Part XIV

Alex stared at her pc as she read emails sent by her brother and her parents. Words of encouragement, excitement, and pride were written and sent to the blonde making her smile. It was after all a big day for Alex. It was her big basketball debut.

Marissa was on the phone as she watched Alex rub the back of her forehead and smiled as she read. She smiled knowing this was a big break for her girlfriend. At the same time, Marissa was nervous for Alex. The blonde was making news, apparently the new recruit to watch for as sports commentators said. After the rise and sudden injury of Inna Van Stein, Alex Cohen was next in line. How long she will still stay healthy was the only question Marissa wanted answered. But she also knew Alex would take care of herself. The blonde promised her. And Alex never breaks her promises. Her attention went back to the conversation she was having with Summer over the phone.

So we'll just meet you in the seats then? Or do we meet outside? Beth said they're reserved so no worries. And it's behind Alex's bench. Is Alex starting today?

Marissa didn't really know so she had to ask Alex.

"Hon, Summer was asking if you're going to start the game today." Marissa tilted her head and met Alex's loving gaze.

"Um… I think not. I mean… I just made the team. I don't think they'll put me on the starting line up just yet. I have to earn it."

Marissa smiled at the blonde who turned to the computer monitor again.

"Summer, she said she won't."

Oh come on. She's not all hype. She has talent! I need pictures! I mean she has to start! The endorsements!

"Sum… There will be other games…" Marissa rolled her eyes Summer was taking her PR role too seriously.

Fine… Fine… We'll see you later. I have to wake Jodie up…

"Sum… It's 10AM… She's still in bed?"

She had a little work out last night.

"Well she should be awake…"

Let's just say… When I was done reminding her… She couldn't stop till early morning… I mean… REALLY!

Marissa giggled on her end of the line. She had a great night with Alex too. Although… It wasn't till early morning.

"Well… Good to have you in Newport, Sum. We'll see you later. Love you!" Marissa smiled and saw Alex standing up and walking towards her.

Bye Coop! Later! Kiss Alex for me. BYEEE!

Marissa hanged the phone and felt Alex's arms wrap around her waist pulling her close.

"Ready to go?" Alex asked burying her head on Marissa's back.

"Ready if you are…" Marissa whispered turning around to kiss the blonde's lips.

----

Staples Center, Los Angeles, California: It was a dateline for most women's basketball fans tonight. It was the first game for the Sparks since the injury of Inna Van Stein. The fans still have high hopes. After all they got the number one pick that was never drafted: Alex Cohen. On TV screens, on large Video screens, the arrival of Alex Cohen was making a buzz.

Marissa and the rest of the girls took the audience entrance while Alex proceeded to the locker room immediately when they arrived. Marissa had given Alex a band on her arm which had Alex's number, which was 1. It also had the initials MC-AC written vertically. It was only readable if you look at it really close.

As Alex reached the locker room, most of girls were not yet around. She was after all a little early. Except their feisty power forward, Cathy, and Juvy, the point guard. She took her place near Juvy's locker and started to unpack to dress up. The other girl gave her a sweet smile as she tied her shoe.

Juvy then stood up and whispered to Alex's ear.

"Good luck cutie…"

The girl turned around and shot Alex a sexy grin. Alex could only smile back, a little embarrassed. Cathy who was left with Alex in the room shot up and approached her, shoving Alex back to reality.

"If you don't read… And if you're too ignorant about things… She's my girlfriend…"

"Oh I wasn't… It wasn't…" Alex explained although incoherent.

It was true. She wasn't doing anything bad with Juvy.

"Right… Stay away from my girl you got that?" Cathy shoved Alex again, making her fall back on the bench.

Alex watched the taller girl walk away, still stunned.

"Well I would if she stays away from me…" Alex shook her head and changed.

----

"What time is it? Are they starting yet?" Summer looked around for players but there was no player in sight.

They were all anxious to see Alex play. But Summer was certainly on hyper mode. Marissa sat beside her, silently looking around too. Jodie and Beth were discussing about some games they watched while Bianca silently held Beth's hand. She drank a cola while she looked around.

Just then the buzzer sounded, players came out running from the dugout and everybody stood up. Marissa saw Alex who also saw her cheering on. They share a smile. They felt like they were back in college again: Hearts fluttering at the sight of the other. Alex gave Marissa a wink before taking a ball to shoot around.

"I'm nervous…" Summer mumbled rubbing her hands.

"But you're not the one playing babe… Alex is…" Jodie rolled her eyes, receiving a slight slap on the back of her head.

"I know… But TV! You know… TV! We're at the back of their bench… WE'RE ON TV!" Summer stood up and looked around.

Jodie could only take her hand and pull her down to sit.

The buzzer sounded again. The game was about to start. Alex didn't start the game, so she took a seat just in front of Marissa's. She sat and turned around while Marissa leaned to give her a kiss on the cheek. The rest of the gang yelled on. It was a new day for the Sparks. But little did they all know. It was also the day Alex Cohen flew sky high to stardom.