Counting Stars

I’m seated in Mario’s office in Consol, a place that has served as the backdrop for some of my best and worst memories. Here is where Dan told me I would be captain as well as where we discussed the aftermath of my concussion. Now though, judging by the stern faces of the men before me, this will be another one of those worst memories. Mario is behind his desk while I sit in one of the chairs in front of him. Our Communications director, Jim is standing to the side with our PR lady frantically works on his tablet. To my left Dan is seated in the remaining chair while Ray is standing near the door. All in all I feel like a little kid sent to the principal’s office; I’m wracking my brain trying to figure out what I did wrong.

The thick silence is broken by Mario’s desk phone, “Mr. Lemieux, Sidney’s agent is on the line.”

“Put him through,” Mario presses a button and I notice his Stanley Cup ring glisten. “Pat, good morning.”

“Mario. Who else am I speaking with?”

“Dan, Ray, Jim and Sidney. I believe that we need to start from the beginning for Sidney’s sake.”

There is silence on the phone, “Might as well. Jim, I was told you have the information.”

Jim finally approaches me and hands me a magazine, “I don’t suppose you knew anything about this?”

I look down at the flimsy tabloid and realize that Brooklyn is on the cover. Of course she looks gorgeous and then I notice the headlines surrounding it: America’s Sweetheart’s Serious Drug Problem. Brooklyn Donahue turns to drugs to cope with A-list lifestyle, see the screenshots from the shocking video inside. When I make eye contact with Jim again his face is buried in his iPad, so I turn to Mario who looks impassive, “What is this bullshit?”

Mario’s face relaxes and then he gives a deep sigh, “It’s the truth I’m afraid.” He nods over to Jim who procures his IPad. “This is the video.”

The video starts to play and even though it’s in low resolution I can clearly make out Brooklyn and Zac. They are seated on a couch together with a few other people milling around. In front of them is a coffee table with some powder lined up in rows. Brooklyn gives a soft smile to Zac, a trusting smile, a smile I recognize and love, and then proceeds to snort a few lines with ease. It’s clear this isn’t her first time. As the high hits her she leans into Zac and the video goes blank.
Suddenly, all of the air in the room is gone. I feel like I’m suffocating. She told me there wasn’t anything else to say, I gave her so many opportunities to talk about this, I even defended her to my parents. My thoughts are interrupted by a Ray, “Well at least he didn’t know.”

Then a crackling voice comes from the phone, “We need to hear you say it Sidney. Did you know about Brooklyn’s drug use?”

I ignore the question, “When is this from?”

“The summer.”

“How did this?” I stop. “Who would…” I can’t finish that sentence either. “Why didn’t she…” With that last thought everything seems to shut down.

I don’t know how much longer I’m quiet for, but Mario’s voice finally breaks the silence, “Sidney, verbally confirm this for us: did you know that Brooklyn used cocaine?”

“No. She never told me.”

“Alright, from here we need to have an action plan,” Mario is all business. “Dan, get back to practice, Sidney won’t skate this morning, but he will play. Obviously don’t answer any
questions.” Dan leaves and I vaguely feel him squeeze my shoulder reassuringly. “Jim, tell me your thoughts.”

“The league will want Sidney to do a drug test, but I don’t think that will be a problem,” He looks to me to confirm and I wearily nod my head. Jim continues, “The team will release an official statement if asked and it will generally say that we don’t comment on the personal lives of our players, but we hope that Brooklyn is living a healthy and safe life.”

“And, that this will not in any way affect the roster or performance of our players,” Shero interjects.

Distantly, I hear pens scribbling to take notes. “Pat, I would like to touch base with you later today concerning how you plan to deal with this in regards to Sidney.”

“No problem, you have my number. One request though, make sure the other guys keep it off social media for now if possible.”

“I’ll do that.”

“Anything else, Jim?” I can feel Mario staring at me as he asks this question, but I’ve resumed my staring contest with the tabloid.

“For now? No. I’m confident that it will put out any immediate fires. Really, most of this is a precaution; it might just blow over for the organization.”

Mario simply nods and I hear footsteps go out the door. “And you Ray, thoughts?”

“We are playing great hockey, I’m not concerned. At the end of the day the fans want wins.” He walks towards the door. “I am going to kick the press out for today though.”

Once Ray is gone, I finally look up at Mario who is writing some things down. When he looks up and sees me he simply nods, “Pat, I’m going to give you and Sidney a few minutes of privacy.”

“Sid, you there?”

I have to force myself to focus on the disembodied voice’s question, “Uh, yeah I’m here.”

“How are you doing?”

“Could be better.”

“Trust me kid, this isn’t the end of the world. What are your thoughts?”

Taking a deep breath I realize that it’s the million dollar question. How do I feel right now? Shitty, if I had to pick one word. Of course, Pat wouldn’t really appreciate that answer.

“I want to talk to Brooklyn.”

He sighs, “She will be there when you get home, and we need to figure this out first. The media will be on your ass by the time you try to leave Consol. Fact of the matter is I don’t know what you should do. Your fans might really care about this or maybe they won’t. It’s too early to tell, but we need to pick our position now, so it stays constant.”

“You don’t comment on my personal life, but you wish her the best.” I take a deep breath again. “Besides, she might not even be my girlfriend after today.”

“Sidney, you don’t have to…”

Harshly, I cut Pat off, “Be honest, what everyone wants me to do is break it off to save face. Canada’s Golden Boy can’t date a druggie actress, much less a month before the Olympics. I know that’s the smart decision.”

“But is it the right one?”

“Fuck, I don’t know either all right?” I run my hands over my face. “I need to talk to her, get to the bottom of this. Have you heard from my dad?”

“Yes, he wants you to call him as soon as possible.”

Well that should be a fun conversation. “Great. I’ll talk to him than go downstairs to grab my stuff so I can drive back home to talk to Brooklyn. I’ll keep you updated Pat.”

“Thanks, talk to you soon.”

When we hang up, I’m quiet for a second contemplating the situation. Basically, I can’t decide anything without talking to Brooklyn first. She probably won’t be awake yet though so I dial my dad’s number, “Son.”

“Hey dad, how are you?”

“I’m not worried about me Sidney,” He is silent. “Do I have to say it?”

“No you don’t, I will. You were right okay? She does drugs, did drugs, God only knows. I don’t know what to do.”

“Dump her. She lied to you and fooled you. Not to mention it will be bad for your reputation. You haven’t known her long, it’s the good choice.”

Mario walks back in then so I hang up on my dad, promising that I will talk to him later. I stand, ready to make my exit when Mario adds one last thought, “Don’t make a hasty decision Sidney. Trust me, I know it’s easy to be proud and stubborn, but we all make mistakes.”

As I make my way to the locker room, too many conflicting ideas float through my head. It’s giving me a migraine, not to mention that my phone keeps ringing. I sigh and walk back through the doors. The guys are changing from the skate and I simply shake my head as I make a beeline for my stall. Instead of packing right away I sit and gather the few things that I had dropped in haste earlier. Suddenly I hear someone practically run into the locker room. ““Sidney, I need to tell you some-“

My head pops up and we take stock of each other. We’ve both seen better days I’m sure. Her hair is a mess, and I can tell that she probably grabbed the two closest articles of clothing in her rush to get here. Upon seeing her every bit of anger and shock comes flooding back. This woman, my beautiful girlfriend can’t be the one from the video. It’s impossible. Yes, she’s an actress, but she’s just Brooklyn to me. I realize that my brain never truly reconciled her two halves. To me she has always been two separate people, now though I must deal with the harsh reality. And at that moment, I make up my mind. “Yeah Brooklyn, I think we need to talk.”

*****


When Sidney says those words, my stomach drops. He grabs his bag and we walk out the door, not touching one another. I know he knows, that much is obvious, but I’m still clinging on to the hope that I can come clean to him. We walk just one door down to the family suite and Sidney locks the door. I try to sit down on one of the couches, but realize that I have too much energy to remain still. Instead I focus on Sidney who is about as far away from me as possible, “How was your morning?”

His face is harsh and angry when he looks at me, “Are we really going to do the small talk thing Lynn?”

I shake my head, “So, you know.”

“Damn, right I know!” Sidney yells, “It’s on the fucking front page of every news site apparently. How could I not know? Not to mention I just had a conversation without the Mario and our PR people and Coach Dan, so yeah I know.”

“And you’re mad. You need to know some things first.”

He laughs darkly, “Oh, there are some things I need to know? Seems that all the important details are in the video of you snorting cocaine.”

Ouch, that hurt, but I deserved it. This conversation could have been avoided if I had a backbone. “It was months ago, I haven’t done it since and I won’t do it again. Seriously, I’ve washed my hands of the stuff. The only reason I started was because Zac did it and it seemed like everyone in L.A. did it.” As soon as I say it, I know that my explanations are pathetic and juvenile. Judging by Sidney’s unimpressed face, I need to say something else and fast.

“I don’t give a flying fuck about your past. We all make mistakes, I get that really. Clearly, you are healthy and happy. And let’s face it I would rather have a video of you doing
drugs than a sex tape, so well done on that point. Really it’s original.” Sidney claps sarcastically and I shrink back a little.

I ignore his jab and continue, “So, what’s the problem?”

“You kept this from me, deliberately. I gave you so many opportunities to say something, to come clean. For Christ’s sake I defended you in front of the media, in front of my father.”

I’ve hurt his pride, that’s what this is about. It doesn’t shock me really, from the first time I met him I knew that he was a proud man. Truthfully I admired it, he worked hard for what he earned and. Now though, his pride, his ego was hurt, and by me. I have the sinking feeling that this is only going to get worse. “I’m so sorry Sidney.”

“Sorry?” He drops down into a chair. “I trusted you Brooklyn, more so than any other woman in my life. I let you into my life, home, family.” He takes a deep breath, “Hell, even my heart. Why didn’t you trust me too?”

His words surprise me. “Oh, Sidney, I was afraid I was going to lose you if I told. I thought everyone would tell you to dump me, because I was a bad influence. This was never supposed to get out, it was such a small episode in my life.” I kneel in front of him and hold his fisted hands in mine. “Before today no one even really knew.”

When I say that Sidney flinches and pulls back, “Did Jacob know?” Now I clearly see my mistake. My silence is answer enough for Sidney who simply snorts and stands. “That’s rich, Brooklyn. Why would you tell him and not me?”

Sidney has this situation all wrong and I need to set him straight. Standing I lay a hand on his shoulder that he simply shrugs off. “Jacob knew the whole time. He helped Zac and I get the stuff then would watch over me in the aftermath. And when I decided to quit he made sure I detoxed.”

My heart breaks as I see Sidney’s body deflate and wonder what I said wrong, “Unbelievable. He told me the two of you were closer than me and you could ever be. I understand now.”

“Our relationships don’t even compare. Sidney, I lo-“ Those three dreaded words almost come out of mouth, but Sidney’s sharp gesture stops them.

“Don’t waste your breath on that phrase Brooklyn. Go to Jacob, he is obviously in love with you.”

“Don’t be absurd Sidney.”

He turns to me, “Or, better yet, go back to Zac. You had a lovely reunion on the carpet, maybe you can do some more drugs, maybe heroin this time?”

My hand connecting with Sidney’s jaw makes a horrendous sound. “Now we’ve both done something we are going to regret. Can we talk about this like civilized adults please?”

He simply shakes his head, “On second thought, I do care that you did drugs. My fans wouldn’t want me to be with someone like you and I don’t want to be with someone who doesn’t trust me. I’ll give you an hour to get your stuff out of my place.” With that he leaves.

With my whole heart I want to follow him, but my legs are glued to the spot. This hurt, this hurt horribly. Finally, my legs collapse and I fall to the floor in the middle of the empty
family suite in tears. In those few minutes, I cry for Sidney, for me, for us, and even for Zac. This is entirely my fault, but I refuse to be the woman who sits and cries.

So, I stand and make my way to the car. While I clutch the keys to fight back the tears my hand starts to shake. To get to the car I walk past Geno and James. My intention is to ignore them, but Geno calls my name. Still I don’t turn and then finally I hear footsteps coming toward me. The two oversized hockey players corner me against the car. “Did you need something?”

“We heard the fight,” Geno’s eyes are soft and comforting. “Are you okay?”

I muster up a smile, “Fine. Thanks for asking, I have to go and pack now.”

“You’re both idiots,” James mentions as I open my door.

I ignore him though and drive away. For the ride back to Sidney’s place I keep it together, then when I’m packing I break down. As I cry huge ugly tears I call my mother,
“Thank god, you finally called back. Are you okay?”

I jumble out the events of the morning to my mom and she listens intently. She reprimands me slightly for my poor choices, but overall comforts me. We decide that I should drive home and lay low. The last place I really want to be is in L.A. After Janet approves the change of plans I’m on my way home to Ohio.

********


@BrooklynRae: I want to take responsibility of my actions and to thank all of my amazing fans. We all make mistakes, I’m not asking for immediate forgiveness, but I am asking for understanding. Thank you, love always

Giuliana Ranic takes her seat for the next segment on this afternoon’s ENews. The studio has been abuzz with the breaking story and finally Brooklyn has responded to the video and allegations. She takes a deep breath as the cameraman counts down, 3,2,1. “Welcome back, of course we need to discuss the shocking news this morning. As you all may or may not know, this morning an undisclosed source leaked a video that features both Zac Efron and Brooklyn Donahue partaking in illegal substances. Now, a few hours later we have responses from Brooklyn, Zac and the rest of Hollywood. Jason has the story.”

The camera men start to role the pre-taped segment. It begins with color snippets of Brooklyn walking red carpets and interacting with fans, “Brooklyn Donahue, Hollywood’s newest shining star. Two years ago she was an extra from Ohio and now an award winning actress. Sometime between then and now though she took part in some of L.A.’s worst vices.” The picture goes black and white and features the video that has been circulating through every major media outlet. “As seen is this video from over the summer, Brooklyn was apparently very comfortable consuming the illegal substances. Also, featured in the video is her ex-boyfriend and recent rehab success story, Zac Efron. No one has seen the young star yet today, but she has taken to twitter to address her fans. In a series of tweets the blonde bombshell beseeched fans for privacy and understanding while thanking those closest to her. Just recently Efron’s camp has also responded adding and I quote, ‘We wish the best for Miss Donahue and hope that she receives the treatment that she needs. No one should go through addiction alone.’

With that the segment ends and two anchors are standing around the desk, “Can you believe this G?’

She shakes her head, “No, I’m surprised truly. I think it’s interesting that Zac has been the only one to mention addiction. Has Brooklyn’s camp responded to this allegation?”

“Actually they just released a formal statement,” Jason shuffles some papers and then reads. “The video circulating is in fact of our client, Brooklyn Donahue. The incident featured, is from the summer of 2013, we cannot confirm an exact date. Our client realizes the wrongness of her actions and hopes that her fans, friends, family and colleagues can forgive this lapse in judgment. Miss Donahue has not partaken in illegal substances since July of 2013. We are 100% confident as is Brooklyn that she does not have an addiction problem and does not foresee herself ever using again. That being said she will be visiting a counselor to confirm her good health. We request your privacy and understanding during this difficult time. As always our number one priority is the health and safety of Brooklyn.”

“That’s quite a statement, but I think it really speaks to her love of her fanbase that she tweeted first. It’s much more personal and sincere.”

Jason nods, “Most definitely, I think it’s good though that this sounds like it was all in the past and really isn’t hurting her today. Truthfully, I think everyone will respond to the fact that she is being so upfront about all this.”

“Well we hope that Brooklyn remains safe and we will keep you updated as we learn more.”

PITTSBURGH, P.A.--- It’s a hockey night in Pittsburgh, but a Hollywood scandal threatens to shift the focus. This morning beautiful and award-winning actress, Brooklyn Donahue, confessed to drug use after a video was leaked to several media outlets. The starlet is currently dating Penguin’s center and captain, Sidney Crosby. I think we all know that Crosby is most notable for his squeaky clean off ice reputation and Canadian charm. In a long and prolific career he hasn’t made any major off ice mistakes. Now with confirmed drug use by his girlfriend people are starting to wonder if the award-winner hasn’t rubbed off on Crosby. What could it do to his reputation and that of the franchise if we discover that the drug use does not end with Miss Donahue? Reports from Consol confirm that all media were barred from the Penguins game-day skate and that a veritable army of paparazzi have set themselves up outside to try to get a glimpse and quote from the Captain. In addition reporters have flocked outside of Crosby’s home in the hopes of locating Donahue.

The Penguins organization has released a statement, ‘The accusations against Miss Donahue do not directly affect anyone in our organization. Let it be understood that we firmly believe that clean athletes are the best athletes. To prove that point all members of our organization will be participating in an immediate and mandatory drug test. We do not comment on the personal lives of our players or those significant in their lives. As the team approaches the Olympic break we are confident that we will continue to play our caliber of hockey. We wish Miss Donahue the best and a speedy recovery.’ Crosby’s agent has responded as well, ‘Our office does not comment on the personal life of Mr. Crosby, but we do hope that this all resolves quickly.’ These formal statements do not make it seem that all is well between Captain Canada and Donahue, perhaps they are attempting to distance themselves from the possible negative press. How will this media circus affect the Penguin’s gameplay and specifically Crosby’s? And will this affect how the Team Canada coaches evaluate him prior to the Olympic Games?

“Definitely a high scoring game between Pittsburgh and Canadiens tonight. It certainly felt like the team had something to prove, especially Sidney Crosby and I think they did just that in this commanding win. What did you guys think?”

The other postgame announcer on NBC Sports chimes in, “Absolutely I agree with you. It was an emotional game, and the guys were definitely trying to convince us that on ice actions matters much more than off ice antics. The fans were hundred percent behind Sid tonight and he fed off that for his goal.”

“Before we get to Sidney though, we have an interview with his teammate and fellow scorer this evening, James Neal.”

The broadcast cuts to the familiar locker room view. A close up of James, red-faced, surrounded by microphones. “How did you feel going into this game?”

“Good, good. It was a quick skate this morning so there was a lot of time for mental preparation today.”

“And safe to say that you all needed that extra time? With the events of this morning, that is.”

He shrugs and throws a careless smile towards the reporter, “Would you believe me if I said I didn’t know what you were talking about?”

The small circle of reporters laugh, “Any comments on Brooklyn’s drug use?”

James inhales tightly, “No one wants to see that happen to anyone, especially to someone that is a good friend, but I doubt she will be down for long.”

“Have you spoken with her?”

“Nope,” The glint in his eye betrays his lie, but the reporters let it by. “Thanks for your time guys.”

The crew shows the news desk again, “Wow, definitely keeping it close to the chest.”

“Per the orders of the front office I’m sure. Now we have the interview that honestly I’m surprised we got. Here is what Captain Sidney Crosby had to say after tonight’s game.

Sidney is sitting amongst reporters, a sea of microphones near his face. His face is no longer red or sweating, instead he just looks tired. Anyone could see that today has been a long day for him. “Thoughts on tonight’s game?”

“We played tough, definitely strong from about half a period in forwards. No complaints really.”

There is some shuffling and then the next question, “Any added incentive for you to perform tonight?”

“I always try to play hard, really that’s what I was focusing on.”

“Your thoughts on the revelation concerning Brooklyn Donahue this morning?”

Sidney shoots a glance to the side and it’s obvious the reporters were supposed to refrain from asking these questions. Nonetheless, he answers, “It’s unfortunate obviously, but I’m trying to keep it out of the locker room and our game.”

“Have you heard any reactions from fans?”

“Honestly, I’m sure most of them couldn’t care less. They come to watch a hockey game, not learn about the latest gossip. We gave them a hockey game tonight that I think they can be satisfied with and at the end of the day that’s what matters.” His harsh tone is unusual for him and the press definitely takes notice.

“Did you have the opportunity to speak to Brooklyn this morning? She was photographed arriving in Pittsburgh late last night.”

Sidney takes a deep breath, “I talked to her this morning. As far as I know now she went to visit some family.” He sits back frustrated. “Thank you for the questions.”

The lead anchor makes one more remark before the show closes, “The plot definitely thickens in Pittsburgh. Join us Saturday for the Kings vs the Blackhawks, goodnight.”

******


It’s been five days since I’ve heard from Sidney. Tonight they have a home game against Buffalo so I decide to send Sidney a good luck text, I’m not expecting much I mean neither of us have reached out to one another. Since the news broke I’ve been laying low with my parents. As promised Janet hired a counselor who proclaimed that I indeed did not have a drug problem and those findings were published. Quicker than I expected the public, media and my colleagues have embraced me despite the story.

Now the task at hand is repairing my relationship with Sidney. Going through this without him is difficult and I know my parents aren’t pleased that he broke up with me. I have to try to see it from his perspective. Even if he said it was for his image I know it was because I didn’t trust him with my past. Sighing I look at my phone, yep still no message.
This is how it goes for the next few days, at least until Wednesday. On the week anniversary of our split I’ve let to leave the house for a good reason. Instead, I’m flipping through trashy TV on the couch and eating Doritos. Virtually no visitors except the two people who just came crashing through the door. “What are you two doing here?”

My sister and assistant are smiling, “Well, I was talking to Brianna…”

“And we’ve decided that we are getting you out of the house, immediately. Mom and Dad love the idea.” Behind them are two suitcases and I’m afraid that they want to take me somewhere far away.

“You two planned a trip?” It’s not surprising really, Emma has probably been bored since I’ve been cooped inside. And Brianna never liked Sidney, so this is probably like her Christmas. I look at Emma. “And Janet is okay with this?”

“She thinks it will be perfect considering that everyone knows…” She trails off and I understand that she is referring to the fact that the big story now isn’t my drug use, but my failed relationship. We haven’t seen each other in a week and he keeps making vague comments in interviews to confirm it. “Like, you’re getting back in the saddle.”

I turn to my sister, “Shouldn’t you be working?”

She shrugs, “The kids will be fine with a substitute for a few days. Besides everyone hates Sidney in Philly so the principal was more than happy that I was trying to help you get over him. We just have to be back by Monday morning.”

Damn, they really thought this through, “Where are we going?”

“The Bahamas!” They both shriek.

“Oh good, so I’m paying then?”

They respond in sync, “Naturally.” My sister continues, “Now go pack, or better yet we will have a shopping spree there.”

We get to our luxury hotel and I’m immediately assaulted with pampering. Emma goes into assistant mode and gets the hotel staff to go shopping for us and to bring us food. Within an hour my stomach is full and so is my brand new closet, all of this completed just in time for us to start drinking for a night out on the town. Luckily, this is the kind of beach that is always a party regardless of the time of the year or day. This is the place where the most beautiful and the richest come to party. We are on our third fruity drinks a piece when we decide to get ready. Out of my new clothes I grab a gold dress that barely covers my ass. When I go to grab my nude pumps from my suitcase I come to a halt. Next to my shoes is the gorgeous pair of platform high heels that Sidney got me for Christmas. Immediately I break down into tears. Emma and Brianna come in to investigate,

“What’s wrong?”

I hold up the shoes hysterically, “He got these for me, and I never even wore them.”

“Jesus, you didn’t tell me that it was this bad,” My sister laments to Emma. She bends down and wrenches the shoe from my hand. “Here’s what going to happen: you are going to drink more and then we are going to make you look sexy as well wearing those shoes.” I start to shake my head. “I won’t take no for answer. Emma will even tip of the paparazzi for you so there will be plenty of photos. Sound good?” I don’t have a chance to answer. “Good.”

A half an hour my eyes are dry and my hair and makeup is done. Brianna gave me a magenta dress to wear that was skin tight and excessively low in the back. She added blue jewelry and then tossed me the heels. I put them in and look in the mirror and have to admit that I look damn good. Emma sees me, “Let Sidney eat his heart out hun.”

******


It’s been a week since I saw Brooklyn last. Our last conversation keeps running through my brain. Every time I think about forgiving her or reconciling with her I wonder why she didn’t tell me everything in the first place. Maybe I’m just jealous that Jacob was there when I wasn’t. Or maybe I’m embarrassed. Whatever the reason I’ve convinced myself that I’m better without Brooklyn, at least for now.

We are in the locker room after the morning skate. None of the guys have approached me about Brooklyn yet and I know today won’t be any different. I’m unlacing my skates when there is some commotion on the other side of the locker room. All the younger guys are crowding around somebody’s tablet. Finally, James speaks up, “What’s going on over there?”

They shut up instantly like they’re hiding something so James and Letang decide to investigate further. As they approach the group the expensive technology gets tossed around in an epic game of keep-away until it lands with a thud in front of Flower and I. Naturally I bend down to pick it up and Beau interjects, “Wait, don’t.” But it’s too late, I look down at the screen and see Brooklyn actually multiple pictures of Brooklyn smiling and laughing surrounded by people, she looks incredible. “Shit, Sid I’m sorry we were just looking.”

Flower picks it up and begins to read aloud. “Seems that Brooklyn is bouncing back quickly from her media maelstrom as well as her rumored break-up with hockey star beau, Sidney Crosby. The young starlet was seen last night partying till the wee hours with her sister and good friend/assistant in the Bahamas. All the girls were dressed to the nines and Brooklyn herself looked particularly sexy. It sure seems as if she was trying to send a message to someone. As if that wasn’t enough she danced the night away with multiple partners before being carefully and familiarly escorted out by bodyguard and friend, Jacob. Remember he was her escort to the Golden Globes? All in all the message is loud and clear, Brooklyn Donahue is back and better than ever, hopefully the right people are listening. Tell us readers, Team Jacob or Team Sidney.”

The locker room is silent as Flower reads it. When he is finished he hands it back to Beau who quietly tucks it away apologizing again. It sucks because I know some of the guys miss Brooklyn like I do and I know that Vero and Carol-Lynn do as well. It feels weird that she’s not here anymore even if it was just to pop in for a quick game or a hello. Then and there all of us decide to hit the town Thursday after our game.

As the guys leave Beau comes over and apologizes one last time. I shrug; it doesn’t matter really, I already read that article this morning. That’s usually how I start my days now. In the mornings I check my phone praying that she has contacted me and then I google her. I’ve read every article about her, no matter how insignificant since Wednesday. It’s the only way to fill the void that she’s left and selfishly I hoped that she was suffering as much as I was.

It’s late Thursday in the club. Honestly I’m starting to feel like tonight has been a bust. Every girl that has come up to me has failed miserably. They all can’t pass the test; none of them hold a candle to Brooklyn. Nealer understands my plight and is determined to help me get out of this slump, much to the disapproval of Geno and Flower. While Nealer goes to search for the lucky girl I sit and nurse my most recent beverage. I couldn’t tell you what number this one was, but I know that they are all starting to taste the same.

As I close out my tab so I can leave James approaches me with a girl in tow, “Sidney, can I introduce you to Bridget?”

She is short and blonde, like Brooklyn. She wears a lot more makeup though and dresses a bit trashy. If I squint though the resemblance is uncanny. The name gets me to thinking, “Bridge for short?” She nods emphatically and it registers in my brain. Emma sometimes called Brooklyn that as an inside joke from her college years. Once Brooklyn told me I could call her that and I never did, might be making up for lost time tonight. I down the rest of my drink not taking my eye off the girl, “You’ll do. Want to get out of here?”

My teammates looked terrified as I lead her out of the club into the back alleyway, but I ignore them and focus on Bridge. She laughs and I wince. It doesn’t sound right and ruins the illusion. We are in the back alleyway “Don’t laugh.”

“Fine by me.”

Wincing I turn and push her against the wall. I cradle her face in my hand, “Don’t talk either. If I fuck you can you promise to be quiet?”

She nods like a bobblehead doll and I have to resist rolling my eyes. I lean in and kiss this strange girl full on the mouth. Damn, she doesn’t taste right either. I’m about to call the whole thing off when I feel her small hands on my fly and then she is on her knees and I groan when I feel her mouth on me. Nothing feels right about this, but whatever she is doing doesn’t feel wrong either.

Notes

Clearly, this will not be a quick fix...
Thank you for the feedback on the last chapter, I love to hear what y'all think!