tennis slash - Smart People (15)
Title: Smart People (15)
Author: Kris S.
Fandom: Tennis RPS
Players: Rafael Nadal, Richard Gasquet, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Ernests Gulbis, Marin Cilic, Dinara Safina, Robin Soderling
Rating: PG13
Disclaimer: This did not happen.
Summary: College AU. Richard and Rafael are geniuses who are roommates in a suite, though they’re different as could be. Inspired by the movie Real Genius. This chapter: Rafa tries to impress Andy for their fake date but trouble is looming; the favor between Marin and Richie finally takes place.
Chapter 15 - Didn’t Know That
“This is going to knock him out,” Rafael says as he emerges from his room wearing a white fitted long-sleeved shirt and grey slacks. “Andy thinks he has the upper hand here but he doesn’t know me in date mode.”
Marin is trying to watch a movie but Novak is sitting on the couch watching Rafael’s show. Novak answers, “One, very nice. Though two, it’s pretty safe to say at this point Andy perfectly well knows about you on a date. He’s certainly has heard enough of the details.”
“But he has yet to experience those details,” then Rafael heads back to his room.
Marin turns to Novak and says, “This sounds like a disaster waiting to happen.”
Novak nods, then says in a low voice, “Both of them are stubborn, especially Rafa when his mind is on something. No use trying to stop it because I think Andy’s going to tell Rafa off before the night is over and I hope Ernie or I catch it… you’re welcome to attend if you wish, you know, though I’m assuming you’re not interested.”
Marin looks to Rafael’s room, then speaks loud enough for him to hear as well, “I actually have plans though I have no idea when that’s supposed to occur. Rafa, have you seen Richie?”
Rafael ducks his head out, taking a moment to ponder that. “No. I haven’t seen him since… I think Friday morning. Probably slept at Roddick’s.”
“No, definitely not,” Marin says quickly. “They got into a fight. I ran into Roddick an hour ago and he's still fuming.”
Novak says slowly, “You witnessed this fighting?” Rafael returns to the main room, equally stunned.
“Yes.” There’s no use hiding what he saw at this point, since Roddick's mood is a clear tip-off anyway.
Novak continues, “No code words or… actually I have no idea what they do in public to send signals. There’s never been anything suspicious prior to Andy finding out about them or anything now that I’ve been looking for signs.”
Marin says, “It’s no big deal if Richie bails on tonight’s plans. I understand that. He wanted to cash in on that favor and I talked him into doing something he might be uncomfortable doing.”
Novak desperately wants Marin to elaborate but Rafael answers first. “That might be true but I wouldn’t be so sure,” gesturing for Marin to join him in his room. Rafael looks through the clipboard sitting on his desk until he finds what he needs. “I bet Richie has holed himself up in the office and isn’t even aware of the time. Ah, here’s we go.” He sits down on the bed and punches in the number. Rafael smiles brightly at being proven correct, then says into the receiver, “I believe my absentminded roommate has absorbed himself in work again when he’s supposed to have plans with Marin…” When Rafael hangs up, he informs Marin, “I think he spent the night in the office but he said he’s heading to the store then coming home. Very apologetic and very on edge, talking too fast for me to be able to get another word in.”
Marin nods, realizing Richard will likely follow through regarding the need to get drunk. That said, he asks, “How is it possible for him to have slept there? Doesn’t security check before locking up?”
“Feli told me he’s caught Richie doing that at least twice. Then Feli used that information for hooking up purposes,” Rafael punctuating that with an impish grin. “But you don’t tell Richie that since he thinks Feli only hooked up with Fernando in that room, not me.”
There’s a knock at the door, then Novak calling out, “Andy’s home.”
Marin asks Rafael, “What are you two doing, exactly?”
“Watch.” Rafael takes long strides out of his room, grabbing a jacket along the way, and yells out, “Are you ready for an experience you’ll never forget?” He then strikes a pose against the wall, the jacket hanging over his shoulder. “I will rock your world.”
Andy rolls his eyes at Rafael’s display, then makes a beeline for his own room. Novak is laughing hysterically and Marin can’t help but join in.
Novak says, “If I were Andy right now, I’d pretend I don’t even know you.”
* * * * *
Maybe it’s because he’s only a freshman but Ernie has had trouble understanding exactly what’s going on tonight. There’s a weird power play taking place between the twins and it's gotten into Ernie's head, ruining his evening with Novak as a result.
There is a noticeable difference in Andy’s demeanor from the first party. Back then, he was relaxed when he had nothing to lose by hanging around Marat. The ending to that night exhibited that Andy was in fact on edge, but he’d been able to keep his cool. But tonight, with Rafael pretending to be his date purely to make Marat jealous, Andy looks uncomfortable.
Novak was very concerned about the first party, refusing to leave Andy out of sight, but this time is different. He’s the one edging them to the back entrance, nibbling at Ernie’s neck and making promises about later that Ernie realizes by now he won’t yet keep.
Marat hasn’t even arrived at the party. Ernie doesn’t mention to Novak that he can hear the other Russians grumbling about that. It’s not exactly a shocker that Marat would be not-so-fashionably late but it’s ruining Dinara’s plan and the Russian Mafia suite knows it. There have been many murderous looks exchanged between Dinara, Mikhail and Dmitry - a not-too-uncommon occurrence when plans fail involving Marat.
Rafael is trying to make this scheme work. He’s been leaning in close, smiling, telling jokes - in other words, typically charming Rafa. Normally when the twins are hanging out, Andy chimes in with some dry comment that will turn Rafael from simple laughter to hysterics. Usually, it just has Ernie confused.
There must be something different Rafael is doing this time for Andy to seem out of sorts by what seems to be typical behavior. Andy surely must know the difference between this fake date and a real date, even if he hasn’t done the latter in two years.
Dinara gets a text which causes her to frown, then she approaches Rafael and Andy. They exchange a few words then she leads Andy away, clearly having gotten a message from Marat. When they pass Ernie and Novak, Dinara stops to inform them, “I have it all set to record Andy’s voice, which I will make sure to play every time I can as a means to torture my brother.”
Novak says, “I can tell he looks so thrilled,” then smiles innocently as Andy shoots him a look that says that Novak had better keep his eyes open tonight.
Andy sounds so tired when he says, “Can you please keep Rafa entertained? He is being especially annoying so I’d be happier not seeing him when she finishes this joke.”
Novak appears confused by the question but Ernie steps in to say, “Will do.”
When they’re gone, Novak asks, “What is with you tonight? I didn’t think you’d be trying to stop me from taking you to a backroom and ravaging you.”
Ernie looks to Rafael, then shakes his head. “Something bad is going to happen and we need to be around, just in case.”
* * * * *
Even though Richard had promised to return quickly, two hours pass and he isn’t yet home. Marin is trying not to doze off in front of the television, the program he’d been watching long over in favor of sitcom reruns, when he’s suddenly jolted by the door slamming shut.
Richard flattens against the door, looking completely exhausted. Not surprising that he was wearing the same clothes from yesterday but it appears he’s been awake since then as well. He does have what looks like a bottle in the bag at his side so at least did make the stop at the store.
Marin waits for him to say something, anything, but several minutes pass without him moving from his position. “You okay?” Richard gives a noncommittal shrug. Marin pulls the recorder from his pocket, holds it up and asks, “Are you sure you want to do this?” Richard shakes his head but gestures for Marin to press the button anyway.
Rafael or Novak, possibly even Andy, would know what to do. But they've already left for the party and it'll be too late for them to deal with this when they return. Marin supposes he can call Janko, except that would require access to someone else's room to retrieve the phone number. Realizing how limited the options are, Marin pats down on the empty spot on the couch and asks, "What's wrong?" Marin slips the recorder back in his pocket but does press the button, figuring it may be easier if not seeing the device.
It is as if being sent in front of a firing squad but Richard reluctantly trudges over to the couch, dropping the bag by his feet. He lies back on the couch, settling in to watch but likely preferring to fall asleep. Marin turns back to the television to try to make this easier - or at least easier than commenting on how terrible Richard looks right now.
Marin was just beginning to understand the plot of the show when a soft voice says, "I was okay when I was in my office but maybe I subconsciously knew I wanted to be nowhere near him. So I went to the store after Rafa called, got to the dorm and, of course, he's on duty. I spent the last forty five minutes trying to get in without him seeing me. Finally, he got a phone call which required him to leave so I snuck in. The thing is, I understand why he's mad at me. I am manipulative enough to think of doing something like what he concluded. He thinks I'm incapable of feeling anything..." Richard stops speaking, as if something he said has reminded him of something else, and he furrows his brow. When he continues speaking, there's a bitter edge to the words. "It's exactly what that bastard has always said, but they're both wrong. In fact, if I wasn't one hundred percent certain he couldn't have known, I'd think that bastard said that to him on purpose to rile me up."
While most of that is clearly about Roddick, it's the venom for the other person that captures Marin's attention. He faces Richard to ask, "You're talking about Professor Federer?"
Richard nods, then adds, "He really would do that." He turns his face into the couch cushion when he finishes by saying, "He wants to see me fail."
"That sounds rather harsh."
Richard stands up and heads for his room, muttering, "Be right back." He soon emerges with two shot glasses then bends down to get the bottle of vodka out of the bag and sets everything on the table. He kneels in front of the table, carefully pouring into both then picking up one and downing the shot before returning to the couch. "I don't understand how people can drink this crap. Wine, even beer, is so much better."
"Wine is the only alcoholic drink I've had and that’s from family gatherings," Marin admits. Against his better instinct, he grabs the full shot glass from the table, takes a sniff then tries to drink it slowly. He cringes at the taste, shaking his head as he exclaims, "Why did you buy that?"
"Essentially because Ernie and the Russian Mafia guys are idiots. I was hoping it’d get a person drunk quicker but it tastes terrible." Richard sits up to refill the glasses and keeps one in his hand, debating taking the drink. He seems almost afraid to actually do this shot, knowing he’s going to have to start talking soon.
Marin decides to push this along. He really doesn’t want to drink but he knows there’s no way he’ll be allowed to drink more than Richard either. He makes quick work of the other shot, then slams the glass on the table - he’s seen that done in the movies and hopes it’ll make an impression.
Richard raises his eyebrows at that display then laughs heartily, immediately loosening up. He has the drink, then begins, “Professor Federer is a genius with a personal agenda. He wants to fuck up the minds of other geniuses. I was a naïve sixteen year old, raised by my parents around college dorms. They’re both professors and I was always around academic types instead of kids my age. Federer knew this, knew a lot of little things about me, and I idolized his work ethic. As time went on, he made sure he was the only voice I’d hear, even taking over my parents. I’d believe he was right for no other reason than the fact that he’s the one making the argument.”
“After hearing him with Roddick, I am beginning to see what you mean about the little comments.”
“Yeah, he still does that to me. I would rather not know what Federer had said back then to convince Roddick to do that striptease. While I know that Andy and I initially got together because of hating that man, I kind of wish that hadn’t stayed as the bond. I guess it was easier to say that than…” Richard blinks, then shakes his head. “No, this isn’t about that. This is about King Fed.”
Marin stops himself just in time before reminding Richard about the recorder. That Roddick actually might want to hear how Richard feels about him instead of the Federer stuff. Instead, he says, “You were talking about him taking over your brain?”
“That’s one way to phrase it. So I’m still Federer’s pet,” pausing and giving a glance to Marin to be sure he knows that word is important. Marin nods, his suspicion confirmed regarding that word being significant. “…for sophomore year, when Janko and Mario move in down the hall. Janko keeps pushing me to hang out with them. I will be the first to tell you that I didn’t have friends here, didn’t really have anyone close back home, and didn’t particularly care to have that, either. But you met Janko, he makes a first impression. Even I knew that someone that cool shouldn’t want to hang around the awkward nerd. His friends thought he was mad for even trying.”
“I thought I was the awkward nerd in this suite,” Marin says lightly.
Richard gives a slight smile before saying, “When I said I was once like you, I wasn’t exaggerating. For once. Janko was the one who thought there was something fishy about Federer, from a conversation with another student in the department, but I was too close to see it. The thing is, even though Federer was the reason for my isolation, he would have this way of talking that would always convince me I was wrong. He can sometimes still do that, actually,” then looks away as he refills the glasses and takes one.
It is automatic at this point for Marin to join in, which would likely get a reaction but Richard is leaning back on the couch, staring at the ceiling with his untouched glass.
“It culminated in a serious fight involving my then-roommate which Janko heard down the hall and had to hold me back before I took a swing at him. Well, my roommate was an idiot anyway but he was saying I was crazy and, at that point, I kind of felt that way. It wasn’t until I spent time at home after that semester that I began to realize how strongly Federer’s influence had been. It was as if I’d been in a cult and needed to be deprogrammed. It was my father’s idea to do the trek around Europe because he’d done it when he was my age. That’s when I truly realized how much I’d missed.”
“You trusted him,” Marin says simply.
Richard nods, then tilts his head Marin’s way and sees the empty glass in his hand. “You don’t have to drink, you know.”
“Nonsense. It was my choice. As long as we don’t do something stupid like play Truth or Dare, all is good. We’re staying in the suite and you look like you’re about to pass out.”
“Heh. Truth or Dare. Best game ever. We should play that. I pick truth.”
Marin realizes Richard has no interest in returning to the previous topic. It’s time to humor him. “Of course. Okay. Truth. Have you been awake for thirty-eight hours straight?”
“Forty one, actually. Rafa was making a lot of noise when he was getting ready for his workout, especially when he realized Andy was sleeping in again. Those boys. Your turn.” Richard finally has his shot, then gives Marin what’s supposed to be a challenging stare but is more a sign that he’s exhausted.
“I’ll do one, then I’m going to sleep, something you should do as well. I know what dare you’d choose, just so I have to pay Novak the five dollar bet. Therefore, I pick truth.”
“Actually, I wasn’t going to help him with that but… fair enough. Have you ever fallen for someone? Not counting this Evgeny thing because we haven't been here long enough for it to be serious, unless you're Novak and fall for someone at first sight like he did your roommate."
Marin laughs, then wonders if the alcohol is making it easier to deal with questions like that. "Yes, I have."
"One-sided?" Richard shakes his head. "I know, technically that's two questions on one truth which is against the rules or something..."
"It was one-sided," Marin offers. "Just because I wasn't dating him doesn't make it hurt any less when getting rejected."
Richard nods along, then rests his head back on the couch, appearing deep in thought. "I wish that wasn't true but, yeah, you're right."
* * * * *
Andy couldn't get away from the party fast enough. Dinara kept wanting just a few more minutes. Andy always assumed his mum was the toughest woman he knew but she's got nothing on a vengeful little sister.
He isn't sure if he was spotted by Rafael or not and he really doesn't care. Rafael is being annoying and Andy needs to get back to the suite and away from the temptation still at the party.
It isn't until Andy is just outside the dorm building that he remembers Marin dealing with Richard in the suite, the latter likely drunk while confessing something. He stops just before the entrance, sitting on the bench. He needs to think... or maybe just escape from the whole group.
He doesn't get a chance to make the getaway. “Andy?”
It's rather sad when he'd rather hear Robin's voice than Rafael's but that's the current situation. Still... “Please leave.”
Of course, it wouldn’t be like the Swede to avoid this. But even Robin can tell now isn’t the time to stir trouble. There’s no hint of malice in Robin's voice when he sits down next to Andy and states, “Won’t do that. You seem stressed."
"You're not helping so go continue whatever you were doing before you spotted me."
"Mind if I guess?" Andy doesn't answer, more interested in being alone, but Robin presses on. "Okay so Rafa has been overly interested in your personal life. He's single now so has a lot of free time. Rather than do the obvious and actually ask you out, he has you playing this game."
"I am not interested."
"He has been toying with you since the day you moved into this dorm, probably even before that but I didn't know you then. You've always been interested but held back because he actually likes being around you and telling the truth would ruin the bliss."
"I really hate you right now."
"Because I'm right."
"Because you're throwing what I said when I was drunk back in my face."
"You're lucky I haven't told Rafa."
"You've said enough already."
There is a tapping of sneakers in front of Andy, then Rafael asks coldly, "What the hell is going on?" Novak had been trying to hold Rafael back but he and Ernie catch up, staying close enough to intervene just in case.
Robin says, "I'm just being a shoulder to lean on. You won't deliver so I will."
Rafael grunts, then says, "Get up. Fucking won't deliver. I will knock you out."
Andy shakes his head, then slowly stands up. "You're letting Robin control everything."
"Pot, meet kettle. Why are you even talking to him? Do you have any idea... are you actually interested in Robin?" Rafael unable to hide the disgust from his voice at that thought.
Robin quickly gets to his feet. "Excuse me. I do very well in that department, thank you very much, so you can stop talking about me as if I came out of the dumpster."
"I'm talking to Andy. So the story is that if a guy shows even a little interest, you're all over him? You wanted me to be a buffer tonight because you thought you would throw yourself at Marat. It’s why you let that jerk in high school continuously call you even though he had a girlfriend and even called you by her name…”
Andy suddenly turns away, shaking his head as he says hurriedly, "Get the hell away from me," and tries to walk away.
Rafael continues, "It’s a pattern. I am saying this out of concern…"
Nobody realizes that was the wrong thing to say until Andy shoves Rafael against the wall and stalks over until they're mere inches apart. Andy glares coldly at Rafael as he snaps, “Concern?! Do you have any idea what it means to go too far? You think you’re so fucking smart about everything. Let me tell you something, Rafael Nadal Parera. Robin is not the devil. He actually has been listening whereas you don’t!”
Rafael stares at Andy, trying to figure out where he’s gone wrong. He stammers, “I’m sorry I don’t…”
The anger deflates from Andy. He shakes his head, immediately wishing he hadn’t done that, and says, “No, I’m sorry. I just need some time alone. Please.” Andy looks to Novak. “Can you do that for tonight?” Novak nods, still taken aback by everything. “Thanks,” then retreats for the building.
Author: Kris S.
Fandom: Tennis RPS
Players: Rafael Nadal, Richard Gasquet, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Ernests Gulbis, Marin Cilic, Dinara Safina, Robin Soderling
Rating: PG13
Disclaimer: This did not happen.
Summary: College AU. Richard and Rafael are geniuses who are roommates in a suite, though they’re different as could be. Inspired by the movie Real Genius. This chapter: Rafa tries to impress Andy for their fake date but trouble is looming; the favor between Marin and Richie finally takes place.
Chapter 15 - Didn’t Know That
“This is going to knock him out,” Rafael says as he emerges from his room wearing a white fitted long-sleeved shirt and grey slacks. “Andy thinks he has the upper hand here but he doesn’t know me in date mode.”
Marin is trying to watch a movie but Novak is sitting on the couch watching Rafael’s show. Novak answers, “One, very nice. Though two, it’s pretty safe to say at this point Andy perfectly well knows about you on a date. He’s certainly has heard enough of the details.”
“But he has yet to experience those details,” then Rafael heads back to his room.
Marin turns to Novak and says, “This sounds like a disaster waiting to happen.”
Novak nods, then says in a low voice, “Both of them are stubborn, especially Rafa when his mind is on something. No use trying to stop it because I think Andy’s going to tell Rafa off before the night is over and I hope Ernie or I catch it… you’re welcome to attend if you wish, you know, though I’m assuming you’re not interested.”
Marin looks to Rafael’s room, then speaks loud enough for him to hear as well, “I actually have plans though I have no idea when that’s supposed to occur. Rafa, have you seen Richie?”
Rafael ducks his head out, taking a moment to ponder that. “No. I haven’t seen him since… I think Friday morning. Probably slept at Roddick’s.”
“No, definitely not,” Marin says quickly. “They got into a fight. I ran into Roddick an hour ago and he's still fuming.”
Novak says slowly, “You witnessed this fighting?” Rafael returns to the main room, equally stunned.
“Yes.” There’s no use hiding what he saw at this point, since Roddick's mood is a clear tip-off anyway.
Novak continues, “No code words or… actually I have no idea what they do in public to send signals. There’s never been anything suspicious prior to Andy finding out about them or anything now that I’ve been looking for signs.”
Marin says, “It’s no big deal if Richie bails on tonight’s plans. I understand that. He wanted to cash in on that favor and I talked him into doing something he might be uncomfortable doing.”
Novak desperately wants Marin to elaborate but Rafael answers first. “That might be true but I wouldn’t be so sure,” gesturing for Marin to join him in his room. Rafael looks through the clipboard sitting on his desk until he finds what he needs. “I bet Richie has holed himself up in the office and isn’t even aware of the time. Ah, here’s we go.” He sits down on the bed and punches in the number. Rafael smiles brightly at being proven correct, then says into the receiver, “I believe my absentminded roommate has absorbed himself in work again when he’s supposed to have plans with Marin…” When Rafael hangs up, he informs Marin, “I think he spent the night in the office but he said he’s heading to the store then coming home. Very apologetic and very on edge, talking too fast for me to be able to get another word in.”
Marin nods, realizing Richard will likely follow through regarding the need to get drunk. That said, he asks, “How is it possible for him to have slept there? Doesn’t security check before locking up?”
“Feli told me he’s caught Richie doing that at least twice. Then Feli used that information for hooking up purposes,” Rafael punctuating that with an impish grin. “But you don’t tell Richie that since he thinks Feli only hooked up with Fernando in that room, not me.”
There’s a knock at the door, then Novak calling out, “Andy’s home.”
Marin asks Rafael, “What are you two doing, exactly?”
“Watch.” Rafael takes long strides out of his room, grabbing a jacket along the way, and yells out, “Are you ready for an experience you’ll never forget?” He then strikes a pose against the wall, the jacket hanging over his shoulder. “I will rock your world.”
Andy rolls his eyes at Rafael’s display, then makes a beeline for his own room. Novak is laughing hysterically and Marin can’t help but join in.
Novak says, “If I were Andy right now, I’d pretend I don’t even know you.”
* * * * *
Maybe it’s because he’s only a freshman but Ernie has had trouble understanding exactly what’s going on tonight. There’s a weird power play taking place between the twins and it's gotten into Ernie's head, ruining his evening with Novak as a result.
There is a noticeable difference in Andy’s demeanor from the first party. Back then, he was relaxed when he had nothing to lose by hanging around Marat. The ending to that night exhibited that Andy was in fact on edge, but he’d been able to keep his cool. But tonight, with Rafael pretending to be his date purely to make Marat jealous, Andy looks uncomfortable.
Novak was very concerned about the first party, refusing to leave Andy out of sight, but this time is different. He’s the one edging them to the back entrance, nibbling at Ernie’s neck and making promises about later that Ernie realizes by now he won’t yet keep.
Marat hasn’t even arrived at the party. Ernie doesn’t mention to Novak that he can hear the other Russians grumbling about that. It’s not exactly a shocker that Marat would be not-so-fashionably late but it’s ruining Dinara’s plan and the Russian Mafia suite knows it. There have been many murderous looks exchanged between Dinara, Mikhail and Dmitry - a not-too-uncommon occurrence when plans fail involving Marat.
Rafael is trying to make this scheme work. He’s been leaning in close, smiling, telling jokes - in other words, typically charming Rafa. Normally when the twins are hanging out, Andy chimes in with some dry comment that will turn Rafael from simple laughter to hysterics. Usually, it just has Ernie confused.
There must be something different Rafael is doing this time for Andy to seem out of sorts by what seems to be typical behavior. Andy surely must know the difference between this fake date and a real date, even if he hasn’t done the latter in two years.
Dinara gets a text which causes her to frown, then she approaches Rafael and Andy. They exchange a few words then she leads Andy away, clearly having gotten a message from Marat. When they pass Ernie and Novak, Dinara stops to inform them, “I have it all set to record Andy’s voice, which I will make sure to play every time I can as a means to torture my brother.”
Novak says, “I can tell he looks so thrilled,” then smiles innocently as Andy shoots him a look that says that Novak had better keep his eyes open tonight.
Andy sounds so tired when he says, “Can you please keep Rafa entertained? He is being especially annoying so I’d be happier not seeing him when she finishes this joke.”
Novak appears confused by the question but Ernie steps in to say, “Will do.”
When they’re gone, Novak asks, “What is with you tonight? I didn’t think you’d be trying to stop me from taking you to a backroom and ravaging you.”
Ernie looks to Rafael, then shakes his head. “Something bad is going to happen and we need to be around, just in case.”
* * * * *
Even though Richard had promised to return quickly, two hours pass and he isn’t yet home. Marin is trying not to doze off in front of the television, the program he’d been watching long over in favor of sitcom reruns, when he’s suddenly jolted by the door slamming shut.
Richard flattens against the door, looking completely exhausted. Not surprising that he was wearing the same clothes from yesterday but it appears he’s been awake since then as well. He does have what looks like a bottle in the bag at his side so at least did make the stop at the store.
Marin waits for him to say something, anything, but several minutes pass without him moving from his position. “You okay?” Richard gives a noncommittal shrug. Marin pulls the recorder from his pocket, holds it up and asks, “Are you sure you want to do this?” Richard shakes his head but gestures for Marin to press the button anyway.
Rafael or Novak, possibly even Andy, would know what to do. But they've already left for the party and it'll be too late for them to deal with this when they return. Marin supposes he can call Janko, except that would require access to someone else's room to retrieve the phone number. Realizing how limited the options are, Marin pats down on the empty spot on the couch and asks, "What's wrong?" Marin slips the recorder back in his pocket but does press the button, figuring it may be easier if not seeing the device.
It is as if being sent in front of a firing squad but Richard reluctantly trudges over to the couch, dropping the bag by his feet. He lies back on the couch, settling in to watch but likely preferring to fall asleep. Marin turns back to the television to try to make this easier - or at least easier than commenting on how terrible Richard looks right now.
Marin was just beginning to understand the plot of the show when a soft voice says, "I was okay when I was in my office but maybe I subconsciously knew I wanted to be nowhere near him. So I went to the store after Rafa called, got to the dorm and, of course, he's on duty. I spent the last forty five minutes trying to get in without him seeing me. Finally, he got a phone call which required him to leave so I snuck in. The thing is, I understand why he's mad at me. I am manipulative enough to think of doing something like what he concluded. He thinks I'm incapable of feeling anything..." Richard stops speaking, as if something he said has reminded him of something else, and he furrows his brow. When he continues speaking, there's a bitter edge to the words. "It's exactly what that bastard has always said, but they're both wrong. In fact, if I wasn't one hundred percent certain he couldn't have known, I'd think that bastard said that to him on purpose to rile me up."
While most of that is clearly about Roddick, it's the venom for the other person that captures Marin's attention. He faces Richard to ask, "You're talking about Professor Federer?"
Richard nods, then adds, "He really would do that." He turns his face into the couch cushion when he finishes by saying, "He wants to see me fail."
"That sounds rather harsh."
Richard stands up and heads for his room, muttering, "Be right back." He soon emerges with two shot glasses then bends down to get the bottle of vodka out of the bag and sets everything on the table. He kneels in front of the table, carefully pouring into both then picking up one and downing the shot before returning to the couch. "I don't understand how people can drink this crap. Wine, even beer, is so much better."
"Wine is the only alcoholic drink I've had and that’s from family gatherings," Marin admits. Against his better instinct, he grabs the full shot glass from the table, takes a sniff then tries to drink it slowly. He cringes at the taste, shaking his head as he exclaims, "Why did you buy that?"
"Essentially because Ernie and the Russian Mafia guys are idiots. I was hoping it’d get a person drunk quicker but it tastes terrible." Richard sits up to refill the glasses and keeps one in his hand, debating taking the drink. He seems almost afraid to actually do this shot, knowing he’s going to have to start talking soon.
Marin decides to push this along. He really doesn’t want to drink but he knows there’s no way he’ll be allowed to drink more than Richard either. He makes quick work of the other shot, then slams the glass on the table - he’s seen that done in the movies and hopes it’ll make an impression.
Richard raises his eyebrows at that display then laughs heartily, immediately loosening up. He has the drink, then begins, “Professor Federer is a genius with a personal agenda. He wants to fuck up the minds of other geniuses. I was a naïve sixteen year old, raised by my parents around college dorms. They’re both professors and I was always around academic types instead of kids my age. Federer knew this, knew a lot of little things about me, and I idolized his work ethic. As time went on, he made sure he was the only voice I’d hear, even taking over my parents. I’d believe he was right for no other reason than the fact that he’s the one making the argument.”
“After hearing him with Roddick, I am beginning to see what you mean about the little comments.”
“Yeah, he still does that to me. I would rather not know what Federer had said back then to convince Roddick to do that striptease. While I know that Andy and I initially got together because of hating that man, I kind of wish that hadn’t stayed as the bond. I guess it was easier to say that than…” Richard blinks, then shakes his head. “No, this isn’t about that. This is about King Fed.”
Marin stops himself just in time before reminding Richard about the recorder. That Roddick actually might want to hear how Richard feels about him instead of the Federer stuff. Instead, he says, “You were talking about him taking over your brain?”
“That’s one way to phrase it. So I’m still Federer’s pet,” pausing and giving a glance to Marin to be sure he knows that word is important. Marin nods, his suspicion confirmed regarding that word being significant. “…for sophomore year, when Janko and Mario move in down the hall. Janko keeps pushing me to hang out with them. I will be the first to tell you that I didn’t have friends here, didn’t really have anyone close back home, and didn’t particularly care to have that, either. But you met Janko, he makes a first impression. Even I knew that someone that cool shouldn’t want to hang around the awkward nerd. His friends thought he was mad for even trying.”
“I thought I was the awkward nerd in this suite,” Marin says lightly.
Richard gives a slight smile before saying, “When I said I was once like you, I wasn’t exaggerating. For once. Janko was the one who thought there was something fishy about Federer, from a conversation with another student in the department, but I was too close to see it. The thing is, even though Federer was the reason for my isolation, he would have this way of talking that would always convince me I was wrong. He can sometimes still do that, actually,” then looks away as he refills the glasses and takes one.
It is automatic at this point for Marin to join in, which would likely get a reaction but Richard is leaning back on the couch, staring at the ceiling with his untouched glass.
“It culminated in a serious fight involving my then-roommate which Janko heard down the hall and had to hold me back before I took a swing at him. Well, my roommate was an idiot anyway but he was saying I was crazy and, at that point, I kind of felt that way. It wasn’t until I spent time at home after that semester that I began to realize how strongly Federer’s influence had been. It was as if I’d been in a cult and needed to be deprogrammed. It was my father’s idea to do the trek around Europe because he’d done it when he was my age. That’s when I truly realized how much I’d missed.”
“You trusted him,” Marin says simply.
Richard nods, then tilts his head Marin’s way and sees the empty glass in his hand. “You don’t have to drink, you know.”
“Nonsense. It was my choice. As long as we don’t do something stupid like play Truth or Dare, all is good. We’re staying in the suite and you look like you’re about to pass out.”
“Heh. Truth or Dare. Best game ever. We should play that. I pick truth.”
Marin realizes Richard has no interest in returning to the previous topic. It’s time to humor him. “Of course. Okay. Truth. Have you been awake for thirty-eight hours straight?”
“Forty one, actually. Rafa was making a lot of noise when he was getting ready for his workout, especially when he realized Andy was sleeping in again. Those boys. Your turn.” Richard finally has his shot, then gives Marin what’s supposed to be a challenging stare but is more a sign that he’s exhausted.
“I’ll do one, then I’m going to sleep, something you should do as well. I know what dare you’d choose, just so I have to pay Novak the five dollar bet. Therefore, I pick truth.”
“Actually, I wasn’t going to help him with that but… fair enough. Have you ever fallen for someone? Not counting this Evgeny thing because we haven't been here long enough for it to be serious, unless you're Novak and fall for someone at first sight like he did your roommate."
Marin laughs, then wonders if the alcohol is making it easier to deal with questions like that. "Yes, I have."
"One-sided?" Richard shakes his head. "I know, technically that's two questions on one truth which is against the rules or something..."
"It was one-sided," Marin offers. "Just because I wasn't dating him doesn't make it hurt any less when getting rejected."
Richard nods along, then rests his head back on the couch, appearing deep in thought. "I wish that wasn't true but, yeah, you're right."
* * * * *
Andy couldn't get away from the party fast enough. Dinara kept wanting just a few more minutes. Andy always assumed his mum was the toughest woman he knew but she's got nothing on a vengeful little sister.
He isn't sure if he was spotted by Rafael or not and he really doesn't care. Rafael is being annoying and Andy needs to get back to the suite and away from the temptation still at the party.
It isn't until Andy is just outside the dorm building that he remembers Marin dealing with Richard in the suite, the latter likely drunk while confessing something. He stops just before the entrance, sitting on the bench. He needs to think... or maybe just escape from the whole group.
He doesn't get a chance to make the getaway. “Andy?”
It's rather sad when he'd rather hear Robin's voice than Rafael's but that's the current situation. Still... “Please leave.”
Of course, it wouldn’t be like the Swede to avoid this. But even Robin can tell now isn’t the time to stir trouble. There’s no hint of malice in Robin's voice when he sits down next to Andy and states, “Won’t do that. You seem stressed."
"You're not helping so go continue whatever you were doing before you spotted me."
"Mind if I guess?" Andy doesn't answer, more interested in being alone, but Robin presses on. "Okay so Rafa has been overly interested in your personal life. He's single now so has a lot of free time. Rather than do the obvious and actually ask you out, he has you playing this game."
"I am not interested."
"He has been toying with you since the day you moved into this dorm, probably even before that but I didn't know you then. You've always been interested but held back because he actually likes being around you and telling the truth would ruin the bliss."
"I really hate you right now."
"Because I'm right."
"Because you're throwing what I said when I was drunk back in my face."
"You're lucky I haven't told Rafa."
"You've said enough already."
There is a tapping of sneakers in front of Andy, then Rafael asks coldly, "What the hell is going on?" Novak had been trying to hold Rafael back but he and Ernie catch up, staying close enough to intervene just in case.
Robin says, "I'm just being a shoulder to lean on. You won't deliver so I will."
Rafael grunts, then says, "Get up. Fucking won't deliver. I will knock you out."
Andy shakes his head, then slowly stands up. "You're letting Robin control everything."
"Pot, meet kettle. Why are you even talking to him? Do you have any idea... are you actually interested in Robin?" Rafael unable to hide the disgust from his voice at that thought.
Robin quickly gets to his feet. "Excuse me. I do very well in that department, thank you very much, so you can stop talking about me as if I came out of the dumpster."
"I'm talking to Andy. So the story is that if a guy shows even a little interest, you're all over him? You wanted me to be a buffer tonight because you thought you would throw yourself at Marat. It’s why you let that jerk in high school continuously call you even though he had a girlfriend and even called you by her name…”
Andy suddenly turns away, shaking his head as he says hurriedly, "Get the hell away from me," and tries to walk away.
Rafael continues, "It’s a pattern. I am saying this out of concern…"
Nobody realizes that was the wrong thing to say until Andy shoves Rafael against the wall and stalks over until they're mere inches apart. Andy glares coldly at Rafael as he snaps, “Concern?! Do you have any idea what it means to go too far? You think you’re so fucking smart about everything. Let me tell you something, Rafael Nadal Parera. Robin is not the devil. He actually has been listening whereas you don’t!”
Rafael stares at Andy, trying to figure out where he’s gone wrong. He stammers, “I’m sorry I don’t…”
The anger deflates from Andy. He shakes his head, immediately wishing he hadn’t done that, and says, “No, I’m sorry. I just need some time alone. Please.” Andy looks to Novak. “Can you do that for tonight?” Novak nods, still taken aback by everything. “Thanks,” then retreats for the building.