The ache had died down for now and he felt slightly more normal, he packed up his bags and after checking over the room for forgotten items he headed to reception and checked out of the hotel. He arrived at the arena by taxi and was soon heading for the locker rooms, nodding various hellos to his co-workers along the way.
He wasn't looking forward to the next four days, as his travel buddies would be Randy Orton and Bryan Danielson. Ever since Melbourne some of the guys had been wondering what had upset Mike as it wasn't like him to snap for no apparent reason, they had also noticed a slight down turn in his mood, some thought he might have started drinking his problems away. A couple had confronted Mike early on but as their tone was insulting Mike easily deflected their attention elsewhere. Citing a few issues within his family, or just being run down, coming down with a cold, etc.
His travel buddies were equally unamused and not looking forward to him, traveling with them. Randy and Bryan had arrived half an hour earlier only to find out Phil would be joining them, which they were thankful for. Bryan and Phil sat in the receiving area of the arena arguing about a football game both were so caught up that neither saw Mike arrive, Randy walked over a few minutes later and slumped down next to Bryan saying
"Mike's here," Bryan groaned prompting Phil to say "And?"
Randy and Bryan exchanged looks before Randy gave in, turning to Phil "Look, I can't really talk but something's going on with him and I don't think it's just being overworked."
"What you think," Phil looked around and lowered his voice suddenly aware of the people walking past.
"You think he's doing drugs?"
"I'm not sure what, he's just not his usual self."
Phil gave Randy a look trying to read Randy's face but could only detect concern and worry. Phil sighed leaning back, he looked around the bay wondering how best to approach Mike and find out for himself what was going on.
"Where did you last see him?"
"Heading to the locker room,"
Phil nodded then slowly got up.
"What are you doing?" Asked Bryan.
"Going for a walk,"