Page 71 of Brick Wall
Chapter Thirty-Three
Sebastian
I’m pretending I’m asleep.
I’m sitting in the front of the bus, trying to ignore female chatter around me. We arrived in California yesterday, but today is Saturday, and we are now back on the bus for a short ride from Stanford to Berkeley.
The girls are very energetic, and Annie is working with an assistant coach at the moment, who is most likely talking about the game plan for tomorrow’s game.
So, yes, my eyes are closed, and I might take a nap. I am used to traveling for away games, but it’s definitely my first time on a bus trip with all women.
Chestnut Hill University played Stanford last night and won. They killed it. It was so fun to see a volleyball game in person. I have watched a few of CHU’s games through a live stream, but like football, the game is better in person.
I’ve been hesitant to catch a game in person on the campus of CHU because I stand out. If folks don’t know me, they tendto have an idea that they should. Plus, there are a lot of Revs fans everywhere around the city. I don’t want to take away from anyone or draw attention to myself. Also, many games have been played when I can’t attend anyway.
However, it’s been awesome being able to go on this road trip with Annie. I still stand out, but barely anyone knows who I am, only that I’m the coach’s boyfriend.
I love being able to see Annie in her element. She is such a talented coach, and I can see why she’s one of the youngest head coaches in volleyball. Her (almost undefeated) record so far speaks for itself.
I’ve never been around so many females in one place, though.
I thought growing up around three women was bad. This is a whole new experience.
Speaking of such, I can’t wait to see one of those three women later on today.
Annie and I are meeting my mom in a cute little restaurant in Berkeley, one my mom and I have been to before.
My mom was surprised when I called to see if she was free to meet me and my girlfriend for dinner on Saturday night. I’m pretty sure she already had plans and canceled them to meet us. I’ve never brought a woman home before, and my mom must be curious.
After the short bus ride and settling into the hotel for a bit, it’s time to head out to meet my mom, Linda. We decide to take a taxi to a restaurant downtown. On the ride over, I place my hand on Annie’s knee and face her. “When we meet my mom, can you do me a favor and not mention any health stuff to her,” I ask. I quickly add, “Just for now, at least.”
“Sure,” Annie says, putting her hand on my kneeand squeezing it.
“I don’t want to worry her,” I say, speaking the truth. My dad passed away when I was only thirteen from a stroke. He was still in his forties, which is incredibly young, in my opinion.
“I won’t say anything,” Annie reassures me.
I’m still trying to figure out what my sleep problem is, but it looks like it may be sleep apnea, which is incredibly common in bigger men. I have a follow-up with my doctor when I return from California, so I will know more then.
The ride to the restaurant is quiet and quick.
When we arrive, my mom is here. This is a woman who is perpetually late so I internally chuckle to see her patiently waiting for us, especially since we are a few minutes early too. I bet she’s excited to meet Annie.
After a quick introduction, we get seated and settled at our table.
“Annie, it is so nice to meet you!” my mom gushes.
“It’s so nice to meet you. I’m glad we could get together while we are out here.”
“Me too! I’m so glad Sebastian finally made it out here to visit his mother.”
Annie doesn’t miss the little dig at me and looks at me with questions in her eyes.
I don’t avoid California, unlike some other family members, I just enjoy the East Coast now. I need to get better at visiting my mom, though.
The rest of dinner goes well and Annie and my mom hit it off.
My mom fights me for the check at the end of dinner, but I insist on paying. She easily gives in, though. My mom is retired, and I know she has savings, but I love treating herwhen I can.
