shrugged. “Give him a head’s up on the matter.”
“Would he even take your call?”
“Good point,” Daniela said finishing her glass.
“But it would be an interesting conversation starter,” Marianna joked.
“It would definitely get his attention.”
“Nigel called earlier and said he’ll be over in an hour,” Marianna said.
“Okay, well I’m going to get ready,” Daniela said putting her glass in the sink.
“Oh, and Daniela,” Marianna called as Daniela was about to go up the stairs.
“What?”
“I just want to say how proud I am of you,” Marianna smiled. “You’re really growing up.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
*****
“Anybody home?” Nigel yelled from the entryway of Daniela’s house.
“We’re in the living room,” Daniela called from the window loveseat.
“What are you two doing?” Nigel asked as he entered the living room.
“Discussing girl stuff,” Marianna answered. “Try not to keep her out too late. I want to take her shopping for the baby.”
“Shopping already?” Nigel asked in surprise.
“We’re going to get a start on the baby room,” Marianna replied.
“But you don’t know the gender yet,” Nigel responded.
“We’re going to do the room in a light yellow,” Daniela explained. “It’ll be so pretty.”
“I’m sure it will be. Let’s go,” Nigel said and walked out of the room.
“See you soon, Mom,” Daniela said and placed a kiss on her mother’s cheek.
Ten minutes later, Daniela and Nigel were enjoying the stroll to the Monte Carlo Tennis Club. The clouds were gathering quickly above their heads. Sensing the coming rain, they quickened their step and arrived sooner than usual.
“I don’t know how long practice will last today,” Nigel said as they settled their bags near their court.
“Yeah, it looks like it’s about to pour,” Daniela commented staring into the dark clouds above them.
“Well, let’s get to working. We’ll start off with a short-court warm-up,” Nigel instructed as they went to their sides on the court.
“It feels so good to have a racquet back in my hand,” Daniela exclaimed.
“I’m really happy you’re so enthusiastic,” Nigel replied with a smile.
Nigel and Daniela finished up the warm-up and began practicing Daniela’ serve. As Daniela lifted her arm to hit the ball, she felt the cool, wet droplet of rain on her head. Ignoring the light drizzle, they continued. But just as they thought they were home free, the rain began to pour unmercifully on them.
“Let’s get inside,” Nigel shouted above the sound of rain hitting the hard clay court.
“Good idea,” Daniela said grabbing her bag and running with Nigel into the safety of the building.
“What should we do now?” Daniela asked wiping the rain water from her face.
“We’ll have to stay here until the rain stops,” Nigel answered. “We can go to the café here and get something to eat.”
“That sounds fine,” Daniela agreed following Nigel.
Entering the café, Daniela sighed when she found that Corinne was no where in sight. The last person she needed to see was another of Marat’s girlfriends.
“Nigel, I’m not very hungry. I’m going to sit down,” Daniela said.
“Okay, I’ll join you in a minute.”
Looking around the room, Daniela found a table in the corner far way from the table she had shared with Corinne that day weeks earlier. Sitting down, she propped her feet up another chair at the table and leaned her head against the wall. Closing her eyes, she could hear the banging of rain hitting the roof of the building.
In an odd, annoying way, the banging was soothing compared to the sounds of angry patrons complaining about the rain. Beneath the clatter of plates, the banging of the rain, and the shouts of members, Daniela could make out the sounds of a television playing in the opposite corner of the room.
Opening her eyes and picking up her head, Daniela stared at the television set. The station was playing a match from Valencia. The first player she recognized was Nicholas Almagro. When the camera changed angles, Daniela was met by the form of a ghost. Marat was on the other side of the court.
Looking up at the corner of the screen, Daniela searched for the score. Almagro had won the first set, but Marat had won the second. Daniela didn’t want to feel happy for him, but she couldn’t help it. But as she continued to watch them playing, Daniela’s peace of mind was replaced by an aching feeling in her chest.
“Sorry it took me so long,” Nigel apologized as he sat down at the table.
“Can we go?” Daniela asked urgently.
“Are you deaf? Can’t you hear the rain out there?” Nigel asked.
“I’m sorry, but I’ve got to get out of here.”
“Why are you in such a hurry?”
“Look behind you,” Daniela answered.
Turning in his seat, Nigel observed the people behind him. Sighing to himself, he saw no one familiar. But as he was about to turn around, he saw the television set.
“I’m sorry, Daniela,” Nigel said.
“It’s okay. You didn’t know,” Daniela replied.
“We can’t leave, but I can change seats with you so you’re not facing the screen,” Nigel offered.
“That’s sweet of you, but I’ll still be able to hear him,” Daniela sighed and placed her head in her hands.
“It’ll get easier,” Nigel soothed.
“It won’t be easy until we’re back together.”
“Why do you want him back?” Nigel asked. “If I were you, I’d be praying it was Andy’s baby.”
“It’s not only the baby, but I love him,” Daniela answered. “He’s dating Elena because he’s hurt. There’s nothing serious going on. He could never love her like he loves me.”
“I hope you’re right,” Nigel said and continued to eat.
Getting any confidence and bravery she had left, Daniela looked up at the television screen. As she watched, Marat fell to the court in pain. The commentators announced he had injured his ankle. Sighing in relief, Daniela was overjoyed it wasn’t his knee.
The match was slow torture for Daniela. Every time Almagro danced around in glee for winning a point, Daniela didn’t know whether to cheer for him or be angry. But she understood that if she truly loved him, Daniela would not cheer against Marat.
“The rain’s stopped,” Nigel said. “Let’s get you home.”
“Oh, wait,” Daniela pleaded. “I want to see if Marat wins.”
“I think your mother would prefer you to be home.”
“Okay,” Daniela said following Nigel outside.
*****
“How’s your ankle, Marat?” Peter asked after Marat had lost the match.
“It’s the least of my worries. I think my fever has gotten worse,” Marat answered feeling his head.
“Elena is outside. She asked if you want her to come in,” Peter informed.
“No, tell her I’m wrapping my ankle,” Marat shrugged.
“Is something wrong?” Peter asked.
“I just need some space right now,” Marat answered and watched Peter leave.
Marat needed space, but to be more specific, Marat needed time away from Elena. Elena was a nice woman, but she was no Daniela. And he missed Daniela so much it was making him sick. Hanging his head, Marat sighed loudly in the empty locker room.
“Get over her,” Marat shouted at himself. “She doesn’t love you or want you. She wants Andy.”
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Post by Annie on Apr 20, 2006 11:53:00 GMT 3
Chapter 44
“I thought we’d never get here!” Marianna exclaimed as they arrived at a paint shop.
“Well, you wouldn’t let me go yesterday,” Daniela replied.
“You were soaking wet.”
“We weren’t soaking. We were almost dry,” Daniela responded.
“I don’t care what you think. I’m your mother, and I know what’s best,” Marianna said taking their checklist out of her purse.
“How many things do we still need to do?” Daniela asked leaning over her mother’s shoulder.
“Well, we already called the floor people. They’ll be at your house in two days to refinish those floors,” Marianna began. “We need to pick out paint and get that on the walls before they come.”
“How are we going to do that? I can’t help,” Daniela asked.
“I’ve already recruited Nigel,” Marianna explained. “We better get started in here.”
Looking around the store, Daniela groaned in exhaustion. The walls were covered in rows and rows of paint samples. Not only were there millions of colors, but there were millions of companies. Walking beside her mother, Daniela stared up and down the rows searching for an end.
“Okay, so we’re going with yellow. Correct?” Marianna asked.
“Right. May be that will narrow it down,” Daniela answered.
“Hmmm. Alright, here are the yellows. We want something light, but not too light that you won’t notice it’s yellow.”
“This is going to be impossible. I can’t even see the top row up there,” Daniela said grimacing at the paint chips.
“This is a nice color,” Marianna said picking up a paint chip.
“It’s too gray and depressing looking,” Daniela said discarding it back on the wall.
“How about this one?” Marianna asked pointing to a color.
“It looks like the same color as urine,” Daniela said in disgust.
“Moody today, aren’t we?” Marianna asked with a smile.
“I just want the perfect color for my first child,” Daniela replied.
“Why don’t you give it a try?” Marianna suggested stepping away from the walls of paint chips.
“I’ll try,” Daniela sighed and moved her finger over the color choices. “Ah, ha! I found it!”
“See! It took you two seconds to find it. It would have taken me hours,” Marianna exclaimed.
“It’s called Lemon Soufflé,” Daniela said reading the name of the color. “I’m going to be hungry every time I enter the room.”
“So will I,” Marianna laughed. “I’ll be one roly-poly of a grandmother.”
“The baby will love you no matter what,” Daniela said walking to the cash register.
“Not as much as it’ll love you.”
*****
“Are you sure you should be walking on it?” Elena asked Marat as they walked down the street.
“It’s fine, Elena,” Marat answered curtly.
Marat, Peter, Don, and Elena had arrived in Monte Carlo that morning. Feeling cooped up in Marat’s small house, Elena suggested they go out for lunch. Craving the clean, crisp air of Monte Carlo, Marat agreed even with his head and ankle throbbing. He couldn’t stand one more minute of Elena’s constant supervision.
“Are you mad at me about something?”
“No, why do you ask?” Marat asked casually.
“You’ve been rather short circuited with me lately,” Elena explained. “You act like you’ve lost your best friend.”
“I lost yesterday. What do you expect?”
“I know you did, and I’m sorry about that. Almagro was an asshole. But you’ve been like this with me for a few days,” Elena commented. “Actually, you’ve been like this since your ex-girlfriend called.”
“You think she has something to do with the way I’m acting? Are you really that self-conscience?” Marat asked looking down at Elena.
“No, but something’s wrong. You’re acting strange,” Elena asserted.
“I’m sick and my ankle is sore. End of story, Elena,” Marat stated.
Opening her mouth to say something, Elena decided against it and shut her mouth. Strolling down the street, Marat had flashbacks of the first day he spent with Daniela back in December. He was now on his way to that same café they had eaten at but with a different woman. Shaking his head, he flogged the memories out of his mind temporarily.
Turning his head to the side, he admired the store windows as they passed along. The windows were done up extravagantly to attract tourists and residents alike to shop till their credit cards collapsed. But as they passed a baby furniture and accessory store, Marat stopped in his place.
Standing inside the store was Daniela with a middle-aged woman. He should have expected to see her in Monte Carlo; she did live here after all. Daniela was standing before two cribs consulting a store clerk. What was Daniela doing in a baby store?
But his mind drifted from his question to how beautiful she looked. Her hair was back in a ponytail so you could see her entire face. She wasn’t dressed up like Elena, but was casual in a light Nike sweater and jeans. Daniela was more gorgeous than he remembered.
“Marat? Why did we stop?” Elena said pulling on his arm.
“Oh, sorry. I saw a friend of mine,” Marat explained.
“Ooo, I’d like to meet them Where are they?” Elena said looking around the sidewalk.
“I’d like to talk to them alone. It’s been so long,” Marat lied.
“Oh, I understand,” Elena assured squeezing his arm.
“Go ahead to the café,” Marat instructed. “I’ll be there soon.”
“Okay, don’t be long,” Elena agreed and walked the rest of the way to the café alone.
Once Elena was out of view, Marat walked into the store quietly. If he could get away with it, he would try to sneak in and out without Daniela knowing he had been there. Crouching behind a tall changing armoire, Marat watched Daniela talk with the store clerk. Slowing his breathing, Marat perked up his ears to hear the conversation.
“I like the Lauren style crib, but it doesn’t come in white,” Daniela shrugged. “What do you think, Mom?”
“It’s very pretty, but the Valerie style crib is also very nice and it’s white,” Marianna reasoned.
“You’re right. The white crib would go better with the yellow than the pale wood color. Miss, we’d like the Valerie style crib,” Daniela requested.
“A wonderful choice. Can we offer you other furniture to go along with it?” the store clerk asked.
“Does the crib belong to a set?” Marianna asked.
“Yes, it does. There’s a matching changing table and dresser.”
“We’ll take the set then,” Daniela decided.
“I’ll ring everything up for you. Continue to browse,” the clerk said as she walked to the cash register.
“Oh, Mom. This is so exciting! The baby’s room is really coming together,” Daniela squealed as she hugged Marianna.
“You’ve put together a lovely room for your child,” Marianna complimented.
“I’m not even close to being done. The crib needs a mattress, bed sheets, and I still need curtains,” Daniela said listing off thing to do.
“You have plenty of time,” Marianna assured. “Breathe, child.”
“WHAT?” Marat said giving away his hiding place.
“Marat?”
“MARAT?”
“Daniela, are you pregnant?” Marat asked walking over to Daniela. He no longer wanted to hide from Daniela but be near her more than ever.
“Marat, I don’t know what to say,” Daniela mumbled.
“Are you pregnant?”
“Yes, I’m six weeks along,” Daniela answered looking down at the floor.
“How long have you known?” Marat asked taking Daniela’s hand.
“I’ve known for two weeks,” Daniela replied.
“Why didn’t you tell me? Daniela you know what this means, right?” Marat asked with glittering eyes.
“What?”
“We’re going to be parents!” Marat shouted taking Daniela into her arms.
“You’re not mad?” Daniela wheezed as Marat squeezed the air out of her.
“Mad? I’m ecstatic! I’ve never been happier!”
“What about Elena?” Daniela asked when Marat loosened his grip.
“We both know that was nothing,” Marat answered.
“Then why didn’t you know the thing with Andy was nothing too?”
“I was jealous and stupid. Daniela, why didn’t you tell me earlier? How much of the baby’s room have you finished?” Marat asked.
“We started shopping today,” Daniela replied with a smile. Marat’s excitement was starting to rub off on her. “Would you like to see the paint chip?”
“I’d love to,” Marat said.
“Mom, can I have the paint chip?” Daniela asked.
“Here, darling. Marat, it’s, well, interesting to meet you,” Marianna said handing the chip to Daniela and extending her hand to Marat.
“I know you must think I’m a jerk, but I am. I was stupid to believe that your daughter could go behind my back like that. I apologize, and it will never happen again. I love your daughter,” Marat explained shaking Marianna’s hand nervously.
“Unfortunately, I’ll have to wait and see,” Marianna replied taking her hand back.
“I understand you apprehension,” Marat commented before moving his attention to Daniela and the color of the paint.
“Do you like it?” Daniela asked nervously.
“I love it! It’s so bright and cheerful.”
“We’re having the floors refinished and they’re putting up new floor boards and crown molding. And you’ve seen the furniture. Do you approve?” Daniela asked.
“I approve of everything you do,” Marat answered kissing Daniela forehead and patting her stomach. “Haha, no bump yet.”
“That won’t happen for awhile,” Daniela laughed.
“I can’t wait till it starts to kick!” Marat exclaimed.
“You’re so excited about this,” Daniela commented.
“This is my first child, and I’m having it with you. Why wouldn’t I be happy?”
“What are you going to do about Elena?” Daniela asked feeling sorry for the other woman.
“Yes, Marat. Please tell us,” Elena said. “What are you going to do with me?”
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Post by Annie on Apr 27, 2006 10:43:14 GMT 3
Chapter 45
“Elena?”
“I’m waiting, Marat,” Elena answered folding her arms across her chest.
“Elena, I didn’t plan this. Neither of us did,” Marat said. “This is Daniela. Daniela, this is Elena.”
“Maybe I should leave,” Daniela said. “You need to talk to Elena alone.”
“Oh, I don’t need to talk to Marat. I should’ve already figured it out. Marat’s been miserable for days,” Elena scoffed.
“This was as much of a surprise to me as it is to you,” Marat explained.
“How convenient for her,” Elena said referring to Daniela.
“What do you mean?” Marat asked.
“Well, she arrives in Monte Carlo just in time for your tournament. Then she sees you and decides to tell you she’s pregnant,” Elena answered. “It’s all very convenient.”
“I live here,” Daniela defended. “And I didn’t find Marat; he found me.”
“She’s telling the truth,” Marat assured taking Daniela’s hand and squeezing it.
“Do you even know if this is your child?” Elena asked. “She does get around.”
“What did you say?” Daniela hissed.
“You did sleep with Andy Roddick right after you broke up with Marat,” Elena shrugged. “That my dear is classified as sleeping around.”
“I suggest you shut your mouth before I make your plastic surgeon richer than you’ve already made him,” Daniela replied.
“Elena, I think you should leave,” Marat said tightening his grip on Daniela’s hand.
“I’ll leave you to your responsibilities,” Elena responded.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Marat asked.
“You’re only going back to her, because you feel responsible for the baby,” Elena answered. “But when you find out the bastard child’s not yours, I know I’ll see you again.”
“You bitch!” Daniela screamed letting go of Marat’s hand.
“Irritable girl, isn’t she?” Elena smiled. “Bye, Marat.”
Daniela’s blood boiled through her veins as she watched Elena leave the upscale store and disappear out of her view. Daniela had never wanted to hurt someone so much in her life. She could stomach the insults placed on herself but not on her child. Sensing Marat staring at her, Daniela turned around to face him.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so angry,” Marat commented.
“Not even at you?” Daniela asked.
“No, not even close.”
“I won’t let anyone insult our child,” Daniela replied.
“Don’t worry about her or anything she said. Elena only said it out of anger at me, not you or our child,” Marat soothed.
“I don’t care. She better hope we never meet in a dark alley,” Daniela sieved. “Because if we do meet, it’ll be lights out for Barbie.”
“I’m sure you’d take care of her,” Marat laughed. “Here, sit down.”
Marat ushered Daniela into an upholstered rocking chair with a matching ottoman. The rocking chair was exactly what Daniela needed as her tensed muscles relaxed.
“This chair is really nice,” Daniela sighed closing her eyes.
“I’ll add it to our order,” Marat laughed. “Anything you want, I’ll get it for you.”
“Elena’s head on a silver platter?” Daniela asked with eyes still shut.
“Anything except murder,” Marat corrected.
“You’re no fun,” Daniela said opening her eyes and gazing at Marat and Marianna. “I bet you never thought this is how you would meet my mother.”
“I wasn’t exactly picturing this scene, no.”
“At least I finally got to meet the man my daughter talks so much about,” Marianna shrugged. “Daniela, I think we’re done shopping for the day.”
“But there’s still so much to do,” Daniela whined as her mother helped her out of the chair.
“You’re only six weeks along. You have 34 long weeks to go,” Marianna informed as Marat went to the store clerk to pay.
*****
“And I was thinking the crib could go right by the window. It’d be so cute to see the sun go across our baby’s face in the morning,” Daniela explained to Marat. “Right here, we could put the rocking chair. Maybe a side table with a lamp.”
Daniela stopped to take a deep breath. In the last few minutes, Daniela had rushed through the details of the baby room. She wanted everything to be perfect, and she wanted Marat to love her ideas. Taking another deep breath, Daniela stared at Marat as he soaked in all the information.
“So, what do you think?” Daniela asked.
“You’re amazing,” Marat smiled. “I couldn’t have dreamed of a better mother for my child.”
“You still haven’t answered my question.”
Marat grinned widely and let out a loud laugh. Walking across the room to the corner Daniela stood in; he wrapped his arms around her and looked into her eyes. Daniela hadn’t felt this breathless since the first day they had met shopping for Marat.
“Like I said, you’re amazing and your ideas are amazing,” Marat complimented capturing Daniela’s smiling lips in his.
*****
“How’s it going?” Daniela asked as she glanced into the baby room.
“Nigel was supposed to keep you at the courts till five o’clock,” Marat said as he turned away from the wall to look at Daniela.
“Daniela, you know you can’t be in here. The paint fumes could be harmful to the baby,” Marianna worried as she escorted Daniela out of the room.
Yesterday, Daniela’s house had been empty for the exception of Marianna and Daniela. But now that Marat knew Daniela was pregnant, he had moved his suitcases into Daniela’s house and was staying with them. Earlier that morning, Marianna and Marat had decided to begin and finish the painting for the baby’s room.
“I just wanted to take a sneak peak. I was only going to be in the room for a second,” Daniela reassured Marianna.
“I don’t care. You have to be careful, Daniela,” Marianna responded.
“Your mother’s right,” Marat agreed wiping his paint spectacled hands with an old washcloth.
“I know she’s right, but I want to help,” Daniela whined.
“Well, we still need bedding and draperies for the room. That large rocking chair you bought could also use a few pillows,” Marianna suggested.
“The chair is fine the way it is,” Daniela corrected. “I’m going to take a nap.”
“That’s a good idea,” Marat said as he bent down to kiss her. “Close your eyes and forget about all this painting.”
“I’ll try, but I don’t see it happening,” Daniela sighed and walked into her bedroom.
Shutting the bedroom door behind her, Daniela kicked off her tennis shoes and changed into a pair of clean sweats. Thankfully, the bed was still unmade from the previous night. Slipping under the sheets, Daniela took a deep breath of Marat’s cologne on the pillows. Closing her eyes, she let exhaustion surround her.
But just as she was almost asleep, Daniela heard the gentle creak of her bedroom door opening and closing. Muffled footsteps sounded across her carpet and arrived at the bed. Sliding in beside her, Marat wrapped his arms around her warm body. Daniela sighed as she felt his breath on the back of her neck.
“Is the room finished?” Daniela asked.
“Yup, now go back to sleep,” Marat whispered.
“Can I see it?” Daniela asked.
“Go to sleep.”
“Marat?” Daniela asked biting her lower lip.
“Yes?”
“When can I see the room?” Daniela asked once again.
“Tomorrow morning,” Marat sighed. “Please, go back to sleep.”
“Don’t you have practice in awhile?” Daniela remembered.
“I’ll leave once I know you’re fast asleep,” Marat replied.
“I don’t want you to be late.”
“Then go to sleep.”
“Marat?”
“You won’t get to see the room till tomorrow. The paint fumes need to die down,” Marat explained.
“It’s not that,” Daniela said.
Thoughts about the baby raced through her head. Daniela had to wait another four weeks till she could find out the paternity of her child. Somewhere deep in her conscience, Daniela knew she needed to tell Marat of her uncertainty.
“What is it?” Marat asked.
“It’s about the baby.”
“What about the baby?”
“I’m not really sure,” Daniela hesitated. “I’m not really sure what to name it.”
Daniela had quickly changed her mind. Marat didn’t deserve to deal with the paternity until or unless it became an issue. The only time when it would become an issue was if Andy was the father.
“Daniela, you wear me out,” Marat laughed. “We have plenty of time for that. Now sleep.”
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