Chapter 6
"Love you too, Dad... Bye." Matt hung up the motel phone and sighed with relief.
It'd gone a lot easier than he'd thought, considering he'd just woke his Dad up in the middle of the night, with an offer to fly him out the next morning to visit his Aunt. He'd talked to his Dad the week before and remembered him mentioning he wanted to go visit his sister. Now couldn't have been a better time.
If the stalker could so easily find his house and get inside, he could easily find his Dad's house, which wasn't far. Even if the police watched over his Dad's house, Matt was still leery.
Also he didn't want his father to suspect anything was going on or the man would be worried sick. With his heart condition, he didn't need the stress. So flying him to his sister's, and out of possible harms way, was the best option.
"What'd he say?" Rob asked, sitting on the opposite bed.
"He's going." Matt answered. "Thank goodness. I'd already bought his ticket and paid for all the other stuff. He'll ride to the airport with us in the morning and be gone a week." The only problem was, what to do when his father got back.
"I'm sure he'll be okay." Rob said, understanding his concerns.
Matt took a drag off his cigarette, letting the smoke out in a tired sigh. It was nearly 3am so there was no point in trying to sleep when they had to get up in a few hours. The hard beds in the shitty motel would have prevented it anyway. Although at the moment, luxury wasn't his biggest concern.
The motel was just outside city limits and hopefully discreet. They'd stayed at the house long enough to throw some cloths in their bags then took off. Hope I didn't leave anything on, Matt thought. Walking over to the blinds he pulled them apart and peered outside.
The two policemen sat in their unmarked car, right outside the door, watching over things. Now that breaking and entering was involved, the stalking threat had been taken to a new level the police couldn't ignore.
Rob had even called Vince to let him know what was going on and the boss instantly arranged for Matt to have escorts at all times. No arguments. Vince wasn't as bad as he was made out to be and was truly concerned. But Matt also knew, Vince was concerned with protecting his investment as well. The Hardy Boyz were defiantly a high stock in the company's profits.
Matt turned from the window and looked over at Rob, stretched out on his bed and starting to doze off. Rob didn't have any other choise but to stay with him. Then again, Rob could have gotten a different room, but didn't. Guess that counted for something. Matt jumped, a knock on the door startling him out of his thoughts. Rob was immediatly up and rushed over to peer through the peephole.
"It's Helms." He announced, unlocking the door.
Matt raised his eyebrows. "Shane? What in the world would he be doing here?"
Rob opened the door and Shane 'The Hurricane' Helms stepped in. "Hey guys. Just wanted to come by and see how you were doing."
Matt blinked, surprised to see his childhood friend and fellow co-wrestler. "Okay, I guess." He gestured Shane to sit. "How'd you know I was here?"
"Little Bro, told me." Shane answered.
Matt sighed to himself. Jeff had the biggest damn mouth.
"Don't get mad at him." Shane said, noticing Matt's expression. "He didn't want to leave his house, because he's watching over your Dad's place, but he was also concerned about you."
"So he asked you to check on me?" Matt guessed.
"He didn't have to ask." Shane shook his head, incredibly. "Man, Matt. I can't believe you didn't tell me what was going on. You know I've got your back."
"I know and thanks. I didn't want anyone else to worry. Besides, I can..." Matt stopped himself from saying he could handle it.
He didn't have to say it though. Shane, having been life long friends with Matt, knew how he was. Matt had always been too proud to ask for help. "Well, when I left Jeff's I noticed the cops were still at your house. Hope your Dad doesn't notice."
"Shit." Matt muttered. He hadn't even taken the thought into consideration and should have waited until morning to call instead of waking him. The brothers both lived on either side of their Dad, about a mile away each, and if he happen to look out his window he would surely notice the red and blue lights. "That's just what his heart needs."
"The lights were out in his house." Shane assured. "I'm sure he was in bed."
Hope so. Matt smiled faintly at his friend. "Thanks Shane. You don't have to hang around. Not that I don't want you here, but I know you and Shannon have a flight to catch too." He glanced over at Rob, who was sitting at the small table, watching out the window. It's not like you'd be interrupting anything anyway.
Shane stood. "I do need to go, but we'll hook up later. Seriously man, keep me informed."
"I will." Matt walked him to the door. "Thanks for coming by."
"Don't mention it." Shane gave Matt a hug, clapping him on the back, then waved at Rob. "Later Van Dam. Take care of my boy."
Rob waved back. "Always Dude."
Matt waited until Shane was in his car, gave a final wave then closed the door, locking every lock. He turned and leaned against it, folding his arms over his chest and letting out a long sigh. Could the situation be any more fucked up? Finally a few days of, what was supposed to be, peaceful time home, and here he was hiding out in a cheap motel room.
Rob got up from the table. "It was good of him to check up on you. He's a pretty good friend."
Matt nodded slowly then lowered his head. "I should have let him know what was going on. Guess I'm a shitty friend."
Rob placed his hand under Matt's chin, raising his head. "I doubt he'd agree. You have no idea the kind of guy you are."
Matt lightly smiled. With everything that was going on, somehow Rob made it tolerable. Rob pulled him into an embrace and Matt closed his eyes, wondering how he'd really be reacting if Rob wasn't with him. Rob was as strong and steady as his hands, stroking up and down his back.
"Let's try to get as much sleep as we can." Rob whispered into his ear. "I've arranged a wake up call."
"Okay." Matt agreed, although his mind was too occupied to think about sleeping. Still, he went to his bed and crawled in, humoring Rob. Rob climbed into his seperate bed and turned off the light. It wasn't long before he was softly snoring. Matt just rolled on his side and stared bleakly out the window. Tomorrow seemed to be the promise of many miserable days ahead.
Matt sat in the conference room, with the rest of the roster, trying not to notice the questioning looks he got every now and then. Everyone was suppose to be paying attention to Shane McMahan as he talked about TV ratings, future events, and so on. But the two guards, sitting behind Matt, couldn't help but draw attention.
As promised, Vince had the guards waiting the moment he got off the plane. The stern men stood out in their SWAT-like uniforms and were even bigger than The Rock. They were all about business, reminding him of impassive British army guards.
Matt propped his head up in his hand, thinking once again, having this kind of protection was complete nonsense. Not to mention smothering. Heaven forbid, he go to the bathroom without them standing outside the door. It was like being grounded.
He tried to talk to Vince about it, but it did little good. If he wanted to continue to perform at the shows while all this was going on, Vince insisted that he had the guards. Either that or stay at home and staying home wasn't much of an option.
Matt stifled his yawn and tried to pay attention as Shane McMahan spoke. Wish I'd grabbed a cup of coffee first. Or even the whole damn pot. Will this meeting ever end? Will any of this shit ever end? The police hadn't been able to lift a single fingerprint out of the ordinary from his house. With no leads, it seemed they had no other option but to wait until the stalker made another move.
"Is that cool with you, Matt?" Shane asked.
Matt raised his head up and opened his eyes. He realized he'd dozed off and the whole room was waiting expectantly for his answer.
"Uh... Yeah, that's cool." He said, not having a clue as to what Shane had asked.
A few snorts started, followed by chuckles, then almost everyone started laughing. Great, Matt thought. Obviously he'd said the wrong thing.
Jeff leaned close, talking into his ear. "Shane just said, you're going on a single's run for a few weeks against Rakishi. Every match will end with you getting a 'Stink face'."
"What!" Matt's mouth dropped. He looked over at the huge Samoan wrestler, who grinned and gave him a thumbs up. A 'Stink face' once a year was bad enough, but every match?
Shane chuckled and held up an assuring hand. "Don't worry, Matt. I was kidding. Are you back with us now?"
Flushing, Matt nodded. "Sorry."
Shane gave him a friendly smile and continued with his announcements. Matt sank down in his chair, hoping not to draw anymore attention to himself.
While the meeting was in attendance, the stranger casually walked the arena halls. Members of the back stage crew watched him as he passed by. He was the kind of man, you couldn't help but give a second glance to. Not because he seemed out of place. He was anything but out of place when it came to walking these halls.
And his walk had a purpose. He had his own private meeting to attend with the big boss himself, Vince. Vince wanted to keep things as secretive as possible so arranged for the meeting while the other wrestlers were in theirs and no fans were around.
The stranger smiled to himself. If only Vince knew how well that worked in his favor. The guards protecting Matt no longer seemed to be an obstacle in his path. He was practically given free reign to watch over Matt, undetected. And watch over him, this one last time, he would. The time for secrecy was over. The time for Matt to be with him was here.
"This downtown club rocks! So what do ya say?" Adam asked eagerly, as he jogged on a treadmill next to Matt's.
Matt bit his bottom lip, contemplating. Adam's solution to all problems was a night out partying with the boys. At first, Matt brushed away the idea. The last thing on this mind was partying. But on second thought, a whole night to temporary take his mind off things couldn't hurt. The problem was, convincing Rob of that. Rob suddenly seemed to think, he needed to stay neatly tucked away and hidden.
"It sounds cool, but I'll have to get back with you." Matt finally replied.
Adam flashed his wide grin. "Awesome. Let me know." He turned off his treadmill and hurried away to find more people to round up. "Out of the way chump stain." He said to one of the guards, standing duty at the weight room door.
The guard breifly stepped aside to let him pass then returned to the same position. Matt turned off his treadmill. He still had another fifteen minutes to run, but it was getting on his nerves the way the guards just stood there and watched. He kept trying to tell himself that they were just doing their job. It probably wasn't a picnic for them either. He made his way over to the corner of the small gym where Rob was on a mat doing crunches, and sat on the floor beside him. "Feel like doing something after the show?"
Rob sat up, draping his arms over his knees. "Like what?"
Matt casually shrugged. "Adam was telling me about this club he's been to. Maybe we can go hang out with him tonight."
"What club?" Jeff asked. He walked over, using the towel around his neck to wipe the sweat from his brow. "You think going to a club is wise right now?"
Matt shot him a 'shut the hell up' look then turned back to Rob. "Well, you want to? You don't have to get up early in the morning since you won't be performing for another week."
Rob thought for a moment. Vince had given him leave, due to his second concussion, but that was the least of his concerns. "I think Jeff's right. Who knows what could happen at a club, and I really don't think the guards would care to go."
Matt peered over his shoulder at the guards. Do they ever move? "We can sneak out of the motel. I used to sneak out of the house a lot when I was a kid. I'm pretty good at it."
Jeff snorted. "Not that good or you wouldn't have gotten your ass whipped all the time for it."
Matt glowered at his brother. "Don't you have something, or someone, to do?"
Jeff looked around and smiled, spotting Chris. "As a matter of fact I do... Later."
Happy to see his brother leave, Matt tried once again. "So what do you say?"
Rob smiled, but shook his head. "I think we should hold off. At least for the time being."
Why am I not surprised, Matt thought to himself. "Seems like anything that has to do with me, you want to hold off on." He muttered.
Rob furrowed his brow. "It's not that. I was only saying..."
"...Forget I mentioned it." Matt snapped. He jumped to his feet and stormed off towards the sauna.
"Midnight wait!" Rob started to get up, but hesitated when he noticed a few of the other wrestlers, noncelauntly watching. As if waiting to see what was going to happen next. He could imagine how furious Matt would be if he were to chase after him, adding to what everyone must have thought was a cute little love tiff. Instead, Rob settled back down and dis-heartedly resumed his crunches.
Matt paced the sauna room floor, the hot steam doing nothing to cool his anger down. What the hell was Rob's problem? The main reason he'd wanted to go was to spend some time with him. Lately it seemed they'd barley managed to sleep under the same roof.
Jeff cautiously entered the room. He knew his brother was mad and it was partly because of Rob agreeing with him. Sure enough when Matt noticed him, his expression became more heated.
Jeff tried an apologetic smile. "I didn't mean to mess things up for you."
"You never fucking do Jeff." Matt cynically spat.
"I'm just worried about you that's all." Jeff said quietly. "Nobody knows what this guy could do next. And if you went out someplace with no protection..." He opened his arms letting them fall to his side. His wild imagination had already pictured many unpleasant outcomes.
Matt softened a little. He knew they were all worried, but he was sick of worrying. "I'm not mad at you. I know you're concerned. It's just...Rob..." He shook his head. How could he explain the problem when he couldn't understand it himself?
"What's going on?" Jeff asked, already having sensed the tension between the two.
Matt shrugged, annoyed. "I don't know. It almost feels like he doesn't want to be with me. I mean really be with me."
Jeff snorted, almost chuckling. "You know that's a lie. Rob practically worships the ground you walk on."
Then why is it like we're on two different continents, Matt silently asked. "You remember what it was like before I was with him and before you were with Chris? When we used to be able to do whatever we wanted without thinking about someone else? Do you sometimes miss that?"
"No." Jeff honestly answered. "This isn't prison. I still do what I want. It just happens I like doing 'whatever' with Chris more. Why? Do you miss it?"
Matt thought to himself then finally shook his head. Rob was one of the best things that'd ever happened to him and maybe that's why it was pissing him off so much. "I just wish things would get back to normal."
Jeff smiled. "They will, Bro. Trust me."
Matt halfway smiled. "I can always trust, you'll open your big ass mouth just at the right time."
Jeff cringed. "I'm still working on that."
"Be sure to be there." The stranger warningly told the man on the other end of his cell phone.
"Sure thing Sir." The man replied. "We are always prompt."
The stranger hung up the phone without saying bye. He sat in a small deli across the street from Matt's motel. To his irritation, the guards sat outside in their car. They'd been hovering around Matt all damn day and even sat ringside during his match.
The rent-a-cops were nothing more than a puny waste of time and money as everyone would soon see. Relaxing in the booth, he decided to have desert before he left. There was no need to hang around any longer. All he had to do was sit back and wait. Matt would be the one coming to him.
Matt poured himself another cup of coffee from the pot he'd requested in his room. He was already feeling antsy, but it wasn't from the caffeine he'd been consuming. Although try telling Rob that. For some reason, every since the end of his match, he'd been feeling edgy. The need to get out was strong, but to his aggravation, Rob was still unwilling to go anywhere.
Not that mattered anymore. He'd just go to the club without him.
"Haven't you had enough coffee today?" Rob asked. This had to be Matt's thirtieth cup and he still hadn't slept.
Keep your cool, Matt told himself, having been asked that question at least thirty times today. How Rob would have noticed anyway, was beyond him. Throughout the rest of the day, they'd barley spoke to one another. A lot of it had to do with the guards always standing near. It was hard to talk with them in earshot.
"You can't keep staying up like this." Rob continued. "You've got to sleep. Especially if you keep performing like you did tonight." He winced, regretting he'd thrown that last part in.
Matt slammed his cup down on the small counter and angrily spun around. "Will you stop acting like my fucking parent. I'm aware of everything I do, without you having to tell me."
Rob only nodded. It seemed like no matter what he said, it set Matt off. "Midnight, what's wrong? Have I done something?"
Matt lowered his eyes from Rob's hurt expression. Did he really have a reason to be angry? Rob hadn't done anything, other then be concerned for his safety. Still, it just wasn't enough. "I want you to be with me."
"I am with you." Rob tried.
"You know what I mean." Matt practically yelled, his anger re-brewing. "Why did you have to get your own room? Why can't you stay here? Who gives a shit what the guards think." His voice rose higher.
Rob could tell a fight was about to brew. "Please lets not go over this again. It's not only the guards, it's... why can't you understand where I'm coming from?"
"WHY CAN'T YOU UNDERSTAND WHERE I'M COMING FROM?" Matt finally exploded. "I NEED YOU WITH ME. CAN'T YOU FUCKING SEE THAT? ARE YOU FUCKING BLIND?"
Rob held up his hands, trying to get him to lower his voice. The walls were paper-thin. Matt let out an exasperated breath. If people hearing was all Rob cared about, than fine. He went over to the door and opened it up. "Why don't you just get out."
Rob stood staring at him, shocked. "You're throwing me out?"
Matt glared at him icily. "Looks like it, doesn't it?" He opened the door wider. "You can go now."
Rob hesitated, not knowing what to do or say. Matt waited, impatiently crossing his arms. Rob finally picked up his jacket and walked to the door. He paused halfway out, but Matt turned his head refusing to look at him. It was unbelievable how someone so warm and beautiful could turn so cold. Swallowing, Rob left without another word.
Matt shut the door and slightly parted the blinds, watching Rob disappear into his room, then closed his eyes against his blurring vision. Rob actually left! What the fuck else did you expect him to do, he chided himself. Picking up an ashtray, he furiously hurled it against the wall, imagining Rob stood there. If Rob had been looking for a way out, he'd just helped him.
Standing at his door, Rob heard the loud clatter against the wall and knew it was Matt. If Matt couldn't beat somebody up, he'd bust something up. He slowly shook his head, hearing another clatter. Matt had a temper like no one he'd ever met.
He remembered it was that hot-headedness that turned him on from the beginning. The fiery temper, stubbornness, and innocent arrogance was a spicy combination that he couldn't help but be drawn to. Then came the day, he'd seen past all that, looking at Matt on a deeper level. He'd promised to never hurt him. How could he ever forgive himself for breaking that promise? And now, inadvertently, he was doing it still.
Matt made it perfectly clear in his own way. If someone Matt cared about, hurt him, he'd say or do things that would hurt them back. It may not have been the best way to go about it, but it was just the way he was. Rob knew that by kicking him out, Matt was acting out emotionally. He clinched his fist, angry with himself. The more the tried, the more he seemed to be screwing up.
Matt sat slumped in a chair at the table, his head resting in one hand while he flicked his cigarette ashes in the astray. At least the ashtray didn't break, but unfortunately he was almost out of cigarettes, so he'd have to go out and pick up some more. And now he didn't feel like going anywhere. But at least while he was out, he could pick up a bottle of Jack too.
What was the saying? Love can drive a person to drink? He snorted, almost amused. Am I a living example or what? He took one last drag off his cigarette then smashed it in the ashtray. Is this what it's like to love someone? To want to beat the shit out of them?
He swallowed the knot in his throat, hating himself for being so pathetic and weak. Before Rob, the only time he could remember being so emotional was when he was a kid and his Mother had died. Unable to even cry at the funeral, he'd waited until he was alone in bed that night.
Now here he was, in his first relationship and bitterly remembered why he'd always been so against having one. Love was like a sickness infesting one's soul. It was a handicap to be so into somebody that you couldn't function right if they weren't around, when in reality you know you could.
Everything had been perfectly fine before Rob. He was always in control. Now he couldn't help but feel out of control without him. I truly am sick.
The door opened and Rob hesitantly stepped inside. Matt looked over his shoulder and sighed. Figures, I would forget to lock the fucking door. He turned back around. Why did I ever have to meet you? Why couldn't you have come to the WWF and simply left me alone?
Rob sat on the bed, closest to the table and waited to see if Matt would throw him out again. He wasn't sure if he should take it as a good sign that he didn't, for Matt wouldn't even turn around. Rob sat quietly, wondering where to start.
After a few seconds of silence, Matt let out an exasperated breath. "Is there a purpose to your little visit?" He asked rudely. If you're having trouble sleeping, I'll knock your ass out real fast.
Rob took a deep breath. No sense in beating around the bush. "I came to see if... if you'd let me stay with you." He asked quietly.
Matt almost laughed. Of all the fucking nerve. "Funny, that's the same thing I wanted. Obviously we don't always get what we want."
Greatly daring, Rob reached out and touched his shoulder. "I'm sorry Midnight. You're right, I am blind. And that's why I need you too. When I'm blind, you're my eyes."
Matt jerked away from Rob's touch. "What pretty-ass words." He muttered cynically. Deep down, he knew Rob meant them. But right now, his words had no meaning.
Rob sat quietly again. Matt wasn't going to make this easy, but he wouldn't have expected anything less. "I want to stay with you and I'll sit here and beg all night if I have to."
Matt snorted lightly. I'm sure as hell not going to beg for you. "The guards are outside, remember? Hate to start any rumors that we might actually give a shit about each other or something stupid like that." He stood, ready to go open up the door, but Rob jumped up, blocking him. Crossing his arms, Matt narrowed his eyes warningly.
Rob knew that look and took a step back. "Please Midnight. You know I don't care about what other people think. All I care about is you. And I'm sorry for how I've been showing it, but I love you more than anything. Let me prove it."
Matt continued to narrow his eyes, but found it growing difficult to do. What the hell was happening to his anger? He was suppose to throw Rob out and let him know how it feels to be unwanted and sleep alone. But for some reason, he didn't stop Rob from uncrossing his arms and pulling him near. Instead of pushing Rob away, he was reaching under Rob's shoulders, chiding himself again for being so pathetic and weak.
Why he would want to subject himself to this shit, he didn't know. He wasn't just sick, he was beyond sick. But suddenly, no longer cared. Rob pressed his lips over his, and he opened his mouth, wanting Rob to infect him more. He gripped the back of Rob's shoulders, wanting Rob to do with him whatever he wanted.
Everything seemed to move so fast, it was like a blur. The next thing he knew, he was on the table with Rob on top of him.
The hard table top against his shoulder blades hurt, but the pain was less than secondary compared to the feel of Rob's incredible mouth on his naked skin. He let his head hang off the table's edge, barley remembering when they'd even got undressed.
Rob used his tongue and lips over every inch of Matt's soft neck while he reached down to Matt's hard shaft. He wrapped his fingers around it and Matt nearly jumped, his purring turning into a load moan. Rob moved down further, stopping to tease and flick his tongue over a hard nipple, then lower to slowly trace the lines of Matt's six-pack.
Matt squirmed beneath him, nearly sliding on the table, for he was already starting to sweat. He bit his bottom lip, feeling Rob's mouth go even lower then suddenly, Rob's mouth replaced his stroking hand. Grabbing a hand full of Rob's hair, Matt bit his lip harder to hold back his needy cry. He could taste his own blood and realized, he'd inadvertently re-wounded his healing lip.
The pleasure was so strong he couldn't have helped it and, unable to take more, pulled Rob's head up and brought him back to meet his lips. "I want you inside me." He whispered into Rob's mouth.
Rob closed his mouth over Matt's, silencing him from saying more. He didn't need to say anymore. He needed Matt just as bad, and became faintly aware of the coppery taste of blood. He broke the kiss, looking down at Matt in concern.
Please, Matt silently pleaded, seeing Rob's hesitation. If Rob was still afraid of hurting him, he would hurt Rob more. Pulling Rob down to where all his weight was on top of him, Matt used his legs to hold Rob in place. "If you stop now, I'll never let you back in."
Rob held his darkened eyes a moment then gently ran a hand over the midnight curls. He wasn't going to hurt him anymore. He kissed Matt, deep and slow, putting all the passion he could into it. Touching Matt was a privilege given only to him and he wanted to show Matt how much he loved and appreciated him. He took his time, caressing Matt's skin and kneading his muscles, until he was slowly making love to him.
Matt let himself go, vocal and loud, with every steady thrust of Rob's body. Rob didn't try to quiet him down. He no longer cared how thin the walls were, himself being just as vocal. Matt felt himself teetering on the edge and finally falling over with Rob's last powerful trust. Then all went black.
Rob lay on him, taking the time to catch his breath. After a moment he wrapped his arms around Matt, pulled him upright and helped him off the table. Matt staggered as though drunk and fought to stay on his feet, but exhaustion seemed to overpower his entire body.
Rob lead him to the bed, which had only been a few feet away the whole time, practically dragging him. Matt collapsed on it and tried to open his eyes, only couldn't muster the strength. He tried to say something as Rob wrapped his arms around him from behind, but couldn't seem to properly form the words.
Rob smiled, barely hearing Matt's soft murmur. He brushed his lips over Matt's ear. "I love you too. Now sleep."
No longer capable of fighting the exhaustion, Matt let himself fall into the soft soothing darkness. Now that Rob was holding him, he could finally sleep.
The birds chattered noisily outside the motel's open window. Matt lightly stirred into awareness without opening his eyes. It must be early morning. Usually the damn little birds irritated the hell out of him when they woke him this early. But this morning was different.
He lay quiet and still, feeling Rob's arms wrapped around his waist. Even though Rob was still sound asleep, his hold was firm with no slack. The chill of the early morning air, seeping through the window, didn't seem to bother him either. Rob's strong muscled chest was soft and warm against his back, keeping it away.
Matt lightly smiled to himself, feeling every breath Rob exhaled brush hotly over the nape of his neck. Pressing himself more into Rob's unconscious embrace, Matt slowly faded back to sleep. The damn little birds never sounded more beautiful.
Some time later he re-awoke, feeling the bed shift.
Rob sat on the edge, holding a McDonalds sack. "Good morning." He leaned over and gave Matt a light kiss. "Just in time for breakfast."
Matt yawned and stretched, amazed at how good his whole body felt. Sitting up, he smiled as Rob handed him a sausage & egg biscuit and put a cup of freshly brewed coffee on the nightstand.
"It's not exactly gourmet, but hey..." Rob shrugged. "It's not like I had a stove."
Matt unwrapped his breakfast. "Cool. You remembered to have them put cheese on it."
Rob chuckled, pulling out his egg mcmuffin. "Dude, like I'd forget."
Matt smiled at him, no happier than if Rob had cooked him a gourmet breakfast. As a matter of fact, he couldn't remember the last time he'd felt so happy and well rested. For the moment, everything in the world was perfect.
Jeff knocked on the door. "It's me." He announced. Him and Chris entered the room.
"What's up, guys?" Matt brightly greeted. He caught a glimpse outside, before the door closed. "Wow! Is it as nice as it looks out there?"
Chris sat on the other bed. "It's kinda muggy." He complained.
Jeff sat with him. "A wasp tried to kill me." He added.
Matt laughed lightly. "That's nice."
Jeff frowned. "Nice? Are you smoking pot? I could have gone into anaphylactic shock. Hey... What are you eating?"
Rob chuckled and tossed over the bag. "I didn't forget you guys." Jeff and Chris happily dug in.
Matt smiled at Rob. Could he be any more generous? "Man, you are so cool. I wouldn't have got them a thing."
Jeff looked up, about to comment, then noticed the expression on Matt's face. He seemed to be on cloud nine. "Seriously Brother, have you been smoking pot?"
Matt cocked his head to the side, still smiling. "Think whatever you want."
Jeff exchanged glances with Chris. "Man, I think somebody's fucked and made up."
Matt coughed, nearly choking on the bite he just took.
Rob automatically started hitting his back. "Are you okay?"
Clearing his throat, Matt turned to his crude brother. "Weren't we talking, just yesterday, about your big-ass mouth?"
Jeff rolled his eyes. "Well, when you make it so obvious."
Rob chuckled. "He does have a point." He said, looking down at Matt's barley covered body.
Matt pulled the blanket up higher. "At least I didn't jump out of the bed." He mused, with a pointed look at Chris.
Chris shrugged sheepishly, while Jeff snorted. "Thank you for that. Talk about my breakfast coming up."
Normally Matt would have made a comeback, but laughed instead. Sometimes his little brother could be funny. Jeff raised his eyebrows, not expecting the reaction. "Okaaay... Now I'm worried."
Matt waved a hand. "Don't be. I'm just in a good mood." He smiled at Rob.
Rob smiled back. "Dude, I always guarantee satisfaction."
"And Man do you deliver." Matt gave him a kiss.
Jeff and Chris both gave a disgusted groan, Chris tossing his biscuit back in the bag. "There's no way, I can finish that now."
The limo had been driving for a little while now, but Matt wasn't keeping track of the time. Humming along with the music playing, he poured himself a glass of wine. Rob had spared no expense, between the fancy wine and elegant limo. Matt looked down at his cloths, jeans and a T-shirt, wishing he'd changed first.
But he had no idea Rob had planned this for today. Waking up with Rob had been the highlight of the day, but apparently Rob had more highlights planned. Earlier, Rob and Chris had stayed behind at the motel while him and Jeff went to their scheduled autograph session.
The session lasted quiet a few hours at the local amusement park. Tons of fans turned out and Matt was more than happy to greet, autograph, and poise for pictures all day long. He was in that good of a mood. Jeff was always happy to do the same too, but was growing tired the longer it lasted and was happier at the end.
Afterwards, they made their way to their car, loaded down with gifts and followed by the guards and park security.
"We should drop some of these stuffed toys and flowers off at the children's hospital." Jeff suggested.
Matt nodded in agreement. Although always grateful for the gifts they received from fans, it was always too much to try and take home. Besides, they knew they were fortunate and blessed with the income to buy pretty much whatever they wanted, so always donated to hospitals and charities.
Matt stopped at the car, raising his eyebrows. "Where did that come from?" A huge sunflower hung halfway out the window.
"Whoa! A giant-ass sunflower isn't something we get everyday." Jeff grabbed the white envelope, hanging off the stem. "It's to you from Rob." He said, handing it over.
Matt opened the envelope, a little surprised. Rob must have come out while him and Jeff were busy signing.
HEY BABE. I HAVE A SURPISE FOR YOU. A LIMO SHOULD BE THERE, WAITING. GET IN AND DON'T ASK THE DRIVER WHERE HE'S TAKING YOU. I WANT THIS TO BE A SPECIAL SURPRISE, LOVE ROB.
Matt looked around and sure enough a limo waited not too far away. What are you up to Rob?
Jeff read the note, a little more skeptical. "Can't be to careful." He said, pulling out his cell. He called the motel to make sure the note was legit.
Matt didn't say anything. He was sure it was from Rob, but let his brother do what he had to do to set his mind at ease.
After a moment, Jeff hung up the phone. "Chris said Rob wasn't there and didn't know where he went. All he knew was Rob mentioned something about a surprise for you." He shrugged smiling. "Guess you're going for a ride."
Matt smiled, feeling a trickle of excitement. Could this day get any better?
Jeff chucked at his brother's 'high on life' expression. "If you start twirling around and singing the 'Sound of Music' theme, I'm outta here."
Matt laughed. He almost did feel like singing, but it wouldn't be that. A little Marvin Gaye for later perhaps. "Think you can distract the guards long enough for me to get away?"
Jeff glanced over at them. "Shouldn't be too hard. The windows are tinted so they won't be able to see that you're not in the car. How long do think you'll be gone?"
"With a limo taking me off somewhere? Hopefully all night." Matt said. Maybe even the rest of the weekend.
"Well, have a good time." Jeff gave his brother a quick hug. "But don't be too good."
Matt smiled, raising an eyebrow. "I don't plan to be."
Jeff headed over to talk to the guards. Matt waited, until Jeff lead them off somewhere, then made a quick dash to the limo.
The driver got out of the car and opened up the door to let him in. "Enjoy the ride, Sir."
And enjoying the ride he was. Matt streached out, relaxing in the soft plush seats. Despite being a celebrity, riding in a limo wasn't something he got to do often. Finishing off his second glass of wine, he poured himself another. Wine didn't have that much alcohol so it wouldn't hurt. He usually wasn't too big on wine, but this bottle Rob had found was delicious.
"How much further?" He asked the driver.
"Not much, sir. Is everything to your satisfaction."
"Yes, thanks."
Matt yawned, wondering why he was so tired. He must have slept too much. He certainly didn't plan on being tired when he got to, where ever it was, he was going. Rob was going to be getting some tonight and a lot of it. He watched the traffic pass by, feeling a hypnotic state start to set in. He closed his eyes, without meaning to, and woke a little while later when the limo started to bump over rocks and pot holes.
Man, how long was I asleep? Gone were the streets, traffic, and buildings. The limo had pulled up to a small log cabin house, which seemed to be in the middle of the woods. The driver opened the door and Matt climbed out, having to stop and steady himself. The wine must have had more alcohol than he thought.
Shaking his head clear, he took-in the cute little cabin scene, which looked like a Disney setting. The log cabin was beautiful, with a line of smoke coming from the chimney. The trees surrounding it were as lush and green as the grass blanketing the forest floor. Squirrels and birds played around on the branches and he wouldn't have been surprised to see Bambi come walking out of the woods.
"Thank you." Matt gave the driver a generous tip and watched him turn the limo around and drive back down the rocky road that had led to the cabin. The road was so small and narrow, it looked more like a trail. An endless trail. Satisfied that the driver would make it back okay, he climbed the few steps up to the door, which was opened a crack. A note with his name was taped to the door and he opened it up and read. Go in and make yourself comfortable. I'll be with you shortly.
Stuffing the note in his pocket, Matt stepped inside the little log house, shutting the door behind him. Just like the outside, everything inside was made out of wood. The old fashion structure had all the modern conveniences, yet still kept the warm cozy feel. He slung his jacket over an old wooden rocking chair and walked around the room. It was like he'd left Disney outside and stepped into a Hallmark card.
A small table by the wall held a bucket of wine and a plate of grapes and cheese. Popping a cube of cheese in his mouth, Matt poured some more wine and went to stand by the fireplace. He noticed some of his own cloths were neatly folded in another chair and smiled. Maybe Rob really did plan on making a weekend out of this.
Sipping on the wine, he stared into the dancing flames, feeling a little light headed. This had better be my last glass. The last thing he wanted was to spoil the whole thing by getting drunk. That couldn't be in Rob's plans. Or maybe it was. He chuckled to himself. Maybe we can both get drunk and make-out by the fire.
Something he'd never done before and the fireplace was the perfect setting. Cocking his head to the side, he studied it curiously. Why does this seem familiar? Must be the wine going to my head.
Still, he continued to study it. For some reason it seemed like he'd been here before, but nothing else looked familiar other than the fireplace. Maybe he really had seen it in a Hallmark card or...
Picture you and me, sitting beside the fire, drinking a little wine
Matt sucked in a breath, the words of the card, suddenly popping into his head. The card the stalker had sent him! Dropping the glass, it shattered on the floor, spilling wine everywhere, but he didn't notice. He stood shocked, remembering where he'd seen the fireplace. It was the same one from the polaroid picture that had been taped inside the card.
Matt back away from the fire, as though the flames could reach out and grab him. If Rob had planned this, he would have been here waiting. What else would Rob be doing in the middle of... Where the hell was he?
Rushing to a window, Matt tore opened the curtains and his mouth dropped, seeing the iron bars embedded in the window. He grasped a bar, which was like a bar in a jail cell. How did he not notice them when he walked up to the house? Fuck this shit.
Leaving the window, he grabbed his jacket and quickly headed for the door, but to his horror the door was locked. Even on the inside, there was no way to open it than with a key. Matt pulled on the handle a few times, before ramming his shoulder against it. The thick solid wood might as well be steel.
His heart pounding nervously, he tried his cell phone, but couldn't even get a signal. Frustrated even more, it was all he could do not to slam it against the wall. Taking a deep breath, he tried to calm his fear and dial out again. As he pushed the numbers, sparks of white flashed in his vision, while at the same time, the floor started to tilt. He stumbled against the door and brought a hand to his dizzy head.
What's wrong with me? A feeling of dread, mixed with the fear inside his stomach. The wine alone couldn't have caused such a reaction. Suddenly, a door in the back of the room opened. Startled, Matt spun around and wished he hadn't. The action was so dizzying, if he wasn't leaning on the door, he would have fallen.
"Nice to see ya." The stranger greeted.
Matt blinked, his vision too blurry to see the stranger's face. The stranger's voice, however, he knew and his heart pounded wildly. The stranger wasn't a stranger! And the deep gruff voice was a sound he never thought he'd hear again for the rest of his life.
"No..." Matt slurred. His tongue had become too thick to speak. "You're not...here..."
Disorientation clouding his mind, Matt wasn't sure what he was trying to say. He buckled at the knees and slowly slid down the door, while a small voice inside his head was telling him, he'd been drugged. His eyelids grew so heavy he couldn't keep from closing them. How could he have been so easily lured and tricked by this evil man? A man who wasn't suppose to be here...
The stranger moved to stand over Matt and watched, for the longest time, as Matt lay motionless on the floor. Finally, he smiled a slow sinister smile and grabbed Matt's arms, pulling him upright.
"Welcome, Kid." The Rattlesnake snickered.
Hauling Matt up and hoisting him over his shoulders, Stone Cold Steve Austin carried him into the other room.
TBC...